Shaving is part of the morning routine of many men who want to have a well-groomed appearance. However, a bad razor can lead to irritation that will cause an uncomfortable feeling for several days. It is therefore important to make a good choice when buying an electric razor. This device is very practical on a daily basis for shaving your beard compared to the classic BIC razor-style manual razor.
In order to help you buy the most suitable product for your needs, we offer a detailed guide to the best devices on the market today. We have tested electric shavers and our expert has evaluated many devices from a technical and practical point of view. In this guide, we offer the fruit of our analysis with the best razors in each price range and according to the different ranges. How to find the best razor in the face of the multiple proposals on the market? We give you detailed information to guide your choice.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Friendly Electric Razor – Comparison Chart
| Shaver Name | Shaving time | Type | Wet/Dry | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braun Series 9 9290cc | 50 min. | Foil | Yes | Check Price |
| Braun Series 7 7898cc | 50 min. | Foil | Yes | Check Price |
| Panasonic Arc 5 | 45 min. | Foil | Yes | Check Price |
| Braun Series 8 8467cc | 60 min. | Foil | Yes | Check Price |
| Philips SP9860/16 | 50 min. | Rotary | Yes | Check Price |
| Remington F5-5800 | 60 min. | Foil | No | Check Price |
| Braun Series 7 790cc | 50 min. | Foil | No | Check Price |
| Panasonic ES-LV9Q | 45 min. | Foil | Yes | Check Price |
| Braun Series 3 ProSkin | 45 min. | Foil | Yes | Check Price |
| Wahl Professional 5-star | 60 min. | Foil | No | Check Price |
What are the best electric shavers in 2022?
Body care was already very popular with Stone Age guys. The caveman grabbed the razor when he dressed up for the mammoth hunt in the morning.
Perhaps he only did that before he put his beloved’s mammoth rump steak on the fire. This can no longer be determined with any certainty in retrospect. – But what we do know is that in a razor test, for example, shark teeth or polished flints would have landed in the top places.
The desire for a thorough shave has remained, but in the meantime a lot has happened technically. So much that you can quickly lose track of the countless models. This increases the risk of picking the wrong razor. A bad buy not only puts a strain on your wallet, but also on the environment.
Our team of beard enthusiasts has been dedicated to men’s beards for 6 years. We not only compare, we also test ourselves. We know our stuff when it comes to razors, trimmers and beard care products.
With this test and guide we will help you to decide on the right shaver. We present to you our list of current top 10 men’s electric razors. We present the best razors (of course we looked at both foil razors and rotary razors) in detail. And as a bonus, in addition to the test, you will also receive the most important FAQs on the subject of shavers and “shaving without skin irritation”.
Braun Series 9cc- The currently best razor on the market
This model is the premium shaver from Braun. It shaves thoroughly, efficiently and is also kind to the skin. In our opinion (and our test), it is simply the best razor currently on the market. Shaving is fun, the shave is thorough and gentle on the skin and the extras are right. In our opinion, the Braun Series 9cc is really worth its high price.
However, the same innovative techniques are used with this razor as with the Braun Series 7. Because here we also find the different shaving elements, although there are five instead of four. With just one pull you can capture more hair than with older comparable Braun models.
The precision razor enables a gentle and smooth shave because it glides gently over the skin thanks to the 10,000 micro-vibrations. Since the model is 100% waterproof, it is a wet and dry shaver at the same time.
The battery performance is very good thanks to a high-quality lithium-ion battery with 60 minutes. If you forget to load once, you can do so within 5 minutes and shave once. The model is supplied with a cleaning station, which is also a charging station. It has an intelligent program selection so that the cleaning program is selected automatically. At the same time, the razor is oiled, dried and recharged.
Get Braun Series 9cc at Amazon
When comparing the Series 7 directly with the Series 9, the first thing that stands out is that the Series 9 premium shaver has a 10-D shaving head, while the Braun Series 7 works with an 8-D shaving head. The design of the premium model also appears to be of higher quality, which is why this razor is the editors’ favourite.
FAQ About Braun Series 9cc
What is the difference between the 9385cc and 9395cc razors?
The only difference between the two models is their colour. While the 9385cc is graphite (i.e. black-grey) colored, the 9395cc wears chrome.
Does the shaver also have a hair trimmer?
Yes, a simple trimmer is integrated into the devices, but no lengths can be adjusted. You can find more information about good beard trimmers in our test here on the portal.
Can this foil shaver only be charged via the cleaning station?
Charging works both via the cleaning station and directly with the power cord.
How often does the shaver need to be cleaned?
Actually, the cleaning station should take care of it. However, many users report that the shaver wants to go into the cleaning station after every shave. However, we consider such consumption of cleaning cartridges to be greatly exaggerated. According to our test, it is usually sufficient to rinse the shaver with warm water after shaving and only place it in the cleaning station once or twice a week.
Braun Series 8- Our recommendation for 2022
A significant amount cheaper than the Braun Series 9 and yet you get the full range of technical features!
- Sonic technology with 10,000 micro vibrators for noticeably more comfortable gliding over the skin.
- Automatic beard density sensor that uses laser technology to adapt to your individual beard density every nanosecond.
- A lithium-ion battery for powerful 60 minutes of cordless shaving.
Probably the biggest difference to the Series 9 is the shaving head. The Series 8 has a total of 4 shaving elements (3 + 1), which makes the shave feel a little less powerful. In practice, however, this should in no way diminish your end result, because 4 shaving elements are always enough to shave quickly and effectively.
More than 80% of customers rate the device with one or two stars. It is emphasized that the Series 8 copes wonderfully with a 3-day beard and still glides comfortably over the skin. The fact that the model is waterproof and feels quite stable is (rightly) taken for granted in this price range.
However, the high volume and the fiddly cleaning are less positive. The included charging station looks chic, but it also takes up more space when travelling.
Braun Series 7 7898cc- Editor’s favourite
Unfortunately, this razor – the “old” Series 7 – is hardly available anymore. We therefore recommend the Series 8 instead . The current Series 7 is not recommended as of 2022.
We have often heard the phrase “There’s nothing like a Braun electric razor” in relation to the 9 Series. But there is a way around Braun’s expensive flagship model – in the form of the Braun Series 7. In our opinion, this shaves as well as the top model in comparison.
And since we have a heart for those undeservingly left in the shadow of the stars, the Braun Series 7 has become our favorite.
The shaving head only has 4 instead of 5 shaving elements and is therefore not as clumsy as its big brother. As the test showed, this does not detract from the shaving performance. We thought they were great.
The latest generation of the Braun Series 7 shaver is available in different colors and both with and without a cleaning station. Technically, all models are one and the same device. As a high-end shaver, the Series 7 offers various shaving modes from Turbo to Sensitive. However, the feature left us cold because we couldn’t see any real differences between the modes in our test.
When comparing the Series 7 and Series 9 directly, the latter of course looks more elegant. Often the gut decides. If you just want the good feeling of buying the absolute premium model, your choice will fall on the Series 9.
However, the prices between the two razors vary and are sometimes closer, sometimes further apart. If you see that the Series 7 is available at a significantly lower price, don’t hesitate to grab it.
FAQ About Braun Series 7
What are the differences between the Braun Series 7 7790cc and 7898cc shavers?
