When you shop through links on our site, we may receive compensation. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or consultation.

7 Best Loppers for Your Yard of 2024

Updated
Cut away unwanted branches with the best loppers available. 

With tons of loppers available on the market, finding the best tool for cutting thick stems in your yard can be challenging.

I’ve researched genuine customer reviews and gathered the best expert advice to create a comprehensive list of the best seven loppers on the market. Applying my insight, I’ve compiled the most significant details about each lopper, so you don’t need to do the gritty research.

Whether you’re looking for anvil loppers, a durable tool, or extendable handles, there should be something for every gardener on this list.

Our Top Picks

We independently assess, research, and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Tabor Tools GG12A Anvil Lopper
Best Anvil Lopper
Tabor Tools GG12A Anvil Lopper
  • Designed with arthritic wrists in mind
  • Cuts up to two inches thick
  • Non-stick coating on the blade
Product Image of the Fiskars 28 Inch Bypass Lopper
Best Lightweight Lopper
Fiskars 28 Inch Bypass Lopper
  • Shock-absorbing bumpers
  • Low-friction blade coating
  • Full lifetime warranty
Product Image of the Corona Compound Action Anvil Lopper
Best Durable Lopper
Corona Compound Action Anvil Lopper
  • Contoured handles with foam grips
  • 1.5-inch diameter cutting capacity
  • Withstands wear and tear
Product Image of the Thanos Extendable Anvil Loppers
Best Heavy-Duty Lopper
Thanos Extendable Anvil Loppers
  • Extendable handle from 27 to 40 inch
  • Cut branches up to 2 inches thick
  • Lock system for added safety
Product Image of the SteelHead Gear Bypass Lopper
Best Extendable Lopper
SteelHead Gear Bypass Lopper
  • Anti-blister duragrip rubber handles
  • Non-stick finish on blades
  • 3x more force than other loppers
Product Image of the Gonicc Anvil Lopper
Best Ergonomic Lopper
Gonicc Anvil Lopper
  • Labor-saving lever design
  • Ergonomic handles for comfort
  • Sharp SK-5 blade for effortless cutting
Product Image of the WilFiks Mini Bypass Lopper
Best Budget Lopper
WilFiks Mini Bypass Lopper
  • 15-inch handle keeps you in control
  • Lightweight at only 1.36 pounds
  • Ergonomic non-slip handle

Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, our comprehensive analysis of the best loppers is designed with you, the user, in mind. Our experienced professionals have conducted extensive research and hands-on testing to evaluate products based on key factors and criteria, such as cutting capacity, blade quality, and overall performance. We compare the top loppers available, assessing their design choices, durability, and ease of use to determine what sets them apart from competitors. Our data-driven findings and first-hand experience allow us to provide reliable recommendations and quantitative measurements of each product’s performance. In this review, we rank, score, and measure the top ten loppers on the market, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. Trust our expertise, and let us guide you to the perfect lopper for your gardening needs.



The Best Loppers of 2024

Let’s find you a tool to chop away all unwanted branches in your yard. After researching dozens of products, hundreds of customer reviews, and expert advice, I’ve created a list of the seven best loppers available. The analysis considered each lopper’s blade style and material, cutting mechanism and diameter, and length, amongst other features.

Dive into this accessible guide and reviews to help you find the right lopper for your garden.

Tabor Tools GG12A Anvil Lopper

Best Anvil Lopper

This anvil lopper by Tabor Tools is one of the most renowned on the market, with thousands of happy customers.

If you’re in the market for an anvil lopper, this one is capable of cutting thicker branches than bypass anvils. That’s right — this tool has a two-inch cutting diameter!

These loppers are fantastic for pruning green growth and dry growth, making them a versatile choice. They also have a compound action system with multiple pivoting points. This increases the cutting force behind the blades, making it very easy to use.

Another excellent feature is the 30-inch ergonomic handles. These comfortable grips make it easier to tackle thick branches and reduce fatigue during use.

