When hedges are part of your landscape you need the best type of hedge trimmer. There are so many trimmers out there, and we want you to have the best.
The best type of hedge trimmer is a gas engine with a double sided blade. Gas trimmers are powerhouses that can cut through tough branches, are easy to repair and will last for a long time. Having a double sided blade gives a cleaner cut and allows the job to be done quicker.
Of course, you can always trim your hedges by hand, but nothing will get those hedges perfectly sculpted like a great trimmer. Hedge trimmers take the labor out of keeping your landscaping neat.
You can have perfect hedges all year with the best type of hedge trimmer. There is little effort on your part and the work is done in no time. It makes sense that any hedges need a hedge trimmer.
Our guide and recommendations will help you find the right trimmer to keep those hedges beautifully manicured and the envy of the neighborhood.
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What Type Of Hedge Trimmer Should I Buy
Trimming hedges by hand is a lot of work. You will spend a significant amount of time getting just the right shape when you use shears. The purchase of a hedge trimmer cuts the time and effort and leaves perfectly sculpted hedges. It is an investment that you will be glad you made.
Get your hedges looking just right without expending too much energy. There are numerous styles of hedge trimmers out there. You can choose between gas or electric, long or short, and corded or cordless.
This means there is one out there perfect for you and your landscaping needs.
We break down the benefits and features of the types of hedge trimmers for you and have top recommendations. Read on to find out which is the best type of hedge trimmer for you.
Single Side Hedge Trimmer
Many people wonder why use a single side trimmer when double sided trimmers are more versatile. In many cases a double-sided trimmer will be your best bet, but there are certain situations where having a single blade is advantageous.
Single-sided trimmers are lighter which means you can use longer blades without unbalancing the machine. A single-sided trimmer is great for long hedges as you cut more with each pass.
These are also a little safer since there are less teeth to worry about. Being lightweight also makes them a better option for those who must use trimmers for long periods of time.
Double Sided Hedge Trimmer
Double-sided trimmers are the more popular style with regards to blades. They can be used for precision hedge shaping and regular trims. The versatility of double blades is why they are preferred for most landscaping projects.
You can change direction easily which is ideal for corners and rounded shrubs. They are also ideal for smaller and confined spaces.
Electric Hedge Trimmer
Electric hedge trimmers can be battery operated or plug-in. These are quieter than their gas counterparts and environmentally friendly.
The battery versions come with a rechargeable battery so you can move around freely. Plug-in versions have a cord that will limit your movement.
To decide whether you want gas or electric, think of what the trimmer will be used for. For the average size yard and landscaping work, an electric trimmer is the least expensive option and easier to use.
Gas Hedge Trimmer
You get more power with a gas trimmer, but you also get more mess. These are louder and not friendly for the environment. However, they do have an exhaust that keeps the fumes away from the user.
Both gas and oil must be mixed in the fuel tank to use these trimmers. There is no cord so you can roam around, making these ideal for larger yards and landscapes.
Corded Hedge Trimmer
Corded trimmers are more powerful than the cordless options, but your movement is limited by cord length. While many have long cords, it is still more restrictive than not having a cord at all.
If you have a larger yard, a cordless version may work better. If the cord is long enough to go around your yard, then these are the most powerful and best option. Corded trimmers run off electricity, so there are fewer emissions given off as well.
Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Not as powerful as electric-driven trimmers, but you can go anywhere. Most batteries will stay charged long enough to cover average sized yards. For larger areas you may need to stop and recharge the battery.
Make sure the battery is fully charged before you start, and you should be fine. At least, there is not a cord dragging behind you getting in the way. These are also better than gas trimmers as they do not emit dangerous fumes.
Long Reach Hedge Trimmer
Taller hedges can be dangerous to trim if you do not have the right trimer. Long reach hedge trimmers make this a much safer and simpler task. Typically, these come with longer blades and an extendable arm.
This way you can reach taller hedges without hurting yourself. No need to work from a ladder anymore either.
