The days when hedge trimming was done manually using shears are long gone. Plus with the mess and pollution caused by gas hedge trimmers, electric hedge trimmers are the way to go for anyone who wants to keep their hedges neat.
This piece reviews the best electric hedge trimmer options and includes a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed purchase decision.
Top Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer Reviews
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Black & Decker HH2455
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A 24-inch electric hedge trimmer, the Black & Decker HH2455 is equipped with a rotating handle and works well at sculpting or trimming vertical cuts. This trimmer cuts branches easier and faster with minimal vibration.
The tool has rust-resistant dual-action steel blades which work well on branches that are up to ¾ inch thick. These pre-hardened blades are designed to remain sharp for long-term trimming.
This Black+Decker has a full-sized three-sided soft-grip handle with a big gripping area crafted for comfort and better control over cutting and trimming. The trimmer’s swivel handle enables you to turn the handle and blade up to 90 degrees to the left or right, thus making the transition from the top to the side of a hedge easier.
HH2455 comes with a powerful inline motor that offers excellent balance and superior cutting. The power cord retention with pigtail reduces the chances of the trimmer getting unplugged. Other safety features are a lock-off switch for preventing accidental switching and a lock-on switch for continuous running.
What We Like
- Trims hedges vertically and horizontally with ease
- Handles thicker branches
- Works well on overgrown and unruly hedges
- Comes fully assembled and ready to use
- Great comfort and safety features
What We Don’t Like
- Shorter cord requires extension cord
- Slow compared to battery-powered or gas models
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Toro Electric 51490
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The Toro 51490 4 Amp electric corded hedge trimmer has been designed for power and faster trimming. The trimmer has a 22 inches bar with robust steel blades that offer longevity and a stretched out reach to help you get trimming done with ease.
The 51490’s dual-action cutting system plays a significant role in reducing vibration while its powerful 4 amp motor is capable of cutting 9/16 inch thick branches. The tool has a durable and ergonomic handle with a soft grip to reduce fatigue and offer more comfort.
Convenience/Safety features of this Toro include continuous power that enables you to have an easy and smooth trim, and a cord-lock feature that thwarts accidental unplugging. A debris shield is positioned behind the blade to protect you from sharp thorns and hovering cuttings.
What We Like
- Delivers a smooth, quiet operation
- Works well on small to medium lawns
- Easily maneuvers through a hedge
- Suitable for light shaping or maintenance chores such as small hedges, trimming small tree branches and trimming vines
- Affordable
What We Don’t Like
- A relatively small engine
- Smaller cutting diameter
- Extension cord may limit you
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Earthwise CVPH41018
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An 18-inch pole hedge trimmer, Earthwise CVPH41018 is powered by a 6.5 amp motor. This quality multi-purpose trimmer works well at cutting large bushes and hedges. An extending work handle eases trimming and does away with the need for ladders.
Being a convertible 2-in-1 handheld hedge trimmer, the Earthwise can easily be converted with a one-button-click into a pole trimmer. This means that you can cut taller hedges and branches that are hard to reach without having to step on a ladder. This CVPH41018 also comes with six cutting positions and a rotating head, which implies that you can cut trees and hedges from different angles.
What We Like
- Portable
- Great design
- Ergonomic
- Handy
- Easy to switch from hand trimmer to pole attachment
- Suitable for trimming tall hedges of up to 6 feet
- Can cut small bushes efficiently
What We Don’t Like
- The extended trimmer is heavier and not ideal for long jobs
- The pole is relatively short
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Sun Joe HJ22HTE
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Sun Joe HJ22HTE has been designed for superior performance and comfort. Sun Joe weighs five pounds; a feature that dramatically reduces user fatigue. Combined with a sleek design, this hedge trimmer is easy to handle and maneuver.
The HJ22HTE’s superior performance is to a big extent attributed by the 3.5-amp motor. The 22-inch dual-action blade delivers a cutting capacity of as much as 0.63 inches. The blade is made of steel and gives an excellent protection from rust and offers great precision in handling complex tasks. At 97 dB, the noise generated by this trimmer is within the comfort zone.
A wrap-around front handle is meant to give an array of possibilities in holding the tool, meaning that you can use the trimmer with ease at any angle. Sun Joe HJ22HTE has a soft grip to make it gentle on your hands and a safety guard that protects fingers from the blade.
Another safety feature is a dual-hand safety switch that prevents accidental starts. Sun Joe HJ22HTE is ETL approved and has a 2-year limited warranty.
