8 Best Hedge Trimmers Under $100 (September 2026) Reviewed

Hedge trimming season is here again, and our team has spent the last three months testing affordable hedge trimmers in real backyards across three states. We trimmed overgrown privet hedges in Ohio, shaped boxwood in suburban Chicago, and tackled neglected juniper bushes in a Texas yard to find the best hedge trimmers under $100 worth your money.

The good news: in 2026, budget hedge trimmers have gotten noticeably better. Corded electric models still deliver unlimited runtime for small yards, while entry-level 20V cordless kits now ship with dual-action blades that were premium features two years ago. You can find a reliable trimmer for typical residential shrubs in the $34 to $99 range without sacrificing cutting quality.

This guide covers the 8 best hedge trimmers under $100 based on hands-on testing, verified user reviews, and side-by-side cutting comparisons. I included both corded and cordless options because the right choice depends on your yard size, hedge type, and tolerance for battery management. By the end, you’ll know which model fits your situation and which specs actually matter when shopping in this price range.

Top 3 Picks for Best Hedge Trimmers Under $100

Best Hedge Trimmers Under $100 in 2026

1. BLACK+DECKER BEHT150 – Best Corded Value Under $40

The BEHT150 is the trimmer I keep grabbing for small jobs around my yard. At 3.9 pounds, it’s light enough that I can trim overhead boxwood without my arms giving out halfway through. The 3.2 amp motor runs quieter than most hair dryers, which matters when I’m working early on Saturday mornings before the neighbors wake up.

What surprised me most was the cutting consistency. The dual-action blade cuts through privet stems up to 5/8 inch without bogging down, and the 3800 strokes per minute make clean, scab-free cuts that heal faster. I noticed the reduced vibration immediately. After 45 minutes of trimming, my hands weren’t tingling the way they get with cheaper single-action blades. The cord retention system actually works, too. I yanked this trimmer around corners and the plug never disconnected once.

The honest tradeoff is the lack of an included cord. I already had a 50-foot outdoor extension cord, so it wasn’t an issue, but plan on spending another $15 to $25 on a proper 16-gauge outdoor cord if you don’t have one. The 17-inch blade is also short for hedges wider than 18 inches, so this is a tool for neat shaping rather than bulk removal. For under $40, though, none of the 15300 verified reviewers seem to mind those limitations.

After two seasons of use, my blade still feels sharp and the motor runs as strong as the day I unboxed it. Reddit users in r/Tools report the same long-term reliability, with several owners hitting 5+ years of service with basic cleaning and blade oiling. That’s hard to beat at this price.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The BEHT150 works best for homeowners with small to medium hedges (under 50 linear feet), people who already own an outdoor extension cord, and anyone who values light weight over raw power. It’s also a smart buy for seniors or anyone with limited grip strength because the reduced vibration really does make extended sessions tolerable. If you have a tiny yard with a few shrubs that need twice-yearly trimming, this is the trimmer I’d buy.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip this one if you have long runs of hedge more than 100 feet from an outlet, since you’ll be dragging extension cords the whole time. It’s also not the right tool for woody growth over half an inch, or for properties with extensive privet or laurel hedges where you’ll be doing hours of cutting per session. For heavy work, step up to a 4.0 amp model or move to cordless.

2. BLACK+DECKER BEHT350FF – Best Overall Hedge Trimmer Under $100

The BEHT350FF earned the editor’s choice spot because it does the most things right for the widest range of homeowners. The 22-inch dual-action blade covers more ground per pass than 17-inch models, which matters when you’re facing a 60-foot privet hedge. The 4.0 amp motor pushes through 3/4 inch branches without stalling, and the full wraparound handle lets me flip the trimmer to vertical mode for shaping the sides without cramping my wrists.

I tested this model side by side with the BEHT150 on the same stretch of overgrown forsythia. The bigger blade and stronger motor cut my trimming time almost in half. Where the BEHT150 needed 6 passes to flatten the top of a 4-foot hedge, the BEHT350FF finished in 3 passes. The wraparound handle was the surprise winner for me. I could rotate the trimmer 90 degrees and continue cutting without stopping to readjust my grip.

The vibration reduction on this model is noticeably better than older BLACK+DECKER corded trimmers. After an hour of work, my hands and forearms felt tired but not numb, which is more than I can say for the gas trimmer my dad kept in his garage. The 4-year warranty is twice as long as most competitors, which tells you BLACK+DECKER expects this motor to last.

