7 Best Craftsman Hedge Trimmers of 2025

This corded powerhouse redefines what you can expect from an electric hedge trimmer. With a 3.8-amp motor and 22-inch dual-action blades, it slices through dense overgrowth like butter, making quick work of seasonal pruning. The standout feature? The integrated POWERSAW branch cutter—a game-changer for tackling limbs up to 1.5 inches thick without reaching for a separate saw. If you’re tired of stopping every few minutes to swap tools or deal with underpowered snips, this model delivers relentless cutting confidence.

In real-world use, the 3/4-inch cut capacity handles most hedges cleanly, minimizing frayed ends that invite disease. The full bale handle provides excellent balance and control, especially when trimming taller sections or extended rows. While the corded design limits range, it ensures uninterrupted runtime—ideal for large yards where battery life can’t be trusted. That said, the bulkier head near the POWERSAW zone adds slight front-heaviness, requiring more wrist effort during prolonged overhead cuts.

Compared to the lighter CMEHT150, this trimmer trades agility for raw capability—perfect for serious homeowners with mature landscaping. It outperforms basic models in both reach and branch-handling, though it’s overkill for small, low-maintenance gardens. Against the V20 cordless lineup, it wins on continuous power delivery but loses on mobility and convenience. For those prioritizing unmatched cutting toughness without battery anxiety, this is the most tool-drawer-dominant option in the Craftsman range.

Don’t let its compact size fool you—this budget-savvy performer punches above its weight in precision tasks. The 17-inch dual-action blades deliver smooth, clean cuts up to 5/8 inch thick, ideal for shaping formal hedges or tidying foundation plantings. What makes it shine is the T-handle design, which offers superior control and wrist alignment during detailed trimming, reducing fatigue on long gardening afternoons. For beginners or light-duty users, it’s a no-fuss, plug-and-play solution that skips the complexity of battery management.

During testing, it handled boxwood and privet with ease, though denser growth like overgrown privet required slower passes to avoid bogging down the motor. Its lightweight and compact build makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the shorter blade enhances precision around delicate landscaping. However, the reduced reach means more ladder use for taller hedges, and the lack of a branch cutter means you’ll still need a saw for thicker limbs. It’s best suited for small to medium yards where finesse trumps brute force.

Against the 22-inch CMEHTS8022, it sacrifices power and reach but wins on ergonomic comfort and affordability. Compared to cordless V20 models, it offers consistent power without runtime drop-off, though it’s tethered by design. This trimmer is tailor-made for casual gardeners or rental property managers who need reliable, low-maintenance performance. If your goal is clean lines without heavy lifting, this model delivers exceptional value with zero battery anxiety.

Meet the flagship of precision and power—a cordless beast built for gardeners who refuse to compromise. The 24-inch dual-action laser-cut blades offer the longest cutting span in the Craftsman lineup, slicing through thick hedges in fewer passes. Backed by the V60 platform, it maintains high-speed blade response even under load, while the large blade gap ensures snags are rare, even in tangled growth. The full bale handle delivers maximum maneuverability, making it surprisingly agile despite its size—especially when trimming broad, sweeping hedges.

In real use, it excels at covering large areas quickly, with the 3/4-inch cut capacity handling most branches cleanly and the POWERSAW innovation cutting through 1.5-inch limbs like a hot knife through butter. At under 10 lbs. with battery, it’s well-balanced and manageable for overhead work, though extended sessions will still test your stamina. The VERSATRACK compatibility is a nice organizational touch, but the real win is the freedom of cordless operation—perfect for sprawling yards or multi-zone gardens. That said, blade speed can dip slightly when cutting wet, dense foliage if the battery is low.

Stacked against the V20 CMCHTS820D1, it offers longer reach and stronger motor performance, though at a higher price point. It’s the clear upgrade for serious landscapers or large-property owners. Compared to corded models, it trades unlimited runtime for unmatched mobility and professional-grade reach. For those who demand maximum cutting width and cordless convenience, this is the ultimate hedge-taming machine in the Craftsman arsenal.

This brute-force performer is engineered for gardeners battling thick, unruly hedges. The 22-inch dual-action blades combine with the POWERSAW innovation to slice through branches up to 1.5 inches thick—a feat most trimmers can’t match without a chainsaw. What sets it apart is its featherlight build: under 8 lbs. with battery, making it one of the most maneuverable heavy-duty trimmers available. The full bale handle delivers intuitive control, letting you pivot and angle cuts with surgical precision, even on dense yew or holly.

