When it comes to maintaining your garden, there are many tools available to keep your little piece of horticultural heaven an object of garden envy among the neighbors.
In particular, trimming hedges and cutting unruly branches can be the most challenging aspects of a gardener’s daily chores. So if you are still using those awkward manual tools like a hedge shear or a pruner, it is time to upgrade and buy yourself a hedge trimmer.
The 8 Best Hedge Trimmers
- BLACK+DECKER Hedge Trimmer
- Toro 51490 Corded Hedge Trimmer
- Earthwise CVPH41018 Corded Electric 2-in-1 Pole/Handheld Hedge Trimmer
- Poulan Pro PR2322 Cycle Gas Powered Dual Sided Hedge Trimmer
- Husqvarna 122HD60 Gas Dual Action Hedge Trimmer
- Milwaukee Electric Tools 2726-20 FUEL Hedge Trimmer
- Greenworks Pro Brushless Hedge Trimmer
- DEWALT Cordless Hedge Trimmer (Our Top Pick)
Our Top Pick for the Best Hedge Trimmer
Our top pick for the best hedge trimmer is the DEWALT Cordless Hedge Trimmer.
As well as offering you an efficient high powered cutting capability, the 20-volt lithium-ion battery can run for one hour on a single charge.
The amazingly powerful high output motor can tackle tough jobs with ease but surprisingly generates less noise, so you will experience a smooth trimming performance every time.
Check the price on AmazonHow to Choose the Right Hedge Trimmer
There is a wide range of trimmers that are designed for specific cutting and trimming jobs. Before you set out to buy a hedge trimmer ask yourself these following questions:
- Do you have a residential or commercial property?
- What is the size of your lawn: small, medium, or large?
- What type of job will you be using the hedge trimmer for – light or heavy tasks?
- Will you be trimming high, low, or wide hedges?
- Will you be shaping the hedge?
- Will you be pruning thick branches?
Three Hedge Trimmer Types
To be able to select the right hedge trimmer it is important to familiarize yourself with the 3 major hedge trimmer designs that are available on the market.
1. Double-sided Hedge Trimmers
The most common type of hedge trimmer is the double-sided hedge trimmer, which is used for shaping and trimming hedges up to chest height. This type of trimmer is primarily used for domestic use and for topiary in formal gardens.
A double-sided trimmer can also come with an adjustable ergonomic rear handle that allows for greater flexibility when you are trimming the sides of hedges or for long and complex jobs. An adjustable handle allows you to change the direction of the cut quickly when trimming bushes that are an unusual shape and is especially useful for tight spaces.
2. Single-sided Hedge Trimmers
A single-sided hedge trimmer is specially designed for trimming straight sections of your hedge. The trimmer will have teeth on one side of the cutting bar, and the blade can be longer which allows you to clip larger areas in a single sweep.
Although single-sided hedge trimmers are primarily designed for commercial gardens, they can also be used for medium-sized suburban gardens.
They are more lightweight and are perfect for long straight hedgerows, hedge mazes, and for longer and heavier cutting jobs. Single-sided trimmers can also be fitted with longer cutters that can cut large hedges without unbalancing the machine during the cutting process.
3. Long Reach or Pole Hedge Trimmers
The third type of hedge trimmer is a long reach or expendable pole hedge trimmer.
A pole hedge trimmer is designed for cutting and trimming high and low hedges, hedges with varying heights, and hard to reach ground cover.
With a pole hedge trimmer, you can angle the cutting bar to reach the top of high hedges and tackle large areas of brush without having to resort to unstable ladders. A long-reach hedge trimmer can either have a fixed or an adjustable shaft with the cutting blade located at the end. The blade can be easily tilted to cut the side or the top of the hedge.
Some models come with optional tools like a pruner and other long-reach conversion tools. Another great reason for buying a pole hedge trimmer is that it will lessen the strain on your back.
8 Utility Features to Look for When Choosing a Hedge Trimmer
Lightweight. If your garden has large and densely packed hedges, choose a hedge trimmer that is light and easy to hold and well balanced. Remember: Electric and gas-powered long-reach hedge trimmers are usually heavier.
