Best Snow Blower Reviews 2018

Having a snow blower around the house is a great way to prepare for winter, but with so many options out there, it becomes an onerous task to make your choice. But don’t worry, we’ve made it easier to compare and contrast your options by furnishing you with a list of the top five brands with some of the best snow blowers on the market. Our featured brands have many great snow blower models, but for the purpose of this review, we decided to review just one snow blower from each brand. Feel free to check out other snow blower models from our top brands so, in case the reviewed ones aren’t what you’re looking for, you can choose from the other models.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Engine Type

Clearing Path

Settings

Chute

Extras

Our Top Choice

Briggs and Stratton Dual-Stage Snow Thrower

Briggs and Stratton are known for their high powered gasoline outdoor tools, containing a quality the 11.50 Gross Torque Snow Blower displays that power with ease.

Powerful. Easy to operate. LED light. Easy to maneuver. Electric start. Easy to maintain. Durable.

Some customers’ shear pins broke.

Gasoline

27 inches

Two-Stage

200° Dash Mount Crank

Three Year Warranty

Best Value

Troy-Bilt Squall™ 2100 Single-Stage Snow Thrower

Troy-Bilt is a company with decades of history in helping people achieve the American dream. Their Squall™ 2100 Snow Blower is another product built with that mission in mind!

Light weight. Foldable ergonomic handle. Quick start up. Easy to maneuver. Quiet operation. Affordable. Surprising amount of power.

Some received faulty products.

Electric

21 inches

Single-Stage

190° rotational

Two Year Full Warranty

Husqvarna ST 224 Snow Blower

Husqvarna is a brand with a rich history. They’ve used their legacy to their advantage, producing high quality outdoor tools such as the ST 224 Snow Blower.

Great traction. Quiet and smooth operation. Easily maneuvered. Powerful. Works well even on delicate surfaces. Comfortable to use. Easy start up.

Some complaints that it tends to stall.

Gasoline

24 inches

Two-Stage

190° rotational

Five Year Engine Warranty

Snow Joe Ultra Electric Snow Thrower

Snow Joe focuses on affordability without compromising on performance, which is exactly what you get with the Snow Joe Ultra.

Easy to start and maintain. Adjustable chute. Snow stream height control. Ergonomic grip for increase comfort. Able to move large amounts of snow. Doesn’t use gas or oil.

Lacks a light source. But that can be easily fixed with a flashlight.

Electric

18 inches

Single-Stage

180° rotational

Two Year Full Warranty

Greenworks 13 Amp Corded Snow Thrower

Greenworks’ produces eco-friendly power tools that perform well without harming the environment. Their 13-Amp corded snow blower is a perfect example.

LED Lights. Easily maneuvered. Light. Easy to transport and store. 0 Carbon emissions. Easy start up and operation

Lacks a built in light source. But that can be easily fixed with an attached one.

Electric

20 inches

Single-Stage

180° directional

Full Four Year Warranty

(Updated January 17, 2018)

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Watch Our Snow Blower Review

How Do I Choose the Best Snow Blower?

Winter evokes childhood memories of white Christmases and snowball fights without the attendant adult worries of how to get through the snow-covered driveway. And despite the scenic and peaceful views afforded by the snow-covered driveways, decks, porches and the entire outdoors, one still has to face the reality of the day; we just have to go out and about our normal duties.

So, how do you get the driveway cleared and safely accessible in no time? There’s always the trusty snow shovel if you have a small driveway, but what if yours is bigger?

This is where a snow blower comes in. This equipment is designed to easily clear snow and ice and shoot it out of the way, leaving your deck, driveway and yard free of snow. It can be either electrically powered or gas powered and can be a single, two or three-stage affair, with each type suitable for different levels or depths of snow.

You might argue that a snow plow sounds cheaper and less challenging, but you may not have time to mount it on your car—you’re running late for work, after all! Besides, a snow blower works not just on the driveway, but on every outdoor surface that is snow covered.

Although string trimmers, lawn mowers and lawn tractors carry out almost the same task of cutting grass, they work at obviously different speeds. The same goes for snow blowers. They come in different capacities and perform at different speeds. But, whatever the snow situation on your property, be sure that there’s a snow blower out there that will clear it in no time.

