The 10 Best Electric Pruning Shears

Editor's Notes

July 23, 2020:

Today’s update sees the addition of the Zenport EP108, which features a razor-sharp blade made of durable Japanese steel, and it comes with lubrication and a sharpening stone. The tool and accompanying accessories all fit nicely into the included impact-resistant case that’s convenient for storage and transport. It can handle up to four hours of use with each charge, and its bright orange color makes it easy to spot where you last set it down in your yard. The Komok Cordless also comes on board, which sports safety features like a protective blade cover and a double-start switch. It’s equipped with a sturdy, rust-proof steel blade, as well as a second replacement one, and you’ll also receive a pair of manual pruning shears. Its built-in LED lights come in handy when you’re still working as the sun’s getting lower. These two models replace the Earthwise 2-in-1 and the SereneLife Cordless, both of which tend to have trouble holding their charge for very long.

After some deliberation, we kept the Black+Decker Alligator in the top spot, in part because it can handle tough jobs better than many other choices, thanks to its 4.5-amp motor and heavy-duty construction. It’s also made with safety in mind, thanks to its metal guards that help shield your hands from injuries. It can tackle branches up to four inches thick, and you can purchase it with confidence since it’s backed by a two-year warranty. For a high-quality electric grass shear, look to the Makita XMU04Z, which sports nickel-plated blades that resist stains and rust. It offers a six-inch cutting width and an efficient brushless motor, with a handy attachment that collects the clippings.

When you’re doing pruning work, always wear eye protection such as safety glasses or a face shield to avoid injuries from things like ricocheting branches or sharp twigs. Since these shears have sharp blades, wear protective gloves when using them, and be sure to store them properly. If your model of choice comes with a protective blade cover, be sure to keep it on when the shears aren’t in use.

June 20, 2019:

The Scotts 7.2-Volt joins the selection, and it features a built-in, rechargeable battery and a comfortable, soft grip. All it takes is a pull of the trigger on this lightweight, ergonomic model and you’ll be trimming away on various bushes and branches throughout your yard. You can buy it with confidence, knowing it’s backed by a two-year warranty.

Also coming on board is the Makita XMU04Z, a reliable, cordless shear that sports a maximum cutting width of more than six inches. Its brushless motor is designed for efficiency, and its dual-blade action creates a shearing effect. It features a three-stage cutting height adjustment of up to one inch. It’s built for use with the manufacturer’s expanding 18V lithium-ion battery, which is sold separately.

The tried-and-true Black+Decker Alligator retains the top spot, as it boasts a powerful, 4.5-amp motor and general heavy-duty construction. Safety features include metal guards to keep your hands from injury. It comes with a bottle of oil and a wrench. It can handle wood up to four inches in diameter, with a fast cutting process and an impressive chain life.

As a word of caution, be sure to handle these power tools safely by wearing protective gear (like eye goggles, work gloves, and hearing protection) and following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for safety tips. Avoid injury by never holding a branch with one hand while trying to cut it with the trimmer. Clear the spot of potential hazards like hoses and wires, and keep kids and pets away from your work area.