Sure, you may have Clooney-level clearance at your local barbershop, but everyone needs a set of the best hair clippers in their bathroom drawer for last-minute cleanups and maintenance between appointments. And for those with a more skillful hand, having the right tools can mean nixing the expensive visits altogether (similarly to having a solid beard trimmer or electric razor). Either way, the right set can help you maintain your own short, buzzed or shaved hairstyles at home, often for the price of a single appointment. (We chose the Andis Master Cordless Clipper as our top pick for its power and versatility.)
Whether you’re looking to perfect an easy fade or going for a modern, layered look, there are a few things to consider before channeling your amateur barber. You’ll want to evaluate your grooming needs and history, your hair type and overall desired look. For help, we tapped New York-based barber Julien Howard and other experts for their recommendations on the best hair clippers for men for every scenario. In addition, we’ve included smart and efficient picks beloved by our staffers as well as online reviewers.
- Best Hair Clippers Overall: Andis Master Cordless Clipper
- Best Corded Hair Clippers: Wahl Professional Magic Clip
- Best Hair Clippers For All Hair Types: BaBylissPro Barberology MetalFX Series Lithium Clipper
- Most Classic Hair Clippers: Andis BGRC Detachable Blade Clipper
- Best Hair Trimmer: Beard Trimmer By Bevel
- Best Hair Clippers For Fades: Remington Cordless PowerSeries + Titanium Haircut And Beard Trimmer 5000, HC7130
- Best Hair Trimmer For A Close Shave: Wahl 5 Star Finale Finishing Tool
- Best Value Hair Clippers: Wahl Color Pro Cordless Hair Clipper And Trimmer
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Best Hair Clippers Overall
A Versatile Option For Every Type Of Haircut
Andis Master Cordless Clipper
Attachments: None | Cordless: Yes
Here’s your pick if you want the best clippers for home use that come barber-recommended. With over 2,000 glowing reviews, this option (suitable for lengths 000 to 1) is a favorite for both pros and amateurs alike. “This has a masterfully designed aluminum body and powerful motor that can cut through any hair type,” says Howard. “The adjustable blade handle is perfect for precise fading or getting that five o’clock shadow just right. The 10-ounce weight reflects the power.” If desired, the device can also be zero-gapped, which means its teeth can be aligned to deliver the closest, sharpest cut possible (this is best avoided with sensitive skin, however).
What the reviews say:One 5-star Amazon reviewer says, “Bought these clippers to cut my boys hair. Super efficient, battery works well on a fast charge and lightweight. The cordless feature is really nice to use when trying to move around.”
What you’ll love:
- Durable and professionally-vetted
- Powerful
- Good for precise cuts
Keep in mind:
- Expensive
- Loud
- Blade clippers sold separately
Best Corded Hair Clippers
A Reliable Grooming Workhorse
Wahl Professional Magic Clip
Attachments: 8 comb guards, 3 T-trimmers | Cordless: No
Wahl’s Magic Clip is popular with barbers worldwide, according to Howard. “Many of my coworkers use them since they are comfortable to hold, but also strong [on all types of hair],” he says. The device weighs just one pound, which gives it the necessary bulk for trims while staying steady. It’s got eight comb guards and three T-trimmers, which allows for the customization and precision you need. The oil cleaning brush is a nice, included bonus.
What the reviews say: One satisfied user praises its power, saying, “The V9000 motor is basically the most powerful motor any home user would ever have use for. I wanted two things on my new set of clippers: power and price—powerful yet would not break the bank—and these clippers met those criteria for me.”
What you’ll love:
- Comb guards included
- Barber-approved
- Powerful V9000 motor
Keep in mind:
- Not cordless
Best Hair Clippers For All Hair Types
The Ferrari Of Hair Clippers
BaBylissPro Barberology MetalFX Series Lithium Clipper
Attachments: 8 combs | Cordless: Yes
BaBylissPro’s cordless clipper is notable for its customization since it has eight different attachments. You can navigate depth and detail while it steadily mows through the hair (no matter how coarse, thin, curly or coiled). Its power is owed to a Ferrari-designed engine, which holds a stunning three-hour charge. Reviewers also praise the weightless feel.
What the reviews say:“I like a close shave but hate to lather up and use a blade every morning,” says one Amazon reviewer. “With the BaBylissPro I can shave daily or push to 3 days and still get a nice close shave. My shave time is roughly 2-3 minutes, tops. It’s super easy to clean too. Might be heavy for some but I find the bulk warrants the quality cuts it gives. If you’re on the fence, let me say...just buy it. You won’t regret it.”