One thing you should note, though, is that snow blowers make a lot of noise, especially the gas-powered type, so it’s advised you use headphones or earplugs when working with a snow blower.

Now, let’s take a look at some of the qualities or features that you should be on the lookout for when searching for a great snow blower. The type of snow blower, power source, chute control, ease of handling and the price are all important issues to think about when shopping for a snow blower.

Price

The snow blower varies in price from brand to brand, and the main deciding factors of the price are the capacity and type of the snow blower. Most electrically-powered snow blowers are compact and come at quite affordable prices, sometimes below $140. For mid-range gas-powered single-stage or dual-stage snow blowers, the cost may be in the vicinity of $500, and if you’re really knee-deep in snow or need the snow blower for commercial purposes, you should expect to spend about $1000. So the type of snow blower you go for will depend on the expected amount of snow and the size or area to be cleared.

As is our custom, we featured some of the best snow blowers at different price points designed to suit your budget and, most importantly, give you the best performance and value for your money. While researching, we came across some cheap snow blowers that were made of flimsy materials that looked like they’ll rust and clog up in no time at all. And in our usual fashion, we bring to you only the best snow blowers from trusted brands, so stay with us.

Features

Snow blowers are designed to survive harsh weather and tough terrains for several seasons and years without rusting or any serious breakdown. They’re usually made of aluminum or cast iron with steel parts for durability. It’s recommended to note the manufacturing material of the snow blower before investing in it. Other features that should be considered include:

Type of snow blower
Power source
Chute control
Ease of handling

Construction and Design

Snow blowers can either be powered using electricity or gas, and the electric-powered snow blowers are the smallest type available. They’re single-stage, have a smooth and noiseless operation and are propelled by an auger lined with rubber material. The only downside to this type is that you will be limited by the power cord, and it cannot be used on snow more than 6 inches deep.

The gas-powered snow blower, on the other hand, is cordless and great for clearing large areas. They require more maintenance, with oil changes and what have you, but on the upside, they’re extremely powerful and available in a single-stage, dual or three-stage design, unlike the single-stage-only electric snow blower. The single-stage, gas-powered snow blower is also moved forward by the auger and can clear snow from 8 – 10 inches deep. It scoops the snow with its auger directly from the ground and sends it straight out the chute.

A dual-stage snow blower, on the other hand, has an auger that collects the snow, plus a high-speed paddler or impeller that sends the ice and snow out from the chute. It’s more powerful than the single-stage type, useful for snow drifts that are more than 8 inches deep, and it can clear wide driveways.

The largest of them all is the three-stage snow blower. This one comes with all the features of a dual-stage blower but has an additional auger for easier snow collection, and the high-speed, fan-like propeller of some is capable of blowing snow up to 50 feet clear. Of course, it’s quite expensive and should only be required in areas where there is heavy snow or for commercial purposes.

Performance and Ease of Use

As with most mechanical equipment, the snow blower needs to be assembled before you can use it. Manufacturers try to make their snow blowers as easy to assemble and use as possible, and with most of them, you don’t have to spend many frustrating hours trying to figure out how it works. They usually come with detailed instructions as to the assembly and usage, so you should be fine if you follow the instructions.

Most snow blowers, irrespective of their size, are well built and properly aligned so you don’t have to struggle to push them down the driveway. And when you consider the fact that cold temperatures affect most mechanical equipment adversely, especially those that require powering up, it makes sense that some brands equip their gas-powered snow blowers with an electric starter. So, you should be on the lookout for gas-powered snow blowers with electric starters.

Another important feature that affects the performance of the snow blower is the chute control and its placement. The chute control or adjustment determines how far and in which direction the blower throws the snow. Most brands mount the snow blower controls on the handle so you don’t have to remove your gloves or even stop the machine to operate them.

Also note that, in the case of single-stage snow blowers, whether electric or gas powered, the auger propels the machine and thus, it isn’t recommended for use on gravel because it’ll just suck up and throw gravel, which can be hazardous to people and pets around. As for dual and three-stage snow blowers, their engines power their wheels, and the wheels in turn propel the machine down the driveway, thus making the job easier for you.

