Comparison: Best Snow Blower Popular Mechanics (Updated | Jan 2nd)
When winter unleashes its fury, a reliable snow blower becomes your backyard’s best friend. Popular Mechanics has tested dozens of models across various snow conditions and budgets to help you find the perfect winter warrior. From lightweight electric shovels perfect for light dustings to heavy-duty gas-powered machines that devour mountains of snow, our expert recommendations cut through the marketing fluff. We’ll break down the top performers that actually deliver on their promises, keeping your driveway clear without breaking your back—or your budget.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for car snow specialist: Snow Whiz Turbo Blower
- Best for efficient walk-behind: MZK 15.5-Inch Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower with 20ft Throwing Distance
- Best for heavy-duty powerhouse: AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Self-Propelled Snow Blower with 212cc Engine
- Best for cordless snow shovel: KAFKESC Cordless Snow Shovel
- Best for turbo snow blower: Snow Whiz Turbo Blower
- Best for powerful corded option: Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch
- Best for wheeled snow shovel: 17-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel with Wheels
- Best for lightweight snow shovel: MZK Cordless Snow Shovel
- Best for high-speed thermal blower: 2026 Upgrade Suptruck Frostblazer Thermal Snow Blower
- Best for ultra-portable multi-tool: Mini Turbo Snow Blower
Product Comparison: Best Snow Blower Popular Mechanics
Car Snow Specialist
Snow Whiz Turbo Blower,Snow Whiz Turbo Blower with Led,Mini Turbo Snow Blower for Car,3 Gear Adjustable Super Power Turbo Breeze Electric Blow,Snow Remover for Cars,Home,Keyboard,Computer
BeeLift
The Snow Whiz Turbo Blower is a compact and versatile snow removal tool designed for car owners. This mini turbo blower features high-efficiency turbo technology with strong wind power to quickly clear snow from your vehicle without leaving water marks. Equipped with two different nozzles and four wind modes (gentle, strong, hurricane, and storm), it can handle both light and heavy snowfall. The long-lasting battery provides up to 70 minutes of operation on a single charge. Beyond snow removal, this multifunctional device can also be used for cleaning plants, cars, and removing pet hair, making it a year-round utility tool.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Compact and portable
- Multiple wind modes
- Long battery life
- Versatile functionality
- Quick snow removal
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited clearing area
- Not for heavy snow
- Battery recharge time
Efficient Walk-Behind
MZK 15.5-Inch Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower with 20ft Throwing Distance, Electric Snow Blower with 13-Amp Motor,Directional Chute Control, Black
MZK
The MZK 15.5-Inch Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower is an efficient solution for clearing light to moderate snowfall. With a 15.5-inch clearing width and the ability to handle 10-inch snow depth, it can throw snow up to 20 feet away, making it ideal for driveways and sidewalks. The lightweight design ensures easy maneuverability in tight spaces like patios and decks. Powered by a robust 13-AMP motor, this snow thrower starts with just the push of a button—no preheating required. The durable rubber auger efficiently clears snow while protecting your surfaces from damage, ensuring long-term reliability.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Easy electric start
- Lightweight design
- Efficient snow clearing
- Durable rubber auger
- Good throwing distance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited power
- Corded operation
- Narrow clearing path
Heavy-Duty Powerhouse
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 heavy-duty machine designed to tackle the toughest winter conditions. Powered by a robust 212cc engine, it effortlessly handles heavy, wet, and packed snow. The 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height allow you to clear large areas quickly. Starting is easy with the 120V electric start, with a recoil backup for reliability. The self-propelled system offers 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, while 13-inch tires provide excellent traction. The 180-degree adjustable chute and LED headlight enhance visibility and control, making snow removal safer and more efficient.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Wide clearing path
- Self-propelled operation
- Electric start feature
- LED headlight included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy to maneuver
- Requires maintenance
- Higher price point
Cordless Snow Shovel
KAFKESC Cordless Snow Shovel, 40V | 13-Inch | 8-Ah Cordless Snow Blower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle (2 Batteries & Quick Charger Included)
