Overgrown hedges can make even a lovely garden look untidy, and trimming them by hand is slow, tiring, and often uneven. The tricky part is choosing a trimmer that’s powerful enough for thicker branches, yet comfortable to use for longer jobs without ending up with sore arms or ragged cuts.
That’s where our guide comes in. In this roundup, we’ll walk you through the best hedge trimmers in the UK, covering cordless, corded, and long-reach options to suit different gardens and budgets, so you can tidy up faster and get a clean, neat finish every time.
Top Picks
DEWALT DCM563PB 18V 55cm Hedge Trimmer
Delivers a compelling mix of blade length, cutting speed and well-considered ergonomics — ideal if you want a professional-feel cordless trimmer without petrol. The unit runs well on 5.0Ah batteries and includes sensible safety features for confident operation.
Overview
The DEWALT DCM563PB earns our #1 spot for the best hedge trimmers of 2026 because it hits the perfect balance between power, comfort, and long-lasting performance. It features a 55cm dual-action blade that cuts quickly while reducing vibration, making it easier to control and giving a cleaner finish. Powered by the 18V XR battery system, it delivers strong cutting speed for everyday hedges and tougher growth, with excellent runtime when used with higher-capacity packs.
Why it’s our best overall pick: reliable build quality, fast cutting, and cordless convenience — ideal for most UK gardens.
Key features and benefits
The 19mm cutting gap and hardened steel construction mean the blades stay sharper for longer, helping you finish jobs faster. The safety design also reduces accidental starts and gives you confidence when trimming awkward angles.
Practical tips
If you have existing DeWALT batteries the trimmer is a straightforward upgrade; a 2.0Ah pack will work but a 5.0Ah pack delivers noticeably better cutting speed and endurance. Expect a small weight penalty versus entry-level models, but the trade is better cutting power and a more robust build.
Choose this if you want a high-quality 18V trimmer with professional touches, long runtime and strong cutting performance for medium to large domestic hedges.
Bosch AdvancedHedgeCut 36V 65cm Cordless Trimmer
Delivers professional-level cutting performance from the 36V system and brushless motor, making light work of thick stems and large hedges. It is well balanced for controlled cuts but you should plan for arm fatigue during long sessions because it is noticeably heavy.
Overview
You get a robust cordless hedge cutter built for tougher pruning and regular maintenance of large hedges. The combination of a brushless motor, 65cm blade and Bosch’s anti-blocking system means you can cut larger sections more quickly than with small domestic trimmers. You should expect better performance when paired with a high-capacity 36V Bosch battery that you may already own from other garden tools.
Key features and benefits
When you already own Bosch 36V batteries the unit becomes a very practical upgrade: you’ll gain run time and cutting torque without buying new battery hardware. For one-off buyers factor in the additional cost and weight of a suitable 36V battery and charger.
Practical insights and limitations
You will notice the difference against 18V tools: thicker stems and denser hedges are handled with less effort. However, if you intend to work continuously for long periods you should plan breaks or use an ergonomic harness as reviews report arm fatigue from the weight. There are also isolated reports of durability concerns after heavy use — worth bearing in mind if you expect professional-level duty cycles.
Who should buy this
Choose this if you need cordless power close to petrol performance, own (or are willing to buy) Bosch 36V batteries, and maintain large or overgrown hedges regularly. If you want the lightest option for only occasional tidy-ups, a smaller 18V model may be a more comfortable choice.
Bosch AdvancedHedgeCut 70 500W Corded Trimmer
A powerful corded trimmer with a long 70cm blade that performs well on big hedges and thicker stems, benefitting from ProSilence technology to reduce noise. It’s heavier than smaller models and requires reliable mains access, but the cutting power is consistent and impressive.
Overview
The Bosch AdvancedHedgeCut 70 is a corded, high-capacity hedge trimmer designed for large gardens and demanding trimming tasks. With a substantial 70 cm blade and 500 W motor you get continuous power and fewer passes when shaping tall or wide hedges.
