Last updated: October 2026 · Specs are taken from manufacturer listings on Amazon; prices and availability change, so always confirm on the product page.
A good battery trimmer turns hedge day from a noisy chore into a quick, quiet job. Modern cordless trimmers start instantly, weigh less than most gas models and have enough power for typical privet, boxwood and laurel. We compared eight models to find the best cordless hedge trimmer for different hedge sizes, budgets and battery platforms.
Quick Answer
The EGO Power+ HT2601 is the best cordless hedge trimmer for most homeowners: a 26-inch dual-action blade with up to 1.2-inch cut capacity, a light carbon fiber rail and up to 60 minutes of runtime on the included battery, at a listed 6.9 lb. The Greenworks 40V 24-inch is the best value with a 1-inch cut capacity and a battery and charger in the box. DEWALT and Makita owners should buy the bare tool for their platform, and the WORX WG261 and BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 are the lightest picks for small shrubs.
Quick Picks
| Best Overall | EGO Power+ HT2601 26-inch Carbon Fiber | Check Price |
| Best Value | Greenworks 40V 24-inch (1-inch cut) | Check Price |
| Best Brushless Mid-Size | EGO Power+ HT2411 24-inch | Check Price |
| Best for DEWALT 20V Owners | DEWALT DCHT820B 20V MAX (Tool Only) | Check Price |
| Best for Makita 18V Owners | Makita XHU10Z 18V LXT 24-inch (Tool Only) | Check Price |
| Best Budget 24-Inch Kit | BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 40V 24-inch | Check Price |
| Best for Small Yards | BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 20V 22-inch | Check Price |
| Lightest Pick | WORX WG261 20V 22-inch | Check Price |
How we chose
We did not run hands-on trimming tests for this guide. We compared what each Amazon listing states at the time of writing: blade length and type, listed cut capacity, battery voltage and capacity, claimed runtime, listed weight and what is included. Where a listing does not state a figure, we say so rather than guessing. We favored established battery platforms, because a trimmer is usually one tool among several that share batteries.
Cordless hedge trimmers compared
| Model | Blade | Cut capacity (listed) | Platform | Listed weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO HT2601 | 26 in | Up to 1.2 in | 56V | 6.9 lb |
| Greenworks 40V 24 in | 24 in | 1 in | 40V | See listing |
| EGO HT2411 | 24 in | See listing | 56V | See listing |
| DEWALT DCHT820B | 22 in | See listing | 20V MAX | About 8.8 lb as shipped |
| Makita XHU10Z | 24 in | See listing | 18V LXT | See listing |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | 24 in | 3/4 in | 40V MAX | 6.9 lb |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 | 22 in | 3/4 in | 20V MAX | 5.7 lb |
| WORX WG261 | 22 in | See listing | 20V PowerShare | 5.5 lb |
The best cordless hedge trimmers, reviewed
EGO Power+ HT2601 26-inch Carbon Fiber
Best for: Medium to large hedges and thicker growth
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 56V, 26-inch dual-action steel blades, up to 1.2-inch cut capacity
- Carbon fiber rail with lifetime warranty (per listing)
- Up to 60 min runtime on included 2.5Ah battery
- Listed 6.9 lb
EGO's HT2601 pairs a long 26-inch dual-action blade with a carbon fiber rail, so it covers ground quickly without feeling front-heavy. EGO lists a cut capacity of up to 1.2 inches, which lets it handle the woody stems that bog down smaller trimmers, and up to 60 minutes of runtime on the included 2.5Ah battery.
At a listed 6.9 lb with battery, it is light for its blade length. The listing also mentions a lifetime warranty on the carbon fiber rail. If you already own EGO batteries for a mower or blower, it slots right into the system.
- Long blade with big cut capacity
- Light carbon fiber rail
- Up to 60 min runtime claimed
- Premium price
- Long blade is less nimble on small shrubs
Greenworks 40V 24-inch (1-inch cut)
Best for: Typical suburban hedges on a budget
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 40V, 24-inch steel blades, 1-inch cut capacity
- Up to 60 min runtime on 2.0Ah battery (included)
- Battery has a USB port
Greenworks' 40V trimmer offers a 24-inch steel blade and a 1-inch cut capacity, which is more than many entry-level models manage. The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery rated for up to 60 minutes of runtime, and that battery has a USB port for charging a phone in the yard.
It is a well-balanced choice for people who want real cutting power without paying for a premium platform.
- 1-inch cut capacity
- Battery and charger included
- USB port on battery
- Smaller battery than premium kits
- Heavier feel than carbon-rail models
EGO Power+ HT2411 24-inch
Best for: EGO users who want a slightly shorter, nimble blade
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 56V brushless, 24-inch blade
- Electric brake stops the blade quickly
- Includes 2.5Ah battery and charger
The HT2411 is EGO's 24-inch brushless trimmer. The shorter blade is easier to steer around rounded shrubs and foundation plantings, and the electric brake stops the blade quickly when you release the trigger, a useful safety touch.
