The first impression counts, and you know it. When done with precision, there’s nothing like a fade haircut. It makes a clear statement; It sends a strong message, and it commands attention. But to have the best fade doesn’t happen through wishful thinking. Instead, it demands an action that starts with you, right here, and right now. You will find everything you need here, the best clippers for fades, premium features to look out for, performance, design, and much more.
Come to think of it; you might need to bookmark this page because no stone is left unturned. I know you are here for one reason and one reason only. So, without further ado, I now present you with “the best professional hair clippers for fades.”
Top 6 Best Clippers for Fades 2024 Reviewed
#1. Wahl Professional 5-Star Cordless Magic Clip
Tested and tried, Wahl, an American clipper company, knows how to make clippers to meet the high and specific demands of professionals and beginners worldwide. And none more impressive is the Wahl Professional 5-Star Cordless Magic Clip, which is an exceptional clipper, especially with it comes to fading.
What makes this model so extraordinary is its ability to produce closeness and precision in every cut. And with performance being its hallmark feature, there’s no doubt that this clipper is possibly the best hair clipper on the market. Here’s why:
The clipper carries a powerful V9000 motor that fuels the device’s high-precision zero-overlap blades with constant cutting power. That way, you can get precise, and the closest fade possible. You also have the option of adjusting the taper lever to change the closeness of your fade.
But what I like most about this device is its Lithium-ion battery that offers 90 plus minutes of runtime. Which is 50% more in battery capacity compared with the average hair clipper. You also have the option of using the clipper with and without a cord. Which by the way, is an excellent feature for men on the go.
Pros
- Ninety minutes of continuous use from an hour charge.
- Corded and cordless capabilities.
- A professional-grade clipper.
- A taper level that is ideal for fading and blending
- It comes with a wide range of accessories for added versatility.
- It’s lightweight, thus making it easy to use.
Con
- A little pricey compared to the other clippers on this list.
Overall Assessment
All in all, the Wahl Professional 5-Star tick all the boxes. And in my estimation, overperform on all the premium features. The clipper has a long-lasting battery, is powerful, lightweight, and comes with a host of useful accessories. And if I have to describe this clipper in one sentence, I’d say that it’s the best clipper for fading hair on the market.
#2. Andis Master 15-Watt Adjustable Blade Hair Clipper
The Andis Master Clipper is among the best professional-grade hair clipper on the market. The device is heavy-duty, it’s efficient, and offers all the premium features of a top-notch hair clipper.
Among these features is a powerful magnetic motor that conjures up exceptional cutting power that fuels the device at a lightning speed of 14,000 strokes per minute. And what’s even more impressive about the device’s cutting prowess is its blade. The unit carries a high-carbon edge, which is often a self-sharpening and, thus, extends the blade’s usefulness while remaining sharp.
Moreover, the cutting power of this clipper makes it the ideal choice to tackle thick hair. And mind you, in spite of its blistering speed and incredible power, the device is surprisingly quiet. And to polish things off, it’s worth mentioning that the unit is durable; courtesy of the lightweight aluminum material used to construct the clipper.
Pros
- Unbreakable housing
- The blade can adjust from 000 to size one
- A powerful magnetic motor guarantees peak performance
- Surprising quiet, with such a power pack motor, you would expect it to be noisier
- Efficient, and it generates an unprecedented 14,000 cutting strokes a minute
Cons
- Its blade needs oiling before every use
- Longevity issues with some folk
- Smooth housing, no grip
Overall Assessment
The Andis Master 15-watts is an absolute beast of a clipper. And it exceeds at the points where it needs to. A pocket dynamo of a motor that enables the clipper to produce 14,000 cutting strokes per minute. And you are guaranteed an even, close fade every time.
#3. Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper
With over 120 years in the business, Oster is among the oldest clipper manufacturer in the industry. Experience counts for nothing, and that explains why the company is so good at designing cutting-edge clippers and trimmers that meet high demands. The Classic 76 Motor Universal Clipper is a premium product, and it does not shy away from delivering the sort of performance that professionals crave after.
The device packs a serious punch; it’s of superior quality and has a powerful single-speed universal motor that delivers constant cutting power. The ergonomic design is another hallmark feature, so you don’t have to worry about the device slipping out of your hand. And not only that, but owing to its ergonomic design, the unit is compact, and it fits well in both small and large hands.