Also, be on the lookout for the snow blowers featuring multiple speed selection, so you can easily shift between racing down the driveway and moving more slowly through thick snowdrifts.

What is the Best Snow Blower?

Whether you’re looking for an electric or gas snow blower, something for a small driveway or a big one, the buying guide you’ve just read is designed to arm you with all the necessary information to make your choice. We hope you’ll keep an open mind as you go through the snow blowers featured in our product review section. Who knows, you might see the snow blower that will suit you just fine.

Our Top Choice

The Briggs and Stratton 11.50 Gross Torque* Two-Stage Snow Blower is pretty remarkable, with a 950 snow series 208cc engine that starts even at 20 degrees below zero. However, if you want something smaller, then check out the 9.50 Gross Torque Medium-Duty Snow Blower which is more affordable and also offers similar features to the 11.50.

Briggs and Stratton 11.50 Gross Torque* Two-Stage Gasoline Snow Thrower - 250cc Engine & Free Hand™ Control

Briggs and Stratton Snow Blowers 1696619 – Two-Stage Gasoline Snow blower

Features

Briggs and Stratton is a brand within the Briggs and Stratton Corporation, which is one of the biggest producers of gas powered engines for outdoor equipment. Their headquarters is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and they have established a solid reputation with their equipment. Alongside the Briggs and Stratton brand, several other brands are subsidiaries of the Briggs and Stratton Corporation, such as Pro®Ferris®, PowerBoss®, Allmand™. Their products can be found all across the globe and are sold in home centers, warehouse clubs, department stores and by other dealers.

That being said, there is no doubt that any product by Briggs and Stratton is going to be a powerhouse. And that’s what their e27”, 11.50 Gross Torque* Medium-Duty Two-Stage Snow Blower is - a powerhouse. It features a powerful gas engine capable of clearing 27 inches of snow with ease. It’s currently going for a retail price of $899.00, a reasonable price for a snow thrower that will pay for itself through the amount of time and energy it is going to save you.

Just check out its features to see what we’re talking about:

Starts effortlessly thanks to its electrical start feature
Start up and operation is smooth and easy thanks to a friction disk drive system
Has a powerful 950 snow series 208cc engine, delivering 9.5-ft-lbs of torque
Can start at temperatures as low as -20◦ F
Has a chute rotation control that adjusts the direction of the snow from left to right
Can operate it with one hand thanks to its Free Hand™ Control
LED headlight built into the controls for improved visibility
Designed with a durable steel frame
Chute and auger were built with notched steel to easily handle snow and ice
Controls are oversized which makes them easy to operate in mittens
Has steel reversible skid shoes for easy maneuvering

The Briggs and Stratton 11.50 Medium-Duty Snow Thrower is a part of their line of snow throwers which all have remarkable Snow Series engines, among other great features.

The 11.50 Two-Stage Snow Blower is great - but if it’s not for you then check out Briggs and Stratton’s other snow blowers!

Best Value

The Squall™ 2100 Snow Thrower is a great product, with its 208cc 4-cycle OHV electric engine and a push to start button for easy power up. Clearing snow has probably never been easier. But that’s not all Troy-Bilt has, they also sell a more powerful snow thrower, the Storm™ 2625, which can clear up to 26 x 21 inches of snow in one pass.

Troy-Bilt Squall™ 2100 Single-stage Electric Snow Blower - a 208cc 4-cycle OHV Engine

Troy-Bilt Snow Blowers 31AS2T5F766 – Electric Single-Stage

Features

Located in Valley City, Ohio, Troy-Bilt is an American company with one mission: to help make the American dream reality. They’ve been at it for 75 years, starting with revolutionizing the rototiller back in 1937 and making a positive change for American farmers across the country. Since then, they’ve continued to produce praiseworthy tools for consumers everywhere.

With 75 years under their belt, it’s no wonder Troy-Bilt manufacturers such highly favored tools. One such tool is the Squall™ 2100 Snow Blower. An electric blower that can clear large areas of snow with grace and ease, you’ll be shocked by how lightweight it is. This model currently going for a retail price of $499.99 and trust us when we say that it is worth it.

