A soft layer of pristine snow on the ground is beautiful—until you remember you’ll have to shovel the sidewalk and driveway before work. While a traditional snow shovel does the job, hand shoveling can be labor-intensive and time-consuming.
An electric snow shovel can speed up the process and eliminate heavy lifting. To ease outdoor chores this snow season, these handy tools deserve a look. Read on to learn about the key features of the best electric snow shovel options and why these are at the top of their class.
- BEST OVERALL: Ryobi 12-Inch 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Greenworks 12-Inch 8-Amp Corded Snow Shovel
- BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Earthwise Power Tools Cordless Electric Snow Thrower
- BEST CORDED: Earthwise Power Tools 16-Inch Corded Snow Thrower
- QUIETEST OPERATION: Snow Joe 24V-SS11-XR Cordless Snow Shovel
- BEST BATTERY LIFE: Greenworks Pro 12-Inch 80-Volt Brushless Snow Shovel
- BEST LIGHT-DUTY: Snow Joe 24-Volt SS13 IonMax Cordless Snow Shovel Kit
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Ego Power+ Multi-Head Snow Shovel Kit
- MOST VERSATILE: Toro 12-Inch 60-Volt Flex-Force Electric Power Shovel
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 single or double turning blade that picks up snow and tosses it out of the path as it’s pushed along a paved surface.
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.
Electric snow shovels are designed to remove fresh snow from sidewalks, decks, patios, and steps. They aren’t suitable for unpaved areas, like gravel driveways. Electric snow shovels are the less expensive option and come with a price tag of about $60 to $190. A heavy-duty snow blower could set you back $1,500 or more.
How We Chose the Best Electric Snow Shovels
In selecting the best electric snow shovels and snow blowers for our list, we considered specific criteria as they pertained to the unit’s intended use. For power shovels designed to handle walkways and small driveways, we favored models that are lightweight with ergonomic handles—and therefore easier to maneuver in tight spaces—with a snow-clearing width of around 12 inches and a depth of about 6 inches. For larger driveways and heavier snowfalls, we chose small single-stage electric snow blowers with the ability to clear a swath about 20 inches wide at a depth of at least 10 inches.
For cordless models, we considered snow shovels that would provide enough runtime to clear a walkway and snow throwers that could clear a small driveway without completely running down. With that in mind, we chose snow shovels with at least 25 minutes of runtime and snow blowers with at least 45 minutes of runtime. We also favored models with rapid chargers that could get the shovel or blower back online in about 30 minutes.
Our Top Picks
The following electric snow shovels take into account specific features such as battery use, cleaning area, and more. Consider the best use of each model when choosing one for your clearing area.
Photo: homedepot.com
Anyone looking for a lightweight and maneuverable snow shovel will want to consider the Ryobi 40-volt (V) electric snow shovel. This 17-pound shovel is compact enough to store and won’t strain your back or arms. The snow shovel is capable of throwing snow over 22 feet away while clearing a 12-inch path of snow up to 6 inches deep.
Suitable for walkways, driveways, decks, patios, and more, this pick is versatile and easy to use because of its variable-speed trigger. Users can simply pick the speed required for different levels of snow and plow through it easily. This snow shovel can be attached to many of the Ryobi Expand-It attachments with the 180-degree lock/unlock coupler, which can attach to a blower, edger, pole saw, and other Ryobi Expand-It products.
This option also comes with a 40V 4.0 amp-hour (Ah) battery and charger, which some other snow shovel brands don’t offer.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 40V battery
Pros
- Variable-speed trigger allows plowing speed selection based on snow depth
- 180-degree lock/unlock coupler can accommodate compatible blower, edger, and pole saw attachments
- Battery and charger included; many brands do not include the battery and/or charger
Cons
- Does not plow as deep as other electric snow shovels on the market
- Users might find this item suitable only for light to medium snowfalls
Get the Ryobi electric snow shovel at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
This Greenworks 8-amp (A) corded snow shovel is a powerful, corded option with a simple push-button start. It can handle snow up to 4 inches deep. The corded snow shovel clears a 12-inch-wide swath, so it’s suitable for light snow on sidewalks, porches, and decks. The price is affordable for those who only need occasional snow removal as well. Still, this model can toss fresh snow up to 20 feet.
The bottom scraper is designed to slide under the snow and make it easier for the spinning auger blade to lift and blow the snow out of the discharge chute. The adjustable second handle can help you get a firm grip on this 14.4-pound machine.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 4 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 8A corded
Pros
- Convenient push-button start is easy to operate for first-time or frequent users
- Bottom scraper makes it easier to remove snow in the first pass
- Adjustable handle accommodates the user and allows for easy control while operational
Cons
- Low 4-inch clearing depth may not be enough for some situations; best for light snowfalls
Get the Greenworks corded electric snow shovel at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., Walmart, or Greenworks.
