9 Best Pole Hedge Trimmers | Extended Telescopic

With dozens of options for pole hedge trimmers, knowing how to find one that meets your needs can be tricky.

Should you get a gas-powered or electric trimmer? Is it corded or cordless? How long should it be? 

With years of experience using this product, I can help you answer these questions and more.

So whether you are new to the world of pole hedge trimmers or you are looking to upgrade to a commercial-grade model, get ready to gain a new understanding and learn precisely what you need to know to buy the best product.

Best Pole Hedge Trimmer

If you’re in a hurry and need to know which are the best pole hedge trimmers, here are my recommendations.

Best Battery-Powered Trimmer

1. Husqvarna 36V Telescopic Pole Hedge Trimmer

A powerful 36V trimmer offers 14.7 ft of reach and a long-lasting battery that will allow you to complete big jobs on a single charge.

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Best Gas-Powered Trimmer

2. STIHL HL 56 K 20 in. Gas Hedge Trimmer

Features a double-sided dual-ground blade system for fast, efficient cutting. Fixed 26-in. shafts with a 0 or 135-degree cutting angle.

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Longest Pole Hedge Trimmer

3. DeWalt 20V Cordless Pole Saw Hedge Trimmer Combo 

With 15 ft of reach, and 96 cuts per charge this trimmer is well worth a mention. includes an extension pole, shoulder strap, and tensioning wrench.

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Why Use a Pole Hedge Trimmer

If you have smaller hedges or are comfortable using ladders, then you might be able to use a standard hedge trimmer or even non-powered shears to cut your hedges. However, if your hedges and trees are taller or safety is a concern, then using a pole trimmer is a good idea.

A pole trimmer allows you to safely stand on the ground and make high cuts without the use of a ladder or cumbersome scaffolding.

Regardless of the power source, a powered trimmer will also be much faster, more efficient, and less labor-intensive than hand tools. If you have a lot of cuts to make or multiple hedges and trees that need to be trimmed, a gas-powered or electric pole hedge trimmer is the way to go.

Choosing the Best Pole Hedge Trimmer

Selecting a hedge trimmer requires you to make several decisions, including things like the power source, length, and cutting capacity you want.

Read through this short buyer’s guide to learn everything you need to know about the most critical specifications for pole hedge trimmers.

Electric, Battery, or Gas Which Is Best

The power source is perhaps the most crucial aspect to consider before buying a pole trimmer. 

Pole hedge trimmers will be powered by gas, a battery, or an electric hedge trimmer with an extension cord.

Your choice of power source will depend on how you intend to use the trimmer. It may also affect the purchase price and cost of ongoing maintenance.

Read on for more in-depth explanations of the three power sources for pole hedge trimmers.

Gas-Powered

Gas-powered pole trimmers are heavy-duty, high-performance tools that are favored by commercial landscapers or homeowners with a lot of trees and hedges to trim.

Gas-powered engines, typically ranging between 20cc and 40cc, are powerful, but there are several trade-offs. 

Gas trimmers tend to be heavier and harder to use than electric trimmers. Gas-powered pole trimmers also cost more upfront and require more frequent maintenance to keep them running optimally.

Battery-Powered

Battery-powered cordless trimmers are a fantastic option for the average residential user who needs to do the regular trimming on a medium to large size property where using an extension cord would be impractical.

A cordless battery-powered trimmer sits somewhere in between gas and corded trimmers in terms of cost and performance.

Battery-powered pole trimmers use a motor measured in volts (V), with higher volts indicating a more powerful trimmer. The battery capacity, which helps explain the trimmer’s runtime, is measured in ampere-hours (Ah). The larger the Ah, the longer the battery will last on a single charge.

Corded-Electric

Corded-electric hedge trimmers rely on an extension cord plugged into a standard outlet in your home or garage to function. These trimmers are the cheapest option and run quieter than gas trimmers.

The low cost makes a corded pole trimmer a smart budget option that would be perfect for individuals with small yards.