It comes with a 2.5Ah battery and charger, so it works as a starter kit for the EGO platform.
- Brushless motor
- Quick-stop electric brake
- Includes battery and charger
- Shorter blade than the HT2601
- Premium platform pricing
DEWALT DCHT820B 20V MAX (Tool Only)
Best for: DEWALT 20V MAX users who want a tough trimmer
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 20V MAX, 22-inch dual-action blade (DEWALT spec)
- Tool only – for DEWALT 20V battery owners
- Listed weight about 8.8 lb (3.99 kg) as shipped
DEWALT's DCHT820B is a 22-inch dual-action trimmer sold as a bare tool. If you own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, it is an economical way to add a solid hedge trimmer to your kit.
Without a battery, you will need to supply your own; a 4Ah or larger pack gives a better balance of runtime and weight.
- Shares DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
- Dual-action blade
- Rugged build
- Battery and charger sold separately
- 22-inch blade is mid-length
Makita XHU10Z 18V LXT 24-inch (Tool Only)
Best for: Makita LXT users and noise-conscious neighborhoods
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 18V LXT, 24-inch blade
- Tool only
- Low-noise, low-maintenance battery platform
Makita's XHU10Z puts a 24-inch blade on the 18V LXT platform, one of the largest cordless tool systems. Like other battery trimmers, it runs quietly compared with gas, which matters if you trim early or in close quarters.
It is sold as a tool only, so it makes the most sense if you already own LXT batteries.
- Uses widely owned LXT batteries
- 24-inch blade
- Low noise and maintenance
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Fewer published specs in the listing
BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 40V 24-inch
Best for: Medium hedges with mostly soft growth
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 40V MAX, 24-inch dual-action blades
- 3/4-inch cut capacity
- Listed 6.9 lb; battery and charger included
BLACK+DECKER's LHT2436 gives you a 24-inch dual-action blade, a battery and a charger at an approachable price. The 3/4-inch cut capacity is fine for annual trimming of well-maintained hedges.
It is not built for overgrown, woody shrubs, but for routine shaping it is a dependable kit.
- Affordable complete kit
- 24-inch blade
- Light for its size
- 3/4-inch cut capacity
- Not ideal for overgrown hedges
BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 20V 22-inch
Best for: Small shrubs and light, regular trimming
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 20V MAX, 22-inch dual-action blades
- Cuts branches up to 3/4 inch
- Rated up to 3,000 sq ft of hedges per charge
- Listed 5.7 lb
The LHT2220 is a lightweight 20V trimmer with a 22-inch dual-action blade. BLACK+DECKER rates it for up to 3,000 sq ft of hedges per charge, and at a listed 5.7 lb it is easy to hold at shoulder height.
It is a sensible choice for townhouses and small gardens with a few shrubs to tidy.
- Very light
- Rated for up to 3,000 sq ft per charge
- Low cost
- 3/4-inch cut capacity
- Less power for woody stems
WORX WG261 20V 22-inch
Best for: WORX PowerShare owners and users who want minimal weight
Key specs (from the Amazon listing):
- 20V PowerShare, 22-inch dual-action blade
- Listed 5.5 lb
- Battery shared with 75+ WORX tools
WORX's WG261 is the lightest trimmer in this guide at a listed 5.5 lb, with a 22-inch dual-action blade. The PowerShare battery works across a large family of WORX tools.
It is best for shaping and light trimming rather than cutting through thick, overgrown wood.
- Lightest listed weight here
- Shares PowerShare batteries
- Easy to handle
- Light-duty cutting
- 22-inch blade covers less per pass
How to choose a cordless hedge trimmer
Blade length
| Hedge type | Suggested blade length | Cut capacity to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Small shrubs, topiary, foundation plantings | 18-22 in | 1/2-3/4 in |
| Typical privet, boxwood or laurel hedges | 22-24 in | 3/4-1 in |
| Long, tall or wide hedges | 24-26 in | 1 in+ |
| Overgrown, woody growth | 24-26 in | 1 in+, plus loppers for thicker stems |
Longer blades cover more hedge per pass and reach farther across the top, but they add weight and are harder to steer around curves. If most of your trimming is rounded shrubs, a shorter blade is easier. For long, flat hedges, a 24-26 inch blade saves time.
Cut capacity
Cut capacity is the thickest stem the blade is designed to handle, determined by the tooth gap and motor power. If you trim every year, 3/4 inch is usually enough. If your hedges are overgrown or have woody growth, look for 1 inch or more, and keep loppers handy for anything thicker.
