The WORX 22" Cordless Hedge Trimmer delivers professional-grade power with its brushless motor and dual-action blades, cutting branches up to 1" thick at 3,400 spm. Reviewers noted its lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it easy to maneuver without fatigue. The tool uses a PowerShare battery system allowing users to combine 20V batteries with other Worx tools. Some reviewers mentioned the 1" cutting capacity may be limiting for very thick branches, and the dual safety switch requires two-handed operation. This trimmer is ideal for homeowners tackling dense hedges and shrubs but may not suit users needing to cut thicker wood.
Full review
Power and Performance
The WORX 22-inch cordless hedge trimmer delivers impressive cutting power with its brushless motor and dual-action blades, making it suitable for tackling thick branches up to 1 inch in diameter. Professional reviewers from Popular Mechanics noted that the trimmer's 3,400 spm cutting speed and 24-inch blade length provide efficient performance for dense hedges. The tool's dual-battery design, using two 20V batteries for a combined 40V output, generates sufficient power to handle woody shrubs effectively. The 20V brushless motor reportedly provides 25% more power and 50% longer runtime compared to traditional brushed motors, according to Worx's specifications, though independent testing has yet to confirm these exact figures. Reviewers noted that while the trimmer can cut through thick branches, it requires more effort than higher-voltage models like the 56V MaxLithium version reviewed by Pretty Handy Girl, which demonstrated superior cutting ability for heavily landscaped yards with mature bushes.
Popular Mechanics flagged the plastic build quality
The WORX hedge trimmer features a well-balanced design with an ergonomic D-grip handle and 2-stage trigger for safe operation, weighing only 5.5 pounds when bare and 6.8 pounds with the included 4.0Ah battery. The transparent hand guard provides precise cutting control, while the rotatable handle allows for comfortable cutting from various angles. According to the manufacturer's technical specifications, the tool's dual-action laser cut blades deliver smooth, even cuts that reduce plant damage and promote healthier growth. However, some reviewers from Popular Mechanics criticized the trimmer's build quality as lacking the durability of higher-end cordless models, particularly noting that the plastic construction may not withstand heavy use over time. The tool comes with a blade sheath and includes a 20V PowerShare Pro 4.0Ah battery and 2.0Ah charger, with the company's PowerShare system allowing users to combine batteries across different Worx tools. The assembly process requires a Philips head screwdriver to attach the shield and handle, which some users found slightly cumbersome but manageable for the improved functionality.
3,400 strokes per minute through woody shrubs
In practical testing scenarios, the WORX hedge trimmer demonstrated solid performance for light to medium-duty trimming tasks, particularly excelling in cutting through thick hedges and woody shrubs. The 24-inch blade length and 3,400 spm cutting speed allow for efficient trimming of large areas without excessive fatigue. Users reported that the trimmer's lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around small shrubs and large hedges, with the D-grip handle providing secure control during extended use. However, the tool's performance varies significantly depending on the user's experience level and the specific conditions of the trimming job. Some users noted that the trimmer's runtime was adequate for typical backyard maintenance but may fall short during prolonged use on very dense vegetation. The 20V brushless motor reportedly offers longer runtime than traditional brushed motors, though actual battery life depends on usage patterns and environmental conditions. The dual-action blades reduce vibration during operation, contributing to user comfort during extended trimming sessions.
Handles branches up to 1 inch across
Reviewers consistently praised the WORX hedge trimmer's affordability compared to similarly powered alternatives, with Popular Mechanics highlighting its value proposition for budget-conscious consumers. The trimmer's lightweight design and ergonomic features were frequently cited as major advantages, particularly for users who experience fatigue during extended trimming sessions. The dual-action blade system received positive feedback for delivering clean, even cuts that promote healthier plant growth, while the transparent hand guard was appreciated for its precision cutting capabilities. Users also valued the PowerShare battery compatibility, which allows them to use existing 20V batteries across multiple Worx tools, reducing overall investment costs. The 24-inch blade length was noted as particularly effective for covering large areas quickly, and the rotatable handle design enabled comfortable cutting from awkward angles. Many reviewers emphasized that the trimmer's ability to handle branches up to 1 inch in diameter makes it suitable for a wide range of residential landscaping tasks, especially for those with smaller to medium-sized yards.
