Having a quality pair of hair clippers at the ready can be the difference between a great looking new ‘do or a style that’s less than fresh. To put it simply, having the right pair of clippers makes proper grooming a cinch.
Finding the best hair clippers for your ‘do means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available attachments and tool configurations. With the right hair clippers, giving yourself a trim can become a quick, over-and-done with task.
We reviewed dozens of hair clippers to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in cleaning tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated hair clippers style hounds can purchase to ensure a stylish look.
We’ve identified the OSTER Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper as the best hair clippers out there. With a 12-amp pivot motor, these hair clippers will keep your ‘do in tip top shape at all times. These benefits allow you to put your best foot forward thanks to the increased self-confidence you’ll have.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Hair Clippers
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | OSTER Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper | 4.5 |
| Runner Up | Wahl Elite Pro | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Buy | Wahl Color Pro Complete Hair Cutting Kit | 4.5 |
| Best Cordless Hair Clippers | Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit | 4.5 |
| Best Professional Hair Clippers | Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: OSTER Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper
The OSTER Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper topped our list for the best hair clippers thanks to its powerful yet quiet motor, and the ability to cut hair wet or dry. The textured, lightweight housing unit is easy to handle and easy to use, while the blades can tackle even super thick hair with ease. It comes complete with a set of four guide combs, and an adjustable Cryogen-x blade.
Most people who purchased and reviewed these clippers spoke very highly of the quality of cut these offered, and were impressed with how quiet they were. The biggest complaint about these hair clippers was that they will not do a zero gap, although some people found workarounds for that.
At a cost of around $73, these hair clippers don’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease use more than justifies that price. They have a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with more than 4,600 people reviewing them, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
OSTER Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper Key Features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- 8-foot power cord for increased maneuverability
- Includes a blade guard, lubricating oil and cleaning brush
Our Runner-Up Pick: Wahl Elite Pro
The Wahl Elite Pro hair clippers boasts a powerful and durable design that makes it a favorite choice for both professional and at-home settings. Thanks to the brand’s tapered blades, it cuts hair up to 40% faster than a basic clipper, while keeping the blades sharp for longer use. The blades come with a 5-year warranty, while the trimmer unit itself comes with a lifetime warranty — so you know it’s been built to last.
Those who purchased and reviewed these clippers found that the secure fit attachment system on the combs was much stronger than standard models, and liked the large, easy-to-read nameplates on the combs.
With a price tag of around $45, these fall about middle of the road as far as the cost of hair clippers go, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as included accessories more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.6 on Amazon with over 7,300 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Wahl Elite Pro Key Features:
- Includes a premium plastic storage case
- 8-foot power cord for increased maneuverability
- Self-sharpening precision blades designed to stay sharper for longer
Best Budget Pick: Wahl Color Pro Complete Hair Cutting Kit
The Wahl Color Pro Complete Hair Cutting Kit is one of the best kits available on the market, and won’t break the bank in order to keep you looking your best. Because these clippers can be used to trim hair all over the body, they offer an even greater bang for your buck.
Those who purchased and reviewed these hair clippers appreciated the color-coded guide system, which makes it easy for newbies to remember which comb corresponds with what hair length. Some comments mentioned that the blades needed oiled after every use, which can be a bit of a hassle for some. There has also been mention of overheating with this unit, but that can be solved by using it in shorter intervals.
At a cost of around $36, these hair clippers are a solid choice for those looking for a hair clipping option on a budget. They have a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with nearly 25,400 people reviewing them, which we think goes a long way in convincing people that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at trimming hair as its more expensive counterparts.
Wahl Color Pro Complete Hair Cutting Kit Key Features:
- Self-sharpening precision blades designed to stay sharper for longer
- 6-foot power cord
- Adjustable taper lever for easy blending
Best Cordless Hair Clippers: Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit
The Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit is a good option for those who are planning to cut their own hair at home, and comes complete with a choice of nine different combs to help get the job done right. It boasts a unique curved, extra-wide blade to provide consistent coverage, while the ergonomic design is comfortable to hold even while trimming the back of the head and behind the ears.
Those who purchased and reviewed this clipper found that its 40-minute runtime was more than enough to take care of most trim jobs. They also appreciated the compact and lightweight design that was comfortable to hold even for the full runtime.
With a price of around $59, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship, easy-to-use design, and ample accessories more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with more than 9,800 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing others that these cordless hair clippers are just as good as their corded counterparts.
Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit Key Features:
- Includes a cleaning bush, lubricating oil, and travel pouch
- Precision ground, stainless steel blades
- Washable design that conveniently rinses under the faucet for fast cleanups
Best Professional Hair Clippers: Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper
The Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper is a well-built machine that is a classic for a reason. Beloved by professional barbers for its powerful motor that can cut through wet, thick hair just as easily as the thinnest hair, its durable design can withstand the inevitable drops that are bound to happen during a busy day at the shop.
Users really appreciate that the blades of these clippers are antimicrobial and remove easily for convenient cleaning between clients. For as much power as the motor provides, those who purchased and reviewed these clippers noted that the machine was surprisingly quiet. While it is heavier than comparable models, many felt the quality of the product was worth the trade-off.