Photo: amazon.com
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 the Earthwise Power Tools cordless electric snow thrower is a stellar lightweight model. This cordless shovel 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.
An ergonomic double-handle design adds even more to this lightweight shovel’s comfort. Snow comes through the 12-inch-wide clearing with its 3.5-inch maximum depth, which is then picked up by the dual blade auger and thrown up to 25 feet. On each charge—which takes up to 3 hours—the shovel can run up to 60 minutes at a time.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 3.5 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 20V motor, 4Ah battery
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, weighing only 11.5 pounds
- Ergonomic and large handle design makes this light shovel comfortable to use
- Provides up to 1 hour of runtime, enough to clear many homes’ paths and driveways
Cons
- Low 3.5-inch clearing depth is not suitable for deep snow
Get the Earthwise Power Tools cordless electric snow shovel at Amazon or American Lawn Mower Company.
Photo: amazon.com
A corded electric snow shovel is a good choice for big jobs; it won’t run out of power before the job is done. The Earthwise Power Tools 16-inch corded snow thrower is an excellent choice for clearing large areas and deep snow. This large shovel has a clearing width of 16 inches and a clearing depth of 8 inches—the largest on our list. It’s a powerful machine, with a 12A motor that throws snow up to 30 feet away.
Though heavy duty, this electric shovel is surprisingly lightweight. Since it’s corded, there’s no need for a heavy battery, and it weighs 14.5 pounds. Even if it’s not too heavy, it also has back wheels that help it across sidewalks, decks, and driveways. To add to comfort, especially when shoveling deep snow, users can adjust the second handle to their preferred height.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 8 inches
- Clearing width: 16 inches
- Power: 12A
Pros
- Adjustable handle and rear wheels help you comfortably maneuver the tool
- 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch depth are greater than many; suitable for bigger jobs
- 30-foot snow-throwing distance can send snow far away from cleared areas
Cons
- Wet snow can trip the thermal shutoff, switching off the machine until it cools down
Get the Earthwise Power Tools corded electric snow shovel at Amazon, Walmart, or American Lawn Mower Company.
Photo: amazon.com
When it comes to electric snow shovels, noise is simply unavoidable, but the Snow Joe 24V-SS11-XR cordless snow shovel can make snow removal a little easier on the ears. Reviewers note that this snow shovel isn’t too loud. It uses a dual-blade auger to effectively clear snow away, throwing it up to 20 feet.
This electric snow shovel is cordless, with a battery (battery and charger included) that runs up to 22 minutes at a time, which is ideal for smaller areas. In terms of size, it’s a smaller pick, with an 11-inch clearing width. It still has a decent clearing height though, handling snow up to 7 inches deep. Combined with its lightweight design, this electric snow shovel is both quiet and agile.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 7 inches
- Clearing width: 11 inches
- Power: 24V battery
Pros
- Reviewers note relatively quiet operation, suitable for early morning and nighttime snow clearing
- Smaller 11-inch clearing width is well suited for moving around and covering smaller areas
- Battery and charger are included, which is not the case for many cordless electric snow shovels
Cons
- 11-inch clearing width is narrower than usual; may result in longer clearing times
- 22-minute battery life is somewhat short; not ideal for clearing large areas
Get the Snow Joe 24V-SS11-XR electric snow shovel at Amazon, Gardener’s Supply Company, or Snow Joe.
Photo: amazon.com
When it comes to cordless yard tools, battery life and power are key. This snow shovel from Greenworks is one of the best at both, thanks to a powerful 80V battery that gives it 45 minutes of runtime. The battery, which recharges in just 30 minutes with its rapid charger, gives it enough juice to handle up to 6 inches of snow with a shoveling width of 12 inches.
And, with its ability to discharge snow 20 feet away, the cordless snow shovel is suitable for walks, decks, and smaller driveways. This model is one of the heavier ones on the market; it has a total weight of 19.2 pounds with the battery installed.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 80V battery
Pros
- Cordless design offers more flexibility; suitable for large or long driveways
- Impressive 45-minute runtime offers extended use after heavy snowfalls or for large areas
- Quick-charging battery; suitable for multiple uses in a given day
- Deposits snow 20 feet away; keeps snow far from the user’s clearing path
Cons
- Weighs 19.2 pounds with the battery installed, which might feel too heavy for some users
Get the Greenworks 80V electric snow shovel at Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, or Greenworks.
Photo: amazon.com
Shoppers don’t have to spend a lot of money on an electric snow shovel. The Snow Joe SS13 snow shovel comes with a 24V cordless battery so you can remove snow that’s far away from an electrical outlet. 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.
