3 Best Gas-Powered Snowblowers to Conquer Winter’s Worst
You’ve probably heard that gas-powered snowblowers outperform their electric counterparts when heavy snow blankets your driveway—but does that claim hold up? The answer depends entirely on choosing the right machine for your specific needs. With engine sizes, clearing widths, and stage configurations varying dramatically across models, selecting the wrong blower can leave you struggling while your neighbor finishes in half the time. Here’s what actually matters.
| PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower 212cc Engine |  | Best for Light Snow | Clearing Width: 21 inches | Engine Size: 212cc 4-stroke OHV | Throwing Distance: Up to 35 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BILT HARD 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower |  | Best Heavy-Duty Option | Clearing Width: 24 inches | Engine Size: 212cc 7hp 4-cycle | Throwing Distance: Up to 40 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| PowerSmart 24″ Two Stage Gas Snow Blower |  | Best Overall | Clearing Width: 24 inches | Engine Size: 212cc 4-cycle OHV | Throwing Distance: Up to 45 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower 212cc Engine
If you’re tackling a medium-sized driveway or clearing snow from sidewalks and patios, the PowerSmart 21-Inch Gas Snow Blower delivers solid performance without breaking the bank.
This single-stage machine runs on a 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine with recoil start. It cuts a 21-inch path and handles up to 8 inches of light, fluffy snow with ease. The reinforced 9-inch rubber auger picks up snow efficiently while minimizing clogs, throwing it up to 35 feet away.
You’ll appreciate the compact, lightweight design for easy maneuvering. The 180-degree rotating chute lets you direct snow exactly where you want it.
- Clearing Width:21 inches
- Engine Size:212cc 4-stroke OHV
- Throwing Distance:Up to 35 feet
- Stage Type:Single-stage
- Auger Material:Reinforced 9-inch rubber
- Starting System:Recoil start
- Additional Feature:180-degree chute rotation
- Additional Feature:9-inch rubber auger
- Additional Feature:Lightweight compact design
BILT HARD 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
Homeowners dealing with heavy, deep snowfall need a machine that won’t quit mid-storm, and the BILT HARD 24″ Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower delivers exactly that kind of reliability. Its 212cc, 7hp engine powers through drifts up to 19 inches deep while clearing a 24-inch path. The 10-inch serrated steel auger chews through packed snow, and the high-speed impeller launches it up to 40 feet away.
You’ll appreciate the six forward and two reverse speeds for maneuvering your driveway efficiently. The integrated LED headlight lets you clear snow before dawn or after dark, while pneumatic tires grip slick surfaces confidently.
- Clearing Width:24 inches
- Engine Size:212cc 7hp 4-cycle
- Throwing Distance:Up to 40 feet
- Stage Type:Two-stage
- Auger Material:10-inch serrated steel
- Starting System:Electric start
- Additional Feature:Integrated LED headlight
- Additional Feature:Pneumatic snow tires
- Additional Feature:Extended polymer chute
PowerSmart 24″ Two Stage Gas Snow Blower
Large driveway owners battling heavy snowfall will appreciate the PowerSmart 24″ Two Stage Gas Snow Blower‘s impressive muscle. Its 212cc engine powers through up to 12 inches of snow, throwing it 45 feet away while clearing 2,400 pounds per minute.
You’ll navigate easily with the 8-speed self-propelled system featuring six forward and two reverse options. The serrated steel auger shreds through packed snow without clogging, while the reinforced steel housing guarantees lasting durability.
The 120-volt electric start gets you moving quickly on frigid mornings, and the LED headlight illuminates early morning or evening clearing sessions.
- Clearing Width:24 inches
- Engine Size:212cc 4-cycle OHV
- Throwing Distance:Up to 45 feet
- Stage Type:Two-stage
- Auger Material:Serrated steel
- Starting System:120V electric start
- Additional Feature:8-speed self-propelled system
- Additional Feature:2,400 lbs/min capacity
- Additional Feature:Reinforced steel housing
Factors to Consider When Choosing Gas-Powered Snowblowers
When choosing a gas-powered snowblower, you’ll need to evaluate several key factors that directly impact performance and usability. Consider the engine power and size alongside clearing width options to match your property’s demands, and decide whether a single or two-stage system best handles your typical snowfall. Don’t overlook snow throwing distance and self-propelled capabilities, as these features determine how efficiently you’ll clear snow and how much physical effort you’ll expend.
Engine Power and Size
Engine power stands as one of the most critical factors you’ll need to assess before purchasing a gas-powered snowblower. Measured in cubic centimeters (cc), higher ratings deliver more strength for handling deeper, heavier snow. A 212cc engine—common among quality gas-powered models—provides excellent capability for clearing wider paths and throwing snow impressive distances.
