At PetEdge, one of the questions we're most often asked by groomers is:
"What is the best clipper you offer?"
The simple truth is that there is no one best clipper for every groomer. Every groomer has different work habits, a different client base, and a different level of experience. A clipper that works well for one groomer might not be a great fit for another.
That's why it's important to talk to our product support team before you buy your next clipper. Our team of professional groomers and pet care professionals can help you choose the clipper that's best for you by asking these key questions:
What type of clipper motor is right for you?
Clipper motors primarily fall into two different categories: permanent magnetic rotary and universal magnetic rotary. Permanent magnetic rotary motors are sealed motors that come pre-lubricated and require no internal maintenance. Universal magnetic motors are geared motors that offer more power and more torque, but do require periodic maintenance.
The Andis AGRC Power Groom Clipper has a low maintenance permanent magnetic rotary motor.
What types of coats will you be grooming?
If you primarily groom dogs that have shorter, cleaner coats, then a permanent magnetic rotary clipper could be the right fit for you. If you're working primarily with breeds that have heavier coats (Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Samoyeds), then you might benefit from the increased power and torque that a universal magnetic rotary motor provides.
This Oster Turbo A5 Clipper has a universal rotary motor that's great for powering through heavy coated breeds.
How many dogs dog you groom per day?
If you work in a high volume shop (10-20 dogs per day), a permanent magnetic rotary clipper tends to run faster. It can reduce your overall clipping time, but blades can heat up quickly, which can mean using more coolant and making frequent blade switch-outs. If you have a low volume shop (1-10) dogs per day, a slower running universal motor clipper might be a better choice. The blade won't heat up as quickly on a slower speed.
A slower running magnetic rotary clipper won't heat up blades as fast, resulting in less need to use cooling sprays like our Top Performance Clipper Cool (above)
What is your experience level using clippers?
An experienced groomer may be more comfortable cutting coats with a high speed (permanent magnetic rotary clipper), whereas a beginning groomer might benefit from the slower blade speed of a universal magnetic rotary clipper. There's less chance of overcutting at a slower blade speed, and less worry about clipper burn.
A fast-running clipper like the AGC Super 2-Speed may be a good choice for an experienced groomer.
If you are looking for new or different clippers, what don't you like about your current clipper?
If you want to make a change in clipper type, it's important to outline all the things you like and don't like about your current clipper.
- If maintenance is an issue, then you should look for a model that requires less regular maintenance
- If the weight and size of your current clipper is making it hard to groom comfortably, than you should look for a lighter, slimmer model
- Is a corded clipper limiting your reach and access to pets? Maybe it's time to try a cordless model
With five speed settings to choose from, the Andis 5-Speed Excel clipper is perfect for custom clipping.
Do you have any issues with your wrists and hands?
Groomers are particularly susceptible to injuries caused by repetitive motion. All that twisting and turning while you groom can be hard on your hands and wrists. If you are experiencing soreness or stiffness, then it's a good idea to consider a lighter clipper. Even a clipper that weighs a few ounces less than what you have now can make a big difference in your workday.
The lightweight, cordless Wahl Arco SE can be a good choice for groomers with hand and wrist issues.
Are you ready for your clipper consultation?
If it's time to make your next clipper purchase, give us a call at 800-PetEdge and ask to talk to one of our product support specialists for a personalized clipper consultation. We can talk you through the selection process and provide some great hints for choosing the clipper that's right for you.
You can also shop our complete selection of clippers and trimmers anytime at PetEdge.com.