The 7898cc is a wet & dry shaver that you can use in the shower or with shaving foam/gel. This is not possible with the 7790cc as a pure dry shaver. On the other hand, the 7790cc can be operated with a connected cable, which is not possible with the 7898cc for safety reasons. Otherwise, the two models different in the travel case: the zipper is silver on the 7898cc and black on the 7790cc.
Which replacement shaving heads go on the Braun 7898cc?
The replacement shaving heads 70S (silver) and 70B (black) fit on the Series 7. The replacement shaving heads are compatible with all Braun Series 7 shavers.
Does the Braun Series 7 also shave off long beards?
The device is a short hair shaver. But he gets along with three-day beards without any problems. Tip: If the beard hair is longer than a three-day beard, you should first trim it with a trimmer before shaving, otherwise it can tug.
Do I need the cleaning station?
no You can both clean and charge the shaver without the cleaning station. However, we find the cleaning station very practical. It saves time and is hygienic.
Braun Series 7790cc- Shaving comfort
Are you interested in the Braun Series 7, but are hesitant to buy it because of the price? You have two options to get it for a lower price. Either by doing away with the cleaning station or by doing without the Wet & Dry function.
Many men simply clean their razors under running water. This works just as well and saves space in the bathroom, but of course it is not as convenient as automatic cleaning. Braun shavers without a cleaning station can be identified by the model number ending in “s” (“s” stands for “solo”). An example would be the Braun Series 7 7842s.
The latest updates to the Series 7 are all wet & dry shavers. If you look at the older series, you will discover wet-dry shavers as well as pure dry shavers, for example the Braun 7790cc model. But that doesn’t matter for the quality of the shave. Of course, shaving in the shower is comfortable.
In addition, many men find shaving with shaving cream or shaving gel pleasant and report that the hair can be removed without tugging and redness. In the test, however, the dry shaver 7790cc also proved to be gentle on the skin.
Get Braun Series 7790cc at Amazon
In our opinion, the results of dry shaving are even more thorough than wet shaving. This is probably because the shaving head hits the stubble directly. You can also see better where there is hair,
The 7790cc and its successor, the Braun 7898cc, both come with a cleaning station, which you can tell from the model names ending in “cc”. The only technical difference between the two razors is the Wet & Dry function: the successor 7898cc has it, the predecessor 7790cc lacks it.
FAQ About Braun Series 7790cc
Is there a wall mount for the cleaning station?
Unfortunately, no.
Does the shaver also work in foreign power grids?
The power supply can adapt to mains voltages between 100 and 240 volts. With an appropriate socket adapter, you can use the razor not only at home, but also abroad, for example in the USA.
Can the cleaning station be cleaned under running water?
Since the cleaning station is not waterproof, you cannot clean it under running water. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
Can I design a three-day beard with the razor?
No, that doesn’t work. In order to leave a certain beard length, you need a beard trimmer or beard trimmer. The Braun razors were only developed for a close shave of the face.
Panasonic ES-LV9Q- World’s Fastest Electric Shaver
Not everything that is shaved is brown. The Japanese electronics group Panasonic occupies only a few percent of the market in this country, but the manufacturer produces a series of precise electric razors that set standards.
The ES-LV9Q is one of the best electric razors that we saw in our test in terms of hair removal, skin protection, workmanship and scope of delivery. Unfortunately, the razors from the manufacturer Panasonic play a secondary role in this country.
Wrongly so, in our opinion. Our tip is therefore to generally also consider the Panasonic models when choosing a shaver. The foil razors always deliver a thorough shave that is appreciated by many men.
The first thing to highlight about the ES-LV9Q are the blades. These are made of resistant material and are sharply polished. Because of this, they remove the beard hair thoroughly and have to be changed comparatively rarely. The complete razor stands out due to its build quality. Where Braun uses plastic, the Panasonic offers metal.
The Panasonic ES-LV9Q has a flexible shaving head that lies flat when shaving and adapts to the contours. Special soft rollers help the device to slide gently over the skin. Despite all the gentleness, the razor showed very good shaving results in the test.
In addition, it is elegant and easy to handle. A travel lock protects the shaver from accidentally switching on during transport.
Get Panasonic ES-LV9Q at Amazon
Panasonic fans are of the opinion that the ES-LV9Q foil shaver would shave even more thoroughly than the Braun Series 9. The subjective feeling certainly plays a part, but the good shaving result of the ES-LV9Q cannot be denied in our test either.
It works quickly, leaves a clean result and is gentle on the skin. Nevertheless, even with premium razors of all commercial brands, it happens again and again that slight redness appears after the first shave. This is normal – and it will go away as the skin gets used to the razor.
FAQ About Panasonic ES-LV9Q
Is the cleaning station worth it?
This is a matter of opinion, since you can also clean the razor by hand. Although this costs more time, it also saves money for the cleaning station and the cleaning liquid.
How long does the cleaning liquid last?
According to users’ experiences, the cleaning liquid usually stays fresh for 2-3 months if you put the shaver in the cleaning station once a week. However, how “fresh” the cleaning liquid feels to you also depends on your personal feelings. You can reduce the consumption of the cleaning liquid by rinsing the shaver with warm water beforehand.
Does the shaver have a travel ban?
The Panasonic ES-LV9Q has a travel lock in the form of a sensor. It recognizes independently whether it is being held in the hand. If this is not the case, it will then automatically block. This saves you having to operate a switch manually.
Which shaver is better, the Braun Series 9 9385cc or the Panasonic LV9Q?
Both razors belong in the high-end category, which is why they are comparable in terms of comfort, performance, design – and price. Whether you like the Braun or the Panasonic better depends more on personal taste than on the quality of the products. In the test, both wet/dry razors proved that they belong in the premium razor category.
Philips SP9860/16- Star of the rotary shaver
The flagship from Philips is pleasantly quiet and thorough when shaving. We don’t find a hair in the soup.
What makes the soup a bit salty is the Qi charging pad, with which you can charge your electric shaver wirelessly. It works really well, but there is no alternative. The Philips SP9860 can only be used via the Qi charging pad. The problem starts when you want to travel, because the case with charging pad and razor looks gigantic. It’s just too big for hand luggage. This is exactly what most users complain about.
However, with another model, namely the SP9820/18, Philips offers you a version without a Qi charging pad. This shaver charges normally via a small, handy charging cable, but is otherwise technically identical to the SP9860/16.
A beard trimmer is included with the SP9860/16 shaver as an accessory. However, if you want to use it, you must first remove the shaving head in order to be able to attach the attachment. Some users find this highly inconvenient.
Get Panasonic ES-LV9Q at Amazon
Our test showed that, subjectively, the Philips models cannot keep up with Braun or Panasonic. We know that due to the different shaving systems, it is also a matter of taste and personal feeling, which is why Philips fans will certainly be satisfied with the razors. However, readers without preferences can confidently reach for the Braun or Panasonic razors.
Here you compare the versions with and without Qi charging station:
FAQ About Philips SP9860/16
What is a Qi charging pad?
Qi is a standard for wireless energy transfer using electromagnetic induction. In short, when the magnetic flux changes in a magnetic field, an electric field or current is created. So you don’t need a charging cable, just place the device on the charging point.
Can I also charge the shaver with my smartphone’s Qi charger?
The Philips SP9860 Prestige only works with its own Qi charging pad. As a rule, however, other Qi-compatible devices can be charged with the Philips pad.
Is the shaver compatible with the SmartClean cleaning system?
