Best Power Shears of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Power shears are a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a variety of cutting tasks. They are designed to make clean, precise cuts through a wide range of materials, including sheet metal, plastic, and even fabric. With their sharp blades and powerful motor, power shears can quickly and easily cut through thick materials that would be difficult or impossible to cut with manual shears. They are a popular choice for professionals in the construction, manufacturing, and automotive industries, as well as DIY enthusiasts who want to tackle their own home improvement projects.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Worx Zipsnip Cordless Electric Scissors WX082L.2 Cover #TOP 1
Worx Zipsnip Cordless Electric Scissors WX082L.2
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DEWALT Metal Shears Attachment, Impact Ready (DWASHRIR) Cover #TOP 2
DEWALT Metal Shears Attachment, Impact Ready (DWASHRIR)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
WEN 18-Gauge 4-Amp Metal Shear (3650) Cover #TOP 3
WEN 18-Gauge 4-Amp Metal Shear (3650)
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Power Shears

#TOP 1

Worx Zipsnip Cordless Electric Scissors WX082L.2

WX082L.2
Black and Orange
Worx Zipsnip Cordless Electric Scissors WX082L.2 Cover
Worx Zipsnip Cordless Electric Scissors, Rechargeable Cardboard Box Cutter, 4V Powerful Fabric Scissors with 2 Safety Blades & Storage Bag WX082L.2

The Worx Zipsnip Scissors are a versatile tool designed to make cutting easier for you. These cordless electric scissors can tackle tougher materials with minimal effort, allowing you to cut through paper, plastic, fabric, and more without straining your hands. With the included portable case, you can carry your Zipsnip scissors anywhere, keeping the sharp blade safely stored. An extra replacement blade ensures you won’t have to stop your project due to a dull edge. Plus, the scissors are lightweight, making them easy to maneuver for extended periods.

What We Like
Rechargeable convenience
Effortless cutting through materials
Self-sharpening blade
Versatile for various tasks
Ergonomic design
What We Don't Like
Recharge time can be lengthy
Safety button placement awkward
#TOP 2

DEWALT Metal Shears Attachment, Impact Ready (DWASHRIR)

DWASHRIR
Yellow
DEWALT Metal Shears Attachment, Impact Ready (DWASHRIR) Cover
DEWALT Metal Shear/Cutter Drill Attachment, Impact Ready, 360 Degree Pivoting Head, Cuts 18GA Material (DWASHRIR)(Yellow, Black)

The DEWALT Metal Shears Attachment, Impact Ready (DWASHRIR) is a power shears category tool that allows you to cut up to 18GA material with ease. Its 360 degree swivel head provides optimal maneuverability for precise cuts. It connects via standard 1/4-inch hex shank and is compatible with most 18V-20V impact driver and drills.

What We Like
Efficient metal cutting
Easy to use
High quality design
Saves time and effort
Good for light metal work
What We Don't Like
Vague attaching instructions
Not for perfect straight cuts
#TOP 3

WEN 18-Gauge 4-Amp Metal Shear (3650)

WEN
3650
WEN 18-Gauge 4-Amp Metal Shear (3650) Cover
WEN Metal Shear, Swivel Head, Variable Speed, 18-Gauge, 4-Amp (3650)

The WEN Metal Shear (3650) is a power shear with a pressure sensitive trigger that allows you to cut anywhere from 0 to 2500 strokes per minute. It can handle up to 20 gauge stainless steel and 18 gauge sheet metal with its powerful 4-amp motor. The lightweight design limits fatigue during operation, and the swiveling head rotates a full 360 degrees to meet the needs of any project. It also curls the metal as it cuts, making it a versatile tool for any metalworking project.

What We Like
Cuts straight and clean
Powerful and easy to use
Great for various metal types
Good value for the price
Solid and heavy-duty construction
What We Don't Like
Cord positioning could be improved
Not suitable for daily professional use
#TOP 4

Milwaukee 2635-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear

2635-20
Milwaukee 2635-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear Cover
Milwaukee 2635-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear - Bare tool

The Milwaukee 2635-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear is a power tool that is highly durable, easy to handle and use. Its double cut shear design makes cutting through metal efficient and precise, while its cordless feature allows for greater mobility and versatility on the job.

