---
# === IDENTITY ===
id: outdoor/garden/hedge-trimmers-cordless/2026
canonical_question: "What are the best cordless hedge trimmers in 2026?"
aliases:
- "best battery hedge trimmer 2026"
- "cordless hedge trimmer comparison 2026"
- "best electric hedge trimmer cordless"
- "battery powered hedge trimmer review"
- "compare EGO vs Husqvarna vs DeWalt hedge trimmer"
- "best cordless hedge trimmer for thick branches"
- "lightweight cordless hedge trimmer"
entity_type: product_comparison
domain: outdoor > garden > cordless hedge trimmers
region: global
jurisdiction: global
temporal_scope: 2025-2026
# === VERIFICATION ===
last_verified: 2026-08-11
confidence: 0.92
version: 1.2
first_published: 2026-03-26
# === TEMPORAL VALIDITY ===
temporal_validity:
status: volatile
last_breaking_change: "2026-08-11 — DeWalt DCHT820P1 discontinued and superseded by DCHT821P1; Stihl HSA 45 Amazon listing went unavailable (dealer-only)"
next_review: 2026-09-10
change_sensitivity: high
# === CONSTRAINTS ===
constraints:
- "Prices are US Amazon prices fetched 2026-08-11; all eight rows are KIT prices (tool + battery + charger) except where the row says bare tool. The same model number sold bare (no battery) typically costs 30-60% less and is not comparable"
- "Runtime estimates are manufacturer-reported under ideal conditions; actual runtime depends on branch thickness, blade sharpness, battery Ah and battery age"
- "Strokes per minute (SPM) figures are manufacturer-rated maximums; real-world cutting speed depends on branch diameter and blade condition"
- "Stihl does not sell online at all: the HSA 45 is dealer-priced and dealer-purchased, so this card carries no Amazon price for it. Craftsman publishes no price for the CMCHTS820D1 kit and its Amazon kit listing is currently unavailable"
- "Blade length and cut capacity are different numbers: a 26-inch blade rated to 0.75 inch will still jam on a 1-inch branch"
# === SKIP CONDITIONS ===
skip_this_unit_if:
- condition: "User needs a pole hedge trimmer for tall hedges above 8 feet"
use_instead: "Search knowledgelib.io for pole hedge trimmers — no dedicated unit yet"
- condition: "User needs a gas-powered hedge trimmer for commercial all-day use"
use_instead: "Search knowledgelib.io for gas hedge trimmers — no dedicated unit yet"
- condition: "User only needs a small handheld shear for topiary or edging"
use_instead: "Search knowledgelib.io for cordless grass shears — no dedicated unit yet"
# === AGENT HINTS ===
inputs_needed:
- key: budget
question: "What is your budget?"
type: choice
options: ["under $100", "$100-$200", "$200-$300", "over $300"]
- key: hedge_type
question: "What type of hedges will you be trimming?"
type: choice
options: ["light growth (privet, boxwood)", "mixed hedges", "thick/woody branches over 3/4 inch"]
- key: yard_size
question: "How large is your hedge trimming area?"
type: choice
options: ["small (under 50 linear feet)", "medium (50-150 linear feet)", "large (150+ linear feet)"]
- key: battery_platform
question: "Do you already own tools in a specific battery platform?"
