When it comes to maintaining beautiful landscaping and gardens, having the right electric hedge shears can make all the difference. With the best electric hedge shears, you can tackle trimming and pruning tasks quickly and easily. As an experienced landscaper, I know how important it is to find cordless hedge shears that are both powerful and convenient to use.
Based on extensive testing and reviews, I’ve selected the top electric hedge shears on the market in 2022 for home use. In this expert review roundup, I’ll provide detailed overviews of the key features, pros and cons, and ideal uses for each model. Whether you need versatile shears for basic trimming or more heavy-duty pruners for large hedges, our picks for the best electric hedge shears have you covered. Let my experience guide you to the perfect cordless trimmer for your unique gardening needs. Keep reading for the full reviews and helpful buying advice!
My Top 3 Picks
Top 6 Best Electric Hedge Shears
1. SnapFresh Cordless Grass Shears Review
The SnapFresh Cordless Grass Shears is a versatile 2-in-1 electric hedge trimmer that allows you to easily switch between trimming grass and thicker shrubs and bushes. With its lightweight yet powerful design, it’s a great option for maintaining a tidy garden.
Overview of Features
The SnapFresh shears comes with both a 3.25-inch grass blade and a 5.5-inch hedge trimmer blade. Switching between the two blades is quick and easy with no tools required. The blades are made from hardened steel for durability.
A 7.2V lithium-ion battery provides power to the 1100rpm motor. This gives enough cutting power for most trimming tasks. A battery indicator lets you monitor the remaining runtime. The battery fully charges in 3-5 hours.
At just 1.36 lbs, the SnapFresh shears is lightweight and easy to maneuver. The handle has an ergonomic grip that’s comfortable to hold. The compact size makes storage simple.
For safety, there are three lock mechanisms. You have to hold down the safety switch, push the safety lock, and then press the on/off switch. This prevents accidental starting.
Pros
- 2-in-1 versatility: Easily switch between the grass shear and hedge trimmer blades for different trimming jobs.
- Powerful 1100rpm motor: Provides good cutting power for branches up to 8-inches thick.
- Lightweight at 1.36 lbs: Reduces fatigue for extended trimming sessions.
- Ergonomic handle: Comfortable grip minimizes hand strain.
- Safety locks: Prevent accidental starting to avoid injuries.
Cons
- Longer hedge blade could be larger: The 5.5-inch blade limits thicker branch cutting.
- Battery life could be longer: Lasts 30-45 minutes per charge depending on trimming load.
- No variable speed settings: Speed is either on or off which reduces control.
Ideal Uses
The SnapFresh Cordless Grass Shears is a great choice for light-duty trimming around your home. It works well for:
- Trimming grass in tight areas that a lawn mower can’t reach.
- Basic hedge and shrub maintenance up to 8-inch diameter branches.
- Quick touch-ups to maintain tidy edges around walkways and flowerbeds.
- Light pruning tasks like flowers and smaller ornamental bushes.
Verdict
The SnapFresh Cordless Grass Shears is convenient for older adults and those with less arm strength given the lightweight and ergonomic design. The lack of a cord provides unlimited mobility around your property. Just charge up the battery and go.
While it can handle lighter hedge trimming, the short 5.5-inch blade does limit its ability to cut thicker branches. It’s best suited for light trimming rather than heavy pruning jobs. The shorter 30-45 minute battery life also makes it less ideal for largescale hedge maintenance.
2. Saker Cordless Hedge Trimmer Review
The Saker Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a convenient battery-powered trimmer designed for home gardening needs. With its interchangeable hedge trimmer and grass shear blades, it provides versatility in one compact tool.
Overview of Features
This trimmer comes with both an 8.89-inch hedge trimmer blade and a 6.81-inch grass shear blade. You can quickly switch between the two using the easy blade release buttons. This allows you to tackle shrubs and grass with the same tool.
It has a 20V lithium-ion battery that delivers power to the high-torque motor. On a full 2-hour charge, the battery provides approximately 60 minutes of runtime. The battery conveniently detaches for charging separately from the tool.
The tool weighs 3.95 lbs making it lightweight and easy to maneuver. An ergonomic handle with a non-slip grip provides comfort for extended use. The head adjusts to 3 angles – 15°, 30°, and 45° for flexibility based on the trimming application.