Any time the height of a hedge exceeds your line of sight, you want to be using a long reach trimmer. Typically, these will also be single-bladed. You also need to take care when you extend the blade because the longer the pole is the more unstable the trimmer will be.
Curved Hedge Trimmer
Curved hedge trimmers are usually only for specific landscaping projects. Anytime the shrub or hedge is to have a rounded edge, you want to use one of these. Curved trimmers are not used as often because they provide more of a specialty service.
If you have shrubs and hedges that need perfectly rounded surfaces, a curved trimmer will do the job with ease. You can use regular straight trimmers for these tasks too, but the risk of error and injury is much greater. Instead use a trimmer that was designed to trim curves.
Single vs Double Sided Hedge Trimmer
You can either have one moving blade or two when it comes to cutting action. Blade length for single blades is between 30 and 48 inches and for double blades they are between 20 and 48 inches.
Blades for hedge trimmers will be either single or double sided. As mentioned, single-bladed trimmers are less popular but do have their advantages. You can get a better extension with these trimmers which is better for taller hedges.
Double-sided trimmers should be used at chest height only and will get jobs done much quicker. They are also heavier which can make them a problem for long hedges. You get a cleaner cut with double-action trimmers and reduced vibration for the user.
Single blades are cheaper and easier to maintain, and they are much safer.
Depending on what you are looking for, one of these two types of cutting action will work for you. Once you have decided which style you need, these are the top picks for each type.
The Best Single-Sided Trimmer is the Mantis Little Wonder 24″ Single Side Electric Hedge Trimmer found on Amazon.
You get more power then comes standard for single sided trimmers and can cut through brush up to 1/2 of an inch. It is lightweight and easy to carry so great for large yards.
The handle is easy to grip and complete with a hand protector shield, making this a safe and comfortable choice. A cord lock prevents you from getting unplugged while you work. The 24-inch blade is perfect to handle most residential landscapes and hedges.
What I like:
- Blades last 6 to 10 times longer than other steel blades
- Light and easy to handle
- Has double reciprocating blades for reduced vibration and heavier cuts
What I don’t like:
- A little pricey
The Best Double-Sided Trimmer is the Husqvarna 122HD45 Gas Hedge Trimmer found on Amazon.
The 2-cycle engine provides all the power you will need, and commercial steel blades cut through anything in your yard. The adjustable handle offers five positions to maximize your comfort.
For double-sided trimmers, this one weighs around 10 pounds, which is lighter than most. This trimmer is great for anyone with larger yards to cover. It will get the job done quickly and precisely.
This model is more expensive because it is a gas model, but it will last for many years to come and you get the freedom to move anywhere in the yard that you need to.
What I like:
- Pleasant working experience
- Built-in vibration dampeners
- Low effort pull start
- Great power output
What I don’t like:
- Not ideal for trimming at awkward angles
Gas vs Electric Hedge Trimmer
After deciding if you need a single or double sided trimmer, you get to choose between gas and electric options. Gas trimmers are known to have more power but there has been a recent change in trend towards electric trimmers.
This shift is largely due to society becoming more environmentally friendly. Electric trimmers do not release as many fumes and emissions as their gas counterparts.
Electric trimmers are also more lightweight, and you do not have to deal with mechanical engine maintenance. However, when you go electric you can be restricted by a cord.
There are battery-operated electric trimmers as well, but you must make sure your battery is always fully charged to get the yard done.
Electric trimmers are less expensive than gas machines, but they also do not last as long.
Gas trimmers are powerhouses that run forever with proper maintenance. Gas trimmers are easier to repair, and you never have to worry about running out of power as you work. Gas trimmers are, however, very loud and will cost you more upfront.
The Best Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer is the Echo HC-152 Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer found on Amazon.
It is one of the more lightweight options for gas trimmers and is well-balanced for easy carrying. The two-stroke engine also has a commercial grade filter to reduce the amount of fumes given off.
You get reciprocating blades for precise and even trimming every time. The razor sharpness does not dull easily so the trimmer will last a long time. Additional features like the muffler dampen the noise and the easy-to-maneuver handle makes all trimming jobs easy.
