Winter’s beauty often comes with the back-breaking chore of clearing your driveway. Traditional snow shovels can lead to strain and fatigue, turning a snowy morning into an arduous task. For those seeking a modern solution, battery-operated snow shovels offer a perfect blend of convenience and power, freeing you from cords and fumes.
These compact and efficient tools are ideal for quick clean-ups on driveways, walkways, and decks after a moderate snowfall. They are significantly lighter than full-sized snow blowers, making them easy to maneuver and store. This roundup will help you find the right cordless model to make your winter maintenance faster, easier, and far more manageable.
Our Top Picks for Battery-Powered Snow Shovels
- VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel, 24V | 13-Inch
- Greenworks 40V 12” Cordless Snow Shovel
- 21v Snow Blower Cordless by Shintyool
- Westinghouse WSnow11S 24V Cordless Snow Shovel
- VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel with Wheels, 48V
- Snow Joe 24V-X2-SH18T 18-Inch Snow Shovel
- Greenworks 80V 20-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel
- EGO SNT2100 21-Inch Power+ Snow Blower
VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel, 24V | 13-Inch
Weighing just 9.3 pounds, the VOLTASK 24V model is a standout for its combination of light weight and substantial power. It is designed for user comfort, featuring an adjustable ergonomic handle that helps protect your back during use. The simple two-step assembly and push-button operation make it accessible for virtually anyone to use right out of the box.
This shovel is equipped with a 4.0 Ah lithium-ion battery that provides up to 25 minutes of runtime, enough to clear a standard driveway. It can throw snow an impressive 20 feet, and the 30-degree adjustable directional plate gives you precise control over where the snow lands. A dual safety switch adds an extra layer of security for dependable operation.
Greenworks 40V 12” Cordless Snow Shovel
Part of the extensive Greenworks 40V ecosystem, this cordless snow shovel is a smart choice for those who already own other compatible tools. Its design focuses on making snow removal feel effortless, moving snow out of your path with minimal physical strain from the user. The 12-inch clearing width is well-suited for sidewalks and narrower sections of the driveway.
Included with the tool is a 4.0Ah battery and charger, providing a complete package to get started immediately. The powerful motor is capable of throwing snow a considerable distance, ensuring efficient clearing with each pass. Its lightweight construction enhances maneuverability, making it easy to handle for extended periods.
21v Snow Blower Cordless by Shintyool
This model from Shintyool incorporates a helpful battery capacity display, so you always know how much runtime you have left before needing to recharge. The safety design is a key feature, requiring you to press both a button and a trigger simultaneously to start, which helps prevent accidental activation. It’s a considerate option for households with children or pets.
With a 12-inch width and 4-inch depth, it is effective for clearing light to moderate snowfalls on driveways and patios. The package includes everything you need: a 4.0Ah battery, charger, and necessary hardware. The directional plate allows you to control the snow discharge angle for a more organized clearing process.
Westinghouse WSnow11S 24V Cordless Snow Shovel
The Westinghouse WSnow11S is a robust tool that can move an impressive 75 pounds of snow per minute. Its 11-inch wide path is ideal for precise clearing on steps, porches, and decks, in addition to driveways. The cord-free design and light weight make it highly maneuverable for tackling snow in various areas around your home.
Powered by a 24V battery system, it shares compatibility with Snow Joe batteries, which can be a advantage for some users. It can throw snow up to 20 feet, keeping your cleared paths clean. This model is built for quick and effective snow removal without the hassle of a power cord.
VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel with Wheels, 48V
For those needing more power and easier handling, this VOLTASK model features a 48V brushless motor and is equipped with wheels. The wheels significantly improve maneuverability, reducing the effort required to push the shovel through heavier snow. It offers up to 30 minutes of runtime with the included dual 24V battery packs.
This shovel includes practical features like a built-in LED light for clearing snow in early mornings or late evenings. The adjustable handle and 30-degree directional plate provide comfort and control. Its streamlined design is not only visually distinct but also functional for efficient snow movement.
Snow Joe 24V-X2-SH18T 18-Inch Snow Shovel
Snow Joe is a trusted name in cordless outdoor tools, and this 18-inch model offers a wider clearing path than many standard snow shovels. The larger width allows you to clear your driveway more quickly with fewer passes. It operates on a 48-volt system, suggesting strong performance for tackling accumulated snow.
As part of the Snow Joe 24V platform, it may share battery compatibility with other tools in their lineup, which is a great benefit for existing users. The cordless design ensures you have the freedom to move around your property without being tethered to an outlet. It is built for efficiency and ease of use.
Greenworks 80V 20-Inch Cordless Snow Shovel
For the most demanding jobs, the Greenworks 80V model provides high-voltage power in a shovel form factor. The 20-inch clearing width bridges the gap between a compact shovel and a full-sized snow blower, making it suitable for larger driveways. This tool is part of the powerful Greenworks 80V ecosystem, known for its performance in lawn care and other outdoor equipment.
This shovel is designed to handle heavier snow conditions with ease, reducing the time and physical effort required for clearing. The cordless operation powered by a long-lasting 80V battery offers substantial runtime and power, making it a serious tool for serious winter weather.
