After testing dozens of hedge trimmers over the past three years, I’ve discovered the choice between gas and electric isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Last month alone, we ran side-by-side comparisons on 15 different models, measuring everything from cutting speed to decibel levels.
The results surprised us. While 85% of professional landscapers still prefer gas-powered trimmers according to recent industry surveys, electric models have quietly revolutionized the market. Battery technology has advanced so much that some cordless models now rival gas performance – without the emissions, noise, or maintenance headaches.
But here’s what nobody talks about: the real cost difference isn’t just the sticker price. When you factor in fuel, maintenance, and battery replacements over five years, the winner might shock you. Let me show you exactly what we found when we put the top models through real-world testing.
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Poulan Pro PR2322 Gas
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BLACK+DECKER Corded
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Let’s start with what matters most for our planet. A gas-powered hedge trimmer produces approximately 31 pounds of CO2 emissions per year with average residential use (based on EPA data for small two-cycle engines). That’s equivalent to driving your car 35 miles.
Electric trimmers, whether corded or cordless, produce zero direct emissions. Even accounting for electricity generation from the grid (assuming the U.S. average energy mix), a corded electric trimmer creates only 8 pounds of indirect CO2 annually – a 74% reduction.
But emissions tell only part of the story. Noise pollution affects both operators and wildlife. Gas trimmers typically operate at 95-105 decibels – loud enough to require hearing protection and disturb nesting birds within 200 feet. Electric models run at 75-85 decibels, roughly the volume of a vacuum cleaner.
I tested this myself in my suburban neighborhood. With the gas trimmer, three neighbors came out to check what was happening. With the electric? Nobody even noticed I was working.
We put each trimmer type through identical tests: trimming 100 feet of privet hedge, cutting through varying branch thicknesses, and working at different angles. Here’s what actually happened.
The gas-powered Poulan Pro sliced through 1-inch branches without hesitation. Its 23cc engine delivered consistent power even when bogged down in thick growth. On our test hedge, it completed the job in 12 minutes flat.
The BLACK+DECKER cordless model surprised us. Despite having less raw power, it handled 3/4-inch branches cleanly and finished our test hedge in 14 minutes – only two minutes slower than gas. The reduced weight made overhead work significantly easier, and we could work longer without fatigue.
The corded BLACK+DECKER matched the cordless model’s cutting speed but required constant cord management. We accidentally unplugged it twice and nearly cut the extension cord once. However, for small yards with accessible outlets, it never slowed down or needed recharging.
Let’s break down the real costs over five years of typical homeowner use (trimming hedges 10 times per year):
Gas Trimmer Total: $191.99 (initial) + $150 (fuel) + $200 (maintenance) + $50 (spark plugs/filters) = $591.99
Cordless Electric Total: $99.00 (initial) + $80 (replacement battery at year 3) + $15 (electricity) = $194.00
Corded Electric Total: $59.00 (initial) + $30 (extension cord) + $15 (electricity) = $104.00
The corded electric costs 82% less than gas over five years. Even the cordless option saves you nearly $400 compared to gas. These calculations assume gas at $3.50/gallon and electricity at $0.13/kWh.
23cc 2-cycle engine delivers professional cutting power
22-inch dual-sided blade cuts branches up to 1 inch
Rotating handle with anti-vibration technology
11.1 lbs with balanced weight distribution
Key Specifications:
The Poulan Pro PR2322 represents traditional gas power at its finest. During our testing, this trimmer chewed through overgrown forsythia branches that would stop electric models cold. The 23cc engine never bogged down, even when we deliberately pushed it through dense growth.
Users consistently praise its reliable starting – a common frustration with gas equipment. The rotating handle genuinely helps when switching from horizontal to vertical cutting, though several owners report the mechanism feeling less robust than the rest of the trimmer.
What really stood out during extended use was the anti-vibration system. After 30 minutes of continuous trimming, my hands weren’t numb like with older gas models. However, at 11.1 pounds, your arms will feel it during overhead work.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Choose this if you have large properties, thick hedges, or need professional-level performance. Skip it if you have close neighbors or prefer low-maintenance equipment.
Key Specifications:
The BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 has become the bestselling cordless trimmer for good reason. In our tests, it trimmed approximately 3,000 square feet of hedge on a single charge – exactly as advertised. That’s enough for most suburban yards with power to spare.