While they are affordable, corded pole hedge trimmers also tend to be the least powerful type of trimmer and are only suited to cutting smaller branches and vines.

Features To Look For

Different trimmers are better suited to different trimming needs. Here is my breakdown of the most important factors for a pole hedge trimmer and the situations where you need to consider them.

Cut-Width Capacity

Cut width is the max branch width that you can cut. The cutting width of a trimmer is determined by the spacing between the blade’s teeth. Widths can vary significantly between models and manufacturers. The products on this list range from 9/32 in. to 1.34 in.

Blade Type

Manufacturers design their pole trimmers with different types of blades that are designed for single-sided or doubled-side cutting.

Hedge Trimmer for Shaping

What you want to do with your hedges will determine which blade type is best for you. 

Many people use standard hedge trimmers to simply prune or cut back their hedges without any serious concern for specific aesthetic goals. 

However, if you wish to trim your hedges into a specific shape, no matter how simple or intricate, then you need to consider which blade type you are using. Most experts, myself included, recommend using a double-sided blade for shaping.

Double-Sided Blade

Double-sided blades have teeth on both sides of the blade. A double-sided blade is usually shorter than its single-sided counterpart, which makes it easier to maneuver. Shaping is better accomplished with a double-sided blade because more minor, angled cuts are more manageable thanks to the blade’s ergonomics.

Single-Sided Blade

Landscapers primarily use a single-sided blade for long stretches of hedges that they can trim with a single pass. Because only one side of the blade has teeth, it weighs less and can be longer. 

A longer blade is highly efficient for cutting significant sections of hedges, but it makes multiple cuts and more nuanced hedge-shaping difficult and tedious.

Pole Length

The length of the pole or the max reach of a pole is one of the major factors when comparing trimmers. Pole trimmers either offer a fixed size or a telescoping length that you can adjust as necessary, depending on the model. 

Fixed Vs. Telescopic Pole

If a trimmer has a fixed pole, it means that you cannot change the length of the pole and, therefore, the max reach of the cutting blade.

If you know you will only need a certain height and don’t need to change the pole length, then a fixed pole can be a good option that simplifies operating your trimmer and may even save you some money, depending on the model.

A telescopic pole has a length that you can change for higher cuts. If you have multiple trees and hedges that are of different heights, a telescopic pole trimmer offers increased functionality and is easy to use.

Balance & Weight

Two more factors that need to be considered are the balance and weight of a pole-mounted trimmer. 

These factors will vary based on the design and materials used for manufacturing the trimmer. Pay attention to the design of a trimmer’s handle and grips, the position of the engine or motor, and what materials the manufacturer used to make the trimmer.

Good balance and weight will make a pole hedge trimmer easier to hold and more comfortable to work with for extended periods of time. It will also simplify the process of maneuvering and cutting with the pole trimmer.

Poor balance or excessively heavy weight will make cutting more complex and even cause enough fatigue that you cannot finish all of your trimmings as quickly as you would like.

Vibration

Much like balance and weight, vibration can impact the overall user experience when using a pole-mounted blade. Heavy vibrations will cause you to grow tired more quickly and make using the trimmer difficult.

Gas-powered products typically vibrate more than electric ones. But every mechanical trimmer has moving parts and is used to cut through hedges and solid branches, so there will always be at least a slight vibration.

If vibration is a significant concern for you, try to find a trimmer that a manufacturer has designed with anti-vibration technology.

Hedge Trimmers Vs. Hedge Cutters

While the terms “hedge trimmer” and “hedge cutter” might seem synonymous, they are actually two different tools that serve different purposes.

Hedge trimmers, including pole trimmers, are designed for light pruning and shaping. 

Hedge cutters are heavy-duty tools that are a step up from hedge trimmers in terms of power and cutting capacity. Hedge cutters can handle thicker branches and bigger jobs than the typical hedge trimmer.

