A beautiful garden doesn’t stop at a neatly mown lawn. If you want your garden to look perfect right up to the perimeter, you need to keep your hedges and bushes neat with a high-quality hedge cutter.
The best hedge trimmer should be lightweight, powerful, and easy to manoeuvre, helping you to quickly and effortlessly trim your hedges to perfection.
Here, I’ve recommended my top tried-and-tested hedge cutters for UK gardens based on their performance power and type, affordability, ease of use, build quality, and more.
Brand: Bosch
Price: £
Power source: Corded electric
Blade length: 45cm
Weight: 2.6kg
Power: 420 W
Brand: Hyundai
Price: £
Power source: Corded electric
Blade length: 61cm
Weight: 4.14kg
Power: 680 W
Brand: Bosch
Price: ££
Power source: Cordless battery-powered
Blade length: 50cm
Weight: 2.5kg
Power: 1x 18-V battery
Brand: NETTA
Price: £
Power source: Cordless battery-powered
Blade length: 17cm
Weight: 1.3kg
Power: 1x 7.2-V battery
Brand: VonHaus
Price: ££
Power source: Cordless battery-powered
Blade length: 45cm (+24cm pole)
Weight: 3.8kg
Power: 1x 20-V battery
Brand: Einhell
Price: ££
Power source: Petrol (2-stroke)
Blade length: 55cm
Weight: 5.5kg
Power: 25cc engine
Table of Contents
Best Hedge Cutters
- Best Overall: Bosch Electric Hedge Cutter EasyHedgeCut
- Best Longer Blade Option: Hyundai 680w 610mm Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer
- Best Cordless: Bosch Cordless Hedge Trimmer
- Best for Small Hedges: NETTA 2in1 Grass Shear & Hedge Trimmer
- Best for High Hedges: VonHaus Pole Hedge Trimmer Cordless
- Best Petrol: Einhell GE-PH 2555A Petrol Hedge Trimmer
📊 Comparison Chart of Best Hedge Cutters
Scroll right on mobile to see the whole table chart
| Product | Price | Power Source | Blade Length | Weight | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch Electric Hedge Cutter EasyHedgeCut | £ | Corded electric | 45cm | 2.6kg | 420 W |
| Hyundai 680w 610mm Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer | £ | Corded electric | 61cm | 4.14kg | 680 W |
| Bosch Cordless Hedge Trimmer | ££ | Cordless battery-powered | 50cm | 2.5kg | 1x 18-V battery |
| NETTA 2in1 Grass Shear & Hedge Trimmer | £ | Cordless battery-powered | 17cm | 1.3kg | 1x 7.2-V battery |
| VonHaus Pole Hedge Trimmer Cordless | ££ | Cordless battery-powered | 45cm (+24cm pole) | 3.8kg | 1x 20-V battery |
| Einhell GE-PH 2555A Petrol Hedge Trimmer | ££ | Petrol (2-stroke) | 55cm | 5.5kg | 25cc engine |
⭐ Reviews – Best Hedge Cutters 2024
In my testing, I found that the Bosch Electric Hedgecutter (the EasyHedgeCut) was the best-value hedge cutter and efficiently cut my 7-foot-high hedge with ease, so it took the top spot on this list.
The hedge trimmer is corded electric, with a high-speed 420-watt motor that delivers plenty of power for slicing through small branches without too much effort from the user. I found its 45cm blade length ideal for cutting my hedge without having to repeat myself in the same section, and the extension cable gives a bit more distance from your power supply (although I ended up using my own longer extension cord anyway).
Quick Specs:
Brand: Bosch
Price: £
Power source: Corded electric
Blade length: 45cm
Weight: 2.6kg
Power: 420 W
Best For:
Anyone who wants to invest in the best-value hedge cutter from a reputable brand that’s both efficient and affordable, and is comfortable and easy to use.
Pros:
I think the Bosch Electric Hedge Cutter is the most efficient solution for medium-sized hedges. I was able to use it easily to cut my 8-foot hedge, which is just over 3 feet wide. It’s nice and light at under 3 kilograms, so my arms didn’t feel like they were about to drop off after a 25-minute hedgecutting session.
