Barber clippers with a cord and cordless clippers both have their advantages. As a barber, I recommend using whatever tool feels most comfortable and effective.

Corded clippers, like the one I used when I started cutting hair at 11 or 12, are versatile and can be used for various tasks, from skin-tight trims to fading and edging. They provide consistent power and a predictable cut, which I find satisfying. Additionally, the feel of the power and weight of the corded clipper is enjoyable.

Cordless clippers, on the other hand, offer convenience and mobility. They are ideal for quick touch-ups and travel. However, corded clippers provide a more powerful and consistent cutting experience. I’ve always associated the feel of something in my hand with its build quality. Lighter clippers often felt cheap, but technology has changed that. Repairability is important to me. In barber school, we learned how to repair corded clippers. We could unscrew them, clean them, change blades, and cords. This extended their lifespan. Corded clippers can last forever with proper repairs or replacements for the cord or motor.

However, corded clippers have some drawbacks. Cords can get tangled, especially when many clippers are plugged in at a station. This can damage the clippers. Corded clippers also tend to get hotter over long periods compared to cordless clippers. 

Choose your preferred tool or clipper, as this is subjective. I prefer cordless clippers for several reasons. They’re lighter in the hand, which many barbers, especially female barbers may, value. Cordless clippers offer greater flexibility, allowing for more mobility when packing up and traveling for haircuts. They also typically don’t run hot, which I find convenient and prevents cord tangles. However, cordless clippers have drawbacks. Their battery life is usually short, and they lack repairability. The battery’s efficiency declines over time, and the clipper may not hold a charge for long. Additionally, the cordless clipper’s connection to the charger is weak, and the cord can come loose while in use, which is inconvenient. I prefer the option to use the cordless clipper plugged in or not, but most cordless clippers don’t do this well. The cordless clipper lacks repairability compared to the clipper with a cord. While replacing the cord is easy and efficient, opening the clipper is challenging and not ideal since it has a battery and circuitry. The main option is to replace the entire clipper. This is a downside compared to corded clippers, but it’s subjective and depends on personal preference. I personally prefer having both corded and cordless clippers at my station. Having both reduces cord entanglement  and this is what I personally use till this day.