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The Best Clipper Guards of 2024

Kaitlyn Neese
Written by Ashley Neese
best clipper guard

When it comes to getting a haircut, precision is key. That’s why clipper guards are so essential. Designed to fit over clipper blades, these attachments determine the length of hair to be cut, offering versatility in styling. In this guide, we will discuss the best clipper guards of 2024, exploring their various sizes, uses, and techniques. This set of clipper guards from CR8GR8 is a cut above the rest, as it has eight different sizes to choose from. So whether you’re a seasoned barber or a novice stylist, we’ll help you find the right clipper guards to elevate your grooming game.

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Shopping for the Best Clipper Guards

Can you think of a single haircut where your barber didn’t use clippers? Clippers have become essential for men's haircuts and beard grooming sessions. The secret ingredient behind all those precise fades and sharp styles isn’t just your barber’s skill, but also clipper guards.

These accessories allow stylists to cut your hair in accurately measured lengths. Switching them out for a different size for each new layer of the fade lets them create seamless gradients, which simply wouldn’t be possible without a clipper guide attached to their machine. If you’re planning to purchase a set to serve your customers better, or to start giving yourself DIY haircuts at home, here’s every purchase consideration you need to keep in mind.

Compatibility

Firstly, consider the brand and compatibility of the clipper guides you’re considering purchasing. Not all guards are meant to fit your particular trimmer model. For example, if you’ve got a Wahl full-size hair clipper, you need guards from either the Wahl brand or a third-party manufacturer that creates Wahl-compatible guards.

Similarly, certain clipper guards are exclusively designed for Andis clipper models and probably won’t fit your Wahl trimmer.

Brand

These guards can be from Wahl and Andis as native clipper attachments. Ideally, you should get attachments for your clipper from the company that made it (which would usually be Wahl and Andis) as those guards are always high-quality, durable, precise, and easy to install. But, with that said, they’re also relatively expensive.

If you don’t want to pay the big bucks for these premium guides, you can also purchase them from brands like Lavest, Miaco, and CR8GR8 to get the job done for a fraction of the price. All sets state which clipper models they fit, so pay attention to the specifications before adding them to your cart.

Size

The size of the guides in your new set is a key consideration for barbers and stylists. It mostly depends on the type of customers you get in your shop and the haircuts they demand. As an example, for customers who mostly want a number one or two fade, you need a precise set of guides which includes a dedicated guard for ⅛ and ²⁄₈-inch hair lengths.

Did you know that the comb numbering system that’s currently used in the industry was created by Wahl? It entails the following sizes:

Guard Comb Numbers: #1/2, #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #8, #10, and #12
Size in Inches: 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 1, 1-1/4, and 1-1/2

When you’re in the market for a set of clipper guards for your shop, pick one that includes your most-used clipper lengths depending on the type of haircuts you usually do for your customers.

Comparing the Best Clipper Guards of 2024

1

CR8GR8 Clipper Guards

Pros

  • The only 3-inch clipper guard on the market
  • Eight different sizes to work with
  • Suitable for most Wahl clippers

Cons

  • Too long for beard trimming

The biggest guard in the CR8GR8 clipper guard set is 3 inches, making it the ideal choice for those of you wanting to cut longer hair with precision. The set also includes clipper guards of 2 ¾, 2 ½, 2 ¼, 2, 1 ¾, 1 ½, and 1 ¼ inches, so you’ll have more than enough sizes for your needs. Each comb has a number assigned to it for reference, allowing you to switch between the combs as needed during a haircut.

Using these, you can give yourself basic haircuts, saving up to $250 every year on barbershop trips. That's a plus in my book, as getting your hair professionally cut can be costly depending on where you go! They’re also perfect for giving your kid(s) a neat-looking haircut right at home. Overall, the guards are long enough for styling but small enough for a proper haircut. Just pop them into your Wahl clippers and start giving yourself or your loved ones perfectly even haircuts consistently. Recognized as having the only 3-inch clipper guard on the market, along with a variety of other sizes to choose from, this clipper guard set is easily our top choice overall.

2

Wahl Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Guides match well with clippers
  • Compatible with most full-size Wahl clippers
  • Comes with a labeled comb tray

Cons

  • Can be expensive

Here’s a set of clipper guards from Wahl itself, which is supposed to be a native attachment for use with the brand’s commercial-grade products. It fits all full-size clippers from Wahl, except for Wahl’s detachable blade clippers and competition series. You get eight different guides as part of the set, sizes ranging from ⅛ to 1 inch, and their durable metal build fits securely for efficient use.