type: choice
options: ["none", "DeWalt 20V MAX", "EGO 56V", "Greenworks 40V", "Greenworks 60V", "Husqvarna 40V", "Craftsman V20", "BLACK+DECKER 40V", "WORX 20V PowerShare", "other"]
# === DISTRIBUTION ===
canonical_source: "https://knowledgelib.io/outdoor/garden/hedge-trimmers-cordless/2026"
suggested_citation: "Source: knowledgelib.io — AI Knowledge Library (verified 2026-08-11)"
# === BUY LINKS ===
buy_links:
- slug: ego-ht2601-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "EGO Power+ Hedge Trimmer Cordless, Electric Hedge Trimmer 26\", Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger - HT2601"
asin: "B0BRXK7NT2"
retailer: amazon_us
destination_url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRXK7NT2?tag=knowledgelib-20"
- slug: husqvarna-320ihd60-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 Battery Hedge Trimmer, Garden Trimmer"
asin: "B0CFBJS1S9"
retailer: amazon_us
destination_url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CFBJS1S9?tag=knowledgelib-20"
- slug: dewalt-dcht820p1-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "DEWALT 20V MAX 22\" Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit with Battery and Charger Included (DCHT821P1)"
asin: "B0DW4HDLH3"
retailer: amazon_us
destination_url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW4HDLH3?tag=knowledgelib-20"
- slug: greenworks-ht40l00-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "Greenworks 60V 26 in Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger"
asin: "B0C2ZNBLZW"
retailer: amazon_us
destination_url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2ZNBLZW?tag=knowledgelib-20"
- slug: worx-wg261-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "WORX Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 20V 22\" Bush Trimmer, WG261"
asin: "B07MVLYF7L"
retailer: amazon_us
destination_url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MVLYF7L?tag=knowledgelib-20"
- slug: black-decker-lht321-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Hedge Trimmer, Cordless, 24-Inch Blade, Battery and Charger Included (LHT2436)"
asin: "B00602J4MM"
retailer: amazon_us
destination_url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00602J4MM?tag=knowledgelib-20"
- slug: craftsman-cmchts820d1-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 22\" with POWERSAW Branch Cutter, Battery and Charger Included (CMCHTS820D1)"
asin: null
retailer: manufacturer
destination_url: "https://www.craftsman.com/en-us/product/cmchts820d1/v20-cordless-22-inch-hedge-trimmer-kit-20-ah-battery-and-charger"
- slug: stihl-hsa-45-hedge-trimmer
product_name: "STIHL HSA 45 Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 20-Inch Blade, Integrated Battery"
asin: null
retailer: manufacturer
destination_url: "https://www.stihlusa.com/products/hedge-trimmers/battery-hedge-trimmers/hsa45/"
# === RELATED UNITS ===
related_kos:
depends_on: []
solves: []
related_to:
- id: "outdoor/garden/chainsaw-electric/2026"
label: "Best Electric Chainsaws (2026)"
- id: "outdoor/garden/cordless-leaf-blowers/2026"
label: "Best Cordless Leaf Blowers (2026)"
alternative_to:
- id: "outdoor/garden/garden-tool-sets/2026"
label: "Best Garden Tool Sets (2026) — manual shears and pruners for small hedges"
often_confused_with:
- id: "outdoor/garden/string-trimmers-cordless/2026"
label: "Best Cordless String Trimmers (2026) — for grass and weeds, not woody hedge growth"
# === SOURCES ===
sources:
- id: src1
title: "The Best Battery-Powered Hedge Trimmer - Tested by Bob Vila"
author: Bob Vila
url: https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-cordless-hedge-trimmer/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-01-15
reliability: high
- id: src2
title: "We Found the Best Hedge Trimmer Through Real Hands-On Testing"
author: Family Handyman
url: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-hedge-trimmers/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-02-10
reliability: high
- id: src3
title: "10 Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers of 2026"
author: LawnStarter
url: https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/reviews/best-cordless-hedge-trimmers/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-01-20
reliability: moderate_high
- id: src4
title: "14 Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers (March 2026) Models We Tested"
author: Greenwashing Index
url: https://www.greenwashingindex.com/best-cordless-hedge-trimmer/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-03-01
reliability: moderate_high
- id: src5
title: "The Best 10 Hedge Trimmers to Buy in 2026"
author: Gardeners' World
url: https://www.gardenersworld.com/reviews/tools/power-tools/best-hedge-trimmers/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-02-20
reliability: high
- id: src6
title: "5 Best Hedge Trimmers of the Year, Expert-Tested"
author: Consumer Reports
url: https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/hedge-trimmers/best-hedge-trimmers-of-the-year-a2051437811/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-01-10
reliability: high
- id: src7
title: "Best Battery-Powered Hedge Trimmer Reviews"
author: Pro Tool Reviews
url: https://www.protoolreviews.com/best-battery-powered-hedge-trimmer-reviews/
type: product_testing
published: 2026-07-15
reliability: high
- id: src8
title: "DEWALT 20V MAX 22-In. Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit (DCHT821P1) — official product page"
author: DEWALT
url: https://www.dewalt.com/en-us/product/dcht821p1/20v-max-22-cordless-hedge-trimmer-kit
type: manufacturer_spec
published: 2026-08-11
reliability: high
- id: src9
title: "Greenworks 60V 26-Inch Brushless Cordless Hedge Trimmer (2212002) — official product page"
author: Greenworks Tools
url: https://www.greenworkstools.com/products/pro-60v-brushless-26-inch-hedge-trimmer-2212002
type: manufacturer_spec
published: 2026-08-11
reliability: high
- id: src10
title: "STIHL HSA 45 Cordless Hedge Trimmer — official product page"
author: STIHL USA
url: https://www.stihlusa.com/products/hedge-trimmers/battery-hedge-trimmers/hsa45/
type: manufacturer_spec
published: 2026-08-11
reliability: high
- id: src11
title: "Proper Time to Prune Trees and Shrubs — Yard and Garden"
author: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
url: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/proper-time-prune-trees-and-shrubs
type: primary_research
published: 2025-06-01
reliability: high
---
# Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers (2026)
