Finding the right electric razor should be easy and straightforward.
After all, getting a close and comfortable shave, preferably without spending a ton of money, sounds like a reasonable expectation.
However, choosing a good men’s electric shaver seems to be anything but simple.
This actionable guide aims to change all that by redefining the way we approach this problem.
Specifically, we’ll start with you — the user — and get to the actual shavers from there.
I’ve bought and tested all the shavers recommended in this guide, and I’ll present their pros and cons from the perspective of someone who owns and uses them regularly:
Most roundups of the so-called best shavers that crop up all over the web barely consider what each user actually needs.
And I think that’s fundamentally wrong.
I’m confident that by the time you finish reading this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a certain shaver suitable in a given situation and ultimately decide which one is best for you.
Why is choosing a shaver so complicated?
For starters, I’d say that the sheer number of models and variations creates some sort of paradox of choice.
There are just too many of them.
You’ve probably found yourself needing to buy something only to go back and forth between several options, constantly debating which one is best.
And worse still, choosing an electric shaver presents yet another challenge: unclear documentation of the differences between various models and generations.
Oftentimes, the model names make no sense, and the manufacturer fails to showcase the key distinctions between the razors in a series.
Many review sites are also filled with conflicting or irrelevant information about the newly released models.
We often see product updates being rolled out with no indication of how significant they are or whether the older shavers still represent a viable option.
In some cases, the new models are nothing more than a cosmetic makeover.
Case in point: the various Braun Series 8 generations — all of them shave exactly the same.
But there are also times when a shaver is a completely new product, bringing important changes that will impact the actual performance.
For example, the old (discontinued) Braun Series 7 and the current Series 7 360 Flex:
These Series 7 generations are vastly different and in this case, the old one is actually better in every single way.
All of these are in my opinion very important aspects to consider when recommending or comparing electric shavers.
The problem with most best shavers lists
You’ve probably already done some research on what would be the best razor for you and stumbled upon a myriad of articles.
Unfortunately, there are a few major problems with most of these roundups.
First and foremost, that elusive best shaver doesn’t exist.
The best you can hope for is to find an electric razor that checks most of the boxes for your particular needs and comes with the fewest shortcomings.
Secondly, most reviewers out there have never actually tested the razors in question.
They just come up with lists of the most popular and over-hyped models, copying what others are saying and repeating some marketing fluff taken straight out of a press release or product page.
You’ll rarely see on-point criticism and genuine assessments.
I know this is a very serious claim, but unfortunately there are only a handful of reliable resources out there when it comes to thoroughly testing electric shavers.
Apart from the reliability of the information that is questionable at best, almost all of these articles never seem to consider that men are different, their needs are different and their shaving habits are different.
Which leads us to the next part.
Choosing the right shaver comes down to personal needs
It’s important to note that recommending an electric razor is based on personal experience and at least some parts will be affected by user bias.
A particular shaver may be the best option for me, but could perform poorly when used by someone else.
And that is the result of us men being different and expecting different things from an electric razor.
Someone with sensitive skin and lots of flat-lying hairs will likely need a different shaver than a man with thick, coarse facial hair that grows straight.
Accounting for these differences and use cases is key when recommending an electric shaver and will exponentially increase the odds of you buying a suitable shaving machine.
So what are the most important things to consider when coming up with a list of the best electric razors that would suit different users and situations?
After using and reviewing electric razors for over 25 years, I believe that it comes down to the following factors:
- Shaver-specific pros and cons (closeness, comfort, speed, ease of cleaning and maintenance, etc.);
- Facial hair particularities (coarseness, hairs with different grain, flat-lying hairs, rate of hair growth);
- Sensitive skin (predisposition to razor burn, rashes, ingrown hairs, bumps etc.);
- Shaving habits (shaving more or less often, dry or wet, etc.);
- Budget (initial investment, replacement foils/blades, cleaning solution, etc.).
I am confident that this methodical approach is the way to go when it comes to choosing an electric razor that will perform great in your case.
Today’s modern shavers have come a long way and you can currently find some great products out there.
But as I said, a particular razor won’t be ideal in every situation.
To address this, I will share some of the best men’s shavers I’ve tested so far, centered around those 5 key aspects mentioned above, hopefully helping you pick the right one.
I will present only the truly important things — including the negatives — having used most of these razors for many years.
With every shaver on this list, I will also try to explain why I chose that particular model over another.
Most of the time, this will be a matter of price, availability in 2026 and whether the razor has genuinely useful features.
I’ll also explain why I left out other shavers that only offer marginal benefits (and often for a lot more money).
The best electric shavers for men in 2026
1. Braun Series 9 PRO+ (96xx model)
Also available at Braun.com.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Close shaves
- Great for short & longer stubble
- Effective on wiry, flat-lying hairs
- Suitable for very sensitive skin, ingrown hairs
- Practical and useful cleaning station
- Fast and powerful, suitable for coarse beards
Cons
- Not quite the closest shaving razor in this price range
- Pricey
- Overkill for light beards
- Mediocre hair trimmer
Deal alert: If you don’t need a cleaning station, the Braun Series 9 PRO+ 9517s costs less and shaves (almost) the same.
Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room: the widely debated Braun Series 9 (and its PRO/PRO+ variations).
As one of the most popular shavers in recent years, the Series 9 has also been the subject of much debate within the online community.
Launched over a decade ago to replace the venerable Series 7, the Series 9 had a few hiccups along the way.
Among those, there was a shortage of replacement heads and some reports of the cutters falling apart after only a few months of use.
Moreover, if you somehow managed to find the replacement parts, the price was prohibitive.
Braun eventually sorted out the problems by fitting the Series 9 with new shaving heads (original press release).
The current Series 9 models that come with the trouble-free shaving heads start with 93xx (non-PRO Series 9), 94xx (Series 9 PRO) and 95xx & 96xx (Series 9 PRO+).
The new replacement shaving heads — called cassettes — are also readily available.
For these reasons, the Series 9 finally represents a viable option.
As of 2026, we basically have four options in the Series 9 family:
- the basic (non-Pro) Series 9 (93xx models)
- the Series 9 PRO (94xx models)
- the Series 9 PRO+ (95xx models)
- the new Series 9 PRO+ (96xx models)
The 93xx models represent the standard (non-Pro) Series 9 and were released in 2019.
These include shavers like the 9370cc, 9385cc, 9390cc, 9330s, etc.
Soon after that, while we were all expecting a brand new Series 10, Braun released the Series 9 PRO (94xx).
Compared to the non-PRO, the PRO models come with a tweaked cassette (called 94M), a redesigned head-locking switch and the shaver feels slightly more powerful.
Two years later, the Series 9 PRO got a refresh in the form of the Series 9 PRO+ (the 95xx models).
Apart from a new (marginally better) hair trimmer, the PRO+ 95xx is exactly the same as the PRO 94xx.
Finally, last year, we got yet another PRO+ instead of a brand new generation: the 96xx.
Apart from some visual tweaks and a new beard density sensor, the only true upgrade of the S9 PRO+ 96xx is the new 96M foil head.
As I mentioned in my review of the S9 PRO+ 96xx, the new head does shave a bit closer and it’s pretty much just as comfortable.
However, it is 100% backward compatible with all the previous iterations of the Series 9/PRO/PRO+.
Considering the shaving performance, I think any of the three Series 9 sub-series (standard, PRO, PRO+) represents a viable option.
So buying any of the 93xx, 94xx, 95xx, or 96xx, as long as it comes with the accessories you want, is perfectly fine, especially if you can get a good deal on it.
To me, the Series 9 PRO and PRO+ feel a bit more powerful, but that also comes with a small compromise to the comfort — they’re not quite as gentle as the non-PRO S9.
I think all four revisions are still perfectly suitable for users with sensitive skin, but having used all of them, the standard S9 just feels ever so slightly more forgiving.
Again, the differences are subtle and all four variations are more similar than different.
Further reading: for more details on all Series 9 models ever released, you can check out my extensive Series 9 guide.
However, given the availability and price drops we’ve seen lately, I think the Series 9 PRO+, both the 95xx and 96xx, are now the better pick.
The new 96xx generally costs more than the 95xx (and shaves a bit closer), but you can upgrade the shaving head and get essentially the same performance.
But definitely be on the lookout for a good deal on the 96xx.
The S9 PRO+ 9660CCPS is particularly appealing in the USA as it includes an extra 96M cassette, and is often on sale.
The 9667cc only includes the automatic cleaning station and a hard travel case, so it usually has the lowest price.
That said, the older 94xx PRO shouldn’t be ignored either.
As we know, the new 96M head is compatible with any of the older shavers, so that’s an easy and quick upgrade.
When in stock, the older Braun Series 9 PRO 9465cc for example is often priced lower than other similar PRO/PRO+ models.
On top of that, it also includes a nice solid leather case.
Most Series 9 models, PRO or non-PRO, usually come with a hard textile case.
Nothing wrong with it, but the leather one looks and feels a lot nicer.
Some shavers even come with a nifty charging case (PowerCase) that you can take advantage of when traveling. For example, the 9477cc.
It’s like a power bank case for your shaver.
Another interesting variation is the Braun S9 PRO+ 9597cc if you can get a good deal on it.
It’s bundled with a very interesting silicone massage head that works surprisingly well.
I was skeptical at first, but having used this attachment before shaving, I can confirm that it does make a difference.
It helps lift the hairs and loosen the skin around the hair shaft, allowing the shaver to cut more effectively, closer, and with greater comfort.
The new Series 9 PRO+ 9697CC also includes this brush.
That said, any PRO or PRO+ model will shave very similarly, so the price (and perhaps the included accessories) should be the decisive factor when choosing a Series 9/PRO/PRO+.
In the past, I used to be reluctant to recommend the Series 9 and I would point my readers toward the tried and tested (OG) Series 7 or 8 instead.
However, since the original issues have mostly been ironed out, I think we can finally focus on the actual performance of the Series 9/PRO/PRO+.
After testing all the Series 9 generations, I can confidently say that it’s an excellent electric razor and probably the best all-rounder.
As expected, the Series 9 won’t be the best in every situation and I’ll get to that as well.
But I’ll first go over the good parts and when it would be a great choice.
Side note: In July 2026, Braun unveiled the successor to the Series 9 PRO+, called the Braun Nevo.
Having managed to buy and use one, I can confidently say that the performance upgrade vs the S9 PRO+ 96xx is subtle, consisting mainly of enhanced glide and comfort, areas where the Series 9 was already excellent.
The Nevo does look and feel much more premium with its brushed metal body, but again, that doesn’t improve the actual shave. It also costs (a lot) more.
And yes, you can upgrade your S9 PRO+ in the future with the Nevo cassette.
Getting back to the Series 9 (and the PRO/PRO+), the best part about it is the comfort and effectiveness.
I’ve used dozens of electric razors and this one is among the most comfortable and gentle shavers you can currently buy.
And because it’s so effective at catching the hairs, including the difficult ones, most men should experience a quicker and more enjoyable shave.
When using a Series 9, I can even get away with things that would normally inflict some razor burn and discomfort (like pressing too hard or doing multiple passes over sensitive areas).
If you have sensitive skin, suffer from razor burn, rashes, or ingrown hairs, the Series 9/PRO/PRO+ is arguably the best men’s electric razor you can buy right now.
The foils never get very hot, not even after prolonged use, and remain perfectly comfortable.
The shaving head is comprised of 4 individual cutting elements.
We have two finishing foils (called Optifoils) and two cutters designed to tackle longer, flat-lying hairs that grow in different directions.
Braun’s implementation of these specialized cutters on the Series 9 outperforms any other foil shaver.
They manage to capture and cut stray, wiry and flat-lying hairs impressively well.
Side note: you’ll sometimes see things like 5 ProShave Elements in the case of the Series 9 PRO or PRO+. That’s just a marketing stunt; all Series 9 generations, PRO or non-PRO, have 4 active cutters.
Most other foil razors only manage to perform average (at best) when used on a longer beard (when hair length is more than 1.5–2mm).
As such, they tend to miss hairs, requiring multiple passes to get a clean shave.
Less capable shavers will also pull some of the hairs if they’re too long.
I haven’t experienced any of that with the Series 9, not even when I deliberately tried to be sloppier with my technique.
If you sometimes shave less often, like every three to four days and struggle with hairs that grow flat or in multiple directions, the Series 9 will again be a suitable option.
The only razors that can match it in these situations are Philips Norelco’s advanced rotary shavers, like the Series 9000/Prestige and the new i9000 variations.
But those aren’t as easy to use, nor do they shave quite as close — at least that was my experience with them.
The Series 9 has plenty of cutting power and will be more than suitable for dense, coarse beards.
It never felt underpowered during my tests and allowed me to finish my shave very quickly.
Again, the Series 9 PRO/PRO+ feels slightly more powerful and grabby than the non-PRO, but the differences are rather minor.
The S9 and S9 PRO/PRO+ are overall very similar and the price should be the decisive buying factor.
The Braun Series 9 is also one of the best choices for men who shave their head.
And while I don’t shave my entire head, I have been cutting my hair myself for years and I use a Series 9 PRO+ to give myself a skin fade.
And for that, it works extremely well: it cuts the hair on the back and sides of my head extremely close with zero irritation.
The Series 9, 9 PRO and 9 PRO+ are all fitted with a slide-out hair trimmer.
I use this type of trimmer a lot (mainly for my sideburns) and the one on the Series 9 is not that good, unfortunately.
You must hold the shaver at a very awkward angle, it requires many passes, and the blade just doesn’t cut the hair very close.
The S9 PRO+ has a slightly improved hair trimmer with a straight instead of curved blade, but it’s still nowhere near as good as the one on the Panasonic Arc 5 for example.
Let’s now talk about the closeness of the shave with the Series 9.
While for me it was definitely very good, it wasn’t the best I ever got from an electric shaver.
A Panasonic Arc 5 will give you a slightly closer shave, even though it’s not quite as comfortable as the Series 9 during a dry shave.
So if you’re interested in getting the closest possible shave and your skin is not overly sensitive, the above-mentioned Panasonic is probably the one to get.
But keep in mind that a Panasonic is not as good or as effective when used on a longer beard — if you shave every 3-4 days (maybe even more), I would still pick the Series 9.
The Series 9 represents an excellent compromise of effectiveness, comfort and closeness, but again, it is not THE closest shaving electric razor you can buy.
And the same is true in the case of the Series 9 PRO and PRO+ — the closeness is marginally better compared to the standard one.
Another issue with the Series 9/PRO/PRO+ is the price.
While it has dropped since the launch, the Series 9 family is still rather expensive.
The replacement shaving heads called cassettes (part number 92s/92b/92M/94M/96M) are pricey as well but on par with the high-end heads from other brands.
