15 Cool Haircut Numbers & Clipper Sizes with Easy Examples
If you have visited a barber shop or hair salon that does clipper cuts, you might have heard people mention haircut numbers. But what do these numbers actually mean?
First, you don’t have to know haircut numbers to get a great haircut. A skilled barber can understand what you want without using those terms. Still, knowing these numbers can make things easier.
I had a conversation with Jon Franklyn, who manages Smooth Operators Male Grooming in the UK. We talked about haircut numbers. I first asked him why many people feel stressed about knowing their haircut numbers.
He said, “It helps you tell the barber exactly how you want your hair cut. You will also know how short you want it. Not everyone knows the clipper grade they want. Some people just say, ‘I want it short but without showing any skin.’
This time, we will observe another person in the shop and comment on the haircut they are getting. If they seem unhappy with the length, we will recommend making it longer. I usually cut a little longer first, then show them the result after trimming some hair.
If the haircut is still too long, I use a shorter grade until it matches what they want. Then, I tell them the grade I used so they can remember it for next time. You don’t have to know the clipper numbers, but it’s helpful to learn them.
I’ve compiled all the info you need about haircut numbers and clipper sizes in this comprehensive guide! I’ll be covering:
What Are Haircut Numbers?
Haircut numbers show the size of clipper guards used with electric hair clippers. Usually, clippers include eight guards, numbered from 1 to 8.
When someone requests a number 1 haircut, the barber uses the number 1 clipper guard. Each guard cuts hair to a certain length. The number on the guard shows how short the hair will be.
Haircut Number vs. Clipper Guard Size
This chart displays haircut numbers along with their matching clipper guard sizes. Both inches and millimeters are included.
| Haircut Number | Clipper Guard/Hair Length (inches) | Clipper Guard/Hair Length (millimeters) |
| Number 1 | 1/8″ | 3mm |
| Number 2 | 1/4″ | 6mm |
| Number 3 | 3/8″ | 10mm |
| Number 4 | 1/2″ | 13mm |
| Number 5 | 5/8″ | 16mm |
| Number 6 | 3/4″ | 19mm |
| Number 7 | 7/8″ | 22mm |
| Number 8 | 1″ | 25mm |
Standard Hair Clipper Sizes
Most hair clipper kits include eight attachments, but some have even more. Each attachment adds 1/8″ to the length of the hair left after cutting.
For instance, a number 1 clipper guard trims hair down to 1/8 inch. A number 2 guard cuts hair to 1/4 inch, which is the same as 2/8 inch.
Each larger guard leaves your hair a bit longer. For example, a number 8 clipper guard cuts hair to about one inch in length.
Hair Clipper Half Sizes
Some clippers include half sizes. Sometimes, barbers buy these half sizes on their own. They use them when a customer wants a hair length that regular clipper sizes cannot provide.
The 0.5 guard cuts hair to about 1/16″ (1.5mm), while the 1.5 guard leaves it around 3/16″ (4.5mm). These two sizes are very popular.
Differences Across Clipper Brands
Keep in mind that clipper sizes can vary. Different brands might have their own guard sizes and numbering. For instance, Oster clipper guards do not match the usual numbering system.
Many popular barber brands like Wahlm, Kiepe, Gamma, Stylecraft, and Andi usually follow standard sizes. However, small differences can still cause confusion for barbers and their customers.
To prevent confusion, clearly tell your barber or stylist the exact length you want in inches or millimeters.
For example, if you want a number 2 haircut, tell your barber to cut your hair to 1/4 inch (6mm). This helps make sure you get the style you want, even if your barber uses clippers with different sizes.
You can also check with your barber to see if their clipper guards use standard sizes.
Sometimes, barbers use clipper guards larger than the usual sizes 1 through 8. For instance, a number 10 guard leaves hair about 1.25 inches (32mm) long, which works well for crew cuts.
If you want hair longer than one inch, ask your barber if they have number 9, 10, or 12 clipper guards. If they don’t, a skilled barber can use scissors or mix scissors with clippers to get the style you want. For most barbers, a finger-length cut is about the same as a number 6 to 8 guard, depending on finger size.
Quick Reference Guide for Haircut Numbers and Hair Clipper Sizes
Unsure which haircut suits you best? Look at the popular haircut numbers and pictures below. I will also explain their main benefits and things to think about.
Number 0 Haircut
A number 0 haircut, also called a zero fade, is done by taking off the clipper guard and shaving the hair very close to the scalp. This style is perfect if you prefer very short hair and want to skip daily styling and upkeep.
