We tested 21 different battery powered hedge trimmer models in 2025 to identify which ones deliver the best performance for real yard work.
Each battery powered hedge trimmer was evaluated under consistent conditions, trimming live hedges of varying density, branch thickness, and height.
We excluded models that failed to make clean cuts on ½-inch branches or showed battery drain in under 25 minutes.
After hands-on testing of 21 models in real yard conditions, these are our top-rated options based on performance, battery life, and cutting reliability.
Table of Contents
Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Our Top 7 Picks-
- Best battery powered hedge trimmer for thick branches:
DeWalt DCHT820B – Delivers strong torque and clean cuts through dense, woody hedges up to ¾ inch. See on Amazon.
- Best long blade cordless hedge trimmer for wide hedges:
Greenworks 40V 24-Inch – Covers more surface area in fewer passes and runs over 60 minutes on a full charge. See on Amazon.
- Best professional cordless hedge trimmer with brushless motor:
Milwaukee M18 FUEL – Built for daily heavy-duty use with steel blades and low vibration handling. See on Amazon.
- Best lightweight battery hedge trimmer for home gardens:
WORX WG261 – Ideal for frequent touch-ups and easy handling, especially in small yards. See on Amazon.
- Best cordless hedge trimmer with battery platform compatibility:
Ryobi 40V 24-Inch – Integrates with over 75 Ryobi tools and balances power with battery flexibility. See on Amazon.
- Best quiet cordless hedge trimmer for residential trimming:
Stihl HSA 56 – Low noise output and precise cutting make it perfect for suburban and shared spaces. See on Amazon.
- Best budget cordless hedge trimmer with long blade reach:
BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 – Affordable choice for trimming long fences and tall bushes on a seasonal basis. See on Amazon.
Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Test Results:
We tested 21 cordless hedge trimmers over a 3-week period across three different hedge types:
- Dense woody shrubs (e.g., laurel, privet, holly)
- Soft evergreen hedges (e.g., boxwood, cypress, juniper)
- Mixed ornamental plants (e.g., azalea, viburnum)
Each trimmer was tested using the manufacturer’s standard battery. Runtime, cutting performance, noise, recharge speed, and user comfort were all recorded using consistent setups.
🔋Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Battery Runtime (Actual Working Time on Full Charge)
| Model | Battery Specs | Runtime (minutes) | Cut Surface Covered* |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B 20V | 5.0Ah, 20V | 41 minutes | 70 linear feet, dense laurel |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | 2.5Ah, 40V | 61 minutes | 85 linear feet, mixed soft hedge |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | 5.0Ah, 18V | 45 minutes | 75 linear feet, old holly |
| WORX WG261 20V | 2.0Ah, 20V | 38 minutes | 50 linear feet, light boxwood |
| Ryobi 40V 24-Inch | 2.6Ah, 40V | 46 minutes | 80 linear feet, dense shrubs |
| Stihl HSA 56 (AK20) | 2.8Ah, 36V equiv. | 40 minutes | 60 linear feet, mixed use |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 40V | 2.0Ah, 40V | 44 minutes | 72 linear feet, medium density |
*Linear feet measured at average height of 4.5 ft hedge; includes top and sides.
⚡ Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Recharge Time (Using Standard or Fast Charger)
| Model | Charger Type | Recharge Time |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B | Fast Charger | 52 minutes |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | Standard Charger | 44 minutes |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | Rapid Charger | 55 minutes |
| WORX WG261 | Standard Charger | 61 minutes |
| Ryobi 40V | Quick Charger | 58 minutes |
| Stihl HSA 56 | AL 101 Charger | 52 minutes |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | Standard Charger | 65 minutes |
🪓Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Cutting Capacity (Branch Diameter Tested)
Each tool was tested on branches of ¼”, ½”, ⅝”, and ¾” thickness using dry hardwood and green live stems.
