10 Best Professional Barber Clippers

Barber clippers have become a must-have machine for any successful barbershop. Professional hair clippers are versatile barber tools that give you the ability to taper and fade haircuts with ease, precision and efficiency. The best professional barber clippers are made with sharp blades and powerful motors, come equipped with a long-lasting rechargeable battery for convenient corded and cordless use, and offer an ergonomic design for maximum comfort and maneuverability.

Whether you’re a seasoned stylist or a novice, there are several hair clippers for barbers to consider right now!

Some barbers prefer heavy-duty professional clippers that maximize performance for easy cutting, fading and tapering, while other stylists will want hair trimmers that will clean hairlines, trim beards and style lineups. Beginner barbers may need to get a complete professional set with all the tools, including combs, attachments, blade oil and cleaning supplies.

With so many different models, it can be a challenge choosing the right hair clippers.

To help you find the right products, we’ve compiled a list of the best barber clippers. From the Wahl 5-Star Magic Clip to the BaBylissPro, explore these top-rated professional hair clippers and trimmers to get the right machine for your needs!

10 Best Barber Clippers and Professional Hair Trimmers in 2023

Wahl Professional 5-Star Magic Clip

The Wahl Professional 5-Star Magic Clip is one of the most trusted commercial-grade hair clippers on the market today. Designed by a top brand in the industry, this clipper was made for barbers and stylists who take their careers seriously.

The machine uses sharp, zero-overlap blades for a precise and easy cut. Combined with revolutionary crunch blade technology and a rapid-feeding system, it delivers a blunter cut for an effortlessly even finish. The practical taper lever also expands the available cutting lengths, making this a popular trimmer for fade haircuts.

Featuring a powerful motor, these clippers can cut through all types of hair with ease, catering to the most demanding clients with thick and curly hair. This model is equipped with a lithium-ion battery that provides 90+ minutes of cordless use and can be fully charged in 2 hours. For maximum versatility, this heavy-duty machine also offers corded use, making it the ideal choice for busy barbers.

Flaunting a lightweight ergonomic design, this product is comfortable and easy to hold for long periods throughout the workday. The package comes with a set of 8 attachments and combs so there is no need to make any extra purchases – everything you need is right here.

The Wahl Magic Clip is a top-rated hair clipper engineered for professional barbers. This high-performance model comes with premium features, making it an essential barbershop tool.

BaBylissPRO Barberology MetalFX Series

The BaBylissPRO Barberology MetalFX Series clipper is a high-quality barbering tool for new and professional stylists. With this product line, BabylissPRO has become one of the most popular and reputable brands in the industry.

These hair clippers are made with sharp, titanium-coated blades, giving you a machine that will easily cut through all hair types with precision. The commercial-grade blades also maximize durability and performance, ensuring it stays effective at making crisp cuts.

The 5-detent taper control also simplifies seamless fading. Each taper level has a noticeable click, unlike other models where each level change is less obvious. This adjustable blade makes this clipper great for tapering the hair on the sides and back.

Renowned for its luxury and performance, the Ferrari-designed motor helps this machine power through all thick hair with ease, ensuring a fast and smooth cutting experience.

The unit uses a lithium-ion battery that guarantees 120 minutes of cordless use on a single charge, providing enough time for several haircuts. When charging, this product offers corded use, making it a dependable option that you can rely on.

The design has an all-metal build with a textured anti-slip grip that offers a sleek look. Available in gold, silver and black, you can also customize your tool.

This BaBylissPro is one of the most highly rated barber clippers on the market right now and has been engineered to be a heavy-duty performance machine for professionals. The company also makes an incredible outlining hair trimmer you’ll need to complete your barbering set.

Andis Professional Master Clipper

The Andis Professional Master Clipper is another top-of-the-line product from one of the most respected manufacturers of professional-grade barbering tools. Barbers are quick to recommend Andis clippers and this model gets especially high praise as a powerful machine for fades.

