6 Best Snow Throwers and Clearers for Winter 2024

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6 Best Snow Throwers and Clearers for Winter

Snowy winters can be quite beautiful but can also be a hassle. Shoveling snow can be a time-consuming and physically demanding task. Fortunately, snow throwers and clearers can make the job much easier.

We have compiled six tried and tested recommendations on the best snow throwers and clearers for your home this winter.

These machines come in different types, such as electric, gas-powered, and cordless. They also vary in size, capacity, and features.

When choosing a snow thrower or clearer, consider the size of your property, the type of snow you typically get, and the level of convenience you need.

The most critical factor to consider when purchasing a snow thrower or clearer is the type of machine that will work best for your needs.

Electric snow throwers are often smaller and lighter, making them ideal for clearing smaller areas like decks, patios, and walkways.

On the other hand, gas-powered snow throwers are more powerful and can handle larger areas and heavier snowfalls.

Cordless snow throwers are a newer option that combines the convenience of electric models with the power of gas-powered ones. These machines are battery-operated and are suitable for clearing moderate amounts of snow.

Man clearing a path with a gas powered snow blower

When choosing a snow thrower or clearer, it’s important to consider factors like the machine’s clearing width and depth, throwing distance, and maneuverability.

Some models come with additional features like headlights, heated handles, and adjustable chutes. These features can make snow clearing more comfortable and more efficient.

We spent many hours researching and testing various snow throwers and clearers to identify the best models for different needs.

In the following sections, we’ll overview the top six snow throwers and clearers for home use and we recommend based on factors like type, price, power, capacity, and convenience.

Best Snow Throwers and Clearers

When winter comes, snow can be an amazing sight, but it can also be a nuisance that needs to be cleared from driveways, sidewalks, and other areas. That’s where snow throwers and clearers come in.

Knowing which best suits your needs can be tough with so many options. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best snow throwers and clearers for home use on the market.

Whether you’re looking for something compact and easy to store or a heavy-duty machine that can handle large areas, we’ve got you covered.

We have recommended two cordless, electric and gas models in order. Let us begin…

Snow Joe 24V-SS13 Cordless Snow Shovel Kit

Pros

  • The cordless feature allows easy maneuvering and eliminates the need for cords or gas.
  • The 24V IONMAX 4.0-Ah rechargeable Lithium-ion battery provides up to 22 minutes of whisper-quiet runtime.
  • The 400 W motor moves up to 1,620 lbs. of snow per charge.

Cons

  • The snow shovel may not be suitable for heavy, wet snow.
  • The throw distance is only up to 20 feet.
  • The battery may not last long enough for larger areas.
  • Only one battery is included.

We recently had the chance to use the Snow Joe 24V-SS13 Cordless Snow Shovel Kit and were impressed by its ease of use and maneuverability.

The cordless feature made it easy to move around without worrying about cords or gas. The rechargeable 4.0-Ah Lithium-ion battery provides up to 30 minutes of run time, which is decent if you have a small area to clear so you can finish the job without stopping and recharging. However, it may not be enough for larger areas.

The 400 W motor was powerful enough to move up to 1,620 lbs. of snow per charge, making it suitable for quick pickups on decks, steps, patios, and sidewalks. However, it may not be suitable for heavy, wet snow, requiring a more heavy-duty snow blower.

Weight: 15 Pounds
Power:400 W
Runtime: 22 min.
Size: 14.5 x 13 x 24.5 inch
Battery: 1 Lithium Ion
Voltage: 24 V
Geometry: 14.5 x 13 x 24.5 inch

We recommend the Snow Joe 24V-SS13 Cordless Snow Shovel Kit for those looking for a cordless snow shovel to handle quick and easy snow pickups in smaller areas.

EGO Power+ SNT2102 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Snow Blower

Pros

  • Easy push-button start
  • The peak power technology combines the power of two EGO Power Plus 5.0A-h batteries and charger, providing reliable and long-lasting performance to get the job done.
  • The high-efficiency brushless motor ensures the snow blower runs smoothly and quietly, requiring little maintenance.
  • The 21-inch clearing width and 8-inch clearing depth make quick work of clearing snow from driveways and sidewalks.

Cons

  • The snow blower weighs over 50 pounds, which may make maneuvering difficult for some users.
  • The variable-speed control can be tricky to get used to and may require some practice to use effectively.
  • The LED headlights are not very bright, which may make it difficult to see in low-light conditions.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the EGO Power+ SNT2102. We were impressed with its performance. Being cordless, there is less worry about getting tangled up in cords while clearing your driveway or walkway. 

