It can be a challenge to keep your hedges and shrubs looking neat and healthy all the time. They grow very fast and can be difficult to shape.
When in need of a hedge trimmer, most people prefer an electric hedge trimmer. Electric hedge trimmers come with cutting blades that are specifically designed to trim and cut hedges in less time than using manual garden shears.
Hedge trimmers are available in gas, manual and electric models. While the choice of hedge trimmer largely depends on your personal preference, electric hedge trimmers provide the most benefits. Let’s find out below.
Top 7 Best Hedge Trimmers
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Gas Powered Vs Electric Hedge Trimmer
The choice between a gas and electric-powered hedge trimmer depends on the number of shrubs that needs to be trimmed.
Gas-powered hedge trimmers require more effort and more money. They are great in trimming thick, large and unruly hedges.
Electric-powered hedge trimmers on the other hand are more lightweight, convenient and affordable. They are available in corded and cordless models. A corded model requires you to use an extension cord or use it within short distance from your power outlet. If you will be working far away from the power supply outlet, you will be needed an extension cord as well.
Cordless electric hedge trimmers are, otherwise, easier to work with and carry around. You will need to charge its batteries but this should not be too much of a hassle. The cordless electric hedge trimmer (becomes battery operated after charging) is ideal within large gardens. You can take the trimmer anywhere without worrying about dragging a power supply cord.
The downside of cordless hedge trimmers is the possibility of running out of battery in the midst of doing the job. It is best to have a full-charged spare battery on stand-by.
Both corded and cordless electric hedge trimmers come with these benefits:
- Lightweight and portable.
- Easy and convenient to use as they can be lifted to any required height.
- Starts easily. No need to pull any cords and you do not need to mess with any gas.
- Quiet operation.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Almost maintenance-free.
- Highly affordable.
- Do not release greenhouse gasses which is good for the environment.
Things To Look For In The Best Hedge Trimmer
When shopping for hedge trimmers, you should be conscious of these details:
#1. Blade
Hedge trimmers are available in single or double action blades. If you are doing a huge trimming job, it will be much faster with a dual action blade.
#2. Cutting Capacity
If you will be working on a lot of shrubs with extremely thick branches, you will need to wisely choose the trimmer mode. For branches that are thicker than 5/8 inch, a high voltage cordless hedge trimmer is most appropriate. A gas-powered hedge trimmer will also work well.
#3. Weight
If you are going to be working on just a few shrubs and bushes in your garden, the weight of your hedge trimmer is not going to be an issue. If you are however going be be trimming big hedges in several rows, a lightweight trimmer will not tire your arms at once.
#4. Noise
Electric hedge trimmers are quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. If you intend to use a gas-powered hedge hammer be ready with your earplugs. Also, be ready for a harsh call from a resting neighbor.
#5. Length
Hedge trimmers are available in different blade lengths. Longer blades make trimming easier and more evenly. They can be a challenge to maneuver especially when you are trimming in a tight space.
18 inches is the most ideal blade length. If working with larger hedges, you can consider an 20 inch blade or even longer. It will make work easier if you have the space to maneuver the trimmer. If you are using a hedge trimmer for the first time, start with a shorter blade.
#6. Ease Of Use
Ease of use is dependent on the weight and power source of the hedge trimmer. Electric hedge trimmers are easy to start and lightweight.
Some electric hedge trimmer models have an On lock so you do not need to keep pressing on the trigger while working.
Most electric hedge trimmers come with wraparound handles making them easy and comfortable to hold. Many models also have rotating blades making them easy to maneuver.
#7. Durability
A hedge trimmer consists of many parts that will wear down over time. It is therefore best to choose a brand with a good reputation and a good warranty. Choose a brand which has been around for some time.
Reading customer reviews and feedback will give an idea of the lifespan of a particular hedge trimmer brand. Of course how well you clean, maintain and store your hedge trimmer play a vital role in its lifespan.