Key advantages
The corded design means you will never run out of power mid-job, which is a major advantage for long trimming sessions. The quieter motor also improves comfort and reduces disturbance to neighbours.
Practical notes and limitations
Cable management becomes part of the job: use a heavy-duty outdoor extension lead and keep the cable behind you while cutting to avoid accidents. The extra weight compared with compact trimmers means you’ll take regular rests during long jobs, but for raw cutting power and a consistently clean finish this model is hard to beat.
Who should buy this
Choose this trimmer if you maintain large hedges, have reliable access to mains power outdoors and prefer continuous, high-torque performance without the need to manage batteries.
Makita DUH523Z 18V 52cm Hedge Trimmer
A well balanced, lightweight trimmer that delivers clean cuts and very good battery efficiency when you already use Makita batteries. It is supplied as a bare unit so you save if you already own the Makita LXT battery platform.
Overview
This Makita 18V trimmer is aimed at homeowners who prioritise ergonomics and reliability. If you already own Makita LXT batteries the DUH523Z represents very good value: the bare tool price is competitive and the performance is entirely adequate for most domestic hedges.
Key features and what they mean for you
The design places emphasis on user comfort and blade longevity rather than ultimate brute force. Expect smooth operation and clean finishes on privet, laurel and similar hedging. If your hedges have many thick branches you will find the 18V platform slightly less decisive than a 36V alternative.
Practical advice
Use a 5.0Ah or higher LXT battery if you want longer uninterrupted run time; smaller batteries are still usable but will reduce cutting speed on demanding sections. The unit’s light weight makes it ideal if you have limited strength or want to avoid shoulder strain during frequent short sessions.
Who should buy this
Pick this trimmer if you want a dependable, comfortable-to-use cordless machine and already have Makita batteries. It is particularly suitable for regular maintenance and homeowners who value manoeuvrability over maximum cutting torque.
Makita DUH502Z 18V 50cm Brushless Trimmer
A dependable Makita brushless model that handles common hedging tasks with sharp blades and good ergonomics. It’s especially useful if you already use Makita batteries, but the bare-unit format means you must budget for batteries if you do not own them.
Overview
The DUH502Z is Makita’s brushless 18V 50cm trimmer designed for homeowners who want reliable daily performance. It’s engineered to be easy to use and long lasting, with Makita’s typical build quality and warranty support.
Key strengths
You will appreciate the clean cutting action and ease of handling when doing routine trimming. The brushless motor also helps extend battery life when compared with brushed alternatives.
Practical considerations
If you don’t already have Makita batteries you should include the cost of batteries and a charger in your purchase calculations. While the tool is suitable for most garden hedges, it will struggle where hedges are exceptionally dense or contain many thick, woody stems — in those cases a higher-voltage system or petrol machine is more appropriate.
Who should buy this
This trimmer is a solid choice for regular domestic maintenance and for buyers invested in the Makita 18V ecosystem who want a low-maintenance, durable cordless tool.
Ryobi ONE+ OPT1845 18V Pole Hedge Trimmer
Combines extendable reach with an articulating head for flexible trimming at height — useful if you own the Ryobi One+ battery system. It becomes top-heavy when fully extended, so shorter bursts and a strap are recommended for comfort.
Overview
The Ryobi ONE+ OPT1845 is a pole hedge trimmer aimed at homeowners who need reach without ladders. The articulating cutting head and removable extension shaft make it adaptable to a range of trimming tasks, from conifer tops to tall boundary hedges.
Main features and benefits
If you already use Ryobi One+ batteries the tool integrates well into that ecosystem; otherwise you will need to factor the cost of a suitable battery and charger into the purchase. Many users appreciate the convenience of reach, but note that balance deteriorates as the extension length increases.
Practical tips
Use short sessions when working at full extension and employ a shoulder strap to take load off your arms. For dense or very woody hedges consider cutting the thicker branches with a saw first to avoid the trimmer binding. The articulating head is particularly useful for tidying the tops of hedges and shaping near fences.
