Comparison: Best Snow Blower Under 500 (Updated | Jan 2nd)
Is your back still aching from last winter’s shoveling marathon? We’ve been there, and we know that finding reliable help without breaking the bank is tough. You shouldn’t have to choose between eating ramen for a month or clearing your driveway. We’ve sifted through endless specs and user reviews to bring you the absolute best snow blowers under $500. Get ready to reclaim your weekends and stay ahead of the storm with a machine that actually fits your budget.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for best corded value: MZK 15.9-Inch Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower with 20ft Throwing Distance
- Best for dual motor cordless: KAFKESC Cordless Snow Shovel
- Best for best illuminated option: SONTHIOW 13.5″ Electric Snow Shovel
- Best for editor’s choice: Greenworks 80V (75+ Compatible Tools) 20” Brushless Cordless Snow Blower
- Best for best self-propelled: AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Self-Propelled Snow Blower with 212cc Engine
- Best for most powerful corded: Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch
- Best for wide cordless path: Cordless Snow Blower
- Best for lightweight shovel: MZK Cordless Snow Shovel
- Best for longest throw distance: AMERISUN 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
- Best for best cordless kit: Westinghouse WSnow18 48V Cordless Snow Blower 18 Inch Kit
Product Comparison: Best Snow Blower Under 500
Best Corded Value
MZK 15.9-Inch Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower with 20ft Throwing Distance, Electric Snow Blower with 13-Amp Motor,Directional Chute Control, Black
MZK
The MZK 15.9-Inch Electric Snow Blower offers a powerful solution for winter maintenance with its robust 13-AMP motor. Featuring a 15.9-inch clearing width and 10-inch snow depth capacity, it handles light to moderate snowfall efficiently. The unit throws snow up to 20 feet, making it perfect for driveways and sidewalks. Its lightweight design ensures easy maneuverability in tight spaces, while the electric start eliminates the need for gas or complicated maintenance. The durable rubber auger cleans surfaces thoroughly without causing damage, providing a reliable, user-friendly option for quick and effective snow removal this season.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Easy electric start
- Lightweight design
- Maintenance-free motor
- Durable rubber auger
- Good throwing distance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Corded mobility limits
- Not for heavy snow
Dual Motor Cordless
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
Experience cordless freedom with the KAFKESC Cordless Snow Shovel, featuring dual 20V brushless motors for reliable performance. This unit clears a 13-inch wide path and 6-inch deep snow, ideal for decks, steps, and walkways. With a quiet operation, you can clear snow early in the morning without disturbing neighbors. It throws snow up to 20 feet, reducing physical strain and fatigue. The safety lock design prevents accidental starts, while the ergonomic handle ensures comfort during use. Includes two 4.0Ah batteries, providing up to 40 minutes of runtime to get the job done efficiently.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- True cordless convenience
- Quiet motor operation
- Included dual batteries
- Safety lock feature
- Ergonomic handle design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow clearing path
- Shorter battery runtime
Best Illuminated Option
SONTHIOW 13.5″ Electric Snow Shovel, 20V Brushless Snow Shovel, Includes 4.0 Ah Battery and Quick Charger, Cordless Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle
SONTHIOW
The SONTHIOW 13.5-Inch Electric Snow Shovel combines portability with impressive power, weighing only 12 lbs for effortless handling. Powered by a 40V brushless motor and a 4.0Ah battery, it throws snow up to 30 feet, clearing spaces rapidly. The 13.5-inch width and 8-inch depth capacity make it perfect for small areas like patios and sidewalks. Features include a 2-step assembly, 30-degree rotatable chute, and dual safety switch for secure operation. Its quiet performance allows for use at any hour, while the ergonomic design minimizes back strain during prolonged winter clearing tasks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra lightweight unit
- Long throw distance
- Includes battery charger
- Rotatable snow guide
- Quiet operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Smaller clearing width
- Limited battery life
Editor’s Choice
Greenworks 80V (75+ Compatible Tools) 20” Brushless Cordless Snow Blower, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included
Greenworks
The Greenworks 80V Cordless Snow Blower offers a perfect balance of power and convenience for winter maintenance. Its brushless motor ensures quiet operation while delivering consistent performance to clear driveways and sidewalks efficiently. With a 20-inch clearing path, it handles up to 10 inches of snow depth, making it ideal for moderate winter conditions. The 180-degree rotating chute allows customizable snow displacement, giving you precise control. Being cordless, it eliminates the hassle of gas or extension cords. This battery-powered unit is part of a versatile system, ensuring you get reliable, eco-friendly performance every time you need it.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless convenience
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance motor
- Adjustable chute direction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Battery runtime limits
- Higher initial cost
Best 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
Tackle heavy snowfall with the AMERISUN 24-Inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower, designed for demanding residential use. Powered by a robust 212cc engine, it effortlessly cuts through wet and packed snow. The 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height allow you to move large volumes of snow quickly. Featuring self-propelled drive with six forward and two reverse speeds, it handles icy slopes and steep driveways with ease. The electric start ensures reliable ignition in freezing temperatures. An LED headlight and 180-degree adjustable chute enhance visibility and control, making this machine a powerful ally during severe winter storms.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful gas engine
- Self-propelled drive
- Wide clearing path
- Reliable electric start
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy to maneuver
- Requires gas maintenance
Most Powerful Corded
