Best Cordless Hedge Trimmer
After a thorough review of several battery-powered and plug-in hedge trimmers, we’ve found that the DEWALT DCHT820P1 20v Max Hedge Trimmer is the best cordless hedge trimmer. It is capable of cutting branches about 3/4″ in thickness, and is covered under a 3 year warranty. The battery (not included) is placed so as to balance the 22″ blade, and the Dewalt batteries are a cut above the usual 20V appliance battery. These hedge trimmers are extremely effective workhorses, and will make quick work of your yard!
This is the best cordless hedge trimmer available.
- Powerful high output motor of the cordless hedge...
- The battery powered hedge trimmer has 22-inch...
- Trimmers for plants have high capacity 5.0Ah...
- Compact and lightweight design
- Part of the 20V MAX* system of tools
Last update on 2024-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
To learn more about the Dewalt DCHT802B, see our Product Reviews section below.Runner Up: Best Battery Hedge Trimmer
The BLACK+DECKER LHT341FF 40V MAX Lithium POWERCOMMAND Powercut Hedge Trimmer has our vote for runner up best. It has excellent run-time and power, thanks to the 40V battery, and it comes with one battery and charger included. The price point for the LHT341FF is outstanding, given that it has a battery included, and isn’t much more expensive than most of the other battery-powered hedge trimmers on the market that don’t include a battery.
It may not cut quite as fiercely as the Black and Decker, but it holds its own at a great price point.
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For more information on the Black + Decker LHT341FF, see the Product Reviews area below.
Budget Choice: Electric Hedge Trimmer
The BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer is a super choice if your budget is running a little close. Considerably less costly, and lighter weight than its battery-powered cousins, its only real disadvantage is the long, trailing cord that is essential for operations. Corded hedge trimmers work fine, and you don’t have to worry about keeping your battery charged. But the cords are a hassle.
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
To find out more about the Black + Decker BEHT100, scroll to the Product Reviews section below.
Electric and Battery-Powered Hedge Trimmer Buyer’s Tips
First we want to note that all the links in this page are to hedge-trimmers without batteries, so you can compare prices for just the trimmers. Keep in mind that the battery is often almost as expensive as the tool itself!
There are several things to consider when selecting a hedge trimmer.
What is a Hedge Trimmer?
A hedge trimmer is essentially a set of reciprocating blades, stacked on top of each other. They move against each other, and the blades chop off small branches that get caught between the blades as they move. In the olden days, many worked with pruning shears, but electric trimmers are much, much faster.
Keep in mind, though, that you may still want to keep those pruning shears nearby! Most electric hedge trimmers will only cut branches up to about 3/4″ in thickness
How far way is the power supply?
If you’re using a plugin hedge trimmer, you always need to keep in mind how far away your power supply is. You’ll need to use extension cords to trim your hedges, and in most cases, most manufacturers do not recommend “chaining” extension cords. This can potentially harm the trimmer over time.
If you have a small yard with fairly easy access to electric outlets, a plug-in trimmer can be an excellent budget-friendly option.
How long will it take to trim your hedges?
The first time you trim your hedge will take the longest! Maintenance-trimming can be accomplished in just a few minutes per bush if you’re trimming every few weeks. If you’re only trimming your hedges once per season, it can take quite a while to get everything in shape.
It’s almost always wise to try to regularly trim your hedges, taking just a little bit off at a time, as opposed to trying to do a huge cut seasonally.
How much weight do you want to heft?
The weight of the trimmer is an important consideration, and shouldn’t be ignored. The battery-operated models, in particular, can be weighty, and when you’re holding the trimmer above your head for long periods of time, working on your hedges, the weight can get to be an issue.
If you don’t have much upper-arm strength, you’ll probably want to stick to one of the lighter-weight trimmers, and maybe choose multiple lower-weight batteries, as opposed to the single high-capacity, high Ah battery
Of course, holding the hedge trimmer above your head is probably good exercise, so there’s that, too!
