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Designed with electric augers that can throw snow 20 feet or more, electric snow shovels can help you breeze through walkways, decks, and driveways. For light dustings, the traditional snow shovel design is great, but when more than a few inches have fallen, lifting and tossing heavy snow can be hard on the back and body.
To help ease cold-weather chores this snow season, we tested a number of electric snow shovels. Read on to learn about the key features of the best electric snow shovels and what makes the models we selected stand out from the crowd.
- BEST OVERALL: Greenworks 80V 12-Inch Cordless Battery Snow Shovel
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Snow Joe 24V-SS13 Ionmax Cordless Snow Shovel Bundle
- BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Earthwise Power Tools 12-Inch 20V Snow Thrower
- BEST CORDED: Snow Joe 324E Electric Snow Shovel
- QUIETEST OPERATION: Snow Joe 24V-SS11 Ionmax Cordless Snow Shovel Kit
- BEST WITH WHEELS: Earthwise Power Tools 16-Inch Lithium Snow Thrower
- BEST LIGHT-DUTY: Greenworks 8-Amp 12-Inch Corded Snow Shovel
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Ego Power+ Multi-Head Snow Shovel Kit
- ALSO CONSIDER: Earthwise Power Tools 16-Inch Corded Snow Thrower
Before You Buy an Electric Snow Shovel
Think of an electric snow shovel as a cross between a manual snow shovel and a larger, more powerful snow blower. The handle of an electric snow shovel resembles the handle of a traditional snow shovel, but that’s where the similarities end. Instead of a scoop blade, an electric snow shovel features a large turning blade that scoops up snow and tosses it off the path as it is pushed.
An electric snow shovel takes less physical effort to operate than a traditional shovel, but it still requires some pushing. Unlike snow blowers, electric snow shovels are typically not self-propelled. The auger does assist while it churns snow, but users will still need to push it along. And unlike blowers, electric snow shovels don’t have chutes to eject snow at different angles and trajectories; they simply eject the snow forward.
We tested nine different models in several Montana snow storms to see how they performed. We used them on various surfaces ranging from paved sidewalks and driveways to compact gravel. We found that electric snow shovels aren’t suitable for unpaved areas, such as gravel driveways, but on paved surfaces, they work impressively.
Electric snow shovels are much more affordable than snow blowers. They’re typically offered somewhere between $60 to $190, while a heavy-duty snow blower could set buyers back $1,500 or more. Electric snow shovels can help many people clear moderate snow loads from small spaces without breaking the bank.
How We Tested the Best Electric Snow Shovels
While researching electric snow shovels, we scrutinized features and pricing to determine which models seemed to stand out from the rest on the market. We then acquired nine of our favorite models and tested them in several Montana snow storms. A property management company also used them to provide us with additional feedback.
Each electric shovel was used in various snow intensities: a light dusting, a storm that dropped roughly 6 to 8 inches of snow, and a larger storm with 1 foot of snow. We analyzed the weight, handling, build quality, throwing distance, battery life, and overall power. Electric snow shovels have many overlapping features, including the general layout with an auger head, handle, and battery on one end. Nonetheless, there were some noticeable performance differences, each of which we’ve noted in our reviews of the top choices below.
Our Top Picks
The following electric snow shovels are ranked by category to help shoppers find the best option for their purposes. Consider the best use of each model when choosing one for your needs.
Best Overall
Greenworks 80V 12-Inch Cordless Battery Snow Shovel
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 80V battery
What We Like
- Powerful battery and quick recharge make it suitable for large or long driveways
- Impressive 45-minute runtime offers extended use after heavy snowfalls or for large areas
- Can throw snow 20 feet away; keeps snow far from the user’s clearing path
What We Don’t Like
- Heavier than many other models; might be difficult for some users to maneuver
When it comes to cordless yard tools, battery life and power are key. This snow shovel from Greenworks excels at both thanks to a powerful 80-volt (V) battery that gives it 45 minutes of runtime. The battery recharges in just 30 minutes thanks to its nifty rapid charger.
With its ability to discharge snow 20 feet away, the cordless snow shovel is suitable for walks, decks, and smaller driveways. During testing, this model performed excellently, but the battery and power were the real difference makers. The Greenworks 80V just kept on going, and the auger speed felt more powerful than competing models.
Weighing 19.2 pounds with the battery installed, this shovel does feel slightly heavier than some models. That said, it also feels sturdy and might be a bit more durable in the long run. After we found that nice balance point with the blade grounded and the shaft tilted to roughly 45 degrees, it churned through icy snow very well and with little effort. The quick-charge battery is also a major bonus when users need to add more power without a long wait time.
