The Best Snow Blower Under 1200
We evaluated top gas and electric snow blowers under $1,200, scoring them on clearing power, build quality, and value. Our picks include the Poulan Pro PR241 for overall performance, the EGO SNT2400 for cordless convenience, and budget-friendly PowerSmart models.
By Harry
Updated October 5, 2026
When winter storms hit, a reliable snow blower can save hours of shoveling. But finding a capable machine without breaking the bank, specifically the best snow blower under 1200, takes careful consideration.
In this guide, we evaluate top-performing gas and electric models that deliver real clearing power, ease of use, and long-term durability, all while staying within a reasonable budget.
Snow Removal Wiki’s team researches specifications, analyzes expert review consensus, and weighs verified buyer feedback to score each product on our 0, 10 SRW Score.
Below you’ll find our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide to help you choose the right fit for your driveway.
| 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 |
Poulan Pro PR241 24-Inch Snow Blower
|
9.4/10 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
PowerSmart DB7108B 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow
|
8.8/10 | Buy |
PowerSmart BS26 26-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
| Best Premium |
EGO POWER+ SNT2400 24-Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.6/10 | Buy |
EGO Power+ SNT2420 24-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
EGO POWER+ SNT2125AP 21" Snow Blower
|
8.3/10 | Buy | |
Husqvarna ST124 212cc 24" 2 Stage Snow Blower
|
8.0/10 | Buy |
Poulan Pro PR241 24-Inch Snow Blower
Designed for heavy, wet snow, the Poulan Pro PR241 combines a 212cc engine with a 24-inch clearing path and 40-foot throw. Electric start, a remote chute, heated grips, and LED lights add convenience for early morning or nighttime clearing. Its all-steel construction promises durability, though the 174-pound weight requires careful handling.
Pros
- Powerful 212cc OHV engine handles heavy snow
- Electric start with remote 210° chute and deflector control
- Heated handles and LED headlight for comfort and visibility
- All-steel auger, impeller, and chute for longevity
- Self-propelled with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds
Cons
- Heavy at 174 pounds, may be difficult to maneuver for some
- Gas engine requires regular fuel and maintenance
PowerSmart DB7108B 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow
The PowerSmart DB7108B is a heavy-duty two-stage gas snow blower designed for large driveways and frequent heavy snowfall. With a 212cc engine, it clears a 24-inch path through deep or wet snow and throws it up to 50 feet. Electric start and hand warmers add convenience in freezing conditions, while the 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds give you control on varied terrain.
Pros
- Powerful 212cc engine clears up to 2400 lbs of snow per minute and throws snow 50 feet
- Electric start with recoil backup ensures reliable startup even in very cold temperatures
- 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds provide versatility for different snow conditions and maneuvering
- 13-inch tires and adjustable skid shoes offer good traction and adaptability on paved or gravel surfaces
- LED headlight improves visibility during nighttime operation
Cons
- Heavy at 187 pounds, which may be difficult to maneuver for some users
- Some users report needing to adjust cable tension to engage drive wheels properly
PowerSmart BS26 26-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
For those facing frequent heavy snowfalls, the PowerSmart BS26 is a self-propelled, two-stage gas snow blower with a 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine. It clears a 26-inch path and throws snow up to 45 feet, while the heated handles and one-handed chute control add comfort and convenience during long clearing sessions.
Pros
- Powerful 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine moves up to 2,700 lbs of snow per minute
- Electric start for quick and easy ignition in cold weather
- Heated handles keep hands warm during operation
- Self-propelled with variable speed control and reverse for easy maneuvering
- All-steel auger and impeller are durable and can throw snow up to 45 feet
Cons
- At 145 pounds, it is heavy and may be difficult to maneuver for some users
- The 20-inch intake height may not handle very deep snowdrifts effectively
- Some users may find the assembly process time-consuming
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
EGO Power+ SNT2420 24-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
A powerful cordless two-stage snow blower that rivals gas models without the upkeep. Its Peak Power system uses two 56V batteries to handle deep, wet, and packed snow, and the 24-inch clearing width and self-propelled drive make it practical for large driveways. Best for homeowners who want gas-like performance with the convenience of electric power.
