Best Pole Hedge Trimmers: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide for 2023

Often, when you’re working in the yard, you’ll find yourself struggling to keep taller trees and shrubbery trimmed, due to those high up branches that you just can’t reach. Using a chainsaw at this point would be very dangerous, so what’s the solution? The best pole hedge trimmers are a much safer option and one that will allow you to easily reach those high up branches, without the fear of a potential injury or user fatigue.

But finding a model that offers the type of power you need to get the job done can be a challenge, considering there are so many pole hedge trimmers on the market to choose from. I’ve put together an in-depth buyer’s guide that lists all of the important features to look for, including style, power rating, and more.

Additionally, I’ve tested out several of the top-selling hedge trimmers and I’ve narrowed it down to five that are powerful, versatile, and can take on any trimming job you throw their way. Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that includes each of these models, as well as their top features and user rating.

Pole Hedge Trimmer’s Comparison Chart

Product	Power	Type	Bar	Rating
Greenworks Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer Shop On Amazon!	2 Amps	Cordless	20 Inch
Earthwise CVPH41018 Pole Hedge Trimmer Shop On Amazon!	2.8 Amps	Electric	18 Inch
GARCARE Corded Pole Hedge Trimmer Shop On Amazon!	4.8 Amps	Electric	20 Inch
Greenworks Pole Hedge Trimmer Shop On Amazon!	1.5 Amps	Cordless	22 Inch
DOEWORKS Pole Hedge Trimmer Shop On Amazon!	1.5 Amps	Cordless	20 Inch

Greenworks Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer

Our Rating: (5/5)

This is a cordless, heavy-duty trimmer that offers forty volts and comes complete with a 2AH battery and charger. The blade measures in at twenty-inches and has a reputation for durability and precise cutting power. In terms of height, the shaft extends up to six and a half feet. The trimmer can handle branches that are 5/8 of an inch in diameter, which is pretty impressive for a battery-powered model. The head offers a three-position pivot design that’s highly adjustable and allows you to easily access all those hard to reach places.

Conclusion

This is a battery-powered, cordless hedge trimmer that’s able to compete with some corded models, in terms of power and cutting efficiency. The battery offers approximately thirty minutes of use, which may be a drawback if you have several large shrubs to take care of in your yard. Fortunately, you can purchase additional battery packs directly from the manufacturer. If you’re looking for a cordless model, one that can give you the freedom of movement you need and a beginner-friendly design, then this model delivers.

Earthwise CVPH41018 Pole Hedge Trimmer

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This corded model by Earthwise features two tools in one and works as a basic handheld trimmer and a pole hedge trimmer. The eighteen-inch blade length features a cut capacity of three-quarters of an inch, which is better than average. The rotational head of the trimmer can move one hundred and fifty degrees and can be placed in a total of six positions. When used as a pole trimmer, this model can extend over six feet in length and can easily convert to a handheld trimmer, for more bang for your buck. You can use the tool in pole hedge trimmer mode and extend it for trimming and pruning taller plants and shrubs or convert it easily to a handheld eighteen-inch trimmer for shorter shrubs in your yard.

Conclusion

This tool is perfect for the homeowner on a budget in search of a more versatile pole hedge trimmer and one that’s packing some serious power. This model is built tough and allows you to handle all types of shrubs, hedges, and other plants in your yard, utilizing fast cutting action and a design that can withstand heavy-duty use.

GARCARE Hedge Trimmer

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This model comes loaded with power, equipped with a motor that comes in at 4.8 amps. Unlike competing models that top off at around six and a half feet, this trimmer features a pole that extends up to seven feet, for a total of nine feet of reach. If you have larger hedges or established hedges, this is the perfect tool for the job. The blade has a three-quarter of an inch cut capacity, so it can easily handle larger shrubs. The twenty-inch blade is made out of hardened steel and is naturally rust-resistant. The six-position pivoting head design allows you to place the head in a variety of angles, for more precise cutting action.