Best Pole Hedge Trimmer Reviews

Let’s review nine of the best pole trimmers that I tested so you can find one that will be perfect for your unique residential or commercial landscape.

Husqvarna 36V Battery Telescopic Pole Trimmer

Best Battery Powered

• Type: Battery-powered
• Power: 36V Husqvarna BLi-battery
• Blade Length: 22 in.
• Pole Length: 14.7 ft (max reach)
• Max Branch Width: 1.3 in.
• Weight: 15 lbs (with battery)

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Pros:

• The high-capacity battery offers longer runtime
• Low weight, low vibration design
• Intuitive keypad controls are easy to use

Cons:

• The large-capacity battery takes extra time to recharge

This Husqvarna 36V cordless trimmer is my favorite battery-powered option. It offers tremendous power and versatility with its brushless motor and telescoping pole that reaches almost 15 ft.

This pole trimmer also has a built-in rear guard to protect the battery and is IPX4 weatherproof to keep it safe if you get caught outside in poor weather. 

A simple keypad gives you control of the hedge trimmer’s easy-to-learn functions. You can also fold the blade down against the telescopic shaft, which makes it easier to store in small spaces.

The adjustable cutting bar, low-weight design, and extraordinarily quiet operating volume make this Husqvarna pole trimmer a fantastic option for professionals and homeowners.

STIHL HL 56 K 20 in. Gas Hedge Trimmer

Best Gas-Powered

• Type: Gas-powered
• Power: 27.2cc 1.07 bhp 2-stroke engine
• Blade Length: 20 in.
• Pole Length: 2.2 ft
• Max Branch Width: 1.34 in.
• Weight: 12.6 lbs

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Pros:

• The lightweight gearbox offers good balance and maneuverability 
• Low-emissions, high-efficiency engine makes big jobs easy
• Dual-ground blade system makes quick, clean cuts 

Cons:

• Limited reach and options for angle adjustments

STIHL designed this gas-powered hedge trimmer as an entry-level option for homeowners and beginner landscapers.

But because it’s an excellent choice for first-time users doesn’t mean this trimmer lacks power or functionality. It has a powerful 27.2 cc engine and 20 in. blades with a massive max cutting capacity of 1.34 in.

This pole trimmer is also lightweight, especially for a gas-powered product, and weighs in at just over 12 lbs.

The 0-degree and 135-degree cutting angles make it easy to use, while the dual-ground blade system and 2.2 ft pole help you complete your trimming faster.

Makita 20″ 25.4 cc MM4 4-Stroke Hedge Trimmer

• Type: Gas-powered
• Power: 25.4 ccs 1.1 hp MM4 4-stroke
• Blade Length: 20 in.
• Pole Length: 8.3 ft (overall length)
• Max Branch Width: 9/32 in.
• Weight: 15.6 lbs

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Pros:

• Breakneck 4,200 strokes per minute (SPM) blade speed
• 13 cutting angles with an easy-change lever
• Steel drive shaft absorbs vibration for comfortable operation

Cons:

• Small cutting capacity limits versatility

This gas-powered Makita trimmer is a perfect example of a commercial-grade trimmer.

Many commercial landscapers prefer using gas-powered trimmers as they tend to be more powerful and faster than electric trimmers.

With a 25.4 cc 4-stroke engine that delivers a speedy 4,200 SPM with a 20 in. blade, you will be able to trim hedges and cut branches in no time.

This pole hedge trimmer offers a modest cutting width of 9/32 in. but does offer 13 different cutting angles that will let you make any cut no matter the positioning.

Ego POWER+ Multi-Head with 20″ Hedge Trimmer

• Type: Battery-powered
• Power: 56V 2.5Ah battery
• Blade Length: 20 in.
• Pole Length: 5.25 ft
• Max Branch Width: 1 in.
• Weight: 20 lbs

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Pros:

• Variable speed trigger with two options
• Compatible with six different EGO power tools
• Versatile 1 in. cutting capacity

Cons:

• Heavy weight makes it hard to use for extended periods

This multi-head pole hedge trimmer from EGO is compatible with six different EGO power tools (sold separately) and allows for tool-less coupling for added convenience.