Pivoting head. Choose a trimmer with a pivoting head so that you can adjust the trimmer to fit the size of your hedge. This is especially useful for trimming along the top of a hedge and down the sides.
Length of the blade. As well as thinking about the height of the hedge, you also need to consider the width of your hedges. For example, if you have a hedge that you can access on either side and it is 4 meters wide, then your trimming blade should be at least 2 meters so that you can effectively trim the sides.
Also, there are models that have larger tooth gaps, which are more suitable for heavy-duty hedging.
Pigtail. A pigtail is the short length of the cord that is located near the handle. It allows you to connect the trimmer to an extension cord and makes the trimmer easier to plug and unplug the extension cord, while also minimizing the chances of accidental disconnection.
Vertical edging. A trimmer that has a wraparound front handle with multiple switches makes it easy to change from cutting horizontally to vertically. Vertical edging is also made easier if the trimmer has a rotating head.
Safety Features. Some models have a handguard that prevents debris from being thrown back towards you. Other top safety features are a 2-handed hedger that requires both hands to activate it and an On/Off Switch Lock in case you are distracted or there are children around while you are working in the garden.
Tolerable Noise Level. Most trimmers are known for their high-level noise output so a good tip is to protect your ears with safety gear like earplugs.
Extra Battery Packs. If you select an electric cordless trimmer, extra battery packs will provide extended runtime for larger jobs.
Electric (corded) vs. Electric (cordless/battery powered) vs. Gas/Petrol Hedge Trimmers
Hedge trimmers can either be electric (corded), electric (cordless/battery-powered), or gas/petrol. Choosing between an electric or gas/petrol hedge trimmer will depend largely on the size of your property and the level of cutting and trimming that you have to do.
Here are some pros and cons to consider before choosing the right model.
Electric (Corded)
The electric (corded) hedge trimmer is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns, and if you have hedges that are located near a power outlet.
PROS
- Ideal for small to medium lawns
- Lightweight
- Easy to start-up
- Less noise
- Doesn’t require fuel
- More powerful
- No emissions
CONS
- Needs access to a power outlet
- Requires an extension cord
- Has a limited reach
- Have to keep your eye on the cord
- More expensive due to electrical usage
Electric (Cordless/Battery Powered)
PROS
- Ideal for smaller lawns and lighter tasks
- Portable
- Easy to start
- Doesn’t require fuel
- Quiet
CONS
- Not as powerful as electric (corded) models
- Requires the battery to be recharged
- May not be suitable for larger, tougher jobs
Gas or Petrol Powered
PROS
- Ideal for larger properties that require a lot of heavy-duty trimming
- Portable
- Cuts and trims faster
- Can be used in damp weather
CONS
- Require a gas and oil mixture
- Tends to be heavier
- More expensive
Additional Points to Consider
Although electric (corded) units are usually more powerful, the cords are more fiddly and you have to be mindful about straying too far from the power source, and that the cord does not get caught in and around ladders and foliage.
Cordless battery-powered hedge trimmers continue to operate on full power until the battery runs out, but you have to recharge them, so it is a good idea to purchase extra battery packs.
With a gas/petrol powered trimmer, the engine can overheat so be careful when using the unit at high temperatures.
8 Best Hedge Trimmers – Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER Hedge Trimmer
The BLACK+DECKER Hedge Trimmer is equipped with a rotating handle and is ideal for vertical cuts or sculpting. The 24-inch pre-hardened and rust-resistant dual-action, steel cutting blades can cut branches up to ¾ of an inch thick, and they are designed to stay sharp for long term cutting, and they can cut branches faster and easier with minimal vibration.
The full-sized, 3-sided, soft-grip comfort handle also provides a larger gripping area that is designed for comfort and to give you more control over your trimming and cutting. The new swivel handle, which allows you to turn the blade and handle 90° left or right, makes it easy to transition from trimming the top of the hedge to the side of the hedge.
The unit has a powerful inline motor that provides superior cutting performance and good balance. The cord retention with pigtail prevents the trimmer from being unplugged. Safety extras also include a lock-on switch for continuous running, and the lock-off switch helps to prevent accidental starting.