## What are the best cordless hedge trimmers in 2026?
### Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers in the US — September 2026
Answer: EGO Power+ HT2601 is this card's top pick.
| Pick | Role | Price | US availability | Channel | KL score | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ HT2601 | Best overall | $249.00 | In stock · checked today | Amazon.com (authorized retailer) | — | Buy |
| Greenworks 60V 26" | Best value | $229.99 | In stock · checked today | Amazon.com (authorized retailer) | — | Buy |
| WORX WG261 | Best budget | $118.74 | Not in stock · checked today | Amazon.com (authorized retailer) | — | Buy |
| Husqvarna 320iHD60 | Alternative | $250.06 | In stock · checked today | Amazon.com (authorized retailer) | — | Buy |
| DeWalt DCHT821P1 | Alternative | — | Not in stock · checked today | — | — | Buy |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | Alternative | $118.12 | In stock · checked today | Amazon.com (authorized retailer) | — | Buy |
| Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 | Alternative | see retailer | Unknown · page confirmed live Sep 9 | — | — | Buy |
| Stihl HSA 45 | Alternative | see retailer | Unknown · page confirmed live Sep 9 | — | — | Buy |
Market checked: 2026-09-11 · Region: United States · Products evaluated: 8 · Confirmed purchasable today: 4 · Sources reconciled: 11
Recommendations reviewed: 2026-08-11 · Prices checked: 2026-09-11 13:40 UTC · Score methodology: tldr-bootstrap-v1 · Release: R16
### Changes since our last ranking
No product changes have been recorded for this card yet.
## TL;DR
**Top pick: EGO Power+ HT2601 ($249.00 kit)** — 56V brushless, 26" carbon-fiber rail, 1.2" cut capacity, the broadest power+ecosystem combo for medium-to-large hedges.
**Best value: Greenworks 60V 26" ($229.99 kit)** — 26" brushless, 1.1" capacity, 2.0Ah battery+charger included, 23% off list in the August clearance window.
**Best budget: WORX WG261 ($65 kit)** — complete 20V kit, 22" dual-action blades, 5.5 lbs — the cheapest full kit here.
[src1, src2, src9]
## Summary
Cordless hedge trimmers have reached a performance inflection point in 2026, with battery-powered models now matching or exceeding the cutting ability of gas and corded electric trimmers across most residential and light commercial applications [src1, src2]. Every price below is a **kit** price — tool plus battery plus charger — because the same model number sold bare typically costs 30-60% less and is not a like-for-like comparison. The EGO Power+ HT2601 leads the field with its 56V platform delivering 3,400 SPM and a 1.2-inch cutting capacity through a 26-inch carbon fiber rail blade, making it the best overall choice for homeowners with medium to large hedges, though its kit price rose from ~$229 in July to $279 in August 2026 [src1, src3]. The Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 edges it out on ergonomics with a 3,800 SPM brushless motor and three-position grip, at $319 [src2].
For budget-conscious buyers, the WORX WG261 delivers reliable 20V performance with a 22-inch blade and 3/4-inch cutting capacity at $65 — the cheapest complete kit here — while the BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 (40V, 24" blade) is $161 [src1, src4]. The best value in the middle of the table is now the Greenworks 60V 26" kit at $176, discounted 23% from its $229.99 list in the late-summer clearance window: brushless, 26-inch dual-action blades, 3,200 SPM, 1.1-inch capacity and 60 minutes of runtime on the included 2.0Ah pack [src9]. On the runtime axis, DeWalt's DCHT820P1 has been discontinued and replaced by the **DCHT821P1** ($239 kit), which raises rated runtime to 78 minutes on a 5.0Ah 20V MAX battery — still the longest in this comparison [src7, src8].
