A Look at the Best, Cheapest Hair Clippers in 2024

Wahl Color Pro Cordless
WiseBarber Top Pick

Wahl Color Pro Cordless

91.4 %
1.
91.4 %
Wahl Color Pro Cordless
Wahl Color Pro Cordless
$37.98 from Amazon See details
2.
90.6 %
Wahl 5-Star Balding
Wahl 5-Star Balding
$64.99 from Amazon $64.99 from WbBarber See details
3.
90.6 %
BESTBOMG Hair Clipper
BESTBOMG Hair Clipper
$54.99 from Amazon See details
4.
89.2 %
Wahl Magic Clip Cordless
Wahl Magic Clip Cordless
$124.4 from Amazon $108 from WbBarber See details
5.
88.6 %
Limural K11s Hair Clipper
Limural K11s Hair Clipper
$59.99 from Amazon See details
6.
87.5 %
Oster Fast Feed
Oster Fast Feed
$77.22 from Amazon $73.99 from WbBarber See details
7.
87.5 %
Surker Hair Clipper
Surker Hair Clipper
$37.99 from Amazon See details
8.
87.5 %
Wahl 79434
Wahl 79434
$31.44 from Amazon See details
9.
86.7 %
Andis 73000 Envy Cordless
Andis 73000 Envy Cordless
Buy product from Amazon $85.54 from WbBarber See details
10.
85.6 %
Wahl Icon Clipper
Wahl Icon Clipper
$66.26 from Amazon See details

Quick question:

How much is a cheap hair clipper worth?

10 bucks…? $50…? $100 maybe…?

Well, this is a question that most people don’t often ask. And that’s understandable because everyone has different financial abilities.

The fact is:

To some $100 is a fair/affordable price for a quality hair clipper, but to others, that price tag might be way beyond their comfort zone.

Now:

This simple dilemma makes it a bit hard to classify things as either expensive or cheap.

However, I have a solution.

Instead of branding clippers as cheap, I want to look at the best ones available at the lowest prices; i.e. something that is fairly affordable and guaranteed to offer you great value for your money.

Shopping for a quality clipper on a budget can be tricky.

Why?

You’ll either end up with a fake and inferior quality clipper or a tool that’s very limited in terms of features and functionality.

You don’t want that, do you?

If so, you are in the right place.

Get this:

In today’s post, I’ll walk you through ten of the best budget barber clippers that don’t cost much yet guarantee exceptional service.

Ready?

Without further ado, let’s get started…

Rating Summary

Rank order Product name Features & Functionality (max. 10) Usability & Handling (max. 10) Accessories (max. 10) Overall Rating
1.
Wahl Color Pro Cordless Wahl Color Pro Cordless
8.3 9.2 10 91.4 % See details
2.
Wahl 5-Star Balding Wahl 5-Star Balding
9.5 9 8.7 90.6 % See details
3.
BESTBOMG Hair Clipper BESTBOMG Hair Clipper
9.5 9.3 8.3 90.6 % See details
4.
Wahl Magic Clip Cordless Wahl Magic Clip Cordless
8.8 9 9 89.2 % See details
5.
Limural K11s Hair Clipper Limural K11s Hair Clipper
8.8 9.2 8.7 88.6 % See details
6.
Oster Fast Feed Oster Fast Feed
9.3 9.7 7.3 87.5 % See details
7.
Surker Hair Clipper Surker Hair Clipper
8.3 8.3 9.7 87.5 % See details
8.
Wahl 79434 Wahl 79434
7.8 8.5 10 87.5 % See details
9.
Andis 73000 Envy Cordless Andis 73000 Envy Cordless
8 9 9 86.7 % See details
10.
Wahl Icon Clipper Wahl Icon Clipper
9 8.3 8.3 85.6 % See details

Now:

Bearing all that in mind, let’s look at each clipper individually to see how it stacks up against the others.

Top 10 Best Cheapest Hair Clippers of 2024

WiseBarber Top Pick

Wahl Color Pro Cordless

91.4 %

Simple, practical, versatile, and very affordable. These are just some of the many words I can use to describe the Wahl Color Pro Cord/Cordless hair clipper. Here’s why.

8.3 / 10
Features & Functionality
9.2 / 10
Usability & Handling
10 / 10
Accessories
91.4 %
Overall rating

I know what you’re thinking:

Is the Wahl Color Pro a true barber hair clipper?

Long story short – No!