Pros
- An extra-long power cord; 9 feet to be exact
- It has an ultra-durable, break-resistant housing that safeguards against the occasional fall, and in the long run, will save you money
- Ease of use; thanks to its ergonomic design
- Comes with a grip; fits secure in the hand
Cons
- Pricey
Overall Assessment
This device costs more than the other hair clipper on this list, but guess what… it’s an absolute workhorse; it’s durable, easy to use, and has two detachable blades in sizes 000 and 1. With this device, you will pay more upfront, but in the long run, you will count your blessings.
#4. Wahl Professional Senior Clipper #8500
The Wahl Professional Senior is another top-notch hair clipper from Wahl. The clipper has an ergonomic design, is reasonably quiet in spite of its high-speed motor. And this all adds up to the perfect fades, bends, tapering, and cutting experience of your life.
After all, what else can we expect from Wahl, there are arguably the best in the business, and in this clipper, we have possibly the easiest to use on hair clippers on the market. And if its performance count for anything, we can say that the Wahl Senior is worth its weight in gold and every penny that you spend in getting it.
Furthermore, the Wahl Senior is of a grade highly recommended for professionals only. But beginners can enjoy the precision and closeness the clipper offers: thanks to its ease of use.
In closing, the clipper comes with a V9000 motor. And for those of you who don’t know what a V9000 motor is, let me explain. The V9000 is a high-tech motor, designed to undertake heavy-duty cutting, fades, bends, and tapering without the risk of overheating. In other words, the V9000 motor helps the clipper to stay cool while performing at peak levels.
Pros
- V9000 motor; this is a brute of a motor; in fact, it gives an extra 50% power compared with the average clipper.
- Its ergonomic design allows for ease of use
- Heavy-duty cutting fades, bends, and tapering machine
- Cuts through thick hair with remarkable ease
Cons
- It comes with only three cutting guides; you might need to buy a few extra ones
- Loud, but nevertheless effective
Overall Assessment
Overall, the Wahl Senior is a professional standard clipper, and it features most of the premium features. It’s loud but effective, and its V9000 motor will supply cutting power all day long.
#5. Oster Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper
Whether you decide to purchase this device to cut your hair or to use it as a professional, you will not have any remorse. The Oster Fast Feed Hair Clipper is tailor-made for Pro hairstylists and is capable of delivering fade haircuts of the highest order.
The machine is adept at cutting hair of varying lengths and types. Whether tick, fine, wet, or dry, the clipper can cut under any condition while maintaining the precision and closeness you are looking for. And with four guide combs, getting a low or medium fade won’t be an issue either. Also, the machine comes with other accessories besides the ones listed here.
Pros
- A whisper-quiet motor, you can use it without disturbing others
- Work equally well with wet and dry hair
- It has an adjustable steel blade; will last longer
- Remains cool, courtesy of its motor
- A long power cord, eight feet to be exact.
Cons
- Comes with only four guide combs, you may need a few more
Overall Assessment
I’m pretty pleased with this clipper, it may not be blockbuster like some others on this list, but it gets the job done without fuss. For anyone looking for a standard hair clipper, this is a good pick, and that this price point, I will call it a bargain. After all, it has all the right bases covered.
#6. Wahl Lithium Ion+ Stainless Steel hair clipper
The Wahl Lithium Ion+ Stainless Steel beard trimmer is sturdy, quite robust, and has all the premium features of a high-quality fading machine. The main talking point about this clipper is its Lithium ion+ rechargeable battery that allows the device to run for more than 4 hours nonstop from an hour charge. There’s also a quick charge feature that will enable you to use the machine for 3 minutes after a 1-minute charge.
The unit’s entire body is of stainless-steel material, except for a Smart LED charge indicator surrounded by a rubber-like material. The device also has a self-sharpening T-blade, which is itself a hallmark feature, but besides that, you are sure of a superior cut.
And I haven’t mentioned anything about its packaging, which contains cleaning oil, a storage pouch,12 attachment guards, a detailed shaver head, and much more.
Pros
- Comes with twelve attachment guards
- It has a self-sharpening stainless-steel blade; will last long while maintaining peak performance
- It has a Lithium ion+ rechargeable battery; this offers you four hours of continuous use before recharging
- Dual voltage, meaning you can you this device in any part of the world without facing any voltage issue.