Two picks are not Amazon purchases at all. Stihl does not sell online anywhere, so the 5.1-pound HSA 45 — the lightweight champion — is dealer-priced and dealer-bought; its former Amazon reseller listing is now unavailable, and this card links to the STIHL USA product page instead [src10]. The Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 POWERSAW kit is likewise off Amazon and delisted at Lowe's, so its link points at the Craftsman product page. Battery platform compatibility remains the real purchase decision: most major brands now offer 30-75+ tools on their respective voltage platforms, and staying inside one ecosystem saves $50-$100 per additional tool [src3, src4, src9].
## Top 8 Models Compared
All prices are complete-kit prices (tool + battery + charger) fetched from Amazon US on 2026-08-11, except the two dealer-channel rows, which are noted as such.
| Model | Price (kit) | Voltage / battery incl. | Blade | Cut Capacity | Weight | SPM | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ HT2601 | $249.00 | 56V, 2.5Ah | 26" | 1.2" | 11.1 lbs | 3,400 | Best overall | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/ego-ht2601-hedge-trimmer) |
| Husqvarna 320iHD60 | $250.06 | 40V, battery+charger incl. | 24" | 1.0" | 11.0 lbs | 3,800 | Best ergonomics | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/husqvarna-320ihd60-hedge-trimmer) |
| DeWalt DCHT821P1 | $239 | 20V MAX, 5.0Ah | 22" | 0.75" | 7.5 lbs | 2,800 | Best runtime (78 min) | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/dewalt-dcht820p1-hedge-trimmer) |
| Greenworks 60V 26" | $229.99 | 60V, 2.0Ah | 26" | 1.1" | 9.9 lbs | 3,200 | Best value | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/greenworks-ht40l00-hedge-trimmer) |
| Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 | dealer/retail — no published price | 20V (V20), 2.0Ah | 22" | 1.5" (POWERSAW tip) | 6.2 lbs | 3,000 | Best for thick branches | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/craftsman-cmchts820d1-hedge-trimmer) |
| WORX WG261 | $118.74 | 20V PowerShare, 2.0Ah | 22" | 0.75" | 5.5 lbs | 2,400 | Best budget | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/worx-wg261-hedge-trimmer) |
| Stihl HSA 45 | dealer-set — Stihl publishes no online price | 18V integrated (non-removable) | 20" | 0.69" | 5.1 lbs | 2,500 | Best lightweight | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/stihl-hsa-45-hedge-trimmer) |
| BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 | $118.12 | 40V MAX, battery+charger incl. | 24" | 0.75" | 7.9 lbs | 2,400 | Best 40V kit under $200 | [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/black-decker-lht321-hedge-trimmer) |
## Best for Each Use Case
### Best Overall: EGO Power+ HT2601 ($279 kit) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/ego-ht2601-hedge-trimmer)
The EGO HT2601 combines a 56V brushless motor, 26-inch carbon fiber rail blade, and 1.2-inch cutting capacity to deliver what Bob Vila calls "aggressive cutting ability" that makes "quick work of long hedgerows." Its 3,400 SPM blade speed is comparable to gas-powered handhelds, and the carbon fiber rail earns a lifetime warranty. The kit includes a 2.5Ah 56V pack good for up to 60 minutes of runtime, and the platform is shared across 50+ EGO outdoor power tools. Its kit price rose from ~$229 in July to $279 on 11 August 2026, which narrows its lead over the cheaper Greenworks 60V. [src1, src3]
### Best Ergonomics: Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 ($319 kit) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/husqvarna-320ihd60-hedge-trimmer)
Family Handyman calls it a "head-turner with all the bells and whistles," praising its pro-grade construction and superior cutting performance. The tri-handle grip gives roughly 30% more reach with improved control, and the side-mounted battery placement delivers exceptional balance. Its 3,800 SPM cutting speed — the highest in this comparison — never bogged down in testing, and an un-jam button clears bound blades without disassembly. Battery and charger ship in the kit. [src2, src5]
### Best Runtime: DeWalt DCHT821P1 ($239 kit) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/dewalt-dcht820p1-hedge-trimmer)
DeWalt has discontinued the DCHT820P1 that earlier editions of this card recommended and replaced it with the **DCHT821P1**, which raises rated runtime to up to 78 minutes on the included 5.0Ah 20V MAX battery — the longest in this roundup by a wide margin, and Pro Tool Reviews reaches the same conclusion. The 22-inch laser-cut hooked-tooth blades handle branches up to 3/4-inch thick, a friction clutch protects the transmission on obstacle strikes, and the housing is about 39% more compact than the outgoing model at roughly 7.5 lbs. Backed by DeWalt's 3-year warranty and the 20V MAX platform spanning 300+ tools. [src7, src8]