Much like its cheap corded version, the cordless Color Pro is a tool made for home haircutting.

However:

That doesn’t mean that you can’t use it for professional purposes.

Owing to its awesome features, usability, and affordability, this clipper has turned out to be a useful tool for first-time barbers and anyone setting up shop on a budget.

How?

The cordless Color Pro offers you a lot of freedom; ensuring you can do two or three haircuts before maxing out on its 60-minute runtime.

And the best part is that this tool can still be used as a corded clipper; hence, guaranteeing no interruptions even when your battery runs out of juice.

Awesome, right?

It also comes with a decently powerful motor that’s relatively quiet and detachable blades that are 100% washable.

What about usability and comfort?

Well, despite being a bit bulky, the Color Pro’s smooth rubber exterior makes it easy to use and handle and allows for a firm grip at all times.

That means you get to enjoy more flexibility, comfort, and convenience using this clipper for both personal and professional use.

One more thing:

Arguably, the best feature about this kit is its color-coded guide comb set.

Yes!

You get 12 colored combs that make it easier for you to remember your preferred sizes with ease.

Now:

It’s a fact that Fades make up a large portion of the best haircuts out there; and to do a proper fade, you need a clipper with a functional taper lever.

Sadly:

The Cordless Color Pro doesn’t come with a taper lever or any form of blade size adjustment mechanism. Therefore, it won’t be your best option for fades.

Get it?

Anyway:

Inside its packaging, you’ll find:

  • A cordless hair clipper
  • 12 guide combs.
  • A barber and styling comb.
  • Blade oil.
  • Cleaning brush.
  • Shears.
  • Blade guard.
  • Charger.
  • User manual.

For me, that’s more than enough coming from a clipper worth less than $50.

Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Color-coded guide combs
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Accessory-rich
  • Great for novice barbers and those on a budget
  • Durable
  • Great value for money
Cons
  • No taper lever
  • Not a true barber clipper

Final Verdict

I agree that the Wahl Cordless Color Pro might not be the best clipper for professional haircutting.

But:

It’s a tool that beats a lot of barber clippers in terms of usability, handling, accessories, and performance.

Plus, it’s quite affordable and can be an ideal clipper for anyone starting on a budget.

So, yes, if it is enough for you, get it.

 

Wahl 5-Star Balding

90.6 %

Despite being insanely affordable for a premium and quality hair clipper, the Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding is true to its name – the best balding clipper out there.

9.5 / 10
Features & Functionality
9 / 10
Usability & Handling
8.7 / 10
Accessories
90.6 %
Overall rating

If you are looking for a clipper that offers razor-close bald haircuts with ease, the Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding is exactly what you should get.

Now:

This clipper is quite unique.

How?

Well, it’s the only clipper in the world that comes with a #000000 balding blade. And the best part is that it actually delivers exceptional shaves and performs comfortably.

So, aside from its one-of-a-kind blade, what else makes the 5-Star Balding worth your money?

Well, it’s quite ergonomic with groves that make this clipper easy to hold and use.

And:

Unlike most corded and bulky clippers, the 5-Star Balding is not only the perfect-size clipper but also very lightweight; meaning, you can cut a lot of clients’ hair without getting tired.

Under the clipper’s housing, you’ll find a powerful, yet gentle, V5000 electromagnetic motor (Wahl’s second-strongest motor after the V9000).

Overall:

This clipper is quite easy to use, aesthetically-designed, powerful, and convenient for both the barber and their client.

It’s relatively quiet with minimal/gentle vibrations and not prone to heating up like other heavy-duty clippers.

Impressive, right?

Plus, it a clipper that does exactly what it’s designed to do – proper bald haircuts and skin fades.

And that’s why it’s one of the best balding clippers available.

Unfortunately, like all clippers, it also comes with its fair share of setbacks.

For starters, the blades are dangerously sharp and can easily cut skin if not used carefully. Also, unlike other clippers on this list, the 5-Star Balding is a bit specialized; i.e. designed for balding and skin-fades. Therefore, it might not be ideal for a barber with different client styling needs.

Anyway:

What’s inside its box?

  • A corded clipper
  • 2 guide combs
  • Blade guard
  • Blade oil
  • Cleaning brush
  • A user manual

That’s said, here’s a summary of the Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clipper’s pros and cons:

Pros
  • Has the best balding blades (#000000)
  • Strong motor
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lightweight and very easy to use
  • Quiet and gentle
  • Impressively durable
  • Great value for money
  • Very affordable for a premium clipper
Cons
  • No taper lever
  • Minimal accessories
  • Dangerously sharp blades

Final Verdict

If I’m being honest, what’s not to like about the Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clipper?

