Hair clippers and beard trimmers: how to choose

On the counter, cutting tools all look alike, but the jobs they do are different. Anyone looking for a hair clipper must first understand whether they need a clipper, a trimmer for outlines or a beard trimmer for daily care. Then come blade, power supply and weight. Let us see how to find your way with the Wahl, Moser and Panasonic models we stock.

Clipper, trimmer and beard trimmer: three tools

  • The clipper (or hair clipper) works on the bulk cut and on fades. In the hair clippers section you will find the professional models.
  • The trimmer or edger has narrower blades and is used for outlines, neckline, details and designs.
  • The beard trimmer is designed for daily personal care, rather than salon work.

Corded or cordless

The battery gives freedom of movement, the cord gives continuity. The best models do both. The Wahl Magic Clip Cordless and the Moser 1400 Cordless can be used either on battery or plugged into the mains. Battery life and charging times vary from model to model: you will find them on each product's page.

The blade

The blade decides which kind of work comes out well. The Magic Clip has the Stagger-Tooth blade, with alternating short and long teeth that speed up the entry of the hair: it is a machine built for fading. The Moser 1400 has the steel Star Blade head, and the MultiClick adjustment to choose the cutting length. The Panasonic ER-GP22 has stainless steel blades with a reduced cutting angle and a second Designer blade for small touch-ups and designs.

Weight and handling

A tool used for hours must feel right in the hand. The most complete cutting machines are bulkier, detail trimmers much lighter: they are different uses, and weight is best judged by holding the tool. In detail trimmers, lightness matters enormously.

For the beard and personal care

For daily use at home, the Wahl Groomsman Black Ice is a rechargeable beard trimmer with a self-sharpening precision head, usable with or without a cord. For nose, ears and eyebrows there are dedicated trimmers such as the Wahl 3 in 1. For everything to do with the beard, from shaving to care, see the beard and shaving section.

Which to choose, in practice

For a barber or hairdresser who fades every day, it is best to start from a professional machine with a blade designed for the work you do most: the Magic Clip for fades, the Moser 1400 for versatile use on hair and beard. For outlines and details you also need a trimmer, such as the Panasonic ER-GP22. For those who cut at home, a beard trimmer or a simpler clipper is often enough. In any case, look at the number of guide combs supplied and the cutting lengths, because they are what you actually use.

Maintenance: the part people forget

A clean, lubricated blade cuts better and lasts longer. After use, the remaining hair should be removed with the brush, and every so often two drops of oil are needed on the blade. Heads wear out over time: in the spare parts section you will find replacement blades for several models, so there is no need to replace the whole machine.

What to look at before choosing

  • Who uses it: a professional every day or a person at home.
  • What job it has to do: fades, bulk cutting, outlines or beard.
  • Battery life and charging time, and whether it can also be used corded.
  • Type of blade and adjustable cutting lengths.
  • Weight and grip.
  • Guide combs and accessories supplied.
  • Availability of replacement blades in the spare parts and heads section.

The most common mistakes

  • Choosing a clipper when you need a trimmer, or vice versa.
  • Not cleaning and not lubricating the blade: it should be kept clean and oiled, as the manufacturers indicate.
  • Using the wrong guide combs and only noticing the length once the job is done.
  • Neglecting to charge before a long job.

Come and visit us in the shop

With a cutting tool, weight and grip count too. In Campobasso, at Viale XXIV Maggio 140, we are happy to show you the products in person and advise you without rush. If you prefer, you can call us on 0874 698703.