Taming tall hedges and unruly shrubs often requires more than just a standard hedge trimmer. A pole hedge trimmer is the essential tool for reaching those high branches and dense foliage without the constant need for a ladder. These versatile tools combine power, reach, and maneuverability to make landscape maintenance safer and more efficient.
With a variety of power sources, including cordless, corded, and even high-voltage options, there is a model suited for every yard size and user preference. This guide examines nine of the best pole hedge trimmers available, highlighting their key features to help you find the perfect tool for your gardening needs.
Our Top Pole Hedge Trimmer Picks for 2025
- DEWALT 20V MAX Hedge Trimmer, Tool Only
- GARCARE Electric Pole Hedge Trimmer, 18 inch Dual-Action
- Greenworks 40V 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
- Earthwise CVPH43018 Corded 2-in-1 Convertible Pole Hedge Trimmer
- Sun Joe SJH902E 21-inch Telescoping Pole Hedge Trimmer
- DEWALT 40V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer, Telescoping Pole
- Greenworks 40V 20-Inch Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
- Greenworks 8FT 80V Cordless Pole Saw & Hedge Trimmer
DEWALT 20V MAX Hedge Trimmer, Tool Only
This DEWALT pole hedge trimmer is a strong option for those already invested in the 20V MAX battery platform. As a tool-only product, it offers flexibility for users who already own compatible batteries and chargers, making it a cost-effective addition to your tool collection. Its design focuses on providing extended reach for overhead and distant trimming tasks.
The trimmer is built with the durability and performance expected from the DEWALT brand. It is engineered to handle typical hedge maintenance with efficiency, making it a reliable choice for both residential and professional use.
GARCARE Electric Pole Hedge Trimmer
The GARCARE corded pole hedge trimmer delivers consistent power with its 600W motor, eliminating concerns about battery life. Its 18-inch dual-action laser-cut blade operates in both forward and backward motions, which reduces vibration and provides a cleaner, faster cut. This feature is particularly helpful for maintaining the health of your shrubs.
With an extension pole that adjusts from 6.4 feet to 8.2 feet, this model offers significant reach for tall hedges. The combination of a powerful motor and an extended, adjustable pole makes it a practical solution for larger properties where a constant power source is accessible.
Greenworks 40V 20″ Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
This Greenworks model is a complete kit, including a 2.0Ah battery and charger, making it ready to use right out of the box. It operates on the G-max 40V Li-Ion battery system, which is compatible with over 60 other tools in the Greenworks lineup. This interoperability is a major benefit for those looking to build a unified cordless yard tool system.
The tool features a 20-inch steel dual-action blade that ensures optimal performance and durability. With a 5/8-inch cutting capacity, it is well-suited for the controlled trimming of most bushes and hedges, providing a balance of power and runtime for medium-sized yards.
Earthwise CVPH43018 Convertible Pole Hedge Trimmer
The Earthwise trimmer stands out with its 2-in-1 convertible design, functioning as both a standard hedge trimmer and a pole hedge trimmer. This versatility allows for a maximum reach of up to 8 feet 8 inches, making it adaptable for a wide range of trimming scenarios from ground level to overhead branches.
It offers a 5-position adjustable trimming head that can be set from -20 to 80 degrees, providing excellent maneuverability to get the perfect cutting angle. The 18-inch cutting blade is designed for quick and clean cuts, offering great value and flexibility for the average homeowner.
Sun Joe SJH902E Telescoping Pole Hedge Trimmer
Sun Joe’s electric model is built for reaching high places, with a telescoping pole that extends your reach to 7.9 feet. This provides up to 14 feet of overhead reach, making it ideal for cutting tall bushes and hedges that are otherwise difficult to access safely.
The trimmer features a pivoting head that can be adjusted to get under and above tall hedges with ease. Its 21-inch blade and 4-amp motor provide a good balance of cutting swath and power, suited for regular maintenance of residential landscapes.
DEWALT 40V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer, Telescoping Pole
This DEWALT 40V model offers the convenience of a telescoping shaft that retracts to 45 inches for easy storage and use in compact spaces, and extends up to 70 inches for maximum reach. This design provides about 15% more shaft length than many competitive gas pole trimmers, all without the fumes, noise, and maintenance of a gas engine.
It is equipped with a robust 22-inch dual shear, laser-cut hardened steel blade that features a 1-inch cutting gap. This combination of a long, adjustable pole and a high-capacity blade makes it a powerful tool for handling larger, more demanding trimming jobs.
Greenworks 40V 20-Inch Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
Another solid offering from Greenworks, this 40V pole hedge trimmer comes as a complete kit with a 2AH battery and charger. It operates within the G-MAX 40V Li-Ion Battery System, allowing you to power a full suite of compatible yard tools from a single battery platform.
The tool features a 20-inch steel dual-action blade designed for performance and a 6.5-foot shaft extension. With a 5/8-inch cutting capacity, it provides controlled and easy trimming for most residential hedging needs, offering a reliable cordless solution.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
This DEWALT 20V MAX model brings the brand’s reputation for durability and power to a cordless pole hedge trimmer format. It is designed for users who need a reliable tool for extended reach without the hassle of a cord. Its integration into the 20V MAX system makes it a convenient choice for those who already use other tools in this lineup.
