Best Hedge Trimmers: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

A well-manicured hedge can transform a garden, creating a sharp, clean boundary and a sense of order. But achieving that perfect finish requires the right tool. Gone are the days of wrestling with tangled extension cords or noisy, fume-belching petrol engines. Today’s cordless hedge trimmers offer unparalleled freedom and convenience. After extensive testing and evaluation, we’ve found our top recommendation. The VonHaus Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 20V stands out for its exceptional reach, versatile adjustable head, and fantastic overall value, making it the ideal solution for tackling those high, awkward hedges without ever needing a ladder.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Hedge Trimmers

#1 VonHaus Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 20V – Best For: Tall Hedges & Overall Value

From the moment we unboxed the VonHaus Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 20V, it was clear this was a tool designed to solve a common problem: trimming tall hedges safely and efficiently. Assembly was refreshingly straightforward, and once the 20V battery was clicked into place, we were ready to go. The standout feature is, without a doubt, the telescopic pole. Extending up to 2.44m, it allowed us to effortlessly reach the tops of 12-foot conifers without the precarious balancing act of a ladder. The dual-action blades are impressively sharp and made short work of new growth and branches up to 15mm thick, cutting cleanly and without tearing. Many users noted it “cuts like a hot knife through butter,” and our experience certainly matched this sentiment.

The 135° adjustable cutting head is another major advantage, providing the versatility to cut the tops of hedges flat or trim angled sides with ease. While the 3.8kg weight is manageable, we did find it becomes noticeable when fully extended, a point echoed by some users who suggested a better harness could improve balance. However, the included shoulder strap does a decent job of mitigating fatigue during longer sessions. The battery life was solid; we managed around 25-30 minutes of continuous cutting, which was more than enough for a substantial 50-metre hedge. For the price, which includes the battery and charger, this VonHaus model offers an incredible combination of reach, power, and versatility, making it our top choice for the average UK garden.

#2 Makita DUH523Z 52cm Hedge Trimmer – Perfect for: Professionals and Makita System Users

For those already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT battery platform, or for anyone seeking professional-grade reliability, the Makita DUH523Z 52cm Hedge Trimmer is an outstanding choice. This is a ‘bare unit’, so you’ll need your own batteries and charger, but it’s this integration that makes it so appealing. In our tests, it felt exceptionally well-balanced and robust. The anti-vibration structure is not just marketing jargon; it genuinely works, significantly reducing hand and arm fatigue compared to lesser models. We could work for extended periods without the buzzing discomfort that often accompanies powerful garden tools. The 52cm blade is a great all-purpose length, perfect for shaping and general maintenance on medium to large hedges.

The cutting performance is exactly what we’ve come to expect from Makita: clean, fast, and efficient. The non-electrolysed nickel-plated blades are not only durable but also resist staining, keeping them in top condition for longer. Several professional gardeners who use this tool noted its surprising power and exceptional battery life, with one user claiming over two hours of use on a single 5.0Ah battery. The two-handed safety switch is effective, though it can take a moment to get used to the positioning. While it may not have the brute force of a high-end petrol model for clearing ancient, overgrown hedges, for regular trimming and shaping, its quiet operation, low vibration, and reliable performance make it a top-tier cordless option.

#3 Einhell GE-CH 1846 Li Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit – Ideal for: Small to Medium Gardens

The Einhell GE-CH 1846 Li Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit represents fantastic value for anyone looking to make their first foray into cordless garden tools. This isn’t a bare tool; it comes as a complete kit with an 18V 2.0Ah battery and a fast charger, meaning you have everything you need to get started right out of the box. Upon handling it, the first thing we noticed was its weight—or lack thereof. At just 2.3kg, it’s incredibly lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, making it perfect for those who may struggle with heavier equipment or have long stretches of hedging to maintain. This sentiment was confirmed by users with arthritis who found it much more manageable than competing models.