Jon says this is called a double zero or a bald fade. It is cut very close to the skin with an electric shaver.
Remember, this haircut shows your scalp. If that makes you uncomfortable, it might not be the best choice.
Number 1 Haircut: One-eight of an inch
Are you interested in super short hair but not ready to shave it completely? A number 1 haircut could be the perfect middle ground.
This haircut leaves about one-eighth of an inch of hair. If your hair isn’t very thick, your scalp will probably show.
Number 2 Haircut: One-quarter of an inch
Looking for a bit more length? A number 2 haircut offers easy upkeep while still covering your scalp well. If your hair is thin or fine, this cut helps it appear thicker and fuller.
This style is great for fade cuts because it blends and tapers easily. Thinking about trying a buzz cut but worried it might be too short? Starting with a number 2 cut is a good way to test it out.
Number 3 Haircut: Three-eights of an inch
The number 3 haircut is quite flexible. It leaves about 3/8 inch (10mm) of hair, which works well for both thin and thick hair types.
This length is easy to manage and doesn’t require much styling. However, it is longer than most fades and tapers.
Number 4 Haircut: Half an inch
Number 4 clippers give you a cut that is more like a crew or brush cut, not a buzz cut. They leave your hair about 1/2 inch (12.7mm) long. This length is enough for you to comb and style your hair.
Do you want a medium-length haircut that is easy to care for and covers your scalp well? If so, a number 4 haircut could be a great choice.
Number 5 Haircut: Five-eights of an inch
A number 5 haircut gives you some creative options for daily styling. It leaves about 5/8″ (16mm) of hair, which is long enough to style however you like. You can also leave it natural, and it will still look great.
This length works well if you prefer tapered sides without a skin fade. Use a number 2 clipper on the sides and blend it into a number 5 on top for this look.
Number 6 Haircut: Three-quarters of an inch
Want a haircut that’s longer than a buzz cut but still neat like a crew cut? Try using a number 6 clipper guard.
This haircut keeps about 3/4″ (or 19mm) of hair. That’s enough length to brush and style easily. Many people also choose this clipper size to get a nice taper on the sides.
If your hair is thin or fine, a longer style like the number 6 haircut is usually suggested. This length helps your hair look thicker and fuller.
Number 7 Haircut: Seven-eights of an inch
The number 7 haircut is a well-liked crew cut style. It leaves about 7/8 inch (22mm) of hair. This length lets you style your hair easily while keeping your scalp fully covered.
This haircut is perfect if you like styling your hair every day but don’t want to get it trimmed often. It works well for faux hawks and many popular styles. Adding tapered sides can help the cut stay neat for a longer time.
Number 8 Haircut: An inch
If you want to keep your hair long without using scissors, a number 8 haircut is a good choice. This style leaves about one inch of hair length.
This length gives you lots of options to style with hair products and try new looks. You can also fade the sides to add more shape and contrast to your hairstyle.
Hair Type Considerations
When choosing the best haircut number for yourself, there are a few other things you should think about.
For instance, hair length can appear different based on your hair type. If your hair is fine and straight or thick and curly, understanding your hair helps you choose the right haircut.
“Most barbers recommend keeping the sides shorter than the top. For instance, if you choose a 4 on top, they might suggest a 2 on the back and sides. Using the same length everywhere can make your hair look uneven as it grows,” Jon added.
Fine Hair
If your hair is fine, avoid cutting off too much. Usually, it’s better to pick a haircut number that is slightly longer than what you think you want.
You can always ask your barber or stylist to cut a bit more if needed. Haircuts often appear shorter and thinner on people with fine hair, so it’s safer to start with less and trim more later.
Thick or Coarse Hair
If you have thick hair, you may face a different challenge. To get your desired style, you might need to cut your hair a little shorter.
Thicker or rougher hair often appears longer and more full.
To make sure you get the haircut you want, tell your barber the clipper number you prefer. If it seems too long, they can easily cut it a bit shorter for you.
Curly Hair
Curly hair changes a lot from wet to dry. When it is wet, it looks longer than when it dries.
When hair dries, curls usually become tighter, making your hair look shorter. The tighter the curls, the shorter your hair seems once it is dry.
For curly hair, it’s usually better to start with a longer cut. If it feels too long, your barber can easily trim it shorter until you’re happy with the length.
To get the best results, consider seeing a stylist who is an expert in curly hair.
How to Ask Your Barber or Stylist for the Perfect Haircut
In short, getting the right haircut depends on talking clearly with your stylist or barber. Even skilled experts cannot guess what you want. So, make sure you come to your appointment ready and know what style you are looking for.
