Whether you’re a professional hairdresser or an at-home attempter, it’s easy to understand why you’d want to find the absolute best clippers for fades.
A fade haircut is one of the most popular men’s hairstyles because it gives guys a fresh, well groomed look that’s easy to maintain.
Unfortunately for both professional barbers and ambitious home users, the perfect fade can be pretty elusive.
Fades require close cuts and smooth blending, which means the margin for error is a lot smaller than other types of hair styles.
That makes them hard to master under any circumstances, and all but impossible if you don’t have the right clippers.
But while the perfect fade may be elusive, the perfect clippers for fades are a lot easier to find.
To help make you freshen up your fading skills, in this post I’ve rounded up some of the best professional hair clippers for fades.
At a Glance↓
You can use the table of contents below to get (a lot) more info about each clipper, but here’s a quick summary of our top picks:
- Overall Best Clippers for Fades: Andis Cordless Master
- Best Wahl Clippers for Fades: Wahl Cordless Magic Clipper
- Best Cheap Clippers for Fades: Oster Fast Feed Clipper
- Best Clippers for Bald Fade: Andis Fade Combo
Who Wrote This Article
Irreverent Gent Founder and Editor-in-Chief Dave Bowden has been a grooming-and-style-obsessed service journalist for more than a decade.
He’s been covering men’s grooming since founding Irreverent Gent in 2016, and his grooming tips, style advice and shopping recommendations have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, and Men’s Health, among many others.
How We Chose the Best Clippers for Fades
Expert
Advice
Clipper
Features
User
Reviews
For this article, Dave started by consulting the most knowledgeable expert he knows – his barber Danny, of Hasting’s Barbershop in Toronto.
With Danny’s input in mind, he took a close look at each clippers’ features, paying special attention to factors that contribute to a good fade, like the adjustability of the blade length, variety of guard sizes and quality/sharpness of the blades.
He then did a deep dive into online reviews to get a sense of what other barbers thought about each one, and combined all of his findings to create a single list.
To learn more about how we rate and review products, check out our product review and round up policy here.
The (Absolute) Best Hair Clippers for Fades
Breaking Down the Best Barber Clippers for Fades
Overall Best Clippers for Fades ↓
Andis Cordless Master
What Makes it Our Top Choice:
A cordless clipper with a powerful motor and a blade that can easily be zero gapped, these are not only the best fade clippers on the market, but some of the overall best cordless hair clippers.
This model is a cordless version of the much-loved Andis Master Clipper, and boasts the same ergonomic design.
But instead of needing to be plugged in, it’s got a powerful lithium-ion battery that can run for a long time:
It gets up to 90 minutes of battery life on a single charge, and has a powerful motor that can easily cut through any hair type.
Being freed from the cord makes it a lot easier to maneuver around the head, which allows you to be much more accurate when fading – especially if you’re cutting your own hair.
It also comes with a charging station that’s both practical and good-looking, along with a cleaning brush and lubricating oil for easy maintenance.
The Andis Master has long been a favorite of barbers and hairstylists, and this cordless version makes it easy to get the precise cuts needed for a fade hairstyle like a buzz cut, a taper fade, or any other style that requires a close shave.
What Reviewers Think:
I work in a salon and I can get a great fade with these clippers. They cut nicely and are surprisingly powerful for being cordless.
– Andy
Best Wahl Clippers for Fades ↓
Wahl Cordless Magic Clipper
What Makes it the Best Wahl Model:
Wahl bills itself as America’s clipper company and, like the Andis clippers above, the Wahl Cordless Magic Clip is another cord-free version of a much-loved American classic.
This one gives you all the advantages of the Wahl Professional 5-star Magic Clip without the hassle of the pesky cord.
The Magic Clipper features Wahl’s “crunch blade,” which offers a smoother finish that’s great for fades, and has a taper lever that allows you easily change blade lengths.