Just check out its features:

Has a 208cc 4-cycle OHV electric start engine which makes clearing areas of snow, quick and easy
Poly chute has a 2-way remote chute control
Features a push button for quick start up and hassle-free use
Easy to move around with its gull wing handle
Has an AugerAssist™ Drive System
Foldable handle with ergonomic grip for increased comfort

The Squall™ 2100 is just one of Troy-Bilt’s many snow throwers. Their line of snow blowers features both single-stage and two-stage snow blowers, each with their own set of great features to help you combat the winter.

If the Squall™ 2100 isn’t for you, then check out Troy-Bilt’s other great snow blowers on amazon!

The Husqvarna ST 224 is a great two-stage gas powered snow blower. Its 12-inch ribbon auger mixes the air with the snow, making it easier to clear and its 208cc engine has a torque of 9.5 lb-ft. However, if you want something more powerful, then check out the Husqvarna ST 227P. It has a Husqvarna 254cc engine but is much more powerful than the 208cc.

Husqvarna ST 224 Gas Two-stage Snow Thrower - 208cc Husqvarna Engine & 12-inch ribbon Auger

Husqvarna Snow Blowers 961930096 – Gasoline Two-stage

Features

A company with a robust history, Husqvarna has been around since 1620. It was originally “Jönköping Rifle Factory” and was created by decree of the Swedish King. It first manufactured musket pipes, producing around 1500 musket pipes each year. Its ownership was transferred to a private owner in 1757, when it became the “Husqvarna Rifle Company.” In 1872, their contract with the Crown ended, making room for the real innovation to begin.

During 1872 and 1912, Husqvarna started creating a number of different products, including the first Swedish typewriter. In 1921, they created their first lawnmower, and since then they’ve gone on to become a household name. To date, Husqvarna is a world leader in outdoor power tools for lawn and garden care, as well as forestry.

With such a robust history and reputation, it’s no wonder Husqvarna produces such quality, high-end outdoor power tools. For example, their ST 224 Snow Blower is two-stage snow blower that sells at a retail price of $927 but is truly a worthwhile investment with its ability to easily clear 24 inches of snow. The ST 224 is a great snow blower and once you see its features, you’ll think $927 is a steal.

Here, check them out:

Height of the handle can be adjusted to improve comfort and ease of use
Handle grips can also be heated for comfort
Has LED headlights for improved visibility in the dark
Improved traction thanks to its X-trac, heavy-tread ties
Comes with adjustable plastic skid shoes, making it forgiving on delicate ground
Features an electric starter for easy start up
12-inch ribbon auger mixes the air with the snow, making clearing more efficient
Has an interlocking handle for one-handed control
Has an 208cc Husqvarna engine with a gross torque of 9.5 lb-ft
Friction Disc transmission makes it easy to adjust your speed
Has a 2.7-liter fuel tank
Has a quiet muffler for smooth and peaceful operation
Throws snow over long distances thanks to its high speed impeller
Comes with a differential lock as pin-lock wheels for tool-less shifting
Also has a remote chute rotator, a remote chute deflector and a clearing stick

The ST 224 is a part of Husqvarna’s extensive line of snow blowers. Each with the signature orange color and impressive features.

If the ST 224 isn’t for you then don’t worry. Husqvarna has some other great snow throwers you can check out on Amazon!

The Snow Joe Ultra is a great snow blower. It is easily maneuvered and it can move up to 650lbs of snow per minute. It’s a good product, but what is even better is the Snow Joe Ultra with Light Source. It has the same great features plus a built-in light for improved visibility.

Snow Joe Ultra Electric Single-stage Snow Thrower – 13.5-Amp Motor & 4 Blade Steel Auger

Snow Joe Snow Blowers SJ620 - Electric Single-Stage

Features

Founded in 2004, Snow Joe is a company with humble beginnings. Its first product was an easy-to-use electric snow shovel rightfully dubbed the “Snow Joe.” Ever since then, they have grown to feature a wide range of affordable, outdoor tools, built to ensure that your yard looks gorgeous no matter the season.