This snow blower is 21 inches wide, perfect for most home walkways and driveways. It’s not too big and bulky, so it’s easy to maneuver, but it’s still wide enough to get the job done quickly.

The snow blower is easy to assemble and use. It has a push-button start and variable-speed control, which allows you to adjust the speed of the auger and impeller to match the conditions.

The snow blower’s quick-fold handle makes it easy to store when not in use, and its weather-resistant construction ensures that it can withstand harsh winter conditions.

One thing to note is that the snow blower is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.

However, the robust steel construction ensures that it is durable and long-lasting, and the peak power technology provides reliable and consistent performance to handle the heaviest of snowfalls.

Power: Peak
Batteries: 2 Lithium Ion
Weight: 50.71 Pounds
Power: 21-inch clearing width
Voltage: 56 V
Usage: Home

We highly recommend the EGO Power+ SNT2102 to anyone needing a powerful and efficient snow blower.

Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower w/ Dual LED Lights, 22-inch, 15-Amp

Pros

  • The 15-amp electric motor moves up to 25 tons/hr. Of snow and clears a 22-in x 13-in path in a single pass, making it a time-saving option for quick snow pickups.
  • The 2 x 1.5 W LED lights facilitate night-time snow removal, making it possible to clear snow even in low-light conditions.
  • The all-steel auger cuts a 22-inch wide by 13-inch deep path with each pass, making it efficient and effective at removing snow.

Cons

  • We recommend customers use a certain gauge and length extension cord. Do not use an extension cord over 100 ft (30 m), which could limit the device’s performance.
  • The Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower w/ Dual LED Lights, 22-inch, 15-Amp, is designed for light, fluffy snow. It may be less effective in removing heavy, wet snow or ice.
  • Some users have reported that the Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower w/ Dual LED Lights, 22-inch, 15-Amp may not be as durable as other snow throwers.

We found the Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower w/ Dual LED Lights, 22-inch, 15-Amp, a reliable and efficient snow thrower that makes quick snow removal work.

The LED lights were especially helpful when clearing snow in low-light conditions. We did find that the device may struggle with heavy, wet snow or ice.

Maximum weight: 34.8 Pounds
Power: 15-amp
Dimensions: 23.4 x 22 x 26 inches
Style: Blue Steel Auger
Number of LED lights: 2
Possessive metric: No

We recommend the Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower w/ Dual LED Lights, 22-inch, 15-Amp for a powerful and versatile snow thrower.

Toro 38381 18-Inch 15 Amp Electric 1800 Power Curve Snow Blower

Pros

  • Moves up to 700-Pounds of snow per minute for efficient snow clearing
  • Power Curve technology cleans down to the pavement and helps prevent clogging
  • Full-bail ergonomic handle, lift handle, quick level, zip deflector, lightweight design, and easy assembly

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy snowfall
  • Corded design limits mobility
  • Only suitable for small driveways and residential areas

The Toro 38381 snowblower is a great choice for a powerful, efficient snow-clearing machine. Its 15 Amp electric motor can move up to 700 pounds of snow per minute, making it a quick and efficient option for small driveways, walkways, patios, and decks.

Its 18-inch clearance width and 12-inch intake height allow quick clearing, while its Power Curve technology cleans the pavement and helps prevent clogging.

The full-bail ergonomic handle, lift handle, quick level, zip deflector, lightweight design, and easy assembly make it easy to use and maneuver.

It is unsuitable for heavy snowfall, and its corded design limits mobility. It is only suitable for small driveways and residential areas.

Maximum weight: 24 Pounds
Power: 15-amp Corded Electric
Dimensions: 36.2 x 18 x 47 inches
Clearance Width: 18-inch
Snow Moved: 700 Pounds per minute
Intake Height: 12-inch

If you are looking for an efficient and reliable snow-clearing machine for your small driveway or residential area, the Toro 38381 Snow Blower is a great choice.

PowerSmart 21 Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered

Pros

  • Equipped with a 212cc 4-cycle OHV engine, this snow blower can throw up to 35ft. and has a snow plowing capacity of 1680 lbs/min.
  • With a clearing width of 21″ and an intake height of 12.5″, this snow blower can remove 1 in. to 8 in. of snow quickly.
  • The 4-paddle rubber auger shreds snow fast, allowing you to tackle the mountain of snow that a snow plow truck left more easily.