But the important thing that separates the Wahl Magic and the Andis Master is the inclusion of attachment combs:
This one comes with eight guide combs that range in size from ½ to 8, making it a more adjustable clipper that you can use for longer trimming.
What Reviewers Think:
Very good buy, can’t be disappointed with any Wahl products. This one being cordless, lightweight and well-balanced is perfect.
– Michael
Best Cheap Clippers for Fades ↓
Oster Fast Feed Clipper
What Makes it the Best Cheapie:
The Oster Fast Feed Hair Clipper is one of the most affordable models on this list, and one of the best for those who don’t mind a corded clipper.
The Fast Feed has a quiet pivot motor, as opposed to the rotary motor found on a lot of other clippers, which is arguably better suited to professional use, since pros could very well be using it all day long.
In addition, it’s got the sharp blades that you’d expect from a pro-quality top hair clipper and comes with four guides that allow you to give a good fade of various different lengths.
What Reviewers Think:
These clippers adjust both longer and closer than my former clippers, so they’re great for blending a fade, and didn’t irritate my neck to use it directly on the skin at triple aught. I highly recommend.
Best Clippers for Bald Fade ↓
Andis Fade Combo
What Makes it the Best for a Bald Fade:
Bald fades can be tricky since the shorter you go, the less room there is for error.
This combo from Andis makes a good choice for bald fading because it’s actually two clippers in one:
The Envy Li Clipper provides just as much power as the other high quality clippers above, while the smaller Slimline Li trimmer has a close-cutting T-blade that can be zero-gapped to get super close.
Plus this combo offers a lot of versatility, since the small size and lightweight design of the Slimline means it can also be used as a beard trimmer.
What Reviewers Think:
WOW! These babies are so worth it and are my #1 tools. They are great for hair and beards and that 00000 bald is perfection!
The Best of the Rest ↓
BabylissPRO GoldFX
What Makes it Good for Fades:
This cordless model from Babybliss combines form and function into one (rather striking) package.
It has a high-torque, Italian-designed motor that’s powerful enough to mow through thick hair, an exposed t-blade with a 360-degree view and a lithium ion battery that lasts for two hours on a full charge.
But let’s be honest:
While the performance is solid, you can probably get superior performance from the model listed above.
The real reason to get this bad boy is for the looks. The gold housing is just plain bad-ass, and the bold style will help you stand out from other stylists.
What Reviewers Think:
Best trimmers on the market right now. These hit hard! So easy to zero gap with the tools they sent. Def worth the money.
Wahl Cordless Senior
What Makes it Good for Fades:
Another great option from Wahl, the Senior makes our list of top picks because it was specifically designed to do precision tapering and fading.
This cordless model features a heavy-duty motor that works just as well with long hair as it does with short hair, making it a great option if you want one set of professional clippers that can do everything, without the need for a separate fading clipper.
It also comes with three comb guard sizes and a red blade guard, which will protect the blades when not in use.
What Reviewers Think:
My old clippers would hang up in thicker hair and make a really loud buzzing sound. The Wahl 5-Star Senior cut through even thick hair like warm butter.
My fade no longer have any visible transitions and haircuts take half the time because of the lack of cord, smooth cutting and great adjustments of the blades.
– Ken
Oster Classic 76
What Makes it Good for Fades:
As its name implies, this heavy-duty universal motor clipper is an absolute classic among barbers and hairstyling pros who do a lot of fades and tapers.
It comes with two detachable blades in sizes #000 and #1, and a nine-foot long power cord that lets you get around the entire head without feeling tethered to the outlet.
If you’re a pro looking for a powerful tool that can provide high performance all day long (and you don’t mind working with a corded model), this is a great choice.
What Reviewers Think:
A necessary tool for your craft. I’ve never had a problem with this clipper and I’ve had it for over 6 years… You’ll be able to do fades with it as well.
Almost every barber that I know has this clipper or the Oster 111. Be sure to oil them regularly and clean the hair that falls within the housing – this advice is true for just about any clipper you have.