Pros
- Fully assembled and ready to use
- Good value for money
- Ideal for overgrown and unruly hedges
- Easy to trim hedges vertically and horizontally
- Can handle thicker branches
Cons
- Have to use an extension cord
- Expensive for most beginners
- Not as fast as gas or battery-powered models
2. Toro 51490 Corded Hedge Trimmer
If it is power you want, then the Toro’s powerful 4 amp electric corded hedge trimmer is designed to get your trimming jobs done faster. The 22-inch bar with hardened steel blades provides durability and an extended reach to get the job done easily.
The trimmer’s dual-action cutting system reduces vibration and the powerful 4 amp motor can cut through branches up to 9/16-inch thick. The trimmer comes with a durable and ergonomically designed work handle with a soft grip that will help to reduce hand fatigue and provide extra comfort.
Safety features include a cord-lock feature that prevents accidental unplugging and continuous power, which allows you to deliver a smooth and easy trim. A debris shield that is located directly behind the blade, protects you from flying cuttings and sharp thorns.
Pros
- Quiet
- Good for small to medium lawns
- Ideal for light maintenance or shaping tasks like small hedges, trimming vines and small tree branches
- Affordable price
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Smaller engine
- Moderate cutting diameter
- More expensive due to electricity usage
- Have to use an extension cord
3. Earthwise CVPH41018 Corded Electric 2-in-1 Pole/Handheld Hedge Trimmer
The Earthwise CVPH41018 Corded Electric 2-in-1 Pole/Handheld Hedge Trimmer with a 6.5 amp motor is a powerful and high-quality multi-purpose trimmer, which is ideal for trimming and cutting large hedges and bushes. The extending handle makes trimming easy and eliminates the need for unstable ladders.
It can also be used as a standard handheld hedge trimmer or can be easily converted with a click of a button into a pole trimmer so that you can trim tall hedges, and safely trim hard to reach tree branches without the use of an unstable step ladder. It also comes with a 150° rotating head and 6 cutting positions, which means you can cut hedges and trees from any angle.
Pros
- Portable
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to use and switch from the pole attachment to hand trimmer
- Good design
- Ideal for trimming tall hedges up to 6-feet
- Ideal for cutting small branches
Cons
- Pole is shorter than advertised
- Extended trimmer is heavy and not ideal for long jobs
4. Poulan Pro PR2322 Cycle Gas Powered Dual Sided Hedge Trimmer
The Poulan Pro PR2322 Cycle Gas Powered Dual Sided Hedge Trimmer makes it so easy to perfectly manicure your hedges and shrubs. The unit is equipped with a powerful 23cc 2-cycle easy-to-start gas engine and 22-inch dual-sided, serrated stainless steel blades, which guarantee that any branches up to 1-inch thick and dense hedges will be trimmed to perfection in no time.
This hedge trimmer is lightweight and the advanced rotating, anti-vibration handle gives you a comfortable grip, reduces fatigue, and ensures maximum cutting control.
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to start
- Great trimming action
- Powerful trimmer that cuts through shrubs and tree branches easily
- Advanced rotating, anti-vibration handle is comfortable to hold
Cons
- Can overheat after longer jobs
- Primer button is in an awkward position
- Not suitable for taller shrubs
5. Husqvarna 122HD60 Gas Dual Action Hedge Trimmer
The team at Husqvarna is famous for making quality power tools and the Husqvarna 122HD60 Gas Dual Action Hedge Trimmer is a reliable lightweight trimmer that is ideal for those gardeners who have a lot of trimming to complete. This machine is designed for homeowners and professional landscape gardeners alike, and it is fitted with a number of innovative features that make trimming and cutting an easy task.
What makes this Husqvarna trimmer stand out is the Smart Start engine, which has been designed to make it easier to start on time, every time.
In addition to the Smart Start feature, there is also an anti-vibration feature, which aims to reduce the amount of vibration experienced by the user, allowing for more comfort when using the trimmer for long periods.
