Looking for the perfect cordless hedge trimmer but feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of options? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

We’ve spent hours testing and evaluating some of the most popular cordless hedge trimmers available in the UK. Our selection caters to a range of budgets and garden needs, ensuring you find a trimmer that fits your requirements, whether for light maintenance or tackling more demanding hedges.

From lightweight, ergonomic designs to powerful models capable of handling thicker branches, we’ve considered it all. Our analysis focused on critical factors such as cutting performance, battery life, build quality, and overall ease of use.

At the top of our list is the DEWALT 18V Cordless Bare Unit Hedge Trimmer, earning our Editor’s Pick for its outstanding performance and durable design. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a DIY enthusiast, it’s a fantastic investment.

For those on a budget, the NETTA Cordless Hedge Trimmer stands out as an affordable yet reliable option, perfect for smaller gardens.

If you need something lighter, the Hyundai 20V Li-ion Lightweight Hedge Trimmer delivers impressive cutting power in a compact design, while the WORX 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer excels in larger gardens with its longer blade and versatile features.

However, not every tool meets the mark. The TenGoife Long Reach Cordless Hedge Trimmer left us unimpressed, with issues in balance, performance, and value for money.

Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each model, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and the features that set them apart. Whether you’re trimming a small hedge or maintaining a larger garden, our guide will help you make the right choice for the best cordless hedge trimmers.

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Key Features Every Cordless Hedge Trimmer Should Offer

When purchasing a cordless hedge trimmer, there are certain features and functionalities you should consider as non-negotiable. These are the "givens" that define a quality hedge trimmer and should be standard across most reputable brands.

Ensuring these are present will help you make an informed decision:

Features That Should Be a Given:

1. Dual-Action Blades: Laser-cut or hardened steel blades ensure clean, precise cuts and durability.
2. Ergonomic Design: Comfortable handles and a lightweight build for extended use without fatigue.
3. Cordless Convenience: A reliable battery system that eliminates the hassle of tangled cords.
4. Battery Life: A runtime of at least 30–45 minutes for light tasks, with minimal downtime for recharging.
5. Safety Features: Dual-switch systems or safety locks to prevent accidental starts and ensure user safety.
6. Warranty: A minimum one-year warranty for peace of mind.

Norms to Look Out For:

1. Cutting Capacity: Should handle branches of at least 16mm in diameter, with higher-end models capable of 19–20mm.
2. Noise Levels: A quieter motor for more comfortable use without ear protection.
3. Compatibility: Batteries that work with other tools in the same brand range, add versatility to your toolkit.
4. Anti-Blocking Systems: A mechanism to clear jams during operation, ensuring uninterrupted use.

Design and Build Quality

A hedge trimmer’s design and build quality can significantly impact its performance, durability, and ease of use. When assessing potential models, pay attention to these elements:

Material Quality:

• Blades are made from high-quality steel (laser-cut or diamond ground) for long-term sharpness and minimal wear.
• Durable housing materials such as Xenoy™ or reinforced plastic to withstand impacts and harsh conditions.

Weight and Balance:

• Lightweight trimmers (under 3kg) reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
• Balanced weight distribution, especially in pole or long-reach models, ensures better control and reduces strain.

Handle Design:

• Soft-grip or padded handles enhance comfort and provide a secure grip.
• Adjustable or wrap-around handles offer versatility for different trimming angles and tasks.

Overall Construction:

• A compact, streamlined design for better manoeuvrability, especially in tight spaces.
• Weatherproof or splash-resistant models for improved durability in outdoor conditions.

Going the Extra Mile: Features That Enhance Your Trimmer

While the core features are essential, extra features can elevate the usability and convenience of the best hedge trimmer. Look out for these enhancements:

1. Rotating Handles: Simplifies switching between vertical and horizontal trimming for more precise results.
2. Variable Speed Settings: Allows for tailored cutting speeds depending on the density of the hedges.
3. Extendable Reach: Telescopic or extendable handles make it easier to trim tall hedges without ladders.
4. Battery Indicators: Displays remaining charge, helping you manage runtime efficiently during tasks.
5. Protective Guards: Blade tip protectors prevent accidental damage to walls, fences, or the ground while trimming.
6. Eco-Mode or Power Management Systems: Optimises battery consumption for extended use on larger tasks.

