Winter is coming, and with it, the dread of the morning clear-out. If you are tired of the backbreaking labor of manual shoveling but don’t have the storage space or budget for a full-sized snow blower, you are looking for the middle ground: the electric snow shovel.
Also known as power shovels or handheld snowblowers, these tools bridge the gap between manual labor and heavy machinery. But let’s be honest right up front: they aren’t magic wands.
We’ve tested the top models for the 2025 season to see how they handle real-world conditions. Here is the honest truth about what works, what doesn’t, and which model is right for you.
The Honest Truth About Power Shovels
Before you buy, it is vital to manage your expectations.
What They Are:
These tools are essentially motorized shovels that save you the physical strain of lifting and throwing snow. They are perfect for decks, patios, walkways, and small driveways.
What They Are Not:
- They are not lightweight: While a manual shovel weighs about 4 lbs, electric models range from 13 to 26 lbs. You still have to push and lift that weight.
- They are not for blizzards: Most max out at a snow depth of 6 inches.
- They lack precision: Unlike snow blowers with chutes, most electric shovels throw snow directly forward.
Our Top Picks: The Best Electric Snow Shovels of 2026
We evaluated these based on power, battery life, ergonomics, and value. Here are the winners.
1. Best Overall (Corded): Greenworks 12-Inch 8-Amp Electric Snow Shovel (2600802)
- Powerful electric snow shovel with a 12-amp motor that can move up to 430 lbs of snow in just 1 minute; The power of this snow sweeper is comparable to a gas-powered snow thrower
- An electric snow blower with 16" snow clearing width, 8" snow cleaning depth, and 30' snow throwing distance
- Snow clean machine for efficient snow removal
- Earthwise Power Tools by ALM snow shovel with 6" rear wheels to make it easy to use and transport
- Corded snow shovel key features; Auxiliary handle, cord retention hook, rear wheels, dual-curved auger blade, and thermal protection
The Verdict: If you have an outdoor extension cord and a manageable driveway, this is the most reliable tool for the money.
Why We Like It:
In our testing, corded models often outperform battery models simply because they have consistent, unshakeable power. The Greenworks 8-Amp is well-balanced and clears right down to the pavement. Because it doesn’t carry a heavy battery, it is easier to maneuver than its cordless cousins, and you never have to worry about run-time fading halfway through the job.
- Specs: Corded (8-Amp) | 12-inch clearing width
- The Honest Pros: Lightweight, consistent torque (even in slush), and very affordable.
- The Cons: You are tethered to an outlet. Managing a cold, stiff extension cord in the snow can be annoying, and you have to be careful not to trip over it or run it over with the auger.
2. Best Cordless: Greenworks Pro 80V 12-Inch Cordless Shovel (2600602)
- GreenWorks lightweight and powerfull snow shovels help you easily move snow out of your way.
- 12 inch shoveling width and power to throw snow out of your way.
- Rapid charge of 1 hour to full capacity
- One battery, multiple tool compatibility. Compatible with 80V charger model GCH8040
The Verdict: The best balance of power and run-time for those who want to cut the cord.
Why We Like It:
If you need to go cordless, you need high voltage. The 80V battery on this unit is a beast. In testing, we squeezed out about 45 minutes of runtime, which is impressive for this category. The auger speed is notably strong, churning through icy, day-old snow that stalled weaker 24V models. It feels rugged and built to last.
- Specs: 80V Battery | 12-inch clearing width | 20-foot throw
- The Honest Pros: Excellent battery life, durable construction, comfortable handles, and enough power to handle end-of-driveway piles.
- The Cons: It is heavy. Weighing between 15 and 19 lbs (depending on the battery size), your arms will feel it after 20 minutes. It is also a significant investment compared to corded models.
3. Best for Heavy-Duty Use: EGO POWER+ Multi-Head Snow Shovel Kit (MSS1203)
- Exclusively compatible with EGO POWER plus Multi-Head System
- Up to 25-foot directional throwing distance
- 12-inch clearing surface
- Clears a 4-car driveway with 6 inches of snow on a single charge with the recommended 4.0Ah ARC Lithium battery (available separately)
- Overload protection clutch releases auger rotation to prevent damage to motor and electronics
The Verdict: A powerhouse tool for those who already own EGO gear or need to clear heavy plow slush.
Why We Like It:
This isn’t just a shovel; it’s part of EGO’s multi-head system (you can swap the motor for a string trimmer or edger in summer). The 56V ARC Lithium battery provides immense power. It features two speeds, allowing you to ramp up the torque when you hit that heavy, chunky slush the city plow leaves at the end of your driveway.
