Comparison: Best Value Single Stage Snow Blower (Updated | Jan 2nd)
Winter can be brutal, but the right gear makes all the difference. If you’re tired of breaking your back shoveling, a single stage snow blower is your perfect sidekick. They’re affordable, lightweight, and tackle light to moderate snowfalls with ease. But with so many options, how do you choose? We’ve tested the top models to find the absolute best value for your money. Let’s cut through the marketing fluff and find the perfect machine to keep your driveway clear all season long.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for best wet snow performance: AMERISUN 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower
- Best for best overall choice: Amerisun 21-Inch 212cc Single-Stage Snow Blower Gas Powered with Compact Size
- Best for compact driveway helper: NOVUS Single Stage Gas Snow Blower
- Best for best cordless power: PRORUN 60V 22-Inch Cordless Snow Blower
- Best for best heavy duty: AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Self-Propelled Snow Blower with 212cc Engine
- Best for reliable electric choice: SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 20 in. Single Stage Snow Blower Kit
- Best for best cold start: Poulan Pro Snow Blower Gas Powered
- Best for best plug-in value: Snow Joe Ultra 18 Inch 15 Amp Single Stage Electric Snow Thrower with Headlights
- Best for best for deep paths: AMERISUN 21-Inch 212cc Gas Snow Blower
- Best for best self-propelled value: BILT HARD Gas Snow Blower 2 Stage
Product Comparison: Best Value Single Stage Snow Blower
Best Wet Snow Performance
AMERISUN 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower, 212cc Single-Stage Snow Thrower, Lightweight 21″ Snow Removal Machine with 180° Adjustable Chute, High-Performance Gas Powered Snow Cleaner for Driveways & Sidewalks
AMERISUN
The AMERISUN 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower features a robust 212cc engine designed to handle heavy, wet, and packed snow with ease. Its 21-inch clearing width allows you to tackle wide paths efficiently, while the 12.5-inch intake height manages deep winter accumulation. The 180-degree adjustable chute lets you precisely direct snow away from cars and walkways. Weighing less than many competitors, this lightweight unit reduces fatigue and offers effortless maneuverability. Built with reinforced augers, sturdy housing, and all-weather wheels, it ensures durability and reliable performance for multiple seasons, making it an excellent choice for residential snow removal.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Wide 21-inch path
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Adjustable 180-degree chute
- Durable all-weather construction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires gas maintenance
- Louder than electric models
- May struggle on gravel
Best Overall Choice
Amerisun 21-Inch 212cc Single-Stage Snow Blower Gas Powered with Compact Size, Lightweight Design, Easy Chute Control
AMERISUN
This Amerisun snow blower combines a reliable 212cc engine with a compact 21-inch clearing width, making it perfect for paved driveways and walkways. It starts easily in temperatures as low as -20°F, thanks to its recoil start system. Weighing only 68 pounds, it is easy to push, turn, and transport, even through heavy snow. The foldable ergonomic handlebars simplify storage in tight spaces. A convenient chute adjust handle allows you to direct snow exactly where you want it. Plus, the wide comfort handle ensures a secure grip, making operation easy and comfortable even while wearing thick gloves.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Easy cold weather start
- Compact and lightweight
- Simple chute adjustment
- Foldable handle storage
- Comfortable grip handle
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for gravel surfaces
- Limited 21-inch width
- Requires corded power source
Compact Driveway Helper
NOVUS Single Stage Gas Snow Blower, 18″ Clearing Width, 10.5″ Clearing Depth, 190° Remote Chute Control, Compact, Lightweight Design, Steel-Reinforced Rubber Auger, Recoil Start
NOVUS
The NOVUS Single Stage Gas Snow Blower is tailored for small to medium driveways, featuring an 18-inch clearing width and 10.5-inch intake depth. Its powerful 99cc engine propels snow up to 23 feet and utilizes cold start technology for reliable ignition in frigid weather. The machine includes a convenient one-hand 190-degree remote chute control for precise snow direction. Equipped with a wear-resistant steel reinforced rubber auger, it grinds through compacted snow efficiently while remaining maneuverable. The soft-grip handle provides maximum comfort and control, allowing you to clear snow for extended periods without hand fatigue or discomfort.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Easy remote chute control
