Comparison: Best Snow Shovels Wirecutter (Updated | Jan 2nd)
Winter mornings are beautiful—until you’re staring at a snowed-in driveway and the wrong shovel for the job. That’s why we turned to Wirecutter, the trusted name in product testing, to find the best snow shovels that actually make clearing snow easier (and save your back). Whether you’re tackling light fluff or heavy, wet snow, these top picks balance durability, ergonomics, and value. Let’s dive into which shovels earned Wirecutter’s seal of approval and why they’re worth your investment this season.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for spring-assisted lifting: Snow Joe Snow Shovel with 18-Inch Blade and Assist Handle
- Best for wide wheeled pusher: Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Heavy-Duty 2-Wheel Snow Pusher Hand Plow for Snow Removal w/Wheels
- Best for best overall: The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher 28″ Wide Model
- Best for cordless electric power: 2026 New 13″ Cordless Electric Snow Shovel Battery Powered
- Best for ultra-wide pusher: The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher (36 Inches)
- Best for adjustable dual handle: Yocada Snow Shovel for Driveway Home Garage Snow Removal with D-Grip Handle Aluminum Strip 55 inch Long Large Capacity Shovel for Garden Car Camping Outdoor
- Best for bi-directional plow: 38 Inch Snow Shovel for Driveway
- Best for ergonomic spring handle: Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel with Spring-Assist Handle
- Best for back-saving z-handle: YEITSNOW Snow Shovel for Driveway Ergonomic Design 17” Reinforced Heavy Duty Snow Removal Easy Assembled Tool in Winter Snowy Day for Garage Car Parking Port Workshop Barn
Product Comparison: Best Snow Shovels Wirecutter
Spring-Assisted Lifting
Snow Joe Snow Shovel with 18-Inch Blade and Assist Handle, 3.5 Lbs – Heavy-Duty Lightweight Shoveling Tool for Ice Removal, Shovelution SJ-SHLV01
Snow Joe
The Snow Joe Snow Shovel features an 18-inch impact-resistant blade designed for durability and long-lasting performance. Its ergonomic D-Ring handle grip improves posture and reduces bending, minimizing strain during use. The innovative spring-assisted handle acts as a fulcrum, enhancing shoveling mechanics while reducing back and arm stress. With added leverage for the lower hand, this shovel lifts heavier loads more efficiently. Built for comfort, durability, and ease of use, it makes tackling heavy snowfall simpler and more effective, perfect for winter tasks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable impact-resistant blade
- Ergonomic D-Ring handle
- Spring-assisted lifting
- Reduces back strain
- Lightweight yet sturdy
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- May feel flimsy
- Handle grip wears
Wide Wheeled Pusher
Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Heavy-Duty 2-Wheel Snow Pusher Hand Plow for Snow Removal w/Wheels, Adjustable Handle, Blade Angle – Black
Best Choice Products
The Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Snow Pusher is a heavy-duty tool for efficient snow removal. Its galvanized steel blade ensures durability and strength, ideal for harsh winters. The 36-inch wide blade and smooth-rolling wheels make clearing driveways and sidewalks effortless. The adjustable blade angle allows for precise snow gathering and depositing at various depths. Height-adaptive handles offer maximum control and comfort, and they fold for easy storage. Included reflective tape enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it a reliable choice for winter maintenance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide galvanized steel blade
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Adjustable blade angle
- Height-adaptive handles
- Includes reflective tape
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky to store
- Harder on uneven terrain
Best overall
The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher 28″ Wide Model
THE SNOWPLOW
The Snowplow Original Snow Pusher stands out with its 28-inch wide blade made from virgin UHMW polyethylene, offering unmatched durability and impact resistance in cold weather. Its ergonomic metal handle, twice as thick as standard shovels, ensures stability and control, while the D-grip provides comfort during prolonged use. Designed for pushing, scooping, and scraping, this USA-made shovel assembles in under five minutes. Ideal for heavy snow removal, it’s trusted by professionals and property managers alike. Whether tackling driveways or walkways, this shovel combines strength, efficiency, and ease of use, making winter maintenance a breeze.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable UHMW polyethylene blade
