Winter often conjures up a range of enchanting scenes: snowy landscapes transformed into whimsical wonderlands; children’s laughter echoing through the air as they engage in playful snowball fights; and cozy gatherings warmed by crackling log fires and steaming mugs of mulled wine. However, one common winter challenge can evoke feelings of anxiety and frustration: being snowed in with no clear path to freedom.
If this sounds like your winter reality and you’re struggling to make progress against an overwhelming pile of snow, it’s time to reevaluate your approach. A snow blower or thrower is a game-changer for clearing your property efficiently and freeing yourself from the constraints of unwanted snowdrifts.
The 6 Best Snow Blowers
For those facing the challenges of a snow-covered driveway or sidewalk, selecting the right snow blower can be a daunting task. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of some top-notch options to make your decision-making process easier.
From electric single-stage models like the Snow Joe Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower and Greenworks Electric Snow Thrower, to gas-powered two-stage units like the Husqvarna ST330 30-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower and Briggs and Stratton Two-Stage Snow Thrower (our top pick), as well as Hattomen’s Single-Stage Electric Snow Thrower and Ariens’ ST24LE Deluxe Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or one that can handle heavy snowfall, this list provides a great starting point for your search.
Our Top Pick for the Best Snow Blower
Our top selection for the most effective snow blower is the Briggs and Stratton Two-Stage Snow Thrower, a robust machine that boasts impressive clearing capabilities. This powerhouse excels at tackling thick snow and even handles wet, slushy conditions with ease, making it an excellent choice for those who struggle with these challenging weather conditions.
Furthermore, its ergonomic design features a range of practical operator controls that simplify the snow-clearing process, making quick work of any snow day clean-up duties. For more information on pricing, please visit Amazon.
How to Choose the Best Snow Blower for Your Home
When it comes to selecting a suitable snow blower, one crucial aspect to consider is the type. In fact, there are six distinct categories of snow blowers that cater to varying needs and environments. These include…
Snow Blower and Snow Throwers
When it comes to choosing the right snow blower, you’ll want to consider the type and size that best fits your needs. There are three main types: single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage models. Each has its own unique characteristics and clearing capacities. Additionally, snow blowers come in a range of sizes, measured by their clearing capacity or swath, similar to a string trimmer. Depending on the power source, these machines can clear paths up to 32 inches wide.
But it’s not just about size – you’ll also want to think about the blower’s ability to cut through snow of varying depths. From lightweight electric models that handle 6 inches of light snow with ease, to gas-powered behemoths that can tackle 12 inches or more of heavy snow, there’s a blower out there for every winter warrior.
Single-stage Snow Throwers
Snow throwers, also known as single-stage snow blowers, rely on a straightforward process to collect and dispense snow in one seamless action. The plastic auger’s spinning motion breaks down the snow into smaller fragments before ejecting it through a discharge chute. Unlike their multi-stage counterparts, these machines can be powered by either electricity or gas, with lithium battery-operated models also available for those seeking an eco-friendly option.
However, electric and gas remain the most popular and reliable power sources for snow throwers.
Electric Single-stage Snow Throwers
Electric single-stage snow throwers, ranging from 18-20 inches in size, are perfect for clearing light to moderate snowfall (up to 6 inches) from sidewalks, pathways, and driveways. With a throwing distance of up to 25 feet, they can efficiently handle small to medium-sized snowfalls. Their compact and lightweight design makes them highly maneuverable, but it’s essential to note that they’re not suitable for heavy snow removal as they may struggle to make progress.
Despite requiring a power source or cold-weather extension cord, these electric models are relatively lightweight, emission-free, and affordable. They excel at handling light to medium snowfalls, although thick snow might necessitate multiple passes. Additionally, due to their design, they’re not recommended for steep slopes.
While most electric models require the operator to propel them forward, some newer models can be started with a simple button push and then automatically advance when the handle is engaged.
Single-stage Gas-powered Snow Throwers
For those with level surfaces like paved driveways and walkways, single-stage gas-powered snow throwers are an excellent option for moderate snowfalls up to 9 inches. These machines boast a wide clearing path of 20-22 inches, but they may struggle when navigating steep slopes due to their tendency to veer off-center.
