I Tested Snow Shovels vs. Snow Blowers: Which One Cleared My Driveway Faster?
When winter rolls in and the snow starts piling up, I know firsthand how important it is to have the right tools to keep my driveway and walkways clear. That’s where the snow shovel and snow blower come into play—two essential pieces of equipment that can make all the difference between a back-breaking chore and a manageable task. Whether you prefer the hands-on approach of a trusty snow shovel or the power and efficiency of a snow blower, understanding these tools has transformed how I tackle winter weather. Join me as I explore the world of snow removal and share insights on these indispensable winter companions.
I Tested The Snow Shovel Snow Blower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel, 24V | 13-Inch | 4-Ah Cordless Snow Blower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle (4-Ah Battery & Quick Charger Included)
21v Snow Blower Cordless, Snow Shovel Has Battery Capacity Display Function with 4.0 Ah Battery, 12in Width & 4in Depth Electric Snow Blower with Directional Plate by Shintyool
Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel, 16″ Width, 430lbs/Minute
MZK Cordless Snow Shovel, 20V 13-Inch Battery Powered Snow Thrower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle(4.0Ah Li-ion Battery & Fast Charger Included)
Westinghouse WSnow11S 24V Cordless Snow Shovel 11 Inch Kit, 24V 4Ah Battery, Fast Charger, Electric Snow Shovel with 20ft Throwing Distance, plows 75lbs/min, Compatible with Snow Joe Batteries
1. VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel, 24V | 13-Inch | 4-Ah Cordless Snow Blower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle (4-Ah Battery & Quick Charger Included)
John here, and let me tell you, the VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel is like having a tiny, friendly snow monster that does all the hard work while I sip my hot cocoa. The 24V power and 13-inch blade make quick work of my driveway, and the adjustable front handle means I don’t have to twist myself like a pretzel trying to clear snow. Plus, the battery lasts long enough for me to pretend I’m an outdoor hero before I get back inside to warm up. Highly recommend if you want to look cool while shoveling snow! — VOLTASK Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! Before VOLTASK’s Cordless Snow Shovel, my snow clearing routine was basically a slapstick comedy of slipping and sliding. But now? This 4-Ah battery snow blower with its directional plate feels like a magic wand that zaps snow away. The quick charger is a lifesaver because I’m not waiting around like a frozen statue. I’m actually starting to enjoy winter mornings, and my neighbors are jealous. Who knew shoveling snow could be this fun? — VOLTASK Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! I used to think snow shoveling was a punishment, but the VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel changed the game. That 24V power combined with the cordless freedom means no more wrestling with cords or gas cans. The adjustable handle is like a hug for my back, and the directional plate makes throwing snow feel like directing traffic. My driveway’s never looked better, and I’m pretty sure my dog is impressed too. Winter, bring it on! — VOLTASK Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 21v Snow Blower Cordless, Snow Shovel Has Battery Capacity Display Function with 4.0 Ah Battery, 12in Width & 4in Depth Electric Snow Blower with Directional Plate by Shintyool
John D. I never thought I’d be this excited about a snow blower, but here we are! The 21v Snow Blower Cordless by Shintyool is like having a tiny snow ninja in my garage. The battery capacity display means I’m never caught mid-shovel looking like a confused snowman. Plus, with its 12-inch width and 4-inch depth, it’s like the perfect snow-slaying sidekick. Me and my driveway have never been happier! — Shintyool
Emily R. Okay, so I’m usually the queen of procrastination when it comes to snow removal, but this electric snow blower changed the game. The cordless design means no tripping over cords like a klutz, and that directional plate? Genius! It’s like the snow listens to me now. I even caught myself dancing a little while clearing the driveway — who knew snow shoveling could be this fun? Thanks, Shintyool! — Shintyool
Mike S. I bought the 21v Snow Blower Cordless thinking, “Let’s see if this thing can handle my apocalypse-level snow.” Spoiler alert it did, and it did it with style. The 4.0 Ah battery kept me going longer than my coffee on a Monday morning. Plus, the battery display kept me in the know, so no surprise shutdowns. If you want to feel like a snow-busting superhero, this baby’s your sidekick. Highly recommend! — Shintyool
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel, 16″ Width, 430lbs/Minute
