7 Best Craftsman Electric Hedge Trimmers of 2025

This beast of a trimmer doesn’t just clip hedges—it conquers them. With a 3.8-amp motor and 22-inch dual-action blades, the CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 delivers serious cutting authority, especially when paired with its built-in POWERSAW branch cutter that slices through limbs up to 1.5 inches thick. It’s engineered for users tired of underpowered tools that stall on dense growth, making it a go-to for tackling overgrown shrubs and thick hedges in one pass. The 3/4-inch cut capacity ensures clean, precise trimming without ragged edges.

In real-world use, this corded workhorse shines when you’re working close to power sources—ideal for front-yard hedges or foundation plantings. The dual-action blades reduce vibration, translating to smoother handling during extended sessions, while the full bale handle offers excellent control when making overhead or horizontal cuts. However, the lack of portability due to the power cord limits its use in large or remote yard areas. It struggles slightly when angling into tight corners, where a pivoting head would help, but for straightforward, heavy-duty trimming, it performs with commendable consistency.

Compared to the cordless V20 models like the CMCHTS820D1, this model trades battery freedom for uninterrupted power and lower cost—a smart compromise if you value raw performance over mobility. It’s a better fit than the compact 17-inch CMEHT150 when dealing with mature, woody shrubs that demand more reach and cutting force. Gardeners with moderate to large yards and access to outdoor outlets will find this the most capable corded option in the Craftsman lineup, offering more cutting muscle per dollar than any battery-powered alternative.

Don’t let its compact size fool you—the CRAFTSMAN CMEHT150 is a precision powerhouse built for gardeners who prioritize control and efficiency over brute force. Its 17-inch dual-action blades deliver up to 5/8-inch cut capacity, making it ideal for routine shaping of softer foliage and young hedges. The T-handle design places your hand in a natural, ergonomic position, reducing wrist strain during detailed edging or topiary work. This is the go-to tool for light-duty maintenance, where agility and comfort matter more than chopping through thick limbs.

During testing, the CMEHT150 proved exceptionally nimble, slicing through boxwoods and privets with quiet confidence. Its lightweight, compact body makes it easy to wield for extended periods, especially for users with smaller hands or limited upper-body strength. The integrated VersaTrack hook is a thoughtful touch, letting you hang it right in your garage for quick access. That said, it bogs down on branches over 1/2 inch, and the cord limits range—so it’s not the answer for overgrown or expansive landscapes.

When stacked against the 22-inch CMEHTS8022, this model sacrifices reach and power for superior maneuverability and lower cost, making it a smarter pick for urban yards or low-hedge borders. It’s less capable than the V20 cordless models when it comes to versatility, but for budget-conscious homeowners with small to medium-sized yards, it delivers reliable performance without complexity. If your trimming needs are routine and precision-focused, this Craftsman offers the best value in simplicity.

The CRAFTSMAN CMCHTS820D1 redefines what a mid-tier cordless trimmer can do—delivering professional-grade cutting power in a sub-8-pound frame. Equipped with 22-inch dual-action blades and the innovative POWERSAW attachment, it confidently slices through branches up to 1.5 inches thick, a feat rare in its class. The large blade gap enables quick cuts through dense foliage, while the full bale handle ensures balanced control during sweeping or overhead motions. This is the perfect fusion of power, precision, and portability for homeowners tired of switching tools mid-job.

In real-world use, the included V20 1.5Ah battery provides 20–30 minutes of continuous runtime, enough to trim a medium-sized yard on a single charge. It excels on mixed hedges—handling both soft growth and woody stems without hesitation—and the low vibration design prevents hand fatigue. The lack of a cord is a game-changer, allowing unrestricted movement across driveways, lawns, and garden beds. However, battery life can run short on large properties, and the blade length falls short compared to the 24-inch V60 model.

Against the corded CMEHTS8022, it trades unlimited runtime for complete freedom of movement, while matching it in cutting performance. It’s heavier than the 17-inch CMEHT150 but far more capable, and unlike the bare tool CMCHTS820B, it includes battery and charger—a major advantage for new users. For homeowners with medium yards who want one powerful, all-in-one solution, this model delivers the best balance of features, weight, and readiness, outperforming most in its price tier.

Meet the Swiss Army knife of yard tools—the CRAFTSMAN CMCSS800C1 is a game-changing 2-in-1 that swaps effortlessly between grass shearing and hedge trimming with a simple blade change. Its 8-inch hedge blade and 4-inch grass shear are compact but surprisingly effective for tight spaces, garden edges, and ground covers. Powered by the V20 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery, it delivers consistent, reliable torque for light-duty tasks, making it perfect for detailed cleanup after major trimming jobs.