I found the setup for the Bosch hedge cutter quick and easy. There’s basically no assembly required, so it’s ideal if you want a trimmer that you can pretty much unbox and start using straight away.
There are a few features of this hedge trimmer that make it particularly useful for certain situations. I like the fact that the switches are centrally fitted, so there’s no bias towards right-handed people. Plus, the cutter has a blade tip protector that means it can be safely used to trim against fences or walls.
Cons:
The electric cord added a bit more time and effort onto the job as I had to occasionally readjust it as I traversed my hedge.
While the blade tip protector is a great idea, I found that it kept getting caught on branches as I cut, which inhibited the trimmer’s movement.
If you want the power and efficiency of an electric hedge trimmer but the Bosch trimmer isn’t quite long enough, the Hyundai Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer is a great upgrade to consider.
This trimmer is better for tall hedges because it has a 61cm blade length, so it’s 16cm longer than the Bosch trimmer, although not so long that it’s potentially difficult to handle. It’s another really powerful option, too, with its 680-watt motor (more powerful than the Bosch mower’s 420-watt motor) making easy work of cutting through even the thicker branches on my hedge. The only setback is that size and power means extra weight, so using this was a bit more of a workout for my arms.
Quick Specs:
Brand: Hyundai
Price: £
Power source: Corded electric
Blade length: 61cm
Weight: 4.14kg
Power: 680 W
Best For:
Folks who want a quality electric hedge trimmer from another well-known brand, with extra power and length compared to the Bosch model.
Pros:
I had a great experience with the Hyundai Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer. It’s the most powerful corded electric cutter I’ve tried, and it had no trouble cutting through twigs and branches of all sizes.
This is another hedge trimmer that comes ready-assembled by the manufacturer, so it’s quick and easy to get started – no batteries to charge or fuel to add.
The angled handle on this Hyundai model made it super easy to cut awkward parts of my hedge because of its 90-degree rotation, so I could cut continuously for longer without having to stop to change position.
Cons:
At 4.14kg, this Hyundai model is almost 2kg heavier than the Bosch trimmer, so it’s a bit more tiring on the arms – I found I had to take more frequent breaks.
I also noticed that the trimmer is louder to operate, again because of the more powerful motor. Good hearing protection is essential!
For anyone who wants an easy-use, powerful hedge trimmer without the faff of an electric cord, I recommend the Bosch Cordless Hedge Trimmer.
This trimmer is powered by one 18-volt battery and comes with a quick charger, with a run time of around 35 minutes (when new – I anticipate this will reduce to around 20-25 minutes). It has a decent 50cm blade length – 5cm longer than the other Bosch model – and it weighs just 2.5 kilograms even with the battery, so it’s not even slightly heavier than a similarly-sized corded model.
Quick Specs:
Brand: Bosch
Price: ££
Power source: Cordless battery-powered
Blade length: 50cm
Weight: 2.5kg
Power: 1x 18-V battery
Best For:
Anyone who wants to ditch the cord and enjoy the convenience of a lightweight cordless hedge trimmer with a great battery run time and plenty of power for the job.
Pros:
The Bosch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is the most efficient and powerful battery-powered hedgecutter I tested. The lack of the cord meant I could take it straight outside and get started straight away without the faff of setting up an extension lead, and despite the extra battery, this equipment is nice and lightweight and easy to manouevre.
The charge time for this hedge trimmer is decent; around 45 minutes. And I was able to cut my entire hedge in one 25-minute session, so, unlike with some of the other battery-powered trimmers I tested, I didn’t have to split the job into two sessions with a charge in between.
In terms of power, I did notice that the blades struggled slightly more than the corded models I tested, but not enough to make a difference to the overall cutting experience or the quality of the finished cut.
Cons:
You’re always going to pay more for the convenience of a battery-powered model, and it’s no different here – the Bosch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is around £100 more expensive than similar corded models. Top tip: If you already have a battery that’s compatible with the trimmer, you can save around £40 and buy it without the battery.
It’s not quite as powerful as a corded model – don’t expect it to cut through anything too thick or tough.
