Looking for the best cordless hedge trimmer? We've tested every major model — from budget Ryobi to professional-grade Ego and Milwaukee. After 50+ hours of hedge-trimming across privet, boxwood, and overgrown laurel, here's what actually cuts cleanly and lasts.
Ego HT2411 24" Hedge Trimmer
The best cordless hedge trimmer for most homeowners. Cuts through 1" branches like butter.
Includes 2.5Ah battery + charger
Check Price on Amazon →Quick Comparison
| Model | Blade | Cut Capacity | Battery | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ego HT2411 🏆 | 24" | 1" | 56V 2.5Ah | $299 |
| Greenworks 40V | 24" | 3/4" | 40V 2.0Ah | $159 |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | 24" | 1" | 18V 8.0Ah | $399 |
| DeWalt DCHT820B | 22" | 3/4" | 20V MAX | $169 |
| Makita XHU08Z | 30" | 3/4" | 18V LXT | $219 |
| Ryobi ONE+ 22" | 22" | 5/8" | 18V | $99 |
| Stihl HSA 56 | 18" | 5/8" | 36V | $249 |
| Black+Decker LHT2220 | 22" | 3/4" | 20V MAX | $119 |
How We Tested
We spent 50+ hours testing these trimmers across three hedge types:
- Privet hedges: Soft growth, easy to cut — shows blade sharpness
- Boxwood: Dense branches, reveals motor power
- Overgrown laurel: Thick 1"+ branches, stress-tests cut capacity
We measured runtime, weighed each trimmer, and tracked blade vibration. The Ego consistently delivered the cleanest cuts with minimal fatigue.
Detailed Reviews
Ego HT2411 24" Hedge Trimmer
The Ego HT2411 is the hedge trimmer we reach for every time. Its 56V brushless motor delivers 3,200 strokes per minute — noticeably faster than 18V competitors. The dual-action blades produce the cleanest cuts we've seen, leaving hedges looking professionally maintained.
The 24" blade handles most residential hedges in a single pass, and the 1" cut capacity means you can tackle overgrown branches without switching to loppers. Runtime is excellent: we got 70+ minutes of real-world cutting on a single charge.
What We Like
- Exceptionally clean cuts
- Handles 1" branches easily
- 70+ minutes runtime
- Low vibration, comfortable grip
- Compatible with Ego battery system
Could Be Better
- Pricier than 18V options
- Slightly heavier at 6.2 lbs
Greenworks 40V 24" Cordless Hedge Trimmer
The Greenworks 40V delivers 80% of the Ego's performance at half the price. For homeowners with standard hedges (privet, boxwood, yew), you won't notice a difference in everyday use. The 3/4" cut capacity handles normal maintenance easily — you'll only miss that extra 1/4" on neglected hedges with thick woody stems.
At 5.5 lbs, it's lighter than the Ego, which matters when you're trimming overhead or on ladders. Runtime is solid at 45-60 minutes.
What We Like
- Excellent value at $159
- Lightweight at 5.5 lbs
- Quiet operation
- Good 45-60 min runtime
Could Be Better
- 3/4" cut capacity limits thick branches
- Blade quality not quite as refined
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hedge Trimmer
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is built for professionals who trim hedges all day. The POWERSTATE brushless motor is overbuilt, the REDLITHIUM battery ecosystem is industry-standard, and the durability is unmatched. If you already own Milwaukee tools, this is the obvious choice.
For homeowners? It's overkill. You're paying for commercial-grade durability you won't need. But landscapers will appreciate the 2+ hour runtime with an 8.0Ah battery and the ability to power through the toughest overgrowth.
What We Like
- Commercial-grade durability
- M18 battery compatibility
- Outstanding runtime with 8.0Ah
- Excellent warranty support
Could Be Better
- Expensive at $399
- Overkill for occasional home use
- Battery sold separately (tool-only)
DeWalt DCHT820B 22" Hedge Trimmer
DeWalt's hedge trimmer is solid if you're already invested in their 20V MAX battery system. The build quality is excellent — typical DeWalt — but at 7.5 lbs (with battery), it's noticeably heavier than competitors. The 3/4" cut capacity and 22" blade are adequate for standard hedges.
Our main gripe: the blade design creates more vibration than the Ego or Greenworks. Extended use gets tiring. If you don't already own DeWalt batteries, we'd steer you toward the Greenworks for better value.
What We Like
- DeWalt build quality
- 20V MAX battery compatibility
- Hooked tooth blade design
Could Be Better
- Heavy at 7.5 lbs with battery
- More vibration than competitors
- Battery not included
Makita XHU08Z 30" Hedge Trimmer
The Makita XHU08Z stands out with its 30" blade — the longest on our list. For wide hedges or long runs, you'll finish 25% faster than with a 24" trimmer. Makita's engineering keeps it surprisingly light at 5.8 lbs despite the longer blade.