As for which Series 9 to buy, I would actually recommend a cc model that includes an automatic cleaning and charging station.
Having used them for years, here are the main reasons why I think a Braun cleaner is worth considering:
- a cc Series 9 only costs marginally more than a shaver-only variation;
- the station is very effective at cleaning and lubricating the shaving head;
- you can take out the cartridge, seal it and store it somewhere safe when not in use. This also saves cleaning fluid and prevents it from evaporating;
- there are many inexpensive third-party cleaning solutions available that work the same as the OEM solution.
- most issues related to Braun stations are well documented and usually easy to diagnose and fix.
Manually cleaning the shaver can get fiddly as you can’t always get all the hair clippings and dirt out.
This is caused by the design of the shaving head, with the foils and blades merged into a single piece that offers limited access for a thorough cleaning.
In time, if you don’t clean it after every shave, this can lead to dirt, dead skin and hair buildups inside the shaving head.
Luckily, the cleaning station takes care of everything for you.
You absolutely don’t have to use it after every shave.
For me, once or twice a week is more than enough and I simply clean the shaver with tap water during the rest of the time.
This ensures excellent hygiene and I won’t have to replace the cleaning cartridge as often (here are more tips on how to make the refills last longer).
As with all Braun shavers, the models ending in CC (or CCE/CCPS) include a cleaning system, while the ones ending in s (for example the 9517s) do not.
Please note that an old s model (standing for Solo) that starts with 90 or 92 (like the 9293s) will not work with a cleaning station.
And that is despite the fact that they look identical to the cc variations and even have the two metal studs on the back that charge the shaver when placed in the station.
Those older s models (now discontinued) lack a dedicated chip needed to communicate with the station.
On the other hand, the latest solo Series 9 models that start with 93 (like the 9330s), 94 (like 9419s), 95 (for example, the 9517s) or 96 will work with a compatible cleaning station purchased later on (more details here).
Braun Series 9 PRO+ 9517s
I never recommend cleaning stations if they’re not needed, but in the case of the Series 9, I think they add to the experience and are genuinely useful.
I like that I can take the cartridge out, put the cover back and store it until the next time I use the station.
This prevents the alcohol-based solution from evaporating and the station won’t take up unnecessary space on the countertop.
Also, the price difference between an S and a CC model is not that steep.
And on that matter, considering the purchase price and the costs of the cassettes, the Series 9 doesn’t quite offer the best value for money.
If your budget is limited, consider the Series 8 instead (more on that later on).
The price of the Series 8 is lower and the replacement shaving heads also cost less.
If you have a light to medium beard and also shave often, the Series 9 with its 4 blades is probably overkill and again the Series 8 will easily be good enough.
Finally, if you just want a close shave above everything, the next shaver should be a better option for most users.
2. Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65-S
Also available at Walmart, Panasonic.com.
Pros
- Very close shaves
- Adequately comfortable for most users
- Very fast and powerful, suitable for coarse facial hair
- High quality, sharp blades
- Excellent wet shaving performance
- Very easy to clean manually
- Great value for money
- The best integrated hair trimmer
Cons
- Not quite as comfortable as a Series 9 or 8
- Replacement foils & blades are pricey
- Overkill for light beards
- Bulky shaving head needs some getting used to
- Not as good as a Series 9 or 8 for flat-lying, wiry hairs
Deal alert: The newer Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV67-K is identical performance-wise (it even uses the same foil & blades) but can sometimes be bought for less money.
Panasonic is Braun’s only real competitor in the foil shavers segment.
Even though Panasonic never managed to achieve the same popularity as Braun in the USA or Europe, the quality and performance of their shavers are usually outstanding.
The Arc 5 line represents Panasonic’s take on what should be the ultimate electric razor: 5 individual cutting elements, a fast linear-drive motor, and extremely sharp blades.
Side note: Panasonic also released the 6-blade Arc 6 six years ago, initially only in Japan.
And while it’s a fantastic shaver, the improvements over the Arc 5 are marginal and mainly related to comfort. The Arc 6 is also much more expensive.
As a result, choosing the Arc 5 over the Arc 6 seems, at least for the time being, the more sensible decision.
Remember what I previously said about the sheer number of options and the lack of proper documentation regarding the differences between them?
Well, there are 4 different generations of Arc 5 shavers (plus 9 different revisions of the third one), and many of them are still available for purchase in 2026.
Further reading: you can check out my in-depth Panasonic Arc 5 guide for a complete overview of all the models.
However, the purpose of this article was to make it easier for anyone to find the right shaver.
And that also means eliminating the clutter created by the excessive number of similar or redundant shaver models.
As a result, I will only come up with a single Arc 5 option: the Panasonic ES-LV65-S from the second generation (full review).
This shaver currently represents the best Arc 5 variation in terms of costs and performance.
I think for most users it’s a better option than even the new ARC 5 PRO, which costs a lot more, but brings along marginal improvements.
Tip: You can sometimes find a few other Arc 5 models like the ES-LV67 for even less than the ES-LV65 when they’re on sale.
The ES-LV67 is another Arc 5 iteration with a different design, but it shaves exactly the same as the ES-LV65.
It uses the exact foil and blades and the differences are only related to things that don’t affect shaving performance (aesthetics, LED display, operating the travel lock).
Apart from the black ES-LV67-K, there are three new color variations, currently only available in the USA:
- ES-ALV6HA (blue)
- ES-ALV6HR (red)
- ES-ALV6HS (silver)
Again, any of the ES-LV67-K, ES-ALV6H (A, R or S) and ES-LV65-S will shave the same.
My advice would be to simply buy the one you can find (for less money).
In my opinion the price should again be the decisive factor — unless you want a certain model for another specific reason (like the color).
Side note: the last letter (-K, –A, –S, –R) only refers to the color and can often be left out of the name.
Tip: if you live in the UK/Europe, the blue ES-LV67-A is usually the best pick thanks to its lower price:
While the Series 9 (and Braun shavers in general) excel in comfort and in dealing with longer whiskers, Panasonic is arguably the best when it comes to closeness.
And this isn’t the case with just the Series 9 and the Arc 5.
It’s the same situation in the lower-end spectrum as well, where models like the Panasonic Arc 5 and Arc 3 outperform Braun’s Series 8 and 3 respectively when it comes to closeness.
This inevitably comes with a small trade-off in comfort for Panasonic.
But the Arc 5 is the razor to buy if your priority is getting a very close shave.
It’s probably the closest an electric shaver can get to a razor blade with the current technology and without any major tradeoffs to comfort.
Panasonic manages to deliver this excellent performance by using very thin foils machined with great precision and high-quality, sharp blades.
These blades feature an aggressive 30-degree bevel for effective cutting.
The motor powering the Arc 5 is a 14 000 CPM (cycles per minute) unit, the fastest yet to my knowledge.
Actually, there is a Xiaomi 5-blade shaver out there that supposedly reaches 15 000 CPM, but during my tests, its performance proved to be underwhelming compared to the Arc 5.
For the sake of comparison, the Braun Series 9 has a 10 000 CPM motor.
Specs aren’t everything of course, but this difference between the Arc 5 and the Series 9 is hard to ignore.
The result of all these features is one of the fastest, closest-shaving electric razors you can buy in 2026.
As expected, the Panasonic Arc 5 will have no problem shaving a very coarse beard with ease.
Being a wet/dry model, you have the option to use it with your favorite shaving cream and further improve the closeness and comfort of the shave.
And for me, this option also works really well.
Since Panasonic razors aren’t quite as gentle as the ones from Braun, adding a quality shaving cream can improve the comfort significantly.
This way, you can still get that close shave without any major trade-offs to comfort.
But if getting back to using creams and gels doesn’t sound too appealing, you can throw in a pre-shave lotion and enjoy a quick dry shave (here’s a roundup of my favorite pre-shaves).
A pre-shave is the next best thing if you want to improve the comfort and closeness of a dry shave with minimal costs and no extra work.
To sum it up, the ES-LV65-S/ES-LV67/ES-ALV6H are some of the best electric razors you can get for very close shaves, coarse facial hair, and fast shaving sessions.
This Arc 5 trio makes a really strong case for itself, especially with the current price drops.
You can get an Arc 5 with a cleaning station as well in the form of the Panasonic ES-LV97-K (or the older ES-LV95-S).
It comes with an updated and more compact cleaning station and the detergent-based cleaning fluid lasts a long time.
You also have the option to only dry your shaver (you can’t do that with a Braun station for example).
However, I would recommend skipping the station because the Arc 5 is easy to clean manually and it can cost a lot less than the models that include the cleaning base.
The Panasonic cleaner is also not as practical as let’s say Braun stations (you must mix the detergent with water in the station’s tray and you can’t take it out and store it for later use).
Regarding the costs associated with the Arc 5, it fares very well for a high-end shaver.
The purchase price is very reasonable considering the performance and it undercuts a Series 9 for example by quite a lot.
Not including a cleaning station with the ES-LV65-S definitely helps with keeping the price low.
The foils and blades are a bit pricey (part number WES9032), but similar to other premium replacement parts like the Series 9 cassette.
Here’s another bonus tip for current or future ES-LV65-S/ES-LV67/ES-ALV6H users (Panasonic probably won’t appreciate me sharing it).
You can actually use the new foils and blades of the third-generation Arc 5 shavers. They will fit the ES-LV65-S and ES-LV67/ES-ALV6H perfectly.
The part numbers for those are ES9036 (revision C and D), ES9038 (revisions E and F), ES9040 (revisions G, H and J).
While the closeness offered by the new foils is identical, they are a bit more comfortable than the older ones that originally came with these Arc5s.
So this would be a quick, easy and relatively inexpensive way to upgrade your ES-LV65-S when it’s time to replace the foil and blades.
Still related to costs, you won’t be spending any money on cleaning detergent, but if you opt for the ES-LV97-K variation, the detergent packs are quite reasonably priced and will last longer than Braun’s alcohol-based solution.
Let’s now see when you shouldn’t get an Arc 5 and what other razors would be better.
If you have very sensitive skin or suffer from ingrown hairs, you should opt for a Braun Series 9 or 8 — depending on your budget.
The ES-LV65-S can be a bit aggressive in this case, even though it doesn’t get as hot as some Panasonic Arc 4 models used to.
Again, if you don’t have very sensitive skin, you’ll probably be perfectly fine dry shaving with an Arc 5.
Another scenario that can cause some problems is when shaving longer hairs, particularly if they stay flat on the skin and/or grow in different directions.
The problem isn’t cutting the hair, but rather capturing it.
If we look at the shaving head of the Arc 5, we can see that Panasonic focused on closeness and not on catching flat-lying hairs, despite the use of a specially designed slit cutter.
A Braun Series 9 or even 8 will simply work better in this case.
If you’re still sold on getting the Panny, one workaround would be to shave more often.
The problem of wiry, flat-lying hairs is less of an issue if you shave daily or every other day and your beard is short.
And finally, if you have a light beard or you’re just getting started with electric shavers, an Arc 5 with 5 blades and a massive shaving head is probably too much.
In that case, I would suggest saving some money and going for a Panasonic Arc 4 (if you can still find one) or even an Arc 3.
3. Braun Series 8 8567cc
Also available at Walmart, Braun.com.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Similar to the Series 9 performance-wise
- Good value for money
- Useful cleaning station
- Suitable for medium to coarse beards
Cons
- Doesn’t shave as close as a Panasonic Arc 5
- Not as refined as the old Series 7
- Mediocre hair trimmer
Deal alert: If you don’t need a cleaning station, get the Braun Series 8 8517s instead. It shaves the same but costs less and will even work with a station purchased later on.
Although the Series 8 was launched six years ago, it remains the most recent Braun model in my list of recommended shavers for 2026.
And that’s because for many years, this spot used to be reserved for the iconic Braun Series 7.
One of the best-selling shavers of all time, the Series 7 was versatile, reliable, comfortable and easy to use. A perfectly safe buy for anyone.
Sadly, Braun discontinued the Series 7 and replaced it with a new generation, the Series 7 360 Flex.
Unfortunately, that one proved to be underwhelming and in my opinion a downgrade from the original Series 7.
As such, the only worthy successor of the mighty Series 7 is now the Series 8.
Luckily, the Series 8 is a viable alternative that excels at precisely the same things as the discontinued Series 7: comfort, ease of use, versatility (being effective on short and longer stubble) and value for money.
So where does the Series 8 sit within Braun’s current hierarchy?
At least on paper, it should be superior to the Series 7 (the original one).
The original Series 7 was however the slightly better shaver (a bit more refined, comfortable and slightly more capable with longer, flat-lying hairs).
But the Series 8 is no slouch either and especially if you can get one at a great price, it’s a very capable shaver.
Just like the Panasonic Arc 5 is a more budget-friendly Arc 6, the Series 8 represents a more cost-effective alternative to Braun’s Series 9.
The Series 8 appears extremely similar in terms of proportions, construction, and aesthetics to the Series 9.
With its mostly black or silver color scheme, the S8 is however more subdued and strictly from an aesthetic point of view, I think it’s one of the better-looking shavers out there.
The long hair trimmer, as well as the head locking mechanism of the Series 8, are again the same as the ones on the Series 9.
Upon taking a quick look at the actual shaving head of the Series 8, you’ll notice a striking similarity to the original Braun Series 7:
The Series 8 uses an identical setup, with three individual cutting elements: two finishing foils and one middle trimmer that captures longer hairs.
It’s therefore no surprise that performance-wise, the Series 8 and 7 are quite similar.
As mentioned earlier, the Series 7 was more refined, a bit more comfortable and slightly faster.
The Series 8 also vibrates a bit more when cutting the hairs and makes more noise. But the final result, both in terms of closeness and comfort, is similar.
Fun fact: All Series 8 shavers, including the latest 85 & 86 models, use the same 3-blade shaving head called 83M.
So despite what Braun says with their 3+1 Pro head claims, just know that all Series 8 models have 3 active cutters. Only the Series 9, 9 Pro and 9 PRO+ have 4.
The Series 8 is readily available globally and you shouldn’t have any problems buying one.
There are many S8 variations you can buy, but the 85xx generation would be my pick, mainly because of the price.
The S8 8567cc seems to be the best option as it costs less than other similar Series 8 models.
Alternatively, the previous 84xx generation (for example, the 8457cc) is still a viable option if you can find one for less money.
Again, it will shave exactly the same as the 85xx series.
I own the older, first-generation S8 8370cc, but the shaving performance is identical to the newer models.
That said, I recommend getting the 84xx or 85xx Series 8 as it comes with a better cleaning station that also includes a fan for drying the shaving head.
Those stations are actually the same ones that come with the Series 9 93xx and 94xx models.