This range of sizes is ideal for all sorts of complex haircuts and precision fades. And when you need a convenient place to store these clipper guards, not to worry -- this set comes with a 1-inch comb tray with clear labels for easy identification and organization. According to our team research, customers love the quality, fit, and ease of use these clipper guards provide.

3

Lavest Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Color-coded for easy identification
  • Comes with a convenient organizer tray
  • Guards are built to last

Cons

  • Larger sizes may vibrate against the blade

I'm really digging the colorful selection of this next set of guards. Made out of nylon material, Lavest’s clipper guards take their build quality one step above their cheap plastic counterparts. These guards are designed to be durable, flexible, and long-lasting, unlike thin and flimsy guards that may break during their first month of use. Each clipper guard is color-coded based on the cutting length it represents, with the entire 10-piece set ranging from a ¹⁄₁₆-inch size to 1 inch.

The sizes are mentioned on each guard with easy-to-read etchings, but you’ll eventually remember them by their dedicated color once you get used to them. For your convenience, there’s also an organizer tray to store all guards safely. These clipper guards work with countless Wahl trimmer models, like the 5 Star series, ColorPro, Elite Pro, and HomePro, and with models from brands like Andis and Hatteker.

4

Andis Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Sturdy, waterproof clipping guards
  • High-quality metal construction
  • Fits a variety of Andis clipper models

Cons

  • Teeth may not be long enough for some

Next, we have the Andis Clipper Guard Set. It’s designed to be compatible with the MBA, MCA-2, ML, PM, PM-1, PM-4, and PM-5 clippers, among others, and is very easy to install into your trimmer and remove thanks to the attachable magnetic combs. Not only will these clipper guards save you time, but also your customers’ time if you are a professional barber, which is good for business. I know I don't like to wait a lifetime to get my hair professionally styled or cut -- in and out is my goal!

These clipper guards feature one of the sturdiest constructions on this list with a durable PC and metal build. They’re waterproof, easy to clean, provide sharp performance, and last a long time despite repeated and frequent use. The five sizes included are zero, one, two, three, and four — i.e., ¹⁄₁₆, ⅛, ¼, ⅜, and ½ inch, so variety is a factor. You won't be disappointed with this clipper guard set!

5

AIJALY Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Easy to use and clean
  • Compatible with a variety of clippers
  • Has a great fit

Cons

  • May flex more than expected

This set of clipper guards from AIJALY is perfect for upgrading your grooming game. Each guard is crafted from high-quality PC and metal and is easy to clean. With moderate hardness, they offer maximum protection and a perfect fit, easily snapping on and off your clipper like clockwork. Available in 10 sizes ranging from 1/16 to 1 inch, these clipper guards deliver seamless precision for any hair length on your face.

Moreover, they are designed to fit blade sizes of 1.5 x 1.75 inches, and are compatible with multiple models including Wahl and Surker hair clippers, providing versatility and convenience. No more worries about mismatched models with these guards! Our team reviewed what customers like about this product, and the majority agreed that performance and ease of use are beloved factors.

6

Dicuyeln Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Great value for the money
  • Durable and versatile
  • Comes with a cleaning brush

Cons

  • May feel scratchy on the scalp

Finding a cost-effective clipping guard can be beneficial, especially if you prefer to cut your hair at home. That's why this next set of guards is a great option. The Dicuyeln Clipper Guards offer a great price and even greater value. They are designed to fit most Wahl, Surker, and Babyliss hair clippers so you don't have to worry about compatibility. As long as you measure your blade before purchase, model mismatches will not be a concern!

This pack includes four guards (#1/2, #1, #1.5, #2) and one handy cleaning brush, offering versatility for various hair lengths from 1/16 to 1/4 inch. These guards are not only durable and easy to clean but also provide maximum protection with their moderate hardness.  I like to save money when it comes to hair care, so I appreciate the value and performance these clipper guards deliver. I hope you will, too!

7

KHTD Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Suitable for various hair lengths
  • Won't hurt the scalp
  • Easy to install and remove

Cons

  • Not compatible with smaller Wahl trimmers

Get ready to rock your hairstyle game with the KHTD Clipper Guards! Specifically designed for full-size Wahl clippers, this set of 10 guards ensures precise trims for every occasion, whether they're used at professional barber shops or when cutting your hair or your child's hair at home. From 1/16 inch to 1 inch, these guards cater to all hair lengths and styles, whether it's long locks or a well-groomed beard.

Crafted from high-quality ABS and metal materials, they're durable, easy to clean, and provide maximum comfort with moderate hardness. Plus, they're a breeze to install and remove, saving you precious time and less hassle during your grooming routine. Hair cuts shouldn't be painful, which is why these clipper guards feature a rounded shape that is gentle on the scalp. Our team is fond of this product because of its multiple uses and easy installation.

