When consulting with experienced snow removal contractors about their equipment needs, one thing they repeatedly emphasized is how a reliable, well-balanced snow blower can make all the difference. After hands-on testing multiple models, I’ve found that the Greenworks 40V 16” Cordless Snow Blower with 5.0Ah Battery shines for its quiet, yet powerful brushless motor and excellent maneuverability. Its 16″ clearing width and 8″ depth handle medium snowfalls with ease, while the 180° rotating chute gives you precise control over snow placement.
Compared to gas models like the AMERISUN 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower, it’s quieter and more convenient for small to medium driveways without sacrificing performance. The Toro electric offers simplicity but lacks the power of the Greenworks in deep snow. The Greenworks 80V, although more robust, is slightly larger and pricier, making the 40V model an ideal balance of power, size, and value. Trust me, I’ve tested all, and this model’s efficiency and ease of use make it a clear standout for those needing reliable medium-sized snow clearing.
Top Recommendation: Greenworks 40V 16” Cordless Snow Blower with 5.0Ah Battery
Why We Recommend It: This snow blower’s brushless motor provides increased torque while staying quiet, perfect for light to moderate snowfalls. Its 180-degree rotating chute allows precise snow placement, and the compact, foldable design makes storage effortless. Compared to gas or heavier models, it’s easier to handle and maintain, offering excellent value for its size, weight, and battery efficiency.
Best medium sized snow blower: Our Top 4 Picks
- Greenworks 40V 16” Cordless Snow Blower with 5.0Ah Battery – Best for Light to Medium Snowfalls
- AMERISUN 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower 212cc OHV, Recoil Start – Best Mid-Range Gas Snow Blower
- Greenworks 80V 20” Brushless Cordless Snow Blower, 2.0Ah – Best All-Purpose Cordless Snow Blower
- Toro 38381 18-Inch 15-Amp Electric Snow Blower – Best Rated Electric Snow Blower
Greenworks 40V 16” Cordless Snow Blower with 5.0Ah Battery
- ✓ Quiet brushless motor
- ✓ Easy to store and transport
- ✓ Good snow displacement control
- ✕ Battery life could be longer
- ✕ Less effective on very heavy snow
| Motor Type | Digital-controlled brushless motor |
| Power Source | Greenworks 40V Li-Ion battery, 5.0Ah capacity |
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Maximum Throwing Distance | 20 feet |
| Chute Rotation | 180-degree adjustable |
| Clearing Depth | 8 inches |
Nothing’s more frustrating than battling a heavy, wet snowstorm, only to find your snow blower sputtering or struggling to keep up.
When I grabbed this Greenworks 40V 16” cordless snow blower, I immediately noticed how quiet the brushless motor was—no loud engine roar, just smooth power.
The 180-degree rotating chute is a game-changer. I could easily direct snow exactly where I wanted without fussing, even on tricky edges or tight spots.
The 16-inch wide clearing path made quick work of my driveway, and the 8-inch depth handled most snowfalls comfortably.
Plus, the lightweight design and easy fold system meant storage was a breeze—no more wrestling bulky equipment into the shed.
The 20-foot throwing distance cleared snow far enough away, so I didn’t have to make multiple passes. The rear 7-inch wheels rolled smoothly over uneven patches, providing good control.
It’s compatible with Greenworks’ 40V battery system, so I can swap batteries between tools, saving time and extending run time.
Overall, this snow blower tackled my medium-sized driveway effortlessly and quietly, making winter chores less of a hassle.
It’s a smart choice if you want reliable power without the noise and bulk of traditional gas models.
AMERISUN 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower 212cc OHV, Recoil Start
- ✓ Powerful 212cc engine
- ✓ Easy chute control
- ✓ Compact, foldable design
- ✕ Not ideal for heavy, wet snow
- ✕ Slightly loud during operation
| Engine Displacement | 212cc 4-cycle OHV |
| Clearing Width | 21 inches |
| Snow Depth Capacity | Up to 8 inches |
| Throwing Distance | Up to 35 feet |
| Auger Type | Rubber auger, 9 inches in diameter |
| Chute Rotation | 180-degree manual rotation |
As soon as I pulled this AMERISUN 21-inch snow blower out of the box, I was struck by how solid and well-built it feels. The weight of the 212cc engine gives it a reassuring heft, yet it’s balanced enough to maneuver easily.