At a cost of $148, these clippers don’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of use and power more than justifies that price. They have a rating of 4.6 on Amazon with nearly 3,300 people reviewing them, which we think goes a long way in convincing others to make the investment.
Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper Key Features:
- 9-foot power cord for increased maneuverability
- Ideal for those who are new to barbering
- Includes detachable blades, blade guard, lubricating oil, clipper grease, and cleaning brush
Who Should Buy a Hair Clipper?
A hair clipper is an ideal choice for those who would like to cut their hair at home. It can be useful for parents of young children to perform quick cuts and trims. Having your own pair of hair clippers also helps to save you money on costly barber shop visits.
With your own pair of hair clippers, you can cut or trim your hair at any time. You don’t have to worry about whether or not your stylist has an appointment at a time that works for you, and you can do it from the comfort of your own home.
Some people also purchase hair clippers in order to cut their pet’s hair, although it is best to purchase a clipper set that has been specially made for the task. If you do choose to go with traditional clippers for cutting your pet’s hair, look for models that are quiet and low vibration.
Important Features to Consider
Not all hair clippers are created equal. A hair clipper set should include a variety of attachments, and be simple to operate and store. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best hair clippers for your needs:
- Motor. In order to cut through thick hair, you want clippers with a powerful motor that won’t overheat. If noise is a factor for you, search for models that offer a quiet operation, which can be especially helpful when cutting young children’s hair. For cordless models, look for those with a long enough run time for your needs.
- Length options. Whether it’s adjustable blades, guide combs, or both, having the ability to adjust the length of your cut is crucial.
- Durable guide combs. Guide combs that aren’t sturdy enough can break or vibrate loudly. While virtually all guide combs are plastic, some boast a sturdier design that seems to last longer than others.
- Blades. Another important aspect when shopping for hair clippers, blades that come and stay sharp are key to getting a quality cut. While blades on most clippers are self-sharpening, just keep an eye out for rusting, which can occur on some lower-quality models.
- Storage. If your hair clipper comes with a lot of accessories, you’ll appreciate a storage option to contain all the pieces — whether that’s a bag or a case.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a hair clippers. Hair clippers vary in price from $20-$300 or more depending on motor power, included accessories, and brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are hair clippers and how do they work?
Hair clippers are an electric or battery-powered device that trims hair. They can be used to trim the hair on the top of your head all the way to the tips of your toes, depending on the model.
What kind of hair clippers do professionals use?
Professional barbers use professional-grade hair clippers. These clippers tend to have more powerful motors, higher quality blades, and better accessories and attachments than clippers that are designed solely for at-home use.
What is the difference between open and closed hair clippers?
The difference between open and closed hair clippers is the position of the lever on the side of the unit. When in the open position, there is more blade surface area which results in a lighter cut. When the clippers are closed, you will get a tighter cut — this versatility can help you achieve precise results when cutting a style such as a fade.
Is it better to use clippers on wet or dry hair?
Whether or not it is better to use clippers on wet or dry hair will depend largely on your hair type. For hair that is long or curly, it is often helpful to dampen it slightly before trimming. On the flip side, hair that is thin or straight can often be cut dry. Some barbers find that clipping wet hair offers a more even cut, although those who cut dry like being able to see how the style looks straight away.
Other Hair Clippers We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other hair clippers. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best hair clippers list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for trimming your hair at home. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Cordless Hair Clippers
Remington PG6025 All-in-1 Lithium Powered Grooming Kit
This lithium battery-powered clipper comes complete with 8 attachments to help you tackle all of your grooming needs with ease.
Key Features:
- Self-sharpening, surgical steel blades
- Washable attachments
- Provides up to 65 minutes runtime on a single charge
Cost: $21
Wahl Clipper Rechargeable All in One Men’s Grooming Kit
These trimmers can help you tackle all of your grooming needs with ease thanks to the four included attachments heads, and up to four hours run time.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Dual voltage for use domestically and abroad
- Includes a 5-year warranty
Cost: $52
These clippers feature a 6-position adjustable guide comb which allows users to maintain an even length without the problems that many integrated guide systems have.
Key Features:
- Choose from 10 lengths from super close upwards
- Choice of corded or cordless operation
- Includes a 3-year warranty
Cost: $24
These clippers boast a waterproof design and self-sharpening blades to help you get a great trim, and come complete with six worry-free guide combs.
Key Features:
- Washable design
- USB quick-charge option
- Provides up to 2.5 hours operation
Cost: $37
Remington PG525 Head to Toe Lithium Powered Body Groomer Kit
With the eight included attachments, you’ll be able to manage all your grooming needs with this affordable set of cordless hair clippers.
Key Features:
- Self-sharpening, surgical steel blades
- Washable design
- Provides up to 70 minutes operation
Cost: $25
Braun BT3040 Men’s Ultimate Hair Clipper
Available in a choice of configurations, these clippers allow users to get a precise trim thanks to the precision length settings in 0.5mm steps, from 0.5-20mm.
