Want the best hedge trimmer to make your gardening tasks easier and faster? Modern technology has improved the best hedge trimmers, making them stronger, lighter, and more durable. While gas trimmers still offer serious cutting power in areas where you can't run a cable, there are many lighter, cheaper, and easier options now for less serious trimming.
At TopTenReviews, we understand the importance of finding the right yard tool for your needs. Here's an in-depth look at hedge trimmers, analyzing top-rated brands and features. We've ranked the best models based on user reviews and our industry knowledge, including budget-friendly choices and powerful gas-powered models for professional use.
Whether you need a hedge trimmer for your backyard or a commercial garden, we've got you covered. We also have a guide to your outdoor space's best chainsaws.
The quick list
Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.
The best hedge trimmer overall
A low-cost model still offers a powerful electric cutter that minimizes noise, thanks to vibration reduction technology. That said, it's not cordless or the strongest.
The best budget hedge trimmer
The Toro 51490 is a lightweight, corded cutter with basic features, but its low price makes it one of the best budget options.
The best electric hedge trimmer
This superb battery-powered hedge trimmer charges quickly and lasts a long time. It offers powerful 24-inch dual-action steel blades for bigger jobs. The handles don't rotate, though.
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The best battery pole hedge trimmer
This hedge trimmer from the well-known brand DeWALT offers a long pole handle, making it ideal for accessing difficult-to-reach greenery without a ladder. A decent battery life and good value for money add appeal, although it could be lighter in weight.
The best gas-powered hedge trimmer
For raw gas-powered grunt, this hedge trimmer offers plenty. That makes this ideal for tougher jobs, and with the rotating handle plus anti-vibration technology, it's also easy to use. Helpful as it's not the lightest.
The best hedge trimmers we recommend in 2024
Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.
While we haven't been able to test any of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.
The best hedge trimmer overall
The GreenWorks electric trimmer is great for simple hedge trimming, and it's great for young or thin hedges, shrubs, and bushes. Its 2.7-amp engine is a good choice for neighbors because it delivers moderate power for light tasks.
However, with a 0.375-inch maximum cutting capacity and 18-inch steel blades, grooming a hedge may take longer than with models with longer blades.
While the short power cord may necessitate an extension cord, it can be inconvenient for some users. The dual-action blades reduce vibration and muscle fatigue, giving an even cut. The hedge trimmer has double insulation and isolated metal components, so it's safe to store and move, although there's no blade sheath.
The trimmer weighs just 5.1 pounds, so it's balanced and stable. Although its front auxiliary handle is designed to reduce comfort and make it awkward to use at different angles and above shoulder height, it has a lock-off switch on the back handle to prevent it from starting accidentally.
With its affordability, safety features, and ease of maneuverability, the GreenWorks electric trimmer is a great option for light jobs and small gardens. However, before using this model for heavier trimming tasks, you'll need to consider its limitations in power and cutting capacity.
The best budget hedge trimmer
Toro's 51490 hedge trimmer is an easy-to-use corded hedge trimmer perfect for small gardens. It has a 4-amp engine, no emissions, and weighs just 6.35 pounds, so it's easy to handle and maneuver. However, its 150-foot power cord limits mobility, so you might need an extension cord for some tasks.
With 2,400 cutting strokes per minute, this hedge trimmer can handle branches up to 0.5625 inches in diameter. It is great for light maintenance and shaping despite not being built for heavy trimming. The Toro 51490 comes with a blade sheath for safe storage and transportation. To keep users safe, it comes with a debris shield that also acts as a hand guard.
Despite being fixed in place and not rotating, the upper and lower handles are ergonomically designed with padding to reduce muscle fatigue. Although this hedge trimmer covers all the basics, its small engine and limited cutting diameter suit it best for light tasks. Even though it's not as powerful as other options, it's a great budget-friendly choice for small gardens or light maintenance.
The best electric hedge trimmer
With the Kobalt KHT 240-06, you don't have to mix fuel and deal with extension cords. It's a battery-operated hedge trimmer, so you don't need a power source to use it. It's got an auxiliary handle behind the blade and a handle at the bottom of the motor, so users can cut comfortably and securely.
It's got a never-fade interchangeable battery, so you'll have maximum power until the battery runs out on the Kobalt KHT 240-06. This hedge trimmer has a 24-inch steel blade setup that can get 2,800 strokes per minute and a cutting diameter of 0.75 inches.
Although it's not as powerful as a gas-powered trimmer, it's a robust tool for a battery-powered model.
