We Tested Snow Blowers: Here Are Our Top Picks

Top Choice

This gas-powered snow blower efficiently cleared over four inches of snow from a combined area of 1,000 square feet, including the driveway, walkway, and sidewalk. It handled even inclined surfaces effortlessly, aided by the self-propel system. Plus, the auger lever can be locked in place to avoid holding it down continuously while the blower is running.

Assembling this model took 40 minutes, which is a bit longer than most of the other snow blowers featured here. The setup also needed some extra tools, like needle-nose pliers and various socket wrenches. Despite this, we found it to be a solid option overall, offering good value for its mid-range price and its two-stage, self-propelled design.

Type: Two-stage | Clearing Width: 24 inches | Self–Propelled: Yes | Power Type: Gas | Maximum Throwing Distance: 40 feet

Best Value for Budget

This snow blower took just 10 minutes to assemble, making it the quickest setup time compared to any other model on this list. The two batteries that come with it were also fully charged, allowing it to be used almost immediately.

Though it isn't self-propelled, this compact model was still easy to maneuver with minimal effort. It handled three to four inches of heavy snow without any issues, but struggled more when tackling deeper snowdrifts of up to eight inches during our testing.

The snow blower performed well during shorter sessions of 15 minutes or less, with plenty of battery life remaining. However, recharging the batteries takes an hour. For this reason, we recommend this model for clearing smaller areas that won’t require a recharge mid-session.

Type: Single-stage | Clearing Width: 21 inches | Self–Propelled: No | Power Type: Battery | Maximum Throwing Distance: 35 feet

Best for Tough Snow Conditions

If you're in need of a model that can handle frequent, heavy snowfall, this is the one for you. This robust, two-stage snow blower features a 28-inch clearing width and can throw snow anywhere between three and 55 feet.

Adjusting the chute to control the direction and distance of the snow was incredibly easy. During testing, we encountered light, fluffy snow and strong winds, making the chute's adjustability particularly useful.

We also appreciated how easy it was to maneuver this snow blower. The power steering feature made it simple to navigate curved driveways, and despite weighing 267.5 pounds, its self-propelled design made it feel surprisingly light during operation.

One important thing to keep in mind: this machine measures nearly 5 feet in length and 4 feet in height, so be sure to have enough storage space for it.

Type: Two-stage | Clearing Width: 28 inches | Self–Propelled: Yes | Power Type: Gas | Maximum Throwing Distance: 55 feet

Best in Maneuverability

This powerful snow blower is packed with features like a two-stage, self-propelled design and heated handles to ensure comfort in cold conditions. It's an excellent option for areas that experience heavy snowfall on a regular basis, rather than just occasional light flurries.

One of the standout features is the steering assist, which made maneuvering effortless. The speed settings and controls were straightforward to use. It tackled both light, fluffy snow and heavier, wetter snow with ease, though it couldn't throw the denser snow as far. Additionally, the bright LED headlights improve safety while operating in darker conditions.

While the motor is a bit noisy during use, it's not overly disruptive. The assembly took 45 minutes, the longest of any model in this review.

Type: Two-stage | Clearing Width: 26 inches | Self-Propelled: Yes | Fuel Type: Gas | Maximum Throwing Distance: 40 feet

Best Electric

This two-stage, self-propelled snow blower is our top pick for those seeking a battery-operated option. Although you’ll need to recharge the batteries for extended use, we were impressed that they still had charge after 40 minutes of operation. The machine was also easy to maneuver, even on uneven terrain and sloped surfaces.

We would have appreciated more guidance in the user manual on adjusting the skid shoes, which keep the blower elevated from the ground. Depending on their adjustment, the snow blower may struggle on uneven surfaces or leave behind too much snow. You might need to experiment with the positioning of the skid shoes to find the optimal setting for your needs.

Type: Two-stage | Clearing Width: 24 inches | Self–Propelled: Yes | Power Type: Battery | Maximum Throwing Distance: 50 feet

Final Review

Among the snow blowers we highly recommend, the Ariens Classic 24 Snow Blower stands out as our top choice. Its self-propelled feature performed exceptionally well in clearing snow. We also appreciated the auger lever lock, which eliminates the need to hold it down continuously during use. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable gas-powered snow blower.

The EGO POWER+ Snow Blower with Peak Power also impressed us and is our top pick for a budget-friendly option. It’s quick and easy to assemble, and it effectively handled clearing three to four inches of heavy snow without any issues.

How We Tested

We evaluated each snow blower based on several factors, including design, performance, usability, safety, and overall value. Here's a deeper dive into the criteria we used to select our top models.

For the design assessment, we focused on how easily each snow blower could be set up, the time it took to assemble, and the necessary steps for setup. We also considered the available features, such as whether the model was self-propelled and the number of speed settings offered.

We tested each snow blower under various snow and weather conditions to assess its performance. Since weather conditions varied, so did the tests, but in general, we looked at how effectively each snow blower cleared paths and how each individual feature contributed to the overall performance.

To evaluate ease of use, we observed how simple it was to adjust the various levers and controls during operation.

In terms of safety, we examined whether each model was equipped with features like headlights, a quick shut-off switch, or any other safety enhancements that would benefit both the user and anyone nearby. Always read the safety guidelines before operating the snow blower.

We evaluated a snow blower's value by considering its price along with its design, performance, ease of use, and safety ratings. A model that offers a reasonable price for the features it provides is considered to have strong overall value.

