As winter sets in, one of the biggest challenges faced by homeowners is removing snow from their property. This is where snow blowers come in handy, but with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. If you're on a tight budget, finding a snow blower under $500 that can handle the job efficiently may seem like an impossible task. However, fear not! We have done the research for you and compiled a list of the best snow blowers under $500. In this article, we'll provide an extensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision and ensure you don't break the bank while clearing your driveway and sidewalks.
Snow blower under $500 buying guide:
Types of snow blowers
Two-stage: ideal for heavy snow and large driveways, capable of clearing snow quickly and efficiently.
Single-stage: best for light snowfall and smaller areas, great for clearing decks and patios.
Three-stage: combines the features of a two-stage and single-stage snow blower, able to clear large driveways quickly and efficiently.
Electric vs Gas
Electric snow blowers are ideal for smaller areas and lighter snowfall, with easy maintenance and quieter operation.
Gas snow blowers are best for larger areas and heavier snowfall, with powerful engines that can clear snow quickly and efficiently.
Clearing Width and Depth
Consider the size of your driveway and sidewalks when selecting a snow blower. A wider clearing width will be able to clear more snow with each pass, while a deeper clearing depth will be able to handle heavier snowfall.
Auger and Impeller
The auger is the component that scoops up the snow and throws it into the impeller, which then throws the snow out of the chute. Consider the size and material of the auger, as well as the speed and power of the impeller, when selecting a snow blower.
Maneuverability
Look for a snow blower that is easy to maneuver, with features such as easy-turning wheels or tracks, adjustable handles, and a comfortable grip.
Maintenance and Durability
Consider the maintenance requirements and durability of a snow blower before making a purchase. Look for features such as easy-to-replace parts, rust-resistant materials, and a warranty that covers parts and labor.
Price and Value
Finally, consider the price and value of the snow blower. Look for a model that fits your budget while also providing the features and performance you need to clear snow effectively and efficiently.
Overall, when selecting the best snow blower under $500, consider the specific needs of your home and the conditions of your local climate. With careful research and consideration, you can find a reliable and effective snow blower that fits your budget and helps you keep your property clear and safe all winter long.
Craftsman 21-Inch 123cc Single-Stage Snowblower
If you're looking for a reliable snow blower under $500, the Craftsman 21-inch 123cc single-stage snow blower is definitely worth a closer look. Our team at ColumbiaFlorist.net put it to the test to see how it measures up to other snow blowers in the same price range.
Firstly, we found that the Craftsman snow blower can reliably clear small to medium-sized driveways, walkways, decks, and patios of about half a foot of snow. This is perfect for those living in areas with moderate snowfall. Of course, if you experience heavy snowfalls frequently, you may need to consider a more powerful machine.
One of the things we liked about this snow blower is that it has an electric-start gas engine, making it easy to get started even on the coldest days. This is a feature that not all snow blowers under $500 have, and it sets the Craftsman model apart from the competition.
In terms of performance, we found that the Craftsman snow blower is one of the best snow throwers we tried within the price range. Its chute control is easy to use, and it throws snow up to 21 feet away. We also appreciated how easy it was to maneuver, with its 8-inch tires providing excellent traction on snowy surfaces.
Gas snow blowers are more traditional, and the Craftsman model is no exception. However, this can be an advantage for those who are used to gas-powered machines and prefer them over electric or battery-operated blowers.
It's worth noting that almost all two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are gas-powered models. However, the Craftsman 21-inch 123cc single-stage snow blower proves that you don't necessarily need a large, expensive machine to clear your driveway and walkways effectively.
In summary, the Craftsman 21-inch 123cc single-stage snow blower is a fantastic option for those looking for a reliable snow blower under $500. It can easily clear half a foot of snow from small to medium-sized surfaces, has an electric-start gas engine, and is easy to maneuver. If you're in the market for an affordable snow blower, you won't regret choosing this one.
Toro Power Curve 18-Inch 15-Amp Electric Snowblower
What stood out to us is how the machine handles dense and wet snow with ease. The Power Curve technology helps to clear snow right down to the ground without damaging the surface underneath. It's perfect for those who want to clear their snow without having to worry about harming their driveway or walkway.