Two-stage Gas-powered Snow Blower
For moderate to heavy snowfall scenarios, a two-stage gas-powered snow blower is the way to go. This type of machine excels at handling larger volumes of snow and can tackle drifts up to 12 inches deep. Its unique design allows it to work efficiently in various conditions, including uneven terrain, gravel-covered surfaces, and slight inclines. The dual-stage process enables it to clear wider areas, making it an ideal choice for large homes with driveways extending up to 80 feet long.
Three-Stage Gas-powered Snow Blower
While three-stage snow blowers were initially designed for commercial use, their impressive features make them an attractive option for homeowners with extensive rural properties. The powerful engine, heavy-duty construction, and specially designed components like the three-blade impeller and serrated steel auger enable these machines to tackle even the most challenging snow-clearing tasks.
With sizes ranging from 26 to over 30-inches, they feature oversized tires that provide exceptional traction on rough terrain, as well as a generous chute for collecting heavy snowfall. Although they may require a larger storage space and carry a higher price tag, three-stage snow blowers can clear vast areas of snow with remarkable speed.
Extra Operator and Safety Features
When operating your new snow thrower or blower in harsh, sub-zero conditions, the manufacturer has incorporated several forward-thinking design elements to simplify the process. The cleverly crafted features are intended to make the task less arduous, despite the challenging circumstances.
Adjustable chute rotation
When shopping for a snow blower, an adjustable chute rotation is a valuable feature to consider. This feature allows for greater control over the redistribution of snow, enabling you to direct the clearing path with precision. Some models boast chutes that can swing up to 200°, providing flexibility in your clearing process. Additionally, gas-powered snow blowers may offer the ability to eject snow up to 50-feet away, further expanding your clearing radius.
Electric start
Gas-powered string trimmers often come equipped with both a traditional pull-cord start and an electric start option. The former can be a bit of a challenge in extremely cold weather, but the latter provides a convenient alternative. This dual-start system ensures you’ll always have a way to get your machine up and running, regardless of the temperature.
Power Steering
Beyond its association with automobiles, power steering also plays a crucial role in certain gas-powered snow blowers. These machines often feature power steering that enables users to effortlessly navigate through challenging terrains and confined spaces, making the task of clearing snow more efficient and manageable.
Foldable Handle
When it comes to storing snow blowers, particularly bulkier gas-powered ones, having a model with a foldable handle can be a game-changer. This design feature provides increased flexibility and convenience, making it easier to store the device in a garage or other compact space.
Heated Hand Grips
While snow-clearing tasks are already arduous, the added challenge of tackling icy terrain can make them feel exponentially more daunting. Even with trusty weather-resistant gloves or mittens on hand, the cold seeps in, making every movement a struggle. However, incorporating heated handgrips into your winter arsenal can be a game-changer, providing an extra layer of warmth and comfort when you need it most.
LED Headlights
In situations where you’re tasked with clearing away snow at dawn or dusk, when natural light is scarce, LED headlights prove to be a game-changer. Their bright beams allow you to work efficiently and safely, even in the absence of sunlight.
Safety Features
While some snow blowers do come equipped with advanced safety features, others may only include more basic protections. For instance, electric models often boast a safety cord lock that ensures extension cords stay securely in place. In contrast, gas-powered snow blowers might be designed with an automatic shut-off mechanism that kicks in whenever you release your grip on the controls, providing an added layer of protection against accidental starts or other mishaps.
6 Best Snow Blowers – Reviews
Snow Joe Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
Are you tired of the physical strain that comes with shoveling snow? Look no further than the Snow Joe Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower. This lightweight yet powerful machine is designed to make quick work of snow removal, even in low-light conditions. With its 15 amp motor and durable steel auger, it can move up to 720lbs of snow per minute, with a clearing capacity of 18-inches. The 180° discharge chute allows for effortless direction of the snow up to 25-feet away.