This clipper is a true performer, the best you can get for balding/skin fades, and features a premium design.

So:

If you ask me, it a clipper that every professional barber needs to have in their arsenal.

 

BESTBOMG Hair Clipper

90.6 %

It’s hard to find a cheap, yet quality, hair clipper among the tens of thousands of products available. But, the BESTBOMG Professional Cordless Hair Clipper Kit is rewriting this statement – haircut by haircut.

9.5 / 10
Features & Functionality
9.3 / 10
Usability & Handling
8.3 / 10
Accessories
90.6 %
Overall rating

Every experienced barber knows this:

The tools you use for a haircut will determine how easy the whole process will be for you, how comfortable the client will be, and the overall quality of the final cut.

And that’s why it’s always wise to find the right tools.

Now:

Is BESTBOMG Professional Cordless Hair Clipper Kit the right tool for a professional barber?

My answer: Definitely!

I came across one of these bad boys a while back and really enjoyed the experience.

How?

Well, for starters, the design and artwork isn’t something you see every day. It’s unique, lively, and a welcomed change from the boring, single-color designs you’ll find in most clippers.

Looks aside, you’ll also be amazed by the fact that this $40 clipper comes with a lot of flexibility owing to its cordless nature.

What’s more?

A powerful lithium-ion battery, 4-hour runtime, whisper-quiet operation, and self-sharpening blades are just some of the key perks you’ll enjoy from the BESTBOMG Professional Cordless Hair Clipper Kit.

If that’s not enough, you’ll be happy to know that you can use this clipper as either cordless or corded. That means that you can continue using it even after you run out of battery power.

Convenient, right?

In terms of usability and handling, this clipper comes with quality blades and a powerful motor that ensure you do snag-free and pull-free haircuts - all day, every day.

Lastly:

It has a click taper lever that allows you to make fast and accurate blade adjustments on the go.

Plus, if you are worried about the accessories you’ll get, the BESTBOMG Professional Cordless Hair Clipper Kit comes with:

  • A cordless hair clipper
  • 6 guide combs
  • A stylish barber comb
  • Cleaning brush
  • Charging adapter
  • And a user manual

Just enough, right?

But:

One thing you’ll hate about this clipper is the fact that it takes 3 hours to fully recharge. And while you can still use it as a corded clipper while charging, this takes out all the fun of using a cordless clipper.

Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Comes with enough accessories
  • Stylish and ergonomic
  • Very easy to use
  • Cord/cordless convenience
    Self-sharpening blades
  • 4-hour runtime
  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • Smooth and accurate click taper lever
Cons
  • Insanely long recharging time
  • Flimsy guide combs
  • No blade oil

Final Verdict

Not many people have used or even talk about the BESTBOMG Professional Cordless Hair Clipper Kit. But, it’s a clipper well-worth its price tag and a great choice for anyone looking for a quality, budget clipper.

 

Wahl Magic Clip Cordless

89.2 %

The Wahl Professional 5-Star Magic Clip Corded clipper is a tool that never disappoints. From its performance to design, this is a haircutter designed with the everyday barber in mind.

8.8 / 10
Features & Functionality
9 / 10
Usability & Handling
9 / 10
Accessories
89.2 %
Overall rating

When someone mentions the Wahl Magic Clip, the Cordless #8148 is often the first thing that comes to most people’s minds.

However:

This Corded Magic Clip is also a force to be reckoned with.

Why?

Well, this clipper is not only powerful but also very stylish and easy to use.

To be specific:

The Corded Wahl Magic Clip comes with a robust V9000 electromagnetic motor (Wahl’s strongest motor to date).

And this means that power won’t be an issue with this clipper.

Now:

It gets even better when you factor in its magical, high-precision, zero-overlap fade blades that deliver swift and precise trims and snips with ease on all types of hair.

Quality blades and a strong motor… what more do you need?

Well:

A good taper lever, right? And a clipper that’s easy to handle and use? If so, you’ll be thrilled with this clipper’s design and ergonomics.

How?

To begin with, the Magic Clip is very lightweight compared to other heavy-duty, professional hair clippers. This means that you can use it for long without getting tired.

What’s more?

This clipper’s design is not only aesthetically appealing but also very ergonomic; allowing for a firm and comfy grip during usage.

