The Best Electric & Cordless Snow Shovels of 2026

Depth and snow type

Most electric shovels are rated for 6 to 8 inches per pass. Light powder and slush are fine. Heavy, wet or icy snow slows them down, and deep snow needs several passes. For regular snowfall above a foot, consider a snow blower.

Weight

A 9-lb shovel is easy on stairs. A 19-lb shovel carries more power but is tiring on a deck. Wheels, as on the Earthwise models, shift weight to the ground.

Runtime

Claims run to 45 minutes, but testers measured 22 to 30 minutes on the Snow Joe. A second battery or a shared platform helps. Corded models never run out but you must manage the cord.

Path width

A 12 to 13-inch path suits walks and decks. A 16-inch path cuts passes on a driveway.

Battery ecosystem and warranty

A battery shared with other tools saves money if you already own that brand. Warranties here run from 2 to 4 years, so check the terms for the exact kit.

Cords

If you choose a corded shovel, use a 12- or 14-gauge cord rated for cold weather.

All six shovels run on electricity with no direct exhaust emissions, which is a plus for use near doors and decks. Brushless motors on five of the six models may extend motor life. Greenworks lists a noise level of 74 dB for the 2600602.

Sharing batteries across a tool platform means fewer batteries in the waste stream. That applies to the Greenworks 80V, Snow Joe 24V and Worx Power Share lines.

Corded shovels need care in the cold. Health Canada recalled other corded snow throwers in October 2026 after cables broke in extreme cold. The Earthwise SN70016 was not affected, but use a cold-rated outdoor cord and inspect it each season. We found no CPSC recall for the Greenworks 2600602 or the Snow Joe 24V-SS13.

The Greenworks 80V LED version and the Greenworks 2600802 were out of stock on Amazon, and the LED version has no independent test. The EGO SNS1201 was out of stock until late November with no accessible independent test.

Snow Joe's SS11 and SS10 have narrower paths and shorter runtimes. Bob Vila found the SS11 weak in heavy snow. The Snow Joe X20 was not hands-on tested, has a 5-in. depth rating, a long charge time and a 1-year warranty.

The Toro 39909 weighs 22 lb with no independent test, and the Toro 38361 was found underpowered in deep snow. The WEN 20720 was out of stock, and its main verdict dates from 2024.

Ryobi 40V shovels are an option for owners of Ryobi batteries, but the outlets we relied on have not tested them.

Is an electric snow shovel enough for a driveway?

For a short driveway and snowfall of a few inches, yes, especially a 16-inch model like the Earthwise SN74016. For long driveways or deep storms, a snow blower is a better fit.

How long do cordless snow shovels run?

Claims reach about 45 minutes. Testers measured about 22 to 30 minutes on the Snow Joe 24V-SS13, and Greenworks is claimed at around 45. Wet snow and heavy loads shorten runtime.

Can they handle wet or icy snow?

With limits. Wet snow tripped the thermal shutoff on the corded Earthwise in testing, and Bob Vila needed a 45-degree technique for icy snow with the Greenworks. Clear snow soon after it falls.

Are corded or cordless shovels better?

Corded models cost less and never run down, but you work around a cord. Cordless models are easier to move around and cost more.

What is the lightest option?

The Voltask 13-inch is listed at about 9.3 lb. The Snow Joe SS13 is about 13 lb. The rest weigh 16 to 19 lb.

Why is the top pick so expensive on Amazon?

The in-stock Amazon listing is from a third-party seller. Greenworks.com and Best Buy list lower prices, so check them for restocks before paying a premium.

If you can pay for it and find one in stock, the Greenworks 2600602 is the most capable handheld cordless shovel. For a whole driveway on a battery, the Earthwise SN74016 is the widest option. Shoppers near an outlet get the most clearing width for the least money from the corded Earthwise SN70016. For a light, cheap tool, look at the Snow Joe or the Voltask. Whatever you buy, match it to realistic snowfall. These shovels handle light to moderate snow well and are not a substitute for a snow blower in a heavy storm.