WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer Review: The High-Reach Trimmer Put to the Test

There’s a certain point every year when I look out at my property and realize the battle has been lost. The privet hedges that define my property line have exploded, reaching skyward with a defiant, untamed vigor. For years, this meant a precarious weekend ritual involving a wobbly stepladder, an unwieldy corded trimmer, and a constant, nagging fear of slicing through the power cable (again). The result was often an uneven, scalloped finish that screamed “amateur.” This annual struggle is more than just a chore; it’s a frustrating and frankly unsafe dance with gravity. The alternative—hiring a professional landscaping crew—can be costly and feels like a defeat for a hands-on homeowner. This is precisely the problem that a cordless pole hedge trimmer is designed to solve: to restore order, safety, and a sense of pride to the task of maintaining tall, hard-to-reach shrubbery.

What to Know Before You Buy a Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer

A Hedge Trimmer, particularly a pole model, is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your landscape with safety and precision. It eliminates the need for ladders, a major source of yard work injuries, and frees you from the tether of an extension cord. The primary benefit is the ability to create clean, level tops and perfectly vertical sides on tall hedges, something that’s nearly impossible to do safely from a ladder. This tool empowers homeowners to achieve a professional-looking result, maintain their property’s curb appeal, and get the job done faster and more comfortably.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with established, tall hedges, shrubs, or ornamental trees that require regular maintenance. It’s for the person who values the convenience of a battery-powered ecosystem and prioritizes safety over raw, gas-guzzling power. However, it might not be suitable for those who only have low-lying ground cover or small bushes that a standard, short trimmer can easily handle. Likewise, a professional landscaper clearing severely overgrown lots with thick, woody branches might find the power of a 20V battery system insufficient and would likely opt for a gas-powered or high-voltage (40V/80V) alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Reach & Weight: The primary feature of a pole trimmer is its reach. Consider the total length of the tool when fully extended, and add your own height to estimate your maximum working reach. However, this reach comes at a cost: weight and balance. A tool that is too heavy or poorly balanced at full extension becomes cumbersome and fatiguing, negating its benefits. Look for a balance between maximum reach and a manageable weight, typically between 7 and 10 pounds.
• Capacity/Performance: A trimmer’s performance is defined by its cutting capacity—the maximum branch diameter it can cleanly slice. This is determined by the blade gap and the motor’s power (indicated by voltage). For routine trimming of new growth, a 1/2-inch capacity is often sufficient. For tackling more established branches, you’ll need a larger capacity, like 3/4-inch, which often requires a more powerful 40V system. The WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer is designed primarily for lighter, maintenance-focused trimming.
• Materials & Durability: The cutting blades should be made of high-quality, hardened, or stainless steel to maintain a sharp edge and resist rust. Laser-cut or dual-action blades generally provide cleaner cuts and reduce vibration. The pole and housing are typically made from durable plastics like Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polypropylene to keep the weight down, but the locking mechanisms for the pole and articulating head should feel robust and secure.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Ergonomics are paramount. Features like a rotating rear handle, an adjustable cutting head, and a shoulder strap can dramatically improve comfort and control during use. For battery-powered models, consider the battery life (measured in Amp-hours or Ah) and charge time. Being part of a shared battery platform, like the WORX PowerShare system, is a massive advantage for long-term value and convenience.

While the WORX WG252 2-in-1 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 WORX WG252: First Impressions and Assembly

Upon opening the box for the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer, the familiar black and orange branding inspires confidence. We’ve tested many WORX tools over the years, and they consistently offer a great blend of innovative design and user-friendly features. Inside, the components were securely packed: the main motor and handle unit, the extension pole, the 20-inch trimmer head attachment, a 20V 2.0 Ah battery, a compact 1-hour charger, and a blade sheath. Assembly was straightforward, requiring only the attachment of the safety guard to the trimmer head, a process that took less than five minutes. However, it’s worth noting a point of contention we found mirrored in other user feedback: the advertised shoulder strap was missing from our box. This seems to be a recurring packaging inconsistency that can detract from the out-of-the-box experience.

Once assembled, the tool feels solid and well-balanced in its compact form. The plastics used for the housing feel durable, not cheap, and the pole extension mechanism locks into place with a satisfying and secure click. At 7.6 pounds, it’s noticeably lighter than the 40V behemoths we’ve tested, which immediately suggests it will be more maneuverable for longer periods. The initial impression is of a thoughtfully designed tool built specifically for the homeowner who needs reach without the punishing weight of a professional-grade unit. You can immediately see its full feature set and user reviews and understand why it’s a popular choice.

