Made to simplify daily lives, the best snow blowers can replace manual shoveling. The history of the snow blower is not as recent as many would believe. It is Arthur Sicard who was credited with building the first snow blower in 1925. Since then, snow blowers have evolved considerably. With a choice of corded and cordless designs, there are a few good designs to consider. With different capacity motors, snow blowers can be used for residential and commercial purposes. But even beyond facts on paper, snow blowers are now easier to use and many of them hold original designs and patents made to improve their performance.
- Single-stage vs. two-stage designs in the best snow blowers
- Top 10 Best Snow Blowers 2023
- 1. Toro 38381 18-Inch 15 Amp Electric 1800 Power Curve Snow Blower
- 2. Snow Joe SJ621 Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
- 3. Snow Joe SJ625E Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
- 4. Briggs & Stratton 1022ER Single Stage Snowthrower
- 5. Greenworks PRO 20-Inch 80V Cordless Snow Thrower
- 6. Snow Joe ION15SB-CT 15-Inch Cordless Snow Blower
- 7. Husqvarna ST224 24-Inch 208cc Two-Stage Electric Start Snow Blower
- 8. Troy-Bilt Squall 208cc Electric Start 21-Inch Single Stage Gas Snow Thrower
- 9. Honda Power Equipment HS720AA 20" 187cc Single-Stage Snow Blower
- 10. Snow Joe iON18SB Cordless Single Stage Snow Blower
- Guide to Buying the Best Snow Blowers
- Final considerations
Single-stage vs. two-stage designs in the best snow blowers
Single-stage and two-stage designs are frequent in the snow blowers’ world. But many new users can actually feel confused about what each design does and which to ultimately choose for home use. While they are similar in performance, the snow blowers have their own advantages.
- Single-stage snow blowers
Made for driveways and sidewalks, single-stage snow blowers are mainly performing on flat surfaces free from rocks or other debris. They are among the most popular types of snow blowers.
- Two-stage snow blowers
Two-stage snow blowers are popular as well. But they are also capable of clearing snow from gravel. This is due to the fact that the auger does not make contact with the ground, such as in the case of single-stage snow blowers. The following best snow blowers are a selection of reliable single-stage and two-stage designs.
Top 10 Best Snow Blowers 2023
1. Toro 38381 18-Inch 15 Amp Electric 1800 Power Curve Snow Blower
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Design features
Made to represent one of the strongest designs in its class, the snow blower is among the most interesting for users to consider for various needs around the house. Its design is friendly and the snow blower can be easily maneuvered on pavements as well as on other surfaces such as decks.
There is a wide mouth design on the snow blower which can save users a few minutes of clearing each day. At 18 inches in width and 12 inches in height, the snow blower’s opening is suitable for home and light commercial use.
Most users can also find that the grip is solid enough even for longer snow blowing sessions. The ergonomic design of the handle makes the snow blower a suitable design for proper practicality. But even the most futuristic handle can’t be of much help without heavy-duty wheels. It is why most users will find the 6-in wheel design to be sufficient for proper snow traction. Of course, the grip of the wheels also depends on the snow’s depth, but their design is on par with what is being used at the moment.
Convenient features
Users might find a few of the snow blower’s technologies to be attractive compared to other machines. For example, the Power Curve technology allows the snow blower to clear the snow down to the surface while preventing clogging. Without having to worry about leftover snow, this allows users to clear pavements completely, which is one of the distinct advantages of some of the best snow blowers.
A zip deflector has also been added to the snow blower. As its name suggests, this simple design characteristic allows convenient snow deflection in the actual direction users want to blow it away. Practically, the deflector can be used to keep snow away from other areas such as driveways.
Another convenient feature lies in the curved rotor and the inverted funnel housing design. It helps eliminate annoying clogs. But even in figures, the snow blower is still on top of the list of preferences for many potential users. It blows snow away up to a distance of 30 feet and it does this based on a powerful 15 amp motor. A smaller version is available as well. The snow blower’s alternative comes with a 7.5 amp motor and it can be an inspired alternative for occasional use.