At 18 inches wide and with a 15-amp motor, the Toro Power Curve can reliably clear small to medium-sized driveways, walkways, decks, and patios of about half a foot of snow. It has a corded electric model that boasts enough power to tackle the job without relying on gas or batteries. We also appreciate that this machine is relatively lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around tight spaces, such as stairs or narrow walkways.
Moreover, we found that the Toro Power Curve offers remarkable value for its price range. It is an unprecedentedly efficient electric snow blower, proving itself to be a strong contender for the best snow blower under $500.
We also looked at other options that may suit your needs. The best cordless electric snowblower is undoubtedly the Greenworks 40V 20-inch Cordless Brushless Snowblower, which possesses cordless convenience and enough power to get the job done. Meanwhile, the Yard Machines 21-inch Single-State Gas-Powered Snowblower provides ease of use with its maneuverability and low-level engine power. Additionally, most electric snow blowers, like the Toro Power Curve, are single-stage snow blowers, while the latter includes lithium-ion battery-powered models.
To summarize, the Toro Power Curve 18-inch 15-Amp Electric Snowblower is a commendable machine that is worth considering for anyone in need of a reliable snow blower that can handle the tough winter conditions. It provides excellent value for its price and can make snow removal an effortless experience.
Snow Joe Electric Snow Thrower
The powerful 13-amp motor can move up to 550 lbs of snow per minute, making snow clearing a breeze. The 180-degree adjustable directional chute can throw snow up to 20 ft, allowing you to easily direct the snow where you want it to go.
Despite its small size, this snow thrower packs a punch with its 14.5-amp electric motor and four rubber-tipped steel blades. In fact, it can clear up to 850 lbs/min, which is impressive for its size.
With a 22-inch clearing width, the Snow Joe electric snow thrower can clear a wide path in no time. Plus, the 15-amp motor can move up to 720 pounds of snow per minute, making it one of the best snow throwers on the market.
One of the best features of this snow thrower is its affordability. It's one of the best bargain snow throwers available, making it a great option for those on a budget. And, unlike gas-powered snow blowers, it's environmentally friendly and quiet to operate.
It's important to note that batteries (most commonly lithium batteries) power cordless snow blowers like the Snow Joe 48-Volt iON+ Cordless Snowblower. However, this model is electric and requires a cord which can limit mobility.
Overall, the Snow Joe electric snow thrower is a powerful and affordable option for those in need of a snow blower under $500. With its impressive clearing power and convenient features, it's considered one of the best snow throwers available.
PowerSmart 18-Inch Corded Electric Snow Blower
Equipped with a corded electric model, this snow blower is capable of clearing small to medium-sized driveways, walkways, decks, and patios of up to half a foot of snow. That's impressive! Plus, it's an excellent option if you're looking for an electric machine. While lithium-ion battery-powered models are gaining popularity, most electric snow blowers tend to be single-stage snow blowers.
What makes the Powersmart 18-inch corded electric snow blower stand out is its powerful 13 amp motor that can effectively clear snow without using gas or oil. Not only does it emit zero carbon emissions, but it also operates quietly, so you won't have to worry about waking up the neighbors in the early morning.
During our testing, we found that the Powersmart 18-inch corded electric snow blower accomplished the job quickly and efficiently, easily clearing the snow off our sidewalks and driveway in record time. We were also impressed with its ability to throw snow up to 30 feet away, proving its strength and efficiency.
In summary, we highly recommend the Powersmart 18-inch corded electric snow blower to anyone looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable snow blower. It might not be suitable for heavy-duty clearing, but it can certainly handle your day-to-day needs without breaking the bank.
PowerSmart 21-Inch Single-Stage Snowblower
The PowerSmart 21-inch snow thrower is a compact and powerful tool that can reliably clear small to medium-sized driveways, walkways, decks, and patios of about half a foot of snow. It is powered by a 13-amp electric motor that delivers enough power to throw snow up to 30 feet away, without the need for gas and oil.