Who should buy this
Opt for the Ryobi OPT1845 if you want flexible reach, articulation and compatibility with Ryobi’s battery platform — it’s best suited to homeowners tackling tall or awkward hedges who value convenience over prolonged heavy-duty use.
Einhell GC-HH 9046 900W Long-Reach Pole Trimmer
A practical electric pole trimmer that delivers good reach and power for topping tall hedges without ladders. It is heavier than handheld units and the cable connection can feel fiddly, but the tiltable head and 900W motor make it effective for high work.
Overview
The Einhell GC-HH 9046 is a mains-powered pole hedge trimmer built to help you reach high hedges and boundaries without using a ladder. The 900W motor and tiltable cutting head make it an effective and safe alternative to petrol pole trimmers for domestic use.
What you gain
Users report that the unit is robust and cuts well, particularly for taller hedges and occasional tree pruning. The primary trade-off is weight: you must use the supplied shoulder strap or take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Practical advice
Secure the power cable connection (some users wrap with a Velcro strap) to avoid accidental disconnection. Work in short bursts and use the shoulder strap to distribute weight; this reduces shoulder burn and improves steadiness for finer shaping.
Who should buy this
This is a strong option if you have tall hedges and prefer mains power to batteries, and if you are comfortable managing a heavier tool for short-to-medium duration trimming sessions.
Black+Decker GTC1845L20 18V 45cm Cordless Trimmer
An affordable, straightforward hedge trimmer supplied with battery that suits small to medium hedges and occasional use. It’s light and easy to handle, though power and cut capacity are limited compared with larger systems.
Overview
The Black+Decker GTC1845L20 is aimed squarely at the domestic market: you get a battery and charger included, a 45cm dual-action blade and simple operation. It works well for routine trimming and shaping of privet, leylandii and laurel hedges.
What it offers
For light to moderate garden work this is a pragmatic purchase: you don’t need to invest in a separate battery platform and you’ll finish typical hedge jobs quickly and with minimal fuss. The E-Drive technology helps with cutting tougher sections but don’t expect the same torque as larger 36V tools.
Practical tips and limitations
If your hedges include many branches thicker than 18 mm you’ll need a saw or loppers to remove those sections first. Consider upgrading battery capacity if you plan longer sessions: the included pack is fine for small gardens but you’ll get longer runtime from a 3.0Ah or 4.0Ah equivalent (if compatible).
Who should buy this
Buy this if you want a low-cost, ready-to-use trimmer for regular maintenance of small-to-medium hedges and value immediate usability over maximum power.
Einhell Power X-Change 18V 46cm Trimmer
A cost-effective option in the Power X-Change family that gives surprising performance for the price, especially when purchased on sale. It’s light and straightforward but not designed to handle consistently thick, woody branches.
Overview
The Einhell 18V 46cm hedge trimmer offers an attractive balance between cost and functionality. As part of the Power X-Change system it becomes particularly valuable if you already own compatible batteries: otherwise you should factor in the additional battery and charger expense.
Performance and construction
Users often highlight exceptional value when the unit is bought in promotions; the build is good for domestic use and it performs very well on standard hedging materials. It is not, however, a substitute for higher-voltage trimmers where woody, thick branches are common.
Practical advice
If you plan occasional garden maintenance, choose at least a 2.0–3.0Ah Power X-Change battery to get sensible runtime and cutting speed. For heavy-duty pruning reserve a more powerful trimmer or use manual tools for the thicker sections before trimming.
Who should buy this
This is a sensible buy for gardeners on a budget who want the portability of a cordless tool and who either already own or are prepared to invest in the Power X-Change battery ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
-Which hedge trimmer is best for most UK gardens?
For most homeowners, a cordless hedge trimmer is the best option because it’s easy to move around, quieter than petrol, and doesn’t need an extension lead. Models like the DeWALT 18V XR range are a great balance of power and comfort for regular trimming.