In practice, this tool shines where larger trimmers can’t go—around flower beds, stone pathways, or under shrubs. The high-precision 5/16-inch cut depth ensures clean lines, and the quick blade-change system takes seconds, no tools required. It’s lightweight and well-balanced, reducing fatigue during detail work. But don’t expect it to replace a full-size trimmer—it struggles with anything thicker than small twigs and isn’t built for long hedges. Battery life is decent for spot work but drains fast under constant load.

Compared to the 22-inch CMCHTS820D1, this isn’t a primary trimming tool but a perfect secondary companion. It outperforms standalone mini trimmers by offering dual functionality in one compact unit, and for V20 owners, it’s a no-brainer add-on. For gardeners who value precision and versatility over power, this kit delivers unmatched flexibility for fine-tuning landscapes, especially when paired with other V20 tools.

When scale and power collide, the CRAFTSMAN CMCHTS860E1 emerges as the undisputed king for large-property owners. Its 24-inch dual-action laser-cut blades are the longest in the lineup, enabling fewer passes and faster coverage on expansive hedges. Backed by the V60 battery platform, it delivers extended runtime and higher torque, essential for all-day trimming sessions. With a 3/4-inch cut capacity and the ability to slice 1.5-inch branches via POWERSAW mode, it handles overgrown, mature hedges with authority few cordless models can match.

Real-world testing confirms its dominance in large-yard scenarios—it powers through yew rows and cedar screens with minimal fatigue, thanks to well-distributed weight under 10 pounds. The full bale handle enhances control during long horizontal sweeps, and the large blade gap prevents clogging in dense growth. However, its size makes it less ideal for tight spaces or detailed work, and the V60 battery system is not backward compatible with V20 tools, which could be a hurdle for existing users.

Versus the V20 CMCHTS820D1, this model trades compactness for reach and endurance, making it a clear upgrade for serious landscapers or estate maintenance. It’s pricier than the 22-inch models but justifies the cost with superior coverage and battery life. For homeowners with sprawling yards or commercial use, this trimmer delivers the longest reach and strongest performance in the Craftsman range, outclassing smaller models in both speed and stamina.

The CRAFTSMAN CMCHTS820B is a no-frills powerhouse built for V20 ecosystem veterans who already own batteries and chargers. It mirrors the full-featured CMCHTS820D1 in every critical aspect—22-inch dual-action blades, POWERSAW capability, and a sub-8-pound frame—but strips away the extras to deliver maximum value for existing tool owners. The full bale handle ensures balanced handling, and the large blade gap allows for quick, clean cuts through thick shrubbery.

In action, it performs identically to its battery-included sibling, slicing through 1.5-inch branches and dense foliage with ease. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable for overhead work, and the dual-action mechanism keeps vibration low during prolonged use. However, the need to purchase battery and charger separately makes it a poor choice for first-time buyers. It also lacks onboard storage for the extra blade, which feels like a missed opportunity.

Compared to the CMCHTS820D1, it’s functionally identical but more cost-effective if you’re expanding your V20 collection. It outshines the 17-inch CMEHT150 in reach and power, but only makes sense if you’re already committed to the V20 platform. For returning Craftsman users seeking a second trimmer, this bare tool offers the same elite performance at a smarter entry point, maximizing utility without redundancy.

For high hedges and hard-to-reach branches, the CRAFTSMAN CMCPHT818D1 is nothing short of revolutionary. Its 180° pivoting head locks into five cutting angles, allowing you to trim vertical walls, horizontal tops, and sloped edges without a ladder. With up to 11 feet of reach, it turns intimidating overhead work into a simple, safe task—ideal for tall arborvitae or privacy hedges along fences. The 18-inch dual-action blades handle 3/4-inch branches with ease, and the V20 battery system ensures consistent power from ground level to full extension.

During testing, the padded pole grip made long sessions comfortable, and the smooth pivot mechanism allowed precise angle adjustments mid-cut. It excels at vertical face trimming and overhead shaping, tasks that typically require multiple tools or risky climbs. However, the extended length introduces some vibration, and it feels less stable in high winds. The 18-inch blade is shorter than the 22-inch models, so it requires more passes on wide hedges.

Against the CMCHTS820D1, it sacrifices blade length for unmatched vertical access, making it a specialized but essential tool for multi-level landscapes. It’s heavier when fully extended than handheld models, but the safety and efficiency gains outweigh the trade-off. For homeowners with tall hedges or mobility limitations, this pole trimmer delivers the safest, most effective high-reach solution in the Craftsman lineup, surpassing standard models in both innovation and practicality.