Seeing a coating of snow out your window on a workday morning is not ideal. The car is snowed in, and the boss is going to be unhappy if you are late. This is where a snow blower can save your skin.
Not all snow blowers are the same, so we conducted extensive research, seeking the opinions of the public and experts to bring you the 7 best snow blowers money can buy.
- Power steering
- 4-blade impeller can handle greater quantities of snow
- Ideal for wet snow
- Optimum OHV engine
- More compact size blower
- Auger-assist drive system
- Super-convenient and less costly to maintain
- Clearing capabilities (720 pounds of snow/minute)
- Amazing price
- Wide and deep (22 and 13 inches)
- Super-convenient and less costly to maintain
- Amazing price
- 10-inch wheels
- Super-lightweight (130 ponuds)
- Powerful motor (3,600 RPM)
- Anti-reversible skid shoes for better stability
- Reliable aluminum gearbox
- Powerful 208cc motor
- Go-anywhere convenience
- Lightweight (33 pounds)
- Battery and charger included
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we utilize meticulous hands-on testing and in-depth analysis to evaluate the performance of snow blowers from a user’s perspective. Our professional team conducts comprehensive assessments on key decision-making factors such as power, capacity, maneuverability, and durability. We compare and rank each product based on these criteria and share our findings and quantitative data to help you make an informed choice. By examining the design choices and their effect on users, we highlight what sets each snow blower apart from its competitors. With our extensive experience and evidence-backed reviews, we provide you with the best snow blowers that cater to different needs and preferences.
The Best Snow Blowers of 2024
We rated the 7 top snow blowers featured to give you the most accurate information. We looked at performance, plowing ability, price and power source.
Husqvarna ST327 Two-Stage Snow Blower
Best 2-Stage Snow Blower
For sheer clearing power, this Husqvarna is hard to beat. It has a high-capacity belt system for increased capabilities and a 4-position adjustable handle for better control and comfort.
This model has power steering, which enables you to disconnect the differential lock to choose which track or wheels you want to drive. This makes turning the snow blower a lot easier and reduces strain on your arms and back, given that it weighs 308 pounds.
You get a 27-inch plowing width, an electric starter for cold mornings, and an LED headlight. The engine is 291cc, which is powerful enough to deliver all the potency you need to clear away the deepest snowdrifts.
This machine eats through iced and wet snow with ease, thanks to the robust auger. Couple that with the cast-iron 4-bladed impeller, and you have one serious snow clearing device.
What We Like
Power Steering
This beast weighs over 308 pounds, so unless you want to wear yourself out dragging it across your driveway, you are going to need power steering. You can disengage the differential and choose which wheel or track you want to steer.
4-Blade Impeller
Impellers of this type are unusual in snow blowers. Most models have 3 blades, but this model gives you 4, which increases the work rate of the impeller. It increases the throwing distance and can handle greater quantities of snow.
Ideal for Wet Snow
Wet snow is a real pain to shift. It sticks to the inside of your snow blower and impedes performance. This Husqvarna has no issues sweeping away wet and even iced snow.
What We Don't Like
Weighs 308 Pounds
You do a double-take when you see how heavy this snow blower is. At 308 pounds, it ranks as one of the heaviest 2-stage models on the market.
Very Expensive
You are going to need to sell a kidney or rob a bank to afford this machine. It is thousands of dollars. Compare that to other models, and the price is a real turn-off.
Product Specs
| Weight | 308 |
| Dimensions | 58.75 x 28 x 44 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | 27 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | Not stated |
| Throwing distance (feet) | Not stated |
| Power source | Gas |
| Engine power | Not specified |
| Price | $$$$$ |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Briggs & Stratton 1022 Single-Stage Snow Blower
Best Powerful Single-Stage Snow Blower
Customers rave that this single-stage snow blower has the power of a two-stage snowblower. So if you’re after impressive force and reliable power, this might be the tool for you.
With a throw of 30 feet, this blower sweeps the snow out of your way and sends it running. You might bury your neighbor’s house in snow, but at least it’s not in your driveway anymore!
This snow blower can tackle snow that’s 12.5 inches deep. So if you wake up in the morning to your driveway and walkways covered in snow, this will save the day.
What We Like
Optimum OHV Engine
We’ve marked this as the best powerful snowblower. It has such impressive power because of the OHV engine, which allows you to tackle snow, even in extreme weather.
To operate the engine, you’ve got oversized controls. Even if you’re wearing chunky gloves or mittens, it’s easy to operate them.
