There are few things that make your home appear more presentable to the outside world than a set of well-manicured hedges. However, keeping your hedges in line takes a high level of maintenance since these plants love to grow unruly. While a standard hedge trimmer can do the job, having the best pole hedge trimmer can save you a ton of time and keep your back pain-free. This is because unlike a standard hedge trimmer, pole hedge trimmers are able to reach high and low as well as to cut at difficult angles.
In order to help you find the best pole hedge trimmer for your landscaping needs, we considered a number of important features of these tools. The first is whether it is corded or cordless, which affects how far away from your house you’ll be able to use the trimmer. Second, we looked at the size and length of the knife, which affect how many cutting passes you’ll need to make over your hedges. Finally, we considered the weight of different tools, since they can weigh on your arms if you are out trimming for an extended time.
We spent tens of hours researching pole hedge trimmers, reading through technical specifications and customer reviews. After all that, we came up with our five favorite pole hedge trimmers, listed in the table below. Continue reading for detailed reviews of each hedge trimmer, complete with pros and cons. Our buying guide covers everything you need to know about pole hedge trimmers, from the features to look for when choosing a model to how you can use and maintain it. Finally, we announce our three overall favorite pole hedge trimmers on the market today.
More features: 7-position 180-degree articulating, 2800 strokes per minute
This equipment from the reputable DEWALT brand is our editor’s choice because of its lightweight design, pre-hardened blades, and high-output motor. Boasting a capacity to handle tougher jobs, it is a powerful and rugged trimmer, and it can cut branches up to ¾-inch thick with its double-sided 22-inch blade. Its 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery is enough to help you get enough done, and you can always take advantage of the pre-hardened hooked-teeth blades to reduce the need for blade maintenance.
Who’s this trimmer most suitable for? This lightweight but powerful trimmer is a great option for those who seek a high-quality cordless hedge trimmer that produces incredible results. Capable of delivering close to 2,800 cut strokes per minute, this trimmer offers a blend of ruggedness and ease to its users as it weighs 7.5 pounds but wields powerful usage. Operating it is also made easy with its anti-vibration technology, and since it’s battery-powered, you can use a compatible DEWALT battery.
More features: 6-position pivoting head
Users rave about this corded pole hedge trimmer from Garcare that is designed to handle even large, overgrown hedges. The trimmer sports a wide ¾-inch cutting capacity, so you don’t have to worry about whether your trimmer will be able to handle your most unruly hedges. While the extension pole could be somewhat longer, users found that the nine-foot extension is enough to allow you to reach the top of nearly any hedge wall. In addition, users loved the adjustable head, which pivots between six positions so that you can seamlessly switch between cutting close to the ground and cutting far over your head.
The blade is 20 inches long, on par with competing hedge trimmers, but is set apart by the construction – the teeth are cut with a laser. This allows them to withstand more cutting time without needing to be sharpened and users found that the blade is extremely sharp out of the box. The only issue that users had with this pole hedge trimmer is that it is relatively heavy at 10.5 pounds, and much of that weight is located right at the base of the blade. This means that when the pole is fully extended, the weight is far from your body – especially if you are on a ladder and trying to reach far top edge of a hedge.
The warranty on this pole hedge trimmer is somewhat short at only one year, although users note that this trimmer feels sturdier than models they have used in the past. In addition, the lack of a battery reduces concerns about the durability of this trimmer.
More features: 40V Li-Ion battery, up to 30 min runtime, 3-position pivoting head
Users love this versatile battery-powered pole hedge trimmer from Greenworks. The hedge trimmer includes a 40-volt lithium-ion battery designed to last up to 30 minutes, although the battery can be removed and replaced if you have a large yard to trim. In addition, many users found that the battery life was long enough that they tired of hedge trimming long before the battery was exhausted.
The extension pole on this hedge trimmer is relatively short at just 6.5 feet, so don’t expect it to reach to the top of a huge wall of hedges. In addition, the cutting capacity on this hedge trimmer is relatively small compared to the other trimmers we reviewed at just 5/8 inches, so it is important to keep your hedges well-maintained to be able to use this trimmer. That said, the 20-inch blade length is on par with more burly pole hedge trimmers and is designed to nicely balance its weight with the ability to handle the trimmer.
Users were happy with the three-position pivoting head, which they found was easy to lock into place and provided excellent options for cutting at different angles. They also appreciated the easy to hold handle and the relatively light 9.6-pound weight of this tool, although some users complained that the safety button mechanism on this trimmer can make it hard to start up even with two hands.
Greenworks provides a four-year warranty on the body of this trimmer, as well as a separate two-year warranty on the battery – which, with the charger, costs more than the trimmer itself. However, users did not have any issues with the battery malfunctioning after several years of use.
More features: 2-in-1 hedge trimmer and pole hedge trimmer, 6-position cutting head
This unique hedge trimmer from Earthwise is designed to combine the best aspects of both a standard hedge trimmer and a pole hedge trimmer by allowing you to remove the trimmer body from the pole and attach a hand grip to the rear. This design is a major advantage for users who have both small and large hedges around the yard and saves the cost of buying two trimmers.