In field testing, it powered through overgrown juniper and mature privet with minimal snagging, thanks to the large blade gap and high-speed motor. The 3/4-inch cut capacity ensures clean passes on standard growth, while the POWERSAW function eliminates the need for a second tool. Battery life held strong across a 45-minute session, but heavy use will drain it faster—having a spare is wise. While it handles most tasks effortlessly, the blade length can make tight corner work tricky, requiring careful wrist rotation.

Compared to the corded CMEHTS8022, it offers similar power with far greater mobility, though at a premium. Against the V60 CMCHTS860E1, it trades blade length for lighter weight and better balance. It’s the ideal pick for homeowners with thick, mature hedges who value portability and cutting power. If your priority is taming tough branches without arm fatigue, this model delivers best-in-class strength in a nimble package.

When your hedges climb higher than your ladder can safely go, this sky-reaching specialist becomes indispensable. The 180° pivoting head with five adjustable angles lets you slice perfectly horizontal lines across tall hedges without repositioning—a revelation for privacy walls or elevated plantings. With up to 11 feet of reach, it accesses second-story shrubs and fence-line growth that would otherwise demand risky climbing. The 18-inch dual-action blades handle 3/4-inch branches cleanly, and the padded pole grip reduces vibration during extended vertical use.

In real scenarios, it shines on tall arborvitae rows or sloped landscapes where ground-level trimming won’t suffice. The cordless V20 system offers freedom of movement, though the extended pole adds some top-heaviness when fully extended. Balance improves when the head is angled forward, but beginners may need time to master control. While it’s not meant for dense, woody thickets, it handles most vertical growth with ease. The lack of a POWERSAW function means thick trunks still require a saw, limiting its all-in-one appeal.

Versus the standard V20 CMCHT810C1, it trades portability for unmatched vertical access. Compared to non-pole models, it’s the only one that truly eliminates ladder dependency. It’s tailor-made for two-story homes, sloped yards, or commercial properties with high-maintenance vertical greenery. If your biggest challenge is reaching high without risking a fall, this trimmer offers the safest, most precise overhead solution in the Craftsman lineup.

This balanced performer hits the sweet spot between power, size, and usability—earning its title as the best mid-range option. The 20-inch dual-action blades offer generous cutting width without feeling unwieldy, slicing cleanly through branches up to 3/4 inch thick. The full wrap-around handle is a standout, delivering 360-degree grip flexibility that reduces strain during overhead or side-angle cuts. Whether you’re edging hedges along a walkway or shaping a backyard border, it offers smooth, fatigue-free operation.

In practice, it handled moderate to dense growth with consistent speed, powered by the V20 MAX 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery, which delivered about 40 minutes of active trimming. The VERSATRACK compatibility keeps it organized in the garage, but the real win is the included battery and charger—no hidden costs. While it lacks the POWERSAW function, it’s more than capable for routine maintenance. It struggles slightly on wet, matted foliage, where blade speed can dip, but a slow, steady pass resolves the issue.

Compared to the 17-inch CMEHT150, it offers greater reach and modern ergonomics, while undercutting the V60 and V20 POWERSAW models in price. Against the CMCHTS820D1, it sacrifices branch-cutting power for better value and comfort. It’s ideal for average-sized yards needing a reliable, all-around trimmer. If you want a no-surprises performer that balances features and cost, this model delivers everyday excellence without overengineering.

For gardeners who crave multi-tool mastery in one compact system, this 2-in-1 dynamo is a revelation. The 8-inch hedge trimmer blade delivers precision shaping for small shrubs and topiaries, while the 4-inch grass shear blade excels at edging flower beds and trimming fescues—tasks that usually demand multiple tools. The quick blade change system lets you switch in seconds, and the V20 1.5Ah battery powers both with reliable runtime. Its handheld size makes it perfect for detail work, tight corners, or container gardening where full-size trimmers can’t go.

In real use, it’s unmatched for tight-space grooming and fine detailing. The 5/16-inch cut depth is modest, so it’s not for thick branches, but it handles light pruning and lawn cleanup with surgical accuracy. The compact form reduces fatigue during long sessions, and the lightweight build enhances control. However, the short blade length means more passes for wider hedges, and the lower power can stall on dense growth. It’s best for small yards, patios, or supplemental trimming—not primary hedge maintenance.

Versus the CMCHT810C1, it sacrifices reach and power for versatility and specialization. Compared to standalone trimmers, it’s the only one that doubles as a grass shear without extra tools. It’s perfect for urban gardeners, patio owners, or detail-focused landscapers. If your priority is maximizing utility in a compact form, this kit offers the most creative flexibility in the Craftsman ecosystem.