While it excels at removing light to moderate snow, heavier drifts may require multiple passes to clear. Additional features include an onboard halogen light and easy-glide wheels that make navigation in tight spaces a breeze. With its press-button ignition, auger safety lever, and safety switch, the Snow Joe is designed with user safety in mind. While it’s not ideal for heavy snow or high-clearance applications, it’s a great value for those dealing with moderate snowfall.
Just be sure to use a 100-foot cold-weather extension cord when running off electricity.
Greenworks Electric Snow Thrower
For homeowners who need to tackle light to moderate snowfall, the Greenworks Electric Snow Thrower is an excellent choice. This single-stage snow thrower boasts a powerful 13-amp motor that allows it to effectively clear a 20-inch path through 10 inches of snow. The unit’s 180-degree directional chute makes it simple to discharge snow up to 20 feet away, providing greater flexibility when clearing your property.
Additionally, the 7-inch wheels and compact design enable better maneuverability around corners and other tight spaces. The powerful LED lights also provide enhanced visibility during use, regardless of the time of day. When not in use, the fold-down handle makes it easy to store the unit, taking up minimal space. Another convenient feature is the safety cord lock, which securely holds an extension cord in place when needed.
However, it’s essential to note that this unit is best suited for smaller properties and moderate snowfall. Using a 100-foot heavy-duty cold weather extension cord is necessary if you need to use an extension cord. The pros of this economical option include its value for money, lightweight design, and compact size. Some drawbacks include its limitations in clearing large properties or heavy snowfalls, as well as the potential for the chute to become clogged with snow.
Hattomen Single-Stage Electric Snow Thrower
The Hattomen Single-Stage Electric Snow Thrower is a lightweight, user-friendly powerhouse that’s perfect for small-scale snow removal. Its robust 13 amp, 1600-watt motor makes quick work of clearing away snow from walkways, patios, decks, or small driveways with its 18-inch width and 7-inch depth capabilities.
Unlike traditional gas-powered snow blowers, this corded-electric model starts effortlessly with a simple button push.
This means you can get your snow-clearing tasks done swiftly and enjoy the comforts of home without the hassle.
Don’t underestimate its compact size – this snow thrower is equipped with a heavy-duty abrasion-resistant steel auger and durable blades that can handle thick snow with ease. Its 180-degree directional chute can toss snow up to 13 feet and move an impressive 500 pounds of snow per minute.
Hattomen’s thoughtful design includes a discrete safety switch, motor overload protection, and an ergonomic full-bail handle for comfortable maneuverability.
When the job is done, storing this snow thrower away in your garage is a breeze. With its compact size and lightweight construction, it won’t take up much space.
Pros include ease of start-up, affordability, and effectiveness at clearing small areas.
Additional benefits include an ergonomic handle, lightweight design, and impressive throwing distance.
Cons to consider are that it may not perform well with heavy compacted snow and some users have noted durability issues with the plastic components.
Husqvarna ST330 30-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
The Husqvarna ST330 30-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower is a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality and well-designed home and gardening products. This powerful snow blower boasts a robust 369cc 4-cycle engine that drives its high-capacity belt system and features a unique 4-blade cast iron impeller, ensuring long-term durability. The machine’s efficient auger is designed to mix air into the snow, allowing it to effortlessly handle large amounts of snow.
With six speed settings and one reverse, the friction disc transmission provides optimal control over clearing operations. Sturdy tires provide traction in icy conditions, while power steering makes maneuvering the blower effortless, even on uneven terrain or in tight spaces. Additional features include heated handle grips with adjustable height positions, a bright LED headlight for low-light operations, and an adjustable chute that can be directed from the dashboard.
The machine’s generous clearing width of 30 inches allows it to tackle large areas, while its ability to throw snow up to 20+ feet makes quick work of significant accumulations. Furthermore, serrated augers can cut through even the toughest snow buildup. To protect surfaces, non-marring skid shoes prevent damage to driveways and pavements. Husqvarna backs this product with a 3-year limited warranty on the snow blower itself and a 10-year warranty on the auger gearbox.
While some users may find it expensive or slow in reverse, others praise its ease of use, powerful performance, and thoughtful design features.