The trimmer is built to handle frequent use and provides the cutting performance necessary for maintaining hedges and shrubs. It represents a balanced option for homeowners seeking a capable and trusted brand for their landscaping tasks.
Greenworks 8FT 80V Cordless Pole Saw & Hedge Trimmer
For those requiring maximum power and versatility, the Greenworks 80V system offers a robust solution. This product combines a pole saw and a hedge trimmer, making it a 2-in-1 tool for comprehensive tree and hedge care. The 80V battery provides substantial power, comparable to some gas-powered tools, for tackling tougher jobs.
With an 8-foot pole, it offers exceptional reach for high branches and tall hedges. This tool is ideal for property owners with a mix of large hedges and small tree limbs that need regular pruning, consolidating two essential tools into one powerful package.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Pole Hedge Trimmer
I know shopping for a new tool can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. Having used my fair share of pole hedge trimmers, I can tell you that focusing on a few key features makes the decision much easier. Let’s break down what you should be looking for in your next purchase.
First, consider the power source. This is the biggest decision you’ll make. Corded electric trimmers are lightweight, quiet, and have unlimited runtime, but you’re tethered to an outlet and an extension cord. Battery-powered models offer excellent freedom of movement and are surprisingly powerful now; just make sure the battery life and charge time fit your yard’s size. For the biggest, toughest jobs, gas-powered trimmers are the most powerful and completely cordless, but they are heavier, louder, and require more maintenance with fuel and oil.
Next, think about the pole itself. Look for a model with an adjustable or telescoping pole. This lets you customize the reach to safely trim tall hedges without constantly moving a ladder. I find a pole that extends to at least 10 feet is a good starting point. Also, check if the cutting head pivots. A head that rotates, often up to 180 degrees or more, is a game-changer for trimming the tops of hedges and hard-to-reach angles without straining your back or shoulders.
Don’t ignore the cutting blade. The blade length determines how much you can cut with each pass. For small, detailed hedges, a blade around 16 inches is fine. For long, flat hedges, a 22-inch or longer blade will save you a lot of time. Also, look at the tooth spacing. Wider spacing is better for cutting thicker branches, while closer spacing gives a finer, smoother cut on softer growth.
Finally, pay attention to weight and balance. A heavy trimmer becomes very difficult to hold overhead after just a few minutes. Battery and corded models are generally lighter than gas. How the weight is distributed is also crucial; a well-balanced trimmer feels much lighter and is easier to control, which leads to a cleaner cut and less user fatigue. By considering your specific yard and these factors, you can find the perfect tool for the job. This buying guide for the 9 Best Pole Hedge Trimmers – Reviews & Buying Guide 2025 should set you on the right path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a single-sided and a double-sided blade?
A single-sided blade has teeth on only one edge, which many people find safer and easier to control, especially when trimming the tops of tall hedges. A double-sided blade has teeth on both edges, allowing you to cut on both the push and pull strokes. This can make the trimming process faster, but it requires more careful handling to avoid accidentally cutting something you didn’t intend to.
How often do I need to sharpen the blades on my pole hedge trimmer?
There’s no fixed schedule, as it depends on how much you use the tool and what you’re cutting. If you notice the trimmer is tearing leaves instead of making clean cuts, or if it requires more force to get through branches, it’s probably time to sharpen the blades. For light residential use, you might only need to sharpen them once a season. Always check your manual for specific maintenance advice.
Can I use a pole hedge trimmer to cut tree branches?
I would not recommend it. Pole hedge trimmers are designed for soft, new growth and hedge branches typically up to about 3/4 of an inch thick. Trying to cut larger, harder tree branches can easily damage the blades, strain the motor, and is potentially dangerous. For tree branches, you should use a tool specifically designed for the task, like a pole saw or a pruning saw.
Are battery-powered pole trimmers as powerful as gas models?
While gas models still hold the crown for raw, sustained power for professional use, the gap has narrowed significantly. Modern lithium-ion battery trimmers are incredibly powerful and are more than capable of handling the demands of most residential properties. For the average homeowner, the convenience, quiet operation, and lack of fumes from a good battery model often outweigh the extra power of a gas trimmer.
What safety gear should I wear when using a pole hedge trimmer?
Safety should always be your top priority. I always wear safety glasses or goggles to protect my eyes from flying debris. Sturdy gloves improve your grip and protect your hands. Long sleeves and pants are a good idea to protect your skin from scratches. And don’t forget hearing protection, especially with gas-powered models. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch for power lines. Reading the reviews and manual included in any good 9 Best Pole Hedge Trimmers – Buying Guide will reinforce these essential safety practices.
What is a good blade length for a home gardener?
For most home gardens, a blade length between 18 and 24 inches is a great balance. It gives you enough length to trim efficiently without being so long that the tool becomes unwieldy or difficult to store. If your hedges are mostly small or you need to do a lot of detailed shaping, you might prefer a shorter blade for better control.