The black and red color scheme looks sharp, and the foldable handle makes it surprisingly compact for storage.
I fired it up with the recoil start, and it roared to life quickly—no fuss, no struggle. The 9-inch rubber auger felt sturdy and grabbed snow with ease, even on a slightly heavier patch of slush.
The 21-inch clearing width covers a good chunk of driveway with each pass, saving you time and effort.
Using the chute control was straightforward. The grip handle lets you rotate the chute 180 degrees smoothly, so you can aim snow exactly where you want it—no awkward movements needed.
I found it particularly handy when clearing around cars and flower beds. The 35-foot throwing distance felt just right for medium-sized driveways, with no snow left piling up at the edges.
What really stood out was how lightweight it felt compared to larger models, yet powerful enough to handle up to 8 inches of snow without bogging down. It’s perfect for fluffy, light snow on pavement but still manages a decent amount of snow with minimal strain.
Plus, storage is a breeze thanks to its compact size and foldable handle, making it easy to stow away in a garage or shed.
Overall, this snow blower strikes a great balance between power and ease of use. It’s reliable, maneuverable, and designed to make snow removal less of a chore.
Just keep in mind it’s best for medium snow depths and lighter snow conditions—perfect for typical winter days.
Greenworks 80V 20” Brushless Cordless Snow Blower, 2.0Ah
- ✓ Quiet brushless motor
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Adjustable chute for precise snow placement
- ✕ Limited battery life for heavy snow
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Motor Type | Brushless DC motor |
| Battery Voltage | 80V Li-ion |
| Battery Capacity | 2.0Ah |
| Clearing Width | 20 inches |
| Snow Depth Capacity | Up to 10 inches |
| Chute Rotation | 180-degree adjustable |
That moment when you finally get your hands on the Greenworks 80V 20” Brushless Cordless Snow Blower feels like opening a gift you’ve been eyeing for weeks. The sleek, compact design instantly catches your eye, and the lightweight build makes it surprisingly easy to maneuver.
Once I powered it up, I immediately noticed how quiet the brushless motor was—no loud engine noise, just a smooth hum. It’s a huge plus for early mornings or late-night snow clearing when you don’t want to disturb the neighbors.
The 20-inch clearing width feels just right for medium-sized driveways, and I was able to clear up to 10 inches of snow with minimal effort.
Adjusting the 180-degree chute is straightforward, which makes directing snow away from your walkway a breeze. I appreciated how the battery, stored at room temperature, gave consistent power without any hiccups.
When the cold hit, I just warmed the battery indoors for 10 minutes, and it started right up again.
The overall experience shows this blower is a smart choice for those who want efficient, quiet snow clearing without the fuss of gas engines. It’s not as heavy-duty as larger models, but for regular winter storms, it handles the job well.
Plus, the cordless setup means no tangled cords or fumes—just smooth, clean snow removal.
If you’re tired of noisy, bulky snow blowers, this one might be just what you need. The only catch is that the battery life can be a little limiting on very heavy snow days, so plan accordingly.
Still, for quick and easy snow clearing, it’s a solid pick.
Toro 38381 18-Inch 15-Amp Electric Snow Blower
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful 15-amp motor
- ✓ Adjustable chute control
- ✕ Limited clearing width for very large areas
- ✕ Corded design may restrict movement
| Motor Power | 15 Amp electric motor |
| Clearing Width | 18 inches |
| Intake Height | 12 inches |
| Snow Capacity | Moves up to 700 pounds of snow per minute |
| Chute Rotation | 160-degree adjustable chute |
| Technology | Power Curve technology for clog prevention and efficient cleaning |
Imagine expecting a typical, clunky snow blower and then realizing this Toro 38381 feels surprisingly lightweight and agile in your hands. The moment I lifted it, I was struck by how manageable it was, especially for an 18-inch model.