Verdict
With a powerful motor and an ergonomic design, the lightweight snow blower clears snow down to the surface with less effort.
Pros
- Made with a powerful 15amp motor
- Based on an ergonomic design
- Clears 700lbs of snow per minute
- Includes the Power Curve technology
Cons
- Two buttons need pressing to start the motor
2. Snow Joe SJ621 Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
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Design features
There might not be too many snow blowers with a built-in light at the moment. However, Snow Joe’s design is one of the main options with such a function. Its practicality is unmatched. Snowfall doesn’t stop during the night. In fact, many winter nights can come with heavy snowfall which can block off driveways or other paths around the house. Having the added light means the included capacity to clear snow after sunset. The 20W light is sufficient for those seeking the ultimate level of freedom without having to carry an additional flashlight.
The electric design of the snow blower is considered very practical as well. Unlike oil-powered snow blowers, it requires no refills and it can run as long as needed. Unlike gas-powered snow blowers, it actually requires no tune-up. Its electric power means the snow blower works like new even years down the line.
Convenient features
Comparable to some of the most powerful designs in its class, the snow blower comes with a 650lbs snow blowing capacity per minute. This is impressive given its smaller size. With of 18 inches in height and 10 inches in width, it is slightly smaller than some of its best alternatives. But the added practicality makes it a top solution for any type of home and maybe a backup solution for commercial areas.
The power of the snow blower is based on a 13.5amp motor. In real figures, the motor can clear more than 2.400 square feet per hour. Unless users live in mansions, it will do a great job for average-sized homes and driveways.
When it comes to the blade rotor, there seems to be a lot of interest in improving the final results. Snow Joe has done a good job integrating the 4-blade rotor into the snow blower. The results are a clear pathway and snow blow up to 20 feet away.
Verdict
With a slightly smaller design, the snow blower is made for mid-sized driveways with its 13.5 amp motor.
Pros
- Made with a versatile motor
- Includes a 20W halogen light
- Blows snow up to 20 feet away
- Clears over 2.400 sq. ft.per hour
Cons
- Slower on icy snow
3. Snow Joe SJ625E Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Comparable with the best performers in its class, the snow blower comes with impressive results. Instead of shoveling away for hours, it offers electrical snow blowing with a capacity of up to 800lbs per hour.
Designed with a small LED light, the powerful snow blower can also be used in the evening. At 3W, it is not the most powerful light but it can add a bit of illumination to the long winter nights. But the overall design of the snow blower is as durable as fans of the manufacturer would expect. For example, it is made with a steel auger with durable rubber blades.
But the most convenient design characteristic is the wide opening of the auger with 21” in height and 12” in width. This is why it can be a solution for those seeking to quickly blow snow away such as people living in areas with heavy snowfall.
Convenient features
Clearing up to 800lbs of snow per hour, the machine is one of the most capable in its class. It comes with impressive results even on icy snow. Of course, even with a slightly larger blowing capacity, it still offers the best results on paved surfaces and it should not be used to clear gravel areas. The snow blower can be useful on driveways, sidewalks or patios. Most importantly, it comes as one of the leading design for everyday practicality as it blows snow up to 20 feet away.
There is an adjustable directional chute added on the snow blower. As with all Snow Joe designs, it allows users to direct the snow optimally and to keep the surrounding area of the house walkable even during heavy snowfall.
Based on a powerful 15 amp motor, the mid-range Snow Joe design is suitable for different types of surfaces. Of course, given its affordable price it has a few minor inconveniences. One of them is the weak LED light which is not the best seen in Snow Joe’s line. Users might need to rely on an additional flashlight for nighttime snow blowing.
Verdict
Usable in heavy snow up to 3 feet, the SJ625E is a great purchase for those who need an alternative to manual shoveling.