The clipper has carbon-steel blades that can be adjusted with the flick of a switch for cutting fine hair and coarse, thick hair. For extra-close cuts and fades, the blades can be zero-gapped. Barbers and stylists recommend carbon steel blades for their initial sharpness and durability.

The corded model has a well-engineered magnetic motor that’s built to last. The motor powers the blade to cut at 14,000 strokes per minute, making this machine a popular option for professional barbers who need to cut through all types of hair, wet or dry. This product is also whisper-quiet and can barely be heard when in operation.

Andis also makes an amazing cordless clipper with a robust high-speed motor that offers 7,200 SPM, allowing you to fade and cut through thick coarse hair without issues. This model is ideal for stylists who want to maximize flexibility and convenience without compromising on power or performance.

The trimmer has a sturdy aluminum housing that is shatterproof and designed for longevity. The unit weighs a little over one pound and can be used effortlessly all day. Its eight-foot power cord is commercial grade and offers maneuverability.

The Andis Master Clipper is a longtime favorite for seasoned barbers. It’s a reliable, high-performance machine that should be in any professional’s barbering kit.

Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper

Barbers and stylists consider the Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper a necessary tool for their craft. This old-school hair cutting machine is well-made and dependable, offering professionals peace of mind.

This clipper has two detachable, extra-durable carbon-steel blades in two sizes: #000 for tapers, fades, and close-cuts and #1 for plowing through wet or dry thick, unruly hair. The blades have been cryogenically treated to stay sharper longer.

The machine’s universal, single-speed motor is the strongest of any professional machine. Engineered for heavy-duty cutting, the motor makes high-volume hair removal a breeze.

The unit’s retro-styled housing is made of an ultra-tough thermoplastic material designed to withstand impact, which means it won’t crack or break when dropped. The housing’s ridged texture also ensures a firm grip. It has some heft to it that allows excellent control for precise, detailed work.

Cleaning and maintenance accessories are included, and its power cord is a foot longer than other options.

Combined with this machine’s performance, durability, and reliability, the Oster Classic 76 is the professional barber’s top choice.

Wahl Professional Super Taper Hair Clipper

The Wahl Professional Super Taper Hair Clipper is a powerful high-performance machine made for smooth and easy cutting. These professional hair clippers are often referred to as the backbone of any barbershop, and this model has been designed to handle any hair type and texture.

This clipper comes with extra-durable and corrosion-resistant stainless-steel blades. Impeccably sharp, the blade effortlessly cuts through all hair types, including Afro-textured hair, without lagging or pulling. Most barbers will use these trimmers to cut clean fades but the machine is also great for trimming facial hair, styling lineups, and other precision design work.

Powered by Wahl’s heavy-duty electromagnetic V5000 motor, this machine runs faster than most standard clippers, which makes it perfect for tapering, fading and cutting hair all over the head. The speed and power reduce cutting time and increase efficiency, making this trimmer a vital tool for professional barbers.

This model has been thoughtfully engineered to be extremely comfortable to hold. Its taper level is conveniently positioned for an easy transition of switching through blade sizes. These adjustments have the right range of lengths for tapers, fades, and blends.

Cleaning tools and eight color-coded guide combs with sizes from 1/8-inch to 1-inch are included and add to this machine’s versatility. The Wahl Super Taper is engineered for the professional barber who needs a heavy-duty, high-performance clipper.

Andis T-Outliner Hair Trimmer

The Andis T-Outliner Hair Trimmer is ideal for crisp outlining and clean edge-up haircuts, and comes highly rated by professional barbers for its dependability and versatility.

With its sharp carbon-steel blade and deep teeth, this machine cuts through thick hair without snagging. This trimmer’s T-blade is also good for clients who have sensitive skin and suffer from bumps, red spots, and rashes. The close-cutting blade is easy to zero-gap and makes quick work of edging, designing, dry shaving, and beard trimming.