What We Like
- Well balanced and easy to maneuver
- Lightweight design of 5 pounds
- Requires a lesser storage space
- 2-year limited warranty
- Quiet operation
What We Don’t Like
- The cord length can be limiting
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GreenWorks 22102
The GreenWorks 22102 is a convenient 7.26 pounds hedge trimmer that runs on a 2.7-Amp motor. The lightweight feature makes it ideal for extended use with lesser fatigue, while the powerful motor ensures that the job is done efficiently.
The motor drives a dual-action 18-inch blade that supports 3/8 inch cutting capacity. This trimmer thus makes a wonderful choice for cutting shrubs and bushes. Being a corded tool, GreenWorks made a consideration to prevent the cord from unplugging accidentally, which has been achieved through a cord lock system.
The trimmer’s blade is made of carbon steel for more durability. It is resistant to rust and retains its sharpness for longer. A trigger switch is integrated on the handle to make power regulation easy. One safety feature is a lock-off feature on the switch that prevents accidental starts.
The GreenWorks 22102’s handles have been designed to offer a soft, non-slip ergonomic grip. This implies that you do not have to worry about your hands becoming sore. 22102 is sold with a 4-year limited warranty.
What We Like
- 7.26 pound lightweight design
- Quiet operation with minimal disturbance
- Generates more torque than average trimmers
- Consumes less energy than average trimmers
- Relatively affordable
- Comes with a 4-year limited warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Short blade
- Blade not ideal for trimming high areas
- The cord length can be limiting
Black & Decker HT20
Black & Decker HT20 lessens user fatigue and keeps the user motivated to work longer, thanks to its lightweight design of 5.4 pounds and a 40% less vibration.
The trimmer operates with a powerful 3.8-Amp motor that enables tackling most hedge trimming tasks. HT20 uses a 20-inch dual-action blade with 3400 strokes per minute, hence enabling faster cutting. The blade can cut up to ¾ inch.
The HT20 blade’s material is pre-hardened rust-resistant steel with the capacity to retain sharpness for long. The trimmer’s control and comfort are made possible by a wrap-around non-slip handle. This ergonomic handle gives multi-position grips that allow trimming at any angle.
Safety features of Black & Decker include a lock-off switch that prevents accidental starts and a cord retention system responsible for keeping the cord plugged. This equipment is sold with a 2-year limited warranty.
What We Like
- Compact size
- Easy to store
- Lightweight construction that enables convenient operation
- Cuts fast at 3,400 strokes per minute
- Less vibration
- Comes with pre-hardened steel that retains sharpness for long
What We Don’t Like
- The corded design might limit mobility
Top Cordless Electric Hedge Trimmer Reviews
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Black & Decker LHT2220
A battery-powered hedge trimmer, the Black & Decker LHT2220 is one of the most lightweight cordless hedge trimmers in its league as it only weighs 5.7 pounds. This translates into a balanced tool with minimal fatigue.
The hedge trimmer is powered by a 20-Volt lithium-ion battery that packs more power for longer, a feature that makes it a good match for many trimming jobs. A single charge of the battery allows you to trim as much as 3,000 square feet of hedges.
This Black+Decker achieves its cutting action through a 22-inches long dual-action blade. Compared to single-action blades, this tool offers the convenience of generating 40% less vibration for greater user comfort.
The LHT2220 has been designed to generate 2,400 strokes per minute, which gives it a maximum cutting capacity of ¾ inch. Comfort is enhanced by a wrap-around handle that gives the user complete control both on vertical and horizontal trimming positions.
The Black & Decker LHT2220 is backed by a limited 2-year warranty.
What We Like
- Quiet
- Powerful operation
- Convenient and lightweight 20-volt interchangeable battery
- Portable make of 5.7 pounds
- Counteracting blades that produce less vibration
- 2-year limited warranty
- Affordable
What We Don’t Like
- Takes about four hours for the battery to charge fully
- Blade extends beyond static part
- Not easily used with one hand
Makita XHU02M1
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The Makita 18V XHU02M1 comes with a 22-inch blade and an innovative battery capacity warning system. A light goes on and the motor stops to indicate that the battery requires recharging.
Makita XHU02M1’S 18v Lithium-Ion battery has one of the fastest charge times. It spends more time trimming and less time charging. For increased cutting speed, the XHU02M1 delivers approximately 1,350 SPM
This lightweight hedge trimmer weighs 7.4 pounds, which lessens operator fatigue. Having a lower noise level of 87dB(A), Makita XHU02M1 is 25% quieter compared to many other cordless trimmers.
The XHU02M1 has a two-handed operation, which means that its motor only becomes active when the switch and top handle are both engaged. This safety feature means that there would be no danger of injury if one hand slips out of the grip as the machine would shut down instantly.