Conclusion

This is a lightweight, user-friendly model that comes loaded with everything you need to handle cutting jobs of all sizes. The twenty-inch laser cutting blade provides quick and clean cuts, which is exactly what you need for larger hedges. The longer than average extension pole will allow you to use this hedge trimmer for tall, thin trees, established hedges, and more. This model is a great buy for both pro and home use.

Greenworks Pole Hedge Trimmer

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This is a cordless pole hedge trimmer that runs on a twenty-four-volt lithium-ion battery. Unfortunately, the battery pack is sold separately. In terms of usage time, the battery can provide fifty minutes of runtime, which is about average. The twenty-two-inch dual-action blade is durable, built tough and can handle heavy-duty use. This model’s rotating head makes any trimming job fast and simple, allowing you to use a variety of angles to get the job done. This pole hedge trimmer features an extended length of six and a half feet, which makes reaching those higher branches a cinch.

Conclusion

This is another top-selling, versatile pole hedge trimmer from GreenWorks. This model can be used on larger hedges, established hedges, smaller trees, and more. The dual-action blade is designed for clean, precise cuts that allow you to easily shape your hedges and other plants with minimal effort. The ergonomic handle also plays a major role in user comfort, as does the lightweight design. This model is a great buy for the homeowner or pro in need of more freedom during use, a model that’s able to handle thicker branches.

DOEWORKS Pole Hedge Trimmer

Our Rating: (4/5)

Doesworks features a pole hedge trimmer that’s cordless, lightweight, and beginner-friendly. The twenty-inch dual-action blades are designed to cleanly slice through branches up to 5/8 of an inch thick. The twenty-volt max lithium-ion battery features a longer than average lifespan and can hold a charge five times longer than competing models, offering one hour of runtime. The pole extends up to nine feet, for more cutting versatility. The handle is a wraparound style designed with user comfort in mind, for improved maneuverability.

Conclusion

The pre-hardened blades are made out of stainless steel, so it’s naturally rust-resistant. The wraparound full handle promotes longer use, as does the lightweight design. The dual-action cutting blades provide the type of fast and clean cutting action that both homeowners and pros are looking for. The telescoping tube is made out of lightweight aluminum, for improved stability and user comfort. This is a well-rounded hedge trimmer and one that will give you access to those hard to reach branches, while the innovative blade design produces forty percent less vibration compared to competing models for a more comfortable and clean cutting process.

Pole Hedge Trimmers Buyer’s Guide

Pole hedge trimmers are a great alternative to climbing a high ladder and attempting to trim and shape your hedges, shrubs, and trees. These trimmers are heavy-duty and designed to handle all the hard tasks you can’t handle with a basic pair of hand trimmers. In fact, they’re a much safer alternative to using a chainsaw or any type of hand tool, on a ladder. With one of these tools, you can easily clip, trim, and shape your trees and shrubs from the safety of the ground, thanks to the long pole the tool is attached to. Many beginners are initially intimidated to use one of these tools, but once they notice how user-friendly they are, they’ll realize it’s a better, safer option than balancing on a ladder for several hours. These tools are also reasonably priced, well-built, and very versatile. There are many types of these tools to choose from, each of which offers their own pros and cons. I’ll go over the benefits of each type of pole hedge trimmer, how they work, and how these tools can cut the amount of time you spend in your yard in half.

These power tools basically look like a mini chainsaws on a long stick, so using one may not seem like the safest option, but these power tools are incredibly safe, if used correctly. These pole hedge trimmers are available in a wide range of design options, which you can choose based on your cutting needs.

Design options include:

• Battery-powered
• Gas-powered
• Corded

Battery-Powered

These saws will draw their power from a battery that’s rechargeable. Depending on the type of battery and the saw itself, you can expect to get thirty to sixty minutes of use per battery pack. If you need more time to work in the yard and get the job done, then I recommend purchasing extra battery packs.