And what about the steel? The blades are made from hardened carbon steel that’s designed to remain sharp even after vigorous use. It even has a non-stick coating to reduce gunk sticking to the blades!

Pros

  • Designed with arthritic wrists in mind for comfort.
  • Removes fresh and dry branches up to two inches thick.
  • Rubberized handles for comfortable grip.
  • Non-stick coating on the blade for smooth, effortless cutting.
  • Compound action system increases the cutting force.

Cons

  • Not the cheapest option.
  • Must apply force for cutting anything thicker than 1.5 inches.
  • Blades aren’t very durable; some customers report that they snapped.

Product Specs

Blade Style Anvil
Blade Material Carbon steel
Cutting Mechanism Compound action
Length 30 inches
Cutting Diameter Up to 2 inches

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
4 / 5
Cutting Capacity
4.5 / 5
Handle Length
5 / 5
Ergonomics
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

My experience with these tree clippers has been excellent, as they handle even thick branches with ease. The sharp, heavy-duty blades make cutting through various types of wood feel like slicing butter, and the long handles and compound action provide the necessary leverage for larger branches. However, their size can make them difficult to maneuver in dense bushes.

Fiskars 28 Inch Bypass Lopper

Best Lightweight Lopper

Loppers can be quite heavy, often exceeding four pounds. If you want something a bit lighter, you may like the sound of this 2.9-pound option from Fiskars. The lightweight design makes it easy to use for a while before experiencing fatigue.

Besides that, these are very handy for live branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter. The steel blades are hard and precision-ground, making them sharp and durable.

Customers love the shock-absorbing bumpers, which are a unique and sought-after feature. This makes the cutting experience much smoother and prevents the jarring sensation you may experience with other loppers. Overall, this provides a comfortable experience when cutting branches all around your garden.

As for the blades, they are rust-resistant, so even if you leave them outside in the rain by accident, there shouldn’t be any damage. The low-friction coating also ensures smooth cutting through wood without the nasty build-up of gunk, such as sap.

Pros

  • Shock-absorbing bumpers make smoother cuts.
  • Low-friction blade coating for smooth cuts.
  • Full lifetime warranty.
  • Budget-friendly, costing less than the average lopper.
  • Only weighs 2.9 pounds.
  • Cuts branches up to 1.5 inches thick.

Cons

  • Not made for heavy use.
  • Cutting edge dulls quite quickly.
  • Handles may not always stay locked into place.

Product Specs

Blade Style Bypass
Blade Material Steel
Cutting Mechanism Manual
Length 28 inches
Cutting Diameter Up to 1.5 inches

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
4 / 5
Cutting Capacity
3 / 5
Handle Length
4 / 5
Ergonomics
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

Love this product for its lightweight design and surprising cutting strength! At first, I doubted its ability to cut through 1" hardwood branches, but it exceeded my expectations. The rust-resistant blade is sharp, and the gear reduction mechanism at the jaws makes cutting much easier than I anticipated. This product is perfect for smaller pruning tasks and even suitable for my 13-year-old daughter to use without tiring her out. The only minor issue is the occasional need to tighten the bolts that hold the blades together, but that is a small inconvenience for an otherwise excellent tool.

Corona Compound Action Anvil Lopper

Best Durable Lopper

Your loppers are going to put up with a lot in the garden. They need to withstand repeated cutting of various branches, as well as all the gunk that may come from the foliage. That’s why you need something durable, such as the Corona loppers.

These lopper handles are made with durable fiberglass, which many experienced lopper users swear by. The blades are high-carbon steel with a PTFE non-stick coating, making the design both heavy-duty and very easy to use.

More good news: you can resharpen the blade! So if it dulls, that’s not the end of the lopper’s life.

The blade and anvil are also replaceable. So, if anything goes wrong, you can purchase replacement parts instead of a whole new product.

Keep in mind that this product is specifically for dead, dry wood. That said, it does an astounding job on these types of branches. The compound action lever and carbon blade work well together to make strong and forceful cuts where you need them most.

