Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

There’s a unique satisfaction in looking at a perfectly manicured hedge, but the journey there can be a noisy, tangled mess of cords and fumes. That’s why we’ve fully embraced the cordless revolution. After extensive testing, cutting through everything from delicate boxwoods to stubborn, woody privet, we’ve found the models that deliver true gas-like power without the hassle. For us, one tool consistently rose to the top: the DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer. Its exceptional power, robust build, and superb balance make it our top pick for homeowners who demand professional-grade results.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers

#1 DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Ideal for: All-Around Powerful Performance

From the moment we powered it on, the DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer felt like a serious tool. This isn’t just a trimmer; it’s a landscaping workhorse. During our tests, we pitted it against a 50-foot stretch of overgrown privet with branches pushing its 3/4-inch capacity, and it chewed through them without hesitation. The laser-cut, hooked-tooth blade design isn’t just marketing speak; it genuinely grabs and holds branches for a clean, decisive cut, minimizing shredding and promoting healthier regrowth. We found the weight and balance to be excellent for a tool this powerful. At 8.8 pounds, it has enough heft to feel stable, but it’s distributed well, preventing the excessive arm fatigue we’ve felt with other models. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted they could work for extended periods, often with the battery outlasting their own stamina. Paired with a 5.0Ah battery, the runtime was simply phenomenal; we trimmed multiple large hedges and still had power to spare. The quiet operation compared to gas models is a huge plus, making morning yard work a much more neighbor-friendly affair. It’s a “tool only” purchase, which is perfect for those of us already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX system.

#2 BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Cordless Hedge Trimmer 22 Inch – Perfect for: General Homeowner Use

For the average suburban yard, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Cordless Hedge Trimmer 22 Inch strikes an almost perfect balance between performance, weight, and value. The first thing we noticed was how incredibly light it is. At just 5.7 pounds, it’s easy to wield with one hand for quick shaping jobs, and the wrap-around front handle provides excellent control for both vertical and horizontal cuts. We found the 22-inch dual-action blades to be surprisingly effective, producing clean cuts with noticeably less vibration than older, single-action models we’ve used. It handled our standard boxwood and arborvitae hedges with ease. While the motor speed isn’t quite on par with our top pick, the blades are sharp and more than capable for typical residential tasks. Many users echoed our sentiment, praising how it transformed a dreaded chore into a quick, cord-free task. The battery life was also impressive for its class; we were able to trim a 40-foot hedge and several smaller bushes on a single charge. One detail we noted, which a cautious user also pointed out, is the absence of a bumper at the tip of the blade, so care must be taken when trimming near siding or fences. Overall, for homeowners looking to ditch the cord without breaking the bank, this is an outstanding choice.

#3 WORX WG261 22″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Suits: Those Prioritizing Lightweight Design

If minimizing weight and arm strain is your top priority, the WORX WG261 22″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a game-changer. Tipping the scales at a mere 5.5 pounds with the battery, it was the lightest full-size trimmer we tested, and the difference is immediately noticeable. We could effortlessly sculpt bushes and reach higher branches without the usual shoulder burn. The ergonomics are fantastic; the D-grip front handle allows for comfortable cutting at various angles, and the dual-switch safety system is intuitive and effective. We were particularly impressed with the balance of the tool, which a number of users also highlighted as a key feature. Despite its featherweight status, the WORX doesn’t skimp on cutting ability for everyday tasks. The 22-inch dual-action blades made quick work of azaleas and evergreen shrubs, handling branches up to about a half-inch with no trouble. It’s not designed to be a brush hog for severely overgrown areas, but for regular maintenance, it has ample power. The PowerShare battery system is a huge plus, allowing us to swap batteries with other WORX tools we had in the workshop. For anyone who has ever put off trimming because of the thought of lugging a heavy tool, this model is the perfect solution.

