Whether you’re pruning roses, trimming fruit trees, or tidying hedges, having the right secateurs (garden shears) makes all the difference. A good pair ensures clean cuts, reduces hand strain, and helps plants recover faster. With so many options on the market — from budget-friendly hand pruners to advanced electric pruning shears — choosing the best one can feel overwhelming.
This guide highlights the key features to consider, market data from the UK and Europe, and expert recommendations to help you make the right choice.
1. Types of Secateurs
- Bypass Secateurs – Work like scissors, making clean cuts on live stems. Best for roses, shrubs, and softwood.
- Anvil Secateurs – Use a straight blade against a flat base, ideal for cutting dead wood.
- Ratchet Secateurs – Reduce strain by cutting in stages, suitable for users with less hand strength.
- Electric Pruning Shears – Battery-powered, designed for heavy-duty pruning with minimal effort, popular among professional gardeners and farms.
2. Key Buying Factors
- Blade Quality – High-carbon steel or Japanese SK5 steel offers sharpness and durability.
- Ergonomics – Non-slip handles and shock-absorbing grips reduce fatigue.
- Cutting Capacity – Standard manual secateurs cut up to 20–25 mm branches; electric models can handle 30–40 mm.
- Weight – Lighter tools are better for prolonged use.
- Price Range –
- Budget manual secateurs: £10–£20
- Mid-range quality brands: £25–£50
- Premium/electric pruning shears: £80–£250
3. Market Insights (UK & Europe)
- According to Statista 2024, the UK garden tools market was valued at £6.7 billion, with pruning tools among the fastest-growing categories.
- A 2023 Amazon UK survey found the most popular secateur brands were:
- Felco (Switzerland) – 28% market share in premium pruning tools
- Spear & Jackson (UK) – 18% market share in mid-range secateurs
- Bahco (Sweden) – 15% share, known for ergonomic designs
- Folit & new electric models – emerging as strong competitors in the professional and farm sector
- Customer ratings:
- Average rating for premium manual secateurs: 4.6/5 stars (Amazon UK, 2024)
- Electric pruning shears: 4.4/5 stars, often praised for efficiency but criticized for higher price.
4. Manual vs Electric Secateurs
| Feature | Manual Secateurs | Electric Secateurs |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £10–£50 | £80–£250 |
| Cutting Power | Up to 25 mm | Up to 40 mm |
| Best Use | Home gardens, light pruning | Orchards, vineyards, professional landscaping |
| Maintenance | Sharpen & oil regularly | Battery care + lubrication |
| User Feedback | Reliable, low-cost | Time-saving, effortless for large jobs |
5. Expert Tips for Buying
- Match to your garden size – Small urban gardens = manual; orchards/farms = electric.
- Check replacement parts – Brands like Felco and Folit offer replaceable blades and springs.
- Read reviews – Look for Amazon/Google ratings above 4.3 stars.
- Try before you buy – Grip comfort varies; test if possible.
- Balance budget with durability – A £40 mid-range pair often outlasts £15 budget models.
Final Thoughts
The “best” secateurs depend on your needs. For casual pruning, a reliable pair of bypass secateurs works perfectly. For professional gardeners, landscapers, or agricultural businesses, electric pruning shears save significant time and effort.
By combining market insights, user reviews, and professional guidance, you can confidently invest in the right tool for a healthier, more productive garden.
