The best hedge trimmers don't just make your hedges look good. They can make taming your topiary much faster and much less of a chore, too. With the right model, you might even find that maintaining hedges, trimming trees, and cutting back bushes is even fun.
Until fairly recently, hedge trimmers were back-breaking tools that required a lot of maintenance, used a lot of fuel, and were noisy and expensive. Not anymore. Thanks to ever-smarter batteries, today's trimmers are lighter, more powerful, and longer lasting than ever. You can still get a great gas trimmer when you need serious cutting power in places where you can't run a cable, but for more modest trimming, there are many lighter, cheaper, and easier options, too.
In this guide, we'll discover the best hedge trimmers for every job, whether giving your backyard a freshen-up or taming hedgerows that haven't been cut back since the Beastie Boys broke up. From brilliant budget buys to seriously powerful gas-powered models for the pros, you'll find your replacement or new hedge trimmer right here – and if you've got trees to fell or thick branches to cut back, we have put together an expert guide to the best chainsaws to keep the rest of your outdoor space looking in shape.
The quick list
If you want a quick view of all the best hedge trimmers right now, you can check out our quick list below. You can also jump to more detailed reviews or use our price comparison chart for an at-a-glance overview of the best deals.
The best hedge trimmer overall
A low-cost model still offers a powerful electric cutter that keeps noise to a minimum, thanks to vibration reduction technology. That said, it's not cordless or the strongest.
The best electric hedge trimmer
This superb battery-powered hedge trimmer charges quickly goes for a long time, and offers powerful 24-inch dual-action steel blades for bigger jobs. The handles don't rotate, though.
The best portable hedge trimmer
For a portable and easy-to-use hedge trimmer, this battery-powered and compact Ryobi model is ideal, yet it still packs 24-inch dual-action blades only with a round handle for maximum control.
The best hedge trimmer for manoeuvrability
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.
Best corded all-rounder
This Black + Decker offers a large cutting capacity and lightweight construction, which puts it among the best hedge trimmers.
Best quiet cordless
This Black + Decker offers a large cutting capacity and lightweight construction, which puts it among the best hedge trimmers out there.
Best mid price
The WORX WX261 is a good choice if you don't want to spend a lot of money and don't want a corded or gas trimmer.
Best budget
The Toro 51490 is a lightweight, corded cutter with basic features, but its low price puts it among the best budget options.
The best hedge trimmers we recommend in 2023
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Looking for a model that's up to the task? We've rounded up the best hedge trimmers to help you save time in your outdoor areas. We're currently reviewing all the products in this guide, but for the moment, we've included a summary of user reviews for any that we haven't personally reviewed to help you choose the right model for your outdoor space.
The best hedge trimmer overall
✅ You want to save money: This gets you a lot for the low price.
✅ You want lightweight: This weighs very little, making it easy to use.
✅ Vibration reduction is key: This uses dual-blades to keep vibrations to a minimum.
❌ You need power: This isn't the strongest of hedge trimmers.
❌ Cords are an issue: This uses mains power, so beware of cutting that cord.
❌ Depth is needed: At 18 inches this has shorter blades than a lot of other models.
🔎 GreenWorks 22102 is a very affordable model both upfront and longer-term thanks to that mains power and very little maintenance required. That also makes it lightweight to use, although it won't pack the power or depth of some. ★★★★
The GreenWorks 22102 doesn’t have everything our top pick offers, but it’s good value for the price. It’s great for occasional or light use, such as simple hedge grooming and trimming young and small plants.
Features: The dual-action blades make this efficient while also helping to reduce vibrations to ensure the most comfortable cutting experience. The short power cord will mean you need an extension for longer green spaces away from power. There is double insulation keeping you safe from the electrics, plus this is just 5.1lbs, making it super comfortable to use.
Power: At 2.7 amps, the engine isn't the most powerful, but an 18-inch blade will do the job for most smaller branches and younger shrubbery.
Efficiency: You get a very easy-to-use model thanks to how lightweight it is, but with a power cord, you must be mindful not to cut that – which could slow you down as you work.
Value for money: This represents superb value for money, as you get a lot for a very low price. You also won't need to worry about ongoing costs as this requires minimal maintenance, and you can run it off your home power supply.
