Top Snow Blowers of 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to Clearing Winter's Worst
When winter arrives with its blanket of snow, having a reliable snow blower can make all the difference. Instead of hours of backbreaking shoveling, a snow blower allows you to clear driveways, sidewalks, and walkways efficiently. But with so many models on the market, which one should you choose?
1. Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO – Best All-Around Snow Blower
Type: Two-stage, gas-powered
Clearing Width: 28 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 55 feet
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is a powerhouse snow blower that tackles heavy, wet snow like a pro. Its two-stage design allows it to break through compacted snow and throw it far from your driveway or walkway. With a 28-inch clearing width, it’s perfect for medium to large driveways. The self-propelled system makes it easy to maneuver, even on inclines.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Can handle heavy, wet snow and icy conditions
Self-propelled drive with multiple speeds
Heated handgrips for extra comfort in cold weather
Drawbacks:
Gas-powered, so it requires more maintenance
Higher price point than entry-level models
2. Honda HSS928AT – Best for Heavy Snow and Durability
Type: Two-stage, gas-powered
Clearing Width: 28 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 50 feet
Honda is known for its reliable engines, and the HSS928AT is no exception. This model is built for heavy-duty snow removal, handling deep, compacted snow with ease. With its hydrostatic transmission, you have precise control over speed and direction. It's a great choice for those in areas with frequent, heavy snowfall.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Built with Honda's legendary engine reliability
Hydrostatic transmission for smooth, adjustable speed control
Ideal for large properties or areas with extreme winter weather
Drawbacks:
Premium price
Heavier than other models, so it may be harder to store or transport
3. Toro Power Clear 721 QZE – Best Single-Stage Snow Blower
Type: Single-stage, gas-powered
Clearing Width: 21 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 35 feet
If you have a smaller driveway or a lighter snowfall area, the Toro Power Clear 721 QZE is the perfect pick. Its single-stage design is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and more affordable than two-stage blowers. This snow blower is best suited for small to medium-sized areas where deep, heavy snow isn't a regular issue.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Compact, lightweight, and easy to store
Quick start with electric start button
Ideal for light to moderate snowfalls
Drawbacks:
Not suitable for deep, heavy, or icy snow
No self-propelled function
4. Snow Joe iON18SB – Best Electric Snow Blower
Type: Single-stage, cordless electric
Clearing Width: 18 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 20 feet
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, the Snow Joe iON18SB is one of the best electric snow blowers on the market. It’s battery-powered, so you won’t have to deal with gas or cords. It’s lightweight and perfect for small to medium jobs like clearing decks, patios, and short driveways.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Cordless electric, eco-friendly option
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Quiet operation compared to gas-powered models
Drawbacks:
Limited battery runtime (around 50 minutes)
Struggles with heavy, compacted snow
5. EGO Power+ SNT2400 – Best Battery-Powered Snow Blower
Type: Two-stage, cordless electric
Clearing Width: 24 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 50 feet
The EGO Power+ SNT2400 is one of the most advanced battery-powered snow blowers on the market. Unlike most battery-powered models, this one is a two-stage design, allowing it to handle heavier snowfalls. It’s also self-propelled, making it a serious contender against gas-powered blowers.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Cordless electric, zero-emissions operation
Self-propelled for easy maneuverability
Handles heavy, compacted snow with ease
Drawbacks:
Battery life can be limited in larger jobs
Higher price compared to standard electric models
6. Husqvarna ST224 – Best for Large Properties
Type: Two-stage, gas-powered
Clearing Width: 24 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 50 feet
The Husqvarna ST224 is designed for large driveways and walkways. Its two-stage system allows it to chew through heavy, icy snow with ease. With a powerful 208cc engine, it’s perfect for rural areas or homes with large, open areas to clear. Its heated handles make it a pleasure to use even on freezing mornings.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Great for large properties with long driveways
Handles deep, icy snow with ease
Comes with heated handgrips for added comfort
Drawbacks:
Heavier than most models
Requires more storage space
7. Greenworks Pro 80V – Best Budget Battery-Powered Snow Blower
Type: Single-stage, cordless electric
Clearing Width: 20 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 20 feet
If you're looking for an affordable, battery-powered snow blower, the Greenworks Pro 80V is a great pick. It's lightweight, quiet, and emission-free, making it perfect for residential use. It has a 45-minute runtime on a single charge, ideal for small to medium-sized areas.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Affordable entry into battery-powered snow blowers
Cordless and eco-friendly
Compact, easy to store
Drawbacks:
Not ideal for deep or heavy snow
Limited battery runtime for larger jobs
8. Craftsman SB470 – Best for Heavy Snow and Ice
Type: Two-stage, gas-powered
Clearing Width: 24 inches
Throw Distance: Up to 50 feet
The Craftsman SB470 is an affordable, high-performing snow blower built for tough conditions. It’s equipped with an electric start, self-propelled drive, and a 208cc engine, making it powerful enough to handle icy, compacted snow. It’s a great option for homeowners who want power without breaking the bank.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Electric start for easy use in cold weather
Excellent for heavy, compacted snow and ice
Self-propelled drive makes it easy to maneuver
Drawbacks:
Gas-powered, so it requires regular maintenance
Slightly heavier than single-stage models
What to Consider When Choosing a Snow Blower
When selecting a snow blower, consider the following factors:
Snowfall Amount: If you live in an area with frequent heavy snowfalls, a two-stage model is a must. For lighter snowfall, a single-stage or battery-powered model will suffice.
Driveway Size: For small driveways, a compact electric model works. For large properties, choose a gas-powered, two-stage snow blower.
Power Source: Decide between gas, electric, and battery-powered models based on your convenience and environmental preferences.
Budget: Battery-powered models are eco-friendly but more expensive. Gas-powered models have more power but require maintenance.