Overall, this is a fantastic, well-built electric snow shovel. Cheaper models that perform nearly as well can be found, but anyone who wants top-notch power and battery life might want to give the Greenworks 80V a try.
Read our full review: Greenworks 80V 12-Inch Cordless Battery Snow Shovel
Get the Greenworks cordless electric snow shovel at Amazon, Best Buy, or Greenworks.
Best Bang for the Buck
Snow Joe 24V-SS13 Ionmax Cordless Snow Shovel Bundle
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 13 inches
- Power: 24V battery
What We Like
- Lightweight and easy to pick up and handle
- Tosses snow up to 20 feet away, which is quite far
- Dual handle helps make it easy to push, reducing risk of physical strain and fatigue
What We Don’t Like
- It takes about 5 hours to recharge the battery
- Not ideal for ice and compact snow
Shoppers don’t have to spend a lot of money to own a reliable electric snow shovel. The Snow Joe SS13 snow shovel has a 24V cordless battery, so users can remove snow with no attached cords. This shovel will clear a 13-inch path in up to 6 inches of snow and toss it up to 20 feet away. The kit includes a battery, charger, snow scraper blade, and snow shovel cover.
Considering the comparatively low price tag, this unit is hard to beat. It feels light and balances well in the hand. Both grips are positioned for easy lifting, and the shovel’s overall performance is impressive. The battery lasts for up to 1 hour and 10 minutes on a single charge. If more runtime is needed, consider buying a secondary battery.
The only thing we didn’t love about this electric snow shovel was the setup. It’s a little awkward connecting the shafts and inserting the bolts. This is definitely not a deal-breaker, but be aware that it will likely take a few minutes to get everything snug.
If shoppers want a high-performing electric snow shovel at a great price, we believe this is the best value out there. It’s affordable, well built, and it can shovel up to 6 inches of snow with ease. The 13-inch wide head is also slightly larger than most. We enjoyed this model’s performance and ease of handling on walkways and decks.
Get the Snow Joe 24V-SS13 electric snow shovel at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Best Buy, or Snow Joe.
Best Lightweight
Earthwise Power Tools 12-Inch 20V Snow Thrower
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 3.5 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 20V motor, 4 amp hour (Ah) battery
What We Like
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, weighing only 11.5 pounds
- Ergonomic and large handle design makes this light shovel comfortable to use
- Reasonable runtime; long enough to clear paths and decks
What We Don’t Like
- Low 3.5-inch clearing depth is not suitable for deep snow
- Not ideal for compact or icy snow
Shoveling snow is no easy task, even with an electric snow shovel. The lighter the snow shovel, the easier it is to move around, and this cordless snow shovel from Earthwise Power Tools is a stellar lightweight model. It weighs only 11.5 pounds—the lightest on our list. It’s small, but it’s still powerful, throwing 300 pounds of snow per minute.
We were surprised that this lighter model held up against the competition. It does very well with light powder and throws snow well. The company claims it throws snow up to 25 feet, but it was closer to 15 feet during our testing. While it excelled with powder, it did struggle more when pressed against compact snow and anything icy.
The battery performed well and delivered ample power. The company claims the battery lasts for 60 minutes, but we think 20 to 30 minutes of consistent use is more accurate. That being said, it might last longer in very light snow.
This shovel’s greatest strength is its lightweight design, which makes it noticeably easier to lift, handle, and maneuver. If users have light-duty tasks and want something that won’t wear them out, this is a good option.
Get the Earthwise Power Tools 12-inch electric snow shovel at Amazon or American Lawn Mower Company.
Best Corded
Snow Joe 324E Electric Snow Shovel
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 11 inches
- Power: Corded with 10-amp motor
What We Like
- Endless power supply when cord is connected
- No wait times for recharging since it’s corded
- Capable of clearing snow depths up to 6 inches
What We Don’t Like
- Range is limited by cord length, which can be problematic
- Not ideal for large properties and longer pathways or driveways
Snow Joe has a refined line of winter products, and this corded electric shovel is no exception. It uses the same design as Snow Joe’s other electric snow shovels but comes in a compact package with a cord rather than a battery. The auger is speedy and throws snow up to 20 feet despite having a smaller head than larger electric models.
The cord design is perfect for users who need to clear a set amount of space near an electrical outlet. If buyers have a small deck or patio and don’t need to stray far from a power source, it makes sense to opt for a corded shovel like this one. It also comes with the advantage of having no wait times to recharge. Plus, the lack of a battery makes this unit light and easy to carry around. It still has the two-handle design, making it even easier to lift and push through snow.
