When it comes to gardening, pruning shears are essential tools that help you keep your plants healthy and looking their best. Pruning shears come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used for everything from trimming hedges to shaping topiary. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which pruning shears are best for your particular needs. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 8 pruning shears on the market today.

1. Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruning Shears. Price: $25. Key differentiators: PowerGear2 technology multiplies leverage to make cutting up to three times easier than traditional pruning shears. Key features: Fully hardened, precision-ground steel blades stay sharp, rust-resistant, low-friction coating helps blades glide through wood, non-slip grips, and a locking mechanism for safe storage.

2. Felco F-2 Classic Pruning Shear. Price: $55. Key differentiators: Ergonomic design and adjustable blade tension make this pruner comfortable and easy to use. Key features: Replaceable parts, ergonomic handles, and rubber shock absorbers.

3. Corona ClassicCUT Pruning Shear. Price: $20. Key differentiators: Anvil blade design provides clean, precise cuts. Key features: Lightweight aluminum handles, non-slip grips, and a safety lock.

4. ARS Long Reach Pruning Shear. Price: $50. Key differentiators: Long reach design makes it easy to reach high branches without a ladder. Key features: Non-slip grips, and an adjustable blade tension.

5. Gonicc Professional Pruning Shears. Price: $20. Key differentiators: Titanium-coated blades stay sharper longer and are rust-resistant. Key features: Ergonomic handles, and a safety lock.

6. Gardenite PowerDrive Pruning Shear. Price: $25. Key differentiators: PowerDrive technology multiplies leverage to make cutting up to three times easier than traditional pruning shears. Key features: Fully hardened, precision-ground steel blades stay sharp, rust-resistant, low-friction coating helps blades glide through wood, non-slip grips, and a locking mechanism for safe storage.

7. Gardenite Ratchet Pruning Shear. Price: $20. Key differentiators: Ratchet technology multiplies leverage to make cutting up to five times easier than traditional pruning shears. Key features: Fully hardened, precision-ground steel blades stay sharp, rust-resistant, low-friction coating helps blades glide through wood, non-slip grips, and a locking mechanism for safe storage.

8. Gardenite Anvil Pruning Shear. Price: $20. Key differentiators: Anvil blade design provides clean, precise cuts. Key features: Lightweight aluminum handles, non-slip grips, and a safety lock.

When deciding which pruning shears are best for your needs, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of blade. Anvil blades are great for making clean, precise cuts, while ratchet blades are better for cutting through thicker branches. Next, you’ll want to consider the handle design. Ergonomic handles are more comfortable to use and can help reduce hand fatigue. Finally, look for shears with a locking mechanism for safe storage.

After comparing the top 8 pruning shears, we recommend the Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruning Shear. This pruner has a unique PowerGear2 technology that multiplies leverage to make cutting up to three times easier than traditional pruning shears. It also has fully hardened, precision-ground steel blades that stay sharp and rust-resistant, low-friction coating that helps blades glide through wood, non-slip grips, and a locking mechanism for safe storage.

For gardeners looking for a reliable pruning shear that is comfortable to use and makes cutting through branches a breeze, the Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruning Shear is a great choice. It is well-constructed and has all the features you need to keep your plants looking their best.