Best Hedge Trimmers

Little Wonder 2420 (Around $260)

Best electric hedge trimmer. Comparative reviews give the Little Wonder top ranking among electric hedge trimmers, with enough quiet power to handle half-inch branches. These electric hedge shears also have a host of safety features, and the blade shuts off within a half second after the handle is released. Double reciprocating blades, instead of a single blade, are made to last longer, require less sharpening and minimize vibration. The Little Wonder hedge trimmer comes in three blade lengths.


Makita UH6350 (Around $150)

Mid-range electric hedge trimmer. For a little over half the price, reviews say the single-bladed Makita hedge trimmer gives you nearly the same performance as the more expensive Little Wonder 2420, handling half-inch branches with minimal noise and vibration. It has a dual-switch safety feature, but the blade doesn't stop as quickly after the trimmer is turned off. It does have a front shield for added safety, though users give this feature mixed reviews.


Craftsman 79957 (Around $70)

Budget electric hedge trimmer. Reviews say this dual-bladed Sears Craftsman hedge trimmer can still get the job done -- just less smoothly, with more noise and vibration than more expensive electric hedge trimmers. The Craftsman doesn't have a dual-switch safety feature, but there is a lock-off switch to prevent accidental starts. You can lock the switch on to prevent trigger-finger fatigue, a feature which is a favorite among owners. A cord clip keeps the cord from being accidentally disconnected.


Echo HC160 (Around $350)

Gas hedge trimmer. For mobility plus power rated for 3/4-inch branches, Echo gas hedge trimmers get high scores in comparative reviews. Tests show the double-reciprocating blades make clean cuts through branches and thick shrubbery without jamming or slowing. Gas hedge trimmers weigh 5 or 6 pounds more than electric hedge trimmers, but you don't have to drag a heavy extension cord. You'll need hearing protection while using it, and reviews find the exhaust fumes annoying, but vibration dampening is built into this model. The two-cycle engine meets clean air requirements without sacrificing fuel economy.


Black & Decker NHT518 (Around $70)

Cordless hedge trimmer. While corded electric hedge shears keep you within 100 feet of an outlet, the 18-volt Black & Decker hedge trimmer offers cordless convenience. It's also lightweight and quiet, but not as powerful. Based on testing, the Black & Decker is a good choice for quick trims, handling branches up to just under a half-inch. An extra battery (Around $45) will increase runtime. The Black & Decker has a lock-off switch (but it doesn't lock on), and the blade stops almost instantly when the switch is turned off.