Read more: GreenWorks 22102 review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Minimal but covers most | ★★★★ |
| Power | Weak but efficient | ★★★ |
| Efficiency | Light and ease to use | ★★★★ |
| Value | Very good value | ★★★★★ |
The best electric hedge trimmer
✅ Batteries help: This offers electric efficiency in a cable-free battery system.
✅ Fast charging works: Get charged quickly to work through the day.
✅ Large branches are an issue: Thanks to 24-inch blades and lots of power, this will cut thicker branches, too.
❌ You need handle adjustments: The handles don't rotate on this model.
❌ Power is important: While this has some grunt, it's still not at the gas-power trimmer level.
❌ You need to go all day: For longer jobs, you'll either need to invest in a spare battery or wait between charges.
🔎 Kobalt KHT 240-07 manages to stay lightweight, quiet, and yet powerful, all while running on battery power for ultimate freedom of movement. An adjustable handle would be nice, but aside from that, this is tough to fault. ★★★★
If mixing fuel and dealing with extension cords is a non-starter, then the Kobalt KHT 240-06 is well worth considering. This is a battery-operated hedge trimmer, which means you can take it as far away from a power source as you want and work as long as the battery allows.
Features: The Kobalt KHT 250-06 has a wide loop-style auxiliary handle behind the blade and a rear handle at the base of the motor. These let you find a comfortable, secure grip while cutting. The never-fade interchangeable battery is great, meaning you get maximum power until it runs out of juice.
Power: This offers a 24-inch dual-acton steel blade setup that can hit 2,800 strokes per minute with a cutting diameter of 0.75 inches. All that adds up to a pretty heavy-duty unit for a battery-powered model, meaning even larger branches should be no problem. It's still not a gas-powered level strong, but there is more than enough for most jobs.
Efficiency: The battery is long-lasting, but its exact running time depends greatly on what you’re trimming. It recharges in less than an hour – the fastest battery-powered device in our guide to the best hedge trimmers.
Value for money: You get a lot for your money here, but keep in mind that you might want to invest in more than one battery if you plan to use it for extended periods.
Read more: Kobalt KHT 240-07 review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Rich with lots | ★★★★★ |
| Power | Plenty for a battery model | ★★★★ |
| Efficiency | Excellent | ★★★★ |
| Value | Very good | ★★★★ |
The best portable hedge trimmer
✅ You need storage space: This is compact and portable, making it ideal for storage.
✅ Portability is important: You can use this without much strain on wrists and arms, although it's not light.
✅ Power is needed: This manages a massive 90 minutes on a charge with a powerful stroke rate.
❌ You want handle rotation: This handle won't adapt to all angles for maximum comfort.
❌ You want to go all day: The battery lasts a long time, but you'll need more recharge time for all day.
❌ Shock absorption is needed: This won't absorb as much shock as some.
🔎 Ryobi RY40610A offers the power of a strong 24-inch trimmer but with the portability of battery power – without scrimping on range thanks to a long life. ★★★★
The Ryobi RY40610A is the best hedge trimmer with a cordless design that we have reviewed. It has the power to trim back large bushes while providing a nearly silent performance and no risk of electrocution from accidentally crossing the blade with the power cord.
Features: This model is portable thanks to the battery setup, making it great for use over larger spaces and for anyone who doesn't want the issue of electric cords, extensions, or gas-powered trimmers. It still features a 24-inch dual-steel blade system that is powerful enough to tackle most jobs.
Power: With a 40-volt lithium-ion battery capable of running for 90 minutes on a full charge and 3,200 strokes per minute.
Efficiency: This only comes with one battery. However, the battery is compatible with other 40-volt Ryobi products, so it's ideal if you already have other Ryobi tools. This is a heavier model at 9.1 lbs, though, making it closer to a gas-powered trimmer, so it is worth keeping in mind if you have wrist issues.
Value for money: Ryobi offers excellent value for money as the products are well built, use impressive batteries that charge fast, and give long life. Plus, you have at least a one-year warranty, too.
Read more: Ryobi RY40610A review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Several helpful for portability | ★★★★ |
| Power | Great for battery | ★★★★ |
| Efficiency | Long life with battery extension | ★★★★ |
| Value | Great value for the quality | ★★★★★ |
The best hedge trimmer for maneuverability
✅ You want to go far: This long battery life will keep up even in larger spaces.