Over-all performance
Overall performance is based on the power of the trimmer. Gas-powered trimmers, which aren’t discussed here, are the most powerful workhorses out there. But they’re dirty, really loud, and a big hassle. Unless you’re doing commercial work, it doesn’t make sense to get a gas-powered trimmer anymore.
Plugin trimmers and battery-operated trimmers are about equally powerful at this point, though obviously, you’ll never run out of power with a corded trimmer as long as you remember to pay your electric bill!
Which hedge trimmer battery should I get?
Each of the trimmers on our list has a different format for its battery, with different voltages. And most of the brands sell multiple versions of their battery, with different Ah ratings.
If you already have a couple of tools from a manufacturer that are battery powered, it’s probably a good idea to stick with the system you have, and you won’t need to be purchasing and maintaining multiple formats for batteries and chargers.
What are Battery Ah ratings
The Ah number stands for Amp Hours. This tells buyers how long the battery will work at its target amperage power. A 1.5Ah battery should run for 1.5 hours, and a 2.5Ah battery should run for 2.5 hours. Of course, there are so many other factors that go into this that none of the manufacturers will guarantee that these batteries will last that long. But you can use these numbers to get a very rough idea of power length, and can use them to compare one battery setup to another.
How to clean hedge trimmer blades
We’ve found that the best way to clean hedge trimmer blades is to do the following after each session with the trimmer:
- Spray with Tar and Bug Remover to clean off the residue from the branches and sap
- Lube with machine oil or WD40, or spray silicone to lubricate blades
- Distribute lube in multiple locations across the blade, and then run the trimmer for a few seconds to ensure that it’s distributed nicely
How to use a hedge trimmer
Once the hedge trimmer is running, gently shave off the outermost branches of the hedge, trying to avoid taking too much off at any given pass. Wave the trimmer over the bush you’re working on, carefully shaping it as best you can. As you use your trimmer more frequently, you’ll get better at shaping your bushes.
Less is more, per pass, and you’ll find that you can get better accuracy by taking off a little bit at a time.
How to sharpen hedge trimmer blades
You can use a file to sharpen the blades on a hedge trimmer. You’ll need to place the blade in a vice grip, once the blades are aligned. Then you can run the file up and down the blades and get them as sharp as needed.
Some also use a Dremel or grinder to sharpen their blades.
Plug-In and Battery-Operated Hedge Trimmer Reviews
Hedge Trimmers are used to shape and trim hedges, shrubs, patio plants, and similar ornamentals. In times past, large, scissor type trimmers were used to shape and trim hedges. A more pleasing smoothness and shape can be achieved using a powered trimmer. Using an electric trimmer cuts down on air pollution and, to some degree, on noise pollution.
Just as an aside, it is always a good idea to have a pruning saw or a set of hand-held loppers around to supplement your powered trimmer.
In this section, we’ll start with a comparison table to get oriented. Then we’ll move into individual reviews, and wrap up with a summary of our favorites.
Last update on 2024-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. DEWALT DCHT820P1 Hedge Trimmer
Key Points at a Glance
- This offering includes the trimmer with a 20v 5Ah battery and charger
- Can be purchased without battery and charger
- Part of the Dewalt 20v Max series
- Cuts branches up to ¾ inches thick
- Three-year limited warranty
- 1-year free service
- 90-day money back warranty
- Additional batteries available
Dimensions and Specs
- Dimensions: 38.66 inches by 9.42 inches by 7.87 inches
- Blade length: 22″
- Weighs: 11.5 pounds with battery
- Lithium Battery adds 3 pounds
The Details
The Dewalt Max hedge trimmer is a light-weight, easy to use implement with excellent cutting power. The trimmer can be purchased with or without the batteries (see links below).
It is easy to use almost right out of the box and comes essentially pre-assembled. Within minutes of charging the battery (about 90 minutes to charge), you can be in the backyard trimming up that shaggy hedge. The Max hedge trimmer will cut hedges and branches up to about 3/4″ thick. Beyond that, go grab your pruning saw for the larger branches.
Regardless, the Max will make quick work of much of the trimming and shaping required when gardening.
