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Looking beyond the makita xnu01z lithium ion brushless cordless? 6 alternatives worth a look for those needing different specs. The Makita XNU01Z offers an 18V brushless motor and a 20-inch blade. It weighs 11.6 pounds and features an 115-degree articulating range. This setup helps you reach high branches while keeping the tool lightweight. The dual-action shear blade provides steady performance for standard trimming tasks.
You might want other options if you need more reach or a different voltage system. Some users prefer a 24-inch blade for wider cuts. Others may require 60V power for thicker branches or extended runtime. We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original model. Each option shares key traits like cordless operation or brushless motors. This ensures you can compare them directly based on published data. The list covers various brands and power types to suit your specific needs.
Alternatives to the Makita XNU01Z
Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer
This Makita model keeps the 18V brushless motor but expands the blade to 24 inches. You gain four extra inches of cutting width, which helps with wider hedges. The tool-only design means you must supply your own battery. It weighs slightly more than the 20-inch version but remains lightweight for overhead work. If you already own Makita batteries, this offers more reach without changing your power system. The extended blade covers more area per pass, reducing trimming time for medium-sized shrubs.
Greenworks 82V 24 in Pole Hedge Trimmer
Greenworks uses an 82V system, providing significantly more power than the Makita’s 18V setup. The 24-inch blade matches the wider Makita alternative but delivers stronger cutting force for tougher branches. This unit weighs just 9.04 pounds, making it lighter than the Makita XNU01Z. The pole design offers extended reach for tall hedges. You sacrifice the Makita battery ecosystem, so you need Greenworks batteries. This choice suits users who prioritize raw cutting power and low weight over brand loyalty.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 24 in Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Milwaukee offers a 24-inch blade with an 18V brushless motor. It matches the Makita voltage but provides a wider cutting path. The unit weighs 9.04 pounds, which is lighter than the Makita XNU01Z. This model fits users who already have Milwaukee 18V batteries. It lacks the articulating head of the Makita, so you cannot adjust the blade angle. This trade-off favors users who need a straight, robust cutter for thick branches rather than complex shaping. It is a solid option for standard hedge maintenance.
Bosch 18V 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer Kit
Bosch provides a complete kit with an 8.0Ah battery, unlike the Makita tool-only option. The 24-inch blade offers more width than the Makita’s 20-inch model. It uses an 18V motor, maintaining compatibility with existing 18V systems if you switch brands. The unit weighs 10.1 pounds, slightly lighter than the Makita. This setup is ideal for users who want a ready-to-use solution without buying separate batteries. The adjustable ergonomics help with comfort during long trimming sessions. It is a practical choice for residential hedging tasks.
Milwaukee 24" 18V Battery Hedge Trimmer
This Milwaukee model features a 24-inch blade and 18V power. It is lighter than the Makita XNU01Z, weighing less due to its design. The blade length provides a wider cutting path for faster trimming. You need 18V batteries, which may require switching from Makita. This tool lacks the articulating head found on the Makita. It is best for users who prioritize blade width and battery compatibility over adjustable angles. It serves as a straightforward option for standard hedge maintenance without complex features.
CAT 60V 25" Backpack Hedge Trimmer
CAT uses a 60V backpack system, offering much higher voltage than the Makita’s 18V. The 25-inch blade is the widest in this list. The backpack design distributes weight, reducing arm fatigue during extended use. The motor weighs only 7.9 pounds, significantly lighter than the handheld Makita. This system suits users with large shrubs who need sustained power. You give up the lightweight handheld convenience for a more powerful, wearable solution. It is ideal for professional or heavy-duty residential trimming sessions.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer Best overall | reaching high branches with a lightweight tool | |
| 2 | Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer Best budget | Makita battery owners needing a lightweight trimmer | |
| 3 | Greenworks 82V 24 in Pole Hedge Trimmer Best premium | Trimming tall hedges with extended reach | |
| 4 | Milwaukee M18 FUEL 24 in Cordless Hedge Trimmer Also great | thick branches and existing 18V battery users | |
| 5 | Bosch 18V 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer Kit Best 8.0ah | users wanting a complete 18V hedge trimming kit | |
| 6 | Milwaukee 24" 18V Battery Hedge Trimmer Also great | 18V battery users with medium hedges | |
| 7 | CAT 60V 25" Backpack Hedge Trimmer Best 60v | Large shrubs and extended trimming sessions |
Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
Best for: reaching high branches with a lightweight tool
- Blade Length
- 20"
- Power Type
- Battery Powered
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Dimensions
- 7.87 × 53.4 × 5.32 inches
The Makita XNU01Z is a 20-inch cordless pole hedge trimmer with a brushless motor. It weighs 11.6 pounds and offers 115 degrees of articulation across six angle settings. This design helps you reach overhead branches and low-lying hedges without moving the pole. It runs on 18V LXT batteries. You get up to 80 minutes of runtime with a 5.0Ah pack. It is a lightweight option for precise trimming tasks.
