Comparison: Best Snow Blower Heavy Duty (Updated | Dec 20th)
When winter’s fury unleashes its full force, you need a snow blower that won’t back down. Heavy-duty snow blowers are the winter warriors that transform daunting snow mountains into manageable paths, saving your back and precious time. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, testing and comparing the toughest machines on the market.
Editor’s Choice
AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc 2-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower with Electric & Recoil Start
Heated Handles Comfort
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for powerful self-propelled: AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Self-Propelled Snow Blower with 212cc Engine
- Best for wide clearing path: AMERISUN 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
- Best for eco-friendly cordless: Snow Joe 48V Cordless Snow Blower Kit w/ 2X 5Ah Batteries
- Best for peak power performance: EGO POWER+ 21″ Electric Snow Blower
- Best for wide heavy-duty path: AMERISUN 26-Inch 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower with 212cc Engine
- Best for high-voltage cordless: PowerSmart 80V 24in. Self-Propelled Cordless Snow Blower
- Best for heated handles comfort: AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc 2-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower with Electric & Recoil Start
- Best for brushless motor power: Westinghouse WSnow18 48V Cordless Snow Blower 18 Inch Kit
- Best for corded reliability: Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch
- Best for hydrostatic transmission: Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower
Product Comparison: Best Snow Blower Heavy Duty
Powerful Self-Propelled
AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Self-Propelled Snow Blower with 212cc Engine, Electric Start, Multiple Speeds, 180°Chute Rotation, LED Light, Heavy-Duty 24″ Snow Thrower for Driveways & Heavy Snow
AMERISUN
The AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower is a powerhouse designed for heavy-duty snow removal. Its robust 212cc engine tackles deep, wet, and packed snow with ease, making it ideal for residential driveways and sidewalks. The 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height allow you to clear large areas quickly. With a convenient electric start and recoil backup, starting in freezing temperatures is effortless. The self-propelled system offers 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, while the 180-degree adjustable chute and LED headlight ensure precise snow control and safe operation in low-light conditions.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Wide 24″ clearing path
- Easy electric start
- Self-propelled with multiple speeds
- LED headlight for visibility
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy to maneuver
- Requires gas maintenance
- Higher price point
Wide Clearing Path
AMERISUN 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower, 212cc Self-Propelled Snow Thrower with Electric Start, 50 FT Throwing Distance, 6-Speed Heavy-Duty Snow Removal for Driveways, Sidewalks & Deep Snow
AMERISUN
The AMERISUN 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower combines power and efficiency for demanding snow removal tasks. Its 212cc engine handles deep, wet snow with ease, while the 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height ensure you can tackle large areas quickly. The upgraded auger and impeller system throws snow up to 50 feet, perfect for heavy snowstorms. The 120V electric start guarantees quick starts in freezing temperatures, with a recoil backup for reliability. The self-propelled drive with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, along with 13-inch snow tires, provides excellent traction on icy terrain. The 180-degree chute rotation and LED headlight enhance precision and safety.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Impressive 50ft throwing distance
- Reliable 212cc engine
- Wide 24″ clearing path
- Self-propelled with multiple speeds
- LED headlight for night use
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky for storage
- Requires regular maintenance
- Noisy operation
Eco-Friendly Cordless
Snow Joe 48V Cordless Snow Blower Kit w/ 2X 5Ah Batteries, Dual-Port Charger & LED Headlight, 18″ Clearing Path – Heavy-Duty Winter Blower for Driveways, Patios & Sidewalks, 24V-X2-SB18-XR
Snow Joe
The Snow Joe 48V Cordless Snow Blower offers eco-friendly power with its IONMAX 24-Volt lithium-ion battery system, delivering zero-emission performance. Equipped with a heavy-duty rubber-tipped steel blade auger, it clears an 18-inch wide by 10-inch deep path in a single pass, making it suitable for moderate snowfalls. The 180-degree adjustable chute control allows precise snow direction, throwing it up to 20 feet away. A built-in LED headlight ensures safe nighttime operation. The cordless design provides mobility and convenience, with the option to expand power by purchasing additional IONMAX batteries for extended runtime during heavier snowfalls.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly battery power
- Cordless convenience
- LED headlight for safety
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Expandable battery system
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited clearing width
- Shorter throwing distance
- Battery life limitations
Peak Power Performance
EGO POWER+ 21″ Electric Snow Blower, Cordless Steel Auger, Includes (2) 56V 5.0Ah Batteries and Dual Port Charger – SNT2112