No, cleaning with SmartClean is not possible. If you are looking for a Philips Series 9000 with a cleaning station, then we recommend the Philips S9711/31 .
Panasonic ES-LV65- Thorough and comfortable
When comparing it with the Panasonic ES-LV9Q, the first thing that catches the eye is the significantly lower price. The price difference was achieved on the one hand by the materials and on the other hand by the simpler shaving head.
While the big brother is proud of its metal body, the little brother wears plastic. However, the quality of the workmanship is equally convincing for both razors. It should also be noted that the manufacturers Braun and Philips use plastic in all their models, regardless of whether it is a premium model or a shaver at a moderate price.
The first difference compared to its big brother is that the shaving head of the Panasonic ES-LV65 has no sliding rollers. Sliding rollers are used to let the razor roll gently over the face in order to protect the skin in this way.
Another difference is that the Panasonic ES-LV65 is not as flexible as the ES-LV9Q. Compared to its big brother, shaving also takes longer because the ES-LV65 likes to leave some stubble. In terms of the time spent in our test, it was in the midfield. It copes well with three-day beards, but you should not expect the razor to handle longer beards. Despite the trade-offs compared to the ES-LV9Q, you can expect a fairly skin-friendly shave with this foil shaver.
Get Panasonic ES-LV65 at Amazon
The design looks chic, but without coming close to the elegance of the premium models. It is easy to use, reliably mows stubble and shaves both wet and dry, as required.
In our opinion, the ES-LV65 razor easily holds its own against the competition from Braun. In the test, he simply convinced us with the result of the shave.
For this reason, we also decided on the Panasonic ES-LV65 when choosing our three recommendations.
FAQ About Panasonic ES-LV65
What kind of battery does the shaver have?
A lithium-ion battery. After an hour of charging, you can shave for 45 minutes.
Does the scope of delivery also include a protective cap?
Yes. On the one hand, a protective cap is included, on the other hand, the power button can be locked so that the shaver does not accidentally switch on in the case.
How long does the shaving foil last?
The normal lifetime is about one year. Here you check the price of the shaving foils:
How can I clean the shaving head?
This can easily be done with the supplied brush or under running water. The shaving head can also be detached from the handle at the touch of a button.
The Philips Series 7000 belongs to the upper midfield among the rotary shavers and remains affordable.
Philips hobbyhorse is the 25% more comfortable skin gliding, which is achieved by a special microbead coating (at least that’s what the manufacturer says). Another special feature is the SkinIQ technology, in which the razor “learns” the movements and adapts to them. This reduces the number of moves required and, ultimately, the potential for irritation.
The basis of the whole thing is a motor that produces a whopping 90,000 cutting processes per minute. A performance where you can feel the power and efficiency immediately. There is also a beard density sensor and a wet & dry function.
So far so good.
Basically, customers are quite satisfied with the shaving performance and emphasize that the end result is always quite smooth and pain-free.
Get Philips Series 7000 at Amazon
Here and there, however, there are negative reviews about the battery, which loses a lot of power in a short time. The shaving head is also quite clumsy, which somewhat counteracts the actual “movement adjustment”.
All in all, we recommend the device for everyone who likes to work with a rotary shaver.
Braun Series 5 5147s- Gladly taken
Not everyone wants to spend an amount on their electric shaver that they could easily use to finance a holiday trip. Nevertheless, you don’t want the first razor to get to your whiskers?
You will find a reliable device that looks good in the form of the Braun Series 5. The shaving is done by 3 shaving elements, which are located in a flexible shaving head. As a result, the razor evens out all the contours and you get a fairly comfortable shave that doesn’t require you to use any unnecessary arm movements. You can also use the wet/dry razor with shaving gel, shaving foam and in the shower.
The modern lithium-ion battery can be checked via a three-level charge indicator. On the back of the Braun Series 5 shaver is a retractable sideburn trimmer.
The Braun Series 5 5147s thus represents a solid mid-range device in the test. However, it is not nearly as gentle on the skin as its big brothers and it takes time for it to shave. He leaves hair standing on his neck in particular. With three-day beards, he then comes up against his limits.
In our opinion, the Braun Series 3 and the Braun Series 5 don’t take much away from the shaving performance. In the test, the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s even tended to be better. We therefore recommend the Series 3 (similarly good, cheaper) or the Series 7 (better, more expensive).
Get Braun Series 5 5147s at Amazon
The only argument in favor of buying the Braun Series 5 is the flexible shaving head. With this, the Braun Series 5 looks like a premium device on the one hand and on the other hand it makes it easier for you to shave the contours.
If you are looking for that flexible shaving head, then you should check the price of the previous model, the Braun Series 5, as it uses the same shaving head. The Braun Series 5 5030s is a pure dry shaver, but you can save a lot of money here compared to the wet-dry version.
Here you can directly compare the new Braun Series 5 5147s and its predecessor Braun Series 5 5030s:
FAQ About Braun Series 5 5147s
Does the shaver have a cleaning station?
No You can tell by the “s” in the model designation, which stands for “solo”.
What is the difference between the 5140s and 5147s models?
The only difference is in the accessories. The 5147s also comes with a storage pouch. Otherwise the devices are identical.
Can I also go bald with the Braun Series 5?
Yes, you can if the hair on your head is short enough. If you have longer hair, you must first trim it with a trimmer.
How is the Braun Series 5 different from the Series 7?
The key difference is in the shaving head. With the SkinGuard, the Series 7 offers an additional shaving element that protects the skin better when shaving. In addition, the Series 7 works with Sonic technology, while the Braun Series 5 does not.
Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s- A Solid Budget Shaver
The Braun ProSkin is no longer an insider tip. After Stiftung Warentest put it on the silver podium in a test in 2017, it became a bestseller. We cannot quite understand the verdict of the testers, for whom the Series 3 and Series 9 are on par in terms of shaving performance and gentleness on the skin.
In addition to the pure cutting performance and the feeling when shaving, the Series 9 is noticeably better at protecting the skin. The same applies to the Series 7. But it’s true that the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s shaves quickly and efficiently. It also reliably masters three-day beards and the workmanship is top notch.
In short, the branded product offers rock-solid performance – but it’s not one of the best razors on the market.
However, you shouldn’t expect miracles from a mid-range device, but you should still expect a thorough shave. It is not without reason that the Stiftung Warentest rated it as “good” instead of “very good”. Our test shows a similar picture. The device is robustly built, fits comfortably in the hand and is also suitable for wet shaving.
Get Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s at Amazon
If the hair is longer, you will have to allow more time, but that is typical for razors in this price range. In any case, there is no reason to upgrade to the Braun Series 5 in terms of shaving results and skin protection. On the contrary, rationally speaking, we would always go for the Series 3 instead of the Braun Series 5.
FAQ About Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s
Can you also trim with the razor?
The device has an integrated long hair trimmer that can be used to trim sideburns. In addition, the trimmer attachments from the BT32 fit the 3040s, which means that different lengths can then be trimmed.
Is this a wet razor or a dry razor?
As well as. The Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s is a model that can be used as a wet shaver or as a dry shaver.
Only two green bars light up on my razor. Is that normal?
Yes. The third indicator light serves as a warning light when the battery level is low.
Can the battery be replaced?
No
Is there a charging station for the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s?
No The Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s shaver is not compatible with a cleaning station.
