Imagine needing to move a mountain of dirt, but you only have a small shovel. It would take forever, right? That’s where the power shovel comes in! These amazing machines are like super-powered helpers for digging and moving heavy stuff. But with so many different types of power shovels out there, picking the perfect one can feel like trying to dig through solid rock with a spoon.
Choosing the wrong power shovel can lead to a lot of frustration. Maybe it’s too big for your yard, too small for the job, or just not powerful enough. You might waste time and money on a machine that doesn’t do what you need it to. That’s why understanding what makes a power shovel great is so important.
In this post, we’ll break down the world of power shovels. You’ll learn what to look for, what different types are best for, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident in finding the power shovel that fits your needs perfectly, making your tough jobs much, much easier.
Our Top 5 Power Shovel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Power Shovel Detailed Reviews
1. WEN 61635 5-in-1 Pneumatic Multi-Function Tool with Scraper
Rating: 9.2/10
Tackle tough jobs with the WEN 61635 5-in-1 Pneumatic Multi-Function Tool. This versatile tool is a game-changer for anyone who works with their hands. Gardeners, construction workers, landscapers, and remodelers will find this tool incredibly useful. It’s designed to make difficult tasks much easier.
What We Like:
- This tool is perfect for gardeners, construction workers, landscapers, and remodelers.
- It quickly removes tile, plaster, old carpets, adhesive, linoleum, grout, and brick.
- Easily dig holes and extract rocks and roots, making it ideal for gardening and landscaping.
- It generates 2100 beats per minute, providing powerful digging, chiseling, and demolishing action.
- The tool comes with five interchangeable heads: a flat wide chisel, a flat narrow chisel, a pointed chisel, a shovel, and a scraper.
- This makes it a truly multi-functional tool that can handle many different jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The tool requires an air compressor to operate, which is not included.
- Some users might find the noise level to be a bit high.
The WEN 61635 is a powerful and adaptable tool that simplifies demanding projects. It’s a smart investment for anyone needing to get tough jobs done efficiently.
2. Rotoshovel – Powered Handheld Shovel with Auger & Safety Shutoff for Gardening
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of back-breaking digging? The Rotoshovel – Powered Handheld Shovel with Auger & Safety Shutoff is here to change your gardening game! This innovative tool is the first of its kind, blending the power of a motor with the precision of a shovel and auger. It makes digging in your garden, landscaping projects, and planting beds a breeze. Forget about wrestling with stubborn soil; the Rotoshovel powers through it all.
What We Like:
- It’s the first handheld electric shovel with an auger, making it a truly unique tool.
- The powerful brushless motor easily digs through tough soil, even with gravel and clay.
- It’s cordless and the 12V battery lasts over 2 hours, so you can dig anywhere without being tied to an outlet.
- It’s super lightweight at only 4.35 lbs, making it comfortable to use for longer periods without getting tired.
- The automatic safety shutoff prevents dangerous kickback, keeping you safe.
- It’s a fantastic gift for anyone who loves gardening or landscaping.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the 12V battery might limit very large or prolonged projects for some users.
- The unique design, while effective, means it’s a specialized tool, so consider if it fits your typical needs.
The Rotoshovel takes the hard work out of digging, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your outdoor spaces. It’s a smart investment for any serious gardener or landscaper.
3. EGO POWER+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of back-breaking snow shoveling? The EGO POWER+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel is here to make winter cleanup a breeze. This cordless wonder lets you ditch the gas and the cords, offering powerful performance with the convenience of battery power.
What We Like:
- It comes as a complete kit, including the cordless snow shovel, a 2.5Ah battery, and a charger. You have everything you need to start clearing snow right away.
- This shovel throws snow up to 25 feet. A handy 60-degree directional control dial lets you aim where the snow goes.
- With the included 2.5Ah ARC Lithium battery, it can clear a driveway that fits up to three cars, even with 6 inches of snow.
- The hinged shaft is a smart design. It makes storing the shovel compact and easy, saving you space in your garage or shed.
- It features a high-efficiency brushless motor. This means it runs for a long time, vibrates less, and the motor lasts longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very heavy or deep snow, you might need to make multiple passes.
- The 2.5Ah battery might not be enough for extremely large areas or if you have a lot of snow to clear in one go.
Overall, the EGO POWER+ 12″ Electric Snow Shovel offers a powerful and convenient way to tackle winter snow. It’s a great option for anyone looking for an easier snow removal experience.
4. Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of shoveling snow by hand? The Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel is here to make your winter chores much easier. This powerful yet quiet snow shovel clears a 16-inch path and can toss snow up to 32 feet. It comes with a 4Ah battery and charger, so you can get started right away. Its brushless motor is both efficient and reliable, moving up to 300 pounds of snow every minute.
What We Like:
- The 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch clearing depth handle light to moderate snowfall well.
- It features a quiet and powerful 40v brushless motor for dependable performance.
- The included 4Ah Earthwise battery and charger mean you have everything you need to start.
- It moves a good amount of snow, around 300lbs per minute, making quick work of driveways.
- The dual blade auger and 180-degree rotating chute help you direct snow where you want it.
- Comfortable, ergonomic handle and 6-inch rear wheels make it easy to maneuver.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8-inch clearing depth might not be enough for very deep snow drifts.
- While good for sidewalks and small driveways, it’s not designed for heavy-duty, large snow removal.