For safety, there are two trigger mechanisms. You need to push the safety lock while pulling the trigger to operate. The blades also have a protective guard.
Pros
- 2-in-1 hedge and grass blades: Provides versatility in one tool. Easily switch between applications.
- Powerful 20V lithium-ion battery: Enables up to 60 minutes of runtime per charge. Detaches for convenient charging.
- Lightweight at 3.95 lbs: Reduces fatigue for prolonged use.
- Adjustable head angles: Allows you to orient the blades for optimal trimming angle.
- Double safety triggers: Prevent accidental starting and injury.
Cons
- Longer charge time: The 2-hour charge time is slower than some competing models.
- No variable speed control: Speed is either on or off which limits precision.
Ideal Uses
The Saker Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a great choice for light-duty trimming and pruning around your home. It’s ideal for:
- Maintaining ornamental shrubs, bushes, and small trees.
- Shaping and edging bush hedges up to 0.5-inches thick.
- Trimming grass and weeds in tight spaces.
- Pruning branches up to 0.75-inches thick.
Verdict
The lightweight design makes it easy to use for longer sessions without tiring your arms. It’s convenient for seniors or those with limited strength. The adjustable head provides versatility to trim at different angles.
While convenient for lighter home use, the short 8.89-inch blade does limit its ability to cut really thick branches. It also lacks advanced features like variable speed control. So it may not meet the needs of professional landscapers doing heavy duty pruning.
Overall, the Saker Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a versatile electric trimmer well-suited for basic home gardening needs. It allows you to maintain a tidy yard without the hassle of gas or cords.
3. Ryobi P2900B ONE+ Cordless Grass Shear Review
The Ryobi P2900B ONE+ Cordless Grass Shear boasts of being among the best electric hedge shears. It provides cordless convenience for tackling trimming tasks around your home. As part of the Ryobi ONE+ system, it’s a versatile addition for homeowners.
Overview of Features
This grass shear comes with both an 8-inch hedge trimmer blade and a 4-inch grass shearing blade. You can switch between the two in seconds without tools for added versatility.
The high-performance motor generates 1,000 strokes per minute. This allows you to power through thick branches effortlessly. It has a 5/16-inch cut capacity on the hedge blade.
When used with an 18V ONE+ 1.3Ah battery, it will run continuously for up to 85 minutes. All Ryobi 18V ONE+ batteries are compatible so you can share them with other Ryobi tools.
Weighing 3.2 lbs, the tool is lightweight and easy to maneuver. It has an overmolded handle for comfort during extended use. The compact design makes storage convenient.
Pros
- Powerful 1,000 SPM motor: Tackles thick branches with ease. 5/16-inch cut capacity.
- Long 85 minute runtime: Lets you work continuously with less stopping to recharge.
- Part of the ONE+ system: Batteries are interchangeable with other Ryobi tools.
- Tool-free blade swap: Change blades in seconds for added versatility.
- Overmolded handle: Provides a comfortable grip for prolonged use.
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included: Adds additional cost.
- No shoulder strap: Can’t be worn over shoulder to reduce arm fatigue.
- No variable speed control: Speed is either on or off which limits precision.
Ideal Uses
The Ryobi P2900B Cordless Grass Shear is a great choice for homeowners looking for cordless convenience in a hedge trimmer. It’s ideal for:
- Shaping and trimming small to medium ornamental hedges and bushes.
- Pruning branches up to 5/16-inches thick.
- Trimming grass and weeds around fences, sidewalks, gardens and other tight spaces.
- Quick touch-ups and edging around the yard between mowings.
Verdict
It’s a durable and high-performing tool capable of tackling small hedge pruning jobs. The long runtime minimizes downtime between battery charges. And it benefits from the versatility of the Ryobi ONE+ battery system.
The lack of included batteries and charger does raise the overall cost. And the hedge blade could be slightly longer for thicker branches. But overall the Ryobi P2900B Cordless Shears packs excellent cutting power in a lightweight cordless package perfect for home use.
4. Makita XMU04ZX Cordless Grass Shear Review
The Makita XMU04ZX 18V LXT Cordless Grass Shear delivers power and convenience in a compact cordless trimmer. With fast cutting speeds and long runtime, it tackles outdoor trimming tasks with ease.
