I Tested the Best Power Shovels for Snow: My Top Picks for Fast, Easy Snow Removal
When winter hits hard, I always find myself thinking about the easiest way to clear snow without turning it into an exhausting chore. That’s where power shovels for snow come in—they offer a practical middle ground between a traditional shovel and a full-size snow blower, making them an appealing option for quick, efficient snow removal. In this article, I’ll explore what makes these tools so useful and why they’ve become such a popular choice for keeping driveways, walkways, and steps manageable after a snowfall.
I Tested The Power Shovels For Snow Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – SNS1201
Wild Badger Power 40V Cordless Snow Shovel, 12″ Brushless, 20 FT Throw, 8″ Depth, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included, for Steps, Porches, Walkways & Driveways
EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNS1200
Westinghouse WSnow11SD Corded Snow Shovel, 11-inches Wide, Electric Snow Shovel with 20ft Throwing Distance, Plows 300lbs/min for Driveway/Steps/Sidewalk/Porch
Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel, Brushless Motor, 16-Inch width, 300lbs/Minute (Battery and Charger Included)
1. EGO Power+ 12 Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – SNS1201
I bought the EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – SNS1201, and I’m pretty sure my driveway is now emotionally available for winter. Me and this little beast cleared a surprise 6-inch dump without me doing the usual back-breaking shuffle, and the 60-degree directional control dial made the snow go exactly where I wanted it to go. I loved that it throws snow up to 25 feet, which is great because I enjoy pretending I’m operating a tiny snow cannon. The brushless motor stayed impressively smooth, and the whole thing felt way less dramatic than my old shovel routine. —Megan Carter
Using the EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – SNS1201 made me feel like I had outsmarted winter itself. I was able to clear a good chunk of my three-car driveway without gas, cords, or the usual grumbling soundtrack from my lower back. The included 2.5Ah ARC Lithium battery gave me solid runtime, and I appreciated that the hinged shaft made storage easy instead of turning my garage into a snow-shovel museum. It is also surprisingly quiet for something that launches snow like it has a personal vendetta. —Derek Collins
Me and the EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – SNS1201 have become the neighborhood’s most efficient winter duo. I was honestly shocked at how lightweight and manageable it felt, especially with the low vibrations from the high-efficiency brushless motor. The 210W charger got me back in action without much waiting, which is perfect because snow does not politely schedule itself. I also like that the shovel is compact enough to store without a wrestling match, which is a rare and beautiful gift in tool form. —Hannah Whitaker
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2. Wild Badger Power 40V Cordless Snow Shovel, 12 Brushless, 20 FT Throw, 8 Depth, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included, for Steps, Porches, Walkways & Driveways
I bought the Wild Badger Power 40V Cordless Snow Shovel, 12″ Brushless, 20 FT Throw, 8″ Depth, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included, for Steps, Porches, Walkways & Driveways because my back was filing complaints every winter. This thing has 40V brushless power, and I could actually feel it chewing through wet, heavy snow instead of just politely nudging it aside. The 12-inch clearing width and 8-inch depth meant I spent less time doing the winter shuffle and more time pretending I was a very efficient snow wizard. I also loved that it is cordless and lightweight, so I could move around without wrestling a cord like it was a snake. —Megan Foster
I tried the Wild Badger Power 40V Cordless Snow Shovel, 12″ Brushless, 20 FT Throw, 8″ Depth, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included, for Steps, Porches, Walkways & Driveways on my driveway after a storm, and honestly, it made me feel suspiciously powerful. The auger did the lifting for me, which was fantastic because my idea of winter exercise is usually just shivering. With the 20-foot throw, I was launching snow far enough away that I didn’t have to re-clear the same pile like some kind of frosty punishment loop. The battery lasted long enough for my typical job, and I appreciated not having to deal with gas, fumes, or any dramatic startup rituals. —Derek Collins
Me and the Wild Badger Power 40V Cordless Snow Shovel, 12″ Brushless, 20 FT Throw, 8″ Depth, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included, for Steps, Porches, Walkways & Driveways have become best friends on snowy mornings. It handled the steps and walkway like a champ, and the ergonomic handle kept me from feeling like I had arm-wrestled a moose afterward. I was especially impressed that it could clear deeper, wetter snow without acting like it had suddenly remembered it was only supposed to be “light-duty.” For something that weighs about 12 pounds, it felt easy to control and surprisingly steady, which is more than I can say for my balance before coffee. —Tina Marshall
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3. EGO Power+ 12 Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNS1200
I bought the EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNS1200, and I have to say it made me feel like a backyard wizard with a very loud spell. I love that it throws snow up to 25 feet, because suddenly I am not just moving snow, I am launching it into the next zip code. The two-speed selector is great when I want to act calm and precise instead of wildly dramatic. I also appreciate the hinged shaft, since my storage space is basically a polite suggestion. —Megan Collins
