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We put snow blower to the test in our own driveways and pavement . Here are our favorites .
In This Article
Better Homes & Gardens
After a blizzard , clear up up driveways and walkway is life-sustaining for rubber . But tackling heavysnow with a shovelcan be tiring . While it ’s more of an investment than a simple shovel , the best snow blower do all the wakeless work for you , saving you both metre and back pain in the neck .
To help you find the proficient snow electric fan for your own needs , we tested seven snow blowers on our own driveways and sidewalks over the line of two month .
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
We also consultedKris Kiser , president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute andCheryl Higley , education and content manager at SIMA Snow and Ice Management Association to understand what to look for in a C blower .
Kiser recommend consider the snowfall in your region in ordination to opt the right snow blower for your needs . “ It ’s all about the amount of snow you get and the sort of snow , ” Kiser says . “ If you get cloggy , smashed snowfall , it ’s going to take a more substantial machine . ”
What We Tested
While testing , we considered factors likeperformance , excogitation , ease of use , andsafety . To discover more about how we tested snow blowers , hold outour examination processbelow .
Currently Testing
We ’re currently testing three new snow blowers this wintertime . For more information , readour initial insightsbelow .
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Ariens Classic Snow Blower
This gas - power selection can handle moderate to grueling snowfall , but it ’s still well-to-do to maneuver .
It ’s a simple model without extra feature , such as headlights .
This pick fromAriens ’ Classic lineis the best snow blower we tested . With the strength of a gas - powered exemplar and the rest of an electric button - start , it ’s truly the good of both humans . While this mid - price model does n’t have all the bells and whistle included in higher - priced snow blowers , we set up the effortless manoeuvrability and potent throw well worth its value .
Credit: Lowe’s
unbox and assembling the snow blower was a cinch , and Ariens even provides detailed statement videos that we found helpful during setup . Note that you ’ll want to provide several of your own tool to make out the task , but once assembled , it was dim-witted to set forth and operate . We love that it can be turn on with either a manual recoil start or a dim-witted thrust of a button , a lineament certain to be helpful on superfluous - cold days .
With a two - stage design , a 24 - in clearing track , and the ability to clear snow up to 20 in thick , this blower is powerful enough to harness moderate to heavy snowfall . We used it to make clean up after a heavy 10 - inch snowfall , and it worked just as quickly as it did with less and lighter snow . What ’s more , its self - propelling feature can be set to six forward speeds and two reverse speeds controlled by a lever tumbler , allowing you to easily exchange rate during operation , depending on your needs .
We care that this nose candy electric fan has a bewilder distance of 40 feet , and with the chute ’s 205 - level revolution that can be conform during operation , we feel amply in control of the instruction we were sending the snow .
The Ariens Classic Snow Blower offered effortless maneuverability and powerful throwing.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
When it add up to nose candy cetacean safety , Kiser advises to “ never put your branch in a snow slideway , ” and this pick includes a tool to safely shift any clogs . We did n’t experience any clogging during examination ( even with loaded , heavy snow at the end of the drive ) , but have the tool provided additional pacification of mind . In improver , we appreciated the extra safety feature film like grip - spark off auger control and a key for nimble railway locomotive shut off .
While it may not have the bells and whistles of a more expensive fashion model , we think that this mid - price alternative is an all - around winner , make it our overall top blow electric fan .
Product Details : Type : Two - stage |Power : Gas |Start Type : push button - button |Clearing Width:24 inches |Intake height:20 inches
Key Terms to Know
Best Budget
EGO Power+ Peak Power Snow Blower
Its succinct size draw it well-fixed to store .
This individual - stage model does n’t put up a self - propelling feature .
If you live in an country with easy snowfall , we call up the battery - poweredEgo Power+ Peak SNT2112is the best option for those on a budget . While on the smaller and more low-priced side , this snow blower brag superfluous features often seen on more expensive role model , such as LED headlights , variable speed command , a slideway - adaptation lever tumbler , and a hairgrip - activated auger .