What you’ll love:
- Lightweight
- Sleek design
Keep in mind:
- Not as powerful
- 2-hour battery life
- Expensive
Most Classic Hair Clippers
A Streamlined Yet Powerful Option
Attachments: None | Cordless: Yes
A powerful alternative to the barber-beloved Oster Classic 76, these versatile Andis clippers work on any hair type and can also be used cordless. While it’s not quite as bulky as the Oster, it’s still a tried-and-true favorite. The heftier price tag (compared to other picks on this list) is certainly worth it.
What the reviews say:As one reviewer describes, the compact shape allows for better mobility. “I’m a female barber, so the smaller size is great for smaller hands and allows for greater mobility around kids’ shoulders and narrow spaces,” she says. “They are so quiet my clients comment all the time. They are smooth, the switch works great, and I am eager to try the cordless attachment.”
What you’ll love:
- Quiet
- Blade oil included
- Powerful
Keep in mind:
- Detachable blades sold separately
- Pricier
- Cordless battery pack sold separately
Best Hair Trimmer
Lightweight Clippers For All-Over Touchups
MOST POPULAR
Bevel Beard Trimmer
Attachments: Square and T-blade | Cordless: Yes
For clean lines and optimal definition, this lightweight, user-friendly pick features an easily adjustable blade that’s perfect for short, freshly-shaved looks—though it’s also versatile enough to tackle buzz cuts, body touch-ups or beard trimming. The ergonomic design will prevent the trimmer from slipping outside your palm. And thanks to its eight-hour charge, waiting 30 minutes after plugging in is a thing of the past.
What the reviews say:“The sleek design is for sure a plus but I am even more impressed with the utility. It works perfectly for a lineup and provides for a clean, smooth shave with no burning or irritation, and so far I have not had any issues with razor bumps. This is a must-have if you are in the market for a multi-functional trimmer,” one fan of the product says. Another reviewer says, “The packaging is in the realm of Apple packaging: very clean and professional...these trimmers are a game-changer.”
What you’ll love:
- Lightweight
- No attachments required
- Non-slip design
Keep in mind:
- Expensive
- Finicky blade
Best Hair Clippers For Fades
A Totally Customized Clip
Remington Cordless PowerSeries + Titanium Haircut And Beard Trimmer 5000
Attachments: 2 adjustable combs | Cordless: Yes
Remington’s affordable clipper has an ergo-friendly design and piercing stainless steel blades. If you’re feeling more adventurous than a buzz, this has all the guards you need to taper and fade with ease. There are two adjustable combs, plus 16 different guard attachments for a totally customized clip. Lastly, its strong, lithium-powered battery carries a 60-minute charge—or you can use it while it’s plugged in.
What the reviews say:Reviewers praise with the convenience of the gadget. “The clippers run smoothly through the hair and I didn’t notice any grabbing or pulling on the hair while cutting. I really like that you can change the length just by adjusting the slide on the back and not having to change the guard between each length, saving so much time,” says one reviewer. Another customer writes, “This powerful trimmer is great for trimming hair on the top of your head and the hair on your chin. I have used this on myself for my facial hair and on my 3-year-old son for trimming his hair. I love how easy it is to handle.”
What you’ll love:
- Affordable
- Travel-friendly
Keep in mind:
- Shorter battery life
- Less durable blade
Best Hair Trimmer For A Close Shave
A Great Alternative To A Straight Razor
Wahl 5-Star Finale Finishing Tool
Attachments: None | Cordless: Yes
This classic tool is best described as a straight razor replacement. For the sharpest look, regional barber manager atFellow BarberRaquel Fajardo suggests first trimming your hair down with an at-home device like theWahl Peanutor the Bevel pick on this list. “Once you’ve taken as much hair off as you can, use the foil shaver to get down to a baby skin finish,” she says. “If you want a buzz cut or a shaved head but would rather avoid a razor, use this.” It’s super user-friendly and leaves little room for cuts or damage to the skin.
What the reviews say:“This thing absolutely shaves as close as a disposable blade razor. No difference, other than no razor burn,” one Amazon user writes. Another says, “This is the absolute best electric razor I have ever used, hands down. Best feature: I am able to clean up my next and cheek around my beard up to three times a day with no rash.”
What you’ll love:
- What the pros use
- Attractive design
- Portable
Keep in mind:
- Foil and shaver sold separately
- Shorter battery life (90 minutes)
Best Value Hair Clippers
An Inexpensive Pick That’s Suitable For Newbies
Attachments: 8 color-coded guards | Cordless: Yes
This all-in-one kit is perfect for beginners. Thanks to a color-coded key design, it’s easy to switch between eight different guards for up to nine ultra-precise cuts. The cord is removable, meaning you can remain unplugged for up to two months in between charges. As Fajardo says, cordless options are ideal for anyone still getting the hang of the at-home trim. With over 58,000 mostly 5-star reviews, this model is wildly popular for a number of reasons including its easy-to-use guards.