### Best Value: Greenworks 60V 26" Cordless Hedge Trimmer ($176 kit) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/greenworks-ht40l00-hedge-trimmer)
This replaces the Greenworks 40V 24" kit, which is out of stock on Amazon US as of 11 August 2026. The 60V model is a straight upgrade for less money: a brushless motor Greenworks rates as equivalent to 26cc of gas power, 26-inch dual-action laser-cut blades at up to 3,200 SPM, a 1.1-inch cut capacity, a 180-degree rotating rear handle, up to 60 minutes of runtime, a 50-minute recharge, and a 4-year tool-and-battery warranty. At $176 against a $229.99 list — a 23% late-summer discount — it is the most blade and capacity per dollar in this table, and it opens the 75+ tool Greenworks 60V platform. It weighs about 9.9 lbs with the battery, so it is heavier than the sub-8-lb 20V options. [src9, src3]
### Best for Thick Branches: Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 (dealer/retail — no published price) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/craftsman-cmchts820d1-hedge-trimmer)
The Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 features a unique POWERSAW tip that can slice through branches up to 1.5 inches thick — double the capacity of most competitors. This makes it the standout choice for overgrown hedges and woody shrubs that would jam standard trimmers, and at just over 6 lbs it is also one of the lightest 22-inch trimmers here. Compatible with the Craftsman V20 battery ecosystem. **Availability caveat, re-tested 11 August 2026:** the kit SKU (battery + charger) is *currently unavailable* on Amazon US and no longer listed on Lowes.com, and Craftsman publishes no price on its own product page, so this link points at that page rather than a dead listing. If you already own V20 batteries, the identical bare tool — CMCHTS820B, no battery, no charger — is live on Amazon at $139.99. [src3, src4]
### Best Budget: WORX WG261 ($65 kit) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/worx-wg261-hedge-trimmer)
At $65 with a 2.0Ah 20V PowerShare battery and charger included, the WORX WG261 is the cheapest complete kit in this comparison by a wide margin. Its 22-inch dual-action blades handle standard 3/4-inch branches at 5.5 lbs, making it comfortable for extended sessions, and the PowerShare battery fits 75+ WORX 20V tools. Greenwashing Index calls it "excellent value for battery ecosystem compatibility." One caveat: Amazon currently quotes a 1-to-3-week ship time on this ASIN rather than immediate stock. [src4, src1]
### Best Lightweight: Stihl HSA 45 (dealer-priced) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/stihl-hsa-45-hedge-trimmer)
At just 5.1 pounds with its built-in battery, the Stihl HSA 45 delivers what Bob Vila describes as an "incredible combination of strength and maneuverability." Stihl rates it at up to 2,500 strokes per minute and enough charge to trim a 20-inch-wide hedge longer than a football field, which covers most small to midsize properties in a single charge. The integrated, non-removable battery eliminates the bulk of external packs but means no cross-tool battery sharing and no spare pack to swap mid-job. **How to actually buy it:** Stihl does not sell online at all — the HSA 45 is bought from, and priced by, an authorized Stihl dealer, so there is no published US list price and no Amazon kit. The reseller Amazon listing this card carried in July 2026 is now unavailable, and this link goes to the STIHL USA product page. [src1, src5, src10]
### Best 40V Kit Under $200: BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 ($161 kit) — [Check price](https://knowledgelib.io/go/black-decker-lht321-hedge-trimmer)
The BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 is the cheapest live-stocked 40V cordless kit on Amazon as of 11 August 2026, with a 24-inch dual-action blade and 3/4-inch cutting capacity on the 40V MAX platform. Battery and charger included; rated to trim up to 6,000 sq ft of hedges per charge — enough for small-to-midsize residential yards. Note the nameplate voltage convention: BLACK+DECKER's own listing states the 40V figure is measured with no workload and nominal voltage is 36V. The original LHT321 (20V) recommended in earlier 2026 reviews remains unavailable on Amazon US. [src1, src6]
## Head-to-Head Comparisons
### EGO HT2601 vs Husqvarna 320iHD60
At $279 vs $319 kit, the EGO wins on raw blade length and ecosystem breadth (26" carbon-fiber rail, 50+ EGO 56V tools), while the Husqvarna wins on cutting speed (3,800 SPM vs 3,400) and ergonomics (tri-handle grip, side-mounted battery, un-jam button). Both weigh ~11 lbs; both handle 1.0-1.2" branches without bogging down. [src1, src2]