KAFKESC
The KAFKESC Cordless Snow Shovel is a powerful and convenient solution for winter snow removal. With its 13-inch clearing path and 6-inch depth capacity, it’s perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and walkways. The dual 20V brushless motors provide reliable performance with up to 40 minutes of runtime on a single charge. This cordless snow blower can throw snow up to 20 feet, making snow relocation quick and efficient. Its labor-saving design reduces physical strain, while the safety lock prevents accidental activation. The ergonomic handle ensures comfortable operation, making it an excellent winter companion for homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless convenience
- Dual brushless motors
- Long throw distance
- Safety lock design
- Ergonomic handle
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited clearing width
- Battery runtime limitations
- Not for heavy snow
Turbo Snow Blower
Snow Whiz Turbo Blower, 2026 Upgrade Snowwhiz Turbo Blower with Led,Mini Turbos Snow Blowers, 3 Gear Adjustable Super Power Turbo Breeze Electric Blow for Car for Car,Home,Keyboard,Computer
Linyuant
The Snow Whiz Turbo Blower is a versatile and powerful tool designed for efficient snow removal and car drying. Featuring high-efficiency turbine technology with a maximum output speed of 130,000 rpm, it quickly clears snow and dries surfaces without leaving water marks. The built-in LED light illuminates up to 30m, making it perfect for hard-to-reach areas. With four airflow levels and different nozzle options, it can handle everything from light dusting to heavy snow. Its compact design makes storage easy, while the 70-minute battery life ensures you can complete your cleaning tasks efficiently.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High-speed performance
- LED illumination
- Multiple airflow levels
- Compact and portable
- Long battery life
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited snow capacity
- Complex operation modes
- Not for large areas
Powerful Corded Option
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 is a robust and efficient solution for winter snow removal. Its 1800W motor powerfully throws 680 pounds of snow per minute, clearing a 20-inch wide, 10-inch deep path with each pass. The rubber-tipped steel auger ensures safe operation on various surfaces, while the 7-inch snow-grabbing wheels provide excellent traction. With dual LED headlights for nighttime visibility and a 180-degree adjustable chute, this snow blower offers both power and precision. Its lightweight design and soft grip handle make it easy to maneuver, perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and decks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 1800W motor
- Wide clearing path
- Dual LED lights
- Adjustable chute
- Corded reliability
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Corded limitation
- Not for heavy wet snow
- Limited throw distance
Wheeled Snow Shovel
17-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel with Wheels, 9000mAh Brushless Electric Snow Blower Battery Powered, 26Ft Snow Thrower Distance&Adjustable Plate, Snow Removal for Driveway Deck Sidewalks
Lemolifys
The Lemolifys 17-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel is a game-changer for winter maintenance. This battery-powered snow blower features a powerful 33,000rpm brushless motor that operates quietly while delivering impressive performance. With a 17-inch wide clearing path, it handles significant snowfall efficiently. The unit comes with two 4.5Ah batteries, providing up to 50 minutes of runtime each. Its wheel design makes maneuvering effortless, reducing strain on your back and arms. The snow can be thrown up to 26 feet away, with adjustable vanes for precise control. Safety features include a double switch to prevent accidental starts. Perfect for driveways and walkways.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large clearing path
- Dual battery system
- Quiet brushless motor
- Easy to maneuver
- Long throwing distance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery life
- Not for heavy snow
- Higher price point
Lightweight Snow Shovel
MZK Cordless Snow Shovel, 20V 15-Inch Battery Powered Snow Thrower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle(4.0Ah Li-ion Battery & Fast Charger Included),Red
MZK
The MZK Cordless Snow Shovel offers a convenient solution for light to moderate snow removal. Weighing just 9.15 pounds, this ultra-lightweight 15-inch snow thrower is easy to handle for users of all strengths. The 20V battery provides approximately 25 minutes of continuous operation, with fast-charging capabilities to minimize downtime. The adjustable snow chute allows you to direct snow discharge within a ±30-degree range, giving you precise control over where snow lands. Its cordless design eliminates the hassle of tangled power cords while providing freedom of movement. MZK also stands behind their product with excellent customer service.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely lightweight