You’ll want to weigh engine type carefully. Four-cycle OHV engines offer superior reliability and longer lifespans compared to 2-cycle alternatives, which demand more frequent maintenance. Output power, measured in horsepower, directly impacts performance. Models delivering around 7hp can tackle tough conditions and substantial snow accumulations effectively.
When you pair an efficient engine with a well-designed auger system featuring serrated blades, you’ll maximize snow removal efficiency by breaking down ice and compacted snow with ease.
Clearing Width Options
Clearing width directly impacts how quickly you’ll finish your snow removal tasks, so choosing the right size matters for your specific property. Residential gas-powered snowblowers typically offer clearing widths between 21 and 24 inches, giving you flexibility based on your needs.
A 21-inch model works well for medium-sized driveways and sidewalks, providing solid maneuverability in tighter spaces. If you’re dealing with larger areas, a 24-inch snowblower lets you cover more ground per pass, cutting your clearing time notably during heavy snowfalls.
Don’t forget to take into account snow depth capacity alongside width. Wider models often handle depths up to 12 inches effectively, making them ideal for regions with substantial winter storms. Match your clearing width to your property size, and you’ll maximize both efficiency and performance.
Single Vs Two-Stage
Deciding between a single-stage and two-stage snowblower comes down to your property size and typical snowfall conditions. Single-stage models, like 21-inch versions, work best for light, fluffy snow up to 8 inches deep. They’re lighter, easier to maneuver, and throw snow about 35 feet—perfect for sidewalks and patios.
Two-stage snowblowers handle serious winter weather. A 24-inch model cuts through snow up to 19 inches deep using a serrated steel auger, throwing it up to 45 feet away. You’ll appreciate the self-propelled drive system with multiple forward and reverse speeds when tackling larger driveways. These machines feature reinforced steel housing for durability, plus conveniences like electric start and remote chute controls for precise snow placement.
Snow Throwing Distance
How far your snowblower throws snow matters more than you might think. Most gas-powered models project snow between 30 and 45 feet, but the right distance depends on your specific situation. If you’re clearing a large driveway or open area, you’ll want a machine that throws 40 feet or more to prevent snow from drifting back onto cleared paths.
Your local snow conditions also play a role. Light, fluffy snow typically travels up to 35 feet, while machines built for heavy, wet snow can launch it 45 feet or beyond. A longer throwing distance means you’ll spend less time re-clearing areas and finish the job faster. Match your snowblower’s throwing capability to your yard size and typical snowfall for the best results.
Self-Propelled Capabilities
Self-propelled gas snowblowers take the backbreaking work out of winter clearing by driving themselves forward, so you’re guiding rather than pushing. The drive system handles the heavy lifting, letting you focus on directing the machine rather than muscling it through deep drifts.
Most models offer multiple speed settings—typically six forward and two reverse—giving you precise control for varying snow conditions and terrain. You can slow down for heavy, wet snow or speed up across lighter accumulations.
The enhanced maneuverability proves invaluable when maneuvering tight spaces around cars, garden features, and walkways. Larger wheels or track systems provide superior traction on slippery surfaces, maintaining stability throughout operation. If you’re tackling expansive driveways or dealing with significant snowfall, self-propelled capabilities guarantee consistent performance without exhausting yourself.
Electric Start Availability
Beyond drive systems, starting mechanisms deserve your attention when selecting a gas snowblower. Electric start availability transforms cold-weather operation from a frustrating chore into a simple push-button experience. Many modern gas snowblowers feature 120-volt electric starting systems that eliminate the struggle of pulling a starter cord when temperatures plummet.
You’ll appreciate electric start technology most on frigid mornings when engines resist ignition. Instead of repeatedly yanking a pull cord, you simply plug in the snowblower, press a button, and get to work. This feature reduces physical strain considerably, making it ideal if you have limited strength or mobility concerns.
Electric start models also offer improved reliability since you won’t face a broken starter rope mid-storm. Many include safety mechanisms preventing accidental starts during operation.
Auger Material Quality
When evaluating gas-powered snowblowers, the auger material quality stands as one of the most critical factors determining long-term performance and durability. You’ll find that serrated steel augers deliver superior shredding capabilities, cutting through heavy, compacted snow with ease. High-quality augers resist clogging, ensuring you maintain consistent clearing even in deep accumulations.
Your auger’s construction directly affects how well your snowblower handles diverse snow conditions. Whether you’re tackling light powder or dense, wet snow, a robust auger adapts to the challenge. This versatility translates to faster, more efficient clearing sessions.
Don’t overlook how auger quality impacts maintenance costs. Durable materials withstand harsh winter conditions longer, reducing your need for repairs or replacements. You’ll spend less time in the shop and more time conquering winter’s toughest storms.