How To Use An Electric Hedge Trimmer
Hedges, shrubs and bushes are often undervalued of terms of the beauty and curve appeal they can contribute to a landscape. These plants, as a matter of fact, are great complement to gardens, lawns, landscapes, stonewalls and patios.
Hedges, shrubs and bushes however need to be grown and shaped well to achieve its beautiful look. This is how to use an electric hedge trimmer:
- Connect hedge trimmer to power supply. If you need to take the hedge trimmer far from the power outlet, connect an extension cord. Before turning on the hedge trimmer, make sure the power cord is not within the angle of the blades.
- Decide on a shape. A good shape for the hedges will help keep them healthy because it allows the sun to go deep into the main stems and roots.
- Adjust hedge trimmer accordingly. Upon start-up, set the hedge trimmer at its lowest speed. Always hold the trimmer with both hands. If you want a square topped hedge, lay the tripper on top of the hedge and moved it sideways and cut to desired height. For a round top, trim the first 3 inches from the top of the hedge with upward strokes. Hold the trimmer far from your body and work toward the center of the hedge with a bit of an angle until you are able to create a curve.
- Clean out the excess growth. After cleaning and shaping the outer portion of the hedge, work on the twisted branches and excess growth.
- Clean up the area. When trimming and cutting is done, use a rake to gather all the twigs and branches. Load them in a wheelbarrow and toss into your recyclable container.
Use the electric hedge trimmer only from the ground. Avoid being on a step ladder while operating the electric hedge trimmer. The best time to work with your electric hedge trimmer is in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is no longer too hot.
The best electric hedge trimmer however makes keep these landscape beauties looking their very best. The nicest thing too is that it is so easy to use.
Top 7 Electric Hedge Trimmer Reviews
Greenworks 22122 Dual Action Electric Hedge Trimmer
This Greenworks 22 inch corded and 4 amp dual action electric hedge trimmer has a cutting capacity of 5/8 inch. It is capable of up to 3200 SPM. It is easy to use with a rotating handle allowing you to cut from any angle.
The electric hedge trimmer model is fitted with a 22-inch dual action blade. It is powered by a 4 Amp motor, which is powerful enough to trim shrubbery and bushes with so much ease.
Features
- Powerful and reliable 4 Amp motor for cutting edge performance.
- Well-balanced and lightweight for ease in use
- Precise cutting with capacity of up to 5/8 inch
- 22-inch dual action steel blades easily and quickly cut bushes and shrubs
- Comfortable ergonomic rotating handles (180 degrees ) easy horizontal and vertical trimming.
- Has a quiet operation
- Equipped with a cord lock to prevent accidental disconnection and start-ups
What We Liked
- Easy to use
- Powerful motor
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to use
- Long enough cord
- Safe operation
What We Didn't Like
- The trigger often malfunctions
BLACK+DECKER HT20 Hedge Trimmer
The Black +Decker HT20 comes with a powerful 3.8 Amp motor and a 20-inch blade. It is equipped with dual blades that ensure comfortable and quick cutting. It also comes with a wrap-around handle in front so your grip of the machine is secure and comfortable from any angle.
Features
- Equipped with a dual –action 20-inch blade.
- Steel blades are rust-resistant, pre-hardened and with long and sharo edges.
- Powered by a 3.8 Amp motor.
- Cuts smoothly and appropriately
- Has lower vibration than most electric hedge trimmers.
- Comes with soft grips for comfortable trimming.
- Equipped with a lock-off switch to prevent accidental start-up
- Secure cord retention to prevent accidental unplugging.
- Lightweight design reduces strain and fatigue to the user
What We Liked
- Lightweight and compact for convenient maneuverability and comfortable use.
- Stainless steel blades are pre-hardened and corrosion resistant
- Soft handles are comfortable even when used for long hours.
