Best Hair Clippers UK (2026)
A good set of clippers can save a monthly trip to the barber, and the difference between models comes down to motor power, cutting range and how long a cordless model lasts between charges. This guide compares clippers tested by Expert Reviews, from budget corded picks to a genuine professional-grade model.
We have not hands-on tested these products. Our picks are based on published independent tests and reviews, listed at the bottom of this page. How we pick.
Our top pick
Wahl Lithium Power Hair Clipper
Best wireless
Expert Reviews found this gives a beard and hair trim every week for several weeks on a single charge, with decent build quality and a simple design that minimises what can go wrong. It comes with a full grade 1-8 comb set, ear tapers, scissors, comb, blade oil and a storage pouch.
- Strong battery life for weekly use
- Simple, reliable design
- Full accessory set including ear tapers and scissors
Quick comparison
| Product | Best for | Key spec | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wahl Lithium Power Hair Clipper | Best wireless | 120 minutes runtime from a 3-hour charge, grade 1-8 (3-25mm), full accessory set | Check price |
| Wahl Colour Pro Cordless | Best budget cordless | 60 minutes runtime after a 12-hour charge, grade 1-8 (3-25mm) | Check price |
| Remington HC5035 Colour Cut Hair Clipper | Best under £30 | 0.5-25mm cutting range via 9 combs, mains-powered | Check price |
| Wahl Colour Pro Corded | Best for thick or unruly hair | Grade 1-8 (3-25mm), mains-powered, includes barber's scissors | Check price |
| Oster 606 Pro Power Adjustable Blade Pivot Motor Clipper | Best for professional/retro style | Adjustable blade grade 0-1 (0.5-2.4mm), pivot motor, wet or dry use | Check price |
Our picks in detail
Best wireless
Wahl Lithium Power Hair Clipper
Expert Reviews found this gives a beard and hair trim every week for several weeks on a single charge, with decent build quality and a simple design that minimises what can go wrong. It comes with a full grade 1-8 comb set, ear tapers, scissors, comb, blade oil and a storage pouch.
- Power
- Mains or cordless (120 min after 3hr charge)
- Cutting range
- Grade 1-8 (3-25mm)
- Weight
- 288g
Pros
- Strong battery life for weekly use
- Simple, reliable design
- Full accessory set including ear tapers and scissors
- Works corded or cordless
Cons
- Pricier than basic budget clippers
Best budget cordless
Wahl Colour Pro Cordless
A more basic cordless experience than the Wahl Lithium, without a taper lever and with more limited battery life, but Expert Reviews found it a solid choice for a cheap cordless clipper. It works both plugged in and cordless, with combs for grades 1-8, ear tapers, oil, comb, scissors and a travel pouch included.
- Power
- Mains or cordless (60 min after 12hr charge)
- Cutting range
- Grade 1-8 (3-25mm)
- Price guide
- £24
Pros
- Affordable cordless option
- Works corded or cordless
- Comes with a full accessory set and travel pouch
Cons
- No taper lever
- Long 12-hour charge time for only 60 minutes of use
Best under £30
Remington HC5035 Colour Cut Hair Clipper
Expert Reviews found this punches above its weight for the price, covering the shortest lengths from 0.5-2mm for hairlines up to grade 8 with nine included combs plus two ear tapers. Being mains-powered means it handles beards with few problems, though it's noticeably heavier than other models and doesn't come with a storage case.
- Power
- Mains
- Cutting range
- 0.5mm-25mm
- Weight
- 800g
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Handles beards well thanks to mains power
- Comprehensive 9-comb set with ear tapers
Cons
- Heavier and bigger than most
- Cuts hair slower than pricier models
- No storage case included
Best for thick or unruly hair
Wahl Colour Pro Corded
Sits at the budget end of the market but Expert Reviews found it especially good at getting through thick hair and beards, styled a little more smartly than the entry-level Remington. It comes with a full grade 1-8 comb set, hand comb, barber's scissors and blade oil at a very reasonable price.
- Power
- Mains
- Cutting range
- Grade 1-8 (3-25mm)
- Weight
- 227g
Pros
- Handles thick hair and beards well
- Well-designed for the price
- Includes barber's scissors and blade oil
Cons
- Colour-coded combs no longer a unique selling point at this price
Best for professional/retro style
Oster 606 Pro Power Adjustable Blade Pivot Motor Clipper
A serious investment from a US brand that's supplied barbers for over 100 years, with an adjustable blade covering grade 0 to grade 1 plus four attachment combs up to grade 4. Expert Reviews notes the vintage styling looks the part, though there's no storage case included and a fuller comb set costs extra.
- Power
- Mains
- Cutting range
- Grade 0-4 (0.5-12mm), up to grade 8 with extra combs
- Weight
- 800g
Pros
- Genuine professional-grade build
- Adjustable blade for fine control
- Can be used wet or dry
- Classic, stylish retro design
Cons
- Expensive
- No storage case included
- Full grade 1-8 comb set costs extra
Buying guide
Corded or cordless clippers?
Mains-powered clippers give consistent full power throughout use, which some find better for thick or unruly hair, and they never run out of charge mid-cut. Cordless models are easier to manoeuvre single-handed if cutting your own hair and are more portable for travel, though they typically cost more for similar quality.
What do clipper grades mean?
Grades indicate how short the clipper cuts using comb attachments: grade 1 is roughly 3mm and grade 8 is around 25mm. Most clippers, like those in this guide, come with a comb set spanning grades 1-8, plus tapered combs for neatly trimming around the ears.
How much should I spend on clippers?
Most clippers sell for under £50 and can give a good or excellent cut depending on skill, while professional barbers typically pay £100 or more, like the Oster 606 here. As a rule, expect the difference in price to buy stronger motors, sharper blades and better durability rather than a fundamentally different cutting result for occasional home use.
How long does cordless battery life need to be?
For a single haircut, 20-30 minutes of runtime is usually enough, but models with 60-120 minutes like those in this guide give more headroom for beard trims too or if you're cutting more than one person's hair. Also check charging time, since some budget cordless models take up to 12 hours to fully charge.
Sources
Related guides
Best Electric Shavers UK
Foil and rotary electric shavers compared by closeness of shave, comfort and battery life, from budget picks to premium shaving systems.
Best Electric Toothbrushes UK
Sonic and rotary electric toothbrushes compared by cleaning, battery life and features.
Best Hair Dryers UK
Hair dryers compared by hair type, power and weight, from travel-friendly picks to salon-grade dryers.
Best Hair Straighteners UK
Hair straighteners compared by plate width, heat control and price, from budget buys to cordless and steam options.