The one included with the 83 Series 8 models (like my 8370cc) lacks an active drying system.
However, all of them are equally effective at cleaning the shaver and use the same cleaning cartridges.
You can also get a solo Series 8 model like the 8417s or 8517s if you don’t want the station.
Cleaning it manually is fairly straightforward, but you should do it after every shave to avoid dirt buildups inside the cassette.
The Series 8 represents one of the best choices for men with sensitive skin who are primarily interested in shaving comfort and effectiveness as opposed to getting the closest possible shave.
I find the closeness of the Series 8 to be easily good enough, but again, something like a Panasonic Arc 5 will provide a closer shave for most users.
The Series 8 seems to be fitted with a similar motor to the one in the old Series 7, so it will have plenty of power to shave coarse stubble.
It works great when used on reasonably short facial hair, so if you shave more often, you should get excellent results.
I even manage to get a really good shave when I use it on a three-day beard, so the Series 8 works better in these situations than a similarly priced Panasonic like the Arc 5.
That middle trimmer manages to catch stray hairs efficiently and in fewer strokes.
All Series 8 models are suitable for wet & dry use, but to be perfectly honest, shaving cream doesn’t do much for the Series 8 in terms of improving the results.
Braun shavers in general are very comfortable during a dry shave and the closeness won’t be improved to a significant degree if you shave wet.
A pre-electric shave lotion would be a better option as it’s very easy to apply and you’ll probably notice a difference.
The slide-out hair trimmer on the Series 8 is the same as the one on the Series 9, so it isn’t the best out there as it suffers from the same shortcomings.
Regarding the costs, a cc Series 8 does quite well, even though recently the prices have gone up a bit.
A cc Series 8 model costs less than a cc Series 9 and so does the replacement shaving head (83M).
To save even more money, you could opt for a solo variation of the Series 8 like the 8517s, but in my opinion, the cleaning station is worth spending a bit more.
Also, if you decide to get one later on, it will work with any solo Series 8 model (more details about the compatible Series 8 stations here).
To sum it up, the Series 8 is a more affordable Series 9 that delivers on the expectations, especially if you shave somewhat more often (daily up to three days).
4. Philips Norelco i9000 Prestige Ultra
Also available at Philips.com.
Pros
- Great for long, flat-lying hairs
- Close and comfortable shaves
- Suitable for coarse beards
- Can be used as a head shaver
- Feature-packed and quality accessories
- Replacement heads last a long time
Cons
- A Panasonic Arc 5 will shave closer
- The Braun Series 9 is still more comfortable
- No integrated hair trimmer (only separate)
- No full-fledged cleaning station
- Pricey
Deal alert: the Philips Norelco i9000 Prestige Ultra XP9405/84 doesn’t include a cleaning Pod, but usually costs (a lot) less.
Let’s now shift our attention to the first rotary razor, the Philips Norelco i9000 Prestige Ultra.
It’s also the newest addition to my list, with the i9000 series being launched by Philips less than a year ago.
Until now, my pick for a high-performance rotary shaver used to be the S9000 Prestige.
And while it’s still a fantastic option that you can now get for less money, I had to choose the i9000 Prestige Ultra for mainly one reason.
And that reason is the ease of use.
The main criticism of the previous Series 9000 and S9000 Prestige was the large, thick shaving head.
While the performance itself was excellent, many long-time rotary users felt the experience took a hit with the new design.
Philips probably took notice of the feedback and all the new i9000 models (regular, Prestige and Prestige Ultra) now come with thinner, rounder heads:
This makes using the i9000 easier, especially when shaving right below the nose and the jawline.
The i9000 Prestige Ultra is now the most feature-packed and best-performing Philips rotary you can buy.
It is available in 5 variations in the USA, all of them performing identically, with the accessories and color being the only real differences.
Here is a comparison table:
| Model | Accessories |
|---|---|
XP9405/84 | Charging stand, beard trimmer, travel case, brush, USB-A cable |
XP9402/86 | Quick Clean Pod, charging stand, beard trimmer, travel case, brush, cleaning cartridge, USB-A cable |
XP9403/88 | Quick Clean Pod, charging stand, beard styler, nose trimmer, travel case, brush, cleaning cartridge, USB-A cable |
XP9400/89 | UV power case, beard trimmer, brush, USB-A cable |
XP9401/92 | Quick Clean Pod, UV power case, beard trimmer, cleaning cartridge, brush, USB-A cable |
If you want the crop de la crème and money is not really an issue, the Prestige Ultra is the rotary for you.
There are some caveats of course and I will get to them as well, but first let’s see the pros of this shaver as they’re quite a few.
Being a rotary razor, the i9000 Prestige Ultra has some specific advantages over most foil shavers.
In my opinion, the most important one is the way rotary razors can capture and cut difficult facial hair.
I’m talking of course about long, wiry, flat-lying whiskers.
The shaving unit has three individual cutting heads that can flex inward and adapt to the contours of the face.
The cutting heads of the Prestige Ultra feature both holes and wide slots that catch long and flat hairs with ease, even if they grow in different directions.
By using a combination of overlapping circular and straight strokes, the hair can be captured very efficiently.
Being able to shave a 5-day beard without significantly compromising the experience is probably the most impressive thing about this razor.
Not only did it manage to cut the hairs, but it did so without any pulling, which can often happen when trying to shave a longer beard.
Philips claims that it can handle a week’s worth of beard growth; I haven’t tried it myself, but I think it’s doable given how good it was on a 5-day beard.
An advanced rotary shaver that can handle long hairs is not however something out of the ordinary.
In fact, even the older or less expensive models performed very well in these situations.
What sets this shaver apart though is the comfort.
In this regard, the i9000 Prestige Ultra (and the S9000 Prestige) is a massive improvement over the older flagship rotaries (Series 9000) from Philips.
It’s one of the very few rotaries I would actually recommend to users with sensitive skin.
I always had to deal with irritation and razor burn and most rotary shavers would inflict some of that, no matter how careful and thorough I would be.
My neck is particularly susceptible to this, so I was pleasantly surprised at how gentle and smooth the Prestige Ultra is.
The key is of course to use controlled, circular motions and, most importantly, not to apply excessive pressure.
I tried to see how forgiving the shaver is and it turns out it’s not too forgiving — at least when compared to a Series 9 Pro.
Pressing too hard or moving the shaver too fast can cause some stinging and even tiny nicks on my neck.
So while it is a comfortable and smooth shaver, it will fight back if you’re sloppy.
Just let the shaver do the work, take your time, and again, do not apply excessive pressure.
The closeness was among the best I ever got from a rotary razor.
Because the Prestige Ultra is very comfortable, I’m able to be more thorough and get a smooth shave.
And the comfort is good throughout all the speed settings, including the most powerful one you can only unlock via the Philips GroomTribe app.
So you would need to install the app and pair your shaver with your phone, which isn’t ideal in my opinion.
In this Custom mode, you can set the motor of your Prestige Ultra to run at 2300 RPM. That’s 100 RPMs more than in the Intense mode available by default.
Side note: The Custom mode is the main performance upgrade of the Prestige Ultra over the less expensive i9000 and i9000 Prestige (non-Ultra).
For more details, including the features and app connectivity, you can check out my in-depth review of the Prestige Ultra.
Overall I was happy with the closeness, but it was not quite the best, at least not for me.
A quality foil shaver will provide a closer shave in most cases, with Panasonic being the best overall in my opinion.
Another aspect worth mentioning about the i9000 Prestige Ultra is the build quality.
While it’s very good, one would expect a bit more from a shaver in this price range.
For example, the first-generation S9000 Prestige (now discontinued) came with a metal body and it had an exquisite premium feel in the hand.
The i9000 series is all plastic but still seems sturdy and durable. It just won’t wow you like the old metal Prestige.
Let’s now check out some of the cons and see when you should and shouldn’t get this shaver.
And I’ll start with the price as there’s really no other way to put this: the Prestige Ultra is an expensive shaver.
It’s among the most expensive on this list and it doesn’t even come with an automatic cleaning station.
Regardless of how useful such a cleaner would be, I think they should have included one with such a premium-priced product.
However, Philips doesn’t provide an automatic cleaning and charging station anymore for any of their shavers.
The change of paradigm probably has something to do with cutting manufacturing costs.
That said, with certain i9000 Prestige Ultra models like the XP9403/88 or XP9402/86 we do get a so-called Quick Clean Pod.
This pod is a very compact and basic cleaning device that uses a detergent-based solution to clean and lubricate the shaving head.
However, it is not electrically powered and relies on the shaver itself to pump the cleaning fluid from the cartridge and into the cleaning well.
It has some inherent shortcomings — it can’t charge the shaver, the solution foams a lot and oftentimes some clipped hairs remain inside the shaving head.
But it’s still practical, pretty effective, easy to store and I guess better than nothing.
I was skeptical at first, but I came to like the Pod after using it consistently. I think it’s one of the more useful accessories you can get for your shaver.
Cleaning the Prestige Ultra manually is pretty straightforward most of the time (involving rinsing the shaver with tap water and optionally some liquid soap).
But it can be time-consuming and fiddly when performing a so-called thorough cleaning.
That involves taking apart each cutting head, cleaning the rotary blade and comb, and putting them back together.
The combs and blades are matching pairs, so you’ll have to take extra care not to mix them as the performance of your razor will take a hit.
It’s a shame Philips didn’t include a fully automatic cleaning & charging station, but if you want the very best rotary shaver, you’ll have to shell out and overlook this.
As for which Prestige Ultra to buy, my picks would be the XP9402/86 or XP9403/88 models with the cleaning pod.
They also include other useful accessories like a charging stand (you can of course plug the cable directly into the shaver).
If you live in Europe, any Prestige Ultra variation with a cleaning pod would be fine (the performance across the range is the same).
The SH91 replacement heads last a long time and the price is on par with a Braun Series 9 cassette.
The Philips i9000 Prestige Ultra can be one of the best options if you shave less often and you have a lot of flat-lying hairs.
Some men prefer to shave once or twice a week, which can be a problem for many electric razors out there, regardless of the price point.
The Prestige Ultra can however handle that shaving frequency just fine.
Rotary razors are often considered to be better for coarse facial hair compared to foil shavers.
While I don’t agree with this as a general rule, this one is indeed adequate for shaving thick, wiry hairs.
But if you’re especially interested in getting a very close shave, you should probably look elsewhere.
Again, the closeness is excellent for a rotary razor, but some quality foil shavers will outperform it.
Panasonic edges ahead in this regard and depending on your budget, an Arc 5 or an Arc 6 will be better for a very close shave.
But Panasonic is nowhere near as good with long and flat-lying hairs as the Prestige Ultra, so you’ll have to shave more often to compensate for that.
I would also argue that a Braun Series 8 or 9 will be a safer choice for most users if you don’t need a shaver that can handle a one-week beard.
Unless you’ve used a rotary shaver before with excellent results, I think you should rather consider a Panasonic or Braun (depending on your needs).
You’ll likely be saving some money as well, especially with the Panasonic Arc 5.
Takeaway: a rotary razor like the Philips i9000 Prestige Ultra can be an excellent choice for men who don’t shave often and have wiry, thick hairs that grow in different directions.
However, it may not be ideal if you have very sensitive skin or you want a very close shave.
In that case, a Braun Series 8/9 or a Panasonic Arc 5, respectively, will be more suitable.
5. Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s
Also available at Walmart.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Inexpensive replacement shaving head
- Very good value for money
- Wet & dry use
- Excellent for beginners
- Durable and low cost of ownership
Cons
- Doesn’t shave as close as a Panasonic Arc 3
- A bit underpowered for coarse beards
- Works best when used on shorter facial hair
- Mediocre hair trimmer
The Series 3 is Braun’s entry-level family of electric shavers and a direct competitor to Panasonic’s Arc 3 (Series 700) line.
The highlights of the Series 3 ProSkin shavers are the affordable price and the very decent performance for the money.
Both the shavers and the replacement heads (called cassettes, part number 32B/32S) usually cost less than the corresponding Arc 3 parts from Panasonic.
While the closeness is not quite as good, the Series 3 is slightly more comfortable and gentler to the skin compared to an Arc 3.
It’s also more effective when used on a slightly longer beard, requiring fewer strokes for a clean shave.
There are several Series 3 ProSkin models available, ranging from dry-only models that include a cleaning station (like the 3050cc) to wet/dry models like the 3040s or 3010s.
My default recommendation for a Series 3 model is the Braun S3 ProSkin 3040s as it represents a great balance of price and features.
Alternatively, the 3010s that I reviewed here is also worth considering, but keep in mind that it doesn’t include a slide-out hair trimmer.
The prices and availability of these models tend to change a lot, so make sure to check out both before buying.
For example, if you can grab the 3040s for roughly the same money, definitely go for it.
I will however say that the slide-out trimmer on the 3040s isn’t that good, requiring many passes to cut all the hairs.
But it is better than nothing.
The Series 3 3040s can be used wet or dry and the very simple shaving head is easier to clean manually compared to a Series 9 for example.
So a cleaning station is not a must-have in this case.
Moreover, models like the Series 3 3050cc that come with a cleaning base cost quite a lot more and are getting difficult to find.
Whichever Series 3 ProSkin you end up choosing, the shaving performance will be the same.
Choosing the best one for you should come down to the features you’ll be needing (hair trimmer, cleaning station, wet/dry capabilities, etc.) and, of course, the price.
The dry-only Series 3 models can also be operated with the cord plugged in, while the wet/dry ones won’t work due to safety concerns.
If cordless & corded use is a must-have feature, you may want to check out the dry-only Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3000s.
The 3000s does not feature a hair trimmer like the 3040s but other than that it shaves exactly the same.
All Series 3 razors will work best when used daily or every other day. Longer hairs will cause problems to most basic foil shavers, including the Series 3.
It is however better than the Panasonic Arc 3 in this regard.
And because it’s very comfortable, with the foils remaining cool during the shave, the Series 3 is a suitable razor for users with sensitive skin.
Also, both from my own experience and from numerous user reports I can confirm that the Braun S3 is one of the most durable shavers and should last for many years.
Let’s now see when you should consider a couple of different options.
If you’re mainly interested in getting a close shave, then a Panasonic Arc 3 or even the Remington F5 will be better in most cases.
If you have very coarse facial hair, the Series 3 will eventually get the job done, but it’ll take you longer to shave and it won’t be that enjoyable either.
If that’s the case, investing in a more powerful shaver like the Braun Series 8 or a Panasonic Arc 5 would be a good idea.
6. Panasonic Arc 3 ES-LL41-K
Also available at Walmart, Panasonic.com.
