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We Tested Over a Dozen Snow Blowers and This Ryobi Is a Heavy-Duty Machine in Compact Form

We set the shovel aside and put top snow blowers to the test. We were able to clear snow quicker and with less effort with these cordless options.

Best Overall

The Ryobi 40V 22" Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower, two batteries, and charger on a white background.

Ryobi 40V 22" Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower

Runner-Up

The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option Toro Power Max 60V e24 24 Two-Stage Snow Blower

Toro Power Max 60V e24 24" Two-Stage Snow Blower

Best Bang for the Buck

The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option Snow Joe 48V 18 Ionmax Cordless Snow Blower Kit

Snow Joe 48V 18" Ionmax Cordless Snow Blower Kit

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Shoveling snow can be tiring, but a cordless snow blower can minimize the bending, lifting, and tossing necessary to clear driveways and walkways. Another major benefit of these tools is that they don’t emit unpleasant and harmful fumes, which makes them better for the environment than gas-powered snow blowers. To help you sift through all the options, we tested a dozen popular models, evaluating them on power, maneuverability, and overall efficiency.

After our tests and an interview with a snow-removal expert, we chose the Ryobi 40V 22″ Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower as our favorite for its sturdy build and powerful performance. It impressed us in just about every kind of snow, but it’s not the only option worthy of a look.

Our top picks are among the best in their category, with a range of models and sizes to suit a variety of snow-blowing needs. Keep reading to find out how well these models cleared snowy exteriors and to learn what to look for when shopping for one of the best cordless snow blowers.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Ryobi 40V 22″ Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower
    Jump to Review
  2. RUNNER-UP: Toro Power Max 60V e24 24″ Two-Stage Snow Blower
    Jump to Review
  3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Snow Joe 48V 18″ Ionmax Cordless Snow Blower Kit
    Jump to Review
  4. BEST TWO-STAGE: Ego Power+ 56V 24″ Self-Propelled Snow Blower
    Jump to Review
  5. BEST SINGLE-STAGE: Greenworks Pro 60V 22″ Cordless Snow Blower
    Jump to Review
  6. BEST COMPACT: Earthwise 40V 18″ Cordless Snow Thrower
    Jump to Review
  7. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Ego Power+ 56V 21″ Peak Power Snow Blower
    Jump to Review 
  8. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Toro Power Clear 60V e21 21″ Cordless Snow Blower
    Jump to Review
  9. ALSO CONSIDER: DeWalt 60V 21″ Max Single-Stage Snow Blower Kit
    Jump to Review 
Three of the best cordless snow blowers on a snowy driveway during testing.
Photo: Zach Lazzari for Bob Vila

Cordless Snow Blowers Comparison Chart 

Product NameTypeWeightClearing Width
Ryobi 40V 22″ Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower2-stage146 pounds22 inches
Toro Power Max 60V e24 24″ Two-Stage Snow Blower2-stage172 pounds24 inches
Snow Joe 48V 18″ Ionmax Cordless Snow Blower Single-stage37.5 pounds18 inches
Ego Power+ 56V 24″ Self-Propelled Snow Blower2-stage143.3 pounds (without batteries)24 inches
Greenworks Pro 60V 22″ Cordless Snow BlowerSingle-stage57 pounds22 inches
Earthwise 40V 18″ Cordless Snow ThrowerSingle-stage34 pounds18 inches
Ego Power+ 56V 21″ Peak Power Snow Blower Single-stage53 pounds21 inches
Toro Power Clear 60V e21 21″ Cordless Snow BlowerSingle-stage55 pounds21 inches
DeWalt 60V 21″ Max Single-Stage Snow Blower Kit Single-stage59 pounds21 inches

Our Top Picks

We tested and ranked these options based on build quality, price, and overall efficiency. Not only did these models remove mounds of the white stuff easily, but they also handled temperatures as low as -7 degrees Fahrenheit during testing with no battery or power output issues. Check out our top picks to find the best cordless snow blower for just about any job.