Another safety feature is a plastic sheath that protects the blades when not being used.
What we like
- Approximately 2 hours of use when on the lowest setting
- Five cushions inside the motor housing that minimizes vibration
- High cutting speed of 1,350 SPM
What We Don’t Like
- Does not handle thick branches efficiently
- Relatively expensive
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DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer
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The [amazon link=”B01BSURQ3O” title=”DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer” /] comes with 22-inch dual-action blades that get double the work done. The laser-cut blade offers a fine finish regardless of the hedge orientation and is capable of cutting most small and medium-sized hedges with a diameter of up to ¾ inch.
This Dewalt is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery with a 70 minutes runtime on a full charge, which is usually more time than people spend on cutting hedges. However, you can buy a supplementary battery to keep going even after power runs out.
This hedge trimmer weighs 11.9lbs with its battery on, and may start feeling heavy after using longer. Other eye-catching features are a charge indicator that notifies you of the remaining battery charge and a comfortable non-slip wraparound handle. Dewalt offers a 3-year limited warranty on this model, with a one year of free service.
What We Like
- 70 minute runtime on a single charge
- Charge indicator included
- Comfortable wraparound handle
- Quiet operation
What We Do Not Like
- Quite heavy
- Higher chances of fatigue
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EGO Power HT2400
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The EGO Power HT2400 is a powerful hedge trimmer that uses a 56V lithium-ion battery to cut with its 24-inch blade. The trimmer cuts through any type of bush or twig of up to ¾ inch in diameter at 3000 strokes per minute.
The EGO Power battery lasts up to one hour when on a full charge. The tool is compatible with all EGO Power + ARC lithium batteries, implying that if you already have one of these or come across in a store, you can still use it on the trimmer.
This EGO Power is a lightweight make that weighs 6.24 lbs. This, combined with the tool’s minimal vibration, reduces the chances of fatigue.
They give a 5-year limited warranty on the trimmer and a 3-year warranty on the battery. The two are among the most extended warranties among competing hedge trimmer models currently.
The HT2400 is weather resistant and comes with an electronic brake that stops the blade immediately to prevent accidents.
What We Like
- Portable
- Minimal vibrations
- Electronic brake to brake the blades instantly
- Durable
- Weather-resistant
- Works with all EGO Power ARC Lithium Batteries
What We Don’t Like
- Only lasts one hour on a charge
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Worx WG255
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A small, compact and lightweight hedge trimmer, the Worx WG255 can be used on lengthy stretches of time without putting it down. This 5.3 lbs. trimmer uses 20-inch dual blades to offer swift and cut cleans at as high as 2200 strokes per minute.
The WG255 comes with 20V lithium-ion battery that despite the low voltage, gets hedges on a standard-sized yard done with one charge. Better, you can swap the trimmer’s battery with any other 20-volts Worx battery. Worx makes batteries that are compatible with its range of like-powered tools and gives a 3-year warranty on battery and a 30-day return guarantee on the trimmer
This Worx has been designed with a full D-grip front handle that makes trimming hedges from all sides easy and comfortable.
What We Like
- Super lightweight
- Small
- Compact design with easy storage
- Ergonomic handle
- Highly compatible battery
What We Don’t Like
- Cannot trim large yards without recharging, handling ¼ acre per charge
- A short blade that’s not ideal for cutting tall hedges
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How to Pick a Trimmer for Hedges
Electric hedge trimmers are mainly classified into two: Corded and Cordless/battery powered. Below are the pros and cons to consider before choosing a cordless or corded hedge trimmer.
Picking a Corded Trimmer
The corded trimmer is suitable for smaller and medium-sized lawns. It works best if the hedges are close to a source of power.
Pros
- Lightweight as it does not require fuel or batteries
- Ideal for medium to small lawns
- Less noise
- Offers a continuous, uninterrupted operation so long as the cord is connected to a source of power.
- No emissions
- Relatively powerful
Cons
- Requires an extension cord and access to a power outlet
- Has a limited reach
- When trimming, you have to keep your eye on the cord
Going With a Cordless Trimmer
The cord free trimmer is powered by a battery, and can be used in remote places without power outlets.
Pros
- Suitable for lighter tasks and smaller lawns
- Can be used in remote areas with no source of power
- No cord limitations
- Relatively portable
Cons
- Requires constant battery recharging or replacement
- Not as powerful as corded hedge trimmers
- May not be suitable for tougher, larger jobs
Electric hedge trimmers are designed for different cutting tasks. Before setting out to purchase a hedge trimmer, ask yourself the following questions.
- Is your property residential or commercial?