By focusing on these expectations and features, you’ll not only ensure you’re getting a quality product but also one that suits your specific gardening needs. Whether it’s design, build, or extras, these elements will help you achieve precise, efficient, and hassle-free trimming.

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Editors Pick

DEWALT 18v Cordless Bare Unit Hedge Trimmer

The DEWALT 18V Cordless Bare Unit Hedge Trimmer is a reliable and efficient tool for easily maintaining hedges and garden shrubs. Designed for both comfort and performance, it’s a great addition to any gardener’s toolkit.

With its 55cm dual-action blades and 19mm cutting gap, this trimmer can handle thicker branches and provide clean, precise cuts. The lightweight and compact design ensures minimal fatigue, even during extended use, while the wrap-around auxiliary handle offers flexibility and comfort in multiple grip positions.

Key Features:

• Dual-Action Blades: The 55cm laser-cut, hardened steel blades are designed for exceptional sharpness and durability, ensuring precise cuts and long-term reliability.
• 19mm Cutting Gap: Effortlessly handles thicker branches, allowing you to trim faster and more efficiently, even in dense hedges.
• Extended Runtime: Offers an impressive runtime of up to 75 minutes when paired with a 5.0Ah battery (sold separately), making it ideal for larger tasks.
• Ergonomic Design: Compact and lightweight construction, combined with a comfortable auxiliary handle, reduces user fatigue and enhances control during extended use.
• Durable Housing: Built with Xenoy™ housing for superior impact resistance, ensuring the trimmer withstands demanding conditions for lasting performance.

We tested the DEWALT 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer and found it to be a highly impressive tool. The sharp, dual-action blades handled thicker branches with ease, and its lightweight design made it far easier to manoeuvre compared to bulkier models.

Paired with a 5.0Ah battery, the runtime and cutting power were excellent, allowing us to complete tasks without interruption.

We also appreciated the triple safety lock mechanism, which gave us extra confidence when working at height. The ergonomic handle provided a secure, comfortable grip, making longer jobs less tiring.

There are a couple of minor points to note. The motor unit is slightly bulkier than expected, and since this is a bare unit, you’ll need to purchase a battery and charger if you don’t already own DEWALT tools.

Despite these small considerations, this hedge trimmer delivers outstanding performance, durability, and ease of use. (If you already own DEWALT batteries, it’s an easy choice!) It’s a fantastic addition to any gardener’s toolkit, offering exceptional value and reliable results.

Runner Up

Bosch 18vCordless Hedge Trimmer

The Bosch 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a versatile and lightweight tool designed for efficient hedge maintenance. With its innovative features and reliable performance, it’s an excellent choice for home gardeners seeking convenience and precision in trimming.

Key Features

• Quick-Cut System: Designed to keep the blade open longer, this system ensures even more precise and faster cuts, enhancing overall trimming efficiency.
• Anti-Blocking System: Maintains continuous operation by reversing blade direction to clear jams, enabling uninterrupted trimming even on tougher, thicker branches.
• Syneon Chip Technology: Effectively manages power use for extended battery life and consistently reliable performance during every use.
• Lightweight Design: At just 2.5kg with the battery, this trimmer minimises user fatigue and makes extended trimming tasks significantly easier.
• Tip Protector: Provides robust protection for the blade, ensuring safe and precise trimming near walls, the ground, and other hard surfaces.

We recently tested the Bosch 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer and were very impressed with its performance and ease of use. Its lightweight design (2.5kg with the battery) made trimming above head height simple, and the cordless feature eliminated the hassle of tangled cables. The battery life was another standout, lasting over an hour—plenty for most garden tasks.

The Anti-Blocking System worked brilliantly, ensuring smooth operation even with tougher branches. We also appreciated the see-through hand guard, which provided excellent visibility and added safety, making trimming both efficient and secure.

Like any tool, it has minor drawbacks. Prolonged use can lead to some vibration, which may cause temporary discomfort, and it’s less suited for heavy-duty jobs compared to petrol-powered models.

