We researched dozens of hedge trimmers from leading brands, evaluating battery life, effectiveness, and ease of use. Our top pick, the DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Hedge Trimmer, stands out for its high-output motor, pre-hardened blades, and lightweight design. Here are the best cordless hedge trimmers. The DEWALT Cordless Hedge Trimmer has a strong motor and low-maintenance blade, as well as a lightweight and durable design that’s easy to maneuver, making it our first choice recommendation. This hedge trimmer’s blade measures 22 inches long, is capable of cutting branches up to 0.75 inches thick, and has an impressive cutting speed of 2,800 strokes per minute. Plus, the blade has hooked-teeth and is pre-hardened, so it doesn’t dull as quickly or require as frequent maintenance as other models. It doesn’t come with a guard or sheath for the blade, which is a shortcoming in terms of safety and storage. This model relies on a 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery, and you have the option of purchasing the it with or without the battery and charger. Its straightforward assembly, 7.5-pound weight, and anti-vibration technology all work together to make it easy to use. Price at time of publish: $148 This hedge trimmer runs on a 20-volt battery, and its power-cut feature provides a boost of power to cut through thick areas and jams. It’s able to cut up to 3,000 square feet in a single charge and vibrates less during operation to reduce arm fatigue. Price at time of publish: $119 The WORX Hedge Trimmer runs on a 2.0Ah battery, and it has a built-in safety guard that will keep debris off of you during use. The tool features a soft rear handle that reduces vibration, as well as a front D-grip that allows you to cut hedges from any angle, and it’s a budget-friendly choice, even with the battery and charger included. Price at time of publish: $119 This hedge trimmer has an anti-vibration design with several cushions in the motor housing, and it’s quieter than most trimmers, operating at just 87 decibels. The tool features quick-change blades, a battery capacity warning system, and electric brake, and its battery charges up in less than an hour, allowing you to get back to work faster. Price at time of publish: $245 The RYOBI Hedge Trimmer delivers cutting speeds of 3,200 strokes per minute, and it features a wrap-around front handle for superior control. It also features the brand’s “Hedge Sweep” design, which clears debris and clippings while you’re working. Price at time of publish: $279 The shrub blade on this tool can cut through branches up to 5/16 inch in diameter, and it has a convenient blade-swap system that doesn’t require any additional tools. The trimmer weighs just 5 pounds, and it’s compact enough that it won’t take up too much space in your workshop or garden shed. Price at time of publish: $90 The trimmer has a high-efficiency brushless motor that extends its runtime per charge, and it features an electric brake that stops the blade action quickly. The blades themselves are fully serviceable, making it easier to sharpen them, and despite packing a powerful punch, the tool weighs just 6 pounds. Price at time of publish: $220 This tool runs on a professional-grade lithium-ion battery that delivers up to 70 minutes of runtime per charge, and its brushless motor provides more torque for tough applications. It has a push button start that makes it easy to operate, but it is on the heavier side, weighing just over 9 pounds. This extendable trimmer has a pivoting head that lets you trim at multiple angles, and it comes with a shoulder strap for safe operation. It has a variable speed trigger for superior control, but keep in mind that the battery and charger aren’t included, so you’ll have to purchase them separately. Price at time of publish: $179
Extension
If you need to reach tall bushes or hedges, spend a little bit more and get a hedge trimmer with a telescoping pole to extend your reach. However, be aware that it’s not safe to operate these devices without steady balance.
Battery Life
Batteries have greatly improved in recent years, and electric hedge trimmers now have batteries up to 80 volts and can provide up to two hours of operation on a single charge. For optimal battery life, look for lithium-ion batteries and consider getting an extra battery pack to help you make it through bigger jobs.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer who has contributed to The Spruce since 2017. She’s done firsthand testing of battery-powered tools, and she herself owns a number of RYOBI products that she uses for lawn maintenance and projects around her home.