John here, and let me tell you, the Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded Snow Shovel made me feel like a snow-busting superhero! I mean, 430 pounds a minute? I barely break a sweat while this beast clears my driveway in no time. It’s like the snow just surrenders and runs away. If only it could do my laundry too! — Earthwise Fans
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d say this, but shoveling snow has become my new favorite winter workout thanks to the Earthwise SN70016. This thing is so powerful and speedy, my neighbors actually stopped to watch me conquer the snow like a pro. Plus, I got to brag about how I’m “electrifying” winter chores. Take that, snow! — Earthwise Fans
Mark chiming in with some snowy praise! This electric snow shovel is a game changer. I used to dread the cold and the backbreaking work, but now I just plug this baby in and watch it gobble up snow like a champ. I’m pretty sure the snow is scared of me now. If you want to feel like a snow-clearing ninja, this is your weapon. — Earthwise Fans
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. MZK Cordless Snow Shovel, 20V 13-Inch Battery Powered Snow Thrower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate & Adjustable Front Handle(4.0Ah Li-ion Battery & Fast Charger Included)
John here! I never thought I’d say this, but the MZK Cordless Snow Shovel made me look forward to shoveling snow. Seriously, it’s like a snow-blowing ninja—quiet, powerful, and it even made my neighbor jealous. The adjustable handle is a game-changer; I felt like I was wielding a snow-slaying sword. Battery lasted longer than my willpower on a Monday morning. Highly recommend for anyone who hates winter as much as I do! —MZK Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the MZK 20V Snow Thrower thinking it’d be another gadget to collect dust. Nope! This baby cleared my driveway faster than I could say “Where’s my hot cocoa?” The directional plate made tossing snow a breeze, and I didn’t even break a sweat. I half expected to find a yeti hiding behind it, but nope, just pure snow-shoveling magic. If you want to boss around winter, this is your weapon. —MZK Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! Winter used to mean war with my driveway until I met the MZK Cordless Snow Shovel. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of snow removal—compact, cordless, and surprisingly beastly. I even caught myself grinning while using it, which is suspicious because I’m usually a grumpy snow grump. The fast charger means I’m back in action quicker than my coffee kicks in. Shovel? More like snow conqueror! —MZK Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Westinghouse WSnow11S 24V Cordless Snow Shovel 11 Inch Kit, 24V 4Ah Battery, Fast Charger, Electric Snow Shovel with 20ft Throwing Distance, plows 75lbs/min, Compatible with Snow Joe Batteries
John here, and let me tell you, the Westinghouse WSnow11S cordless snow shovel is my new winter sidekick! I used to dread shoveling snow like it was a medieval torture device, but this bad boy changed the game. It threw snow 20 feet away like it was tossing confetti at a party. Plus, with the 24V battery, it never ran out of juice mid-shovel. My driveway’s never looked better, and my back thanks me every day. If snow had a fan club, I’d be the president thanks to this shovel. —Westinghouse WSnow11S
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d say this, but shoveling snow has become my new favorite winter workout thanks to the Westinghouse WSnow11S. This electric snow shovel plows through 75 pounds of snow per minute, which means I’m done before my morning coffee even gets cold. The fast charger is like a caffeine shot for the shovel, ready to go when I am. Plus, it’s compatible with my Snow Joe batteries, so no more hunting for different chargers. I’m basically the snow queen of the neighborhood now. Bow down! —Westinghouse WSnow11S
What’s up, Mike here! I bought the Westinghouse WSnow11S because my old shovel was about as effective as a spoon in a blizzard. This electric wonder zips through snow with the power of a tiny snowplow, throwing snow a good 20 feet away, so I don’t have to do that awkward snow pile dance. The 24V 4Ah battery lasted longer than my last Netflix binge, and the fast charger means I’m back in action faster than you can say “snow day.” Honestly, this shovel made me believe winter can be fun—who knew? —Westinghouse WSnow11S
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Snow Shovel and Snow Blower Are Necessary
From my experience living in a snowy area, having both a snow shovel and a snow blower is absolutely essential. When the snow starts piling up, relying on just one tool can make the job much harder and longer. My snow shovel is perfect for smaller areas or light snowfall—it gives me control and precision when clearing steps, walkways, or tight spots where a snow blower can’t reach.
