You can keep hedges in shape with a manual hedge trimmer, but if there’s a lot to trim in your garden, a motorised trimmer saves effort and delivers a neat result. Which hedge trimmer is the right choice depends on many factors. Here, we list them and compare three hedge trimmers: one model that operates on mains power and two battery trimmers.
Tips for Choosing a Hedge Trimmer
The following considerations are crucial when choosing the perfect hedge trimmer:
Drive
Hedge trimmers operate on mains power, battery, or petrol. The last option is actually only interesting for professionals and is not considered here. Hedge trimmers that operate on mains power are generally the cheapest and lightest in weight. These machines are a good choice for small gardens. A hedge trimmer with a battery has the advantage that you can work anywhere with it, and there is no cord in the way. There is a wide choice of battery hedge trimmers in various sizes and designs.
Blade Length
In addition to the drive, the cutting length is a criterion for choice. The shorter the blade, the easier the trimmer is to handle. The longer the blade, the more hedges you can trim in one go. But a larger cutting range also means a heavier machine which will make you tired more quickly. Wide hedges require a larger length, especially if you can only get at it from one side. For narrow hedges and topiary, a blade length of 40 cm is sufficient. For most garden owners, a hedge trimmer with a blade of average length is the best choice.
Blades
Motorised hedge trimmers have two types of blades: single and double-sided. Only one of the opposing blades moves with the former, o, and with the latter, both blades move. This type of hedge trimmer is preferred because it produces a neater trimming result.
Light and User-Friendly
The Gardena EasyCut 420/45 is a good choice for trimming small hedges. This electric hedge trimmer is particularly light and easy to handle. The ErgoTec handle is especially useful for trimming the sides of the hedge. With a blade length of 45 cm and a power of 420 Watts, this compact machine is excellently suited for topiary of all types of hedges.
Built-In Comfort
The Kärcher HGE 18-50 is a powerful battery hedge trimmer with a few smart ergonomic details that make working pleasant and safe. The 180° rotating handle prevents arms and shoulders from getting tired in different working positions, such as when making vertical saw cuts. Thanks to the handy trimming comb, the cut branches don’t fall in the hedge but on the ground, making them easy to clean up. This all-round trimmer has a blade length of 50 cm and can be used with the Kärcher 18 V battery platform.
For Heavy Duty Work
The Makita UH006GZ is a powerhouse among battery hedge trimmers. With its strong brushless motor, it is capable of working under high loads for long periods. The 60 cm long blade is equipped with double-sided sharpened blades for optimal trimming capacity and effortlessly cuts through thicker branches. The rotating handle, the continuously adjustable speed, and the low vibration level make this 4.7 kg heavy machine easily manageable. An important safety feature is the electric safety brake that stops the blades as soon as the machine is released by either hand.
