In typical Panasonic fashion, every year they release a new, usually incremental update to their 5-blade shaver lineup.
The previous generation 4, launched in 2024, represented a major departure from the older models (generation 3 and below).
Initially, it was only made available in Japan and Australia (under the Series 900 PRO name).
For 2025, Panasonic launched 4 new models in what appears to be the first revision of the aforementioned 2024 generation 4.
These new shavers are again only available in Japan and appear to be, well, exactly the same.
Let’s take a closer look.
Side note: The names Arc 5, Arc 5 PRO, Series 900, Series 900 Pro and Lamdash PRO 5 all refer to Panasonic’s 5-blade shavers from different generations or sold on different markets.
Panasonic Lamdash Pro 5 2025 model comparison
| Model | Use | Accessories | Charging |
|---|---|---|---|
1. ES-L571U (Silver) | Wet/dry, cordless-only | cleaning station, cloth bag, AC adapter, USB cable, oil, cleaning brush, foil cover, detergent pack | USB-C |
2. ES-L571D (Black) | Dry, cordless & corded | cleaning station, cloth bag, AC adapter, oil, cleaning brush, foil cover, detergent pack | Panasonic port |
3. ES-L551U (Silver) | Wet/dry, cordless-only | cloth bag, USB cable, oil, cleaning brush, foil cover | USB-C |
4. ES-L551D (Black) | Dry, cordless & corded | cloth bag, AC adapter, oil, cleaning brush, foil cover | Panasonic port |
These four models are grouped on the Panasonic Japan website in two categories:
The Top grade shavers come with an automatic cleaning station, and that appears to be the only difference vs the standard models.
The shaving performance and the rest of the features are exactly the same.
The most important difference between the four models is however related to cordless/corded operation and charging.
To be more precise, the two models ending in U (ES-L571U and ES-L551U) will only work cordless and are listed as wet/dry shavers.
They are also fitted with USB-C charging ports.
The D models (ES-L571D, ES-L551D) will work cordless and corded and are sold as dry-only shavers, even though they are fully waterproof as well.
However, the D shavers still come with Panasonic’s proprietary charging port, so no USB-C.
The second important difference is related to the Sonic cleaning mode vs Bubble making mode.
The D models feature Panasonic’s old (and useful) Sonic cleaning mode, a special setting that makes the blades vibrate super fast and prevents water from splashing.
This is very convenient and effective when rinsing the shaving head with tap water.
The wet/dry U models come instead with an almost useless Bubble making mode that should help you lather shaving gel when you wet shave.
This is a total gimmick in my opinion and I would much rather have the Sonic cleaning mode instead.
Also, Panasonic continues to include only a flimsy cloth bag instead of a proper travel case.
You will need to buy it separately if you need it (part number ES-2L15).
Fortunately, there’s still a protective foil cover bundled with the 2025 Lamdash PRO 5 models.
Is the 2025 Lamdash PRO 5 better than the original 2024 generation 4?
That would be a resounding no.
The new shavers still use the exact same foil head (part number ES9510), same motor, same flexing head.
So performance-wise, they are objectively the best 5-blade Panasonic shavers yet, though identical to the 2024 Generation 4.
We still get only a basic 3-level LED battery level indicator, a far cry from the super useful display of the old ES-LV65 from generation 2 (2013).
That one would even show the shaving duration and the battery level in 10% increments.
The battery is still the same we get with pretty much every current Panasonic shaver, so it will only provide a maximum of 45 minutes.
The takeaway is that the 2025 revision offers no meaningful improvements compared to the 2024 Lamdash PRO 5.
In fact, there’s no improvement whatsoever, so you can buy the 2024 model without any worries that you’re missing out on a new feature.
And if you can get one with similar accessories for less money, it’s definitely the better buy.
The 2025 revision will probably be limited to the Japanese domestic market, so you will need to import it.
They are already available on amazon.co.jp and you can use a forwarding service if shipping is not available to your location.
Side note: I wrote a detailed guide on how to import a shaver from Japan here.
If you have any other questions about this release, make sure to post a comment below.
Unless I got lucky with the one I recently bought, the 2024 model ES-L550U, mine came with a foil cover in the box.
Image: https://imgur.com/a/kVyevak
Hey,
Thank you for the heads up. You are correct, the 2024 models do come with a foil cover, I edited the error in the article. For the 2025 revision, Panasonic doesn’t explicitly list the foil cover anymore, so there’s still a possibility of it being bundled with the shavers. I will try to find out if that’s the case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I purchased the LS-551U via a friend who happened to be visiting me from Japan, and I can indeed confirm it does come with a foil cover for travel! If you have any other questions about the unit, happy to answer.
Hey,
Thanks so much for the info, I will update the post as well. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new Panasonic. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Yes! I love how comfortable it has been for dry shaves, and how close it can get for such a lack of irritation. I wish I had started using a foil shaver ages ago!