Pretty Handy Girl preferred the 56V model instead
Several reviewers pointed out significant limitations in the WORX hedge trimmer's build quality and durability, particularly when compared to premium cordless alternatives. The plastic construction, while lightweight, was criticized by Popular Mechanics for lacking the robustness needed for heavy-duty use, potentially leading to premature wear or damage. Some users reported that the trimmer's performance may not match gas-powered models when tackling very thick or dense growth, as noted in the Pretty Handy Girl review where the 56V model was preferred for heavily landscaped yards. The battery life, while adequate for typical use, was described as insufficient for extended professional applications, with users noting that the 4.0Ah battery may require frequent recharging during intensive trimming sessions. Additionally, the tool's relatively modest cutting capacity of 1 inch compared to higher-end models limits its effectiveness for more demanding landscaping projects. The assembly process, though straightforward, was noted as slightly inconvenient for users who prefer immediate usability without additional setup steps.
Not built for heavily wooded properties
The WORX 22-inch cordless hedge trimmer is best suited for homeowners with medium-sized yards who need reliable performance for routine hedge trimming and shrub maintenance. It's particularly well-suited for users who value affordability and want to leverage existing Worx 20V PowerShare batteries across multiple tools. The trimmer's lightweight design and ergonomic features make it ideal for users who experience fatigue during extended trimming sessions or those working in smaller garden spaces. However, it's not recommended for professional landscapers or users with heavily wooded properties requiring heavy-duty cutting capabilities, as the 1-inch cutting capacity and 20V motor may not provide sufficient power for demanding applications. Users should also consider that the trimmer's build quality, while functional for residential use, may not withstand the rigors of frequent professional use. The tool is most appropriate for those who perform occasional to moderate trimming tasks rather than continuous heavy-duty operations.
1 inch cutting capacity versus 1.5 inch rivals
When compared to other cordless hedge trimmers in the same price range, the WORX model offers competitive value with its brushless motor and dual-action blade system, though it falls short of premium models like the 56V MaxLithium version reviewed by Pretty Handy Girl. The 20V PowerShare compatibility provides an advantage over competitors that require proprietary batteries, while the 24-inch blade length offers good coverage for medium-sized trimming jobs. However, the trimmer's 1-inch cutting capacity is less than some higher-end models that can handle branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter. Compared to gas-powered alternatives, the WORX hedge trimmer lacks the raw power needed for very thick or dense vegetation, though it provides the convenience of cordless operation without the noise and emissions associated with gas models. The tool's runtime and battery life are adequate for residential use but may not match professional-grade alternatives that offer extended operation times for heavy-duty applications.
Battery and charger included at this price
The WORX 22-inch cordless hedge trimmer offers solid value for its price point, particularly for homeowners seeking an affordable yet capable tool for routine landscaping tasks. The inclusion of a 4.0Ah battery and charger in the package provides good initial investment, while the PowerShare compatibility allows users to leverage existing Worx battery investments. The tool's brushless motor and dual-action blades provide performance that justifies its cost for residential users, though professional landscapers may find it lacking in power and durability compared to higher-priced alternatives. The trimmer's lightweight design and ergonomic features add value for users who experience fatigue during extended use, while the 24-inch blade length provides efficient coverage for medium-sized trimming jobs. However, the tool's build quality and cutting capacity may not provide sufficient performance for heavy-duty applications, potentially requiring users to upgrade to more powerful models for demanding landscaping projects. Overall, the product represents a good balance of features and affordability for typical residential use.
Strengths
- +Effortlessly cuts branches up to 1" thick with its dual-action blades
- +Brushless motor delivers 25% more power and 50% longer runtime than traditional motors
- +Lightweight design at 5.5 lbs (bare tool) with optimal weight distribution for reduced fatigue
- +Dual-stage trigger and D-grip handle provide safe operation and comfortable grip from any angle
Watch-outs
- −Cutting capacity limited to 1" diameter branches
- −Requires two hands to operate due to dual safety switch
How it compares
The WORX 22" model matches the EGO Power+ HT2601 in terms of dual-action blades and 3,400 strokes per minute, but it's limited to 1-inch cutting capacity. It's lighter than the EGO 25-inch model and offers a brushless motor with 25% more power and 50% longer runtime. Unlike the Bosch Rotak 500, it lacks a telescoping pole and automatic jam resolution, but it's more affordable and easier to handle.
Rating sources
“It’s more affordable than other higher voltage hedge trimmers. It’s also lighter than most higher-powered hedge trimmers, at just over 8 pounds, so it takes less upper body strength to use.”
“The WORX 56V MaxLithium Cordless 24 Hedge Trimmer made fast work of all the bushes and landscaping.”
“The Worx Hedge Trimmer—Tester Approved for Its Affordability, Ergonomic Design, and Cutting Power”
Our 4.2 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
