Deciding which is the best snow blower is not a simple matter. You’ll first have to decide what type of snow blower is going to work for you. There’s the question of gas vs electric. Choosing an electric snow blower also means deciding between cordless or corded. Then there’s the question of how many stages are best for the type of snow you experience.
No single snowblower review will offer the best solutions for everyone. The best machines from top snow blower brands, like Husqvarna, Troy Bilt, and Honda may be impressive, but they’re expensive. Not everyone wants to pay that much if they don’t need to.
In an attempt to provide a reasonably comprehensive review of the best snow blowers for 2021, we’ve done a lot of research. We’ve looked at which models and types of snow blowers are the most popular. By carefully scrutinizing countless customer reviews, we’ve come to an informed conclusion as to what most people regard as important.
When considering the needs of the majority, we cannot guarantee that everyone will find the perfect snowblower in this review. Generally, 2-stage snow blowers are the most popular. Corded electric, because of the price, is also the preferred type. Though, there are enough people who want gas and cordless electric snow blower for these to be included in the review.
Despite all the complexities involved, I believe we’ve done a great job in selecting a wide variety of good value machines that will meet the requirements of most homeowners. Not all the snow blowers in this review are cheap. Some are very affordable, whilst still delivering on quality. That’s of paramount importance. Even if you’re on a tight budget, there’s absolutely no sense wasting your hard-earned cash on a heap of junk.
Best Snow Blower Shortlist
Okay, after much deliberation, these are the models we’ve selected as the best snow blowers in 2021:
Best Gas Snow Blower
Husqvarna ST224: One of the most reasonably priced from this prestigious brand and a best seller for many years.
Briggs & Stratton 1022E: A more affordable 22” gas-powered snow blower from a reputable US brand.
Best Corded Electric Snow Blower
Snow Joe SJ625E: No.1 best seller on Amazon. This is a very affordable medium-duty 21” electric snow blower.
Greenworks 2600502: A light-duty 13A corded electric snow blower for small areas and delightfully cheap for a recognized brand.
Best Cordless Snow Blower
EGO Power+ SNT2400: Heavy-duty 24” 2-stage cordless snow blower, able to compete with top gas-powered models.
Greenworks G-MAX 40V 20” Snow Thrower: Inexpensive light to medium duty single-stage snowblower.
Reviewing the Best Snow Blowers for 2021
Let’s get down to business, a comprehensive review of the models listed above.
Gas Snow Blowers
For larger yards and, generally a powerful machine, gas-powered snow blowers remain the best bet.
Husqvarna ST224
Features:
- 208cc Husqvarna engine
- 2 stage 24” metal auger
- Reversible skid shoes
- Heavy-duty “X-Trac” wheels
- LED Headlights
- 4-position height adjustable handles
- Friction disc transmission
- Remote chute adjustment
- Power steering
- Electric starter
Review:
Unboxing and assembling Husqvarna power equipment always fills me with the greatest excitement. There’s something about high-quality machines and incredible engineering that appeals to most guys, on a very primal level. Normally, I’d say this is a privilege we have to pay dearly for. In this instance, it isn’t really. Yes, Husqvarna is by no means a cheap brand but at well under $1,000, the Husqvarna ST224 isn’t that expensive. Not for a powerful 24” gas snow blower from a brand with this kind of reputation.
Compared to the top models from Husqvarna, the ST224 isn’t the most sophisticated or powerful. A more realistic comparison, to other gas-powered snow blowers at a similar price, changes the picture entirely. The relatively inexpensive Husqvarna ST224 offers a lot of great features, extreme durability, and amazing reliability.
The 208cc (63HP) engine is a true Husqvarna thoroughbred. It’s designed to start easily, even in freezing weather. That’s obviously an important consideration when buying a gas-powered snow blower. An electric starter makes things even easier. With a 0.69 gallon gas tank, you can work for quite a few hours before refilling the tank.
The friction disc transmission is up to the toughest conditions and makes for an incredibly smooth power transition to the metal ribbon auger. A lever at the handle gives you good control, with 6 forward speeds and reverse. You get a really solid feel when shifting the transmission lever.
The metal auger housing and chute give a wonderful sense of enduring quality. You can adjust the chute direction from the dashboard with perfect ease. All the control cables are also of the highest quality. This is undoubtedly a heavy-duty snow blower on every level. Even the plastic skid shoes are thick and tough. These are height adjustable, perfect when working on a more delicate surface.