EGO Power+
The EGO POWER+ 21″ Electric Snow Blower combines cutting-edge technology with powerful performance to tackle winter’s worst. Featuring Peak Power technology that harnesses the strength of two 56V ARC Lithium batteries, this cordless snow blower throws snow up to 40 feet away. The steel auger cuts through ice and snow 50% faster than standard models, while the high-efficiency brushless motor ensures maximum runtime and durability. With a 21-inch clearing width, it’s perfect for medium-sized driveways and walkways. The included two 5.0Ah batteries provide ample power to complete your snow removal tasks without the hassle of gas or cords.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless convenience
- Powerful dual batteries
- Throws snow 40 ft
- Steel auger durability
- Brushless motor efficiency
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited clearing width
- Battery runtime limits
- Higher initial cost
Wide Heavy-Duty Path
AMERISUN 26-Inch 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower with 212cc Engine, Self-Propelled Snow Thrower with 120V Electric & Recoil Start, Heavy-Duty 26″ Clearing Width, 20″ Intake Height, 180° Chute Rotation
AMERISUN
The AMERISUN 26-Inch 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower is a powerhouse designed for heavy-duty snow removal. Equipped with a robust 212cc 4-stroke engine, it effortlessly clears wet, heavy, and compacted snow from large areas. The impressive 26-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height allow you to tackle deep snow in fewer passes. Starting is a breeze with the 120V electric start and recoil backup, even in freezing temperatures. The self-propelled system offers 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds for smooth operation on various terrains. With a 180° adjustable chute and 13-inch deep-tread tires, this snow blower delivers exceptional performance and control in tough winter conditions.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Wide 26″ path
- Electric start system
- Self-propelled control
- LED headlight visibility
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Gas engine maintenance
- Heavier than electric
- Louder operation
High-Voltage Cordless
PowerSmart 80V 24in. Self-Propelled Cordless Snow Blower, 2-Stage with 6.0Ah Battery and Charger (HB2805A)
PowerSmart
The PowerSmart 80V 24in. Self-Propelled Cordless Snow Blower delivers gas-like performance without the hassle of fuel or maintenance. Powered by an 80V 6.0Ah battery system, this 2-stage snow blower generates 1800 running watts and 2500 peak watts, equivalent to a 3HP 125cc gas engine. With a 24-inch clearing width and the ability to throw snow up to 45 feet, it can clear up to 14 car spaces on a single charge. The self-propelled system with variable speed and forward/reverse directions makes operation effortless. Features like one-button start, electric chute control, and LED headlights enhance convenience, while the brushless motor ensures quiet operation perfect for early morning snow removal.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 80V battery
- 2-stage snow removal
- Self-propelled operation
- Quiet brushless motor
- LED headlights included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery life
- Smaller clearing width
- Battery recharging time
Heated Handles Comfort
AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc 2-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower with Electric & Recoil Start, Heated Handles, LED Light, 180° Rotating Chute, 13″ Tires, Heavy-Duty Snow Thrower for Driveways & Sidewalks
AMERISUN
The AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc 2-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower is a powerhouse for heavy-duty snow removal. Its robust 212cc engine tackles deep, wet, and packed snow with ease, making it perfect for large driveways and yards. The self-propelled system with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds ensures smooth operation on icy or uneven terrain. With a 24-inch clearing path and 180-degree rotating chute, you can precisely direct snow where you want it. The dual start system offers flexibility in cold weather, while heated handles and an LED light enhance comfort and visibility during winter storms.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Self-propelled with multiple speeds
- Wide 24-inch clearing path
- Dual start system
- Heated handles and LED light
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy to maneuver
- Requires gas maintenance
- Higher price point
Brushless Motor Power
Westinghouse WSnow18 48V Cordless Snow Blower 18 Inch Kit, Steel Auger, LED Light, 1200W Brushless Motor, 25ft Throwing Distance, Plows 650lbs/min, Compatible with Snow Joe Batteries
Westinghouse
The Westinghouse WSnow18 48V Cordless Snow Blower offers the perfect balance of power and convenience for residential snow removal. Its brushless 1200W motor throws an impressive 650 pounds of snow per minute, clearing an 18-inch wide path with each pass. The rubber-tipped steel auger ensures safe operation on various surfaces including decks and walkways. Cord-free design provides ultimate maneuverability without the hassle of gas engines or extension cords. The included dual 24V batteries provide up to 15 minutes of runtime, while the LED light and 180-degree adjustable chute enhance visibility and control during winter night clearing.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless convenience