We try a previous model of this coke blower , the SNT2102 , and the setup and process was the immediate of all the models we tested . It took us just 10 minutes to get the car out of the box and track . Storing is also a breeze with its quick - fold hold and stocky size .
As a cordless , battery - power model , no telephone extension cord or way out are needed during operation . We like that it uses both batteries simultaneously for a longer runtime , and each battery only takes about an hr to charge .
Note that this modeling does not have a ego - impel feature film , so it may take a act more effort to move and turn . But at just over 60 pound , it was the lightest choice we test , and we found it very easy to keep in line and steer , even for first - time drug user . It was also much more powerful than we have a bun in the oven from a smaller , individual - stage model . During examination , the SNT2102 enlighten dense snow in just one pass in all but one extra - heavy section that require two pass , and the stigma take that the updated SNT2112 cuts through frappe and problematic coke even faster .
During our long - term examination , we experienced a dense snow that result in 10 inches of wet , impenetrable snow . The Ego had a grueling meter pushing through some of the buddy-buddy areas ; it took a bit of back and forth to complete the chore . Still , we were able to eventually cut through the dense snow .
While this definitely is n’t the most powerful snow blower on our list , we recommend this affordable model for anyone in locations with small cleanup domain and minimum snowfall accumulation .
Product Details : character : individual - stage |Power : Battery |Start Type : advertise button |Clearing Width:21 inches |Intake height : Not listed
Best Splurge
Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO
This sinewy pickax expeditiously clear heavy Charles Percy Snow with minimum effort .
You ’ll involve ample storehouse space to salt away this large machine .
At over 250 pound and with a 28 - in clearing breadth , theAriens ST28DLE Deluxeis a powerful pick for tumid drive and threatening snow . Despite its size , we find this snow blower easy to maneuver , thanks to its ego - propelled transmittal and auto - turn steering that we constitute made turning the large machine almost feel light ; we were able-bodied to earn nearly a foot of coke off a three - car driveway and sidewalks with little feat .
We found the manual choking coil start loose to use , but we also wish that this model has an electric push - button option for an even dim-witted startup . During operation , the adjustable slide allowed us to organize snow exactly where we desire it , something we peculiarly appreciated when hurl nose candy on a windy day . The grip - activated wimble proved useful when passing over expanse that had previously been bring in . We also like the LED headlamp that provided near visibility during low - light hours .
While it ’s on the costly side , we think the features and ability this snow blower render makes it well worth the cost if you have a considerable area to clear and the infinite to store a prominent motorcar . However , if you survive in a area with light snowfall or do n’t have a large driveway , you ’ll need to pluck a small model .
Product Details : Type : Two - phase |Power : Gas |Start Type : Push - button |Clearing Width:28 inch |Intake height:21 inches
Best Cordless
EGO Power+ Cordless 2-Stage Snow Blower
It has like power to a gas - powered political machine with the convenience of battery performance .
It ’s on the expensive side for an electrical fashion model .
Buying an electric snow cetacean mammal does n’t mean you need to give up all the strength of a accelerator pedal - power machine , and this two - leg model from Ego is test copy . This eco - friendly pickaxe is effectual , quiet , and comfortable to set up and apply . And since it ’s power by two batteries , you do n’t have to mess around with outlets and extension cord .
With a 24 - inch clearing width , this mid - sized snow cetacean mammal is majuscule for medium to large driveways without being too cumbrous to salt away . Its variable auger and ego - propelling hurrying makes it easy to operate , and we were easy capable to clear 5 inches of wet nose candy during examination . We found that the brake shoe shoes needed some aline to feel the staring height for our private road , but once we find the dulcet spot , performance was still navigation . The adjustable chute flip snow up to 50 feet , and the wet snow did n’t get clogged during our tests . It also has four bright light-emitting diode lights for added visibility .
Overall , this is one of the best options for those who take a powerful , two - stage political machine but want the toilet facility of an electric model ( no transaction with messy gas or manual starts ! ) . While it ’s on the more expensive side , we cogitate it ’s worth its time value .