Ni-Cad batteries were the most common type of batteries used in the past. However, these days, you’re more likely to find models that use lithium-ion batteries, which offer a longer battery life and a steadier power output. Since these trimmers run on batteries, they don’t offer the same type of power that you would get from a corded model. Yet, they also provide some benefits that a corded model does not, such as:

Beginner-friendly: These battery-powered models have a reputation for being more user-friendly, compared to corded models. Using one of these trimmers can be as simple as pressing the power switch and pulling the trigger.

Low-maintenance needs: Compared to gas-powered trimmers, battery-powered trimmers are also easier to clean and maintain.

Portable design: You won’t have to worry about running extension cords all over your yard or accidentally cutting through a cord. These trimmers allow you to move around freely, to easily handle overhead work and tight spaces. These trimmers are a better choice for people with larger properties.

In terms of cutting power, most cordless models typically feature bars that are between eight and ten inches, which will allow the user to trim small and medium-sized trees. They’re a great buy for the homeowner in need of a model they can use for occasional cleanup and pruning tasks around the yard.

Corded

Corded models usually have bars that are between eight and ten inches long. Unlike a battery-powered model, they will draw their power from an outlet, so you’ll need to have access to power when you’re working in your yard and may need to use a series of extension cords, depending on the size of your yard.

This type of trimmer also offers benefits that the other types of trimmers do not, such as:

Low-maintenance: Just like battery-powered models, with these trimmers, you won’t have to worry about refilling the fuel tank or changing the oil.

Lightweight design: Since these trimmers don’t use a battery pack or have a fuel tank, they are significantly lighter than battery or gas-powered models.

Price: Corded models are much more affordable compared to gas and battery-powered trimmers. You also won’t have to deal with the ongoing costs of fuel or replacing the batteries.

Obviously, corded models tend to be more powerful compared to battery-operated models. You also won’t have to worry about the battery dying when you’re right in the middle of a job, which is the biggest drawback of the battery-powered trimmer. The trick here is to always be mindful of the cord and purchase the right type of extension cord based on the model you choose and its power rating.

Gas-Powered

These saws are the perfect choice for the pros and offer the most power. They’re also a great option for the homeowner with a big yard since these trimmers are able to handle thicker branches. These trimmers also feature longer bars that measure in at ten to twelve inches, offer improved torque, a more powerful engine, and come equipped with features such as rear-mounted engines and reduced vibration.

While these trimmers may be more expensive and louder compared to the alternatives, these saws provide homeowners and the pros with the type of freedom to handle thicker branches, without the risk of running out of power or being tied down by a cord.

Many people will pass this option by since gas-powered tools are very harmful to the environment, loud, high-maintenance and expensive to run. Most models are much more powerful than corded or battery-powered, but they’re also significantly heavier, so you’ll find that you’re not able to use them for an extended period of time.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pole hedge trimmer, a gas-powered model definitely isn’t it. However, if you’re in need of a more powerful and reliable tool for work, then a gas-powered model is often the best choice. Just keep in mind, this option is also the most expensive.

Reach

A pole trimmer’s reach is another important spec that you’ll want to take a look at. When the term reach is used, it refers to how high a tool is able to cut. Most buyers are looking for models that offer the longest reach possible, which is something manufacturers have wised up to. Unfortunately, this can result in a manufacturer providing information regarding this spec that’s not exactly accurate. Some manufacturers will list a model’s reach based on the height of the average user. If you want a more accurate reading, pay attention to a model’s max level of extension. This refers specifically to the trimmer’s pole length.

Weight

Since you’ll be holding this trimmer in the air to do overhead work, the weight of the trimmer is going to be another important spec that you don’t want to ignore. Keep in mind, gas-powered models tend to be the heaviest, due to the oil and fuel tank, in addition to the heavier engine. Battery-powered models are next in line in terms of weight, followed by corded trimmers.

Blade

The blades on a pole hedge trimmer consist of flat metal bars with teeth that run along one or two sides. The blades are available in a wide variety of lengths and can measure in at twelve inches up to forty inches. You’ll want to ensure that you get blades that are the right size for the shrubs you’ll be cutting. If the blades are too long it can be difficult to handle the trimmer, whereas blades that are too short can make cutting a much harder and slower process.

