Shoveling snow can be draining and poses a health hazard for people with certain medical conditions. A snow blower, on the other hand, can minimize the bending, lifting, and tossing necessary to clear a driveway while making the job quick and easy to complete. In addition to this, cordless snow blowers are better for the environment compared to gas-powered options since they don’t burn fuel or emit unpleasant, harmful fumes.
To help shoppers sift through the myriad of cordless snow blowers, we tested several of the most popular options, looking at power, maneuverability, and overall efficiency. Just ahead are the best cordless snow blowers in a variety of categories; each earned an award that’s tailored to its specific strengths.
- BEST OVERALL: Ego Power+ SNT2112 Peak Power Snow Blower
- RUNNER-UP: Toro Power Clear 21-Inch Electric Snow Blower
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Snow Joe 24V-X2-SB18 48-Volt Cordless Snow Blower
- BEST SINGLE-STAGE: Snapper XD 1688054 Snow Blower
- BEST TWO-STAGE: Ego Power+ 24-Inch Two Stage Battery Snow Blower Kit
- BEST COMPACT: Earthwise Cordless Electric 40-Volt Snow Blower
How We Tested the Best Cordless Snow Blowers
We had to wait for a significant snowfall, and when it finally did fall, it brought with it subzero wind chills, which was really the perfect weather for a test. After all, extremely cold weather is typically hard on battery-powered tools. So with 3 to 4 inches of snow on the ground, we cleared two 75-foot-long four-car driveways, a 12-foot by 8-foot deck, and several small walkways between them.
First, we put all our snow blowers together, and every one required assembly. Next, we compared features and components, identifying which models were more heavy duty than others and which might be more difficult to use. Finally, we threw some snow.
We got to work clearing driveways, walkways, and sidewalks with these models. We even put them to the test by chipping away at icy road buildup left from plows from a previous storm. We checked lights, throwing distance, and ease of use. By the end of testing, we had a good idea of which of the best cordless snow blowers belonged on the list.
Our Top Picks
Although there are a lot of features to consider, this list of top picks can help narrow the search. We tested and ranked these top options based on quality, price, overall efficiency, and the key considerations outlined above. Plus, not only did these snow blowers remove mounds of the white stuff easily, but they also handled a temperature of -7 degrees Fahrenheit during testing with no battery or power output issues. Start here to find the best cordless snow blower for the job.
Photo: amazon.com
When it comes to choosing a cordless snow blower that can do almost everything well, Ego’s Power+ SNT2112 cordless snow blower is worth serious consideration. Though this is just a single-stage snow blower model, it throws snow 40 feet. This distance, along with the adjustable discharge chute, makes managing snow piles around driveways easy.
The SNT2112 features a 21-inch capacity, which is a bit larger than most comparable models. It comes with two 56-volt 5.0-Ah batteries that power the brushless motor enough to clear a 12-car driveway. The adjustable throttle also allows the user to regulate the power and battery as needed.
This Ego Power+ cordless model was our favorite all-around snow blower. During testing, it was easy to operate and push, even over less-than-smooth terrain. Despite being a single-stage model, it threw snow the advertised 40 feet, which was plenty for managing the snowfall. We also enjoyed the folding handle with quick-release levers, as it made storing this model a breeze. On the downside, it was a little heavy, but the extended battery life was a fair trade-off.
Product Specs
- Type: Single-stage
- Weight: 53 pounds (without the batteries)
- Clearing width: 21 inches
Pros
- Large wheels makes it easy to push; great for uneven terrain
- Great power; can throw snow up to 40 feet
- Handles fold for easy storage; ideal for tight storage areas
- Plenty of battery life; great for larger areas
Cons
- A bit heavy; not great for pushing up hills
Get the EGO Power+ SNT2112 cordless snow blower at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Acme Tools.
Photo: acehardware.com
The Toro cordless snow blower can clear up to 1,500 pounds of snow per minute. Not only can it move a lot of snow, but it also throws the snow up to 40 feet using a single-stage auger system and a chute that can turn in a 200-degree radius, ensuring that users can throw snow in almost any direction. This 55-pound snow blower has a clearing width of 21 inches and comes with a 7.5-Ah battery and a charger for up to 45 minutes of runtime.
Every test has its surprises, and the Toro was one of them in this head-to-head comparison. We found that its best attribute was that it really dug into the snow, getting down to the surface below for better clearing. The chute design and metal auger also helped. Though we were impressed with how well it cleared snow, we found its uneven weight distribution awkward. It even tipped over a few times, but not during use. This was probably because of the massive battery mounted behind the wheels, but the long battery life was a welcome swap.
Product Specs
- Type: Single-stage
- Weight: 55 pounds
- Clearing width: 21 inches
Pros
- Really digs into the snow, clearing 1,500 lbs of snow per minute
- Durable metal auger can last several seasons
- Large battery with long life ideal for larger properties
Cons
- Awkward weight distribution can cause it to tip over when not in use
Get the Toro cordless snow blower at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
Photo: amazon.com
The Snow Joe cordless snow blower is one of the largest cordless electric snow blowers on this list, and with it comes a budget-friendly price tag. Supplied with two rechargeable 24-volt batteries, each capable of 40 minutes of runtime, this blower throws up to 14 tons of snow per charge.
In one pass, the quadruple-bladed rubber-tipped steel auger can carve a path 18 inches wide by 10 inches deep. The 180-degree adjustable snow chute throws snow up to 20 feet. A pair of LED headlights make night or morning snow clearing safer and more straightforward.
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, it truly did perform well. It appeared to throw snow farther than most of the other models, even beyond its stated spec of 20 feet. It was also easy to pick up and had a handy crossbar to grab for the job. With dual batteries, runtime wasn’t an issue either. And given the price, it’s an especially solid option.