Pros
- Close shaves
- One of the best all-around budget razors
- Fast and powerful, suitable for coarser facial hair
- High quality, sharp blades
- Excellent wet shaving performance
- Very easy to clean manually
- Good integrated hair trimmer
- Comb attachments for beard trimming
Cons
- Not quite as comfortable as a Braun Series 3
- Works best for shaving daily or every other day
- Pricy replacement foil & blades
Another great option for an affordable electric shaver is the Arc 3 from Panasonic.
As the name suggests, the Arc 3 electric razors have a three-blade shaving system with the distinctive arched profile of the cutters.
Side note: Arc 3, Lamdash 3 and Series 700 are all Panasonic trademarks for their 3-blade electric shavers.
The arched foil is common throughout all the current 3-blade Panasonic razors.
What isn’t common though is the output of the motors the shavers are equipped with, ranging from 7 600 to 13 000 CPM (Cycles Per Minute).
It comes as no surprise that the ones fitted with the more powerful units perform exponentially better.
As a result, I highly recommend considering only those particular Arc 3 variants, like for example the ES-LL41-K, ES-LL21-K, ES-LT67-A, etc.
There are of course other Arc 3 models besides those that will perform identically, including the newer ES-LT4B or ES-LT2C fitted with the same powerful motor.
Fun fact: You may see these newer models listed as Series 700 instead of Arc 3. Just know that the Series 700 is just a rebrand of the Arc 3 family.
So as long as you see in the specs sheet that the shaver has a 13 000 CPM motor, you’re all good.
My personal pick from the Arc 3 line would be the ES-LL41-K (or ES-LL21-K in Europe) as it’s usually the most reasonably priced of them all.
Since we’re talking about an entry-level shaver, the cost should be a decisive factor when making your pick.
In the past, my choice for an affordable Arc 3 would have been the venerable ES8103S:
Despite looking a bit dated — it was launched 17 years ago — its performance was very similar to the latest Arc 3 models (they even use the same inner blades).
Sadly, it has been discontinued, so my new budget-friendly Panasonic razor for 2026 is the ES-LL41-K.
There are other Arc 3 models that look more premium, like the ES-LT67, but the shaving performance is the same.
Moreover, those LT Arc 3 are unnecessarily large and particularly the foil frame is somewhat bulky compared to the one on the ES-LL41-K.
Here’s a side-by-side picture and the difference is quite significant:
Even though the LT Arc 3 represents an upgrade in terms of aesthetics, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend one over the ES-LL41-K.
The shaving performance is the same but again, the ES-LL41-K is just a bit nimbler thanks to its compact form factor.
It’s the main reason why I tend to recommend it over the ES-LT67 for example.
The ES-LL41-K is a relatively new addition to the Arc 3 family and includes two unique beard trimmer attachments.
You may or may not use them, but they are very practical for trimming or maintaining a stubble/designer beard.
They fit over the shaver’s integrated trimmer (which is very good on its own) and allow you to cut the hair at a specific length (1 to 7mm in increments of 1mm).
The European ES-LL21-K model only comes with the small attachment (1 to 3 mm).
These combs may be very practical if you haven’t shaved in a long time and you need to pre-trim your beard before shaving.
So it’s somewhat of a 2 in 1 shaver and trimmer, but the shaver part is the main reason why I picked it.
I think the ES-LL41-K is one of the best affordable foil shavers out there.
With a punchy motor, sharp blades and solid construction, it offers great performance and good value for money.
I previously mentioned that the Panasonic Arc 4 and Arc 5 excel at providing close shaves when compared to similarly priced foil razors from Braun.
This trait trickles down to the entry-level offerings as well, the ES-LL41-K (and other Arc 3 models) being some of the closest shaving razors at this price point.
Again, as long as they’re not fitted with less powerful motors (like the underwhelming ES-SL41-S Arc 3), all Arc 3 variations will offer similar performance.
So with regards to closeness, the ES-LL41-K fares well, better than a Braun Series 3 for example or a similarly priced Philips.
The powerful 13 000 cycles per minute motor and the high-quality blades make it suitable for a coarser beard as well.
Shaving light or medium facial hair is a non-issue for the 3-blade Panasonic.
When it comes to comfort, the ES-LL41-K is very good, but could sometimes cause some irritation if you have very sensitive skin or if you press too hard.
These shortcomings can be reduced by lubricating the blades regularly and by using a pre-shave lotion.
But the most effective method is in my opinion the addition of a good shaving cream.
Again, I know most men will prefer to shave dry, but Panasonic razors perform the best out of all the brands when shaving wet.
So at least give it a try if you’re not entirely satisfied with the comfort or the closeness.
To get the most out of a Panasonic Arc 3, shaving more often would be a very effective workaround (daily or every other day will yield the best results).
The ES-LL41-K can usually be bought at a reasonable price and you’ll often stumble upon great deals.
The replacement foil and blades set (part number WES9013PC) costs less than the 4 or 5-blade Panasonic parts and it’s readily available.
However, a Braun Series 3 replacement cassette costs even less and in my experience will last a bit longer as well.
The Arc 3 is an excellent choice for beginners because it’s easy to clean and operate, it’s fully waterproof, the shaving head is quite slim and nimble and the shavers themselves can take a beating.
If you want an even lower cost of ownership, you’ll definitely be better off with a Braun Series 3 ProSkin.
7. Philips Norelco Series 3000 Shaver 3600
Also available at Walmart, Philips.com.
Pros
- Suitable for 1 to 3-day beards
- Close and comfortable shaves
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Durable & inexpensive shaving heads
- Great value for money
Cons
- An Arc 3 or Series 3 will shave closer
- No travel lock
- Cordless only
- Mediocre pop-up trimmer
Deal alert: If you also need a charging stand, get the Philips Norelco Shaver 3900 instead.
If you don’t want to shell out for a Prestige Ultra, then you should check out the new Series 3000 from Philips.
While there are a couple of other rotaries that fill the gap between the top-end Prestige and the affordable Series 3000 — like the new Series 7000 and 5000 — I would pick the Series 3000 over those.
There are a couple of reasons for that.
First of all, the Series 3000 models, as well as the replacement shaving heads, cost less.
Secondly, the performance of those shavers like the Series 7000 and 5000 isn’t significantly better.
In fact, I would argue that the Shaver 3900 and 3600 from the new Series 3000 are better in several ways.
The closeness and comfort are very similar, while the Series 3000 form factor, ergonomics and ease of use are superior.
In my opinion, those things make the new Series 3000 a more compelling option for someone who needs a reasonably priced rotary shaver.
As a side note, there used to be another mid-range rotary from Norelco that I absolutely loved: the Series 6000.
That one was basically a budget Series 9000 (Prestige) that came with almost identical shaving heads (check out the side by side shot below) and it shaved almost as good for a fraction of the price.
Oddly, Philips decided to discontinue the Series 6000 less than 2 years after this shaver was launched.
It used to be my default recommendation for an affordable, but still capable rotary.
But since you can’t get it anymore (or the cost is prohibitive if you still manage to find one), the new Series 3000 is the next best thing and in some ways, it’s even better.
Just like the Braun Series 3 and the Panasonic Arc 3 are the go-to options for an affordable foil shaver, the Series 3000 is a worthy contender from the rotary camp.
There are two widely available models in this series: Shaver 3600 and 3900.
The only differences between the two are the color and a charging stand that comes bundled with the 3900.
As such, the Shaver 3600 usually costs less, so if you don’t need a charging stand, you might as well save some money and get that one.
Performance-wise, they are absolutely identical.
While its name and price would suggest a low-end shaver, I think it punches above its weight and it is in my opinion the most compelling affordable rotary you can buy right now.
To be more precise, the comfort and even the closeness are surprisingly good.
It deals with longer and flat-lying hair noticeably better than a foil razor that costs roughly the same, like a Panasonic Arc 3 or any Remington for that matter.
The way the Series 3000 handles difficult hair is pretty impressive, but that’s to be expected from a rotary.
I wouldn’t say it was quite as good as the Prestige Ultra or the Series 9000, but it will nevertheless be more than capable of shaving a 3-day beard.
The closeness of the shave is on the other hand typical for an affordable rotary shaver, meaning not quite the best out there.
I found the Prestige Ultra to give a closer shave, but again, you should probably consider a foil shaver if closeness is more important.
As someone who never really got along with rotaries, the comfort of the new Series 3000 was remarkable during my time with it.
I’d say it’s only second to the Prestige Ultra and the new Series 9000/i9000.
If you don’t press too hard and don’t move the shaving head too quickly, it’s about as smooth as a Braun Series 3.
It’s got a decent amount of power too, and will probably be good enough for users who don’t have a very coarse beard.
This is the only area where the top-of-the-line rotaries are superior, but also cost a lot more than the Shaver 3600/3900.
On the other hand, the Series 3000 manages to one-up those in other areas.
For example, it comes with a handy flip-open shaving head which is a lot more practical than having to pry it off with your fingernails.
And you’ll be doing this quite a lot when cleaning the razor. The original S9000 Prestige for example doesn’t have this feature.
The Series 3000 is fully waterproof and you can rinse it clean with tap water.
All the models are wet/dry, cordless-only shavers, but the battery life is excellent.
I also prefer the shaving head and form factor of the Series 3000 to the Prestige Ultra, Series 9000, 7000 and 5000.
Precisely, it’s easier to use and more manageable for beginners, particularly when compared to the large angular slabs of the new Series 7000 and 9000/Prestige.
The cutting heads themselves are also suspended on these tiny springs, which are extremely responsive and help maintain the guards in contact with the skin.
This is in addition to the flexing of the plastic holders in which the cutters sit.
For some reason, the high-end rotaries like the Prestige Ultra and Series 9000 lack these springs and they are truly useful, not just a gimmicky feature.
Finally, the Series 3000 has an integrated pop-up trimmer. The Prestige Ultra models only have a separate click-on attachment.
And while it’s far from being the best (Panasonic is in a different league when it comes to hair trimmers), it’s nevertheless handy for some quick grooming.
The replacement cutting heads (called SH30) are inexpensive and will last a long time.
And despite using a single track, these cutters proved to be quite effective in practice.
To sum it up, the Philips Series 3000 is a great option for users who also sometimes shave less often and need a comfortable electric razor that can handle longer facial hair but don’t want to pay a premium for a high-end rotary.
Just remember that the closeness won’t be quite as good compared to a decent foil shaver in that price range (like the Braun Series 3 ProSkin or the Panasonic Arc 3).
Also, if this is your first electric razor, a Series 3 or an Arc 3 will probably be safer options (more on foil vs rotary shavers in the next section).
8. Remington F5 (F5800)
Also available at Walmart, Remington.
Pros
- Close shaves
- Affordable
- Inexpensive replacement parts
- Very good value for money
- Corded & cordless use
- Durable and low cost of ownership
Cons
- Not the best design and ergonomics
- Innefective hair trimmer
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
- Works best only on short hair
- No travel lock
Finally, my last pick for 2026 is a very interesting shaver that comes from a remarkable brand.
Remington was one of the electric shaver pioneers back in the day and they’re the ones that came up with the micro-foil.
Sadly, their shavers from the past 20 years or so just couldn’t keep up with the big three.
However, there’s one model that deserves attention.
The Remington F5-5800 is the most successful shaver in their lineup and for good reason.
It’s a reliable 3-blade foil shaver with a fair price and surprisingly good performance.
In particular, the closeness is excellent, very similar to a Panasonic Arc 3.
But the F5-5800 is half the money and the replacement foil and blades will also set you back less.
Granted, the design is nowhere near as nice and it has some quirks, like the very large body and the wonky hair trimmer.
But as a shaver, it can hold its own.
Moreover, it’s one of the few that works corded and cordless, making it even more appealing for the budget-conscious user.
I’d say its main competitor is the Braun Series 3 ProSkin as it costs pretty much the same (to buy and to own).
The Remington F5-5800 is in my experience a bit better with the closeness, but the Braun is more comfortable and catches flat-lying hairs with fewer passes.
The Series 3 ProSkin is also more compact and has better ergonomics.
So I can’t really say that one is better than the other.
But one of them should make more sense depending on the user’s needs and shaving habits.
The F5-5800 would be a good option for a close shave and frequent use.
It’s a dry-only shaver, but it is waterproof, so cleaning is just as easy.
Battery life is very solid as well at 60 minutes of cordless use and you can always shave with the cord plugged in.
The hair trimmer is pretty bad, among the worst I’ve used actually; it just doesn’t cut the hair efficiently and folds back during an upstroke.
So that’s something you’ll have to put up with.
But even so, I think the Remington F5-5800 is still a very compelling option for a shaver that’s affordable, shaves close and should last for many years.
Honorable mentions
There are a couple of shavers I would like to mention but didn’t make the cut.
Specifically, the Original Braun Series 7 and the Panasonic Arc 4 ES-LF51-A.
These two used to be my default picks for a foil shaver in the mid-range price category.
Sadly, they have been either discontinued or replaced by a new (and inferior) generation.
I still decided to mention them as they used to be extremely popular a few years ago and there are still many who own and use them regularly.
The Panasonic Arc 4 ES-LF51-A is a 4-blade foil shaver fitted with the same punchy motor as the Arc 5.
But with a much slimmer head and an overall more compact body, it was more manageable and more user-friendly.
It was one of the most powerful and closest-shaving electric razors I’ve ever used.
The build quality was rock solid as well.
And it was only marginally more expensive than an Arc 3 for example, making it a compelling option for someone concerned mainly with the closeness of the shave.
If you somehow manage to still find one for a good price, I think the Panasonic ES-LF51-A is one of the all-time greats.
It’s a shame Panasonic decided to abandon the Arc 4 line completely.
As a result, for 2026 the best alternative to an Arc 4 would be a reasonably priced Arc 5 (regardless of model).
Last but not least, there’s the legendary Braun Series 7, probably the most successful electric razor of the past 20 years.
I am referring of course to the original Series 7, with models like the 790cc or 7865cc that got replaced by the new Series 7 360 Flex.
Sadly, the new one is just underwhelming and feels like a more powerful Series 3.
It’s a step down in every aspect from the old generation which was a top-rated and highly acclaimed shaver.
The OG Series 7 was a versatile, powerful, very comfortable and easy to use 3-blade foil shaver.
You might still be able to find one, but since the replacement shaving heads are difficult to source, it’s probably not a viable option anymore.
Tip: the current Series 8 head (83M) will actually fit, so if you own an old Series 7, definitely consider this instead of hunting for an original 70s head.
But as I said earlier, for a new shaver, the best alternative to the original S7 would be the Braun Series 8, which is similar performance-wise.
Not quite as refined or effective with flat hairs, but still pretty good and a lot better than the new Series 7 360 Flex.
