Best Clippers for Beginner Barbers: A Comprehensive Guide

“Good grooming is integral and impeccable style is a must. If you don’t look the part, no one will want to give you time or money.” – Daymond John

Have you heard about men changing their barbers too often? It’s implausible for them to frequently change barbers until and unless they’ve been disappointed by one.

But what makes a barber an ideal barber? Skills and years of practice are one thing, but none of them come in handy if barbers don’t have the best clippers to facilitate their clients. These tools are a barber’s weapon to ensure their customers don’t think about going elsewhere.

If you’ve just stepped into the world of barbers and are worried about getting hands on finest clippers, this blog is your key to unlocking the gate of success.

What are Hair Clippers?

Hair clippers are among the essential tools in a barber’s casket. They’re efficiently designed to cut through hair making them ideal for use at home and in salons. They contain a motorized unit that powers the blade that moves back and forth. The clippers teeth graze the hair clipping them short as needed.

Hair clippers come in a variety of sizes that adjust the length of the cut, which makes it a versatile hair cutting tool for different haircuts and styles.

In a survey of U.S. adults, 44% of men reported that they had used a hair clipper to cut their hair at home in the past 12 months. (source: Statista)

Types of Clippers Every Barber should have

Corded hair clippers:

Corded hair clippers are designed to be plugged into an electrical outlet. They are powerful and provide consistent performance without the need for recharging. However, they can be less convenient to use due to the cord, which can limit mobility and may require an extension cord.

Cordless hair clippers:

Cordless hair clippers are powered by a rechargeable battery, allowing for greater mobility and flexibility during use. They are typically lightweight and easy to handle, making them a popular choice for professionals and home users alike. However, they may not provide as much power as corded clippers and may require periodic recharging.

Professional clippers:

These are heavy-duty clippers designed for use in barbershops and salons. They are typically more powerful and durable than consumer-grade clippers, making them ideal for frequent use.

Consumer-grade clippers:

These are lighter-duty clippers designed for home use. They may not be as powerful as professional clippers but are generally more affordable and suitable for occasional use.

Trimmer clippers:

These are small clippers designed for precise detailing and trimming around the ears, neckline, and other areas. They are often used in conjunction with larger clippers for a complete haircut.

14 Best Clippers for Beginner Barbers

“I’m a big believer in the power of a good haircut.” – Allison Williams

1. Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clipper

Wahl’s complete hair-cutting kit includes color-coded guide combs for easy identification of the comb lengths. It also has a self-sharpening blade and a powerful motor, making a barber’s job easier.

PROS

• Kit comes with a storage case, scissors, and a styling comb
• Affordable

CONS

• Could be noisy

1. Andis Professional T-Outliner Trimmer

This trimmer is designed for outlining and trimming, making it perfect for creating clean lines and detailed work. Its powerful magnetic motor and carbon-steel blade facilitate beginner and veteran barbers to do their job.

PROS

• Durable
• Precise
• Versatile

CONS

• Gets hot after extensive use

1. Oster Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper

Oster’s fast-feed clipper is known for cutting thick hair. It comes with an adjustable blade and powerful motor that makes a barber’s job easy. While cutting hair, beginner barbers won’t have to worry because its precision blades ensure long-lasting performance without snagging.

PROS

• Durable
• Precise
• Easy to handle

CONS

• Needs frequent oiling

1. Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit

This kit is designed for self-haircutting and has a unique curved blade that makes it easy to follow the contours of your head. It is also cordless and has a lithium-ion battery that provides up to 40 minutes of runtime

PROS

• Compact
• Easy to use

CONS

• May not be suitable for intricate work

1. Wahl Elite Pro High-Performance Haircut Kit

This kit includes a powerful motor, self-sharpening blades, and a variety of guide combs. It also comes with a storage case, scissors, and a styling comb. Its powerful motor helps cut through thick and coarse hair with ease. Moreover, the ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip and easy maneuverability, making it ideal for extended use.

PROS

• Durable
• Precise
• Provides smooth and versatile cut

CONS

• Might be heavy
• Might not be suitable for intricate work

2. BaBylissPRO Barberology Clippers

These clippers have a high-torque motor and a precision blade that can cut through thick hair. They also have a sleek and stylish design. This high-performance electric clipper is built with advanced technology and durable materials that provide precise and efficient trimming of hair of all types.

PROS

• Durable
• Powerful
• Has stainless steel blades
• Has variety of cutting lengths

CONS

• Expensive

3. Panasonic ER-GB40-S Cordless Hair Clipper

This clipper has a precision blade and a 45-degree angle that provides a smooth and precise cut. It also has a cordless design and can be used wet or dry. Its a great tool for efficient hair trimming. Barbers can use it for facial hair, beard and head hair.

