Best Hedge Trimmers

Review & Comparison, Last Update October 30, 2024
If you have a green hedge, you surely have to trim it to make it look tidy. You can either use pruning shears and spend a lot of ...Read more
PROS
Long blades and powerful battery allow for cutting up to 6000 square feet on a single charge.
CONS
It is hard to cut through branches of over 0.5 inches thick.
OUR VERDICT

This battery hedge trimmer is an excellent choice for owners of medium to large gardens. The lightweight and cordless design of the tool will let you cut branches anywhere, and you won't get fatigued.

detailed parameters
Type
Battery-powered
POWER CAPACITY
40V
BLADE LENGTH
24 inches
CUTTING STROKES PER MINUTE
2400
USABILITY
Soft bail handle, Big trigger, Battery life indicator
RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM CUTTING CAPACITY

0.75"

SAFETY
Switching on is allowed only when the lock off button and trigger are pressed, Blade cover, Protective shield
Weight
6.9 pounds
Warranty

3-Year Limited Warranty

PROS

The hooked-tooth blade efficiently grabs branches and makes cutting faster and more efficient.

CONS

The tool is a bit noisy, taking its cordless design into account.

OUR VERDICT

The excellent ergonomics and well-balanced body make the DeWalt DCHT820P1 an indispensable tool for trimming hedges and shaping a variety of different fancy sculptures.

detailed parameters
Type

Battery-powered

POWER CAPACITY

20V, 5 Amp

BLADE LENGTH

22 inches

CUTTING STROKES PER MINUTE

2800

USABILITY

Rubber-coated handle, Battery indicator

RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM CUTTING CAPACITY

0.75"

SAFETY

Lock-off switch, Sheath, Blade guard

Weight

7.5 pounds

Warranty

3-Year Limited Warranty

PROS
With safety in mind, Toro manufacturer released this budget-friendly, effective hedge trimmer to cope with most daily jobs. Thanks to the cord lock, the trimmer will never unplug during use, allowing for a long-run operation.
CONS
The power cord is short, so you'll need a cord extension anyway.
OUR VERDICT

For grooming small lawns and backyards, this hedge trimming tool is one of the best choices. If you don’t need an expensive machinery, you can opt for this easy-and-quick clipper, and it will get the job done. 

detailed parameters
Type
Corded
POWER CAPACITY
4 Amp
BLADE LENGTH
22 inches
CUTTING STROKES PER MINUTE
2400
USABILITY
Cord retainer, Long trigger, Rubberized grip handles
RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM CUTTING CAPACITY

0.5"

SAFETY
Lock switch, Protective cover, Wide safety guard
Weight
6.35 pounds
Warranty

2-Year Warranty

PROS

The dual-action blades cut branches in a flash, ensuring a trim that's twice as fast and powerful as any run-of-the-mill tool.

CONS

The in-handle release can be a bit awkward at first.

OUR VERDICT

The WORX WG261 packs a lot of power, is convenient to hold and use and delivers the freedom of no cord dangling, making it perfectly suited for a variety of trimming and cutting jobs.

detailed parameters
Type

Battery-powered

POWER CAPACITY

20 V, 2 Amp

BLADE LENGTH

22 inches

CUTTING STROKES PER MINUTE

2600

USABILITY

D-grip front handle, The dual-action blades, Battery indicator, Vibration absorbing

RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM CUTTING CAPACITY

0.75"

SAFETY

Safety guard, Lock switch, Protective shield

Weight

5.5 lbs

Warranty

3 years

PROS
Convenient bail handle provides secure grip while the wide trigger ensures quick start. Big protective shield will protect your face and hands from wood chips.
CONS
The battery is not included.
OUR VERDICT

With a battery life of up to 75 minutes and a 22" blade, this cordless hedge trimmer can be a great choice for any medium-sized garden or backyard.

detailed parameters
Type
Battery-powered
POWER CAPACITY
18V
BLADE LENGTH
22 inches
CUTTING STROKES PER MINUTE
1350
USABILITY
Rubberized handle, Quick blade changes
RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM CUTTING CAPACITY

0.6"

