The average homeowner grooms their hedges, bushes, and lawns multiple times during spring, summer, and autumn. If you need to trim the hedges in your yard every couple of weeks, the best cordless hedge trimmer can make your life much easier.
If you want to groom and trim the shrubbery in your garden neatly and quickly, a cordless hedge trimmer is a must-have. The battery hedge trimmer is a highly portable tool since it doesn’t require a power outlet to work, so you can use it anywhere outdoors.
This garden tool comes in all shapes and sizes and there are countless options on the market. Don’t have the time to research them all? One of these top ten picks is sure to be a great cordless hedge trimmer for your specific needs.
Our Top Pick: [amazon link=”B00TF02T3M” title=”DEWALT DCHT860M1 40V MAX Hedge Trimmer” /]
Features
- 3/4″cutting capacity
- 3100 strokes per minute
- 22″ laser cut, dual-action blades
- Battery: 40V Li-Ion battery
- Wrap around auxiliary handle
Contents
Cordless Hedge Trimmer Reviews
1. Greenworks 40V G-MAX 22332 Battery Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00D3KJM30″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Greenworks 40V G-MAX 22332 Hedge Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 2/3″
- Strokes per minute: 3000
- Blade length: 24″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 40V Max
The GreenWorks is a highly efficient dual-action hedge trimmer that comes at an attractive price point. To ensure maximum efficiency, it uses a durable 24″ blade that cuts both ways. With the Greenworks 40V G-Max by your side, you will spend less time trimming your bushes and hedges.
When fully charged, its 40V G-Max battery offers 60 minutes of runtime. If you have an average-sized yard, this should allow you to get everything done in one go.
The rotating rear handle makes the job much easier. It comes in really handy when you need to use the tool at tricky angles. You won’t be limited to horizontal and vertical sweeps only. Since you can maneuver the tool however you like, it is great for shaping hedges in complex patterns.
Weighing in at around 8 lbs, it may not be the lightest model out there, but it comes with a comfortable wraparound auxiliary handle that will allow you to work with the tool comfortably for longer periods at a time.
Pros
- Attractive price point
- Easy to maneuver
- Long runtime
- Dual-action
- Rotating rear handle
Cons
- Battery and charger are pricey
[amazon fields=”B00D3KJM30″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
2. EGO Power+ Cordless Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00JT18MEM” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”EGO Power+ Hedge Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 6.24 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 3/4″
- Strokes per minute: 3000
- Blade length: 24″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 56V Max
This hedge trimmer is true to its name—it is one of the most powerful models out there. It smoothly cuts through twigs and branches. Operating at 3000 SPM, you can count on it for fast and efficient trimming.
The Ego Power+ can offer up to 60 minutes of runtime on a 56V Li-Ion battery. This should be more than enough for most residential needs. The handguard is a very nice touch. It comes in handy when you are working with thorny blackberries or wild rose.
The 2.0 Ah battery that comes with the trimmer is compatible with all Ego Power+ tools, so it’s a good choice if you want to start an outdoor power equipment collection on the same platform.
Its 3/4″ cutting capacity will allow you to easily deal with most kinds of hedges. Moreover, the 24” blades make it easy to get a nice edge on boxwoods, junipers, and hollies.
Pros
- IPx4-rated for weather resistance
- 3-year battery warranty
- 5-year warranty on the tool
- Electronic brake
- Powerful
Cons
- Pricey
[amazon fields=”B00JT18MEM” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
3. DEWALT DCHT860M1 40V MAX Heavy Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00TF02T3M” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”DEWALT DCHT860M1 40V MAX” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 11.9 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 3/4″
- Strokes per minute: 3100
- Blade length: 22″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 40V Max
Thanks to its dual cutting mechanism, this dual-action trimmer can finish the job twice as fast. Its 22″ laser-cut blades ensure a fine finish no matter how tough your hedges are.
It comes with 3/4″ cutting capacity so you will be able to cut medium-sized shrubs. The kit includes a 40V Li-Ion battery that offers 70 minutes of runtime.
It also has a nice fuel gauge, so you will never be caught off guard when the battery runs out of juice. The tool is a bit on the heavy side, but it comes with a nice wraparound handle that offers a non-slip grip, so it is comfortable to handle.
