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The best cordless dog grooming clippers are equipped with a variety of features, power levels, run times, and blade types. It can be overwhelming to figure out which model will work best for your pet. In this guide, we’ll walk you through which cordless pet clippers work best for different situations, so you can find pair that will meet your needs.
In this guide:
- At a glance: Our top picks
- Reviews: Best cordless dog clippers
- Benefits of rechargeable pet clippers
- Potential downsides
- What to look for when choosing cordless animal clippers
- A note about clippers for dogs with single or fine coats
Best cordless dog grooming clippers: At a glance
Best cordless dog clippers reviews
Best overall
- Lithium ion battery has a 90-minute cordless run time at full power and continues running when plugged into the power cord.
- The 5-in-1 blade technology adjusts between size #s 9, 10, 15, 30, and 40, offering a convenient variety of cutting lengths.
- Cool running, low vibration, lightweight, and quiet operation.
What we like
We chose Wahl’s Bravura for its balance of many great features, reliability, and mid-range price tag among high-performing clippers.
These cordless pet trimmers run at an exceptional speed of 5,500 strokes per minute, which is much more powerful than most of the cheap models available. They are great for all parts of the body and all types of coats, including when you need to cut through matted fur.
The Bravura is lightweight (8.8 oz.) and ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand to help prevent wrist fatigue. And the grip surface provides control without sacrificing comfort. It’s 7 inches long, quiet, cool-running, has low vibrations, and fully recharges in just 60 minutes.
We also love that it operates while plugged in. Many clippers don’t, and this allows you to finish grooming if you run out of battery mid-session or forget to pre-charge the set.
The German-made adjustable blade transitions between five sizes: #9, #10, #15, #30, and #40. And with the addition of 6 attachment guide combs, you’ll have all you need to clip a variety of lengths.
The set also comes with a cleaning brush, blade oil, an instruction book, a charge stand and charger, and a soft storage case. This clipper is backed with a one-year limited professional warranty.
What we’d change
These clippers are a balance of great features, quality, and convenience. But while Wahl indicates that these work through matted fur, it also specifically states these clippers are made with the intent of light body clipping, finish work, and detailing, especially on small and medium-sized dogs.
If you have a large pup with a thick double coat or wiry fur, you may be better off with a super-duty clipper like the Oster 3000i, the Andis Pulse ZR, or the Wahl KM (all reviewed below). These will cost you a bit more, but will also deliver the power and torque necessary to work through a heavy coat.
Best professional cordless dog clippers
- Rotary motor produces high torque to efficiently work through thick and matted fur
- Lower blade speed at 2,400 SPM allows the blade to stay cooler longer
- Operates at full power for up to 2 hours with a quick-charge capability.
What we like
The Oster Volt combines a powerful rotary motor with the flexibility found in cordless grooming clippers. It’s ideal for all-over body clipping and also will remove thick, matted fur. It’s equipped with a detachable lithium-ion battery that outputs continuous power and torque for over 2 hours on a single charge. This means you can easily groom multiple dogs on a single charge.
If you run a salon, usage can be extended with the purchase of an additional battery pack. However, one professional groomer reported hers lasts an entire day (about 10 dogs), and batteries recharge in just 60 minutes. Granted, she’s a pro, so she probably works more quickly than most pet owners.
The Volt weighs 15 ounces and has an ergonomic design to make it comfortable to handle. It is designed to be quiet, but with a rotary motor, it may not be the quietest on the market. It operates at a slower speed than some models to keep the blades cool longer, so you’ll do less blade swapping. It’s also suited to groom cats, horses, and livestock.
This clipper comes with a #10 CryogenX blade, charging stand and cord, blade oil, and cleaning brush. It is compatible with all Oster A5 detachable blades, including wide blades, so you can choose the right blade for every length and type of coat. Or you can simply purchase Oster’s 10-piece stainless steel comb kit to cut at various lengths.
What we’d change
This super-duty cordless pet clipper cuts through any type of coat that comes its way, but this ability is reflected in the price.
Some groomers may also prefer a pair of clippers with a higher blade speed unless they’re only planning to use it for precise trimming and touchups.