This Earthwise snow shovel is a fantastic option for anyone looking for an easier way to clear snow from smaller areas. It offers a great balance of power, convenience, and ease of use.
5. Greenworks 40V (75+ Compatible Tools) 12” Cordless Snow Shovel
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of back-breaking snow shoveling? The Greenworks 40V Cordless Snow Shovel is here to make your winter chores a breeze. This lightweight yet powerful tool is designed to move snow quickly and easily, saving you time and effort. With its 12-inch shoveling width and the ability to throw snow out of your way, you can clear paths efficiently. It’s perfect for handling moderate snowfalls, up to about 6 inches deep. Plus, it comes with a 4.0Ah battery and charger, and it’s compatible with over 75 other Greenworks 40V tools, giving you even more value.
What We Like:
- Makes snow removal effortless and much easier than a manual shovel.
- Clears a good path with its 12-inch width.
- Throws snow effectively, keeping your path clear.
- Great for moderate snow depths, handling up to 6 inches with ease.
- Comes with a battery and charger, so you can start using it right away.
- Compatible with many other Greenworks 40V tools, expanding its usefulness.
- Starts quickly, even in cold weather, with a simple battery warm-up tip.
What Could Be Improved:
- Best suited for lighter snowfalls; deep or heavy snow might require more passes.
- Battery performance can be a bit slower in very cold temperatures, but the warm-up trick helps.
This Greenworks snow shovel is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to simplify winter cleanup. It offers a great balance of power, convenience, and value for your home.
Your Guide to Choosing the Right Power Shovel
Thinking about getting a power shovel? These handy tools can make tough digging jobs much easier. Let’s explore what makes a good power shovel and how to pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a power shovel, keep these important features in mind:
- Engine Power: More power means it can dig through harder ground. Look for a strong engine, especially if you’ll be working with tough soil or rocks.
- Digging Depth and Width: How deep and wide do you need to dig? Power shovels come in different sizes. A deeper and wider shovel tackles bigger projects faster.
- Auger Size: The auger is the part that spins and digs. A larger auger can move more dirt at once.
- Handle Design: Comfortable handles help you control the shovel and reduce fatigue. Look for ergonomic grips.
- Wheels or Tracks: Some power shovels have wheels for easier moving. Others have tracks, which are better for rough or uneven terrain.
- Safety Features: Many power shovels have safety guards and easy-to-reach shut-off switches. These are important for preventing accidents.
Important Materials
The materials used in a power shovel affect its strength and how long it lasts.
- Steel: Most power shovels use strong steel for the auger and frame. This makes them durable and able to handle tough jobs.
- High-Strength Plastics: Some parts, like the housing or handles, might use strong plastics. These can make the shovel lighter.
- Engine Components: The engine itself is made of metal parts designed for power and reliability.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a power shovel great, and what can make it less so?
Factors that Improve Quality:
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built power shovel feels solid. It won’t shake or break easily.
- Reliable Engine: A good engine starts easily and runs smoothly. It won’t quit on you mid-job.
- Sharp Auger: A sharp auger digs more efficiently. It cuts through the ground without getting stuck.
- Easy Controls: Simple and responsive controls make the shovel easier to use.
Factors that Reduce Quality:
- Weak Engine: An underpowered engine will struggle with hard ground. It might overheat or stall.
- Flimsy Build: If the shovel feels weak or wobbly, it won’t last long.
- Dull Auger: A dull auger makes digging much harder and slower.
- Complicated Controls: Confusing controls can make the shovel frustrating to operate.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use power shovels, and what is it like to use them?
Power shovels are fantastic for many outdoor tasks. They make digging holes for fences, planting trees, or creating garden beds much faster. They can also help with trenching for irrigation or drainage.
Using a power shovel is usually straightforward. You start the engine, then guide the auger into the ground. The spinning auger does the hard work of moving the dirt. It’s important to hold the shovel firmly and let it do the digging. Remember to wear safety glasses and gloves!
For homeowners, a power shovel can save a lot of time and effort. It’s a great tool for landscaping projects or any job that involves digging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a power shovel used for?
A: A power shovel is used for digging holes, trenches, and moving dirt quickly. It makes tough digging jobs much easier.
Q: How powerful should an engine be?
A: Engine power depends on your needs. For tough jobs, look for a stronger engine. For lighter tasks, a less powerful engine might be fine.
Q: Are power shovels hard to use?
A: Power shovels are designed to be easier than manual shovels. They require some strength to guide, but the engine does most of the digging.
Q: What safety gear should I wear?
A: You should always wear safety glasses and sturdy gloves when using a power shovel.
Q: Can a power shovel dig through rocks?
A: Some power shovels can handle small rocks. For very large rocks, you might need a more powerful machine or a different tool.
Q: How do I maintain a power shovel?
A: Maintenance usually involves keeping the engine clean, checking oil levels, and making sure the auger is sharp and free of debris.
Q: What’s the difference between wheels and tracks?
A: Wheels make the shovel easier to move on flat ground. Tracks provide better grip and stability on uneven or muddy terrain.
Q: How deep can a power shovel dig?
A: Digging depth varies by model. Always check the product specifications for the maximum digging depth.
Q: Is a power shovel worth the cost?
A: If you have frequent or large digging projects, a power shovel can save you a lot of time and physical strain, making it a worthwhile investment.
Q: Where can I buy a power shovel?
A: You can find power shovels at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!