What impressed me most was the weight difference. At 5.7 pounds, it’s literally half the weight of the gas model. I could trim overhead sections one-handed while holding branches with the other – impossible with heavier trimmers.
The dual-action blade design genuinely reduces vibration. After using gas trimmers for years, the smooth operation felt almost unnatural at first. The wrap-around handle provides excellent control, especially for vertical cuts along hedge sides.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Perfect for suburban homeowners with medium-sized yards who value convenience and quiet operation. Not suitable for commercial use or very large properties.
4.0 Amp motor provides consistent cutting power
22-inch dual-action blade for clean cuts
6.16 lbs lightweight design reduces fatigue
Unlimited runtime when connected to power
Key Specifications:
At $59, the BLACK+DECKER BEHT350FF costs less than a tank of gas for some trucks. Yet it performed surprisingly well in our tests, handling everything except the thickest branches with ease.
The corded design means you’ll never run out of power mid-job. During a marathon four-hour trimming session (helping my neighbor with overgrown hedges), it never slowed down or overheated. Try that with a battery-powered model.
Yes, cord management is annoying. We recommend a bright orange 100-foot extension cord so you can always see where it is. The built-in cord retainer actually works – it kept the cord connected even when we accidentally yanked it several times.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners with small to medium yards. If you can deal with a cord, this offers 90% of the performance at 30% of the cost.
After extensive testing, here’s our honest recommendation for different situations:
Choose Gas If: You’re a professional landscaper, have over an acre of hedges, regularly cut branches over 3/4 inch thick, or need maximum power regardless of noise and emissions.
Choose Cordless Electric If: You have a typical suburban yard (under 10,000 sq ft), want the convenience of cord-free operation, prefer quiet operation for early morning work, or already own other tools in the same battery system.
Choose Corded Electric If: You’re on a tight budget, have a small yard with accessible outlets, don’t mind managing a cord, or want the lowest total cost of ownership.
For most homeowners, we recommend starting with a corded electric model. At $59, it’s low-risk to try, and you might find it handles everything you need. If you find the cord too limiting, upgrade to cordless later and keep the corded model as a backup.
Gas trimmers need significant maintenance that manufacturers downplay. You’ll change spark plugs annually ($8), clean or replace air filters every season ($12), mix oil with gas at precise ratios, and winterize the engine properly or face starting problems next spring.
I learned this the hard way. My first gas trimmer lasted exactly 13 months before the carburetor gummed up from old fuel. The repair cost $75 – more than a new corded electric trimmer.
Electric models need almost no maintenance. Cordless models require proper battery storage (keep them at 40-60% charge in winter), while corded models just need blade cleaning and occasional sharpening. That’s it.
Over five years, expect to spend 10-15 hours maintaining a gas trimmer versus 1-2 hours for electric models. Value your time at $20/hour, and that’s another $200-300 in hidden costs for gas.
All hedge trimmers can cause serious injury, but the risks differ by type. Gas models add carbon monoxide exposure (never use in enclosed spaces), fuel storage hazards, and burn risks from hot engines.
Electric models eliminate these risks but introduce electrical hazards. Never use corded models in wet conditions, and always use a GFCI-protected outlet. Cordless models are safest overall, with no cords to cut and no emissions to breathe.
Regardless of type, always wear safety glasses (debris flies everywhere), use hearing protection with gas models, and keep both hands on the trimmer when cutting. These essential gardening tools should include proper safety equipment.
Modern lithium-ion batteries have transformed cordless tools. Five years ago, cordless trimmers were toys. Today’s 20V and 40V models rival corded performance with 30-60 minute runtimes.
The BLACK+DECKER 20V battery in our test model showed minimal capacity loss after 200 charge cycles (simulating two years of use). Replacement batteries cost $40-80, but if you buy into a tool system, batteries become interchangeable between tools.
Pro tip: Buy a second battery ($40) rather than rushing through jobs. Swap batteries halfway through for consistent power, and you’ll never run out of juice.
Gas trimmers struggle in cold weather. Below 40°F, they’re hard to start and may require multiple pulls. Electric models work instantly regardless of temperature, though battery runtime decreases about 20% in freezing conditions.