Overview of Features
This 2-in-1 trimmer comes with interchangeable blades for both grass shearing and hedge trimming. You can switch between the two quickly without any tools required.
It has a high-performance motor that delivers 2,500 strokes per minute. This enables fast, efficient cutting through thick branches and stubborn grass. The 6-5/16 inch shear blade has a dual cutting action for added efficiency.
When used with an 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery, it will run continuously for up to 3 hours on a single charge. The fast-charging LXT batteries minimize downtime. And the tool is compatible with all Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries.
Weighing just 4.1 lbs, the trimmer is lightweight and easy to maneuver. It has a rubberized soft grip handle for comfort during prolonged use. The compact 13-3/4 inch length makes storage simple.
For precision, the grass shear has a 3-stage cutting height adjustment from 9/16 to 1 inch. This lets you match the cutting height to the grass length.
Pros
- Fast 2,500 SPM cutting speed: Powers through branches and thick grass with ease.
- Up to 3 hours runtime: Lets you work for long sessions without stopping to recharge.
- Dual-action shear blade: Cuts efficiently in both directions for faster trimming.
- 3-stage cutting height adjustment: Allows you to match the blade height to the grass length.
- Compatible with all Makita 18V LXT batteries: Take advantage of the versatile 18V system.
Cons
- Batteries and charger sold separately: Adds to the initial cost.
- No shoulder strap: Cannot be worn over shoulder to reduce arm fatigue.
Ideal Uses
With its long runtime, fast cutting speed, and convenient cordless design, the Makita XMU04ZX is ideal for:
- Tackling overgrown ornamental hedges and bushes.
- Shaping and edging hedge rows.
- Pruning branches up to 3/4-inches thick.
- Trimming thick grass and weeds around fences, gardens, and landscaping.
Verdict
It has the power and runtime to take on larger trimming jobs as needed. The 3-stage cutting height adjustment provides versatility in grass lengths. And it benefits from Makita’s fast-charging 18V LXT battery system.
While it lacks variable speed control, the fast 2,500 SPM motor has enough power for most trimming tasks. For home use, the Makita XMU04ZX packs impressive cutting performance in a convenient cordless package. It’s an excellent hedge trimmer choice for the home gardener.
5. MZK 7.2V Cordless Grass Shear Review
The MZK 7.2V Cordless Grass Shear is a versatile 2-in-1 trimmer allowing you to tackle both grass and hedge trimming. With its interchangeable blades, rechargeable battery, and safety features, it’s a convenient cordless tool for home use. This makes it one of the best electric hedge shears today.
Overview of Features
This shear comes with both a short blade for grass and a long 8.5-inch blade for hedge trimming. You can quickly switch between the two as needed for the task at hand.
It has a 1100rpm motor providing enough power for branches up to 0.47-inches thick. The 7.2V lithium-ion battery is conveniently removable for charging separately from the tool. It provides approximately 45 minutes of run time per 1.5 hour charge.
The shear weighs just 2 lbs making it very lightweight and easy to maneuver. It has an ergonomic soft grip handle that’s comfortable to hold during prolonged use.
For safety, it has a dual lock mechanism. You need to hold down the safety lock while pulling the trigger to operate. This prevents accidental starting.
Pros
- Removable 7.2V battery: Lets you charge away from the tool for convenience.
- Lightweight 2 lb design: Minimizes fatigue for extended trimming sessions.
- 2-in-1 hedge and grass blades: Provides versatility for different trimming needs.
- Safety lock switch: Prevents accidental starting to avoid injuries.
- 45 minute runtime: Allows quick trimming jobs without needing to recharge.
Cons
- Low 1100rpm motor speed: Limits cutting ability for really thick branches.
- Short hedge blade length: Can’t tackle wide or overgrown hedges.
Ideal Uses
The lightweight cordless design makes the MZK 7.2V Grass Shear ideal for:
- Trimming grass and weeds in tight spaces like around gardens and landscaping.
- Light hedge trimming and shaping of smaller ornamental bushes.
- Touch up pruning of small branches up to 0.47 inches thick.
- Quick edging to maintain tidy borders along walkways and fences.