- Thick ergonomic metal handle
- Quick and easy assembly
- Comfortable D-grip design
- Proudly made in USA
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than plastic shovels
- Higher upfront cost
Cordless Electric Power
2026 New 13″ Cordless Electric Snow Shovel Battery Powered, 48V 4.0 AH Battery Cordless Snow Blower with Battery and Charger, Electric Shovel for Snow Removal Cordless (Dual Battery)
YGQ
This 2026 cordless electric snow shovel from YGQ is a game-changer for lightweight snow removal. Weighing just 7.85 lbs, it’s easy to maneuver, even for seniors. The 48V brushless motor clears a 13-inch wide path, throwing snow up to 20 feet, while the dual 4.0 Ah batteries provide up to 45 minutes of runtime. Its adjustable chute directs snow precisely, and the 56-inch handle reduces back strain. Quiet operation and a dual safety switch enhance usability and safety. Perfect for driveways, patios, and walkways, this battery-powered shovel combines power, portability, and convenience for hassle-free winter clearing.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Long battery life
- Powerful brushless motor
- Adjustable snow chute
- Quiet operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow clearing path
- Limited cutting depth
Ultra-Wide Pusher
The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher (36 Inches)
THE SNOWPLOW
The Snowplow Original Snow Pusher is a heavy-duty tool designed for efficient snow removal. Its 36-inch blade, made from virgin UHMW polyethylene, ensures durability and non-stick performance. The patented TUFFBRACE connector system provides sturdiness, while the fiberglass handle offers twice the wall thickness of standard shovels. Ideal for concrete, blacktop, and decks, it features a self-sharpening blade that requires no maintenance. Proudly made in the USA, this shovel assembles in under five minutes. Perfect for homeowners and professionals alike, it promises longevity and ease of use, making snow removal less of a chore.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable UHMW blade
- Non-stick surface
- Sturdy fiberglass handle
- Made in the USA
- Quick assembly
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Heavier than plastic shovels
Adjustable Dual Handle
Yocada Snow Shovel for Driveway Home Garage Snow Removal with D-Grip Handle Aluminum Strip 55 inch Long Large Capacity Shovel for Garden Car Camping Outdoor
Yocada
The Yocada Snow Shovel is a versatile and efficient tool for clearing driveways, sidewalks, and garages. Its 16-inch aluminum-reinforced blade easily cuts through hard snow and ice, while the adjustable length (48-55 inches) suits users of various heights. The ergonomic D-grip handle reduces strain, and the lightweight yet sturdy iron handle ensures comfort during use. Detachable for easy storage, this shovel is perfect for quick snow removal. With simple assembly and a wide blade, it maximizes efficiency, making winter cleanup a breeze for homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Adjustable length handle
- Aluminum wear strip
- Ergonomic D-grip
- Lightweight design
- Easy to assemble
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrower blade
- Requires strength to assemble
Bi-Directional Plow
38 Inch Snow Shovel for Driveway, Brewin SnowPro Bi-Direction Heavy Duty Snow Pusher with Wheels and Angled Blade for Efficient Snow Removal, Back Saver Snow Plow for Doorway Sidewalk
BREWIN TOOLS
The Brewin SnowPro is a heavy-duty wheeled snow pusher designed to make snow removal effortless. Its ultra-wide 38-inch blade and bi-directional flipping mechanism allow for efficient clearing of large areas like driveways and sidewalks without the need for constant U-turns. Constructed from tough polycarbonate and ABS composite plastic, it resists freezing, UV damage, and wear. The adjustable handle ensures a comfortable upright posture, saving your back from strain. Quick assembly in under 10 minutes and a 1-year warranty add peace of mind. Perfect for residential and commercial use, it’s a reliable winter companion.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 38-inch blade
- Back-saving design
- Bi-directional flipping blade
