Keeping your hedges, shrubs, and bushes neatly trimmed shouldn’t feel like a strenuous workout. The key to a pleasant and efficient grooming session often lies in the tool’s weight and balance. Lightweight hedge trimmers reduce user fatigue, increase control for precise shaping, and make the job accessible to more people.
Whether you prefer the freedom of cordless battery power, the consistent output of a corded electric model, or the robust performance of gas, there is a lightweight option designed for your garden. This roundup focuses on trimmers that prioritize easy handling without sacrificing cutting performance, helping you find the perfect tool to maintain your landscape with ease.
Our Top Picks for Easy-to-Handle Hedge Trimmers
- RYOBI P2607BTL ONE+ 18 in. Cordless Hedge Trimmer
- WORX WG261 22″ 20V Cordless Hedge Trimmer
- BLACK+DECKER BEHT350FF 22″ Electric Hedge Trimmer
- Hedge Trimmer Cordless for DEWALT 20V MAX Battery
- BLACK+DECKER Electric Hedge Trimmer, 17-Inch (BEHT150)
- Husqvarna 122HD60 Gas 23.7-in Dual Action Hedge Trimmer
- Gas Tank Grommet Rubber Seal for Poulan Pro Hedge Trimmer
- Houselife Cordless Hedge Trimmer for Dewalt 20V Battery
- Earthwise 20V 20-Inch Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
- BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Hedge Trimmer (LHT2220)
RYOBI P2607BTL ONE+ 18 in. Cordless Hedge Trimmer
For those invested in the RYOBI ONE+ ecosystem, this tool-only trimmer is a standout choice for its exceptional lightness. Weighing only 3.1 pounds, it is remarkably easy to maneuver and hold at various angles, significantly reducing arm and shoulder strain during extended use. Its compact design further enhances control in tight spaces.
The 18-inch dual-action blades provide a clean cut while minimizing vibration transferred to your hands, leading to a smoother operating experience. With a 5/8-inch cut capacity, it handles most common hedge-trimming tasks around the home. This trimmer is an ideal addition for anyone who already owns RYOBI 18V batteries and wants a lightweight, capable tool.
WORX WG261 22″ 20V Cordless Hedge Trimmer
This WORX trimmer offers a complete kit with battery and charger, making it ready to use right out of the box. It balances a 22-inch cutting blade for efficient coverage with an ergonomic, lightweight design that users find comfortable and easy to manage. The length is sufficient for creating flat tops and even sides on larger hedges while remaining nimble.
A major benefit is its place in the WORX PowerShare family. The included 20V battery is interchangeable with over 75 other tools, offering great value and versatility for homeowners. This cordless freedom, combined with its thoughtful design, makes it a powerful yet user-friendly option for general yard maintenance.
BLACK+DECKER BEHT350FF 22″ Electric Hedge Trimmer
If you prefer the consistent power of a corded electric model, this BLACK+DECKER trimmer is a reliable and strong contender. Its 4.0 amp motor provides ample strength to cleanly cut through branches up to 3/4-inch thick, tackling tougher growth with ease. The 22-inch dual-action blade design helps reduce vibration for more comfortable operation.
User control is a priority with the full wraparound front handle. This design allows for a secure and comfortable grip in multiple positions, giving you better command over the tool for precise shaping. It’s a straightforward, powerful option for properties with easy access to an outdoor power outlet.
Hedge Trimmer Cordless for DEWALT 20V MAX Battery
This versatile tool offers a unique 2-in-1 design, functioning as both an 8-inch hedge trimmer and a 4.7-inch grass shear. The blades are easily interchangeable, allowing you to manage hedge tips and detailed lawn edging with a single tool base. It’s an excellent space-saving solution for smaller gardens or detailed work.
Designed for compatibility with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, it’s a smart choice for professionals or DIYers who already own this battery platform. The tool is built to be portable and operated with one hand, featuring an ergonomic handle for comfort. Its compact and flexible nature makes it perfect for precision tasks.
