I used to dread sitting in the barber’s chair because I never knew what to ask for. The haircut numbers on clipper guards confused me, and I always ended up with a cut I did not want. If you have felt the same, this guide is for you.
Once I finally figured out what every clipper guard size actually means, barbershop visits got so much easier. Below, I break down every haircut number from 0 to 8, explain what each looks like, and help you pick the right one for your hair.
What Do Haircut Numbers Mean?
Haircut numbers refer to the clipper guard your barber attaches to their clippers. Each number leaves a specific length of hair on your head. The lower the number, the shorter the cut. It is really that simple.
Most professional clippers come with guards numbered 0 through 8. Each guard increases the hair clipper length by 1/8 of an inch. So a number 1 haircut leaves 1/8 inch, a number 2 haircut leaves 1/4 inch, and a number 8 haircut leaves a full 1 inch.
My Complete Haircut Numbers Chart
This is the haircut number chart I wish I had years ago. I keep it saved on my phone so I can reference it before every barber visit. Here is the full breakdown of clipper sizes with both mm and inch haircut measurements.
| Guard # | Inches | MM | What It Looks Like | Best Styles |
| 0 | 1/16″ | 1.5 | Near bald, scalp visible | Skin fades, bald look |
| 1 | 1/8″ | 3 | Very short buzz | Buzz cuts, fade sides |
| 2 | 1/4″ | 6 | Short with some coverage | Caesar cuts, taper fades |
| 3 | 3/8″ | 10 | Most popular short cut | Crew cuts, classic fades |
| 4 | 1/2″ | 13 | Medium crew cut length | Crew cuts, brush ups |
| 5 | 5/8″ | 16 | Stylable with product | Tapered styles, layering |
| 6 | 3/4″ | 19 | Can part and brush up | Side parts, brush backs |
| 7 | 7/8″ | 22 | Fuller, versatile length | Textured styles, full crew |
| 8 | 1″ | 25 | Longest standard guard | Side parts, slick backs |
This hair number chart covers all standard guards. It is important to remember that the hair clipper guard sizes may differ a bit among the brands such as Wahl, Andis, and Oster. I would never hesitate to tell your barber the specific length of inches or mm and get the best results.
Every Haircut Number I Have Tried (and What I Recommend)
I proceeded through each haircut length number starting at 0, one at a time, below. I have tried the majority of them personally, and I will tell you what was working in my case and what is worth knowing at the barber.
Number 0 Haircut
A number 0 haircut uses no guard at all, leaving just 1/16 inch (1.5mm) of hair. Your scalp will be clearly visible. This is the shortest clipper setting and is commonly used for skin fades and the bald fade look that is trending right now.
I tried this once as part of a high fade, and it looked sharp. Just know your scalp will be fully exposed, so sunscreen becomes important. This is also the starting point for a level 1 haircut fade.
Number 1 Haircut
The number 1 haircut leaves 1/8 inch (3mm) of hair. So how many mm is a 1 guard? Exactly 3mm. It is still very short, but you will see a light shadow of hair instead of bare skin. The 1 guard in mm setting is my go-to for buzz cut lengths and fade sides.
This blends perfectly into a skin fade below and a number 2 above. If you want a clean, military style high and tight haircut, the number 1 haircut men ask for is where I always start.
Number 2 Haircut
A number 2 haircut leaves 1/4 inch (6mm). So how many mm is a 2 guard? That is 6mm. The 2 guard in mm is one of the most popular choices for different buzz cut lengths because it covers the scalp without looking too long.
I recommend this for men with thinning hair. It hides the scalp better than a 0 or 1. It also works perfectly for taper vs fade transitions. The 2 haircut in mm or number 2 haircut in mm gives a neat look that grows out gracefully.
Number 3 Haircut
The number 3 haircut is my personal favorite for an all-over cut. At 3/8 inch (10mm), the #3 haircut length offers a clean, classic look with minimal scalp showing. This 3 guard length is the most requested barber number for short styles.
It is also the longest guard typically used in a traditional fade. If you want something neat without going too short, the number 3 is your safest bet. I use it for crew cut hairstyles and as the top length on a classic taper.
Number 4 Haircut
A number 4 haircut leaves 1/2 inch (13mm). The 4 guard length puts you in crew cut territory. At the number 4 haircut length, you start to see texture and can style the hair slightly with product.