Wahl Clipper Elite Pro
What Makes it Good for Fades:
One of the best tools for at-home use, the Wahl Elite Pro is a solid, no-nonsense clipper that lets you bring the barber shop to you.
It’s got sharp, stainless steel blades and comes with pretty much everything you need for at-home haircuts and fades, including:
10 adjustable guards, a barber cape to drape over your body, scissors, a styling comb, and a storage case to keep everything in.
What Reviewers Think:
1/2 and 1 & 1/2 guards are included. These allow more flexibility and safety when blending fades.
In my case, I’m spending much less time going back and forth between the 0, 1, and 2 gaurds – the half guards hit the mid points much better and faster.
– Marco
Wahl Professional Super Taper II
What Makes it Good for Fades:
Whereas the Clipper Elite is designed for home users, the Super Taper is a heavy-duty model that delivers professional results.
Another corded clipper, it’s got a powerful electromagnetic motor that can handle the rigors of all-day use, sharp blades that can cut precise lines, and comes with eight guards that go from ⅛” up to 1”.
You can tell it’s designed for pros because of the little touches that add to the ease of use, which at-home users might not think about.
For instance, the guards are all color-coded, making them easy to recognize and quickly grab off the shelf.
What Reviewers Think:
I’ve been using these clippers for a year or so, and I’m definitely satisfied with how they perform.
You do want to occasionally lubricate the blades, but other than that they require little maintenance.
– MP45
Wahl Legend
What Makes it Good for Fades:
The Wahl Legend is (ugh, I wish I was better than this) a legendary clipper. (Sorry.)
Another two-in-one combo, this package combines the Legend with Wahl’s Hero T-trimmer, and the two combined give you everything you need for both the perfect fade and just about every other type of hair style.
While Wahl and Andis tend to be pretty comparable in terms of performance, the Andis Fade Combo listed above is cordless, which is the main reason why it outranked the Wahl combo listed here.
Some people don’t mind that, but for those who want total control of the clipper without being weighed down by the cord, the Andi sis probably your best option.
What Reviewers Think:
These are excellent for both curly and straight hair. The big one gets super close to the skin and does not nick. The smaller one gets even closer and is safe for kids skin.
Even when blending longer hair using the 2 guard, it’s much more even than cheaper clippers. These are worth the investment.
– MC
Wahl Color Pro Complete Hair Cutting Kit
What Makes it Good for Fades:
Another great model for at-home haircuts, the Color Pro comes with a ton of accessories, giving you everything you need for fades, tapers and fine details.
This is a particularly popular model for parents who like to cut their kids’ hair at home, and features color-coded guards that range in size from ⅛” up to 1”.
But what sets it apart from other models – and makes it great for fades – is that it also has buttons on the main unit that correspond to each of the guards.
This makes it easy for non-professionals to smoothly move between lengths and get a good, seamless fade, especially when they’re working with shorter lengths.
What Reviewers Think:
I like how simple it was to use this clipper. The colored guide is super helpful to make sure i get the right size/cut. It was great for the price.
Wahl Lithium Ion+
What Makes it Good for Fades:
The Ion+ is primarily a beard trimmer, but it works well for short fades because it’s lightweight, easy to maneuver and designed to get as close as possible to the skin.
It comes with nine guards that let you handle longer hair, as well as a few features that are handy for other types of grooming, like a nose/ear trimmer and a super-small detailer.
What Reviewers Think:
This is BY FAR the best electric shaver I have ever owned. I am the kind of guy who does hours upon hours of research before buying basically anything, and sometimes it takes some trial-and-error…
This thing is very impressive… It comes with tons of clipper guards so you are sure to trim your beard to the perfect length, and fade if needed.
– GK
StyleCraft Protégé
What Makes it Good for Fades:
Stylecraft isn’t as well known as Andis, Oster and Wahl, which tend to dominate the hair cutting market.
But they’re Protege clipper is an affordable and effective clipper for fades and tapers.