We also like when clippers charge via a cord and allow you to use them while plugged in. This set charges in a stand. However, as we explained above, the long battery life means you’re very unlikely to run out of juice mid-session. Just remember to charge it ahead of time.
Best on a budget
- Two hour running time; 3–5 hours charging time; 10 minute quick charge.
- An affordable option for the occasional at-home groomer.
- Quiet operation and sharp, no-snag blades help dogs stay calm during grooming.
What we like
If you want the job done without spending a lot of money, the Wahl Deluxe Pro clippers might be right for you. They are made to smoothly trim small to large dogs with light to medium coats.
For example, we’ve used them several times on our medium-sized Goldendoodle. However, you may need to work through curly or double coats several times to get an even cut. Again, these are the budget option, and they won’t provide that effortless glide some of the other options in this guide produce.
High-carbon, self-sharpening blades stay sharp longer and reduce the chances of painfully snagging hair. The blade also has an adjustable taper lever for easy blending.
The Deluxe Pro comes with four comb guides, an instruction booklet, a cleaning brush, scissors, blade oil, and a storage case. The comb guides cut hair to a length of 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″. This particular model is made from domestic and imported parts and then built in the U.S.A.
What we’d change
This set only operates at one speed, and Wahl is not clear on what that speed is. Also, the clippers do not operate while charging. This would be helpful if you forget to charge the battery prior to starting.
While these clippers will work on most dogs, they’ll work best on medium-to-small dogs with single-layer coats, or for occasional at-home groomers who just want a set to do finishing work on the face, pads, and sanitary areas. If you’re dealing with a standard-sized poodle with wiry hair, for example, try the Oster 3000i or the Wahl KM, below.
Longest battery life
- 3 hour run time on a single charge.
- Removable lithium-ion battery for a quick and easy replacement.
- 5 motor speeds: Adjustable from 2,500 to 4,500 SPM.
What we like
The Pulse ZR II has a powerful rotary motor to cut through any hair type. And with 3 hours of running time, you’ll be able to groom multiple dogs without needing to recharge. If for some reason you need more time, you can easily swap out the battery pack for a fresh one (if you purchase a spare battery separately).
This set charges in a charging base, which is attached to a power cord. The clipper is 8.13 inches long and weighs 1.10 lbs.
It comes equipped with a size #10 CeramicEdge detachable blade which, according to Andis, runs cooler and stays sharper than steel. This cordless clipper kit does not come with attachable guide combs, but it is compatible with all Andis UltraEdge, CeramicEdge, and Show Edge blades. This model made our list of the best Andis dog clippers.
What we’d change
At 8.13 inches long, this clipper may be difficult to use with smaller dogs, or in hard-to-reach areas. They are also a bit heavier than some other less heavy-duty options.
Also, these clippers cannot be used while the battery is charging unless you have a spare battery, which can charge on the base without the clippers. However, 3 hours of running time is more than enough.
Best for thick or matted fur
- Ideal for body clipping and trimming through thick, matted, and coarse coats.
- Brushless motor with constant speed control provides power and torque for tough areas.
- Lithium-ion battery provides 2 hours of cordless run time.
What we like
Wahl’s professional KM Cordless model is equipped with a brushless motor that has plenty of power to work through thick, matted, or coarse coats that some other cordless clippers couldn’t dream of tackling. And with two powerful speeds of 3,000 and 3,700 strokes per minute, you can control the level of power you need to work through tough spots.
The quiet design makes them ideal for easily startled animals, and they’re suitable for dogs, cats, horses, and livestock.
While these are cordless clippers, they also have the option to operate while corded to give you more clipping time. Or, you can use the quick charge feature that provides 15 extra minutes of clipping for every 10 minutes it charges.
Made in the USA, these clippers are backed by a 5-year hassle-free warranty. They weigh 13.6 ounces and are 7.5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The set includes the clipper, a #10 Ultimate Competition Series blade, a 10-foot charging cord, a cleaning brush, oil, and an instruction book.
