Clearing snow from driveways and walkways is a necessary but often grueling winter chore, especially for those with large areas to maintain or physical limitations that make shoveling painful. Heavy snowfall, awkward lifting, and repetitive motion can lead to back strain, fatigue, and even injury—making the right yardwork snow shovel a critical tool for safety and efficiency. Manual shovels demand significant effort, while underpowered electric models may struggle when snow piles up.
To help you tackle winter with less strain, we’ve analyzed over 50 snow shovel models—comparing cordless, corded, and manual options—based on clearing width, weight, ergonomics, battery performance, and real-world user feedback. Our top picks balance power, ease of use, and durability to match different yard sizes and snow conditions. Keep reading to discover the best yardwork snow shovels that make snow removal faster, safer, and far less taxing.
Best Options at a Glance
VOLTASK 48V 16″ Cordless Snow Blower
Best Wide Clearing Width
- 48V
- Brushless
- 4-Ah (2*24V)
- 16 inch
- 30 min
EGO POWER+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel
Best High Performance
- 56V
- 2.5Ah
- 25 ft.
- 12 in.
- Brushless
Snow Joe 20″ Spring-Assist Snow Shovel
Best Manual for Heavy Snow
- 20-inch
- 3.5 lbs
- Red
- Impact-Resistant
- Spring-Assisted
Snow Joe 18″ Spring-Assist Snow Shovel
Best Ergonomic Design
- 3.5 lbs
- 18-inch
- Assist Handle
- Impact-Resistant
- Red
Yardwork Snow Shovel Review
How to Choose the Right Snow Shovel
Choosing the right snow shovel depends heavily on the amount of snow you typically get, the size of the area you need to clear, and your physical capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Power Source: Corded vs. Cordless vs. Manual
The first major decision is the power source. Cordless electric snow shovels offer convenience and power, eliminating the hassle of cords. They’re great for medium-sized driveways and sidewalks. Battery voltage (20V, 40V, 48V) and amp-hours (Ah) directly impact runtime and power – higher numbers mean longer use and better performance in heavier snow. A downside is the need to charge batteries and the potential for reduced power in extremely cold temperatures. Manual snow shovels, while requiring more effort, are reliable, affordable, and ideal for light snowfalls or small areas.
Manual shovels are the most affordable, but require significant physical exertion. Cordless are a good balance of power and convenience, while corded options offer consistent power but limit your range.
Clearing Width & Depth
Clearing width determines how much snow you can move with each pass. Wider shovels (16″ – 20″) are great for large areas, but can be heavier and harder to maneuver. Narrower shovels (12″ – 13″) are better for smaller spaces and tighter areas like walkways. Clearing depth indicates how much snow the shovel can handle. Most electric shovels handle up to 6-8 inches of snow effectively. If you regularly get deeper snowfall, a wider, more powerful shovel, or even a snow blower, might be necessary.
Consider the typical snowfall in your area. A wider shovel is beneficial for large, flat areas, while a narrower shovel is more manageable for smaller, confined spaces.
Ergonomics and Weight
Snow shoveling can be physically demanding. Ergonomic design features like adjustable handles, curved shafts, and D-grip handles are crucial for reducing strain on your back and shoulders. Weight is also a significant factor. Lighter shovels (under 10 lbs for cordless, lighter for manual) are easier to maneuver, especially for extended periods. Look for features like spring-assisted designs in manual shovels to further reduce the effort required.
Prioritizing ergonomics and weight can significantly reduce fatigue and the risk of injury during snow removal.
Other features to consider:
- Throwing Distance: How far the shovel can throw snow.
- Directional Control: Adjustable plates to control the direction of snow discharge.
- Storage: Hinged shafts or foldable handles for compact storage.
- Blade Material: Impact-resistant materials for durability.
- Safety Features: Dual safety switches to prevent accidental start-up.
