Best Reviewed
Hedge Trimmers
- Electric hedge trimmer Black & Decker HH2455 *Est. $70
- Cordless hedge trimmer Black & Decker NHT518 *Est. $80
- Gas hedge trimmer Echo HC-150 *Est. $280
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- Powerful
- Cuts branches up to ¾ of an inch thick
- Anti-vibration handles
- Heavy
- Noisy
- Exhaust fumes
- Expensive
Mobility is one of the biggest factors in choosing either a corded or cordless hedge trimmer. While the corded Little Wonder 2420 (*Est. $300) is a powerful electric trimmer, you're tethered to a power cord. If you need power and mobility, a gas trimmer is the way to go. The Echo HC-160, a gas-powered model with a 24-inch blade, receives high marks for its power and ability to cut through branches up to ¾ of an inch thick. The Echo HC-160 has anti-vibration handles that make it more comfortable for prolonged use, and is one of the reasons why this model is a top pick in reviews. One of the biggest drawbacks is this unit's 12.4-pound weight (with the tank empty). It's also loud, and ear protection is recommended.
Echo gas-powered hedge trimmers consistently receive positive ratings in comparative reviews. ConsumerReports.org provides the most in-depth information on how the Echo trimmer stacks up against other gas-powered models. While an older review from Popular Mechanics magazine doesn't compare as many different models, it does a good job weighing the pros and cons of a gas-powered trimmer, and it provides a detailed report on Echo trimmers. We found owner ratings at HomeDepot.com. An article in Yard and Garden magazine, while it doesn't have in-depth comparative reviews, does provide additional information on gas-powered trimmers in general.
Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.org
The Echo HC-150, a model very similar to the HC-160, is included in this ConsumerReports.org feature that compares 14 gas and electric hedge trimmers, rating each on power, safety, ease of use and more.
Review: Hedge Trimmers, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, May 2008
2. PopularMechanics.comDetails/Subscribe
Editors of Popular Mechanics magazine test six hedge trimmers in this older report. The Echo HC-160 isn't specifically tested, but the Echo HC-150 is included. (The two are similar except that the HC-160 adds anti-vibration handles.) The Echo trimmer is recommended for homeowners who need more power and can handle its heavy weight, but the review criticizes its lack of anti-vibration features (present on the newer HC-160).
Review: Hedge Hoggers: We Test Six Hedge Trimmers for Power, Convenience and Safety, Joe Provey, Aug. 2004
HomeDepot.com sells the Echo HC-150 (similar to the HC-160 which adds anti-vibration dampening), and owners are invited to write comments. Of the few reviews, all give it a perfect rating.
Review: ECHO Gas, 20 In. Bar, Double Reciprocating, Double Sided, Hedge Trimmer, Contributors to HomeDepot.com, As of August 2010
4. Yard and GardenDetails/Subscribe
This article offers brief descriptions of seven gas hedge trimmers from Tanaka, Husqvarna, Little Wonder, Echo, Efco, Stihl and Redmax, plus the manual Corona Clipper Forged Hedge Shear. No ratings or rankings are included.
Review: Product Showcase: Hedge Trimmers, Editors of Yard and Garden magazine, April/May 2008
Hedge Trimmers Runners Up:
3 picks including: This Old House…
2 picks by top review sites.
2 picks including: About.com, Walmart.com…
2 picks including: HomeDepot.com…
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Factory-Reconditioned Ryobi ZRP2603 ONE Plus 18V Cordless 18-in Hedge Trimmer (Tool Only)
In Stock.
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