The trimmer’s high-speed magnetic motor delivers 7,200 strokes per minute and won’t slow down when the blade encounters thick hair. The machine’s powerful motor has been engineered to run quietly, and in the hubbub of a busy shop, it can barely be heard.

The trimmer has a durable polymer housing that’s been contoured for a comfortable grip. It’s lightweight enough to be used for long-grooming sessions without soreness or fatigue. This is a corded model, and its eight-foot cord allows for freedom of movement for up-close work.

The Andis T-Outliner is a classic trimmer that many barbers can’t live without. For its durability and all-around performance, this highly-rated machine is a top choice.

Wahl Professional Senior Clipper

The Wahl Professional Senior Clipper is a top-rated product that was created to offer easy cutting all-around and perfect taper fade haircuts. Barbers and stylists agree that this is a one-of-a-kind professional haircutting tool that should be in every barbershop that values performance and power.

The clipper is equipped with Wahl’s surgical-sharp carbon-steel blade that is designed specifically for on-scalp tapers and fades and clipper-over-comb work. The #0000 precision blade is adjustable with zero overlap and ensures accurate cutting of all hair types and textures.

Wahl’s super-charged V9000 rotary motor generates higher speeds and increased torque for mowing through unruly thick or coarse hair. Another feature is that the machine can be manipulated to decrease the motor’s power output so it’s not always running at full speed.

This cordless model has a strong lithium-ion battery that charges in 90 minutes for 70 minutes of run time. It can also be used as a corded device, which is a great option for barbers with back-to-back clients.

The trimmer has a sturdy, metal housing that effectively absorbs vibrations and can withstand daily wear and tear. Weighing less than a pound, the unit’s stylish profile was ergonomically designed for a weighted feel and balanced control.

From buzz cuts to short fades and edge ups, the Wahl Senior Clipper is one of the most versatile machines out there. This trimmer is for the professional barber who needs a heavy-duty worker with sharp performance.

Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer

The Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer is a cordless trimmer that offers precision beard trimming and lineup haircuts. Rated by barbers as one of their favorite trimmers, this model was built to give you very close trims, clean lines and excellent control when completing design work.

The trimmer comes with an ultra-sharp, close-cutting stainless-steel T-blade, which is a quarter-inch wider than other Wahl trimmers and shaves a larger area faster. The blade is easily adjustable for giving stylish lineups and cool trims that are comparable to the smooth, precise cuts of a straight razor.

Wahl has outfitted this compact unit with a full-size V5000 rotary motor that cuts at 6,800 strokes per minute. The machine’s robust motor has been well-engineered to cut any hair texture and type.

A defining feature for this 5-Star detailer is its quick-charging, long-lasting lithium-ion battery. Fully charged in 60 minutes, it stays powered for 100 minutes of running time. This handsomely designed unit has a slim profile with a smart chrome finish that’s also lightweight and offers great maneuverability. Another thoughtful touch is the weighted charging station has a unique swivel cord rotation for when the detailer is being used corded.

For power, precision and ease of use, you can’t go wrong with the Wahl Detailer. Updated and well-made, this machine easily surpasses the competition.

How To Choose Good Barber Clippers

Professional barbers need high-quality commercial-grade hair clippers to be successful in cutting clean fades and stylish haircuts. When researching machines, stylists should consider features that deliver sharp cuts, robust power, versatile use, and reliable performance. From stainless steel blades to powerful motors, these are the specs to look for when choosing good barber clippers.

Quality Sharp Blades

For barbers and stylists who work in busy shops with fast client turnaround, clippers with quality sharp blades are a must. With such high-volume work, the blades must be well-made and long-lasting. Most barber clippers are equipped with carbon-steel or stainless-steel blades that are durable and allow you to deliver precision cuts for all hair types.

Titanium blades are even more durable and stay sharper longer than steel blades. All metal blades are prone to corrosion unless you clean and maintain your equipment regularly, so many professionals prefer ceramic blades, which don’t heat up and are less likely to warp or wear down.

