The Sterling 4 duo: essentials to know

Both clippers from the 4 series stick to a mixture of black and chrome looks. In a way, that’s similar to how the Super Taper II is. Quite distinctive and elegant, I’d say.

The corded Sterling 4 clipper packs 6.25″ and weighs 1 lb, which is a standard for Wahl professional clippers. It runs on the older V5000 motor. Sure, you get enough power – Wahl electromagnetic motors are quite great, but it’s not the V9000 one.

Here’s how the corded Sterling 4 looks:

In stark contrast, the cordless model weighs only 10.2 oz, despite being the same dimension – 6.25″. It also features a rotary motor that runs cooler and moves the blades softer, reducing risks of them getting misaligned.

With a battery lasting for more than 90 minutes and 40% less weight, the cordless Wahl Sterling 4 is outstanding in terms of mobility. Its design also differs a bit, with less chrome ornaments:

Both models share Wahl’s adjust-lock #1005 blade. It’s the standard professional blade, ready for bulk cuts or more detailed work.

With the V5000 Sterling you get 6 guards (1/8″ to 1″.) The cordless Sterling 4, however, adds 2 more (1/16″ and 3/16″) which are great for blending. You’ll receive both oil, blade guard and clipper brush in the packages.

Wahl Sterling 4 vs Magic Clip

Here’s the thing: between the corded models, there’s no reason for you to get the Sterling instead of the Clip. And I mean it.

The corded Magic Clipper beats the black/chrome 4 in every aspect. It has the newer, stronger V9000 motor instead of the V5000. You get the full set of 8 combs, instead of only 6.

And, instead of the standard #1005 blade, you get the #2191 one. A more versatile blade with more precise teeth, it’s specially designed for outstanding fades.

To top it off, the Sterling is a tad more expensive than the Magic Clip. A phenomenon I can’t quite understand. I also like the Magic’s design more:

With the cordless models, it’s a bit trickier. The cordless Sterling 4 clipper has the same battery as the cordless 5 star Magic Clip. Both share the same rotary motor and the same size/weight.

If you want to do fades specifically, however, the wireless 5 star Magic Clip is again better. It has the #2161 crunch blade, which is great for both sharp fading and ethnic hair. You can read our full review of the Magics here.

In case you’re feeling adventurous, however, you can go ahead and install a fade blade on the Sterling. Then, you’ll have a 2-hole blade like this barber:

Wahl cordless Sterling 4 vs Wahl cordless Designer

Things get extremely equal here. Unlike the blade difference with the Magic Clips, here both clippers share the standard #1005 blade.

Everything’s the same: battery longevity, weight, the casing materials and overall feel. And yes, even the accessories you’ll receive with these.

The only difference you’ll have here is from a purely aesthetic standpoint. The cordless Designer has these aggressive red looks, look at it:

The cordless Sterling 4 clippers are more elegant and tame, in a way. It’s really all about whether you prefer the black/chrome or the red/black theme.

Final verdict

Sterling 4 series are a hit or miss, depending on the model. I’ll vote “Pass” on the corded one: you have way better opportunities, as I mentioned.

The cordless variation, though, is quite good. It features a long-lasting Lithium-ion battery, a good rotary motor and Wahl’s professional blade set.

Whether you prefer going for the cordless Sterling 4 or the Designer is a matter of personal preference. If it’s about the fades and deeper blending, I’d advise you to consider the Wahl Magic Clip instead.

Whichever of these you go for, rest easy. You’ll be getting a powerful, barber-grade wireless Wahl clipper. It’ll serve you well.