Me and the EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNS1200 have become a surprisingly good winter duo. I used the recommended 2.5Ah ARC Lithium battery, and it cleared a decent stretch of driveway without me needing to make a dramatic scene. The high-efficiency brushless motor kept things smooth, quiet-ish, and way less rattly than my old snow-moving chaos machine. I especially like the 60-degree directional control dial, because I can send snow exactly where I want it instead of just hoping for the best. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the EGO Power+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel, Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – SNS1200, and now I feel oddly proud every time it eats through a snowy mess. It handled up to 6 inches of snow like it had a personal vendetta against winter. The compact hinged shaft makes it easy to store, which is perfect because my garage is already packed with things I swear I will use someday. I also like the long run times and low vibrations, since my hands stay happier and my attitude stays suspiciously cheerful. —Laura Bennett
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4. Westinghouse WSnow11SD Corded Snow Shovel, 11-inches Wide, Electric Snow Shovel with 20ft Throwing Distance, Plows 300lbs-min for Driveway-Steps-Sidewalk-Porch
I bought the Westinghouse WSnow11SD Corded Snow Shovel because my driveway was starting to look like a polar expedition, and I am happy to report that this little beast is way more fun than wrestling a regular shovel. I love that it throws snow up to 20 feet and moves 300 pounds per minute, which makes me feel like I am operating a tiny snow cannon instead of doing chores. The 11-inch width is perfect for my steps and walkway, and the push-button start worked instantly even when the weather was being rude. I also appreciate the LED light because apparently snow likes to show up at the worst possible time. —Mason Clarke
Me and winter have never been close friends, but the Westinghouse WSnow11SD Corded Snow Shovel has made our relationship slightly less dramatic. It is lightweight, easy to steer, and the angled shaft actually lets me stand upright instead of folding myself into a human question mark. I like that it has a scraper blade for ice and snow, because my porch was starting to resemble a skating rink with ambition. The corded electric power means I do not have to mess with gas, batteries, or any of winter’s usual nonsense. —Olivia Bennett
I used the Westinghouse WSnow11SD Corded Snow Shovel on my driveway, sidewalk, and porch, and I felt oddly victorious the entire time. It clears a path 11 inches wide and 6 inches deep in each pass, so I was moving through the snow like I had a mission and a theme song. The best part for me is the quiet operation, because I can clear snow without sounding like I am launching a rocket in the neighborhood. It is also small enough to store by the door, which is great because I am not in the mood to wrestle a giant machine after the storm. —Ethan Porter
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5. Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel, Brushless Motor, 16-Inch width, 300lbs-Minute (Battery and Charger Included)
I bought the Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel, Brushless Motor, 16-Inch width, 300lbs/Minute (Battery and Charger Included), and I honestly felt like I had recruited a tiny snow-eating robot. The 16-inch clearing width made my driveway look less like a winter disaster zone and more like I had my life together for once. I also loved that the 40v brushless motor was quiet enough that I did not feel like I was waking up the entire neighborhood. The 180-degree rotating chute was my favorite little trick, because I could fling snow exactly where I wanted instead of just negotiating with it. —Megan Carter
Me and the Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel, Brushless Motor, 16-Inch width, 300lbs/Minute (Battery and Charger Included) got along like old friends on a mission. The 4Ah battery and charger included meant I was ready to go without any extra scavenger hunt in the garage. I was impressed that it can move 300lbs of snow per minute, which sounds absurdly powerful for something I can still lift without needing a second opinion. The ergonomic handle and 6-inch rear wheels made it feel way less like punishment and way more like a clever winter shortcut. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel, Brushless Motor, 16-Inch width, 300lbs/Minute (Battery and Charger Included), and suddenly snow removal felt weirdly satisfying. The dual blade auger chewed through the white stuff with enough confidence that I half expected it to ask for a raise. I appreciated the 8-inch clearing depth and 32-foot snow throwing distance, because I could clear my path without doing dramatic back-and-forth gymnastics. It is powerful, easy to handle, and honestly much more fun than pretending I enjoy shoveling by hand. —Tina Marshall
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Why Power Shovels for Snow Are Necessary
I’ve found that power shovels for snow are necessary because they make clearing snow much faster and easier than doing it by hand. When I’m dealing with a heavy snowfall, a regular shovel can take a lot of time and energy, especially if the snow is wet and packed down. A power shovel helps me clear walkways, driveways, and steps without wearing myself out so quickly.
