The Best Snow Thrower
We evaluate top snow throwers from gas to battery based on clearing width, power source, stage design, and verified owner feedback to help you pick the right winter workhorse.
By Harry
Updated October 2, 2026
When winter hits hard, a capable snow thrower can turn hours of back-breaking shoveling into a quick, effortless chore.
Whether you face wet, heavy snow or dry, powdery drifts, choosing the right machine depends on your driveway size, local snowfall, and power-source preference.
In this guide, Snow Removal Wiki evaluates the best snow thrower for 2026 by analyzing specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to help you find a reliable performer without the guesswork.
We focused on clearing width, stage type, power source, and build quality to identify models that offer real-world value. Below, you will find our top picks, each scored on our 0, 10 SRW Score scale.
If you are new to snow removal, our comprehensive buying guide covers all the basics. For now, dive into the list to see which snow thrower matches your winter needs.
| Award | Product | SRW Score About SRW ScoreThe SRW Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
EGO POWER+ SNT2400 24-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.6/10 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
VOLTASK SS-20B 13-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel
|
8.4/10 | Buy |
| Best Value |
SENIX STX2-M1 40V 21-Inch Snow Blower
|
8.4/10 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow
|
8.4/10 | Buy |
VOLTASK SB-40A-AZ 48V 20-Inch Snow Blower
|
8.3/10 | Buy | |
EGO Power+ SNS1201 12-Inch 56V Snow Shovel
|
8.3/10 | Buy | |
Westinghouse WSnow22 22-Inch Corded Snow Blower
|
8.0/10 | Buy | |
Husqvarna ST124 212cc 24" 2 Stage Snow Blower
|
8.0/10 | Buy | |
Snow Joe SJ627E 22-Inch Corded Electric Snow
|
7.8/10 | Buy |
EGO POWER+ SNT2400 24-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
This cordless 2-stage snow blower from EGO POWER+ delivers gas-level performance without the noise or fumes. Its Peak Power technology combines two 56V ARC Lithium batteries (sold separately) to throw snow up to 50 feet, and the 24-inch clearing width with a 20-inch intake handles deep drifts. Best suited for homeowners who already own EGO batteries and want a powerful, self-propelled electric option with push-button start and LED lights for early morning or evening use.
Pros
- Throws snow up to 50 feet with Peak Power technology
- 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake handle deep snow
- Variable-speed self-propelled drive with forward and reverse
- Push-button start and four bright LED lights for visibility
- 5-year tool warranty
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included, requires two EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries
- Heavy at 150 pounds, may be difficult to maneuver without power
VOLTASK SS-20B 13-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel
This lightweight 24V snow shovel throws snow up to 20 feet and clears a 13-inch path, making it a handy tool for driveways and sidewalks. Its adjustable handle and directional plate add convenience, but it struggles on gravel surfaces.
Pros
- Lightweight at 9.3 pounds reduces fatigue during use.
- Simple two-step assembly and push-button operation.
- Directional plate rotates +/-30 degrees for controlled snow throwing.
- Quiet operation suitable for early morning use.
Cons
- Ineffective on gravel surfaces, tends to throw rocks and debris.
- Battery runtime of 25 minutes may be insufficient for larger driveways.
- Clogs occasionally in heavy, wet snow.
SENIX STX2-M1 40V 21-Inch Snow Blower
The SENIX STX2-M1 is a lightweight cordless snow blower ideal for clearing driveways and walkways. Its 21-inch steel auger throws snow up to 33 feet, and the 40V brushless motor handles up to 12 inches of fresh powder. Weighing only 30 pounds with a foldable handle, it stores compactly and maneuvers easily.
Pros
- Lightweight at 30 pounds for easy handling
- Foldable and adjustable handle for compact storage
- Built-in LED light bar for low-light visibility
- Throws snow up to 33 feet for efficient clearing
- 5-year tool and 3-year battery warranty
Cons
- Performance may decline in heavy or wet snow conditions
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28-Inch Two-Stage Snow
With a 28-inch clearing width and a powerful 306cc Ariens AX engine, this two-stage gas snow blower moves up to 72 tons of snow per hour. The 14-inch impeller and 55-foot throwing distance handle heavy, wet snow, while Auto-Turn steering and an LED headlight add convenience. Ideal for homeowners with long driveways or large properties who need reliable, high-capacity snow removal.