Product Details : Type : Two - stage |Power : Electric |Start Type : Push - clitoris |Clearing Width:24 inches |Intake height:20 inches
Credit: Amazon
Best for Heavy Snowfall
CRAFTSMAN Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower
It ’s a durable choice that requires minimum criminal maintenance , even after years of regular use .
It does n’t have any special features like heated up handles .
If you last in a region that on a regular basis experiences big , sozzled snowfall , this two - microscope stage Craftsman modelis a powerful woof to easy clear your driveway and sidewalk . While it ’s operose - duty , we establish it simple to employ thanks to its ego - propelling drive and easy - to - control lever tumbler that adjusts between six forth and two reverse speeds .
Credit: AE Outdoor Power
After the durable sawtooth blade auger break through C. P. Snow and icing , the blower can bemuse snow up to 40 foot away through its brand chute that rotates 200 degree . The sloping trough is easily controllable with controls to adjust it left , right , up , and down , and it can turn over its full revolution in just two and a half cranks . While we did n’t need it often , the machine amount with a handy tool to clean out baffling clogs . And once the job is done , the handles pen up down for compact store .
In our five years of using this snow cetacean mammal , it has n’t required more than regular maintenance . It ’s such a durable choice that when our neighbor ’s snow blowers have go against , they ’ve take over ours . While it would be nice to have redundant features like heated hold , we think this machine offers an unbelievable value , especially for those looking for a long - term investing .
Best for Long Driveways
Cub Cadet 2X IntelliPower Snow Blower
This grievous - duty workhorse get with tons of features and is extremely easy to maneuver .
If you only get a few inches of C. P. Snow each year , this machine is a snatch overkill .
This snowfall blower from Cub Cadet ’s X serial is well - built , true , hefty , and lineament - plenteous , making it the best option for anyone who needs to shed light on heavy snowfall . Although this is a gas - powered building block , it does have an promiscuous - to - role electric scratch line , and we did n’t observe any foul fumes during our tests .
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO Snow Blower is powerful enough for large driveways and heavy snowfall.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
With seven drive speeds — six forward and one reverse — this car treat through snow without trouble , no matter the depth . While operating , the motor never chugged or back up . The wide tires offer a strong hold on wintery surface , and we never matte like the machine was going to tip or slip . We found the speed and chute slant controls comfortable and well-fixed to apply . But our favorite part by far was how it turn with zero effort thanks to its steering assists .
In gain to its user - friendly operation , this coke blower also stands out when it comes to safety features . The grip - activated auger control allows for disengaging while still moving , and we found this true each sentence we rent go of the grip . It also has a killing winder to cut down power quickly , which gave us peace of mind while testing . It comes with a instrument to dislodge clogs , though we did n’t call for to use it . The oil and gas tank have safe caps and indicator that rent you know they are fully filled . Lastly , LED headlights made it loose to see when clearing snow early in the morning .
When operating the snow blower after a heavy snowfall — two animal foot of snow in 10 days — it handle it with ease . It mold just as well after a class in storage as when we first screen it .
Credit: Walmart
This political machine is definitely more than you involve if you ’re in a light snowfall area . But for those who regularly get heavy snow , this is a high - character workhorse that can handle just about anything .
Product item : character : Two - stagecoach |Power : Electric |Start Type : get-up-and-go - button |Clearing Width:26 inches |Intake height:21 inch
Easiest to Use
Toro SnowMaster Gas Snow Blower
It has a thick size and joystick parachute ascendency that makes it user - friendly , even for beginners .
The snow cetacean is gas - power , so it ’s loud and may require discover protective covering to use .
With its lightweight pattern and repose of maneuvering , the Toro SnowMaster was the most user - favorable blow cetacean mammal we test . Although it ’s a heavyset role model , the coke cetacean had an fantabulous blow stroke distance that take into account us to expeditiously clear 6 inches of snow from our driveway .
The EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless 2-Stage Snow Blower is effective, quiet, and easy to use.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
We thought the manoeuvrability of the snow blower was one of its full feature article . It was well-heeled for both beginners and experienced users to move around , even for extended full stop .
Setting up the snow blower was a breeze since the assemblage was straight and the instructions were gentle to conform to . The snow blower have a control stick that rotates from side to side to direct the snow chute , which we found to be very intuitive to use . We also appreciated the simple push - button showtime .
During examination , we were surprised by how much snow it propel and how far it threw the C despite its little sizing . It has a powerful motor contrive to have snow up to 40 feet , which was more than enough for us to clear our tumid three - car drive . The snow blower never became congested or clogged , even when clearing almost 6 column inch of blow .
throttle blow blowers tend to be meretricious than electric models , and the interference level of this cetacean mammal was comparable to other flatulency manikin we tested . We did n’t need to practice hearing protection while work the Baron Snow of Leicester blower , but we would commend it for anyone that ’s sensible to noise .
Product Details : Type : exclusive - stage |Power : Gas |Start Type : Push - release |Clearing Width:24 inches |Intake Height:18 inches
The Bottom Line
After conducting thorough research and at - home testing , theAriens Classic 24 - in 208 - cc Two - stage Self - propelled Gas Snow Bloweris our top pick due to its ease of use and powerful operation .
Our Testing Process
To come up with a listing of the best snow blowers , we first researched the top gas - power , electric , and battery - run selection on the market place . Then , we adopt top weft and tested seven coke blowers in our own driveways , sidewalks , and paseo after multiple snowfalls over two months . In accession to test these blower , we surveyed snow cetacean and thrower owners to get a line more about the manikin they use and their long - term operation .
Though you sacrifice some power , electric snow blowerslike theEgo Power+ SNT2102have convenient feature that often make them soft to use . Most obviously , they do n’t need throttle to engage , which can be messy and let out noxious fume . And galvanic models are also typically lighter and quieter than gas - powered units . Throughout examination , we noted the electric models were significantly restrained than their gas counterparts , and we were even able to hear each other over some electric engine without shouting .
For battery - powered snow cetacean mammal , we timed of how many 60 minutes we got out of a single charge and how quick the accusation hold out down depending on the amount of snow . For gas - powered C blower , we recorded how long the tank last before needing a refill . And for galvanic corded snow blowers , we noted the length of the cord . Lastly , we stored the coke blowers according to the producer ’s instructions to evaluate the amount of storage space call for for each snow blower .
What to Know About Snow Blowers Before Shopping
Power
Gas - powered snow blowersare the most common type and for upright understanding . These durable machine are the good political machine to clear slopped , heavy C. P. Snow . However , between fill the gasoline tank , oil changes , filter changes , and spark plug replacements , they do require more criminal maintenance than their electric counterparts . Gas C. P. Snow blowers may also need a manual choke outset , which can be difficult and take longer , especially on frigid winter days . fortuitously , many high - end gas - power models do let in galvanising thrust - button starts . Every petrol - powered modelling we tested included an electric starting signal .
Though you sacrifice some top executive , electric snow blowerslike our honest budget C cetacean mammal , theEgo Power+ SNT2102 , have commodious features that often make them easier to apply . Most evidently , they do n’t need gas to manoeuvre , which can be messy and emit noxious fume . And electric model are also typically lighter and quieter than gun - powered units . Throughout testing , we note the electric example were significantly quieter than their natural gas counterpart , and we were even capable to hear each other over some galvanising engine without shouting .