I love the 4 haircut length for a professional, clean appearance that does not scream “just got buzzed.” It works well on top paired with a shorter fade, giving you a look similar to a classic Ivy League haircut.
Number 5 Haircut
The number 5 haircut measures 5/8 inch (16mm). At the number 5 haircut length, you get real styling flexibility. I can brush my hair to the side, add texture with a matte clay, or create a mini pompadour with the 5 guard length.
This is a great transitional length if you are growing out. It is in the midway between short and medium. To a polished taper add a number 2 or number 3 on the sides.
Number 6 Haircut
A number 6 haircut leaves 3/4 inch (19mm). The length number 6 haircut gives is enough to part your hair, brush it forward, or slick it back. The 6 guard length and 6 guard haircut length is where I start to feel like I have actual hair to work with.
At the 6 haircut length, you can pull off a textured crop top haircut or a brushed back look. I often pair it with a number 2 fade for a clean short sides long top men’s style.
Number 7 Haircut
The number 7 haircut comes in at 7/8 inch (22mm). At the number 7 haircut length, you have enough hair for fuller styles with visible volume. The 7 guard haircut length works beautifully on thick hair for a bushy, textured crew cut look.
I have used this for a casual, tousled style that looks great with minimal product. It is a solid choice for men who want fullness on top while keeping sides tight with a fade haircut.
Number 8 Haircut: My Favorite for Versatility
The number 8 haircut is the longest standard clipper guard at a full 1 inch (25mm). So how long is an 8 guard? Exactly 25mm. The 8 guard length and 8 guard haircut length give you maximum styling freedom while keeping everything even.
This is personally my most used guard for the top of my head. At this length, I can do side parts, textured crops, slick backs, and a mini pompadour. If you want clipper precision with scissor cut style, the number 8 is your answer.
Half Guard Sizes I Wish I Knew About Sooner
Most people only know guards 0 through 8, but half sizes exist too. A 1.5 guard (4.5mm) sits between a 1 and 2, and it is essential for blending fades smoothly. Understanding these different guard lengths and different hair clipper guard lengths changed my haircut game.
Your barber also has a taper lever on the clipper that adjusts blade closeness by about 1.5mm. When the lever is open on a number 3 guard, it creates roughly a 3.5 length. These hair clipper sizes details are what separate a good fade from a great one.
How I Choose the Right Haircut Number for My Hair Type
Your haircut sizes should match your hair type. What looks amazing on straight, fine hair can look completely different on thick or curly hair. Here is what I have learned about picking the right haircut sizes men based on hair type.
Thick Hair
Thick hair handles shorter guards like a 1 or 2 without revealing too much scalp. Higher numbers like 6 or 7 give you structure and fullness. I find thick hair looks best at a number 7, creating a naturally full mens hair lengths style.
It may also take thick hair to work harder through the clipping process hence your barber may have to give it more passes. To match with thick hair, these short sides long top hairstyles are available that match well with thicker textures.
Thin or Fine Hair
For thin or fine hair, I recommend a number 2 haircut or number 3 haircut. These haircut lengths men create a volume illusion by blending seamlessly into the scalp. Going too short (0 or 1) actually makes thinning more visible.
Avoid long guards like 7 or 8 on top if your hair is fine because the weight makes it look flat. A short textured crew cut at a number 3 or 4 often works best for different hair lengths male on the thinner side.
Curly Hair
This is the biggest lesson I learned: curly hair appears shorter than the actual guard length because of shrinkage. If you want the look of a number 2, you might need a number 4. Always go one or two sizes longer with curly hairstyles for men.
Shorter clipper lengths like 1 or 2 look sharp and defined on curly hair because natural texture adds visual interest. Curly hair is also more forgiving of uneven spots, making home cuts easier.
Straight Hair
Straight hair shows every clipper line and mistake. Precise blending is crucial. I always ask my barber to take extra time blending. The hair cut sizes between 3 and 5 work well for coverage without looking flat.
Guard length on straight hair closely matches the visible result, unlike curly hair. So the haircut sizes chart above is almost exactly what you will get. A clean undercut hairstyle with a number 2 on the sides looks particularly sharp.
Which Haircut Number Fits My Face Shape?