Pros
- Wide 28-inch clearing path moves large volumes of snow quickly
- Powerful 306cc engine with 15 lb-ft of torque for tough conditions
- Electric start and Auto-Turn steering improve ease of use
- Cast iron gear case and 3-year residential warranty indicate durability
- LED headlight enhances visibility in low-light conditions
Cons
- Heavy at 267.5 pounds, may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- Gas-powered requires fuel and regular maintenance
- Handwarmers are optional, not included as standard
VOLTASK SB-40A-AZ 48V 20-Inch Snow Blower
The VOLTASK SB-40A-AZ is a battery-powered snow blower with a 20-inch clearing width and 10-inch depth, designed for home and light commercial use. It features dual 24V batteries, a 180-degree directional chute, and LED lights for nighttime operation. Based on user feedback, it performs well on typical snow and is easy to maneuver, though heavier or slushy snow may be challenging.
Pros
- Dual battery system provides up to 30 minutes runtime
- 20-inch clearing width and 10-inch depth for efficient snow removal
- 180-degree directional chute with 25-foot throwing distance
- LED lights for visibility in low-light conditions
- Lightweight (22.9 lbs) and easy to assemble
Cons
- May struggle with heavy or slushy snow
- Runtime may be limited for larger driveways
EGO Power+ SNS1201 12-Inch 56V Snow Shovel
The EGO Power+ SNS1201 is a cordless snow shovel that balances lightweight maneuverability with real power, throwing snow up to 25 feet. Its 12-inch clearing width and 60-degree directional control make it a great fit for sidewalks, decks, and tight driveways. With the included 2.5Ah battery, it can clear up to a 3-car driveway with 6 inches of snow, and the folding shaft keeps storage compact.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver with ergonomic handle
- Throws snow up to 25 feet with 60-degree directional control
- Folding shaft for convenient compact storage
- Brushless motor delivers long run times and low vibration
- Ideal for smaller areas like sidewalks and decks
Cons
- Optimal performance limited to 6-inch snow depth
- 12-inch clearing width may be too narrow for large driveways
- Battery life may require an extra battery for longer sessions
Westinghouse WSnow22 22-Inch Corded Snow Blower
This corded electric snow blower delivers gas-like performance with push-button start, clearing a 22-inch path and throwing snow 25 feet. Its dual LED lights and adjustable chute make nighttime clearing easier, and the rubber-tipped steel auger protects surfaces. Ideal for homeowners who want reliable, low-maintenance snow removal on driveways and walkways without dealing with gas or batteries.
Pros
- Powerful 15-amp motor clears 840 lbs of snow per minute, comparable to gas models
- Push-button electric start eliminates gas, oil, and battery charging hassles
- Dual LED headlights improve visibility during early morning or evening use
- 180-degree adjustable chute directs snow precisely where needed
- Backed by a 2-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support
Cons
- Corded design limits range to extension cord length and proximity to outlets
- Not self-propelled; requires pushing manually (34.6 lbs weight)
- Maximum throwing distance of 25 feet may be insufficient for very large driveways
Husqvarna ST124 212cc 24" 2 Stage Snow Blower
Husqvarna’s compact and high-performing ST 124 is ideal for driveways and paths. An efficient two-stage system delivers plenty of throwing capacity. Easy maneuverability, an innovative remote chute rotator, and a powerful engine with electric start help you take the bite out of winter snowfalls. Working width is 24 inches. Suitable for light to medium snow conditions.
Snow Joe SJ627E 22-Inch Corded Electric Snow
This corded electric snow blower combines a 15-amp motor with a 22-inch clearing path to handle light to moderate snowfalls on paved surfaces. Its all-steel auger and 180-degree rotating chute offer reliable performance and directional control, while dual LED headlights aid visibility in low light. It is a practical choice for homeowners with medium-sized driveways who prefer electric convenience over gas.