It also offers a lot of power with a 56V 2.5Ah battery that provides a long-lasting runtime. Additionally, two variable speed options help you conserve power or make cuts faster, depending on your choice.

With a 1 in. cutting capacity, 20 in. blade, and 12 different cutting positions, this POWER pole hedge trimmer will handle a ton of different trimming projects around the house.

One downside is that this tool weighs about 20 lbs which can quickly become too heavy to use, especially if you have a larger yard.

Makita 18V LXT Cordless 24″ Pole Hedge Trimmer 5.0Ah

• Type: Battery-powered
• Power: 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery
• Blade Length: 24 in.
• Pole Length: 4.7 ft
• Max Branch Width: 1 in.
• Weight: 19 lbs

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Pros:

• Up to 75 minutes of runtime on a single charge
• Large 24-in. blade for faster cutting
• Three different speed options for power management

Cons:

• Blade cover can be challenging to put on and take off

Offering a long 24 in. dual-action double-sided blade for clean cuts and a brushless motor that runs at 4,400 SPM, this Makita pole hedge trimmer is a great battery-powered option.

An 18V LXT battery powers this trimmer and offers a 5.0Ah capacity. And the trimmer gives you three different speed options for power management. These features mean you get up to 75 minutes of runtime on a single charge.

The ergonomic design, including an adjustable loop handle, makes the trimmer comfortable to operate and offers stability for more accurate cutting.

Two safety design features, Extreme Protection and Star Protection technology, prevent dust and water buildup and protect against overheating and overloading.

Echo X Series Hedge Trimmer

• Type: Gas-powered
• Power: 25.4cc 2-stroke engine
• Blade Length: 21 in.
• Pole Length: 5 ft
• Max Branch Width: 1 in.
• Weight: 14.3 lbs

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Pros:

• Articulating head with anti-vibration technology
• Big 20.6 fl oz fuel tank offers an extended runtime between refills
• 4.6:1 gear reduction produces more torque for better cutting

Cons:

• It might be difficult for inexperienced users to hold and operate it

Another gas-powered pole hedge trimmer, this one from ECHO, utilizes a professional-grade 25.4 cc engine and an intelligent two-stage air filtration system.

The 21 in. double-sided blade cuts well, and with a 20.6 fl oz fuel tank, you can complete big sections of trimming without stopping to refuel.

The 4:6:1 gear reduction provides enhanced torque, and the 1 in. cut width makes cutting thicker branches less of a hassle.

This gas-powered pole trimmer starts with minimal issues and is lightweight enough to use for medium and large-size properties.

DeWalt 20V Cordless Pole Saw Trimmer Combo

Longest Pole Length

• Type: Battery-powered
• Power: 20V 4.0Ah MAX Li-ion battery
• Blade Length: 22 in.
• Pole Length: 15 ft (max reach)
• Max Branch Width: 1 in.
• Weight: 18.7 lbs

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Pros:

• Extra-long reach allows you to reach up to 15 ft
• Comes with the pole saw and pole hedge trimmer attachments
• The battery fully charges in about 60 minutes

Cons:

• Only has 2,800 SPM max cutting speed

If you have extra tall hedges or high branches, consider this DeWalt hedge trimmer with an included pole saw attachment that offers 15 ft max reach.

This pole trimmer also has a 22-inch. blade head with a 1-inch. cutting capacity for completing regular trimming work.

The trimmer comes with a 20V 4.0Ah battery that gives you a long runtime, and the battery can fully recharge in about 60 minutes.

This combo kit version also provides additional accessories, including a comfortable shoulder strap, protective blade sheath, tensioning wrench, bar sheath, and an extension pole.