Rotary vs foil: picking the right type for your needs
You may have noticed by now that there are a lot of foil shavers in this list and only a couple of rotaries.
And while both can be viable options in various situations, I think for most users a foil shaver will usually be a safer choice.
They exhibit fewer specific shortcomings and it’s easier to get around most of them.
In my opinion the foil vs rotary razors is a futile debate if we don’t take the context into account.
Just like we did previously for individual shavers, we can do that for foil and rotary shavers in general.
The Pros and Cons of rotary shavers
Most rotary shavers have four clear advantages over the foil type:
- they are generally better at cutting longer hairs
- the cutting heads usually last longer
- they’re better at containing the clipped hairs inside the head unit
- they are significantly quieter
I don’t know how important the last aspect is, but it’s the one thing we can objectively determine with a smartphone app for example.
And in that regard, the Philips Norelco Series 3000, one of the most affordable on this list, is also the quietest.
But the ability to capture and cut longer hairs is in my opinion something that rotary razors generally do better, regardless of the price point.
Some foil shavers are however surprisingly good in this regard as well.
For example, the Braun Series 8 and especially the Series 9, but the rest will only perform well on shorter facial hair.
This is quite obvious with entry-level foil shavers, but sometimes even very advanced and expensive razors like the latest Panasonic Arc 5 or Arc 6 are still nowhere near as good as similarly priced rotaries from Philips.
So if your budget is limited and you need a shaver that can handle a 3 to 4-day beard, you may want to consider a rotary razor.
As for which one to get, that really depends on your budget.
You can opt for an entry-level model like the Series 3000, a mid-ranger like the Series 5000/7000 or a high-end shaver like the Series 9000 or the new i9000 Prestige Ultra.
I’ve read numerous comparisons of rotary and foil shavers and one aspect that constantly pops up is that rotary shavers are better for coarse hair.
In my experience, this is not always true.
Both can be just as good for coarse hair, but as expected, the very basic models will lack the power of the premium razors.
This will of course cause your shaving sessions to take longer and won’t be as enjoyable, regardless if you’re using a foil or a rotary shaver.
A rotary head does have wider slots, so if the hair is unusually thick, it will be more effective than a foil razor.
Let’s now take a closer look at the cons of rotary shavers.
Since the main advantages of foil shavers are the closeness and comfort of the shave, we can easily guess the main disadvantages of rotary razors.
Because of the way they work, rotary shavers generally cannot shave as close or as comfortably as foil shavers.
The rotary cutters sit behind pretty thick metal guards as opposed to the thin perforated metal screens on foil shavers.
This creates a larger physical barrier between the blades and the skin.
In the past, Philips tried to compensate for this by using a double-blade design with most of their shavers called Super Lift&Cut.
In theory, the first blade would lift the hair and the second would do the actual cutting.
In reality, this didn’t always seem to work very well, even with high-end shavers.
When using a rotary that features this Super Lift & Cut design, the first blade tends to yank the hairs — and I can definitely feel it, especially when shaving my neck.
It’s very unpleasant and it can cause small cuts as well if tiny bits of skin tissue (surrounding the hair follicle) poke through the slots in the combs.
It’s one of the reasons why applying more pressure generally leads to more discomfort when using such a rotary shaver.
This is made worse by the very low speed at which the blades rotate (around 2000 RPM compared to 10 000 – 14 000 CPM in the case of most foil shavers).
This increases the chances of hairs getting pulled, so you must take your time and don’t rush through a stroke.
Some users don’t seem to experience this type of discomfort and that’s great. Again, there are men who get fantastic results with rotary shavers.
But for someone with sensitive skin (and for the majority of users in general), a foil shaver is probably the safer choice.
Philips actually ditched the OG Super Lift&Cut, probably because it was too aggressive and harsh on the skin.
Instead, we have either a single-blade design for low-end shavers (Series 1000 to 3000) or a refined double-edge design called Lift&Cut (Series 5000 to 9000/Prestige).
For the new Lift&Cut, the gap between the two blade edges is a lot smaller, so there’s really no more yanking and pinching.
The result is a massive improvement in comfort, but the price of the Prestige Ultra models for example is very high and in my opinion a Braun Series 8 is still more comfortable for most users.
It costs a lot less, it shaves closer, it’s easier to use, and also comes with a proper cleaning station.
And even some Series 9 variations, including the PRO/PRO+, cost less.
I still included the i9000 Prestige Ultra in this list because it’s objectively the most capable rotary shaver you can buy right now.
The comfort of rotary shavers can be further improved with a few adjustments (pre-shave lotion, shaving cream, proper technique), but still not to the extent of representing a better option for most men with very sensitive skin.
The same goes for closeness — most users will have a better chance of getting a close shave with a decent foil shaver like the Arc 5.
The Pros and Cons of foil shavers
Generally, the pros of foil-based machines will be the comfort and the closeness of the shave.
You’ll probably agree that those are some pretty significant pros.
I think most users, especially those just getting started with electric shavers, will have a better chance of getting a satisfactory shave using a foil razor.
The very thin foil screens help achieve a closer shave and because the blades oscillate at a much higher speed compared to a rotary, there are fewer chances of hairs getting pulled during a faster stroke.
This usually results in a smoother, gentler shave.
Another advantage that stems from this is that foil razors are more forgiving when you’re not too careful with your technique.
For example, when pressing a bit too hard or when moving the shaving head too fast.
There are of course foil shavers that are plain bad.
But in the case of similarly priced, decent shavers, a foil razor will usually get you a closer and more comfortable shave vs a rotary.
Yes, a low-end foil shaver will have trouble with longer, flat-lying hairs, but you can get around that by shaving more often or pre-trimming the beard.
A pre-shave lotion or shaving cream can help as well.
And finally, if your budget allows it, some foil razors are really good with longer stubble as well.
Braun is clearly on top here, with models like the Series 9/Pro/PRO+ or even the Series 8.
Most foil shavers are also easier to use and to clean, if you ask me.
The shaving unit of foil razors is comprised of 2 to 6 active shaving elements.
These are narrow, straight foils or special cutters that allow greater precision and control, especially below the nose or around the sideburns.
Even the Arc 5 with its behemoth shaving head takes less effort to shave those areas compared to a 3-blade rotary razor.
The use of short, straight strokes against the grain makes foil shavers suitable for beginners as well.
And with foil shavers, you also have a lot more options (Braun, Panasonic, Remington, Wahl, Andis), while you’re basically stuck with Philips if you want a decent rotary shaver.
Remington has a few rotary models as well, but I’ve tried several and I honestly cannot recommend them.
Finally, foil shavers aren’t perfect either.
For starters, they just don’t work very well on long facial hair (usually this means a 3-day beard or more, depending on how fast your hair grows).
As mentioned previously, you can get around this by shaving more often or by getting a more capable shaver.
Another problem is the heat generated during use.
Because the blades oscillate at a very high rate and they rub against the foils, some of them can get pretty hot.
Braun shavers fare very well in this regard, usually remaining very comfortable and cool to the touch.
Panasonic and Remington foil razors tend to get hotter.
Lubricating can help with this, and you can use either a light mineral oil or a special cleaning & lubricating spray.
The Andis CoolCare Plus spray works particularly well with foil shavers.
The foils and blades also tend to wear out faster compared to the guards and blades of rotary razors.
A foil is much thinner, the tolerances are tighter and the oscillating speed of the blades is a lot higher.
This generates a lot of friction and wear.
The blades are also much thinner compared to a rotary cutter and they rub against the foil at a 90-degree angle.
As a result, they will get blunt faster.
Finally, foil shavers vibrate more and are generally much louder.
This can be a real issue in several situations (for example, I get a lot of emails from parents of teenagers with autism who need a really quiet electric shaver).
There’s not much to do about it except getting a rotary shaver; that’s simply the best option in such a case.
When should you pick one over the other?
I think we can conclude that overall, foil shavers have fewer (major) drawbacks and most of them can be mitigated.
But the choice of a rotary or foil shaver should come down to your personal needs and what would work best for you, so we cannot simply postulate that foil shavers are better than rotaries or vice versa.
If I were to summarize this rotary vs foil dilemma, it would be something like this:
Buy a rotary shaver if you:
- Shave less often (every 3 to 4 days or more) and your budget is rather limited; an inexpensive rotary shaver will likely perform better than an inexpensive foil razor in this case;
- Don’t have very sensitive skin;
- Need a really quiet electric shaver.
Buy a foil shaver if you:
- Want the best chance of getting a close and comfortable shave;
- Shave more often. Most entry-level foil shavers don’t perform very well on longer, flat-lying hairs; if shaving more often is not an option, spending more money on a Braun Series 8/9 is well worth it;
- Have sensitive skin;
- Have never used an electric shaver before. I think foil shavers are easier to use, clean, and care for, making the transition from razor blades smoother.
Is it better to shave wet or dry with an electric razor?
This continues to be one of the more frequently asked questions when it comes to electric shavers.
And the answer is a bit more nuanced and not as straightforward.
Both methods have their merits and one may be better than the other depending on the situation.
You can also alternate between them and that’s a perfectly viable option as well.
1. Shaving dry with an electric razor
The most popular way of using an electric razor is the so-called dry shave.
And it’s exactly what it sounds like: you just pick the shaver and start shaving right away, without any additional prep work.
Granted, you can apply a pre-shave lotion for example and I think doing so is beneficial in most cases, but that’s still practically zero extra work.
And that’s why shaving dry is so popular: it’s quick, effective and cleaning your shaver takes less time.
The downside? Difficult facial hair (very coarse, wiry, flat-lying) and sensitive skin, along with a less capable shaver, can make things more difficult.
For example, several Panasonic and Philips shavers are a bit harsh when used dry and can cause some razor burn.
The same shavers are however milder and more forgiving during a wet shave.
In some cases, the closeness of the shave will also be improved with the addition of a good shaving cream, although the improvement can vary quite a lot among different users.
The actual electric razor matters as well.
For example, in my experience, any closeness gains as a result of using a Braun razor with shaving cream aren’t really worth the trouble.
And the comfort should already be good enough even for men with sensitive skin.
Personally, I always shave dry with Braun electric razors as they’re good enough in all the areas that matter (comfort, closeness, and effectiveness when shaving flat-lying hairs).
Side note: you can read more about all the shavers and products I currently use here.
That doesn’t mean other brands or types of shavers can’t work well when shaving dry, especially if you don’t have any serious issues with post-shave irritation.
But I think using a Braun razor for shaving dry is almost always a safe bet.
Also, compared to other foil shavers (Panasonic, Remington), Braun is better at catching the clipped hairs inside the head.
When I shave dry with a Panasonic razor, there’s significantly more mess on my t-shirt and forearms.
The clipped hairs that end up on the face can be annoying as you can’t always tell them apart from a patch that still has some stubble left.
This is yet another reason why I tend to grab a Braun razor when I want to shave dry.
If you don’t have an automatic station, the cleaning part is also less of a burden when you shave dry.
A quick rinse with tap water can be enough.
No soap also means you can get away with lubricating your shaver less often.
If you use shaving cream, cleaning with soap is a must; otherwise the lather residue will solidify and remain stuck in the nooks and crannies of the foil.
I would however recommend cleaning your razor with water and soap every once in a while, even if you only shave dry.
To sum it up, considering the decent results and the minimal work involved, I think a dry shave will work best for most users as the default way of shaving.
2. Shaving wet with an electric razor
The prospect of lathering probably doesn’t sound too appealing for someone who ditched the razor blade for an electric shaver.
And that’s totally understandable.
A wet/dry electric shaver will however allow you to use pretty much any of the shaving products you’d normally be using with traditional shaving.
These include shaving creams and soaps, shaving gels, pre-shave oil or even pre-shave creams.
And the purpose of all that is to prime the hair and skin and make your shave better — closer and more comfortable.
So what is normally recommended for an old-fashioned wet shave, like washing your face with a mild cleanser and warm water, hot shower, hot towel on the face and so on, is still recommended here.
The only difference is that you’ll be using an electric shaver instead of a manual razor.
In my opinion the only tweak you’ll need to make in order to get the best possible shave is with regards to the lather.
Precisely, the consistency.
With traditional wet shaving, you’ll want that nice, rich, cushioning layer of lather.
But with an electric razor, that type of lather will likely be detrimental to the quality of your shave.
Moreover, you’ll have a hard time assessing the areas that need more passes.
Instead, you only need a thin layer of watery, pasty lather. Palm/face lathering works best in this situation.
Further reading: I wrote a dedicated guide on how to wet shave with an electric razor. I highly recommend checking it out for more info.
While it takes longer than a dry shave, the results can be quite astonishing.
For example, if you have a really coarse, thick and dense beard and you’re usually having trouble with getting a close shave, this may be the answer.
I don’t shave wet too often anymore (because of time constraints), but I do treat myself every once in a while or when I have an event to attend, like a wedding or a more formal dinner.
For me, a Panasonic Arc 5 (or an Arc 6) + shaving cream is unbeatable. The closeness is just phenomenal and so is the comfort.
A rotary wet/dry Philips Norelco will also work impressively well.
As mentioned previously, with other shavers (Braun) the differences aren’t really that impressive, even if the shave itself is very enjoyable.
Apart from wanting to get a closer shave, men with sensitive skin should also consider wet shaving, especially if using the shaver dry leads to irritation and razor burn.
I already hinted at the downsides of wet shaving, so there are no surprises here: it’s time-consuming.
The prep, the shave itself and the more thorough cleaning required all add up.
But in some cases, it’s totally worth it.
Cleaning an electric razor after a wet shave needs to be pretty thorough.
I prefer to use warm water and liquid hand soap because it’s highly effective.
If you also have a cleaning station, you should rinse and pat dry the shaver before putting it into the station.
The lather/foam causes pressure buildup inside the cartridge (mainly with Braun stations) and the solution will not last as long and you’ll need a new cartridge sooner.
In case of a manual clean, soap also strips away any lubricant, so you will need to oil your shaver after every soap + water cleaning.
You can use either a light mineral oil (like clipper oil) or a spray lubricant for electric shavers.
Further reading: How and when to lubricate your electric razor.
So wet shaving isn’t intrinsically better than dry shaving (and vice versa) and you should just stick to the one you prefer and that gets you the best results.
I’m a proponent of always trying something to see if it works and it’s worth your time, so just give it a try if your shaver is a wet/dry model.
Apart from the Remington F5-5800, all the shavers recommended in this guide are suitable for wet/dry use.
How much should you pay for a good electric razor?
Generally, you should expect to pay anywhere from $30-40 for an entry-level electric shaver to around $300 for a high-end model.
That said, what constitutes an expensive or an inexpensive electric razor is relative.