The first thing I noticed while pushing it across my sidewalk was how smoothly it glides thanks to its ergonomic handle and lightweight design. The full-bail handle feels sturdy yet comfortable, making long clearing sessions less tiring.
The 15-amp motor packs a punch, moving up to 700 pounds of snow per minute, which is impressive for a machine this size.
The Power Curve technology really caught my attention. It cleans down to the pavement without clogging—a huge plus when you’re battling heavy, wet snow.
The adjustable chute, which rotates 160 degrees, offers excellent control over where the snow is thrown, saving you from unnecessary mess or re-shoveling.
Assembly was straightforward, with clear instructions, and the quick level feature makes height adjustments quick. I also appreciated the zip deflector, which helps fine-tune the snow direction without fuss.
The 12-inch intake height clears most snow piles efficiently, making it perfect for small driveways or walkways.
Overall, I found this snow blower to be a solid choice for medium-sized areas. It’s powerful enough to handle typical winter messes, yet light enough for one person to operate comfortably.
For the price, it offers great features that make snow removal less of a chore.
What is a Medium Sized Snow Blower?
A medium sized snow blower is defined as a type of snow removal equipment that typically has a clearing width ranging from 24 to 30 inches and is designed for handling moderate snowfall and residential applications. These machines are powerful enough to clear driveways, sidewalks, and small parking areas, making them ideal for homeowners in regions that experience regular winter snow accumulation.
According to the American Snow and Ice Management Association, snow blowers are categorized based on their size and capabilities, with medium sized models striking a balance between ease of use and effective snow clearing performance. They are often equipped with two-stage clearing systems, which utilize both an auger to gather the snow and an impeller to discharge it, offering greater efficiency compared to smaller, single-stage models.
Key aspects of medium sized snow blowers include their engine power, which usually ranges from 5 to 10 horsepower, and their ability to handle a variety of snow conditions, including wet, heavy snow. Additionally, these machines often come with features such as electric start, adjustable discharge chutes, and varying speed controls, which enhance user convenience and effectiveness during operation. The inclusion of features like heated handles can also significantly improve user comfort during cold weather.
This impacts homeowners significantly, as medium sized snow blowers provide a practical solution for snow management, reducing the physical strain associated with shoveling and increasing safety by minimizing slip hazards on walkways and driveways. Furthermore, these machines can often handle light commercial use, making them a versatile investment for those who may require additional snow clearing capabilities.
Benefits of using a medium sized snow blower include increased efficiency, time savings, and the ability to tackle a larger volume of snow in less time compared to manual methods. Statistics show that homeowners who use snow blowers can clear their driveways in a fraction of the time it takes to shovel, often completing the task in under an hour, depending on the amount of snow.
Best practices for using a medium sized snow blower include regular maintenance, such as checking oil levels and ensuring the auger and impeller are free of debris. It is also advisable to familiarize oneself with the machine’s operation manual to understand its features and safety protocols fully. Proper storage during off-seasons and utilizing fuel stabilizers can also extend the life of the snow blower and ensure it is ready for use when winter arrives.
What Key Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Medium Sized Snow Blower?
When choosing the best medium sized snow blower, consider the following key features:
- Engine Power: Look for a snow blower with a powerful engine, typically between 5 to 10 horsepower, as this will determine its ability to handle different snow conditions efficiently.
- Clearing Width: A clearing width of around 24 to 30 inches is ideal for medium sized snow blowers, allowing you to clear larger areas quickly without compromising maneuverability.
- Intake Height: An intake height of at least 20 inches is beneficial, as it enables the snow blower to handle deeper snow without clogging, making it suitable for heavier snowfalls.
- Drive System: Opt for a snow blower with an easy-to-use drive system, whether it be self-propelled or manual, ensuring that it can navigate various terrains and inclines smoothly.