- 20-inch dual action double-sided shear blade
- Brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- 115-degree working range with six angle settings
- Weighs 11.6 pounds for reduced fatigue
- 20-inch blade is shorter than the 24-inch and 25-inch models on this list
- 18V battery system provides less power than the 60V and 82V competitors
- Tool-only version requires separate battery and charger purchase
- You need to trim high branches without a ladder
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer a lighter tool for extended overhead use
- You want a wider cutting width for faster coverage
- You need maximum power for thick, woody stems
- You prefer a complete kit with battery and charger included
Verdict: Makita 20-Inch Articulating Pole Hedge Trimmer fits users who prioritize reach and weight savings over raw cutting width. It is ideal for homeowners maintaining tall hedges with existing Makita batteries.
Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer
Best for: Makita battery owners needing a lightweight trimmer
- Blade Length
- 24"
- Power Type
- Battery Powered
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Dimensions
- 5.24 × 82.7 × 6.73 inches
This Makita XNU02Z is a cordless, brushless pole hedge trimmer with a 24-inch dual-action blade. It runs on the 18V LXT system and weighs up to 30% less than gas models. The ergonomic design offers better balance for overhead work. It suits users who already own Makita batteries and need a lightweight tool for medium-sized hedges.
- 24-inch dual-action double-sided shear blade
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Weighs up to 30% less than gas models
- Ergonomic design for superior balance
- 18V voltage is lower than the 60V and 82V options on this list
- Battery is not included in the tool-only package
- You already own 18V LXT Makita batteries
- You prefer a lighter tool for overhead trimming
- You want a 24-inch blade for medium hedges
- You need high power for thick branches
- You do not own Makita batteries
- You want a kit with a battery included
Verdict: Makita 24 in Brushless Pole Hedge Trimmer fits users who already own Makita batteries and need a lightweight tool for medium-sized hedges.
Greenworks 82V 24 in Pole Hedge Trimmer
Best for: Trimming tall hedges with extended reach
- Blade Length
- 24 in
- Power Type
- Battery
- Voltage
- 82V
- Cutting Capacity
- 1.2"
- Battery Capacity
- 2.5 Ah
- Dimensions
- 5.71 × 8.78 × 91.7 inches
This 82V cordless pole hedge trimmer features a 40-inch shaft and 24-inch dual-action blades. It delivers 4,300 strokes per minute and weighs just 9.04 pounds. The included 2.5 Ah battery provides up to 125 minutes of runtime. It is designed for users who need extended reach to trim tall hedges and shrubs without the weight of gas models.
- 82V battery system provides gas-equivalent power
- Lightweight 9.04-pound build reduces fatigue
- 40-inch shaft reaches tall hedges
- 4,300 SPM cutting speed handles thick branches
- 2.5 Ah battery capacity limits runtime compared to higher-capacity options
- Fixed 24-inch blade length restricts versatility for wider hedges
- You need to trim tall hedges without a ladder
- You prefer a lightweight tool for overhead work
- You want commercial-grade power in a cordless format
- You require a variable-length pole for tight spaces
- You need a blade length longer than 24 inches
- You already own compatible Greenworks 80V batteries
Verdict: Greenworks 82V 24 in Pole Hedge Trimmer suits homeowners with tall shrubs who value reach and low weight. It delivers strong cutting power for medium-duty tasks.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 24 in Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Best for: thick branches and existing 18V battery users
- Blade Length
- 24"
- Power Type
- Lithium-ion
- Voltage
- 18-Volt
- Cutting Capacity
- 3/4"
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Dimensions
- 43 × 8.5 × 7.5 inches
This 18-volt brushless hedge trimmer features a 24-inch blade and cuts branches up to 3/4 inch thick. It weighs 9.04 pounds and measures 43 inches long. The tool is sold without a battery or charger. You should consider this model if you already use the 18V LXT system and need a durable, high-capacity cutter for thick limbs.