What We Like
Cuts sheet metal effortlessly
Lightweight and cordless design
Adjustable cutting head
Fast cutting speed
What We Don't Like
Stock blades could be better
Return policy issues
#TOP 5

Stalwart Cordless Power Scissors

75-PT1023
Pink
Stalwart Cordless Power Scissors Cover
Cordless Electric Scissors with Two Blades – Fabric, Leather, Carpet and Cardboard Cutter – 3.6V Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery by Stalwart (Pink)

Introducing the Stalwart Power Scissors, the ultimate tool for effortless cutting. With two easy-to-install blades, you can cut through a variety of materials with ease. The fabric blade is perfect for leather, felt, paper, and fabric, while the hard materials blade is ideal for cardboard and packages. The ergonomic design allows for precise cutting every time. The cordless operation eliminates the need for messy cords and with a safety switch to prevent accidental usage, it's simple to use and carry with you anywhere. The lithium-ion battery ensures optimum results while in use and is fully rechargeable for added convenience and dependability. Get the job done right with the Stalwart Power Scissors.

What We Like
Easy to use
Great for cutting cardboard
Comes with extra blade
Good safety features
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Some issues with charging
Confusing instructions
#TOP 6

Dremel 4V Cordless Electric Scissors

HSSC-01
Grey
No Size
Dremel 4V Cordless Electric Scissors Cover
Dremel 4V Cordless Electric Scissors with USB Rechargeable Battery and Two Blade Attachments - Ideal for Cutting Cardboard, Fabric, and Paper, HSSC-01

The Dremel Electric Scissors are a versatile tool designed for various cutting tasks. With ultra-sharp blades, you can easily slice through cardboard, fabric, and paper, making your DIY projects and crafting a breeze. The adjustable speed settings allow you to customize the cutting power, ensuring precision for different materials. Additionally, the battery light indicator keeps you informed about the battery level, so you won't be caught off guard with a dead battery. The USB-C rechargeable feature means you can quickly power up the scissors in just 2.5 hours, enhancing your convenience during use.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good for multiple layers
Efficient cutting speed
Holds charge well
Wireless convenience
What We Don't Like
Replacement blades hard to find
Price fluctuation concerns
#TOP 7

Malco TS1 Turbo Shear Metal Cutting Attachment

TS1XXX
1 Pack
Malco TS1 Turbo Shear Metal Cutting Attachment Cover
Malco TS1 Turbo Shear 20 Gauge Capacity Sheet Metal Cutting Attachment

Malco TS1 Turbo Shear is a metal cutting attachment that turns your power drill into a power shear. It can insert into the chuck of an A/C or cordless drill and can cut up to 20 gauge capacity in galvanized steel. It is designed to navigate tight patterns and square cuts, making it useful for DIY projects and professional work. The TSDC Drill Clamp can be purchased separately for added convenience. Made in the USA, this power shear is a reliable tool for cutting metal sheets.

What We Like
Easy to use
Sharp and efficient
Time-saving
Durable materials
Great for various materials
What We Don't Like
May deform sheets slightly
Attachment sold separately
#TOP 8

Wild Edge Electric Metal Shear, 14 Guage 5.0 Amp

SEMS5A
Tool Kit
Wild Edge Electric Metal Shear, 14 Guage 5.0 Amp Cover
Wild Edge Electric Metal Shear, 14 Gauge 5.0 Amp Variable Speed Swivel Head Heavy Duty Sheet Metal Cutter

The Wild Edge Electric Metal Shear is a powerful and versatile tool with a 5.0 amp motor that can cut up to 14 gauge thickness sheet metal and 15 gauge stainless steel. The variable speed control allows for cutting a variety of materials with ease, including metal roofing, wire mesh, and flashing. The swiveling head design enables cutting large circles, curves, and irregular shapes with flexibility and convenience. The two-finger pressure-sensitive trigger and lock-on button provide precise control, while the light-weight design and ergonomic grip reduce fatigue during long operations.

What We Like
Easy to use
Long battery life
Cuts thick cardboard easily
Good for light metal work
Affordable compared to brands
What We Don't Like
Occasional trigger issues
Heavy for some users
#TOP 9

SHALL Electric Metal Cutting Shear

SHALL
EXD-1
SHALL Electric Metal Cutting Shear Cover
SHALL Electric Metal Cutting Shear, 4.0-Amp Corded Sheet Metal Cutter, Variable Speed with 360 Degree Swivel Head, Continuous Cutting, Clean Cut for 14GA Sheet Metal & 16GA Stainless Steel, 2500 SPM

The SHALL Electric Metal Cutting Shear is a 4.0-Amp Corded Sheet Metal Cutter that offers a clean cut with double-cut blade design, 360 degree swivel head for comfortable cuts from any angle, variable speed operation, cutting capacity for 14 gauge sheet metal and 16 gauge stainless steel, and continuous cutting for reducing finger fatigue. This power shear is ideal for cutting wire mesh, plastic, leather, carpet, PVC pipe, cardboard, etc. and meets most of your needs with flexibility, efficiency, accuracy, durability and quality finish.