✅ Use comfort matters: This is easy to move and use, even in awkward positions.
✅ You want to save money: This offers great value for money upfront and ongoing.
❌ You want the battery and charger: These aren't included in the price upfront.
❌ Lightweight matters: This is one of the more weighty models out there.
❌ Long blades are a must: This offers 22 inches, which isn't the longest you can get.
🔎 Dewalt DCPH820B is a battery-powered hedge trimmer with a long battery life that is very easy to use. Just be ready to buy the battery separately, and don't expect this to be too light. ★★★
The Dewalt DCPH820B 20V Max hedge trimmer combines comfort with portability thanks to battery power. It's worth noting that despite that more compact blade setup, this is still not the lightest model out there, yet it remains comfortable for movements.
Features: The Dewalt DCPH820B is part of the brand's 20V MAX system, which means you can use the same battery as other products in the same line. This is important to note as the battery or charger is not included in the product's price and will have to be purchased separately if you don't already own a Dewalt 20V MAX tool.
Power: This hedge trimmer is battery-powered with a 22-inch hardened steel dual-action blade. The robust build and effective blade design mean it can tackle even thicker branches, which is ideal if you have small trees to trim and hedges.
Efficiency: This trimmer is designed for customization and maneuverability. The 180-degree articulating head can be moved into 7 different positions to reach any foliage you are trying to trim.
Value for money: While the upfront price does make this model good value for money, you will need to factor in buying the battery and charger if you don't already have one for this brand.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Plenty for the price | ★★★ |
| Power | Decent for the battery | ★★★ |
| Efficiency | Blade could be longer but comfortable | ★★★ |
| Value | Decent value despite lack of battery | ★★★ |
The best gas-powered hedge trimmer
✅ You need power: Gas power still offers some of the most grunt for the weight.
✅ Comfort is essential: The rotating handle helps with this.
✅ You want smooth action: This uses anti-vibration comfort tech.
❌ Weight matters: This is undeniably a heavy model to use.
❌ Maintenance isn't wanted: Gas power means you must work on this regularly.
❌ Noise is a problem: Being gas-powered, this will make a lot of noise, and you may need earphones.
🔎 Poulan Pro PR2322 offers lots of power to take on even tougher jobs thanks to the gas-powered 23cc motor. That also means it's heavy and noisy, but this does offer comfort, too, with an adaptive handle. ★★★
The Poulan Pro PR2322 gets you all the power of a gas-driven trimmer, which means it's heavy, but thanks to some great ergonomics, this is designed to be comfy. So, for big jobs like large shrub areas or thicket branches, this is the tool to help take most of the work out of the job for you.
Features: The trimmer's dual-action blade is 22 inches long and serrated to handle even the most robust shrubs and bushes. This tool is heavier at 11.1 lbs, as some of its competitors, such as the WORX WRG261, are lighter.
Power: The Poulan Pro PR2322 is a gas-powered hedge trimmer with a 23cc two-cycle engine. As such, it will likely be more powerful than its electric counterparts but also need more maintenance. Gas is also less sustainable than a rechargeable battery, something to consider if you're an ethically-minded consumer.
Efficiency: The Poulan Pro PR2322 is also equipped with anti-vibration technology, which absorbs vibration from the trimmer and reduces user strain and fatigue. The handle is also rotating to allow you to control your grip better.
Value for money: This isn't badly priced for a gas model, but warranty cover isn't the best, so keep that in mind for ongoing maintenance costs.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Plenty of useful additions | ★★★ |
| Power | Lots of grunt | ★★★★★ |
| Efficiency | Comfortable use | ★★★★ |
| Value | Not bad, not great | ★★★ |
The best corded all-rounder
✅ You need versatility: The 24-inch cutting length makes this a good all-rounder
✅ Comfort matters: If you get sore hands you'll appreciate the low vibration blade here.
✅ You want unlimited power: Corded means no battery capacity issues
❌ You need to roam: Having a power cord limits your go-anywhere abilities
❌ You need serious power: Gas-powered models are more powerful
❌ You have a huge yard: This model is not designed for really big cutting jobs
🔎 The Black + Decker HH2455 is an excellent all rounder thanks to its versatile and low vibration cutting blade, but it's corded so that will limit your reach. ★★★★
Versatile and robust, the Black & Decker HH2455 offers a large cutting capacity and lightweight construction, which puts it among the best hedge trimmers out there. However, it is corded, making it more limited than cordless.