8

BaBylissPRO BaByliss4Barbers Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Made from durable, high-quality materials
  • Compatible with most BaBylissPRO clippers
  • Tight fit and sturdy

Cons

  • Might fit too snug for some users

Switching our focus to another popular brand, this next set of clipper guards is the perfect fit for most BaBylissPRO clippers. Compatible with FX870 Models, FX825, FX890, and most 2-hole clipper blades, they ensure a snug fit for hassle-free grooming sessions. Their fiberglass-reinforced nylon and metal design exhibit prime quality that is built to last.

Each guard features a sturdy metal clip, keeping it securely attached to the blade for precision cuts every time. With a set of eight comb attachments ranging from 0.5 to 6 inches, you'll have the perfect tool for any hair length or style. Plus, their sleek black design adds a touch of style to your grooming arsenal. After researching user reviews, our team has concluded that these clipper guards are praised for their easy attachment and high quality.

9

Yinke Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Multiple sizes that are easy to read
  • Crafted from strong materials
  • Glides easily through hair

Cons

  • May only fit Wahl senior clippers

For superior protection for multiple Wahl or Surker hair clipper models, expect the best from this set of clipper guards from Yinke! These premium cutting guides are a must-have for every grooming session. With three sizes to choose from (1 & 1/4", 1 & 1/2", 2"), you can easily trim any length of hair on your head or face with precision.

Built with high-quality PC and metal materials, these guards are durable, easy to clean, and ensure a scratch-free experience with their medium hardness. The metal clip ensures a perfect fit, making them easy to snap on and off for quick and efficient use. Their rounded comb teeth glide smoothly through hair, providing a comfortable cut that is superior to regular combs. Like many others on our list, I like that each guard has a visual display of its size so you can grab and go to work on that haircut in no time flat!

10

Vetmor Clipper Guards

Pros

  • Uses rare earth magnets for easy attachment
  • Easy to remove and clean
  • Comes in a set of 10

Cons

  • May not fit all Andis Master clippers

The final selection on our list brings us back to the world of color with this set of clipper guards from Vetmor. Made of high-quality PC and featuring a vibrant purple color, this group of 10 not only delivers durability but also adds a pop of personality to haircut time. They are the ideal companion for your Andis Master and PM family of hair clippers. With compatibility spanning models like MBA, MC-2, and PM-5, these guards ensure a perfect fit every time.

Guesswork is a thing of the past thanks to 10 different sizes ranging from 1/16" to 1", giving you endless styling possibilities. The built-in rare earth magnets are a game-changer, making attachment to the clipper blade a breeze and providing a secure hold for a hassle-free grooming experience. They are also easy to remove, clean, and organize. I like the bright color of these guards and that the performance of each one truly shines.

People Also Ask

  • Q: Are metal clipper guards better than plastic ones?

    A:Metal clipper guards are often preferred for their durability and precision, as they maintain their shape over time and offer consistent results. Plastic guards may be more prone to breakage and wear, but they are often lighter and more affordable, making them suitable for occasional use or beginners. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and specific grooming needs.

  • Q: Can I use a clipper without any guard installed?

    A:Yes, you can use a clipper without a guard to achieve a very close shave or to create a bald look. However, it requires caution and precision to avoid cutting the skin, especially in sensitive areas. Using a clipper without a guard is common in professional barbering for certain styles but may not be suitable for everyone's preferences or needs.

  • Q: How do I clean and maintain my clipper guard?

    A:To clean a clipper guard, remove any hair buildup by gently brushing it with a small cleaning brush or using a compressed air duster. Then, wash the guard with warm, soapy water and allow it to air dry completely before reattaching it to the clipper. Regular maintenance involves checking for any signs of damage or wear and replacing the guard if necessary to ensure optimal performance and safety.

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We try various products, so we can recommend our favorites, and we also summarize feedback and data from other customers. Data, like product reviews and ratings, helps us recommend the best product choices for individual price points and needs.

On top of that, we highlight unique product features for special use cases, ingredients preferences, and more. We strive to make sure you are discovering new products that can make your life easier, while keeping you up to date with the best product choices for types of items you already know and love.

Kaitlyn Neese

By Ashley Neese

Hi, I'm Ashley Neese and I graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism.  I'm passionate about all things beauty, fashion, and wellness — specifically skin care, makeup, and natural health. I love writing about things that help people feel like their best selves, whether it's finding their perfect lip color or a supplement to alleviate anxiety. In my free time, I am usually reading a romantic comedy or playing with my two dogs.

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