What We Like
Easy and quick cuts
Minimal dust generation
Good for various materials
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Accurate and smooth cutting
What We Don't Like
Limited for thicker metals
Voltage restrictions unclear
#TOP 10

VLOXO Cordless Electric Scissors

CS4001
Pink
VLOXO Cordless Electric Scissors Cover
VLOXO Cordless Electric Scissors with 2 Blades Rechargeable Powerful Shears Cutting Tool for Fabric Cardboard Carpet Leather Felt with Charger & Storage Box-Pink

The VLOXO Cordless Electric Scissors, also known as VLOXO Electric Scissors, is a powerful cutting tool that can effortlessly cut through various materials such as cardboard, leather, plastic mats, carpets, and felts. With a speed of up to 10000RPM, it reduces the pressure on your hands and is a great tool for handicrafts and manual work. The single button operation and ergonomic handle design make cutting easy and effective. Equipped with a charger, it has a long battery life and can last for up to 3-4 hours of continuous cutting time. Its compact and lightweight design allows for excellent mobility and operability. The VLOXO Electric Scissors set also includes two types of blades, a fast charger, and a storage box, making it a perfect gift for craft DIY lovers.

What We Like
Easy to use
Clean and precise cuts
Lightweight and ergonomic design
Suitable for multiple materials
Rechargeable with long battery life
What We Don't Like
Can be loud
Vibrates during use
Buying Guide Image

Explore Your Options of Power Shears

For example, if you are working on a stainless steel application, you should choose a power share, which is rated for two times the thickness of the material you are using. Similarly, if you are shearing aluminum, you should choose a size that is half the amount of the thickness of the material.

In today’s guide, we will tell you how to choose a power shear. You must consider a few important factors before you begin the purchase process. Continue reading!

Types of power shears

The first type of power shear we have on the market is a guillotine, which is a shear designed specifically refereeing to the upper blades that perform the action of motion.

Typically, the blade of this product is driven in a straight direction by a specific mechanism plus way system, which drives the blade and rams straight up and down. This design equates to a much heavier and bigger design in a shear, which is always found on rated designs in the ½ inches capacity or greater.

Swing beam

The swing beam is another type of shear, which utilizes the power of leverage via a cantilevered ram for increasing tonnage to the shearing capacity. When you place the upper blade on the mechanized ram, the hydraulic or mechanical actuation forces down the blade using the power of leverage.

This type of design is about a shorter in height machine and the blades, which you relieved for clearance typically allow for only two cutting edges per blade. In addition, there are modified versions of such as design – so, you can buy any of them depending on your specific needs.

Hydraulic

You can also buy hydraulic power shears as they can apply pressure through multiple cylinders for forcing the ram as well as the upper blade of the machine. They typically have one or more cylinders for operation.

So, when you apply higher pressures through metal plates as well as remove the metal part, this will give you an accurate shearing. Hydraulic machines also work on small disks and similar objects.

Mechanical

Another type of power shear you can buy is the mechanical one, which has a motor to spin a large flywheel at higher speeds to engage a clutch activated through a mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic engagement.

After the engagement of the clutch, the moving flywheel is mated to the crankshaft. Thus, the ram of the machine is attached. So, when the crankshaft spins and cycles the ram, it causes the shear blade to move up and down. It is important that you understand these concepts before going to buy a power shear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a power shear?

A power shear is electrically or pneumatically powered hand tool designed to blank large pieces of sheet metal. They are designed to cut straight lines and relatively large radius curves.

2. What are the three types of shears?

Compound action snips come in three different types: Straight-cutting (which cut straight and in a wide curve); Left-cutting (which cut straight and in a tight curve to the left); and. Right-cutting (which cut straight and in a tight curve to the right).

3. How thick can electric shears cut?

Product Description. The Eastwood Electric Metal Shears with rotating jaws slices easily through steel up to 18-gauge thick. If you've ever tried to saw through heavy-gauge steel, you know how difficult it can be to produce a clean cut. This tool will save a lot of sweat, and slice cleanly through up to 18-gauge steel.

4. What is the difference between a nibbler and a shear?

Nibblers are used for cutting patterns out of sheet metal. As compared to nibblers which produce thousands of tiny chips, shears create less waste. Shearing tool is ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks. Shears cut with minimum distortion while nibblers destroy the material in its path.

Editor's Notes

During our power shear research, we found 24 power shear products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 157,162 customer reviews through our big data system to write the power shears list. We found that most customers choose power shears with an average price of $47.40.

The power shears are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of power shears, including WORX, DEWALT, WEN, Milwaukee, Stalwart. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.