Features: With a 24-inch dual-action blade and a maximum cutting capacity of 0.75 inches, the Black & Decker HH2455 is suited to smaller hedge trimming tasks. The blade has minimal vibration, even when cutting through thicker, woody branches and dense undergrowth, so it's comfortable to use.
Power: This is a corded model, so it's more powerful than many cordless, but a gas-powered cutter will still be stronger.
Efficiency: The Black & Decker HH2455 is a good trimmer for small and midsize spaces with various types of shrubbery.
Value for money: This Black & Decker is lightweight and powerful, so it's good value for money if you don't need cordless convenience.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Versatile with relatively low vibration | ★★★★ |
| Power | More than powerful enough for small hedges | ★★★★ |
| Efficiency | Comfortable use | ★★★★ |
| Value | Good value if you don't need cordless | ★★★★ |
Best for quiet cordless operation
✅ You need range: No cord means you can go anywhere
✅ You're a brand fan: This trimmer uses B&D's MAX interchangeable batteries
✅ You need to cut a lot: Cut up to 6,000sq ft on a single charge
❌ You're on a tight budget: The price here doesn't include the battery
❌ You have thicker branches: Gas-powered models are more powerful
❌ You're forgetful: Cordless trimmers are only good if you remember to charge them in advance
🔎 The Black + Decker LHT2436B is a good choice if you want cordless convenience but have a large area to cut into shape. ★★★★
The Black & Decker LHT2436B is a popular cordless hedge trimmer that can take on a large volume of trimming tasks per battery charge and can handle tougher vegetation than many other cordless models.
Features: The Black + Decker LHT2436B uses the firm's interchangeable MAX batteries, sold separately to reduce e-waste. There's up to an hour of runtime, and the 24-inch dual-action blade is designed for branches up to 3/4 of an inch thick.
Power: This Black & Decker LHT2436B hedge trimmer's 40-volt rechargeable lithium-ion battery has a long running time that allows you to get plenty of yard work done. It can handle as much as 6,000 square feet of hedge trimming on one battery charge.
Efficiency: The Black & Decker LHT2436B is fast and strong for a cordless hedge trimmer, handling moderately tough vegetation reasonably easily. Its comfortable weight and clean-slicing blades add to this convenience.
Value for money: The Black+Decker LHT2436B is keenly priced, but remember you'll need to provide or buy a battery, too.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Low vibration, interchangeable batteries | ★★★★ |
| Power | Capable of 6000sq ft on one charge | ★★★★ |
| Efficiency | Comfortable and effective | ★★★★ |
| Value | Don't forget the battery | ★★★★ |
The best mid price trimmer
✅ You don't want to spend $$$: This is one of the cheaper all-rounders.
✅ You have a small garden: This trimmer isn't designed for massive yards or thick branches
✅ You have small hands: The front handle is strangely small
❌ You're cutting a big area: The battery here is small, which limits range and time
❌ You have thicker branches: Go gas if you need serious cutting power
❌ You're planning to move: This trimmer can't really cope with average to heavy cutting tasks
🔎 The WORX WX261 is a good choice if you don't want too spend a lot of money and don't want a corded or gas trimmer. ★★★
The low-priced WORX WG261 has a relatively small battery, so it is only suited for small gardens and light yard work tasks.
Features: This lightweight model has even weight distribution for control, comfort, and precision. The low weight allows you to comfortably use this cordless hedge trimmer vertically or horizontally, as well as above shoulder height, for extended periods with minimal muscle fatigue.
Power: This hedge trimmer delivers 2,200 cutting strokes per minute, well suited for small gardens. The battery is 20V.
Efficiency: The small power output means this cordless hedge trimmer can only handle light tasks, such as general maintenance and light shaping.