Best Overall

Ryobi 40V 22" Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower

 The Ryobi 40V 22" Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower, two batteries, and charger on a white background.
Photo: The Home Depot

What We Like

  • Steel auger strong enough for hard-packed snow
  • Multiple speed settings for maximum maneuverability
  • Cutting path is appropriately sized most exteriors
  • Includes 2 powerful 8 amp hour (Ah) batteries

What We Don’t Like

  • Loses charge faster at full auger and drive speed
  • No heated hand grips

Specs 

  • Type: 2-stage
  • Weight: 136 pounds
  • Clearing width: 22 inches

After completing all our tests, one snow blower ranked better than the rest for excellent performance across every category: the Ryobi two-stage brushless snow blower. This machine has all the benefits of a heavy-duty model yet is also very nimble and capable in tighter spaces. While there are both bigger and smaller options available, this one was just right for every job we encountered. 

The Ryobi’s steel auger is powerful, and it even worked on a gravel driveway with great results. With multiple speed settings and a reverse option on the drive system, the lightweight unit was very easy to maneuver. The tires gripped well, and it had no problem pivoting on narrow walkways and cutting through deep snow on big driveways. The controls made changing auger and throw angles simple, and this model shot snow through the chute with impressive power, sending fresh powder a good 40+ feet.

What our tester says: “The combination of functionality, maneuverability, and the flexibility to work through different types of snow and surfaces made this model a joy to use. This thing felt as powerful as any gas or electric model we’ve tested. “—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Ryobi cordless snow blower at The Home Depot.

Runner-up

Toro Power Max e24 60V 24" Two-Stage Snow Blower

 The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option Toro Power Max 60V e24 24 Two-Stage Snow Blower
Photo: Tractor Supply

What We Like

  • Wide 24-inch path for larger driveways
  • Durable steel construction
  • High headlight position for working in poor visibility
  • Optional-use third battery bay to extend runtime

What We Don’t Like

  • Very heavy

Specs 

  • Type: 2-stage
  • Weight: 172 pounds
  • Clearing width: 24 inches

Property owners and managers in need of a serious two-stage electric snow blower will appreciate the Toro e24 cordless model. It’s built on the same platform as Toro’s two-stage gas models and delivers the power and performance the brand is known for. In our tests, one of the first things we noticed was its beefy steel auger, which is surrounded by a steel box and frame. The auger’s joystick-style control offered the best of design of the bunch, making changing throwing angle and direction quick and easy.

Since it has space for the two included batteries and an optional third, the battery box on this Toro is larger than that of other options. Buying a third battery is a simple way to increase runtime between recharging, and with all three, this model can run for over an hour. We used two in our tests, giving us just over 30 minutes to clear our property. In exceptionally heavy and wet snow, runtime might be a bit shorter, but it’s still competitive with that of other models. 

What our tester says: “This machine performs similarly to top-tier gas models. Its drive system was powerful enough to push heavy snow, and its wide path helped us clear our driveway quickly even though conditions were challenging.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Toro Power Max cordless snow blower at Tractor Supply Co. or Acme Tools.

Best Bang for the Buck

Snow Joe 48V 18" Ionmax Cordless Snow Blower Kit

 The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option Snow Joe 48V 18 Ionmax Cordless Snow Blower Kit
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Budget-friendly price point
  • Powerful snow thrower for the size
  • Lightweight for easy maneuvering
  • Small size for easier storage

What We Don’t Like

  • Less stable on uneven surfaces

Specs 

  • Type: Single-stage
  • Weight: 37.5 pounds
  • Clearing width: 18 inches

This Snow Joe single-stage model is an excellent lightweight and highly portable snow blower. Although this machine is smaller than many others we tested, its quadruple-bladed rubber-tipped steel auger can carve a path 18 inches wide by 10 inches deep in a single pass. In deeper snow, we had to blow snow in layers, but this Snow Joe still got the job done. 