Choosing the right mens haircut lengths based on your face shape makes a bigger difference than most guys realize. Here is my guide based on what I have learned from barbers and personal trial and error.
| Face Shape | Recommended Guards | Best Styles |
| Round | Sides: #1 to #3 fade, Top: #6 to #8 | Pompadour, quiff, textured crop |
| Oval | Any combination works well | Side parts, fades, buzz cuts |
| Square | Sides: #3 to #4, Top: #5 to #8 | Textured crop, side part, slick back |
| Oblong | Sides: #4 to #6, moderate top height | Fringe styles, side swept looks |
| Heart | Sides: #3 to #4, moderate top | Side swept, light fringe styles |
Bring reference photos to your barber. They will assist you in picking out the haircut length that gives you the nice features. The right amount of guards can be used to make your face appear more angular, or slimmer, or better balanced.
How I Use Haircut Numbers for My Fade
Fades blend different guard lengths seamlessly. My hairdresser begins with a barber zero or bare at the neck and continues until it reaches a 2 or 3. Haircut numbers meaning are necessary to fish out the appropriate point where you want the fade to begin when instructing your barber.
A low fade starts above the ears. A mid fade starts at the temple. A high fade starts well above the temples. For a detailed comparison, check out the difference between taper and fade. The haircut guard lengths you pick directly affect how dramatic or subtle it looks.
Popular Hairstyles and the Haircut Numbers I Use for Each
Here is my personal cheat sheet for popular mens haircut numbers and which barber hair lengths go with which styles.
| Hairstyle | Sides | Top | Trim Frequency |
| Buzz Cut | #1 to #3 all over | #1 to #4 all over | Every 2 to 3 weeks |
| Crew Cut | #1 to #2 fade | #3 to #4 graduated | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Skin Fade | #0 to bare blade | #0 to #3 blended | Every 1 to 2 weeks |
| Taper | #3 to #5 | Scissors or #6 to #8 | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Undercut | #0 to #2 sharp | Scissors or #6 to #8+ | Every 2 to 4 weeks |
| Side Part | #2 to #4 tapered | #6 to #8 or scissors | Every 3 to 5 weeks |
| Pompadour | #1 to #2 fade | Scissors, 3+ inches | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Textured Crop | #1 to #2 fade | Scissors with fringe | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Caesar Cut | #2 to #3 uniform | #2 to #3 with bangs | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
For more ideas, explore these quiff haircut inspirations or check out modern mullet styles that use creative clipper blending.
How I Talk to My Barber About Haircut Numbers
Clear communication is the single biggest factor in getting the haircut measurements you want. I used to just say “short on the sides” and hope for the best. Now, I walk in and say: “Number 1 fade on the sides, blended into a number 4 on top, with a textured finish.”
I also bring 2 to 3 reference photos showing front, side, and back angles. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that hair growth is about half an inch every month. Then, in case it is two months since you cut your hair, the barber understands that there is about an inch of hair to cut.
Mistakes I Made When Choosing My Haircut Number
Over the years, I have made nearly every mistake with haircut clipper sizes. Here are the biggest ones so you can avoid them:
- Going too short too fast. You cannot put hair back. Start with a longer guard and work down.
- Ignoring my face shape. Trendy cuts that do not flatter your proportions will always disappoint.
- Not accounting for curl shrinkage. Curly hair can appear up to 50% shorter once dry.
- Using vague language. ”Short” means something different to every barber. Specify guard numbers instead.
- Same number all over. Using one number creates a flat, uniform look. Different numbers add dimension.
- Forgetting about maintenance. A skin fade needs touch ups every 1 to 2 weeks. Longer cuts last 4 to 6 weeks.
How Often Should I Get My Haircut Trimmed?
This depends on your haircut lengths. Shorter styles like a number 1 or 2 need trimming every 2 to 3 weeks. Medium styles at a number 3 to 5 hold up for about 3 to 4 weeks. Longer male hair lengths at a 6, 7, or 8 can go 4 to 6 weeks between cuts.
Clipper cuts develop bitter lines than scissor cuts. In case of a sharp fade, schedule more visits. Read about my advice to haircuts in my guide of haircuts for men over 40 years of age.
What About Hair Lengths Beyond My Number 8 Guard?
The number 8 at 1 inch is the longest standard guard, but some brands offer extended guards. Wahl sells a number 10 (1.25 inches) and number 12 (1.5 inches). For anything beyond 2 inch hair length male territory, barbers switch to scissors or clipper over comb technique.
