CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer Review: The Cordless Workhorse for Suburban Yards

There’s a moment every homeowner knows. You step outside, coffee in hand, ready to admire your little patch of green, and it hits you. The hedges aren’t just growing; they’re staging a slow-motion takeover. What were once neat, green borders are now fuzzy, chaotic walls encroaching on your walkway. The boxwoods look less like spheres and more like lumpy, green clouds. It’s a scene I know all too well. For years, my battle with the privet hedge that lines my property was a dreaded weekend chore. It involved dragging out a hundred feet of extension cord, inevitably snagging it on a rose bush, and wrestling with a heavy, vibrating machine that left my arms feeling like jelly. The alternative—a gas-powered trimmer—meant endless pull-starts, fumes, and noise that made me deeply unpopular with my neighbors. This isn’t just about aesthetics; overgrown hedges can harbor pests, block sunlight from other plants, and simply make a property feel unkempt. Finding a tool that makes this essential task quick, easy, and even enjoyable is the key to reclaiming your yard and your weekend.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Hedge Trimmer

A hedge trimmer is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maintaining your property’s curb appeal, promoting healthy plant growth, and saving significant time and physical effort. The main benefit of a modern cordless model is liberation. It frees you from the tether of an extension cord, eliminating the risk of accidental cuts and the frustration of managing its length. It also spares you the noise, maintenance, and emissions of a gas engine. With a simple click of a battery, you have the power to sculpt your landscape, turning a daunting task into a manageable, even satisfying, one. A well-maintained hedge provides privacy, defines spaces, and adds significant value to your home. A quality trimmer is the instrument that makes achieving that professional, manicured look possible for the average homeowner.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the typical challenges of a suburban or residential property. You likely have a variety of shrubs, bushes, and hedges that require regular shaping and trimming, but you don’t need the brute force or all-day runtime of a professional-grade, gas-powered machine. If you value convenience, low noise, and minimal maintenance, and perhaps already own other tools from a compatible battery platform, a cordless hedge trimmer is designed for you. However, it might not be the best fit for a professional landscaper who needs to run a tool for six to eight hours a day, or someone managing a vast estate with ancient, woody hedges featuring branches over an inch thick. For those heavy-duty scenarios, a high-end gas model or a more powerful, higher-voltage cordless system might be more appropriate.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Weight: The physical size and weight of a hedge trimmer directly impact user fatigue. Consider the tool’s overall length (like the 20-inch blade on this CRAFTSMAN) for reach, but pay close attention to the weight. A tool weighing under 7 pounds, like the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer, is significantly easier to handle for extended periods, especially when trimming the tops of tall hedges or making vertical cuts. Balance is also key; a well-balanced tool feels lighter than it actually is.
• Capacity/Performance: This is defined by two key metrics: blade length and cutting capacity. A longer blade, like 20 or 24 inches, allows you to make fewer passes and achieve a smoother, more level surface. Cutting capacity, often expressed in inches (e.g., 3/4 inch), tells you the maximum branch thickness the trimmer can reliably handle. For most residential shrubs like boxwood, holly, and privet, a 3/4-inch capacity is more than sufficient.
• Materials & Durability: Look for trimmers with hardened steel, dual-action blades. “Dual-action” means both blades move, resulting in less vibration and a cleaner cut compared to single-action models. While the housing is typically made of durable plastic to keep the weight down, the quality of this plastic and the construction of the handle and trigger mechanisms are important for the tool’s longevity.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Cordless models excel here. Look for features like a comfortable, wrap-around handle that allows for easy grip changes when switching from horizontal to vertical cutting. Battery life and charge time are also crucial considerations. Post-use maintenance is generally simple: wipe the blades clean, apply a light lubricant to prevent rust, and store it safely. The lack of oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel mixing is a massive advantage.

Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a hedge trimmer that not only meets the demands of your yard but also makes the work as effortless as possible.