Philips Series 5000- A little weak on the chest
The Philips rotary shaver S5290/12 is a pure dry shaver whose battery lags behind the current status with only 40 minutes of continuous operation. Nevertheless, the users like it because it is sensibly shaved, has a solid finish and also works very quietly.
Similar to the five series from the competitor Braun, it looks very similar to the premium models on the outside, but without being able to match their shaving performance and skin protection. On the one hand, this is due to the lack of a coating around the shaving heads, called skin comfort coating, and on the other hand to the simpler blade system.
When it comes to price and shaving quality, the three series are clearly ahead. This applies to both Braun and Philips.
Get Philips Series 5000 at Amazon
Nevertheless, the Philips 5000 is an option for those who find the 3000 series too simple and the premium models too expensive. Compared to the 3000 series, it looks more naturally elegant, feels better in the hand and generally appears to be of higher quality.
After all, the 5000 series comes with various accessories and above all has a flexible shaving head, which the rigid 3000 series does not offer.
FAQ About Philips Series 5000
Does the Philips 5000 series have a skin comfort coating?
No, they are only available from the 6000 series.
Is there a charging cable included in the scope of delivery?
Yes, the scope of delivery also includes a charging cable.
Can I clean the shaver with a cleaning station?
No, you can only clean the Philips S5290/12 by hand. With the model S5941/27, Philips has launched a variant with a cleaning station, but the manufacturer reports on its website that the product is unfortunately no longer available. Some dealers might still have it in stock though.
Is the Philips 5000 series suitable for sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, the manufacturer recommends using the Philips 7000 series.
Philips Series 3000- Remarkable shaving performance
Philips advertises that the shaving heads of the 3000 series can be moved in five directions. However, unlike the higher quality series, the shaving head forms a unit with the device. The mobility is therefore relative, since you are still dependent on compensatory movements with your arm. Nevertheless, you can easily get around corners with it.
What we like best is that the 3000 series puts a crisp shave on the parquet floor. We would even place it ahead of the 5000 series here. The razor gives you a close shave. It doesn’t belong to the group of the best razors either, but it feels good in the hand and represents the rotary razors with dignity.
Nevertheless, with the Series 3000 you hold a very simply knitted representative of electric razors in your hand. It looks a bit rough and heavy. There are no extras. The 3-level battery indicator doesn’t help either.
Get Philips Series 3000 at Amazon
The big disadvantage that you have to accept with this electric shaver is that it is gentle on the skin. Or rather, the lack of skin protection. Now that doesn’t mean you have to reckon with injuries, just that it doesn’t glide as comfortably as the premium models. In any case, in our practical test, it gave us reddened skin.
Nevertheless, we can recommend the 3000 series for those who want to spend little money and are Philips fans. It has power, is affordable and also durable.
FAQ About Philips Series 3000
What’s included?
The scope of delivery includes only a thin bag and a protective cap.
Can the Philips 3000 also be used with the charging cable plugged in?
Unfortunately, no. Since it is a dry/wet razor, this is generally not possible for protection against electric shock.
What kind of battery does the device have?
The Philips 3000 series works with a modern lithium-ion battery. The operating time is approx. 60 minutes with a charging time of one hour.
Is the razor suitable for sensitive skin?
Entry-level devices are generally not the right device class for sensitive skin. Here you should rather consider the Philips 6000 series.
Remington F4 Style- Savings foil
In Germany, the fan community of the US brand Remington for shavers (in contrast to beard trimmers) is limited. Nevertheless, we want to present a razor that offers a lot of functionality for its price and can keep up in the test.
Remington mainly targets the lower price segment with its razors. It is therefore not surprising that all Remington razors are produced in China. Unlike direct cheap production from the Far East, however, you do not need to fear any surprises with regard to warranty claims.
A characteristic of Remington razors is that they are not suitable for sensitive facial skin. When it comes to shaving performance, you can only expect average. The Remington F4 is also not recommended for longer beards. Difficult spots take a lot of time.
In addition, the Remington F4 proves to be a bulky contemporary in the test. The trimmer lies on the side and is therefore not easy to use. Another minus point would be the comparatively short service life of the shaving foils.
However, with its F4 model, Remington offers some features that are not available from the competition for this price. First and foremost is the freely movable shaving head with a lock and the Wet & Dry function. The latter is not a matter of course in this price range. The 45 minutes of battery life is sufficient. Two LED displays provide information about the charging status of the battery.
In summary, something similar can be said of the Braun 300s. It’s fine as an entry-level device, but if you expect more, invest in a higher-end device.
FAQ About Remington F4
Can you use the Remington F4 via the socket?
For safety reasons, wet/dry shavers are allowed to either load or shave. Both at the same time is not possible.
Can you also trim with the Remington F4?
Yes. The accessory also includes an attachment for trimming three-day beards.
Can I use the shaver in other countries with a different mains voltage?
The Remington F4 adapts to voltages between 110 – 240 volts. You may need an adapter for the socket.
Philips OneBlade Pro- Handbag friendly
The Philips OneBlade Face+Body is a so-called hybrid razor, which combines several disciplines in one device. However, this means that a few percentage points are missing from the qualitative top in every discipline.
Several attachments are supplied, which you can change depending on the desired application. The shearing blade works in the background with 200 cuts per second.
When trimming, the device provides 14 length settings between 0.4 and 10 mm, which is completely sufficient for all men with a short full beard. To set the desired length, simply turn the practical rotary wheel.
For shaving, the OneBlade provides a two-sided blade system, which increases the dynamics enormously. And last but not least, another protective attachment is included for use on the body.
Get Philips OneBlade Pro at Amazon
Without a doubt, the OneBlade is a practical device that also impresses with a refreshing design and a strong battery (60 minutes of wireless performance).
Especially the expensive blades, which have to be replaced every 4 weeks, cloud the picture a bit.
FAQ About Philips OneBlade Pro
Is the skin smooth after shaving?
Compared to a wet shaver or a good foil shaver, the OneBlade doesn’t perform as well. But it’s not intended for that either, but for people who only want to shave 2-3 times a week.
Is the shaver waterproof?
The OnBlade Pro is a waterproof wet/dry shaver and can also be used in the shower.
Do the trimming attachments from the OneBlade also fit the OneBlade Pro?
Yes. The difference is in the device itself, not the blade. The cutting length of the Pro is 0.4 mm, while that of simpler colleagues is 1 mm.
Can the shaver stay in the charging station once it is fully charged?
Yes. This does not damage the battery.
Is the OneBlade also suitable for shaving bald heads?
The razor also creates body hair, but the result will not be as smooth as with a wet shave.
Braun 300s- Basic razor
The Braun 300s is a budget shaver with no frills. It delivers a decent result for daily shaving. On the other hand, it fails with longer or thicker beards.
Of course, It doesn’t catch the hair the first time. So that means you have to go over one spot multiple times, which again is sub-optimal for skin-friendliness. For a razor in this price range, it still performs quite well.
The battery is a NiMH battery, but it lasts quite well. In addition, the electric shaver is easy to handle.
The only accessory is a charging cable. The cap you see in the product photo is not a trimmer attachment, it only protects the shaving head. After all, the Braun 300s offers a voltage adjustment of 100 – 240 volts.
Get Braun Series3 300s at Amazon
The Braun 300s is absolutely fine for daily shaving with normal beard growth. If you want more, you should invest in a higher quality device.
FAQ About Braun 300s
Is there a trimmer attachment?
Unfortunately no, just a protective cap, a charging cable and a cleaning brush.
