4 Best Cordless Snow Blowers, According to Experts and Testing
Updated: Jun. 03, 2024
The best cordless snow blower delivers the same flurry-flinging power as gas or electric models, but without the noise, vibrations or fumes.
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The best cordless snow blower effectively clears patios, driveways and sidewalks of the snowy effects of winter, making it an optimal snow removal tool. We love the convenience and portability cordless snow blowers have over gas-powered snow blowers. After all, you don’t have to deal with the pain of countless oil changes or filling up yet another gas tank (isn’t your car enough to worry about?).
“One significant advantage of using cordless snow blowers is their portability. Cordless models are highly maneuverable and don’t require noxious gas or a power outlet, allowing users to clear snow from various areas with ease,” notes Brian​ Gutierrez from Snow Joe.
Ready to see our favorites after months of testing? Check it out below.
Best Overall Cordless Snow Blower
Snow Joe Cordless Snow Blower Kit
Pros:
- Ion+ 24V lithium-ion battery system
- LED headlights
- Simple to use
- Scraper bar at base
Cons:
- Run time may be shorter in heavy, wet snow
Stages: Single | Clearing width: 18 in. | Optimal clearing depth: 10 in. | Rated throw: 20 ft. | Chute rotation turning radius: 180° | Self-propelled: No
The Snow Joe Cordless Snow Blower features a heavy-duty, rubber-tipped steel auger to clear paths 18 inches wide and 10 inches deep.
The single-stage machine features a powerful brushless motor that removes up to 10 tons of snow per charge. Plus, the Snow Joe Cordless Snow Blower runs on batteries instead of gas, which helps eliminate carbon emissions. We tested the Snow Joe blower and found it could handle almost any winter blizzard.
Family Handyman Editor Ethan O’Donnell tested this machine in Minnesota’s harsh conditions and found it worked well on heavy and wet snow and had plenty of power. The machine was lightweight, easy to maneuver, sturdy and cleared the snow with ease.
Best Single Stage Cordless Snow Blower
Worx Power Share
Pros:
- Weighs under 50 pounds
- LED headlights
- Collapsible handle for storage
- Comes with two 40V batteries
Cons:
- Customers may receive either an orange or black blower
Stages: Single | Clearing width: 20 in. | Optimal clearing depth: 10 in. | Rated throw: 20 ft. | Chute rotation turning radius: 180° | Self-propelled: No
Those looking for a snow blower with gas-like power (minus the fumes and maintenance), listen up! The Worx Power Share Cordless Snow Blower delivers serious power in a compact package. Compatible with all Worx 20-volt and 40-volt tools (including the editor-tested robotic lawn mower), the two included batteries boast about 20 feet of snow-throwing thrust in a single pass.
I put the Worx snow blower through vigorous testing while reviewing six cordless snow blowers. The blower was easy to assemble and light enough to lift in and out of a pickup truck easily. The chute control at the handle worked well and was an added bonus!
The blower had a super wide clearing path and blasted through the snow, both heavy and wet snow as well as deep snow. It was even able to handle snow removal on a dirt driveway. On one battery charge, I was able to clear a medium-sized driveway, patio, and sidewalk. You can read the full review here.
Best Two Stage Cordless Snow Blower
Ego Power+ Cordless Two-Stage
Pros:
- Breaks up snow and ice with ease
- Joystick chute control
- Steel construction
- Self-propelled
Cons:
- More expensive than other models
Stages: Two | Clearing width: 24 in. | Optimal clearing depth: 18 in. | Rated throw: 50 ft. | Chute rotation turning radius: 200° | Self-propelled: Yes
The Ego Power+ Cordless Two-Stage Snow Blower blows away the competition (and the snow around your home). This well-constructed machine lets you side-step noxious exhaust, ear-piercing noise and the maintenance of a gas-powered snow blower without compromising on output.
Featuring Peak Power Technology, the Ego Power+ uses heavy-duty lithium batteries to clear snow up to 8 inches deep (on paved and unpaved surfaces) and send it as far as 50 feet away. The Ego can be used with one or both batteries, offering extended run time. It even offers a commercial warranty, meaning that this machine is built to last.
The Ego two-stage blower passed stringent test protocols and absolutely stood out as a top performer. Its styling and features were top-notch.
The self-propulsion was easy to understand, and it even had a reverse and left and right-hand turn controls, which I loved. The forward and reverse self -propulsion were variable speed, which was convenient for both long runs and tight spaces. The knobby tires allowed me to climb mountains of snow with this ultra-powerful machine. Oh, and did I mention the hand warmers? The hand warmers worked so well that I didn’t wear gloves while testing this machine. What a treat!
Best Compact Cordless Snow Blower
Greenworks Snow Blower
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Narrow width is ideal for tight spaces
- Sturdy
- Very powerful
Cons:
- No headlights
Stages: Single| Clearing width: 16 in.| Optimal clearing depth: 8 in.| Rated throw: 20 ft.| Chute rotation turning radius: 180°| Self-propelled: No
I loved this small Greenworks snow blower. It threw snow at least the 20-foot distance claimed by the manufacturer. It ran quietly, and the battery still had juice after 45 minutes of heavy use. The snow blower is capable of clearing up to eight inches of snow, and I tested it on over half a foot of snow.