PROS

• Versatile
• Lightweight
• Easy to handle

CONS

• Need frequent cleaning

4. ConairMAN Cordless Lithium Ion Multi-Use Hair Clipper

 This clipper has a powerful motor and a lithium-ion battery that provides up to 75 minutes of runtime. It also has a variety of attachments, including a nose/ear hair trimmer and a detail trimmer.

PROS

• Versatile
• Lightweight
• Easy to Use

CONS

• Might be a heavy

5. Kemei Professional Hair Clippers

Kemei Professional Hair Clippers are a type of electric hair clipper designed for professional use in barbershops or for personal use at home. These clippers are built with high-quality materials, featuring a powerful motor and sharp blades that make it easy to trim and style hair.

PROS

• Sharp blades
• Powerful motor
• Adjustable settings

CONS

• Might be noisy

6. Wahl Professional 5-Star Magic Clip

The Wahl’s professional clippers are every barbers dream who loves his job. This lightweight hair clipper is among the best clippers for beginner barbers. It delivers up to 9000 strokes per minute and cuts hair with precision.

PROS

• Sharp blades
• Durable
• Comfortable grip

CONS

• Needs regular cleaning

7. Oster Classic 76

The Oster Classic 76 clipper for barbers is the best in the market. The heavy duty professional clipper is ideal for both bulk cutting and trimming. Its made of durable materials that ensure long lasting performance and reliability. Barbers won’t have to worry about replacing the clipper for long because of its high quality carbon steel blades.

PROS

• Withstands heavy use
• Has a detachable blade system
• 9-foot power cord

CONS

• Can be noisy

8. Wahl Color Pro Cordless Rechargeable Hair Clipper

This versatile and convenient clipper is ideal for amateur barbers and people cutting hair at home. Since its cordless, barbers can use it with utmost flexibility. Its rechargeable battery lasts up to 60 minutes without charging.

PROS

• Cordless design
• Provides effective cutting
• Adjustable taper lever

CONS

• May not be suitable for thick hair

9. Conair Simple Cut 12-Piece Haircut Kit

Every barber who is starting new should get their hands on this affordable clipper that is basically made for the ones who’re still in their early learning stage of cutting hair. This simple clipper gives a clean cut thanks to its stainless steel blades. Moreover, it can be easily stored or placed thanks to its compact size.

PROS

• Lightweight and easy to use
• Comes with different accessories
• Suitable for home usage

CONS

• May not be as powerful as other clippers

Are Clippers better than Scissors?

Indeed! Clippers are better than scissors. If you don’t know already then you’d be surprised to know that the very first version of clippers which was a hand-held razor, was invented by Nikola Bizumic in 1851. Later on, in 1898, the first electric hair clipper was invented by Leo J. Wahl, who later founded the Wahl Clipper Corporation. This invention revolutionized the hair-cutting industry by providing barbers and hairstylists with a faster, more efficient way to cut hair.

If one has to choose between clippers and scissors, then the former takes the credit due to the following reasons:

Speed: Clippers can cut hair much faster than scissors, making them ideal for high-volume salons and barbershops.

Precision: Clippers are designed to cut hair evenly and with precision. This is especially important for short haircuts, where even the slightest mistake can be noticeable.

Consistency: Clippers provide a consistent length and texture, making it easier to achieve a uniform look across the entire head.

Ease of use: Clippers are easy to use and require minimal training, making them ideal for beginner barbers and hairstylists.

Versatility: Clippers come with a variety of guard sizes and attachments, making them versatile tools that can be used for a range of haircuts and styles.

How to use clippers?

Choose the right clipper: Make sure you choose a clipper that suits your needs and skill level. Consider factors such as weight, corded vs. cordless, and the type of blade.

Prepare the hair: Before you begin cutting, make sure the hair is clean and dry. Comb or brush the hair to remove any tangles, and consider using a spray bottle to mist the hair with water or a styling product to make it easier to cut.

Choose the right guard size: Clippers come with a range of guard sizes that determine the length of the cut. Choose a guard size that matches the desired length of the cut, and make sure to switch guards as needed for different parts of the head.

Hold the clipper correctly: Hold the clipper with your dominant hand, and use your other hand to guide the clipper. Keep the clipper perpendicular to the head and move it in a steady, even motion. Make sure to use the entire blade, not just the tips.

Work in sections: Start at the bottom of the head and work your way up in sections. Use a comb or your fingers to lift the hair and cut it to the desired length. Be careful not to cut too much hair at once, as this can lead to uneven cuts.

Blend the hair: Once you’ve cut all the hair to the desired length, use a blending technique to create a smooth, even transition between different lengths. This can be done by using a shorter guard size and cutting the hair around the edges of the longer cut.

Clean and oil the clipper: After you’re finished cutting, make sure to clean and oil the clipper to keep it in good condition. Remove any hair or debris from the blade and use clipper oil to lubricate the moving parts.