What kind of battery does it have?
The Braun 300s works with a NiMH battery that lasts for 30 minutes of operation when fully charged. In addition, the Braun 300s has a five-minute quick charge function for one shave. Most modern shavers in the test now have lithium-ion based batteries.
Does the trimmer attachment from the BT32 fit?
No, the Braun BT32 trimmer head and the Braun Series 3 300s shaver are not compatible. The Braun 300s comes with the 21B shaving head.
The shaver is waterproof. Can I also use it for wet shaving?
No, the Braun Series 3 300s shaver is a pure dry shaver. You cannot use it for wet shaving with shaving foam/gel or in the shower.
Wahl 03615-1016 Electric Shaver Trimmer Black
There is not much to say about the small choice. He is one thing above all: he is tiny.
This feature applies not only to its size, but also to its price. With a daily shave, the device would quickly be overwhelmed.
In addition, it really lacks any features such as a decent display, voltage adjustment, water resistance or a powerful battery.
However, it is just perfect for a short trip, as a companion in the office, for ironing on the slopes or for a spontaneous overnight stay away from home.
FAQ About Wahl 03615-1016
How long does the battery last?
According to the manufacturer around 45 minutes.
Is the shaver suitable for everyday use?
The Wahl is designed as a razor for on the go and is therefore extra small. For daily shaving at home, you should use a “big one”.
How about the spare parts?
The scope of delivery includes a replacement cutting blade and shaving foil, so there is already a spare with you.
Does the razor have a voltage adjustment?
No, the choice is intended for a mains voltage of 220 – 230 volts.
What types of razors are there and which is best for you
The question of the right razor has occupied the man ever since he had hair on his face. This is not a mere assertion. Cave paintings serve as evidence that the topic was already relevant 25,000 years ago. Of course, shaving back then was not as comfortable as it is today and was more like scraping than cutting off.
Meanwhile, shaving took a hit evolution. Thus the art of metalworking brought us the straight razor, which dominated shaving for many centuries. The first knives were still made of bronze. Later, gold and copper were experimented with, and eventually an ingenious mind developed the folding razor. At some point it was also noticed that the shave runs smoother if you use soap foam to help.
Then, in the 20th century, everything happened very quickly. After the disposable razor blade, the first electric razor soon followed, then the next – and today so many models are fighting for men’s favor that they hardly know where the hair on their beard is. The most modern electric shavers include, for example, shavers with a density sensor or dry shavers with cooling.
In addition, many men not only use the razor to get rid of facial hair, but also expect the device to get rid of hair in the armpits, in the genital area or on the back. That doesn’t make choosing the right shaver any easier.
Since the beginning of shaving, it has really only been about two things:
1. a thorough hair removal and
2. for a skin-friendly, gentle shave.
Let’s see which technology has proven to be ideal.
Wet Shaving or Dry Shaving: Which Is Better for Your Skin And Why?
First of all, the male shaving world is divided into wet shaving and dry shaving. Whether you belong to one faction or the other is not just a question of taste, because each of the two variants has its advantages and disadvantages.
Dry shaving is particularly useful when you need to be quick. The risk of injury is minimal, which means that the shave goes smoothly even when half asleep in the morning after a partying weekend. Compared to wet razors, dry razors are more expensive to buy.
However, if you buy a quality device, you only need to replace the shaving heads every few months instead of buying new blades every two weeks as with a wet razor. It gets more expensive if you buy a dry shaver with a cleaning station. The good part is not only bulky in your luggage, but also regularly requires the purchase of new cleaning cartridges.
Men who have sensitive skin and are prone to razor burn mainly rely on the dry razor. The proverbial downside that you accept with the dry razor is the shadow of the beard, which appears much sooner after a dry shave than after a wet shave. This is because the electric razor only scrapes the surface of the beard hair.
In men with healthy beard growth, it happens that the hair pushes itself back into consciousness by the evening. If there is also an event that requires smooth skin, the man may have to reach for the dry shaver again in the evening.
A wet razor, on the other hand, catches the hair much closer to the skin than a dry razor. As a result, you get the famous baby bottom effect. In terms of shaving results, wet shaving is superior to dry shaving, but it takes longer and is more complicated. Specialists, for example, whip their shaving cream by hand, turning the procedure into a small morning ceremony.
This shaving technique poses particular challenges for men who often travel. It starts with the luggage. We pack: shaving oil, shaving soap, shaving cream pot, shaving brush, razor blades, safety razor… Razor blades and safety razor?
Stop! When traveling by air, open blades are prohibited in carry-on baggage. The safety razor in particular becomes a problem because the blade is not in a cartridge.
If you want to carry a safety razor in your hand luggage, you must first remove the blade.
Well, perhaps for the sake of the climate you will now give up air travel. But it doesn’t matter whether you’re planning a tough trek or a train ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway. For wet shaving you need warm water. If you shave with cold water, your skin will tighten and half an hour after the shave you will feel unshaven.
Above all, however, wet shaving requires some practice in order to avoid skin irritation or small cuts. Another downside is that the manufacturers of wet razors make their profit with the razor blades. And you have to replace them regularly if you want to minimize skin irritation.
Electric shaving can now also be done wet
While electric razors used to only be able to shave dry, today there has been a change in the field. The trend is now towards shavers with a wet & dry function. With such a device, you can shave either wet or dry, depending on your preference.
In contrast to purely dry shavers, the Wet & Dry electric shavers are waterproof. Otherwise they work technically the same as dry shavers, which means they have a shaving head with a shaving foil. The shaving foil prevents the shaving blades from coming into direct contact with the skin.
A classic wet shave, in which the razor blade or safety razor is placed on the skin, is not possible with such a device. The big difference between electric razors and classic razors remains. In other words, the classic wet shave is and will remain “closest”, and electric wet shaving will not change that.
However, the electric wet razors actually have some advantages. Starting with the fact that you can use the Wet & Dry shaver in the shower – and, depending on your preference, with shaving gel or shaving foam. The warm water relaxes the skin and opens the pores.
The skin becomes softer, the shaving gel does the rest and the facial hair also becomes softer. It is easier to cut off and shaving is easier and gentler.
In addition, the wet razors are easy to clean due to their water resistance. However, since electricity and water do not get along well, electric wet shavers have a number of special structural features that serve to ensure your safety.
No electric shaver that is suitable for wet shaving can be used while charging. While the device is connected to the 230 volt city network, for safety reasons it must not do anything other than charge. Imagine the razor falling in this state into the bathtub where your New Year’s carp from last year is still swimming. That would probably be gone then.
You could now object that you do have a residual current circuit breaker in the bathroom. It actually increases the protection, but the level of protection is not as high as a layman might think! The truth is: RCE switches (formerly called FI switches) only trigger under certain conditions! So please spare your New Year’s Eve carp the experiment with the shaver charging from the 230 volt network in the bathtub.
For you, this means that you must first disconnect your Wet & Dry shaver from the mains voltage in order to be able to use it. When shaving, the electric wet razor works on its battery. With a maximum of 4 volts and 2000 mAh, this no longer poses a risk of electric shock even if the electric razor has lost its water resistance.
Dry shaving – back and forth, or better in a circle?
The very first dry razors were powered by mechanical wind-up motors. Small electric motors have now taken over the work. In order to put a dry shave on the parquet, you need a mains connection or a battery.
