A well-manicured hedge is the hallmark of a cared-for home, but wrestling with a heavy, cumbersome trimmer can turn a simple chore into a dreaded task. The right lightweight hedge trimmer makes all the difference, offering the perfect balance of power and easy handling. These tools reduce arm fatigue, increase your control for more precise cuts, and make the entire process faster and more enjoyable.
Whether you’re tidying up small shrubs or tackling a lengthy privacy screen, a lightweight design means you can finish the job without feeling the strain the next day. From cordless models that offer ultimate freedom to compact electric options perfect for smaller yards, the ideal trimmer for your needs is out there. This roundup will help you find a tool that feels like an extension of your arm, not a burden.
The Best Lightweight Hedge Trimmers for Your Yard
- WORX WG261 22″ 20V Cordless Hedge Trimmer
- BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch Electric Hedge Trimmer (BEHT200)
- Sun Joe HJ604C 7.2-Volt Cordless Grass Shears and Trimmer
- WORKPRO 7.2V 2-in-1 Cordless Grass Shear + Shrubbery Trimmer
- Makita XHU02Z 18V LXT Cordless 22″ Hedge Trimmer
- BLACK+DECKER 20V Cordless Hedge Trimmer (LHT221FF)
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer (DCHT820P1)
- Greenworks 24V 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer (21272)
WORX WG261 22″ 20V Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Experience ergonomic perfection with the WORX WG261. This trimmer is designed to be both tough and exceptionally comfortable to use, making it a great choice for longer trimming sessions. Its 22-inch blade provides an ideal cutting reach for creating flat tops and even sides on medium to large hedges, while still being nimble enough for detailed shaping.
A major benefit of this model is its place in the WORX PowerShare ecosystem. The included 20V max lithium battery is compatible with over 75 other tools, from garden to lifestyle products. This means your investment powers a whole system, not just a single tool. You get a capable, all-around cordless trimmer that fits into a wider, convenient tool collection.
BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch Electric Hedge Trimmer (BEHT200)
For those with smaller hedges and shrubs, the BLACK+DECKER BEHT200 is a compact and efficient solution. As a corded electric model, it provides consistent power without the need to manage battery life. Its 3.5 amp motor is ready to handle branches up to 5/8 of an inch thick, making it suitable for most routine trimming tasks.
This trimmer is built with user control and comfort as a priority. The bulk-free design and built-in wrap-around handle offer a secure, balanced grip. Combined with a full-length trigger switch and dual-action steel blades that reduce vibration, this tool is engineered to minimize user fatigue. It’s a straightforward, reliable option for maintaining a neat and tidy landscape.
Sun Joe HJ604C 7.2-Volt Cordless Grass Shears and Trimmer
The Sun Joe HJ604C stands out with its versatile 2-in-1 functionality. This cordless tool easily converts from a 4-inch grass shear to a 6-inch hedge trimmer, allowing you to manage both your lawn edges and small shrubs with a single, lightweight product. Its compact size is perfect for precision work and grooming small gardens.
Weighing only 2.8 pounds, this is one of the most portable and easy-to-handle options available. The ergonomic design is comfortable to carry and use, and its durable steel blades are built to access hard-to-reach areas season after season. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a simple, lightweight tool for light-duty trimming and edging.
WORKPRO 7.2V 2-in-1 Cordless Grass Shear + Shrubbery Trimmer
Similar in concept to the Sun Joe model, the WORKPRO trimmer offers exceptional value and versatility. This handheld tool functions as both a grass shear and a shrubbery trimmer, giving you two tools in one convenient, cordless package. It’s ideal for quick touch-ups, detailed shaping, and maintaining smaller garden spaces.
Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it provides the freedom to move around your yard without being tethered by a cord. The lightweight design reduces arm strain, making it easy for almost anyone to use. For homeowners looking for an affordable, multi-purpose tool for light gardening chores, the WORKPRO is a compelling option.
Makita XHU02Z 18V LXT Cordless 22″ Hedge Trimmer
For those who demand professional-grade performance, the Makita XHU02Z is a top-tier tool. It features a 22-inch dual-action, double-sided shear blade that provides clean, precise cuts with minimal vibration. The Makita-built motor delivers an impressive 2,700 strokes per minute, enabling fast and efficient cutting through dense growth.
This is a tool-only product, making it an ideal choice for those already invested in the Makita 18V LXT platform. When paired with a 4.0Ah battery, it can deliver up to an hour and a half of continuous run time. This trimmer combines a long blade for substantial reach with the power and endurance needed for more demanding yard work.
BLACK+DECKER 20V Cordless Hedge Trimmer (LHT221FF)
Embrace cordless convenience with the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX system. This trimmer offers the freedom to move around your property without the limitation of a power cord or the hassle of gas. It is designed to be part of a full suite of 20V tools, allowing you to share batteries across a wide range of yard and home devices.
This model is built to handle general hedge maintenance with ease. It provides a good balance of power and runtime for the average homeowner’s needs. If you are looking for a reliable, brand-name cordless trimmer that integrates into a larger tool system for your home, this BLACK+DECKER option is a solid and trustworthy choice.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer (DCHT820P1)
The DEWALT 20V MAX Hedge Trimmer is engineered for durability and high performance. Known for building tools for professionals, DEWALT brings that same rugged reliability to this cordless hedge trimmer. It is designed to cut through tough branches efficiently, making it suitable for both routine maintenance and more challenging trimming jobs.