Learn More About This 2-in-1 Tool
BLACK+DECKER Electric Hedge Trimmer, 17-Inch (BEHT150)
This model is a classic and affordable entry into electric hedge trimming. Its lightweight and compact design is notably easy to handle, making it a good fit for users who need a simple tool for basic hedge maintenance. The 17-inch dual-action blade reduces vibration compared to older single-action designs.
Powered by a 3.2 amp motor, it capably trims branches up to 5/8-inch thick. The smaller blade length enhances maneuverability around tighter spaces and smaller shrubs. For those with modest trimming needs and a preference for a corded electric tool, this trimmer provides reliable performance without complexity.
Husqvarna 122HD60 Gas 23.7-in Dual Action Hedge Trimmer
For larger properties or professional use where cordless runtime or cord length is a limitation, this gas-powered Husqvarna offers robust performance. The 21.7cc engine delivers the power needed for demanding, all-day trimming jobs on thick hedges. Despite its power, it incorporates features to keep it user-friendly.
The Smart Start system, air purge, and automatic return stop switch are all engineered to make starting the engine significantly easier with less effort—a common pain point with gas equipment. The 23.7-inch dual-action blade provides long reach and efficient cutting while damping vibration.
Gas Tank Grommet Rubber Seal for Poulan Pro Hedge Trimmer
This product is a replacement part, specifically a gas tank grommet rubber seal for Poulan Pro 23cc PR2322 hedge trimmers. It is not a standalone hedge trimmer. Parts like this are essential for maintaining the longevity and proper function of gas-powered outdoor equipment.
A worn or cracked grommet can lead to fuel leaks, which are a safety hazard and can cause poor engine performance. Replacing this small component can restore a trimmer’s reliability and prevent the need for a more costly repair or replacement. Always ensure the part number matches your specific tool model.
Houselife Cordless Hedge Trimmer for Dewalt 20V Battery
This is another tool-only option designed for users of the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform. It provides a cost-effective way to add a capable hedge trimmer to your collection if you already own compatible batteries and a charger. The 18-inch blade length offers a good balance between cutting swath and maneuverability.
It features a 5/8-inch cutting capacity and operates at 1400 strokes per minute for efficient cutting. The design focuses on minimizing vibration to improve comfort and cut precision. This trimmer is a practical choice for DEWALT tool owners looking to handle routine hedge maintenance without investing in a new battery system.
Earthwise 20V 20-Inch Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
For trimming tall hedges or reaching over obstacles without a ladder, a pole hedge trimmer is the ideal solution. This Earthwise model comes with a battery and charger and features a 6-position adjustable extension pole, giving you a reach of up to 8 feet 10 inches. Its lightweight design is crucial for overhead work.
The 20-inch dual-action blade can cut branches up to 5/8-inch thick. The ability to adjust the cutting head angle allows you to comfortably trim the tops and sides of tall shrubs while keeping both feet safely on the ground. It combines reach, cordless convenience, and user-friendly operation.
BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Hedge Trimmer (LHT2220)
This BLACK+DECKER cordless trimmer leverages the convenience of 20V MAX battery power for tangle-free operation around your yard. As part of a popular cordless series, it is designed to be well-balanced and straightforward to use for typical residential trimming tasks. The specific weight and blade length contribute to its easy handling.
Cordless trimmers like this one eliminate the hassle of managing a power cord or mixing fuel, offering quick start-up and quiet operation. They are perfect for quick clean-ups and maintaining formal hedges. For reliable performance within the BLACK+DECKER 20V system, this model is a solid contender for general-purpose hedge care.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Lightweight Hedge Trimmer
When I’m shopping for a new tool, I always think about what will make my job easier. For trimming hedges, that almost always means finding a model that won’t leave my arms feeling like jelly after twenty minutes. The whole point of looking for the 10 best lightweight hedge trimmers for easy handling is to reduce fatigue so you can actually enjoy a tidy yard. But “lightweight” isn’t the only thing to consider. Here’s what I focus on to get the right tool for my garden.