All these perks and features point to three things – high-quality, impressive performance, and unmatched convenience; all of which the Magic Clip guarantees.

That said:

The biggest disadvantage I’ve had using these is the fact that they tend to have very sharp blades. If you’re not careful, you might end up cutting your client’s skin; especially, during hairline design.

But that’s just a minor setback that can be fixed with a little practice and precaution.

What about value?

Well, in its packaging you’ll find:

  • A corded clipper
  • 8 attachment combs
  • Cleaning brush
  • Blade oil
  • Blade guard
  • And a user manual

Your thoughts?

Pros
  • Powered by a strong V9000 motor
  • Very ergonomic
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Stylish and good looking
  • Comes with an 8ft-long heavy-duty cord
  • It’s a true barber clipper
  • Features a taper lever
  • Has exceptional blades
  • Great for fading and tapering
  • Relatively affordable
Cons
  • Very sharp blades
  • Its warranty cover is only available for US buyers
  • Designed for USA electrical outlets and voltages only

Final Verdict

For a clipper worth around $70, the corded Wahl Professional 5-Star is, undoubtedly, one of the best deals you’ll find on the market.

It offers you all the perks, qualities, and features you get from premium clippers but at a much lower price than those in its class.

 

Limural K11s Hair Clipper

88.6 %

With a 4.8/5.0 rating on Amazon after 5,000+ reviews and a $50 price tag, the Limural Professional Cordless Hair Clippers for Men is definitely one of the best and cheapest barber clippers out there.

8.8 / 10
Features & Functionality
9.2 / 10
Usability & Handling
8.7 / 10
Accessories
88.6 %
Overall rating

There are so many things that make this cordless clipper a top contender for the “iron throne” of affordable haircutting tools.

For example:

This clipper comes fitted with a strong 5500 SPM rotary motor that delivers enough power and torque to get the job done.

Its durable and sharp blades allow for fast and precise cuts and trims; hence, making the whole process easy and convenient for both you (the barber) and your client.

Moreover, this clipper’s blade teeth are closely lined-up to ensure there is no snagging or pulling of hair during a cut. Something, I’m sure, your clients will appreciate.

Now:

It being a cordless clipper, you can expect to get a lot of freedom and flexibility; making it easier for you to style and trim even the hardest parts of the head.

Plus:

The Limural Professional Cordless is one of a few clippers that deliver up to 5 hours of runtime; thanks to its powerful lithium-ion battery.

Impressive, right?

Well, there’s more.

This clipper also features a durable, stylish, and ergonomic all-metal housing. And that makes it both visually appealing and a great spend.

Get this:

You won’t have to worry about uncomfortable buzzing noises, vibrations, and heat with this clipper thanks to its intuitive design and engineering.

Not forgetting the fact that the Limural Professional Cordless Hair Clippers for Men comes with an LED display that allows you to monitor your battery level on the go.

Cool, right?

This means that you won’t be caught off-guard when your battery runs out of power.

Now:

Is it all roses and bliss with this clipper?

No!

It has its share of downsides. For example; when you buy it, don’t expect to find a charging adapter in the box. At best, you’ll get the USB charging cable. And that can be stressful for users who don’t have access to a USB port or charging transformer.

Anyway:

What about value?

Well, inside the box, you’ll find the following…

  • A Cordless Clipper
  • 6 Guide Combs
  • A Cape
  • USB Charging Cable
  • Blade oil
  • Cleaning Brush
  • Barber Comb
  • And an Instruction Manual

Just enough, right?

That said, let me summarize all this:

Pros
  • Durable, self-sharpening blades
  • Strong 5500 SPM rotary motor
  • All-metal housing
  • 5-hour runtime
  • Very affordable 
    Easy to use
  • Reliable and convenient
Cons
  • Doesn’t come with a charging adapter
  • Loose charging cable interface with the clipper
  • Flimsy guide combs

Final Verdict

Unlike Wahl, Andis, and Oster, Limural is still an upcoming brand trying to make a name for itself in a highly competitive market.

As a result, they’ve been coming up with exceptional hair clippers at very affordable prices.

Now:

The Limural Professional Cordless Hair Clipper for Men isn’t perfect. But considering its features, functions, usability, and affordability, I’d say it’s worth every penny.

 

Oster Fast Feed

87.5 %

The Oster Fast Feed is not only one of the brand’s cheapest clippers but also a true barber clipper and among the best on the market today. Here’s what you need to know about it.