This tool is part of the extensive DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem, one of the most popular cordless platforms available. Users can benefit from a long runtime and the ability to use the same battery with countless other tools. For homeowners who value power and brand reputation, the DEWALT offers a robust solution for keeping hedges in check.
Greenworks 24V 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer (21272)
The Greenworks 24V trimmer offers a unique advantage with its longer 24-inch blade. This extended reach is excellent for homeowners with larger hedges or long stretches of shrubbery, allowing you to cover more area with each pass. The extra blade length helps in creating very straight, even lines across the top and sides of your hedges.
Operating on a 24-volt battery system, this tool provides a great mix of power and cordless convenience. It’s part of the Greenworks family of tools, known for their eco-friendly and user-friendly design. If you have a bigger trimming job but still want a lightweight, easy-to-manage tool, the Greenworks 24V is designed to meet that need.
Buying Guide: How to Pick Your Perfect Lightweight Hedge Trimmer
When I’m looking for a new tool for my yard, I want something that gets the job done without wearing me out. That’s the whole point of a lightweight hedge trimmer. But “lightweight” can mean different things, and there are a few key factors I always consider before making a purchase. Getting the right one makes yard work feel less like a chore and more like a quick, satisfying task.
The first thing I think about is the power source. This is a huge decision that affects how I can use the tool. Corded electric trimmers are super lightweight and have unlimited runtime, which is fantastic for smaller properties where I can easily reach an outlet with an extension cord. The trade-off is that I’m always aware of the cord, making sure I don’t accidentally cut it. Battery-powered (cordless) trimmers offer fantastic freedom of movement. They’re quiet, start instantly, and are just as lightweight as their corded cousins. My main focus here is on the battery voltage (like 20V or 40V) and the Amp-hour (Ah) rating, as this determines power and how long I can trim before needing a recharge. For big, overgrown jobs, gas-powered trimmers are the most powerful, but they are typically the heaviest, loudest, and require the most maintenance with fuel and oil mixes.
Next, I look at the blade. The blade length determines how much I can cut in a single sweep. A longer blade, say 24 inches, is great for trimming large, flat hedges quickly. A shorter blade, around 18 inches, is easier to maneuver and perfect for shaping smaller bushes or working in tight spaces. I also check the tooth spacing. Wider spacing is better for cutting thicker branches, while closer spacing gives a finer, cleaner cut on thinner growth. A dual-action blade is a feature I always seek out; the blades move in opposite directions, which significantly reduces vibration and makes the tool much more comfortable to use for extended periods.
Finally, I pay close attention to the ergonomics and weight distribution. A well-balanced trimmer feels lighter in my hands and reduces arm fatigue. I look for models with a comfortable, rubberized grip and a rotating handle. A rotating handle is a game-changer because it allows me to adjust the cutting angle for both horizontal and vertical trimming without straining my wrists. Even within the category of the 8 best lightweight hedge trimmers for homeowners, the actual “feel” in your hands can vary, so if possible, I try to hold one at a store before I buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a lightweight hedge trimmer?
While there’s no strict standard, I generally consider any hedge trimmer under 8 to 10 pounds to be lightweight. Many modern cordless and corded electric models fall squarely in the 6 to 8-pound range, which is a massive difference compared to heavier gas models that can weigh 11 pounds or more. The goal is to find a tool that is light enough to hold at shoulder height or above without causing significant fatigue during a typical 20-30 minute trimming session.
Can a lightweight trimmer handle thick branches?
It depends on the specific model, but most lightweight trimmers designed for homeowners have a cutting capacity, or branch diameter they can cleanly slice through. This is usually between 3/4 of an inch to 1 inch. I always check the manufacturer’s specifications for this number. Trying to force a trimmer through a branch that’s too thick can strain the motor, damage the blades, and is a safety risk. For the occasional thicker branch, it’s much safer to use hand pruners or loppers first.
How long does a battery last on a cordless model?
Battery runtime varies a lot based on the battery’s voltage and Amp-hour (Ah) rating, as well as how hard I’m working the tool. A smaller 2.0Ah battery might last 20-30 minutes of continuous use on light trimming, while a larger 5.0Ah battery could easily last an hour or more. It’s important to remember that cutting through dense, thick growth will drain the battery much faster than trimming soft, new growth. My advice is to always have a spare, charged battery on hand so you’re never stuck with a half-finished job.
Is a corded or cordless lightweight hedge trimmer better for me?
This comes down to your yard size and your tolerance for cords. If you have a small to medium-sized yard with hedges close to your house, a corded model is a cost-effective and reliable choice. You just need a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord. If you have a larger property, many hedges, or simply hate dealing with a tangled cord, then the freedom of a cordless model is worth the investment. When looking at the 8 best lightweight hedge trimmers for homeowners, you’ll find excellent options in both categories to suit your specific needs.
How do I maintain my hedge trimmer?
Basic maintenance is simple and keeps your trimmer running well for years. After every use, I wipe down the blades with a damp cloth and then apply a light coating of oil to prevent rust. I also make sure to clean any sap and debris from the housing. For cordless models, I follow the battery care instructions, usually meaning I store it in a cool, dry place. For all types, I periodically check for loose screws or parts. At the end of the season, a more thorough cleaning and proper storage are key.