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 24-inch blade length
- Cuts branches up to 3/4 inch
- 18-volt power system
- Heavier at 9.04 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Bare tool only requires separate battery purchase
- 18-volt system has lower voltage than 60V or 82V options
- You already own Milwaukee 18V batteries
- You need to cut branches up to 3/4 inch thick
- You prefer a standard 24-inch blade size
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You prefer a lighter tool under 9 pounds
- You need higher voltage for faster cutting power
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 24" Hedge Trimmer suits users who already have 18V batteries and need a robust cutter for thick branches. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing cutting capacity over weight and kit completeness.
Bosch 18V 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer Kit
Best for: users wanting a complete 18V hedge trimming kit
- Blade Length
- 24-inch
- Power Type
- Battery
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 8.0Ah
- Dimensions
- 43.1 × 9.4 × 7.5 inches
This Bosch kit includes an 18V brushless hedge trimmer with a 24-inch blade and an 8.0Ah battery. The motor runs at 2,800 strokes per minute. Anti-blocking technology helps prevent jams. The handle adjusts for different angles. It weighs 10.1 pounds. This setup suits users who want a complete tool ready for immediate use on standard hedges.
- Includes an 8.0Ah battery and charger in the box
- Brushless motor delivers 2,800 strokes per minute
- 24-inch dual-action blade cuts branches up to 1 inch thick
- Multi-position D-handle allows flexible hand placement
- Heavier at 10.1 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- 18V system may offer less runtime than higher voltage options
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You prefer an adjustable handle for comfortable cutting angles
- You want anti-blocking technology to reduce jams
- You require a lighter tool for extended overhead use
- You already own a compatible 18V battery system
- You need a higher voltage for thicker branches
Verdict: Bosch 24-Inch 18V Hedge Trimmer fits buyers who value a ready-to-use kit with an 8.0Ah battery and adjustable ergonomics for standard residential hedging tasks.
Milwaukee 24" 18V Battery Hedge Trimmer
Best for: 18V battery users with medium hedges
- Blade Length
- 24"
- Power Type
- Battery
- Voltage
- 18 V
This Milwaukee hedge trimmer features a 24-inch blade and runs on an 18-volt battery. The 24-inch cutting width handles medium hedges efficiently. You get a cordless tool designed for yard maintenance without the hassle of cords or fuel. It suits users who need a reliable, battery-powered option for trimming shrubs and hedges around their property.
- 24-inch blade length for wider cutting passes
- 18-volt battery power system
- Cordless design for easy maneuverability
- 18-volt system provides less power than 60-volt competitors
- 24-inch blade is shorter than 25-inch or 20-inch alternatives
- You need a cordless tool for medium-sized hedges
- You prefer 18-volt battery compatibility
- You want a 24-inch cutting width
- You require 60-volt power for thick branches
- You prefer a 25-inch or longer blade
- You need a backpack-style unit
Verdict: Milwaukee 24" 18V Battery Hedge Trimmer fits users who prioritize 18-volt battery compatibility and a 24-inch blade for standard hedge maintenance tasks.
CAT 60V 25" Backpack Hedge Trimmer
Best for: Large shrubs and extended trimming sessions
- Blade Length
- 25”
- Voltage
- 60V
- Cutting Capacity
- 1.3”
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 2.5Ah
- Power Type
- Cordless
The CAT DG620 is a 60V cordless hedge trimmer with a 25-inch blade and brushless motor. Its backpack design shifts battery weight from your arms, improving comfort during extended use. It offers two-speed control and a 1.3-inch cutting capacity for dense shrubs. This model suits users seeking gas-like power without the maintenance or fumes of gas engines.