The dual handle on the Snow Joe helps you get a good grip for pushing the tool through the snow. This electric snow shovel will operate up to 22 minutes on a single battery charge. That should allow enough time to clear light snow from short sidewalks, porches, and decks—all at an affordable price point. Users can double the runtime by purchasing a second 24V battery (sold separately).
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 13 inches
- Power: 24V battery
Pros
- Cordless design offers flexible movement; suitable for clearing driveways and walkways
- Tosses snow up to 20 feet away; sends snow far away from the clearing path
- Dual handle helps make it easy to push, reducing risk of physical strain and fatigue
Cons
- Suitable for light snow only; some reviewers report poor performance under heavy-duty use
Get the Snow Joe SS13 electric snow shovel at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Best Buy, or Snow Joe.
Photo: amazon.com
Larger snowfalls require the proper tools for clearing. For heavy-duty plowing, the Ego Power+ multihead snow shovel kit is just the ticket. This kit can help clear a 12-inch path, throw snow at a 25-foot distance, and clear a 4-car driveway of 6-inch-deep snow.
The overload protection clutch on this heavy-duty pick is unique and useful as it prevents damage to the snow shovel’s motor and electronics. This Ego snow shovel is also compatible with the Ego Power+ multihead system, so it can accommodate many Ego Power+ tools and attachments for a variety of jobs. While using this shovel, be aware of the adjustable front handle, which can reduce strain and bending while pushing the shovel through thicker snow. Plus, this pick comes with a 56V 4Ah lithium battery and a 320-watt charger for long runtimes and heavy-duty clearing.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: Unspecified (at least 6 inches)
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 56V battery
Pros
- Throws snow over 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
Cons
- May require a lot of effort to push through some snow; not a self-propelled model
Get the Ego Power+ electric snow shovel at Amazon, Lowe’s, Acme Tools, or Ego.
Photo: homedepot.com
Plow through snow on driveways, walkways, sidewalks, patios, and more with the cordless Toro 12-inch Flex-Force power shovel. This Toro power shovel can be used on moderate to low slopes in 6 inches of snow and it can clear through easily, throwing snow up to 25 feet away.
The push-button start and on-demand power and control button with dual speeds combine for easy plowing through light to heavy snow on command. This pick also comes with a brushless 2.5Ah 60V battery for extended use, allowing for long operating times of up to 45 minutes after heavy snowfalls. Plus, it takes just an hour to charge, so users can tackle multiple plowing projects in a single day.
Power curve technology also allows you to maneuver this shovel easily in thick snow. Finally, the compact, lightweight design of the Toro snow shovel ensures that buyers can store it easily in the offseason.
Product Specs
- Maximum depth: 6 inches
- Clearing width: 12 inches
- Power: 60V battery
Pros
- Push-button start and on-demand power and control button; choose between low and high power
- Battery has 45-minute runtime and requires only 60 minutes to recharge
- Uses the same battery as a range of other Toro Flex-Force tools
Cons
- Some users have reported manufacturing defects or difficulty using this item
- Lower amperage hours compared to other snow shovels on the market
Get the Toro electric snow shovel at Acme Tools or Toro.
What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Snow Shovel
The best electric snow shovel should dependably clear away the average snowfall in your area far more easily than a conventional shovel. Take these key factors into consideration when you compare models.
Corded vs. Cordless
Electric snow shovels come corded and cordless. Each type has its own benefits and considerations:
- Corded snow shovels offer immediate snow-clearing power. Just plug the cord into an outlet. For those who don’t want to wait for a battery to charge, which can take a few hours before they can shovel snow, a corded electric model might make more sense. Of course, since they always need to be plugged into a power source, a corded snow shovel limits your coverage area to the length of the extension cord (usually 50 to 100 feet).
- Cordless snow shovels operate on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery 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, you don’t have to drag a cord behind you. If you have a lot of snow to clear, you might need to stop and recharge the battery before you 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). You’ll want to select 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 clear 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 fewer passes to clear an area. Some have LED lights mounted on the chute to illuminate the work area and make it easier to shovel 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 battery can double the runtime with an easy switch if the first battery 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 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 auger features 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 height of the user. More heavy-duty models often contain a second handle to help you push the shovel through the snow.
- Weight: Relatively light in weight, electric snow shovels average 10 to 16 pounds. That matters because electric snow shovels do not propel themselves. You 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 (check the owner’s manual) exterior extension cord that is 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 have some questions.
Q. How does an electric snow shovel work?
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.
Q. How do you use an electric snow shovel?
You must manually push the tool along the pavement in order for the spinning auger to pick up the snow.
Q. When should you use your electric snow shovel?
An electric snow shovel works best on newly fallen snow that is light, fluffy, and has not 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.
Q. How do you fix an electric snow shovel?
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.
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