For inspiration on longer styles, check the inch hair length chart men in this guide and explore my articles on Viking hairstyles and Korean hairstyles for men for what is possible beyond clippers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Haircut Numbers
What Do Haircut Numbers 1 2 3 4 Mean?
Each number refers to a clipper guard size. A number 1 haircut leaves 1/8 inch, a number 2 leaves 1/4 inch, a number 3 haircut leaves 3/8 inch, and a number 4 haircut leaves 1/2 inch. Each adds 1/8 inch of hair length.
How Long Is an 8 Guard in Inches and MM?
The 8 guard length is exactly 1 inch or 25mm. It is the longest standard clipper guard. This 8 guard haircut length allows for side parts, textured crops, and slick back styles.
What Is the Best Haircut Number for a Buzz Cut?
For a classic buzz cut, most men go with a number 1 to 3 all over. A number 1 gives a close, military style buzz. A number 3 gives a softer, fuller buzz cut length. Check my buzz cut length chart section for details.
What Clipper Numbers Do Barbers Use for Fades?
Fades start with no guard or a 0 at the bottom and blend up to a 2 or 3. The barber numbers depend on whether you want a low, mid, or high fade. Half guards like 0.5 and 1.5 create smoother blending.
Are Clipper Guard Sizes Universal?
Not exactly. While the numbering system is standard, hair clipper sizes in mm can vary slightly between Wahl, Andis, and Oster. A number 2 haircut in mm is generally 6mm, but always confirm with your barber.
What Is a Level 1 Haircut?
A level 1 haircut is the same as a number 1 haircut men get at the barber. It leaves 1/8 inch (3mm) of hair, commonly used for fade sides and very short buzz cuts. Also known as haircut number 1.
What Is the Difference Between a Number 7 and 8 Haircut?
A number 7 leaves 7/8 inch (22mm) while a number 8 leaves a full 1 inch (25mm). That is only 3mm difference, but at longer hair lengths it affects how much styling volume you have.
How Do I Know Which Clipper Guard to Use at Home?
Start with a longer guard and work shorter. You cannot add hair back. Follow a clipper length guide like my chart above and test on a small section first. For complex styles, visit a professional.
What Does Number 2 on the Sides Mean?
It means your barber will use a 2 guard (6mm) on the sides and back. The 2 haircut length provides a short, clean finish while leaving the top longer for styling.
How Much Is 1 Inch of Hair?
How much is 1 inch of hair? It equals 25mm, the length of a number 8 guard. It is roughly the width of a quarter coin. Hair grows about half an inch per month, so it takes about two months to grow 1 inch of hair male.
What Is the Most Popular Haircut Number?
The number 3 is widely considered the most popular all over guard. For fades, the most common combo is a number 1 or 2 on the sides with a 4 or 5 on top. These men’s haircut numbers chart combinations work for most face shapes.
Can I See a Guide to Hair Clipper Lengths With Pictures?
Yes! I recommend saving the haircut numbers chart from this article. For a visual guide hair clipper lengths pictures reference, bookmark this page and also check my complete clipper lengths guide with visual examples.
What Is a Number One Haircut?
A number one haircut or number 1 haircut leaves 3mm (1/8 inch) of hair. It is very short and commonly used for military style buzz cuts and as the shortest visible length in most fades.
What Is a Number 2 Haircut?
A what is a number 2 haircut answer: it leaves 6mm (1/4 inch) of hair. It is short but offers slightly more coverage than a 1. Popular for buzz cuts, taper fades, and as the side length in many haircut numbers for men.
My Final Thoughts on Haircut Numbers
Understanding haircut numbers completely changed how I approach every barber visit. I no longer hope for the best. I walk in knowing exactly what clipper guard sizes, guard lengths, and haircut lengths numbers I want.
Save the haircut chart from this guide on your phone. Bring reference photos. Start longer and work shorter. For more style inspiration, explore my guides on Black men hairstyles, dreadlock styles with fade, and 90s men’s haircuts making a comeback.
Read Next: Straight Hair? 50 Mens Cuts Worth Asking Your Barber For
I spent the last 7+ years helping people discover what truly works for them in fashion and beauty. After styling clients in boutique fashion houses and testing countless skincare products myself, I learned one simple truth: the best style is the one that makes you feel confident every single day. On my blog, I share the same honest tips I give my friends: simple, practical, and a little inspiring.