We were able to clear a patio area around our camper as well as our neighbors’ shop space with the help of an extension cord. This shovel can cover pretty large areas when paired with any standard extension cord. We also enjoyed the built-in LED light for low-light conditions. If you don’t need to move farther away from power sources and the snow loads you’ll be dealing with are relatively light, this little corded snow shovel is an effective unit.
Get the Snow Joe 324E electric snow shovel at The Home Depot, Walmart, or Snow Joe.
Quietest Operation
Snow Joe 24V-SS11 Ionmax Cordless Snow Shovel Kit
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 7 inches
- Clearing width: 11 inches
- Power: 24V battery
What We Like
- Relatively quiet operation is nice for early morning and nighttime snow clearing
- Smaller 11-inch clearing width is well suited to moving around and handling smaller areas
- Unit is lightweight and easy to use
What We Don’t Like
- 11-inch clearing width is narrower than some models
- Battery life is somewhat short; not ideal for clearing large areas
When it comes to electric snow shovels, some degree of noise is simply unavoidable, but this cordless snow shovel from Snow Joe can make snow removal a little easier on the ears. The model is essentially the same build as Snow Joe’s 11-inch corded design, but this ditches the cord and relies on a 24V battery instead. Most electric snow shovels are fairly quiet, but this one really whispers along.
Smaller in design than others, it’s a good fit for lighter-duty walkways and patio areas. The auger simply isn’t made to crush and churn through heavy snow and ice, but if there are a few inches of powder to clear, it works very well. If the snow piles higher, users can still work through 7 inches at a time, making several passes until they clear the path all the way to the ground.
In our tests, this shovel performed on par with the company’s corded 11-inch model. The battery on this one lasted for around 20 minutes before requiring a recharge. Buying a second battery will also extend the runtime for larger spaces. Regardless, users can run this model and the neighbors likely won’t even hear it churning and throwing snow. Again, this is best suited for small spaces and quick jobs unless you are willing to wait for the battery to recharge.
Get the Snow Joe 24V-SS11 electric snow shovel at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Snow Joe.
Best with Wheels
Earthwise Power Tools 16-Inch Lithium Snow Thrower
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 8 inches
- Clearing width: 16 inches
- Power: 4Ah battery
What We Like
- Wheels reduce effort required to operate and offer support
- Auger size is excellent and clears up to 8-inch depths
- Battery lasts for roughly 20 minutes between charges
What We Don’t Like
- Assembly is more involved than most brands
- Hardware connecting wheels could be sturdier
Electric snow shovels make the work much easier but still require manual effort to lift and push through snow. The Earthwise 40V cordless model reduces the strain by adding wheels to a generous 16-inch-wide head. Without needing to lift it, users can simply push the shovel forward as the auger spins, propelling the snow shovel forward. If it had a chute, this would be a light-duty snow blower, but instead, this one throws the snow directly forward.
The company claims this shovel throws snow up to 32 feet forward, but we found it was closer to 20 feet. This puts the throwing distance in the same range as most other comparable models. At 19.4 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than most models, but the wheels help offset the weight. Overall, it requires less effort to handle than other models.
The only caveat to having wheels is that they’re required to touch the ground to function. When snow loads exceed the 8 inches of clearing depth, users will need to lift the shovel and work through the snow in layers. The wheels can still offer support if the snow is somewhat compact, but the process becomes more labor-intensive.
We enjoyed the help of the wheels while pushing through a few inches of snow. They made it very easy to get the job done with minimal lifting. Overall, the design works really well and the auger is plenty powerful. Our only other issues with this model were the involved assembly process and low-quality hardware that connects the wheel bracket to the auger head. It held up fine during testing, but the screws don’t feel very durable.
Get the Earthwise Power Tools lithium electric snow shovel at Amazon, Walmart, or Bed Bath & Beyond.
Best Light-Duty
Greenworks 8-Amp 12-Inch Corded Snow Shovel
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 4 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: Corded with 8-amp motor
What We Like
- Convenient push-button start is easy to operate
- Bottom scraper makes it easier to remove snow in the first pass
- Adjustable handle allows for easy control
What We Don’t Like
- Low 4-inch clearing depth isn’t ideal in larger storms
- Must have a power source nearby to connect the cord
Thoughtful design elements characterize this 8-amp corded snow shovel. Designed to be maneuverable, this unit is small yet powerful. Simply plug it into an extension cord and use the push-button start to begin throwing snow. It can handle snow up to 4 inches deep and will work through deeper piles in layers while clearing a 12-inch-wide path.