- All-in-one multi grooming machine; in addition to fades, bends, you can use this unit to address all of your grooming needs
Cons
Longevity issue, you might need a backup clipper just in case
Overall Assessment
I don’t like that the clipper isn’t sturdy, and that’s too bad because it excels on all the other essential features. The Wahl Lithium Ion+ Stainless Steel hair clipper is the ultimate all-in-one machine, and an excellent clipper to have at your kit.
Why Choose A Fade Haircut?
In addition to being trendy and very popular, the fade haircut is easy to maintain. And no matter your hair type, there is a style tailor-made for you. The fade is unlike the other hairstyles, it has a precise, elegant, and dramatic finish that makes you look not just styled, but world-class.
No wonder why the fade is so popular, its celebrity-like status makes it the haircut of choice for men from every walk of life. And even the filthy rich and ridiculously famous such as actor Jamie Foxx, footballer Aaron, and rapper Drakes sporting the fade.
And guess what! You don’t need to hire a professional stylist to do the job. You can do it yourself and still achieve that professional look. Whether it’s a box-in buzz cut, a classic, or a side-parted sweep back, the possibilities are endless.
Types of Professional Hair Clippers for Fades
I know of two, corded and cordless. Both types of professional hair clippers have gains and drawbacks. For example, the cordless allows greater mobility, but its battery capacity may not allow you to get the best performance throughout the cut.
While on the other hand, the corded hair clipper guarantees peak performance throughout the cut, but its drawback is its limited mobility.
Corded Hair Clippers
As the name suggests, corded, meaning, these clippers come with a permanent cord attached to them. And for most corded clippers, you cannot use them without being plugged into a power outlet. And while this limitation may seem an obvious drawback, the corded device does compensate for this by its infinite power supply.
Cordless Hair Clippers
Cordless hair clippers are very convenient. You can take them with you anywhere without having to worry about whether you will find a power outlet to plug them in. And even though the battery performance may come into question at times, the cordless clipper is an excellent addition to have with its corded counterpart.
Best Hair Clippers for Fades: Essential Points to Consider
On this list is a collection of the six best professional hair clippers for fades. However, each chipper is different in its design, features, performance, sure, they all do the same thing. But equally, depending on your specific needs and hair type, each unit will perform differently. As such, the onus is on you to select the hair clipper that has the capabilities to satisfy your specific demands.
I must warn you, don’t pay too much attention to the price mark-up on these devices, they can be misleading. All the machines on this list are budget-friendly. And as such, some folk may run with the impression that these units are inferior.
But the proof is in the pudding, and don’t judge the book by its price tag. Whatever the cost of these devices, whether $70, $100, or $250, you still have to pay to get them. So, instead of being subjective, read with an objective mindset, and carefully analyze each clipper based on the following:
Ease of Use
An ergonomic design and lightweight are two vital components where ease of use is concerned. Ideally, you want a unit that you have absolute control over while it’s in your hand. You don’t want a clipper that is too heavy, doesn’t fit well in your hand, and can easily slip out. At all costs, you want to avoid any device that doesn’t allow for easy use. Otherwise, especially if you are a beginner, you will ruin your haircut.
Obviously, for now, this advice isn’t fooled proof. Because experience is the best teacher, and you don’t currently have the clipper in hand. Therefore, before you make the purchase, read as many reviews as you can, even though I doubt you will need to read another review besides this one.
This is an in-depth buyer’s guide if this guide doesn’t suffice; Amazon’s product review is an excellent place to start. And by the way, you can always shoot me a question about this collection of the best clippers for fades.
Power Options
As already mentioned, each clipper is built differently and with different capabilities. None more important than “power options/capabilities.” This feature is the bedrock of the device, so you want to ensure that you analyze this option for each device carefully.
For example, some clippers on this list are both corded and cordless, while others have either. There’s also the rechargeable and replaceable talking point to contend with. But no need to worry, I will break down everything into manageable bits so that everyone can understand.
Electric
By and large, Cordless eclectic clippers are fantastic, and who can deny that. But there is a massive drawback with the cordless when it comes to cutting your hair. And unless you can perform a fade haircut in under 45 minutes, most of the cordless units will shut down due to dead batteries.
However, with a corded hair clipper, the odds are tilt in your favor. You don’t need to worry about batteries while using a corded device. Once the unit is plugged into a power outlet: your use of the device is infinite. And this allows you the best possible opportunity to achieve the perfect fade haircut. And this is not to say that cordless clippers don’t do a good job, they do. But unless they have a long-lasting battery, their performance will dip as you continue to use the device.