In our testing, we found that the Snow Joe was best for flat, even walkways and driveways, as it did get hung up on small obstructions. Beyond that, we were truly impressed with its overall performance, easy-to-use controls, and value price. Its ability to throw snow in the 20-foot range was a definite surprise for a single-stage snow blower. We did use chute lubricant to minimize clogging, and we believe this helped it throw snow without sticking. 

This rechargeable snow blower comes with two 4Ah batteries, which provide about 40 minutes of runtime. It has a pair of LED headlights that make night sessions easier, and it’s also easy to pick up (it even has a handy crossbar to grab for the job). Especially given that it’s a relatively cheap snow blower, this small Snow Joe is a very solid option.

Get the Snow Joe cordless snow blower at Amazon (with cover and scraper), Walmart, Best Buy, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Best Two-Stage

Ego Power+ 56V 24" Self-Propelled Snow Blower

 The Ego Power+ 56V 24" Self-Propelled Snow Blower and two batteries on a white background.
Photo: Lowe’s

What We Like

  • Throws snow 50 feet or more
  • Can change throttle speed quickly
  • Comparable power to gas-powered snow blowers

What We Don’t Like

  • Can’t “bump” the throttle

Specs 

  • Type: 2-stage
  • Weight: 143.3 pounds (without batteries)
  • Clearing width: 24 inches

Whether snow is mounded on your sidewalk, patio, or even a gravel driveway, this two-stage snow blower can push through. It features a powerful auger to scoop and throw snow as well as an impeller fan that helps it manage large piles. Thanks to its ample 24-inch-wide clearing path, this model can move through large areas efficiently. It still feels nimble, however, and we appreciate how easily it pivots under power. The dual-battery power provided by the two 7.5Ah batteries keeps it running for upwards of 1 hour in normal conditions, and the heated grips are a wonderful bonus for cold conditions. 

This Ego Power+ isn’t inexpensive, but it’s worth every penny. Not only did this model work as well as almost any gas-powered snow blower we’ve ever used, but in some instances, it worked better. We liked that we could change the throttle speed on the fly. Also, we found that the reported 50-foot throw distance might be an understatement—this thing has power to spare. The main throttle for the drive wheels is a lever-activated switch, which didn’t allow us to bump the throttle the way we can with a gas-powered mechanical throttle. Instead, there’s a delay, but the ability to throw snow 50-plus feet made up for it. 

What our tester says: “With two 7.5Ah arc lithium batteries, a heavy steel auger, a convenient control dashboard, and 50 feet of throwing distance, I was impressed by this machine’s well-rounded features and thoughtful design. It had more than enough power to work through a big storm.”—Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Read our full review: Ego Power+ 56V 24″ Self-Propelled Snow Blower

Get the Ego Power+ self-propelled snow blower at Lowe’s, Walmart, Ace Hardware, or Northern Tool + Equipment

Best Single-Stage

Greenworks Pro 60V 22" Cordless Snow Blower

 The Greenworks Pro 60V 22" Cordless Snow Blower, two batteries, and charger on a white background.
Photo: Walmart

What We Like

  • Lightweight design
  • Ample power for a single-stage snow blower
  • Excellent battery life
  • Auger churns through snow very well

What We Don’t Like

  • Cleaning tool doesn’t attach to the snow blower

Specs 

  • Type: Single-stage
  • Weight: 57 pounds
  • Clearing width: 22 inches

The Greenworks Pro 60V snow blower offers a nice combination of power and functionality in a lightweight, easy-to-use unit. We tested this model in varying conditions, and its auger breezed through powder and held its own in heavy snow. Its 22-inch cutting path is substantial for a single-stage model, and it also has 13 inches of depth. The chute ejection proved clean in testing, and the Greenworks threw snow up to 40 feet, which is an ample distance. 

One thing we really appreciate about Greenworks is the brand’s impressive battery game, and this unit pairs two higher amp-hour batteries (5Ah) with this tool’s competitive single-stage design. With more than an hour of runtime in moderate storms, this is an excellent option for those wanting ample runtime to work across larger areas. We were able to clear a full driveway and walkways and still had battery life left over to help out the neighbors.