Pros
- Based on a 15amp motor
- No required tune-ups
- Clears up to 800lbs of snow per minute
- Ideal for paved surfaces
Cons
- Weak LED light
4. Briggs & Stratton 1022ER Single Stage Snowthrower
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Design features
Made by one of the most respected manufacturers in the industry, the snow blower impresses with its overall build quality and results. It might not come with a push-to-start button as it comes with the classic pulling and key mechanism, but it does a good job at working in low temperatures. Even on the days when temperatures drop to -20 degrees below zero, it still starts from the first try.
Designed with a deflector, it can blow snow away in any direction. Users can actually blow snow away from the driveway and even away from the house to let it melt in the yard. Made with wear-resistant rubber edges, the snow blower can be used for years. The rubber edges also help to move the snow blower further. It is also known as one of the blowers doing a good job on icy snow, which is notoriously hard to blow away.
Convenient features
There is a powerful engine used by Briggs & Stratton. Even in very low temperatures, it maintains a smooth run. But the manufacturer also added large controls to the snow blower. Maneuvering it is easier while wearing gloves, which is one of the only methods of handling a snow blower in very low temperatures.
As the mid-range design of the range, the snow blower is among the most suitable designs for the average home. With simple chute rotation, keeping the snow blower going and piling up snow away from the driveway and access paths is easier as well.
With a 250cc engine, there is a lot to expect from the snow blower. Its main characteristic allows it to perform in temperatures as low as -20 degrees. But even in these conditions, it still comes with a 3-year warranty and one of the best customer service teams for any additional information users might need.
Verdict
Made to run in extreme cold, the snow blower is useful in high altitudes on paved surfaces.
Pros
- Top results in low temperatures
- High-durability rubber edged auger
- Clears snow down to the pavement
- Compact size for limited storage space
Cons
- Needs assembly
5. Greenworks PRO 20-Inch 80V Cordless Snow Thrower
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Design features
Based on a modern design, the snow blower is one of the few designs actually made to make life easier. Made with a cordless design, the battery-powered snow blower can reach further than most other alternatives. This is why users can consider it for large yards and homes which would require length power extensions cords.
Designed with 10” clearing depth, the snow blower is one of the most rewarding designs. Being a bit smaller than some of the most popular snow blowers helps for storage purposes as well. But the snow blower also comes with an ergonomic design. It is one of the very few releases made with a multi-grip handlebar, perfect for long clearing sessions.
The foldable design of the snow blower also allows a level of versatility which is unmatched for most users. It can be easily placed in the garage or in the basement. Since it is battery-powered, the snowblower can easily be among the designs used for weekends away to clear snow at a cabin or in other remote locations as it can fit most trunks with its foldable design.
Convenient features
Clearing up 1 acre within 45 minutes, the snow blower is also one of the reliable designs even with battery operation. Made with a brushless motor, the snow blower also includes fast charging. It takes about 30 minutes for its batteries to be fully charged and operational up to 45 minutes.
With an electric start, the snow blower is easy to operate. At the same time, it comes with an included LED light which allows users to quickly clear snow from the driveway during the night. Given the added weight of the batteries, users will not find it too heavy. At 33lbs, the snowblower can be moved by a single person with no help. Based on the brushless motor engineering, the blower is also durable ensuring years and years of snow clearing performance.
Verdict
Part of the cordless family, the snow blower is used for ultimate performance even when the power is out.
Pros
- Top performance at 80V
- Up to 45 minutes of continuous snow blowing
- Cordless design to enhance power efficiency
- Designed with an adjustable chute control
- Based on electric start performance
Cons
- Customer service can be improved
6. Snow Joe ION15SB-CT 15-Inch Cordless Snow Blower
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Design features
Made with a typical Snow Joe efficient design, the snow blower is among the interesting solutions based on battery performance. Users should not worry about its snow blowing performance even if it actually runs on batteries. For this reason, it tackles snow with a depth of 20 inches and a width of 15 inches.