More Compact Size Blower
Now, this is by no means small, but compared to some other options, this is a more compact blower. Not only is this better for storage, but it makes it much easier to maneuver.
Auger-Assist Drive System
You might be nervous that your new snowblower will be challenging to drive. But not this one. Thanks to the rubber-edged auger, this blower clears the snow efficiently without damaging your ground. The auger also helps to propel the snowblower forward so that you can enjoy a smooth ride.
What We Don't Like
Not for Wet or Icy Snow
While you can use this in extreme weather, it’s much more suited for fresh soft snow. It’s not the best snowblower for wet or icy snow. Some customers reported that the snowblower stopped, made horrible noises, or even broke when they tried using it on icy snow.
Unreliable Drive Belt
One element of this snowblower that might be a dealbreaker is the drive belt. Customers had some issues with it. Some said it wore down quite quickly. You can replace the belt, but that’s an additional cost. Plus, some customers said that it took a while to get a direct replacement from the company.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 93 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 33.1 x 25 x 23 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | 22 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 12.5 |
| Throwing distance (feet) | 30 |
| Power source | Gas |
| Engine power | 208cc |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year for service parts |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Snow Joe SJ623E Single-Stage Snow Blower
Best Electric Snow Blower
It’s hard to deny the convenience of this electric Snow Joe snow blower. Take it out of the box and plug it in, and you are ready. It is maintenance-free, requiring no gas, oil, or tune-ups to keep it in perfect working order.
The chute throws the snow 25 ft and rotates 180 degrees, so keeping it away from your yard is a breeze, and you even get a headlight to keep you working as the light fades.
You also get a 15-amp motor and a steel auger, capable of shifting 720 pounds of snow per minute, which speeds up the time it takes to clear your driveway. The plowing width is 18 inches, and the maximum depth is 10 inches.
What We Like
Super-Convenient
Nothing quite matches the convenience of a plugin snow blower. Take it out of the box, and you are ready to start clearing the snow. And you save on maintenance costs because you don’t need oil, gasoline and expensive servicing.
Clearing Capabilities
With an 18-inch plowing width and a 10-inch depth, this Snow Joe delivers. It can sweep away 720 pounds of snow every minute, which is impressive.
Amazing Price
There is no comparison between electric and gas snow blowers when it comes to price. If you are trying to save money, get an electric model.
What We Don't Like
Restricted Reach
The biggest disadvantage of a plugin snow blower is the reach of the power cord. Unless you have an extension cord or additional sockets in the yard, you are restricted to the size you can clear.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 34 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 45 x 19 x 26 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | 18 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 10 |
| Throwing distance (feet) | 25 |
| Power source | Electric |
| Engine power | 15 amps |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Snow Blower
Best Single Stage Snow Blower
Snow Joe features twice in this review, and this model is bigger and better in every sense. It has a 22-inch width, which is 4 inches wider than the other model, and the maximum depth clearance is 13 inches. Compare that to the previous model, and you gain 3 inches.
The 15-amp motor powers the auger to throw the snow up to 25 feet and it clears 25 tons of snow every hour. That’s the equivalent of 840 pounds per minute! The motor is also 65 percent quieter than comparable models, so you won’t bug the neighbors.
You also get two LED headlights so you can keep working even when the light fades, and the chute rotates 180 degrees to keep the snow away from your driveway.
What We Like
Wide and Deep
Single-stage snow blowers aren’t famed for their clearance width, but this model has a respectable 22 inches. You also get a depth of 13 inches, which is 1-inch more than most top-end electric models can handle.
Super-Convenient
Electric snow blowers are the most convenient of all types. They are lightweight, easy to use, and work straight out of the packaging.
Amazing Price
There is no comparison when you look at the price of a gas snow blower and an electric model. You can buy this Snow Joe for a fraction of the cost of most gas-powered machines.
What We Don't Like
Limited Uses
Electric snow blowers are not as powerful as gas varieties, so you are restricted to smaller driveways and plots. Also, they are better suited to lighter snowfalls.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 34.8 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 23.4 x 22 x 26 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | 22 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 13 |
| Throwing distance (feet) | 25 |
| Power source | Electric plugin |
| Engine power | 15 amps |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
SuperHandy Wheeled Snow Blower
Best Snow Blower for Gravel Driveway
When you are looking for a flexible gravel-clearing option, this model could tick the right boxes. It has two large 10-inch wheels and an 8-inch swivel wheel at the rear for easy direction changes.
When you are negotiating uneven surfaces like gravel, the large wheels and higher ground clearance make it possible.