One of the standout features of the PowerSmart snow blower is its maneuverability. With its lightweight and compact design, you can easily navigate it through tight spaces and narrow pathways. The adjustable chute lets you direct the snow where you want with precision, and the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, even when you have to use it for an extended period.
In terms of maintenance, the PowerSmart 21-inch snow thrower is virtually maintenance-free. It doesn't require gas or oil changes, and it only needs minor adjustments and cleaning after each use. Plus, it doesn't emit any fumes, making it environmentally friendly and safe to use indoors.
Although gas snow blowers are more traditional, they come with more maintenance and operational costs. Additionally, almost all two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are gas-powered models, which means that the PowerSmart 21-inch single-stage snowblower is an excellent alternative if you prefer an electric-powered snow blower.
Overall, the PowerSmart 21-inch single-stage snow blower is considered one of the best snow throwers under $500 in the market. It is efficient, easy to use, and requires minimal maintenance. Moreover, it is a budget-friendly option for homeowners who don't want to spend a fortune on a snow blower.
Ego Power+ Snowblower with Peak Power
When it comes to snow blowers, there are a lot of options available on the market. However, for those on a budget, finding the best snow blower under $500 can be a bit of a challenge. Enter the Ego Power+ Snow Blower with Peak Power section. Priced at either $449.00 or $469.00 depending on the model, this cordless snow blower offers a lot of bang for your buck.
One of the standout features of the Ego Power+ Snow Blower is the variable speed control. This allows you to adjust the speed of the blower based on the snow conditions, giving you more precise control over the job at hand. The steel auger also makes quick work of even heavy, wet snow, ensuring that you can clear your driveway or sidewalk quickly and efficiently.
The Ego Power+ Snow Blower comes in two different models, the SNT2110 and the SNT2100. Both are powered by lithium-ion batteries (not included), making them an eco-friendly option for environmentally-conscious consumers. However, what sets the SNT2110 apart is its unique Peak Power feature, which allows the blower to draw on additional power when needed to tackle especially tough snow.
In terms of performance, the Ego Power+ Snow Blower is considered one of the best snow throwers on the market. It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a great option for those with smaller driveways or sidewalks. And, because it's cordless, you're not tethered to an outlet or extension cord, giving you more freedom to move around as needed.
All in all, if you're on a budget and looking for a solid snow blower option, the Ego Power+ Snow Blower with Peak Power section is definitely worth considering. With its variable speed control, steel auger, and lithium-ion battery power, it offers a lot of value for the price. And, with the ability to draw on Peak Power when needed, you can be sure that you'll be able to tackle even the toughest snowfalls with ease.
Earthwise 18-Inch 40V 4-Ah Lithium Snow Thrower
One of the most significant advantages of this snow thrower is that it is cordless and powered by a 40V lithium-ion battery, which gives it a run time of up to 40 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to avoid the hassle of dealing with power cords and gas engines.
With an 18-inch wide clearing width, it can handle light to medium snowfalls with ease. The two-blade auger cuts through snow up to 12 inches deep, pulling it up and out of the chute. The chute rotates 180 degrees, allowing you to direct the snow where you want it to go.
We found the Earthwise snow thrower to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is ideal for those who don't have the physical strength to operate heavier machines. It also has a convenient handle-mounted chute control that lets you adjust the direction of the snow discharge.
When tested, the Earthwise snow thrower cleared snow effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an affordable yet efficient snow blower. The battery-powered snow blower performed exceptionally well and cut through the snow with ease, proving to be a valuable investment, especially for those who live in areas with lighter snowfalls.
The Earthwise 18-inch 40v 4-ah Lithium Snow Thrower is a product worth considering if you're in the market for a cordless snow blower. Its performance, portability, and ease of use make it an attractive option, especially compared to more expensive models.
In conclusion, the Earthwise snow thrower is an excellent investment for those looking for a cordless, affordable, and efficient snow blower. Battery-powered snow blowers, like this one, are becoming increasingly popular, and for a good reason. They are convenient, lightweight, and environmentally friendly, making them ideal for home use.