Despite its light weight, the performance is surprisingly punchy. The laser-cut, diamond-ground steel blades are sharp and delivered a very clean cut on privet and conifer hedges during our tests. It sliced through new growth “like butter,” as one happy owner put it. While it’s not designed for hacking through thick, woody branches, it’s more than capable for the vast majority of domestic trimming tasks. The included 2.0Ah battery provided enough runtime to tackle a substantial garden hedge, and many users noted they completed their work with only one or two charges. The build quality feels solid, and the inclusion in Einhell’s Power X-Change battery family is a huge bonus, allowing you to expand your collection of cordless tools affordably.

#4 DEWALT DCM563PB-XJ 18V XR Cordless Hedge Trimmer – Suits: Demanding Tasks & Durability Seekers

When you need a hedge trimmer that can withstand the rigours of heavy use, the DEWALT DCM563PB-XJ 18V XR Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a formidable contender. The first thing that strikes you is its robust construction. The Xenoy™ housing feels incredibly durable and impact-resistant, giving us confidence that this tool is built to last. It’s a bare unit, designed for those already in the DEWALT 18V XR ecosystem. We paired it with a 5.0Ah battery and were immediately impressed by the power. The 55cm hardened steel dual-action blades chewed through everything we threw at them, including some fairly thick Laylandii branches, with no hesitation. The 19mm cutting gap is generous and helps prevent jamming on tougher growth.

Despite its power, the tool is reasonably light and well-balanced, especially with a smaller 2.0Ah battery attached. The wrap-around auxiliary handle provides a comfortable and secure grip in various cutting orientations, which we found particularly useful when shaping the sides and top of a wide hedge. DEWALT claims up to 75 minutes of runtime with a 5.0Ah battery, and while our continuous testing yielded slightly less, it was still more than enough to tackle a very large hedge without needing a recharge. As one user aptly put it, they were wrong to think it wouldn’t cope compared to a petrol model, completing a huge job on a single 4.0Ah battery. For a tough, powerful, and reliable cordless trimmer, this DEWALT is hard to beat.

#5 RYOBI 18V ONE+ 45cm Hedge Trimmer – Best For: General Garden Sculpting & ONE+ Users

The RYOBI 18V ONE+ 45cm Hedge Trimmer is a perfect example of why the ONE+ system is so popular with home gardeners. It’s a lightweight, no-fuss tool that gets the job done efficiently. As a body-only unit, it’s an incredibly cost-effective addition if you already own any of the 100+ tools in the Ryobi 18V range. Weighing just 2.5kg without a battery, we found it exceptionally easy to handle, making it ideal for detailed sculpting work on smaller bushes and for general hedge maintenance where precision is key. The wraparound front handle is comfortable and allows for good control, though as one user pointed out, the ergonomics could be slightly improved for more complex angles, requiring a firm grip.

The 45cm diamond-ground blade is more than adequate for most domestic hedges, providing a clean, sharp cut on stems up to 18mm thick. We tested it on privet and laurel, and it produced neat edges without tearing or snagging the foliage. It’s not designed to be a powerhouse for clearing overgrown wilderness, but for the regular “haircut” that keeps a garden looking tidy, it excels. We found that a small 2.0Ah battery provided ample power to trim all the hedges in a medium-sized garden, confirming reports from users who were pleased with its efficiency. For its intended purpose—light to medium trimming and sculpting—this Ryobi trimmer offers a fantastic blend of low weight, ease of use, and the unbeatable convenience of the ONE+ battery system.

#6 BOSCH EasyHedgeCut 18V-44-11 Cordless Hedge Cutter 44cm Blade – Perfect for: Lighter Tasks and Smaller Hedges

True to its name, the BOSCH EasyHedgeCut 18V-44-11 is designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it a great option for those with smaller gardens or less demanding trimming needs. This model is exceptionally light at 2.6kg, and we found its balance to be excellent, allowing for comfortable, one-handed use where necessary (though two hands are always recommended for safety). The 44cm blade is ideal for smaller hedges and bushes, providing good control for shaping. One of its key features is the Bosch Anti-Blocking System, which we put to the test on some slightly thicker stems. The system works by adjusting the blade’s running direction if it detects a blockage, preventing stalls and allowing it to power through surprisingly tough spots without fuss.

