Two-stage gas
Best forlong, wide, or hilly driveways and typical snowfall over 8 inches. Essential for gravel driveways, since the auger doesn¡¯t contact the ground. All offer electric starting and have driven wheels, an auger that gathers snow, and an impeller to throw it. Some clear a swath 28 to 30 inches wide.
Butall are relatively heavy, take as much space as some lawn tractors, and require regular engine maintenance. Those without trigger drive releases can be hard to maneuver.
Price$600 to $2,100.

Single-stage gas
Best forflat, midsized paved driveways and walks, with typical snowfall less than 8
inches. They¡¯re lighter and easier to handle, and take about as much storage space as a mower. Most offer electric starting.
Butthey¡¯re a poor choice for gravel, since the auger contacts the surface and can throw stones. Most clear a 20- to 22-inch swath. All lack drive wheels and require engine maintenance. The auger¡¯s limited drive action isn¡¯t enough for steep hills and can pull from side to side.
Price$300 to $900.

Single-stage electric
Best forshort, flat driveways or decks and walks, with snowfall 4 inches or less. Single-stage electric models are lightest, smallest, and easiest to handle and store. They¡¯re also less noisy than gas-powered models, and their electric motors free you from fueling and other engine maintenance.
Butthey¡¯re as unsuited to gravel driveways as single-stage gas snow throwers. Their small, 11- to 18-inch swath slows clearing. Electric machines also trade engine fueling and main-tenance for the hassle of a power cord.
Price$100 to $300.