Despite this, the trimmer’s impressive capabilities make it an excellent choice. It’s user-friendly, efficient, and ideal for hedges and shrubs. If you want a lightweight, cordless solution with reliable cutting power, the Bosch 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a fantastic option!

Budget Pick

NETTA Cordless Hedge Trimmer & Cutter

The NETTA 12V Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a lightweight and efficient tool, designed to make garden maintenance easy and hassle-free. With its cordless design and 12V lithium-ion battery, this trimmer provides the flexibility to tackle hedges and shrubs without the limitations of cables.

Key Features:

• Lightweight Design: Weighing just 2.6kg, this trimmer minimises strain on your arms and back, making it ideal for prolonged use.
• Dual-Action Blades: The 45cm laser-cut blades offer precise and clean cuts, easily handling branches up to 16mm thick.
• Cordless Convenience: Free from cables, it allows you to access all areas of your garden with ease, without worrying about tripping hazards.
• Anti-Blocking System: Designed for continuous cutting performance, ensuring uninterrupted trimming sessions.
• Efficient Battery Life: The rechargeable battery provides 35 minutes of runtime and fully recharges in just four hours.

We recently tested the NETTA Cordless Hedge Trimmer and found it to be an excellent tool for small to medium garden tasks. Its lightweight design (just 2.6kg!) makes it incredibly easy to handle, even during longer sessions.

The cordless feature is perfect, allowing us to trim hedges without the frustration of tangled wires or restricted movement. It effortlessly delivered clean, precise cuts on hedges and shrubs, making it a standout for routine maintenance.

That said, the battery life—while sufficient for light tasks—might fall short for larger gardens or extended trimming jobs. We also noticed that obtaining spare batteries could be a challenge, which is something to consider for long-term use.

Overall, this hedge trimmer is a fantastic option for smaller gardens. It’s affordable, highly efficient, and incredibly user-friendly (perfect for those who want hassle-free gardening). With its 365-day warranty, we believe it’s a reliable investment for keeping your garden in top shape.

Lightweight Cordless Pick

Hyundai 20v Li-ion Lightweight Cordless Hedge Trimmer

The Hyundai 20V Li-ion Lightweight Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a versatile and efficient tool for home gardeners. Its lightweight design and cordless convenience make maintaining hedges and shrubs an easy and stress-free task.

With its 20V lithium-ion battery, this hedge trimmer eliminates the hassle of cords and petrol, providing an eco-friendly option for trimming tasks. The 510mm sharpened steel blade cuts branches up to 16mm in diameter, delivering impressive performance for regular garden upkeep.

Key Features:

• Lightweight Design: Weighing less than 2.5kg, this hedge trimmer is easy to handle, ensuring comfortable use over long periods without causing strain on your shoulders or arms.
• Cordless Convenience: Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the tool delivers up to 40 minutes of runtime, eliminating the hassle of cords and allowing for greater flexibility in your garden.
• Efficient Cutting: Equipped with a 510mm sharpened steel blade, it provides precise and clean cuts, handling branches up to 16mm thick with ease.
• Rotating Handle: The ergonomic rotating handle simplifies switching between trimming the tops and sides of hedges, making it more versatile for various tasks.
• Battery Compatibility: The interchangeable battery works seamlessly with other Hyundai 20V MAX tools, offering added versatility and convenience for multiple gardening applications.

We recently tested the Hyundai 20V Li-ion Lightweight Cordless Hedge Trimmer and found it to be an excellent tool for garden maintenance. Its lightweight design (under 2.5kg) makes it easy to handle, even during extended use, and it’s a great choice for those seeking a manageable alternative to heavier petrol or corded models—especially for older gardeners.

The rotating handle was a standout feature, simplifying the switch between trimming the tops and sides of hedges. The 510mm sharpened steel blade performed well, cutting cleanly through branches up to 16mm thick.

The cordless convenience (thanks to its lithium-ion battery) was another highlight, eliminating the hassle of cables and allowing more freedom of movement.

While the motor’s noise level is noticeable, we think ear protection is a simple fix for this minor issue. The overall performance and ease of use more than make up for it.

