Clippers are an essential grooming tool that is used for trimming and cutting hair, nails, and other body hair. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs. From heavy-duty clippers used by professional barbers and stylists to small personal trimmers for grooming at home, clippers play an important role in maintaining hair and achieving different hairstyles.
In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular clipper brands and models on the market. We’ll explore why certain clippers stand out, looking at factors like cutting power, versatility, design, price, and durability. Whether you’re a pro barber looking for a top-of-the-line machine, or someone shopping for their first at-home clipper kit, this overview of the leading clipper options can help guide your search.
Top Clippers
Now that we’ve reviewed some of the leading clipper brands on the market, let’s look at a few specific models that stand out as top picks:
Wahl Senior 5-Star Clipper:
This powerful, durable corded clipper is popular among pro barbers for its ability to cut through any hair type quickly and smoothly. The adjustable taper lever provides easy fading and blending.
Andis Master Clipper:
Built to last for decades, this versatile clipper delivers strong magnetic motor cutting power with detachable blades for easy swapping, cleaning, and replacement. The adjustable taper lever allows for fading.
Oster Fast Feed Clipper:
Known for superior cooling and quiet performance, this affordable clipper uses adjustable pivot motor cutting power and easily swappable blades. The textured housing offers a sturdy grip.
Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro:
For home use, Remington’s rechargeable cordless clipper includes multiple combs for lengths between 1/16” to 1”. The lithium battery provides up to 40 minutes of clipping time and a quick recharge.
Hatteker Hair Clipper Kit:
This multipurpose cordless clipper kit comes with everything needed for clipping, trimming, edging, and detailing hair at home. The kit includes multiple guide combs, scissors, razors, and more.
Andis Slimline Pro Li T-Blade Trimmer:
Perfect for dry shaving, edging, and outlining, this powerful cordless trimmer uses T-blade technology to cut extremely close with precision. The slim shape allows for accuracy in styling and detailing.
Braun BT3040 Beard Trimmer:
With a long-lasting battery, precision dials with 39 settings, full waterproofing, and a 2-year warranty, this efficient beard trimmer makes facial hair grooming easy. Gillette blades provide a close trim.
Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium Ion+ Beard and Nose Trimmer:
For beard, nose, and ear hair grooming, this Wahl trimmer offers dual-sided stainless steel blades, adjustable guides, and up to 180 minutes of cordless power per charge. The bright LED light aids visibility.
Philips Norelco Multigroom 5000:
This versatile trimmer comes with useful attachments for trimming and styling beard, body, and head hair. The DualCut blades remain sharp even after years of use.
Panasonic ER-GB42-K Multi Professional Hair Clipper & Beard Trimmer:
With a combo of clippers and trimmers, this corded/cordless 2-in-1 kit trims and clips hair anywhere with precision and power. Stainless steel blades stay sharp.
Wahl Clippers
When it comes to hair clippers, Wahl is one of the most recognized and trusted brands among barbers and stylists. Founded in 1919, the American company focuses solely on producing professional-grade grooming products like clippers and trimmers. Their versatile clipper collections cater to all types of users performing a range of grooming tasks.
For professional barbershop use, their popular Five Star Senior clipper is lightweight, powerful, and durable for heavy daily use. It uses a V9000 motor that delivers close-cutting precision on even the thickest hair. For at-home grooming, the Wahl Color Pro Cordless Clipper provides a rechargeable cordless option with a convenient color-coded guide combs system. The Color Pro’s ergonomic shape offers great control and handling. Wahl also makes beard and detail trimmers, haircutting kits for men and women, and clippers for animal grooming. While Wahl clippers are reasonably priced for their high performance and quality, they do represent more of an investment than cheaper consumer models.
Andis Clippers
With over 90 years in the industry, Andis remains a top choice for many barbers and stylists. The sturdy Magnetic Motor Clipper is a powerful corded model that’s built to endure years of frequent use. With a quiet but strong magnetic motor, this Andis clipper zips through thick, coarse hair easily. The company’s Master adjustable-blade clipper is another popular pick, offering a versatile single-speed rotary motor and detachable blades.
For cordless convenience, the Andis Excel Li-Ion T-Outliner trimmer provides power and ease of use without a cord. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide over 2 hours of trimming time. For home grooming, the Andis Pro Alloy Home Haircutting Kit combines clippers and accessories for cutting and trimming hair at home. Andis clippers have innovative features that make grooming tasks easier, but they do range on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Oster Clippers
Known for making affordable, quality grooming products since the 1920s, Oster offers reliable, high-performing clippers suited to regular use. Their 10-Amp Pivot Motor Clipper delivers consistent, powerful cutting thanks to a durable rotary motor. The cryogen-x stainless steel blades stay sharp longer while remaining cool to the touch. Adjustable blade settings allow for different cut lengths.