Pros

  • Contoured handles with foam grips for comfort.
  • 1.5-inch diameter cutting capacity.
  • Made for daily use; withstands wear and tear.
  • Blade and anvil can be replaced if necessary.
  • Compound action lever for making powerful cuts.
  • Coated non-stick blade is easy to clean.

Cons

  • Not designed for live branches.
  • Foam grips on handles may slide or rip.

Product Specs

Blade Style Anvil
Blade Material High-carbon steel
Cutting Mechanism Compound action
Length 32 inches
Cutting Diameter Up to 1.5 inches

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Capacity
4 / 5
Handle Length
4.5 / 5
Ergonomics
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this anvil pruner has been fantastic, as it is capable of cutting through large limbs with ease. I've used this product for several years and it has held up well, even during heavy-duty use. The anvil style allows for precise cuts up against the trunk, making it perfect for pruning my numerous citrus trees. I appreciate that replacement parts are available, but the durability of the pruner means I haven't needed them yet. Although the handles could be a bit longer, overall, I am extremely satisfied with the performance and quality of this product.

Thanos Extendable Anvil Loppers

Best Heavy-Duty Lopper

You can use these Thanos loppers for heavy-duty jobs thanks to their SK-5 steel blade construction. It’s coated with Japanese Teflon, making it hard, sharp, rust-resistant, and non-slick. So you’ll find this glides beautifully through wood, time and time again.

I appreciate the extendable handle, which goes from 27 to 40 inches long with six different sections for measurements in between. There is also a safety release lock button, making it an efficient design. The extendable handle allows you to work flexibly and get into hard-to-reach areas.

This blade is designed to cut through tree branches up to two inches thick, making it more heavy-duty than many competitors.

It’s not a super heavy lopper, either. Weighing less than 3.4 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver but still sturdy. The rod is aluminum alloy, which is rust-resistant and comfortable to hold. Customers also love that the anti-slip rubber coating on the handle is ergonomic and reduces vibration.

Pros

  • This lopper has many versatile uses.
  • Extendable handle from 27 to 40 inches long.
  • Suitable for both living and dead branches up to two inches thick.
  • Lock system for added safety.
  • Sharp and durable SK-5 steel.
  • Only weighs 3.31 pounds.

Cons

  • The handles aren’t durable and may slip out of place.
  • Requires some effort to cut thicker branches.

Product Specs

Blade Style Anvil
Blade Material SK-5 steel
Cutting Mechanism Compound action
Length 27-40 inches
Cutting Diameter Up to 2 inches

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
5 / 5
Cutting Capacity
5 / 5
Handle Length
5 / 5
Ergonomics
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Definitely impressed with how sharp and effective this product is for pruning unwanted branches. As a relatively short person, I found the adjustable handle extenders made it easy to reach taller and thicker branches without needing a step stool. These loppers are lightweight and easy to store, thanks to the telescoping handles. I've used them on various trees, bushes, and shrubs, and they consistently provided precise cuts, even on harder, dead limbs.

SteelHead Gear Bypass Lopper

Best Extendable Lopper

For many people, extendable handles are essential because they offer added flexibility. You can use these SteelHead loppers in hard-to-reach places to clean up and prune every inch of your garden. These loppers are easily extendable from 27 to 40 inches for generous versatility!

The design also allows you to cut back stubborn and thick shrubs and trees due to the compound-ratcheting-gear jaw. This combines three cutting mechanisms to create triple the force of some other loppers. This feature allows you to do more while experiencing less fatigue.

Despite the long handles and the somewhat heavy weight (4.03 pounds), these are comfortable to use. The ergonomic handles are easy to hold. They have a non-slip handle, which allows you to grip it well, no matter what size your hands are.

In terms of cutting, the capacity of these loppers is 1.75 inches, which is good for stubborn and thick branches. The lower jaw also grips hard, which prevents the branch from moving around while you’re cutting it, which is a handy feature to have.

Pros

  • Japanese SK-5 steel for durability and hardness.
  • Anti-Blister DURAGRIP rubber grips on handles.
  • Non-stick finish on blades for preventing build-up.
  • 3x more force than other loppers.
  • Best for dry and dead branches.
  • Lifetime Protection warranty.