It has Japanese stainless steel blades that can be zero-gapped, and a powerful rotary motor that can handle any type of hair.
In addition, it comes with five different guard lengths, and has a taper lever that makes it easy to blend.
What Reviewers Think:
This clipper makes fading a piece of cake with the clicking , it’s like letting you know where you are at so you don’t get lost !
– Freddy
Buying Guide
What to Look for When Buying Clippers Specifically for Doing Fades
The types of clippers that are specifically well suited for fades will usually have some (or better yet, all) of the features below.
Choosing a clipper that combines as many of these as possible will help ensure that you’ve got the right tool for cutting precise, professional-looking fades in pretty much any type of hair.
Adjustable Blade Length:
Clippers with a lever that adjusts the blade length allow for more precise control over the cut. This is essential for creating smooth, blended fades where the hair length gradually changes.
Variety of Guard Sizes:
A good set of clippers should come with a variety of guard sizes. Different lengths are needed to create the gradient effect in a fade. Guards ranging from very short (like a 1/16 inch) to longer lengths are useful.
Sharp, High-Quality Blades:
The blades should be sharp and made of high-quality material such as stainless steel or ceramic. Sharp blades ensure a clean, even cut without pulling the hair.
Powerful Motor:
A powerful motor helps to cut through thick hair easily and prevents the clippers from bogging down or pulling hair. This is especially important for professional use.
Ergonomic Design:
Comfortable handling is crucial, especially for detailed work like fades. Clippers should have a design that’s easy to hold and maneuver around the head.
Corded vs. Cordless:
Both have their advantages. Cordless clippers offer more mobility, but corded clippers typically provide more consistent power. For fades, consistent power can be more important to ensure even cuts.
Maintenance and Durability:
Clippers that are easy to clean and maintain, and are built to last, are important for professional use. Regular oiling and cleaning are necessary to keep them in good condition.
Accessories and Extras:
Some clippers come with additional accessories like different types of combs, cleaning brushes, and blade oils, which are useful for maintaining the clippers and achieving the desired style.
FAQ
What size clippers are best for fades?
This one’s a little tricky because it depends on the size of your hands, but when it comes to fades, you’ll want to go for clippers that are neither too bulky nor too tiny.
A standard size, usually around 6 to 8 inches, tends to strike the right balance. It’s comfortable enough to hold easily, but still gives you that much-needed control and precision.
What guard length is best for fades?
Most fades will blend a #4 guard (1/2″) at the top with #2 guard (1/4″) at the bottom, but there’s some subjectivity here as well. Depending on the length you’re going for, guard lengths ranging from a super short 1/16′ up to about 3/4″ can work.
Can you use the same clippers for fades and detail work?
Most of the time, yeah—a good pair of clippers with adjustable blades and a variety of guard sizes can probably handle it all. The only exception is if you’re going for some super short and super detailed edging, in which case you might want a smaller trimmer.
What clippers do barbers use most for fades?
I asked my barber Danny about this, and he said the exact model varies pretty widely depending on each barber’s size and personal preference (which makes sense), but the vast majority of them use either a Wahl, Andis or Oster.
More Resources ↓
More Grooming Tips From Irreverent Gent:
- The 13 Best Razors for Shaving Your Head
- The 13 Best Hair Removal Creams for Your Private Parts
- The Definitive Guide to Growing a Beard Faster
- Taper vs Fade vs Taper Fade – The Ultimate Guide
- The Best Shaving Soaps for Men
- In-Depth Dr. Squatch Review
- The 32 Most Handsome Men’s Haircuts & Hairstyles
- The 17 Best Beard Trimmers for Long Beards
- The 15 Best Trimmers for Shaving Your Balls
The Recap ↓
Summary
A cordless clipper with a powerful motor and a blade that can easily be zero gapped, these are not only the best fade clippers on the market, but some of the overall best cordless hair clippers.
Banner Illustration: Irreverent Gent