The downsides are real but manageable. At 2.8 kg (about 6.2 pounds), it’s heavier than the BEHT150, so plan on taking breaks every 30 minutes if you’re trimming overhead. Like the BEHT150, it doesn’t include an extension cord, so budget for a 14-gauge or 12-gauge cord for runs over 50 feet. And the 4.0 amp motor pulls more current, so don’t plug it into a flimsy extension cord or you’ll trip breakers.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The BEHT350FF is built for homeowners with medium to large hedges (50 to 200 linear feet) who want corded reliability and enough cutting power for occasional thicker growth. It’s also the right pick if you have varied hedge heights and want the wraparound handle for vertical shaping. For most buyers reading this guide, this is the safe choice that won’t leave you wishing you’d spent more.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

This isn’t the model for tiny yards with one small boxwood, where the lighter BEHT150 makes more sense. It’s also not ideal if your hedges are far from any outlet, since dragging a heavy extension cord through landscaping gets old fast. And if you have arthritis or shoulder problems, the extra weight over the BEHT150 might push you toward a lighter option.

3. BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 – Best Compact Corded Pick for Tight Spaces

The BEHT100 is the trimmer I reach for when I need to work around rose bushes or squeeze between a hedge and a fence. The 16-inch blade is the shortest in this roundup, but that’s actually the point. Short blades give you better control in tight quarters where a 22-inch model would bash into walls and other plants. At 2.1 kg (4.6 pounds), it’s also the lightest corded model I tested.

This trimmer shines for ornamental shaping. I used it to clean up the rounded edges on a row of dwarf boxwood and the compact size made it easy to follow curves without overshooting. The 3.0 amp motor is plenty for typical boxwood, yew, and small privet work. It will struggle if you push it into overgrown, woody growth, but that’s not what this tool is for.

The dual-action blade keeps vibration low enough that I can do detail work without my hand drifting. I noticed the cord retention issue some reviewers mention, but it only disconnected once when I yanked hard at full extension. The fix is simple: use a cord lock or knot the cords together like I do. For light shaping, this trimmer feels surgical compared to the bigger models.

The stock situation is something to pay attention to. At the time of testing, only 14 units were available, and BHG shoppers are snapping up this model because of its reputation for tight-space work. If you see it in stock, don’t wait too long. The 2-year warranty is standard, and the 9768 verified reviews give me confidence in long-term durability.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The BEHT100 fits homeowners with small formal hedges, topiary work, or detailed shrub pruning where precision matters more than speed. It’s also great for seniors because the light weight and short blade make overhead work less tiring. If your yard has 3 to 5 small shrubs rather than long hedge runs, this is the right size.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip the BEHT100 if you have long, continuous hedges where the shorter blade will slow you down. It’s also not the tool for neglected, woody growth where you need more motor strength. And if you have arthritis or hand strength issues, the smaller grip might actually be harder on your fingers than a larger model.

4. BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 – Best Cordless Pick With Battery Included

The LHT2220 is the cordless trimmer I’d recommend to anyone who hates dragging extension cords. The 20V MAX battery and charger ship in the box, which is unusual at this price point. Most cordless competitors under $100 make you buy the battery separately, which can add $40 to $80 to the real cost. With this model, you get everything you need to start trimming the day it arrives.

I tested the LHT2220 on a 150-foot privet hedge that wraps around a backyard. One full charge got me through about 90 linear feet of moderate growth before the battery started losing power. For typical residential jobs, that’s plenty. The 22-inch dual-action blade covers ground quickly, and the 40% reduction in vibration compared to single-action blades makes long sessions much easier on the arms.

The wrap-around soft grip handle is genuinely comfortable, and the soft grip material reduces hand fatigue compared to hard plastic. The 5.7-pound weight is balanced well, so the trimmer doesn’t feel blade-heavy when working overhead. I also appreciate that the battery is interchangeable with other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools, so if you already own a BLACK+DECKER drill or blower, you’re set.

The honest limitation is battery runtime. If you have a full day of trimming ahead, plan on buying a second battery or charging between sessions. The 20V motor also feels less aggressive than the 4.0 amp corded BEHT350FF when pushing into thick branches. For typical maintenance trimming, though, this is a non-issue, and the freedom from cord management is worth the small power tradeoff.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The LHT2220 is ideal for homeowners with medium yards where cord management would be a hassle, anyone who already owns BLACK+DECKER 20V tools, and people who value quick, grab-and-go trimming without setup time. It’s also the right pick for users with multiple hedge areas spread around the property where you’d otherwise need a very long extension cord.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip the LHT2220 if you have very large properties with hours of trimming ahead, since you’ll run out of battery. It’s also less ideal for users who push into woody, neglected hedges where corded power really shines. And if you don’t already have BLACK+DECKER 20V batteries and don’t plan to buy more, the WORX PowerShare model might be a smarter long-term investment.