It has a gas-powered 7 HP engine that delivers 3,600 RPM and maximum speeds of 200 MPH. It also creates 8.1 foot-pounds of torque, making it one of the most powerful machines to feature.
The great thing about this machine is that it doubles as a garden and leaf blower in the summer months and keeps earning its keep through the snow season.
What We Like
10-Inch Wheels
Gravel is a challenging surface to negotiate, especially as you risk scattering small stones across your driveway. Thanks to oversized 10-inch wheels, this model rolls across the most uneven surfaces.
Super-Lightweight
Why break your back pushing a heavy snow blower across your yard when you can opt for a lightweight machine like this SuperHandy. It only weighs 129.7 pounds, which is under half that of the heaviest gas-powered model.
Powerful Motor
When you have a motor that creates 3,600 RPM and upwards of 200 MPH, you know you have a machine capable of doing the job.
What We Don't Like
Limited Uses
In reality, this machine is a leaf blower that doubles as a snow blower in the winter months. While it is cheaper than most, if you want the best performance, get a snow blower.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 129.7 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 26.6 x 22.5 x 22.3 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | Not applicable |
| Plowing depth (inches) | Not stated |
| Throwing distance (feet) | Not stated |
| Power source | Gas |
| Engine power | 7 HP |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Briggs and Stratton 1024 Standard Series Snow Blower
Best Snow Blower for Large Driveway
This Briggs and Stratton powerful snow blower makes light work of your large driveway. The plowing clearance stretches to 24-inches, plus you get a 20-inch intake height.
You also benefit from steel anti-reversible skid shoes to reduce the effort needed to maneuver it around the yard. It also helps when you cover sloped surfaces.
The gearbox is constructed from durable aluminum, and the auger is notched to chew through hardened snow more efficiently. It also has a 208CC motor that generates 9.50-foot-pounds of torque, and an electric start for the coldest mornings with a friction disc drive system for better control.
What We Like
Anti-Reversible Skid Shoes
If you have a driveway with an incline or decline, the anti-skid shoes are invaluable. It gives the snow blower better stability and stops accidents from happening.
Reliable Gearbox
This Briggs and Stratton machine features an aluminum gearbox, a steel frame and chute, as well as a notched auger.
Powerful 208CC Motor
The 208cc cold-start motor gets going at -20 degrees. It also creates 9.50-feet pounds of torque, which means to get a ton of force to chew through the thickest snow.
What We Don't Like
Build Quality Issues
People have complained of inferior quality components and have reported that the product arrives damaged. Some even said the blower struggled to work after a few attempts.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 184 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 56 x 26 x 46 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | 24 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 20 |
| Throwing distance (feet) | Not stated |
| Power source | Gas |
| Engine power | 208 cc |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Greenworks Pro 80V 20-Inch Snow Blower
Best Cordless Snow Blower
Battery-operated snow blowers give you all the convenience of plugin models with the reach of a gas-powered machine. It’s the best of both worlds. The go-anywhere capability is the main reason to buy a cordless snow blower.
It has a 20-inch plowing width and clears snow to a depth of 10 inches. You also get a 2 Ah lithium-ion battery and a charger to get you started straight out of the box. And the quiet brushless motor delivers greater efficiency, giving you 45 minutes of runtime.
Brushless motors are more advanced and require minimal maintenance compared to the brushed varieties. This is because the brushes rely on friction to create power, which causes them to wear out.
The throwing distance is 20 feet, the chute rotates 180 degrees, and you get 8-inch wheels to aid maneuverability. Storage is also simple, thanks to a collapsible handle, and because this snow blower is cordless, it only weighs 33 pounds.
What We Like
Go-Anywhere Convenience
Forget engine services, oil and gasoline if you want a go-anywhere snow blower. Just buy a cordless version, and you get the same freedom without the hassle.
Lightweight
Cordless snow blowers are among the lightest models you can buy. This is important, especially if you suffer from mobility issues or you are an older person with limited upper body strength.
Battery and Charger Included
You’d be amazed how many makes and models are supplied without the battery and charger. This Greenworks provides a 2 Ah battery and charger to get you started straight out of the box.
What We Don't Like
Limited Battery Charge
The downside of cordless snow blowers is the limited charge that the battery holds. You need to keep charging the cell if you want to carry on working. Failing that, get a spare, although this increases your costs.