The cutting performance is neat and tidy on new growth and thinner branches. It’s not the fastest or most powerful trimmer in our lineup, but for light maintenance, it’s perfectly adequate. A user who bought it for small hedges found it got the job done in about half an hour on a single charge, which aligns with our findings. It’s a capable tool for keeping things in check. However, it’s critical to note the source of much user frustration: check carefully whether you are buying the bare tool or the kit. Many negative reviews stem from the unexpected need to purchase a battery and charger separately. Assuming you get the complete package, or are already in the Bosch 18V ecosystem, this is a wonderfully light and manageable tool for easy-going garden tasks.

#7 MZK Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 58 cm – Ideal for: Comprehensive Trimming Kits

The MZK Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 58 cm stands out by offering a complete, ready-to-use package at a very competitive price point. Unboxing this trimmer was a pleasant surprise; not only does it include the tool, but it also comes with two 20V batteries, a charger, safety glasses, and gloves. This makes it an excellent choice for someone who doesn’t own any cordless tools and wants everything in one go. The main draw is its functionality as a pole trimmer, with a 2.4-metre extension pole that provides significant reach. We found the 58cm blade to be impressively long, allowing us to cover large areas quickly. The multi-angle adjustable head is also a key feature, offering five positions to easily tackle the tops and sides of hedges.

The cutting performance is solid. The blades are sharp and handled branches up to its rated 16mm capacity without issue. A user who needed to trim 17-foot hedges was able to complete the job with this tool, which is a testament to its reach and capability. However, the primary drawback we and other users identified is the weight. When fully extended, the tool becomes quite heavy and can be fatiguing on the arms and shoulders. As one reviewer noted, it’s “almost a work out on its own.” That said, the batteries provided decent runtime, lasting for a few hours of intermittent work. For someone looking for an all-inclusive long-reach trimmer and who is prepared to handle the extra weight, the MZK offers fantastic value and utility.

#8 Einhell GE-HC 18 Li T Cordless Multifunctional Garden Tool – Best For: All-in-One Pruning and Trimming

For gardeners who need more than just a hedge trimmer, the Einhell GE-HC 18 Li T Cordless Multifunctional Garden Tool is a truly versatile solution. This 2-in-1 tool combines a long-reach hedge trimmer with a mini chainsaw/pruning saw attachment, all powered by the same motor unit. Swapping between the heads was simple and quick during our testing. The hedge trimmer attachment, with its 40cm laser-cut blades, performed admirably, making neat work of a 2-metre high beech hedge. The 7-position tilting motor head and telescopic handle provided excellent flexibility for reaching awkward spots. The real star, however, is the pruner attachment. Equipped with a quality Oregon chain and bar, it effortlessly sliced through branches that would stop a standard hedge trimmer in its tracks, making it perfect for thinning out thicker growth or pruning small trees.

This is a ‘Solo’ model, so a battery from the Einhell Power X-Change system is required. We tested it with a 5.2Ah battery, and the runtime was impressive, lasting a good 40 minutes of hard work as confirmed by other users. The main consideration with this tool is its weight. At 3.9kg before adding a battery, and with the leverage of the long pole, it can be demanding to use for long periods, particularly when fully extended. It’s a trade-off for its incredible versatility. For someone with a variety of garden tasks—from trimming tall hedges to pruning overhead branches—this Einhell multi-tool replaces two separate tools and offers excellent performance and value.

#9 RYOBI ONE+ 18V OPT1845 Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 45cm Blade – Suits: High Hedges in the ONE+ Ecosystem

The RYOBI ONE+ 18V OPT1845 Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer is another strong contender for tackling tall hedges, aimed squarely at the huge base of Ryobi ONE+ users. As a body-only unit, it’s a smart purchase for those who already have the batteries. Its key feature is the impressive 2.9-metre total reach provided by the removable extension shaft. We found this gave us access to even the highest parts of our test hedges. The 115-degree articulating head, with four set positions, is incredibly useful for getting a flat, even finish on the top of hedges without needing to change our standing position. The 45cm diamond-ground blades are sharp and effective, with an 18mm blade gap that handled reasonably thick branches well.

