Buying guide for Best hedge trimmers
Whether you're creating yards of perfectly straight hedging or transforming garden shrubs into stunning sculptures, the right hedge trimmer is invaluable. But which tool best fits your needs?
That’s not an easy question to answer. Today’s market offers everything from electric hand-held shears to heavy-duty, contractor-grade hedge trimmers.
So how do you find the best hedge trimmer for your needs? There are many issues to consider: electric vs. gas, blade type, blade length, blade gap, and much more. We outline these considerations in this shopping guide.
Electric vs. gas power
Corded electric hedge trimmers
Corded electric hedge trimmers are extremely easy to use. Just plug the tool in, press the trigger, and away you go. These trimmers are lightweight (typically five to seven pounds), quiet, and release no emissions. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance hedge trimmer for a small yard or garden, you may wish to consider this type.
However, a corded hedge trimmer restricts your range somewhat, and for safety reasons, you can’t use the tool in damp conditions. Furthermore, you could jeopardize your own safety by inadvertently cutting the cord while trimming. (Yes, it does happen.) If you’re looking for a durable and versatile hedge trimmer for extensive use, you might want to consider a gas-powered model instead.
Cordless electric hedge trimmers
Cordless electric hedge trimmers are just as easy to use as corded trimmers, but they typically weigh more (between 7 and 18 pounds) and exude more power. In fact, when fully charged, some cordless electric trimmers match the power of small- to mid-sized gas machines.
Like their corded counterparts, cordless hedge trimmers are quiet, require little to no maintenance, and produce zero tool emissions. If you live in an area where noise could be a problem (near a school, for example), this could be the best choice for you.
But cordless tools lose power as the battery drains, and recharge times can be annoyingly long. In sum, whether you go for a corded or cordless model depends on your personal situation and preference.
Gas-powered hedge trimmers
In general, gas-powered hedge trimmers outshine electric trimmers in the performance department. You won’t experience a power drop as the battery drains, nor will you have to worry about staying within the confines of your extension cord. These machines usually weigh between 11 and 17 pounds (similar to a cordless electric) and are known for their durability.
On the downside, this type of hedge trimmer requires regular maintenance, releases exhaust emissions, and creates lots of noise. You’ll have to mix gas and oil for its two-cycle motor, and you may experience some difficulty getting the trimmer to start.
Modern gas hedge trimmers aren’t the dirty, smelly machines they once were. They deliver massive power, and short of the time it takes to refill your gas tank, you could easily use this tool all day long. Professionals prefer them, and if you’ve got a lot of hedges to cut, you might prefer them, too.
When we assess gas-powered hedge trimmers, we note the positive and negative aspects of working with this type of tool. While powerful, the noise, maintenance, and emissions of gas-powered models prompt some consumers to consider electric models instead.
Our research of hedge trimmers includes analyzing the blades. We consider both single-sided and dual-sided blades, noting their pros and cons.
There are two types of electric hedge trimmers: corded and cordless. Corded models are lightweight, but mobility is restricted to cord length. Cordless models are versatile but dependent on rechargeable batteries. We consider the pros and cons of both types.
Ease of use is an important consideration when choosing a hedge trimmer. Is it easy to start? Is it heavy? What type of maintenance does it require? These are concerns consumers have when choosing the best hedge trimmer for their needs.
We assess blade length in our hedge trimmer research. Blades are available in a wide range of lengths. Those that range from 46 to 56 centimeters (18 to 22 inches) are the most popular options.
In our assessments, we want to know if a hedge trimmer vibrates a lot during use. Too much vibration can result in hand fatigue, which may be a deal-breaker for some customers.
Some hedge trimmers offer a longer reach and are referred to as pole trimmers. We include pole trimmers in our research, noting that they are useful for consumers with tall hedges.
Because a small yard probably doesn’t require a powerful trimmer, a corded model may be an appropriate option. We factor this into our evaluations of corded trimmers.
We look at the handles of the trimmers we consider. We want to know if they are easy to adjust, grasp, and maneuver when trimming.
We research blade maintenance tips and share them with readers when appropriate, as taking proper care of a hedge trimmer blade promotes its longevity.
Choosing your blade
Blade type
Hedge trimmer blades have teeth on one or both sides of the cutter bar. Single-sided blades are preferred for straight work (because there's no chance of them cutting on the back stroke). Double-sided blades are ideal for shaping and topiary. However, this is an extremely broad generalization.
Single-sided blades are safer, as you're always cutting away from yourself, though they do favour right-handed people. Lefties can soon acclimate, although may prefer a double-sided blade.
Blade length
What’s the best length for a hedge trimmer blade? A span of 46 to 56 centimetres is common, and this length suits most people. However, blades can be as long as a mitre or as short as 33 centimetres.
There are no fixed rules about size, but if you're trimming a formal hedge, we recommend you opt for a blade slightly longer than the width of the hedge.
In general, the longer the blade, the more difficult to control — but the faster it will cut.
