Mains-electric models
These do a better job of cutting than battery models. Their wider tooth gaps mean they can trim thicker hedges. But your range is limited by the length of the power cord.
Hedge trimmers
Slash your trimming time with one of our recommended models.
Slash your trimming time with one of our recommended models.
Our database of 13 hedge trimmers features some great corded models if your trimming won’t take you far from home, along with some stellar battery-electric units with impressive run times for jobs further afield.
We've tested 13 hedge trimmers.
Find a hedge trimmer
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Learn more Join Consumer Log inWhat to look for
Here's what to look for in a hedge trimmer:
- Consider your application: if you’ve got a decorative, flowering hedge that just needs a light trim occasionally, you can prioritise ease of use over performance by choosing a lightweight, short-bladed model. For formal, sharp dividing hedges, choose a cordless or mains-electric model with a high performance score (8.0 or above). If you’ve got a hedge maze or a macrocarpa shelter belt, you’ll probably need a petrol trimmer.
- Blade length: long blades (55cm+) cut more hedge with each sweep so the job gets done faster, but they can be unwieldy. Shorter blades mean more work but easier handling.
- Blade-protecting teeth extend beyond the cutting blade to reduce the risk of dismemberment if you lose control.
- The tooth gap represents the largest branch your trimmer can handle. If your hedge has a decent amount of big branches, choose a model with a gap bigger than 2cm and a high performance score. A good pair of loppers gives a cleaner cut on the thickest branches.
- A rotating head makes it easier to switch between vertical and horizontal trimming.
How we test hedge trimmers
Our test hedge is a combination of mature murraya and plumbago plants containing some thick branches. We test by cutting horizontally (levelling the top of a hedge) and vertically (trimming the sides of the hedge).
Trimming performance scores are based on how quickly and easily the blade cuts through the hedge, and the sharpness of the final cut. Penalties apply for jagged edges and when we notice the trimmer struggling with thicker branches.
Our ease of use assessment looks at:
- The general comfort and ergonomics of the hedge trimmer, including weight, balance, visibility, and the ease of using the controls.
- The level of vibration.
One-battery systems
Manufacturers of cordless power gear usually market their products as members of a universal battery platform. The idea is you’ll buy your first tool as a kit including a battery and charger, then for subsequent tools you just need to buy the “skin” (the tool only).
We tested the line and hedge trimmers sold from Ryobi’s One+ range, and they returned reasonably good performance. They’re outclassed by higher-voltage tools (36V and above), though they’re a viable option for lighter jobs.
Volts, amps and watts
When shopping for cordless power equipment and batteries, you should consider volts (V) and amp-hours (Ah). For mains-electric models, all you need to worry about is watts (W).
- Volts (V) indicate the power of a battery. The best cordless line and hedge trimmers use 36, 40 or 56V batteries. A tool of a certain voltage can only be powered by a battery of the same voltage.
- Amp-hours (Ah) measure battery capacity, which gives you an idea of the runtime. A 1.0Ah battery is rated to deliver one amp for an hour before running out of juice. Typically, lithium-ion batteries for power gear range from 1 to 5Ah. A 2.0Ah battery gives about 30 minutes’ line trimming.
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Watts (W) show the power of an electric motor, and are usually only quoted for mains-electric (corded) products. Hedge trimmers generally range from 400 to 600W, but we find 500W is powerful enough to give a good cut on most domestic hedges.
