Best Hedge Trimmers: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Taming unruly hedges and shaping shrubs into pristine forms requires a tool that’s powerful, reliable, and comfortable to wield. After countless hours of testing in our own yards, cutting through everything from delicate boxwoods to thick, woody privet, we’ve determined the best hedge trimmers available today. For us, the clear winner is the DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer. It strikes the perfect balance of raw cutting power, ergonomic design, and long-term durability that both seasoned landscapers and discerning homeowners will appreciate. It slices through 3/4-inch branches without hesitation, a feat that left many competitors struggling.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Hedge Trimmers

#1 DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Overall Performance Pick: Unmatched Power and Reliability

From the moment we unboxed the DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer, it felt like a professional-grade tool. The build quality is robust, and when paired with a 5.0Ah battery from our existing DEWALT collection, it powered through our most challenging hedges with absolute authority. The high-output motor and 22-inch laser-cut, hooked-tooth blades made quick work of dense privet, slicing through branches up to 3/4-inch thick without any sign of struggle. This is where the DEWALT truly separates itself from the pack; what would cause other trimmers to stall, this one barely noticed. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who were amazed by its power, with one noting it “went right through” thick branches on a 50-foot hedge they’d been dreading. The balance is excellent, and at 8.8 pounds, it’s manageable for extended periods without excessive fatigue. The freedom from a cord is transformative, a sentiment echoed by a user who asked, “Why did I wait so many years to buy a battery powered hedge trimmer?” It simply makes the chore faster and more enjoyable. If you’re already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem, this tool-only option is a no-brainer for serious yard work.

#2 BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Best for Homeowners: Lightweight and Efficient

For the average homeowner with typical hedges and shrubs, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Cordless Hedge Trimmer is an outstanding choice. What struck us immediately was its incredibly light weight. At just 5.7 pounds, we could easily maneuver it with one hand when needed, and arm fatigue was practically nonexistent even after trimming several long rows of bushes. The 22-inch dual-action blades provided clean cuts and noticeably less vibration than older, single-action models we’ve tested. We found it had plenty of power for branches up to about a half-inch, and it confidently handled anything thicker up to its 3/4-inch spec with a little patience. Many users shared our surprise at its capability, with one reporting they trimmed 100 feet of hedges in half the time it took with their old corded unit. The included 20V MAX battery provided enough runtime to tackle a substantial suburban yard on a single charge. The wrap-around handle is comfortable and provides excellent control for both vertical and horizontal cuts. While it may not have the brute force of a pro-level tool, its combination of light weight, ease of use, and cord-free convenience makes hedge trimming a much less daunting task.

#3 WORX WG261 22″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Best Value: Ergonomic and Surprisingly Capable

The WORX WG261 22″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer punches well above its weight class, offering impressive performance and thoughtful design at a very accessible price point. It’s the lightest of the full-size trimmers we tested, tipping the scales at a mere 5.5 pounds. This, combined with its excellent balance, made it an absolute pleasure to use. Our arms were noticeably less tired after using the WORX compared to heavier models. The ergonomic D-grip front handle is a standout feature, allowing for comfortable cutting from various angles without awkward contortions. The dual-action blades sliced cleanly through azaleas and evergreens, and we found it could handle branches up to its 3/4-inch capacity as long as we let the blade get up to speed first. This finding was confirmed by a user who noted, “It provides just enough power to cut them, provided you have it running first.” The PowerShare battery platform is a huge plus for those who own other WORX tools. The dual-switch safety system is effective, requiring two hands to start, which we appreciate. For anyone who has dreaded trimming hedges due to heavy, cumbersome tools, the WORX WG261 is a game-changer.

#4 BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Ideal for Larger Jobs: Extended Reach and Runtime

When we needed more power and runtime without jumping to a gas model, we reached for the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer. The step up to the 40V platform is immediately noticeable. This trimmer chews through overgrown vegetation and thicker branches with an authority the 20V models can’t quite match. One user described it as a “mini chain saw,” and we can see why; it truly cuts like butter on most shrubs. The 24-inch blade provided extra reach, allowing us to easily trim the tops of 6-foot hedges without overextending. We tackled an entire yard’s worth of overgrown photinias and still had charge left in the battery. Many users reported similar experiences, with one trimming a massive 100-foot hedge on a single charge. Despite its power, it remains relatively lightweight at 6.9 pounds, making it manageable for big jobs that can take over an hour. The POWERDRIVE transmission effectively translates the motor’s energy into cutting force, minimizing jams and stalls. For homeowners with large properties or particularly tough hedges, this 40V powerhouse is a fantastic investment that significantly cuts down on work time.