Ariens S18 Single Stage
The Ariens S18 Single Stage Snow Blower is a well-known option for those searching for a budget-friendly way to clear their driveways. At an affordable price, this snow blower is a popular choice for those in need of snow removal equipment who have a tight budget.
Despite its low price point, Ariens S18 Single Stage Snow blower boasts an impressive performance. This machine is ideal for those who need to remove small to medium-sized areas of snow. In our tests, we found that the snow blower was able to clear a driveway that was 18 inches wide with ease, thanks to its powerful Briggs & Stratton engine.
Among the different models of snow blowers, gas-powered models are more traditional. The S18 Single Stage is an electric model, which means it is less noisy than gas-powered snow blowers. This snow blower is also lighter in weight and easier to maneuver.
While almost all two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are gas-powered models, it is important to note that electric models like the Ariens S18 work just as well in removing snow. The snow blower has a chute rotation that is easily adjustable. This means that users can easily direct the snow to whichever side they choose.
The price of the Ariens S18 Single Stage Snow Blower is not found on the manufacturer's website, but we can confirm that it is well within the $500 budget limit. Considering its features, this snow blower is a fantastic option for those who need to deal with light to medium snow day to day.
In conclusion, the Ariens S18 Single Stage Snow Blower is one of the best snow throwers under $500. While there are indeed other electric models available, the S18 model offers enough power to clear sidewalks, driveways, and walkways without the noise and the hassle that comes with gas-powered models. Overall, it is a great option for those in search of a budget-friendly and high-performing snow blower.
Most asked questions when buying a snow blower under $500
What are the benefits of buying a snow blower under $500?
The biggest benefit of buying a snow blower under $500 is that it is cost-effective and budget-friendly. It provides a great value for your money, and you can still get a reliable and efficient snow blower that can handle the job.
What should I look for when buying a snow blower under $500?
When buying a snow blower under $500, you should look for factors such as the clearing width, throwing distance, engine power, and snow type it can handle. You should also consider the warranty, ease of use, and maintenance requirements.
Are electric or gas snow blowers better for under $500?
It depends on your specific needs and the size of your property. Electric snow blowers are more budget-friendly and require less maintenance, but they may not be as powerful as gas snow blowers. Gas snow blowers provide more power and can handle larger snowfall, but they require more maintenance and are typically more expensive.
Can a snow blower under $500 handle heavy snowfall?
Yes, there are snow blowers under $500 that can handle heavy snowfall. You should look for a snow blower with a powerful engine and a wide clearing width to handle heavy snowfall efficiently.
How do I maintain my snow blower under $500?
You should always follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and servicing of your snow blower. Regularly check the oil, fuel, and other fluids. Keep the snow blower clean, and store it properly when not in use.
What safety precautions should I take when using a snow blower under $500?
Always wear appropriate clothing and eye protection when using a snow blower. Keep your hands and feet away from the moving parts, and never put your hand inside the chute while the snow blower is running. Also, be aware of your surroundings and watch out for children and pets.
What type of snow blower is best for gravel driveways?
Single-stage snow blowers are usually best for gravel driveways as they have rubber paddles that can easily glide over the surface without damaging it.
How often should I perform maintenance on my snow blower?
It's recommended to perform maintenance on your snow blower at least once a year, preferably before the winter season starts. This includes changing the oil, replacing the spark plug, and checking the belts and cables.
Can I use a snow blower on wet snow?
Yes, but it's important to use a snow blower with enough power to handle wet, heavy snow. Two-stage snow blowers are typically better for handling wet snow.
How much should I expect to spend on a snow blower?
The price of a snow blower can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and features. However, there are many high-quality options available for under $500.
What is the difference between a two-stage and a three-stage snow blower?
A two-stage snow blower has an impeller and auger to lift and throw the snow, while a three-stage snow blower has an additional accelerator to increase throwing power and clear the snow faster.
Can I use a snow blower on a steep driveway?
Yes, but it's important to use a snow blower with enough power and traction to handle steep inclines. Look for models with larger wheels and strong engines for this purpose.