Best equipment for trimming high branches?

This past weekend, I spent the day cutting some damaged limbs that were high up utilizing semi-broken Fiskars pole saw. It was quite a workout!



Is there a better way? Should I invest in a 'good' pole saw if there is such a thing? I work off the ground, should I consider a ladder to work off of?

Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

Currently I use a pole saw that’s powered. It was pricey but makes quick work. In the past I had a stihl manual pole saw it was very good at cutting smaller stuff. Way better than the fiskar. I have to say that the only fiskar tool I’ve found that I thought was crappy.

It’s hard to justify a powered one if you don’t have a lot to do though.

Try a rope saw. They're cheap and effective and you can reach much higher branches. Using a ladder is pretty risky. Falling branches can easily knock you off. Can't say I haven't done it though...