Expert Tips for Shopping for Snow Blowers

Dimensions and Weight

Generally, the larger the snow blower, the more snow it can manage. For instance, our top pick for heavy snow, the Ariens Deluxe 28 Sho Snow Blower, weighs 267.5 pounds and is almost 5 feet long, 2.5 feet wide, and 4 feet high. In contrast, our budget-friendly choice, the EGO POWER+ Snow Blower with Peak Power, weighs only 51 pounds and is about 4.5 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 3 feet high. This highlights the importance of considering if you have the necessary storage space and the ability to handle the machine's size before making a purchase.

Type of Terrain

If your property includes steep slopes, uneven paths, a winding driveway, or other challenging areas, a self-propelled model with power steering, such as our top pick for heavy snow, might be a good choice.

Self-propelled snow blowers operate much like self-propelled lawn mowers. Instead of manually pushing the machine, the self-propelled feature assists with much of the effort, which is especially useful when tackling hills or areas that require additional strength to move the machine forward.

Power steering is an advantageous feature when clearing surfaces that aren't straight. It will help you easily maneuver the snow blower around curved paths like sidewalks, walkways, or driveways.

Type of Power Source

For this guide, we tested both gas-powered and battery-powered snow blowers and noted the power type for each. If you have a large driveway and long walkways that need regular snow clearing, and your area gets significant snowfall, a gas-powered model might be your best choice.

Many gas snow blowers come with an electric start feature in addition to the usual pull start, allowing you to plug it into an outdoor outlet to start it. While our top electric model, the EGO POWER+ 24 in. Self-Propelled 2-Stage Snow Blower with Peak Power, still had battery power after 40 minutes of use, larger snow-clearing jobs will require you to pause and recharge the batteries.

If you forget to recharge the batteries after use and more snow falls overnight, you’ll need to wait again for the batteries to recharge. However, if you can finish the job in under an hour and ensure the batteries are charged for the next use, an electric model could be a good fit. It's worth noting, as Meinecke mentions, that electric models generally weigh less than gas-powered ones.

Clearing Width and Depth

When selecting a snow blower, it's important to consider the typical snowfall in your area and the size of the space you need to clear. Single-stage snow blowers are ideal for smaller areas, as they usually clear a path between 12 to 22 inches wide and can handle snow depths up to 13 inches. These machines may require multiple passes to finish the job effectively.

For wider driveways or sidewalks, or if you frequently face heavy snowfall, a two-stage snow blower would be more efficient. These machines can clear paths ranging from 20 to 38 inches wide and can handle snow depths of 18 to 30 inches, making your snow removal faster and easier. The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower is a top choice for large areas, with an impressive clearing width of 28 inches and an intake height of 21 inches.

Special Features

Beyond self-propel and power steering capabilities, there are several additional features worth considering.

Snow Cab: If you plan on regularly clearing snow in cold temperatures, a snow cab can provide protection from the harsh weather, as Meinecke suggests. Snow cabs are generally made to fit specific brands and models, so make sure to check the available accessories with your snow blower to confirm compatibility and proper fit.

Clog-Clearing Tool: Some snow blowers come with a convenient tool that can be attached to the machine to help clear any clogs in the chute while you're working. Depending on the type of snow, you might not always need this, but it's definitely a useful tool to have when required.

Headlights: A few models feature built-in headlights, improving visibility when using the snow blower. This is a helpful safety feature for both the operator and anyone nearby.

Heated Grips: Some snow blower models are equipped with heated grips to keep your hands warm while you work. While it's important to wear protective clothing for cold weather, the added warmth from heated grips can provide extra comfort during chilly winter tasks.

Questions You Might Ask

What is the difference between single-stage and two-stage snow blowers?

Single-stage snow blowers use an auger to both collect and throw the snow, according to Meinecke. In contrast, two-stage snow blowers also rely on an auger to gather snow, but they incorporate a second impeller fan to push the snow through the chute and away from the machine.

Meinecke often suggests two-stage snow blowers for those with larger areas to clear, as they come equipped with drive systems and extra features that make them easier to handle during extended or frequent use.

What size snow blower do you need?

The right snow blower depends on your needs. If you're only clearing a small walkway to your home, you don't need the largest machine available. However, for larger driveways or paved surfaces that require regular snow removal, a snow blower with a wider clearing path will make the job faster and more efficient.

According to Meinecke, the most popular snow blowers at his store are single-stage models with a 21-inch clearing width, followed by two-stage models with 24-inch clearing widths. His store is located in Milwaukee near Lake Michigan, where snowfall is lighter compared to more inland areas of Wisconsin, so the ideal machine will vary depending on location and individual needs.

How much do snow blowers cost?

Snow blowers can be a significant investment. Single-stage models typically cost between $600 and $900, while two-stage snow blowers start around $1,100 and can go higher from there.

Given the high cost of even basic models, it's crucial to evaluate your needs before purchasing. If you only experience light and infrequent snow, a less powerful machine should suffice. But for those who regularly face heavy snowfall, it may be worth investing in a model with additional features such as heated grips and power steering.

When is the best time to purchase a snow blower?

Like many other purchases, the best time to buy a snow blower is often during the off-season. Setting up a deal alert for your desired model can notify you when it goes on sale. You can also take advantage of sales events like Amazon Prime Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.

Take Our Word for It

This article was authored by Megan Wollerton, a contributor for Mytour with 11 years of experience in testing and writing about a diverse range of consumer products. For this review, we tested several gas-powered and battery-operated snow blowers in real-world conditions.

To evaluate their performance in various snow conditions, each model was tested up to three times with at least 2 inches of snow. Megan also consulted with Lisa Yost Galvin, the owner of Tenleytown Lawn & Landscapes in Washington, D.C., and David Meinecke, the general manager at Village Ace Hardware in Glendale, Wisconsin, to discuss important snow blower features and functionality.