The price is affordable for those who only need occasional snow removal. But that doesn’t mean it’s wimpy—this model can toss fresh snow up to 20 feet with the quality auger and ejection design. We found it more than capable of clearing normal pathways and decks located near power sources. While we’d prefer something bigger for heavier snow storms, this is a fantastic unit for light-duty work. It has an ergonomic design, and the two-handle system makes it easy to lift. The bottom scraper also slides nicely over concrete and deck surfaces.
We wouldn’t hesitate to keep this electric shovel around for apartment and condo decks, home pathways, and other easy-to-access surfaces within reach of an electric outlet.
Get the Greenworks 8-amp electric snow shovel at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., Walmart, or Greenworks.
Best Heavy-Duty
Ego Power+ Multi-Head Snow Shovel Kit
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 56V battery
What We Like
- Throws snow 25 feet away; keeps snow far away from the user’s clearing path
- Capable of clearing 6 inches of snow on a 4-car driveway; can handle heavy-duty plowing
- Works with multiple attachments to tackle a variety of jobs
- Adjustable front handle makes it easy to push shovel through thicker snow
What We Don’t Like
- A little heavier than other models and requires slightly more effort to lift and push
The Ego Power+ electric shovel easily takes the heavy-duty prize, and we’d say it’s also the most versatile. We appreciated the easy assembly process, as it doesn’t require bolting shaft segments through a wire. This unit attaches to a spindle in seconds, making it the easiest assembly of the bunch, too.
In terms of versatility, users can swap out the lower shaft with the auger for any compatible Ego Power+ tool. This means the upper shaft and battery will work for a weed trimmer, brush cutter, edger, pole saw, and more. Rather than buying multiple tools, users can have a single battery that operates interchangeable heads. We really love the concept and hope to add more tools to the arsenal for year-round applications.
As for the electric snow shovel head, it’s powered by a 4Ah ARC lithium battery. The Ego Power+ batteries seem to take a little longer to charge, but they are also more heavy-duty and powerful than other batteries in the same category. During testing, this battery ran for over 30 minutes on a single charge.
The shovel is a little heavier than others at 17.3 pounds (without the battery), but it also feels durable and well constructed. The head and auger are especially powerful, and we had no problems pushing through 6 inches of snow depth. If shoveling in icy conditions, the two speeds and heavy-duty auger make this a great choice. It also threw the snow farther than all of the other models, making it perfect for bigger pathways and driveways.
This electric snow shovel had the most advanced design of all the models we tested. It’s the perfect choice for property owners who need more than just a simple shovel. Grab a few of the other head attachments and you’ll be able to manage lawns, brush, trees, and snow throughout the year with a single battery and handle.
Get the Ego Power+ electric snow shovel at Amazon, Lowe’s, Acme Tools, or Ego.
Also Consider
Earthwise Power Tools 16-Inch Corded Snow Thrower
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 8 inches
- Clearing width: 16 inches
- Power: Corded with 12-amp motor
What We Like
- Adjustable handle and rear wheels help users comfortably maneuver the shovel
- 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch depth clears a sizeable path
- Ejects snow well with distances in the 20- to 30-foot range
What We Don’t Like
- Wet snow can trip the thermal shutoff, switching off the machine until it cools down
A corded electric snow shovel is nice when you don’t want to deal with batteries. It’s a little lighter and will run on demand so long as it’s plugged into power. We already have a few great options on this list for cord-connected shovels, but this option from Earthwise Power Tools is worth considering, too. It features the same design as the company’s comparable electric shovel, but it has wheels, making it ideal for folks who don’t want to lift their shovel.
This electric snow shovel can also tackle moderate jobs with a reasonably long extension cord. It’s perfectly capable of clearing a driveway with up to 8 inches of snow. It’s a nice crossover option for regions where snow is infrequent and it’s difficult to justify a larger snow blower.
The only thing we’d like to see improved is the hardware quality for the wheel plate attachment. It would be nice if this plate also came preattached to save on assembly time. Otherwise, it performs great and can fit the needs of many homeowners and renters who want power on wheels without the weight and cost of larger snow blowers.
Get the Earthwise Power Tools 16-inch corded electric snow shovel at Amazon, Walmart, or American Lawn Mower Company.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Snow Shovel
The best electric snow shovels should be capable of clearing snow far more easily than a conventional shovel. Take these key factors into consideration when comparing models.
Corded vs. Cordless
Electric snow shovels come in corded and cordless designs. Each type has its own benefits and considerations:
- Corded snow shovels offer immediate snow-clearing power: Just plug the cord into an outlet and let it rip. A corded electric model might make more sense for those who don’t want to wait for a battery to charge (which can take a few hours) before they can shovel snow. Of course, since they always need to be plugged into a power source, corded snow shovels limit the coverage area to the length of the extension cord (usually 50 to 100 feet).