Pros
- Comfortable wraparound handle
- Powerful
- Great runtime
- Fuel gauge
- Quiet
Cons
- Heavy
[amazon fields=”B00TF02T3M” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
4. Makita XHU02M1 18V LXT Lightweight Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B06XH3FF4N” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Makita XHU02M1 18V LXT Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 7.4 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 1/4″
- Strokes per minute: 2700
- Blade length: 22″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 18V Max
If you are looking to get some light-duty garden work done, the Makita XHU02M1 18V LXT Trimmer is a solid choice. It’s far from the most powerful cordless trimmer, but it is incredibly easy to maneuver and it sports a one-of-a-kind anti-vibration design that makes it very user-friendly.
This tool is all about comfort. Since it weighs just 6.5 pounds and offers a comfortable grip, you will be able to use it for hours on end without getting tired. It is also 25% quieter than the average electric trimmer, so you won’t have to worry about waking up the neighborhood.
As it has a maximum cutting capacity of just 1/4″, it’s best suiter for smaller bushes and hedges. As far as extra features go, the tool comes with a useful low-battery warning system and an electric brake.
Pros
- Built-in battery cooling fan
- Anti-vibration design
- Electric brake
- Low battery indicator
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Safety mechanism takes some getting used to
[amazon fields=”B06XH3FF4N” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
[amazon fields=”B010RV3MT2″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”WORX WG255 20V PowerShare Cordless Electric Hedge Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 6 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 9/16″
- Strokes per minute: 2200
- Blade length: 20″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 20V Max
If you need a trimmer that is compact, lightweight, and nimble, the WORX WG255 20V PowerShare may just be the tool for you.
Weighing in at 6 lbs and boasting an ergonomic design, the WORX WG255 20V PowerShare is very easy to handle. The tool allows you to easily trim hedges from all sides, thanks to its comfortable D-grip front handle.
To deliver swift and clean cuts, the WORX WG255 20V PowerShare uses highly efficient 20″ dual-action blades. It operates at 2200 strokes per minute, which should satisfy the needs of the average homeowner.
Worx’s 20V Li-Ion batteries are compatible with all of their PowerShare tools and they come at a very attractive price point. So, the Worx WG255 20V PowerShare is a cost-efficient solution if you want to have a collection of tools on the same platform.
Pros
- Attractive price point
- Easy to handle
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty work
[amazon fields=”B010RV3MT2″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
6. BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 40V MAX Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00602J4MM” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 40V MAX” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 6.9 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 3/4″
- Strokes per minute: 2400
- Blade length: 24″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 40V Max
The BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 can get the job done in no time thanks to its super-efficient dual-action mechanism. The trimmer boasts sharp 24” long blades with a 3/4″cut capacity, so it can cut overgrown branches with ease.
The trimmer can deliver powerful and swift cuts, thanks to Black & Decker’s Power Drive transmission mechanism. You will be able to handle all kinds of bushes and hedges.
Its 40V Li-Ion battery offers more than enough juice. It can trim up to 6,000 sq. ft. of hedges on one charge.
The tool also comes with a fast charger that can recharge the battery in just 60 minutes. And, considering that you’re getting the whole kit, the tool comes at a very attractive price point.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Soft rubber grips
- Fast one-hour charger
- Includes 40V Li-Ion Battery
- Great runtime
Cons
- Not for fine finishes
[amazon fields=”B00602J4MM” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
7. GreenWorks 22242 Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00LK2MF82″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”GreenWorks 22242 Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 10.6 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 5/8″
- Strokes per minute: 3000
- Blade length: 20″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 24V Max
If you are not very fond of using ladders, this cordless extended hedge trimmer from Greenworks may be just what you need. Some help on the vertical side of things will certainly come much appreciated if you are in the habit of detailing your growing garden often. On the horizontal side, you will probably be using lawn edgers or string trimmers.
The tool sports a durable steel dual-action blade that can handle tall hedges more than well. The GreenWorks 22242 trimmer is surprisingly easy to maneuver, considering its extended capabilities.
You can move the telescoping shaft in 3 positions. The pivoting and adjustable head allows for great versatility. Even the strangest angles are no match for the GreenWorks 22242.
It can polish up and nicely finish hard-to-reach shrubs with ease. The unit is powered by a 24V battery that can offer up to 30 minutes of runtime. Admittedly, it may not be enough to cut every twig in your garden in one go, but it should be just enough to trim those hard to reach areas.
