The Best Hedge Trimmers of 2026
The Greenworks 40V 24-inch hedge trimmer is the best pick for most yards: a long 24-inch blade that cuts branches up to 1 inch thick, on a battery platform that also runs mowers, blowers and trimmers. If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries, the CMCHT810B is a lighter 20-inch alternative. For a few hedges near the house, the corded BLACK+DECKER BEHT150 is one of the best-rated, lowest-cost trimmers on Amazon.
Greenworks 40V 24" Cordless Hedge Trimmer
A 24-inch dual-action blade covers long hedge rows quickly, and a 1-inch cutting capacity handles thicker, woody growth that jams smaller trimmers. It runs on Greenworks 40V batteries, which also power the brand's mowers, blowers and string trimmers. This listing is the tool only, so add a battery if you don't own one.
- ✓ Long 24-inch blade for fast trimming
- ✓ Cuts branches up to 1 inch thick
- ✓ Shares batteries with Greenworks 40V yard tools
- ✗ Tool only; battery and charger sold separately
- ✗ Longer blade is heavier at full reach
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CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCHT810B 20" Cordless Hedge Trimmer
CRAFTSMAN's 20-inch trimmer has dual-action blades with up to 3/4-inch cutting capacity and a full wrap-around handle for trimming the tops and sides of hedges. It runs on CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries, so it is a low-cost add-on if you already own the platform.
- ✓ Highly rated by owners
- ✓ Wrap-around handle for vertical and overhead cuts
- ✓ Up to 3/4-inch cut capacity
- ✗ Bare tool; battery sold separately
- ✗ Shorter blade than the Greenworks
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BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 20V MAX 22" Cordless Hedge Trimmer
BLACK+DECKER's 22-inch cordless trimmer is a simple, affordable way to go cordless with a battery included. A 22-inch blade is the most versatile size for typical home hedges and shrubs.
- ✓ Battery included
- ✓ Versatile 22-inch blade
- ✓ Light and easy to handle
- ✗ Less cutting power for thick branches than 40V trimmers
- ✗ Shorter runtime than larger-platform tools
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BLACK+DECKER BEHT150 17" Corded Hedge Trimmer
With more than 15,000 Amazon reviews, the BEHT150 is one of the most popular hedge trimmers sold. It is light, inexpensive, and has no battery to charge. The 17-inch blade suits small shrubs and short hedges near an outlet.
- ✓ Very low price
- ✓ Light and easy to use for long sessions
- ✓ No battery to buy or charge
- ✗ Cord limits range and must be kept away from the blade
- ✗ Short blade and light cutting capacity
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How we chose
We picked hedge trimmers that are in stock on Amazon for US buyers, well rated by many owners, and that cover the main choices: a high-capacity cordless trimmer, a platform add-on, a budget cordless kit and a budget corded model.
Battery platform matters most
Most people buy a hedge trimmer after they already own a mower, string trimmer or blower. If you do, buy the hedge trimmer from the same battery platform as a bare tool. It is the cheapest option and gives you more batteries to rotate.
Trimming tips
Trim the sides slightly narrower at the top than the bottom so sunlight reaches the lower branches. Use long, sweeping strokes, keep the blade parallel to the hedge, and clean and oil the blades after each use to prevent sap buildup.
Blade length versus control
A longer blade covers a hedge faster, but it also puts more weight further from your hands. That matters most when you trim the top of a hedge at shoulder height or above. For hedges you can reach comfortably from the ground, a 22 to 24 inch blade saves time. For small shrubs, topiary and detail work, an 18 to 20 inch blade is easier to steer.
Single-sided versus dual-action blades
All the trimmers in this guide use dual-action blades, where both the upper and lower blades move. Dual-action blades vibrate less and cut more cleanly than single-action blades, and they let you cut in both directions without turning the trimmer around.
Cutting capacity and overgrown hedges
The tooth gap limits the thickest branch a trimmer can cut. Forcing a trimmer into branches thicker than its rating stalls the blade and can damage the gearbox. For overgrown hedges, cut the thickest stems first with loppers or a pruning saw, then use the hedge trimmer to shape the hedge.
Runtime
Hedge trimming is a light load for a battery tool, so even a 2.0Ah battery usually trims a typical suburban hedge line. If you have long hedges or also want to run a string trimmer from the same batteries, a 4.0Ah battery is a good middle ground.
Blade care
Sap and debris build up on the blades and increase friction. After each use, brush off clippings, wipe the blades with a cloth, and apply a light lubricant spray. Keep the blade cover on when the trimmer is stored. If the blades become nicked or dull, they can be sharpened with a flat file, following the original angle of each tooth.
Safety
Wear eye protection and gloves, keep the cord (on corded models) over your shoulder and behind you, and use a stable platform rather than a stepladder for tall hedges. Release the trigger and wait for the blades to stop before clearing a jam.
Which pick is right for you?
Choose the Greenworks 40V for long or overgrown hedges and if you want a battery platform for the whole yard. Choose the CRAFTSMAN if you already own V20 batteries. Choose the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 for a simple cordless kit with the battery included, and the corded BEHT150 if you only trim a few shrubs close to an outlet and want the lowest price.
Frequently asked questions
- What length hedge trimmer should I buy?
- 20 to 22 inches suits most home hedges. Go longer (24 inches) for long hedge rows, and shorter (17 to 18 inches) for small shrubs and detail work.
- Cordless or corded hedge trimmer?
- Cordless for freedom of movement and no risk of cutting the cord. Corded is cheaper and lighter if your hedges are near an outlet.
- What cutting capacity do I need?
- For yearly maintenance, 1/2 to 3/4 inch is plenty. For overgrown hedges with thicker, woody branches, choose 1 inch, like the Greenworks 40V.
- Can a hedge trimmer cut thick branches?
- Only up to its rated cutting capacity, usually 1/2 to 1 inch. For thicker stems, use loppers, a pruning saw or a mini chainsaw first, then shape the hedge with the trimmer.