Pruning your hedges is vital for keeping them healthy and preventing disease by ensuring adequate air circulation. However, not all tools are created the same. That may lead you to ask which one is better for the job, a hedge trimmer with a battery or gas? Let’s delve into what can sway your choice to one camp over another.
Table of Contents
In a Hurry? Here’s Our Top Picks…
1. Black & Decker MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer
- Powerful 40V Lithium Ion battery of the cordless hedge trimmer delivers power and run-time to complete the toughest jobs
- 24 inch dual-action blades of the battery powered hedge trimmer cut branches fast with less vibration
- Trimmers for plants have extended reach blades with a 3/4 inch cut capacity trim more in less time
- Up to 6000 sq ft of actual hedges trimmed per charge
- Wrap-around front handle provides comfort and control in vertical and horizontal trimming application
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Black & Decker MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer is an excellent choice for hedges up to 0.75 inches. It has a 24-inch, dual-action blade powered by a 40-volt, lithium-ion battery. The design and weight make it easy to maneuver. Everything you need is included with your purchase, including a hand guard for added protection.
Pros:
- The charge time is decent at about one hour.
- The tool is Energy Star-certified.
- It is lightweight enough to make trimming more manageable.
Cons:
- The trimmer jams when using it in dense shrubbery.
2. WorkPro Cordless Trimmer
- Safe and Quick - Double lock design of child safety lock and security key forms a double security protection. Whether working or not, the machine can maintain a safe state for children and adults
- Simple to Use - At just 1.04lbs, the hedge cutter electric features an effortless one-handed operation. The easy to use and comfortable grip create added convenience. Replaceable high-quality blade with WORKPRO's innovative blade change -fast easy and safe - no tools required. Note: After using the blade, it needs to be cleaned in time and kept dry during storage. Ensure that the blade has a longer life
- Compact - The compact design of WORKPRO cordless grass cutter ensures that it can fit into a variety of small Spaces. Best Use - small gardens, hedge grooming, and areas your mower cannot reach giving. The hedge trim blades - best suitable for less than 10mm thickness branches
- High Performance - 2-in-1 design makes the switch from mowing to hedgerow quick and easy (4-23/32 inch long shrub shear & 3-35/64 inch wide grass shear). 1100rpm no-load speed is able to provide high power for best cutting results, which is perfect for Trimming & Pruning: Trees, Branches, Shrubs, Bushes
- Rechargeable - Long-life, rechargeable, 7.2 V lithium-ion battery for hassle-free, cordless operation (battery charger included). The trimmer can be operated for approx 40 minutes with full charge and the lawn mower is approx 50 minutes, with a charging time of approx 3-5 hours for a full charge
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The WorkPro Cordless Trimmer is an excellent choice if you only have a small area to cover. You can also use it to cut grass instead of a weed whacker. Its compact size allows you to get into tight spaces. It can trim vegetation up to 0.4 inches in diameter.
Pros:
- The trimmer is affordably priced.
- It is lightweight at just over 1 pound.
- It has both a safety lock and a security key.
Cons:
- The charge time is relatively long at 3 to 5 hours.
3. Echo HC-152 Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmer
- The ECHO hedge trimmer HC-2020 is lightweight and offers professional-grade features for dependability. Its 20 in. blades offer superior cutting performance and twice as many cutting edges as the remaining bush trimmer competition. A zero-type grease fitting and tool-less air filter cover makes maintenance easy on this gas powered hedge trimmer unit.
- Features 20" double-sided, double-reciprocating razor edge blades
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Echo HC-152 Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmer is a wise choice if you need the big guns. The 21 cc engine is powerful enough for most jobs. The large, cushioned handles make it easy to use. It has a 20-inch, dual-action blade that cuts thoroughly and cleanly.
Pros:
- The ergonomic design makes it easier to use.
- The two-stroke engine starts up fast.
- The trimmer packs plenty of power for handling thick growth.
Cons:
- You have to take the trimmer to an authorized dealer to solve warranty issues.
4. Poulan Pro PR2322 Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmer
- Powerful 23cc 2 cycle full crank engine for maximum cutting performance
- Durable dual-action stainless Steel blades cut up to 22" wide and limbs up to 1" in diameter
- Rotating handle with comfort grip and advanced anti-vibration for superior comfort, reduced fatigue and maximum cutting control
- Lightweight design at Only 11.1 lbs
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Poulan Pro PR2322 Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmer is a sound investment if you have a lot of ground to cover and thicker branches. It has a 22-inch, dual-action blade that makes short work of any job. The USA-made product has a 23 cc engine and weighs in at just over 11 pounds.