Pros
- Delivers gas-like performance without gas engine noise, mess, or maintenance
- 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height handle deep snow and snowplow piles
- Variable-speed self-propelled controls for easy maneuvering
- 200-degree remote chute joystick for precise snow placement
Cons
- Batteries and charger are not included, adding significant cost
- Heavy at 163 pounds, can be difficult to store or move when not in use
EGO POWER+ SNT2125AP 21" Snow Blower
The EGO POWER+ SNT2125AP is a cordless auger-propelled snow blower that pairs the convenience of battery power with gas-like performance. It throws snow up to 45 feet and can clear a 16-car driveway on a single charge with the included dual 56V 7.5Ah batteries. Heated handles and bright LED headlights make winter operation comfortable and safe.
Pros
- Cordless operation with long runtime; clears a 16-car driveway with 8 inches of snow per charge using the two included 7.5Ah batteries
- Peak Power technology combines two batteries for strong, consistent output even in heavy, wet snow
- Heated handle grips and dual LED headlights enhance comfort and visibility in cold, dark conditions
- Auger-propelled design pushes forward while clearing, making pavement cleanup quick and easy
- High-efficiency brushless motor and rubber paddles provide reliable performance and a clean finish
Cons
- Weighs 60 pounds, which is heavier than some comparable cordless models
- Best suited for snow depths up to 8 inches; deeper accumulations may require multiple passes
- Single-stage design may not be ideal for extremely large or heavily packed snow areas
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.
Best Snow Blower Under 1200 Buying Guide
Clearing Width and Intake Height
The clearing width determines how much snow you move per pass. Most two‑stage models in this price range offer 24 to 26 inches, enough for a standard two‑car driveway.
Intake height (the opening that scoops snow) typically ranges from 20 to 22 inches, which handles moderate drifts. If you face deep lake‑effect snow, a wider intake helps; check our guide to snow blowers for lake effect snow for more details.
For long driveways, a wider clearing width reduces passes and saves time. However, narrower models (21 inches) are lighter and easier to store. Balance your driveway length with physical comfort, if you have a 100‑foot driveway, a 24‑ or 26‑inch machine is a smart investment.
Engine Power and Starting Method
Gas snow blowers under $1,200 typically use 208, 212 cc engines from Briggs & Stratton or similar brands. Electric start is a near‑essential convenience, no pulling cords in freezing weather.
Most models here include a plug‑in electric start or a battery‑powered key start. For those who prefer cordless operation, battery‑powered blowers like the EGO SNT2400 offer instant start but require charged batteries (sold separately).
If you live in an area with frequent power outages, a gas engine provides independence. For smaller properties, an electric model eliminates fuel maintenance. Consider your typical driveway size when deciding between gas and electric.
Self‑Propulsion and Maneuverability
All two‑stage models in this roundup are self‑propelled, meaning the drive wheels pull the machine forward. Look for multiple forward speeds (six is common) and at least two reverse speeds for tight maneuvering.
On hills or sloped driveways, a model with good traction and a low center of gravity is safer, see our best snow blower for hills recommendations.
Handle warmers and one‑handed chute control add comfort during long sessions. Some models include LED lights for clearing before dawn or after dusk. These features may seem minor but significantly improve the user experience, especially for seniors or anyone with limited hand strength.
Build Quality and Durability
Steel augers and impellers resist damage from ice and gravel. Most machines in this price range use steel chutes with 180‑ to 210‑degree rotation. Tires with deep tread (14 inches or larger) provide grip on packed snow.
Check the frame construction, welded steel holds up better than bolted assemblies over years of use.
Reliable brands like Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and EGO Power+ have strong reputations for parts availability and warranty support. For a deeper look at brand reliability, read which snow blower brand is most reliable. A well‑built machine can last a decade with proper maintenance.
Additional Features That Matter
Heated grips keep your hands warm on bitter mornings. Remote chute deflector controls let you adjust throw distance without stopping. LED headlights illuminate the path when clearing before sunrise. Some models offer one‑handed operation, which helps when holding a phone or hot drink.
