The Best Snow Plows for Trucks

If you live in an area where winter storms hit hard, a snowplow can turn your truck into a dependable, money-saving winter tool. From clearing long driveways to maintaining parking lots, the proper plow setup can save hours or backbreaking shoveling and keep your property clear and accessible all season long. 

With so many plow types, features, and price points on the market, choosing the right plow for your unique needs can be challenging. Fortunately, RealTruck is here to help ease the process. In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know before buying a plow, including the key features to look out for, the different plow types available, average costs, and our top picks in each category. Whether you’re in the market for an affordable manual plow or a commercial-grade hydraulic setup, we’ll help you find the perfect match. 

Choosing a snow plow isn't just about blade width and price—several factors determine how a plow performs on your truck. 

Plows come in three different power sources—electric, hydraulic, and manual.

Manual plows use zero electronics, making them reliable and straightforward. The only downside is that they’re only ideal for light-duty and residential clearing. 

Hydraulic plows offer fast and powerful adjustments via pressurized fluid, allowing operators to lift, lower, and angle the plow blade with the press of a button on the interior-mounted controller. 

Electric plows use an electric winch or motor to raise or lower the blade. 

Plows also come in different blade configurations, including width and material. Wider blades can clear more surface in fewer passes, while narrower blades are ideal for tighter spaces. 

Regarding materials, stainless steel and poly blades resist rust and snow sticking. Steel blades are the most durable, but are also more prone to corrosion. 

When shopping for plows, always confirm that the one you’re considering is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Consider factors such as your truck’s front-end weight rating, electrical compatibility, and the recommended vehicle class to ensure the plow is a solid fit. 

How experienced are you with operating a plow? Angling, lifting speed, and control style (wired, wireless, manual) inform how easy a plow is to operate. If you’re planning to plow regularly during the winter season, consider investing in an intuitive, easy-to-use plow. 

Considering a snow plow from RealTruck? Check out the table below for a quick overview of the plow type, blade design, price, and usage case for each plow.

Electric snow plows are popular among homeowners and light-duty users. They either use an electric winch or actuator to raise and lower the blade, making them easier to operate than manual plows without the cost of hydraulics. 

The Meyer HomePlow is one of the most widely used electric plows for residential clearing. Designed for easy attachment and simple operation, it features an electric lift system and optional wireless controller, making winter driveway maintenance fast and stress-free. 

Pros:

• Quick-link mounting

• Smooth electric lift for effortless blade control

• Great value for homeowners

Cons:

• Not designed for heavy commercial use

• Steel blade may need more frequent maintenance

The SnowBear Universal plow is a flexible, budget-friendly electric plow compatible with an extensive range of trucks and SUVs. Its winch-driven design is simple, durable, and perfect for clearing small to mid-size areas. 

Pros:

• Extensive vehicle compatibility

• Affordable entry price

• Wireless control options are available

Cons:

• Winch-based lift is slower than a hydraulic lift

• Straight blade only

Combining a lightweight and rust-proof aluminum blade with a winch-driven lift, the SnowSport HD is ideal for long driveways and rural properties. It’s lighter than steel plows, reducing wear on suspension components. 

Pros:

• Lightweight and corrosion-resistant

• Easy DIY installation

• Quiet operation

Cons:

• Not ideal for heavy commercial workloads

• No hydraulic angling

Hydraulic plows provide the most power, speed, and control. They’re ideal for frequent plowing in heavy snowfall and users who need commercial-grade performance. 

Hydraulic plows typically cost between $2,800 and $6,000, depending on the blade type, hydraulic power, and vehicle class. They’re the preferred choice for heavy-duty work. 

The Meyer Wingman uses a hydraulic system for faster, more responsive blade movements. It’s built for users who plow regularly or need stronger lifting and angling power than electric plows offer. 

Pros:

• Strong hydraulic lift and angle

• Great for frequent winter use

• Durable steel construction

Cons:

• Higher cost than electric plows

• Requires more installation time

The Everest is SnowBear’s premium hydraulic option, offering a stronger blade, faster response, and higher lifting capacity. If you’re plowing large lots or deep snow, this plow delivers. 

Pros:

• High-output hydraulics

• Robust construction for heavy loads

• Excellent for larger properties

Cons:

• Higher price point

• Requires substantial front-end support

Created specifically for smaller trucks and SUVs, the Jeep HomePlow offers a compact hydraulic plow without sacrificing power. 

Pros: 

• Sized for Jeep and compact truck platforms

• Full hydraulic adjustability

• Great for residential clearing

Cons:

• Not sized for full-size trucks

• Smaller blade width

Manual snow plows don’t require wiring, hydraulics, or electric motors. They’re simple, affordable, and surprisingly capable—especially for private driveways or light-duty snow clearing.

Manual snow plows generally range from $900 to $1,600, depending on blade materials and mounting style. They’re the best value option for occasional users. 

Designed to mount to a rear receiver hitch, the SnowSport 180 is perfect for short driveways and homeowners who want fuss-free operation without wiring or hydraulic lines. 

Pros:

• Straightforward installation

• Rear-mounted for straight pushing

• Lightweight and corrosion-resistant

Cons:

• No powered lifting

• Best suited for light snowfall

The HD Utility plow offers a more robust take on manual plowing, using a thicker blade and stronger frame. It’s ideal for rural properties and long, unpaved roads. 

Pros:

• Strong, durable design

• Great for long driveways

• No wiring required

Cons:

• Manual operation only

• More effort is required to angle the blade

The LT is a lightweight, affordable manual plow built for smaller trucks and SUVs. It’s perfect for homeowners who want a reliable, easy-to-use snow solution. 

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight

• Affordable and simple

• Perfect for compact trucks/SUVs

Cons:

• No powered controls

• Not suited for heavy commercial snow

Once you’ve picked your ideal plow, make sure you know how to install it properly. Check out our step-by-step guide on How to Install a Snow Plow on your Truck. And when the snow starts falling, don’t miss our tips on How to Plow Snow with a Pickup Truck to make the most of your setup.