**Pick EGO HT2601 if:** you want the longest blade for big formal hedges and the broader battery ecosystem.
**Pick Husqvarna 320iHD60 if:** you trim daily, value pro-grade build quality, and prefer the side-mounted battery balance.
### EGO HT2601 vs Greenworks 60V 26"
This is the closest call on the card after August's price moves. Both are 26-inch brushless kits; the EGO ($279) holds a small edge on cut capacity (1.2" vs 1.1"), blade speed (3,400 vs 3,200 SPM), weight (11.1 vs 9.9 lbs) and the lifetime carbon-fiber rail warranty, but the Greenworks ($176) is $103 cheaper, runs 60 minutes on a 2.0Ah pack, recharges in 50 minutes and carries a 4-year tool-and-battery warranty. The EGO is the better tool; the Greenworks is the better buy at this price gap. [src3, src9]
**Pick EGO HT2601 if:** you cut thick, woody hedges regularly and want the strongest 26-inch rail and the widest 56V range.
**Pick Greenworks 60V 26" if:** you want ~95% of the same job done for $100 less and prefer the lighter tool.
### WORX WG261 vs BLACK+DECKER LHT2436
The WORX WG261 ($65) wins on weight (5.5 lbs vs 7.9 lbs) and price, while the BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 ($161) wins on nameplate voltage (40V/36V nominal vs 20V), blade length (24" vs 22"), and per-charge coverage (up to 6,000 sq ft). Both include battery and charger; both cut to 3/4". Note WORX currently ships the WG261 in 1-3 weeks rather than immediately. [src1, src4]
**Pick WORX WG261 if:** you have small hedges, prioritize light weight, and want the cheapest complete kit.
**Pick BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 if:** you have medium-size hedges and need a bigger powerplant for longer sessions.
### DeWalt DCHT821P1 vs Greenworks 60V 26"
Runtime versus reach. The DeWalt ($239) is rated to 78 minutes on its included 5.0Ah pack — the longest here — but only cuts 3/4" through a 22" blade. The Greenworks ($176) gives a 26" blade and 1.1" capacity for 60 minutes and $63 less. The tiebreaker is usually the battery you already own: DeWalt 20V MAX spans 300+ tools, Greenworks 60V spans 75+. [src7, src8, src9]
**Pick DeWalt DCHT821P1 if:** you already run DeWalt 20V MAX packs, or you need the longest single-charge session.
**Pick Greenworks 60V 26" if:** you have thicker or taller hedges and no existing battery platform to protect.
### Stihl HSA 45 vs WORX WG261
Both are lightweight (5.1 lbs vs 5.5 lbs) options for small-yard trimming, and both cut to roughly 0.7". The Stihl HSA 45 carries Stihl's build quality and dealer service network but has an integrated, non-swappable battery and can only be bought from a dealer at a dealer-set price. The WORX WG261 delivers comparable everyday performance for $65 with a removable battery that fits 75+ other WORX tools. [src1, src5, src10]
**Pick Stihl HSA 45 if:** you have a local Stihl dealer, want dealer-backed service, and are happy with a fixed internal battery.