- Cordless snow shovels operate on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for their power supply. They tend to run for approximately 20 to 50 minutes on a single charge. Like cordless snow blowers, battery-powered snow shovels have a clear advantage over corded models for clearing snow in locations far from an outlet. Plus, users don’t have to drag a cord behind them. If there’s a lot of snow to clear, users might need to stop and recharge the battery before they finish the job.
Clearing Area
How much snow an electric shovel can clear depends on the height and width of the intake chute. The height of the intake chute determines the maximum depth of snow the device can remove (about 4 to 8 inches). We recommend selecting an electric snow shovel with an intake chute at least as deep as the typical snowfall in your area.
Some manufacturers claim their electric snow shovels can go over deep snow with more than one pass. But if the snow is soft, these devices might sink into the snow since they’re designed to sit on a paved surface. This will just push snow over the top of the tool rather than clearing it out of the path.
The width of the chute determines the width of the path an electric shovel can clear in a single pass. Chutes range from around 10 to 16 inches wide. A wider chute means the shovel will require fewer passes to clear an area. Some have LED lights mounted on the chute to illuminate the work area and make shoveling easier at night.
Battery Life
Most lithium-ion batteries will run anywhere from 20 to 50 minutes on a single charge. Snow shovels that come with 40V batteries will run about twice as long as those that come with 24V batteries. Investing in a second rechargeable supply can double the runtime, as users can quickly switch out the first battery if it runs out before the job is done.
Battery life depends on a variety of factors, including chute size. The more snow the tool handles, the more power it requires, and the quicker the battery will drain. A battery loses power with age, too. It won’t hold as much charge after a few years as it did when it was new. That’s when it’s time to replace it.
Ease of Use
Whether they’re corded or cordless, the best electric snow shovels are easy to operate: Just turn them on and push them along a paved surface to remove fresh snow. The following features also affect the shovel’s usability:
- Blades: Electric snow shovels work similarly to more powerful snow blowers. Their horizontal augers feature one or two blades. The auger rotates at a high speed, and the blades scoop up the snow and blow it out of an exhaust chute. Both single- and double-blade shovels will get the job done, but the double-bladed ones might clear the snow more quickly.
- Scrapers: Some models have a built-in scraper that slides under the snow, which helps the blades lift snow to be discharged out of the chute.
- Handles: Some of these tools have adjustable handles to fit the user’s height. More heavy-duty models often contain a second handle to help operators push the shovel through the snow.
- Weight: Relatively light in weight, electric snow shovels typically weigh between 10 and 16 pounds. This matters because electric snow shovels do not propel themselves; users have to push the shovel along the ground. The best snow shovel for anyone should be light enough to push relatively easily but heavy enough to push into the snow rather than skim the top.
- Cord length: The attached cord on a corded electric snow shovel usually isn’t longer than 6 feet. But they don’t plug right into a wall outlet anyway. Most need a 12- or 14-gauge exterior extension cord, which can be purchased separately.
The Advantages of Owning an Electric Snow Shovel
An electric snow shovel is easier to use than a manual snow shovel and less expensive than a full-size snow blower. These shovels expedite snow removal to lessen the time spent wrapped up in coats and snow boots to clear the driveway, leaving more time for sledding, snowball fights, or staying warm indoors.
- Reduces back, arm, and shoulder pain and fatigue associated with shoveling snow
- Quickly removes fresh snow to an average depth of 6 to 8 inches
- Lightweight and easy to handle (most weigh under 15 pounds)
FAQs
There’s no need to call up a snow removal service—an electric snow shovel might make the job easy enough to handle yourself. If you’re looking to buy an electric snow shovel, naturally, you’ll have some questions.
A horizontal auger with one or two blades spins at ground level to pick up the snow and toss it out through an exhaust chute.
You must manually push the tool along the pavement in order for the spinning auger to pick up the snow.
An electric snow shovel works best on newly fallen snow that is light and fluffy before it has had a chance to melt and become heavy. An electric snow shovel or blower can move powdery snow more easily and launch it farther than it can wet snow.
Most electric snow shovels come with a 2- or 3-year warranty, so if something goes wrong during that time, contact the manufacturer. Consult the owner’s manual for instructions on basic maintenance.
Meet the Tester
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 is the perfect testing grounds for winter products and snow equipment. With over a decade of professional writing experience, he also covers a variety of other projects and maintenance topics for Bobvila.com.
Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor, Tony Carrick, and Jasmine Harding.