For cordless freedom, the Oster Quick Cut Clipper uses lithium-ion power for 60 minutes of trimming per charge. The slim, ergonomic shape offers great control and handling. Oster’s Octane Cordless Clipper is another lightweight and rechargeable option, built for smooth quiet performance. Oster also makes clipper kits for clipping and trimming hair at home. While more budget-friendly than some pro brands, Oster clippers still deliver cutting power, durability, and ease of use.
Conair Clippers
From their salon-quality Infinity Pro line to their value grooming kits, Conair makes trusted clippers and trimmers for both professional and consumer use. The Infinity Pro Cord/Cordless Clipper lives up to its name with strong corded and cordless performance thanks to a lithium-ion battery. Titanium-coated blades stay sharp and resist rust. The clipper’s slim design offers precision and control for clipping and fading.
For beard maintenance, Conair’s Copper Beard and Stubble Trimmer provides versatility with multiple attachments for different lengths. Rechargeable and waterproof, this trimmer makes grooming efficient. Conair’s clippers and trimmers range from professional-grade models to inexpensive consumer versions. While not as heavy-duty as barbershop clippers, Conair products offer reliable quality clipping and trimming.
Remington Clippers
Remington grooming products have been around since 1937, providing affordable and dependable tools for hair maintenance. Remington clippers combine versatility and convenience at accessible price points. The Remington Virtually Indestructible Clipper easily adjusts between grades 000 to 3 for different cut lengths. The strong pivot motor remains consistent even through thick hair.
For portability, the handheld Remington Quick Cut Clipper provides power and convenience in a compact cordless body. The lithium battery lasts for 70 minutes of grooming time. Remington’s Clipper & Beard Trimmer 2-in-1 kit offers all-in-one facial hair maintenance. While not professional grade for barbershop use, Remington clippers work reliably for personal grooming needs at home.
Hatteker Clippers
For budget-conscious shoppers looking for quality and versatility, Hatteker clippers fit the bill. Their multifunctional grooming kits include both corded and cordless clippers, as well as detail trimmers, for clipping, trimming, edging, and more. The clippers use sharp stainless steel blades and strong motors to power through hair. Rotary dials allow easy length adjustments from 0.8 to 2 mm.
Cordless options like the Hatteker LED Beard Trimmer provide up to 120 minutes of trimming on a single charge. The waterproof design even allows for trimming in the shower. While they may lack the power of professional barbershop clippers, Hatteker grooming tools offer strong performance for low prices. This makes them a great option for personal use and basic trims at home.
Philips Norelco Clippers
In addition to their well-known electric shavers, Philips Norelco offers capable hair clippers and trimmers for personal use. The Multigroom 7000 trimmer features self-sharpening steel blades in an all-in-one kit with attachments for beard, body, and head hair. Lithium-ion power provides up to 5 hours of cordless use per charge.
For head hair, the Philips Norelco Hair clipper 7100 vacuum trimmer collects up to 90% of cut hairs for an easier cleanup. An integrated vacuum fan sucks up clippings as you clip. Philips Norelco also makes cordless clippers designed specifically for cutting and maintaining short buzzed hairstyles. While best suited to at-home use, Philips Norelco clippers provide easy and efficient grooming.
Panasonic Clippers
Panasonic delivers reliably performing grooming products for all needs. The Panasonic ER-GB80-S body and beard trimmer kit comes with 39-length settings for detailed trimming and sculpting. The waterproof and washable trimmer includes cleaning fluid and a charging stand. For hair clipping, the cordless Panasonic ER-SC60-K men’s clipper uses durable stainless steel blades powered by a lithium-ion battery. This lightweight all-in-one clipper easily adjusts between settings for different cut lengths.
Barbers may prefer the heavy-duty corded Panasonic ER-5141 professional hair clipper, built for durability and equipped with a powerful linear motor. While moderately priced, Panasonic clippers offer quality construction that stands up to frequent use. This makes them suitable for professionals and consumers alike.
Braun Clippers
German engineering gives Braun grooming tools an edge in performance. Braun offers thoughtfully designed clippers and trimmers for efficient, convenient use. The Braun BT5070 beard trimmer boasts long-lasting battery life with up to 100 minutes of cordless use after a 1-hour charge. The trimmer includes a Gillette Fusion ProGlide razor for an all-in-one styling kit. For head hair, the Braun HC5090 cordless clipper uses ultra-sharp blades and 39-length settings to achieve the perfect cut.
