Best Electric Snow Shovels for Easy Snow Removal
Electric snow shovels offer a clean, maintenance-friendly alternative to gas-powered units, delivering quick clearing for lighter to moderate snowfall without cords trailing behind you. This guide highlights five top-rated electric models that balance power, portability, and value for American homes. Whether you need to clear a small driveway, a set of steps, or a sidewalk, these picks cover different widths, throwing distances, and battery configurations to fit varying winter routines. The quick-spec table below helps with side-by-side comparisons, followed by in-depth product analyses and a buying guide to aid your decision.
| Product | Brand | Width (in) | Throw Distance | Battery Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snow Joe 24V Cordless Snow Shovel Kit | Snow Joe | 13 | Up to 20 ft | Yes |
| Earthwise SN74016 40V Cordless Snow Shovel | Earthwise Power Tools by ALM | 16 | Up to 32 ft | Yes |
| Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Snow Shovel | Greenworks | 12 | Not specified | Yes |
| Westinghouse WSnow13S Cordless Snow Shovel Kit | Westinghouse | 13 | Up to 20 ft | Yes |
| VOLTASK 24V 13-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel | VOLTASK | 13 | Up to 20 ft | Yes |
Snow Joe 24V Cordless Snow Shovel Kit
Snow Joe’s 24V cordless snow shovel kit focuses on fast, cord-free snow clearing with simple operation. The 400W motor is designed to move heavy snowfall efficiently, while the shovel’s 13-inch width enables precise passes across steps, porches, and narrow sidewalks. This model is notable for its high clearance rate, capable of moving up to 1,620 pounds of snow per charge, which translates to quicker turns around a compact clearing path. The kit includes a 4.0 Ah IONMAX battery and a fast charger, ensuring you’re ready for back-to-back snow days without hunting for outlets.
With a throwing reach of up to 20 feet, users can push snow away from entryways without standing directly in the path. The design emphasizes portability and ease of use: light enough to maneuver around railings and stairs, yet powerful enough to handle typical residential snows. The Snow Joe kit is well-suited for small driveways, decks, and walkway maintenance during light to moderate snowfall. For households already using Snow Joe batteries or seeking a compact, all-electric option, this model balances performance and convenience.
Earthwise SN74016 40V Cordless Snow Shovel
Earthwise SN74016 pairs a 40-volt brushless motor with a 16-inch clearing width to balance throughput and maneuverability. The brushless design typically yields quieter operation and longer life, which suits routine use around entryways and sidewalks. With a reported 32-foot snow throwing distance and a 300 pounds-per-minute clearing rate, this model handles typical winter accumulation efficiently. Battery life is enhanced by including a 4Ah Earthwise battery and charger in the package, allowing rapid setup and lengthy sessions without frequent recharging.
The 16-inch width offers a practical compromise between broad coverage and the ability to navigate around obstacles such as cars, planters, and steps. The unit’s weight and balance are geared toward comfortable operation over extended sessions, making it a compelling option for homeowners who often face back-to-back snow events. It is particularly suitable for medium-sized driveways and mid-sized sidewalks where frequent passes are beneficial.
Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Snow Shovel
Greenworks presents a compact, 12-inch cordless snow shovel designed for quick, low-effort snow removal. The 40V platform ensures dependable power for light to medium snowfall, while the 12-inch width keeps passes tight enough to navigate patios, steps, and narrow sidewalks. The package includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger, and the system is part of Greenworks’ broad ecosystem of tools, allowing easy cross-compatibility with other Greenworks devices you may own. The model’s design emphasizes portability, making it ideal for users who want a simple, daily snow-clearing tool.
While the product’s listed materials emphasize efficient snow displacement and ease of use, the exact throwing distance is not specified. This makes it well-suited for closer-range clearing where speed and maneuverability matter more than long-distance projection. It is best for homeowners who prefer a lightweight, volume-friendly shovel that handles most routine snowfalls without requiring a larger, heavier machine.
