Have you ever had been in a situation where your neighbour’s hedge or thick tree branches were growing into your garden and obstructing your view and light? And you have kindly reached out to them to trim the branches but they refused? Or do you just own a hedge that has a knack for growing quickly and needs to be kept in check?
Then this article is exactly what you need, highlighting the perfect tools for a little DIY action on those thick branches.
Choosing the best hedge trimmer for thick branches – There are several products on the market and knowing how to pick a good hedge trimmer can be a bit tricky. As the name implies, a cordless hedge trimmer is not supplied with a cord and is powered by a battery.
This makes cordless hedge trimmers portable, lightweight, quiet, and safe to use.
Without a cord, there is no chance of you damaging the electrical outlet or cord because you were trying to trim a far hedge. Its main disadvantages are the cost and battery capacity for professional gardeners, which is sometimes inadequate for their needs.
A good hedge trimmer should have a long-lasting battery life which can last from between 40 minutes to an hour. It should also be able to charge to full capacity in less than 5 hours and work on a wide range of hedge, shrubs and bush sizes.
5 Best Hedge Trimmers for Thick Branches
Here, we will be looking at the best cordless hedge trimmers on the market. This review shall encompass their pros and cons, key benefits, and features. You should be able to make an informed decision on which product to purchase.
1. Makita DUH523Z Cordless LXT Lithium-Ion Hedge Trimmer
This product is rated to be one of the best cordless hedge trimmers available on the market. It has a stroke rate of 1350 strokes per minute with a 15 mm cutting diameter. Its rubberised soft grip handle allows for a more comfortable holding experience when using this hedge trimmer.
- Stain-free shear blade surface of glittering silver obtained by non-electrolysed nickel plating...
- Anti-vibration structure; 5 cushions to absorb vibration from the blade and motor crank section
- User replaceable blade; The blade can be removed without dis-assembling the housing
The blade surface is plated with non-electrolysed nickel.
There is an anti-vibration structure put in place to absorb the vibrations generated by the blade and the motor-crank section. The blade is easily replaceable which means it can be easily removed without uncoupling the appliance.
It makes hedge trimming a comfortable and fast process without causing any injuries. Its lightweight, reach and portability make it worth the while.
Key Features
This Makita hedge trimmer weighs 3.3 kg and has dimensions of 93.8 x 19.5 x 19.4 cm. The outer casing is constructed using metal and plastic. It also has a slot to the rear for its Lithium-ion batteries (not supplied).
It has sound levels of 89 dB, making it barely noticeable when being used outdoors. There’s also a blade cover to help ensure safe use when young kids are in the vicinity.
- It is lightweight enough that the user won’t get tired holding the it throughout its run time.
- The hedge trimmer doesn’t need much power for work properly. It runs on just 18 volts.
- The blade can be easily replaced when required, without the hassle of a complete uncoupling the appliance.
- The double-sided blade makes for a smooth cut between branches.
- The hedge trimmer doesn’t ship fully equipped with a battery and a battery charger. They must be separately bought.
- There is no spare blade sent with the packaging. The user would have to purchase a blade that fits.
2. Bosch Cordless Hedge Trimmer AHS 50-20 LI
Rated amongst the best cordless hedge trimmers available on the market, this appliance has a stroke rate of 2500 per minute and a blade that can cut through branches that have a diameter of 25mm.
This allows for a smooth and fast hedge trim within a short period. There is a blade guard which prevents cuts through the walls or paths.
- Syneon Chip - effectively controlled energy for every project, Optimal balance and low weight...
- Battery pack PBA 18 V 2.0 Ah W-B (1 600 A00 5B0), Compact quick charger AL 1830 CV (1 600 A00...
- Softgrip on the rear handle, multi-position front handle and transparent hand guard
The process of hedge trimming is made easier with no incidents such as stoppage due to cord disconnection, power outages, space and reach restrictions. Its lightweight, reach, and portability is what makes it one of the best.