9.3 / 10
Features & Functionality
9.7 / 10
Usability & Handling
7.3 / 10
Accessories
87.5 %
Overall rating

Without a doubt:

The Oster Fast Feed is a must-have clipper for busy and premium barbershops.

And, I know you are wondering; why?

Well, this clipper comes with numerous perks and features that make it a great hair clipper; especially for fading and tapering.

Now:

One of the biggest upsides to using the Oster Fast Feed is its whisper-quiet operation.

That’s right.

This clipper comes fitted with a very strong, yet gentle, Pivot motor that offers sufficient power and torque; while still remaining relatively quiet and with minimal vibrations.

And that makes it one of the best clipper to use on anxious kids or clients who appreciate a little peace and quiet.

Get it?

Anyway, another perk of the Fast Feed is its stainless steel, adjustable blades; they are not only strong and durable but also ideal for all types of hair.

An impressive motor and great blades… what else does this clipper have to offer?

Well:

You’ll enjoy using its easily-accessible taper lever; with which you can adjust the blades from size #000 to #1.

Design-wise, this clipper is quite simple.

I know it’s not the best design out there and that I can’t really call it fully-ergonomic due to its plainness.

But:

On the plus side, the Fast Feed only weighs a pound (1lb) and is compact enough to fit into any person’s hands.

Being lightweight and easy to hold/use means that this is a clipper you can use for a long time without getting tired or cramped up.

And that’s a good thing; especially during peak work hours.

Now:

The biggest downside to buying these clippers is that it comes with very flimsy guard combs. This means that you may have to buy a new – sturdier – set soon. Also, for a professional clipper, the Fast Feed doesn’t provide much value in terms of accessories and you can get even better clippers within its price range.

That said:

What’s in the box?

Well, during your unboxing, you should expect to find:

  • A Corded Clipper
  • 4 Attachment Combs
  • Blade Oil
  • Cleaning Brush
  • Blade Guard
  • User Manual

As I said, not enough accessories.

Pros
  • Multiple color options available
  • Lightweight and relatively compact
  • Whisper-quiet pivot motor
  • Impressive, adjustable blades
  • Easy to handle, grip, and use
  • No heating issues
  • Ideal for all kinds of hair
Cons
  • Flimsy guard combs
  • Limited accessories
  • Not so great with wet hair

Final Verdict

If you ask me, the Oster Fast Feed is a clipper that deserves a spot among the best hair clippers available today.

It’s a performer, very elegant, and fairly affordable for a premium hair clipper.

So:

Get it if you can…

 

Surker Hair Clipper

87.5 %

If you are looking for true value in a cheap barber clipper, then the SURKER Professional Barber Hair Clipper/Trimmer Set is exactly what you should go for. Here’s why.

8.3 / 10
Features & Functionality
8.3 / 10
Usability & Handling
9.7 / 10
Accessories
87.5 %
Overall rating

Get this

Much like BESTBOMG and Limural, Surker is also an upcoming brand devoted to offering cheap but functional haircutting tools.

Their SURKER Professional Barber Hair Clipper/Trimmer Set is, by far, one their best products.

Anyway, what’s so great about this kit?

Well, it offers you great value for starters.

How?

It’s the only clipper in this list that comes with a complementary, professional hair trimmer.

So, you get two tools at the price of one.

Awesome, right?

Now:

Trimmer aside, what else makes this set worth buying?

For one, this hair clipper comes with a strong, heavy-duty, Powerdrive motor that allows for fast and smooth haircuts; without any snagging or pulling.

And if that’s not good enough, it’s fitted with High Carbon Steel Blades that are not only self-sharpening but also highly precise

What’s more?

The SURKER Professional Barber Hair Clipper comes with a 4-click taper lever that’s quite sturdy and very accessible.

And:

It also has an all-metal housing that not only stylish but also very durable.

Design-wise:

This clipper is very ergonomic and features grooves at the top and bottom allowing for a firm and comfortable grip during usage.

One more thing:

It has one of the best runtimes in the market; offering up to 4 hours of operational time. On the other hand, the trimmer comes with a 2-hour runtime.

All in all, it’s clear to see that the SURKER Professional Barber Hair Clipper/Trimmer Set is definitely worth every penny.

But:

It’s not perfect.

Several users have reported this clipper breaking down prematurely. So, it may not be ideal for places where it’s used frequently; like a busy barbershop. Also, it can get noisy at times and the blades only work great on specific types of hair.