Westinghouse WSnow13S Cordless Snow Shovel Kit
This Westinghouse model is designed for easy, portable snow clearing with a 13-inch width that’s ideal for sidewalks, walkways, and smaller driveways. The cordless operation is powered by a 24V 4Ah battery, delivering the flexibility needed for places without ready access to electrical outlets. The shovel throws snow up to 20 feet, providing adequate distance to push snow away from entryways and prevent re-accumulation at doors. A robust performance of about 300 pounds per minute ensures swift passes across typical residential snowfall.
The WSnow13S kit focuses on compact efficiency. It’s especially suitable for users who value easy storage and quick setup, as the 13-inch width supports precise, manageable passes. Its portability makes it a practical choice for those who clear multiple customers’ sidewalks or need a reliable tool for seasonal storms without the bulk of a larger snow blower.
VOLTASK 24V 13-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel
Voltask’s 24V model is notably lightweight, tipping the scales at about 9.3 pounds, which reduces fatigue during longer clearing sessions. The 13-inch width and a 20-foot throw distance provide solid performance for mid-sized paths and doorsteps. The package includes a 4Ah battery and quick charger, enabling relatively rapid setup and recharging between tasks. A directional plate and adjustable front handle enhance control, and a dual safety switch adds a layer of protection against accidental activation, contributing to safer operation in cramped spaces.
With a runtime of up to 25 minutes under lighter snowfall, VOLTASK is best suited for repeated passes during shorter clears or lighter storms. It’s a good match for homeowners who need a nimble, easy-to-carry shovel for routine winter maintenance rather than tackling heavy, wet snow in large driveways.
Buying Guide
When choosing an electric snow shovel, consider how you typically handle winter clearing and what environment you operate in. Cordless models offer mobility and a clean footprint, but you’ll want to check battery life, recharge time, and ecosystem compatibility if you already own tools from a specific brand. Corded options remove battery worries but require access to a power outlet and can restrict range. Width matters for throughput and maneuverability; 12 to 16 inches strikes a balance for most sidewalks and small driveways, while 13 inches is a common size across popular models for tight spaces.
Key purchase considerations
- Power source and runtime: Cordless units rely on battery capacity (Ah) and voltage. Look for models that include a spare battery or have a clear runtime estimate under your typical snowfall. If you regularly get heavy snows, a higher-capacity battery may be worth the investment.
- Clearing width and depth: Wider shovels clear more area per pass but may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces. Depth, usually around 6 inches or less, affects how deeply snow is thrown and how many passes are needed.
- Throw distance: A longer throwing distance helps you push snow away from doors and walkways without re-entering the cleared zone. Consider whether you need 20 feet or more based on your property layout.
- Weight and ergonomics: Lighter units reduce fatigue, especially for steps and decks. Ergonomic handles and adjustable shafts improve comfort during extended use and storage.
- Snow type and temperature: Wet, heavy snow requires more power and might strain lighter motors. For occasional light to moderate snowfall, most consumer models perform well.
- Battery ecosystem and compatibility: If you own other tools from the same brand, you may benefit from shared batteries and chargers. Consider future needs and potential accessory purchases.
- Maintenance and durability: Brushless motors tend to run cooler and longer with less maintenance. Look for models with straightforward parts replacement and reliable warranties.
- Storage: Collapsible handles, compact shafts, and easy disassembly simplify storage in small spaces.
- Safety features: Dual-action safety switches, blade guards, and sturdy construction reduce risk during operation on stairs and near guests or pets.
Quick model comparisons
- Best for full-size mid-season use: Earthwise SN74016, with a broad 16-inch width and an included 40V battery for durable, quiet performance.
- Best for smallest spaces: Snow Joe’s 13-inch kit delivers nimble passes and a strong 20-foot throw, ideal for steps and porches.
- Best ecosystem value: Greenworks 40V 12-inch offers compatibility with a wide range of tools while delivering solid light-to-moderate snow removal.
- Best balance of weight and power: VOLTASK 24V 13-inch provides a light design with adequate runtime for typical sidewalks and decks.
- Best for long clearing tasks near entryways: Westinghouse WSnow13S suits tight spaces with reliable 20-foot throw and a compact profile.