We recommend hedge trimmers that score at least 80% overall.

The overall score is made up of 50% performance, 50% ease of use.

Our tester assesses the trimmers for their cutting performance on a variety of leafy and woody hedge types, including some thicker branches.

'Tested models' are hedge trimmers that we've tested and that are currently available in shops. In some instances, at the request of members and when products are still available on the second-hand market and via sites like eBay, we also include hedge trimmers that were previously tested but are now discontinued.

Recommended or typical retail price, including the battery if applicable. For some brands, skin-only options may be available if you already have a battery.

Claimed country of origin.

Due to a change in test site in 2021, performance results can't be directly compared with previous years.

Length of the cutting blade in cm.

The size of the gap between the teeth. Generally, the larger the gap, the better the cutting performance.

Stated battery voltage. Other battery capacities may be available.

Amp hours (Ah) are the number of amps a battery can sustain for an hour.

Manufacturer's claimed battery charging time in minutes

How loud is the trimmer when holding and using it?

A shield that protects your leading hand from flying cuttings and debris. Most models have these.

This makes it easier to switch between horizontal and vertical trimming.

The blade bar has fixed teeth that project beyond the moving cutters, which helps prevent injury. For example, if you bump the blade against your leg, you're less likely to come into contact with the cutting blades.

The cutting head rotates for easier vertical edging.