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

When our trimming tasks required more muscle and reach, we reached for the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer. The step up to the 40V MAX system is immediately apparent. This trimmer boasts serious power, rivaling some gas models we’ve tested in the past. The POWERDRIVE transmission effectively translates that power into torque, allowing the 24-inch blades to slice through dense growth and branches up to 3/4-inch thick like butter. We tackled a large, unruly photinia hedge that would have stalled lesser trimmers, and this tool powered through without a single jam. The extended 24-inch blade length was a significant advantage, reducing the number of passes needed to create a smooth, level surface. Despite its power, it remains surprisingly lightweight at just 6.9 pounds and is well-balanced. Several users who manage large properties or have their own maintenance businesses praised this model for its all-day usability, especially when paired with a second battery. The battery life is stellar; we managed to clear a huge amount of overgrown brush on a single charge, a sentiment echoed by many reviewers who were amazed by its longevity. For those with substantial trimming needs, this 40V powerhouse is a fantastic investment.

#5 EGO Power+ HT2600 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer – Perfect for: Demanding, Heavy-Duty Clearing

The EGO Power+ HT2600 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer is, in a word, a beast. This is the trimmer we grab when the job is less about gentle shaping and more about serious reclamation. The advertised 1.2-inch cutting capacity is no exaggeration; powered by a high-efficiency brushless motor, it effortlessly demolished thick, woody branches that other trimmers couldn’t touch. The industry-first carbon fiber rail not only looks professional but provides incredible strength and rigidity to the long 26-inch blade, ensuring straight, true cuts. We were incredibly impressed by the smoothness of operation; it’s powerful yet refined, producing an almost plastic-like finish on trimmed shrubs. A standout feature for us was the five-position rotating handle, which made switching between horizontal and vertical trimming exceptionally comfortable and gave us superior control. While it’s one of the heavier models on our list at nearly 7 pounds (before the battery), the power and performance more than justify the weight. This is a tool for those who take their landscaping seriously. Our experience was confirmed by users who switched from gas-powered trimmers and were blown away by the equivalent power, minus the noise, fumes, and maintenance headaches.

#6 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Grass Trimmer and Mini Hedge Trimmer Kit – Suits: Precision Shaping and Small Bushes

Not every job requires a 22-inch blade. For intricate shaping, topiaries, or touching up small decorative shrubs, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Grass Trimmer and Mini Hedge Trimmer Kit is the perfect tool. We loved its versatility. Swapping between the 8-inch shrubber blade and the 4-inch grass shear blade is a quick, tool-free process that took us mere seconds. Using the hedge trimmer attachment, we were able to create clean, sharp lines on small boxwoods and tidy up ornamental grasses with surgical precision. It’s incredibly lightweight and designed for one-handed use, which, as one user put it, “is the best gift I ever gave my husband.” It allows you to get into tight spaces where a full-size trimmer would be clumsy and overkill. The grass shear attachment was surprisingly useful for edging around delicate flower beds where a string trimmer would cause damage. It’s important to have realistic expectations; this is a detail tool, not a bulk-removal machine. Its 5/16-inch cutting capacity is best for new growth and soft stems. The included 1.5Ah battery provides enough runtime for typical detailing tasks, but if you have a lot of small bushes, having a spare V20 battery on hand is a good idea.

#7 BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX cordless hedge trimmer LHT2436B – Ideal for: Users in the B+D 40V Ecosystem

If you’re already invested in the BLACK+DECKER 40V battery platform, the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX cordless hedge trimmer LHT2436B is an absolute must-have addition. This is the “tool only” version of the powerful LHT2436 we reviewed earlier, offering fantastic value for those who don’t need another battery and charger cluttering up the garage. In our hands-on testing, it delivered the same stellar performance. The POWERDRIVE transmission gives it the grunt to chew through thick, woody stems up to 3/4-inch, and the 24-inch dual-action blade makes quick work of large hedges, delivering a smooth, even finish with minimal vibration. The full wraparound handle provided a comfortable and secure grip, allowing us to confidently make sweeping passes from different angles. It feels robust without being overly heavy, striking a great balance for extended use. We do feel it’s important to echo a sentiment found in some user feedback: while it has the power for thick branches, consistently pushing it to its absolute limit can lead to premature wear on the internal gears. For maintaining even large, tough hedges, it’s a beast. But for clearing severely overgrown areas, it’s best to use loppers for the thickest branches first to ensure the tool’s longevity.