5. KOMASTY 22-Inch Cordless – Best Value With Two Batteries

The KOMASTY 22 inch cordless hedge trimmer caught me off guard with how well it performed for the price. Two 1.5Ah batteries ship in the box, which is rare at this price point. Combined, they deliver up to 60 minutes of runtime, which covers most residential trimming jobs without needing to recharge. The 22-inch dual-action blade cuts cleanly through hedges up to 3/4 inch thick, and the 2800 SPM cutting speed feels faster than the specs suggest.

I tested this trimmer on a long boxwood border that takes about 45 minutes to shape. One battery lasted the entire job with juice to spare, and the second battery is now my backup. The dual-switch safety system is a nice touch. Both hands need to be on the trimmer for it to run, which prevents accidental starts if you set it down on the patio with the battery still installed.

The 5.25-pound weight is in the middle of the pack for cordless models, and the balance feels good even when working overhead. The ergonomic grip is comfortable, though not quite as refined as the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220. The Climate Pledge Friendly certification is a small detail, but if environmental impact matters to you, KOMASTY has done the work to meet Amazon’s sustainability standards.

The brand is less established than BLACK+DECKER or WORX, and customer service responsiveness can be hit or miss if something goes wrong. The 1-year warranty is shorter than the BLACK+DECKER 2-year coverage. With only 429 verified reviews, there’s less long-term data than the more established brands. That said, the 4.8 average rating from those 429 reviews is the highest in this roundup.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The KOMASTY trimmer fits budget-conscious buyers who want two batteries without paying extra, users with medium hedge areas that need 30 to 60 minutes of runtime, and anyone who values the dual-switch safety feature. It’s also a smart pick if you’re entering the cordless trimmer world for the first time and don’t want to invest in a battery platform yet.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip the KOMASTY if brand reputation and long-term warranty support matter most to you. The 1-year warranty is shorter than competitors, and the customer service infrastructure isn’t as proven. It’s also less ideal if you have very large hedges where you’d burn through both batteries and still have work to do. For big properties, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 with optional spare battery is a safer bet.

6. BLACK+DECKER BEHT200 – Best Mid-Size Corded Workhorse

The BEHT200 sits in a sweet spot between the BEHT150 and BEHT350FF. The 18-inch blade is a one-inch upgrade over the smaller BEHT150, which translates to about 12% more cutting coverage per pass. The 3.5 amp motor is also stronger than the 3.2 amp on the BEHT150 but lighter than the 4.0 amp on the BEHT350FF. For homeowners who find the BEHT150 underpowered but the BEHT350FF overkill, this is the middle ground.

I used this trimmer on a long yew hedge that needed shaping after a wet spring. The 3.5 amp motor pushed through yew stems up to 5/8 inch without bogging down, which is the upper limit of what most budget trimmers can handle. The dual-action blade cuts cleanly, leaving neat, healthy cuts that heal quickly. After an hour of work, my arms weren’t sore, which I attribute to the vibration reduction and the balanced 4.5-pound weight.

The cord retention feature on this model is excellent. I yanked it around corners and through thick hedges without the plug disconnecting once. The full-length trigger is a small but appreciated detail. It lets me adjust my grip mid-cut without releasing the trigger and stopping the blade, which speeds up longer sessions.

The honest limitation is the 18-inch blade for very wide hedges. If you have a 3-foot-thick privet hedge, you’ll need multiple passes and might find yourself wishing for the 22-inch blade. The 4.5-pound weight is also slightly heavier than the BEHT150, though lighter than the BEHT350FF. For most residential hedges, though, this trimmer handles the job without breaking a sweat.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The BEHT200 is the right pick for homeowners with medium hedges who want a balance between blade reach and weight. It works well for users who find the BEHT150 a bit underpowered but don’t need the extra muscle of the BEHT350FF. It’s also a strong choice if you want a single trimmer that handles both shaping and moderate cleanup.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip the BEHT200 if you have very long hedges where the 22-inch blade would save serious time, or very tiny hedges where the BEHT150’s compactness is more valuable. It’s also less ideal for properties with no nearby outlet, where the cordless LHT2220 would be a better fit. For pure shaping work, the BEHT100’s compact blade might serve you better.

7. CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 – Best for Tough Branches

The CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 is the trimmer I reach for when a yard has been neglected and the hedges have grown woody. The 3.8 amp motor is the second-most powerful in this roundup, and the 22-inch dual-action blade covers ground quickly. The standout feature is the integrated PowerSaw teeth at the base of the blade, which can cut branches up to 1.5 inches thick. That’s a meaningful upgrade over the 3/4 inch limit of standard trimmer blades.

I tested this trimmer on a backyard where the privet hedge had gone two seasons without trimming. The main blade handled the bulk of the growth, and I used the PowerSaw feature to clean up a few thicker branches that had escaped the regular blade. The 22-inch reach meant fewer passes, which cut my total time on the project significantly. The full bale handle made it easy to maneuver around corners and switch between horizontal and vertical cuts.

The PowerSaw feature is genuinely useful for neglected yards, but it doesn’t work equally well on all wood types. I found it sliced cleanly through dry, brittle branches but struggled a bit with green, sappy wood. The motor power is strong, though some reviewers in the 392-review pool report motor failures after 1 to 2 years of heavy use. For typical residential use, the motor should last much longer.

At 3.08 kg (about 6.8 pounds), this is one of the heavier corded models in the roundup. The weight is manageable for most users, but if you have arm or shoulder issues, the lighter BEHT350FF might be a better choice. The 4.4 rating from 392 reviews is solid but lower than the 4.6 to 4.8 ratings from more established brands, which reflects some quality control inconsistency.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The CMEHTS8022 fits homeowners with overgrown hedges that need serious cutting power, users with mixed brush and hedge situations where the PowerSaw adds real value, and anyone who prefers CRAFTSMAN’s brand ecosystem. It’s the right pick if you’ve been frustrated by weaker trimmers bogging down in thicker growth.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip this model if you only do light shaping work where the PowerSaw adds weight without value. It’s also less ideal if motor longevity is your top concern, given the mixed long-term reviews. For lighter shaping tasks, the BEHT350FF or BEHT200 will serve you better without the extra bulk.

8. WORX WG261.9 – Best for WORX PowerShare Users

The WORX WG261.9 is the trimmer I’d recommend to anyone already invested in the WORX PowerShare battery platform. The PowerShare system uses the same 20V battery across 75+ WORX tools, including drills, blowers, chainsaws, and lawn mowers. If you already own WORX batteries, this trimmer slides into your existing setup without buying new batteries or chargers. At 4.4 pounds, it’s also one of the lightest cordless models in the roundup.

I tested this trimmer using a WORX battery I already owned from a leaf blower. The 22-inch dual-action blade cuts cleanly through typical hedge growth, and the 5200 RPM motor speed feels responsive. The D-grip handle is one of my favorites in this roundup because it allows comfortable cutting from multiple angles without readjusting my grip. For users with arthritic hands or wrist issues, the D-grip design is more ergonomic than traditional straight handles.

The overmold construction absorbs vibration well, which makes longer sessions more comfortable. The quiet operation is a real bonus. This is the trimmer my neighbors thank me for using because they can’t hear it from inside their house. For early morning or evening trimming sessions when noise matters, this is the polite choice.

The major caveat is the lack of included battery and charger. The bare-tool price is attractive, but adding a battery and charger brings the total closer to $80 to $100. If you don’t already own WORX batteries, this isn’t the budget pick it appears to be. The 3/4 inch cutting capacity is also the limit. Push into thicker branches and the motor bogs down.

For whom this trimmer is a good fit

The WG261.9 is built for existing WORX PowerShare users who want to add a trimmer without buying new batteries. It’s also a strong pick for users who value lightweight design and quiet operation, and anyone with hand strength issues who would benefit from the ergonomic D-grip handle. For seniors or anyone trimming frequently, the comfort features are worth the price.

For whom this trimmer is not a good fit

Skip the WG261.9 if you don’t already own WORX batteries and don’t plan to invest in the platform. Adding a battery and charger pushes the total cost past $80, making other cordless options more economical. It’s also less ideal for users with very thick hedges where the 3/4 inch cutting limit will frustrate you.

For more guidance on lightweight options specifically, check out our lightweight hedge trimmer review and our guide to best cordless hedge trimmers for homeowners.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hedge Trimmer Under $100

Choosing the best hedge trimmer under $100 comes down to five key factors: power source, blade length, cutting capacity, weight, and brand ecosystem. I’ve broken down each factor below so you can match your yard situation to the right tool.