Since the invention of the dry shaver, countless patents have been registered for power shavers. Ultimately, however, the models are only divided into two large groups: foil razors and rotary razors.
The former work with a rotating shearing system. This usually consists of three shaving heads, which rotate around their own axis (e.g. Philips). The latter rely on a single horizontally oscillating shaving head that is pressed against a fixed blade or shaving foil (e.g. Braun).
A manufacturer of electric razors usually decides on one of the two variants. The decision for a foil shaver or a rotary razor is therefore always based on the preference for a certain brand. That’s why it’s primarily called “Braun or Philips”. Remington is one of the few manufacturers that carry both designs.
However, Remington shavers do not come close to Braun foil shavers or Philips rotary shavers in terms of shaving quality.
Braun electric razor or Philips electric razor – Pros & Cons and Final Verdict
Ultimately, the decision for or against one of the two systems has more to do with personal taste than with the quality of the shaver. When it comes to shaving, both systems don’t take much from each other, although we found the foil razors better in our test.
Foil razors feature straight, rectangular razor heads covered by a thin, micro-perforated foil. The facial hair is pulled through this perforation and exposed to the underlying cutting elements. The foil protects the skin and enables foil razors to achieve a close and precise shave.
Rotary razors are characterized by independently rotating razor heads. The hair is drawn through small slots to the internal cutting elements and cut off by the fast, scissor-like blades.
The strengths of the rotary shaver are evident on surfaces. Since they work over a large area, they are faster here than foil shavers. This is especially noticeable in men with thick, tangled beards. The rotary razors adapt well to the contours of the jaw and chin, but ultimately lack the precision that is possible with a straight blade. Clearly defined lines are more for the straight head of the foil razor.
In general, it is said that foil razors are more noisy than rotary razors, but they are also gentler. Foil shavers are said to provide a smoother, closer shave than their multi-headed counterpart, the rotary razor. However, the question of which of the two types shaves more thoroughly is not so easy to answer.
In the end, other factors, such as the sharpness of the blades, the shaving technique or simply the quality of the razor also play a role in the result. A high-quality device, regardless of its design, will always be superior to a cheap product.
When comparing Philips against Braun, neither of the two brands emerges as the winner. Some users will swear by the skin-friendliness and thoroughness of a Braun electric shaver, while others praise the Philips with precisely these properties. In short, it is a matter of taste whether you prefer foil shavers or rotary shavers.
If you are interested in which razor we liked: We personally liked the Braun better than the Philips for daily use. In the razor test, the Braun cut a very good figure, especially in terms of cutting performance. On the other hand, we didn’t get along well with the Philips models. The premium models are gentle on the skin, but some areas had to be treated several times, which in turn didn’t please the skin so much.
Both systems coped equally well with three-day beards.
What else razors should be able to do
Many men love to be practical. Not only do they use their razor to get rid of facial hair, they also use it as a body groomer. Long hair trimmer, beard trimmer and body groomer – Why buy three devices when you can do it with one? But how well does it actually work to shave your head or back with a dry razor?
The answer is that long hair trimmers, beard trimmers or shavers are only suitable for shaving the body to a limited extent, since each device is specialized for certain body contours and hair thicknesses. At the latest when you have tried to shave off a multi-day beard with a standard razor – which probably escalated into a drama of plucking – you will appreciate the advantages of a trimmer.
In order to avoid the nasty tugging and pulling on the beard, you will first shorten longer beards with the trimmer before you shave them off completely.
Another point are the men who like art on the beard. It’s all about the details: trimming sideburns, trimming mustache, defining the cheek area, trimming the neck and jaw area… In the meantime, individually defined beards are suitable for everyday use and are no longer reduced to an appearance at a beard championship. So if you value gradations between “smooth here and 2 mm here”, the simple trimming attachments of the electric razors will soon seem like a toy to you. Chic beards are crying out for a professional beard trimmer!
Okay, say my girlfriend isn’t that into a beard. My electric razor is enough, I can use it for my body at the same time. – Well, razors are hygiene products. Remember that with a razor you are also transporting bacteria or viruses from one place to another. All alarm bells should be ringing, especially in the intimate area. The area is a highly sensitive zone, in which you not only leave particularly gentle and gentle devices, but in which you also want to proceed very hygienically.
Yes but the back? Unless you’re gifted with incredible agility, you’re unlikely to make it there on your own with an electric beard razor.
But a bald head can be shaved with an electric razor, right? Theoretically yes, but in practice a dry razor is not really suitable for the head. The marble does get smooth, but it takes way too much time before you get a comparable result than with the wet razor. Even if the hair growth is only halfway dense, the electric razor is too slow or not thorough enough.
Ok, then I’ll get a body groomer. Such a full-body razor comes with a wide variety of attachments and shaves and trims everything, not just beard hair, but also hair on the arms, legs, back, under the armpits and in the intimate area. – Ok, then you are in the wrong place in this article. Although of course we think it’s great that you’ve read this far. You better take a look at our body groomer test.
In our opinion, however, there is no all-rounder device that you can use to shave all areas of the body equally well. After all, they’re looking for the right shaver on a specialized beard care site, rather than on a site that offers electric razors, lawnmowers, hearing aids, and last-minute trips.
Braun Series 9 vs Panasonic ES-LV9Q: Which One Is Better?
If you want to compare a Braun shaver with a competitor, you can always look at a complete series. The winner of the Stiftung Warentest, the Braun 9290cc, represents all other Series 9 razors on the podium.
But Braun shouldn’t rest on its laurels. The Panasonic ES-LV9Q starts the quality offensive against the Braun Series 9. The top of the range (also a foil shaver) offers flexible shaving heads that handle potholes and curves with elegance. Thanks to nickel-free, finely polished blades, the shave is skin-friendly and a beard density sensor ensures that a gear is shifted down or up as required.
However, the batteries of most models still lag behind the competitor Braun. However, the premium razor ES-LV9Q manages the usual battery life of around one hour. With a daily shave, it should easily last you a week without charging.
Although Braun is ahead in the Stiftung Warentest tests, the Panasonic models with a good test result are breathing down their necks in our test as well. The only thing the testers had to complain about was the shorter battery life.
What Panasonic is not so good at is the designation of its models. While Philips and Braun classify their electric razors neatly and clearly into series, Panasonic users have to work their way through cryptic abbreviations such as “LV”, “LT”, “RT”, etc.
Braun vs Remington: Which one to choose?
If you don’t want to invest a large sum in a foil razor, you will find not just one, but several alternatives for a thorough shave from the traditional manufacturer Remington.
Remington’s models are among the more simply constructed razors, but they deliver a solid shave. Of course, you shouldn’t compare the Remington F4 Style or even the Remington F7 Ultimate with the high-end models from Braun. The latter simply play in a different league, especially when it comes to skin protection and flexibility when shaving. While Braun invests in development and competes with Philips for innovations, Remington relies on conventional shaving technology.
On the other hand, not only Remington’s F7 and F9 models are suitable for dry and wet shaving, but also the Remington F4, which is not a matter of course in this price range.
At first glance, the Remington F4 looks similar to the Braun Series 5 5147s. If you had to decide between the two models, many users would certainly tend towards the Remington F4. Not because it shaves better, but because it is much cheaper. Not everyone can and wants to spend more than 100 euros on a safety razor.
On closer inspection, however, you will notice a difference in terms of a thorough and, above all, skin-friendly shave. The Braun Series 5 also scores with a modern battery.