You don’t need the bulk and extra expense of a full-sized hedge cutter if you only have a few small bushes and hedges to trim. If you’re looking for a smaller, more affordable model, I found that the NETTA 2in1 Grass Shear & Hedge Trimmer was best in this category.
This compact handheld hedge trimmer has interchangeable blades – it can be used with a small 17cm hedge trimming blade or an even smaller 9cm grass shearing blade. It weighs just 1.3 kilograms, so I had absolutely no trouble lifting it up high, and it’s battery-powered for extra convenience (I found it could run for over an hour before needing a recharge).
Quick Specs:
Brand: NETTA
Price: £
Power source: Cordless battery-powered
Blade length: 17cm
Weight: 1.3kg
Power: 1x 7.2-V battery
Best For:
People with smaller hedges and bushes who prefer to use a small, lightweight alternative to the bulkier full-size hedge trimmers on the market.
Pros:
I found that this NETTA trimmer still packs plenty of power despite its smaller size. The blades are very sharp, which helps a lot here – it made easy work of shaping and trimming my shrubbery without getting caught or jammed.
Price is an obvious advantage. I paid around half the price of a full-sized corded hedge trimmer, which is pretty great since the NETTA cutter comes with a battery (which usually jacks up the price).
The ergonomics of this trimmer are brilliant. The handle is soft and comfortable to hold, making it super easy to use – I found it easiest to use with one hand for most jobs.
I didn’t try out the other blade, but it’s useful to have an interchangeable blade if you want a quick and easy way to do your lawn borders too.
Cons:
It goes without saying that this tool isn’t the best solution for cutting thicker branches. It’s intended for shrubbery and greenery rather than old growth.
Fitting and removing the blade is a bit of a hassle.
For cutting a high hedge without getting the ladder out, I recommend the VonHaus Pole Cordless Hedge Trimmer.
The trimmer has a telescopic extendable arm that reaches up to 24 centimetres (the blade length is 42 centimetres), making it capable of cutting higher spots with ease.
Quick Specs:
Brand: VonHaus
Price: ££
Power source: Cordless battery-powered
Blade length: 45cm (+24cm pole)
Weight: 3.8kg
Power: 1x 20-V battery
Best For:
Anyone who wants to be able to safely and easily cut a tall hedge, without the risks involved in climbing a ladder and using a trimmer with a cord.
Pros:
Given that the VonHaus pole trimmer is battery-powered, I was surprised by how lightweight it is – it weighs just 3.8 kilograms. Still, it would have been difficult and bulky to hold without the support straps, which I strongly recommend using.
I love the fact that the pole on this trimmer is extendable, so I wasn’t forced to use it at full length, but I had the option of extra length if I wanted it. The cutter can also be rotated 45 or 90 degrees, so you can still cut your high hedges easily at different angles.
Given that cutting a higher hedge is a bit more of a challenge, I appreciated that I didn’t have to add “worrying about tripping over a cord” to the mix.
The trimmer was easy to assemble, and the battery was already charged, which was a nice bonus.
Cons:
The 20-volt battery is standard for this tool, but, like other cordless models, the trimmer doesn’t effectively cut thicker branches.
It’s pretty expensive at just over £100.
The Einhell GE-PH 2555A Petrol Hedge Trimmer is the best petrol-powered hedge cutter I tried, with a 55cm blade length and a maximum branch cutting capacity of 1.9 cm.
The cutter has a 25cc engine that’s powerful enough to make easy work of cutting thick branches. It also got the job done faster and more efficiently than any non-petrol alternatives in my testing, so I recommend it for bigger, tougher jobs that you want to tackle as quickly as possible. As expected, the trimmer is heavier at 5.5 kilograms, and this was the biggest setback for me.
Quick Specs:
Brand: Einhell
Price: ££
Power source: Petrol (2-stroke)
Blade length: 55cm
Weight: 5.5kg
Power: 25cc engine
Best For:
People who want the most powerful hedge trimmer that makes easy work of bigger, tougher jobs and is faster and more efficient than electric models.
Pros:
With this Einhell model being petrol-powered, I was a bit apprehensive before I got started. But setup was still pretty low-effort, the trimmer started the first time, and it was easy to maintain.