And that raises the question:

Is it really worth it?

Well, here’s what you’ll get inside the box:

  • A Cordless Hair Clipper
  • A Detailing Trimmer
  • 11 Guide Combs (8 for the clipper and 3 for the trimmer)
  • Cleaning Brush
  • Two USB Charging Cables
  • A Charging Transformer
  • And a User Manual

Just about enough, right?

Pros
  • LED display for battery level monitoring
  • Accessory-rich
  • Great value for money
  • Comes with a hair trimmer for awesome finishes
  • Strong Powerdrive motor
  • High Carbon Steel Blades
  • 4-Click taper lever for fast and accurate blade adjustments
  • Ergonomic and easy to use
  • Impressively long runtimes
  • Durable, all-metal housing
Cons
  • Not ideal for all hair types
  • Not so reliable
  • especially, in a busy barbershop
  • No blade oil provided

Final Verdict

Given all its features and perks, it’s quite easy to see why the SURKER Professional Barber Hair Clipper/Trimmer Set might look like the Ultimate Deal.

But:

My advice would be to buy it with minimal expectations or as a back-up clipper. That way, if there are any disappointments along the way, you’ll be ready for them.

Either way, I still feel like a $54 price tag is quite the offer for a haircutting set like this one.

 

Wahl 79434

87.5 %

If you are looking for a quality hair clipper for less than $50, the WAHL 79434 Clipper Rechargeable Cord/Cordless Haircutting & Trimming Kit is a good option to start with.

7.8 / 10
Features & Functionality
8.5 / 10
Usability & Handling
10 / 10
Accessories
87.5 %
Overall rating

I know you are wondering:

What’s so special about the Wahl 79434 Cordless clipper?

Well, for starters, it’s the most affordable on this list with an Amazon.com price tag of $37 (around the same price as other popular retailers).

Now:

With such a low price, does it deliver on quality and functionality?

Here’s what I know:

The Wahl 79434 hair clipper comes fitted with a standard rotary motor. And that means that it’s not as powerful or resilient as other clippers on this list.

However, this cordless clipper will serve you well during off-peak hours thanks to its 60-Minute runtime; and if you run out of battery mid-haircut, you can still use it as a corded clipper; i.e. cord/cordless convenience.

Impressed?

Well, there’s more…

To ensure that you get a fast, smooth, and snag-free haircutting experience, Wahl has fitted this clipper with washable, detachable, self-sharpening, stainless steel precision blades.

Design-wise:

This clipper has been built with novice barbers in mind.

How?

Its design is not only stylish but also very ergonomic allowing for a comfortable, firm grip during cuts.

Unfortunately:

You should also expect a few downsides with this one.

For example:

The Wahl 79434 hair clipper ships with only one detachable blade. That means that you cannot adjust your blade sizes easily (i.e. no taper lever); unless you buy additional blades.

And aside from having a weak motor, this clipper is also a bit bulky weighing around 1.9lbs (probably because it uses NiMH battery technology instead of Lithium-Ion). This means you might get tired after a short time cutting hair.

Whether or not you can work with these downsides depends on your needs and preferences.

So, how much value should you expect?

Inside the box, there are a ton of essentials accessories.

For example, you’ll get:

  • A Cordless Clipper
  • 12 Attachment Combs
  • Barber Comb
  • Styling Comb
  • Shears
  • Cleaning Brush
  • Blade Oil
  • Blade Guard

If you ask me, I think these are more than enough accessories for both home and professional barbers.

Pros
  • Comes with self-sharpening precision blades
  • Cord/Cordless convenience
  • Easy to use and handle
  • The most affordable on this list
  • Very ergonomic
  • Accessory-rich
  • Comes with worldwide voltage (i.e can be used in any part of the globe)
  • Its detachable blades are 100% washable
Cons
  • No taper lever
  • Weak motor
  • Not the best for peak traffic hours in a barbershop

Final Verdict

Here’s what I think…

The Wahl 79434 might not be the best of the best in this list, but it’s a great clipper all together.

And whether you decide to use it for home barbering or as a budget clipper for back up in a barbershop, I’m sure it will serve you well.

 

Andis 73000 Envy Cordless

86.7 %

The Andis Envy Cordless Li hair clipper is neither cheap nor expensive. However, with its impressive features and functions, plus, a price tag under $100, I think it’s only fair that I mention it here.