Get the Greenworks snow blower at Tractor Supply Co., Walmart, or Greenworks

Best Compact

Earthwise 40V 18" Cordless Snow Thrower

 The Earthwise 40V 18" Cordless Snow Thrower on white background.
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Compact size stores easily
  • Lightweight and easy to handle for extended use
  • Impressively quick 30-minute charging

What We Don’t Like

  • Assembly is hampered by lesser-quality hardware

Specs 

  • Type: Single-stage
  • Weight: 34 pounds
  • Clearing width: 18 inches

Instead of multiple rounds of intensive shoveling that result in sore, aching muscles, shoppers may be better off investing in an affordable, cordless device that clears away snow at a rate of up to 500 pounds per minute. Earthwise’s battery-powered snow blower comes with one 4Ah battery and a rapid charger that brings the battery back to full power within 30 minutes. At just 34 pounds, this lightweight machine is akin to a handheld snow blower, and its ergonomic, padded handle makes it even easier to maneuver.

This excellent-value blower includes a dual-blade auger with a snow-throwing distance of 30 feet. Its front snow-intake port has a clearing width of just 18 inches, so it may take a few passes to clear a wide driveway. It has a clearing depth of 12 inches, which can cut quickly through long stretches of moderate snow. 

Overall, this light-duty single-stage snowblower performed very well in testing. It has a relatively sturdy build, but we wish it had better assembly hardware. Otherwise, it worked similarly to a cordless snow shovel with a battery, making it perfect for clearing backyard patios and small to moderate driveways. We really enjoyed the bright headlights for low light conditions and how easily the chute rotates, but the throw angle does require a manual adjustment.

Get the Earthwise cordless snow blower at Amazon, Walmart, or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Lightweight

Ego Power+ 56V 21" Peak Power Snow Blower

 The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option Ego Power+ 56V 21 Peak Power Snow Blower
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Easy to maneuver and control
  • Quiet operation won’t disturb neighbors
  • Throws snow an impressive distance

What We Don’t Like

  • Single-stage auger can catch on uneven surfaces
  • Chute needs lubrication in extreme cold

Specs 

  • Type: Single-stage
  • Weight: 53 pounds
  • Clearing width: 21 inches

The Ego Power+ Peak Power single-stage snow blower is a battery-powered machine that runs on two 5Ah batteries, offering impressive snow-clearning power on a single charge. Weighing just 53 pounds, we found operating it similar to using a lawn mower. It has a bail switch for easy control and a conveniently placed chute lever for quickly adjusting snow-throwing direction. Its steel auger was quite effective when clearing heavy snow from our driveway, though it did scrape against the cement in places where the pavement is uneven. 

We appreciated that this machine was so easy to set up, only requiring us to install the chute. Its batteries charged in just 40 minutes via our rapid charger, but a standard charger will still get the job done in a relatively short 100 minutes. Though this machine didn’t quite throw lightweight snow the full 40 feet Ego advertises, it got pretty close when we tested it on wet and heavy precipitation, even in below-zero temperatures. The chute did clog when it was that cold outside, but using a bit of nonstick snow blower spray will take care of that problem.

Read our full review: Ego Power+ 56V 21″ Peak Power Snow Blower

Get the Ego Power+ Peak Power snow blower at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware.

Best Heavy-Duty

Toro Power Clear 60V e21 21" Cordless Snow Blower

 The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option Toro Power Clear 60V e21 21 Cordless Snow Blower
Photo: Lowe’s

What We Like

  • Really digs into the snow
  • Durable metal auger is built to last
  • Large battery with 40 to 60 minutes of runtime

What We Don’t Like

  • Awkward weight distribution
  • Takes 3 hours to charge the battery

Specs 

  • Type: Single-stage
  • Weight: 55 pounds
  • Clearing width: 21 inches

Although the Toro two-stage is a popular favorite, the company also makes a single-stage snow blower for those wanting something a little lighter-duty. Like the two-stage, it resembles the build of Toro’s single-stage gas models. By bringing the long-standing quality and design of gas snow blower augers, buckets, chutes, and components to the electric side, Toro gives major confidence and sets real expectations for users experienced with gas-model operations.