Key Features
At 2.5 kg this Bosch hedge trimmer is one of the lighter options on the market. Battery-powered with one Lithium-ion battery, it has dimensions of 9 x 24.4 x 20 cm.
The blade length is 5 inches, about an arm’s length. It also has a cutting diameter of 20 mm.
- It is easy-to-use. That means that even a person with no prior knowledge of how it works can easily operate it.
- It comes fully equipped with a battery and charger.
- It is most suitable for cutting thicker branches with ease.
- The battery capacity when in use can extend from 50 minutes to an hour on a full charge.
- Quiet and doesn’t require much storage space.
- The battery might not be compatible with other hedge trimmers from the manufacturer.
3. DEWALT DCM563P1-GB 18 V XR Hedge Trimmer
This appliance has 55cm laser-cut, dual-action blades that are equipped with a 19 mm cutting gap between them. It can last for over an hour with its 18V, 5.0Ah Li-ion battery.
- Compact and lightweight design for less user fatigue whilst trimming
- 55 cm dual-action, laser-cut blades with 19 mm cutting gap
- Extended runtime: up to 75min trimming per charge (on a 5Ah battery)
The hedge trimmer comes with a fully installed battery, a lightweight and compact body, and a wrap-around handle for a firmer grip and secure holding. It is built to be exceptionally durable and resistant to rust, air, water, etc.
It is highly portable with an extremely sharp blade.
Key Features
This Dewalt hedge trimmer sits in the middle of the two aforementioned hedge trimmers for weight, at 3 kg. Unlike them, however, it does come supplied with a lithium-ion battery and has dimensions of 96 x 24 x 20 cm.
It has a distinct yellow colour on its casing synonymous with the DeWalt brand and also has a double-sided blade for easy bi-directional hedge trimming.
- It can be easily carried from one place to the other without stress.
- High battery capacity means you get long lasting use between charges.
- Sharp blade for a smoother cut.
- A blade protector to shield the blade when not in use.
- Longer runtime for operation.
- Exceptionally durable and has a strong body frame.
- Safety button must be fully pressed before the appliance can be used making it difficult to operate with one hand fully on the handle.
4. Greenworks G40HT61K2 Cordless Hedge Trimmer
This amazing hedge trimmer has a blade length of 61 cm with a 27 mm cutting capacity. It has a transparent visor with a handle that is attached at a 90-degree angle to allow for better handling of the appliance when it is in use.
- EASY TO START - Insert 40 V battery and get started: with the battery hedge trimmer you can...
- EFFICIENT CUTTING - the steel blades with a length of 61 cm and blade spacing of 27 mm of...
- EXACT CORNERS AND EDGES are achieved with the Greenworks 40 V thread trimmer with automatic...
The appliance weighs just under 3 kg without a battery installed and has an anti-vibration set up to reduce the level of vibration sent to the handle and the user.
It has a 40V battery which ensures a longer run time and makes it easier to start. There is an anti-jam function that prevents the appliance from going off when the work is interrupted by a thick branch or spot.
Key Features
This Greenworks hedge trimmer weighs 2.8 kg and has a battery voltage of 40 volts. Its dimensions are 22 x 19 x 99 cm. The supplied box comes with 1 x Hedge trimmer, one Battery 2Ah and a battery charger.
Blade Size: Cutting 27mm.
- Longer battery life: It can last up to 75 minutes or more without the battery running down.
- Extremely portable.
- Smooth cut because of the sharp blade.
- The teeth on the blade last for a long time before wearing down.
- Exceptionally good for use on thick branches and bushes.
- The gearbox of some appliances can be a bit noisy.
- The battery does not last as long as some of the more renowned brands on this list.
5. Ryobi ONE+ 18V OPT1845 Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
This hedge trimmer is great for both thin and thick hedges. It has blades with a length of 45 cm and an 18 mm gap. This makes it perfect for trimming branches that are tightly packed. The cutting head is positioned at a 115-degree angle with four default positions for an easy trimming process.