Limited Runtime
Unlike gas-powered models, this go-anywhere snow blower has the limitation of a 45-minute runtime before it needs recharging. This will restrict the size of the plot you can clear.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 33 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 31 x 21.6 x 37 |
| Plowing clearance (inches) | 20 |
| Plowing depth (inches) | 10 |
| Throwing distance (feet) | 20 |
| Power source | Electric battery |
| Engine power | 80V |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 4-year limited |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Plowing clearance | Plowing depth | Throwing distance | Power source | Engine power | Price | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna ST330 Two-Stage Blower | Best 2-Stage | 308 lbs | 58.75″ x 28″ x 44″ | 27″ | Not specified | Not specified | Gas | N/A | $$$$$ | Not specified |
| Briggs & Stratton 1022 | Best Powerful | 93 lbs | 33.1″ x 25″ x 23″ | 22″ | 12.5″ | 30 ft | Gas | 208cc | $$$ | 1-year for service parts |
| Snow Joe SJ623E Single-Stage | Best Electric | 34 lbs | 45″ x 19″ x 26″ | 18″ | 10″ | 25 ft | Electric | 15 amps | $$ | 2-year |
| Snow Joe SJ627E Electric | Best Single Stage | 34.8 lbs | 23.4″ x 22″ x 26″ | 22″ | 13″ | 25 ft | Electric plugin | 15 amps | $$ | 2-year |
| SuperHandy Wheeled Snow Blower | Best for Gravel Driveway | 129.7 lbs | 26.6″ x 22.5″ x 22.3″ | Not applicable | Not stated | Not stated | Gas | 7 HP | $$$ | 1-year |
| Briggs and Stratton 1024 | Best for Large Driveway | 184 lbs | 56″ x 26″ x 46″ | 24″ | 20″ | Not stated | Gas | 208cc | $$$$ | 3-year limited |
| Greenworks Pro Snow Blower | Best Cordless | 33 lbs | 31″ x 21.6″ x 37″ | 20″ | 10″ | 20 ft | Electric battery | 80V | $$$ | 4-year limited |
Types of Snow Blowers
Snow blowers come in 3 varieties: single-stage, two-stage and three-stage. So, what’s the difference? Let’s find out.
Single-Stage
Single-stage snow blowers are the cheapest models to buy, and they come in electric, battery and gas-powered versions. They have an auger that scoops up the snow and throws it out of the chute at the top.
The auger does all the work, which puts limitations on how much snow the blower can clear and also to what depth.
Almost all single-stage snow blowers are electric, although you can still buy gas-powered versions if you have a large plot or driveway to clear. The convenience with an electric or battery-operated single-stage machine is they are easier to maintain.
You also don’t have to get them serviced like you do a gas-powered model. And the running costs are cheaper because you don’t need gas.
Because the auger makes slight contact with the ground, single-stage machines are not suitable for gravel driveways. If you get heavy falls of snow, you might want to consider getting a two-stage model.
Two-Stage
Two-stage machines look the same as the single-stage models, but they benefit from the addition of an impeller to help throw the snow out of the chute. So, the auger scoops while the impeller throws.
It relieves the burden on the auger, prolonging the life of your snow blower, and comes with the advantage that it can clear deeper snowdrifts and across larger areas. Two-stage snow blowers are also more efficient, thanks to their increased plowing width.
Almost all the two-stage models are gas-powered, so you will need to factor in the maintenance costs and the price of gasoline. They are also more expensive, so if you only get lighter snow, it might be better to stick with a cheaper single-stage model.
Three-Stage
Now we come to the most aggressive type of snow blower. These models have the auger and the impeller, but they also have the addition of an accelerator. This unique feature means that you can clear large amounts of snow, even huge drifts.
They are 50 percent more efficient than two-stage machines because they don’t need to slow down when they meet larger snow obstacles. The accelerator plows on through.
You would only ever buy a three-stage snow blower if you need the increased capacity for a large driveway or plot, or if you get so much snow that the other types of blowers wouldn’t cope.
Be warned that these snow blowers are expensive. They are frequently used in commercial or industrial settings like street clearance and removing snow from mall parking lots.
How To Choose the Best Snow Blower
With so many makes and models available, it can be a struggle buying a snow blower, cutting through the confusion to find the best model. Here are some basics you should look for.
Gas or Electric
Gas snow blowers can go anywhere, which frees you to clear as much snow as you want. They are also more powerful, so the plowing width and depth increase dramatically, improving your snow clearing capabilities.
You can also get gas snow blowers in single-stage, two-stage and three-stage models, so you get a wider choice to match your snow-clearing needs.