Remember, practice makes perfect. As a beginner barber, it’s important to take your time and focus on creating even, consistent cuts. With practice and patience, you’ll soon become comfortable using clippers to create a range of haircuts and styles.

Hair Clippers Buying Guide for New Barbers

As a beginner, barbers have to be extra cautious in their purchases. Here are some of the factors they’ve to consider when buying clippers.

Motor Type: Clippers typically come with either a magnetic, rotary, or pivot motor. Magnetic motors are best for beginners because they are lighter and quieter, making them easier to handle. Rotary motors are more powerful and work better on thick hair, while pivot motors are the most powerful and work best on wet or coarse hair.

Blade Type: The two main types of blades are detachable and adjustable. Detachable blades are easy to change and allow for a variety of cutting lengths. Adjustable blades, on the other hand, are fixed to the clipper and can be adjusted to different cutting lengths using a lever.

Accessories: Look for clippers that come with a variety of accessories, such as different clipper guards, a cleaning brush, and oil for maintenance.

Ergonomics: The clipper should feel comfortable in your hand and be easy to maneuver around the head. Look for a clipper with a non-slip grip and a lightweight design.

Corded or Cordless: Cordless clippers offer more flexibility and are easier to use but have a shorter battery life. Corded clippers are more powerful and reliable, but they can be limiting in terms of mobility.

Price: Clippers can range in price from $20 to $200, so consider your budget before making your purchase. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality clipper can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacement.

Things a Barber should Avoid when Buying Clippers

“The hair is the first thing. And the teeth, the second. A man got those two things, he’s got it all.” – James Brown (source: BrainyQuote)

Cheap, low-quality clippers: While it can be tempting to save money by purchasing a cheaper set of clippers, these products are often low-quality and may not perform well or last as long as higher-end models. Investing in a quality set of clippers will pay off in the long run.

Poorly reviewed products: Before purchasing clippers, be sure to read reviews from other barbers and hairstylists. Avoid products with consistently negative reviews or complaints about performance, durability, or maintenance.

Products with limited accessories: Look for clippers that come with a variety of guards, combs, and other accessories to ensure that you have everything you need for a variety of haircuts.

Outdated technology: Avoid clippers with outdated technology or features, as these may not provide the performance or convenience that modern clippers offer.

Unreliable brands: Stick with reputable brands known for producing high-quality clippers. Avoid unknown or untested brands that may not have a track record of reliability or quality.

Maintenance Tips for Clippers

Clean the blades regularly: Use a cleaning brush to remove hair and debris from the blades after each use. You can also use a small amount of clipper cleaning solution to help dissolve any buildup.

Oil the blades: Apply a few drops of clipper oil to the blades before and after each use. This helps lubricate the blades and prevents rust and corrosion.

Replace the blades when necessary: Over time, the blades can become dull or damaged. It’s important to replace them when necessary to ensure a clean and precise cut.

Store the clippers properly: Keep your clippers in a dry and cool place when not in use. Avoid storing them in a damp or humid environment, as this can cause rust and corrosion.

Check the motor brushes: If your clippers are corded, check the motor brushes every few months. If they are worn down, replace them to maintain optimal motor performance.

How to use Clippers? Tips for Beginner Barbers

Choose the right guard:

Use the appropriate guard size based on the desired length of the haircut. Always start with a longer guard and gradually work your way down to avoid cutting too much hair.

Use proper technique:

Hold the clippers at a 45-degree angle and use a smooth, steady motion to move the clippers through the hair. Avoid pressing too hard or using a back-and-forth motion, as this can cause uneven cutting and skin irritation.

Keep the clippers clean and lubricated:

Regularly clean and oil the blades to maintain their performance and prevent damage.

Be mindful of skin irritation:

Clippers can cause skin irritation, especially if misused. Be sure to use a light touch and avoid going over the same area too often.

Practice, practice, practice:

Like any skill, using clippers takes practice to master. Start with simple haircuts and gradually work your way up to more complex styles.

Ask for feedback:

Ask your clients for feedback on the haircut and any areas for improvement. This can help you improve your technique and provide better service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are clippers expensive?

The overall price of clippers varies according to the type and model. However, a basic clipper doesn’t cost more than $20.

1. Why should every barber have a clipper?

Every barber should have a clipper because its a versatile tool that helps cut hair quickly and precisely.

1. Are clippers dangerous to use?

Hair clippers can be dangerous if not used with caution. Keep them out of children’s reach.

1. Can clippers transmit diseases?

Clippers can potentially transmit diseases if they aren’t disinfected or properly cleaned before use.

1. How to clean clippers?

Remove hair and debris, wash and disinfect the blades, dry the clippers, and finally, put some oil on them.