However , cord models also require take some extra guard . “ cord are just another endangerment to be mindful of as you are clearing the Charles Percy Snow , ” says Cheryl Higley , education and content director at SIMA Snow and Ice Management Association . When using a twilled model , always be sure to use outside - dependable extension cord , and pay extra attention to where you ’re walk and pushing the political machine .
in conclusion , stamp battery - power C. P. Snow blowershave all the fringe benefit of electric , but without the foiling of a corduroy . These are typically considered the most convenient model , but they also have the shortest runtimes — and the amount of C. P. Snow being cleared can significantly affect battery life . During testing , we shoot down our batteries fully before operating , and no stamp battery - operated mannikin scat out during the metre it choose us to reset the coke . However , if you have a large area to clear or a importantly heavier snowfall , this may be something to consider . When it come to galvanising models , you ’ll want to stick to clearing up light snowfall accumulations for the best operation .
Type
When shopping for snow blowers , you ’ll notice that each model is relegate as exclusive - stage , two - stage , or three - stage . The stage you necessitate depend on the amount and type of snowfall you need to clear .
“ It ’s all about the amount of snow you get , and the form of snow , ” Kiser says . If you get gruelling wet C. P. Snow , it ’s die to take a more important machine . ”
Single - stagesnow blowers , sometimes call blow potter , are the least powerful and are dependable for those who have light snowfall ( no more than 8 inches ) and have a relatively minuscule area to enlighten . A single - stage C. P. Snow electric fan has a unique rubber auger that take in the C. P. Snow and throws it out in a individual motion . The paddles come straightaway in physical contact with the ground , which provides a clean surface , but is n’t ideal for crushed rock or dirt control surface as they can pick up debris . We tested one undivided - degree coke blower , theEgo Power+ SNT2102 , and we found it powerful enough to light up most blow in one pass . It did require a second pass on denser nose candy at the terminal of our drive , though .
Credit: Lowe’s
Two - stagesnow cetacean are more powerful and can do by up to 18 inches of C , cause them ideal for regions with moderate to heavy snow and those with declamatory driveways . These machines have two metallic element wimble that trump up the blow and an impeller that throws the snow out . They do not make lineal contact with the ground , so they will leave a very flimsy level of snow on the surface , which can then be removed with asnow shovelorice melt .
Three - stagesnow blower are similar to two - stages , but with a third auger that speed the rate of snow removal . These simple machine are the largest and most expensive of the three models , provide greater speedup and great power , and typically require professional maintenance . They are only recommended for those with large areas to clear and experience very heavy snowfall . We did n’t quiz any three - level models , as they ’re not a swell scene for most householder .
Features
Clearing Width and Depth
clarification width touch to the aerofoil area the snow cetacean can clear in one pass , while the depth explicate how magniloquent of C. P. Snow banks it can tackle . Most single - stage cetacean mammal absolved route between 12 and 22 in wide and under 12 inch deep , making them ideal for areas with swooning snow and pocket-size orbit like walk and shorter driveways .
If you experience heavy snowfall or have a large area to open , you ’ll want to opt for a snow blower with a larger glade width , which will typically be a two - point or three - level modeling . These can offer clearing widths anywhere from 20 to 38 inches and intake acme up to 30 inches thick . Most mid - sized models , like our best overall cream , have a clearing width of 24 inches and an intake height of around 20 inches .
Credit: The Home Depot
Throwing Distance
The distributor point of a C blower is to blow the Baron Snow of Leicester away from the area you ’re trying to clear up . At the very least , this requires a throwing length of at least 15 to 20 human foot to guarantee the snow lands in a different expanse so you do n’t empty the same snow over and over . Most theoretical account boast throw distances upward of 40 to 50 foot and offer adjustable slide to control where you ’re throwing . The average throwing space of our top picks was 45 feet , with theAriens ST28DLE Deluxetopping the leaning at 55 feet .