**Pick WORX WG261 if:** you want to buy online today and keep the option of spare batteries.
### EGO HT2601 vs Craftsman CMCHTS820D1
The Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 with its POWERSAW tip cuts thicker branches (1.5" vs 1.2") and weighs half as much (6.2 vs 11.1 lbs), but the EGO HT2601 delivers higher SPM (3,400 vs 3,000), a longer blade (26" vs 22"), and stronger ecosystem support. Decisive practical difference as of 11 August 2026: the EGO kit is in stock at $279, while the Craftsman kit is unavailable on Amazon and delisted at Lowe's. [src3, src4]
**Pick EGO HT2601 if:** you want a balanced premium pick you can actually buy today.
**Pick Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 if:** you specifically need to cut branches thicker than 1.2" without grabbing a separate lopper — and you can source the kit from a Craftsman dealer, or already own V20 batteries and can buy the bare CMCHTS820B.
## Decision Logic
### If budget < $100
--> The WORX WG261 ($65) is the only complete kit here under $100 — 22" blade, 20V PowerShare 2.0Ah battery and charger included. Expect limited runtime, 0.75" cutting capacity, and a 1-to-3-week ship time on the current Amazon listing. [src1, src4]
### If budget is $100-$200
--> Take the Greenworks 60V 26" kit ($176): 26" blade, 1.1" capacity, 60-minute runtime, 4-year warranty, currently 23% off list. The BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 ($161) is the alternative if you want a 24" blade for $15 less, but it cuts only 0.75". [src9, src3]
### If budget is $200-$300
--> The EGO HT2601 ($279) is the strongest tool in this band; the DeWalt DCHT821P1 ($239) beats it on runtime (78 min vs 60) and weight (7.5 vs 11.1 lbs) but gives up 4 inches of blade and 0.45 inches of cut capacity. [src7, src8, src1]
### If primary use is thick, overgrown hedges
--> Prioritize cutting capacity over blade length. The Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 with its 1.5-inch POWERSAW tip handles the thickest branches, but as of 11 August 2026 its kit is unavailable on Amazon and delisted at Lowe's — so the buyable answers are the EGO HT2601 at 1.2 inches, the Greenworks 60V 26" at 1.1 inches and the Husqvarna 320iHD60 at 1.0 inch. Standard 0.75-inch models will jam on anything thicker than a pencil; anything above ~1.5 inches wants a lopper or pruning saw, not a hedge trimmer. [src4, src9]
### If user already owns tools in a battery platform
--> Buy within your existing ecosystem. Reusing batteries you already own saves roughly 30-60% of the kit price on every additional tool, which outweighs marginal performance differences between comparable models. DeWalt 20V MAX (DCHT821P1), EGO 56V (HT2601), Greenworks 60V (26" kit), WORX 20V PowerShare (WG261), Craftsman V20 (CMCHTS820B bare tool) and BLACK+DECKER 40V (LHT2436) all have a current option — so if you already own packs, buy the BARE tool, not the kit. [src3, src4]
### If user prioritizes low fatigue and ease of use
--> The Stihl HSA 45 at 5.1 lbs or the WORX WG261 at 5.5 lbs minimize arm fatigue during extended sessions; the Craftsman at 6.2 lbs and the DeWalt DCHT821P1 at ~7.5 lbs are the next tier. Avoid the EGO HT2601 (11.1 lbs) and Husqvarna 320iHD60 (11.0 lbs) for overhead work or for users with strength or endurance concerns. [src1, src2]
### If it is August and you are deciding whether to trim now
--> In cold-winter regions, extension guidance is to finish shearing hedges by about mid-August: pruning later stimulates a flush of tender growth that will not harden off before the first killing frost. If you are north of roughly USDA zone 6, do the shaping cut this week or wait until the dormant season. Late summer is also when this category's prices bottom out — the Greenworks 60V is 23% off list right now — so buying now and trimming next spring is a legitimate plan. [src11, src9]
### Default recommendation
--> The Greenworks 60V 26" kit ($176) is the best all-round buy on 11 August 2026: 26 inches of brushless blade, 1.1-inch capacity and a 4-year warranty for well under $200. Step up to the EGO Power+ HT2601 ($279) if you cut thick woody growth often or already own EGO 56V batteries. [src9, src1, src3]
## Key Market Trends (2026)
- **Battery platform dominance**: Cordless hedge trimmers now outsell gas models across all residential segments, with 56V and 40V platforms delivering performance parity with gas for all but the most demanding commercial applications. [src1, src4]
