Best Snow Blowers For Winters
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How I researched
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I compared current manufacturer specs for clearing width/intake height, throwing distance, drive systems, and warranties across leading models.
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I prioritized models commonly available to U.S. shoppers and cross-checked retailer listings for key details like intake height and gearbox warranty.
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I included one single-stage pick for paved drives and lighter storms, and verified performance claims (engine size, throwing distance).
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For battery models, I verified runtime/“cars cleared” claims and kit contents (batteries/charger).
Top picks
1. EGO Power+ SNT2405 (24″ two-stage, self-propelled) — Best battery two-stage
A legit gas replacement for many homes. EGO’s 24″ two-stage uses two 56V batteries (Peak Power), throws impressively, and is rated to clear a large driveway on a charge with the recommended battery kit. It’s quiet, push-button start, and no fuel/oil hassles.
- Peak Power technology combines the power of 2 EGO 56V 7.5 Ah ARC Lithium batteries
- Throws snow up to 50 ft.
- Clear an 18 car driveway with 8" of snow on a single charge
Pros
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24″ x 20″ intake; variable-speed self-propel forward/reverse
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Long throwing distance; sturdy steel build
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No fumes, low maintenance; excellent for attached garages
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Convenient kit bundles with batteries/charger
Cons
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Runtime depends on snow type and battery size; heavy, wet snow shortens range
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Heavier than single-stage; batteries add upfront cost
2. Husqvarna ST224 — Best value gas two-stage workhorse
A classic 24″ two-stage for deeper, heavier snow. You get a friction-disc drive, high-speed impeller, a tall intake, and a durable gearbox. It’s a straightforward, long-running pick for tough winters.
- Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower with a 24-inch clearing width is designed for homeowners who need a high-performing cordless snow thrower to clear snow from large driveways and paths
- Engine Specs: A powerful snow removal machine with a hydrostatic transmission; a 5.9-HP, 212-cc engine with electronic fuel injection; throttle control to idle down the engine when it's not clearing; and a two-stage system for extra long throwing distance
- Easily Accessible Controls: Snow blower with a push button electric starter; a rotator to rotate the chute; a lever for changing the chute’s vertical throwing direction; and an easy-to-adjust speed control lever
Pros
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24″ clearing width with robust augers/impeller
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Tall intake and metal gearbox; long gearbox warranty on many listings
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Power steering and LED lighting on many configurations
Cons
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More maintenance (fuel, oil, storage) vs. battery
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Heavier to maneuver than single-stage on tight patios
3. Ariens Compact 24 RapidTrak (920032) — Best for steep or icy hills
Tracks = traction. Ariens’ RapidTrak system lets you run as a tracked unit for grip or drop into a wheeled-like mode for quicker turning. With a 24″ width and a tall housing, it’s ideal for hilly drives and freeze–thaw ice.
- 223cc Ariens AX Engine
Pros
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Switchable RapidTrak for traction or maneuverability
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24″ clearing width; tall housing for deeper snow
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All-steel construction with remote chute control
Cons
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Pricier and heavier than wheeled compacts
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Tracks can require more upkeep (tension/rollers) over time
Buying guide
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Match stage to snow.
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Single-stage: paved surfaces, frequent 3–9″ storms, speed matters.
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Two-stage: heavier/wetter snow, taller berms, longer drives. Tracks help on hills/ice.
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Choose your power.
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Battery: push-button start, low noise, zero fumes; plan for runtime and extra packs for big storms.
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Gas: longer sessions without recharging; more maintenance and storage care.
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Widths & intake height. Wider = fewer passes; taller intake helps with drifted/plow-packed snow.
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Drive & traction. Self-propel eases heavy machines; tracks add hill/ice grip.
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Ergonomics. Look for easy chute controls, heated grips (nice-to-have), LED lights, and serviceable shear bolts/gear cases.
FAQs
Q: Battery two-stage or gas—what’s right for me?
A: If your storms are typically ≤8–10″ and you value low maintenance, battery two-stage models feel “gas-like” with push-button ease. Long rural drives or back-to-back blizzards still favor gas for unlimited runtime.
Q: Do I need tracks?
A: Only if you fight hills, ice, or steep aprons. Switchable track systems give you traction when you need it and easier turning when you don’t.
Q: Single-stage on gravel—safe or not?
A: Generally no. Single-stage paddles contact the surface and can throw stones. Use a two-stage with skid shoes on gravel.
Q: How wide should I go?
A: For a two-car driveway, 24–26″ is a nice balance of speed and maneuverability. Go wider only if you have room to turn and store it.
Q: What about throwing distance numbers?
A: Treat them as ballpark and snow-type dependent. Battery two-stages can throw impressively far; single-stages slightly less, but still plenty for most driveways.
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