Key Features:
- Automatically adapts to voltages between 100V and 240V
- Washable design
- Provides up to 60 minutes operation
Cost: $35
Remington HC6550 Cordless Vacuum Haircut Kit
This 18-piece kit comes complete with everything you need to do a proper haircut at home, including length-adjusting and tapering combs, scissors, blade oil, and more.
Key Features:
- Titanium-coated blades
- Zippered storage pouch included
- XXL vacuum bin ensures trimmed hair is captured for easy disposal
Cost: $52
Wahl Clipper Lithium Ion Cordless Rechargeable Hair Clippers
These lithium-ion powered trimmers are great for those who don’t require frequent cuts, as they offer two hours run time off a single charge, while holding a charge for up to 1 year.
Key Features:
- Self-sharpening precision blades
- 10-minute quick charge for instant power
- Includes 8 guide combs
Cost: $52
These compact trimmers come complete with four guide combs that offer a range of 13 precision length settings from 0.5-21 mm. The set also includes an ear and nose trimmer attachment and beard trimmer for total grooming ease.
Key Features:
- Automatically adapts to voltages between 100V and 240V
- Fully washable head and comb
- Provides up to 40 minutes operation
Electric Hair Clippers
Andis Professional T-Outliner Beard/Hair Trimmer
These electric clippers come pre-oiled and ready to use, and boast an extremely close-cutting blade ideal for trimming necks, beards, mustaches, and edging around the ears.
Key Features:
- Suitable for dry shaving
- Contoured housing is easy to hold
- High-quality carbon-steel blades
Cost: $59
These clippers offer a complete set of guide combs, cleaning tools, combs, scissors, and storage bag so that you can perform professional-quality haircuts from the comfort of home.
Key Features:
- Self-sharpening, precision ground blades
- Made in the USA
- Includes a 5-year warranty
Cost: $30
Wahl Groom Pro Total Body Grooming Kit
Ideal for use trimming hair on both the head and body, these electric clippers provide a clean and smooth cut with every use.
Key Features:
- Self-sharpening, high carbon steel blades
- Adjustable taper lever
- Includes a 5-year warranty
Cost: $22
Wahl Clipper Home Barber Clipper Kit #79524-3001
This hair clipper set comes complete with everything you need to achieve the style you want, including a multi-cut clipper, cordless touch up trimmer, and cordless personal trimmer.
Key Features:
- Self-sharpening, high carbon steel blades
- Includes cape and storage case
- Includes a 5-year warranty
Cost: $33
Remington HC5855 Virtually Indestructible Haircut & Beard Trimmer
Available in a choice of two different colors, these hair clippers boast a nearly indestructible design and feature an ergonomic shape and rubberized grip for a comfortable hold.
Key Features:
- POWERCUT blade system prevents snags and pulls
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- 8-foot power cord for increased maneuverability
Cost: $25
Fully adjustable from 3-15 mm, these electric clippers deliver salon-quality results from the comfort of home, and include lubricating oil, a cleaning brush, and soft storage pouch.
Key Features:
- Charges in just 2-3 hours
- Provides up to 6 hours operation
- Low vibration and low noise
Professional Hair Clippers
Wahl Professional 5-Star Cord/Cordless Magic Clip
These commercial-grade hair clippers have been designed to withstand the demands of professional use, and provide up to 90-minutes of runtime off a single charge.
Key features:
- Includes eight attachment combs, oil, cleaning brush, and instructions
- Recharging transformer also included
- High precision zero-overlap 2161 blades
Cost: $81
Andis Professional Ceramic Hair Clipper with Detachable Blade
This durable hair clipper boasts a powerful rotary motor specially designed for professional use, and features a design that is 20% lighter and 10% smaller than previous versions.
Key Features:
- Compatible with all Andis UltraEdge and CeramicEdge blades
- Quiet operation
- Can be used corded or cordless
Cost: $113
Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clipper #8110
Designed to deliver the sharp performance and reliable quality that experts demand, these hair clippers use a powerful electromagnetic motor that cuts at twice the speed of pivot motors for quick and precise cuts.
Key Features:
- Includes two attachment combs, oil, cleaning brush, instructions, and red blade guard
- 8-foot power cord for increased maneuverability
- Self-sharpening professional German-milled titanium cutting blades
Cost: $43
Wahl Professional Essentials Combo #8329
Dermatologist tested to be safe for sensitive hair and skin, these clippers offer the excellence that professional barbers demand.
Key Features:
- Includes six guide combs
- Cleaning brush, lubricating oil, and blade guard also included
- Made in the USA
Cost: $58
Andis UltraEdge Hair Clipper with Detachable Blade
These hair clippers make use of a rotary motor that is ideal for heavy-duty use. It has been specially-designed to cut hair up to 15% faster than traditional clippers.
Key Features:
- Compatible with all Andis UltraEdge and CeramicEdge blades
- Quiet operation
- Can be used corded or cordless
Cost: $104