- Ensures quick and clean trimming
What We Didn't Like
- Lock-off switch is not too reliable forcing some users to continuously press the trigger to keep the machine running.
This Black+Decker electric hedge trimmer provides so much value for money and is ideal for shrub and hedge maintenance of small to medium size yards.
BLACK+DECKER HT22 Hedge Trimmer
The Black+Decker 22-inch hedge trimmer is equipped with steel blades that are rust resistant. The blades come pre-hardened and sharpness is maintained for a long time. Using this Black+Decker model will ensure that your shrubs and hedges are trimmed in an attractive and neat manner.
Features
- Cuts branches with a diameter of up to ¾ inch
- Pre-hardened blades
- High power 40 Amp motor
- Dual-action 22-inch blades
- Vibration is 40% less than other electric hedge trimmers
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver and handle at only 5.5 pounds
- Front handle has a wrap-around design so ensure a comfortable grip in all cutting angles
- Grips are soft, secure and comfortable.
- Equipped with lock-off switch
- Easy to handle accessorily
- User-friendly design with great weight distribution.
- Features an ergonomic and comfortable 3-side cushion grip
What We Liked
- Pre-hardened blades remain sharp for long periods of time
- Blades are capable of cutting at both sides.
- Blades barely get tangled with the branches
- Capable of cutting even thick branches
- Cuts branches with ease and faster
- Trimming formal hedges is a breeze
- Long battery life for every full charge
What We Didn't Like
- Lock-off switch is not reliable
- Trigger must be continuously pressed to keep machine running.
This Black+Decker HT 22 is best used for trimming, hedging and straight hedging.
Sun Joe HJ22HTE Electric Hedge Trimmer
This 22-inch Sun Joe HJ22HTE is powered by a 3.5 Amp motor. It provides precision for all your trimming needs. It features an ergonomic and compact design as it is lightweight. Most of all, it is easy to operate and maneuver.
This electric hedge trimmer is a convenient go-to-garden tool that will quickly cut through thick shrubs and hedges. This electric-powered model ensures no mess of oil or gas. It is easy to maintain, does not emit fumes and more importantly does not require frequent start-ups.
Features
- Easy start-up (push button)
- Features a wrap-around handle (front)
- Ergonomic handle ensuring enhanced control and balance
- Equipped with a 3.5 Amp motor for superior and précised cutting
- Durable 22-inch dual-action stainless steel blades
- Built-in safety switch (dual-handed) to prevent accidental start-ups
- Rust-resistant and pre-hardened blades
- Lightweight at only 5 pounds
What We Liked
- Convenient ergonomic design
- Powerful motor
- Low emission
- Not too noisy
- Lightweight
- Easy to maintain
- Does not require frequent tune-ups
- 2-year warranty
What We Didn't Like
- Electrical cord is too short
This Sun Joe 22-Inch electric hedge trimmer is ideal for the trimming, sculpting and shaping of shrubs, bushes and hedges.
GreenWorks 22102 Corded Hedge Trimmer
The GreenWorks 22102 is a corded 18-inch electric hedge trimmer. This garden tool is powered by a 2.7 Amp motor which can produce ample power for your cutting needs. It comes with an attractive green color and can cut bushes and shrubs with a maximum of 3/8 inches without stressing out the user.
The lightweight design of this Greenworks model ensures easy handling. Another nice feature of this hedge trimming is its secure cord which prevents any accidental start-ups and unplugging.
Features
- Dual-action 18-inch stainless steel for optimum maneuvering and performance
- Powerful 7 Amp motor for efficient cutting of bushes and shrubs.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for easy handling that will not strain the user.
- Has a cutting capability of 3/8 inch which is ideal for shrubs and bushes
- Equipped with cord lock to prevent accidental start-up and disconnection
What We Liked
- Has a quiet operation
- Budget friendly
- Lightweight
- Easy to use and maneuver
- Does not easy tire the user
- Easy to maintain
- Does not require frequent tune-ups
- Extremely powerful and has zero carbon emissions
- Blades are strategically placed so they do not accidentally cut the power cord.
