ARS Electronic Pruners Compared: EP-719, EP-720, EP-721 and ET-720

ARS electronic pruners bring powered cutting to two different types of job. The EP models are hand-held electronic secateurs for repeated pruning at close range, while the ET-720 models add a fixed pole for elevated branches. Across the range, the main choices are cutting capacity, tool length, weight and the amount of blade control you need.

This guide compares all seven models currently available from Chestnut Mill: the ARS EP-719, EP-720, EP-721 and four lengths of ARS ET-720 electronic long-reach pruner.

ARS EP or ET: which type do you need?

Choose an ARS EP hand-held electronic pruner for orchard work, landscaping, nursery work and repeated pruning where the branches are comfortably within reach. The powered blade reduces the gripping effort required compared with manual secateurs, but the tool still needs to be positioned and operated carefully.

Choose an ARS ET-720 electronic long-reach pruner for smaller elevated branches where extra working length is useful. All four ET models have the same 20mm maximum cutting capacity; the model number tells you the nominal pole length. A longer tool gives more reach, while a shorter version is lighter and easier to manoeuvre. Actual working reach will also depend on the user’s height and working position.

ARS electronic pruner comparison

Cutting capacity is a maximum manufacturer specification, not a target for every cut. Species, hardness, moisture content, blade condition and cutting angle all affect performance.

Choosing between the ARS EP-719, EP-720 and EP-721

EP-719: compact 25mm cutting capacity

The EP-719 is the smallest-capacity model in the hand-held range. Its blade can be set to open to 15mm or the full 25mm, helping reduce trigger travel when working through finer growth. At 920g, it is intended for repeated close-range pruning without moving up to the size and power of the larger models.

EP-720: 30mm capacity with a lighter handpiece

The EP-720 steps up to a 30mm maximum cut while remaining approximately 910g. It also offers 15mm and 30mm blade-opening settings and uses the larger 14.4V battery system. A holster is included, which is useful when moving between plants or carrying out mixed tasks.

EP-721: the widest cut and stepless control

The EP-721 is the flagship hand-held model. Its blade opening can be adjusted progressively up to a 40mm maximum rather than being limited to two preset positions. It weighs 1,015g and includes a holster and carrying strap. Choose it when the wider cutting capacity and finer control justify the extra weight and cost.

Specification correction: current ARS information gives the EP-721 a maximum cutting capacity of 40mm. Some earlier retail information described it as 35mm.

Choosing an ARS ET-720 pole length

The four ET-720 models share the same cutting head and battery system. Each cuts branches up to 20mm, has a pole that rotates through 270 degrees and uses a 15-degree angled head to help position the blades. The brushless motor sits towards the bottom of the tool to lower the centre of gravity.

• ET-720-0.9: the shortest and lightest option for lower branches, dense shrubs and work where close control matters most.
• ET-720-1.2: a useful middle length for gardens, orchards and routine grounds maintenance.
• ET-720-1.7: adds working length for higher growth while remaining lighter than the 2.3m model.
• ET-720-2.3: the longest fixed model for the highest branches within the range, but also the heaviest and least compact to handle.

Do not choose by reach alone. Think about the space available around the branch, how long the tool will be held out from the body and whether the shorter model will give better control. Browse the full ARS long-reach pruner collection if a manual, telescopic or cut-and-hold design would suit the job better.

What the ARS electronic range has in common

All seven models use a brushless motor and premium Japanese high-carbon steel blades with triple-ground edges and hard-chrome plating. The lower blade is shaped to help hold the branch during the cut. A display shows battery level, cumulative cut count and blade status or opening.

Each kit includes two lithium-ion batteries and an intelligent charger. ARS states that each battery can deliver approximately 3,500 cuts, giving up to around 7,000 cuts across the pair. This is an indicative figure: branch diameter, wood hardness, temperature, blade condition and working technique will affect the actual result.

Electronic or manual secateurs?

Electronic secateurs make most sense for repeated pruning or for users who value powered cutting. For occasional garden jobs, a well-sized pair of manual secateurs may be lighter, simpler and more economical. See our guide to the ARS VS-8XZ manual secateurs, or compare the wider ARS garden secateurs range.

Safe use and routine care

• Read the model-specific manual before first use and follow its start-up, adjustment and maintenance instructions.
• Keep hands and other people clear of the cutting head. Remove the battery before cleaning, adjusting or inspecting the blades.
• Wear suitable eye protection and other PPE for the task. With long-reach models, assess overhead hazards and never stand beneath a branch that may fall.
• Keep the blade clean, correctly lubricated and sharp. A damaged or blunt blade increases resistance and can reduce cut quality and battery life.
• Use an appropriate professional for branches, heights or surroundings that cannot be managed safely from the ground.

The best ARS electronic pruner is therefore not simply the model with the largest number. Match the EP cutting capacity or ET pole length to the work you actually do, then consider weight, blade control and how often the tool will be used.