Dealing with a very thick coat? See more options in our guide to the best dog clippers for thick or matted hair.
What we’d change
These clippers have a higher price point than many cordless sets. But given the fact that they are equipped with a reliable and long-lasting brushless motor, have two high speeds, and can work through any coat type, these make for a pretty solid investment. And they’ll pay for themselves after just a handful of grooming sessions.
Also, the #10 blade will cut the hair very short, so you’ll need to purchase guard combs separately for a longer haircut.
Best lightweight pet clippers
- Lightweight clipper with low vibration and ergonomic design.
- Detachable #30 blade for a fine cut. Comb attachment that adjusts to 5 positions: 3 mm, 3.75 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.25 mm & 6 mm.
- Ultra-quiet performance is great for noise-sensitive animals
What we like
The BravMini is the mini version of the popular Wahl Bravura Clipper. At 5.5 inches long and 4.5 ounces, it’s one of the smallest and lightest cordless dog clippers available. The blade width is 1 ¼” wide, making it easier to trim those hard to reach areas. Despite its size, it still operates at a very high speed of 5,350 strokes per minute. This set is great for light trimming and detail work around the face, ears and feet of all dog breeds and other animals.
It reaches a full charge in only 2 hours for a 100-minute cordless run time at full performance speed. These clippers come with a high-grade stainless steel blade that trims quickly and efficiently. To vary the trimming length, attach the guide comb to adjust from a 1/8″ to a 1/4″ cut length.
The trimmer comes with the blade, a 5-position adjustable comb attachment, charger and charging stand, blade oil, cleaning brush, and an instruction book. It is made in Hungary. Wahl provides a one-year limited warranty with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
What we’d change
At this point, we can’t find anything we’d change about this cordless clipper. Just know that due to its size, this set of clippers is made for light trimming and finish work, rather than full cuts or shave-downs. It could be the only clipper you need if you have a toy breed dog. But if you own a larger dog and plan to do more than touch-ups, look for a larger set, such as the full-sized Wahl Bravura.
Best wireless dog clippers with a charging base
- Included charging stand offers a tidy and secure working area.
- Powerful and compact drive system delivers 3,000 SPM for versatile grooming of dogs, cats, horses, and livestock.
- Li-ion battery runs for up to 2 hours.
What we like
The Oster Pro 3000i operates continuously for up to two hours before needing to recharge. While charging, they dock securely in a charging stand, which keeps your work area tidy. This is great for professional groomers who don’t need to tuck away their clippers in a closet in-between uses.
With this set of Oster cordless pet clippers, you won’t have to sacrifice speed for cordless design. Equipped with a heavy-duty compact drive system that operates at 3,000 strokes per minute, these clippers should power through any type of coat.
The #10 CryogenX blade is made of the finest high-carbon steel and handcrafted for unparalleled precision and performance. It is detachable and interchangeable with all Oster A5 detachable blades, including wide blades.
The Oster Pro 3000i measures 6.90 inches long x 1.9 inches wide and weighs 15 ounces. In addition to the clippers, this kit includes the battery, the charging stand, lubricating oil, a cleaning brush, and one #10 blade.
What we’d change
Oster does not indicate how long it takes to charge these clippers. Also, since they charge on a charging stand, they cannot be corded for continued use. Additionally, it is not possible to charge a spare battery while using the clippers as the charging stand requires the clippers to be in place while recharging.
Finally, while the #10 blade length is helpful for faces, ears, stomach, and sanitary areas, you may find that you need to purchase guide combs or a blade that allows a longer cut, like a #7F blade.
Benefits of using rechargeable dog clippers
- Less scary for Fido: Many pet owners choose cordless pet trimmers because a swinging cord often scares their pet.
- Easier to manage: Cordless clippers also make it much easier to groom, since you don’t have to manage the cord or worry about getting it caught on other equipment or the corner of the grooming table.
- Take it outside: Another huge benefit of cordless pet clippers is the fact that you can take the grooming outside to make the cleanup easier.
Potential downsides
- Don’t forget to charge: The best cordless pet clippers will still run while plugged in. But if your set doesn’t, make sure you remember to charge them beforehand or you may find yourself waiting an extra hour before you can get started.
