If you have been amazed at how fast your neighbors remove snow from their driveway or path and leave you still shoveling with your back-breaking, it is time you invest in a snow blower. It will save you from the tedious work of digging as it helps to clear driveways effortlessly.
If you only have small domestic jobs like garden patios or paths, or flat mid-sized paved pathways to deal with, a single stage blower will be suitable. Either heavy or typical snowfall with less than 8 inches average height. It uses a motor and auger to scoop the snow from the ground and discharge it far away to clear your path. These machines are more compact and lighter but not overpowering like 2-stage snow blowers.
1-Stage Snow Blower Reviews
1. Best overall- Snow Joe SJ625E
This is a compelling version of an electrically operated snow blower perfect for those with a larger space to clear. It features a strong 15Amp motor that clears up to 800lbs within a minute. You can use the machine safely at night as it comes with a 3W LED light for visibility.
Key features
- It doesn’t need tune-ups, oil or gas.
- The auger blade measures 21 inches and has a snow intake of 12 inches in height.
- It uses a powerful 15Amp motor to drive the auger and chute.
- It features a 3W LED light for safe clearing at night.
- Its tires measure 8 inches.
- It is backed by a two-year warranty.
- It has an auger fitted with two blades to ensure all snow is cleared.
- It features a chute with a rotation radius of 180 degrees.
Why we like it
- It covers a wide area when clearing.
- The double auger-blade features add durability and ensure no snow is left behind.
- It has large tires for smooth maneuverability.
- It removes a higher amount of snow per minute.
- It is safe to use at night.
- It is effortless to maintain and start, which saves you much time and energy.
What we don’t like
- Its handle can’t be adjusted.
Our verdict
Generally, Snow Joe SJ625E is excellent for users living in residential properties, with size ranging from small to medium. It uses an electric motor so you won’t have to handle the annoying oil or filling gas. It has durable auger blades, and it’s made of high-quality material making it easy to use the blower.
Rating
4.1 out of 5
2. Best Premium- Briggs & Stratton 1022
The Briggs and Stratton 950 snow series engine is constructed to offer powerful performance in harsh winter conditions. It comes with oversize controls next to the handles to help you control the blower with the mitten still on.
Key features
- It features a housing measuring 22 inches wide by 12.5 inches height, and ample clearing coverage.
- It has an auger fitted with wear-resistant rubber.
- It comes with manual, quick deflector and chute rotation.
- The chute is constructed from a plastic material.
- It uses synthetic oil and recoil start.
- It features a chute mounted handle to help you change the chute direction.
Why we like it
- The oversize control provides a mitten-friendly task.
- It is compact, which makes it easy to manoeuvre and control.
- Its compact design saves you much storage space in a shed or garage.
- It comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
- The rubber-edged auger propels the blower forward while clearing the snow.
- Its quick deflector allows you to change the throwing height.
What we don’t like
- It lacks headlights.
- It has no electric start.
Our verdict
We recommend this product for anyone looking for a compact and easy to manoeuvre the machine to clear their narrow sidewalks and lanes. It starts quickly with the recoil start, and it’s easy to control.
Ratings
4.2 out of 5
3. Best budget- Greenworks 2600502 13Amp Corded Snow Thrower
This is a reasonably priced snow blower with excellent features. It features a sturdy auger which propels it forward as it clears the snow. This makes it ideal for seniors because it won’t need much energy to maneuver it in the snow.
Key features
- It features adjustable 180-degree directional chute.
- It has a discharge distance of 20 feet.
- It works on 120V only.
- It clears a snow path of 10 inches deep by 20 inches wide.
- A 13Amp motor delivers powerful results.
- It comes with dual LED headlights.
Why we like it
- It has 7-inch wheels to provide excellent mobility.
- It offers a hassle-free operation with an effortless electric start.
- It has a wide moving width.
- It comes with a compact and easy to store design.
- It produces less noise.
- It comes with a handle fitted with a cushioned grip.
What we don’t like
- It struggles to clear wet snow.
Our verdict
This snow blower is comfortable to use and efficient. Its wider wheels allow for easy maneuverability, and its ergonomic design makes the operation hassle-free.