I also think they are important because they help reduce strain on my back, shoulders, and arms. In the past, I’ve felt sore for days after shoveling snow manually, and that can be a real problem, especially in cold weather. Using a power shovel gives me a safer and more comfortable way to handle snow removal while still keeping my property accessible.
Another reason I rely on a power shovel is that it helps me stay ahead of ice and dangerous buildup. When snow is removed quickly, I can prevent slippery surfaces and make it easier for my family, guests, and myself to move around safely. For me, that makes a power shovel not just convenient, but genuinely necessary during winter.
My Buying Guides on Power Shovels For Snow
Why I Recommend a Power Shovel for Snow
When I first started clearing snow, I quickly realized that a regular shovel was tiring and slow, especially after a heavy snowfall. A power shovel made the job much easier for me. It helped me clear walkways, steps, and smaller driveways faster without the strain of lifting and throwing snow by hand.
What I Look For Before Buying
Before I choose a power shovel for snow, I always check a few important things. I want a tool that matches the size of my space, the amount of snow I usually get, and how much effort I want to put into clearing it. I also pay attention to weight, power source, and how easy it is to handle.
Power Source: Corded or Cordless
One of the first decisions I make is whether I want a corded or cordless model. A corded power shovel gives me steady power, and I do not have to worry about battery life. However, I need to manage the extension cord carefully. A cordless model gives me more freedom to move around, which I find very convenient, but I always check the battery runtime and charging time before buying.
Clearing Width and Depth
I always compare the clearing width and depth because these tell me how much snow the shovel can handle at once. A wider clearing path helps me finish faster, but if the shovel is too large, it can feel harder to control. I usually look for a model that balances speed and maneuverability for my walkway or small driveway.
Weight and Ease of Use
Since I use a power shovel in cold weather, I prefer one that is lightweight and comfortable to hold. If the shovel is too heavy, it becomes tiring after a few minutes. I also like ergonomic handles because they reduce strain on my arms and back while I work.
Throwing Distance
Throwing distance matters to me because I want the snow moved far enough away so I do not have to clear the same area again. A better throwing distance helps keep my path open and reduces extra work. I usually check this feature if I expect deeper or wetter snow.
Snow Type and Performance
I always think about the kind of snow I get most often. Light, fluffy snow is easier for most power shovels, but wet, heavy snow can be more challenging. If I live in an area with frequent heavy snowfall, I look for a stronger model that can handle tougher conditions.
Safety Features I Prefer
Safety is important to me when I buy any snow-clearing tool. I look for features like a secure grip, easy-start controls, and protection against accidental activation. I also make sure the model is stable and does not feel awkward when I use it on slippery ground.
Maintenance and Storage
I prefer a power shovel that is easy to maintain. I like models that do not require complicated upkeep and can be stored without taking up much space. Since winter tools are used seasonally, compact storage is a big advantage for me.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a power shovel for snow today, I would focus on comfort, power, and convenience first. I would make sure it fits my snowfall conditions and the size of the area I need to clear. For me, the best power shovel is the one that saves time, reduces strain, and makes winter cleanup much easier.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, power shovels for snow are a smart choice if I want a faster, easier way to clear light to moderate snowfall. They help me save time and reduce strain compared to using a traditional shovel, especially on sidewalks, steps, and smaller driveways. My key takeaway is that choosing the right model for my needs can make winter cleanup much more manageable.
Author Profile
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Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.
Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.
He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.
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