- Some sets aren’t as powerful: Some cordless clipper models won’t offer as much power as corded clippers, especially the cheaper models. That said, we made sure to include several high-powered sets in the options above. If you’re not committed to getting a cordless set, you can see our overall guide to the best dog clippers to compare both corded and cordless options.
What to look for when choosing cordless animal clippers
Battery life & charge time
To make the clippers run wirelessly, they operate off of a battery. And depending on the type of battery, some may charge faster or last longer than others. Also, some batteries have a quick-charge feature.
Take note of how long the batteries take to charge and how long the manufacturer indicates the battery is to last. Not all manufacturers state how long the battery takes to fully charge.
If you intend to groom multiple dogs in the same day or expect an extended grooming session, look for a clipper that can do one of three things: run for a long time (2–3 hours), run while corded, or allow for multiple rechargeable battery packs to be used interchangeably.
Blade speed
Blade speed is usually described as strokes per minute (SPM) or rotations per minute (RPM).
Better, more powerful clippers tend to have faster blade speeds, so you can work faster through the coat without jamming the blade. This is the biggest difference between pet clippers and human hair clippers. The speed of the blade and the power of the motor are going to be more important for those who have pups with curly hair or a thick, double coat.
You’ll find that some clippers have multiple speeds. Groomers often use the slower speeds for grooming around delicate areas such as the face and ears, and the higher setting to cruise through the trunk of the body. Single-speed clippers are often meant for light grooming, touch-ups, or facial trimming. They may work for some pet owners, but you won’t find many pros using them, with a few exceptions.
Noise level
Noise level is another area where pet clippers are built better than human clippers.
Generally speaking, a more powerful motor makes more noise. However, technology has come a long way and some of the most powerful clippers are now fairly quiet.
If your dog is easily unsettled by vibrations or loud noises, be on the lookout for a brand that explicitly states it as a quiet motor. And read reviews of other buyers to get a better idea of how the clippers perform.
Attachment combs
Not all cordless clippers come with an adjustable blade or attachment combs. If they do, you’re all set; but if they don’t, you’ll need to purchase guard combs separately to allow for a longer cut than the blade itself allows.
Heat & blade type
The faster the blade speed and the longer the clippers run, the more likely the blade is to overheat. If you have a set of cordless dog trimmers that run at 5,500 SPM and another at 2,400 SPM, the faster set will most likely get hotter with the same amount of use.
However, a high number of strokes per minute is important for performance, so there are a few things you can do to ensure that hot blades don’t halt your grooming.
Always use oil or blade spray
Most clippers come with lubricating blade oil which reduces friction between the blades. Don’t skip this step. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions on when to lubricate the blades with oil.
Manufacturers like Andis, Oster, and Wahl all make blade sprays that lubricate the blades to keep them running cool longer. Andis’ Cool Care Plus spray disinfects, cleans, and prevents rust on the blades.
Ceramic blade vs steel blade
Ceramic blade clippers are known to stay cooler longer, but they are also known to lose their sharpness faster than steel. Professional groomers often swap out the overheated blade for a clean, cool one. If you decide to purchase a spare blade, be sure that the clipper’s blade detaches and that you choose a blade size that is compatible with the clipper you purchase.
Clippers for dogs with single or fine coats
If you’re a regular groomer, it makes sense to invest in a high-quality set of clippers. But if you’re just a pet owner with a small, hypoallergenic breed, such as a Yorkie, it may be overkill to get a set of heavy-duty professional clippers.
In this case, you can probably do well with a quality brand of battery-operated dog clippers that are made for light grooming, such as the Wahl Deluxue Pro model mentioned above (or Bravura, if your dog has a curly coat). You don’t need as much power for fine, single-layer coats, and you’ll save yourself some money by getting a more basic set. If you want to see more options than what’s above, we’ve compiled a list of clippers that work well for small dogs with single coats, specifically the best dog clippers for Yorkies. If you have a small, hypoallergenic dog with a relatively straight coat, this may help you find alternative options.