Rechargeable Batteries
This capability, in my estimation, is not a hallmark feature, but what I like most about clippers with rechargeable batteries is the added option it gives. Corded clippers that don’t have rechargeable batteries are somewhat one dimension, in the sense that you can only use them next to a power outlet.
But if the clipper carries rechargeable batteries, you can cut your hair anywhere you so choose, indoor, outdoor, it makes no difference. So, with this rechargeable battery feature, we can say that the unit is versatile in use.
Attachment Combs
This I consider a hallmark feature, the reason being the importance that attachment combs play in helping you to achieve fades of various lengths. Ideally, you want to get a hair clipper with at least five combs from 1/16 to 1 inch. And of course, this boils down to your preference. Whether you like trying different fades on each occasion, or your trademark suit.
Motor Power
The heart and soul of any device is its motor power. This feature makes and breaks your device. If the unit’s motor cannot fuel the machine with enough cutting power, you will have to get rid of it sooner rather than later. But if it can deliver cutting power to satisfy your cutting need, then it’s yours to cherish.
And as an illustration to emphasize the importance of motor power. If the motor isn’t sufficiently powerful, you will find as you cut your hair, the blades of the device will begin to pull on your hair. And considering you are after a fade, this complicates things even further.
On the other hand, though, if the device has a powerful motor, you can be sure of the precision and speed you need to achieve that perfect haircut. Therefore, for this reason, you must make sure that the hair clipper you plan to buy has a capable motor.
Blades
What sense does it make to have a clipper with a powerful motor and inferior blades? Absolute none, buying a clipper that has weak poorly designed blades is a waste of time and money. The reason is, that fragile edges get dull pretty fast, and as such, you will need to replace them quite regularly, and doing that isn’t free. Secondly, inferior blades will ruin your hairstyle and even cause nicks and cuts.
Ideally, you want a clipper with stainless steel blades; that way, the edges will last longer. And even better, self-sharpening stainless-steel blades are the best of the lot. And since these blades are self-sharpening, you don’t need to worry.
Accessories
Having the right accessories with your clipper is essential. After all, without them, you will not be able to achieve the kind of fade you desire. Mind you; it’s not about the number of accessories that come with the device. But it’s all about how they will help you to achieve the fade you are looking for.
So again, this will boil down to your hair type and the style you want. But ensure that a cleaning brush, oil, and combs with varying lengths are included in the packaging.
Warranty
I’m sure you don’t grow money on trees. And as such, whatever the investment you make in purchasing one of these clippers, it must yield a return. But sometimes accidents happen and a return on your investment isn’t possible.
Now, that’s where a warranty comes in handy. Any clipper you decide to buy must at least have a two years warranty on it. Anything less than two years is risky. But anyhow, all the clippers on this list have at least a 2-year warranty.
How to Maintain Hair Clippers?
Maintenance plays a crucial role in extending your clipper’s lifespan. Sure, these clippers are very affordable, but there are not free. And as such, you want to do everything humanly possible to keep the device in peak working order.
And by adopting a robust cleaning and maintenance regime. You will, in addition to extending the device’s lifespan, be able to maximize the clipper’s maximum potential through proper cleaning and maintenance.
And given the importance that maintenance, cleaning, and proper use play, here are a few cleaning and maintenance tips you can use to get the best out of the device.
Cleaning the Blades
Through constant use of your clipper, its blades will get dirty. So instead of leaving the blades unclean, clean them as soon as you notice there are nasty. The reason is; that dirty edges get dull faster, and thus you will need to replace them, and you know what that means: money.
Secondly, nicks and cuts do happen, not intentionally, of course, but now and then, they occur. And that being the case, the chances of a bacterial outbreak are higher when you use a dirty blade to cut your hair, as opposed to clean blades. Hence, for this reason, I highly recommend that you use the brush that came with the clipper, or even a toothbrush to clean the unit’s blades.
Proper Alignment
Before you start cutting your hair with the clipper, ensure that its blade is aligned correctly. Ideally, you want to make sure that the edges are straight and not tilted. If they aren’t straight, unscrew the screw on the clipper’s head, not completely, but enough for you to adjust the blades. After this is done, tighten the screw.