In short: If you do not have sensitive skin and are looking for a simple but solid wet & dry razor for a close shave for a small price, then you will find it at Remington. However, if you have higher demands, you will have to invest more.
Braun shaver vs any other shaver?
Not really. In addition to Braun and Philips, only Panasonic and Remington have actually managed to anchor themselves in the minds of users over the long term. All other manufacturers of razors, such as Grundig or AEG, can be grouped together under the heading “also ran”.
Of course, the ranks of Chinese manufacturers (eg Hatteker) are doing their utmost to gain a place on the German razor market. Often this is done with the help of reviews bought in bulk, sometimes there are actually solid products among them. However, even the latter do not invalidate the principle “You get what you pay”.
There is always a downside to a low price. This can either be a weak battery, cheap workmanship, a radically reduced range of functions or some short-lived component that puts the entire device out of operation.
When purchasing products from the Far East, also bear in mind that you have little chance of enforcing warranty claims outside of Europe.
Philips razor Alternatives: What Can You Use Instead?
The brand manufacturer Philips has relied exclusively on rotary shavers for decades. In the process, he has accumulated so much know-how that he need not fear any competition for the time being. This is only available in the low-price sector anyway.
On the one hand, we have Remington, which produces foil and rotary razors for hardened facial skin, and the army of Chinese product copiers. Although the latter is an insider tip from time to time, devices from the Far East should often be treated with caution.
For some time now, the products have been given German-sounding product names in order to give them a more solid image, such as Hatteker, Sichler, Phisco or Surker. However, marketing measures such as purchased reviews or machine-generated translations in particular do not inspire much confidence.
Many consumers complain that the supposedly cheap device turns out to be cheap goods with a short lifespan and/or poor performance.
In addition, the right of return or any warranty claims are much more difficult to enforce outside of Europe than within the EU. If you have any doubts about this, you should choose Amazon Fulfilled Products because Amazon handles the customer service here.
How do I know which razor suits me best?
When choosing the right razor, users have different priorities. Some make it a point to use a foil razor or rotary razor. For many, however, the price is the first criterion. They are explicitly looking for a razor under 50 euros, or a razor under 100 euros that cuts a fine figure when shaving and delivers a close shave.
Another selection criterion is comfort. Some users want a shaver with a cleaning station, for others it has to be a wet & dry shaver. This also includes the construction of the razor. Shavers with flexible shaving heads offer greater comfort than shavers with a fixed shaving head, as the former save the user excessive arm movements when it comes to shaving around corners. The valuable device for daily shaving should also be comfortable to hold.
We take a look at how safety razors are rated.
What you should pay attention to when buying
No one who has both feet on the ground will believe the promise of super quality at a super low price. Especially with electric razors.
You expect the highest quality from high-priced razors, while you lower the standards with an entry-level device. At the end of the day, it’s all about value for money. But when is this okay?
Affordable Electric Razors Under 50 euros
When it comes to entry-level shavers, there is really only one question: How well and thoroughly does the electric shaver really shave?
Aspects such as equipment, design or handling tend to take a back seat. In addition, you forgo the convenience of a cleaning station, which is ultimately reflected not only in the acquisition costs, but also in the maintenance costs. You can also live with a mediocre battery performance. However, if the razor shaves badly or even hurts your skin in the process, it is nothing more than e-waste.
What you have to accept with the simpler electric shavers is the weaker shaving performance. And that’s exactly what doesn’t suit men with sensitive skin. In concrete terms, this means for you that you have to go over a spot several times with the razor, which often leads to skin irritation on sensitive skin.
In addition, you shouldn’t expect any special features in terms of skin protection from razors under 50 euros. The world of entry-level devices knows no skin comfort coating, castors or SkinGuards; Shaving heads are not ground as sharply as with high-priced devices.
It can tug and tug. To put it simply, you should simply spend a little more money on your razor: Our test has shown that the cheapest models are usually not worth it.
It’s good if the shaver has a wet & dry function, which makes shaving more gentle. However, wet shavers are the exception in this price range.
However, you will find what you are looking for in the Remington F4.
Electric Razors Under 100 euros- That Work Like Pro
In the middle class below 100 euros or just above, some electric razors stand out that actually offer a lot of performance for their price. A prime example is the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s, which also received praise from Stiftung Warentest and is simply a good foil shaver.
Even in this price range you have to make compromises in terms of design and equipment. With the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s, for example, handling is a bit more cumbersome because the shaving heads are firmly attached to the handle and cannot adapt to the contours of the face. However, this can be compensated for by appropriate arm movements. A cleaning station can only be found on a few devices.
With the Braun Series 5 and the Philips Series 5000, we have mid-range shavers that look like their big brothers in the luxury class. You can also feel that in the price. Although these slimmed-down versions offer a flexible shaving head and thus more comfort when shaving, they are a lot inferior to the real high-end devices in terms of functionality.
The shaving heads do not offer the skin protection that you can expect from the Braun Series 7 or Philips Series 7000. In short, they conform to the contours of your face, saving you arm rows, but they don’t shave nearly as well as they look.
Now Philips has combined its Series 5000 with a skin comfort coating and sells the result as Series 6000. So there is a case of skin protection in the middle class after all.
It is worth watching the prices for these series. Some of the prices change within a day. If you’re patient, you can catch a device under $100 or just over.
Luxury Electric Razors- Electric Razor Is Like a Rolls Royce
Starting with the Braun Series 7 and Philips Series 7000, we enter the high-end segment.
You can expect an elegant design, plenty of battery power and numerous features. Skin irritations are minimized.
The differences in the top area are minimal. When it comes to shaving performance, the devices differ only slightly from each other. In our shaver test, we found that the Braun Series 7 shaves just as well as the Braun Series 9. With the latest update, the Braun Series 9 is still the best shaver on the market.
For those who don’t think the Series 7 looks sporty enough, Braun has meanwhile thrown the Series 8 onto the market. Behind it is a combination of a Series 7 shaving head and a Series 9 housing .
Philips impressed us with their powerful Series 9000, but that doesn’t change the fact that we’re not generally into rotary shavers. But that is purely a matter of taste. In this price range, the decision whether to use a rotary shaver or a foil shaver does not depend on the quality of the device, but purely on personal preferences.
What you should not forget about the high-end electric shavers is the maintenance costs. The razors are not only more expensive to buy, but also have higher costs for the cleaning station, the cleaning cartridges and the replacement shaving heads.
However, there is no magic in the high-end sector either. Although these electric shavers are portrayed by advertising as a marvel of German engineering, they don’t turn any laws of nature upside down either.
On the one hand, electric razors, regardless of whether they are pure dry or dry/wet razors, always lag behind the classic blade in the end result. On the other hand, electric razors regularly make you sweat when you shave your neck. This is also the case with the flagships of the brand manufacturers.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing an Electric Shaver- Important factors to keep in mind
Wearing a beard may have been a strong trend for a few years, but many men still shave: out of professional obligation, for comfort or simply for pleasure. The use of an electric razor helps to make this gesture more pleasant, faster but also safer (especially for the most clumsy among us). But how to choose your electric razor? Not easy when you look at the number of existing models on the market, competing with new technologies and ever more varied options. It is to help you find your way in this jungle (where the clean-shaven man is trying to find his way) that we have produced this guide. Here are some tips that will be useful to both novices and more seasoned, especially when looking for good gift ideas for “bad hair dad”.