Recharging the unit takes less than an hour, making it the fastest battery-powered device in its category. The battery runs for a long time, depending on the type of material being trimmed. It's a great deal, but if you plan to use it for a long time, you might want to buy additional batteries to avoid interruptions.
The best battery pole hedge trimmer
The Dewalt 20V Max hedge trimmer offers a perfect blend of comfort and portability, powered by its convenient battery. It's important to note that despite its smaller blade setup, it's not the lightest, but it still feels comfortable to use.
This hedge trimmer uses Dewalt's 20V MAX battery, which is also compatible with other 20V MAX products. If you don't already own a Dewalt 20V MAX tool, the battery and charger aren't included in the price and have to be purchased separately.
With a 22-inch hardened steel dual-action blade, this battery-powered hedge trimmer can handle thicker branches, making it perfect for trimming small trees and hedges.
This trimmer features a 180-degree articulating head that can be adjusted into seven different positions to reach and trim any foliage.
While the upfront price is definitely a good value for money, if you don't already have a battery and charger for this brand, you need to consider the additional cost. The fact that this hedge trimmer can be used for other Dewalt 20V MAX tools adds to its convenience and value.
The best gas-powered hedge trimmer
The Poulan Pro hedge trimmer, identified as PR2322, boasts the power of a gas-driven tool, making it ideal for large shrub areas and thick branches. With its ergonomic design, it promises a comfortable user experience despite its weight. This trimmer has a 22-inch dual-action serrated blade for tough shrubs and bushes. It's a little heavier than some competitors, like the WORX WRG261, but it's got great performance.
The gas-powered Poulan Pro PR2322 comes with a 23cc two-cycle engine, which gives it more power than its electric cousins, but it requires more maintenance. Although the gas-powered feature enhances its performance, it's worth considering for conscientious consumers that gas may not be as sustainable as a rechargeable battery.
A rotating handle allows for improved grip control, enhancing overall usability. Poulan Pro PR2322 has anti-vibration technology to minimize user strain and fatigue. Though it's pretty cheap for a gas model, its warranty might not be the best, so you might have to pay more for maintenance.
Overall, the Poulan Pro hedge trimmer PR2322 holds its ground with its robust gas-powered performance and user-friendly design. In spite of the maintenance and sustainability considerations, this tool is designed to make the job easier for you, whether you're dealing with large shrub areas or thick branches.
How we chose the best hedge trimmers for this guide
We spend time researching and testing various models, covering gas, battery, and corded electric. Only the best options make it onto our list, which will all serve many needs – giving various options to suit specific requirements.
Many factors, including power, are considered to decide what this will be able to tackle. Noise is another consideration, both for the user and any neighbors nearby. Then there is comfort, which covers the combination of weight and ergonomics to ensure those struggling with wielding a larger model can find something to suit.
How to choose the best hedge trimmer for you
It's hard to choose the best hedge trimmer when there are so many options. Knowing what to look for can help you make the right choice.
Power source: If you want to find a hedge trimmer that's comfortable to use, look for one with a shorter blade or choose a corded model, which tends to weigh less than gas and battery-operated models. For heavy-duty tasks, you'll probably need a gas hedge trimmer. On the other hand, a corded or battery-powered machine is fine for light maintenance. Use a manual pruning saw to groom thick-stemmed vegetation if you need to cut tough, woody branches 3/4 of an inch or wider.
Blade: In the best hedge trimmers, sharp metal teeth slice away at vegetation. The single-sided blades face away from you, which is a good safety measure. You have to be alert when using the double-sided models because they work in both directions, but they let you get the job done fast. When it comes to hedge trimmers, bigger isn't always better. You'll be able to cut your hedge faster if it's long.
If you have a longer blade, it's a little heavier, so you'll need more strength to hold it and more care to use it correctly. A hedge trimmer blade usually extends between 13 inches and 40 inches. For small or average-sized hedges, 16-inch blades work best. For medium to large hedges, 18-inch blades work great, and for huge hedges, 20-inch blades work best.
A 24-inch blade is common for residential hedge trimmers because it can handle a variety of plants. If you want one with a longer blade, make sure it's easy to maneuver.
Cutting capacity: A hedge trimmer's cutting capacity depends on the spacing between the blade teeth or gap. A larger gap means the trimmer can safely cut large branches. Hedge trimmers usually have a gap of 1 inch or more, but you can find models with a gap of 3/8 to 3/4 of an inch. If your plants are dense, thick, or woody, you probably want a big cutting capacity. Young, leafy hedges with fine stems can handle a lower cutting capacity.