Made with durable plastic and relying on batteries to clear snow, users can tackle even icy snow up to a period of 30 minutes with a single charge. In some cases, this can be even a shorter period of time, depending on the quantity of snow to be tackled. Designed with heavy-duty rubberized wheels, the snow blower is easy to push around. Given there are no cables needed, it can also reach more difficult areas around the house even if its performance is primarily based on clearing paved surfaces.
Convenient features
With heavy-duty plastic auger, the snowblower can tackle any type of snow. But its performance in terms of the shifted snow is not as high as what other machines from the manufacturer can offer. Users can still expect up to 440lbs of snow to be blown away each minute.
Instant start technology has been added to the snow blower as well. It represents one of the simpler and efficient methods of starting up the motor instead of numerous cable pulling movements. The battery system ensures a quick start whenever needed. However, all users need to know that the batteries and the charger are actually not included in the pack. They are sold separately.
Verdict
The cordless Snow Joe is a convenient solution which can prove practical in case of power outages for residential use.
Pros
- Made with a cordless design
- Blows up to 440lbs of snow per minute
- Designed with large wheels
- Instant start technology implementation
Cons
- Batteries and charger sold separately
7. Husqvarna ST224 24-Inch 208cc Two-Stage Electric Start Snow Blower
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Design features
Clearing snow as deep as 20”, the Husqvarna snow blower is not among the most popular choice of the moment. But its performance is comparable or better than what can be seen with a few other machines. The two-stage motor ensures smooth performance. The design of the snow blower is better as well. If most adjustable deflectors have 180 angle adjustability, Husqvarna offers 204-degree adjustability. This is suitable for tight spaces.
Another area where the Husqvarna snow blower outshines the competition is with the size of its tires. Made with 15” tires, the snowblower can easily glide across heavy snow, which is not the case with so many other products. The rubber wheels are perfect for added traction and they may as well be the best in class for many users. With added LED lights, the snow blower is one of the powerful designs to tackle any type of job early in the morning or late in the evening.
Convenient features
With top performance on icy snow, the snowblower can deal with any task. From lightweight snow, seen at the beginning of the winter, to clearing driveways of heavy snow to blow away powdery snow. One of the main concerns users have is with leftover snow, which can sometimes turn into ice. But this is not the case with the Husqvarna blower which does a great job and removing all snow from flat surfaces.
A few areas could see minor improvements to really make the snow blower the best in class solution. If its higher weight can be reduced due to its larger size, other improvements could be seen. Replacing the front impeller is also not as easy as with a few other brands. But the snow blower also needs better packaging, especially since it needs to protect a few smaller parts as it needs some assembly.
Verdict
This heavyweight snow blower can tackle deep snow with its impressive oversized wheels.
Pros
- Designed with unique LED lights
- Sits on large 15in tires
- Based on Husqvarna’s own 208cc motor
- Made with heated handle grips
Cons
- Heavy for some users
8. Troy-Bilt Squall 208cc Electric Start 21-Inch Single Stage Gas Snow Thrower
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Design features
There are plenty of modern snow blowers to choose from. But the classic gas-powered machine is still going strong. This is where the Troy Bilt snow blower represents a practical alternative to many mainstream snow blowers which are actually needing constant power or fully battery recharge after 40 minutes.
Designed with a wide clearing width with a height of 21 inches, the snow blower is as good as people hope for in heavy snow. It’s a gas performance also means that users need to store additional gas in the garage or in the basement. But it can even be one of the backup snow blowers in case of power outages, which can be frequent in remote locations or during heavy snowfall.
Convenient features
Even if the snow blower comes with a gas-powered motor, it still has the functionality of an electric alternative. It blows snow in any direction based on the adjustable discharge with 180-degree freedom. Furthermore, starting the snow blower will not be a major concern. It is actually a simple operation as the machine is based on an electric start system.