All your controls are within easy reach in a well thought out dashboard. The two power steering levers are easy to grip when wearing chunky winter gloves and have an interlock feature for single hand operation when moving in a straight line. The handles are really comfortable, without excessive vibration – 5.74 M/S².
When it comes to utilizing the machine, the Husqvarna ST224 is an absolute pleasure. Because of all the heavy-duty metal components, this is a pretty heavy machine, 198.6 pounds. Though the great auger propels the Husky snow blower forward without any hassles. The front opening is 23”, allowing you to plow through thick snow quite effortlessly. The highspeed aluminum impeller is just as adept at removing the snow, discharging up to 35-feet. A cleaning stick is cleverly mounted to the intake when you need to remove excess ice and snow from the auger.
A wonderfully designed machine, as only Husqvarna can achieve. The Husqvarna ST224 is a magnificent gas-powered 2-stage snow blower with a pretty impressive 24” width capacity. It’s easy to use, for such a large and powerful machine. Above all, this is a Husqvarna product. You’re assured of the best quality and service from one of the oldest brands in the power equipment business.
Briggs & Stratton 1022E
Features:
- 208cc Snow Series engine
- 6” intake
- 10” auger diameter; 22” width
- 8” wheels
- Electric start
- Compact design; weighs 93 LBS
- Manual chute rotation and deflector angle adjustment
Review:
I really like the design philosophy behind the Briggs & Stratton 1022E 22” snow blower. Keep things simple, thereby reducing the cost and there’s less to go wrong. This should also mean easier and cheaper maintenance over time. If value for money is more important to you than luxury features, this model will appeal to your sensibility.
At the heart of this machine is the splendid 208cc engine. The 950 Snow Series engine is one of Briggs & Stratton’s greatest achievements. Brilliant engineering makes this one of the best engines in cold weather. Even when the mercury drops to around 20°F, this engine starts without a splutter, made easy with an electric starter. Engine power is also optimized in freezing winter conditions. Even though this snow blower has a smaller auger than the Husqvarna ST224 (reviewed above), the engine capacity is the same. This is a great advantage, as you’ll discover when I discuss the interesting auger design.
Another great innovation is the 22” X 10” auger. It doesn’t look quite like any other. This means that, although the Briggs & Stratton 1022E is a single-stage snow blower, it is self-propelled. Usually, single-stage snow blowers are cumbersome and difficult to use in thick snow. To help improve efficiency, considering that this model does not have an impeller to blow the snow away, the super powerful engine does a lot to compensate for the simpler design.
I’m not saying that the Briggs & Stratton 22” single stage snow blower is as effective in heavy snow as a two-stage machine. For its uncomplicated, and therefore lower maintenance design, it is almost as good as the more complicated machines. It comes down to a cheaper, more economical snow blower, without much of a disadvantage.
In keeping with the cheaper, lower maintenance design, the handles for rotating the chute (200°) and adjusting the deflector are at the chute, not remotely controlled. This means leaning over a bit when you want to adjust the chute, not quite as convenient as remote control. By using conveniently positioned large handles, this isn’t much of a hassle. The advantage is lower production costs and less maintenance. There are no cables, pulleys, and connectors to worry about.
Keeping things this basic has a wonderful impact on the overall weight of the machine. Even though the Briggs & Stratton 1022E is lavishly adorned in tough metal, it is not excessively heavy. It weighs only 93 pounds. This means that the relatively small, light-duty wheels don’t struggle too much when keeping the snow blower mobile. Though, it’s going to handle the same heavy conditions as the big boys, like Husqvarna, Honda, and Troy Bilt.
The real magic behind the Briggs & Stratton 1022E is the cost vs quality and capability. When evaluating value for money, I consider this snow blower to be the full package. It’s quite cheap and won’t cost much to maintain. That’s perfect common sense for the budget-minded homeowner. Unlike most cheap gas snow blowers, this is a wonderfully reliable machine and really capable when considering the single-stage compact design. With a 3-year warranty, it is certainly a cut above most others in this price range.
Corded Electric Snow Blowers
For a short driveway, an electric snow blower is going to cost you less. If an extension cord is not going to be a hassle, then you can save a lot. They are cheaper to buy and require very little maintenance, compared to gas-powered machines. They tend to be less powerful which should be okay for smaller areas.
Generally, electric snow blowers use a 15A – 13A electric motor. This means a maximum extension cord length of 100 Ft (#12).