#8 VIVOSUN 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer – Perfect for: Reaching Tall and Awkward Hedges

For those tall hedges that usually require a precarious balancing act on a ladder, the VIVOSUN 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer is a safe and effective solution. The telescopic pole was the star feature in our testing. Adjusting from just over 6.5 feet to nearly 9 feet gave us incredible reach, allowing us to easily trim the tops of 10-foot arborvitaes with our feet planted firmly on the ground. The articulating head is equally brilliant, offering nine different positions across a 135-degree angle. This allowed us to achieve perfectly flat tops and angled sides without contorting our bodies. Despite its length, we found the tool to be surprisingly lightweight and manageable, a point many users also praised. The D-shaped handle and included shoulder strap helped distribute the weight and improve control during long, sweeping cuts. The 20-inch blade had no trouble with the typical new growth and smaller branches (up to its rated 0.55-inch capacity) you’d find on maintained hedges. The dual-safety switch is a thoughtful feature, preventing any accidental startups. The battery provided about 30 minutes of solid runtime, which was enough for us to tackle one or two very large bushes before needing a recharge.

#9 CRAFTSMAN V20 20 inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Suits: Homeowners in the Craftsman V20 System

The CRAFTSMAN V20 20 inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a solid, no-frills performer that gets the job done reliably. As a straightforward tool for typical yard maintenance, it excelled in our tests. The 20-inch dual-action blades provided clean cuts on our test hedges, and it felt capable handling branches up to its stated 3/4-inch capacity, though it works best on branches around the half-inch mark. We found the full wrap-around handle to be very comfortable, offering a secure grip and good control whether we were cutting horizontally across the top of a hedge or vertically down the sides. At 6.6 pounds, it’s reasonably lightweight and well-balanced, preventing the quick onset of fatigue. This model is an especially smart buy for anyone already using CRAFTSMAN’s V20 line of tools, as the batteries are interchangeable, adding a layer of convenience and value. It also features an integrated hook for use with the VERSATRACK wall organization system, a nice touch for keeping the garage tidy. While it may not have the bells and whistles of some premium models, it’s a dependable workhorse that delivers consistent performance for all common hedge trimming tasks.

#10 RYOBI ONE+ 22 in. Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Ideal for: Ergonomics and Debris Removal

The RYOBI ONE+ 22 in. Cordless Hedge Trimmer brings some clever design features to the table that we really appreciated during our testing. The standout feature is the rotating rear handle. With a simple press of a button, we could pivot the handle to achieve the perfect grip for vertical cuts, significantly improving comfort and reducing wrist strain. This, combined with the wrap-around front handle, makes it one of the most ergonomic trimmers we’ve used. Another smart innovation is the “Hedge Sweep” debris remover—a plastic guard that sits atop the blade. While trimming the tops of hedges, it effectively cleared clippings away as we cut, saving a bit of cleanup time later. The 22-inch dual-action blades performed well on light-to-medium growth, easily managing branches up to a half-inch. However, we found that it struggled and tended to jam on branches approaching its 3/4-inch maximum capacity, a sentiment shared by some users who found it underpowered for tougher jobs. As a “tool only” offering within the massive RYOBI ONE+ 18V system, it’s a great choice for those who already have the batteries and prioritize comfort and smart features for regular maintenance of less demanding shrubbery.

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

Key Factors to Consider

• Blade Length: Longer blades (22-26 inches) are more efficient for large, straight hedges, as they cover more area in a single pass. Shorter blades (18-20 inches) are more maneuverable and better for smaller, more detailed shaping.
• Cutting Capacity: This refers to the maximum branch diameter the trimmer can cut, typically ranging from 3/8-inch to over 1 inch. For light trimming of new growth, a smaller capacity is fine. For taming overgrown and woody shrubs, look for a capacity of at least 3/4-inch.
• Battery System (Voltage & Ah): Voltage (V) is a rough indicator of power. 40V or 56V systems generally offer more power than 20V systems. Amp-hours (Ah) indicate runtime; a 4.0Ah battery will last roughly twice as long as a 2.0Ah battery on the same tool.
• Weight and Ergonomics: A hedge trimmer is a tool you hold out in front of you for extended periods. A few pounds can make a huge difference. Look for models under 8 pounds for comfortable use, and consider features like wrap-around handles or rotating heads for better control and less strain.
• Blade Type: Always choose dual-action blades. They have two blades that move in opposite directions, which results in faster, cleaner cuts and significantly less vibration compared to single-action blades.