There is an ergonomic handle used on the snow blower as well. It is one of the few angled handles which actually reduced the stress on the wrists. Pushing the heavy blower through the snow for many hours is easier as a result. At the same time, the ergonomic handle also ensures this classic gas-powered handlebar is actually modern and that it stays in a comparable range of performance with its electric counterparts.
Verdict
Perfect for energy independence in case of power outages, the snow blower is a top designer for many remote areas.
Pros
- Based on gas performance
- Designed with an ergonomic handlebar
- Easy electric start system
- Wide cleaning width
Cons
- The gas tank can become loose in time
9. Honda Power Equipment HS720AA 20" 187cc Single-Stage Snow Blower
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Design features
Made with a robust design, the single stage snow blower is one of the most durable in its class. It comes with a complete list of features and characteristics to be used in any type of residential homes. Perfect for clearing sidewalks or even driveways, the durable Honda snow blower can tackle deep snow.
Being a stage 1 design means the snow blower needs to be kept on paved or flat surfaces. But users can still take it out on the patio to clear snow off. For most users, it is actually a matter of getting accustomed to its power as it can blow snow away up to 33 feet. From this perspective, it is among the most powerful snow blowers.
Convenient features
With a 190cc motor, the snow blower is among the suitable designs for extra durability. It’s the gas engine is not pretentious and with minimum care, it can be one of the most durable designs in its class. At the same time, the snow blower is a reliable design to choose without the need for an upgrade as it can handle icy snow as well.
With an ergonomic handle, pushing the gas-powered snow blower doesn’t put too much pressure on the hands and shoulders of the user. With an adjustable discharge angle, the snow blower can be a top tool for small areas and one of the few reliable gas-powered designs.
Verdict
With solid construction, the snow blower combines gas power with modern features such as ergonomics.
Pros
- Easy to use in deep snow
- Gas power performance
- Throws snow up to 33 feet away
- Clears 20 inches at a time
Cons
- Heavy compared to electric alternatives
10. Snow Joe iON18SB Cordless Single Stage Snow Blower
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Design features
Snow Joe makes a range of reliable snow blowers. But the iON18SB is one of the best designs as it comes with a cordless performance and a weight of just 32lbs. Instead of pushing the 200lbs limit as many other older generation snow blowers do, the iON18SB is actually a lightweight solution for any type of needs.
Its hybrid design is based on battery performance and it represents one of the most interesting options for users to count on. With an impress 50-minute operation time on a single charge, the snow blower is also the option to consider when a recharge is a chore.
Convenient features
Moving up to 500lbs of snow per minute, the snow blower is indeed an interesting choice for many users. It represents a suitable option for home use. Even if it’s bigger brothers are actually capable of moving 700-800lbs of snow, the iON18SB still has a good performance based on its battery-powered motor.
With no pull cords, no gas refills and no maintenance, the single stage motor has a constant performance on paved surfaces. Clearing up all paths around the house is easy as a result. Clearing all snow to the ground without damaging the surface is another reason why the cordless performance of the snow blower is actually something to be proud of.
Verdict
With impressive battery life, the snow blower leaps to the help of those needing a lightweight maneuverable design.
Pros
- Based on battery power
- Made with a weight of just 32lbs
- 50 minutes runtime on a single charge
- Doesn’t damage cement surfaces
Cons
- Plastic parts can be flimsy
Guide to Buying the Best Snow Blowers
Can I use a snow blower with no training?
All snow blowers can be used with no previous training. There are minimum operation buttons to learn and most of the designs only come with a few controls. However, reading the full instructions manual is recommended even for the simplest snow blowers.
How can a snow blower break?
A snow blower can become clogged at times, especially on icy snow or when taken on gravel. Completely braking a snow blower is a result of improper use, which is an extra reason to read the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can a snow blower be stored outside?