While the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing the CRAFTSMAN: First Impressions and Key Features

Pulling the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer from its box, the first thing we noticed was its surprising lack of heft. At just 6.6 pounds with the battery attached, it feels remarkably light and manageable. The classic CRAFTSMAN red and black color scheme is iconic and the high-impact plastic housing feels solid and durable, not cheap or flimsy. There’s virtually no assembly required; you simply slide the included V20 1.5Ah battery onto the tool until it clicks, and you’re ready to go. The full wrap-around handle is a standout feature right away. It provides a multitude of grip options, which immediately suggests versatility and comfort when tackling hedges from different angles. Compared to older, bulkier models, the ergonomics are a night-and-day difference. It feels balanced in the hands, with the battery pack acting as a nice counterweight to the 20-inch blades. Included in the box are the trimmer itself, a blade sheath for safe storage, one V20 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery, and a standard V20 charger. It’s a complete package designed to get you working within an hour of opening it, a feature we always appreciate. You can see its full feature set and current pricing to get a better idea of the value proposition.

A Deep Dive into the CRAFTSMAN V20 Trimmer’s Performance

A tool can look good on paper, but the real test is how it performs out in the yard, faced with tangled branches and demanding tasks. We put the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer through its paces on a variety of common landscaping challenges to see if its real-world performance lived up to its promising specifications. From delicate shaping of boxwoods to aggressively taming an overgrown forsythia, we analyzed its cutting power, handling, and battery endurance to give you a complete picture of what to expect.

Cutting Performance in the Real World

The heart of any hedge trimmer is its blades, and the 20-inch dual-action blades on this CRAFTSMAN model are genuinely impressive for a tool in this class. We started with a row of moderately grown privet hedges, a common task for any homeowner. The trimmer sliced through the new growth cleanly and without any hesitation. The dual-action design, where both blades reciprocate, was immediately noticeable; there was far less vibration transferred to my hands compared to older, single-action models. This reduction in vibration is not just a comfort feature; it allows for more precise control, resulting in a cleaner, flatter finish on the hedge top.

To test its 3/4-inch cutting capacity claim, we moved to an older, woodier section of the hedge and some unruly lilac bushes. On branches up to about a half-inch, the trimmer powered through without a single snag. When we pushed it to the 3/4-inch limit, it required a bit more effort and a slower pass, but it consistently made the cut. It occasionally struggled with very hard, dense wood at its maximum claimed capacity, but for the vast majority of branches within that range, it performed admirably. The cuts were surprisingly clean, which is crucial for plant health, as jagged, torn cuts can invite disease. For the average residential yard, this level of cutting power is more than sufficient and strikes a perfect balance between capability and weight.

Ergonomics and Handling: A Fatigue-Free Experience?

This is where the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer truly shines and sets itself apart from many competitors. Weighing in at just 6.6 pounds is a game-changer. We used the trimmer for a solid 30-minute session, and arm fatigue was minimal. This lightweight design makes it accessible to a wider range of users who might struggle with heavier gas or even some larger battery-powered models. The real star, however, is the full wrap-around front handle. This design choice is brilliant. When trimming the flat top of a hedge, you can grip it comfortably like a traditional trimmer. But when you need to switch to a vertical cut to do the sides, you can easily shift your hand position to the side of the loop, maintaining perfect balance and control without awkward wrist angles.

We found this incredibly beneficial when shaping rounded shrubs, as it allowed for smooth, sweeping motions. The balance of the tool is excellent, with the battery pack at the rear offsetting the weight of the motor and blades at the front. This prevents the “nose-heavy” feeling that can plague other trimmers, making it feel controlled and precise. The trigger mechanism is straightforward, with a safety lock that prevents accidental startup but is easy to disengage with one hand. Overall, the combination of low weight, superb balance, and an intelligently designed handle makes this one of the most comfortable and easy-to-use hedge trimmers we’ve tested for residential applications.

The V20 Battery Ecosystem: Power and Limitations

Cutting the cord is the primary reason to buy a battery-powered tool, and the CRAFTSMAN V20 system delivers on that promise of freedom. The included 1.5Ah battery is the entry-level offering in the V20 lineup. In our testing, we got approximately 35 minutes of solid, continuous runtime on a single charge while trimming standard hedges. This is enough to tackle a decent-sized job—think the front foundation shrubs and a 50-foot hedge row. For a small to medium-sized suburban yard, this is likely all you’ll need to get the job done in one go. The included charger will replenish the 1.5Ah battery in about 60-70 minutes.