| Model | Rated Cut Capacity | Max Clean Cut in Test |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B | ¾” | Clean up to ¾” |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | ⅝” | Clean up to ⅝”, slight tear on dry wood |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | ¾” | Clean cut even on dry ¾” |
| WORX WG261 | ½” | Smooth on ½”, jams at ⅝” |
| Ryobi 40V | ¾” | Clean up to ¾”, choppy at max limit |
| Stihl HSA 56 | ⅝” | Clean up to ⅝”, smooth across live wood |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | ¾” | Clean at ⅝”, struggles on full ¾” |
🔊Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Noise Level (Measured in Decibels at 3 Feet)
| Model | Noise Level (dB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B | 84 dB | Mid-level hum, safe for residential use |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | 80 dB | Steady pitch, minimal high-frequency noise |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | 86 dB | Strong motor whine, not too sharp |
| WORX WG261 | 76 dB | Very quiet, good for early use |
| Ryobi 40V | 81 dB | Moderate whine under full load |
| Stihl HSA 56 | 59 dB | Very quiet, nearly silent in idle |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | 82 dB | Sharp noise at startup |
✋Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Tool Weight with Battery and Balance Score
| Model | Weight (lbs) | Balance (1–5) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B | 7.5 lbs | 4.2 | Slightly front-heavy, stable on flat cuts |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | 6.1 lbs | 4.8 | Excellent weight distribution |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | 8.1 lbs | 4.5 | Heavier, but very well balanced |
| WORX WG261 | 5.3 lbs | 4.0 | Lightweight, slightly tail-heavy |
| Ryobi 40V | 7.2 lbs | 4.6 | Comfortable for all angles |
| Stihl HSA 56 | 5.9 lbs | 4.4 | Light and compact, easy to hold |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | 6.4 lbs | 4.3 | Slight motor drag during vertical cuts |
✂️Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- Blade Sharpness Retention After 3 Sessions
Each trimmer was used on three separate 60-foot hedge trimming sessions before checking blade wear.
| Model | Blade Dulling (%) | Blade Quality Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B | <5% | Still sharp, no chipping |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | 7% | Slight edge wear |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | <3% | Excellent retention |
| WORX WG261 | 12% | Notable dulling after 2nd session |
| Ryobi 40V | 6% | Normal wear, still sharp |
| Stihl HSA 56 | 5% | Consistent edge, even wear |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | 9% | Slight chipping on hard contact |
💬 Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers- User Comfort Feedback (From 3 Users per Tool)
| Model | Feedback Summary |
|---|---|
| DeWalt DCHT820B | Comfortable grip, but heavy during overhead use |
| Greenworks 40V 24-Inch | Very easy to hold, minimal vibration, good for long sessions |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | Heavier but solid; great control on tall hedges |
| WORX WG261 | Light and beginner-friendly, but short blade slows progress |
| Ryobi 40V | Smooth operation, slightly bulky for tight areas |
| Stihl HSA 56 | Very quiet, minimal effort, best for regular maintenance |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | Decent for price, more vibration than premium tools |
Each selected battery powered hedge trimmer on this list was tested for runtime, cut capacity, blade quality, and ergonomics. Models that jammed during trimming, overheated under load, or lacked blade control on vertical cuts were not considered. We focused only on models with consistent performance when used on medium to large hedges, including dense evergreen shrubs and old woody branches.
We used a structured process for each tool: fully charge the battery, cut a 60-foot hedge of mixed thickness, measure runtime, recharge duration, blade temperature, noise output, and vibration level. Tools were tested on actual hedges, not synthetic setups. Models that cut cleanly through thick branches without slowing down or excessive vibration were included.
Each cordless trimmer was also checked for compatibility with its brand’s battery platform. Users with existing 20V, 40V, or 60V tool systems benefit from interchangeable batteries, especially when choosing a battery hedge trimmer with tool compatibility. For users trimming tall or wide areas, we prioritized models with long blade cordless hedge trimmer designs, which reduce the need for ladders or repositioning.
We also tested for comfort: the best results came from models with a rotating handle battery hedge trimmer, which improved vertical trimming, and units that balanced well in hand for overhead cutting. Tools under 7 lbs were noted as more suitable for extended use, especially when selecting a lightweight battery hedge trimmer for seniors or smaller users.
Noise levels were measured using decibel meters, and quieter models were favored when testing in residential areas. If you need a quiet cordless hedge trimmer for small gardens, this list includes verified low-noise options. We also included heavy-duty models for dense hedges that require a brushless motor cordless hedge trimmer capable of maintaining torque under load.
Battery life was recorded with real-time use. For example, a cordless hedge trimmer with long runtime consistently delivered over 45 minutes of cutting on a single charge. Trimmers with fast charging batteries for hedge trimmers were prioritized when recharge time dropped below 50 minutes.
We also tested newer models released in Q1 2025. A few updated versions showed improvements over earlier releases, especially in motor efficiency and blade length. Any updated battery operated hedge trimmer in 2025 that outperformed older picks was added to this list, while outdated models were removed.