Using Clipper Spray
The clipper spray disinfects the blade of the device. Considering you alone use your device; you may not see the need for a clipper spray. But in my book, prevention is way better than cure. Also, the spray helps to keep the blades cool; no need to worry about the blades getting too hot.
Replacing the Blade
Whether the blades are self-sharpening, or whatever, at some point you will need to replace them. I will repeat, it’s not a good idea to cut with dull blades, they will ruin your haircut. And the best way to safeguard against this happening is by replacing or sharpening dull blades.
Replacing your clipper’s blades isn’t complicated either; all you need to do is to unscrew the screws and take out the blades. Then replace the old with the new and make sure they are aligned correctly.
Exterior Cleaning
As you cut your hair, expel hair, instead of falling to the floor, sometimes find a way through the holes on the clipper and attach themselves to the unit’s motor. And in such a case, the motor is bound to underperform and eventually will burn out. To avoid this from happening, you should clean your device’s exterior. You can use a brush to do so.
Oiling the Clippers
Oiling your clipper is vital for its overall performance and durability. If you don’t lubricate your device, eventually it will malfunction, and thus affect the quality of your haircut. This being the case, make sure you oil the machine and don’t overdo, because too much oil on your clipper can prove problematic. If there is excess oil on your device, get rid of it using a towel.
Frequently Ask Questions on best clippers for fading hair
I am sure you have questions that you want a quick answer to, the following section cover s some of the most commonly asked questions about hair clippers.
Where Can I Go to Get My Hair Clippers Sharpen?
Look for one near you; there’s probably a blade-sharpening service in your city or town. But if there isn’t any, then you can get yourself a quality self-sharpening stone, and that should take care of that.
Where Can I Get My Hair Clippers Fixed?
Google is your best friend, do a google search for professionals near you, chances are, they might be one nearby. And don’t rule out the idea of you fixing it yourself. Who knows, it might be something you can quickly repair, but you will need to get yourself a few tools.
Can human hair clippers be used on cats?
Sure, but why go through all that trouble. Human hair clippers aren’t designed for pets, especially cats. You are better out trimming your dog with a human hair clipper. And besides, a human hair clipper can easily burn your cat’s skin if it gets too hot. So, I recommend that you buy a clipper, specially designed for pets.
What are professional hair clippers?
Though not distinctly different from regular clippers, professional hair clippers are more powerful, comes with significantly more attachments, and are way more expensive.
Why is my hair clipper pulling my hair?
Generally, when you begin to feel your clipper pulling your hair, it either means two things. One, its blades are dull and need sharpening. And two, the edges need oiling. Often you will find that if you don’t oil your clippers bade that they won’t cut the way it should, resulting in the pulling and tugging of your hair.
How to align my hair clippers bade?
Unscrew the small screw that holds the clipper’s blade in place, then align it properly. And this is something you must pay attention to; otherwise, a misaligned blade will significantly affect the quality of your cut.
How to disinfect my hair clipper?
To do this, you will need first to wash the clipper, then followed by disassembling it with a screwdriver. Now remove the blade and place it in a disinfectant to soak for a while.
How long do hair clippers last?
Premium hair clippers last for a longer time compared with inferior, cheaper ones. But at the end of the day, your clipper’s lifespan depends on proper maintenance. With a good maintenance regime, you can extend your clipper’s lifespan.
What is a zero-gap in clippers?
In layman’s terms, this means to have the cutting blade close to the edge of the attached comb. That way, you can achieve precise lines and a closer cut.
Should I replace the clipper’s blades?
Yes, when they are dull. But if the unit has self-sharpening blades, then there’s no need to replace them regularly; stainless steel self-sharpening blades last longer. You can also oil the unit’s blades to extend their usefulness.
What type of accessories should I look for?
Given the nature of fade, you won’t always make sure that the compulsory brushes, blade guards, and comb attachments come with the package.
Conclusion
The eye is a gateway to the heart, and likewise, your haircut is a reflection of who you are as a person. Getting the best haircut will leave a long-lasting impression, and it will make you stand out from the crown. When it comes to a haircut, everyone has their preferences. But to date, the style that owns the limelight is the fade. There’s nothing like it, it’s stylish, trendy, and has everyone buzzing.
But to achieve the perfect fade requires quality and precision. And the hair clippers discussed hair is that and much more. They have everything it takes to deliver fades of the highest quality. Now, you decide, I have given you everything you need to sport the fade you want.