Extra features: The basic design of hedge trimmers doesn't change based on power source or blade length, but the extras make them different and fit specific needs. Some trimmers have shoulder straps, so you don't have to strain your arms during long trimming sessions. Ergonomic handle designs make trimming more comfortable and easier to maneuver. Others even have anti-vibration technology.
With laser-cut blades, you'll get clean, straight cuts every time. Picking a tool with one or more features will ensure you get the most power and value.
Hedge trimmer FAQs
How do hedge trimmers work?
Hedge trimmers are essential gardening tools for pruning and shaping hedges, shrubs, and bushes. Their principle is pretty simple: Instead of a chain, they have a bunch of sharp, reciprocating blades. Dual-action blades allow them to cut in both directions, making them more efficient and requiring less effort to clean up.
When you turn a hedge trimmer on, its motor powers the blades, whether through a battery, an electric cord, or a gas engine. As you guide the trimmer along the desired cutting path, the blades move back and forth rapidly, slicing through branches and foliage. Often serrated or toothed, the blades grip and cut well.
Hedge trimmers can handle branches up to about half an inch thick, so they're great for trimming small branches and keeping hedges shaped.
Gas-powered and electric hedge trimmers are both available. Electric hedge trimmers are generally lighter and quieter, so they're great for residential use. They're also easy to start and maintain, but gas-powered ones have more power and are better for bigger, more demanding jobs.
To use a hedge trimmer effectively, you need to keep your hand steady and move the trimmer in a controlled manner. Regular maintenance, like cleaning the blades and ensuring they're sharp, is crucial for optimal performance.
How much do hedge trimmers cost?
Manual hedge trimmers are the best option for homeowners who like a hands-on approach to gardening. They cost between $24 and $42. They are ideal for light trimming and small hedges.
There are corded and cordless electric hedge trimmers. Corded electric trimmers usually cost between $48 and $57, while battery-powered ones cost between $49 and $118. These trimmers are more powerful than manual ones and work well on larger hedges. They're also much easier to use than manual shears because they require less effort.
In general, gas-powered hedge trimmers are the most expensive. Professional landscapers or homeowners with extensive gardens should use these models, designed for heavy-duty use and can handle thicker branches. In addition to being more powerful and mobile, they tend to be heavier and need more maintenance.
It's important to consider your garden's specific needs before buying a hedge trimmer, such as the size and type of hedges you have. In addition, professional hedge trimming services can cost $200 to $600, depending on how complicated the job is and how well the hedges are.
How long to hedge trimmers last?
With proper care, electric hedge trimmers, whether corded or battery-powered, last between 2 and 5 years, depending on the type of trimmer, how often it's used, and maintenance practices. Corded electric hedge trimmers are hard to beat. Regular maintenance, such as blade sharpening and cleaning, can last several years.
Battery lifespan largely determines the longevity of battery-powered hedge trimmers. These trimmers usually use lithium-ion batteries, lasting between two and three years if used regularly. However, over time, their performance may degrade, so they don't last as long.
Hedge trimmers powered by gas are usually built for heavy use and can last longer than electric models, often exceeding five years if maintained properly. Oil changes and air filters help extend their life.
The longevity of hedge trimmers also depends on how often they're used and the conditions in which they operate. If you trim thick, dense hedges, they'll wear down quicker than if you trim lighter foliage. Proper storage and maintenance practices, like cleaning the blades and lubricating moving parts, can also extend their lifespan.
When is the best time to buy a hedge trimmer?
The best time to get a hedge trimmer deal is when there are seasonal sales and gardening trends. Spring and fall are the best times to buy.
Many retailers offer promotions in spring as gardening season kicks off. To get customers excited for spring, home improvement stores and online retailers often run sales on gardening tools, including hedge trimmers. You can find many models at discounts, from electric to gas-powered options. Buying in spring lets you use the tool throughout the growing season, ensuring your hedges and shrubs stay healthy.
The fall is a great time to buy hedge trimmers, especially as gardening activities wind down. Retailers are clearing out inventory to make room for winter products, so they're selling hedge trimmers for a good deal. Buying a hedge trimmer in the fall can make sense for those who want to prepare their gardens for winter or trim them in early spring.
The off-season, such as the winter, can also yield good deals on hedge trimmers. While selection may be limited, prices are usually lower as retailers try to move unused stock.