- Backpack design reduces arm fatigue by offloading battery weight
- Brushless Motor 2.0 provides 40% more power than standard brushless motors
- 25-inch dual-edge blade cuts branches up to 1.3 inches thick
- Two-speed settings allow 3,200 SPM for light trimming or lower speed for dense shrubs
- Heavier build at 7.9 pounds compared to handheld alternatives
- Smaller 2.5Ah battery capacity limits runtime compared to higher-capacity options
- Shorter 25-inch blade length than the 24-inch or 20-inch models on this list
- You need to trim large hedges without arm strain
- You want gas-like power without fuel maintenance
- You prefer adjustable speed settings for different tasks
- You prefer a lightweight handheld tool for quick jobs
- You need a longer blade for wider hedges
- You want a tool-only kit without a backpack system
Verdict: CAT DG620 60V Brushless Backpack Hedge Trimmer fits users who prioritize comfort and power for large shrubs. Its backpack design and brushless motor make it ideal for extended trimming sessions.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer | Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer | Greenworks 82V 24 in Pole Hedge Trimmer | Milwaukee M18 FUEL 24 in Cordless Hedge Trimmer | Bosch 18V 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer Kit | Milwaukee 24" 18V Battery Hedge Trimmer | CAT 60V 25" Backpack Hedge Trimmer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 20" | 24" | 24 in | 24" | 24-inch | 24" | 25” |
| Power Type | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery | Lithium-ion | Battery | Battery | – |
| Voltage | 18V | 18V | 82V | 18-Volt | 18V | 18 V | 60V |
| Cutting Capacity | – | – | 1.2" | 3/4" | – | – | 1.3” |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | – | Brushless | Brushless | – | Brushless |
| Battery Capacity | – | – | 2.5 Ah | – | 8.0Ah | – | 2.5Ah |
| Cutting Width | 20-Inch | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 7.87 × 53.4 × 5.32 inches | 5.24 × 82.7 × 6.73 inches | 5.71 × 8.78 × 91.7 inches | 43 × 8.5 × 7.5 inches | 43.1 × 9.4 × 7.5 inches | – | 16 × 5.3 × 11 inches |
| Weight | 11.6 pounds | – | 9.04 pounds | 9.04 pounds | 10.1 pounds | – | 7.9 pounds |
| Size | 20" | – | 24" Mid Pole (2.5Ah) | – | 431 in | 24 inches | – |
| Color | Teal | Teal | Green | Black,Red,Silver | Blue | Black | Black, Yellow |
| Model | XNU01Z | XNU02Z | 82PH40F1 | 2726-20-m18 | GHE18V-60-2N18X | 3033-21 | DG620 |
Frequently asked questions
Is there a 24-inch blade option in this lineup?
Yes, several alternatives feature 24-inch blades. The Makita XNU02Z offers a 24-inch blade with an 18V brushless motor. The Greenworks 82PH40F1 also provides a 24-inch blade. Milwaukee models 2726-20-m18 and 3033-21 both include 24-inch cutting widths. Bosch offers a 24-inch blade in its GHE18V-60-2N18X kit. These longer blades handle wider hedges more efficiently than the 20-inch XNU01Z.
Which hedge trimmer is the lightest to use?
The CAT DG620 is the lightest option at 7.9 pounds. Its backpack design distributes weight across your body. The Greenworks 82PH40F1 weighs 9.04 pounds, making it very portable. The Milwaukee 2726-20-m18 also weighs 9.04 pounds. These lightweight tools reduce fatigue during extended trimming sessions compared to heavier models.
Do any of these use 60V batteries?
The CAT DG620 operates on a 60V system. This higher voltage supports its brushless motor for thick branches. Most other options use 18V or 82V systems. The Makita tools use 18V batteries. The Bosch kit includes an 8.0Ah 18V battery. The Greenworks uses an 82V platform. Choose based on your existing battery ecosystem.
Which model is best for reaching high branches?
The Makita XNU01Z has an articulating head for high branches. It weighs 11.6 pounds and reaches up to 53.4 inches. The Greenworks 82PH40F1 reaches 91.7 inches with a mid-pole design. The Makita XNU02Z extends to 82.7 inches. These pole styles help you trim tall hedges without a ladder.
Are there brushless motor options available?
Yes, several models use brushless motors for efficiency. The Makita XNU01Z and XNU02Z both feature brushless motors. The Milwaukee 2726-20-m18 includes a brushless motor. The CAT DG620 also uses a brushless design. Brushless motors typically offer longer runtime and less maintenance than brushed alternatives.
Which kit includes the largest battery?
The Bosch GHE18V-60-2N18X includes an 8.0Ah battery. This capacity supports longer runtime for standard residential tasks. The Greenworks 82PH40F1 comes with a 2.5Ah battery. Other models are tool-only, requiring you to supply your own battery. The Bosch kit is ready to use out of the box.
Is there a backpack style hedge trimmer?
The CAT DG620 features a backpack design. It weighs 7.9 pounds and balances weight on your back. This style reduces arm fatigue during long jobs. Other models are handheld pole trimmers. The CAT design is ideal for extended trimming sessions on large shrubs.