Pros
- Powerful 15-amp motor moves up to 840 pounds of snow per minute with gas-like performance
- Wide 22-inch clearing path and 13-inch intake depth efficiently clear moderate snow
- Durable all-steel auger with rubber-tipped blades protects driveways from damage
- 180-degree rotating chute throws snow up to 25 feet for precise directional control
- Dual LED headlights improve visibility during early morning or evening use
Cons
- Corded design limits range to extension cord length and requires careful cable management
- Compact wheels may struggle on deep or uneven snow compared to larger models
- Some users report plastic shroud feels less durable than all-metal alternatives
Best Snow Thrower Buying Guide
Clearing Width and Intake Height
A snow thrower’s clearing width determines how quickly you can finish the job. For small sidewalks and decks, a 12, 18-inch width works well; for single-car driveways, 20, 24 inches is a practical range.
Wider models, like those at 28 inches, handle large driveways faster but can be heavier and harder to maneuver.
Intake height matters for deep snow: a taller housing (around 20 inches or more) reduces clogging and lets you tackle big drifts in one pass. The stage design also affects how much snow it can process, especially in wet conditions.
For most homeowners, a 21, 24-inch clearing width paired with a 13, 20-inch intake depth offers a sweet spot between speed and manageability. Compact models with narrower widths remain excellent for steps and tight paths, where a gas-powered machine might be overkill.
Think about your typical snowfall and the layout of your property before choosing.
Power Source: Gas, Corded Electric, or Battery
Gas snow throwers deliver raw power and unlimited run time, making them ideal for large driveways and heavy, wet snow. They require regular fuel and seasonal maintenance, and they are significantly louder than electric alternatives.
Corded electric models offer consistent power without emissions or fueling, but they are tethered to an outlet, limiting range and posing a tripping hazard. Battery-powered units provide cord-free freedom with minimal noise, though runtime depends on battery capacity and temperature.
Each option has trade-offs. If you value convenience and quiet operation, a battery snow thrower from a brand like EGO Power+ is a strong contender.
For maximum capability with a reasonable budget, corded electric units such as the Snow Joe SJ627E are popular. Gas machines still dominate the heavy-duty category, as noted in our gas snow blower guide.
For a deeper dive into battery systems, see our analysis of battery-powered snow blowers.
Single-Stage vs Two-Stage Snow Throwers
The number of stages dictates how snow moves through the machine.
Single-stage models use a rubber auger to both scoop and throw snow; they work best on paved surfaces up to about 8 inches deep and can handle light to moderate snowfall.
Two-stage machines add a separate impeller to throw snow farther and handle deeper, icier accumulations. Many two-stage units also feature self-propulsion, reducing physical effort on large areas.
If your driveway is gravel, a two-stage model with an adjustable skid shoe helps prevent stone scattering. For purely blacktop or concrete, a single-stage can be lighter and easier to store.
The size of your property and typical snow depth are the deciding factors. Some modern battery-powered two-stage models now rival gas in performance, especially for residential use.
Additional Features: Lights, Chute Control, and Self-Propulsion
Modern snow throwers come with thoughtful extras that make winter mornings more bearable. Dual LED lights let you clear before sunrise or after dark, a feature common on many corded and battery models.
Remote or joystick chute controls allow you to adjust discharge direction without stopping, saving time and frustration. Self-propelled drive systems, especially with variable speed, help maintain steady progress in heavy snow.
Other useful add-ons include heated handles, foldable chutes for storage, and quick-release battery systems. For a full rundown on upgrades, check out our snow blower accessories guide.
While these features raise the price, they can significantly improve daily usability, particularly if you face frequent winter storms.
Build Quality and Warranty
A snow thrower is a long-term investment for many households. Look for steel augers and durable plastic chutes that resist cracking in cold weather.