Although the lithium batteries for the Max series are a little pricey, they are the top of the line for 20v Lithium batteries and are 5Ah. They are constructed to have no memory, so they are less likely to lose capacity over time. Many find that their batteries will last for several years, and will run steadily for over an hour of heavy work before needing a charge — probably longer than your arms will!
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Though this unit only weighs 7.5lbs without the battery, the additional 3lbs of the battery is not insignificant. If you’re not used to wielding the trimmer, you will almost certainly notice those extra three pounds after a morning of using it. It adds a little weight when compared to corded trimmers, and will tire you out!
Note that the Dewalt DCHT820P1 is compatible with any 20v Dewalt battery, so if you have an older 20v Dewalt, you can use it with this hedge trimmer.
The Bottom Line
The Dewalt Max Hedge Trimmer just gets the job done. There’s no real fuss or complication with this trimmer, and it works well, powerfully, and effectively for a long time. The battery options are welcome, and if you’ve already got tools compatible with the Dewalt batteries, you can pick up this trimmer and have no need for additional batteries.
The Dewalt Max Hedge Trimmer is the best battery-powered hedge trimmer around.
- Powerful high output motor of the cordless hedge trimmer is designed...
- The battery powered hedge trimmer has 22-inch laser cut, hooked-tooth...
- Trimmers for plants have high capacity 5.0Ah Lithium Ion battery
- Compact and lightweight design
- Part of the 20V MAX* system of tools
Last update on 2024-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. BLACK+DECKER BEHT150 Hedge Trimmer
Key Points at a Glance
- Lightweight corded electric hedge trimmer
- Dual-action 17 inch reciprocating blade
- Trims branches up to 5/8 inches
- Built-in trigger control
- Cord retention handle helps prevent accidental unplugging
- Trimmer only, cord sold separately
Dimensions and Specs
- Dimensions: 4.5 inches by 31 inches by 7.3 inches
- Weight: 4.6 lbs.
- Blade Length: 17″
The Details
The Black and Decker BEHT 100 hedge trimmer is the only plug-in electric trimmer on our list. There’s no battery on this one, which translates into a much lower price point, but also the additional hassle of dealing with extension cords, plugs, and tangles.
The recommended 50-foot outdoor cord is sold separately. You want at least a 16-gauge outdoor-rated extension cord for this one. If you have a small yard within easy reach of electrical outlets, a corded hedge trimmer can be an excellent option. They’re relatively powerful, and extremely inexpensive.
For most moderate hedge trimming needs, the BEHT 100 functions very well. For older hedges with extra thick branches, a supplemental pair of loppers or even a pruning or pole saw might be necessary.
It is possible to damage the reciprocating blade by bending it or getting twigs caught in it. If the blade gets something caught in it, stop using it immediately, unplug it, and remove the obstruction. If the hedge is trimmed regularly to the same shape, these problems are not likely to occur.
From some suppliers, it might come with the blade detached, but it is extremely easy to assemble. And additionally, the BEHT 100 needs very little maintenance (see the Buyer’s Tips above for basic maintenance info).
The on/off switch has a safety tab to keep one from accidentally bumping it on, and it has to be held down to operate. However, this safety feature is not likely to be a problem, since the machine is very light and easy to operate.
The Bottom Line
The Black and Decker BEHT Corded Trimmer won’t cut as much as a gas-powered trimmer, but it easily holds its own against much more expensive battery-operated trimmers. And it’s quiet and easy to operate, as well. The BEHT does a similar job to many of the battery-powered trimmers out there, and you don’t have to worry about managing batteries.
The only thing you really need to watch out for with this one is keeping the extension cord pulled well away from your cutting blade, and be sure to not let the trimmer cut the electric cord while you’re working!
For those on a budget with fairly easy access to outdoor electric plugs, the Black and Decker BEHT is an excellent corded hedge trimmer.
- The electric edge trimmer features 17-inch dual-action hardened steel...
- 3.2 amp motor for trimming branches up to 5/8 inch
- Lightweight, compact design of the trimmers for plants is easy to use...
- Cord retention prevents accidental unplugging. Cutting...
