Winter’s arrival brings picturesque scenes, but also the daunting task of snow removal. For those dealing with lighter accumulations or needing to clear tight spaces, a heavy-duty snow blower can be overkill. This is where the electric snow shovel shines, offering a perfect blend of power and portability to make quick work of decks, walkways, and steps without the hassle of gas and oil.
Whether you prioritize raw power, cordless freedom, or compact maneuverability, the market has an option for you. We’ve compiled a list of the top electric snow shovels and compact throwers for 2025 to help you find the right tool for your winter needs. Say goodbye to sore muscles and hello to a faster, easier way to clear your path.
The Best Electric Snow Shovels for Easy Winter Cleanup
- Greenworks 8 Amp 12 inch Electric Snow Shovel
- Snow Joe 323E 13-Inch 10-Amp Electric Snow Shovel
- Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel
- Snow Joe iON13SS 40-Volt Cordless Snow Shovel
- EGO Power+ SNT2102 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Snow Blower
- Toro 60V MAX 12 in. Power Shovel – Tool Only
- Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
- Greenworks 20-Inch 15-Amp Corded Electric Snow Shovel
Greenworks 8 Amp 12 inch Electric Snow Shovel
For those seeking a simple and effective solution for light snow, the Greenworks 8 Amp Electric Snow Shovel is a strong contender. Its lightweight and compact design makes it exceptionally easy to handle and store, perfect for quick clearing in tight spaces like steps and small patios. The hassle-free push-button start gets you working immediately without any pull cords or complex procedures.
The 8 Amp motor provides sufficient power for most light to moderate snowfall, making it a reliable tool for regular maintenance. This model is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to minimize physical strain without investing in a large, bulky machine.
Snow Joe 323E 13-Inch 10-Amp Electric Snow Shovel
The Snow Joe 323E balances power and user comfort effectively. Its 10-Amp motor is capable of moving an impressive 400 pounds of snow per minute, providing plenty of muscle for clearing decks, patios, and sidewalks. The ergonomic design includes an adjustable handle, which helps to minimize back strain and user fatigue during longer clearing sessions.
This model is known for its nimble performance, allowing you to maneuver around furniture and garden features with ease. It’s a versatile tool that combines substantial clearing power with thoughtful design elements for a more comfortable user experience.
Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel
If you need a step up in power without moving to a gas model, the Earthwise SN70016 is an excellent choice. Its robust 12-amp motor can move up to 430 lbs of snow per minute, a performance that rivals some gas-powered snow throwers. With a 16-inch clearing width and an 8-inch clearing depth, it handles larger areas more efficiently than many compact shovels.
This electric snow blower also projects snow up to 30 feet away, helping to keep your path clear of snow banks. It’s designed for efficient snow removal on driveways and larger walkways, offering gas-like power with the convenience of an electric plug-in.
Snow Joe iON13SS 40-Volt Cordless Snow Shovel
For ultimate convenience and freedom of movement, the Snow Joe iON13SS cordless snow shovel is a top pick. Powered by a 40-volt rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it eliminates the need for extension cords, allowing you to clear snow anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. This makes it ideal for decks, steps, and patios where a cord could be a tripping hazard or simply get in the way.
This model is completely maintenance-free, requiring no gas, oil, tune-ups, or pull cords. You get the power to handle quick snow pickups with zero emissions and far less noise than traditional models, all while enjoying complete cord-free operation.
EGO Power+ SNT2102 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Snow Blower
The EGO Power+ SNT2102 blurs the line between a snow shovel and a full-sized snow blower. This cordless model features Peak Power technology, which combines the power of two 56-volt batteries to deliver exceptional performance. Its high-efficiency brushless motor and 21-inch clearing width allow it to clear an 8-inch snowfall from a 10-car driveway on a single charge.
This tool is for those who need to clear larger areas but want to avoid the maintenance and noise of a gas engine. It offers serious clearing capability with the quiet, emission-free benefits of battery power, making it one of the most powerful cordless options available.
Toro 60V MAX 12 in. Power Shovel
The Toro 60V MAX Power Shovel stands out with its innovative two-speed control. This feature allows you to choose the right power level for the job at hand, providing more power for heavy, wet snow and more control for lighter dustings or on delicate surfaces. Its cordless design offers complete freedom from cords and the associated hassles.
At the heart of this tool is a brushless DC motor, which is engineered for more power, longer runtime, and a longer overall tool life. Easy to maneuver and conveniently compact, the Toro Power Shovel is a smart, efficient choice for precise snow clearing.
Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower
For those with larger paved surfaces to clear, the Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower presents a powerful solution. As a step up from a basic shovel, this model is designed to handle driveways and longer sidewalks with ease. Its electric operation ensures a quick start every time, without the need for gas or oil.
This snow thrower provides a excellent balance of power and convenience, effectively clearing snow while being easier to maintain and store than a two-stage gas model. It’s a reliable workhorse for homeowners who face regular snowfall and need a dependable, easy-to-use machine.