First, let’s talk power source. You have three main choices: corded electric, battery-powered, and gas. For pure ease and low weight, corded electric trimmers are often the lightest and have unlimited runtime, but you’re tethered to an outlet and an extension cord. Battery-powered models offer fantastic freedom and are usually very well-balanced; the weight is the tool plus the battery, so try it in your hand first. Gas trimmers pack the most power for thick branches but are typically the heaviest and require the most maintenance, which can cancel out the easy-handling benefit for most residential jobs.
Next, look at the blade. The blade length determines your reach and how much you can cut in one sweep. A longer blade (22-24 inches) is great for big, flat hedges but can feel unwieldy. A shorter blade (16-18 inches) is much easier to control for detailed work and smaller shrubs. Also, check the tooth spacing. Wider spacing (like 3/4 inch or more) is better for cutting thicker, woody branches, while closer spacing is ideal for finer, leafy growth. Double-sided blades cut on both the forward and backward strokes for faster work, but they require a bit more care.
Finally, don’t just look at the spec sheet weight. Consider the balance and grip. A well-balanced trimmer will feel lighter in your hand because the weight isn’t all in the front. A comfortable, rubberized grip makes a huge difference in control and reduces vibration. Features like a rotating rear handle let you adjust your cutting angle without straining your wrists, which is a game-changer for long sessions. My advice? If possible, visit a store and actually hold a few models. The one that feels like a natural extension of your arm is usually the winner, regardless of a few extra ounces on the scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a lightweight hedge trimmer?
There’s no strict rule, but in my experience, most tools under 8 pounds are generally considered lightweight and are manageable for most people. Many corded electric models come in around 5 to 7 pounds, while battery-powered ones range from 6 to 8 pounds with the battery installed. When you start getting above 9 or 10 pounds, that’s when fatigue sets in quickly, especially when working overhead. The goal is to find a tool in that lower range that still has enough power and blade length for your specific hedges.
Are battery-powered trimmers powerful enough for thick branches?
Modern battery tools have come a long way. For the average homeowner’s hedge maintenance—trimming back new growth and shaping shrubs—a good 20V or 40V lithium-ion battery trimmer is more than sufficient. They can typically handle branches up to about 3/4 of an inch thick. If your hedges are seriously overgrown with very old, woody branches, you might need the sustained power of a gas model or a heavy-duty corded electric. But for 90% of us, a quality battery trimmer from a major brand does the job perfectly without the noise, fumes, or pull-cord hassle.
How important is blade material?
It’s pretty important for long-term durability. I always look for blades made from hardened steel or with a non-stick coating. Hardened steel stays sharper longer and resists nicks from hidden wire or fences. A non-stick coating (often titanium) does two things: it reduces friction so the blade moves through wood more easily, and it prevents sap and debris from sticking as much, which makes cleanup easier and helps the blade last longer. It’s a feature worth paying a little extra for.
Can I use a lightweight trimmer for tall hedges?
You can, but you need to be smart about it. No lightweight trimmer has a blade long enough to reach the top of a tall hedge from the ground. For this, you’ll need a pole hedge trimmer or a ladder. If you’re using a ladder, the light weight of your main trimmer becomes a huge safety and comfort advantage, as it’s less tiring and easier to control while balanced. Never overreach. For frequent tall hedge work, investing in an extendable pole trimmer, which are often designed to be relatively lightweight, is the safer and more efficient choice.
What safety features should I look for?
Safety is non-negotiable. The two features I insist on are a hand guard and a lock-off switch. The hand guard protects your front hand from slipping onto the blade, and the lock-off switch prevents the tool from accidentally starting. A dual-switch, where you must press two buttons to operate, is even safer. Also, check how the tool feels regarding vibration; lower vibration means better control and less chance of a slip. Always, always wear safety glasses and gloves, no matter how light or easy the tool is to handle.