Max. throw distance
The maximum distance to which the snow blower can throw the collected snow (for models without throwing distance adjustment, the operating range itself). This value is rather arbitrary, since snow can be strongly dispersed in flight. Nevertheless, it characterizes the capabilities of the unit well and allows you to compare it with other models.
Long range is important mainly when working on large areas — it allows you to throw snow across the cultivated area so that it does not have to be collected a second time. As for specific figures, the value
up to 10 m is considered relatively small,
11 – 15 m — average, and in the most "long-range" models this figure can be
16 m or more.
Auger / brush rotation speed
The speed of rotation of the working tool of the snow blower.
Other things being equal, a higher speed is good for performance, a lower speed gives more torque and improves efficiency in hard snow and crust. However, in fact, this parameter is more of a reference than practically significant: manufacturers select the speed in such a way as to ensure sufficient efficiency and productivity. In addition, many models are produced with several gears, where the rotation speed can be adjusted.
Operating time
The operating time of a battery-powered device (see "Motor type") on a single battery charge. Characteristics usually give some average value; the actual time of work may differ from it both in one direction and in the other, depending on the specifics of the situation. Nevertheless, the claimed operating time quite accurately characterizes the overall battery life of the snow blower, by this parameter it is quite possible to evaluate different models and compare them with each other.
Noise level
The average noise level produced by the snow blower during operation; the actual volume may differ slightly from this figure, but these deviations are usually negligible.
Note that snow blowers are quite loud equipment, plus the higher the power, the generally higher the noise level. This parameter is measured in decibels, this is a non-linear value, so the actual loudness is easiest to evaluate using comparative tables. So, the most "quiet" modern models give out about 55 – 60 dB — this can be compared with a conversation in slightly raised tones. 70 dB corresponds to a loud conversation, 80 dB to noise on a busy city street, 90 dB to a freight car at a distance of about 7 m, 100 dB to an industrial workshop, 110 dB to a tractor motor at a distance of 1 m.
The lower the noise level, the more comfortable this model will be to use. And according to sanitary standards, the maximum noise level considered safe for prolonged exposure (up to 8 hours) is 80 dB. So if the selected unit is noisier, and you plan to work often and for a long time, you should take care of protective headphones or earplugs.