Value for money: As cordless cutters go, the WORX is one of the more affordable models, but it lacks the power of pricier alternatives.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Fine for general maintenance and light shaping | ★★★ |
| Power | Not designed for large yards or thick branches | ★★★ |
| Efficiency | Comfortable use | ★★★★ |
| Value | Good value for smaller garden tasks | ★★★★ |
The best choice for tight budgets
✅ You're short of space: This is a very compact cutter, easy to transport and store
✅ You're on a budget: This Toro is one of the most affordable options
✅ You have small hands: The front handle is strangely small
❌ You're cutting a large yard: This is a corded cutter so of course that limits your range
❌ You have thicker branches: This trimmer is for branches up to 0.5625 inches
❌ You've got a lot to cut: Relatively low power means it'll be tiring on larger cutting tasks
🔎 The Toro 51490 is cheap and cheerful, but of course some corners have been cut to get that low price. It''s a decent budget cutter but lacks the power of more expensive rivals. ★★★
The Toro 51490 is a lightweight, corded cutter with basic features, but its low price puts it among the best budget options and hedge trimmers.
Features: This model has a hardened steel dual-action blade for durability and comfortable vibration reduction.
Power: Delivering 2,400 cutting strokes per minute, this corded electric hedge trimmer can handle branches of up to 0.5625 inches.
Efficiency: This relatively small maximum cutting diameter limits the versatility of the hedge trimmer, only allowing you to use it effectively for light maintenance or shaping tasks.
Value for money: The Toro 51490 covers all the basics for a hedge trimmer, but it's unsuitable for heavy trimming tasks.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Straightforward and frill-free | ★★★ |
| Power | Relatively low price means relatively low power | ★★★ |
| Efficiency | Fine for light work | ★★★ |
| Value | Cheap and cheerful for smaller spaces | ★★★ |
How we tested the best hedge trimmers
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.
Lots of factors are taken into account, including power, 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
There is a lot to consider when choosing the best hedge trimmer for you, and all the choices can make it difficult to decide. Knowing what to look for can help you buy the right one. Here are some features to keep in mind:
Power source
To find a hedge trimmer that’s a comfortable weight, you may have to look for one with a shorter blade or consider a corded model, which tends to weigh less than battery-operated and gas machines.
However, the type of hedge trimmer you choose should also depend on the vegetation you plan to cut. For heavy-duty tasks, you likely need a gas model. On the other hand, a corded or battery-operated machine is fine for light maintenance.
If you need to cut through tough, woody branches 3/4 of an inch or wider, a hedge trimmer might not be the right tool. Instead, consider a manual pruning saw to groom especially thick-stemmed vegetation.
Blade
The best hedge trimmers use blades with sharp metal teeth to slice away at vegetation. The single-sided variety of blades has teeth that face away from you as you work, a worthwhile safety measure. The double-sided models work in both directions, so you must be alert while using them, but they let you complete your task fast.
When it comes to a hedge trimmer's blade length, bigger is not always better. The longer the blade, the faster you can cut your hedge. However, a trimmer with a longer blade is more cumbersome, so you need more strength to hold it and take greater care to operate it correctly to get the desired results.
Generally, the best hedge trimmer blades extend somewhere between 13 inches and 40 inches. Trimmers sporting 16-inch blades are best suited for small or average-size hedges. Eighteen-inch blades are good for grooming average to large hedges, and 20-inch blades are best for big hedges.
Since a 24-inch blade can handle various plant types, it’s a common length for residential hedge trimmers. If you want a model with a blade longer than this, be sure you can easily maneuver it.
Cutting capacity
A hedge trimmer’s cutting capacity depends on the spacing between the blade teeth or gap. The gap determines the maximum branch size the machine can safely cut. The larger the gap, the greater the cutting capacity of the trimmer. Typically, hedge trimmers have a gap of 1 inch or greater, but you can find models with a gap of 3/8 to 3/4 of an inch. You probably want to opt for a large cutting capacity for thick, dense, or woody plants. A lower cutting capacity is acceptable for young, leafy hedges with fine stems.
Extra Features
Most hedge trimmers have the same basic design, no matter their power source or blade length. So, the extra features differentiate them and make them fit specific needs.
Some trimmers come with a shoulder strap, which can relieve strain on your arms during long trimming sessions. Others have ergonomic handle designs that increase comfort and enhance maneuverability. Others still have anti-vibration technology for a smoother, more manageable trimming experience.
And the best have laser-cut blades that make clean, straight cuts on every pass. Picking a tool with one or more features ensures you get the most value and power for your dollar.
