How to Choose the Right Clippers for Your Cutting Style

“The right clipper won’t make you a better barber—but the wrong one can slow you down.”

Getting into barbering means stepping into a world loaded with tools—especially today. Back in the day, choices were limited, but now, the options are endless. Every brand has its claims, every barber has their go-to, and the truth is, there’s no universal “best” clipper.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hype or pick something just because someone else swears by it. But the reality? Your cutting style, workflow, and comfort level should drive your choice. I’ve been in this industry for 16 years, and I’ve learned a lot about how tools impact efficiency, consistency, and overall experience behind the chair.

If you’re confused about what to use, I hope this newsletter gives you a clearer perspective on what to look for before investing in your next clipper.

The Foundation of Barbering Starts Behind the Chair

Before we even talk about tools, let’s talk about why they matter. The goal in barbering isn’t just to get good at cutting—it’s about developing a skill set that attracts opportunities.

The better you get, the more doors open. Cutting in a shop is one thing, but once you sharpen your craft, you could find yourself cutting for celebrities, music videos, fashion shoots, movies, or even working with major brands. No matter what direction you want to go, it all starts with what you learn in the shop.

Being in a barbershop exposes you to real-life experiences fast. You serve people from all walks of life. You’re learning about cultures, styles, fashion, and trends just from the conversations you have daily. You’re in customer service, but you’re also a community hub.

When I first got into the industry, I had no idea what to use. I just went with whatever came in my school kit. I didn’t know the difference between blade types, motor speeds, or ergonomics—I just made it work. But the more I cut, the more I started questioning why certain tools felt different, why some made fading easier, and why others slowed me down.

That curiosity led me to testing and understanding tools at a deeper level. And it wasn’t until 2016, when I joined Babyliss Pro, that I really started learning what separates a good clipper from a great one.

The Three Most Important Factors When Choosing a Clipper

Over the years, I’ve answered this question a thousand times: “What’s the best clipper?” And my response is always the same: “It depends.” Not the answer most people want to hear, but I swear that’s the truth.

Choosing a clipper isn’t about what’s trending—it’s about what works best for YOU. Here’s what actually matters:

1. Ergonomics – How Does It Feel in Your Hand?

If you’re cutting in a high-volume shop, you’re holding that clipper all day. If it’s uncomfortable, too heavy, or awkward to grip, you’re going to feel it. Your tool should feel like an extension of your hand.

✅ Test the weight—do you prefer light or heavy?

✅ Check the grip—some have bulkier bodies, while others are slimmer.

✅ Think about hand fatigue—if you’re doing 10+ cuts a day, comfort matters.

A lot of barbers overlook ergonomics, but trust me—it makes a huge difference in speed, control, and longevity in the industry, especially when it comes to wrist health.

2. Blade Type – The Key to Fading and Blending

Blades are the most important part of your clipper because they determine how smoothly you can blend, fade, and remove bulk. Here’s a quick breakdown:

🔹 Taper blades – Softer fades, smoother transitions.

🔹 Fade blades – Precise control cutting for skin fades.

🔹 Tri blades – Best of both worlds. Great for detailing and blending.

The wrong blade can make fading feel harder than it needs to be. If you’re struggling with blending, your blade might be working against you.

3. Features – What Actually Matters?

Not every feature is necessary, so focus on what you need:

✔ Motor Speed (RPMs) – Most standard clippers run at 6800 RPM, but higher speeds (7200+) are better for thick, coarse hair.

✔ Battery Life – Some can be 75 mins and some up to 2-4 hours.

✔ Lever Stetch – If you’re learning to fade, a longer lever stretch helps.

✔ Heat Management – Some clipper blades stay cooler than others, especially with extended use, depending on where you work. Do you cut 20 heads a day using one tool? Or do you only do five cuts a day? Everyone’s situation is different.

The good thing about Babyliss Pro—their blades are coated to stay cooler for longer.

When picking a clipper, ask yourself: What’s my priority? Is it power? Speed? Versatility? Choose based on what makes your workflow smoother.

My Experience with Clippers & What I Recommend

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that tools feel different depending on where you are in your career.

If you’re a beginner, you don’t need the fastest, most aggressive clipper—you need something forgiving that makes learning easier. If you’re experienced, you might want something sharper, faster, and more precise.

📌 For beginners learning to fade: Lithium FX+ – This clipper has the longest lever stretch in the Babyliss lineup, making blending easier.

📌 For barbers who want speed & power: FX3 or Tomb 45 x Babyliss Collab – Cuts through anything, but it’s less forgiving, better suited for advanced barbers.

📌 For a versatile all-around option: LoPro FXONE or Metal FX – A solid choice for those who want balance in speed, control, and efficiency.

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” in barbering. Everyone’s process, cutting style, and environment play a role in what works best.

Where to Buy Authentic Clippers (Without the Guesswork)

Buying from the right place matters—especially with all the knockoffs floating around online. Here are the most trusted sources for Babyliss Pro clippers:

✔ Official Hair Shows – You’ll get hands-on experience and the best deals.

✔ BaBylissPRO.com – Direct from the manufacturer, no risk of fakes.

✔ Amazon (Official Babyliss Pro Store) – The only verified Amazon seller.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, try testing out a clipper from someone in your shop before buying. Feel it in your hand, see how it cuts, and get a sense of its weight and performance.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, your clipper is an extension of you. The better you understand how it works, the more control you have over your craft.

I’ve spent years testing and refining my setup, and the biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: There’s no shortcut to finding the perfect tool. You have to experiment, feel things out, and develop your own preferences over time.

If you’re still unsure, I have videos on my 👉 YouTube 👈 channel breaking down different blades, RPM speeds, and clipper features in detail. Check them out if you want a deeper dive.

Hoping you have a wonderful week ahead!

SOF!