- Built-in T-handle and full-length trigger for control while cutting
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Makita XHU02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 22″ Hedge Trimmer, Tool Only
Key Points at a Glance
- Manufacturer’s Motor
- 1,350 SPM delivers increased cutting speed
- Battery capacity indicator light shows when it needs recharging
- Uses 18v battery, sold separately in various formats
- 25% quieter than other cordless units, at 87 dB(A)
- Ergonomic design for ease of use
Dimensions and Specs
- Weight 7.5 pounds with battery
- Dimensions: 9.06 inches, by 40.16 inches by 9.17 inches
- Blade Length: 22 inches
The Details
The Makita XHU02Z is a pleasing turquoise blue hedge trimmer with black trim. The battery is not included and must be acquired separately. There are a few different formats of battery available, though the most common is the 18v 5.0Ah two-pack of batteries. If you already have a Makita LTX 18v battery, it will be compatible with this unit.
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The battery is inserted at the back, helping to counterbalance the blade. The Maktia company prides itself on making brushless, extra sturdy equipment. These are slightly weaker than the Dewalt’s 20v batteries, but the motor is brushless, so the Makita gets a bit more efficiency out of its batteries.
As with many battery-powered hedge trimmers, this model frees the user from dealing with a trailing electrical cord but adds the weight of the battery. Battery operated trimmers deliver less power than gas trimmers and electric trimmers, and (of course) there is that whole business of running out of juice every so often! Typically these batteries will run for about 1 hour on a charge, though of course, there is a great deal of variation here.
The Makita advertises its batteries as fastest-charging in class, with an estimated 45 minute charge time.
The Bottom Line
Makita has a reputation for making excellent lawn and grounds care equipment, and their 22″ hedge trimmer is no exception. However, the combination of the hedge trimmer and battery pack brings the price on this one up to a pretty high level, relative to the quality. The motor is brushless, which is nice, but overall, the Dewalt MAX is a better value, in our opinion.
- 22" dual action double-sided shear blade for precision cutting
- Makita-built motor delivers 2,700 SPM for fast cutting speed
- Up to 1-1/2 hours of run time using an 18V LXT 4.0Ah battery
- Anti-vibration design (five cushions within the housing) for operator...
- Compact and ergonomic design for easy maneuverability
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. EGO Power+ HT2402 Lithium-Ion Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Key Points at a Glance
- Hardened steel reciprocating blade
- Cuts branches up to ¾ inches thick
- Uses 56v EGO Power+ Arc Lithium Batteries
- Batteries and charger sold separately
- Weather resistant – no worries on getting it in in case of a sudden shower. Just don’t leave it out there.
- Quick stop electronic brake for better control
- Covered under a 5-year warranty
Dimensions and Specs
- Blade Length: 24”
- Dimensions: 41.4 inches by 8.9 inches x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 6.2 pounds
- Run Time: About 1 hour (depending on many factors)
The Details
The Ego Power+ Hedge trimmer has a gray body with black accents and a green translucent safety screen. The central guide for the reciprocating blade is a bright yellow. Its flashy style looks a little silly, but it also means that you aren’t going to lose this one visually in the brush!
This battery-powered hedge trimmer sports an extra-long 24″ reciprocating blade and is capable of cutting up to ¾ inch branches. The size and power of this one can make your weekly or monthly hedge cleanup a breeze. It uses sturdy construction, is easy to use, to clean and to store. The motor is not brushless, but is maintenance-free.
The battery (not included, though various options are sold with batteries included) is positioned at the back of the body to counterbalance the extra-long blade. As with all cordless hedge trimmers, with no trailing cord to watch out for, you aren’t limited in the number of feet you can go from your house or nearest plug.
Be sure to get batteries that are compatible with your unit, as listed above. You can get three levels of battery, depending on your power needs. For greatest efficiency and longest length of use, use the biggest battery. Just keep in mind that the larger the battery, the heavier the unit will be.
If you only have a small area or bush to trim, and you’re not using it constantly, you can probably get away with the lower capacity batteries — especially if you pick up a couple of batteries so you can swap one out while the other is charging.