Cons

  • 4.03 pounds is a bit heavy for some people.
  • Customers reported they don’t ratchet as expected.

Product Specs

Blade Style Bypass
Blade Material High carbon steel
Cutting Mechanism Compound-ratcheting-gear
Length 27-40 inches
Cutting Diameter Up to 1.75 inches

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Capacity
4 / 5
Handle Length
5 / 5
Ergonomics
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Best of both worlds, these hand shears are lightweight and easy to carry, yet they pack a powerful cutting ability. I especially appreciate the plastic tip that protects my pocket from fraying when I carry them around. The adjustable handles are a nice touch, making the shears versatile for different tasks. However, I did find that the ratchet function didn't quite work as expected. Despite this minor issue, the overall performance and durability of these shears are impressive for their reasonable price.

Gonicc Professional Anvil Lopper

Best Ergonomic Lopper

If you’re looking for something comfortable and easy to use for long periods of time, consider these Gonicc loppers.

These loppers have ergonomically rubber handles with soft grips, which will allow you to comfortably hold and maneuver the loppers around your yard.

The loppers are also more lightweight than a few other options at 3.7 pounds. Despite the lighter weight, it’s still very sturdy. The handle is also rust-resistant, which is more durable and opens up your storage options.

This anvil lopper works on fruit trees, landscaping, potted plants, and many more areas. So, if you have a variety of foliage in your yard, these loppers may be just right. Moreover, the extra leverage system can increase the blade force and save effort.

These loppers are also heavy-duty, with the ability to cut branches up to two inches in diameter. The sharp, durable SK-5 blade allows you to cut through these thick branches effortlessly.

Pros

  • Labor-saving lever design.
  • Ergonomic handles for comfort.
  • Durable multipurpose tool.
  • Sharp SK-5 blade for effortless cutting.
  • Two-inch cutting diameter.

Cons

  • Higher price point for some customers.
  • Requires effort for thicker branches.
  • Plastic blade cover isn’t the most durable.

Product Specs

Blade Style Anvil
Blade Material SK-5 steel
Cutting Mechanism Compound action system
Length 23 inches
Cutting Diameter Up to 2 inches

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Capacity
5 / 5
Handle Length
4 / 5
Ergonomics
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this product has been mostly positive, as it made quick work of cutting through stubborn bushes and branches in my garden. However, I did find the handle spread a bit challenging when using it on a ladder or close to the ground, and the rubber grips required some extra adhesive to stay in place. While the loppers are slightly heavy for extended use or reaching high branches, their sharp blade and durable construction make them a reliable tool for tackling tough gardening tasks.

WilFiks 15-Inch Mini Bypass Lopper

Best Budget Lopper

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a good pair of loppers. The WilFiks bypass loppers are more affordable than the average pair of loppers, yet they have hundreds of happy customers.

They’re made with a sharp, forged carbon steel blade. This allows even and smooth cuts up to one inch in diameter.

Another awesome feature is that this is one of the lightest pairs of loppers on the market. They only weigh 1.36 pounds, so they’re easy to maneuver and use, especially for long periods. Despite the light weight, you can trust that the loppers are made from durable materials.

The handles also feature shock-absorbing bumpers to ensure a smooth cutting experience. Combine that with the gripped handles, the entire pair of loppers is comfortable and easy to use. The secure grips have a non-slip grip, so you can use them all day, rain or shine.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly at a fair price point.
  • Carbon steel blade.
  • Very lightweight at only 1.36 pounds.
  • Ergonomic non-slip handle.
  • Suitable for branches, flowers, trees, and more.
  • Fifteen-inch handle keeps you in control.

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty work.
  • Limited cutting force.
  • Shorter handle; not best for hard-to-reach places.