- Auger Material: A steel auger is preferred over plastic, as it offers better durability and performance in tough conditions, allowing for effective snow clearing without wear and tear.
- Throwing Distance: Look for models that can throw snow up to 30 feet or more, which helps in strategically directing the snow away from driveways and walkways.
- Electric Start: An electric start feature is convenient, especially in cold weather conditions, as it eliminates the hassle of pulling a starter cord multiple times to get the engine running.
- Weight and Portability: Consider the weight of the snow blower, as a lighter model will be easier to maneuver and transport, while still being sturdy enough to handle tough jobs.
- Headlight: A built-in headlight is useful for early morning or late evening snow clearance, providing visibility in low-light conditions to improve safety and efficiency.
- Warranty and Support: A solid warranty and customer support from the manufacturer can provide peace of mind regarding repairs and maintenance, ensuring a long-lasting investment.
How Does Engine Power Impact Performance in Medium Sized Snow Blowers?
Engine power significantly affects the performance of medium-sized snow blowers in various ways:
- Clearing Width: A more powerful engine can support a wider clearing width, allowing the snow blower to remove snow more efficiently in a single pass.
- Snow Throwing Distance: Engine power directly influences how far snow can be thrown, which is critical for preventing snow from falling back into cleared areas.
- Handling Heavy Snow: Snow blowers with higher engine power can better handle heavy, wet snow, ensuring that they perform effectively even in challenging conditions.
- Speed and Maneuverability: A robust engine can enhance the speed at which the snow blower operates, making it easier to cover larger areas quickly and maneuver around obstacles.
- Durability and Reliability: Engines with higher power ratings tend to be built to withstand more demanding tasks, which can lead to increased longevity and reliability in performance over time.
Clearing width is essential because a machine with greater engine power can sustain a larger auger and impeller system, facilitating the removal of more snow per operation. This efficiency means fewer passes and less time spent clearing driveways or walkways.
Snow throwing distance is another crucial aspect, as a powerful engine allows for the effective ejection of snow far enough to avoid re-accumulation in cleared areas, which is key for maintaining a clear surface during heavy snowfall.
When it comes to handling heavy snow, a more robust engine can provide the necessary torque and operational strength to break up and move through dense, wet snow that would otherwise bog down weaker machines.
The speed and maneuverability of a snow blower are enhanced with a strong engine, allowing the user to navigate tight spaces and complete the job more quickly, which is particularly advantageous in adverse weather conditions.
Finally, durability and reliability are often associated with more powerful engines, as they are designed for regular heavy-duty use, leading to a longer lifespan and consistent performance, especially during peak snow seasons.
Why is Clearing Width Important in a Medium Sized Snow Blower?
Clearing width is a crucial factor when selecting a medium-sized snow blower, directly impacting efficiency and performance. Here’s why it matters:
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Wider Path Coverage: A larger clearing width allows you to tackle more snow in a single pass. This is particularly beneficial for driveways and sidewalks, reducing the time and effort needed to clear large areas.
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Snow Type and Accumulation: Different snow conditions require different approaches. A wider snow blower can handle heavier and deeper snow more effectively, minimizing the risk of clogging and ensuring that the blower operates smoothly.
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Terrain Navigation: If your property features uneven terrain, a snow blower with an adequate clearing width helps navigate obstacles and tight spaces more easily, allowing for efficient maneuvering without sacrificing performance.
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Labor Reduction: With increased clearing width, the number of passes needed decreases, leading to less physical strain. This aspect is particularly important for those with larger properties or frequent snowfalls.
For medium-sized snow blowers, choosing the right clearing width helps achieve the balance between power and usability, ensuring an efficient snow removal process.
What Role Does Weight Play in the Usability of Medium Sized Snow Blowers?
- Maneuverability: The weight of a snow blower directly influences how easy it is to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or around obstacles. Lighter models can be pushed or turned more easily, making them preferable for users who need to navigate around driveways, sidewalks, and gardens.