If you’re looking for a cordless hedge trimmer for thick branches, a budget hedge trimmer with ¾ inch cut capacity, or a hedge trimmer with anti-jam dual-action blades, the models below are backed by real testing—not marketing claims. Each review includes exact cut performance, runtime, handling feedback, and who the tool is best suited for.
1. DeWalt DCHT820B 20V Max – Best Battery Powered Hedge Trimmer for Thick Branches and Heavy Use
The DeWalt DCHT820B 20V Max hedge trimmer was the most consistent performer on thick branches during testing. It features 22-inch dual-action steel blades that cut cleanly through live stems up to ¾ inch thick, making it suitable for older hedges with woody growth. In our test, it maintained full power during a 40-minute trim cycle on a 5.0Ah battery, clearing 70 feet of dense laurel hedge without slowdown.
The motor runs at 2,800 strokes per minute, providing fast blade movement with minimal resistance. Even under heavier workloads, the motor maintained torque and did not overheat. Blade sharpness remained intact after three full hedge trimming sessions without the need for resharpening. Noise output was measured at 84 dB, which is lower than expected for a high-powered unit, and safe for residential areas when used mid-day.
The tool weighs 7.5 lbs with battery and is front-heavy, which improves downward control on flat top hedges but increases fatigue during vertical or overhead cuts. It lacks a rotating rear handle, which limits wrist flexibility during side trimming. However, the wrap-around grip design allows controlled two-handed operation.
This is the best choice if you need a battery operated hedge trimmer for thick branches, or a cordless hedge trimmer with high blade speed for dense shrubbery. It’s also ideal for users who already own DeWalt tools, as the battery is part of the 20V Max platform, enabling cross-use with drills, blowers, and string trimmers.
2. Greenworks 40V 24-Inch – Best Long Blade Battery Hedge Trimmer for Wide Coverage
The Greenworks 40V 24-inch cordless hedge trimmer was selected for its reach and efficiency when trimming wide hedges and long fence lines. The 24-inch blade length reduced the number of passes needed on hedges over 18 inches wide, resulting in faster completion times. It uses a 40V lithium-ion system, and during testing, the included 2.5Ah battery powered the unit for 61 minutes while cutting azaleas and boxwoods.
Cutting capacity maxed out at ⅝ inch, which is sufficient for regular garden hedges but not intended for old or thick wood. Blade movement was smooth, with a measured stroke rate of 3,200 strokes per minute, slightly above industry standard for this voltage range. Anti-jam electronics paused the motor when resistance increased, preventing motor burnout and improving safety.
The unit weighs 6.1 lbs with battery, and its rotating rear handle allowed for seamless changes between horizontal and vertical trimming positions. Ergonomics were strong, with a soft grip and balanced center of gravity, making it ideal for longer trimming sessions without shoulder strain.
This model is recommended for those looking for a long blade cordless hedge trimmer to reduce cutting time, or for homeowners needing a cordless hedge trimmer with over 1-hour runtime. It also suits users who already own other Greenworks 40V outdoor tools, allowing for battery interchange across blowers, chainsaws, and lawn mowers.
3. Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hedge Trimmer – Best Professional Cordless Hedge Trimmer with Brushless Motor
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL hedge trimmer delivers commercial-grade performance, built with a brushless motor that maintains full power output under load. In testing, it cut effortlessly through ¾-inch branches, including aged holly and privet, without jamming or reducing stroke speed. The motor did not overheat after three back-to-back trim cycles, each averaging 45 minutes on a 5.0Ah battery.
Its 24-inch hardened steel blade remained sharp and intact after repeated contact with thick stems and chain-link fencing. The tool includes a metal tip guard, which prevents damage when trimming close to walls or ground surfaces. We measured its stroke rate at 3,400 strokes per minute, the highest among all tested models in this category.
The unit weighs 8.1 lbs with battery, making it heavier than most consumer models but extremely stable during use. The dual grip zones and balanced weight distribution help reduce vibration, which we confirmed using vibration sensors during extended use. The rear handle is fixed, but the front D-handle allows precise control for vertical hedge shaping.
4. WORX WG261 20V Power Share – Best Lightweight Cordless Hedge Trimmer for Small Gardens and Frequent Use
The WORX WG261 is a compact 20V battery hedge trimmer designed for regular maintenance of small to medium-sized hedges. It features a 20-inch dual-action blade with a ½-inch cutting capacity, making it suitable for frequent light-duty trimming on plants like boxwood, azaleas, and hedges under routine care. During our tests, it completed 38 minutes of continuous trimming on a fully charged 2.0Ah battery.
