DeWalt Vs Ryobi: Which Brand Has The Best Electric Snow Shovel For You?

Although there's a hack for getting rid of snow without a shovel that might be a lot of fun if you're feeling energetic, a powered tool can make life a lot easier. If you've got a big driveway, you may be in the market for a snow blower. If you have a smaller area to clear or want something for the patio or deck, though, a cordless snow shovel will be cheaper and easier to use. Leading brands DeWalt and Ryobi both offer lightweight tools, but which is the best electric snow shovel for you? 

DeWalt tools come with a hefty price tag, but they do have a stellar reputation for reliability, durability, and user-friendly features. At $149, the DeWalt 10-inch 20V Max Cordless Snow Shovel is actually in the same price range as many rivals. By contrast, the Ryobi One+ 10-inch Cordless Snow Blower lists for $119. They are sold without the battery or charger; both brands have product lines that are powered by a single rechargeable battery, which is sold separately. These batteries are typically as expensive, or even pricier than the products themselves — so if you already own a battery from one of these brands, that will probably impact your purchase decision.

The list of similarities between the DeWalt and Ryobi products is remarkable. Both snow shovels clear a path 10 inches wide, up to 6 inches deep, and throw snow up to 20 feet away. Both claim to run for 20 minutes per charge using batteries rated at 4Ah. Both have a telescopic handle you can adjust for comfort, and they even share the same warranty period of 3 years.

The DeWalt is slightly heavier at 13.23 pounds, whereas the Ryobi is 12 pounds, though the extra pound or so shouldn't have a major impact on handling. (If anything, the DeWalt's extra heft might help cut through the snow.) However, while Ryobi says their tool is good for light and fluffy snow, the DeWalt also claims that its product can handle heavier, wet snow. Also, one really notable difference is that the DeWalt has an adjustable snow guide plate, which enables it to throw the snow to the right or left at an angle of up to 60 degrees. The Ryobi can only throw it straight forward.

Ryobi produces a whole range of affordable tools that can make home and garden work a breeze, and their snow shovel is no exception. The competitive performance makes it hard to beat for the money. On the other hand, DeWalt's snow shovel comes with the brand's outstanding reputation for tools that last, and it can throw the snow to either side. Also, keep in mind that if you need to purchase a battery, the Ryobi version typically lists for about $100, while the DeWalt's goes for about twice that amount.