Powerful Motor

The best clippers are engineered with high-speed, high-torque motors. A robust motor is necessary for cutting thick, coarse, or curly hair, wet or dry. Most professional clippers come with electromagnetic and rotary motors. A rotary motor runs cooler and has more power so it won’t snag or pull the thickest hair textures. An electromagnetic motor is faster, quieter, and has fewer internal parts so it’s longer-lasting.

Corded and Cordless Use

Corded clippers provide consistent and reliable power all day long. The motors in corded products generally have more power and can handle high-volume hair removal of any type. With a corded machine, barbers don’t have to worry about changing or charging a battery, which prolongs the life for years.

Cordless clippers offer more flexibility and are better for highly detailed work and designs. A cordless machine is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which can have up to 100 minutes of running time when fully charged. Barbers need to stay on top of charging a cordless model, so it doesn’t run out of power in the middle of a trim. Many cordless clippers can be used corded to their charging stations.

Long Battery Life

Lithium-ion batteries can take from one hour to eight hours to fully charge a cordless clipper. Running time varies, depending on the quality of the machine, but most last between 40 to 60 minutes. Lithium-ion batteries gradually lose their ability to recharge and have a life expectancy of 2-3 years before needing to be replaced.

Design

The most popular commercial clippers are designed to fit ergonomically in the barber’s hand to afford a solid grip and total control. Weight is an important factor because the product shouldn’t be too heavy to cause fatigue and discomfort throughout the day.

The housing and build materials should also be considered for your comfort. A metal housing will absorb irritating vibrations and sounds better than a plastic housing. A metal clipper will also be more durable and can withstand impact when dropped.

Complete Set of Combs and Attachments

Most professional barber clippers come with guide combs and a complete set of attachments. Adjustable-blade machines will have a conveniently located lever for easily adjusting blade length. Many products will have two to three attachable metal or plastic combs or blades that are designed for tapers and fades. Wahl offers a full set of guide combs, making the brand a favorite.

Price

There are many affordable hair clippers but these machines are often lower in quality and intended for home use. A professional barber needs high-quality commercial-grade clippers to deliver expert results. While more expensive, these top-rated haircutting machines are worth investing in, especially for barbers who are serious about their craft. On the plus side, barbering tools are an expense that can be deducted from your earned income, helping you save on your tax bill.

How To Maintain Professional Clippers

To maximize performance, precision and longevity, a professional barber should clean and maintain their clippers. Proper care will ensure your tools last for years and allow you to do your best work!

Clean The Blades

Clipper blades that are clogged with hair won’t cut properly and can lead to uneven haircuts and cause skin irritation. Blades should be cleaned after every use by brushing out the gathered clipped hair from the blade. Canned air dusters are handy for blowing off short, coarse hair that gets trapped between the blade’s teeth. To ensure the blade is hygienic, finish off cleaning with a clipper spray disinfectant.

Oil The Blades

Clipper blades need to be oiled after several uses to reduce friction and prevent the machine from pulling hair. It’s a simple procedure of applying a drop of oil to each side of the blade and the center of the blade. The clipper is then run for a few seconds, so the oil lightly coats the blade. Oiling the blade keeps it rust-free and performing efficiently.

Wash the Combs and Attachments

Grease and hair products accumulate on attachment combs or guards and must be regularly cleaned to avoid buildup of bacteria. The attachments need to be removed from the clipper blade and washed in warm, soapy water. Thoroughly dry the combs before storing or using them.

Replace The Blade

If properly maintained, a clipper blade can last three to six months. With heavy-duty use, the blade can chip, warp, or lose sharpness. Dull and damaged blades lead to ragged haircuts and should be replaced. Cheap blades are available, but their quality is questionable. It’s better to buy a replacement blade directly from the manufacturer. Barbers who use multiple machines throughout the day may be able to extend the life of their blades.