The Toro truly shined in our head-to-head comparison testing. Its best attribute was how well it dug into the snow, getting down to the surface below for better clearing. This is one of only a few single-stage options that offer a steel auger. While that adds a few pounds, it’s worth the trade-off when it comes to breaking down wet or icy snow. It also throws that snow very well, hitting around 40 feet from the chute, and the chute itself has a great turning radius of 200 degrees. However, we found its uneven weight distribution awkward—it even tipped over a few times, but not during use. We think this is due to the massive 7.5Ah battery mounted behind the wheels, but that long battery life is worth it to us.

Get the Toro Power Clear cordless snow blower at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, Walmart, or Toro.

Also Consider

DeWalt 60V 21" Max Single-Stage Snow Blower Kit

 The Best Cordless Snow Blower Option DeWalt 60V 21 Max Single-Stage Snow Blower Kit
Photo: Tractor Supply

What We Like

  • Steel auger blade
  • Eco and Max power modes for optimal battery life
  • Batteries last about an hour
  • Folding handle makes storage easy

What We Don’t Like

  • Plastic wheels have minimal traction
  • Requires manual pushing
  • Power button doubles as the auger engagement

Specs 

  • Type: Single-stage
  • Weight: 59 pounds
  • Clearing width: 21 inches

DeWalt is a leader in electric power tools, and its entry in the electric snow blower market is strong. The company offers two substantial 4Ah batteries and 60 volts of power for a long-lasting, reasonably powerful machine. We enjoyed the steel auger, which performs better than plastic when it comes to icy conditions and difficult snow. It ought to provide real longevity. 

The blade did a great job of breaking down wet snow, and it ejected well from the chute. It didn’t throw more than 40 feet like many models we tested, but it did throw a reasonable distance and cleared the space required for a 2-car driveway. We found that adding a layer of silicone chute lubricant helped to prevent clogging and kept it running smoothly. While users must manually adjust the chute angles, the electric chute rotation tabs were really nice for changing direction. They are quick and easy to access—among the best we have encountered.

Other bonuses are the easy-to-fold handle for transportation and storage. It only requires a few seconds to prep for storage and it reassembles just as quickly. This is a good electric snow blower for small to moderate snow loads on paved surfaces. It’s not as robust as the bigger two-stage options, but it’s still a great pick.

Get the DeWalt snow blower at Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Cordless Snow Blowers

We had to wait for a significant storm to test these snow-clearing tools, but when it finally arrived, it not only brought snow but subzero wind chills—the perfect weather to put these models through their paces since extreme cold is typically hard on battery-powered tools. Before testing, we assessed each model’s ease of assembly and compared their features and components, identifying which were more heavy duty and which might be more difficult to use. 

Once we had a few inches of snow on the ground, we cleared two 75-foot-long 4-car driveways, a 12-foot-by-8-foot deck, and several small walkways between them. As snow continued to fall in additional storms, we kept using each option to blow the light and heavy precipitation that fell and chip away at icy road buildup left by plows. We checked runtime, throwing distance, and ease of use, rating each model to determine which of the best cordless snow blowers belonged in our lineup.

Testing Stats
Products tested 12
Time spent testing 2 weeks
Tests performed5
Price range$350 to $1,600

What to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Snow Blower 

The best snow blower for a particular user depends on the amount of snow a region typically experiences, the size of the sidewalk and driveway that need clearing, and how much battery power and runtime the project requires. Some cordless snow blowers are equipped to handle wide swaths of deep snow, but others are not. Consider these factors when perusing the many features of cordless snow blowers on today’s market.

Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage

The best cordless snow blowers fall into one of two categories: single-stage or two-stage. There are also three-stage blowers available; however, these are limited to gas-powered tools and commercial applications.