-Is a cordless hedge trimmer powerful enough for thick branches?
Yes — as long as you choose the right one. High-quality cordless models can handle thicker hedges, but they are best for small to medium branches. For very thick or woody growth, choose a stronger motor, longer blade, and a higher “cutting gap” (tooth spacing).
-What cutting capacity should I choose?
Look at the tooth gap (mm).
- 12–16mm = light trimming and soft hedges
- 18–22mm = medium hedges (most gardens)
- 23mm+ = thicker, tougher hedges and faster work
-What blade length is best: 45cm, 55cm or 65cm?
- 45cm = small gardens, easier control
- 55cm = best all-round size for most UK homes
- 65cm+ = large hedges, faster trimming, but heavier
-What’s the difference between single-action and dual-action blades?
Dual-action blades cut on both strokes, which usually means less vibration, smoother cutting, and a cleaner finish. That’s why most of the best hedge trimmers in the UK use dual-action blades.
-Should I buy corded or cordless?
Cordless is best for convenience and freedom, especially if you have a medium or large garden.
Corded is often cheaper and gives unlimited run time, but you’ll need a lead and must be careful not to cut the cable.
-What battery size (Ah) is best for hedge trimming?
For best results:
- 2.0Ah = quick tidy-ups and small jobs
- 4.0Ah–5.0Ah = the sweet spot for most gardens
- 6.0Ah+ = heavy work and longer sessions
-Can I use the same battery across other garden tools?
Yes — many brands have battery systems designed to work across multiple tools. For example, DeWALT XR 18V, Makita LXT, Bosch 36V, and Ryobi ONE+ batteries often work with other compatible tools in the same range.
-Are long-reach hedge trimmers worth it?
If you trim tall hedges or hard-to-reach areas, a long-reach hedge trimmer is a brilliant choice. It can save you time and reduce the risk of working at awkward angles. For very tall hedges, it’s often safer than using a ladder.
-Do hedge trimmers need oiling or maintenance?
Yes, but it’s simple. To keep performance strong:
- Clean the blades after use
- Lightly oil the blade
- Check for loose bolts
- Store it somewhere dry
This keeps cutting smooth and helps prevent rust.
-Can a hedge trimmer cut through old woody hedges?
It depends on how old and thick the branches are. Hedge trimmers are best for fresh growth and regular trimming. For thicker woody branches, use loppers or a pruning saw first, then tidy with the trimmer.
-Is it safe to cut hedges when they’re wet?
It’s not recommended. Wet hedges can be slippery, harder to cut cleanly, and can increase the risk of accidents — especially with corded models. For best results and safety, trim when the hedge is dry.
-When is the best time to cut hedges in the UK?
Most gardens do well with trimming in late spring through summer, and a tidy-up in early autumn. Always check for nesting birds before trimming, especially in spring and early summer.
-What safety gear should I wear when using a hedge trimmer?
At minimum, wear:
- Gloves for grip and protection
- Eye protection (especially for dry hedges)
- Strong footwear
- For larger hedges, long sleeves and ear protection can help too.
-What should I look for when buying the best hedge trimmer?
For a smart purchase, focus on:
- Blade length (45–65cm)
- Cutting gap (mm)
- Weight and balance
- Battery power and runtime
- Warranty and spare part support
- Reviews from UK buyers
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best hedge trimmers in the UK comes down to the size of your garden, the type of hedge you’re cutting, and how often you plan to trim. For most homeowners, a reliable cordless model is the easiest and most practical choice, giving you the freedom to work anywhere without dealing with extension leads.
That’s why the DEWALT DCM563PB stands out as our top pick for 2026 — it delivers strong cutting performance, a clean finish, and excellent runtime for everyday garden jobs. Whichever option you choose, the right hedge trimmer will save you time, reduce effort, and keep your garden looking sharp all year round.
