What are the best hair clippers for beginners?

Welcome to the wonderful world of barber supplies! If you're just getting started as a beginner barber, or perhaps you’re an enthusiast with an interest in DIY haircuts, choosing the right tools can be daunting. There's an overwhelming number of hair clippers out there, all promising to be the "best"—but how do you actually know which ones are worth your money? Get ready for a fun, overly-informative, and hopefully entertaining deep dive into the universe of hair clippers.

First off, let's talk about why hair clippers are the unsung heroes of barber tools. Hair clippers do the heavy lifting in any haircut. Whether you're going for a clean buzz cut, a stylish fade, or just trimming down a wild mane, your clippers are your best friends. They do the dirty, bristly work with unparalleled finesse and precision. Alright, enough chit-chat—let’s get into the nitty-gritty, shall we?

What's in a Hair Clipper? Decoding the Terminology

Before we delve into specific models, let's get familiar with some clipper jargon to make your shopping experience less frustrating. Here are some terms you might encounter:

• Blades: The business end of the clipper. You'll find them made from stainless steel, carbon, or even ceramic. Carbon-steel blades are durable and retain sharpness.
• Motors: These powerhouses drive the blade's movement. You’ll find pivot, magnetic, and rotary motors. Rotary motors are the most powerful but might be overkill for beginners.
• Guards: Also known as combs, these plastic attachments come in varying lengths for achieving different hair lengths effortlessly.
• Cord vs. Cordless: Cordless models provide freedom of movement, but corded ones often offer more constant power.

Now that you’re a certified Clipper Jargon Expert (CJE), let’s dive into the stars of the show: the actual hair clippers! We’re gonna break it down by category to make life easier for ya.

The All-Time Favorites

Some clippers have garnered cult followings thanks to their performance, longevity, and reliability. If you're looking to start strong, here are a couple of legendary clippers that won’t steer you wrong:

Wahl Elite Pro High-Performance Hair Clipper Kit

I’m not saying this clipper is the Brad Pitt of clippers, but it sure comes close. Wahl’s Elite Pro kit comes with a powerful motor, self-sharpening blades, and a full set of armor—16 guide combs to tackle any haircut. One of the coolest features is the premium storage case and the high-quality accessories that make you feel like you've just unboxed a covert spy gadget. All you need is an eye-patch and a British accent.

Oster Fast Feed Adjustable Pivot Motor Clipper

If the Wahl Elite Pro is Brad Pitt, the Oster Fast Feed is your classic, faithful Morgan Freeman. Renowned for its quiet, powerful pivot motor, this clipper slices through hair like butter on a hot pancake. It's incredibly versatile and reasonably lightweight, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The adjustable blade lever allows for seamless transitions between different hair lengths, contributing to those crisp, Instagram-worthy fades.

Budget-Friendly Wonders

Just because you’re a beginner doesn’t mean you should drain your wallet on your first set of clippers. Believe it or not, there are some excellent budget-friendly options out there that can get you started without sacrificing too much quality. And hey, you'll still have enough left over for that extra-large pepperoni pizza.

Remington HC4250 Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit

Don't let the size fool you. This compact clipper is the Harry Potter of hair clippers—small but mighty. Designed specifically for DIY haircuts, this kit includes nine length-adjusting combs, and the curved blade design helps reach those tricky spots at the back of your head. Its cordless design means you can get that fresh cut wherever you please, whether it’s in your bathroom or on a spontaneous camping trip.

Philips Norelco MG7791/40 Multigroom Series 7000

If tools were superheroes, the Philips Norelco MG7791/40 would be a Swiss Army Knife. This versatile, all-in-one groomer is great for managing both haircuts and other grooming needs such as beard trims and body grooming. Initially, the myriad attachments might feel

intimidating, but you’ll soon find out they offer great flexibility. The high-carbon blades remain sharp for a long time, and the battery life is nothing short of phenomenal. So, even if you’re trimming your beard while contemplating giving yourself an impromptu haircut, this clipper has got you covered.

Light as a Feather: Best Lightweight Hair Clippers

We get it—some of you might not want to lug around a clipper that feels like you’re bench pressing a small animal. For those who prefer a light touch (literally), these featherweight champions deliver performance without the bicep workout.