Verdict
It’s easy to use for extended periods without tiring your hands and arms thanks to the lightweight body and comfortable grip. The removable battery adds convenience for charging.
However, the low-powered motor and short hedge blade do limit its ability to tackle thicker, overgrown hedges and shrubs. Overall, the MZK 7.2V Cordless Grass Shear is best suited for quick, light home trimming tasks rather than heavy duty pruning jobs. But overall it provides cordless versatility at an affordable price point.
6. LUXBIRD Cordless Grass Shears Review
The LUXBIRD Cordless Grass Shears is a versatile electric trimmer allowing you to tackle both hedge and grass trimming tasks. With its lightweight design and interchangeable blades, it simplifies home gardening needs.
Overview of Features
This 2-in-1 trimmer includes both a 3.5-inch grass cutting blade and a 5.9-inch hedge trimmer blade. You can quickly switch between the two as needed for different trimming jobs.
It comes with two removable 1500mAh lithium-ion batteries. Each battery provides approximately 1 hour of runtime. With both, you can work for up to 2 hours before needing to recharge. The batteries conveniently detach for charging in 1.5 – 2 hours.
Weighing just 2.4 lbs, the shear is lightweight and easy to maneuver. It has an ergonomic non-slip handle for comfort and safety. The trimmer head can be adjusted to different angles for added versatility.
For protection, it has an IP67 waterproof rating so you can use it in wet conditions. Goggles and gloves are also included for added safety. A trigger lock prevents accidental starting.
Pros
- Includes two rechargeable batteries: Allows up to 2 hours of continuous runtime.
- Lightweight at only 2.4 lbs: Minimizes fatigue for extended trimming.
- Adjustable trimmer head: Provides different angles to match the trimming application.
- Waterproof design: Can use safely in wet weather and easily clean after use.
- Safety trigger lock: Prevents accidental starting and injuries.
Cons
- Underpowered motor: Limits ability to tackle really thick hedge branches.
- Short hedge trimmer blade: Not ideal for wide or overgrown shrubs.
- No variable speed control: Less precision than trigger-controlled speed.
Ideal Uses
The LUXBIRD Grass Shears is a great lightweight cordless trimmer for basic home use including:
- Trimming and edging smaller ornamental hedges and bushes.
- Shaping and touching up hedge rows.
- Cutting grass and weeds around fences, gardens, walkways and landscaping.
- Pruning thinner branches up to 0.5 inches thick.
Verdict
It’s easy to use thanks to the lightweight body and comfortable ergonomic grip. The adjustable head provides added versatility for different trimming angles. And the waterproofing enables use in damp conditions.
While convenient for home use, it lacks power for really thick woody branches. And the hedge blade is on the shorter side. But for basic maintenance trimming, the LUXBIRD Grass Shears provides good cordless cutting performance at an affordable price point.
How to Choose the Best Electric Hedge Shears
If you’re looking to buy electric hedge shears, making the right choice can feel overwhelming given the many brands and models available. But with expert tips on what to look for, you can confidently select the best electric hedge shears for your needs.
As an experienced landscaper, I’ve tested and used just about every type of cordless hedge trimmer on the market over the years. I know firsthand the key factors that differentiate the top-performing tools from the disappointing ones. Let’s get started!
Benefits of Electric Hedge Shears
First, let’s look at why you may want to choose electric hedge shears over manual or gas-powered models:
No Cords – Electric hedge shears run on a rechargeable battery so you don’t have to deal with tangled extension cords limiting your range of motion. You have complete freedom to move around your property.
Quieter Operation – Electric models have quieter motors than noisy gas hedge trimmers. This makes electric shears better for early morning or evening use when you don’t want to disturb neighbors.
Lower Emissions – With no gas motor, electric hedge shears have zero emissions and are more environmentally friendly. They’re better suited for indoor use as well.
Less Vibration – Electric motors produce less vibration during use compared to gas-powered motors. This reduces hand fatigue and numbness when working for prolonged periods.
Lower Maintenance – No pull cords, air filters, spark plugs, fuel stabilizers, etc. Electric hedge shears have fewer parts and require less maintenance over time.
Lightweight – Without a bulky gas motor, electric hedge shears weigh less for easier handling and maneuverability.