- What type of job do you intend to use your trimmer for? Heavy or light tasks?
- How big is your lawn? Is it small, medium, or large?
- Will you be cutting low, wide, or high hedges?
- Do you intend to prune thick branches?
Types of Hedge Trimmers
Believer it or not, there are a variety of different types of trimming tools. Knowing which is one is right for your specific yard will help you narrow down from the options and pick the best option.
Single-Sided Hedge Trimmers
A single sided hedge trimmer is made for cutting straight hedge sections. Such a trimmer will have its teeth positioned on one side of the trimming bar. The hedge trimmer’s blade can be longer to allow clipping a larger area in one sweep.
While single-sided electric trimmers are essentially meant for use in commercial gardens, they are also resourceful in trimming medium-sized residential gardens. These trimmers are portable and ideal for hedgerows, long straight hedge mazes, and for longer, heavier trimming jobs.
You can fit a single-sided trimmer with longer cutters to trim large hedges without destabilizing the trimmer during the trimming process.
Double-sided Hedge Trimmers
Designed for trimming and shaping hedges up to chest height, the double-sided trimmer is the most common electric hedge trimmer. This trimmer is basically meant for topiary in gardens and domestic use.
A double-sided hedge trimmer can have an ergonomic rear handle for more flexibility when handling long and complex jobs, or when trimming the sides of hedges.
An adjustable handle also makes it easy for you to quickly change the cut direction when trimming unusually shaped bushes. Such a trimmer can work well in tight spaces.
Pole or Long Reach Hedge Trimmers
A long reach hedge trimmer is used to trim and cut low and high hedges, hard-to-reach ground cover, and hedges with varying lengths.
With a long reach hedge trimmer, you can adjust the angle of the blade to access the top of tall hedges and handle vast areas of a bush without resorting to ladders. A pole hedge trimmer can have a fixed or adjustable shaft with the blade placed at the end. The cutting blade can be tilted to trim the top or side of the hedge.
Some models of pole trimmers have optional tools such as a pruner and long-reach conversion tools. Working with a pole hedge trimmer can reduce back strain.
Electric Trimmer Features and Considerations
Weight
If your garden is huge and with densely packed hedges, it would be best if you choose a lightweight, easy to hold and balanced hedge trimmer. However, you might have to compromise on weight if you want a long-reach hedge trimmer as these are normally heavier.
Pivoting Head
If you want a trimmer that you can adjust to fit the size of your hedge, you should then go for a trimmer that has a pivoting head. This would be especially beneficial if you are looking to trim down the sides of a hedge or along its top.
Blade Type
A longer blade means that you will have to cope with unwieldy movement and more weight. On the other hand, a shorter blade implies less coverage per sweep. The best solution would be opting for a double-action blade. This kind of blade makes the trimmer more versatile and minimizes vibration.
Blade Length
As you think about the height of your hedge, it is also good to consider your hedges’ width. For instance, if your hedge is accessible from either side and has a width of 4 meters, then your cutting blade ought to be at least 2 meters for you to trim the sides effectively.
There are also hedge trimmer brands with bigger tooth gaps, thus suitable for heavy-duty hedging.
Vertical Edging
A hedge trimmer with a wraparound handle is likely to have more than one switch. This makes it easier to transition from trimming horizontally to vertically. A trimmer with a rotating head also makes vertical edging easier.
Safety
Some models come with a hand guard that minimizes the chances of debris getting thrown back towards you. Another top-safety feature is a two-handed hedger that requires two hands to turn on the trimmer. A trimmer with an on and off switch lock would also be convenient in case of distraction or if there are kids while you are working on the garden.
Pigtail
This is the short length of the cord placed close to the handle. A pigtail enables you to attach your trimmer to a power cord and eases plugging and unplugging the cord, while also reducing the chances of disconnection. Make sure that the electric hedge trimmer you buy has a reasonably sized pigtail.
Noise Level
Go for a trimmer with tolerable noise levels. Not only will a noisy trimmer disturb your neighbors, but also will it increase your chances of fatigue. It is also good to safeguard your ears using safety gear such as earplugs.
Extra battery packs
If you go for a battery powered trimmer, it would be best you get extra battery packs that you have an extended runtime to handle larger jobs.
Warranty
Any good hedge trimmer will come with a warranty. A two-year warranty is fairly typical for trimmers. However, others come with a warranty of up to four years.
Wrap Up
When looking to buy or rent the best electric hedge trimmer, there are many considerations you need to put into account. First, understand your scope of trimming and power proximity to know which between a corded and cordless hedge trimmer will work for you.
Go for an ergonomic hedge trimmer for an easy time trimming.