- **Carbon fiber and brushless motors**: Premium models like the EGO HT2601 use carbon fiber rails for weight reduction and rigidity, while brushless motors (Husqvarna, Greenworks, EGO) extend both runtime and motor lifespan by 30-50% vs. brushed alternatives. [src1, src2]
- **Ecosystem lock-in accelerating**: Major brands now offer 30-60+ tools on shared battery platforms; hedge trimmer purchases increasingly function as gateway tools into broader ecosystems covering mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and string trimmers. [src3, src4]
- **POWERSAW hybrid designs**: Craftsman's integrated branch-cutting saw tip represents an emerging category of hybrid trimmers designed to eliminate the need for a separate lopper or pruning saw on thick growth. [src4]
- **Bare-tool selling is now the default at the top of the range**: every brand here lists the same model number bare, with one battery, and with a bigger battery, often under near-identical titles. The bare/kit gap is typically 30-60% of the price — CRAFTSMAN's CMCHTS820B bare tool is $139.99 while the kit is off the market entirely, and DeWalt's DCHT821B bare tool is $160 against $239 for the DCHT821P1 kit. Read the suffix, not the marketing name. [src8]
- **Late-summer clearance**: mowers, saws and trimmers hit annual price lows and annual stock lows in August. The Greenworks 60V 26" is 23% off list, while the Greenworks 40V 24", the Craftsman kit and the Stihl reseller listing have all gone out of stock or been delisted in the last five weeks. Expect thin inventory rather than bad deals. [src9]
## Safety
- Cordless hedge trimmers are among the highest-injury garden tools. Wear eye protection and cut-resistant gloves, and use hearing protection on the louder 40V/56V/60V models. [src2, src6]
- Remove the battery — or, on the integrated-battery Stihl HSA 45, wait for the blade to stop and follow Stihl's stated procedure — before clearing a jam, cleaning, sharpening or transporting the tool. Husqvarna's un-jam button is a convenience, not a substitute for isolating power. [src2, src10]
- Do not use a handheld hedge trimmer above shoulder height or from a ladder. The 11-lb EGO and Husqvarna in particular are not designed for sustained overhead work; tall hedges need a pole hedge trimmer, which is a different product class.
- Keep both hands on the tool. Every model here uses a two-hand trigger/bale arrangement for that reason; defeating it removes the principal guard against blade contact.
## Important Caveats
- Prices are US Amazon prices fetched on 2026-08-11 and fluctuate with retailer promotions, seasonal sales, and bundle offers. Every quoted price is a KIT price (tool + battery + charger); the same model sold bare typically costs 30-60% less and is not a like-for-like comparison.
- Two picks are not Amazon purchases and carry no Amazon price: the **Stihl HSA 45** (Stihl does not sell online at all — dealer purchase and dealer-set pricing; its former Amazon reseller listing is now unavailable) and the **Craftsman CMCHTS820D1 kit** (currently unavailable on Amazon, delisted at Lowes.com, and no price published on craftsman.com). Both links point to the official manufacturer product pages.
- The **DeWalt DCHT820P1** recommended in earlier editions of this card has been discontinued; its dewalt.com product URL now redirects to the DeWalt home page. It has been replaced throughout by the successor **DCHT821P1**, which is live on Amazon at $239.
- The **Greenworks 40V 24"** kit previously listed here is out of stock on Amazon US and has been replaced by the in-stock Greenworks 60V 26" kit. These are different battery platforms — a 40V Greenworks pack will not fit the 60V tool.
- Runtime figures are manufacturer-reported under ideal conditions. Cutting thick branches, using dull blades, or operating in cold weather can reduce runtime by 30-50%.
- SPM (strokes per minute) lacks industry-standard testing methodology; cross-brand comparisons should be treated as approximate. Likewise, "40V MAX" is a no-load measurement — BLACK+DECKER states the LHT2436's nominal voltage is 36V.
- Blade length and cut capacity are independent numbers: a longer blade covers more hedge per pass but says nothing about the branch diameter the tool can take.
- Timing: extension guidance for cold-winter regions is to stop shearing hedges around mid-August so late growth can harden off before frost. Check your local extension service for your zone. [src11]
- This comparison covers standard handheld hedge trimmers only; pole hedge trimmers and hedge trimmer attachments for multi-tool systems are separate categories.
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