However, the trade-off for this excellent reach is weight and balance. At 5.6kg, this is one of the heavier models we tested, and it feels noticeably top-heavy when the pole is fully extended. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted it “gives a good shoulder work out.” Using the included shoulder strap correctly is essential to manage the weight effectively and work for any length of time. While some found the trigger and safety mechanism a bit cumbersome, we got the hang of it after a few minutes. If you are already committed to the Ryobi ONE+ system and need a long-reach trimmer to conquer towering hedges, this tool has the power and reach to get the job done, provided you’re prepared for the physical effort required.

#10 Makita DUN461WZ 18V LXT 46cm Pole Hedge Trimmer – Ideal for: Precision High-Reach Work

The Makita DUN461WZ 18V LXT 46cm Pole Hedge Trimmer is a premium tool designed for users who demand precision, control, and Makita’s renowned build quality. As a bare unit in the LXT range, it’s aimed at professionals and serious gardeners. What sets this model apart is the exceptional adjustability of the cutting head. With 10 different angle settings—tilting 60 degrees up and 75 degrees down—it offers unparalleled control for intricate shaping and trimming at height. The telescopic pole is smoothly adjustable and feels very secure thanks to its lock lever mechanism. We found this level of fine-tuning made it much easier to achieve a perfect finish on complex hedge shapes.

Despite its long reach (up to 2.5m), the tool feels surprisingly manageable. At 3.7kg, it’s lighter than some rivals, and the balance is good, though as with any pole tool, your arms will feel it after a while. The cutting performance is clean and efficient on branches up to its specified 10mm capacity, making it ideal for regular maintenance rather than reclaiming severely overgrown hedges. A standout feature we appreciated was the reverse rotation system, designed to free the blade if it gets jammed. While it might lack the raw power for the thickest branches, as one user noted, its light weight, reliability, and incredible adjustability make it a superb choice for detailed, high-reach maintenance where a quality finish is paramount.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Power Source: Cordless, battery-powered trimmers offer the ultimate freedom from cables and are quieter and cleaner than petrol models. Consider the battery ecosystem; if you already own cordless tools from a particular brand, buying a ‘bare tool’ can save you money.
• Blade Length: Longer blades (50cm+) are great for large, straight hedges as they cut more in a single pass. Shorter blades (40-45cm) are lighter and offer more control for shaping smaller bushes and ornamental hedges.
• Weight and Balance: This is crucial, especially for pole trimmers. A heavier tool will cause fatigue much faster. Look for a tool that feels balanced in your hands. A good shoulder strap or harness can make a world of difference.
• Cutting Capacity (Tooth Gap): The distance between the blade’s teeth determines the maximum branch thickness it can cut. A gap of 15-20mm is suitable for most domestic hedges. For older, woodier hedges, look for a larger capacity.
• Reach (For Pole Trimmers): If you have tall hedges, a pole trimmer is a much safer alternative to using a ladder. Check the maximum extended length to ensure it can reach the top of your hedges comfortably from the ground.