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Easy 10-minute assembly
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky to store
- Higher price point
- Less effective on uneven terrain
Ergonomic Spring Handle
Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel with Spring-Assist Handle, Heavy-Duty Shovel for Fast Snow Removal, 20 Inches, Blue
Snow Joe
The Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution is an innovative snow shovel designed to reduce strain and improve efficiency. Its spring-assisted handle acts as a fulcrum, providing extra leverage to lift heavier loads with less effort. The ergonomic D-ring grip ensures comfort and better posture, minimizing bending and back pain. The impact-resistant blade is built to withstand tough jobs and resist wear, ensuring durability. Lightweight yet sturdy, this shovel is perfect for tackling heavy snowfall with ease. Ideal for residential use, it combines practicality with user-friendly design to make winter cleanup faster and less physically demanding.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Spring-assisted lifting mechanism
- Ergonomic D-ring handle
- Durable impact-resistant blade
- Reduces back strain
- Lightweight and easy to use
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not ideal for deep snow
- Spring mechanism may wear
- Limited to smaller areas
Back-Saving Z-Handle
YEITSNOW Snow Shovel for Driveway Ergonomic Design 17” Reinforced Heavy Duty Snow Removal Easy Assembled Tool in Winter Snowy Day for Garage Car Parking Port Workshop Barn
yeitsnow
The YEITSNOW Snow Shovel features an ergonomic curved Z-shape handle that reduces back strain and bending, making it ideal for seniors or those with back pain. Its lightweight yet durable poly scoop includes an aluminum wear stripe for efficient snow removal, while the reinforced steel handle supports up to 124 lbs of load capacity. Quick three-step assembly ensures ease of use, and rigorous pre-delivery testing guarantees reliability. Perfect for heavy-duty snow clearing on driveways, this shovel combines comfort, strength, and durability in one user-friendly design.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ergonomic back-saving design
- Lightweight but sturdy
- High load capacity
- Easy to assemble
- Durable aluminum wear strip
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires assembly
- Limited color options
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 snow shovel?
Look for a shovel with a durable, lightweight blade made of poly or metal for longevity. Consider an ergonomic handle with a grip that reduces strain on your back. A scoop size of 18-24 inches balances efficiency with ease of use.
How do different types of snow shovels compare?
Pusher shovels are great for light, fluffy snow, while scoop shovels handle heavier, wet snow better. Combination shovels offer versatility but may excel less in specific tasks. Choose based on typical snow conditions in your area.
Are ergonomic shovels worth the extra cost?
Yes, ergonomic shovels can significantly reduce back and wrist strain during prolonged use. They often feature curved handles or adjustable angles for better posture. Invest in one if you shovel frequently or have existing back issues.
What features add the most value?
A metal wear strip on the blade edge extends the shovel’s life by preventing cracks. A second handle or D-grip provides better leverage and control. Telescoping handles adjust to your height, improving comfort.
How do I choose between plastic and metal blades?
Plastic blades are lighter and ideal for light snow, while metal blades are tougher for icy or packed snow. Metal blades may add weight but offer superior durability. Consider your typical snowfall and physical strength.
Are compact or collapsible shovels practical?
Compact shovels are excellent for cars or small storage spaces but may lack full-sized efficiency. They’re best as emergency tools rather than primary shovels. Prioritize them only if portability is key.
What’s the best way to maintain a snow shovel?
Rinse off debris and salt after each use to prevent corrosion. Store it in a dry place to avoid warping or rust. Inspect the blade and handles annually for wear or damage.
How do Wirecutter’s top picks compare?
Wirecutter favors shovels with ergonomic designs and durable materials for long-term use. Their top pick balances weight, capacity, and user comfort. Budget picks focus on affordability without sacrificing too much quality.