But what is pretty clear though is that some shavers offer better value for money than others.
The above list of recommended shavers includes the ones I truly consider to be the best in that regard as well.
For example, the Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65-S shaves almost the same as the latest but significantly more expensive Arc 5 models.
So it makes perfect sense to recommend it over those.
But if you don’t mind paying more for nicer features that don’t really improve the performance, like a nicer design or a hard leather case vs a textile pouch, then you should get a newer model.
I won’t be mentioning explicit price points as I don’t think my idea of an affordable or expensive shaver is important or relevant.
What truly matters is being able to decide when upping your budget will be worth it.
For example, if you have very coarse, thick stubble, buying a Panasonic Arc 5 instead of an Arc 3 will probably be worth it.
Likewise, if you have very sensitive skin and often have to wait a couple of days or even more between shaving sessions, getting a Braun Series 9 instead of a Series 3 will be money well spent.
On the other hand, even an entry-level foil shaver will be enough for men with light beards and getting something like a Braun Series 9 PRO+ or an Arc 6 would be overkill.
Of course it will still work great, but so will an inexpensive Series 3.
I tried to emphasize precisely these situations for every shaver I picked, so hopefully you’ll be able to buy the one that makes more sense for your needs.
The cost of the shaver itself and of the replacement cutters/foils should cater to all budgets.
How to get the most out of your shaver
Now that you’ve hopefully settled on a shaver that is suitable for your needs, it’s time to put it to good use.
While this won’t be a comprehensive how-to guide, I’ll try to outline the most important aspects of using an electric razor and getting the best possible shave.
This often comes down to making small tweaks to your shaving routine/technique in order to compensate for certain shortcomings of the shaver.
As we saw, almost every electric razor has its pros and cons and we just have to pick the one that checks most of the boxes for our needs.
In no particular order, here’s how to use your shaver the right way.
Get the basics right.
Apart from choosing a suitable shaver, these will likely have the biggest impact on the quality of your shave.
- Always shave dry before washing your face or taking a shower.
- Always shave against the grain.
- Do not apply excessive pressure and use controlled, slower movements to avoid hairs getting yanked and skin pinching.
I know you’ve probably been told to shave with the grain to avoid irritation, but that advice is specific to traditional shaving (with a manual razor).
An electric shaver needs to go against the grain in order to cut the hair effectively and with adequate comfort.
Make sure your facial hair has a reasonable length.
I’ve seen quite a few online user reviews accompanied by photos of nicks and bloody faces, stating that a particular shaver is terrible and will just shred your face to pieces.
But almost all of these reviews had something in common: the users were trying to shave a half-inch beard. With an electric shaver.
I cannot stress this enough: electric shavers are NOT beard trimmers and are only intended to work on short facial hair.
Apart from a couple of models like the Philips i9000 Prestige Ultra and even the Braun Series 9 that can handle longer hairs (4 to 5 days of growth), most electric shavers will only perform optimally on short stubble.
So if you haven’t shaved in a long time, definitely use a beard trimmer beforehand.
Shave more often if your shaver struggles with flat-lying hairs.
As mentioned throughout this post, some electric razors, especially the less advanced models, can sometimes miss hairs that stay flat on the skin.
The problem becomes worse as the length of the hair increases, so shaving more often can result in better performance.
Braun and Philips shavers are quite good at cutting difficult hairs, so this mainly concerns Panasonic and Remington foil razors.
Use a pre-shave lotion to improve the comfort and closeness of your shave.
Generally, an electric razor that’s able to shave extremely close won’t be that great for comfort — and vice versa.
In order to address this without adding too much overhead to your dry shaving routine, a high-quality pre-shave lotion is the way to go in my opinion.
They’re fairly inexpensive and take seconds to apply.
You should notice an improvement, especially if you use a less capable electric shaver like the Braun Series 3 or Panasonic Arc 3.
It can also help with flat-lying hairs.
My current favorite pre-shave is from a German brand called Speick.
After testing pretty much all the popular pre-shave brands out there, that one proved to be the best in terms of effectiveness, quality, fragrance and even cost.
Allow your skin a few days to heal if you suffer from severe post-shave irritation.
Subjecting your skin to another shave while it’s still tender will just make things worse.
Instead, you should wait at least a couple of days between shaving sessions.
A gentle shaver that can handle longer hairs would make the most sense here. Depending on your budget, you should consider a Braun Series 8 or 9.
Avoid switching back and forth between an electric shaver and a razor blade.
Some men prefer to use razor blades for that really close shave, but also grab an electric shaver when they’re in a rush and just need a quick dry shave.
This is not ideal and should be avoided.
A razor blade will scrape off a thin layer of skin cells, which triggers the body to produce scar tissue.
It takes a few weeks to get rid of it and during that time you won’t get the best results with an electric shaver.
This is why all electric shaver manufacturers state that you should allow your skin a few weeks to get used to the new way of shaving.
So it’s best to simply pick one method and stick to it.
Side note: some lucky few aren’t really affected by this. If you’re one of them, great, feel free to use whatever whenever.
Clean your shaver after every use and lubricate the cutters regularly.
While you don’t have to be extra thorough every time, make sure to clean your shaver after every use.
Most shavers are waterproof and can be simply rinsed with water.
Lubrication is also vital to the shaver’s performance and longevity, especially for foil shavers. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it.
If you use a cleaning station regularly, there’s no need for additional lubrication.
Get a spray cleaner & lubricant.
They’re fairly inexpensive and can work wonders in several cases.
Apart from cleaning and lubricating the blades, a spray cleaner will also remove mineral deposits and stubborn dirt.
This will reduce the friction between the blades and the foils/guards, thus generating less heat during use and increasing the lifespan of the cutters.
You can use the spray in addition to your usual cleaning routine.
As for which spray to choose, the Remington Shaver Saver and the Andis CoolCare Plus are two great options.
The former has been discontinued unfortunately, so the Andis is now my default recommendation (readily available and cost-effective).
Make sure the battery has enough charge.
With some shavers, you will notice a performance drop once the battery charge goes below a certain threshold.
This is generally the case with older or entry-level electric shavers.
You’ll want to have at least 30% battery charge in this case, otherwise you will likely experience some hair pulling and the closeness of the shave will suffer as well.
Modern Li-ion batteries aren’t affected by the memory effect like the old NiMh/NiCd batteries, so you can charge your shaver as often as you need.
Take care of your skin.
A great shave starts with a healthy skin.
And men’s skincare is actually extremely simple. Here’s the very basic that works for most men:
- Cleanse your face daily with a mild face wash. My favorite is the Biotherm Homme Aquapower cleanser.
- Use a moisturizer that works well for you in the morning and evening. Also, you should definitely apply sunscreen in the morning.
- Follow up with a hydrating, moisturizing balm after every shave. Yes, you should still do it even if you don’t shave with a razor blade anymore. You can check out a list of my current picks here.
If you have any particular skin condition, make sure to check with your dermatologist before making any significant changes to your routine.
Final word on choosing the right electric shaver
This pretty much concludes my take on the difficult task of recommending an electric razor.
I tried my best to find the ones that provide great value, not just hype.
If several shavers offer almost identical performance, it makes perfect sense to recommend the one that costs less.
This was the process behind selecting these particular shavers.
However, if you can get a great deal on a different model that also meets your requirements and you know it performs similarly, then by all means you should get that one instead.
For example, there are a ton of Braun Series 9 Pro and PRO+ available and all of them shave exactly the same.
Some of the shavers recommended here will be discontinued or updated at some point.
And as we know, a new generation can be anything from a minor visual overhaul to a completely new shaver.
I will update this list regularly to keep it relevant to the ever-changing market of electric shavers.
I hope my approach of determining the best electric shaver for your needs will streamline the process and make it less of a chore to decide what would work great for you.
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As always, if you have any questions, make sure to post them in the comments below.
Norelco went from best to worst in a matter of a few years. Their current line up is total junk. The 9000 Series which replaced the 8000 Series (Sensotouch 3D) is vastly inferior. I tried both and couldn’t believe how bad Phillips dropped the ball. Went back to my 8000 Series but original replacement heads are no longer in production. A shame really. It is the only electric shaver I have ever used that does not pull or tug week long stubble.
Hi Sam,
The move from the old RQ12 to the new heads that use the SH90 individual cutters was controversial to say the least. For me personally it wasn’t a huge performance drop — I still get fairly good results with the new ones as well — but I also know that a lot of the Series 8000 users were simply outraged by the performance of the new shavers/cutters.
I truly hope that Philips/Norelco will roll out a revision and address this. They must be aware of the current situation.
Best,
Ovidiu
I tried resharpening my RQ12+ heads with some polishing compound and it did help them cut better but they still don’t give a smooth shave. Look’s good just not smooth all over. I’ve got some SH-98 heads on order for my S9311, hopefully they will give a smooth shave.
Hi Clayton,
Some sharpening kits like the ones from Vollco can work fairly well. But if the blade doesn’t sit perfectly flush and flat on the guard, the cutting performance of the shaver will take a hit. I think you’ll enjoy your Series 9000 with the SH98, those are arguably the smoothest rotary blades I’ve ever used.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
The SH98 blades do give a smooth comfortable shave, faster too than the SH90’s. I ended up making fewer passes. I like them.
Hi Clayton,
That’s awesome, many thanks for the feedback. Glad you like them.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Salut Ovidiu,
That comment made me more confused because I wanted to buy one of norelco 9000. By the way, I just saw that they have even a 9500 model. How is this compare to the, let’s say 9000 pro plus?
For the past 10 years I had, and still have, a braun series 7 790. I was happy with it, but lately I find it soooo noisy. That bothers me. Thanks,
Ben
Hi Ben,
Thank you for the comment.
A significant increase in noise is caused either by a worn out shaving head and/or some wear of the internals/linkages. Try turning it on with the cassette removed and see if the noise is still there. It should only be a hum with minimal vibrations.
Since you’ve only used a foil Series 7 and with good results, I think you should go with something similar if you decide to get a new shaver. I would check out the non-Pro Series 9 or even the Series 8 before spending more on a Series 9 PRO+. The Series 8 will probably be good enough, but a Series 9 will be an upgrade and it can also deal better with longer stubble when you shave less often.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello, I am also a RQ12 user. Yes, unfortunately I can’t find a replacement head. I am also thinking of buying a Braun S9+ but I am seriously undecided. As a former Philips user, would I be satisfied? Please help…
Hi Serkan,
There’s always a chance that a different type of shaver won’t be suitable. That said, foil shavers are generally a safe choice and many lifelong Philips users have actually found them to work better. The motors are a lot faster and the closeness is generally better. Most of them will work optimally on short stubble (so you would need to shave regularly for the best results). However, the S9 PRO+ can handle a longer beard as well (up to 3-4 days of growth).
You may need a few shaves to adjust your technique — foil razors work with straight strokes against the grain as opposed to the circular motion you would use with your Philips shaver. I would also start on short stubble as it’s easier.
In the unlikely case that you won’t be happy with the Braun, you could maybe return it and consider a Philips S9000 Prestige instead — that one would be a logical replacement for your current rotary. Braun does offer a money back guarantee, but it is country-specific, so you would need to check with the store to make sure you can return it.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Dear Ovidiu,
I will buy Braun series 9 pro+ by following your advice. I will share my experiences. Thanks for your help.
You are very welcome, Serkan. Hope you’ll like it and I’m looking forward to your thoughts on it when you have the time.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I agree as I used to have the Norelco Sensotouch 3D now the 8000 series with the original head. The replacement head is really inferior yet it costs almost the same as the original replacement head which is very difficult to find now, as any remaining stock is or has disappeared already.
Bought the Panasonic ES-LA63-S Arc 4 and like it but after a few months, it feels that it wasn’t shaving that closely anymore esp. flat lying hair. Charge it fully and make sure it’s clean and the original head should last at least a year. Too bad the head is so big and bulky!
Also, the replacement head set is expensive as it’s ~$55, which is almost 1/2 the cost of the razor itself.
It’s crazy how expensive the replacement heads cost!
Considering using a simple razor blade razor and shaving cream.
Hi Michael,
The replacement shaving heads for Panasonic have always been notoriously expensive.
If you noticed a drop in performance after a few months, get them properly cleaned and you’ll be surprised by the difference this can make. I recommend a cleaning spray like the Remington Shaver Saver. It’s inexpensive, easy to apply and also lubricates the cutters.
If that’s not an option, let the blades and foil soak in warm soapy water for one hour, then rinse them thoroughly and let them dry. Don’t forget to lubricate the blades on a regular basis, especially if you clean your shaver with liquid soap and water.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Just curious if wd-40 would work?
BTW great overall review, I have pretty much always used a Panasonic, I have an ES7058 that currently does not hold a good charge so I am getting the ES8103S to replace, my other was an ES-LT41 which was a Vortex, never noticed it being more powerful.
Replacement of batteries would not only render difficult on either model but probably more expensive.
If you respond, could you outline the differences between ES7058 and ES8103S
Thank you
Thank you for your comment, Steve.
I would advise against using WD-40 or other penetrating oils. They also shouldn’t come in contact with your skin.
I believe the ES7058 has a 10 000 CPM motor, while the newer ES-LT41 and ES8103S have 13 000 CPM units and curved outer foils. The difference between 10 000 and 13 000 CPM motors isn’t as noticeable as going from a 7 600 to a 10 000 CPM shaver, at least that was my experience. But nevertheless, it’s always preferable to have a more powerful shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Found this very interesting, I have always used rotary (30 years) decided to go with the Braun 9 series. After a few weeks noticed all the loose debris that should collect in the head was going all over me. It went in for repair to come back good for a few weeks until same happened again. Got my money back now.
Was this just a bad egg or has this happened to anyone else
Hi Karl,
I am very curious about the defect and how they actually fixed it. Did they say anything with regards to this? Also, some hair clippings will always end up on your shirt or arms unless you’re very careful about this (regardless of the shaver). Rotary shavers do however seem to be better at collecting the debris in the hair chamber compared to foil shavers like the Series 9.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
Thanks a lot for all the work that you do on this forum. Choosing a shaver may seem like a simple and a petty thing but for a man its a serious matter. I tip my hat to you from all the men!
Now, I am facing a dilemma and was wondering if you had an advice. A year ago I started using panasonic Arc 5 which I purchased after thoroughly reading your forums, my reason to choose arc5 was its ability to shave close and easy manual clean option as my work involves frequent travel and I can’t really keep the cleaning station with me. Now recently I had a bad case of acne which has made my skin very sensitive and Arc 5 is now giving me razor burns when used frequently, so I am planning to buy a Braun Series 9.