Greenworks 20-Inch 15-Amp Corded Electric Snow Shovel
The Greenworks 20-Inch model is built for performance with its powerful 15-Amp motor. This corded electric snow shovel is designed to tackle more significant snow removal tasks, offering a wide 20-inch clearing path that reduces the number of passes needed to clear a driveway or patio. The consistent power from a corded outlet means you never have to worry about battery life.
This tool is ideal for users who prioritize maximum power and have access to an outdoor power outlet. It combines the wide clearing width of a larger snow thrower with the relatively compact and straightforward operation of an electric shovel, making it a highly effective tool for substantial snow clearing.
Buying Guide: How to Pick Your Perfect Electric Snow Shovel
I know how tempting it is to just grab the first electric snow shovel you see, especially when the forecast looks grim. But taking a few minutes to consider what you really need can save you from a disappointing purchase. I’ve spent a lot of time clearing snow, and here’s what I look for when choosing the right tool for the job.
First, think about power. You have two main choices: corded and cordless. A corded electric shovel gives you consistent, unlimited power as long as you have an outlet and a long enough extension cord. I find them perfect for clearing around the house and garage where I don’t have to venture too far. Cordless models, on the other hand, run on rechargeable batteries. The big win here is total freedom of movement. You can clear your entire driveway and walkway without worrying about a cord. The trade-off is that they have a limited runtime, usually between 20 to 45 minutes on a single charge, depending on the snow’s heaviness. If you have a large area, you might need a spare battery.
Next, let’s talk about performance. Don’t just look at the motor’s power in amps or volts; pay close attention to the clearing width and intake height. A wider clearing path means you’ll get the job done faster. The intake height determines how deep a snowfall it can handle in a single pass. If you get heavy, wet snow, you’ll want a model with a robust motor and a decent intake height to prevent clogging. For light, powdery snow, a less powerful model might be just fine.
Build quality is another big one for me. I look for a durable, lightweight housing, often made from high-impact plastic. This makes a huge difference when you’re maneuvering the shovel. The auger—the spinning part that grabs the snow—should be made of sturdy rubber or metal. Rubber augers are great because they are less likely to damage driveways or decking if they accidentally make contact. Also, check the chute. A 180-degree or even 360-degree rotating chute is a fantastic feature that lets you control exactly where you throw the snow without having to reposition your whole body.
Finally, consider the ergonomics. An adjustable handle can make a world of difference for your back, allowing you to set it to a comfortable height. Look for models that are well-balanced and not too heavy. A good grip is also essential for control, especially when your hands are cold. Extra features like built-in LED headlights are incredibly useful for those early morning or late evening clearing sessions. By weighing these factors—power type, performance, build, and comfort—you can confidently select one of the best electric snow shovels for 2025 that fits your specific winter needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an electric snow shovel handle heavy, wet snow?
This is probably the most common question I get. The answer is: it depends on the model. Many modern electric snow shovels are designed to tackle wet snow, but they have their limits. A higher-amp corded model or a high-voltage cordless shovel will perform much better in these conditions than a basic, entry-level tool. The key is to take smaller, slower passes rather than trying to clear a huge amount at once. If you regularly get very heavy, slushy snow, you might want to consider a two-stage electric snow thrower for more power.
How much area can I clear on a single battery charge?
Battery life varies a lot between models and is heavily influenced by the snow conditions. Clearing light, fluffy snow uses far less battery than wet, heavy snow. On average, you can expect a decent cordless shovel to clear a 30 to 50-foot driveway and a walkway on a single charge. I always recommend checking the manufacturer’s stated runtime and then looking at user reviews to see what people’s real-world experiences are. If you have a larger property, investing in a spare battery is a game-changer.
Are electric snow shovels safe for my deck or paved driveway?
Generally, yes, they are much safer than their gas-powered counterparts. Most electric shovels use a rubber or plastic auger that is designed to clear snow without damaging the surface underneath. I still recommend keeping the shovel head slightly elevated and not grinding it directly into the pavement or deck boards. It’s always a good idea to do a quick visual check of the area for any obstructions like rocks or toys before you start.
What’s the main difference between an electric snow shovel and a snow blower?
Think of an electric snow shovel as a lightweight, single-stage machine. It scoops and throws the snow in one motion. It’s perfect for clearing walkways, steps, and small to medium-sized driveways after moderate snowfall. A snow blower, especially a two-stage model, is a more powerful machine designed for larger areas and deeper snow. It uses an impeller to help throw the snow farther. For most suburban homes, an electric shovel is a fantastic, space-saving tool, but if you have a very long driveway or get massive dumps of snow, a blower might be a better fit.
Do I need to perform any maintenance on my electric snow shovel?
Fortunately, maintenance is minimal compared to a gas model. After each use, I make sure to clean off any snow and ice buildup from the auger and the inside of the chute. Let the machine dry completely before storing it. For cordless models, follow the battery care instructions—usually, this means storing it in a cool, dry place and not leaving it on the charger indefinitely. At the end of the season, give it a good cleaning and consider a light lubricant on any moving parts as per the user manual. This simple care will help ensure your shovel is ready to go for many winters. When you are evaluating the 8 best electric snow shovels for 2025, looking at the recommended maintenance can help you choose a model that fits your willingness to perform upkeep.