Product Specs
- Type: Single-stage
- Weight: 37.5 pounds
- Clearing width: 18 inches
Pros
- Wallet-friendly price point compared to other models
- Powerful snow thrower capable of up to 14 tons per charge
- Lightweight for easy storage and maneuvering
Cons
- Less secure on uneven surfaces; can get caught on small obstructions
Get the Snow Joe cordless snow blower at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
For those with limited storage space, a compact cordless snow blower such as this model from Snapper might just fit the bill. The Snapper XD features a single 82-volt 4.0-Ah battery that powers this single-stage blower’s 20-inch clear capacity. It throws light snow 20 feet, and it can manage snow up to 10 inches deep.
This model features a folding handle similar to a push-style lawn mower, which allows the user to pack this blower away during the warmer weather. Also, the plastic auger makes it lighter than comparable models with metal augers, so it’s easier to move around.
For our test, we were concerned about the plastic auger, but it proved to work very well, even over the rougher terrain and ice. Although the reduced clearing path did extend plowing time, the size and weight savings compared with other models offset the extra plowing time. Having had to maneuver big snow blowers around our garages during the warmer weather, we really appreciated the folding handle and light weight of this model.
Product Specs
- Type: Single-stage
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Clearing width: 20 inches
Pros
- Compact size and folding handle; easier to store
- Lightweight; less tiresome to use for long periods
- Handled rougher terrain well
Cons
- Narrow clearing width; requires more passes than a wider unit
Get the Snapper cordless snow blower on Amazon.
Photo: acehardware.com
Whether the snow is piled on the sidewalk, patio, or even a gravel driveway, this two-stage snow blower can push through. This is attributable to the combined power of the auger to scoop and throw snow as well as the impeller fan that helps the snow blower manage large amounts of snow. However, the snow blower is effective only when it’s equipped with the dual-battery power provided by the two 7.5-Ah batteries.
This product has one of the widest clearing widths for a residential machine at 24 inches, and it can run for up to 135 minutes before the batteries need to be recharged. The drawback to this machine is that it weighs nearly 150 pounds, though if the user takes advantage of the 200-degree adjustable chute and the 50-foot throwing distance, these features can help reduce user fatigue.
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 was better. We liked that we could change the throttle speed on the fly. Also, we found that the reported 50-foot throw distance might actually 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 like 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.
Product Specs
- Type: 2-stage
- Weight: 143.3 pounds (without the batteries)
- Clearing width: 24 inches
Pros
- Throws snow 50 feet or more; great for large areas
- Can change throttle speed quickly; excellent adaptability
- Very powerful; comparable to gas-powered snow blowers
Cons
- Can’t “bump” the throttle; less satisfying than a gas model
Get the Ego Power+ two-stage snow blower at Ace Hardware or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Instead of multiple rounds of intensive shoveling that result in sore, aching muscles, invest 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 4.0-Ah battery and a rapid charger that brings the battery back to full power within 30 minutes. At just 35 pounds, this is a lightweight machine; its ergonomic, padded handle makes it even easier to maneuver.
This good-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 piled-up snow.
Product Specs
- Type: Single-stage
- Weight: 34 pounds
- Clearing width: 18 inches
Pros
- Compact size great for easy storage, even in small spaces
- Removes 500 pounds of snow per minute
- Lightweight; great for uneven surfaces and extended use
- Fast charging; just 30 minutes for full recharge
Cons
- Narrow clearing width means more time to cover larger areas
Get the Earthwise cordless snow blower on Amazon.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Cordless Snow Blower
What makes the best cordless snow blower depends on the amount of snow a region typically experiences, the size of the sidewalk or driveway, and how much battery power and runtime the snow blower needs. 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 15 to 25 feet 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 more than 35 feet, and their auger blades sit high enough to clear gravel driveways.
Battery Power and Runtime
The runtime of a battery-powered snow blower is a key factor to consider when deciding on the best cordless electric snow blower for tackling a driveway, walkway, and patio. Although most battery 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 is, the more power it takes to remove, 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 other important considerations. Though users don’t have to bend to scoop, lift, and throw snow with a shovel, they still must push the snow blower. Size also matters when storing the snow blower in a garage, shed, or any other space.
Cordless snow blowers typically range in weight from 20 to 50 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 difficult.
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 to maneuver, 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 tracked models have tracks similar to those found on a tank. Consider the features of wheeled versus tracked blowers:
- 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.
- Wheeled snow blowers are easier to turn because tracked models won’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 that make them comparable in speed and maneuverability to 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 suited for 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 come with special features designed to make snow clearing an easier and more comfortable task. These extras include heated handles, a drift cutter, headlights, and an automatic 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 fingertips warm in the cold air, but it 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 in dim lighting.
- An automatic safety shutoff shuts off the snow blower when the user releases the handle.
FAQs
If this is your first time purchasing a cordless snow blower, you likely have some additional questions about shopping for and operating this type of machinery. The following are some of the most commonly asked questions about cordless snow blowers.
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 differences if you want to get technical. 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 snows, while snow throwers work well on lighter snows.
Q. Is a cordless snow blower heavy?
Battery-powered cordless snow blowers are relatively lightweight, typically ranging from about 20 pounds to 50 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. The 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. If you don’t have sheltered storage, you’ll want to consider securing a waterproof tarp over and around the snow blower or investing in a smaller snow thrower. Otherwise, you could end up with a snow blower that doesn’t work.
Q. How long do cordless snow blowers last?
If properly stored and maintained, an average cordless snow blower lasts about 10 years.
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