Kemei PG1990A Review: Can a $17 Wireless Clipper Actually Work?

Finding a wireless clipper that doesn't suck

I've been through the usual cycle: cheap clippers that die after months, expensive ones that work great but chain you to the wall. When I saw this Kemei PG1990A for $17.19, I figured it was another "professional" clipper that would disappoint. Three months of regular use later, I have some thoughts.

What you actually get

The Kemei PG1990A is a cordless hair clipper with what they call a "professional motor" and LED display. The battery is the main selling point - it's supposed to last significantly longer than typical budget wireless clippers, with a turbo mode for thicker hair.

It comes with multiple guard combs and charges fully in about two hours. The LED display shows real-time battery level, which is genuinely useful. The motor has decent power for a wireless unit - it cuts through thick hair without the stuttering you get from weak cordless clippers.

My honest take: what works and what doesn't

What surprised me:
The cutting power is legitimately good. I've used $150 Wahl clippers, and while this isn't quite there, it's closer than the price suggests. Being truly cordless changes everything - you can move around, adjust angles easily, even cut hair outside if you want.

Battery life delivers on the promise. One full charge gives me 4-5 complete haircuts, and it charges fast.

The real limitation:
It only has one speed setting. There's no variable power control like you get on premium clippers. For most people this isn't an issue, but if you need fine speed adjustments, this will frustrate you.

What $17 normally gets you

At this price point, you usually have to choose: decent cutting power but corded, or wireless but weak motor. The Kemei breaks that rule by offering both benefits.

Compared to drugstore clippers at the same price, this is clearly better. Compared to $80+ Wahl or Philips models, obviously there are differences in build quality and advanced features, but for regular home use, it performs the core function well.

Who should buy this and who shouldn't

Buy it if:

• You cut your own hair regularly at home
• You value the freedom of cordless operation
• You want decent quality without spending premium money
• Single speed setting meets your needs

Skip it if:

• You're a professional barber needing precise control
• You require specific advanced features
• You prefer established brands without compromise

My verdict: 7.5/10. It's a smart buy that solves the main problem (quality cordless cutting) without breaking the bank.

Price: $17.19 (was $36.27)

Get the Kemei PG1990A here