Product Specs

Blade Style Bypass
Blade Material Carbon steel
Cutting Mechanism Manual
Length 15 inches
Cutting Diameter One inch

Our Ratings

Blade Quality
3.5 / 5
Cutting Capacity
2.5 / 5
Handle Length
3 / 5
Ergonomics
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.25 / 5

Community Feedback

This product has truly made trimming trees and bushes an effortless task. Not only are these cutters lightweight and sharp, but they work well on a variety of branch thicknesses. As a senior, I find them a bit heavier than I'd prefer, but their durability and quality construction make them worth keeping.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Blade Style Blade Material Cutting Mechanism Length Cutting Diameter
Tabor Tools GG12A Anvil Lopper Anvil Lopper Anvil Carbon steel Compound action 30″ Up – 2″
Fiskars 28 Inch Bypass Lopper Lightweight Lopper Bypass Steel Manual 28″ Up – 1.5″
Corona Compound Action Anvil Lopper Durable Lopper Anvil High-carbon steel Compound action 32″ Up – 1.5″
Thanos Extendable Anvil Loppers Heavy-Duty Lopper Anvil SK-5 steel Compound action 27-40″ Up – 2″
SteelHead Gear Bypass Lopper Extendable Lopper Bypass High carbon steel Comlb-ratcheting-gear 27-40″ Up – 1.75″
Gonicc Anvil Lopper Ergonomic Lopper Anvil SK-5 steel Compound action system 23″ Up — 2″
WilFiks Bypass Lopper Budget Lopper Bypass Carbon steel Manual 15″ Up — 1″

How To Choose the Best Loppers

When selecting a lopper, it is important to know what features to consider in order to find the right one for your needs.

Blade Style

There are three types of loppers: anvil, bypass, and powered.

Anvil loppers are the toughest. They are great for clearing away a lot of dense stems. With a single blade that cuts close to the lopper base, these require little effort from the user. Anvil loppers usually have sturdy blades made from steel, but some feature a non-stick coating to prevent the blades from getting stuck on a branch.

Bypass loppers are the most common kind of loppers with two blades that work like scissors. They will give you a super clean cut, which is great for the plant’s health since the stem can heal quickly. However, they aren’t ideal for dead or dry branches as they can jam and bend the blade.

Powered loppers work brilliantly for cutting through thick branches — usually up to four inches — without having to do much of the hard work.

You’ll find both corded and cordless powered loppers, which both have advantages. Corded ones have an endless power supply, whereas cordless ones allow you to maneuver wherever you want.

Buying Tip

Deciding which type of loppers you want will narrow down your search, making shopping much easier.

Blade Material

Most loppers are made from steel or carbon steel, which are durable, heavy-duty materials. While experts recommend either of these materials, you may want to go a step further and look for one with a non-stick coating. This prevents gunk from sticking to the blade, making it easier to clean.

Cutting Mechanism

There are four main types of cutting mechanisms.

  • Manual: This is the most simple, which features a single screw, so the loppers work like scissors. These loppers are best for narrow branches. If you cut extra thick branches, it will require more effort for you, which can lead to frustration.
  • Ratcheting: Ratcheting loppers are easier to use since you can get a wider and stronger grip. Just squeeze the handles together, and the blade will latch on the branch. It’s also good for thicker stems since many ratcheting loppers allow you to open and close the handles a few times.
  • Compound action: These loppers have one or more pivoting arms, which increase the cutting force. They are ideal for cutting thick branches and often have extra steel for added cutting power. It’s important to note that using compound action loppers may cause fatigue since they are heavier.
  • Gear Action: These loppers have oval section handles rather than round tube handles. In some cases, they are easier to use because they provide extra strength and are less likely to jam.

It’s important to choose the appropriate cutting mechanism depending on what kind of branches you’ll be cutting and how thick they are.

Size and Weight

Consider the size of the loppers. You can measure this in inches from tip to tip. Most are around 30 inches long, but many are adjustable up to 40 inches if you want the extra length.

You should also consider the weight. Loppers aren’t the lightest garden tools, usually weighing around four pounds. There are some for under three pounds, though, if you want a lightweight option.