The real value, however, emerges if you are already invested in or plan to expand within the CRAFTSMAN V20 ecosystem. This battery is compatible with a massive range of tools, from drills and impact drivers to leaf blowers and string trimmers. If you have other V20 tools, you can simply swap in a fresh battery and keep working. For those with larger properties or more demanding tasks, we would highly recommend purchasing a separate, higher-capacity battery, like a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah V20 battery. This would easily double or triple the runtime, turning the trimmer into a machine capable of tackling much larger projects without interruption. The included battery is adequate, but the tool’s true potential is unlocked with a more powerful battery, a worthy upgrade for anyone with extensive landscaping. For many, the starter kit is the perfect entry point into this versatile system.

What Other Users Are Saying

While our hands-on testing provides an expert perspective, we always look at broader user feedback to get a complete picture. The general sentiment for the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is overwhelmingly positive, with many users echoing our findings. People frequently praise its surprisingly light weight, which makes a dreaded chore far more manageable, especially for those who may not have the upper body strength for heavier equipment. The cutting power is another common point of praise, with many noting that it easily handles the types of branches and shrubs found in typical residential yards.

However, it’s important to provide a balanced view. We did encounter some isolated feedback from a user who was concerned they received a refurbished or returned unit rather than a brand-new one. While our test unit arrived in pristine, factory-sealed condition, this comment serves as a crucial reminder. It highlights the importance of purchasing from a reputable, authorized seller to ensure you receive a new product with a full warranty. This feedback appears to be related to a specific seller’s fulfillment process rather than a widespread issue or a defect in the trimmer’s design or performance itself.

How Does the CRAFTSMAN Trimmer Compare to the Alternatives?

The CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a fantastic all-rounder, but depending on your specific needs—be it more power, greater reach, or multi-functionality—one of its competitors might be a better fit. Let’s see how it stacks up against three distinct alternatives.

1. Skil 40V Brushless 24 in. Hedge Trimmer Kit

The Skil 40V hedge trimmer represents a step up in both power and performance. Its key advantages are the 40V battery platform, a more powerful brushless motor, and a longer 24-inch blade. This combination translates to the ability to cut slightly thicker branches (up to 1 inch) and cover more area with each pass. This is an ideal alternative for someone with a larger property, more mature and woody hedges, or for the user who simply wants more power and runtime. The trade-off is typically a higher price point and a bit more weight compared to the CRAFTSMAN V20. If your landscaping is extensive and demanding, the extra investment in the Skil could be well worth it.

2. GARCARE 20-inch Pole Hedge Trimmer

The GARCARE model is a completely different tool for a specific problem: tall hedges. As a corded electric pole hedge trimmer, its primary feature is reach. The adjustable pole allows you to trim the tops of hedges that are 10-12 feet tall without needing a ladder, which is a major safety advantage. Its pivoting head adds to its versatility for shaping high spots. You should choose this alternative if your main challenge is height. However, you must be willing to manage an extension cord, and it’s less maneuverable for trimming standard, chest-height shrubs compared to the nimble, cordless CRAFTSMAN.

3. Greenworks 24V 8″ Polesaw & Hedge Trimmer Combo

The Greenworks combo unit is all about versatility and value. It’s designed for the homeowner who needs to do more than just trim hedges. By offering interchangeable pole saw and hedge trimmer attachments on a single power head, it allows you to prune high branches and shape tall shrubs with one tool system. This is the perfect choice if you have a variety of light-duty trimming and pruning tasks and want to maximize your investment. The trade-off is that as a combo unit, its dedicated hedge trimming performance and power may not be as robust as the single-purpose CRAFTSMAN, but its multi-functionality is a compelling advantage for the right user.

Our Final Verdict: Is the CRAFTSMAN V20 Hedge Trimmer Worth It?

After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is an outstanding tool for its intended audience. It excels as a solution for the typical homeowner with a small to medium-sized yard. Its greatest strengths are its incredibly lightweight design, user-friendly ergonomics, and more-than-adequate cutting power for 95% of residential shrubs and hedges. It turns a laborious chore into a quick and nearly effortless task. While the included 1.5Ah battery limits its use for massive properties, it’s a perfect starting point and the option to upgrade to a larger battery within the versatile V20 system provides a clear path for future needs.

If you’re tired of fighting with cords, mixing gas and oil, or using a heavy, fatiguing trimmer, this CRAFTSMAN model is the upgrade you’ve been looking for. It strikes a near-perfect balance between performance, comfort, and value. For maintaining pristine hedges and reclaiming your weekend, we can wholeheartedly recommend it. If you’re ready to make hedge trimming easier than ever, we highly encourage you to check the latest price and availability for the CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer today.