SAFETY
Advanced safety system - to turn this hedge trimmer on, you should press the lock-off button and two triggers, Blade cover, Protective shield, Electric brake
Weight
7.4 pounds
Warranty

3-Year Warranty

Type

The BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 is a battery-operated hedge trimmer that can be used anytime and anywhere. This trimming tool comes with a 40V Li-Ion battery that lasts five times longer on a single charge than standard NiCd batteries found on most other hedge trimmers. The battery is interchangeable, so, if you have some other BLACK+DECKER tools in your garden arsenal, you can easily swap it to continue mowing. The battery charge indicator will let you know when it's time to recharge the trimmer. 

Performance

This model comes with 24-inch blades that will allow you to cover a bigger area of the hedge. The maximum cutting capacity is 0.75 inches. Given the size of this hedge trimmer, it's a pretty impressive number, which actually brings it on a par with gasoline models in terms of performance. Besides great cutting capacity, the tool has a high cutting speed, which ensures comfortable and accurate cutting. Finally, the trimmer works based on a 40V Li-Ion battery that packs sufficient power to effortlessly tackle up to 6000 sq. ft. on a single charge.

Safety and usability

This electric trimming machine comes with a durable blade cover to provide convenient carrying. To switch the hedge trimmer on, you should first press the safety button and then pull the trigger. This way, you'll never run the risk of accidentally starting the engine. Both the wide trigger and the soft handle provide ease of use. The bail handle will allow you to cut branches at different angles.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $132.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00602J4MM

VIDEO

Trimming Without Limits

When choosing a gardening tool, a lot of people give preference to battery-powered models. The reason for that is because they are lighter than gas-powered trimmers and give you the freedom of movement, unlike wired models that require to be connected to a power source. More to that, most battery-powered models pack sufficient power, making them perfectly suitable for day-to-day gardening chores. If this is the kind of tool you're looking for, the DeWALT DCHT820P1 is perfect for you.

To kick things off, the DeWALT DCHT820P1 has a number of features that set it apart from the competition. Firstly, it's the motor. Unlike most other similar tools, it's been placed in the upper part of the handle of the tool. By placing it there, the manufacturer managed to improve the trimmer's balance and make the tool more lightweight overall. As a result, it's much easier to hold and operate for a longer time. Next, both the main handle and accessory ones are rubberized, which ensures a firm grip and helps dampen vibrations, thus preventing your hands from getting tired.

Laser Cut and Hooked-tooth Blade

We particularly like the power to battery-life ratio of this hedge trimmer. Thanks to the 20 V 5 Amp Lithium-ion battery, the tool is able to deliver up to 2800 strokes per minute, giving you enough power to cut through branches up to 0.75" thick. The design of the blades is worth attention, too. To start off, the teeth of the blades were designed utilizing a laser technology, which ensures a perfectly straight trimming line that's so important for providing the correct plant growth. Secondly, the blades have a special shape that can easily catch every twig and chop it within seconds without breaking a sweat. Moreover, these blades are quite long. With the length of about 22 inches, they'll do a great job of trimming even tall shrubs while also edging your hedge in just one pass.

With all of this in mind, we can safely suggest that the DeWALT DCHT820P1 will be a great choice for any small to medium garden that requires pruning quite thick shrubs from time to time.

Safety Precautions

Like any power tool, this model is potentially dangerous and, thus, requires you to follow several safety precautions. The DeWALT DCHT820P1 features a few protection ratings to ensure your safety.

  • The trimming tool comes with a special shield to protect your hands from splinters and sharp pieces of wood.
  • The lock-off switch will prevent an accidental start of the motor when you grab the trimmer.
  • The package includes a robust sheath that will keep your hands away from sharp blades. It also protects the blades from water and dirt when the tool is stored.
  • Finally, we recommend using this trimmer with gloves, goggles, and hearing protectors.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $199.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B01BSURQ3O

Type

The Toro 51490 is a corded model, which means it can be used anywhere as long as you've got access to a power supply. It also means that this tool is non-polluting and, compared to any gas-powered trimmer, is also super quiet, allowing you to use it at any time of the time without the worry of waking up your neighborhood. Should you need to cover a bigger area, the tool can be used with an extension cord. However, please note that the manufacturer recommends that the cord be no longer than 150ft.

