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When you compare a husqvarna vs makita hedge trimmer, you are looking at two very different tools. Both handle branch cutting, but their designs serve distinct needs. The Husqvarna model is a compact, handheld unit built for precision work on standard hedges. It includes a battery and charger in the box. The Makita option is a pole hedge trimmer designed for reaching high branches. It does not include batteries or a charger. You need to decide if you need handheld control or extended reach.
Power Type
Battery (40V)
Battery (18V)
Blade Length
24-inch
460mm
Design
Handheld
Pole Hedge Trimmer
Adjustability
Not listed
60-degree tilt up, 75-degree tilt down
Cutting Capacity
1 inch
10mm
Inclusions
Battery and Charger Included
Batteries and Charger Not Included
Choose the first if
- You want a handheld tool for shaping standard hedges at ground level.
- You prefer a kit that includes a battery and charger right away.
- You need a brushless motor for longer runtime and efficiency.
Choose the second if
- You need to trim high branches without using a ladder.
- You want an adjustable head to reach difficult angles.
- You already own compatible 18V Makita batteries.
Verdict
Choose the Husqvarna if you are maintaining traditional hedges and want a complete kit. Pick the Makita if you have tall trees or shrubs that require a pole to reach safely.
Husqvarna or Makita Hedge Trimmers Compared
Cutting width
Edge: Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer
The Husqvarna Hedge Master 320iHD60 features a 24-inch blade length, which provides a wide cutting swath for standard hedges. This allows you to trim more foliage in a single pass compared to narrower models. In contrast, the Makita DUN461WZ uses a 460mm blade, which converts to approximately 18 inches. While still substantial, this is shorter than the Husqvarna option. The wider blade on the Husqvarna model generally offers better efficiency for large, flat hedge surfaces, whereas the Makita focuses on reach rather than width.
Power type
Edge: Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer
Power sources differ significantly between these two tools. The Husqvarna 320iHD60 is a 40V battery-powered unit that comes as an all-in-one kit, including the battery and charger in the package. This means you can start working immediately without purchasing separate components. The Makita DUN461WZ is an 18V Li-ion LXT model sold as a bare tool, meaning batteries and the charger are not included. If you already own Makita 18V batteries, this might be convenient, but the Husqvarna provides a complete solution out of the box.
Reach and height
Edge: Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer
Reach is the primary advantage of the Makita DUN461WZ. It is a pole hedge trimmer with a telescopic shaft that adjusts from 1889mm to 2511mm. This extension allows you to trim high branches without a ladder, enhancing safety and convenience for tall hedges. The Husqvarna 320iHD60 is a handheld unit with a fixed length of 47 inches. It is designed for ground-level or shoulder-height trimming. If you frequently need to reach overhead branches, the Makita pole design offers a clear functional advantage over the standard handheld Husqvarna.
Cutting capacity
Edge: Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer
Branch thickness capability varies between the two models. The Husqvarna 320iHD60 is rated for branches up to 1 inch thick. The Makita DUN461WZ specifies a maximum capacity of 10mm, which is approximately 0.4 inches. This means the Husqvarna can handle thicker, more woody stems more effectively than the Makita. If your hedges produce dense, thick growth, the Husqvarna’s higher cutting capacity makes it the more robust choice for clearing larger branches without jamming the blade.
Adjustability
Edge: Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer
The Makita DUN461WZ offers significant adjustability features that the Husqvarna lacks. The Makita head tilts 60 degrees up and 75 degrees down, with ten distinct angle settings. This allows you to cut at various angles to shape complex hedge designs or reach awkward spots. The Husqvarna 320iHD60 does not list adjustable head angles. It is a fixed-blade tool. For users who need to sculpt hedges with precision angles or work around obstacles, the Makita’s multi-angle head provides greater versatility.
Weight
Edge: Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer
Weight impacts user fatigue during extended use. The Husqvarna 320iHD60 weighs 7.94 pounds. The Makita DUN461WZ weighs 8.16 pounds. The difference is minimal, at just over two ounces. Both tools are relatively lightweight for their category. The Husqvarna is slightly lighter, which might reduce arm strain during long trimming sessions. However, the Makita’s weight is distributed along a pole, which changes the balance. For pure handheld comfort, the Husqvarna has a slight edge due to its lower mass.
Which hedge trimmer suits your needs
Homeowners with standard shaped hedges
Our pick: Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer
You need a ready-to-use tool for routine maintenance. This Husqvarna model includes a 4Ah battery and charger, so you can start trimming immediately. The 24-inch blade and brushless motor provide efficient cutting power. Its compact 7.94-pound weight and tri-handle design offer better control for detailed work on residential hedges.
Users with tall or hard-to-reach branches
Our pick: Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer
You require reach and flexibility for high branches. This Makita pole trimmer extends from 74.4 to 98.8 inches, allowing you to cut foliage without a ladder. The head tilts up to 60 degrees and down 75 degrees across ten settings. This adjustability helps you navigate complex shapes and maintain height without straining your arms.
Makita system owners seeking extension
Our pick: Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer
You already own 18V LXT batteries and want to expand your tool lineup. This Makita trimmer is sold without a battery or charger, fitting seamlessly into your existing ecosystem. The 10mm cutting capacity handles thicker branches, and the telescopic pole reduces the need for ladders, making your current battery investments work harder for you.
Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer
Best for: standard hedges and complete kit buyers
- Blade Length
- 24-inch
- Power Type
- Battery
- Voltage
- 40V
- Cutting Capacity
- 1 inch
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 4Ah
The Husqvarna 320iHD60 is a 40V cordless hedge trimmer with a 24-inch blade. It features a brushless motor and a 4Ah battery included in the kit. The tri-handle design offers improved reach and control. This tool cuts branches up to 1 inch thick. It suits users who want a complete, ready-to-use kit for standard hedge maintenance.
- 24-inch blade length for wider cutting swath
- Brushless motor for efficiency and longer life
- 40V 4Ah battery and charger included in kit
- Tri-handle grips for better control and reach
- Cuts branches up to 1 inch thick
- 24-inch blade is shorter than the 46cm Makita option
- 7.94-pound weight is heavier than typical cordless models
- 4Ah battery capacity may limit runtime on thick branches
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You prefer a 24-inch blade for standard hedges
- You value tri-handle grip comfort and control
- You require a blade longer than 24 inches
- You need a lighter tool under 7 pounds
- You already own compatible 40V batteries
Verdict: Husqvarna 320iHD60 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer fits users who want a complete, ready-to-use kit with a 24-inch blade and tri-handle grip for standard hedge maintenance.
Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer
Best for: reaching high hedges with adjustable angles
- Blade Length
- 460mm
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Capacity
- 10mm
- Dimensions
- 72.4 × 98.4 × 5.67 inches
- Weight
- 8.16 pounds
This Makita pole hedge trimmer features a 460mm blade with a 10mm cutting capacity. The adjustable head tilts up 60 degrees and down 75 degrees across 10 settings. The telescopic shaft extends from 1889mm to 2511mm. It weighs 8.16 pounds and includes a reverse rotation system to clear jams. You need to supply your own 18V battery and charger.
- 460mm blade length for efficient cutting
- 10mm maximum branch cutting capacity
- 10 angle settings with 60-degree up and 75-degree down tilt
- Telescopic shaft adjusts from 1889mm to 2511mm
- Reverse rotation system clears jammed branches
- 10mm cutting capacity is lower than the 60mm blade on the Husqvarna Hedge Master
- Batteries and charger are not included in the package
- 8.16-pound weight adds to user fatigue during extended use
- You need to trim hedges at heights above shoulder level
- You want precise angle control for shaping topiaries
- You already own compatible 18V Makita batteries
- You prefer a single tool for both hedge trimming and general garden cutting
- You want a lightweight option under 5 pounds
- You do not own an 18V power tool system
Verdict: Makita 18V 46cm Pole Hedge Trimmer suits users who need reach and angle flexibility for tall hedges. It is a solid choice for those with existing Makita batteries who prioritize adjustable positioning over raw cutting width.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer | Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 24-inch | 460mm |
| Power Type | Battery | – |
| Voltage | 40V | 18V |
| Cutting Capacity | 1 inch | 10mm |
| Motor Type | Brushless | – |
| Battery Capacity | 4Ah | – |
| Dimensions | 47 × 19 × 7 inches | 72.4 × 98.4 × 5.67 inches |
| Weight | 7.94 pounds | 8.16 pounds |
| Size | Battery + Charger | 1889mm to 2511mm |
| Color | Orange | Blue |
| Model | 970592602 | DUN461WZ |
Frequently asked questions
Which hedge trimmer is lighter?
The Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer is lighter at 7.94 pounds. The Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer weighs 8.16 pounds. You will feel less fatigue holding the Husqvarna model during extended use. The weight difference is slight but noticeable in your hands.
Does the Makita trimmer reach high hedges?
Yes, the Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer is designed for reach. Its size extends from 1889mm to 2511mm. This adjustable length allows you to trim tall hedges without a ladder. The Husqvarna model is a standard handheld unit and does not offer this extended reach.
What is the difference in voltage between these two?
The Husqvarna model operates at 40V, while the Makita model uses 18V. Higher voltage often correlates with more power for cutting thicker branches. The Husqvarna also features a brushless motor, which can improve efficiency. The Makita relies on its pole design for leverage rather than raw voltage.
Is the Husqvarna trimmer a complete kit?
Yes, the Husqvarna 24 in 40V Brushless Hedge Trimmer comes as a complete kit. It includes a 4.0 Ah battery and a charger. You do not need to purchase separate components to start using it. The Makita listing specifies the tool size but does not explicitly confirm included accessories in the same way.
Which model has a longer blade?
The Husqvarna hedge trimmer has a 24-inch blade length. The Makita model is described as an 18-in pole hedge trimmer, indicating an 18-inch cutting width. The wider blade on the Husqvarna allows you to cut more foliage in a single pass on standard hedges.
Can I adjust the angle on the Makita trimmer?
The Makita 18V 18-in Pole Hedge Trimmer is noted for adjustable angles. This feature helps you position the blade correctly on tall or awkward hedges. The Husqvarna model is a fixed handheld unit with a tri-handle grip, offering stability but not adjustable head positioning for overhead work.