I was never disappointed by the quality of cut with this trimmer. While some of the cordless hedge trimmers I tested struggled with thicker branches, the Einhell hedgecutter never let me down.
Despite the extra weight, I still found the trimmer comfortable to hold and easy to use, and the adjustable handle is a useful feature.
Cons:
The £150 price tag might put some people off.
This is a heavy hedge cutter. I had to take more breaks because my arms got tired quickly. Plus, it’s a lot noisier than an electric model.
🧾 5 Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Hedge Trimmer
When you’re shopping for hedge trimmers, I recommend considering the following things before you spend your money:
💪 Your Power Source Preference
Start your decision-making process by determining your preferred power source for your hedge trimmer. There are a few factors that will probably influence your decision here, including the size of your hedge, the density of foliage, and your own comfort level with different power options.
Electric hedge trimmers are typically more budget-friendly, and I recommend these for small-to-medium hedges. They offer sufficient power for regular maintenance tasks and are generally lightweight, though their setback is that you’ll need to manage the cord.
Cordless hedge trimmers provide the convenience of mobility without being tethered to a power outlet. They’re a better choice for cutting a hedge that’s a good distance away from your house, or an area where access to electricity is limited. They do require a bit of extra maintenance compared to corded models, though – the battery needs recharging between uses.
For heavy-duty jobs or extensive hedges, your best option is a petrol hedge cutter. While petrol hedge trimmers require more maintenance and are heavier, they’re unmatched in power and are the best at tackling thick branches and demanding tasks.
My advice is to think about your specific needs and preferences when you’re choosing which power source aligns best with your hedge trimming requirements.
💸 Your Budget
Your budget is another factor that will likely influence the types of hedge cutters you can consider. It’s best to establish your budget before you start searching, so you only look for tools within your price range. Prices can vary based on power source, features, and brand reputation.
Electric hedge trimmers typically fall within a lower price range (£50-£70), making them a cost-effective option for basic trimming needs.
Cordless hedge trimmers come at a higher price point (£120-£165+), because of their added convenience and mobility. But you might think the extra upfront cost is worth it for the joy of never having to deal with a cord again.
Petrol hedge trimmers tend to be the most expensive option upfront (£100-£200), but they offer superior power and performance, and they might be essential for your situation.
📏 Hedge Size & Thickness
It’s also worth considering the size and thickness of the hedges you’ll be trimming before you start shopping. This will determine the type of hedge trimmer, and its blade length and thickness, that’s best for you.
If you have smaller hedges or need a cutter for intricate shaping tasks, go for a lightweight and maneuverable trimmer, possibly even a half-size option that can be held in one hand.
For larger hedges or thicker foliage, you’re best going for a trimmer with a longer blade (at least 45cm) and higher cutting capacity.
You might even choose a trimmer with a pole extension (usually adding another 20-30cm of height) if you want to be able to cut high hedges without using a ladder.
🛠 Ease of Assembly & Maintenance
I’ve found that most hedge trimmers are quick and easy to set up, requiring little to no assembly. They’re also super easy to maintain, although the exact maintenance tasks depend on the model and power type.
My advice is to look for models with straightforward assembly instructions and minimal components to make setup easy.
Keep in mind that if you choose a petrol hedge trimmer, it’ll need extra setup and maintenance tasks in the form of adding/changing the fuel and oil.
For other hedge trimmers, maintenance is easier. You’ll just need to remove any debris, grass clippings, or sap from the blades and housing after each use, using a soft brush or cloth. The blades will also need to be lubricated every few months, and sharpened occasionally using a stone or file.
If you have a cordless trimmer, you’ll also need to charge the battery, which is super easy to do.
💭 Customer Feedback & Brand Reputation
Finally, take the time to read expert reviews like these and customer feedback to inform your buying decision.
Unbiased reviews can tell you much more about a hedge trimmer than the product description. You’ll gain insight into the trimmer’s performance, durability, and specific positives or benefits about using the trimmer that you wouldn’t otherwise know until you bought it yourself.
Also consider the reputation of the manufacturer. It’s best to go with a brand that’s known for producing high-quality, durable garden tools.
Important note: this review was last updated in July 2024. We apologise if pricing or availability has since changed for any of the products mentioned above.