  • Single-stage snow blowers, most commonly used for residential purposes, have a horizontal auger at the front of the machine that rotates rapidly to scoop up snow and throw it through the chute. One disadvantage of a single-stage snow blower, however, is that it isn’t suitable for gravel driveways. Its auger blades are too low to the ground and will pick up the rocks and throw them.
  • Two-stage snow blowers use an auger to scoop and throw snow, much like single-stage snow blowers, but they also have an impeller fan that makes them more effective at managing larger amounts of heavy snow. They can throw snow over 35 feet, and their auger blades sit high enough to clear gravel driveways.

Power and Runtime

The runtime of a battery-powered snow blower is a key factor to consider when deciding on the best electric snow blower for tackling a driveway, walkway, or patio. Although most battery-operated snow blowers have a runtime that ranges from about 30 to 45 minutes, this depends on whether the snow is light and fluffy or heavy and wet.

The heavier the snow, the more power required to remove it, which means a cordless snow thrower that usually runs for 45 minutes may run for only 30 minutes before the battery needs to be recharged. However, there are also snow blowers that use more than one battery at a time to increase the power and runtime of the machine. Shoppers will want to consider a dual-battery blower if there’s a lot of ground to clear.

Size and Weight 

A cordless snow blower’s size and weight are important considerations. Though users needn’t bend to scoop, lift, and throw snow as they do with a standard shovel, they still must push the snow blower. Size also matters when storing the snow blower in a garage, shed, or any other space. 

Small snow blowers are generally single-stage models that weigh between 20 and 60 pounds. Though heavier snow blowers may have a self-propelling system to make them easier to move, maneuvering a larger, heavier machine, especially if the area is large or hilly, can be challenging for many users. 

Clearing Width and Depth 

When calculating clearing width and depth, think about the driveway, sidewalk, and any other areas around the home that must be cleared of snow. Some cordless snow blowers have small intake ports that can clear 6 inches of snow, and other models have deep 12-inch intake ports. Clearing width correlates to the blower’s number of stages.

  • Single-stage cordless snow blowers are usually sufficient for residential snow removal. Use a single-stage blower to remove snow in sections that are 11 to 22 inches wide.
  • Two-stage cordless snow blowers, well suited for small commercial locations or large residential properties, have a clearing width between 20 and 30 inches.

Speed Control

Because snow blowers can be heavy and cumbersome, many users want a self-propelled model. Unlike gas snow blowers, battery-powered models have a digital drive system and can be self-propelled, but they usually have a variable-speed auger to speed up snow removal. 

By increasing the speed at which the snow is scooped and thrown through the chute, the auger makes it easier to move the machine through a light snowfall. However, a variable-speed auger isn’t as effective when clearing heavy, packed snow.

Chute Control

The chute, which is a curved, hollow tube that extends from the back of the intake on a snow blower, provides a route for the snow to be thrown from the machine. On most blowers, a manual crank or lever allows users to change the angle and direction of the snow being displaced. 

Premium snow blowers, however, have auto-rotating chutes that users turn by pushing a button near the handle, which doesn’t require the machine to be stopped. The angle on some chutes also can be changed to allow the snow blower to throw snow even farther.

Wheels, Tracks, and Terrain Type

Cordless snow blowers can traverse snow on either wheels or tracks. Wheeled snow blowers feature two large rear wheels that drive the machine forward, while snow blowers with tracks have tracks similar to those found on a tank. Consider the features of wheeled versus tracked blowers: 

  • Wheeled snow blowers are easier to turn because tracked models don’t pivot. Wheel sizes for single-stage snow blowers range from 6 to 8 inches. Larger wheels perform better in deeper snow, while smaller wheels are easier to maneuver. These blowers are generally faster than tracked models. That said, some higher-end tracked blowers offer faster speed and turn-on-a-dime technology, making them comparable in speed and maneuverability to wheeled models. 
  • Tracked snow blowers provide significantly better traction in the snow, making them better able to climb steep slopes without slipping backward. Most tracked snow blowers are two-stage models, as single-stage models typically don’t produce enough power to drive the tracks. They also operate closer to the surface, leaving a thinner layer of snow and ice on a driveway or sidewalk than wheeled models. 