Rating
4.1 out of 5
4. PowerSmart PSS1210M
This snow blower unit allows you to clear snow quickly without using much effort and time. It uses a powerful 196cc engine for the snow-moving operation.
Key features
- It has a lightweight design.
- It features a 180-degrees adjustable chute.
- Its exterior is made of rust-resistant material.
- It has an intake depth of 12.5 inches and a moving width of 21 inches.
- It has a throwing snow distance of 30 ft.
Why we like it
- It has a wide snow coverage area.
- It has comfortable manoeuvring and steering.
- There is an adjustable chute.
- It comes with a durable auger gripped with rubber.
- It is electrically powered.
What we don’t like
- It has no headlights.
Our verdict
This is a great model for removing snow in vast areas. It is easy to steer and move the machine under cold weather with the foam-coated handles.
Ratings
4.1 out of 5
5. Honda Power Equipment HS720AA
Honda Power HS720AA is a gas-powered blower with a reliable Honda engine for an easy start even under cold weather. It includes a 204 degrees deflector that allows you to choose snow discharge direction.
Key features
- It features a semi self-propelled auger drive.
- It has a throwing capacity of 33 feet.
- It uses a 190cc ohc Honda engine.
- It comes with a remote chute control.
- Its auger has to wear-resistant rubber.
Why we like it
- Its chute control is conveniently located.
- It is easy to start.
- It is easy to operate.
- It is fuel-efficient with four gas engine cycles.
- The self-propelling feature makes it easy to steer.
- It consumes less fuel.
What we don’t like
- It can clog in wet snow
- It comes with headlights.
Our verdict
With fast-acting precision and powerful engine, the blower is easy to drive and gives professional results. There is no hassle when starting the machine.
Rating
4.1 out of 5.
6. Poulan Pro 961840001 Electric
Its ability to move snow of 13-inch depth makes it perfect for places receiving heavy snowfalls. It helps you to a larger space within no time. Unlike many models, this machine’s auger propels it forward as it clears the snow, which makes it maneuverable.
Key features
- It has an intake height of 13 inches.
- It clears snow that is 21 inches wide.
- It features an electric start.
- It weighs 81 pounds.
Why we like it
- It is suitable for clearing sidewalks, two-four car driveways, paved areas, and smaller areas.
- Its controls are easy to operate and plentiful.
- It has a durable auger.
- It is easy to maneuver.
What we don’t like
- It isn’t suitable for massive snow.
Our verdict
If you are looking for a heavy-duty blower that is durable that requires less effort when operating, this could be a great choice.
Rating
4.0 out of 5
7. Troy-Bilt Squall
This product can withstand severe conditions and starts quickly, even under the harshest weather. It has an electric start, and for maximum power, it comes with a 208cc four-cycle engine.
Key features
- It clears pathways up to 21-inch width and 13-inch height.
- It comes with reversible deluxe skid shoes.
- It features durable 8 by 2 inches deluxe tires.
- It features an extended two years warranty.
- It uses E-Z chute technology alongside manual pitch controls.
Why we like it
- It has a hassle-free starting feature.
- You can control the direction of the snow throw.
- It has extensive clearing coverage.
- It has a foldable handle and ergonomic grip for comfort.
- The deluxe tires offer excellent traction.
- It has a heavy-duty construction.
What we don’t like
- Its wheels may not be sturdy.
Our verdict
We recommend this for it is reliable and robust to handle heavy snowfalls. It has a powerful engine and can withstand harsher weather conditions. Clearing wide driveways with this machine is a breeze.
Ratings
4.2 out of 5
8. WORX WG650
This snow blower helps you clear snow with ease other than breaking your back shoveling for hours. It handles heavier snow than most models out there in the market.
Key features
- It comes with a handlebar-mounted chute control.
- It has quick clamps for easy assembly and adjustment of the handlebar.
- It features oversized handles and 180-degree adjustable chute.
- It comes with a 3-stage adjustable handle.
- It throws snow to a 30 feet distance.
- It has a clearing capacity of 18’’ W by 10’’ H.
Why we like it
- It has a compact design for secure storage.
- It is easy to use.
- It is lightweight and sturdy.
- The adjustable handle makes it easy to work comfortably at all heights.
- It clears vast amounts of snow.
- The handle is foldable and collapsible.
What we don’t like
- It requires assembly.