- No assembly required
What We Didn't Like
- Limited maneuverability because it needs a power cord.
- Short power cord
This Greenworks model does not emit any carbon making it environment friendly. It also comes with a 4-year warranty.
BLACK+DECKER HH2455 Hedge Trimmer
The Black+Deckler HH2455 HedgeHog is equipped with a 24-inch dual action blade that allows the cutting through of overgrown scrubs and bushes. It has 40% less vibration when compared to single-action blades. Cuttings blades rotate for easy horizontal and vertical cutting.
It comes equipped with a lock On/Off switch to prevent accidental start-ups and disconnection. An extension cord holder is also included.
Features
- Powered by 3.3 Amp motor which is a combination of control and power.
- Long 24-inch dual-action blades can cut even overgrown shrubs and bushes.
- Lesser vibration by as much as 40%.
- Handle has a soft grip for added control and comfort while in use.
- Features arear handle with a 1800 rotation for easy horizontal and vertical trimming.
- Built-in power cord retainer keeps extension cord in place and permanently plugged for continuous operation.
- Equipped with a lock-off switch top prevent accidental start-up for safety and accidental disconnection for uninterrupted use.
What We Liked
- Handle has a soft grip making this hedge trimmer comfortable to use
- The rear handle rotates 180 degrees so horizontal and vertical cutting is easy
- The 24 -inch stainless steel blade is pre-hardened and remains sharp for a long time
- It is a well-balance hedge trimmer because of its unique in-line motor
- Perfect for unruly, overgrown hedges and thick branches.
- Comes fully-assembled
What We Didn't Like
- Short power cord thus an extension cord is needed
- Not so fast operation
- Is a bit expensive for first time users
The BLACK+DECKER HH2455 HedgeHog hedge trimmer is of high quality but with a budget-friendly price. Its ergonomic design and swivel handle allows it to be a comfortable and well-balanced garden tool.
Remington RM5124TH Electric Hedge Trimmer
This Remington 24-inch dual action electric hedge trimmer is equipped with titanium coated blades which will make it last long and cut more efficiently. It is lightweight and comes with an ergonomic design. It is powered by a 5 Amp motor.
Swivel blades make it easy to shape the hedge tops and bases. It starts easily and does not require any oiling. This garden tool is budget-friendly and comes with a 2-year warranty. Included in the set is a scabbard storage made of cardboard to serve as blade cover for safety.
Features
- Long 24-inch dual action titanium coated blades which provide cleaner cuts.
- Cutting capacity of ¾ inch
- Grips are cushioned and comes with an ergonomic design allowing the tool to deal with tough branches with ease and comfort.
- Lightweight design
- 180 degrees rotating handle allows easy adjustment of the hedge trimmer and for a comfortable grip.
- Features a swivel blades for easy cutting from any angle.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
What We Liked
- Ideal for sculpting and shaping of bushes and shrubs
- Well-balanced tool
- Can handle tough and unruly shrubs and plants
- Hedges can be easily trimmed without any tilting because of the 1800 rotating blades
- Handles are comfortable
- 5 Amp motor for efficient and quick trimming and cutting.
- Low maintenance
What We Didn't Like
- On/Off switch is not too reliable.
- Motor is not very powerful thus it is not very effective in cutting heavy branches.
Best Electric Hedge Trimmer - Winner
Many homeowners do not bother cutting and trimming the scrubs, bushes and hedges as they do not have the right equipment. It is difficult to produce a beautiful hedge design if you are struggling with trimming and cutting.
The Black+Decker HT22 is the the top pick in this list. This hedge trimmer has an ideal construction and design making it the best choice for coming up with smooth and clean cuts. Using the best choice electric hedge trimmer you can confidently handle thick and unruly branches even when used for long hours.