The batteries last for about an hour of pretty heavy use, though much goes into these estimates, and the numbers can vary quite a bit.
Like most hedge trimmers, it might be sold with either the blade attached or detached, but this is the maximum assembly that will be needed.
The Bottom Line
The Ego Power+ Hedge Trimmer is a sizable, powerful battery operated hedge-trimmer that is capable of cutting branches a little larger than some of the other units on our list. It includes a 5-year warranty, which is always a welcome sight!
This hedge trimmer is of excellent quality, and will almost certainly handle most of your hedge trimming tasks with ease. It is highly-rated, and popular among buyers. It is a little bit expensive when batteries are added in, which is why it isn’t in one of our top spots.
- 24 in. dual-action, hardened steel reciprocating blades
- 3/4 in. cut capacity
- Compatible with all EGO POWER plus Arc Lithium Batteries
- Weather-resistant construction
- Electronic brake stops blade action quickly for improved control
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. BLACK+DECKER LHT341FF 40V MAX Lithium POWERCOMMAND Powercut Hedge Trimmer
Key Points at a Glance
- Includes 40V Lithium-Ion Battery for extra power and runtime
- Features a large 24″ cutting surface
- ¾ inch branch cutting capacity
- Ergonomic grips
- Low vibration
- Covered under a 2-year warranty
Dimensions and Specs
- Dimensions: 38.86 inches by 7.6 inches by 3.03 inches
- Weighs 9.65 pounds with battery
- Blade Length: 24″
- Battery included is 1.5Ah, 40v, and the charger is 40v out at 1.35A
The Details
The Black and Decker 40v Max has the distinctive orange and black coloring used for all Black and Decker products. The extra-large battery, which does come with the unit(!) along with the charger, enables longer cutting and greater power than the 20v units. The Max can cut branches up to about 3/4″ in thickness, which is right in the range of the other high-quality hedge trimmers on our list.
We also like that if you want to pick up a spare battery for this one, it is quite a bit less expensive than the batteries from most of the other trimmers on our list.
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The LHT341FF is a brushed motor, though it is designed to be low-maintenance. The system is only compatible with 40v Max batteries, and will not work with the 20v Black and Decker batteries. Generally, the battery should last over 1 hour, but it’s very hard to estimate this, as many factors go into battery power length.
The Powercut feature allows you to free up a jam or cut through a tough area with the push of a button.
The extra power does come with a price, however. The larger battery is heavier than most 20v units, which means that you are likely to get tired sooner. If you spend a lot of time doing yard work, the extra weight could be a consideration.
Easy to clean for storage, the Black and Decker POWERCOMMAND unit is promising for those for whom the added weight is of less consideration than the added run time and power. It is all about selecting a unit that suits your size, build, and your hedge.
The Bottom Line
The Black and Decker 40v MAX hedge trimmer is positioned at an aggressive price point — a little more than half the cost of most of the other hedge trimmers when the cost of the battery is added in. This hedge trimmer works quite well, and the Powercut feature is a help when you need that extra oomph.
It is our runner-up choice among battery-operated hedge trimmers.
- VERSATILE CORDLESS DESIGN – Rechargeable 40V MAX* lithium ion...
- 24 IN. DUAL-ACTION BLADE – Delivers less vibration than...
- POWER-CUT – Cut through a jam with the push of a button.
- EXTENDED RUNTIME – Trim up to 6,000 sq. ft. of hedge per charge.
- ERGONOMIC GRIP HANDLE – Maintain comfort and control from start to...
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
It is that whole battery issue that places the Dewalt at the top of the list. The excellent quality of the 20v Dewalt Batteries, which are work quite well, and reliably for years, make the Dewalt MAX our top choice.
The fantastic price point for the Black and Decker LHT341FF, and its high degree of functionality, making this one a standout.
Finally, we suggest good, old reliable Black and Decker BEHT150 corded trimmer as our budget choice. Yes, you do have to trail a cord after it, but it costs less than a third of even the least expensive battery-operated trimmer.
Any of these trimmers are likely to give good service and help you get your ornamentals trimmed into their best shape.
Last update on 2024-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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