- Easy to maneuver
- Adjustable snow chute
- Fast charging battery
- Great customer service
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery life
- Narrower clearing path
- Not for heavy snowfall
High-Speed Thermal Blower
2026 Upgrade Suptruck Frostblazer Thermal Snow Blower, Portable Suptruck Frostguards Thermal Blower, Snow Blower with Efficient Turbine Tech, Portable for Car Windshield Defrost, Snow Removal
Lyercw
The Suptruck Frostblazer Thermal Snow Blower is a versatile, multi-purpose tool designed for various cleaning tasks. Powered by an impressive 160,000 RPM brushless motor with 13 metal fan blades, it generates strong, stable airflow to clear light snow from vehicles efficiently. The adjustable speed modes allow you to switch between gentle dust removal and high-speed snow clearing. Beyond snow removal, this device doubles as an air duster for cleaning car interiors, keyboards, and workbenches. Its cordless, ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use without the hassle of tangled cords. The USB rechargeable battery ensures sustained performance even in cold weather.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely high RPM
- Multi-purpose functionality
- Adjustable speed modes
- Cordless convenience
- Works in cold weather
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Only for light snow
- Limited battery life
- Not for large areas
Ultra-Portable Multi-Tool
Mini Turbo Snow Blower, 130,000 RPM Mini LED Turbo Snow Blower for Car with Dual Mode Design, Portable Snow Whiz Turbo Blower Ideal for Vehicle Snow Removal and Home Cleaning
wartleves
The wartleves Mini Turbo Snow Blower packs impressive power in a compact design. Featuring an extreme 130,000 RPM motor, this handheld device effortlessly clears snow, ice, and debris without damaging your car’s paint. The dual-mode versatility allows you to switch between blowing and vacuuming functions, making it useful year-round for various cleaning tasks. Weighing only 0.75 lbs, it’s designed for single-handed operation and fits perfectly in your glove compartment. The intelligent LED display shows battery level and speed settings, while the 6000mAh battery provides up to 120 minutes of runtime. Additional emergency features include LED lighting, SOS mode, and a window breaker.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-high speed motor
- Dual-mode functionality
- Extremely portable
- Long battery life
- Emergency features included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Small clearing area
- Not for heavy snow
- Limited throwing distance
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 when buying a snow blower?
Consider the snow blower’s clearing width and engine power to match your typical snowfall. Look for features like electric start, adjustable chute direction, and durable construction for ease of use and longevity.
How do gas and electric snow blowers compare?
Gas models offer more power and are better for heavy, wet snow, while electric models are quieter, lighter, and require less maintenance. Electric snow blowers are ideal for smaller areas with lighter snowfall.
What are the key differences between single-stage and two-stage snow blowers?
Single-stage models are compact and best for light to moderate snow, while two-stage models handle heavy, deep snow more efficiently. Two-stage blowers have an auger to collect snow and an impeller to throw it farther.
Are cordless snow blowers worth it?
Cordless snow blowers offer convenience and portability but may lack the power of gas or corded electric models. They’re best for small to medium driveways with light to moderate snow.
How much should I spend on a quality snow blower?
Budget models start around $200, while high-end gas models can exceed $1,000. Consider your snowfall frequency and driveway size to determine the best value for your needs.
What safety features should I prioritize?
Look for models with a dead-man’s control bar that stops the auger when released. Some models also include LED lights for visibility and skid shoes to prevent surface damage.
How do I maintain my snow blower for longevity?
Regularly check and change the oil, inspect the auger and belts, and clean the machine after each use. Store it in a dry place and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Which brands are most reliable according to Popular Mechanics?
Popular Mechanics often highlights brands like Toro, Ariens, and Honda for their durability and performance. These brands offer a range of models to suit different snow-clearing needs.