Electric models are cheaper and lighter, but are less equipped to sweep away thicker snowfalls. The power cord also restricts you, so your reach decreases unless you get a cordless snow blower.
But then you get limited runtime because the battery holds a finite charge. You also get less choice compared to gas models because most electric snow blowers are single-stage machines, although you can get two-stage electric snow blowers but they are rare.
Plowing Width
The plowing width of your snow blower makes a huge difference when it comes to clearing large amounts of snow. Most single-stage models have a width range of 12 to 30 inches, depending on the make, model and power source.
Electric varieties often have the narrowest plowing clearance because they are weaker machines and lack the capabilities of gas-powered models.
Two-stage machines have an increased plowing width, with typical measurements ranging from 20 to 36 inches. This is because gas-powered varieties have more power and snow clearing capabilities.
Three-stage devices are the most powerful and so have the biggest span for plowing. They can be as wide as 40 inches or more.
Plowing Depth
The plowing depth is equally important, especially if you get heavy snowfalls. As with the width, electric models are the weakest and so are better suited to lighter snowfalls. Expect a 6 to 12-inch capability.
Gas machines come in two-stage and three-stage varieties, and they have superior depth clearance. Some clear drifts as deep as 24 inches, while others, especially the three-stage machines, can tackle 3 or 4 feet drifts.
How Heavy
Electric snow blowers are the lightest, ranging from 20 to 60 pounds. So, if you are an older person or someone with limited mobility and body strength, an electric model is the best one to get.
Some smaller snow blowers can weigh as little as 14 pounds, but these machines are really only for the tiniest plots and the lightest duties.
When you invest in a gas-powered model, the weight values rocket. Weights vary between 100 pounds to over 300 pounds for the largest models. Pushing a 300-pound snow blower around your driveway takes some superhuman effort. Luckily, these machines have assisted drive systems and accelerators.
Multi-Directional Chute
Changing direction means the chute needs to rotate to accommodate. Most chutes spin 180 degrees, but it is possible to get a full 360-degree rotation.
You should also look out for a machine with easy chute controls. Some have buttons that auto-adjust the chute, while others have a long lever that you pull to change direction.
Which Brand Makes the Best Snow Blowers?
The competition is fierce in the snow blowing industry, and some brands are more prominent than others. But what makes them so good, and which brands are we talking about?
Snow Joe
Snow Joe dominates the electric blower market with models that are both efficient and affordable. It all started back in 2001 when the company produced their prototype snow blower called Model 322.
Their biggest plant is in New Jersey, where they also manufacture garden and lawn equipment. This division goes under the name Sun Joe.
Husqvarna
This Swedish company started life in 1689, producing muskets. Since then, they have branched out into so many avenues. They make motorcycles, outdoor power products like snow blowers, washing machines and many more.
The firearms wing is now defunct, but the other brands are going from strength to strength.
Briggs and Stratton
Briggs and Stratton started life in South Dakota in 1908 when Stephen Foster Briggs and Harold M. Stratton came together to produce horticultural machinery and military equipment. They are credited with creating the first lightweight aluminum engine, which was perfect for powered garden tools.
As the company expanded, so did their product range, which included snow blowers.
Greenworks
Greenworks is a new kid on the block, starting life in Canada in 2006. It is the brainchild of Yin Chen, who is still the major shareholder in the company. They specialize in battery-operated tools and have a massive production plant in Changzhou in China, employing over 4,000 people.
FAQs
What Snow Blower Accessories Do I Need?
There are so many accessories you can buy to improve the performance of your snow blower. So, what are they?
- Clean out tools for keeping the snow blower free of snow.
- A snow cab to keep you warm and dry.
- Tire chains for increased traction.
- Floor mats to protect the blower in storage.
- Front weight kits to improve plowing performance.
- Snow blower gloves.
When Is the Best Time To Buy a Snow Blower?
August, September, and October are the best times to buy a snow blower. The new season’s stock is just in, but sales are slow because winter is far from people’s minds. This is the best time to strike a deal, and you also get the best selection to choose from.
What Is the Difference Between a Snow Blower and a Snow Thrower?
How Long Do Snow Blowers Last?
You should expect to get between 15 and 25 years of use from your snow blower. The gas-powered models are more robust and last longer, but they do require more maintenance.
Is a Gas or Electric Snow Blower Better?
It depends on how you measure it. Gas snow blowers are more powerful and can tackle higher volumes of snow. Electric models are better suited to lighter tasks and smaller driveways. However, they are cheaper than gas models.