When choosing between wheeled or tracked snow blowers, shoppers will want to take terrain type into account. Wheeled snow blowers are best suited for paved surfaces, such as driveways and sidewalks, while tracked snow blowers are better on unpaved surfaces. Grade also has a significant impact; steep driveways require a snow blower with good traction and enough power to pull it up a snow-covered slope.

Additional Features

Some of the best cordless snow blowers have special features designed to make snow clearing easier and more comfortable. These extras include heated handles, a drift cutter, headlights, and an automatic snow blower safety shutoff. 

  • Heated handles may seem luxurious, but personal safety is an important part of working outdoors in freezing temperatures. The heat generated by the handles not only helps keep the user’s fingers warm in the cold air, but also makes it easier to hold and control the snow blower.
  • Drift cutters help clear deep drifts of snow. The cutter’s metal housing collects and pushes snow down into the auger for removal.
  • Headlights make it easier and safer to clear snow at night or during low-visibility situations.
  • An automatic safety shutoff shuts off the snow blower when the user releases the handle.

FAQs 

First-time cordless snow blower shoppers may have some additional questions about these devices. Just ahead are answers to some of the most commonly asked snow-blower questions.

Q. What is the difference between a snow blower and a snow thrower?

The terms “snow blower” and “snow thrower” are used interchangeably, but there are a couple of minor technical differences. While both clear away snow, a snow thrower is a single-stage machine, and a snow blower can be a single-stage, two-stage, or three-stage machine. Snow blowers clear a wider swath and are better suited for heavier snow, while snow throwers work well for lighter snow.

Q. Is a cordless snow blower heavy?

Battery-powered cordless snow blowers are relatively lightweight, typically ranging from about 20 pounds to 60 pounds for a single-stage. Two-stage electric models can reach nearly 200 pounds.

Q. How do you use a snow blower?

To get the driveway as clean as possible with a snow blower, power it up just after the snow has stopped falling since snow is easier to move when it’s still light and fluffy. Push the snow blower down and back up the sidewalk or driveway, making the necessary adjustments to the discharge chute so that the snow piles up where you want it.

Q. How do you store a snow blower?

A cordless snow blower should be stored safely in a garage or storage shed when not in use. Those who don’t have sheltered storage will want to secure a waterproof tarp over and around the snow blower. Without proper storage and maintenance, folks could wind up with a snow blower that doesn’t start.

Q. How long do cordless snow blowers last?

If properly stored and maintained, a cordless snow blower can last about 10 years.

Q. How much should I spend on a snow blower?

The affordable snow blowers​ tested in this guide cost between $350 and $1,600. According to Corey Welch, founder and CEO of Mow & Snow, “Higher price tags often mean better durability, power, and features, but it’s all about matching the blower to your needs. Paying for more power than you’ll use or features you don’t need doesn’t make sense.” Over time, even a more expensive snow blower will likely run you less than the cost of snow removal if you live in an area that gets regular snow.

Q. Are cordless snow blowers loud?

Cordless snow blowers are much quieter than gas models. Still, given that these are large machines doing relatively difficult work, some noise is to be expected. 

Q. How much horsepower is good for a snow blower?

The Ryobi 40V 22″ Two-Stage Cordless Snow Blower is a very good snow blower, and it uses a 40-volt battery to deliver more power than a 243cc gas snow blower. As our pick for the best cordless snow blower, it was powerful enough to excel in all of our tests.

Meet the Testers

Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer splitting time between the great outdoors, travel, and DIY projects ranging from camper builds to home renovations and maintenance. His home base in Montana provides the perfect testing grounds for winter products and snow equipment.

Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer specializing in the home design, construction, tools, and automotive industries. He has been involved in the trades for over 15 years as both a contractor and a commercial building mechanic. 

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale. 

 
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Zach Lazzari

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Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer splitting time between the great outdoors, travel, and DIY projects ranging from camper builds to home renovations and maintenance. With over a decade of professional writing experience, he covers a variety of projects and maintenance topics for BobVila.com.

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