Cons

  • Assembly can be more difficult than expected, so it is recommended that you have an extra pair of hands.
  • The unit can be heavy and big, making maneuvering difficult for some users.
  • Some customers have reported receiving damaged units upon delivery.

Last winter, I tried out the PowerSmart 21-inch gas-powered Snow Blower and was impressed with its power and performance.

The 212cc 4-cycle OHV engine efficiently removes snow, and the 4-paddle rubber auger quickly removes even heavy snow.

Assembly can be tricky, and I recommend having an extra pair of hands to help. The unit is also quite heavy, which may make maneuvering difficult for some users.

Some customers have also reported receiving damaged units upon delivery but this would be covered under warranty.

It’s covered by a 2-year warranty and free lifetime tech support so that you can feel confident in your purchase.

Engine: 4 Cycle OHV
Weight: 73.7 Pounds
Engine Displacement: 212 Cubic Centimeters
Throw distance: 40-feet
LED light: Yes
Plowing capacity: 1680 lbs/min.
Usage: Snow Blower

I recommend the PowerSmart 21-inch Gas Powered Snow Blower if you want a powerful and compact unit.

Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower

Pros

  • The wide 28” clearing width can move 72 tons of snow per hour.
  • The powerful Ariens AX 306cc engine with a 14″ Super High Output impeller can easily handle heavy snow.
  • Velocity Ready Technology ensures you maintain sufficient power
  • Premium features like Auto-Turn and an LED headlight make it easy to use in any condition.
  • Minimal assembly required

Cons

  • The plastic pull starter recoil may not be as durable as other parts.
  • If not correctly tightened, the handle assembly may be crooked and lean to the left, making it awkward to use.
  • The machine may move left when hitting a bump in drive mode.
  • It is inadequate for clearing taller drifts.

We’ve found that the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is a reliable and powerful snow blower that can easily handle heavy snow.

The wide 28” clearing width and powerful Ariens AX 306cc double-stage gas engine with a Digital Control System and a 14″ Super High Output impeller make it easy to quickly clear a lot of snow.

The Auto-Turn feature and LED headlight also make it easy to use in any condition.

We did notice a few small cons with this snow blower. The plastic pull starter recoil may not be as durable as other parts (we sent an upgrade request for future models), and the handle assembly may be crooked and lean to the left if not tightened correctly, making it awkward to use.

The machine may move slightly left when hitting a bump in drive mode.

Engine: 306 Cubic Centimeters
Weight: 300 pounds
Style: Deluxe
Brand: Ariens
Size: 58 x 30 x 45 inches
Claims process: Easy
Covered Failure: Malfunctions

We recommend the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO to anyone looking for a powerful and reliable snow blower that can handle heavy snow.

Buying Guide

When choosing a snow thrower or clearer, several factors must be considered to ensure you get the best product for your needs. We recommend considering the following:

Types of Snow Throwers and Clearers

There are three main types of snow blowers: single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage.

Single-stage snow blowers are ideal for light snow and smaller driveways or walkways and are lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Two-stage snow blowers are more powerful and can handle heavier snowfalls and larger areas. Three-stage snow blowers are even more robust and suitable for heavy-duty snow clearing.

Power Source

Electric, gas, or battery can power snow throwers and clearers.

Electric models are typically less powerful but more environmentally friendly and easier to maintain, while gas models are more powerful but require more maintenance and emit pollutants.

Battery-powered models are a good compromise between the two, offering decent power and low maintenance.

Clearing a path with an electric snow blower

Clearing Width and Depth

The clearing width and depth determine how much snow the machine can handle. The wider and deeper the clearing capacity, the faster you can clear your driveway or walkway.

Additional Features

Additional features include adjustable chute direction and height, heated handles, headlights, and easy maneuverability. These features can make the snow-clearing process easier and more comfortable.

We also recommend investing in a snow thrower with adjustable chute and deflector controls. This feature allows you to direct the snow where you want it to go, preventing snow from piling up in unwanted areas.

Snow blowers are also used for commercial purposes. They are specifically designed and built to handle heavy-duty snow-clearing tasks required in larger commercial properties such as parking lots, shopping centers, and office complexes.

They generally have greater power, wider clearing widths, and more durable construction.

Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing a snow thrower or clearer. By taking the time to research and compare different models, you can find the best one for your winter needs.

Man clearing a path with a snow blower

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Snow Blowers and Clearers

Q: Why should I invest in a snow blower or snow clearer?