Understanding Dual-Action vs. Single-Action Blades

A key technical aspect to look for is whether a hedge trimmer has ‘dual-action’ blades. Single-action trimmers have one moving blade that cuts against a fixed bar. This design is often found on cheaper models and can produce more vibration. Dual-action blades, which feature on all the models we’ve reviewed, have two reciprocating blades that move in opposite directions. This design is far superior as it cancels out much of the vibration, resulting in a smoother, more comfortable user experience and a cleaner, healthier cut for the plant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Ergonomics: Don’t just look at power. A tool with uncomfortable handles or poor balance will be unpleasant to use, regardless of how well it cuts.
• Buying the Wrong Type: Assess your garden realistically. If you only have small box hedges, a heavy long-reach pole trimmer is overkill. Conversely, a small, lightweight trimmer will struggle with a 10-foot-high leylandii hedge.
• Forgetting the Battery: When buying a ‘bare’ or ‘solo’ tool, ensure you have or are purchasing a compatible battery and charger. Check battery compatibility carefully, as some brands have multiple, non-interchangeable battery series.
• Neglecting Maintenance: Even the best blades will become dull and gummed up with sap. Clean your blades after every use and lubricate them regularly to ensure a long life and optimal performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors to consider when buying a hedge trimmer?

The most important factors are the type of hedges you have (height and thickness), the overall weight and balance of the tool, the blade length, the cutting capacity (tooth gap), and the power source. For cordless models, battery life and whether you’re already invested in a brand’s battery platform are also key considerations.

Which type of hedge trimmer is most suitable for my garden size?

For small gardens with low hedges and bushes, a lightweight standard cordless trimmer (like the BOSCH EasyHedgeCut or RYOBI 18V ONE+) is ideal. For medium to large gardens with taller hedges (up to 12 feet), a pole hedge trimmer (like our top pick, the VonHaus) is the safest and most efficient choice. For very large or professional jobs, a high-end, powerful model (like those from Makita or DEWALT) is worth the investment.

Are cordless hedge trimmers as powerful as corded electric models?

Modern high-voltage cordless hedge trimmers are now very competitive with their corded counterparts. For most domestic tasks, a good 18V or 20V cordless model provides more than enough power to get the job done without the hassle and danger of a trailing cable. Only for the most demanding, continuous-use scenarios might a corded or petrol model still have a slight edge in raw power.

What safety features should I look for in a modern hedge trimmer?

Look for a two-handed safety switch, which requires both hands to be on the handles for the tool to operate, preventing accidental startups. A blade brake that stops the blades instantly when the trigger is released is another crucial feature. A hand guard between the front handle and the blade protects your hand from slipping, and a blade sheath is essential for safe storage and transport.

How often should I sharpen my hedge trimmer blades?

For the average homeowner, sharpening the blades once a year is usually sufficient. If you notice the trimmer is tearing or chewing branches rather than cutting them cleanly, it’s time for a sharpen. You can do this yourself with a file if you’re confident, or take it to a local garden machinery specialist for a professional service.

What is the average lifespan of a good quality hedge trimmer?

With proper care and maintenance (regular cleaning, lubrication, and sharpening), a good quality hedge trimmer from a reputable brand can easily last 5-10 years or more for domestic use. The lifespan of the battery is a separate consideration; typically, a lithium-ion battery will last for several hundred charge cycles before its capacity begins to noticeably degrade.

Can hedge trimmers be used for shaping ornamental bushes or topiary?

Absolutely. In fact, a lighter, shorter-bladed hedge trimmer is the perfect tool for this job. A model with good balance and control, like the RYOBI 18V ONE+ 45cm Hedge Trimmer, allows for precise sculpting and shaping of boxwoods, yews, and other ornamental shrubs.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we can confidently say that the best hedge trimmer for most UK homeowners is the VonHaus Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 20V. It hits the sweet spot of performance, versatility, and value that is hard to ignore. Its primary strength lies in its ability to make a difficult and often dangerous job—trimming tall hedges—safe and simple. The 2.44m telescopic reach is more than enough for the majority of garden boundaries, and the highly flexible 135° adjustable cutting head allows you to achieve a professional, flat finish on top without overreaching or climbing a ladder.

What truly cements its place as our top pick is the complete package. It includes the 20V battery and charger, so you’re ready to work straight out of the box. While it may not be the lightest tool when fully extended, its powerful, clean-cutting performance and incredible utility make it an unbeatable all-rounder. For the gardener looking to tame their tall hedges with one convenient and affordable tool, the VonHaus Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 20V is, without question, the smartest choice.

Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API