Pros
- Telescoping shaft
- Dual-action steel blade
- Easy to maneuver
- Great for fine finishes
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- Short runtime
[amazon fields=”B00LK2MF82″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
8. Greenworks GHT80321 PRO 80V Powerful Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B01CA4Q2DW” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Greenworks GHT80321 PRO 80V” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 3/4″
- Strokes per minute: 3600
- Blade length: 26″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 80V
The Greenworks Pro 80V is the bigger, more powerful cousin of the G-MAX 22332. It performs just as well as a gas-powered model. In terms of power, hardly any other cordless hedge trimmer can compare with it.
It comes with a rotating handle that makes the tool very easy to maneuver. The tool can get into those tight spots without any issue. The 26″ dual action blade will get the job done in no time, no matter how tough shrubs you are dealing with.
When powered by a 2.0 Ah battery, it can offer up to 60 minutes of runtime. This is comparable to a 25cc engine. The hedge trimmer is rated at 3,600 SPM, so it is a great tool for fine finishes. The sculpting performance of this tool is exceptional.
Pros
- Powerful
- 60 minutes of runtime
- Great for fine finishes
- 180° rotating rear handle
- Laser cut
Cons
- Heavy
[amazon fields=”B01CA4Q2DW” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
9. DEWALT DCHT895B 40V MAX Professional Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B01N7UDS7I” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”DEWALT DCHT895B 40V MAX” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 13.5 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 1″
- Strokes per minute: 3700
- Blade length: 22″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 40V
The DeWalt DCHT895B 40V MAX is another great option for tall and hard-to-reach hedges. But, it is also a great choice for most heavy-duty tasks. This model is as versatile as they get.
Boasting a cutting capacity of 1″ and capable of delivering 3700 SPM, no branch or twig is a match for the DeWalt 40V MAX. Its articulating head offers 8 locking positions.
It is a great trimmer for precision-oriented trims. The DeWalt DCHT895B 40V MAX has everything you need for a professional finish.
Its weight is its only considerable drawback. However, the tool comes with shoulder straps to help you bear the load. If you want to make fast work of overgrown hedges, this may be the best hedge trimmer for you.
Pros
- Powerful
- Telescoping shaft
- 1″ cutting capacity
- Great for fine finishes
- Great for heavy-duty work
Cons
- Heavy
[amazon fields=”B01N7UDS7I” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
10. Ryobi RY40610A Hedge Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00KO4U33Q” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Ryobi RY40610A Hedge Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Weight: 9.1 lbs
- Cutting capacity: 3/4″
- Strokes per minute: 3200
- Blade length: 24″
- Battery: Li-Ion, 40V
No list of top-performing cordless gardening tools would be complete without at least one Ryobi unit. It is one of the most popular brands of DIY enthusiasts. Ryobi offers affordable and reliable tools, and the Ryobi RY40610A hedge trimmer is no exception.
The dual-action blades keep vibrations to a minimum, helping reduce muscle fatigue. Delivering 3200 SPM and sporting a 24” dual-action blade, it has everything you need to make quick work of your garden.
The kit includes a 40V Li-Ion battery and a charger. For added comfort, the tool features a large padded grip. To protect you from flying off-cuts, the hedge trimmer is fitted with an efficient debris shield.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Battery compatible with other Ryobi tools
- Dual-action blade
- 3200 SPM
- Large padded grip
Cons
- Battery takes long to charge
[amazon fields=”B00KO4U33Q” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Best Hedge Trimmer Buying Guide
What makes one tool better than the other? It all comes down to the features it boasts and the distinct characteristics of each feature.
But, let’s not forget that your specific needs are also a major factor. To make sure you will end with the greatest cordless hedge trimmer for your yard, here is what you need to pay attention to:
Best Battery
Li-Ion batteries have become the industry standard, so most cordless hedge trimmers use this type of battery. It is still possible to buy Ni-Cad batteries and models that use them, but it’s better not to as they are pretty much on their way out.
Li-Ion batteries can hold a charge better and longer. They also offer more stored power per ounce. But, Li-Ion batteries have a limited lifespan, so you will need to replace them after a few years. If you want them to last longer, make sure to store them indoors.
The most important things to consider are the runtime and the charge time. The more ampere-hours the battery has, the longer the runtime. However, it is important to note that the runtime specifications are variable as heavy-duty tasks will drain the battery faster than light-duty work.
It can take anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours to charge a Li-Ion battery, depending on the battery model and the charger. If you need more runtime but don’t want to wait for it to charge, you can always get an extra battery.