Briggs and Stratton Two-Stage Snow Thrower
The Briggs and Stratton Two-Stage Snow Thrower is a behemoth of a machine, capable of effortlessly clearing moderate amounts of snow from your driveway or curb. Its immense power allows it to tackle both densely packed and wet snow with ease, but you’ll need to exercise caution when navigating around delicate objects like garden ornaments or in-ground solar lights. When dealing with dense snow, use one of the higher transmission speeds for optimal results.
The machine’s robust construction features a durable steel housing and a notched steel auger that provides a generous 24-inch clearance. The Briggs & Stratton 208cc engine is particularly noteworthy, boasting loads of torque and combining seamlessly with the friction disk drive and solid axle to tackle thick snow and ice up to 12 inches deep.
As the blower features self-propelled capabilities, you can effortlessly guide it with just a touch of the handle.
The conveniently located chute rotation control on the operator’s dashboard enables easy adjustments to the chute’s direction, whether you’re depositing snow to the left or right.
The transmission offers six forward speeds and two reverse speeds, allowing for precise control over your clearing process. The free-hand control grants you the flexibility to maneuver the blower with one hand while adjusting the chute position or speed with the other.
Briggs and Stratton’s design prioritizes operator comfort, recognizing that controlling the machine while wearing thick mittens can be challenging. To address this, they’ve created oversized controls on the control panel for easy use. The inclusion of a bright LED headlight also makes working in low-light conditions a breeze.
The pros of this snow thrower include its great value, high quality, ease of starting, immense power, and ability to handle thick snow and wet conditions.
Additionally, it features easy access to operator controls and a three-year limited warranty. However, some users may find the price steep, the assembly process complex, or the manual’s instructions unclear.
Ariens ST24LE Deluxe Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
When it comes to tackling heavy snowfall, the Ariens ST24LE Deluxe Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower is a force to be reckoned with. This professional-grade machine is designed to handle even the most significant snowdrifts on residential properties. While it may be one of the pricier options on the market, the Ariens Snow Blower is well worth the investment. Its robust 4-cycle 254cc engine and electric push-button start make it easy to operate in cold weather conditions.
With six forward speeds and two reverse gears to choose from, you can customize your snow-clearing experience. The blower’s impressive specs include a 24-inch intake height, capable of cutting through up to 2 feet of snow. Its durable construction features a cast iron gear case, oversized 3-blade impeller, and 14-inch steel serrated auger. The wide clearing width of 24 inches makes quick work of even the heaviest snowdrifts.
One of the standout features of this snow blower is its efficient multi-directional chute, capable of throwing snow up to 50 feet away. Once you’ve experienced the ease and efficiency it provides, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Despite its size, the Ariens Snow Blower is surprisingly easy to maneuver over uneven terrain and navigate tight turns thanks to its self-propelled auto-turn power steering. The heavy-duty snow tread tires provide added traction in icy conditions.
For those who may be concerned about vibrations from operating heavy machinery, rest assured that the Ariens Snow Blower features a crankshaft balancer designed to reduce any serious vibrations. Additional operating features include a dual handle interlock system, allowing you to adjust the chute with one hand while adjusting your speed with the other. The super-bright in-dash halogen headlight provides increased visibility when working in low-light conditions.
Heated handlebars are also available as an optional feature for extreme cold. Ariens has also thoughtfully included a smart operator safety feature: the engine shuts off automatically when you remove your hands from the controls, ensuring safe operation at all times. The Ariens Snow Blower comes with a 3-year residential warranty. With its impressive performance and thoughtful features, it’s no wonder this machine is a popular choice among homeowners.
Our Top Pick for the Best Snow Blower
When it comes to finding the best snow blower, our top recommendation is the Briggs and Stratton Two-Stage Snow Thrower. This reliable machine boasts an impressive level of snow clearing performance, making quick work of even the thickest snowfall. What’s more, its design allows it to seamlessly handle wet and slushy snow, which can be notoriously challenging to remove.
One of the key benefits of this snow blower is the array of user-friendly features that make quick work of snow day clean-up chores. With its impressive capabilities and convenient operation, the Briggs and Stratton Two-Stage Snow Thrower is an excellent choice for anyone looking to tackle winter weather with ease.