Black + Decker 20V Pole Hedge Trimmer

• Type: Battery-powered
• Power: 20V 1.5Ah MAX Li-ion battery
• Blade Length: 18 in.
• Pole Length: 10 ft (max reach)
• Max Branch Width: 7/16 in.
• Weight: 7.7 lbs

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Pros:

• The lightweight design makes it easy to hold and maneuver
• Made with durable, rust-proof fiberglass
• A lock-off switch prevents unwanted start-ups

Cons:

• It comes with a lower-capacity battery

If you want a very lightweight cordless pole hedge trimmer, consider this one from Black + Decker that operates on a 20V 1.5Ah MAX battery.

The featherweight fiberglass material used for this tool is rust-proof for more durability. It also helps to make this pole trimmer comfortable to cut with, even for extended periods.

The 10 ft max reach with an 18 in. blade can handle a variety of different hedge sizes. At the same time, the 7/16 in. cutting capacity and five adjustable cutting positions increase its capabilities.

This pole hedge trimmer comes with a lock-off switch that prevents accidental start-ups. It also folds up and can be conveniently stored in the included storage bags.

WORX 20V Power Share 2-in-1 20″ Hedge Trimmer

• Type: Battery-powered
• Power: 20V 2.0Ah Battery
• Blade Length: 20 in.
• Pole Length: 12 ft (max reach)
• Max Branch Width: 5/8 in.
• Weight: 7.6 lbs

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Pros:

• The 180-degree rotating handle makes it easier to reach difficult angles 
• Adjustable head with ten cutting positions
• Compatible with Worx chainsaw head attachment (sold separately) for greater versatility

Cons:

• Difficult to cut through thicker branches

WORX’S 2-in-1 pole hedge trimmer comes with a trimmer head and is compatible with the WORX chainsaw attachment, which can be purchased separately if desired.

This tool has a telescoping pole with a max reach of 12 ft, including 20 in. of blade length. 

You can adjust the trimmer’s head through a range of 10 different positions, while the 180-degree rotating handle increases your ability to change the cutting angle.

This pole hedge trimmer is compact, skinny, and lightweight, making it comfortable to use in tight spaces and easier to hold on to throughout its long-lasting runtime.

Verdict: Best Pole Hedge Trimmer

And there you have it; nine fantastic pole hedge trimmers with an option that will work for any trimming job you might have.

If you are interested in a cordless electric option, look into the Husqvarna 36V Battery Telescopic Trimmer. It offers a robust, long-lasting 36V and extra-large 1.3 in. cutting capacity to help you handle almost any trimming job.

Best Battery-Powered Trimmer

Husqvarna 36V Battery Telescopic Hedge Trimmer

A powerful 36V hedge trimmer offers 14.7 ft of reach and a long-lasting battery that will allow you to complete big jobs on a single charge.

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On the other hand, if a gas trimmer seems like the right option for you, then try the STIHL HL 56 K 20 in. Gas Hedge Trimmer. It has a low-emissions, high-performance engine for quick cutting, while the lightweight gearbox helps make it easy to maneuver.

Best Gas-Powered Trimmer

STIHL HL 56 K 20 in. Gas Hedge Trimmer

Features a double-sided dual-ground blade system for fast, efficient cutting. Fixed 26-in. shafts with a 0 or 135-degree cutting angle.

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Finally, if you need a tool capable of cuts that are higher than what most pole trimmers can handle, you should consider the DeWalt 20V Cordless Pole Saw Hedge Trimmer Combo. With a max reach of 15 ft and the choice of a pole saw or pole trimmer attachment, this trimmer offers excellent versatility.

Longest Pole Hedge Trimmer

DeWalt 20V Cordless Pole Saw Hedge Trimmer Combo 

With 15 ft of reach, and 96 cuts per charge this trimmer is well worth a mention. includes an extension pole, shoulder strap, and tensioning wrench.

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Pole Hedge Trimmer FAQs

Here is one of the most common questions I receive about using pole hedge trimmers.