Snow Joe iON13SS Hybrid Cordless Snow Shovel Review

Last Update: November 6th, 2019   

Snow Joe iON13SS-HYB Shovel

Among the many snow blowers on the market, and definitely among the ones we’ve already reviewed, the Snow Joe iON13SS-HYB snow shovel is truly unique. It’s the world’s first corded electric battery hybrid, allowing owners to switch from corded to battery operation whenever the extension cord runs out or just can’t be bothered plugging it in the power socket at all.

If you are looking for simple and effective devices to pick up snow on the go, this cordless snow shovel is also a relatively low maintenance option.

Users have found this kind of shovel quite convenient for clearing patios, sidewalk and similar areas.

Just make sure to find the best time to buy a snow blower.

13
Clearing Width (inches)
300
Plowing Capacity (lbs/min)
14.5
Weight (lbs)
Pros
  • Exclusive corded electric / battery operation
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Extended range in cordless mode
Cons
  • Somewhat high price

Key Facts

Here is a quick look at some of the primary features of the Snow Joe iON13SS-HYB 40-volt Cordless Snow Shovel

  • Cleaning Width: It cleans up snow with its 13 inches wide opening
  • Cleaning Height: The shovel cuts through 6 inches deep snow cover
  • Throw Distance: It has a throw distance of up to 25 feet 
  • Blower Type: This is a snow shovel with a 2-blade paddle auger
  • Plowing Capacity: The engine can clear up to 300 pounds of snow every minute
  • Engine: this shovel has a powerful 500W 15-Amp brushless motor
  • Battery: 40V 4.0 Ah rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 52 minutes of run time with a single charge 
  • Weight: It is relatively lightweight compared to most other popular options at 14.5 lbs
  • Price: being a snow blower just under $200 it is rather pricey but need to consider it’s unique electric – cordless design that is truly unique on the market and offers great benefits in range, while not compromising on power.

Snow Shovel Features

Snow Joe iON13SS-HYB Snow ShovelSnow Joe iON13SS-HYB
This iON13SS snow shovel is a really lightweight option when it comes to snow blowers.

As a result, you can carry it quite easily to any corner of your property.

Thanks to the unique hybrid technology, you don’t have to worry about an extension plug or cords at all, only when the battery runs out, or you need all the power from the brushless motor. 

The shovel also features adjustable handle combined with ergonomic design for your improved comfort. 

The durable scraper bar at the bottom of the shovel unit seems to add to the convenience factor significantly. It helps in clearing right till the bottom without damaging the deck.

Need to be clear, that for picking up deep, heavy, wet snow, you should go for a two stage snow blower. This shovel is ideal for quick, easy snow pickups on decks, sidewalks and small to medium driveways.

The iON13SS-HYB is not a full-fledged snow blower, hence it has some weaknesses, like it’s only good for clearing up snow not deeper than 6 inches and throws snow in only one direction. 

It’s still a strong candidate if you want a small, easy to store when not in use, compact electric shovel that offers the freedom of battery operation whenever needed. 

Battery

This iON13SS shovel comes with a 40V 4.0 Ah EcoSharp rechargeable lithium-ion battery. According to the manufacturer, it provides up to 52 minutes of run time.

Snow Joe EcoSharp 40V rechargeable battary

Replacement Snow Joe + Sun Joe iBAT40 iON EcoSharp 40V 4.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery

In case you need more run time (even though 52 minutes seem to be a lot, especially in freezing conditions!) we can recommend getting an additional battery. This can be used with all Snow Joe and Sun Joe cordless iON power tool models. 

You may also want to consider a charger, just in case. The model that fits the bill is the Snow Joe + Sun Joe iCHRG40 iON 40 V EcoSharp Lithium-Ion Charger, which enables you to charge the additional battery while throwing snow on your driveway!

What did previous Snow Joe iON13SS-HYB buyers say?

The user reviews indicate that most customers appreciate the efficiency of this snow shovel, especially for snow that is 2-6 inches deep.

The relatively long life of the battery is also another major advantage, some reportedly cleared a space about 15 feet wide and 30 feet long in a very reasonable time and had used less than 1 bar of battery (source).

However, many users had trouble assembling the shovel together, while most customers had no issues with this and assembled it in 5 minutes. The main cord seemed to be rigid for a few as well.

Warranty and Support

The company provides a comprehensive 2-year warranty for the Snow Joe iON13SS is a cordless snow shovel. It is a complete cover and reflects the manufacturer’s conviction in the product.

Conclusion

All in all, the Snow Joe iON13SS Hybrid is a cordless snow shovel appears to be a fairly effective option to deal with regular snow cover around your house, with the added benefit of using it with the cord, should you need it.

Whether it is the deck, the patio or a small to medium size driveway, this snow shovel appears to be a dependable partner to work with.

For slightly bigger tasks we recommend checking out the Snow Joe iON18SB Cordless Snow Blower which performs better but still mobile, thanks to its cordless nature.

Looking for more snow blowers or shovels without the annoying cord? Check out our Best Cordless Snow Blower roundup where we reviewed a number of cordless snow throwers.