Snow Joe SJ625E
Features:
- 15A electric motor
- 21” clearing width; 12” depth
- Lightweight and compact – 34.6 LBS
- 180° chute adjustment and deflector angle adjustment
- Throwing distance: 20’
- Clears up to 800 LBS per minute
Snow Joe is the most popular electric snow blower brand. Really good prices and a reputation for quality have won the hearts of homeowners everywhere. The single-stage Snow Joe SJ625E is one of their cheaper models but there are more accomplished options within the Snow Joe lineup, like the formidable Snow Joe SJ627E.
For a mid-sized area, the Snow Joe SJ625E is certainly one of the best electric snow blowers. The 15A motor is powerful enough to contend with fairly heavy snow. Of course, it won’t do the same job as a 2-stage gas-powered snow blower. Then again, it costs considerably less. For a mid-sized driveway, up to 100’, the plucky little SJ625E is certainly up to the task, shifting up to 800 pounds of snow per minute.
The 12” metal auger, with plastic blades, is perfect for any paved surface like driveways and walkways. With a 12” depth capacity, it can handle quite a bit of snow. Though this is a domestic grade single-stage snow blower, rated for light fluffy snow.
The Snow Joe SJ625 is made from pretty tough plastic, which is okay for residential use. The benefit of using plastic, although not quite as tough as metal, is that it won’t rust. You don’t need to check for rust and repaint every year. It is also delightfully lightweight, a little under 35-pounds. The handle has a soft grip and is adjustable, with a 3W LED light.
Maneuvering the Snow Joe is not a heavy job. While the 8” wheels are not exactly heavy-duty equipment, they are very capable for such a lightweight snow blower. After all, this model is not designed for heavy snow and ice.
For a light to medium duty single-stage blower, the Snow Joe SJ625E is not expensive and easy to use. This is a quality domestic grade product with the peace of mind that comes from a reputable brand and a 2-year warranty.
Greenworks 2600502
Features:
- Auger width 20”; diameter 10”
- 13A electric motor
- Up to 20’ discharge
- 180° directional chute
- Weighs only 32 LBS
- 3-year standard warranty, optional 4-year warranty
Review:
A small yard with light snow doesn’t require an expensive heavy-duty snow blower. Even when buying a cheap snow blower, no one wants to waste their money on a piece of junk that’s only going to last a season. At well under 200 bucks, the Greenworks 13A 20” single-stage snow blower is ideal for those who don’t want to spend an arm and a leg but still want a reliable machine with a good warranty and the backing of a brand they can trust.
Made from lightweight and rust-free plastic, the Greenworks 2600502 is not flimsy. I wouldn’t class it as a heavy-duty snow blower either. It’s the type of snow blower that you’d buy if you have a relatively small area to clear and don’t have to contend with heavy snow and ice. It’s nimble and easy to operate, weighing only 21-pounds.
The handle is metal with soft padding and has plenty of convenient adjustment positions. While the wheels are quite small, you don’t need much more when dealing with light snow. The 10” auger diameter is not going to plow through deep heavy snow.
The chute rotates 180°, with a deflector angle adjustment. For a snow blower of this caliber, the 20’ maximum discharge distance is about what I’d expect. The newer, upgraded model also has dual LED lights.
If you feel no need to haul out big bucks for a heavy-duty snow blower, but also want a good quality product, the Greenworks 13A single-stage snow blower makes for a perfect middle ground. The brand is known for great garden tools, at very reasonable prices. For a product this cheap, the 3-year warranty is amazing, and you have the option to extend this warranty to 4-years. In a nutshell, excellent value for money.
Best Cordless Snow Blowers
Ditching the extension cord gives you the convenient, go anywhere, mobility of a gas snow blower without all the noise, belching fumes, and endless maintenance. Cordless electric snow blowers are generally a lot lighter and easier to use than gas-powered equivalents. To boot, high-end brushless motors can match the power and capabilities of gas engines.
The only catch is the price, battery technology is expensive. While you are going to save on gas and maintenance in the long run, these machines remain the most expensive option.
EGO Power+ SNT2400
Features:
- Uses 2 X 56V EGO ARC Lithium-ion batteries (up to 10AH) for extended runtimes and maximum efficiency.
- Brushless motor delivers power comparable to gas engines.
- Heavy-duty 24” metal auger.
- 20” metal intake
- Adjustable skid shoes
- All-terrain tires
- Remote control adjustable chute and deflector
- 50’ throwing distance
- LED lights.