- Compact for storage
- Durable steel auger
- Comfortable soft-grip handle
- Reliable cold start engine
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow 18-inch path
- Lower 99cc engine power
- Not for heavy wet snow
Best Cordless Power
PRORUN 60V 22-Inch Cordless Snow Blower, Single-Stage Battery Snow Thrower with Brushless Motor, Includes (2) 5.0Ah Batteries and (2) Chargers
PRORUN
The PRORUN 60V Cordless Snow Blower combines powerful brushless motor technology with the convenience of battery operation. With a generous clearing width of 21 inches and an intake depth of 8 inches, it handles moderate snowfall efficiently. The unit features an auger-assist drive that propels itself up to 2.7 mph, reducing user fatigue during operation. It includes two battery ports with intelligent auto-switchover, providing up to 30 minutes of runtime to clear a 10-car driveway. Capable of throwing snow up to 45 feet, this single-stage machine offers the perfect balance of performance and ease of maintenance for homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful brushless motor
- Long battery runtime
- Self-propelled drive system
- Auto battery switchover
- Good throwing distance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy to maneuver
- Premium price point
Best Heavy Duty
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
Designed for heavy-duty residential use, the AMERISUN Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower features a robust 212cc engine that powers through wet and packed snow. Its 24-inch clearing width and impressive 20-inch intake height allow you to tackle deep drifts quickly. Equipped with self-propelled drive offering six forward and two reverse speeds, it navigates icy slopes and large driveways effortlessly. The 180-degree adjustable chute gives you precise control over snow discharge, while the LED headlight ensures visibility during early morning or late-night storms. This machine is a reliable workhorse for tackling harsh winter conditions.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful gas engine
- Wide clearing path
- Electric start capability
- Multiple speed settings
- Includes LED headlight
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires gas maintenance
- Heavier than electrics
Reliable Electric Choice
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 20 in. Single Stage Snow Blower Kit, 30’ft Throwing Distance, Includes 6.0Ah Battery and Charger- SB2001C-10 red
Skil
The SKIL PWR CORE 40 Snow Blower offers a cordless solution for rapid snow removal with the included 6.0Ah battery. Its digital brushless motor delivers efficient power, ensuring a longer tool life and consistent performance. The 20-inch clearing width and rubber-tipped steel auger clean down to the pavement while protecting surfaces. It throws snow up to 30 feet and features 180-degree directional control managed by a convenient rear crank. This kit includes everything you need to get started immediately, providing a quiet and emission-free alternative to gas models for typical residential snowfall.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Includes battery charger
- Clean pavement contact
- Easy chute adjustment
- Quiet brushless motor
- Lightweight design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Shorter throwing distance
- Limited run time
Best Cold Start
Poulan Pro Snow Blower Gas Powered, Single Stage 18 Inch Gas Snow Thrower with Electric Start, 190° Remote Chute Control, Steel-Reinforced Rubber Auger, Compact, Lightweight Design
Poulan Pro
The Poulan Pro PR99 is a compact 18-inch single-stage snow blower designed for efficiency and ease of use. Equipped with a robust 99cc 4-stroke engine, it features cold start technology for reliable ignition even in extreme temperatures. The 18-inch clearing width and 10.5-inch intake height make it perfect for small to medium driveways and sidewalks. Its steel-reinforced rubber auger clears down to the pavement while protecting surfaces. With convenient electric start and one-hand remote chute control, this unit offers excellent maneuverability and precision, making winter maintenance less of a chore for homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Reliable cold start performance
- Compact and lightweight design
- Effortless electric start feature
- Protective rubber auger
- Easy chute control operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited clearing width
- Not for heavy wet snow
Best Plug-In Value
Snow Joe Ultra 18 Inch 15 Amp Single Stage Electric Snow Thrower with Headlights
Snow Joe