The cutting blades are made from hardened steel that has been designed to stay sharper for longer. The handle has been ergonomically designed and is adjustable to allow for easier trimming for those hard to reach hedges.
Pros
- Quick and easy to start
- Ideal for homeowners with large lawns and for commercial landscaping
- Quiet
- Ideal for trimming high hedges and thick branches up to 2-inches thick
- Rotating handle makes trimming very easy and less taxing
Cons
- Heavy and cumbersome
- Runs rough with fuel that contains ethanol
- Not suitable for taller shrubs
6. Milwaukee Electric Tools 2726-20 FUEL Hedge Trimmer
The Milwaukee Electric Tools 2726-20 FUEL Hedge Trimmer is one beast of cordless hedge trimmer and it delivers a fast and precise cutting performance. Its extra strong POWERSTATE brushless motor sustains power under load without bogging down, so you can cut through ¾-inch thick branches with ease.
REDLINK Intelligence technology monitors power delivery from the M18 battery to the motor to ensure maximum tool performance and long-life. Plus the battery provides up to 2 hours of runtime.
The 24-inch long-lasting sharp blade trims more material in a single pass so you will have better productivity, an extended reach, and maneuverability for larger hedges. Designed to meet all your landscape maintenance needs, the hedge trimmer is lightweight and the handle placement provides the perfect combination of balance and control.
This trimmer features an easy-to-use slider-crank mechanism and a durable all-metal gear case also ensures unmatched durability and longer life.
Pros
- Good price
- Long-lasting power
- Ideal for ¾-branches and large hedges
Cons
- Bare tool only, you will need to purchase the battery and charger separately
- Handle can come loose easily
- Need to wear gloves as the handle is plastic
7. Greenworks Pro Brushless Hedge Trimmer
The Greenworks Pro Brushless Hedge Trimmer is the ideal choice for trimming high hedges, bushes, tending flower gardens, maintaining landscape aesthetics, cutting vegetation, and general garden maintenance. The trimmer is powered by a 2Ah Lithium Battery and the Charger is included.
The 26-inch steel dual action laser cut blade has a 1.2-inch thick cutting capacity and guarantees optimal cutting and trimming performance and durability. The 3-position pivoting head, the 3 sided wrap around auxiliary handle, and the ergonomic 180° rotating rear handle allows for greater flexibility and helps you to effortlessly trim high hedges from multiple angles.
Battery life is very good and you have 60 minutes of runtime with a fully charged battery.
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Sharp blades
- Great cutting and trimming action
- Works well on trees
- Good for cutting tall hedges and 1.2-inch thick branches
- Good battery life
Cons
- Longer blade can be difficult to control while trimming
- Can stall when cutting very thick branches
8. DEWALT Cordless Hedge Trimmer
If you are looking for a superior trimmer that has a high powered cutting ability, then look no further than the DEWALT Cordless Hedge Trimmer. With a super-strong 20-volt lithium-ion battery, this dynamo can run for one hour on a single charge.
A powerful high output motor provides maximized cutting power but generates less noise than the regular gas-run models. The 22-inch premium sharp hook-toothed steel blade provides fast laser-cut precision for trimming extra ¾-inch thick branches with 40% less vibration.
DEWALT has the gardener in mind as this trimmer features an easy-start system and an ergonomic wrap-around auxiliary handle gives you a comfortable grip. The portable unit is compact and lightweight which maximizes maneuverability and minimizes stress on your arms. There is a removable top cover for easy maintenance, and the high-impact housing is designed for shock resistance and durability.
Pros
- Powerful
- Compact and lightweight
- Good for cutting thick branches and heavy-duty hedges
- Sharp dual-sided hook-toothed laser cut steel blade
- Good battery charge
Cons
- Pricey
Our Top Pick for the Best Hedge Trimmer
Our top pick for the best hedge trimmer is the DEWALT Cordless Hedge Trimmer.
As well as offering you an efficient high powered cutting capability, the 20-volt lithium-ion battery can run for one hour on a single charge.
The amazingly powerful high output motor can tackle tough jobs with ease but surprisingly generates less noise, so you will experience a smooth trimming performance every time.
Check the price on Amazon