Review:
There’s no sugar coating it, the EGO Power-Plus SNT2400 cordless snow blower is expensive. You can expect to pay over $1,000 for this magnificent, behemoth machine. Though you can bet, you’ll have your neighbors’ heads turning as you proudly amble out to clear your yard. This is a mighty machine that can take on gas-powered snow blowers without all that hassle and noise. I’m sure many will be envious as they wrestle with their heavy gas-powered dinosaurs.
I’m awestruck by the heavy-duty construction of the EGO Power+ 24” snow blower. Every component is made from high-grade metal. It is definitely as durable as any of the best. The serrated ribbon style steel auger is super tough and shreds snow and ice into a fine dust that is light enough to be thrown up to 50’ from the chute. This impressive discharge capacity is also due to an incredible impeller. Made from really thick metal, with an ingenious cup design, this is a mighty impressive impeller.
The aluminum gearbox is also of the highest order, with durable bearings on either side. When we take a detailed look inside the enormous metal intake, even more heavy-duty construction comes to light. The gearbox is supported by an industrial-style metal strut that keeps it firmly in position. Everything is meticulously welded with amazingly durable paint that should keep the rust at bay.
The wheels continue the top-quality trend. Heavy-duty metal rims are clad with tires that look like they could make it to the arctic and back. Down to every detail, this wonderful machine has me filled with jaw-dropping amazement. Well, I guess the price also had me reeling a bit.
Powering this beast is a super-sophisticated digital brushless electric motor supplied by two 56V batteries. Using the top-of-the-line 10AH EGO+ ARC batteries, you can clear a 24-car driveway on a single charge. That is according to the manufacturer’s brochure, though I have no doubt this is possible.
The dashboard is typical of any high-end snow blower. Well-positioned levers place full control at your fingertips. This includes large steering controls at the handles and remote control levers for the chute direction and discharge angle. Glancing down through the height-adjustable handles, you can clearly see the battery status displayed on a large LED power indicator for each battery. A full battery management system (BMS) ensures complete safety, optimal power usage, and the best battery life.
There is no shortage of luxury features. The EGO Power+ SNT2400 has lavishly padded grips and one of the best height adjustment systems that I’ve seen for a handle. Short or tall, you’re going to find the perfect working position. This machine also has a plethora of LED lights. Some models have lights on the handle (in front of the dashboard), others have them at the top of the intake. Well, EGO left nothing to chance. This model has lights at the dashboard and on the intake which, by the way, is also pretty big – 20” in height.
Considering that the EGO Power-Plus 24” cordless snow blower can compare favorably with any of the best heavy-duty gas-powered machines, it really isn’t that heavy. Weighing 154-pounds, it’s no featherweight. It is, nonetheless one of the best power to weight ratios imaginable. Looking at all the thick metal components, this is quite remarkable.
I don’t think I’m being biased in saying that the EGO Power+ SNT2400 is possibly the king of modern snow blowers. It looks magnificent and is as tough as they come. Though the price tag is also quite regal – a king’s ransom? I guess when you add together the cost of buying gas over the years and maintaining a gas engine, it could be worth it. The convenience offered by a cordless snow blower, that’s just priceless. It starts at the touch of a button and glides along without all the noise of an equally powerful gas snow blower. Quality is assured with one of the best warranties in the business – 5-years.
Greenworks G-MAX 40V 20” Snow Thrower
Features:
- 40V cordless, with efficient brushless motor
- 20” width and 10” depth capacity
- Chute and deflector adjustment
- LED lights
- Folding handle for convenient storage
- Up to 20’ discharge
- 33 LBS
Review:
The Greenworks 2601102 40V cordless snow blower is very similar to the 2600502 model (reviewed above). The obvious exception being the absence of an electric cord and the price. The cordless model is, as one would expect, more expensive than the highly affordable Greenworks corded snow blower. Though, compared to most cordless snow blowers, especially from brands with a similar reputation, the Greenworks 20” cordless snow blower is one of the cheapest. Arguably, the best value for money cordless snow blower.
Although fairly basic in its design, the Greenworks 2601102 has some features that one wouldn’t expect to find on a more affordable model. These include dual LED lights and remote control to adjust the chute up to 180°. The discharge angle is adjusted using a large handle at the chute.
As part of the extensive Greenworks range of 40V garden equipment, this is a wonderful battery platform. You can have a full repertoire of good quality cordless tools that all share the same battery and charger.
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