Is the hedge trimmer battery (cordless) or electric (corded)?

We recommend hedge trimmers that score at least 80% overall.

The CHOICE Expert Rating comprises 50% performance score and 50% ease of use score.

Our tester assesses the trimmers for their cutting performance on a variety of leafy and woody hedge types, including some thicker branches.

Due to a change in test site in 2021, performance results before this date can't be directly compared.

Claimed country of origin. Some batteries and chargers may have a different country of origin to the main unit.

Manufacturer's stated warranty. There may be different warranties for batteries and chargers. You are still covered under Australian Consumer Law.

'Tested models' are hedge trimmers that we've tested and that are currently available in shops. In some instances, at the request of members and when products are still available on the second-hand market and via sites like eBay, we also include hedge trimmers that were previously tested but are now discontinued.

Recommended or typical retail price, including the battery if applicable. Some brands sell trimmers without a battery ("skin-only") if you already own one.

Length of the cutting blade in cm.

The size of the gap between the teeth. Generally, the larger the gap, the better the cutting performance.

Stated battery voltage. Other battery capacities may be available.

Amp hours (Ah) are the number of amps a battery can sustain for an hour.

Manufacturer's claimed battery charging time in minutes

How loud is the trimmer when holding and using it?

A shield that protects your leading hand from flying cuttings and debris. Most models have these.

This makes it easier to switch between horizontal and vertical trimming.

The blade bar has fixed teeth that project beyond the moving cutters, which helps prevent injury. For example, if you bump the blade against your leg, you're less likely to come into contact with the cutting blades.

The cutting head rotates for easier vertical edging.