Our verdict
We recommend this product for people looking for a high-quality blower with an adjustable handle. This one allows you to work comfortably at your desired height. It is constructed for ease of use. If you have limited space in your garage, this will suit you because you can hang it on the wall for it is lightweight.
Ratings
4.1 out of 5
9. Husqvarna ST151
You won’t have to stop your work due to a dead battery because this unit connects to a power outlet and starts with just clicking a button. It comes with an ergonomic handle for comfort.
Key features
- It has a heavy-duty auger that cuts through the snow efficiently.
- It comes with an electric starter.
- It has heated handle grips.
- It features a remote chute deflector.
- It comes with an LED headlight.
- It has semi-pneumatic tires to provide smooth operation.
Why we like it
- LED headlights allow smooth operation in the dark.
- It has an ergonomic design.
- Heated handle grips provide comfort in the cold.
- It is compact for secure storage.
- It provides optimum clearing.
What we don’t like
- It lacks a self-propelling feature.
Our verdict
We recommend this product for those looking for a reliable and comfortable snow blower for clearing their narrow paths and driveways.
Ratings
4.2 out of 5
10. Yard Machines
Yard Machines snow blower clears your snowy walkway with ease and faster than you would do when shoveling. The unit is suitable for light snowfalls and smaller jobs.
Key features
- It features a durable 123cc 4-cycle OHV gas engine.
- It clears 21 inches wide -pathways with only a quick pass.
- It has an E-Z manual chute control to throw the cleared snow in the direction of your choice.
- It features 7 by 1.5-inch wheels for maximum traction.
- It comes with an auger that propels it forward for easy clearing of snow.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty.
Why we like it
- Its engine is sturdy and durable.
- Tires are built for traction when tackling the tough ice and snow.
- It has an auger-propelled system for smooth operation.
- The E-Z manual chute prevents the unit from getting blowbacks while operating.
- It clears more extensive paths.
- The chute is also clog-resistant.
What we don’t like
- It is not suitable for heavy snowfalls.
Our verdict
The self-propelling feature is uncommon in most models which makes this product stand out in the market. It has a powerful engine and copes with high levels of snowfall.
Rating
4.0 out of 5
Buying Guide
There are different types of single-stage snow blowers. So you need to consider a few things before buying one.
- Battery-powered
Battery snow blowers have started gaining a reputation in the past recent years for their convenience and ease of use. They don’t need to near a power outlet or use an extension cord, so moving snow that is out of reach will be easy. You won’t have to keep checking the level of oil and gas, but keeping your battery charged and ready for the next clearing.
- Electric
Electric powered snow blowers have benefits if you can access power. Electric blowers are a perfect choice if you have a small space because they are lighter, which makes them easy to store and control. They don’t need gas or oil to operate meaning you won’t deal with leakages in the garage. These models are cheaper than their gas powered counterparts.
- Gas-powered
One of the benefits of using gas snow blowers is that you are not restricted to the cord length, which makes the unit easier to maneuver than the electric blowers. The gas-powered engines are usually more powerful compared to electric drivers. Also, gas-powered blowers are designed to cover bigger jobs and larger areas. But this snowblower type requires extra maintenance and care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are single stage snow blowers any good?
They are perfect for smaller and lighter jobs like short driveways, walkways and sidewalks. They are compact, lighter and easy to handle than two stage options.
- How to start a single stage snow blower?
The ease of starting depends on the type of fuel powering it, whether it’s gas, battery or electric powered. Electric snow blowers come with a push-button for easy starting once you have plugged in the power outlet. In contrast, the gas-powered type features a pull start which can be tedious and be difficult in the cold weather. An electric start can start quickly, even in harsh weather conditions.
- Do I need a noise protection accessory when using a snow blower?
Electric models, whether cordless or corded, you can operate without using hearing protection since the electric motor runs quietly. But when handling gas-powered models, an ear protector is an essential accessory because their engine produces many sounds while roaring.
Final thoughts
Property owners looking for easy to use and lightweight snow blowers for clearing their moderate snowfalls should consider buying a single stage option. The Snow Joe SJ625E stands out from all other options for it moves more snow in a minute and has impressive features. It is lightweight and easy to store. You can also use this machine at night or early mornings for it comes with LED headlights.