BaBylissPRO Barberology MetalFX Series

Imagine wielding a lightsaber—if your lightsaber could also give you a perfect fade. The BaBylissPRO MetalFX series is lightweight but packs a punch. With a Ferrari-designed motor, this clipper is as flashy as it is effective. Its sleek, metallic finish also makes it an incredibly stylish piece of equipment that’ll make other clippers jealous when they see it.

Wahl Professional 5-Star Magic Clip

Another home run from Wahl, the 5-Star Magic Clip is immensely popular for its lightweight feel and cordless convenience. The stagger-tooth blade helps blend hair smoothly, making it a hit among barbers who specialize in fades. It’s a cordless wonder that won't leave your arm feeling like you've just lifted a dumbbell.

The Luxury Experience: What to Splurge On

If you’re feeling fancy and want to treat yourself to a top-of-the-line clipper, we've got you covered. These are the crème de la crème of clippers that provide a luxurious haircutting experience. They might be a tad pricey, but the quality and features can be well worth it.

Andis Master Cordless Clipper

For those who crave unmatched precision and power, the Andis Master Cordless Clipper is your dream come true. It's a beast with an aluminum housing that screams durability. The blade adjusts from fine to coarse, and the lithium-ion battery delivers impressive runtime. This clipper is perfect for those who want to invest in a tool that will last through countless haircuts.

Wahl Professional Cordless Senior Clipper

The Wahl Professional Cordless Senior Clipper is essentially the Rolls-Royce of hair clippers. The powerful rotary motor can tackle thick, coarse hair with effortless ease. The ergonomic design and superior battery life make it comfortable to use for extended periods. It's a solid investment for anyone serious about their hair game.

Must-Have Accessories

So you've got your clipper, but what about the extras? Believe it or not, the right accessories can turn a good haircut into a great one. Plus, some of these extras can help extend the life of your precious clippers.

Clipper Oil

Much like a car, your clippers need regular maintenance. Clipper oil is essential for keeping the blades in top condition, ensuring smooth operation and a longer lifespan. Think of it as giving your clipper a spa day—pamper it, and it'll pamper you.

Barber Cape

You wouldn’t cook without an apron, so why cut hair without a barber cape? A cape can help keep stray hairs off your clothes, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it looks cool. Throw it on, and everyone in your house will know you mean serious haircutting business.

Maintenance Brush

Keeping your clippers clean is crucial. A good maintenance brush can easily whisk away hair clippings from the blades and motor, keeping everything in tip-top shape. A clean clipper is a happy clipper!

Neck Duster

Nobody enjoys the feeling of tiny hair clippings prickling the back of their neck. A soft neck duster helps you sweep away those annoying bits, leaving the client (or yourself) feeling fresh and neat. Think of it as the final, satisfying flourish to your masterpiece.

Tips and Tricks for Beginners

Alright, now that you’re equipped with knowledge and (hopefully) a killer set of clippers, here are a few handy tips to ensure you step out like a pro from the get-go:

Start Slow

If you’re new to this, less is more. Start with a longer guard and work your way down. You can always take more hair off, but adding hair back is, well, a bit more challenging.

Keep Your Clipper Clean and Oiled

Regular maintenance is key. Always clean your clippers after use and apply clipper oil to the blades to keep them sharp and functioning smoothly. Skipping these steps can lead to a dull blade and less efficient performance.

Practice Makes Perfect

Don't be discouraged if your first couple of attempts don’t turn out perfectly. Becoming proficient with clippers takes time and practice, so keep at it. Watch tutorials, practice on willing (and understanding) friends, and in no time, you’ll be a clipping maestro.

Use the Right Technique

Hold the clipper with a firm yet relaxed grip, and always cut against the direction of hair growth for the cleanest cut. Make sure to use smooth, controlled motions to avoid any accidental nicks or uneven patches.

Conclusion

Choosing the best hair clippers for beginners is all about balancing quality, ease of use, and budget. From the versatile Wahl Elite Pro to the budget-friendly Remington HC4250, and the luxurious Andis Master Cordless, there’s something out there for everyone.

Whether you're going for professional-quality fades or DIY buzz cuts, the right tools can make all the difference. And don’t underestimate the power of good accessories like clipper oil, barber capes, and maintenance brushes—these seemingly small items can massively improve your haircutting experience.

Remember, practice makes perfect. So, don your barber cape, fire up your new clippers, and get ready to snip your way to becoming a clipping connoisseur. Happy cutting!

Stay tuned for more tips, reviews, and hilarious (we hope) content from your friends at Barbersets.com. Cut, clip, snip—repeat!