Top-Rated Snow Blower for Electric Power: Corded vs. Cordless

Electric snow blowers are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners, offering a more environmentally friendly and quieter alternative to gas-powered models. The two main types of electric snow blowers are corded and cordless, each with its unique set of advantages and limitations. Understanding the key differences between these two options will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a snow blower. This guide will explore the benefits and drawbacks of both corded and cordless electric snow blowers, along with recommendations for the best models available on the market.

Corded Electric Snow Blowers

Corded electric snow blowers are powered by electricity directly from an outlet via a power cord. They are known for being lightweight, cost-effective, and requiring minimal maintenance. While they can be ideal for clearing snow from smaller areas, such as driveways, walkways, and patios, there are several important factors to consider.

Advantages of Corded Electric Snow Blowers

1. Consistent Power Supply

   • Corded snow blowers do not run out of battery, ensuring a continuous and steady power supply as long as you're near a power outlet. This makes them suitable for consistent snow clearing tasks over an extended period without worrying about recharging or running out of power.

2. Lower Price

   • Corded electric snow blowers are typically more affordable than their cordless counterparts, making them an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget. The cost is often the most appealing factor for those who need a reliable snow blower without breaking the bank.

3. Lighter Weight

   • Corded models tend to be lighter than cordless ones because they do not need to carry the weight of a battery pack. This makes them easier to maneuver and more comfortable to use, especially for those who need to clear snow for extended periods.

4. No Need to Recharge

   • With corded electric snow blowers, you won't have to worry about recharging batteries in the middle of clearing snow. As long as the power cord is long enough and you can reach the area, you can clear snow without interruption.

Drawbacks of Corded Electric Snow Blowers

1. Limited Range

   • One of the most significant disadvantages of corded snow blowers is the limitation of the power cord. You'll need to be near an electrical outlet, or use an extension cord, which can limit the range of your snow blower. This is especially inconvenient if you need to clear snow over a large area or in locations far from an outlet.

2. Risk of Tripping or Tangle

   • The power cord can create safety hazards, such as tripping or becoming tangled in the cord while you work. It also requires you to constantly manage the cord to prevent it from getting caught on objects or dragging in the snow.

3. Not Ideal for Large Areas

   • If you have a large driveway or multiple areas that require snow removal, a corded electric snow blower may not be the most practical solution. You'll need multiple extension cords or may be limited in how far you can go from the power source.

Top-Rated Corded Electric Snow Blowers

1. Snow Joe SJ623E (18-Inch)

   • Clearing Width: 18 inches
   • Power: 15-amp motor
   • Throw Distance: 25 feet
   • Why it's great: The Snow Joe SJ623E is one of the top-rated corded electric snow blowers. It features a 15-amp motor that can handle light to moderate snowfall with ease. The 18-inch clearing width makes it suitable for smaller driveways, sidewalks, and patios.

2. Greenworks 2600502 (20-Inch)

   • Clearing Width: 20 inches
   • Power: 13-amp motor
   • Throw Distance: 10 feet
   • Why it's great: The Greenworks 2600502 provides solid performance with a 13-amp motor and a 20-inch clearing width. It is ideal for clearing light snow on driveways and sidewalks, with a manageable throw distance and excellent maneuverability.

Cordless Electric Snow Blowers

Cordless electric snow blowers are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, offering the flexibility to clear snow without being tethered to a power outlet. They are an attractive option for homeowners with larger properties or those who need to clear snow in hard-to-reach areas.

Advantages of Cordless Electric Snow Blowers

1. Mobility and Flexibility

   • The biggest advantage of a cordless snow blower is its mobility. Without a power cord, you can easily maneuver around your driveway, yard, and any other areas that need snow removal. This is particularly beneficial for those with larger areas, where finding a nearby outlet might be difficult.

2. Convenience

   • Cordless snow blowers are highly convenient because you don't have to worry about extension cords or finding a power source. Simply charge the battery, and you're good to go.

3. Reduced Risk of Tripping

   • Without a power cord, you eliminate the risk of tripping over or tangling with the cord, making the snow clearing process safer and more efficient.

4. Ideal for Larger Properties

   • Cordless snow blowers are excellent for large driveways, yards, or areas that are not close to an electrical outlet. Their battery power allows you to cover more ground before needing to recharge.

Drawbacks of Cordless Electric Snow Blowers

1. Limited Battery Life

   • The most significant downside to cordless snow blowers is their limited battery life. Depending on the size of the battery, they can typically run for 30 to 60 minutes, which might not be enough for larger areas. You may need a spare battery or time for recharging between uses.

2. Higher Price

   • Cordless models tend to be more expensive than their corded counterparts, largely due to the cost of the battery and the technology involved. Additionally, battery replacement can be costly after several years of use.

3. Battery Recharge Time

   • While charging times have improved, you will still need to wait for the battery to recharge after use, which can be inconvenient if you have more snow to clear or need to work continuously.

Top-Rated Cordless Electric Snow Blowers

1. Ego Power+ SNT2405 (24-Inch)

   • Clearing Width: 24 inches
   • Power: 56V lithium-ion battery
   • Throw Distance: 35 feet
   • Why it's great: The Ego Power+ SNT2405 is a top-tier cordless electric snow blower with a 24-inch clearing width and the ability to throw snow up to 35 feet. Its high-capacity 56V battery provides impressive runtime, making it ideal for medium to large driveways.

2. Greenworks 40V (20-Inch)

   • Clearing Width: 20 inches
   • Power: 40V lithium-ion battery
   • Throw Distance: 20 feet
   • Why it's great: The Greenworks 40V model is an excellent choice for smaller properties. It offers a manageable clearing width and good power, making it ideal for light to moderate snowfalls. The 40V battery delivers sufficient runtime for most smaller driveways and sidewalks.

3. Snow Joe iON24SB-XR (24-Inch)

   • Clearing Width: 24 inches
   • Power: 80V lithium-ion battery
   • Throw Distance: 32 feet
   • Why it's great: The Snow Joe iON24SB-XR combines a powerful 80V battery with a 24-inch clearing width. It's one of the most powerful cordless snow blowers, capable of handling large snowfalls while providing an extended runtime for larger areas.

Conclusion: Corded vs. Cordless

Choosing between a corded or cordless electric snow blower depends largely on the size of your property, the amount of snowfall you typically experience, and your preferences regarding convenience and mobility.

• Corded electric snow blowers are a great choice for those with smaller driveways and patios who need a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option for light to moderate snow removal. They offer consistent power and don't require recharging, but they are limited by the length of the power cord.

• Cordless electric snow blowers offer more flexibility and mobility, ideal for larger areas where a power outlet may not be easily accessible. They come with the convenience of no cords to manage but require careful consideration of battery life and charging times.

When selecting a snow blower, it's important to evaluate your specific needs and preferences to ensure you choose the model that best fits your requirements.