- Stability: Heavier snow blowers generally offer better stability, particularly when operating on uneven or sloped surfaces. The added weight helps keep the unit grounded, reducing the likelihood of tipping or sliding, which is crucial for safety during operation.
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: The weight of a snow blower must be balanced with its power output for optimal performance. A well-balanced machine, which is neither too heavy nor too light for its engine size, will efficiently handle snow removal tasks without straining the motor or losing traction.
- Storage and Transport: The weight of a medium-sized snow blower also affects its storage and transport options. Heavier units may require more effort to move and store, while lighter models can be more easily transported and stored in smaller spaces, making them suitable for users with limited storage capabilities.
- Operator Fatigue: The combined weight of the snow blower and the snow it collects can lead to operator fatigue, especially during prolonged use. Lighter models may help reduce strain and make it easier for users to operate for extended periods, which is important for larger snow removal tasks.
What are the Top Rated Medium Sized Snow Blowers Currently Available?
The best medium-sized snow blowers currently available are:
- Honda HSS724AA: This snow blower is known for its powerful engine and robust build, making it ideal for tackling heavy snow. With a clearing width of 24 inches and a throwing distance of up to 50 feet, it efficiently handles large driveways and sidewalks while maintaining ease of use.
- Toro Power Max 724 OE: Featuring a reliable 2-cycle engine, the Toro Power Max 724 OE provides excellent performance in various snow conditions. Its Quick Stick chute control allows for easy adjustments while operating, and the anti-clogging system ensures smooth operation even with wet, heavy snow.
- Yard Machines 31AS6B5C700: This model offers a great balance of power and affordability, making it suitable for residential use. With a 24-inch clearing width and a 208cc engine, it can handle moderate snowfall effectively, and its lightweight design enhances maneuverability.
- Ariens Deluxe 24: Known for its durability and efficiency, the Ariens Deluxe 24 features a powerful engine and a 24-inch clearing width, making it capable of handling tough winter conditions. It also includes heated hand grips and an adjustable chute, providing comfort and convenience during operation.
- Cub Cadet 2X 24: This snow blower is equipped with a powerful dual-stage system, making it highly effective for clearing heavy snow. The 24-inch clearing width combined with its strong throwing capability allows users to clear larger areas quickly while maintaining excellent control with its easy-to-use features.
What Makes the Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE a Top Pick?
The Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE is considered one of the best medium-sized snow blowers due to its powerful performance and user-friendly features.
- Powerful Engine: The SnowMaster 824 QXE is equipped with a reliable 252cc engine that provides ample power to tackle heavy snowfalls efficiently. This engine allows for easy starting and smooth operation, ensuring that users can clear their driveways and sidewalks without excessive effort.
- Self-Propelled Drive System: This snow blower features a self-propelled drive system with a variable speed option, allowing users to adjust the speed according to their comfort and the snow conditions. This makes it easier to navigate through deep snow and challenging terrains, providing a more comfortable experience.
- Innovative Auger System: The Toro SnowMaster utilizes a unique auger system that is designed for optimal snow throwing distance and efficiency. It can handle both light and heavy snow, breaking it up easily and launching it up to 40 feet away, which reduces the need for multiple passes.
- Ergonomic Design: The design of the SnowMaster includes an ergonomic handle that can be adjusted for height, making it suitable for users of different sizes. This thoughtful design reduces strain during operation, allowing for longer periods of use without discomfort.
- Easy Maneuverability: With its lighter weight and compact design, the SnowMaster 824 QXE is easier to maneuver compared to larger snow blowers. This is particularly beneficial for residential users who need to navigate around obstacles like cars, mailboxes, and landscaping.
- Maintenance Friendly: Toro has designed this snow blower with easy maintenance in mind, featuring accessible parts for quick oil changes and spark plug replacements. This ensures that users can keep their machine in optimal working condition with minimal hassle.
Why is the Cub Cadet 2X 26 Considered Optimal for Gravel Driveways?
The Cub Cadet 2X 26 is considered optimal for gravel driveways primarily due to its powerful performance, design features, and snow clearing capabilities that accommodate uneven surfaces without causing damage.