A snow blower can be stored outside, mainly with a snow cover on it. But for durability purposes, a snow blower needs to be stored away from snow, rain and cold weather in places such as a garage.
Is a cordless snow blower as good as a corded snow blower?
Cordless snow blowers are still reliable. They can still blow snow away at the same distance as a cordless alternative. However, battery life is a limiting factor which needs to be considered.
What is the purpose of an ergonomic design?
Ergonomics designs are mainly seen on newer snow blowers. They mainly reference the design of the handlebar. Instead of having a simple straight handlebar, a number of brands have decided to make the handlebar with an ergonomic design, reducing the pressure on the wrists, similarly to handlebars from other machines or power tools.
Do I need a snow blower for snow under 10” in depth?
Snow of different depths can be blow away. Most snow blowers can tackle snow as deep as 20”. Even with less snow, it may still be a time-saving solution to use a snow blower.
How to choose the best snow blowers
Choosing the best snow blowers is a matter of personal needs and preferences. Most of them work well for small and average-sized homes. However, a number of snow blowers might fit certain situations more. For example, those living in remote locations with frequent power outages could consider cordless designs as a viable option.
- Motor capacity
Motor capacity varies from design to design. Most of the popular snow blowers used at home come with motors between 13 and 15amp. They are powerful enough to blow snow away and to clear driveways or sidewalks. At the same time, they are not needing too much energy to run on a cost-saving principle of reduced electrical consumption.
- Cordless vs corded snow blowers
Corded snow blowers are still providing solid results as they can run for hours. They can be a good option for large front and backyards as well as for any commercial use. But cordless snow blowers can be a lightweight alternative. They can also work further away from home. In some areas where users need to rely on generator-based electrical power, a cordless design can be a good option for extra energy efficiency.
- Materials
The materials used in snow blower construction are considerably different. Some of the most affordable snow blowers are notorious for their flimsy plastic materials. This is not to say that they don’t serve their purpose. But in comparison to robust snow blowers, they might not be as successful at dealing with large quantities of snow and a few long snow blowing sessions through the winter.
- Extra features
Seeing extra features on snow blowers is still quite rare. Most of them offer similar characteristics. However, a number of snow blowers offer important extras. A handlebar with a heating feature can be useful for seniors. Added LED lights can improve visibility which is notoriously diminished during the winter months. These extra need to be considered when looking for a future-proof design.
Other design characteristics such as an adjustable chute can help as well. Most adjustable chutes work between 180 and 204 degrees. The tighter the clearing area is the more adjustment versatility the snow blower needs. In most cases, the adjustable chute is also quite poorly made. This is one of the areas where users need to exercise caution. Forcing a chute to change angle while frozen is one of the fastest methods of actually breaking the plastic material used on most snow blowers.
Final considerations
Some of the best snow blowers can now tackle a variety of terrains. From the simple and efficient single-stage snow blowers and their flat-surface performance to the gravel-suitable snow blowers, there are plenty of options to consider.
All users should know how to safely operate a snow blower to minimize all accident risks. From knowing how to use an extension cord and how not to place it on snow to actually safely storing gas for gas-powered snow blowers, there are a few safety guidelines to consider. Most of them are found in the user’s guide of a snow blower. Customer service teams are also available for the largest brands and they can offer extra safety guidance.
But most importantly, snow blowers need to be used for their intended purpose. A one-stage snow blower doesn’t need to clear snow on gravel. By doing so, users are guaranteeing its damage which can be costly to deal with. This is why most users need to think about the type of terrain they plane to clear the snow from. Dealing with sidewalks and driveways is something most people do.
This is why some of the most popular snow blowers are actually one-stage designs. But even they can come in different cordless or corded variations. Another top tip is to actually choose a snow blower which is easy to use. The last thing users want is to actually have to remove gloves to operate the controls of a snow blower during freezing temperatures.