My dilemma is that Arc5 has been my first ever electric shaver and I really like its look and feel, so I don’t feel like selling it or getting rid of it while my wife won’t allow me to keep both as we only have so much space on our bathroom counter. I was thinking of keeping Arc5 for only when I travel and keep Braun 9 for regular use. Do you think that would make sense? Or does frequently switching between shavers cause more issues? How do you manage between so many shavers that you trial and test for this noble forum.
Also FYI, I shave dry and mostly use lectric preshave.
Hi Muaaz,
Many thanks for the kind words, I really appreciate it.
I think getting a Series 9 does make sense in this case. I find it more suitable for shaving dry when dealing with (any) skin issues. Granted, the closeness of the Arc 5 will be better for most users, but I think the Series 9 is still easily good enough and considering how gentle it generally is, it’s a worthy compromise.
Switching between two electric shavers isn’t bad in and of itself unless one of them is causing you serious issues. It’s definitely not the same as switching between a manual razor and an electric shaver — that can be detrimental to your results. You could very well hold on to your Arc 5 since it’s still in good shape and only use it as a travel shaver. Also, while I generally recommend getting the Braun Series 9 with a cleaning center, you can certainly get a solo model as well. I like the practicality of the Braun stations+cartridges and the cheap cleaning solutions, but you can of course clean it manually with water and soap. If you won’t be using the station, I don’t think there’s any point in getting it.
If you have the chance, maybe you can try some other preshave lotions as well. The one from Lectric shave is a great option since it’s widely available and cheap, but at least for me, some other brands are better. I am referring to the ones from Speick and Tabac and while they cost more, the performance, texture and scent are superior.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’d say this is normal for Braun shavers (or at least the ones with a powerful motor). frankly it’s one of the reasons, I ditched my trusty 10 years old 7 series for a rotary.
Ovidiu
First off great article! I was wondering if I could get some advice from you. I bought a Braun series 7 about a year and a half ago after a ton of research and a brief stint with a norelco s7370 (rotarys aren’t for me). The Braun performed pretty well, but at the same time I got into wet shaving with a traditional DE. So my braun kind of got shoved in a drawer. I definitely prefer the DE but I travel with carry on bags weekly so I can’t pack a DE and blades. I’ve found that in order to get close shaves even with manual blades I had to do 3 passes and go against the grain on the third, which is a long process. Also since I travel I have to use cartridge razors in and out of airports which aren’t as comfortable as a de. I finally stopped going for that super smooth shave and just went for comfort which avoided a 3rd pass. This “comfort” shave got me about the same closeness an electric would but without the speed and convenience. I started using my series 7 again and I realized I do wish it had the option for a wet shave (not something I do all the time but I do have a badger brush and nice creams), and I also wouldn’t mind a slightly closer shave. For reference I have similar facial hair to you. Sensitive skin, course but rather sparse facial hair. Thick hairs but not a lot of them. Several hairs grow out parallel, to my skin on my neck and can be tricky to get. I also shave every day for work while I’m on my typically 4 day trips and take a break for a few days when I come home and start over again. I’ve had my eye on the Panasonic arc series based on your articles, would you recommend grabbing one of those, or sticking with my series 7? And if you recommend a panny what model? I’ll probably need to grab a new cutting block for the series 7 soon and my cleaning liquid has evaporated so that will also factor into the cost of keeping the Braun vs getting a new razor.
Hi Jay,
Thank you for your comment.
First of all I have to say that I can totally relate to your situation. I went from cartridges to DE razors (and nicer creams & soaps) and finally settled to electric shavers. Unless I’m traveling or I’m reviewing one, I almost always shave wet. And my go to shavers for that are from Panasonic. They simply work better than my wet/dry Braun shavers. For me at least using a Braun with shaving cream doesn’t make that much of a difference.
This setup — Panasonic + shaving cream — works the best for me as it makes the shaver a lot more comfortable while the closeness is also great. I have sensitive skin and shaving dry with a Panny is not as comfortable as using a Braun razor. I tend to get a bit of razor burn above my upper lip and sometimes on the neck.
If you’ll be shaving wet for the majority of time I think you should really consider a Panasonic. Unfortunately I can’t tell how well it will work for you when used dry.
Another bonus for the Panny is related to cleaning. They are much easier to clean compared to Braun, even when you use shaving cream. It literally takes less than one minute to have thoroughly cleaned with a bit of liquid soap. The cassettes used by Braun are fiddly to clean (if you don’t bring along the station). So that would be a big plus for the Panny since you also travel a lot. Also, no more money spent on cleaning cartridges.
Speaking of costs, the prices of Series 7 replacement heads have recently gone up quite a bit. They used to cost significantly less than the ones for Panasonic, but now they are pretty much the same.
Panasonic shavers work particularly well with shorter, coarse facial hair, but aren’t as good as the ones from Braun with longer, flat lying whiskers. But if you’ll shave daily or even every other day this shouldn’t be a problem.
Considering all these aspects, I think a Panny would make more sense in your case. Regarding the model, that really depends on your budget. I think an Arc 5 would be a bit overkill for sparse facial hair, so I would consider an Arc 4 or even an Arc 3. Here are a few models for you to check out: ES-LA63-S, ES-LF51-A, ES8243A, ES-LT41-K. I think the ES8243A currently offers the best bang for your buck, but the prices can vary tremendously from one day to another.
When it comes to shaving and what works for different men there are no guarantees so this is unfortunately the best I can do.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu
Thanks for the quick response! If I do have a lot of growth I’ll probably end up using my DE. Thanks for the model recommendation. I noticed some arc 4s are almost as much as the 5, but that model you recommended has a really good price. If I do dry shave I use lectric shave or Remington face saver. Is that still pretty comfortable? And does the ES8243A still have a pretty powerful motor? What’s the difference between the ES8243A and ES-LT41-K?
You are very welcome, Jay. A pre shave is clearly better than not using anything at all, so I think it would be beneficial. I use Lectric Shave and it does help, even though I don’t really like the oily consistency.
The ES8243A is fitted with a slightly less powerful motor compared to other Arc 4 and Arc 5 models (13 000 CPM as opposed to 14 000 CPM), but that should still be easily enough. Compared to the ES-LT41-K it has an extra blade, meaning that you should be able to complete your shave faster with the Arc 4.
Just a quick word of caution — if possible, avoid switching back and forth between razor blades and electric shavers. A razor blade shaves off a thin layer of cells, causing the body to produce scar tissue and until it gets rid of that tissue (which can take at least a couple of weeks), your shave with an electric razor may suffer. So unless you really have to, it’s best to stick to just one of them.
Thanks for the caution. I didn’t know there would be issues switch between them. If that’s the case I definitely want a wet/dry so I can use my good shaving cream.
Sounds like the ES8243A will be a good fit. I don’t imagine the slight difference in the motor will make a huge difference. What would be your second recommendation?
Any other Arc 4 that you can get at a better price: ES-LF51-A, ES-LA63-S. I’ve seen these two on sale for less than $100, so keep an eye on them as well.
So I’ve done more research and I’ve narrowed it down to a few models. Of the arc 4 line my favorite is the ES-LF51-A. It’s aesthetically better looking than the ES8243A and has the slightly more powerful motor. Price difference is only $10. I do like the ES-LA63S but it is almost as much as the arc5. So if I’m going to go that high I might as well get the 5. Currently the ES-LV65S is only $35 more than the ES-LF51-A. Do you think it would be worth it to upgrade to the arc 5 for that cost difference? I’m also still considering the arc 3 ES-LT41-K as it’s very cheap right now but I still want a pretty solid razor.
I actually use both the ES-LF51-A and the ES-LV65-S pretty often and I think they are fantastic performers. The ES-LF51-A is a lot more nimble and easy to use though because of its slimmer shaving head. The ES-LV65-S has that massive head and 5 blades are bit overkill in my opinion; if you have very dense and coarse facial hair I think you would benefit from it, otherwise the Arc 4 will be just as good. Coming from a Series 7 I think you’ll feel more at home with the ES-LF51-A.
The replacement foils & blades combo for the ES-LF51-A also costs less. The ES-LT41-K is the most budget friendly, both the shaver and the replacement parts are cheaper. It’s a solid shaver as well, but to me the Arc 4 feels a bit faster (14 000 CPM + three micro-foils).
Thanks for your advice. I feel very informed! I have to admit I was a little swayed by the fancy LED and aesthetics of the arc 5, but that shouldn’t really matter. Didn’t really think about the head size being that different from the 4 and 5. I’ll order the ES-LF51-A. I’ll probably keep my series 7 around for dry shaves as well. Thanks again. All the best.
Hi Ovidiu, thanks for making this list. I’m currently using a DE razor and it’s great but
I’m looking for something more convenient and able to be used in the mornings when I’m less bothered. I recently purchased a Series 9000 Philips electric razor. I’m not very impressed with it. At best, after a good number of passes, I get something closer to a 5 o’clock shadow.
If I intend to shave every day or two, I understand the ES-LV65 you mentioned was overkill at the price point, but budget aside, would that be my best bet for a close shave? And in your experience, were you able to match the closeness of a DE razor + Feather brand blades?
Hi Dan,
Thank you for your comment. If you’re interested in getting a close shave and your facial hair is rather coarse and tends to grow back pretty fast, then the ES-LV65-S would actually be a very good option.
In my wet shaving days I didn’t really get along with Feather blades, they were too sharp and harsh on my skin. I usually shaved with a milder DE razor and Gillette Platinum or Personna blades. That combination worked best for me. Regarding the closeness, I am able to match it when using an appropriate electric shaver (Panasonic is the best in my experience) and shaving cream. A pre-shave lotion is also a good option if you’re on the run and don’t have the time to build and apply lather.
I cannot guarantee that you will get the same results, but the ES-LV65-S would be your best bet for a close shave. Anything slightly better would also cost a lot more (for example, the ES-LV6N/ES-LV9N).
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu,
I did a bit more reading on the articles you have detailing the differences in the Arc 5 series and I’ll probably go for the ES-LV9C if I can find it somewhere in Europe or when I go to Asia for business this June. Thanks for your advice and your well-written articles!
Regards,
Dan
You are very welcome, Dan. I’m also really eager to get one myself. I’ve seen several variations (ES-LV9Q, ES-LV6Q) listed on amazon.de if you want to check them out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Are you able to tell me if there are any electric men’s shaving manufacturers in the USA? Or,can you suggest a manufacturer that might be willing to produce a prototype for me?
T
Hi John,
Wahl Clipper Corporation and Skull Shaver are two manufacturers based in the USA. Unfortunately I cannot help you any further with other information regarding custom prototypes, but feel free to contact them about it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi. Great article. My local shop has a panny ESLV51 and a ESLV71 at sale prices.
The ESLV71 comes with a cleaner, but other than that I cannot see any other difference.
Also the ESLV71 is slightly cheaper.
Are you able to,shed some,light as the differences between these models please.
Regards
Dave
Hi Dave,
Thank you for your comment. Just a quick correction, the actual model names are ES-LF51 and ES-LF71. But you are absolutely correct, the cleaning station included with the ES-LF71 is the only difference between the two. Since you can also get it at a lower price it’s clearly the better pick. I own an ES-LF51 — identical to the ES-LF71 performance-wise — and it’s an excellent shaver.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi! I wish to leave the the whole ‘shaving with twin blade razor’ routine soon & have been sifting through a lot of links on the internet lately. Found yours to be ‘very’ well researched, practical & concisely explained thereof. Thanks, subscribed!
Initial observations based on my searches: For big spenders, Panasonic seems to be almost every discerning buyers choice albeit by a low margin & for the thrifty spenders like me, Wahl or even Remington makes the cut (pun intended .. ha!).
If you are interested, I found these to be within my price range from Wahl & Remington:
For Home: Smart Shave™ Rechargeable Shaver SKU# 07061-900
For Travel: Heritage Series HF9000 Foil Shaver SKU# HF9000
Cheers !!
Hi Prithvi,
Thank you for your comment and for subscribing to our newsletter!
Panasonic tends indeed to have some very expensive models and the replacement foils & blades combos are particularly pricey. However, you can find a few models that offer excellent value for money like the ones mentioned in this article. I always strive to recommend shavers that offer great value, not just hype (regardless of the brand). I am based in Europe and so far I didn’t get to test any Wahl shavers, but it will happen soon. I love the way the Heritage Series from Remington looks, I think they absolutely nailed it with the design and whole vintage aesthetics. I will be reviewing one to see if it shaves as good as it looks.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you! The Remington Heritage Series, especially the HF9000 just struck a chord right away. I’ll definitely purchase it if it works well. It’d be nice to see your review on this beauty whenever you manage to test one out (as also the Wahl 07061-900). And yes, I have noted that the No. 2 in your list i.e., Panasonic ES-LV65-S Arc 5 even without its cleaning station makes sense but I plan to graduate from a less costly Wahl to a premium Panasonic as time progresses. Who knows Wahl may turn out to be a ‘not-so-bad, rather good’ shaver too !! I’ll keep a tab on above &/or any other recommendations from your side in the meantime. Cheers!!
Hi, this is definitely an interesting read…Was wondering if you had a more in depth article about the differences / pros / cons / contrasting / comparing foil and rotary razors?
I’ve never tried a foil electric razor ever, I’ve had the same Philips Norelco one for a long time, I really don’t like it at all, it leaves red marks all over my neck and the stupid replaceable blade heads get dull very quickly. I need a new one but I don’t think I want to upgrade to anything that will have the same problems…I mean really if I have to keep replacing the blades all the time why not just stick with a manual Gillette Fusion or something?
Maybe I’ve just been missing out because I’ve never tried a foil one before.
Hi Nique,
I actually tried to steer clear of the foil vs rotary debate because it’s a very polarizing topic. Everyone should use what works best for them and both foil-based and rotary shavers can yield great results. With that said, I never managed to get the same (excellent) results when using a rotary shaver compared to a foil-based machine. There’s an unofficial consensus in the community that foil razors are more comfortable and shave closer and at least in my case that seems to be right.
If you decide to try one out, a good starting point would be the Braun Series 7. The shaving head seems to last longer compared to other options and it’a really good shaver overall. It may take a couple of weeks before you get satisfactory results since shaving with a foil razor also requires a different technique. Also, try not to switch back and forth between an electric shaver and a razor blade as the quality of your shave will suffer.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’m not sure why the rotary vs foil is any type of debate; I’ve been using Series 9s and top tier Norelcos for years. Foils are closer vs Rotary shavers are for longer hair/more days between shaves. Currently, I use an Arc5 and an S9000 Prestige. The foil Arc 5 is used almost daily (head and face) for the closest shave. I use the rotary Norelco S9000 in rare evenings, if I want a stubble look by the following evening; or, if I go 3-4 days between shaving. The next item is comfort. All I can say towards comfort is compare any electric to a razor.