What the reviews say: One user says, “This Wahl Color Pro is awesome. It’s basically foolproof. Use the colored attachments as directed and you can actually give yourself a great haircut and not scalp yourself in the process.”
What you’ll love:
- Easily portable
- A cordless option
- 9 precise guard lengths
Keep in mind:
- Shorter lifespan
How We Chose The Best Hair Clippers Of 2022
We’ve done extensive research—interviewing barbers and experts who use the tools throughout the day and on a regular basis and poring over hundreds of firsthand reviews from consumers. We’ve also tested (and loved) many of these hair clippers ourselves (also using them on partners and family members).
This article is routinely updated so that availability, prices and reviewer ratings and quotes stay up to date. We also re-evaluate our hair clipper picks to ensure that they’re still some of the best choices in their categories. This story was last updated in November 2022.
What To Consider When Shopping For Hair Clippers
There are several factors to consider when looking for the best hair clippers for you. Below, our experts weigh in on the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for one.
Hair Type
According to Howard, it’s important to think about your hair thickness and density. Men with coarse, unruly or curly hair require more power and force from clippers, compared to those with straight or thin hair.
Grooming Needs
Fajardo suggests first identifying your grooming goals. “There are so many different types of clippers, so figure out what your desired result is,” she says. It also matters ho frequently you’re planning on using hair clippers to help determine how whether investing in a professional-level tool is worth it. And though you shouldn’t technically use beard trimmers on your head, it is typically fine to use hair clippers as a beard and body trimmer, given their added power and speed.
Engineering
More weight often means more power. So while some guys might prefer a lightweight option for the ease of mobility, heft is considered a sign of high-quality engineering and can even give you a steadier hand during the haircut. Plus, clipping the hairs on your head requires more precision and force than those on your face, so don’t skimp on engineering.
Attachments
According to Fajaro, the best clippers use a lever with detachable clips and guards of various lengths—instrumental tools for guys looking to get a fade. In fact, experimenting with adjustable clippers and finding the blade that consistently delivers the same results is the key to achieving a sleek, professional look at home.
Corded vs. Cordless
Fajardo recommends cordless clippers, which are more user-friendly and universal. And if you’re new to at-home grooming, there are a whole slew of expert how-to tutorials on YouTube. A bonus tip? “Less is more,” Fajardo says. “The less grooming, the better. Start slow, using a clipper that’s first going to keep most of your hair on.”
Which Clipper Brand Is Best?
Professional clipper brands all have their specialties and a fair share of pros and cons. While it comes down to preference, your budget and hair type, clippers from Andis, Babyliss Pro and Wahl all come recommended by barbers. The pros are even known to keep multiple brands and a variety of clipper types on hand to tackle different cut styles.
What Hair Clippers Do Barbers Use?
Barbers rely on their tools to make their jobs infinitely easier and more enjoyable. And while they keep their workstations stocked with options, they come highly vetted when it comes to performance, feel, handle and versatility. However, one that can almost always be found in a workstation is the Wahl Professional Magic Clip. Julien Howard says it’s a favorite among his fellow barbers.
What Are The Best Hair Clippers For Beginners?
Shopping for your first pair of clippers can feel intimidating, but a good starting point is finding one with adjustable blades and different length guards. The Wahl Color Pro Cordless Hair Clipper And Trimmer is a great option for those learning because it comes stocked with color-coded easy-to-use guards. Once you’ve experimented with an entry-level system, you can graduate to different brands and clipper styles.
What’s The Difference Between Hair Clippers And Beard Trimmers?
Hair clippers are intended for use on longer, more coarse hair, whereas beard trimmers are designed for precise, shorter trims. The difference in how they’re made boils down to the length of the hair you’re aiming to cut. As Fajardo says, it’s certainly fine to use hair clippers for a beard trim, but beard trimmers won’t be as effective if you’re cutting or trimming longer hair.
Should You Use Hair Clippers On Wet Or Dry Hair?
Barbers generally avoid using hair clippers on wet hair. However, motor-power clippers—such as the Andis and Wahl options on this list—are comparatively more powerful and therefore versatile. For optimal results, double-check your clipper’s product specifications.
How Do You Maintain Hair Clippers?
Oil is your best bet. (Some hair clippers come with blade oil, though you’ll likely have to buy it separately.) As Andis recommends, first wipe off hair from the blades with a brush or dry towel. Then, apply small oil droplets directly to one side of the blade before running the motor for three to five seconds and repeating the process on the other side. Wipe excess oil from the blade before use. This will help prevent general wear and tear, plus discoloration.
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