It depends on your driveway size and budget – which snow blower you should buy is a personal choice based on your specific needs and the snow you get each year.
I get asked this question every winter. People want a simple answer, but the best machine for you is different from your neighbor’s.
I’ve tested dozens of models over the years. From small electric ones to big two-stage beasts, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.
This guide will walk you through all the key points. By the end, you’ll know exactly which snow blower you should buy for your home.
How to Decide Which Snow Blower You Should Buy
Let’s start with the basics. You need to look at a few key things first.
Think about your driveway. How long is it? Is it flat or on a hill?
Consider the snow you get. Do you get light powder or heavy, wet stuff? This choice matters a lot for which snow blower you should buy.
Your own strength matters too. Some machines are heavy and hard to turn. Others are light and easy to push.
Your budget is the final piece. Prices range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. I’ll help you find the sweet spot.
Answering these questions gives you a great starting point. It narrows down the huge list of options fast.
Types of Snow Blowers to Consider
There are three main types you’ll see in stores. Each one fits a different job.
First, we have single-stage electric models. These are light and perfect for small areas. They work like a super-powered shovel.
Next are single-stage gas models. These have more power for medium driveways. They can handle a bit deeper snow.
Finally, two-stage gas models are the heavy lifters. They can tackle deep snow and throw it far. They’re for big jobs and serious storms.
According to Consumer Reports, picking the right type is the most important step. It sets you up for success or failure.
So which snow blower should you buy from these types? Your driveway size gives you the answer.
For a one-car driveway, a single-stage often works. For a long three-car driveway, you likely need two-stage power.
Matching Your Driveway to the Right Machine
This is where we get specific. Let’s match your property to a machine.
Is your driveway under 40 feet long? A single-stage snow blower might be perfect. These are easy to store and start up fast.
Do you have a driveway that’s 40 to 100 feet? You should look at a midsize two-stage model. It has the power to clear the whole area without tiring you out.
For driveways over 100 feet, a professional-grade two-stage is best. You might even want a track model for extra traction on hills.
Don’t forget about walkways and patios. A smaller machine can be great for these tight spaces.
Think about future needs too. If you plan to help neighbors, buy a bit more machine than you need right now.
Choosing which snow blower you should buy means thinking about all these areas. You want one tool that can handle everything.
Electric vs Gas Snow Blowers
This is a big debate every winter. Both have good points and bad points.
Electric snow blowers are quiet and easy. You just plug them in or use a battery. No gas smell, no oil changes.
But they have less power. They struggle with snow over 6 inches deep. The cord can also be a hassle if you have a big area.
Gas models are powerful and don’t need a cord. You can take them anywhere on your property. They eat through deep, heavy snow.
The downside is upkeep. You need to store gas, change the oil, and deal with winter starting problems. They’re also louder.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes electric models have zero emissions. This is better for air quality.
So which snow blower should you buy, electric or gas? For most people with medium driveways, a good gas model is the safe bet.
Key Features to Look For
Not all snow blowers are the same. Some features make a huge difference in use.
Look for easy controls. You want chute direction and height adjustments you can change without stopping. This saves so much time.
Power steering is a game-changer on bigger models. It helps you turn the heavy machine without fighting it. Your back will thank you.
LED headlights are great for early morning or evening storms. You can see what you’re doing when it’s still dark out.
Heated hand grips might seem fancy, but they’re amazing on cold days. They keep your fingers from going numb during a long clear.
According to OSHA, good visibility and control are key for safe operation. These features help a lot.
When you decide which snow blower you should buy, don’t skip on these comforts. They make the job much easier.
Spending a bit more for good features is worth it. You’ll use this machine for years.
What Size Engine Do You Need?
Engine power is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) for gas models. More cc means more muscle.
For a single-stage blower, look for 150cc to 200cc. This is enough for most home driveways with moderate snow.
Two-stage models start around 208cc and go up to 420cc or more. A 250cc to 300cc engine is great for a typical two-car driveway.
If you get very wet, heavy snow, go bigger. The extra power helps push through the slush without stalling.