Partnered with Sun Joe, Snow Joe produces all types of tools which include cordless, manual and electric tools such as tillers, lawn mowers and snow blowers. Their biggest achievement to date was is the iON, the first of its kind snow blower. It didn’t use gas or had any cords and worked solely on battery power causing it to receive praise from bloggers, consumers, and media. It changed the game.

Since then, Snow Joe + Sun Joe has continued to push the envelope, designing and testing new products to give you efficiency and innovation. Making yard work that much easier and your yard itself the envy of all your neighbors.

One of their products is the Snow Joe Ultra Snow Blower. A 13.5-amp snow thrower that can cut snow 18 inches wide and 10 inches deep. It retails for $189.99 which is a great price for any snow blower.

Take a look at what you’ll get when you buy the Snow Joe Ultra:

Effortless to start up and maintain thanks to no oil, gas or tune-ups
Built to easily and quickly pickup snow on mid-sized walkways and driveways
13.5-amp motor is powerful enough to move up to 650lbs of snow per minute
Features a 4-blade steel auger
Easily maneuvered thanks to its compact easy-glide pivot wheels
Built to ETL standards
Has a foldable handle with an ergonomic grip for easy operation
The scraper blade scrapes away snow without damaging the surface underneath
An extension cord that can go up to 100ft
Chute deflector allows you to control the height of the snow stream

The Snow Joe Ultra Snow Thrower is a part of Snow Joe’s line of snow blowers which are eco-friendly and perfect for getting rid of light, powdery snow.

If the Snow Joe Ultra isn’t your style, then head over to Amazon to see their other great snow blowers!

The Greenworks 13 Amp 20-Inch Snow Blower is pretty great. It produces ZERO carbon emissions and has an adjustable 180° directional chute. If you want something with improved visibility, check out the Greenworks 13 Amp 20-inch Snow Blower with Lights. It’s basically an upgraded version of the Greenworks 13 Amp 20-Inch Snow Blower.

Greenworks 13-Amp 20-Inch Electric Single-Stage Snow Thrower – 20ft Discharge & 0 Carbon Emissions

Greenworks Snow Blowers 2600502 – Electric Single-stage

Features

Greenworks Tools™ is a brand of the Globe Tools Group. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Globe Tools Group has 4000 employees and 300 Research and Development engineers around the globe to ensure they deliver innovative quality tools that will make your day to day chores hassle-free. They currently have over 1000 proprietary patents and the Greenworks Tools™ brand certifies all their products in accordance with the rules of the local markets.

Greenworks Tools’ products are admirable, as not only are they environmentally friendly - producing zero carbon emissions - they also last for a long time and don’t skimp on power.

One such product is their 13 Amp 20-inch Corded Snow Thrower. It’s light and easy to handle. It may not be powered by gas. but trust us when we say that does not stop it from throwing snow with ease. It currently goes for a retail price of $147.99 which is a pretty great price.

You can now clear your driveway without any worry of carbon emissions or your impact on the environment.

Take a look at its features:

Adjustable handle makes operation easier
Produces 0 carbon emissions, marking it environmentally friendly
Discharges snow up to 20ft
Has a 13-amp motor for powerful and satisfying performance
Easily handled and transported thanks to its compact design
The durable handle marks storage a breeze
Has 7” wheels for easy maneuvering

The Greenworks 13-Amp Snow Blower is a part of their extensive line of eco-friendly snow blowers, so if environmental concerns make buying a snow blower difficult for you, chose on of their products with an easy conscience.

If the Greenworks 13-Amp Corded Snow Thrower isn’t for you, go explore their other snow blowers on Amazon!

Get the Best Snow Blower of 2018!

Thanks for reading our snow blowers review! We hope it helped you make your choice. Now, all that is left is for you to place your order and get ready to clear the snow out of the way.

Our Top Choice

Briggs and Stratton Dual-Stage Snow Thrower

Best Value

Troy-Bilt Squall™ 2100 Single-Stage Snow Thrower

Husqvarna ST 224 Snow Blower

Snow Joe Ultra Electric Snow Thrower

Greenworks 13 Amp Corded Snow Thrower