Cordless Hedge Trimmers That Make Yard Work Easier
The EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer stands out as the top pick for homeowners who need serious cutting power without the cord hassle. It offers professional-grade performance with a 24-inch blade and a brushless motor that delivers consistent power. Owners report it slices through thick branches effortlessly, but its heavier weight might be a consideration for those with smaller hands or limited arm strength.
Taming overgrown hedges is a chore many homeowners put off. Corded trimmers restrict movement, and gas models are heavy and loud. Cordless hedge trimmers offer freedom and convenience, but choosing the right one requires understanding your needs.
This roundup evaluates the best cordless hedge trimmers for typical residential use. We looked at models from trusted brands like EGO, DeWalt, Makita, and Greenworks. Our goal is to help you find a trimmer that matches your hedge size, cutting demands, and comfort preferences.
Our top picks
EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer
This EGO trimmer is a powerhouse. Its 24-inch blade and brushless motor tackle dense hedges with ease. The battery system is shared across EGO’s outdoor tool lineup, so it’s a smart investment if you own other EGO tools. Users note its sturdy build and smooth cutting action.
Pros
- Excellent cutting power
- Long runtime with 2.5Ah battery
- Durable construction
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Battery not included
DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer (DCHT820B)
DeWalt’s 22-inch hedge trimmer delivers reliable performance with a brushless motor. It features a wraparound auxiliary handle for better control. Owners appreciate its balanced weight and effective blade design. The tool runs on the versatile 20V MAX battery platform.
Pros
- Strong cutting performance
- Comfortable handle design
- Works with all DeWalt 20V batteries
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Bare tool only
Makita 18V LXT Cordless Hedge Trimmer (XHU02Z)
Makita’s 18V hedge trimmer offers a 24-inch blade with a 3-step rotating head for versatile cutting angles. It’s known for its smooth operation and low vibration. The tool is well-balanced and easy to handle, making it ideal for detailed shaping. It uses the popular LXT battery system.
Pros
- Rotating head for versatile cuts
- Low vibration
- Precise blade design
Cons
- Battery not included
- Heavier than some
Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Greenworks PRO offers a 21-inch blade with an 80V brushless motor. This trimmer provides ample power for most home hedges. It comes with a battery and charger, making it a ready-to-use option. Users report good runtime and easy handling, though the blade is shorter than some.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Powerful 80V motor
- Reasonable price point
Cons
- Shorter blade length
- Battery not interchangeable with 40V tools
RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Hedge Trimmer (RY40440)
Ryobi’s 22-inch hedge trimmer is a solid choice for smaller hedges. It features a brushless motor that delivers decent power. The tool is lightweight and easy to handle. It’s compatible with the extensive 18V ONE+ system, which many homeowners already own.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Compatible with 18V ONE+ batteries
- Easy to control
Cons
- Not as powerful for thick branches
- Bare tool only
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer (LHT2436)
This Black+Decker trimmer is user-friendly and affordable. It comes with a 24-inch blade and a lightweight design. The trimmer includes a battery and charger, so it’s ready out of the box. Owners like its simple operation and low price, but it may struggle with very thick growth.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Low cost
Cons
- Less powerful motor
- Battery runtime is moderate
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hedge Trimmer (CMCHT820)
Craftsman’s V20 hedge trimmer offers a 22-inch blade and a lightweight build. It’s a practical choice for light to medium trimming. The tool uses the V20 battery platform, which is shared across many Craftsman tools. Users report it handles typical home hedges well, though it lacks the power of premium models.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Shares V20 battery system
Cons
- Limited cutting power
- Bare tool only
How they compare
| # | Model | Blade Length | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer | 24 inches | Heavy-duty trimming and thick branches | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer (DCHT820B) | 22 inches | Homeowners already in the DeWalt 20V system | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Makita 18V LXT Cordless Hedge Trimmer (XHU02Z) | 24 inches | Precision trimming and maneuverability | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | Greenworks PRO 21-Inch 80V Cordless Hedge Trimmer | 21 inches | Budget-conscious homeowners needing power | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Hedge Trimmer (RY40440) | 22 inches | Light to medium trimming and DIY users | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer (LHT2436) | 24 inches | Quick trims and ease of use | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hedge Trimmer (CMCHT820) | 22 inches | Craftsman tool owners and budget shoppers | 8.1 | Check price |
What matters most
Common questions
What is the best cordless hedge trimmer for thick branches?
The EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is excellent for thick branches due to its powerful brushless motor and 1 inch cutting capacity. The DeWalt 20V MAX also handles thick growth well.
How long does a cordless hedge trimmer battery last?
Battery life varies by model and usage. Typically, a 2.0Ah battery lasts around 30 to 45 minutes of continuous cutting. Higher capacity batteries (4.0Ah or more) can last over an hour. Heavy cutting reduces runtime.
Are cordless hedge trimmers as powerful as gas ones?
Modern cordless trimmers, especially 80V and brushless models, offer comparable power to gas for most residential tasks. They are lighter, quieter, and require less maintenance. However, gas trimmers still have an edge for very heavy, commercial use.
Can I use hedge trimmer batteries in other tools?
Yes, if you stick to the same battery platform. For example, DeWalt 20V batteries work in all DeWalt 20V tools. This is why many homeowners choose a brand and stick with it.
What safety gear should I wear when using a hedge trimmer?
Always wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from debris. Gloves provide grip and protect your hands. Ear protection is also advisable if the trimmer is loud, though cordless models are relatively quiet.
How do I maintain a cordless hedge trimmer?
After each use, clean the blades with a brush or cloth to remove sap and debris. Apply a light coat of lubricant or oil to the blade to prevent rust. Check for loose screws and tighten as needed. Store the trimmer in a dry place.
What does ‘cutting capacity’ mean on a hedge trimmer?
Cutting capacity refers to the maximum diameter of branch the trimmer can cut cleanly. Most cordless models can handle up to 3/4 inch to 1 inch. Trying to cut thicker branches can damage the blade or stall the motor.
Is it better to buy a hedge trimmer with a longer blade?
Longer blades allow you to cut more surface area in a single pass, which is efficient for long, straight hedges. However, they are heavier and harder to maneuver around curves. Choose a blade length that matches your hedge size and your physical strength.
Do cordless hedge trimmers come with a battery and charger?
Some models include a battery and charger, while others are sold as bare tools. The Greenworks 80V and Black+Decker models include them, but many professional models like EGO and DeWalt require separate purchase. Check the product description.
Can I cut wet hedges with a cordless hedge trimmer?
You can cut wet hedges, but it’s not recommended because wet branches can be slippery and cause uneven cuts. Also, moisture can increase the risk of electrical issues. It’s best to wait until the foliage is dry.
The verdict
For most homeowners, the EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is the best overall choice. It combines professional-grade power with the convenience of a cordless tool. If you already own DeWalt or Makita tools, consider their models to share batteries and save money. For those on a budget, the Greenworks PRO 80V offers great value with included battery and charger. Whichever you choose, prioritize a model that fits your hedge size and your comfort.
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.
