Snow Thrower vs. Snow Blower: The Key Differences Between These Two Snow-Clearing Machines
If you’re looking to ditch the shovel, these are your two best options
Highlights
Snow throwers are typically electrically-powered, while snow blowers are usually gas-powered.
Snow blowers provide greater snow-clearing capabilities and can handle deeper, heavier snow.
Snow throwers require less upkeep and are generally more affordable.
Winter’s first snowfall brings both the magic and hassle of the season, with snow removal topping the list of dreaded tasks. If you’re looking to upgrade from shoveling, you’re likely wondering whether you should purchase a snow thrower vs. snow blower. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are distinctive differences between these two machines. Here’s how a snow thrower and snow blower differ, and how you can decide which option is best for your home.
What Are the Differences Between Snow Throwers and Snow Blowers?
These are the main differences you’ll find between a snow blower vs. a snow thrower.
| Type of Difference | Snow Thrower | Snow Blower |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Electric | Fuel |
| Machine Type | Single-Stage | Two- or Three-Stage |
| Uses | Light Snow | Heavy Snow |
| Path Clearing Width | 11–22 inches | 18–36 inches |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Size | Compact | Large |
| Cost | $100–$900 | $600–$2,500+ |
Snow Blower vs. Snow Thrower: Differences in Design
A snow blower has a more robust design than a snow thrower. Here’s how they compare.
Power Source
Snow throwers are typically powered by electricity, either with a plug-in cord or a rechargeable battery. These are convenient since they don’t require additional fuel, but they also have limitations due to cord lengths and battery life. Most cordless varieties won’t last longer than 30 minutes on a full charge, and snow throwers are less powerful than snow blowers in general.
Snow blowers, in contrast, typically run on gasoline. While there is the extra cost and chore of re-fueling to consider, they’re far more powerful than snow throwers and are not limited by cords or battery life.
Machine Type
A snow thrower is a single-stage machine, meaning it collects and propels snow through a discharge chute in one continuous motion. It has a horizontal spinning auger that picks up snow and generates force to propel it through a discharge chute. This is where a lot of the confusion between snow thrower vs. snow blower happens, as a snow thrower is sometimes referred to as a “single-throw snow blower.”
A snow blower, on the other hand, employs a two-stage mechanism. Similar to a snow thrower, it utilizes a rotating auger to gather snow. From there, the collected snow enters an impeller, which functions like a robust fan to propel snow even further. Three-stage snow blowers have additional accelerators that break down ice and hardened snow before feeding it into the powerful impeller, which can eject snow as far as 50 feet away.
Size, Weight, and Storage Needs
A snow blower is a heavy and bulky machine that calls for a lot of storage space, while snow throwers are generally lighter and more compact. Additionally, unlike their gas-powered counterparts, battery-operated and corded snow throwers eliminate the need for storing flammable gasoline, and they operate without emitting fumes.
Functionality Differences
Snow blowers generally have snow throwers beat in terms of functionality, but a snow thrower may be a better snow removal option for smaller areas with light snow. Here’s how the two differ in terms of functionality.
Capacity
Thanks to its higher front intake chute and two- or three-stage throw system, a snow blower has the capacity to handle deeper, heavier, and more compacted snow than a snow thrower. While snow throwers typically can’t handle snowfall that’s 10 inches or deeper, snow blowers can handle accumulations of 15 inches or more. Also, many small snow throwers lack self-propulsion, which can make it challenging for operators to push them through heavier snow. Most modern snow blowers, on the other hand, come equipped with self-propulsion features for added ease of use.
Path Clearing Capabilities
While it is a bulkier machine, a snow blower can clear a wider path in a single pass than a snow thrower. This makes snow blowers the best snow removal tools for larger properties, whereas snow throwers are better suited for narrow paths and smaller areas of land. Most snow throwers can clear a path that’s between 11 and 22 inches in width, while snow blowers can clear a path that’s anywhere from 18 to 36 inches wide.
Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance is an area where snow throwers have the advantage. On top of easy storage, corded or battery-powered snow throwers generally require minimal maintenance. Gas-powered engines on snow blowers demand regular maintenance, such as oil level checks, periodic oil additions, and annual replacement of the gas filter and spark plug.
Cost Differences
Snow throwers are generally more affordable than snow blowers. Snow throwers typically go for $100 to $900, while snow blowers cost anywhere from $600 to $2,500 or more. Comparatively, if you’d rather hire a snow removal company near you, the average professional snow removal cost is around $350 to $450 per year or more depending on the size of the area and the average annual snowfall of your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, electric-start snow blowers need to be plugged in to start, but you can unplug them and go once they’re up and running. Simply plug the snow blower into an outdoor outlet and press the start button. Once it starts, you can unplug it and use it freely. The idea for these types of snow blowers is to simplify the starting process from the typical pull-string starts.
Yes—in fact, it’s an important step in how to start a snow blower. Allowing the engine to idle for a few minutes prior to using a snow blower helps it reach its optimal operating temperature, which gets the fuel running properly, improves its performance, and helps prevent stalling during frigid weather.
The best time to buy a snow blower is typically around May to early June. This is when most manufacturers introduce new models, and quantities are limited—once early summer rolls around, the focus shifts to lawn mower production. As the new models are released, you may find a wider selection of models, potential discounts or clearance sales on older models, and greater availability, ensuring you are well-prepared for the upcoming winter season.