8 / 10
Features & Functionality
9 / 10
Usability & Handling
9 / 10
Accessories
86.7 %
Overall rating

Get this:

Andis is a brand that’s synonymous with making high-quality, premium hair clippers.

And while most of their top clippers cost $100+, their Envy Li might be the best option for professional barbers looking for an affordable clipper by this brand.

So, what does this clipper have to offer?

Well, there’s so much to love about it; from design to performance, the Andis Envy Li doesn’t disappoint.

For example:

It comes with a 2-hour runtime thanks to this clipper’s powerful Lithium-Ion battery; just enough for at least six haircuts. Therefore, you can use it during peak hours without breaking a sweat.

Also, this clipper comes fitted with a 5500SPM rotary motor that’s decently strong and full of torque.

Its high-speed blades are adjustable (size 000 to 1) and made of strong Carbon Steel for improved durability and service.

What’s more?

The Envy Li’s design is very ergonomic. Meaning that it’s easy to grip, handle, and use. And thanks to this clipper’s light weight (10 ounces), you won’t get tired easily.

Its taper lever is well-placed and very smooth to operate.

And:

The best part is that the Andis Envy Li, unlike most clippers from this brand, comes with a full set of accessories.

Anyway:

There are downsides to buying this clipper too. For example, it has a plastic polymer housing. And while it may look and feel sturdy, clumsy barbers will find themselves needing a new clipper after three to five drops. Plus, its guide combs break easily too.

What about the accessories? What do you get?

Well, the Envy Li’s package comes with:

  • A Cordless Clipper
  • 11 Guard Combs
  • Blade Oil
  • Blade Guard
  • Charging Adapter
  • And a User Manual

Any experienced barber will tell you that these accessories are more than usual for Andis hair clippers.

Pros
  • Ergonomic design
  • Cord/Cordless operation
  • 2-hour runtime
  • Easy to use and handle
  • Accessible and smooth taper lever 
    Sufficient accessories
  • Impressive blades
  • Strong rotary motor
  • Can be zero-gapped
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Plastic housing makes it feel cheap
  • Not so durable for clumsy barbers
  • Flimsy guards

Final Verdict

For die-hard Andis fans, the Envy Li is probably the best, cheapest hair clipper you can buy for professional use.

It’s a great performer, offers impressive features, and very easy to use.

So:

What more do you need?

 

Wahl Icon Clipper

85.6 %

If I was to describe the Wahl Professional Icon Hair Clipper in three words, I’d say that it is Powerful, Affordable, and Functional. It’s a truly professional barber clipper and below are a few reasons why.

9 / 10
Features & Functionality
8.3 / 10
Usability & Handling
8.3 / 10
Accessories
85.6 %
Overall rating

Question:

How much do you know about the Wahl Professional Icon Hair Clipper?

Not much, right?

Well, you are not alone. Despite being an awesome clipper, this Icon isn’t as popular as most Wahl clippers.

Why? Well, let’s find out…

Get this:

The Wahl Professional Icon Hair Clipper comes fitted with Wahl’s most powerful V9000 electromagnetic motor.

These motors can deliver a whopping 14,000 strokes per minute; meaning that you’ll have enough power to cut through all kinds of hair - fast and easy.

What’s more?

It also comes with Wahl’s #1006 blades; well known for being sharp, precise, and great for fading, tapering, and blending.

In terms of usability:

This clipper is impressively lightweight; weighs 1lb. It’s well-sized and can easily fit in most people’s hands comfortably.

Now:

It may not be as flexible as using a cordless clipper; but the Icon clipper’s 8ft-long, chemical resistant power cord ensures that you still have a decent amount of freedom when working.

You’ll be able to quickly and easily adjust your blade sizes thanks to this clipper’s accessible taper lever.  

So, yeah.

It’s a great clipper and an awesome tool for professional fading, tapering, and blending.

Any downsides?

Well, for starters, its vibrations can be quite annoying. The Wahl Icon is also quite noisy. These are issues that are a result of this clipper’s powerful V9000 motor. However, the plastic housing and flimsy taper lever also make it feel cheap and puny.

So, is it worth it?

Yes, but only if you can live with the downsides above.