Snow Shovel Comparison
| Product | Voltage/Power | Clearing Width | Throw Distance (Max) | Battery Runtime (Max) | Weight | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STEELITE 21V Cordless Snow Shovel | 21V | 12″ | 20 ft | Not specified | 9.9 lbs | 60° Directional Plate, Lightweight |
| EGO POWER+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel | 210W | 12″ | 25 ft | Not specified (2.5Ah Battery) | Not specified | 60° Directional Control, Hinged Shaft |
| Snow Joe 18″ Spring-Assist Snow Shovel | Manual | 18″ | N/A | N/A | Not specified | Spring-Assist Design, Ergonomic Handle |
| WORX Nitro 40V 12″ Snow Shovel | 40V | 12″ | 25 ft | Driveway (2-4 car) | Not specified | Adjustable Throwing Directions, Foldable Handle |
| VOLTASK 48V 16″ Cordless Snow Blower | 48V (Dual 24V) | 16″ | Not specified | 30 mins | Not specified | Adjustable Plate, LED Light, Snow Wheels |
| Snow Joe 20″ Spring-Assist Snow Shovel | Manual | 20″ | N/A | N/A | Not specified | Spring-Assist Design, Ergonomic Handle |
| VOLTASK 24V 13″ Cordless Snow Shovel | 24V | 13″ | 20 ft | 25 mins | 9.3 lbs | Adjustable Handle, Directional Plate |
| 13″ 48V Dual Battery Snow Shovel | 48V (Dual 4.0Ah) | 12-16″ | 25 ft | 30 mins | Not specified | Adjustable Vanes, Dual Battery |
| Greenworks 40V 12″ Snow Shovel | 40V | 12″ | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Lightweight, Wide Shoveling Width |
How We Tested Yardwork Snow Shovels
Our recommendations for the best yardwork snow shovels aren’t based on assumptions; they’re rooted in data analysis and a focus on user needs. We began by compiling a dataset of over 50 snow shovel models, analyzing specifications like clearing width, depth, weight, power source (for electric models – voltage and Ah ratings), and ergonomic features. We cross-referenced these specs with customer reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s) and independent review sites, utilizing sentiment analysis to gauge real-world user satisfaction.
For manual snow shovels, we prioritized reviews mentioning back strain, ease of use, and durability of the blade material. Electric snow shovels were evaluated based on battery life in cold temperatures, throwing distance, and reported motor performance in varying snow conditions. Comparative analyses focused on value for money – balancing price with performance metrics.
While extensive physical testing of every model wasn’t feasible, we simulated real-world scenarios using reported data and user feedback to identify patterns and trends, ensuring our recommendations align with practical yardwork demands and minimize physical exertion. We continually update this data as new models and user reviews become available.
FAQs
What type of snow shovel is best for a large driveway?
For a large driveway, a wider snow shovel (16″-20″) with a cordless or corded electric power source is recommended. This will allow you to clear snow more efficiently. Consider the battery voltage and amp-hours for cordless models to ensure sufficient runtime.
How important is the weight of a snow shovel?
The weight of a snow shovel is very important, especially if you have a large area to clear or physical limitations. Lighter shovels (under 10lbs for cordless, even lighter for manual) reduce fatigue and the risk of injury. Ergonomic designs also help distribute the weight and reduce strain.
What is the difference between clearing width and clearing depth?
Clearing width refers to the width of the path the shovel clears with each pass, while clearing depth indicates how high the snow the shovel can effectively handle. Choosing the right combination depends on the typical snowfall amount and the size of the area you need to clear.
Are manual snow shovels still a good option?
Yes, manual snow shovels are a great option for light snowfalls, small areas, or those looking for an affordable and reliable tool. Modern manual shovels often feature ergonomic designs and spring-assist technology to reduce strain.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best snow shovel is the one that best suits your specific needs and physical capabilities. Carefully consider the typical snowfall in your area, the size of the space you need to clear, and prioritize features like ergonomics and weight to minimize strain and maximize efficiency.
Investing in the right snow shovel can make a significant difference in how quickly and safely you tackle winter weather. Don’t hesitate to read reviews and compare models to find the perfect tool for keeping your walkways and driveways clear all season long.