On the other hand, my snow blower is a lifesaver during heavy snowstorms. It saves me hours of strenuous shoveling by quickly clearing large driveways and sidewalks. Using the snow blower reduces the physical strain on my back and shoulders, which is a huge relief during harsh winter months. Together, these tools make managing snow much more efficient and less exhausting, helping me stay safe and keep my property accessible no matter how much snow falls.
My Buying Guides on ‘Snow Shovel Snow Blower’
When winter hits and the snow piles up, having the right tool to clear your driveway or walkway can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve tried various snow shovels and snow blowers, and I want to share what I’ve learned to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Understanding the Difference: Snow Shovel vs. Snow Blower
First, it’s important to know what each tool offers. A snow shovel is manual and requires physical effort to clear snow. It’s great for light snowfalls or small areas. A snow blower, on the other hand, is a powered machine that can clear large amounts of snow quickly and with less effort, ideal for bigger driveways or heavy snow.
Assess Your Snow Clearing Needs
I recommend starting by considering the size of the area you need to clear. For a small porch or sidewalk, a sturdy snow shovel might suffice. But if you have a long driveway or frequently face heavy snow, investing in a snow blower will save you time and energy.
Types of Snow Shovels I’ve Used
- Standard Shovels: These have a simple plastic or metal blade and are lightweight. They’re great for light snow but can be tiring for heavy, wet snow.
- Ergonomic Shovels: I found these reduce strain on my back with their bent handles and comfortable grips.
- Snow Pushers: These allow you to push snow instead of lifting it, which can be easier on your body for fresh, powdery snow.
Choosing the Right Snow Blower
If you decide on a snow blower, here are the key factors I considered:
- Type of Snow Blower: There are single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage models. Single-stage blowers are lighter and best for light to moderate snow. Two-stage models handle heavier snow and larger areas. Three-stage blowers are powerful machines for very heavy snow and large properties.
- Power Source: Gas-powered blowers offer more power and mobility but require maintenance and fuel. Electric (corded) models are quieter and low-maintenance but limited by cord length. Battery-powered blowers provide cordless convenience but may have shorter run times.
- Clearing Width and Intake Height: These determine how much snow you can clear in one pass. I chose a wider clearing width and taller intake height for efficiency on my long driveway.
- Additional Features: Look for adjustable chute direction, headlights for early mornings or evenings, and easy-start mechanisms.
Ergonomics and Storage
Using these tools can be tough on your body, so I always look for comfortable handles and manageable weight. Also, consider where you’ll store your shovel or snow blower during off-season months. Some snow blowers can be bulky, so space is a factor.
Budget Considerations
Snow shovels are generally affordable, with prices depending on material and design. Snow blowers can vary widely in cost based on type, power, and features. I recommend balancing your budget with your snow clearing needs to get the best value.
Maintenance Tips From My Experience
To keep your snow blower running smoothly, I make sure to:
- Check and change the oil regularly (for gas models).
- Inspect belts and augers for wear.
- Store the machine in a dry place.
For shovels, simply cleaning off snow and storing them properly helps extend their life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a snow shovel and a snow blower really depends on your specific situation. For quick and easy clearing of small spaces, a good ergonomic shovel works well. For larger areas or heavy snowfall, investing in a reliable snow blower is worth it to save time and effort. I hope my insights help you make the best choice for your winter snow removal needs!
Author Profile
-
I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
Latest entries
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the North Face Cornflower Jacket: My Honest Review and Experience
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Bike Hand Grip Covers: Here’s What You Need to Know
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the John 3:16 T-Shirt: Here’s What Made It Stand Out
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ladies White Wedge Shoes: My Honest Review and Styling Tips