- Specs: 56V Battery | 12-inch clearing width | 25-foot throw
- The Honest Pros: Incredible power for its size, versatile attachment system, and handles wet snow better than any other model tested.
- The Cons: It is the heavyweight of the group. At over 17 lbs (without the battery), it can be physically demanding to use. Many users find the balance awkward and recommend buying a strap to help support the weight.
4. Best Lightweight / Budget: Snow Joe 24V-SS13
- Complete Snow-Clearing Kit: Includes a 13" Cordless Snow Shovel, protective cover, IceDozer Ice + Snow Scraper, 24V* 4.0-Ah IONMAX Battery, and Quick Charger for all-in-one convenience.
- Powerful Performance: Powered by a robust 400 W motor, this snow shovel moves up to 1,620 lbs. of snow per charge, ensuring fast and efficient clearing.
- Cordless Convenience: Effortlessly clear snow from decks, patios, steps, and sidewalks with the hassle-free, cord-free design that provides maximum maneuverability.
- Wide & Efficient Clearing: Cuts a 13-inch wide by 6-inch deep path in a single pass, allowing for quick and thorough snow removal with minimal effort.
- Long-Lasting Battery Power: Operated by a 24V IONMAX 4.0-Ah rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, it delivers up to 22 minutes of whisper-quiet electric runtime for uninterrupted snow clearing.
The Verdict: The “grab-and-go” solution for seniors or quick patio cleanups.
Why We Like It:
If you physically cannot manage a 20-pound tool, the Snow Joe 24V is your answer. Weighing just over 13 lbs, it is incredibly easy to lift onto a deck or steps. It stores easily and is very affordable.
- Specs: 24V Battery | 13-inch clearing width
- The Honest Pros: Extremely lightweight, compact storage, and inexpensive.
- The Cons: You get what you pay for. The build quality feels plasticky, and the battery life is modest (approx. 20–25 minutes in real-world conditions). It struggles significantly with heavy, wet snow or depths over 4 inches.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose
1. The Great Debate: Corded vs. Cordless
This is the first decision you must make. Here is the breakdown:
| Feature | Corded Electric Shovels | Cordless (Battery) Shovels |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Much Cheaper ($) | Expensive ($$$) |
| Weight | Lighter (No heavy battery) | Heavier (Battery adds 3-5 lbs) |
| Runtime | Unlimited | Limited (20-45 mins avg) |
| Power | Consistent, high torque | Varies by voltage |
| Mobility | Tethered (100ft max) | Go anywhere |
| Best For | Small driveways near the house | Large properties, pathways, sheds |
Honest Tip: If your driveway is small and you have an outdoor outlet, buy the corded version. The hassle of the cord is often less annoying than the hassle of a heavy, dead battery.
2. Snow Depth & “Layering”
Electric shovels are designed for 6 inches of snow max. If you wake up to 10 inches, you can’t just push through.
- The Technique: You must use the “layering” method. You have to lift the shovel, skim the top 4 inches off, and then make a second pass for the bottom layer. This works, but it is tiring.
3. The Directional Control Problem
The #1 complaint from new users is: “It throws snow in my face/on my clean driveway.”
Most electric shovels throw snow straight ahead. They do not have chutes like big snow blowers. If you have a strong wind in your face, you will get covered in snow. If you don’t have space straight ahead to pile the snow, these tools might not work for your property layout.
Safety & Maintenance Tips
- Battery Care is Critical: Lithium-ion batteries hate the cold. Never leave your batteries in the garage. Store them inside at room temperature. If a battery gets too cold, it may refuse to charge or run for only 5 minutes.
- Avoid Gravel: These machines have high-speed plastic or metal augers. If you use them on a gravel driveway, you are effectively turning the tool into a rock-machine-gun. Only use them on paved surfaces or decks.
- The “10-Second” Rule: If the shovel clogs with wet snow, turn it off and remove the battery/cord. Wait 10 seconds for all moving parts to stop. Never use your hands to clear the clog—use a stick or a clean-out tool.
The Bottom Line
Electric snow shovels are excellent tools for specific jobs: clearing decks, walkways, and small driveways with light-to-moderate snowfall.
- Buy the Greenworks Corded if you want the best value and reliable power near the house.
- Buy the EGO or Greenworks Pro 80V if you need cordless freedom and have to tackle heavier snow.
A Final Word of Advice: If you live in an area that regularly gets deep blizzards (8+ inches) or you have a massive driveway, an electric shovel might be more hassle than it’s worth. In that case, save your money and invest in a small electric snow blower with wheels and a directional chute. Your back will thank you.