Blade gap
In addition to blade type and length, potential buyers should consider a hedge trimmer’s blade gap before making a purchase. Blade gap refers to the distance between the blade’s teeth, and it defines the maximum branch circumference the tool can cut.
The average “amateur” hedge trimmer sports a blade gap between ⅜ and ¾ of an inch. A professional hedge trimmer blade gap, by contrast, can extend to one inch or more.
A note about cutting branches, limbs, and saplings
Our consultant provided us with advice on how to cut timber with a diameter greater than the tool’s blade gap. To accomplish this, the user should move the trimmer in a “chainsaw” manner around the base of the timber. Not all manufacturers have approved this method, but it is one way to tackle large jobs. It’s also a timesaver since you can avoid switching devices as you work.
This method reduces the risk of jamming, but problems could still occur. If your hedge trimmer jams, turn off the gas or unplug the electric unit before working the jam-free.
For your safety
For safety’s sake, an automatic brake or auto-shutoff can stop your blade immediately. Some blade trimmers have dual safety switches, both of which must be pressed for the machine to run. Others have "Off" locks to stop children from activating them.
STAFF
BestReviews
Testing hedge trimmers
We spent 34 hours researching 74 models of hedge trimmers and consulting with landscaping experts. We then purchased our favorite trimmer and tested it in the BestReviews lab.
STAFF
BestReviews
Blade maintenance tips
Without proper care, your hedge trimmer blade could grow dull and rusty over time. Our consultant offers the following tips for maintaining your hedge trimmer blade:
- Sharpen your blade after approximately 50 to 60 hours of use.
- If you want to sharpen the blade yourself, you could use a small file to do so. Be sure to only work the cutting edges.
- Sharpening your hedge trimmer blade is a laborious task. There’s no shame in hiring a professional to do the job. Many pros have special machines that complete the job with speed and accuracy.
- Turn off your trimmer and spray the entire blade with WD-40 or another protectant/lubricant after each use. When the spraying is complete, turn the machine on again and work the blade for a few revolutions so the spray touches all of its key components. This step is particularly helpful after using the trimmer in a damp situation where harmful moisture could rust the blade.
"Older gas hedge trimmers sometimes develop a strong “idle” where the blade moves back and forth even when the trigger isn’t pressed. If this happens, double down on safety precautions while using it — or avoid using it altogether — and replace it as soon as possible."
STAFF
BestReviews
Long-reach hedge trimmers
The distance your hedge trimmer can reach, both with and without a ladder, can play a vital role in your landscaping success. Some hedge trimmers have a long reach by design. For example, if you’re tackling tall hedges of seven feet or more — and you want to avoid moving a ladder all over the place for safety reasons — You may want to opt for a long-reach hedge trimmer.
We like the Black & Decker 18-Inch Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer, pictured below. It’s not part of our top-five product list because it’s not something that every person will need. But if you’re concerned about reaching distant hedges, shrubs, or limbs with your trimmer, this could be a good choice for you.
Cord lock
It's frustrating when corded electric hedge trimmers become unplugged. A cord lock can prevent this from happening.
Trigger lock
A trigger lock allows you to work continuously without actually holding the trigger. Professionals who work for hours on end like this feature.
Other features to consider
Rotating handle
Some machines sport a rotating handle. This feature makes switching from vertical to horizontal cutting easy and comfortable.
Environmental friendliness
If you're concerned about gas emissions, look for a hedge trimmer that's CARB- and/or EPA- compliant.
Extra batteries
Keeping extra battery packs on hand extends the amount of time you can use your cordless hedge trimmer. When one battery runs out, simply take it out and pop a fresh one in.
Noise/vibration reduction
Gas hedge trimmers may have anti-vibration and noise reduction properties that allow you to work comfortably for long periods of time.
"Always read the fine print carefully. Some dirt-cheap online deals consist of the “bare tool” only. The battery could end up costing you just as much as the tool itself."
STAFF
BestReviews
How much should you pay?
You needn’t spend a fortune to get a good machine, but many cheap hedge trimmers offer false economy, so it pays to be careful. We're always cautious about cheap hedge trimmers because of quality issues, but it’s safe to say that you can sometimes find a reliable corded hedge trimmer for as little as $50.
Good cordless hedge trimmers start at around $120, though the models that rival gas-powered machines are likely to cost $200 or more.
The best gas-powered hedge trimmers for home use cost between $200 and $250.
Professional equipment starts at around $300 but can exceed $500.
Safety tips
- Always wear eye protection when using a hedge trimmer.
- If you’re using a gas-powered trimmer, we recommend ear protection as well. Stay alert and exercise caution near people and roadways, as you may not be able to hear oncoming traffic and other noises.
- Wear gloves to prevent cuts and snags from sharp branches.
- Be careful with your blade. Most hedge trimmer blades have small extensions around the teeth that help prevent accidents, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
- If you’re using an electric trimmer, be mindful of your cord at all times. Cord management becomes even more important when working around ladders. Consider looping the cord inside the handle of the trimmer or through a rope that is attached to your arm. This prevents the cord from dangling near the trimmer blades.
- Always store trimmers and shears out of reach of children.