The 40v of power and the narrow clearing path allowed me to plow through the deep and sometimes crusty snow. It worked well on a dirt driveway and deck, too. Even when I hit really tough, icy spots, I could push it through the snow with minimal effort. Its small size allowed for easy maneuverability.
The Greenworks snow blower has no controls at the handle and the chute rotation and angle must be adjusted at the base. However, this was not a deterrent at all. I found it easy to reach the controls due to the small size, and rotating and adjusting the chute felt very sturdy compared to some handle controls.
How We Found the Best Cordless Snow Blowers
To find the best cordless snow blowers, the Family Handyman team first consulted with snow experts. This helped determine exactly what to look for when it comes to stage, snow throwing distance, battery voltage, snow conditions, landscape, and usage. After that, we put several to the test, including the Snow Joe Cordless Snow Blower, which became our top pick. We also tested the Worx, Greenworks, and Ego snow blowers. From there, we compared other models to our top pick, looking for similarities and improvements upon our gold standard.
Once our research was finished, we finally had it: a list of the best cordless snow blowers available, sorted by their best features.
How We Plowed Our Way Through Snow Blower Testing
We created a standardized testing procedure in which to test the snow blowers against. Testing measured such things as length of time to charge batteries, battery run length, and power of battery when compared to the size of the machine in order to ensure that there is sufficient power for the device.
We also looked at assembly and overall construction. Of course, no snow blower test would be complete without clearing snow. We worked on all kinds of conditions—light, heavy and icy snow on a variety of surfaces such as dirt, gravel, concrete, pavers and decks. We looked for clearing ability, throwing distance, usability and maneuverability. Lastly, we cleaned up the blowers and stowed them.
What to Consider When Buying a Cordless Snow Blower
Cordless models don’t expend quite as much power as corded electric blowers do, but they’re a good choice if you have a small- or medium-sized yard to clear. Be blizzard-ready with this collection of the top cordless snow blowers to dig your way out of the white stuff.
Before purchasing a cordless snow blower of your very own, here are the main things you should consider, according to Gutierrez:
- Clearing width and depth: Consider the clearing width and depth that matches the size of your driveway or walkway. A wider and deeper clearing path can save you time.
- Snow throwing distance (from chute):Â Evaluate how far the snow blower can throw snow from the chute. Ensure it can reach the desired distance for efficient snow removal. A directional chute lets you control the direction of the snow stream.
- Size of property:Â For larger properties, you may need a snow blower with a larger clearing footprint and a longer battery runtime. Consider having spare batteries on hand, preferably with higher amp-hour configurations, to complete the job effectively.
- Weight: Assess the weight of the snow blower to ensure it’s manageable for your physical strength and easy to maneuver. Heavier models might be challenging for some users. Consider a lightweight cordless snow shovel for quick snow pickups on steps, decks and sidewalks.
- Comfort (handle height):Â Pay attention to the ergonomics and handle height. Comfort is crucial during extended operation, so choose a model that suits your comfort preferences.
- Stage type (single or double):Â Decide between single-stage and two-stage models based on the type of snow you typically encounter. Single-stage blowers are suitable for lighter snow, while two-stage models handle heavier, compacted snow better.
- Storage space available: Ensure you have enough storage space for the snow blower, as some cordless models can be bulkier than others when not in use.
- Price:Â Determine your budget and prioritize features that are essential for your specific needs. While cordless snow blowers offer convenience, prices can vary, so choose a model that fits your budget while meeting your requirements.
Why You Should Trust Us
I’ve had my hands on over half a dozen of the top snow blowers this year. I’ve tested all of them in all kinds of conditions. As a homeowner of both mountain and plains homes in Colorado, I’ve had my share of snow to remove and snow blowers are a must. I’ve worked in professional snow removal as the owner of a landscaping company and I’m currently doing outdoor power equipment reviews for Family Handyman using standardized testing procedures.
FAQ
How long do cordless snow blower batteries last?
Batteries on a cordless snow blower can last anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes per charge. Check the specific model of cordless snow blower you own to determine the size of the battery and average run time.
Are cordless snow blowers loud?
Luckily, you likely won’t wake up the neighbors with a cordless snow blower—these machines tend to run much quieter than gas models.
“Cordless snow blowers are generally quieter than their gas-powered counterparts,” says Gutierrez. “This reduced noise level is a key advantage, especially for residential areas where noise pollution can be a concern.”
How do I store a cordless snow blower?
Cordless snow blowers can be stored outside or in a garage or shed. Snow that is left on the machine when you store it may freeze and prevent the blower’s moving parts from running so you’ll want to be sure to remove any snow before storing. Also, batteries should be kept in a temperature controlled area since most batteries require a certain temperature range to both charge and run.
Originally Published: March 25, 2024