Li-Ion batteries are expensive, but the good news is that most hedge trimmer manufacturers design their batteries to be compatible with the other cordless power equipment they offer.
In other words: brand loyalty can pay off. You can save a lot of money down the line if you stick to cordless tools that are on the same platform.
Voltage
The higher the voltage, the more powerful the tool. But, batteries with a higher voltage are heavier, so there’s that tradeoff to consider.
The voltage is one of the factors that determine the actual force the hedge trimmer delivers with each cut. When buying batteries for your cordless hedge trimmer, you need to make sure their voltage matches the tool’s requirements. Be sure to check the owner’s manual.
Strokes Per Minute
Strokes per minute (SPM) specify the speed at which the blade moves. So, essentially, they represent the cutting speed.
Cordless hedge trimmers with a higher SPM are more efficient. But, even though the SPM rating can tell us a lot about the power of a tool’s motor, the length and the sharpness of the blades also impact the overall cutting power.
The SPM rating varies greatly from trimmer to trimmer. It can be anywhere between 1,300 and 5,000 SPM. Naturally, you want to get a tool with more SPM if the bushes or hedges in your yard are very large.
But, not all units with a lower SPM are underpowered. Some hedge trimmers are designed to deliver fewer SPMs so that the SPM rating will match the tooth spacing of the blades. These types of hedge trimmers are designed for coarser finishes.
If the teeth on the blades are close together and the hedge trimmer has a higher SPM rating, the blades will deliver a finer finish.
Blades
A trimmer can have blades on both sides of the cutting bar or just on one side. Double-sided trimmers are much more versatile.
Trimmers can also be single or dual action. A single-action trimmer has one blade on one side of the cutting bar while a double-action trimmer has two and they cut in the opposite directions.
When you have twice the number of blades working, you will get the job done much faster. You are less likely to encounter snags when using a dual-action trimmer.
Dual-action trimmers are great for hedges and shrubbery that have an overall uniform shape. But, when it comes to precision cutting and shaping, it may be best to use a single-action trimmer.
Hedge trimmers with short blades are usually lightweight and easier to maneuver. They are great for shaping hedges and bushes in intricate patterns as they are easy to manipulate. But, they are not the best solution for tall bushes and hedges. If you overreach with your hedge trimmer, it can spell disaster.
A hedge trimmer with a longer blade can get the job done faster, but such hedge trimmers are better suited for experienced users. The blade length is between 22″ and 26″.
Read also our comparison of Curved vs Straight String Trimmers.
Cut Capacity
The cut capacity of a hedge trimmer determines the maximum branch and twig diameter you can cut. The cut capacity of the average cordless hedge trimmer is 3/4″ but some higher-end models have a cut capacity of 1″. The cut capacity essentially corresponds to the distance between teeth.
Hedge trimmers with 3/4″ capacity are generally great for an annual trim of twiggy hedges. They can handle small to mid-sized twigs more than well.
A trimmer that has a wider spacing between teeth is a better choice for tough branches, such as laurel and holly, as well as overgrown hedges. Such trimmers can cut through larger, tougher twigs more efficiently as they are usually more powerful.
Trimmer Weight
Trimmers with double-sided blades are heavier than models with one-sided blades. Likewise, models with longer blades are heavier than those with shorter blades.
Of course, there are more factors that contribute to the weight of the hedge trimmer, such as blade material, size of the motor, battery capacity, etc. Before you settle for a particular model, you must be sure you will be comfortable with its weight.
Maintenance of Trimmer
You will have to take good care of your hedge trimmer if you want it to work properly for years to come. Here’s what you need to do ensure your tool will have a long lifespan:
- Keep the blade away from hard objects as they can easily damage it.
- Clean the tool after each use. Do not clean the trimmer with water, detergents, or solvents. If you do so, you may damage the operating mechanics.
- After every use, make sure to lubricate the blades. This will keep rust at bay.
- Store the tool in a cool, dry place.
- Store the battery indoors, at room temperature, so that it will last longer.
Cordless Trimmer Takeaway
There is really no “one size fits all” cordless hedge trimmer, but the [amazon link=”B00TF02T3M” title=”DEWALT DCHT860M1 40V MAX Hedge Trimmer” /] comes pretty close. It is a robust and reliable tool that operates with a laser-cut precision.
No matter how stubborn the hedge in your garden is, they won’t be a match for its extra sharp 22” laser-cut, dual-action blades. And, on top of all of its qualities, the hedge trimmer comes with a full year of free service.