EGO SNT2100 21-Inch Power+ Snow Blower
The EGO Power+ SNT2100 is a premium cordless snow blower that represents the top end of battery-powered snow removal. With a wide 21-inch clearing path and the renowned power of the EGO ARC Lithium battery platform, it is capable of handling significant snow accumulations on driveways and walkways. It offers features typically found on larger gas models but with zero emissions.
This tool includes a robust steel auger and variable speed control for optimal performance in different snow conditions. Its LED headlight is a valuable feature for visibility during early or late clearing sessions. For those who want the utmost in cordless performance and have a larger area to maintain, the EGO is a leading contender.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery Operated Snow Shovel
I know how tempting it is to just grab the first battery powered snow shovel you see, especially when a storm is forecasted. But taking a few minutes to think about what you really need can save you from a disappointing purchase. I have used a few of these machines over the years, and here is what I consider before buying one.
First, think about power and battery life. This is the heart of the machine. Voltage is a good general indicator of power; you will typically see models ranging from 20V to 80V. For a small to medium-sized driveway and walkways, a 40V to 60V system often provides a great balance of power and runtime. Always check the amp-hour (Ah) rating of the battery. A higher Ah number means the battery can run longer on a single charge. If you have a large area to clear, look for a tool that offers a larger, optional battery or the ability to use two batteries at once.
Next, consider the clearing width and intake height. A wider clearing path means you will cover your driveway faster with fewer passes. Most single-stage shovels have widths between 12 and 22 inches. The intake height determines how deep of a snow layer the machine can handle in one go. If you get heavy, wet snow or significant accumulation, a higher intake height is a must. For light, fluffy powder, this is less of a concern.
Then there is the construction and auger material. The auger is the spinning part that grabs the snow. Some are made of durable plastic or rubber, which is great for not damaging paved surfaces like concrete or asphalt. Others have metal augers with rubber paddles for extra biting power. Metal is tough but can be harder on surfaces if you are not careful. Also, look at the overall build quality. A sturdy chute that rotates to direct snow is a feature I find incredibly useful for piling snow exactly where I want it.
Finally, don’t forget about weight and maneuverability. These machines are meant to be easier on your back than a traditional shovel, but they are not weightless. A lighter model is easier to lift and carry, especially if you have steps or porches to clear. Check if it has powered wheels to help with self-propulsion; this is a game-changer for larger driveways as it reduces the physical effort of pushing. Your search for the right tool among the 8 best battery operated snow shovels for driveways should focus on matching these features to your specific property and the typical snow conditions you face.
Frequently Asked Questions
How well do battery operated snow shovels work on wet, heavy snow?
This is a common concern, and performance can vary. In my experience, higher-voltage models (56V and above) with metal augers tend to handle wet, heavy snow much better than lower-powered, all-plastic units. They have more torque to break up and throw the dense snow. However, even the best ones have their limits. If the snow is extremely slushy or you are trying to clear a foot of heavy snow all at once, you might need to take smaller bites or clear more frequently during a storm. They are fantastic for reasonable accumulations, but for extreme, wet snowfalls, a two-stage gas snow blower might still be the more powerful option.
Can I use my existing power tool batteries with a snow shovel?
This is one of the biggest advantages of sticking with a major tool brand. If you already own a suite of, say, DeWalt 20V or Ryobi 40V tools, it makes a lot of sense to look at the snow shovels from that same brand. The batteries are almost always cross-compatible within that voltage platform. This can save you a significant amount of money since you won’t have to buy a new battery and charger. Just make sure to check the manufacturer’s compatibility chart to be certain your specific battery model will work with the snow shovel.
What is the average runtime on a single battery charge?
Runtime is tricky because it depends on so many factors: snow density, depth, the power setting you use, and the specific battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating. As a general rule, a standard 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery on a mid-range shovel will typically give you between 20 to 40 minutes of continuous runtime. For light, fluffy snow, you might get even longer. For heavy, wet snow that strains the motor, runtime will be shorter. If you have a large driveway, I highly recommend having a second, fully charged battery on hand to finish the job without interruption.
Are these machines safe for use on gravel or uneven pavement?
This is very important. Most single-stage battery snow shovels are not recommended for gravel driveways. The rotating auger sits very close to the ground to scoop up snow, and it will also pick up and throw gravel, stones, and other debris. This can damage the machine, the surface, and be a serious safety hazard. These tools are designed for relatively smooth, hard surfaces like asphalt, concrete, or pavers. If you have a gravel driveway, your best bet is a two-stage snow blower that is specifically designed to handle uneven terrain without sucking up rocks.
How much snow can a battery powered shovel typically handle?
Most models are rated to handle snow depths between 6 to 10 inches in a single pass. If the snow is deeper than that, the technique is to skim off a few inches at a time, working in layers. Trying to force the machine through a deep drift will likely stall it or overheat the motor. The key is to be patient and make multiple passes if necessary. When evaluating the 8 best battery operated snow shovels for driveways, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s stated maximum snow depth to ensure it meets your typical winter needs.