Pros:
- The trimmer can cut through branches up to 1 inch in diameter.
- It has anti-vibration dampeners that make it more comfortable to use.
- The manufacturer backs up their product with a two-year warranty.
Cons:
- The rotating handle takes a bit to get used to at first.
5. Tanaka TCH22EAP2 Gas Hedge Trimmer
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The Tanaka TCH22EAP2 Gas Hedge Trimmer is a versatile product with a comfortable design that is easy to use. It is relatively lightweight at just 9.5 pounds. It has a 21 cc, two-stroke engine and a 20-inch, dual-sided blade. The latter has rounded tips for extra safety.
Pros:
- The forward exhaust protects your plants from the hot emissions of the engine.
- Your purchase includes a tool kit for making on-the-fly adjustments.
- The trimmer has a seven-year warranty.
Cons:
- There are occasional quality control issues with the fuel line.
Buying Guide and Comparison
There are several features to consider when buying a hedge trimmer with a battery vs gas in addition to the power source. Other factors include:
- Dimensions and weight of the device
- Comfort issues
- Type of job
Let’s begin with the power question.
Battery Powered Hedge Trimmers
This option has several things in its favor. It is portable so that you can go where you need to work without the worry of dragging an electric cord behind you. That fact addresses a significant safety concern when using these types of power tools. You’ll appreciate it if you’re creating a topiary. There are also no fumes or fuel mixtures.
On the downside, the battery adds weight. And you’ll feel it after several minutes trimming your hedges. It also limits how much you can do in a session before you have to recharge it. We suggest that you make sure that the charger is part of your purchase. You may want to consider a spare battery too.
Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmers
If you have a lot of shrubs, this option is the way to go. Adding fuel can allow you to complete the task in one session. Also, if you have older or thicker hedges, it will have the necessary power to get the job done quickly.
However, you must use the correct fuel-mix ratio if you’re using a two-stroke model. That adds to the mess and maintenance of using these tools. You may also find that they are more expensive. That’s often because they are more powerful.
Dimensions and Weight
Check the length of the blade and the total size to make sure that it’s long enough to reach the entire hedge, especially if you have limited access on all sides. We’d also recommend checking the weight for comparison too. Ten pounds might not sound like a lot—until you’ve used it.
Some manufacturers will provide other specs such as cutting strokes per minute to help you gauge the performance of the different products.
Comfort and Safety
Look for a hedge trimmer with an ergonomic handle, preferably with a hand shield too. We suggest that you wear gloves while using these tools. However, a comfortable grip is an excellent start. Many products have anti-vibration components to make it easier for you to hold it. It is a feature worth seeking.
Type of Job
Most products will list a girth with which the blade can cut. A figure of 0.75 inches will cover most hedges. If you need something larger, you can always opt for another type of tool in addition to the hedge trimmer, such as a pole saw or lopper.
Best 3 Brands
Black & Decker
The name Black & Decker is synonymous with affordable power tools. It is one of the many subsidiaries of Stanley Black & Decker. The company has a long history going back to 1910.
WorkPro
WorkPro produces a broad range of hand and power tools for both residential and commercial use. The company prides itself on making quality tools for getting professional-looking results.
Greenworks Tools
Greenworks Tools is the new kid on the block with innovative lithium-ion technology. Its mission is to provide eco-friendly equipment that doesn’t compromise on power or efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which hedge trimmer is best?
A: Efficiency is our main criterion for these products. That means getting one that is capable of cutting cleanly and swiftly, no matter what the power source.
Q: How do you trim a hedge?
A: Timing is critical. Begin by promoting air circulation within the plants by removing dead branches and debris. Plan on cutting about one-quarter of the older part of the bushes to encourage new growth.
Q: What maintenance is involved with a gas-powered hedge trimmer?
A: You should lubricate the blade after each use. That will prevent corrosion and allow it to cut smoothly the next time you use it. It’s essential to use the recommended fuel mix as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Final Thoughts
Pruning your shrubbery is vital both for the appearance and health of your plants. The discussion about a hedge trimmer with a battery or gas begins with the size of the job. Fortunately, you have plenty of options to make it more manageable no matter how big of a yard you have.