In the Field: A Comprehensive Performance Analysis of the WORX WG252

A tool can look great on paper, but its true value is only revealed in the yard. We put the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer through its paces on a variety of landscaping challenges, from tall privet hedges to unruly forsythia bushes and high ornamental grasses. Our in-depth testing focused on the key areas that matter most to a homeowner: reach and articulation, raw cutting power, overall ergonomics, and battery performance.

Reach and Articulation: Conquering the Heights Without a Ladder

This is where the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer truly shines and fulfills its core promise. The telescopic pole is easy to adjust and provides a significant extension. For an average-height user, this translates to a genuine working reach of 11 to 12 feet, which we found was more than enough to tackle the tops of 8-to-10-foot hedges while standing safely on the ground. We tested this on a long row of Arborvitae that had developed unruly peaks. Previously, this task required moving and climbing a stepladder every few feet—a tedious and unstable process. With the WG252, we could walk the entire length of the hedge, sculpting a perfectly flat top from a single, safe position on the lawn.

The real game-changer, however, is the 10-position articulating head. With a simple press of a button, we could pivot the cutting blade from a straight position to a full 90-degree angle. This feature proved invaluable. Angling the head slightly downward allowed for smooth, sweeping passes across the top of the hedge. Setting it to a full 90 degrees was perfect for trimming the vertical sides from a distance, preventing us from having to stand directly in the falling clippings. This level of adjustability provides incredible versatility, allowing for precise cuts in awkward spots, such as shaping bushes around obstacles or trimming ground cover without bending over. Many users confirm this, with one noting they could easily reach the top of their 13-foot tree. This impressive articulation is a feature that really sets it apart in the homeowner market.

Cutting Power and Blade Performance: Precision on the New Growth

When it comes to cutting performance, it’s crucial to set the right expectations for a 20V tool. The 20-inch laser-cut blades are sharp and efficient, producing clean, healthy cuts that prevent tearing and plant damage. On new growth and branches up to about the diameter of a pencil (approximately 1/4 inch), the trimmer performed admirably. It zipped through the lighter outer foliage of our hedges, making quick work of routine maintenance trimming. The dual-action blades also helped to minimize vibration, which is a significant factor in user fatigue over the course of a long job.

However, the limitations of the 20V motor become apparent when faced with thicker, more established wood. We tested it on some older, neglected sections of a forsythia bush with branches approaching 1/2-inch. Here, the trimmer struggled. It would either jam or require multiple, persistent attempts to gnaw through the branch. This experience directly confirms the feedback from several users, one of whom noted it “really struggles to cut anything bigger than about 1/4″ diameter.” Another user even provided a visual comparison to an older, more powerful WORX model, showing the less aggressive cutter design on the WG252. Therefore, we can confidently say this is not the tool for landscape reclamation projects. It is a maintenance tool, designed for keeping already-shaped hedges in pristine condition, and for that specific task, it performs very well.

Ergonomics and Handling: The Weight and Balance Equation

At 7.6 pounds, the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer is relatively lightweight for a pole trimmer. When used in its most compact configuration for chest-high shrubs, it is comfortable and easy to maneuver. The 180-degree rotating rear handle is a fantastic ergonomic feature, allowing you to adjust your grip for a more natural angle when switching between trimming vertical sides and horizontal tops. This small detail significantly reduces wrist and forearm strain over time.

The story changes, however, when the pole is fully extended. Basic physics comes into play; the weight of the motor and blade at the end of a long lever makes the tool feel substantially heavier and more unwieldy. Holding it aloft to trim the top of a high hedge requires considerable strength and can become fatiguing after 10-15 minutes of continuous work. This is where the missing shoulder strap becomes a critical omission. A simple strap would transfer much of the weight from the arms to the shoulder and core, drastically improving balance and extending comfortable working time. Numerous users, from a self-described “strong” 70-year-old senior to others who simply found it awkward, lamented the missing strap. One industrious user even fabricated their own handle to improve the balance point. While the tool is usable without it, the inclusion of a strap would elevate the user experience from good to great. If you decide to invest in this capable trimmer, we’d recommend sourcing a universal strap separately.