What I like:
- Secure handle ensures safety
- Easy to hold and maneuver
- Completes trimming jobs quickly
- Long-lasting
What I don’t like:
- Cuts slower with larger branches
The Best Electric Hedge Trimmer is the BLACK+DECKER BEHT350 22 Inch Electric Hedge Trimmer found on Amazon. Weighing under 7 pounds, there is no lighter weight trimmer out there.
The weight is easy to hold for long jobs and easy to maneuver for any tricky shrub positions.
You get less vibration with this trimmer with the 4-amp engine as well as plenty of power for average-sized yards. The cord is long enough to easily cover small and medium sized yards without having to recharge.
The super-strong blades can handle branches as thick as ¾ of an inch with ease.
What I like:
- Lightweight
- User-friendly
- Cuts well
- It has a cord trap which prevents unplugging
- Very long blade
What I don’t like:
- A little noisy
- It does not have a lock-on switch
Corded vs Cordless Hedge Trimmer
If you choose to go with an electric trimmer, your next decision will be whether to go corded or cordless. Cordless trimmers are usually powered by a rechargeable battery.
Batteries will only last for about an hour when fully charged, so if you have a larger yard, you will have to stop for a recharge.
Corded trimmers may also not work for a larger yard, depending on the length of your cord. But you can also invest in extension cords if needed. Just be careful the cord does not get in the way of your feet or the blades.
Cordless trimmers will show a gradual decline in power as the battery starts to drain. With corded options you get sustained power no matter how long you work. The cords also can create extra weight to carry around as you work which can get uncomfortable.
With cordless trimmers you get an easier load to carry but run the risk of only being able to do half the job at a time.
Because corded trimmers have more staying power, they are typically more expensive. They do last longer than corded trimmers though, so make for a better investment in the long term.
The Best Corded Hedge Trimmer to get is the BLACK+DECKER HH2455 3.3-Amp HedgeHog Hedge Trimmer on Amazon. Weighing under 7 pounds, this trimmer is lightweight which means less fatigue for you.
The motor features cord retention so that it will not come unplugged while in use. The 22-inch blades are hardened steel that can cut through thick branches, up to ¾ inch and the 3,00 cutting strokes per minute leave the smoothest cut.
The wrap around handle is comfortable and comes with a hand guard. You can operate this with one or both hands with ease. You also get a 2-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.
What I like:
- Light and compact
- Powerful motor
- Dual blade action
- Fast reciprocating speed
- Automatic shut off when trigger is released
What I don’t like:
- No blade cover
The Best Cordless Hedge Trimmer to get is the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer on Amazon. The dual-action trimmer has a long battery life and efficient cutting mechanism.
There is no risk of jamming blades or running out of power for average-sized yards. The unique chainsaw style handle gives you great grip and control and protects your hands.
The blades are also designed to reduce vibrations so your muscles will not get sore should you need to work for extended periods of time.
What I like:
- 40V battery holds charge longer than competing batteries
- Safe wrap around handle
- Lowered vibrations
- Soft rubber grips
What I don’t like:
- Does not give a very fine finish
Helpful Tips On Finding The Best Type Of Hedge Trimmer For You
In addition to the information we provided above, there are some points to remember when choosing a hedge trimmer.
- Weight and Balance: heavier trimmers will be hard to hold for long periods of time, so consider the weight and how much hedge you have before you buy.
- Blade Length: shorter blades are easier to maneuver, but longer blades are ideal for wider hedges.
- Safety Features: Make sure you get a trimmer with switch locks and hand guards. Also remember that electric trimmers are quieter and easier on the ears.
- Warranty: Always look at the replacement and warranty details from the manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
The best type of hedge trimmer will make your gardening and landscaping easier. While they all perform the same job, you need to find the one that works best for you.
One that suits your specific tasks and that is easy for you to carry around. The trimmer you choose needs to be safe and efficient for you.
The good news is that there is a hedge trimmer for everyone. With so many options, you can find the best one easily. Our guide has all the information you need to help guide your search.
With any of the recommended options we give, your hedge trimming work will be efficient and perfectly sculpted.