The Best Hedge Trimmer

Buying Guide

If you’ve ever used a hedge trimmer, you likely know that there are some inconveniences with them. As with string trimmers, chainsaws and other outdoor tools, the traditional fuel-powered type can put out noxious fumes, making the experience unpleasant and potentially bad for your health.

Today, you have alternatives to the gas-powered hedge trimmers of previous generations. But you’ll have to make a decision between electric and battery-powered, with each bringing its own benefits. An electric hedge trimmer plugs into your nearest power outlet and draws on electricity. This gives you unlimited cutting time and generally more power than a battery-powered trimmer.

However, there are some good reasons to choose a hedge trimmer powered by a battery. A power cord will get in the way while you’re working, requiring you to constantly take care to avoid cutting it, tripping over it or getting it caught on objects. It also tethers you to a power source, reducing your movement. Unless you have a small yard, chances are the hedge trimmer won’t reach everywhere you need it to go, even with the longest extension cord you can find.

Two things that should be at the top of your list are power and precision-cutting ability. The motor plays a role in how efficient your hedge trimmer is, but you’ll also find that the blade is just as important. Some hedge trimmers can also pivot to make it easy to flatten the tops of your hedges, even if they’re higher up than you could normally reach.

That reach is also important. If you have tall hedges and trees you’ll need to trim, a traditional hedge trimmer will require that you drag a ladder out every time you work. But there are hedge trimmers with telescoping poles that will expand your reach well beyond what you’d get with a regular trimmer. You should also pay close attention to the weight of any hedge trimmer you choose, especially if you plan to use it telescopically, since heavier trimmers can be more difficult to control while using that function.

• If you’re looking for a corded hedge trimmer, chances are you will need an extension cord. Make sure you get a heavy-duty cord that’s compatible with the design of the cord on the hedge trimmer. With the Greenworks Corded Hedge Trimmer, for instance, you’ll need an extension cord with a round female outlet. The Greenworks Corded Hedge Trimmer also has a lock that keeps the cord from coming unplugged if you extend your cord’s reach and tug too hard.
• If you choose a battery-powered version, make sure the battery has enough power to get you through your typical jobs. The Black + Decker Cordless Hedge has a 40-volt rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can tackle up to 6,000 square feet of trimming on one charge. The battery indicator light will let you know when you’re running out of juice. The Dewalt Hedge Trimmer also has a 40-volt lithium-ion battery, providing at least one hour of typical use without significant power loss.
• The better your hedge trimmer works, the faster you’ll finish your work. The Black + Decker Cordless Hedge has a 24-inch dual-action blade that can slice through branches up to 3/4 inches thick. This blade system also produces less vibration for a more comfortable cutting experience. The Dewalt Hedge Trimmer has 22-inch dual-action blades with hooked teeth that can also tackle 3/4 inches thick branches.
• The motor also plays a role in a hedge trimmer’s effectiveness.
• Weight is an important factor since heavier hedge trimmers can be tougher to maneuver. They’ll also slow you down and tire you far faster than a lighter model. If you’re going for a battery-powered model, the Black + Decker Cordless Hedge weighs only 6.9 pounds. As far as corded trimmers go, lighter models come in at 7.7 pounds. On the far heavier end is the Dewalt Hedge Trimmer, which makes it difficult to hold in a lifted position for extended periods of time.
• Cost is also a consideration. No matter which hedge trimmer you choose, you’re sure to find one that fits your set budget.
• One area where trimmers can differ dramatically is when it comes to the design of the handles. The Black + Decker Cordless Hedge and Dewalt Hedge Trimmer have full wraparound handles, which helps with both control and comfort. Although some models don’t have a wraparound handle, they do feature a transparent shield in front of the handle that guards your hands against debris and twigs.
• The trigger control on the Black + Decker Cordless Hedge is notable because it’s so easy to release, even if you’re wearing a pair of thick work gloves.