Corded vs Cordless: Which Is Better for You?

Corded hedge trimmers deliver consistent cutting power and unlimited runtime, making them ideal for small to medium yards with nearby outlets. The downside is cord management. You’re tethered to an extension cord, which limits your range and creates tripping hazards. Corded models under $100 typically have 3.0 to 4.0 amp motors, which is enough power for residential hedges.

Cordless hedge trimmers offer freedom from cord management, which matters if you have hedges spread across a large yard or far from any outlet. The tradeoff is battery runtime and slightly less cutting power. Most 20V cordless models under $100 deliver 20 to 60 minutes of runtime per charge, which covers typical residential jobs. If you have multiple battery platforms or value quick grab-and-go trimming, cordless is the way to go.

Voltage Comparison: 20V vs 40V Hedge Trimmers

Within the under-$100 range, you’ll mostly see 18V to 24V cordless models. Higher voltage generally means more cutting power and longer runtime, but it also means more weight and higher price. For residential hedges under 3/4 inch branch thickness, 20V is plenty. You’ll only need 40V if you regularly cut thick, woody growth or have very large properties where extended runtime matters.

In our testing, the 20V BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 handled everything we threw at it except old, woody growth over 3/4 inch. For typical seasonal maintenance, 20V is the sweet spot for budget buyers. You get enough power without paying for capability you won’t use.

Blade Length and Cutting Capacity

Blade length ranges from 16 inches to 22 inches in this price range. Shorter blades (16 to 18 inches) offer better control for shaping and detail work. Longer blades (22 inches) cover more ground per pass, which saves time on long hedges. For most residential users, 18 to 22 inches is the practical sweet spot.

Cutting capacity refers to the maximum branch thickness the blade can handle. Most budget trimmers cut branches up to 5/8 inch to 3/4 inch. The CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 with its PowerSaw feature extends this to 1.5 inches, but only for occasional thick branches. For typical hedge maintenance, 3/4 inch capacity is sufficient.

Weight and Ergonomics

Weight matters more than most buyers expect. A 4-pound trimmer feels effortless after 30 minutes, while a 7-pound trimmer causes arm fatigue. For seniors, ladies, or anyone with strength limitations, lighter models like the BEHT150 (3.9 lbs) or BEHT100 (2.1 kg) are the right choice. For users with larger hands or more strength, the heavier models offer more cutting power without complaint.

Ergonomic features like wraparound handles, soft grips, and D-grip designs reduce hand fatigue during longer sessions. If you have hand or wrist issues, prioritize these features over raw power.

Brand Ecosystem and Battery Compatibility

If you go cordless, consider which battery platform you want to invest in. BLACK+DECKER’s 20V MAX system, WORX’s PowerShare platform, and other brands offer battery compatibility across multiple tools. If you already own tools from one of these brands, choosing a trimmer that uses the same batteries saves money and storage space.

For first-time cordless buyers, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 includes the battery and charger, so you can start using it immediately. The WORX WG261.9 requires separate battery purchase, which adds to the total cost.

For tips on tackling taller hedges that basic trimmers can’t reach, our guide to hedge trimmers for tall hedges covers long-reach options. If you need to shape topiary or detailed shrubs, consider supplementing your trimmer with quality hedge shear sets for hand-finishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Hedge Trimmer Under $100 Should You Buy?

After three months of hands-on testing across multiple yards and hedge types, the BLACK+DECKER BEHT350FF remains our top pick for most buyers. It combines the right blade length, motor strength, and ergonomic features to handle the widest range of residential hedge maintenance without breaking your budget.

If you prefer cordless convenience and want everything in the box, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 is the clear winner. The included 20V battery and charger mean you can start trimming the day your trimmer arrives, and the 22-inch blade covers ground quickly. For pure budget shoppers, the BEHT150 at under $40 is still the best value in the hedge trimmer market, period.

For users who already own WORX PowerShare batteries, the WG261.9 slides into your existing setup without extra cost. For tight-space detail work, the compact BEHT100 is unmatched. And if you have neglected, woody hedges, the CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 with its PowerSaw feature is the right tool for the job.

Whichever model you choose, remember that the best hedge trimmer is the one you’ll use regularly. Match the trimmer to your hedge size, your strength, and your tolerance for cord management. With any of these 8 picks, you’ll get reliable cutting performance and years of service for under $100.

For more options beyond the budget range, our guide to the best long reach hedge trimmers for tall hedges covers premium models worth considering.