Battery Life and the PowerShare Ecosystem

Freedom from a cord is one of the biggest selling points of any modern yard tool, and the WORX PowerShare system is one of the best on the market. The included 20V 2.0 Ah battery and 1-hour charger are a solid starting point. In our testing, we found a single charge provided approximately 30-40 minutes of continuous, rigorous trimming. This was enough to complete maintenance on about 100 feet of 8-foot-tall hedges. One user reported an impressive two hours of cutting time, which is likely achievable with lighter, intermittent use. For the average suburban yard, one battery is likely sufficient to get the job done.

The real value, however, is for those already invested in the WORX ecosystem. As one user happily stated, their batteries from a 6-year-old lawn trimmer were still compatible. Having a second or third battery from a WORX drill or leaf blower on hand means you can work continuously, swapping out batteries as needed with zero downtime. The updated charger is also a significant improvement over older models, replenishing a battery in about an hour. The convenience of a single battery type powering over 140 different tools is a powerful incentive and adds tremendous long-term value to the purchase of the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, user sentiment for the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer is largely positive, with a few consistent caveats. The overwhelming praise is directed at the tool’s core function: its reach. Users consistently express delight at being able to trim tall hedges safely from the ground, with one reviewer celebrating, “With this trimmer it’s simple. The trimmer is very long and can reach the top of my 13’ tree!” The adjustable head and the convenience of the PowerShare battery system are also frequently cited as major benefits.

However, the critiques are just as consistent. The most common complaint is the tool’s weight and awkwardness when fully extended. A senior gardener noted, “My main complaint is it’s very heavy! … this heavy tool takes the fun out of it!” This sentiment is often directly linked to the second major issue: the missing shoulder strap. Numerous users report that the strap, which is pictured on the box and in promotional materials, was not included, making the tool much harder to handle. The other significant limitation mentioned is the cutting power, with several experienced users confirming that it is best suited for “light duty trimming” and struggles with anything thicker than new growth.

Alternatives to the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer

While the WORX WG252 excels at high-reach maintenance, your specific needs might be better met by a different tool. Here’s how it compares to three notable alternatives.

1. DocSmart Cordless 20” Hedge Trimmer with Battery

If you don’t need the extreme reach of a pole saw, the DocSmart trimmer presents a compelling value proposition. It’s a more conventional handheld hedge trimmer but comes packed with features. The most significant advantage is the inclusion of two batteries, effectively doubling your runtime right out of the box. With a similar 20-inch blade and a comparable cutting capacity, it’s designed for the same light-to-medium-duty trimming tasks. This is an excellent choice for homeowners who have extensive ground-level hedges and shrubs and prioritize maximum runtime and value over vertical reach.

2. Makita XMU04ZX Cordless Grass Shear

The Makita XMU04ZX is in a different class entirely. This is not a tool for trimming large hedges but a precision instrument for detailed shaping and delicate work. As a grass shear with an interchangeable small hedge trimmer blade, it’s designed for immaculate edging, topiary, and manicuring ornamental shrubs where a large blade would be too clumsy. For the meticulous gardener who finds joy in perfect spheres and sharp lines, the Makita offers a level of control and finesse the larger WORX cannot match. It’s the ideal companion tool for detail work after the main trimming is done.

3. BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 Cordless Hedge Trimmer 24-Inch

For those who found the WORX WG252’s cutting power to be its main weakness, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 is the answer. Stepping up to a 40V MAX battery system, this trimmer has the raw power to chew through branches up to 3/4-inch thick. Its longer 24-inch blade also allows you to clear more area with each pass. The trade-off is a significant increase in weight and the absence of a telescopic pole. This tool is the workhorse for tackling thick, dense, and overgrown hedges at ground level, prioritizing brute force over high-reach finesse.

The Final Cut: Is the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer Right for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the WORX WG252 2-in-1 Hedge Trimmer is clear: it is a purpose-built tool that brilliantly solves a specific problem. If your primary challenge is maintaining the shape and height of tall hedges without the danger and hassle of a ladder, this tool is an outstanding solution. Its combination of excellent reach, a highly versatile articulating head, and the convenience of the PowerShare battery platform makes it a top contender for homeowners with established landscaping. Its lightweight design (compared to more powerful models) makes it accessible to more users.

However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its 20V motor is geared for maintenance, not reclamation, so if you need to cut through thick, woody overgrowth, you will be disappointed. Furthermore, the weight at full extension is a real factor to consider, made more pronounced by the inconsistent inclusion of a much-needed shoulder strap. If your needs align with its strengths—safety, reach, and precision on lighter growth—we wholeheartedly recommend it. It turns a precarious chore into a manageable and even satisfying task. To conquer your tall hedges and bring a clean, professional look to your yard, you can check the latest price and availability right here.