- Brushless motor power
- Safe rubber-tipped auger
- LED light for visibility
- Compatible with other batteries
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery runtime
- Not ideal for heavy snow
- Smaller clearing width
Corded Reliability
Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch, Steel Auger, Dual LED Lights, 1800 Watt Motor, Electric Snow Blower with 25ft Throwing Distance, Plows 680lbs/min, Adjustable Chute
Westinghouse
The Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower delivers consistent power for reliable snow removal without battery limitations. Its robust 1800W motor throws 680 pounds of snow per minute, clearing a 20-inch wide path with each pass. The rubber-tipped steel auger safely clears snow from various surfaces without damage. Lightweight design combined with 7-inch snow-grabbing wheels makes it easy to maneuver around driveways and walkways. Dual LED headlights illuminate your path during early morning or late evening snow removal. The 180-degree adjustable chute gives you precise control over snow direction, making this an efficient choice for residential snow clearing.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Consistent corded power
- Wider 20-inch clearing path
- Dual LED headlights
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- No battery runtime limitations
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited by cord length
- Requires outdoor outlet
- Not as powerful as gas models
Hydrostatic Transmission
Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower, 212-cc 5.9-HP, 24-Inch Snow Thrower, Friction Disc Transmission, Two Stage with Push Button Electric Start and Power Steering, Orange
Husqvarna
The Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower represents premium performance for homeowners facing serious winter conditions. Its powerful 212-cc engine with electronic fuel injection delivers reliable starting and consistent power in cold weather. The two-stage system efficiently breaks up and throws snow far from your cleared areas. Power steering and semi-pneumatic tires with non-clogging treads provide exceptional maneuverability, even on challenging terrain. The 24-inch clearing width handles large driveways efficiently, while the ribbon auger makes heavy snow easier to manage. With accessible controls and a bright LED headlight, this snow blower combines professional-grade features with user-friendly operation.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212-cc engine
- Two-stage snow clearing
- Power steering system
- Electric start convenience
- Hydrostatic transmission
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Premium price tag
- Heavy to store
- Requires regular maintenance
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for in a heavy-duty snow blower?
Look for a powerful engine (at least 250cc), a wide clearing width (28 inches or more), and durable construction like steel augers. Consider features like heated grips, LED lights, and multiple speed settings for added convenience. Ensure it has good traction, such as tracks or deep-tread tires, for handling icy terrain.
How do gas and electric heavy-duty snow blowers compare?
Gas models offer more power and longer runtimes, making them ideal for large areas and heavy snowfall. Electric models are quieter, require less maintenance, and are eco-friendly but may lack the power for extreme conditions. Gas blowers are typically heavier, while electric ones are easier to maneuver.
Are two-stage or three-stage snow blowers better for heavy-duty use?
Three-stage snow blowers are faster and more efficient at breaking up icy, compacted snow, making them ideal for extreme conditions. Two-stage models are still highly effective for most heavy-duty tasks and are often more affordable. If you frequently deal with wet, heavy snow, a three-stage blower is worth the investment.
What features add the most value to a heavy-duty snow blower?
Features like power steering and remote chute controls make operation easier, especially in tight spaces. Heated grips and LED lights enhance comfort and visibility during early morning or late-night use. A durable, corrosion-resistant frame ensures longevity in harsh winter conditions.
How much should I expect to spend on a quality heavy-duty snow blower?
Heavy-duty snow blowers typically range from $800 to $2,500, depending on the brand, engine size, and features. Premium models with advanced features like tracks or three-stage systems will cost more. Investing in a higher-priced model often pays off in durability and performance.
Can a heavy-duty snow blower handle gravel driveways?
Yes, but look for models with adjustable skid shoes to prevent picking up gravel and damaging the surface. Some heavy-duty blowers also feature serrated augers for better grip on uneven terrain. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for use on non-paved surfaces.
How important is warranty coverage for heavy-duty snow blowers?
A good warranty (2-5 years) is crucial for heavy-duty models due to their high cost and frequent use. Look for coverage that includes the engine, auger, and transmission. Extended warranties can provide peace of mind for long-term reliability.
What maintenance is required for a heavy-duty snow blower?
Regular maintenance includes checking oil levels, inspecting belts, and cleaning the auger after each use. At the start of the season, lubricate moving parts and replace spark plugs if needed. Proper storage in a dry area prevents rust and extends the machine’s life.