In conclusion, the Hyundai 20V hedge trimmer is a fantastic value. With the battery, charger, and a three-year home-use warranty included, it’s a reliable and efficient choice for anyone looking to keep their garden tidy.

Larger Garden Pick

WORX 18v (20v Max) Cordless 61cm Hedge Trimmer

The WORX 18V (20V Max) Cordless 61cm Hedge Trimmer is an efficient and versatile tool designed to make garden maintenance easier and more precise.

With its lightweight design and laser-cut blades, this hedge trimmer handles thick branches and hedges with ease, making it ideal for small to medium gardens. Its cordless design adds convenience, eliminating the hassle of tangled cables or extension leads.

Key Features

• Laser-Cut Blades: Provides exceptionally clean and precise cuts, efficiently handling branches up to 19mm thick with ease.
• Dual-Action Blades: Significantly reduces vibration, resulting in smoother operation and an even more comfortable cutting experience.
• Multi-Grip Handle: Designed for maximum ergonomics, the handle supports a variety of cutting positions, offering superior control and reducing strain during prolonged use.
• Enhanced Safety Features: Features a two-handed multi-grip switch to prevent accidental starts and a clear hand-guard that improves visibility while ensuring a safer working environment.
• PowerShare Battery System: Fully compatible with other WORX 20V tools, this system offers greater versatility and convenience across your garden and power tool collection.

We tested the WORX 18V Hedge Trimmer, and it’s a standout tool for garden maintenance. Its cutting performance is excellent, with laser-cut blades delivering precise results.

The 61cm blade length is a great feature, allowing us to reach higher hedges easily (no ladders needed). The lightweight design and ergonomic handle made it comfortable to use, and the dual-action blades reduced vibration—a big plus for avoiding fatigue.

The battery life is impressive. On a single charge, we managed to trim our entire garden, and the fast charger meant minimal downtime (a real timesaver). If you already own WORX tools, the PowerShare battery system adds convenience by letting you swap batteries across devices.

While it’s versatile, those tackling very large or dense hedges might need a more heavy-duty model. However, for most home gardens, this trimmer is more than capable.

Overall, the WORX 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a fantastic choice. It’s powerful, easy to use, and efficient. Whether upgrading from petrol hedge trimmers or going cordless, this tool delivers reliable performance.

One To Avoid

TenGoife Long Reach Cordless Hedge Trimmer

If you’re considering the TenGoife Long Reach Cordless Hedge Trimmer, it’s worth understanding its limitations before making a decision.

We tested the TenGoife hedge trimmer and found it disappointing. While it advertises a 10.5-foot reach with an extension pole and a lightweight 2.2kg design, its usability and performance fall short.

A key issue is the poor balance when fully extended. The motor’s position at the far end makes it heavy and awkward to manoeuvre, even with the shoulder strap. The trimmer also vibrates noticeably during use, reducing precision and making longer tasks uncomfortable.

The cutting capacity is also overstated. Although marketed to handle branches up to 0.5 inches thick, it struggled with anything over 8mm, making it unsuitable for heavier tasks.

Battery performance is another drawback. The two 2.0Ah batteries last only 30–45 minutes each, with a 3-hour charge time, limiting productivity.

While safety features and blade length suit light work, the overall build quality feels subpar for its £140 price tag. It may suffice for occasional, light trimming, but design flaws and overstated capabilities make it a poor choice for serious gardening.

Overall, we cannot recommend this product. There are better options available with more reliable performance.

How We Picked the Best Cordless Hedge Trimmer

When it came to finding the best cordless hedge trimmer, we left no stone unturned. Our approach was thorough, hands-on, and focused on real-world performance. Here’s how we did it:

1. Performance Testing

Cutting Capability

We tested each trimmer on hedges with various branch thicknesses—ranging from 10mm to 20mm—to see how well they handled different challenges. We paid close attention to how cleanly and smoothly the blades cut through softwood and hardwood branches.

Battery Performance

Battery life was a key focus. We ran each battery hedge trimmer on a full charge to measure how long it could operate without interruption. We also timed the recharge process to see if downtime would impact productivity. For tougher tasks, like cutting through dense hedges, we checked how consistently the trimmers maintained power.