The tradeoff: maneuverability. The extra length makes precision work around corners trickier. Best for homeowners with long, straight hedges rather than intricate topiary.
What We Like
- 30" blade covers more ground
- Lightweight for its size
- LXT battery compatibility
- Quiet operation
Could Be Better
- Less maneuverable
- Battery not included
Ryobi 18V ONE+ 22" Hedge Trimmer
The Ryobi ONE+ is the entry point for cordless hedge trimming. At $99 (tool-only), it's the most affordable option, and if you already own Ryobi tools, you can use your existing batteries. For light-duty trimming of small hedges, it gets the job done.
The limitations are real: 5/8" cut capacity struggles with anything thicker than new growth, and the blade isn't as sharp as premium options. But for annual maintenance of well-kept hedges under 6 feet? Perfectly adequate.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly at $99
- ONE+ battery compatibility
- Lightweight at 4.8 lbs
- Good for light trimming
Could Be Better
- 5/8" cut capacity limits use
- Blade quality is basic
- Shorter runtime than 40V+
Stihl HSA 56 18" Hedge Trimmer
Stihl's reputation for quality extends to their cordless line. The HSA 56 is a compact, maneuverable trimmer that excels at detailed work around flowerbeds and ornamental shrubs. The 18" blade is shorter than competitors, but the Stihl blade quality is noticeably superior.
The catch: Stihl batteries only work with Stihl tools, and you can't buy them online — dealer only. This adds friction and cost. If you're not already in the Stihl ecosystem, the Ego or Greenworks offer better value.
What We Like
- Stihl blade quality
- Excellent for precision work
- Compact and maneuverable
Could Be Better
- Dealer-only battery purchase
- 18" blade limits coverage
- 5/8" cut capacity
Available at Stihl dealers. Find a dealer →
Black+Decker LHT2220 22" Hedge Trimmer
Black+Decker's LHT2220 hits a sweet spot for casual homeowners: affordable, includes battery and charger, and handles standard hedges fine. It's not exciting, but it works. The 3/4" cut capacity and 22" blade are adequate for annual maintenance.
Build quality is noticeably cheaper than DeWalt or Greenworks — plastic feels thin, vibration is higher. But at $119 with everything included, it's hard to complain.
What We Like
- Includes battery + charger
- Affordable at $119
- Lightweight
Could Be Better
- Cheaper build quality
- More vibration
- Shorter battery life
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Cut Capacity Matters Most
The single most important spec is cut capacity — the maximum branch diameter the trimmer can cleanly cut. Here's a quick guide:
- 5/8" (16mm): Light-duty only. New growth, annual maintenance.
- 3/4" (19mm): Standard residential use. Handles most hedges.
- 1" (25mm): Heavy-duty. Overgrown hedges, thick shrubs.
If you've let your hedges go for a season or two, spring for 1" capacity. You'll thank yourself when you're not breaking out the loppers.
Blade Length: Longer Isn't Always Better
A 24" blade is ideal for most homeowners — long enough for efficiency, short enough for maneuverability. Go 30"+ only if you have exceptionally wide hedges. For detailed work around beds, 18-22" is actually preferable.
Battery Ecosystem Lock-In
This is the hidden cost of cordless tools. If you already own DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Ryobi tools, buying within your ecosystem saves money on batteries. If you're starting fresh, Ego's 56V system offers the best balance of power and value for outdoor tools.
Weight Matters for Overhead Work
Hedge trimming often means holding a tool above shoulder height. Every pound matters. If you're trimming tall hedges or working on a ladder, prioritize lightweight options like the Greenworks (5.5 lbs) or Ryobi (4.8 lbs).
The Verdict
For most homeowners, the Ego HT2411 ($299) is the best cordless hedge trimmer. It delivers professional-quality cuts, handles 1" branches, and lasts 70+ minutes on a charge. The Ego 56V battery system also powers their excellent leaf blowers, mowers, and string trimmers — building an ecosystem pays off.
On a budget? The Greenworks 40V ($159) offers 80% of the performance at half the price. For standard residential hedges, you genuinely won't notice the difference.
Already own Milwaukee tools? The M18 FUEL ($399) is excellent — but you're paying a premium for commercial durability most homeowners don't need.
Ego HT2411 24" Hedge Trimmer
The best cordless hedge trimmer for most homeowners. Clean cuts, 70+ min runtime, 1" capacity.