Now that you know the benefits, let’s look at how to select the best model for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Here are the top features to consider when choosing electric hedge shears:
Interchangeable Blades
Look for models that allow you to switch between different trimmer blades. This adds versatility to tackle both thicker branches as well as finer trimming tasks. Quick change blades without tools are most convenient.
Battery Voltage
Higher voltage batteries pack more power. Look for 18V to 40V models for the best cutting performance. Lower voltage units like 7.2V or 10.8V work for lighter trimming.
Battery Capacity
The battery’s amp hour (Ah) rating indicates runtime. Choose a higher Ah battery for longer trimming between charges. Quick charging batteries are also desirable to minimize downtime.
Weight
The lighter the hedge trimmer, the less hand and arm fatigue you’ll have using it for extended periods. Look for weights under 5 lbs if possible.
Handle Design
A full wraparound handle provides the best grip and control. Rubberized coatings add comfort. Look for ergonomic shapes thatminimize hand and wrist strain.
Safety Features
Locks that prevent accidental starting are essential safety features. Hand and blade guards should also be present.
Motor Power
Higher no-load RPM (revolutions per minute) equates to greater cutting speed and power. Look for motors with over 2,000 RPM for thicker branches. Slower motors around 1,000 RPM work for lighter trimming.
Cutting Capacity
The max cutting capacity indicates the branch thickness that can be cut. For maintenance trimming, 0.5 to 0.75 inches is sufficient. If tackling woody shrubs, look for 1 inch or larger cutting capacity.
Blade Length
Longer shear blades of 8 inches or more can cut more material in each pass, speeding up trimming of wider hedges. Short 3 to 5 inch blades are better for precision edging.
Dual Reciprocating Blades
Models with blades that move back and forth in a reciprocating action provide added cutting power compared to single moving blades.
Stroke Rate
The strokes per minute indicates how fast the blades cycle back and forth. More SPM enables faster cutting. Look for stroke rates of at least 1,000 SPM or higher.
Tooth Design
Sharpened teeth running the length of the blades stay sharper longer compared to single teeth that can wear down over time.
Blade Materials
Look for hardened steel blades that will retain a sharp edge over time. Some models have non-stick coatings to prevent sap and debris buildup during use.
Quick Change Design
Being able to swap blades quickly without tools allows you to go from thicker hedge cutting to precision edging by changing the blade length and style.
Blade Storage
Some models have onboard blade storage which is convenient when switching between multiple blades.
Blade Cover
A cover that encloses the blades when not in use is an added safety feature to prevent accidental cuts.
Brands and Budget
Stick to trusted major tool brands for the best quality and durability. Avoid cheap generic hedge shears that lack safety features and adequate power.
Expect to spend $50 to $100 for lighter duty homeowner models, $150 to $250 for more powerful mid-range trimmers, and $300+ for commercial grade options.
Summary
After reviewing the top electric hedge shears on the market, we hope this breakdown makes your buying decision easier. When selecting the best electric hedge shears for your needs, consider your typical trimming applications and how much power you need.
For light home use, our top picks like the SnapFresh, Saker, and LUXBIRD models provide versatile cordless convenience. If tackling larger hedges, the higher-powered Ryobi and Makita options are likely a better fit. Whichever you choose, look for key features like interchangeable blades, sufficient battery life, safety locks, and comfort.
Also read:
Best Electric Bush Trimmers – Top 5 Reviews and Buying Guide
Best Electric Hedge Trimmer – Top 5 Picks and Buying Guide
Michael Glenn is a certified arborist and horticultural expert with over 15 years of experience in the landscape industry. His passion for plants and trees has led him to become a sought-after authority on pruning and trimming techniques. Glenn’s in-depth knowledge of proper pruning methods, timing, and tools has helped countless homeowners and professionals maintain healthy, aesthetically pleasing gardens and landscapes.
In addition to sharing his pruning expertise through practical tips, step-by-step guides, and expert advice, Glenn is also a respected author of pruning tool buying guides. His comprehensive reviews and comparisons ensure readers can make informed decisions when investing in quality loppers, pruning shears, saws, and other essential equipment. With a deep understanding of plant biology and sustainable practices, Glenn’s writing empowers audiences with the knowledge needed to properly care for green spaces.