- Easily cuts through hedges and branches
- 45cm diamond ground blades for clean cutting
- Capable of cutting large branches with 18mm blade gap
To reach high places, there is an extension strap on the body which adds several centimetres bringing the equipment to a full length of 2.9m which is perfect for cutting from high trees and hedges. This package comes without a battery or battery charger.
Key Features
- Item Weight: 3.6 kg.
- Power Source: Battery-powered.
- Battery Voltage: 18 Volts.
- Battery Power: 18 Watts.
- Batteries Included: Yes.
- Batteries Required: Yes.
- Dimensions: 113.8 x 215 x 195 cm.
- Slanted head for better trimming.
- Long lasting battery life: It can run for over 70 minutes without the battery losing its full charge.
- Extension strap which makes trimming of high hedges easier and doable.
- Longer runtime.
- The blade is resilient and can cut through extremely thick hedges.
- It doesn’t come supplied with a battery or a battery charger, as most buyers already own something in the Ryobi cordless range.
- The equipment is heavy when used to cut higher places.
FAQ’s
- Which hedge trimmer would you recommend?
Each hedge trimmer has its advantages and disadvantages. But the Bosch hedge trimmer will suffice for every homeowner that just needs one for domestic use.
How thick a branch can a hedge trimmer cut?
Most hedge trimmers are capable of cutting branches that are about half an inch in thickness. However, it is important to keep in mind that the thicker the branch, the more difficult it will be to cut. If you have branches that are thicker than half an inch, you may need to use a chainsaw to properly trim them.
How do you trim hedges with thick branches?
Hedges are a necessary part of any well-maintained home, but they can be difficult to trim when the branches are thick.
You need to use the right tools and techniques to make sure the job is done properly. To trim your hedges properly, you will need:
- A hedge trimmer
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Ear plugs
- A ladder
First, put on your gloves, safety goggles, and earplugs. Then, use the ladder to reach the top of the hedge. Make sure the ladder is stable before you climb up.
Once you are at the top of the hedge, use the hedge trimmer to cut off any branches that are too thick for it to cut. If there are any branches that are too thick for the hedge trimmer but are still within reach, then you might need to use a chainsaw to cut them off.
Can a hedge trimmer cut tree branches?
Although the branches of trees are generally much larger than bushes or shrubs that you might trim with a hedge trimmer, there are many models on the market that will do the job.
Cordless hedge trimmers and electric hedge trimmers work to varying levels of effectiveness. If you try using a cordless trimmer and it fails, then an electric trimmer maybe your best option. Electric hedge trimmers use a power cord to reach the tree branches, so they will need to be plugged into an electrical outlet before they can be used.
What is the difference between a hedge trimmer and a hedge cutter?
A hedge trimmer and a hedge cutter are two different tools that are used for trimming hedges. There are many types of bushes or shrubs that can be trimmed with these tools, but the key difference is in the blades.
A hedge trimmer has a reciprocating blade, while a hedge cutter uses an oscillating blade. The type of blade you want to use will depend on your specific needs and goals for your hedges.
For example, if you need to cut through thick branches or make more precise cuts, then using a hedge cutter might be best suited for you. It will work better than using a less powerful option like a hand saw or pruning shears which would take up much more time and energy.
- Which hedge trimmer would you recommend?
Each hedge trimmer has its advantages and disadvantages. But the Bosch hedge trimmer will suffice for every homeowner that just needs one for domestic use.
- Does the product come with a warranty?
Most of the hedge trimmers on this list do come with a warranty, check the product page. If there is no warranty, you can get one.
- Can I get one although I’m not in the UK?
Once at the checkout page and input your location, you will be able to see if you can order it.
- How much power do they consume?
They don’t consume a lot of power as they are cordless, but you might need to charge the battery. The total annual power consumption isn’t more than £3.
Final thoughts on the Best Hedge Trimmers for Thick Branches
There are several hedge trimmers on the market. This list has been carefully compiled to give you enough information so you can make a decision. I have used each hedge trimmer over the course of my gardening life and know its advantages and disadvantages, cost, durability, materials, etc.
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