A: Snow blowers and clearers are extremely convenient and time-saving tools for removing snow from driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor areas.

They make shoveling snow much easier and faster, especially during heavy snowfall or when dealing with large snow accumulations.

Q: How do I choose the right snow blower for my needs?

A: When choosing a snow blower, consider factors such as the average snowfall in your area, the size of the area to be cleared, the terrain, and the type of snow (wet or light).

Additionally, think about the power source (electric or gas) that suits your preferences and the maintenance requirements you’re comfortable with.

Q: What is the difference between electric and gas-powered snow blowers?

A: Electric snow blowers are typically lighter, quieter, and require less maintenance than gas-powered ones. They are suitable for clearing small to medium-sized areas with lighter snowfall.

On the other hand, gas-powered snow blowers are more powerful and can handle larger areas and heavier snowfalls. They provide more mobility and don’t have the limitation of a power cord.

Q: Can a snow blower remove all types of snow?

A: While snow blowers work well with most types of snow, they may face challenges with heavy, compacted, or icy snow.

In such cases, it is recommended to clear the snow in multiple passes or consider using additional tools, such as ice melt or a shovel, to break up the snow before using the snow blower.

Q: How often should I service my snow blower?

A: Maintaining your snow blower regularly is important to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Refer to the user manual for specific guidelines. Still, generally, it involves checking and changing the oil, inspecting and replacing worn-out parts, cleaning the chute and auger, and lubricating moving components.

Q: Can I use a snow blower on gravel surfaces?

A: Yes, you can use a snow blower on gravel surfaces. However, adjusting the snowblower’s clearing height is essential to prevent picking up gravel and causing damage.

Most snow blowers have adjustable skid shoes that allow you to set the appropriate height for different surfaces.

Q: Are snow blowers safe to use?

A: Snow blowers can be safe when used correctly and with caution. It is crucial to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, wear appropriate safety gear, and keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Avoid using a snow blower on steep inclines or uneven surfaces, and be mindful of people and objects in the immediate vicinity.

Q: Are there any alternative tools for removing snow?

A: In addition to snow blowers, other tools for snow removal are available, such as snow shovels, ice chippers, and snow pushers.

Each tool has its own advantages and limitations, so it is important to assess your needs and choose the most appropriate tool for the specific snow-clearing task.

Snow blowing after heavy snow

Final Thoughts

We hope this article has provided valuable insight into the best home snow throwers and clearers of the market.

Choosing the right snow thrower can be daunting, but we believe the models we have reviewed are some of the best available.

When selecting a snow thrower, it is important to consider factors such as the size of your property, the amount of snow you typically receive, and your budget. We recommend that you carefully evaluate your needs before making a purchase.

Additionally, we encourage you to maintain your snow thrower properly to ensure it continues functioning at its best.

This includes regular maintenance, such as changing the oil, checking the spark plug, and proper storage during the off-season.

Overall, we are confident that any snow throwers we have reviewed will help make your winter snow-clearing experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Thank you for reading, and we wish you a safe and snow-free winter season.

Further Recommendations:

Video: Gas vs. Electric Blowers

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9 responses to “6 Best Snow Throwers and Clearers for Winter 2024”

  1. CeeCee Avatar
    CeeCee

    Finally, a straightforward guide. Making my choice much easier, thanks John Christianson!

  2. Jake_The_Snake Avatar
    Jake_The_Snake

    Who needs a snow blower when you got these guns *flexes*. But seriously, my back can’t take more shoveling.

    1. FitFamFan Avatar
      FitFamFan

      Lol, get the blower and save the workouts for the gym.

  3. SusieQ Avatar
    SusieQ

    Interesting read. My son was telling me about these, might have to get him to buy me one.

  4. DebbieDoesDIY Avatar
    DebbieDoesDIY

    The buying guide’s pretty helpful. Didn’t realize how important clearing width was until reading this. Thanks!

  5. snowlover12 Avatar
    snowlover12

    love seeing Snow Joe make the list, got one last year and it’s been a game changer for my driveway.

  6. Frank The Snow Man Avatar
    Frank The Snow Man

    Gotta say the Ariens never lets me down, its a beast on commercial properties.

  7. JimboSlice Avatar
    JimboSlice

    Does anyone know if the EGO Power+ blower can handle wet snow well? got a big driveway & sick of shoveling lol.

    1. TanyaM Avatar
      TanyaM

      I’ve had good experiences with mine, even in slushy conditions. Definitely a back saver.

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