Testing the Husqvarna 1650EXL in real winter conditions showed that having the right tool for the job makes snow clearing far easier. After a season of heavy snowfall in New York, this review summarizes how the 1650EXL performed, what it does well, and where it could be improved.
Summary
Pros: Strong throwing distance and power, electric start, smooth hydrostatic transmission, and bright LED lighting.
Cons: Control layout can be awkward for some users.
Best for: Clearing large driveways and walkways with snow depths of roughly 18–20 inches; suitable for homeowners who want a durable, reliable machine.
Initial impressions and setup
The snow thrower required about 30 minutes of simple assembly out of the box. The first run demonstrated the convenience of the electric start: with a push of a button the engine fired right up and the machine performed immediately. On light snow, the thrower consistently launched snow roughly 30 feet, clearing well over parked cars, mailbox posts, and fences.
Performance and handling
The 30-inch clearing width and well-thought-out design make the unit intuitive to operate after a short learning curve. Hand warmers are included and add comfort during long clearing sessions, though they are not a deciding factor in the purchase. The Briggs & Stratton engine also started reliably by pull cord when needed, often with just two tugs.
Moving a 30-inch machine takes effort, particularly on slopes, but the hydrostatic transmission offers smooth, variable control that makes maneuvering easier once you adapt to the control layout. The auger and impeller handled typical snow without clogging, and the machine consistently left a thin, approximately 1/8-inch layer of snow—thin enough to see the blacktop beneath.
At night, the built-in LED provides a wide, bright beam that illuminates the clearing path and improves visibility for early mornings or evening work.
Handling heavy or compacted snow
When faced with compacted snow and ice—for example, a 2-inch crust over several inches of snow—the machine required slower, more forceful passes to let the auger bite through the hardened layer. Under those conditions, more deliberate handling is necessary to avoid stalls and ensure effective clearing.
Controls and ergonomics
The primary ergonomic concern is the left-hand drive lever. This lever must be squeezed downward to engage movement, but its position sits approximately five inches above the stationary handle it meets. Users with larger hands may still find themselves lifting their hand away from the machine briefly to operate the lever, which can cause the unit to surge forward before both hands are securely positioned. This design can be awkward and may create a safety or control issue in tight or sloped environments.
Reliability and maintenance
Throughout testing, the 1650EXL proved reliable and generally maintenance-friendly. The engine and drive components responded well to both electric start and pull-start methods. The auger and chute handled typical and moderately heavy snow without frequent clogging, and the hydrostatic drive reduced strain during long clearing sessions.
Conclusion
The Husqvarna 1650EXL is a robust, capable snow thrower that makes large-scale snow removal faster and more manageable. It combines strong throwing distance, dependable power, and a smooth hydrostatic transmission into a package suited to homeowners with sizeable driveways or frequent heavy snow. The main drawback is the lever placement, which may require users to adjust their grip or be cautious when engaging movement. Overall, for those who need a dependable machine to handle serious snowfall, the 1650EXL is a solid choice.