Start with single stage versus two stage. The single has a rubber auger that gathers the snow and throws it about 8-10 feet. A two stage has two augers and the augers are metal. The first auger gathers the snow and sends it to the second auger that then throws the snow about 15 feet. The single stage auger gets right down to the ground and leaves nothing behind - the two stage leaves a thin layer of snow behind. Gas is more powerful and you are not limited to either then length of your extension cord or the battery life. There is, however, far more maintenance with gas than with electric/cordless. ALWAYS use premium gas. Change the gas every month (if we don't have snow
) and empty it of gas during the summer. Lowe's (yes, I work there) carries a new range built by Briggs and Stratton and, my preference, the Cub Cadet range. All of the gas powered do have electric start. Definitely look at Lowe's extended protection plan - it covers normal wear and tear unlike the warranty that comes with the thrower that only covers manufacturers' defects.