However, the interchangeable design also comes with some drawbacks. Users found that although the trimmer weighs just 9.7 pounds – on par with competing pole hedge trimmers – that weight is concentrated at the base of the blade rather than in the pole attachment, so that it is extremely tiring to hold out when extended to the maximum length of 13 feet. Although the included shoulder strap helps with this, users reported difficulty in wielding this trimmer for extended periods. In addition, the blade is relatively short – although Earthwise specifies it as an 18-inch blade, already the shortest among trimmers we reviewed, users measured it at under 16 inches.
With those drawbacks in mind, users were still relatively happy with this pole hedge trimmer. The head is adjustable between six positions to provide maximum versatility when cutting with or without the pole attachment, and the 11/16-inch cutting capacity is just large enough to deal with even slightly overgrown hedges. In addition, users appreciated the blade cover that comes with the trimmer to protect the blade during storage.
Earthwise includes a two-year warranty with this hedge trimmer. Users did not experience any issues with durability and found that the interchanging pole and hand grip system feels relatively robust.
More features: adjustable and pivoting head
If your yard is surrounded by tall hedges that even most pole hedge trimmers can’t reach, this trimmer from Sun Joe is a great option. With a pole that extends up to eight feet long – giving a total reach of 13 feet – and a 21-inch blade, this pole hedge trimmer can reach significantly further than most trimmers on the market today. In addition, the head is easily adjustable and pivots in small increments so that you can get into hard to reach areas without maiming your hedges.
Another benefit to the design that users loved is that it is extremely lightweight given its size, at just 8.8 pounds. However, much of this weight is at the base of the blade, making it somewhat harder to wield for long periods. Even with the included shoulder strap, users felt like they were getting a back and arm workout when holding this blade away from their bodies. It is also worth noting that the blade cannot be used without the pole since the trigger is at the end of the pole.
This hedge trimmer is also highly capable thanks to its 0.7-inch maximum cutting capacity and four-amp motor. Users found that the hardened steel blade stands up well to tough hedges and does not require sharpening even after several seasons of use. Users also appreciated that the blade trigger can be locked in the on position so that it does not need to be held down, although this can present a safety hazard if you are not careful.
Sun Joe includes a two-year warranty with this pole hedge trimmer, although users were happy with its durability and noted that it felt burly enough to last for many years
More features: up to 90 minutes of runtime, 8 locking positions and 15-degree increments of the head, up to 3,700 strokes per minute
This impressive pole hedge trimmer from vaunted tool maker Dewalt is proof that opting for a cordless hedge trimmer doesn’t mean giving up on power. This hedge trimmer has a massive one-inch maximum cutting capacity with an extra-long 22-inch blade, and thanks to its cordless design you can take it anywhere in your yard that you need it. Even better, the massive battery is designed to last a full 90 minutes so that it won’t run out of juice before the hedges are finished. Users found that the laser-cut teeth are extremely sharp and don’t need to be sharpened for several seasons of use.
Although the hedge trimmer is one of the heaviest on the market, users found that it is also one of the most comfortable to wield for extended periods. The reason is that most of the weight is centered in the head of the tool, rather than far up the pole at the base of the blade as for other pole hedge trimmers. This means that even when the blade is extended far from your body, the bulk of the weight is right beyond your hands.
The extension pole is somewhat short at just 5.8 feet, which can make using this hedge trimmer problematic if you have many large hedges – if that’s the case, plan on carrying a ladder around the yard with you. However, the blade head does sport an impressive eight-position pivoting system so that you can get the blade into ordinarily hard to reach areas.
Dewalt offers an impressive three-year warranty as well as a 90-day money back guarantee on this pole hedge trimmer.
Now that you’ve learned more about our five favorite pole hedge trimmers, how do you determine which model is right for your landscaping needs? In our Buying Guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the most important features that differentiate pole hedge trimmers to help you make the best decision for you. We’ll also cover how to use and maintain your new hedge trimmer so that it will serve your hedges for many years to come.
While pole hedge trimmers may all look the same initially if you are used to using a standard hedge trimmer, there are several important differences you need to consider when choosing a model. Here, we’ll cover these features and explain how they can impact your landscaping.
One of the most important decisions you’ll need to make when choosing a pole hedge trimmer is whether you want a battery-powered cordless model or a corded model. There are advantages and disadvantages to both styles.
Cordless pole hedge trimmers are able to travel anywhere around your yard since they are not tethered to an outlet on the side of your house. This can be a major advantage if you have hedges spread all over your yard.
However, cordless pole hedge trimmers are also limited by battery life, which can be problematic if you have a lot of hedges that need manicuring – for example, the GreenWorks trimmer is limited to 30 minutes of runtime on a single battery, while the Dewalt model is limited to 90 minutes.
Corded pole hedge trimmers, on the other hand, are somewhat limited in range by the length of the included cord and an extension cord, but are not limited to a set runtime since they have a constant power supply. Corded pole hedge trimmers, like the models from Earthwise, Sun Joe, and Garcare, are also typically less expensive than their cordless counterparts.