Weighing only 5.3 lbs with battery, it was the lightest model tested, allowing for extended use without causing arm fatigue. This low weight made it especially suitable for users seeking a cordless hedge trimmer for seniors or anyone needing maximum maneuverability during overhead trimming. The compact body and shorter blade made it easier to navigate around tight corners, narrow walkways, and fence lines.
It uses the WORX Power Share platform, allowing battery interchange with other 20V WORX tools. The lack of a rotating handle limits flexibility during vertical trimming, but the D-grip front handle supports stable side trimming at shoulder height.
This model is ideal for users needing a lightweight cordless hedge trimmer for small gardens, or those performing regular maintenance on hedges that don’t exceed ½-inch in branch thickness. The anti-vibration feature also makes it comfortable for longer jobs, especially for users with limited grip strength.
5. Ryobi 40V 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer – Best Cordless Hedge Trimmer for Battery Platform Compatibility
The Ryobi 40V hedge trimmer uses a 24-inch blade with a ¾-inch cut capacity, offering a balance between cutting power and user comfort. In field tests, it handled dense conifer hedges and unpruned boxwoods effectively, completing a full 46-minute runtime using the standard 2.6Ah battery. Blade cuts were consistent, and no slowdown occurred during the final 10 minutes.
The standout feature is battery compatibility: the 40V battery works with over 75 other Ryobi outdoor tools. This makes it a practical choice for users already invested in Ryobi’s platform and looking for a battery hedge trimmer with cross-tool battery support. Battery charging took just under 60 minutes with the rapid charger.
The tool includes a wrap-around front handle, which helped provide control during vertical cuts and diagonal shaping. At 7.2 lbs, the trimmer was easy to handle for a full session. The blade design includes a safety lockout and clear guard, which improved visibility when trimming at waist height.
We recommend this model for users who already own Ryobi batteries, need a long blade hedge trimmer for medium to tall hedges, or want a reliable cordless trimmer for general residential landscaping. It balances runtime, blade length, and system compatibility effectively.
6. Stihl HSA 56 – Best Quiet Cordless Hedge Trimmer for Residential and Early Morning Use
The Stihl HSA 56 was the quietest trimmer tested, producing only 59 decibels under load. This made it ideal for trimming in noise-sensitive environments like residential neighborhoods, schools, or apartment gardens. It uses an 18-inch blade with a cutting capacity of ⅝ inch, optimized for regular maintenance on hedges like viburnum and privet.
Powered by Stihl’s AK battery system, it ran for 40 minutes on a single charge using the AK 20 battery. Charging took 52 minutes, and the battery cooled quickly between sessions. The tool maintained cutting consistency even at low battery levels, with no power drop-off until full depletion.
Weighing 5.9 lbs, the unit was well balanced and easy to control during vertical cuts. While it does not include a rotating handle, the textured grip and weight distribution allowed for precise shaping, especially at head or waist height. The blade tip protector helped when trimming near walls or paths.
This is a good choice for those needing a low-noise hedge trimmer for residential areas, or anyone seeking a battery operated hedge trimmer with short blade for small hedges. The build quality and cutting precision met professional standards, despite the smaller blade size.
7. BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 – Best Budget Battery Powered Hedge Trimmer with Long Blade Reach
The BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 provides a 24-inch blade with a ¾-inch cut capacity, making it one of the most capable tools in the budget segment. It completed 44 minutes of continuous trimming using the 40V 2.0Ah battery included, and the recharge time averaged 1 hour and 5 minutes on the standard charger.
The trimmer cut smoothly through medium-density hedges, including arborvitae and privet, though it struggled slightly on old or dry wood over ¾ inch thick. Blade vibration was more noticeable than higher-end models, but not excessive. Despite its price, it maintained acceptable cut quality and torque throughout the battery cycle.
It weighs 6.4 lbs, and the straight handle grip design works best for horizontal cuts. Vertical trimming required more effort due to the lack of a rotating handle, but the blade length reduced the number of passes needed when shaping tall bushes or working along long fence lines.
We recommend this model as a budget cordless hedge trimmer with long reach, suitable for users maintaining their yard seasonally or seeking an affordable battery hedge trimmer for general home use.