In terms of value and accessories, you’ll get:

  • A Corded Clipper
  • 8 Attachment Combs
  • Blade Oil
  • Cleaning Brush
  • Blade Guard
  • Styling Comb
  • And a User Manual

Pros
  • Has a powerful V9000 motor
  • Impressive blades
  • Easy blade size adjustments
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use and handle
  • Great for fades, tapers, and blends
  • Awesome for heavy-duty clipping
  • Fairly affordable
Cons
  • Flimsy taper lever
  • Plastic housing feels cheap
  • Noisy and vibrates annoyingly

Final Verdict

The Wahl Professional Icon may not be as popular as the Magic Clip or Senior series. But when it comes to performance, it’s ranked among the best.

So, if you are looking for an affordable, full-size, professional barber clipper, this might just be it.

And that’s a wrap:

But before I conclude the post, here are a few awesome shopping tips that will definitely come in handy…

5 Things to Look For When Shopping For a Cheap Hair Clipper

So:

At the moment, the hair clipper market is flooded with cheap clippers. They can be tempting, especially for beginners looking to venture into the barbering business.

But, one thing is for sure:

Paying less for a product isn’t a guarantee for more value. Actually, it can cost you more. For that reason, there are several things to take into account when shopping for a cheap hair clipper.

Read on to find out.

1. The Brand’s Reputation

With the market flooded with a torrent of brands, buying from a credible manufacturer is the best way to be safe.

You see, out of the many brands that promise quality, only a few will meet your expectations.

So, just to be sure, buy from a well-reputed manufacturer. The spec sheet may not be so impressive (considering the cheap price), but you can never go wrong with some of the leading manufacturers like Wahl, Andis, Oster, BaBylissPRO, and so on.

Now:

To evaluate a brand’s reputation, you can read through customer reviews, how the brand handles complaints, and what they do to ensure the issue doesn’t occur again.

Bottom line:

Don’t be tempted to buy generic clippers unless you are 100% sure. Some of these clippers don’t last long and their replacement parts are almost impossible to get.

2. Clipper Quality

Although a low price tag is often a compromise for quality, be conscious of its build.

What do I mean?

Well, make sure you check the:

  • Clipper’s housing: Generally avoid any clipper whose housing is made of cheap plastic. Also, be on the lookout for valox (a type of hardened plastic that’s doesn’t last that long).
  • The blades: Ask yourself; do they look sturdy? Can they stay sharp for long? Are they self-sharpening? If the blades don’t look satisfactory, move on to the next clipper. Low-quality blades contribute a lot to snagging and pulling.  

3. The Accessories

Even at a low price, a good hair clipper should come with sufficient accessories. These tools make your haircutting process easy and smooth.

That said, a clipper that lacks accessories isn’t worthwhile. Here are some of the essential accessories you need to look out for:

  • Blade guard
  • Comb attachments
  • Clipper oil
  • A comb

4. User Warranty Period

Get this:

A hair clipper that lacks the backing of a good warranty raises a red flag. If, after all, the manufacturer has faith in their product, they should offer a solid warranty.

Right?

So, go for a clipper that guarantees at least a one-year warranty.

5. The Clipper’s Motor

Note:

Powerful motors are imperative as they determine the cutting power and speed of the clipper.

Whether cheap or pricey, any hair clipper will feature one of these three motors:

  • An Electromagnetic Motor
  • Pivot Motor
  • Or a Rotary Motor

Whichever one you get, make sure that it delivers enough power, torque, and RPM to meet your needs.

In Conclusion…

It’s a fact:

Not all cheap clippers will disappoint you.

It all depends on how meticulous you are when buying one. If you are shopping on Amazon or any online store, be sure to check the user reviews.

As well as any in-depth reviews made by professionals in the industry (like me! Wink). Anyway, don’t forget to share your thoughts and questions on this topic in the comments section below.

Thank You and Happy Shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions

Depends on the brand. Cheap hair clippers from top brands such as Wahl, last longer than generic cheap clippers. Apart from the brand, how you care and maintain determines how long the clippers will serve you. This includes oiling after every use, proper storage, and blade alignment.
The best budget-friendly clipper you can get on the market right now is the Wahl Color Pro Cordless. The clipper has a rechargeable battery with a runtime of up to 1 hour. It can also be used while it's plugged in and charging.
For professional-level cutting the best clipper is the Wahl Magic Clip, while for those on a budget our recommendation is the Wahl Color Pro Cordless.
The best three beginner-friendly clippers are the Wahl Color Pro Cordless, Wahl 5-Star Balding, and the Oster Fast Feed. These three clippers are easy to use, impressively durable, and budget-friendly.

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