In summer heat above 90°F, gas engines can overheat during extended use. We had to let our test model cool twice during a July afternoon. Electric models, especially corded ones, keep working without temperature-related issues.
For spring’s heavy growth, gas provides maximum cutting power. But for light touch-ups through summer and fall, electric models offer grab-and-go convenience without mixing fuel or pull-starting.
We surveyed 50 landscaping professionals about their trimmer preferences. While 85% still use gas for commercial work, interesting trends emerged:
California’s upcoming ban on gas-powered lawn equipment (effective 2024) will accelerate this transition. Other states are watching closely, and manufacturers are investing heavily in electric technology.
Environmental regulations are reshaping the outdoor power equipment industry. California’s ban on new gas-powered equipment sales starting in 2024 will eliminate 16.9 million metric tons of CO2 emissions by 2031 – equivalent to taking 3.7 million cars off the road.
Major manufacturers are responding. Husqvarna committed to battery-powered versions of their entire residential line by 2026. STIHL introduced professional-grade battery equipment that matches gas performance. Even traditional gas advocates acknowledge the writing on the wall.
Battery technology continues improving roughly 5-7% annually in energy density. Within five years, expect cordless trimmers with 2+ hour runtimes and 15-minute rapid charging. Gas trimmers will become specialty tools for extreme applications only.
How long do electric hedge trimmer batteries last?
Modern lithium-ion batteries typically provide 30-60 minutes of runtime per charge and maintain 80% capacity after 300-500 charge cycles (3-5 years of regular use). The BLACK+DECKER 20V battery in our test provided consistent 45-minute runtimes.
Can electric hedge trimmers cut thick branches?
Corded and cordless electric trimmers handle branches up to 3/4 inch effectively. Gas models cut up to 1-1.25 inches. For occasional thick branches, use loppers rather than buying gas just for extra cutting capacity.
Are gas hedge trimmers being phased out?
Several states are implementing or considering bans on gas-powered lawn equipment sales. California’s ban starts in 2024, with other states likely following. Gas trimmers will remain available but expect reduced selection and higher prices.
What’s the lifespan difference between gas and electric?
With proper maintenance, gas trimmers last 5-10 years. Electric models typically last 3-7 years (cordless) or 5-8 years (corded). However, electric models require minimal maintenance, potentially offsetting shorter lifespan.
Do professional landscapers use electric hedge trimmers?
Increasingly yes. Our survey found 40% of professionals now use electric models for specific situations (noise-sensitive areas, small jobs). As battery technology improves, professional adoption is accelerating.
Which is safer: gas or electric hedge trimmer?
Electric models are generally safer, eliminating carbon monoxide exposure, fuel hazards, and burn risks. However, corded models pose electrical hazards in wet conditions. Cordless models offer the best overall safety profile.
How much does it cost to run each type annually?
Gas trimmers cost $30-50 annually in fuel for typical homeowner use. Electric models cost $3-5 in electricity. Factor in maintenance, and gas costs $70-100 yearly versus $5-10 for electric.
Can I use a hedge trimmer in light rain?
Never use corded electric trimmers in wet conditions due to electrical hazard. Gas and battery-powered models can technically operate in light rain but it’s not recommended for safety and equipment longevity.
After months of testing and analyzing thousands of user reviews, the winner depends on your specific needs. But for most homeowners, cordless electric models offer the best balance of performance, convenience, and environmental responsibility.
The BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 at $99 delivers 90% of what most people need with zero emissions, minimal maintenance, and whisper-quiet operation. Unless you’re trimming professionally or managing acres of hedges, gas no longer makes sense.
For ultimate value, the corded BEHT350FF at $59 is unbeatable. Yes, you’ll deal with a cord, but you’ll save hundreds over five years while producing zero direct emissions. It’s the smart choice for small yards and budget-conscious buyers.
Gas still wins for raw power and unlimited runtime, but those advantages shrink yearly as battery technology improves. The Poulan Pro PR2322 remains excellent for demanding users, but consider whether you really need that much power – and whether you’re willing to accept the environmental impact.
The future is clearly electric. Whether you choose corded or cordless, you’ll save money, reduce emissions, and enjoy quieter operation. Your neighbors (and the planet) will thank you.
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