These extras add convenience but also cost. Prioritize the features that match your typical conditions. For example, if you often clear wet, heavy snow, a model with a powerful engine and metal auger is more important than heated grips.
Our guide to wet heavy snow blowers can help you decide.
Why You Should Trust Us
Snow Removal Wiki is an independent review site that evaluates products through comprehensive research. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Each snow blower is scored on our 0, 10 SRW Score using consistent criteria: clearing performance, build quality, ease of use, value, and reliability. We do not accept payment for positive reviews, and all affiliate commissions are disclosed transparently.
Our methodology ensures you get unbiased, data‑driven recommendations you can trust.
We also update our guides regularly to reflect new models and changing prices. For more context on how we rank products, see our highest rated snow blowers article, which explains our scoring process in detail.
Final Thoughts
After analyzing the top models under $1,200, here are our standout picks with their SRW Scores:
- Best Overall: Poulan Pro PR241, With a 212cc engine, electric start, heated grips, and a 210° remote chute, this gas two‑stage blower offers exceptional features for its price. Its high SRW Score reflects strong performance across all key criteria.
- Best for Wet Snow: PowerSmart 26‑Inch Two‑Stage, The 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine and 26‑inch clearing width handle heavy, wet snow with ease. Handle warmers and one‑handed operation add comfort during tough conditions.
- Best Electric: EGO POWER+ SNT2400, This 24‑inch two‑stage electric blower delivers gas‑like performance without fumes or fuel. Its self‑propelled drive and instant start make it a top choice for those ready to go cordless.
- Best Value: EGO POWER+ SNT2125AP, At a lower price point, this 21‑inch model includes two batteries and a charger, offering great value for medium‑sized driveways. Its auger‑propelled system is surprisingly capable.
For more tailored recommendations, explore our guides to large driveway snow blowers and gravel driveway models.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much snow can a snow blower under $1,200 handle?
Most two‑stage models in this range can clear up to 12, 16 inches of light snow per pass, and handle drifts up to 20 inches thanks to their intake height. For deeper snow, you may need to take narrower passes.
Gas engines with 208, 212 cc provide enough torque for heavy, wet snow when the machine is properly maintained.
What is the difference between single‑stage and two‑stage snow blowers?
Single‑stage blowers use a rubber auger to both scoop and throw snow; they work best on paved surfaces and light snow.
Two‑stage models have a steel auger that feeds snow into a separate impeller, which then throws it farther. Two‑stage machines handle deeper snow, gravel driveways, and uneven terrain better.
All picks in this article are two‑stage for maximum capability.
Are electric snow blowers under $1,200 worth it?
Yes, especially if you have a medium‑sized driveway (up to 100 feet) and prefer low maintenance. Electric models like the EGO SNT2400 offer instant start, quiet operation, and no fuel or oil changes.
However, you need to manage battery charging and cold‑weather battery performance. For large or heavy‑snow areas, gas remains more reliable. See our Amazon snow blower picks for a broader comparison.
How do I maintain a gas snow blower?
Change the oil after the first five hours of use, then annually. Replace the spark plug each season. Use fuel stabilizer if storing for more than 30 days.
Check the auger shear pins, they are designed to break to protect the engine. Lubricate the chute and impeller housing with silicone spray to prevent snow buildup. Proper maintenance extends the life of your machine significantly.
Do I need heated grips and LED lights?
Heated grips are a comfort feature that helps during long sessions in cold weather, but they aren’t essential. LED lights are useful if you clear snow before dawn or after dusk, they improve visibility and safety.
Many mid‑range models include both, adding convenience without a huge price jump. For seniors or those with arthritis, heated grips can make a real difference; check our best snow blower for seniors guide for more details.
What size snow blower do I need for a two‑car driveway?
A 24‑ to 26‑inch clearing width is ideal for a standard two‑car driveway (about 20 feet wide). A 24‑inch machine can clear the width in about 10 passes. If your driveway is longer than 100 feet, consider a 26‑inch model to reduce time.
For a detailed breakdown, read our 100‑foot driveway snow blower guide.
About the author
Harry writes reviews and buying guides for Snow Removal Wiki.