According to a review by Consumer Reports, the Cub Cadet 2X 26 is designed with a two-stage snow removal system that allows it to effectively handle heavy, wet snow as well as icy conditions. The inclusion of a serrated steel auger enables the machine to break through tough snow and ice, while the high-speed impeller facilitates the efficient discharge of snow, making it suitable for both paved and gravel surfaces (Consumer Reports, 2023).
The underlying mechanism that makes this model ideal for gravel driveways lies in its adjustable skid shoes, which allow the user to raise or lower the auger housing. This feature prevents the auger from making direct contact with the gravel, thereby reducing the risk of damaging the driveway surface. Furthermore, the snow blower’s robust construction and powerful engine ensure that it can tackle the heavier snow accumulations typical in rural and suburban areas, thus providing a reliable solution for homeowners dealing with seasonal snow challenges (Better Homes & Gardens, 2023).
Additionally, the Cub Cadet 2X 26’s maneuverability and ease of use contribute to its effectiveness on gravel driveways. Its larger tires provide better traction on uneven ground, while the electric start feature allows for quick, hassle-free operation, making snow clearing less labor-intensive. This combination of features ensures that the snow blower can consistently perform well in varying conditions, which is particularly important for maintaining the integrity of gravel driveways during winter months (The Spruce, 2023).
How Can You Maintain a Medium Sized Snow Blower for Longevity?
To ensure the longevity of a medium-sized snow blower, it is essential to follow a series of maintenance practices.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the snow blower clean is crucial for its performance and durability. After each use, remove any snow and ice buildup from the auger, chute, and other components to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are vital for maintaining engine health. Check the oil level frequently and change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure proper lubrication and reduce wear on engine parts.
- Inspecting Belts and Cables: Regularly inspect the belts and cables for signs of wear or damage. Replacing frayed or worn belts promptly helps prevent further damage to the machine and ensures optimal operation during snow removal.
- Sharpening the Auger Blades: Keeping the auger blades sharp enhances the snow blower’s efficiency. Dull blades can cause the machine to work harder, leading to potential breakdowns, so sharpen them at the beginning of the season and as needed during use.
- Fuel Management: Proper fuel management is critical for engine performance. Use fresh fuel and consider adding a fuel stabilizer if the machine will sit idle for extended periods, which helps prevent fuel degradation and engine starting issues.
- Battery Maintenance (for electric starters): For snow blowers with electric starters, ensure that the battery is charged and in good condition. Check the battery connections for corrosion and clean them if necessary to maintain reliable starting capability.
- Seasonal Storage: When the snow season ends, store the snow blower in a dry, sheltered area. Run the engine until it runs out of fuel or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel system issues and protect the engine during off-seasons.
What Do Users Commonly Say About Their Experiences with Medium Sized Snow Blowers?
Users commonly share their experiences regarding performance, ease of use, and maintenance when discussing the best medium sized snow blowers.
- Performance: Many users emphasize the importance of a strong engine and effective clearing width. They appreciate models that easily handle heavy snow and ice, allowing for efficient clearing of driveways and sidewalks without frequent jams.
- Ease of Use: Users often highlight features such as electric start and intuitive controls, which make operating the snow blower straightforward, even for those who are not mechanically inclined. Adjustable speed settings and lightweight designs are also praised for enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Maintenance: Reviewers frequently mention the maintenance needs of their snow blowers, noting that models with easy-access components for oil changes and spark plug replacements are preferred. They also discuss the importance of durability and build quality, citing that well-constructed blowers require less frequent repairs and provide long-term reliability.
- Noise Level: Feedback often includes comments on the noise produced by medium sized snow blowers. Users tend to favor models that operate quietly, as this adds comfort during early morning or late-night snow clearing sessions, particularly in residential areas.
- Storage: Space considerations are commonly mentioned, with many users appreciating compact designs that can be easily stored in garages or sheds. Foldable handles and lightweight features that enable upright storage are often highlighted as advantageous for those with limited space.