Braun’s Series 9 barbershop clipper delivers professional power and durability thanks to an adaptive motor that adjusts cutting speed as needed. While Braun grooming tools fall on the more expensive end, they provide advanced features and lasting performance. Braun’s premium clippers and trimmers have worked reliably for years, making them a worthy investment for frequent use.
Factors to Consider When Buying Clippers
With so many clippers to choose from, it helps to know what factors and features to look for depending on your needs:
- Cutting Power – A clipper’s motor determines its shear strength. Powerful magnetic motors are best for coarse or thick hair types. Pivot motors adjust blade speed while cutting. Rotary motors tend to be quieter
- Blades – Carbon steel blades stay sharp the longest. Coated stainless steel resists rusting and oil staining. Ceramic coating reduces friction and heat. Look for self-sharpening or easily replaceable blades.
- Corded vs. Cordless – Corded clippers offer continuous unlimited power, while cordless models provide flexibility and convenience. Lithium-ion batteries offer long-lasting power. Quick charge time is also useful.
- Attachments and Accessories – Look for interchangeable blades, adjustment tapers, multiple guide combs for different lengths, detail trimmers, charging stand, cleaning tools, etc. More accessories provide versatility.
- Ergonomic Design – An ergonomic shape and textured grip make for easier handling, control, and comfort during use. Compact size and lightweight models are also more maneuverable.
- Waterproofing – For wet and dry use, look for waterproof clipper models that can be used in the shower and easily cleaned under water.
- Price – Pro-quality clippers tend to range from $80 to $250, while consumer models cost $20 to $100. Evaluate costs against features and durability.
- Reliability & Warranty – Reviews can provide insight into real-world clipper performance and longevity. Longer warranties (2+ years) offer greater peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Question
1. What are the most popular hair clippers on the market right now?
There are several popular hair clippers available, including the Wahl Professional 5-Star Series, Andis Master Series, Oster Classic 76, and the Philips Norelco Multigroom Series.
2. How do I choose the right hair clipper for my needs?
Consider factors such as your hair type (thick, thin, curly), intended use (home or professional), and any specific features you need (cordless, adjustable blades, attachments). Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also help.
3. Are cordless clippers better than corded ones?
Cordless clippers offer more flexibility and convenience, but corded clippers tend to have more consistent power for longer use. The choice depends on your preference and how you plan to use them.
4. How often should I oil the blades of my hair clippers?
It’s recommended to oil your clipper blades before or after each use to maintain their performance and longevity. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific clipper you own.
5. Can I use hair clippers on wet hair?
Some clippers are designed for wet and dry use, while others are meant for dry hair only. Check the product specifications to determine if your clippers are suitable for wet hair cutting.
6. How can I clean my hair clippers?
After use, remove hair clippings by gently tapping the clipper or using a small brush. Some clippers also come with detachable blades for easier cleaning. Refer to the user manual for proper cleaning instructions.
7. Are these clippers suitable for cutting my pet’s fur?
Some hair clippers are designed specifically for pet grooming. While some human hair clippers might work, it’s generally better to use clippers designed for pets to ensure a safe and effective grooming experience.
8. Can I use hair clippers for shaving my beard or body hair?
Yes, many hair clippers come with various attachments that allow you to trim and groom facial hair, body hair, and even beards. Some clippers offer precision trimming for such purposes.
9. How long do the blades of hair clippers last?
Blade lifespan varies depending on usage frequency, maintenance, and the quality of the clippers. On average, with proper care, blades can last around 6 months to a year before needing replacement.
10. Can I sharpen clipper blades on my own?
Sharpening clipper blades requires specific tools and skills. It’s recommended to have them professionally sharpened or replaced by the manufacturer to ensure optimal cutting performance.
11. Do popular clippers come with warranty coverage?
Yes, most reputable hair clipper brands provide warranty coverage. Warranty lengths vary, but they typically range from 1 to 3 years. Be sure to check the warranty terms before purchasing.
Conclusion
Finding the right clippers comes down to identifying the features that align with your specific grooming needs. For precision trimming and styling at home, compact cordless consumer models offer convenience and versatility. Professional barbers should look for powerful durable corded clippers that can withstand all-day use on a range of hair types. And while expensive clippers might seem like an investment upfront, their superior performance often justifies the higher cost over a cheaper alternative.
No matter your needs, brands like Wahl, Oster, Andis, Remington, Panasonic, and Braun are known industry leaders producing trusted high-quality clippers. Comparing the blades, motors, attachments, and other features will help determine which model works best for you. With regular maintenance like cleaning, oiling, and replacing blades, a good clipper should deliver consistent smooth clipping for years. Whichever you choose, the right clipper will be a valuable tool in your grooming kit.