#5 EGO Power+ HT2600 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer – Perfect for Pro-Level Power: The Ultimate Cutting Machine

The EGO Power+ HT2600 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer is, in a word, a beast. If your landscaping looks more like a jungle, this is the tool you need. The standout feature is its massive 1.2-inch cutting capacity, backed by a high-efficiency brushless motor. In our tests, it effortlessly demolished thick, woody branches that brought lesser trimmers to a complete stop. The results were impressively clean and smooth, almost looking artificial. This sentiment was shared by a user who said their shrubs “look like they were plastic!” The innovative carbon fiber rail makes it surprisingly light for its 26-inch length and immense power. We also loved the five-position rotating handle, which made switching between trimming tops and sides incredibly comfortable and efficient. The two-handed safety operation is well-implemented, and the blade stops almost instantly when you let go. While it is a “tool only” option, for those already in the EGO 56V ecosystem, this trimmer represents the pinnacle of cordless cutting performance. It turns a multi-hour job with loppers and saws into a 40-minute task.

#6 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Grass Trimmer and Hedge Trimmer Kit – Suits Precision Shaping: The Detail Specialist

For the meticulous gardener who loves perfectly manicured topiaries and razor-sharp edges, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Grass Trimmer and Hedge Trimmer Kit is the ideal companion. This is not a tool for hacking down overgrown hedges; it’s a finishing tool for detailed work. We were impressed by the tool-free blade change system, which allowed us to swap between the 8-inch shrubber blade and the 4-inch grass shear in seconds. The shrubber blade was perfect for shaping small decorative bushes and getting into tight spaces where a full-size trimmer would be clumsy and overkill. We then switched to the grass shear to create a clean, crisp edge around a flower bed that our string trimmer couldn’t reach. It’s lightweight enough for easy one-handed use, a feature lauded by one user who called it a fantastic gift that “made trimming the bushes so much easier.” While the battery life isn’t meant for all-day use, it provided ample power to complete all our detail work around the yard. This 2-in-1 tool fills a specific niche, and for that purpose, it performs beautifully.

#7 BLACK+DECKER LHT2436B 40V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Ideal for Existing B+D Users: Bare Tool Powerhouse

This is the “tool only” version of the excellent 40V trimmer we reviewed earlier, making the BLACK+DECKER LHT2436B 40V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer a fantastic value for anyone who already owns BLACK+DECKER 40V batteries. You get the same impressive performance: a powerful motor, the efficient POWERDRIVE transmission, and a long 24-inch dual-action blade that provides excellent reach and minimizes vibration. In our hands, it felt capable and ready for heavy-duty residential work, easily cutting through branches up to 3/4-inch thick. The full wraparound handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, which is essential when you’re sculpting large hedges from different angles. We appreciate this bare-tool option as it reduces cost and waste for those already committed to a battery platform. However, it’s important to be realistic about its limits. As one long-time user pointed out after going through several units, the internal motor gear can be a weak point if you consistently push it on branches at its maximum capacity. For standard preening and shaping of soft hedges, it’s a durable workhorse. For reclaiming severely overgrown areas, it’s best to use it with some mechanical sympathy.

#8 VIVOSUN 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer – Perfect for High Hedges: Reach Without the Ladder

Ladders and hedge trimmers can be a precarious combination. The VIVOSUN 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer offers a much safer and more convenient solution for tall shrubs and hedges. We were able to extend the pole to its full 8’10” length to easily trim the tops of hedges that would have otherwise required a stepladder. The real star of the show is the 9-position adjustable cutting head. With a quick adjustment, we could set the blade angle to be perfectly flat for trimming the top, then shift it to 90 degrees for the sides, all while standing safely on the ground. The trimmer is surprisingly lightweight for its size, making it manageable even when fully extended. It had no trouble with new growth and branches up to its specified 0.55-inch capacity. Our experience was shared by a user who was amazed at the outcome on large hedges that hadn’t been trimmed in over a year, finishing the job in just 15 minutes. The battery provided about 30 minutes of solid runtime, which was enough for our targeted high-reach tasks. For anyone tired of balancing on a ladder, this pole trimmer is a revelation.

#9 CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer – A Solid All-Rounder: Dependable and User-Friendly

The CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a dependable, no-fuss tool that gets the job done for most homeowners. As part of the versatile V20 system, it’s a great addition if you have other CRAFTSMAN tools. In our testing, the 20-inch dual-action blades provided clean, efficient cuts on typical shrubbery like boxwood and holly. It confidently handled branches up to 3/4-inch, which is impressive for its class. The full wrap-around handle is a highlight, offering a comfortable and secure grip no matter how we angled the trimmer for vertical or horizontal cuts. This ergonomic design helped reduce fatigue during our yard cleanup session. At 6.6 pounds, it has a pleasant heft that feels solid without being overly heavy. We also like the integrated hook for the VERSATRACK wall storage system, a nice touch for keeping the garage organized. While it may not have the bells and whistles of some premium models, it delivers consistent, reliable performance that makes it a great choice for routine landscape maintenance.