The main qualms I have about the LS-551U is the relative lack of battery life compared to my Norelco 7800 as well as the lack of indication of more specific battery percentages. The Sonic Cleaning Mode which you alluded to as being very useful is absent as well, though I’ve never experienced it.
This shaver would be a slam dunk if it had a screen, and 1.5 – 2x the battery life. Hopefully in a few years this can come to fruition with new tech like silicon carbon batteries and whatnot.
Awesome, glad you like it. Battery life has been a constant negative with Panasonic shavers (both entry-level and high-end models) for 10+ years, no improvements whatsoever in that regard. The battery indicators unfortunately have gotten worse in an effort to save costs. So we’re now getting three basic LED’s on premium 5-blade shavers, which is disappointing. My old ES-LV65 Arc 5 with the feature-rich display is just something else.
The Sonic cleaning mode is quite nifty and previously all Panasonic shavers had it, for me it became second nature to press and hold the power button when cleaning my shavers with water (and optionally soap). The main benefit was that it wouldn’t splash water while rinsing the foils under the tap.
If you’ll be cleaning your shaver (with water) after every use, it’s unlikely you’ll ever have to deal with hardened dirt stuck inside the foil head. So no Sonic cleaning mode is disappointing but definitely not a deal-breaker.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Just got my Lamdash 5 model 550D black from. Wafuu.com, which as some folks were wondering is a reputable site. Just beware of the following:
1) In the U.S., even after paying all the fees upfront, once your item arrives in the U.S., DHL Express, the carrier, will reach out to you requiring a separate duty import fee to be paid before releasing the item out for shipment.
2) The operating instructions are only in Japanese, but you can use a Google Translator to translate into English.
3) As Ovidiu indicated, the D models are considered dry models only, even though they can be rinsed under the faucet for cleaning or the washing station that comes with the shaver. (curious to know why this is when compared to the U models)
Other than that, it’s a great shaver and even after paying all the separate fees and taxes, it’s still cheaper than the Arc 6 models sold here.
And one more thing, thank you for having these reviews. With them, there would have been no way to know about these Japanese Shavers that are sold nowhere in North America.
Hey Dave,
Thanks so much for the comment and for the update. DHL fees are no fun (been there many times). I’m glad you like the new shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This may be obvious but worth asking. Am I correct to assume the charging station will use the same charging port as the Shaver. i.e If I buy the USB-C version the charging station will also be charged via USB-C and with Panasonic Port with normal Shaver Plug.
I am also looking for details and information or review for a model called LM51. It has 5 blade but I cant see it mentioned any where on this site. It seems to be at least a year or two old. Because this Panasonic five blade model also has USB-C and is available for less than a $100.
Answering my own question on LM51 ( and LM55 ) . I asked a Japanese Friend and he said All Lamdash and Arc are Made in Japan. And this LM51 / LM55 are made in China and may be China specific model. I have no idea which components are made in Japan however it uses the same foil as ES-LV97 , ES-LV67 with WES-9179, WES-9173 and WES9170.
That particular model caught my eye a few years ago. It’s essentially an Arc 5 (same foils, motor) in a shaver body that resembles the current Arc 3. So it’s very minimalist and there are a few shortcomings as well, hence the lower price. For example, there’s no useful battery level indicator, there’s no thumb rest and no rubber inserts. The flexing of the head is also probably very minimal. But the performance should still be great since it uses the same motor and foil/blades setup as the global Arc 5 models.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
That’s actually a great question. A Panasonic cleaning station will always come with the Panasonic port, regardless if the shaver itself has a USB-C or a Panasonic port. The reason has likely to do with the power requirements of the station that would be very difficult to satisfy with USB-C. The station needs power for the pump, for the fan, for the heating element in addition to charging the shaver, so it likely needs more current. The shaver connects to the station via the three contact pins on its back, so the shaver can have either USB-C or the Panasonic port.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
If that is the case, considering the shaver will be sitting inside the station 99% of the time. And assuming the person never travel more than 14 days. Wouldn’t it be better to get the Panasonic Port / D variant just for the sonic cleaning option? Because the USB port will rarely be used. Or are there any other advantage for USB-C port?
( Not to mention USB-C is in Titanium Colour but the Panasonic Port L55x variant is in Black which looks better. )
Yes, in this specific use case, getting a D variant would make more sense. The advantage of USB-C is convenience, but since the shaver will be automatically charged while sitting in the cleaning station, it won’t provide any additional advantage.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you, Ovidiu. This is extremely helpful.
My Panasonic shaver from 2001 finally stopped working after 24 years, and I have been looking for another, then I realized Panasonic is not common in the US, as most are for JDM only.
