Top Brushless Hedge Trimmers for Effortless Shaping
For most homeowners, the Greenworks 24V 24-inch brushless hedge trimmer is the top pick. It delivers quiet, vibration-reduced performance with a 24-inch blade that suits medium-sized hedges. Its main advantage is the combination of cordless freedom and low maintenance. The main limitation is that runtime may be short for very large properties, so consider a higher voltage model if you have extensive hedging.
Tired of wrestling with extension cords or dealing with the noise and fumes of gas trimmers? Brushless hedge trimmers offer a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient way to shape your shrubs. They provide longer runtime, more torque, and less wear compared to brushed motors.
Our roundup covers top-rated models from trusted names like Greenworks, EGO, DEWALT, and Makita. We have options for every budget and yard size, from compact trimmers for small gardens to heavy-duty tools for professional use.
The best picks, ranked
Greenworks 24V 24-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer
This Greenworks trimmer features a 24-inch dual-action blade that reduces vibration and improves cutting efficiency. The brushless motor delivers more power and longer runtime than standard motors. It is compatible with the Greenworks 24V battery platform, making it easy to expand your tool set.
Pros
- Dual-action blade reduces vibration
- Quieter than gas models
- Lightweight and well balanced
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not for very thick branches
EGO Power+ 24-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer
The EGO Power+ trimmer operates on a 56V lithium-ion battery, providing ample power and extended runtime. Its 24-inch steel blade with 3/4-inch cutting capacity handles most hedge branches. The weather-resistant construction ensures durability in various conditions.
Pros
- Long runtime with 56V battery
- Durable steel blades
- Low vibration and noise
Cons
- Battery is expensive
- Heavier than some competitors
DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hedge Trimmer (DCHT820B)
DEWALT’s 20V MAX trimmer features a 22-inch blade and a brushless motor that optimizes runtime and power. It has a wraparound auxiliary handle for better control and a cordless design that fits the DEWALT 20V battery system. The trimmer is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Pros
- Works with existing DEWALT batteries
- Compact and lightweight
- Dual-action blade reduces fatigue
Cons
- Shorter blade length
- Battery not included
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Hedge Trimmer (XHU02Z)
Makita’s XHU02Z has a 21-inch blade with a 3/4-inch cutting capacity, ideal for detailed trimming. The brushless motor delivers variable speed controlled by the trigger for precise cuts. It is compatible with Makita’s 18V LXT batteries, a popular system among professionals.
Pros
- Variable speed trigger for control
- Compact design for tight spaces
- Anti-vibration mechanics
Cons
- Requires battery and charger
- Not as powerful as larger models
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless Hedge Trimmer (P2010B)
Ryobi’s 22-inch brushless trimmer offers affordability without sacrificing performance. It features a dual-action blade to reduce vibration and a wrap-around handle for comfort. As part of the ONE+ system, it shares batteries with over 200 tools.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compatible with ONE+ batteries
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Less power than 40V systems
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 22-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer (LHT2220)
This BLACK+DECKER trimmer is lightweight at under 5 pounds, making it easy to handle for extended periods. It has a 22-inch dual-action blade and a brushless motor for efficient cutting. The trimmer is part of the 20V MAX system and includes a battery and charger.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Includes battery and charger
- Easy to store
Cons
- Smaller cutting capacity
- Limited runtime
CRAFTSMAN V20 22-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer (CMCHT820)
The CRAFTSMAN V20 trimmer offers a 22-inch blade and brushless motor for dependable performance. It features a dual-action blade to minimize vibration and a comfortable grip. It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty, adding peace of mind.
Pros
- 3-year warranty
- Good cutting capacity
- Compatible with V20 batteries
Cons
- Heavier than some
- Battery not included
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Blade Length | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks 24V 24-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer | 24 inches | Best for medium yards seeking a balanced cordless trimmer | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | EGO Power+ 24-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer | 24 inches | Best for homeowners wanting long runtime and power | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Hedge Trimmer (DCHT820B) | 22 inches | Best for those already invested in DEWALT tools | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Makita 18V LXT Brushless Hedge Trimmer (XHU02Z) | 21 inches | Best for precision trimming with a compact design | 8.9 | Check price |
| 5 | Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless Hedge Trimmer (P2010B) | 22 inches | Best for budget-conscious shoppers on the Ryobi platform | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 22-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer (LHT2220) | 22 inches | Best for light to medium trimming tasks | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | CRAFTSMAN V20 22-Inch Brushless Hedge Trimmer (CMCHT820) | 22 inches | Best for homeowners wanting a reliable trimmer with a long warranty | 8.0 | Check price |
Before you buy
Frequently asked questions
What does brushless mean in a hedge trimmer?
A brushless motor uses electronic controllers instead of physical brushes to transfer power. This reduces friction and heat, making the motor more efficient, quieter, and longer-lasting than a brushed motor.
Are brushless hedge trimmers worth the extra cost?
Yes, for most users. Brushless trimmers offer better performance, longer runtime, and less maintenance. They tend to be more expensive upfront, but the efficiency and durability often justify the price.
How long does a battery last on a brushless hedge trimmer?
Battery life varies by voltage and capacity. A typical 20V to 24V battery may last 30 to 60 minutes, while 56V systems can last over an hour. Actual runtime depends on the thickness of the branches and how often you cut.
Can I use any battery with my brushless hedge trimmer?
No, batteries are brand-specific. For example, a DEWALT trimmer uses DEWALT 20V batteries. It is best to stick with the same brand’s battery system to ensure compatibility and safety.
What is the best blade length for a hedge trimmer?
For most home hedges, 22 to 24 inches is ideal. Longer blades cut more in one pass but are heavier. Shorter blades offer better control for detailed work. Consider your reach and hedge size when choosing.
How do I maintain a brushless hedge trimmer?
Keep the blades clean and sharp. Remove sap and debris with a soft cloth and lubricate the blades periodically. Store the trimmer in a dry place. Check the battery and charger for any damage.
Are brushless hedge trimmers quieter than gas ones?
Yes, brushless trimmers are significantly quieter than gas models. They also produce no exhaust fumes, making them more pleasant to use in residential areas.
Can brushless hedge trimmers cut thick branches?
Most models can cut branches up to about 0.75 inches thick. For thicker branches, you may need a pruning saw. Always check the cutting capacity specification before tackling large jobs.
Our pick
If you need a reliable, high-performance trimmer for a medium to large yard, the EGO Power+ 24-Inch is the best choice due to its superior runtime and power. For most homeowners, the Greenworks 24V offers the best balance of price, performance, and comfort. If you already own DEWALT tools, choose the DEWALT 20V MAX to save on batteries. Ultimately, the right model aligns with your battery platform and the size of your hedges.
Sierra Daniels
Sierra's background is in landscape design and nursery retail. She focuses on lawn and garden equipment, outdoor furniture and gear durability, weighing published specs against how materials actually hold up outside.