Performance

This corded hedge trimmer comes with a 4-Amp engine that is able to develop the speed up to 2400 strokes per minute. That high speed allows you to slice bushes and even young trees like butter, with its 22" dual action blades handling even some big areas with effortless ease. As a result of this, the maintenance of your lawn will take mere minutes and no elbow grease at all. However, note that the tool should not be used for cutting branches more than 0.5 thick. For all other garden jobs, though, such as trimming shrubs and saplings, it's the perfect fit.

Safety and usability

The combination of a rubberized rear handle with a wide trigger, D-shaped front handle, and the tool's overall light weight makes the use of the tool really enjoyable and hassle-free. In addition to that, there's a cord lock included designed to prevent unplugging of the cord. Thanks to this, you can keep working on your lawn for as long as necessary without interruptions. Besides, the lock switch helps avert the accidental start of the trimmer, as the trigger stays in place until you slide the lock backwards. It's also worth mentioning that the tool comes with a wide safety guard to protect your hands from flinders of branches. On top of that, it has a protective case that will guard the blades from the external action, as well as your body from the sharp teeth.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $49.97
Stock In stock
ASIN B007KENYUW

VIDEO

Tough Trimmer

If trimming hedges is the least favorite yard chore, this means you need a quality tool, and the WORX WG261 can be a good solution. The manufacturer of this hedge trimmer didn't cut any corners and made sure that this tool has all the right features to make it an appealing choice for just about any customer.

To get the ball rolling, the WORX WG261 isn't heavy or cumbersome. Weighing just 5.3 lbs, it's comfortable to hold and won't tire you out after long trimming sessions. The D-grip handle is another great convenience feature. Not only does it provide a comfortable grip, but it also makes it easier to cut at any angle and in any position. Plus, it also allows you to lift the tool high or low, depending on whether you need to chop the tops or trim undergrowth, making it ideally suited for a variety of jobs.

Ergonomics aside, the WORX WG261 is quite tough in terms of performance. Equipped with a 2Ah battery and dual-action hardened steel blades, it can make short work of all your hedge trimming jobs, slicing through branches and twigs smoothly and effortlessly like through butter. On top of that, it's got a 22" cutting reach. This length is plenty sufficient for chopping through even some pretty significant branches thicker than 0.75" across without a fuss. Actually, a lot of customers find whacking at things even fun, so easy-to-use and powerful the hedge trimmer is.

Compatible With All WORX Tools

Another advantage of the WORX hedge trimmer is that it's compatible with all Worx 20v and 40v tools. This way, if you've got any of these tools in your gardening arsenal, you'll always have a back-up ready for non-stop operation. In general, though, the battery of the trimmer is quite fantastic. On a full charge, it can be used for about 45 minutes without any difference in performance, bringing it on a par with corded tools.

Speaking of the tool itself, it looks expensive and feels durable while being quite lightweight to make it convenient to use even for teens. It's also of note that it has the overmold construction. Thanks to this, it perfectly absorbs vibration and eliminates shaking in your arms and hands, allowing you to comfortably use it for hours on end.

In terms of assembly, it's incredibly quick and easy. In fact, you've got only two things to put together—the handle and the front guard, which can be done within less than 10 minutes.

To bring it to the end, if you've got a hedge, but trimming is something you really hate to do, investing in the WORX WG261 might be your best decision. It packs a lot of power, is convenient to hold and use and delivers the freedom of no cord dangling, making it perfectly suited for a variety of trimming and cutting jobs.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07MVLYF7L

Type

Makita XHU02Z is a battery-powered hedge trimmer. The weight of this trimming machine with the battery is just 7.4 pounds, so you can use it anywhere. This trimmer is powered by the 18V Li-ion Makita BL1830 battery that will hold the charge up to 5 times longer than NiCd batteries used in other hedge trimmers. Neither charger nor battery is included in the package, but you can always buy them from the manufacturer's website separately.