This means you should be prepared to clearly share your ideas, what you like, and what you do not like.
Consider talking to your barber about how you care for your hair now. Do you wash it every day? What products do you use? How much time can you spend styling your hair each day?
By sharing this information, your barber or stylist can create the perfect haircut just for you.
Know Your Number or Explain You Don’t
If you remember liking a certain haircut number before, feel free to tell your barber that exact number!
I get that clipper guard sizes can be confusing. To avoid any mix-ups, just tell me the exact length you want your hair cut.
For instance, if you want a number 4 haircut, let your barber know you want your hair trimmed to half an inch (13mm). They might ask a couple of questions about your sideburns or neckline. This approach helps you avoid a long discussion and ensures you get the haircut you want.
If you prefer your hair not to be the same length everywhere, make sure to tell your barber clearly.
Fade haircuts are very popular. They use a technique that makes the hair gradually shorter. The hair on top is usually longer. It then gets shorter as it blends down toward your neck. If you want a fade haircut, talk with your barber about how long you want the hair on top, on the sides, and at the back.
If you’re unsure about which haircut number to choose or still learning about haircut numbers, don’t worry. It’s perfectly fine to let your barber know.
We know that most people don’t understand all the technical hair terms. A good barber or stylist will chat with you in a simple way to learn what look you want. We are happy to talk without using confusing words.
A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words
Bringing photos of the haircut style you want can be very helpful. This is especially useful if you are unsure about talking about haircut numbers.
You can find many haircut ideas online, such as on Instagram. When you spot a style you like, save the picture or take a screenshot on your phone. Then, show this image to your barber during your visit.
I asked Jon if this happens often in his barbershop. He said, “Yes, definitely. Pictures help show exactly what style you want. The barber can then suggest how short to cut your hair and which clipper grades to use. If you write down what the barber tells you, it will be easier to explain during your next visit.”
If you loved a past haircut and have photos from that time, bring them along. Showing these pictures to your barber can help them understand the style you want.
No need to remember your haircut number! A skilled barber can easily figure it out just by looking at your photos.
Keep in mind that the same haircut might look different on you than on someone else. Your hair type, hair color, and face shape all affect how it turns out.
The hair products you use after a haircut can greatly affect how your hair looks. Your barber or stylist can suggest the best products to help you achieve your desired style.
If you have medium or long hair, Fiber by American Crew is a favorite among barbers. It gives a strong hold with little shine. It also helps reduce frizz and keeps your hair moisturized. This product is easy to apply and adds texture to thin hair, making it look thicker.
Franklyn also recommends using styling products such as sea salt spray and volume spray. After drying your hair, you can apply clay, paste, mud, or styling powder. Many barbers now prefer styling powders because they work very well.
A favorite among barbers and stylists is the Fresh Falls Shampoo and Conditioner by Dr. Squatch. These products use gentle ingredients that calm your scalp and help your hair stay healthy. They avoid harsh chemicals and synthetic stuff. Plus, they smell great.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a zero fade?
A zero fade is a type of taper haircut. The hair becomes shorter as it moves down to the ears and neck. The “zero” means the hair is shaved almost to the skin. It then slowly gets longer as it goes up toward the top of your head.
A zero fade uses clippers. For an even shorter cut, barbers use trimmers and electric shavers like foils or foilers.
How short is a number 3 haircut?
A number 3 haircut trims hair down to 3/8 inch or 10mm. This style is quite short and usually cannot be styled. It works well if you want a simple, easy-to-manage haircut.
What does 8 on the sides look like?
A number 8 on the sides means the hair will be trimmed to about one inch (25mm). At this length, your scalp won’t show through. It’s also long enough to comb and style using hair products.
How do I give myself a number 4 haircut?
For a number 4 haircut, use a number 4 guard on your clippers. Turn on the clippers and gently run them over your head. If your hair is longer than about 2 inches, begin with a bigger guard first. Then, switch to the number 4 guard. This helps prevent the clippers from snagging or pulling your hair.
Are haircut numbers universal?
Most haircut numbers are the same across different brands. However, some brands like Oster have their own numbering system. They do not use the standard numbers.
What haircut number should I get?
The best haircut number for you depends on your hair type and how much care you want to put in. If you like to style your hair in many ways, a longer cut, such as a number 8, is a good choice. If you want a simple look that needs little upkeep, a buzz cut or number 0 haircut might suit you better.
Does shaving your head with clippers increase hair density?
Shaving your head with clippers does not cause your hair to grow back faster, longer, or thicker (Source). The part of the hair that grows is under your scalp, and shaving does not change it.