The cutting capacity is also a key feature to consider. This measures the branch width it’s capable of cutting. Most are between one and two inches, but some go higher if you have thicker branches you need to cut.

These details will measure how easy it will be for you to use. If you want something particularly easy, you may want to choose a lightweight option with adjustable handles and a large cutting capacity.

Ergonomics

The better the handle, the easier it will be to use for long periods. Consider looking for something with a cushioned, non-slip grip that’s comfortable to hold for long periods. Some loppers also have a slight curve that fits more ergonomically in the user’s hands.

Budget

Lastly, consider your budget. Loppers tend to be between $30 and $60. If you’re on a budget, you can find a high-quality option between $35 and $45. Thankfully, I do include a suggestion that’s even less than that.


Tips for Using and Maintaining Loppers

Here are some handy tips for using your loppers safely and keeping them in good shape:

  • Note cutting diameter: Don’t exceed the recommended diameter. If your loppers are made for cutting branches up to 1.5 inches thick, don’t cut two-inch branches.
  • Position the branch: Situate the branch deep into the blade before cutting. This will make an effective cut and reduce fatigue.
  • Don’t over-extend handles: Extending the lopper handles is handy, but it can increase fatigue. Only extend the handles when necessary.
  • No twisting: Don’t twist the loppers, as this will make an unclean cut.
  • Choose the right tool: Don’t use loppers where you could use pruning shears. It may be tempting to always reach for one tool, but pruners often suffice. If you overuse the loppers, they’ll wear out more quickly.
  • Sharpen the loppers: Keep your loppers sharp by sharpening them when you can and ensuring you don’t misuse them, which can dull them down quickly.
  • Blade maintenance: Keep the blades clean and dry, especially before storing them. Check out the user manual for other specific advice from the manufacturer, such as oiling the loppers.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between a Lopper and a Pruner?

Pruners are one-handed cutters with a maximum cutting diameter of around half an inch or less. They are better for flowers and smaller plants.

Loppers require two hands to grip longer handles. They are better for medium-sized branches, usually between one and two inches thick. This makes them a great choice for shrubs, trees, plants, and flowers.

How Do You Sharpen Lopper Blades?

The best way to sharpen your lopper blades is to take them apart, use either a chisel or a sharpening stone, clean them with soapy water, and then reassemble them.

What Size Loppers Do I Need?

The size loppers you need is determined by the size of the branches you want to cut. If the branches you need to cut are 1.5 inches thick, don’t choose a lopper with a maximum cutting diameter of one inch.

Most loppers have extendable handles, enabling you to adjust the size to suit the task. If you want to cut high or hard-to-reach branches, choose a pair of loppers with a generous reach.

Which Is Better: Anvil or Bypass Loppers?

This depends on the task. Bypass loppers work like scissors, with both blades pivoting, whereas an anvil set has one blade that cuts against a stationary edge.

Bypass loppers are great for living plants and greenwood. They are better for more delicate stems, as the bypass-cutting mechanism won’t cause damage.

Anvil loppers are better for dead branches, dry stems, and rougher wood. They can typically handle thicker branches. If you need more power for stubborn branches, choose anvil.

How Do Geared Loppers Work?

Geared loppers have a more powerful cutting mechanism, allowing you to easier slice through thicker and more stubborn branches. When using, you need to open the blades wide to get around the branch. Then, make a cut, and the geared mechanism will increase the force, making a cleaner and more effortless cut.

Can You Cut Tree Branches With a Hedge Trimmer?

You can cut tree branches with a hedge trimmer if they are thin, but for thicker limbs, use the correct cutting tool, like geared loppers or a chainsaw.


Feedback: Was This Article Helpful?
Thank You For Your Feedback!
Thank You For Your Feedback!
What Did You Like?
What Went Wrong?
Headshot of Beth McCallum

About the Author

Beth McCallum

Beth McCallum is a freelance writer & book blogger with a degree in creative writing, journalism, and English literature. Beth firmly believes that a tidy house is a tidy mind. She is always looking for new ways to sustainably clean and tidy her house, that's kind on the environment but effective in the house, too!