When you’re opting for a pole hedge trimmer over a standard hedge trimmer, chances are you’re interested in a tool that can help you reach the tops of high hedges or into difficult spots. That requires having a hedge with enough pole length to get the blade where you need it. This is important to consider when choosing a pole hedge trimmer because they differ widely in their extension lengths – for example, the Dewalt trimmer extends to less than six feet, while the Sun Joe and Earthwise trimmers extend to a whopping 13 feet. Note, however, that having a longer trimmer than you need will add weight and cost unnecessarily.
The majority of hedge trimmers on the market today, including all of the pole hedge trimmers we reviewed, are designed with dual-action blades that cut on both sides of the blade. This makes it easier to evenly trim your hedges, although it does require being aware of the blade’s location since both sides are able to cut you if you are not careful.
The length of the blade is also important to consider. Most pole hedge trimmer blades are between 20–22 inches in length, an ideal length for giving you the ability to make large, even cuts over your hedges. However, some users might find this somewhat long blade length to be unwieldy and would prefer a shorter 18-inch blade like that found on the Earthwise trimmer.
Note that choosing a shorter blade is likely to make your cuts less even and to produce more jagged gradations in the depth of your hedges.
The cutting capacity describes the gap between the teeth on the blades – a larger gap yields a larger capacity because the teeth are less likely to get tangled up in an overgrown hedge. Thus, the cutting capacity you need largely depends on how out of control you allow your hedges to get. If you are frequently maintaining your hedges, a blade with a moderate 5/8-inch capacity like on the trimmer from GreenWorks will work well, whereas overgrown hedges may require a 1-inch capacity blade like that found on the Dewalt trimmer.
If you have a lot of hedges to trim, holding a heavy pole hedge trimmer can start to wear on your arms and back – so it’s important to get the lightest trimmer that can accomplish the landscaping you need. A longer extension pole, a longer blade with a larger cutting capacity, and the addition of a battery can all add weight to a pole hedge trimmer.
A pole hedge trimmer is an important addition to your landscaping toolbox, so you want to know that it will start up reliably when you go to use it for years to come. While these tools are relatively durable, having a manufacturer’s warranty on the pole hedge trimmer that you choose can make a big difference in your peace of mind. Warranties range from one year for the Garcare trimmer to up to four years for the GreenWorks trimmer. For cordless trimmers, be sure to check whether the battery is included in the warranty as well since this is a common point of breakdown.
Using a pole hedge trimmer is relatively straightforward, although it can take some getting used to before your hedges come out looking perfectly manicured. To start, place your hedge trimmer at a roughly 45–60-degree angle relative to the pole and hold the trimmer from the hand grip at its base when starting it up. Rather than wave the trimmer back and forth across the hedge, hold the trimmer relatively steady and move your body back and forth to trim the face of the hedge.
When it comes time to cut the top, turn the trimmer off, adjust the angle of the blade to a steeper 75–90 degrees. When cutting, again move your body across the hedge to move the trimmer blade rather than simply waving the pole back and forth.
One of the most important things you can do to make sure your pole hedge trimmer lasts for many years to come is to take care of the blade. This means lubricating the blade after each use to prevent rust from forming. You can find recommended lubricants for your hedge trimmer in the owner’s manual. In addition, while the blade teeth should not need to be sharpened at all if it is only used to trim hedges, if the blade contacts something hard like a fence or wall it is a good idea to take the trimmer to a service center for sharpening.
It is also important to store the hedge trimmer properly. This means cleaning it off with a towel to ensure it is clean and dry before putting it away, and storing it inside your garage rather than leaving it outside to suffer from the elements.
Although a pole hedge trimmer is relatively straightforward to use, the blade can cause injury if you are not paying attention to your work. Whenever using a pole hedge trimmer, be sure to wear protective clothing, including heavy gloves and a pair of safety glasses to protect against hedge trimmings from getting in your eyes. Before starting work, check the area around the hedge to ensure that it is clear of obstacles, like hoses or debris, that could trip you when you are working with the trimmer. Finally, place the trimmer on the ground whenever starting the hedge trimmer motor and then pick it up carefully to begin your work.
Our three overall favorite pole hedge trimmers on the market today are the DEWALT 20V MAX, the Garcare GPHT07, and the GreenWorks 2272. All three blades feature pivoting heads to make it easier to reach into hard to access areas around your hedges. The DEWALT 20V MAX Hedge Trimmer is a great buy for those who seek a durable and reliable cordless hedge trimmer. In addition to its incredible amount of power, it’s easy to wield, and it’s also well-balanced. Its vibration reduction, ergonomic handle, easy reach, and capacity to handle all your trimming tasks make it worthwhile. Both the Dewalt and GreenWorks hedge trimmers are battery-powered to give them unlimited range to go anywhere in your yard without being tethered to the house. We feel the Dewalt trimmer is the overall best pole hedge trimmer on the market today thanks to its massive 90-minute battery runtime, one-inch maximum cutting capacity, and the distribution of its weight towards the end of the pole so that it is easy to wield without straining.
