If you’re considering a JRL clipper, you’ve probably asked: What’s the difference between the 2020C, the Onyx, and the new Diamante — and which is best for me? Here’s a complete breakdown of the three models, their key specifications, and which type of barber each one suits best.
Quick Answer
- JRL FreshFade 2020C – Best entry option. Quiet motor, 2–3 hr runtime, dual speeds, stainless taper blade.
- JRL Onyx – Best for battery life. 5 hrs runtime, faster 7500 RPM motor, magnetic guards, includes Reset IQ charging dock.
- JRL Diamante – Best all-rounder. New ergonomic body, brushless 8200 RPM motor, premium guards, fast charging, advanced blade system.
The 2020C established JRL as a go-to professional brand. It introduced barbers to:
- Cool Blade Technology to keep blades running cooler
- A whisper-quiet rotary motor
- Dual-speed control (6000 and 7200 RPM)
- Up to 2–3 hours of runtime with digital display
Best for: barbers wanting an affordable, professional-grade clipper with JRL’s signature cool blade system.
The Onyx built on the 2020C, quickly becoming JRL’s flagship model. Upgrades include:
- More powerful motor (up to 7500 RPM)
- Huge runtime boost to 5 hours
- Black fade blade with titanium cutting blade
- Reset IQ charging dock (extends battery life + optimizes charging)
- 10 magnetic guards included
Best for: barbers who want maximum runtime and proven performance.
The latest release, the Diamante, refines both ergonomics and performance. Key changes:
- Brand-new ergonomic body (appeals to barbers who prefer a slimmer, more traditional profile like Wahl Magic Clip or Babyliss Lo-Pro)
- Brushless motor with 8200 RPM (highest in the JRL line)
- 4 hr runtime with only 2 hr charge time (Samsung 3500mAh lithium-ion battery)
- Second-generation blade system for easy blade swaps
- Premium guards + blade adjustment reset tool included
Best for: barbers wanting the most advanced JRL clipper with modern design and top-end performance.
Side-by-Side Specs
Feature |
|||
Motor |
Rotary |
Rotary |
Brushless |
Max RPM |
7200 |
7500 |
8200 |
Power |
6.5w |
11w |
– |
Speeds |
Dual – 6000 & 7200 |
Dual – 6000 & 7500 |
Dual – 6500 & 8200 |
Run Time |
2–3 hrs |
5 hrs |
4 hrs |
Charge Time |
3 hrs |
2.5 hrs |
2 hrs |
Blade Type |
Taper |
Fade |
Fade |
Blade Tech |
Stainless steel, cool blade |
Stainless steel, cool blade |
2nd gen quick-swap |
Blade Range |
0.5–3.5mm |
0.5–3.5mm |
0–3mm |
LED Display |
Remaining runtime |
Remaining runtime |
Runtime, charge, maintenance reminders |
Charge Dock |
Not included |
Reset IQ dock |
Reset IQ dock |
Guards |
10 standard |
10 magnetic |
6 premium |
Other Inclusions |
Blade protector, screwdriver, brush, oil, charger |
Same as 2020C + dock |
Blade reset tool + premium guards + brush, oil, charger |
Which JRL Clipper Is Right for You?
- On a budget? Go for the 2020C – it’s still a rock-solid professional clipper.
- Need all-day runtime? The Onyx is unbeatable with its 5-hour battery.
- Want the latest and best ergonomics? Choose the Diamante – faster, smarter, and built for 2025.
Final Thoughts
Every JRL clipper delivers quiet performance and cool blade technology — the differences come down to battery life, ergonomics, and blade systems.
If you’re still unsure, reach out to Barber Temple’s customer service team. Tell us your cutting style and budget, and we’ll help match you to the right clipper.