For electric models, look at amps (corded) or volts (cordless). A 13-amp corded model or an 80-volt battery model has solid power.
Bigger isn’t always better. A huge engine on a small driveway is a waste of money and gas.
Choosing which snow blower you should buy means matching the engine to your snow type. Don’t overdo it, but don’t underpower it either.
Clearing Width and How It Affects You
The clearing width is how wide a path the machine makes. This number tells you how many passes you’ll need.
Single-stage blowers are often 18 to 21 inches wide. They’re narrow and good for tight spaces.
Two-stage models range from 24 to 30 inches wide. Some big ones go up to 36 inches for commercial use.
A wider path means you finish faster. But it also means a bigger, heavier machine that’s harder to store.
For a standard driveway, a 24-inch or 26-inch width is a sweet spot. It’s wide enough to be quick but still manageable.
Measure your garage door or shed opening too. Make sure the machine you want will fit through the door for storage.
This is a practical part of deciding which snow blower you should buy. Think about storage space before you fall in love with a wide model.
My Step-by-Step Buying Guide
Let’s put it all together. Follow these steps to find your perfect match.
Step one: Measure your driveway and walkways. Write down the total square feet you need to clear.
Step two: Think about your worst storm last year. How deep was the snow? Was it light or wet?
Step three: Set your budget. Be realistic about what you can spend. Remember to include tax and any delivery fees.
Step four: Go to a store and try some models. Feel how heavy they are. Check if the controls are easy to reach.
Step five: Read reviews from other owners. Sites like FTC Consumer Advice warn about fake reviews, so use trusted sources.
Step six: Make your choice and buy before the first big storm. Prices go up and stock goes down when snow is in the forecast.
This process answers the question of which snow blower you should buy. It takes the guesswork out of the decision.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I see people make the same errors every year. Let’s help you skip these problems.
Don’t buy too small. It’s tempting to save money, but a weak blower will let you down in a big storm. You’ll end up shoveling anyway.
Don’t ignore storage needs. A massive two-stage blower is useless if you can’t fit it in your garage. Measure your space first.
Don’t forget about maintenance. Gas models need end-of-season care. If you won’t do it, consider an electric model with less upkeep.
Don’t buy based on brand name alone. Some lesser-known brands make great machines for less money. Read the specs and reviews.
Avoid very cheap models from unknown brands. They often break after one season. It’s better to buy a used quality brand than a new cheap one.
When you ask which snow blower you should buy, remember these pitfalls. A little planning prevents a lot of regret.
My Top Picks for Different Situations
Based on my tests, here are some great choices for common needs.
For a small, flat driveway: A corded electric single-stage works well. It’s cheap, light, and easy to use. Just mind the cord.
For a medium driveway with moderate snow: A 208cc two-stage gas model is perfect. It has enough power without being too big.
For a long driveway or heavy snow: Look at a 306cc two-stage with power steering. The extra help turning is worth every penny.
For someone who hates maintenance: A high-end battery-powered model is great. New ones have good power and no cords or gas.
The CPSC SaferProducts.gov database can show you any safety recalls on models you’re considering. It’s a good final check.
These picks should guide you on which snow blower you should buy. They’re reliable choices that many people are happy with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which snow blower should I buy for a gravel driveway?
You need a two-stage model with adjustable skid shoes. Set them high so the auger doesn’t pick up rocks. Single-stage models will throw gravel and damage things.
Is a used snow blower a good idea?
Sometimes, if you know what to check. Look for clean oil, good tires, and smooth controls. Start it cold to see how it runs. A well-kept used model can save you money.
Which snow blower should I buy for a steep hill?
Look for a model with tracks instead of wheels. Tracks give much better grip on slopes. Also, get one with a strong engine so it can push snow uphill.
How much should I spend on a snow blower?
For a decent single-stage, plan on $400 to $700. A good two-stage starts around $800 and goes to $1,500. High-end models with all features can be over $2,000.
Can I use a snow blower on a deck?
Yes, but be very careful. Use a single-stage model on a low setting. Never use a two