I ended up choosing the ES-L551U mainly for its USB-C charging compatibility. My wife is currently in Asia, and she was able to pick one up for me for ~USD$190.
Thanks again.
Hey Justin,
Thanks so much for the comment, glad the info was useful. Your old Panasonic has definitely served you well.
Hope you’ll enjoy the L551U, it should feel like a nice upgrade, more refined, more comfortable, and the closeness should be at least as good.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, your reviews are an excellent source of information. I noticed in one of your Panasonic reviews that you lock the head when shaving, so I’m just wondering what advantages/differences you see in doing that compared to an unlocked head.
Many thanks
Hi David,
Thank you so much, I appreciate it.
It’s just personal preference, as I find the head of Panasonic 5 and 6-blade shavers a bit too wobbly and unstable, and during a stroke it would sometimes lack the fine control I need to tackle some areas (the cheeks and below the jawline). For me, a Panasonic works better with the head in the fixed setting. I’m definitely not saying that it would work for everyone, but worth giving it a try.
I very much prefer a simple and smooth front to back swivel and a larger range of motion for each of the cutting elements, like Braun does with the Series 8 and 9. It’s a much simpler system, but one that just works better and actually helps me get a better shaving experience.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu!
Just wana leave a comment here to show my greatest appreciation! I am writing this comment from Singapore and was looking at a new shaver after both my Braun Series 5 and subsequently the Series 7 died on me.
Was initially looking at the Braun Series 8 or 9 where I chanced upon your website and boy, what a treasure trove of shaver knowledge it is!
With all your in-depth comparisons and analysis, I went ahead and placed an order through Amazon.jp for the Panasonic ES-L571D.
Would never have the thought to “jump-ship” to Panasonic from Braun if not for your very impartial and detailed comparisons! Awaiting my new shaver from Japan in around 2 weeks time at time of this comment.
A truly sincere thanks for your hard work and the best shaver comparison website on the planet IMO! Please keep up the great work!!
Regards from Singapore
KK
Hey KK,
Thank you so much for the comment, you are very kind.
I’m glad the info was useful and I hope you’ll enjoy your new Panasonic. If the Series 5 and 7 were from the current generation, the switch to the ES-L571D should provide a noticeable improvement. It is probably an upgrade from pretty much any other shaver and it’s one of the best picks for frequent use.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Just writing a short review for anyone interested.
I had the old Braun Series 7, not the newer ( but worst ) Series 7. I think it was 2010. It was great at the time, probably still good had it be for sale today. But after so many years of usage I bet the motor would only have like 80 if not 70% of the power. Just like an old car, the motor don’t last forever. Which got me to thinking if someone could have tested this out.
But jumping to newer Lamdash PRO 5, it was night and day. It is SO much better. Even the original Series 7 in brand new condition is this good. It is the closest shave I have had other than using blades. I have try the Braun Series 9 a few years ago, while it was an improvement, it is not this good.
I got mine from Amazon Japan free shipping to Hong Kong after reading about it on threads. I think someone posted the tip in a local Hong Kong forum as well. Cost me $150 USD with the cleaning station.
The only thing which I am not quite used to even after a few week of usage, the head is so much larger than Braun S7, upper lips sometimes feels like shaving my nose ( I am joking ). And the head is very “moveable” this feels a little wried as I prefer having it fixed. And finally it is quite a bit nosier than my old Braun. At first I thought it is not a big deal but after weeks of usage it still annoys me some what.
At first I thought about Skin sensitivity issues may pop up. Hasn’t happened to me and I do think I have slightly sensitive skin. It is about getting the close shave without the irritation of using blades comes up.
This makes me wonder how the Lamdash 6 would have done. Given the 6 was never on discount I couldn’t justify myself spending another $150 to get it. May be someday when I won the lottery.
Highly recommend everyone to get it. If you can get it under $200, I don’t believe there are any other shaver that has this performance.
Hi,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience.
Personally, I’m very fond of the OG Series 7 and it’s still one of my all time favorite shavers. I have a 7865cc in mint condition that I only use sparingly nowadays as the cassettes are basically extinct.
That said, the latest 5 and 6-blades Panasonic series are in a different league in terms of closeness and power. I’m glad the switch to the PRO 5 was such an improvement, and you got a fantastic deal for a model that includes the cleaning station.
I also prefer to shave with the head locked as it’s way too wobbly and annoying. It’s also one of the loudest Panasonic shavers out there, with only the ARC 6 being even louder, at least to my ears.
And speaking of the ARC 6, that one feels a bit more refined, enjoyable and torquey (I think the beard density sensor is mapped more aggressively), but the quality of the shave is pretty much the same, so consdidering the price difference, I think the PRO 5 is the better pick for most users.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
>Even the original Series 7 in brand new condition is *NOT* this good.
typo