For average-sized hedges, a sixteen-inch blade is a better choice, while eighteen-inch blades are a better choice for larger hedges. For established hedges, you’ll want to go with twenty-inch blades.

You should also take a look at how far apart the blade’s teeth are. The size of this space will correlate directly to the size of the branch it cuts through. This means, if you have an established hedge, be sure that the blades you choose come equipped with teeth that feature the spacing you need in order to allow the bigger branches to fit between them.

Pruning Needs

What do you plan on using the trimmer for? What you’ll be using the pruner for can also have an impact on what type of model you use. If you need a trimmer that can handle hardier, thicker branches, then you should go with a gas-powered model, since these are often the toughest. Electric models are a great choice for moderately sized branches, while battery-powered trimmers will be a perfect fit for smaller branches and yards.

Maintenance Needs

Just like a gas-powered model,  a gas trimmer will require ongoing maintenance. Because these trimmers have a gas motor, they will be more complicated to take care of compared to electric trimmers. If you’re looking for a model that’s the most low-maintenance, then both battery and electric-powered models are a better option.

Two-In-One Models

Some models will work as both a chainsaw and a pole saw. The saw portion of the trimmer can be detached if needed. If you’re on a tight budget, then this may be a better economical choice than buying a straight pole trimmer. This trimmer option tends to be more expensive and higher maintenance, so, if you don’t really have the need for a chainsaw or you already have one, then sticking with a dedicated pole trimmer is a more affordable option.

Frequency of Use

How often do you plan on using a pole trimmer? If you have a small property and only need to use a trimmer once a month or so, then a lower-powered model should be sufficient. If you’re shopping for a model that’s designed to withstand heavy-duty or daily use, then you’re better off investing in a rugged gas-powered model, one that’s able to handle a higher volume of branches of all sizes.

Price

Price will naturally be a factor when it comes to choosing the right pole hedge trimmer for you. Most buyers are looking for a durable model that’s not going to overheat easily and can handle the type of trees and shrubs in their yard, but if you’re looking for a trimmer that offers more power, you can expect to pay more. With more power comes an increased level of durability, so while you can expect to pay more, you’re getting a trimmer that’s designed to last longer. If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford to replace a low-priced trimmer, then save up for a model that’s designed to last and one that comes with an extended warranty. Low-priced models are a good option for the buyer on a budget who only plans on using the trimmer for small jobs in the yard once a month or less.

Do I Need Hedge Trimmers?

Typically, hedge trimmers are used to trim, prune, and shape your shrubs and bushes. These pole trimmers are mainly designed to handle smaller branches. If you’re dealing with taller shrubs and small trees, then a pole trimmer is exactly what you need, not a standard pair of hedge trimmers. This power tool is used to trim the ends of small branches and can instantly beautify any yard when used correctly.

A hedge trimmer features a bar, just like a chainsaw and can be gas, electric, or battery-powered, but that’s where the similarities between the chainsaw and the pole hedge trimmer ends. With the hedge trimmer, the cutting action is similar to a reciprocating saw. The blade will oscillate back and forth and can cut through material that’s small enough to fit through the bar’s notches.

Just like you wouldn’t use a trimmer to go cut down a tree, you wouldn’t use a chainsaw to shape and trim your shrubs. Trimmers offer the type of cutting precision that you need in order to give your shrubs some shape and your yard a well cared for look.

If you have tall hedges on your property that are difficult to maintain, without spending several backbreaking hours on a ladder, then a pole hedge trimmer can be a perfect solution.

Final Thoughts

The best pole hedge trimmers will come loaded with all the features you need and the type of cutting power that will work for the trees and shrubs in your yard. Remember, the type of trimmer you choose should be based on your skill level, lawn maintenance needs, and your budget.

I’m confident that you’ll find the perfect model for your yard in my top five list since I’ve included the top models in a variety of price brackets, power levels, and design options. If you don’t find the right model in my list, this buyer’s guide will help you on your search to find a model that comes loaded with all of the essential features you need to get the job done.