Performance

This trimmer might not cope with dense wood and thick branches, but for shrubs and plants of 0.6-inches thick it will perfectly suit. The device shows off the maximum cutting capacity of 1350 strokes per minute and 22-inch blade. This makes it an ideal option for accurate trimming of small and medium-sized hedges, shaping beautiful green fences. The battery life on a single charge is 75 minutes, that’s enough to do a great part of the work in the yard without recharging.

Safety and usability

The convenient handle with rubber inserts provides the firm grip and easy cutting. The gaskets placed between the engine and handle significantly reduce the vibration during the cutting. The dual switching system is provided for your safety; to turn this battery hedge trimmer on, you need to press the trigger switch on the top handle, the main switch and the safety button. The unit starts only when both switches are activated. This model is also equipped with a battery charge indicator that will remind you when the battery needs recharging.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00KA3ZFHK

VIDEO

What is a Hedge Trimmer

The modern gardens cannot be imagined without ornamental hedges. The hedges can serve as green fences or intricate garden statues. To make your garden look nice and tidy, it is not enough to just plant shrubs. You have to take care of your green hedges and nicely shape them. This can be done with different tools, but a hedge trimmer will do its best. A hedge trimmer is a garden tool of a similar build to a chainsaw, but the purpose is different - it is aimed at cutting and trimming hedges and shrubberies. If you are a gardener wishing to make the gardening easy, a hedge trimmer will help.

You may also be interested in pole chainsaws and our review of lawn mowers to prune trees and look after the grass in your yard.

Best Hedge Trimmers

What Features to Compare

A lot of hedge trimmers are presented on the market today. Still, you should not buy the most expensive model once you see it. To make the right choice, you should decide on the type of a trimmer.

Type

The hedge trimmers are divided into three types: battery-operated, electric and gas.

Battery-powered trimmers are light, maneuverable and do not need the constant power supply. The power capacity of these hedge trimmers directly depends on the voltage - the bigger the voltage is, the more powerful a hedge trimmer will be. These devices are only limited in a battery life. A battery-powered trimmer will be perfect for small gardens or shrubs in the backyards.

Electric hedge trimmers come with electric engines which are more powerful. Such trimmers are powered off the mains. The light weight, simplicity in use and long run-time allow using this tool anywhere with the power socket. The length of a power cord can be the only factor, restricting your cutting activity.

Gas hedge trimmers are equipped with internal combustion engines and they are the most powerful and efficient. Gas trimmers are heavier than the other models, but they can be used anywhere due to their cordless design. These hedge trimmers will be good for professional gardeners or people, having a big garden.

Performance

Performance of a hedge trimmer is the next parameter worth your attention. The length of the blade should be chosen based either on the height of your hedges or the size of the branches you need to cut. The longer the blade is, the bigger the area can be covered, however, a trimmer with a long blade is also going to be heavier. Hedge trimmer's performance primarily depends on the number of cutting strokes per minute. The higher this number is, the faster and more accurate the cutting will be. The maximum cutting capacity will tell you the maximum width of the branch you'd be able to cut. On the contrary, trimmers with smaller cutting capacity would make more accurate cuts, helping you nicely shape shrubbery and plants.

Safety and usability

The hedge trimmers are hazardous machines, so you should pay attention to safety and usability. The lock-out system, blade cover and automatic chain brake are all those things that are important not only for comfort but also for the safety of use. The firmer the grip, the less probability to get injured will be. Of course, you shouldn't also forget about personal protective equipment.

Sources:

1. Adele Dyer How to buy the best hedge trimmer, Which?

2. Selecting the Right Hedge Trimmer, Lowe`s.

3. Hedge Trimmers Buying Guide, The Home Depot.

4. Chris Barnes Keeping your hedge neat and trim, Choice. August 28, 2014.

5. How To Choose A Hedge Trimmer, eBay. April 11, 2014.

6. Hedge trimmer, Wikipedia. November 27, 2015.

7. Carl Laron Hedge Trimmer Buying Guide. ConsumerSearch.com. April 29, 2016.

8. Lauren Piek Hedge Trimmer Buying Guide. Blain's Farm and Fleet. May 14, 2015.

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