Brand reputation and available replacement parts matter: how long snow blowers last often depends on proper storage and build materials. Warranties typically range from two to five years; two-stage gas models often come with longer coverage.
Reading verified buyer feedback helps gauge real-world reliability beyond the spec sheet.
If you are considering a used machine, be aware of potential issues. Our guide on buying used snow blowers outlines what to inspect.
For most people, a new unit from a trusted brand backed by solid customer support offers the best peace of mind, especially during the first heavy snowfall.
Why You Should Trust Us
At Snow Removal Wiki, we are an independent review resource dedicated to helping homeowners make informed buying decisions.
Every product in this guide is evaluated using the SRW Score, a 0, 10 point system that factors in manufacturer specifications, aggregated expert reviews, and verified purchaser feedback from multiple sources.
We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Our methodology emphasizes consistency across categories, so you can compare apples to apples. Each snow thrower is scored on clearing performance, build quality, ease of use, and value. We also include detailed snow blower reviews for additional context.
Snow Removal Wiki participates in affiliate programs, meaning we may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Our editorial independence is never compromised by commercial relationships.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best snow thrower ultimately depends on your driveway, local climate, and personal preferences. Our research points to a few standout models that earned top marks across our criteria. Here are our award picks:
- Best Overall: EGO POWER+ 24″ Electric Snow Blower SNT2400, With the highest SRW Score in its class, this battery-powered two-stage model delivers impressive clearing power, self-propulsion, and quiet operation, making it ideal for most driveways.
- Best Gas Snow Thrower for Heavy Snow: Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28″ Two-Stage, A premium gas option built for deep, wet snow; its 28-inch clearing width and powerful engine handle large areas efficiently.
- Best Value Corded Electric: Snow Joe SJ627E 22″ Corded Electric Snow Blower, A budget-friendly pick that offers reliable performance for medium driveways, with dual LEDs and a solid SRW Score for its price tier.
- Best Light-Duty Snow Shovel: VOLTASK 24V Cordless Snow Shovel, Compact and affordable, this cordless shovel is perfect for decks and walkways where a full-size thrower would be overkill.
For a deeper comparison across more brands, explore our best snow blowers guide. Whichever model you choose, proper maintenance ensures it lasts for many winters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size snow thrower do I need for my driveway?
For a single-car driveway (about 10 x 20 feet), a 20, 22-inch clearing width is sufficient. Double-car driveways (20 x 20 feet or larger) benefit from 24, 30-inch widths. Consider a two-stage model for longer or uneven driveways to reduce physical effort.
Are battery snow throwers powerful enough for heavy snow?
Yes, modern high-voltage battery systems (like 56V and 80V) can handle up to 12 inches of dry snow and moderate wet snow. Two-stage battery models, such as the EGO SNT2400, rival gas machines.
Check our best 56V snow blower guide for top options. For very heavy or wet snow, a gas model may still be preferable.
How do I maintain a snow thrower?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the auger and chute after use, checking oil and fuel levels (for gas models), and storing in a dry place. Battery models require periodic charging and keeping contacts clean.
Our detailed maintenance routine covers seasonal steps to keep your machine running smoothly.
Can I use a snow thrower on a gravel driveway?
Yes, but you need a model with adjustable skid shoes and a two-stage design to minimize stone picking. Rubber augers on single-stage models can also be used carefully. Read our guide for gravel driveways for tips on protecting your surface and machine.
How far should a snow thrower throw snow?
Typical throw distances range from 20 to 40 feet for single-stage models and 30 to 50+ feet for two-stage. Battery models often match gas in distance, especially those with brushless motors.
If you have a long driveway or need to clear deep drifts, a longer throw distance prevents re-shoveling. See what affects throwing distance for more details.
What is the difference between tracks and wheels on a snow thrower?
Tracks provide better traction on ice and steep inclines but add weight and reduce maneuverability. Wheels are lighter and easier to turn on flat pavement. Our tracks vs wheels comparison can help you decide which drive system suits your terrain.
About the author
Harry writes reviews and buying guides for Snow Removal Wiki.