Understanding Brushless vs. Brushed Motors

You’ll often see “brushless motor” touted as a premium feature, and for good reason. Traditional brushed motors use small carbon brushes to transmit power, which create friction and heat, leading to energy loss and eventual wear. Brushless motors, by contrast, use magnets and electronics to drive the motor. This results in a much more efficient system that can automatically adjust power output to the task. The key benefits for you are longer battery runtime, more power under load, and a significantly longer tool lifespan with no brushes to replace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Battery Ecosystem: If you already own cordless tools from a specific brand, buying a “tool only” trimmer from the same brand can save you a lot of money and hassle.
• Overestimating Power Needs: Don’t buy a heavy, high-capacity trimmer if you only have a few small boxwoods. A lighter, more maneuverable tool will make the job much more pleasant.
• Underestimating Weight: A trimmer that feels light in the store can feel very heavy after 20 minutes of holding it at shoulder height. Pay close attention to the tool’s weight, especially if you have large jobs.
• Neglecting Maintenance: Even the best blades will get dull and gummed up. Clean the sap off your blades after each use with a solvent and lubricate them with a light oil to ensure they perform well and last long.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a cordless hedge trimmer battery last on a single charge?

Battery life varies widely based on the battery’s Amp-hour (Ah) rating and the toughness of the job. For light trimming, a 2.0Ah battery might last 30-45 minutes. A larger 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery can often run for well over an hour, even on demanding tasks. Models with brushless motors are more efficient and will typically run longer on the same battery compared to those with brushed motors.

What is the best voltage for a cordless hedge trimmer (e.g., 20V vs 40V)?

For most residential yards with standard hedges, a 20V (or 18V) system provides ample power and is usually lighter. If you have very large, dense, or woody hedges, or if you need professional-grade performance, stepping up to a 40V or higher system will provide a noticeable increase in cutting power and torque, making the job faster and easier.

Are brushless motors significantly better in battery-powered hedge trimmers?

Yes, they are. Brushless motors are more efficient, which translates to longer runtimes from the same battery. They also deliver more consistent power when cutting through thick branches and have a much longer overall lifespan because there are no brushes to wear out. While they often come at a higher initial cost, the performance and durability benefits are worth it for serious users.

Is it worth getting a tool with an interchangeable battery system?

Absolutely. If you plan to buy other cordless yard tools (like a leaf blower, string trimmer, or mower), sticking with one brand’s battery platform is incredibly convenient and cost-effective. You can buy “tool only” versions of other products, saving money by not purchasing redundant batteries and chargers.

How heavy are cordless hedge trimmers compared to corded models?

Cordless hedge trimmers are generally slightly heavier than their corded counterparts due to the weight of the onboard battery. However, modern lithium-ion batteries have made this difference minimal. Most cordless models weigh between 5 and 9 pounds, which is a manageable weight for the massive benefit of not having to drag around an extension cord.

Can a cordless hedge trimmer cut through thick branches?

Yes, many can. A model’s cutting ability is defined by its “cutting capacity.” Mid-range and high-end models often have a capacity of 3/4-inch, which is sufficient for most hedge branches. Premium models, like the EGO Power+ HT2600, can even handle branches over an inch thick, rivaling the power of gas trimmers.

What is the average charging time for a hedge trimmer battery?

Charging time depends on the battery’s size (Ah) and the charger’s speed. Standard chargers can take 3-5 hours to fully charge a battery. However, many brands offer “fast chargers” that can fully charge a 2.0Ah battery in about an hour and a larger 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery in under two hours.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After hours of trimming, testing, and comparing, we are confident in our final verdict. For the vast majority of homeowners seeking the perfect blend of power, reliability, and user-friendly design, the DEWALT DCHT820B 22-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is the undisputed champion. It delivers the raw cutting performance needed for tough, overgrown jobs while remaining balanced and comfortable enough for precise shaping. Its ability to tear through 3/4-inch branches without slowing down, combined with the extensive and dependable 20V MAX battery platform, makes it a tool that won’t just do the job—it will make you want to go find more hedges to trim. It’s a worthy investment that will transform your landscaping chores for years to come.