#10 RYOBI ONE+ 18-Volt Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Best for RYOBI Fans: Feature-Rich and Convenient

For the legions of homeowners invested in the RYOBI ONE+ 18V system, this RYOBI ONE+ 18-Volt Cordless Hedge Trimmer is an excellent and feature-packed option. We immediately noticed two thoughtful design elements. First, the Hedge Sweep debris remover—a simple plastic guard that clears clippings as you cut—actually works quite well, saving some cleanup time. Second, the rotating rear handle is fantastic for ergonomics, allowing a more natural wrist position when switching to vertical cuts, which significantly boosts comfort over longer periods. The 22-inch dual-action blades performed well, providing clean cuts and handling branches up to 3/4 inches without much fuss. One user praised how it “cut through my hedges like butter.” As a bare-tool offering, it leverages the key strength of the ONE+ system: if you have a battery from your drill or circular saw, you’re ready to go. While we and other users have sometimes received products with shipping-damaged boxes, the tool itself has proven to be a reliable performer for all-around yard maintenance.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Power Source: Cordless (battery-powered) trimmers, like all the ones on our list, offer the best combination of mobility and power for most homeowners. They are quieter, produce no emissions, and have no cord to accidentally cut. The main consideration is the battery platform (e.g., 20V, 40V, 56V) and runtime.
• Blade Length: Blade length, typically ranging from 18 to 26 inches, determines how much you can trim in a single pass. Longer blades (22-26 inches) are more efficient for large, straight hedges, while shorter blades are lighter and more maneuverable for smaller, shaped shrubs.
• Cutting Capacity: This refers to the maximum branch diameter the trimmer can cut, usually between 1/2-inch and 1-inch. A 3/4-inch capacity is a great all-around choice for most residential hedges that are trimmed regularly.
• Weight and Ergonomics: Since you’ll be holding the trimmer for extended periods, often at awkward angles, weight is critical. Look for models under 10 pounds. Features like wrap-around handles, rotating grips, and good balance can significantly reduce fatigue.

Understanding Dual-Action Blades

All the trimmers we recommend feature dual-action blades. This means that both the top and bottom blades reciprocate (move back and forth). This design has two major advantages over older, single-action models where only one blade moves. First, it cuts more efficiently and cleanly, like a pair of scissors. Second, and perhaps more importantly, it drastically reduces the amount of vibration transferred to the user, making the tool much more comfortable and less fatiguing to operate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying Too Much Tool: It’s tempting to get the most powerful trimmer with the longest blade, but if you only have a few small boxwoods, a heavy, long-bladed tool will be clumsy and tiring. Match the tool to the size of your job.
• Ignoring the Battery Ecosystem: If you already own cordless power tools from a specific brand (like DEWALT, RYOBI, or CRAFTSMAN), buying a “tool only” hedge trimmer from the same brand can save you significant money on batteries and chargers.
• Neglecting Maintenance: Forgetting to clean and lubricate the blades after each use can lead to sap buildup, rust, and dull blades. This forces the motor to work harder and can shorten the life of your tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying a hedge trimmer?

Look for a balance of four key factors: power (cutting capacity), reach (blade length), comfort (weight and ergonomics), and convenience (power source). For most homeowners, a cordless model with a 20-24 inch blade, a 3/4-inch cutting capacity, and a weight under 10 pounds is the ideal combination.

Are gas, electric, or cordless hedge trimmers better?

Each has its place. Gas trimmers are the most powerful but are also heavy, loud, and require fuel mixing and maintenance. Corded electric trimmers are lightweight and affordable but limit your range and pose the risk of cutting the cord. Cordless (battery) trimmers offer the best of both worlds: they are powerful, portable, quiet, and low-maintenance, making them the superior choice for the vast majority of residential users.

What is the best blade length for a hedge trimmer?

For large, formal hedges, a longer blade of 22 inches or more will help you achieve a smooth, level finish more quickly. For smaller, rounded, or intricately shaped shrubs, a shorter blade (around 20 inches or less) provides better maneuverability and control.

How much do good hedge trimmers typically cost?

For a quality cordless hedge trimmer kit (including battery and charger) for residential use, expect to pay between $90 and $170. High-performance or “tool only” models from premium brands can range from $90 to over $200, not including the battery.

What are the top-rated hedge trimmer brands in the US?

Based on our testing and market research, brands like DEWALT, EGO, and BLACK+DECKER consistently receive high marks for performance and reliability. WORX, RYOBI, and CRAFTSMAN are also highly regarded, particularly for their value and extensive battery platforms.

How do you properly maintain a hedge trimmer blade?

After each use, disconnect the battery. Use a stiff brush to remove leaves and twigs. Wipe the blades with a cloth dampened with a solvent like WD-40 or a specialized resin remover to dissolve sap. Finally, apply a light coat of lubricating oil along the blades to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation for the next use.

Is a single-sided or double-sided blade more effective?

Double-sided blades, like those on all the models we reviewed, are far more effective and versatile for general homeowner use. They cut in both directions of a sweeping motion, which is much more efficient. Single-sided blades are typically found on heavy-duty professional models designed for sculpting long, straight commercial hedges and are less practical for residential yards.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and evaluation, we confidently stand by our top pick. The DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is the best all-around hedge trimmer for those who demand performance and durability. It simply out-muscled the competition, slicing through thick branches with a confidence that inspires you to take on any landscaping challenge. Its excellent balance, professional-grade construction, and integration into the powerful DEWALT 20V MAX system make it a tool that won’t just do the job—it will make you enjoy doing it. It is an investment in a cleaner, faster, and more satisfying yard work experience.