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 provides a robust solution for quick and efficient snow removal. Its 1800-watt electric motor throws up to 680 pounds of snow per minute, clearing a 20-inch wide path with ease. The rubber-tipped steel auger ensures safe operation on various surfaces, while the lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver. Equipped with dual LED headlights, it offers excellent visibility for early morning or nighttime clearing. Simply plug it in to power up, and enjoy a maintenance-free experience. Backed by a 2-year warranty, it is a reliable choice for homeowners.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Unlimited runtime corded
- Lightweight design
- Bright LED lights
- Low maintenance required
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited by cord length
- Requires outlet access
Wide Cordless Path
Cordless Snow Blower, Electric Snow Thrower 19 Inch, 40V 4.0Ah Battery Powered Snow Removal, 1500W Brushless Motor 25FT Throw Distance for Driveway Patio – Green
etoolab
This cordless snow blower from etoolab features a powerful 1500W brushless motor that spins at 3000rpm, making it capable of clearing a 19-inch wide path effortlessly. It runs on a 40V 4.0Ah battery, providing up to 25 minutes of runtime to handle about twelve parking spaces on a single charge. The unit is designed for easy operation with smooth-gliding wheels and a lightweight build. It functions reliably in temperatures as low as -13°F. This tool is ideal for removing fresh snow from driveways, patios, and sidewalks without the hassle of gas or cords.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful brushless motor
- Cordless convenience
- Works in extreme cold
- Clears deep snow well
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited run time
- Not for wet snow
Lightweight Shovel
MZK Cordless Snow Shovel, 20V 13-Inch Battery Powered Snow Thrower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle(2 * 4.0Ah Li-ion Battery & Fast Charger Included), SS13D12
MZK
The MZK Cordless Snow Shovel offers a lightweight and manageable solution for winter snow maintenance. Weighing only 9.15 pounds, this unit is incredibly easy to maneuver, reducing fatigue compared to traditional shovels. It features a 13-inch clearing width and an adjustable chute that rotates 30 degrees to direct snow precisely where you want it. Powered by a 20V 4Ah battery, it provides nearly 25 minutes of runtime, which is sufficient for clearing small areas like decks, patios, and walkways. The fast-charging battery ensures you are ready to go again quickly.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely lightweight design
- Adjustable snow chute
- Decent battery life
- Fast charging support
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow clearing path
- Shorter battery life
Longest Throw Distance
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-inch Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower is a robust machine designed for heavy-duty snow removal. Its powerful 212cc engine tackles deep and wet snow efficiently, clearing a 24-inch wide path with a 20-inch intake height. The self-propelled system features six forward and two reverse speeds, allowing you to handle steep driveways with ease. Equipped with an electric start, it fires up instantly in freezing temperatures. The 180-degree rotating chute and LED headlight enhance visibility and control, making this snow blower a reliable choice for large areas and harsh winter storms.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful gas engine
- Self-propelled drive system
- Electric start feature
- Wide clearing path
- LED headlight included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier to maneuver
- Requires gas maintenance
Best Cordless Kit
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 is a cordless snow blower equipped with a robust 1200W brushless motor and a steel auger for efficient snow removal. It clears an 18-inch wide and 10-inch deep path, throwing snow up to 25 feet away. This model includes two 24V batteries and a fast charger, offering 15 minutes of runtime to handle moderate snowfall. The 180-degree adjustable chute and integrated LED light allow for precise snow direction and safe operation at night. Its cord-free design and easy maneuverability make it perfect for maintaining driveways, walkways, and decks throughout the winter season.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Brushless motor power
- Includes two batteries
- Adjustable chute rotation
- LED light for safety
- Safe for decks
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Short run time
- Not for heavy snow
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 features are most important when choosing a snow blower under $500?
Focus on the engine power and clearing width, as lower-priced models often have smaller motors. Electric start is a convenient feature to look for, while adjustable chute direction helps control snow throwing. Ensure the build quality is durable enough to handle wet or heavy snow.
Should I choose a single-stage or two-stage snow blower in this price range?
Most options under $500 are single-stage models, which are lighter and easier to maneuver. Two-stage blowers are generally more expensive but better for heavy, wet snow or large driveways. For moderate snowfall and smaller areas, a single-stage model is usually sufficient.
How do gas and electric snow blowers compare under $500?
Gas models offer more power and longer run times but require maintenance and fuel. Electric models are quieter, lighter, and easier to start but may struggle with deep or heavy snow. Choose based on your snowfall intensity and preference for maintenance versus convenience.
What clearing width should I aim for in this budget?
Look for a clearing width between 18 to 22 inches for effective performance without overpaying. Narrower widths are better for tight spaces, while wider ones clear driveways faster. Balance width with the machine’s weight to ensure it’s manageable for you.
Are there any additional costs I should consider?
Gas models require ongoing fuel and oil changes, while electric models may need extension cords. Consider the cost of replacement parts like belts or shear pins over time. Some models may also require assembly, which could add to the overall cost.
How do I determine the best value for my needs?
Compare customer reviews for reliability and performance in real-world conditions. Look for warranties and customer support as indicators of long-term value. Prioritize features that match your typical snowfall, such as higher intake height for deeper snow.