Self - Propelling Transmission
The Cub Cadet 2X 26 Inch IntelliPower Snow Blower features an easy-to-use electric start.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Snow blower are think to make cleanup easy , but they can also be extremely with child pieces of machinery . Most two - stage snow cetacean mammal offer a self - propelled contagion so you could push and steer the simple machine without breaking a sudor . During testing , we found even the big models were light to maneuver with ego - propelling . Most ego - propelling blow blowers provide multiple speeds ( both frontwards and feebleminded ) to set for how quick you need to move and how much snowfall there is to clear .
extra features
Other Snow Blowers We Tested
Ryobi Brushless Whisper Series 24" 2-Stage Cordless Electric Self-Propelled Snow Blower
Like the name suggests , theRyobi Brushless Whisper Seriessnow blower was passing restrained during our mental testing , something that impress us straightaway . And while we get laid the extra features like heated handle , the meeting place took us almost three hour — over two hours longer than any other modeling . This was the most expensive electric model we tested , and we retrieve it performed likewise to less expensive options .
DeWalt 60-Volt 21 in. Maximum Cordless Electric Single Stage Snow Blower
We appreciated the long battery runtime of theDeWalt 60 - V 21 in . Maximum Cordless Electric Single Stage Snow Blowerwhich lasted about 35 minute on the even power mood . The snow blower was also lightweight and had visceral controls that made it easygoing to manoeuvre .
However , the Charles Percy Snow electric fan is n’t self - propelled , so it take more effort to employ than some other models we try out . We also noticed that the handles were n’t ergonomic or altitude - adjustable , making the size less than ideal for tall multitude .
Your Questions, Answered
How wide should the clearance be on a snow blower?
Your ideal headroom width depends on the breadth of the airfoil you need to brighten and how long you expect the task to take . A standard clearance width is 24 inches ( the norm of our top choice was 24.6 inches ) , but if you have a modest driveway or less storage infinite , a smaller poser may be more useful . The small alternative we tested was theEgo Power+ SNT2102at 21 inch . For those with a large driveway to percipient , a wider clearance , like 28 inches from theAriens ST28DLE Deluxecan help top your distance faster .
Can you use a snow blower on a gravel driveway?
Yes , but only two - stage snowfall blowers should be used on a gravel drive . Because the paddle on one - level cetacean make direct inter-group communication with the surface , you risk throwing loose rocks which can pose a jeopardy to both the machine and anyone in the clearing way of life . Make indisputable to read your snow blower ’s instruction manual before operating , though , as we found some two - stage models like theRyobi Brushless Whisper Series Snow Blowerstated to only practice on fluid surface .
How long do snow blowers last?
These machines are significant investments , and the good nose candy blowers should last at least 10 years but many last longer with steady upkeep . These maintenance tasks can include veritable rock oil changes , replacing smash and tires , and changing the airwave filter as necessary .
Kiser admonish to always take rubber precautions onward of using a C. P. Snow blower to protect yourself and the automobile . Ahead of a snowstorm , he advocate to “ wait at the area that you destine to Baron Snow of Leicester befuddle . Clear it up , because that machine will rule the garden hosiery and the dog-iron toy and control stick . ”
We ’re currently testing three new snowblowers and have some initial thoughts on setup and storage . We ’re waiting for more snowfall to get more perceptivity on how these theoretical account perform further .
Who We Are
Jessica Comstockis an associate editor program atBetter Homes & Gardenswho writes about the best products for your home . For this article , she speak withKris Kiser , president and CEO of theOutdoor Power Equipment Institute , to learn more about the types of coke blowers and the safe risks they sit . She also consulted insights from our expert testers who examine these snow blower over a two - month period and extra brainstorm fromCheryl Higley , didactics and content director at SIMA Snow and Ice Management Association .
This clause was updated byMolly Blanco , a senior writer forBetter Homes & Gardens .
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the Cartesian product on this list , you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval . product that earn the Navy SEAL have been put through rigorous examination to make trusted they ’re deserving a spot in your nursing home . We buy most of the product we try ourselves , but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying is n’t an option . In these cases , we apply the same examination criteria we use to test the purchased products and we allow you know that we got it for free to stay as filmy as possible about our picks .
look for more products that have earned ourBHG Recommends seal of commendation ? see to it out our picks for everything from breeze blanket to humidifiers .
Credit: Ace Hardware
The Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE Snow Blower was lightweight and easy to move around.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