Single-sided or double-sided blade
Nearly every trimmer in this guide uses a double-sided, dual-action blade, which cuts in both directions and lets you sweep back and forth. Single-sided blades are useful for some flat-top work and are common on professional models. Our guide to single-sided vs double-sided hedge trimmers explains when each makes sense.
Weight and balance
You will hold a hedge trimmer at chest or shoulder height for long stretches, so weight matters more than it looks on paper. Light models around 5.5-7 lb are much easier to manage overhead. A rotating rear handle helps when you trim the sides of tall hedges.
Battery platform and runtime
If you already own batteries from EGO, Greenworks, DEWALT, Makita, BLACK+DECKER or WORX, a bare tool saves money. Most kits are rated for roughly 45-60 minutes of trimming. For long hedges, a second battery is more useful than a bigger trimmer.
Safety features
Look for a two-handed switch, a hand guard and a blade cover for storage. An electric brake, like the one on EGO's HT2411, stops the blade quickly when you release the trigger.
Tips for cleaner, faster trimming
- Trim at the right time. Most hedges look best when trimmed after the main spring flush of growth, with a lighter tidy later in summer. See when to trim hedges for a plant-by-plant guide.
- Shape the sides with a slight taper. Keep the base a little wider than the top so light reaches the lower leaves.
- Use a string line for long, straight tops.
- Sweep the blade in smooth arcs and let the blade do the work instead of forcing it into thick stems.
- Clear clippings from the top of the hedge as you go so you can see your line.
Our step-by-step guide to trimming hedges with a hedge trimmer covers technique in detail, and for formal shapes see how to shape a box hedge correctly.
Overgrown and tall hedges
If a hedge has gotten away from you, a hedge trimmer alone may not be enough. Renovation pruning often involves cutting back thicker stems with loppers or a pruning saw, then shaping with the trimmer as new growth fills in. Read how to cut back an overgrown hedge before you start. For hedges taller than you can reach comfortably from the ground, a pole hedge trimmer is safer than a ladder; see how to trim tall hedges with a pole trimmer.
Safety reminders
- Wear safety glasses, gloves and sturdy shoes; hearing protection is worth it for long sessions.
- Keep both hands on the trimmer and the blade well away from your body.
- Check the hedge for wire, fencing, stakes and nesting birds before cutting.
- Remove the battery before clearing jams, cleaning or adjusting anything.
- Avoid trimming from a ladder where possible; if you must, use a stable platform and have someone with you.
Before trimming in spring and early summer, check for active bird nests. In many areas, wild birds and their active nests are protected by law; in the U.S., the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service explains the protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Maintenance
Hedge trimmer blades last longer and cut cleaner when you look after them:
- Brush off sap and clippings after each use and wipe the blade with a resin cleaner.
- Apply a light lubricant spray to the blades before storage.
- Check for bent or chipped teeth, and sharpen dull edges. Our guide on how to sharpen hedge trimmer blades shows how.
- Store batteries indoors at partial charge during the off-season.
Cordless vs corded vs gas
Corded trimmers are light and inexpensive but limit your range and add a cord to keep away from the blade. Gas trimmers offer long runtime but are loud, heavier and need fuel and engine care. For most homeowners, cordless now offers the best balance. If you are still weighing up options more broadly, our hedge trimmer buying guide covers every type.
Final recommendation
For most homeowners, the EGO Power+ HT2601 is the best cordless hedge trimmer thanks to its long blade, generous cut capacity and light carbon fiber rail. Choose the Greenworks 40V 24-inch for value, the EGO HT2411 for a nimble brushless option, the DEWALT DCHT820B or Makita XHU10Z if you own those batteries, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 for a budget 24-inch kit, and the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 or WORX WG261 for small yards and light trimming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cordless hedge trimmer for homeowners?
The EGO Power+ HT2601 is our top pick for its 26-inch blade, up to 1.2-inch cut capacity and light carbon fiber rail. The Greenworks 40V 24-inch is the best value, and DEWALT or Makita bare tools are ideal if you already own those batteries.
What size hedge trimmer do I need?
For small shrubs, 18-22 inches is enough. Most homeowners are well served by 22-24 inches, and long or tall hedges benefit from a 24-26 inch blade.
How thick a branch can a cordless hedge trimmer cut?
Most cut between 3/4 inch and about 1 inch; some premium models list up to 1.2 inches. Use loppers or a pruning saw for anything thicker.
Are battery hedge trimmers as good as gas?
For homeowner hedges, yes. Modern battery trimmers have enough power for typical growth, are much quieter and lighter, and need almost no maintenance.
How long does a cordless hedge trimmer battery last?
Manufacturers commonly rate kits for around 45-60 minutes of trimming, depending on battery size and growth density. A second battery is useful for long hedges.