Intro
In the world of hairstyling, the right tools can make all the difference. As barbers, we need clippers that deliver precision, power, and durability. With numerous brands and models flooding the market, it can be challenging to determine which clippers are genuinely the best. Recently, Forbes Vetted released an article highlighting the best hair clippers of 2025, drawing insights from expert barber Evelyn Gutweniger. While their findings offer valuable guidance, we believe that a closer examination is essential for our professional needs.
This article will delve into each of Forbes’ top picks, comparing and contrasting their recommendations with insights geared toward professional barbers.
Table of Contents
Overview of Forbes’ Best Hair Clippers of 2025
According to Forbes, the following clippers made the cut:
- Best Overall: Andis ReVite Clipper
- Best Value: Wahl Color Pro Cordless Clipper
- Best Luxury: Andis Master Cordless Clipper
- Best Professional: BaBylissPro Barberology FXOne Clipper
- Best for Design: Bevel Pro All-In-One Clipper and Trimmer
- Best for Fades: Philips Norelco All-In-One Trimmer Series 9000
Let’s take a closer look at each of these recommendations, discussing their merits and drawbacks, and whether they truly meet the rigorous demands of professional barbers.
1. Andis ReVite Clipper: Best Overall
Forbes chose the Andis ReVite Clipper as their best overall pick, lauding it for its balance of quality, durability, and customization. With a runtime of 130 minutes against a charge time of 90 minutes, this clipper is well-suited for busy barbershops. The device offers seamless tapering and fading capabilities, making it an ideal choice for professional use. However, one notable drawback mentioned by Gutweniger is its noise level; while it’s not excessively loud, it does stand out compared to other models.
Pros:
- Excellent for tapering and fading.
- Long runtime with reasonable charge time.
- Great durability and quality.
Cons:
- Heavier than other options.
- Noticeably louder than competitors.
Verdict: While the Andis ReVite is an excellent choice for its features, barbers who prioritize a quieter tool for prolonged use may want to explore alternatives that balance power and weight more effectively.
2. Wahl Color Pro Cordless Clipper: Best Value
The Wahl Color Pro Cordless Clipper is celebrated as the best value clipper, particularly for those just starting or for barbers looking for a reliable backup tool. This clipper features color-coded guards, simplifying the process of selecting cutting lengths, which can be a significant time-saver in a fast-paced environment.
However, its longer charge time of around 12 hours can be frustrating, especially for barbers needing quick access to their tools. Additionally, it lacks finer trimming options between 0 and 1/16 inch, making it less ideal for detailed fades.
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Easy-to-use color-coded guards.
- Good build quality for the price.
Cons:
- Lengthy charge time.
- Limited options for fine control in fading.
Verdict: While this clipper is an excellent choice for those starting out or for budget-conscious barbers, it may not satisfy professionals requiring precision in their fades. For a better all-around experience, consider investing in the Wahl Magic Clip, which offers similar affordability with greater performance.
3. Andis Master Cordless Clipper: Best Luxury
When it comes to luxury, the Andis Master Cordless Clipper stands out. Praised for its sheer power and durability, this clipper is often a favorite among seasoned barbers. However, it comes with a steep price tag and the need to purchase guards separately, which can drive up costs further.
While it delivers top-notch performance across various hair types, its weight can be a significant downside, especially during long cutting sessions. Additionally, its tendency to heat up quickly may require barbers to take breaks to avoid discomfort.
Pros:
- Exceptional power and performance.
- Suitable for all hair types.
Cons:
- Heavy and can become hot during use.
- Requires separate purchases for guards.
Verdict: The Andis Master is perfect for experienced barbers who can justify the investment and are accustomed to handling heavier tools. However, lighter alternatives, like the BaBylissPro FX Clipper, may provide similar performance without the added strain.
4. BaBylissPro Barberology FXOne Clipper: Best Professional
The BaBylissPro Barberology FXOne Clipper is favored among professionals for its durability and smooth cutting performance. It features magnetic guards, enhancing its precision, making it suitable for detailed work.
Despite its praise, some barbers have noted the design can lead to accidental drops due to its sleek body. Furthermore, the requirement to purchase guards separately can be inconvenient, especially when trying to maintain an efficient workflow in a busy shop.
Pros:
- Smooth and quiet operation.
- Durable design with professional-grade performance.
Cons:
- Sleek design may lead to accidental drops.
- Guards sold separately.
Verdict: The BaBylissPro FXOne is an excellent choice for barbers who prioritize performance and are willing to invest in quality tools. If you’re looking for ease of use and guard changes, consider the Andis Cordless Envy Li as a lighter alternative with similar functionality.
5. Bevel Pro All-In-One Clipper and Trimmer: Best for Design
Forbes highlights the Bevel Pro All-In-One Clipper and Trimmer for its design aesthetics and versatility in handling both hair and beard trimming. Its appealing design is paired with functionality that allows for fresh lineups and smooth cuts. However, the weight of this clipper can be cumbersome for barbers who prioritize portability.
Despite its impressive performance, some barbers might find the size and weight less practical for daily use, especially if they frequently travel for work.
Pros:
- Sleek design with great performance.
- Dual-purpose for hair and beard grooming.
Cons:
- Heavier than many competitors.
- Less ideal for travel.
Verdict: The Bevel Pro is an excellent option for home barbers who value aesthetics and functionality. However, for those prioritizing lightweight tools, consider alternatives like the Oster Fast Feed or Andis Slimline Pro.
6. Philips Norelco All-In-One Trimmer Series 9000: Best for Fades
Finally, the Philips Norelco All-In-One Trimmer Series 9000 is recognized for its versatility and long runtime. With a remarkable 17.5-hour runtime after just a 2.5-hour charge, it’s perfect for barbers who require a reliable tool for various grooming tasks.
However, its limited cutting lengths and lack of fine-tuning options may hinder its effectiveness for precise fades. Barbers often need a broader range of guard lengths for detailed work, making this trimmer less favorable for professional use.
Pros:
- Extensive runtime for prolonged use.
- Versatile for head-to-toe grooming.
Cons:
- Limited cutting lengths for hair.
- Not suitable for detailed fading work.
Verdict: The Philips Norelco is a fantastic choice for general grooming, but barbers focusing on haircuts and fades may be better served by dedicated clippers with more length options, such as the Wahl Legend.
Conclusion
While Forbes’ article offers a helpful overview of some of the best hair clippers available, it’s essential for barbers to assess each tool’s practicality and performance based on their specific needs. Every barber has unique requirements and preferences, whether that’s power, weight, noise level, or guard availability.
The clippers discussed in this article represent a spectrum of options that cater to different styles of cutting, budget considerations, and professional needs. As we strive for excellence in our craft, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each tool will ensure we deliver the best results for our clients.
For barbers looking for dependable clippers, it may be worthwhile to consider options beyond those highlighted by Forbes. The right clipper can enhance not only the quality of your cuts but also the overall efficiency and satisfaction of your workday.