Efficiency in Real Conditions

We used the trimmers in common gardening scenarios, including trimming awkward corners and reaching the tops of tall hedges. This helped us evaluate their versatility and how they performed in real-world settings.

2. Usability Testing

Ergonomics and Comfort

We spent hours using each trimmer to assess their balance, weight distribution, and overall comfort. Light hedge trimmer models with ergonomic handles scored higher as they reduced fatigue during prolonged use.

Ease of Use

We evaluated how easy it was to assemble, adjust, and operate each trimmer. Safety features, like trigger locks and blade guards, were tested to ensure they worked reliably and without hassle.

Maneuverability

From tight spaces to high branches, we put each trimmer through its paces. We wanted to see how well they adapted to different angles and conditions, especially when used above head height for taller hedges.

3. Durability and Build Quality

Material Robustness

Durability matters, so we closely inspected the construction of each trimmer. After repeated use, we checked for signs of wear on the blades and housing. We also tested their resilience by simulating accidental impacts, like light drops or bumping into hard surfaces.

Weather Resistance

Since gardening often happens in less-than-perfect conditions, we tested how well the trimmers performed when used on wet hedges or in damp environments.

Blade Longevity

Over weeks of use, we monitored how the blades held up, ensuring they stayed sharp and effective throughout.

4. Additional Features

Special Features

We looked for extra features like rotating handles, anti-blocking systems, and power management modes to see if they truly enhanced the user experience. Battery compatibility with other tools in the same range was another big plus for us.

Noise Levels

We measured noise output to make sure the trimmers were suitable for residential use. A quieter motor always gets extra points from us.

Portability

Storage and transport are often overlooked, but they’re important. We tested how easy it was to carry and store each model, especially for those with limited space or multiple job sites.

5. Comparison Metrics

We scored each trimmer on the things that matter most:

• Performance: Cutting power, runtime, and overall effectiveness.
• Ease of Use: Comfort, weight, and adaptability.
• Durability: Build quality and resilience over time.
• Extra Features: How useful and practical the add-ons were.
• Value for Money: Balancing price with performance and features.

6. Long-Term Testing

To really understand how these trimmers perform, we used them over several weeks in different conditions. This helped us spot potential reliability issues or design flaws, ensuring our recommendations are rock-solid.

By the end of this process, we felt confident in highlighting the best cordless hedge trimmers for every gardener’s needs, whether for light maintenance or tackling larger, tougher hedges.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Voltage for a Cordless Hedge Trimmer?

The best voltage for cordless electric hedge trimmers depends on your garden's needs. Typically, a 20V model works well for light trimming, while 36V or higher is ideal for thicker branches and tougher jobs. Higher voltage provides more power but can add weight, so balance performance with comfort.

Which Is Better: A Corded or Cordless Trimmer?

Choosing between a corded and cordless hedge trimmer depends on your priorities. Corded trimmers offer unlimited runtime, making them ideal for larger tasks, but they limit mobility.

Cordless trimmers provide freedom of movement and convenience but are restricted by battery life, suiting smaller gardens or jobs requiring flexibility.

Can You Use a Cordless Hedge Trimmer on a Wet Hedge?

You can use a cordless hedge trimmer on a wet hedge, but it’s not recommended. Wet conditions increase the risk of slipping and may strain the motor, reducing its lifespan. For safety and performance, always wait for hedges to dry before trimming, even with weather-resistant models.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the best cordless hedge trimmers has helped you narrow down the ideal choice for your gardening needs.

With so many great options available, it’s not an easy decision, but our Editor’s Pick, the DEWALT 18V Cordless Bare Unit Hedge Trimmer, stands out for all the right reasons. It offers excellent cutting power, ergonomic design, and reliable battery performance, making it a top-notch choice for both casual and seasoned gardeners.

While most of the models we reviewed are great buys, there’s one we recommend avoiding—the TenGoife Long Reach Cordless Hedge Trimmer. Its poor balance, limited cutting power, and short battery life make it less reliable and more frustrating to use compared to other options.

What did you think of our guide to the best cordless hedge trimmers? Are you ready to tackle your hedges with confidence, or do you still need time to decide? We’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to drop us a comment below!