Hedge trimmers: How to buy the best hedge trimmer

Types of hedge trimmer

There are three main types, based on their power source. To discover the best models, read our reviews.

Petrol

Petrol hedge trimmers by comparison are large, heavy machines. They're useful if you have hedges far from a power source. But as with all petrol machines they are noisy, create exhaust fumes and can be tiring to use for long periods. We haven’t tested petrol hedge trimmers recently, but when we’ve tested cheaper models in the past we’ve not been particularly impressed with them. If this is your best option, you may have to buy a more expensive model from a specialist machinery dealer and seek their advice.

Cordless

Cordless hedge trimmers have a battery that can be removed and recharged indoors. They're more convenient to use than mains electric trimmers because you don’t have to worry about the power cable. The best cut for over 20 minutes on one charge, and some come with a spare battery to prolong the cutting time.

The downside is that cordless trimmers have blades up to about 52cm and narrowly spaced teeth, so are only really suitable for regularly trimmed hedges.

Mains electric

Mains electric hedge trimmers have a power cable so you can only use them close to a power socket or with an extension lead. They're fairly light and easy to use, though the major drawback is keeping the power cord out of the way of the blade. You'll need to use an RCD because of the risk of accidentally cutting the power cable.

How long are your hedges?

Small hedges

If you have a small hedge and don’t mind a little exercise, a pair of hand shears might be all you need. 

If you only have a limited amount of hedge to cut fairly close to the house, a mains electric hedge trimmer is the best option. The best are quick, leave a neat finish and are easy to use. If you hate the hassle of dealing with the power cable, consider a cordless hedge trimmer.

Lots of hedges

If you have lots of boundary hedges, a powered hedge trimmer will certainly take the effort out of this regular task. If you have lots of hedges to cut far from the nearest power source, a petrol hedge trimmer is one option. But consider also a cordless machine – some come with a spare battery, or you could buy an extra one to extend the cutting time. 

Tall hedges

If you have a number of tall hedges, it might be worth considering a telescopic hedge trimmer, which will allow you to reach the top of a high hedge without a ladder.

What to check in the shop

Blade length

The longer the blade the quicker it will cut, but it will also be heavier, more unwieldy and more tiring to use. For a typical garden hedge a blade 45-55cm long should be fine.

Tooth spacing

For regularly cut hedges a gap between teeth of 16-20mm is sufficient. If you encounter branches wider than this occasionally you'll need to use secateurs or loppers. If you want to cut a very woody or overgrown hedge look for one with a wider gap, up to 30mm with a more powerful motor.

Weight

Bear in mind that you will be holding a hedge trimmer at arm's length so anything that weighs more than about 3.5kg can be very tiring to use for any length of time. Check the weight of the machine before you buy, trying it out in person if possible. If you have weak arms go for a shorter blade – for example a 48cm instead of 60cm version.

Comfort 

If you can, check the balance too – it should balance when held by the front handle to save unnecessary effort. Check also that the handles and switches are comfortable, especially if you have very large or very small hands. Make sure you can reach and press down the switches easily and that the machine feels comfortable to use when cutting vertically or horizontally.

Cable length

If you decide to opt for a mains electric machine, check the length of its cable – you’ll probably need an extension lead to reach the farthest point in the garden and the far side of the hedge.

Make sure you have a residual current device (RCD) to protect any power sockets you’ll use, and test it regularly.

More on this...

• Find out more about how we test hedge trimmers
• Learn when and how to trim a hedge
• Subscribe to Which? Gardening magazine