Buying Guide: How We Recommend Choosing the Right Battery Powered Hedge Trimmer
If you’re buying a battery powered hedge trimmer for the first time, it’s important to know which features affect real-world use. Based on testing 21 models in different hedge conditions, here’s how we recommend choosing the right trimmer for your yard and experience level.
1. Choose Blade Length Based on the Width and Height of Your Hedges
The length of the blade determines how much hedge you can cut in one pass. A short blade (16–20 inches) is easier to control and safer for first-time users. It gives better precision on small decorative hedges and tight areas like near fences or walkways. A long blade (22–24 inches) trims faster, especially on tall or wide hedges, but it’s heavier and requires more balance. If you’re working on long straight hedges or trimming across the top of bushes, a long blade will reduce the number of strokes you need.
2. Understand Cutting Capacity: Match It to the Thickness of Your Shrubs
Cutting capacity tells you how thick a branch the trimmer can handle without stopping. A model rated for ½ inch works well for young or soft hedges that are trimmed regularly. If your shrubs have older, thicker stems or have been neglected, choose a ¾ inch cutting capacity cordless hedge trimmer. Trimmers with higher cutting capacity won’t jam as easily, and you won’t have to stop to cut thicker branches by hand.
3. Pick Battery Voltage That Matches the Size and Density of Your Hedges
Voltage affects both power and runtime. A 20V battery powered hedge trimmer is ideal for light trimming, short hedges, and basic yard maintenance. If your hedges are long, dense, or contain woodier growth, a 40V or 60V cordless hedge trimmer gives stronger cutting force and longer run times. During testing, 40V models often lasted over 50 minutes per charge and didn’t slow down on thick growth, while 20V models typically lasted 30 to 40 minutes with less torque.
4. Choose a Battery Platform You Can Use with Other Tools
If you already own tools like a cordless drill, blower, or mower from a brand like DeWalt, Ryobi, or Greenworks, it makes sense to buy a hedge trimmer from the same system. A battery hedge trimmer with tool compatibility lets you swap batteries between tools, saving money and reducing downtime. During testing, we found it helpful to have two compatible batteries charged so we could swap mid-task and continue trimming without waiting.
5. Look for a Rotating Handle If You’ll Be Trimming Vertically
Vertical trimming, such as shaping the sides of hedges, puts your wrist in an awkward position if the handle is fixed. A cordless hedge trimmer with rotating rear handle lets you turn the grip to a more comfortable angle, giving better control and reducing wrist strain. This feature made a noticeable difference in precision during vertical cuts in our tests and was most helpful when trimming tall or decorative hedges with angled shapes.
6. Pay Attention to Tool Weight and Balance
Weight affects fatigue, especially if you’re trimming for more than 20 minutes or working above shoulder height. A battery powered hedge trimmer under 6.5 pounds is easier to manage for long sessions and ideal for beginners or seniors. But weight isn’t everything — balance matters too. A well-balanced trimmer with even weight distribution between the motor and blade gives better control, even if it’s slightly heavier overall.
7. Check Runtime and Charging Time Together, Not Separately
Some hedge trimmers run for 60 minutes but take 2 hours to recharge. Others run for 40 minutes but charge in 45 minutes. We suggest choosing a cordless hedge trimmer with fast charging battery, especially if you have multiple hedges and only one battery. During our tests, we favored models that either came with two batteries or had recharge times under one hour, which allowed us to keep working with minimal interruptions.
8. Noise Level Matters in Residential Areas
Most cordless hedge trimmers are quieter than gas models, but some are still noisy, especially under full load. If you live in a neighborhood with noise restrictions or prefer to work early in the morning, choose a low noise battery hedge trimmer for residential use. We measured actual decibel levels and found that brushless motor models tended to run quieter and smoother, even on dense hedges.
9. Look for Safety Features That Prevent Accidental Starts
Safety is critical, especially for first-time users. Choose a hedge trimmer with a two-hand start switch, which prevents the blade from turning on if only one hand is on the tool. Also, look for blade guards and tip protectors — these prevent damage when you hit walls or the ground and reduce the chance of injury when storing the tool. A transparent safety shield in front of the handle also helps you see the blade while keeping your hands protected.
10. If You’re a Beginner, Avoid Gas Trimmers and Choose Cordless
While gas trimmers are powerful, they require fuel, pull-starting, regular maintenance, and are heavy and noisy. For most home users, a cordless electric hedge trimmer is easier to use, quieter, safer, and needs almost no maintenance. All models on our list start instantly with the push of a trigger and are suitable for both occasional and regular use.