1. The two types of razors
Observe the beard of your neighbor on the right, observe that of the one on the left, compare them to yours. You will notice that we all have different beards: which can be fine or thick, with soft or hard hair, a sparse or very thick beard, etc. The type of beard is one of the first criteria to take into account when choosing the right razor. There are 2 main families:
- Rotary head razors
- Foil razors
A. Shavers with rotating heads
Rotary heads were invented by Philips in 1939, which still owns numerous patents and maintains a monopoly on this type of razor. It has 2 or 3 heads and for each of them round grids equipped with rotating blades. This makes it possible in particular to cover a large area of skin (and therefore hair).
For what types of beard?
A 2-head razor is more suitable for a growing and sparse beard, while a 3-head razor is ideal for a denser beard. It should be noted that this type of razor is generally recommended for those who have a flexible beard.
Its particularities
It therefore guarantees a fast and precise shave without too many constraints on a daily basis. Its technology allows the hairs to be straightened in order to be cut. However, by increasing the number of passes over the same area, you also risk irritating your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin.
In order to prevent redness and irritation, it is sometimes useful to use a lotion before shaving. The latter having the role of straightening the hair, softening it and providing a cleaner shave without irritation. Shavers with rotating heads also have the advantage of being quieter.
B. Foil razors
This type of razor is also called a vibrating blade razor. It has a rectangular shaped head which is equipped with a grid under which blades oscillate. The principle is simple, the hair enters through the perforations of the grid in order to be cut by rows of small blades called “knife blocks”.
For what types of beard?
This razor is more suitable for anyone who has a beard with hard hair.
A word of advice: The rectilinear shape of this model also allows a more precise and controlled result when it comes to drawing its contours.
Its particularities
Shaving with a foil razor takes a bit longer than shaving with a pivoting head model. However, successive passes over the same areas are rarer, leaving less irritated skin. On these razors the grid is removable, it can be easily replaced without great difficulty when its wear is too great.
In addition, depending on the pressure exerted, the grid adjusts to the contours of the face, some models are even equipped with a pivoting head which hugs the curves even better. Unlike rotary heads, the foil shaver is noisier. It can also leave some stubborn hairs in hard-to-reach areas, to do this some models are equipped with intermediate trimmers for finishing.
2. Options and maintenance
A. Options
Now that the two types of electric razors have been identified and before you start looking for your model in the right brand, it is good to know the few options and accessories they can offer. This allows in particular to be able to make a choice.
The majority of shavers today are offered cordless. Taking into account this notion of autonomy is therefore essential during our travels since they cannot be used on the mains.
Most shavers charge in an average of 1 hour. But many of us forget to charge it in advance so as not to be caught off guard. Fortunately, manufacturers have been able to overcome this by equipping their products with a quick charge which only takes 5 minutes and which allows you to shave immediately afterwards.
This option can be useful when you run out of battery. You can then use it by plugging it in directly. Very handy in an emergency!
This attachment can be handy for reaching hard-to-reach areas and for trimming sideburns, mustache and beard.
Some shavers are equipped with a washing station. This equipment allows with the help of an antiseptic lotion to maintain an irreproachable hygiene of its equipment. The only downside is that it represents a significant budget increase, not to mention the subsequent purchase of refill cartridges!
This option is found today on many razors and allows us to use them even in the shower. Please note that razors that can be washed in water should not be confused with those that can be used under water!
Some razors have the particularity of being able to distribute a moisturizing lotion to limit irritation and redness for the most sensitive skin.
B. Maintenance
Taking care of your razor is also important for other reasons. A poorly maintained device can cause redness because it will require additional passages on our skin. Good maintenance also helps to maintain good efficiency. Every month, it is advisable to carry out a thorough cleaning by removing the grids or the heads in order to clean the blades and the interior in general.
You should know that the grids, blades and heads should be changed every two years (with frequent use) because they wear out over time and shaves.
3. Choose a razor according to its use and budget
As we talked about above, each razor is suitable for a type of beard. The choice is also made largely according to its use: we will not choose the same razor if we shave every day, two to three times a week or barely once a week.
The more powerful and technologically well-equipped a shaver is, the faster and more efficient it will be. On a daily basis, it’s a significant time saver. Someone who travels frequently will be particularly attentive to the charging time, the autonomy, the fact that it comes with a travel kit. So many factors that make a razor can cost 50, 100, 200 or even 300$ for the most sophisticated.
4. Precautions for use
It should not be forgotten that whatever the model, a razor requires time to adapt. So leaving two or even three weeks for your skin to adapt is not a superfluous thing. In general, the usual shaving advice should also be taken into account with the use of an electric razor, namely: shave preferably in the morning when the skin is rested, rather after the shower because the hair will be more flexible but before eating because chewing causes a rush of blood to the face which promotes redness.
How to shave with an electric razor?
The electric razor is a device that does not lack advantage and allows you to shave comfortably. However, for this to really be the case, you need to make sure you use it correctly. We are therefore going to tell you the procedure to follow to benefit from excellent shaving conditions with your electric razor.
Prepare your shave well
To make your shave go as smoothly as possible, you need to prepare well. To do this, you must first check the condition of your electric razor and choose the best razor and make sure it has enough battery. Also, while if you’re using a manual razor it’s a good idea to shave after you shower, it’s best to do it before showering if you’re using an electric razor. However, you still need to cleanse your face using a dedicated cleanser. Finally, if your beard is particularly long, we advise you to trim it. This will thin it out and make it easier to shave with your electric razor.
How do you shave?
First of all, you need to shave your cheeks. This is indeed the easiest area to shave. However, you have to adapt to the type of razor you have. If it has blades protected by a grid, you must make straight movements while if it has circular blades, you must make circular movements.
Once the cheeks are clean shaven, you need to take care of your mustache, chin and neck hair. These are more difficult hairs to shave, especially because they are usually thicker or placed in a hard-to-reach area. Feel free to use your free hand to stretch your skin as much as possible, which will make shaving much easier. Once your face is completely shaved, check that you haven’t missed any hair. However, to avoid any risk of irritation, we do not recommend going over the same place more than twice.
Don’t forget the aftershave
When you’re done shaving, you still need to take care of the aftershave. First and foremost, you need to take care of your skin. The passage of razor blades will tend to dehydrate it and you must therefore rehydrate it. For this, use an after-shave balm with an all-natural recipe. In particular, it must not contain alcohol. This can dry out your skin even more. In addition, your aftershave will help soothe your skin and help heal cuts and nicks.
Final word on choosing the right shaver
As you can see, finding the right razor starts with setting your priorities. There can be no clear answer to the question of which shaver is the best electric shaver. There can only ever be one razor that best suits personal needs.
You will always have to make compromises. Unfortunately, good devices cost a corresponding amount of money, while a great price usually comes at the expense of being gentle on the skin. That doesn’t have to be the case when it comes to overall shaving performance, however, as the Braun Series 3 and Philips Series 3000 demonstrate. So if you don’t have sensitive skin, you’ll find it here. However, if you are prone to razor burn, you should invest in a higher quality electric shaver from the start. According to our test, the best shaver on the market is currently the Braun Series 9cc.
We hope we have answered all of your questions about the razors in this review and we welcome your comments.
My name is William Lais, I am the chief editor of Rasoirelectric.com. My aim with this site is to help you to get the best shaving products & also help you to know the proper use of shaving and Beauty products…
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