The Snow Joe Ultra SJ623E is a powerful 18-inch electric snow thrower designed to move up to 720 pounds of snow per minute. Its 15-amp motor drives a four-blade auger, clearing an 18-inch by 10-inch path in a single pass. The unit features a 180-degree adjustable discharge chute and a built-in halogen headlight for safe early morning or evening operation. Since it is corded electric, there is no need for gas or oil, significantly reducing maintenance. Equipped with easy-glide wheels, this blower offers a quiet, eco-friendly solution for clearing decks, patios, and mid-sized driveways efficiently.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- No gas or oil required
- Quiet electric motor operation
- Built-in safety headlight
- Lightweight and easy maneuverability
- Includes chute clean-out tool
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited by cord length
- Not for deep heavy snow
Best for Deep Paths
AMERISUN 21-Inch 212cc Gas Snow Blower, Single-Stage Snow Thrower with Recoil Start, 180° Adjustable Chute, 21″ Clearing Width, 8-in Wheels, Lightweight Snow Removal for Driveway & Sidewalks
AMERISUN
The AMERISUN Gas Snow Blower offers robust performance with a powerful 212cc OHV 4-stroke engine, ideal for tackling heavy snowfall. It features a wide 21-inch clearing width and a 12.5-inch intake depth, allowing you to clear large areas like driveways and sidewalks quickly. The 180-degree adjustable discharge chute can throw snow up to 35 feet away, giving you precise control. Weighing just over 80 pounds and mounted on durable 8-inch wheels, this unit is easy to maneuver. Its simple recoil start system ensures dependable operation without the hassle of extension cords.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Wide 21-inch clearing path
- No extension cords needed
- Simple recoil start system
- Easy to maneuver design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than electric models
- Manual recoil start only
Best Self-Propelled Value
BILT HARD Gas Snow Blower 2 Stage, 24 Inch 212cc Self-Propelled Snowblowers Gas Powered with Electric Start and LED Headlight, Two Stage Snow Blower for Driveway Sidewalk
BILT HARD
The BILT HARD Gas Snow Blower is a robust two-stage machine featuring a 24-inch clearing width and a 19-inch intake depth. Powered by a 212cc engine, it effortlessly throws snow up to 40 feet. The self-propelled system offers six forward and two reverse speeds, taking the effort out of moving through heavy drifts. Features include a convenient electric start, an integrated LED headlight for visibility, and pneumatic tires for superior traction on various surfaces. The serrated steel auger and high-speed impeller ensure thorough clearing, making it a top choice for handling large accumulations of snow.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful two-stage performance
- Self-propelled drive system
- Wide 24-inch clearing path
- Convenient electric start
- Excellent traction tires
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier and bulkier storage
- Higher maintenance requirements
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 defines a single stage snow blower?
Single-stage snow blowers use an auger to both gather snow and propel it out of the chute in one motion. They are lightweight, compact, and generally more affordable than two or three-stage models.
What features indicate the best value for the money?
Look for models with electric start options, easy-to-adjust chute controls, and durable rubber auger paddles. A good warranty and the availability of replacement parts also add long-term value.
How does a single stage compare to a two-stage model?
Single-stage models are lighter and easier to maneuver, making them ideal for paved surfaces and moderate snowfall. Two-stage models are larger, have self-propelled drive systems, and are better suited for heavy, wet snow or gravel driveways.
What clearing width should I choose?
For average residential driveways, a clearing width between 20 and 24 inches usually offers the best balance of efficiency and storage. Wider paths clear snow faster but can be harder to store and maneuver in tight spaces.
Are electric or gas engines better for value?
Gas engines offer more runtime and power for deep snow, which is traditional for value. However, cordless electric models are becoming competitive by offering lower maintenance costs and convenience for smaller areas.
How much snowfall can a single stage handle?
These machines perform best with snowfalls of up to 8 to 12 inches. For deeper or heavier snow, you may need to make multiple passes or consider upgrading to a two-stage unit.
Do I need snow tires or tracks?
Single-stage blowers generally rely on the auger touching the ground to pull the machine forward, so specialized tires are not usually necessary. Paddle height is more critical for ensuring proper grip on pavement.