Hi Keith,
Thank you for your comment.
I totally agree and I tried my best not to turn it into a debate and just present the facts in a way that can be useful to someone trying to decide between a rotary and a foil shaver. Just like you said, it makes sense to simply use the one that will be more suitable in a specific situation.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Which shaver would you recommend for African tough hair that picks all the hair including long laid hair. Can be used dry and wet. Easy to clean and not a trouble travelling with. What i hate is a shaver you have to rub hard to catch any hair.. but i want a fairly priced shaver but it must perform if cheap and can’t pick all hair then No for me
Hi Fabian,
Unfortunately I don’t think you’ll find a shaver that can satisfy absolutely all those requirements. The Series 9 clearly sounds like a suitable option, but it is pricey and pretty cumbersome to clean manually. However, it’s arguably the best shaver for wiry, flat lying hairs. The next best thing would be a Series 7 (or even a Series 5) that costs less but can still perform quite well on this type of facial hair. Just like the Series 9, the Series 7 and 5 are more difficult to clean manually than other foil shavers.
An advanced rotary razor like the Philips Norelco 9300 or 8900 should also provide a good shave in this situation, but in my experience they aren’t as comfortable as the above mentioned shavers from Braun and a thorough cleaning is time consuming.
All these shavers are available with an automatic cleaning station as well.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
What a great web site. Can you reply to my following comments/question. I’ve had my Braun Series 7 since 2012. It’s time to replace the cassette/head again. I’m seeing them for about $45. But I’m seeing a brand new 7865CC for $170 that is now wet/dry. So essentially in my case, I would be incrementally spending $125 for a whole new shaver and CC (and travel pouch). My only reason for wanting the wet/dry is to be able to easily wash it when I’m traveling. I tend to put it back in the C&C each day when home. One thing I’ve noticed on my shaver is that the plastic color coating is starting to peel off of the body just below where the cassette attaches. It doesn’t affect the performance, just a little unsightly. I tend to take the cord with me when traveling to insure it stays charged. I feel like after 3-4 shaves it doesn’t have the full power of being freshly charged. Any comments on this situation? Also, how long can I expect the lithium battery to last?
I look forward to your response.
Hi Michael,
Thank you for your comment, I’m glad you found the information useful.
The 790cc, despite being a dry only model, can also be safely cleaned with tap water, so the 7865cc doesn’t really offer an advantage in that regard. The wet/dry operation is only useful if you’ll be shaving in the shower or with cream/gel.
Since it’s a wet/dry shaver, it won’t work while connected to the mains via the cord, so that’s again something you should factor in. So far the battery life of my 7865cc has been great, I think I got at least 8 shaves from a full battery. I only did this battery test for the purpose of reviewing the shaver as I normally use the cleaning station pretty often so the battery is fully charged almost all the time.
Lastly, the 7865cc comes with the updated CC station, so the induction heating system and the quick clean setting are gone. That station is now shipped with all Braun Series 7 currently being manufactured, including the 790cc. You should still be able to use your older station if you decide to buy a new Series 7, be it a 7865cc or a 790cc.
The paint flaking is a well known problem with the Series 7 and I couldn’t tell you if it has been fixed with the newer iterations. It takes months of even years for it to happen. But like you said, the damage is only visual.
It’s up to you to decide if buying a new shaver makes more sense than getting a new cassette for your current Series 7. The price is indeed a lot higher than what it used to be a couple of years ago, but that’s the case with pretty much all electric shavers from the middle to high-end segment.
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Follow-up: I would consider splurging for the Braun Series 9. But honestly, I was surprised to learn that the replacement cassette is almost double in price $80 compared to the Series 7. Do they still recommend it be replaced every 18 months?
The price for both seems to fluctuate a lot lately, so the difference may or may not be significant. Braun still officially recommends to change the cassette every 18 months, but at least from what I’ve heard from my readers and other reports, with the Series 9 you may need to change it sooner than that. My 9290cc still works perfectly fine after 6 months, but I use a lot of shavers in my rotation so it’s not really relevant.
Thank you for your diligent and thoughtful reply. Based upon pricing, I think it’s time to replace my ‘old’ Braun S7 with a new one. Based upon pricing and features, I’ll probably go with another Braun S7. I’ll probably keep the old one as a backup. Like other lithium battery products, I’m guessing mine is losing charge capacity. I have used it roughly 2200 times. (Maybe more if including the extra 5 o’clock shadow shaves on the weekends.) Therefore, the capacity is now significantly reduced. For those that haven’t tried this: I tend to do a quick once over before I get in the shower. I use a exfoliator sponge on my face. Then when I get out, I do a finishing shave. This is very effective.
Lastly, the 790cc and the 7865CC are listed for the same price on Amazon. So I’ll probably get the “better” 7865CC. Thanks again for your response.
I’m 83, and have been using a Remington all my life. Haven’t replaced the head or cutters on this latest model. Guess I’m just stupid, because it doesn’t shave worth a darn.
I’m sure I need to spend more $$ this time and get a decent shave, and have new cutters available when needed.
Any ideas for this old timer? Thanks in advance.
My email is: meteor57@sbcglobal.net
Hi Jerry,
Thank you for your comment. While you didn’t mention the type of your Remington shaver (foil-based or rotary), the Braun Series 7 is usually a very safe choice and ticks pretty much all the boxes. I would however recommend you to check out the Series 5. Its performance is almost identical to a Series 7, but it costs less and the replacement heads are cheaper as well. You can opt for a model that comes with a cleaning station like the 5090cc/5190cc or go for a solo variation (5030s, 5040s etc.). The latter is usually cheaper.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
The price of the 9 Series cassettes are currently significantly cheaper…..$45 and on several vendors at less than $50…I just placed an order for a spare cassette for $45…free shipping and no tax…I don’t know how long it’ll last but for the price is reasonable. Anyway…just FYI…
Hi! Came across the cheaper Philips Norelco OneBlade QP2520/70. Its not exactly in the league of recommended shavers in the article here but worth a look.
Hi Prithvi,
Thank you for the suggestion. The OneBlade is more of a niche product and can definitely be a good option in certain situations, like maintaining designer stubble or trimming a goatee. As you said, it’s not exactly the type of electric shaver you would expect to see here. Since I am yet to test the OneBlade I decided to not mention it at all, at least until I have a chance to actually use one.
Best,
Ovidiu
Noted, thanks !! OneBlade does have very high ratings & a sizeable number of users have approved the clean shave that it renders. If its a ‘clean, smooth’ shaver then I am in as I am looking for cheaper options to initiate myself with electric razor usage. Whenever/if you can .. appreciate it !
Hi, Thanks for your great review. I have just one doubt, as I have coarse hair and after shaving y may feel razor burn, I was going to buy the series 9 from Braun, because it is the best one for sensitive skin, but in your investigations’ findings you stated that Braun series 9 is an “Overkill for light beards and/or everyday use”.
Can you please tell me the reason behind that statement and which other option would you recommend for my case, especially considering that sometimes I shave every day and sometimes every 2 or 3 days?
I will really appreciate your answer
Hi Andrés,
Thank you for your comment. I’d say that the Series 9 looks like a good in this case. One of its clear advantages over most other shavers is the ability to capture and cut longer, flat lying hairs with less strokes. In the case of short stubble other less advanced and more affordable shavers (like the Series 7, Series 5 or a Panasonic Arc 4) can perform just as well and if that’s the case you don’t necessarily need a Series 9 (that’s what I meant by “overkill”).
The same goes for a light beard, you don’t need a high-end shaver in order to get a decent shave.
Since you have coarse facial hair, get occasional razor burn and shave daily or every three days, the Series 9 definitely looks like a suitable machine.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Again thanks for your excellent article and for clearing away my doubts
Hi Ovidiu,
First of all, thank you for your intelligent and thorough reviews and articles. I’ve spent a lot of time on your site before deciding on the Panasonic ES-LA63-S Arc 4. After continuously having facial hair in some regard for the last 15+ years, I’ve recently gone babyface, and am looking forward to the close shaves and good value from the Arc 4.
Thanks for all your effort and thoughtfulness!
Ethan
Hi Ethan,
Thank you so much for your comment! I’m glad you found the information useful. The ES-LA63-S is an excellent choice in a variety of situations and I hope you’ll enjoy shaving (again) with your new shaver!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for this article, it’s very well written. I’m buying my first electric shaver and your website gave me all the information I needed without the need to look elsewhere. It’s an excellent example of high quality blogging. All the best!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Mat. I’m truly glad whenever I hear that an article of mine actually helped someone solve a problem. I hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new electric razor!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, thankyou for taking the time to break down what you know about all of these shavers. I shave my face and my head every 2 or 3 days my hair is medium and maybe a little on the fine side and fairly thick. I was using the phillips sensotouch 3D but after seeing the $145 price tag for an original head i decided to try the new head rq12+. My shave times more than doubled and it only lasted 6 months when the original head lasted 2 years. I’m extremely frustrated with Phillips for dropping their good head for the garbage they have now. I’m looking at other options my primary concern is speed. shaving both my head and face takes time and i have a busy schedule. I saw a few references to speed in your post but nothing that compared them all to eachother. Do you have a recommendation on which shaver is the quickest? I should clarify that I enjoy a close shave but speed is more of a priority for me.
Hi Mat,
Thank you for your comment.
I actually decided not to compare all the models against each other with regards to speed as it wouldn’t have been too relevant. For example, I prefer foil shavers and I feel more in control when using one. As a result, it would take me less time to complete my shave using a mid-range foil shaver compared to a high-end rotary shaver. Men prefer different types of shavers, have different beards and different facial features. All these things will have an influence on the experience with a given shaver.
Also, you’re trying to find an electric razor that you’ll be using for both your face and head, which is again a particular situation. For me, the fastest shaver is the Arc 5 from Panasonic, but in your case I would still consider an advanced rotary shaver to be the best option. I’m sure that it would take you more time to shave your head with a foil shaver (even if the closeness would probably be better).
Ever since Philips dropped the older shaving heads in favor of the newer RQ12+ there’s been a constant outrage among existing users — and for good reason. All things considered, I would say that the Philips 9300 from the Series 9000 seems like a good fit for your needs. At least the SH90/62 don’t have the prohibitive price of the older SensoTouch 3D heads and they seem to be quite a bit better than the RQ12+.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
It does! Thanks for the recommendation. I do prefer the rotary shavers over the foil shavers but Ive never tried a nice foil shaver. A lot of people seem to prefer them and I’ve never tried a nice one to make a good comparison. That’s another reason i was happy to find your post. I can’t just set up all of these shavers side by side and try them all. Reading about your experiences with a wide range of shavers was helpful and i understand how comparing speed and making recommendations is hard. Thanks again for the post.
quite some time ago, I bought a Panasonic ES8043. The best I could get was stubble. my son who was just starting wanted the “hugh Jackman” look and that was what he panny could do. Out of desperation, I managed to get a Remington ms3 1700 for the close shave stuff and use a series 1 braun to get the strays (out of its depth for more than that).
now i’m back in the market as the screen on the Remington is shot and the model and replacement parts are extinct. Why should I give Panasonic a second go? is there a Braun that can match the ms3 1700?
Hi Gary,
I cannot give you a definitive answer to your question but I’ll try my best to help.
First of all the ES8043 was released in 2005 and in my opinion Panasonic shavers have been constantly improved since then. That particular model came with a revolutionary 13 000 CPM motor, so it should have been at least as good as other shavers of its time. But then again there are lots of things that contribute to a good shave and for some reason it just failed to deliver. For all intents and purposes, the ES8043 should be better than the MS3-1700. I personally never managed to get a decent shave with any Remington shavers, except for maybe the PF7500.
Regarding Braun, I’m guessing that you’re referring to one that would shave as close as your MS3-1700. To be honest, I don’t find Braun shavers to excel in this regard and I think a Panasonic will provide a closer shave in most cases.
There’s also the budget — you didn’t mention how much would you spend on a new shaver.
The coarseness of your facial hair and how often you shave are two other important factors you should be considering. In the post I tried to recommend what I consider to be the best options for different budgets and different needs, so you should be able to get an idea on which shaver would be a better fit in your case.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Greatly appreciated. Thanks.
I recently purchased a Braun Series-5 Wet/Dry as I felt there are too many needless bells & whistles on the Series-7 and Series-9.
After three years with a Philips Norelco Aquatec. I can honestly say the Braun Series-5 has given me the best and closest shave I have ever experienced – DRY.
I tried it wet using shaving cream on a two day growth and it cut my face to ribbons, this is a brand new razor don’t forget.
I firmly believe shaving wet with an electric razor is a gimmick as is pre-electric shave lotion.
Just wash your face in the shower to remove skin oils and to soften your bristles. Dry face, wait approx fifteen minutes and shave dry. Perfect results with a Braun Series-5. Also the head replacement with the Braun is eighteen months as opposed to Phillips’ twelve months. I bought two replacement heads at $43 for the Braun when I purchased it which should last for the life of the razor.
Hi George,
Thank you for your comment. The Series 5 is indeed a great alternative to the more expensive shavers you mentioned.
When it comes to shaving I think we should all use whatever seems to work best for us. For example, while I didn’t find the use of shaving cream to make a significant improvement in the case of the Series 5, it definitely didn’t cause me any discomfort. Also, a pre-shave lotion seems to improve the results in many cases and the improvements can often be significant. There are many factors at play, from the shaver you’re using to shaving technique and hair type.
However, your approach is clearly working very well for you so, by all means, you should continue doing the same thing.
Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience with the community.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
What’s your opinion of the Norelco 9850 ? Costco sells this for 160. How does this compare to the norelco 8900 ? TIA
It’s at least as good — if you can get a great deal on the 9850, go for it.
Thanks for writing this article, very helpful.
I do have one question, that may seem silly, but what exactly do you mean when you say a shaver is “comfortable” or “not comfortable”?
Do you mean whether or not you feel the shaver pulling some of the hairs vs cutting them?
I’m thinking you do not mean how good it feels to hold in your hand and use, but I just want to be sure I understand how you interpret the comfort level of a shaver.
Thanks
Bruce
Hi Bruce,
No question is silly and yours is actually a very good one. I usually refer to an electric shaver as not being comfortable if it inflicts any form of noticeable discomfort (stinging, burning, rashes, irritation, pulling the hairs etc.) during or after the shave. So you are right, I do not mean anything related to the ergonomics of a particular shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’ve been told the foil shavers are very loud vs. the rotary. Can you respond? Is there a quiet foil shaver? Thanks
Hi Bill,
That’s pretty much correct. Because foil shavers are fitted with much faster motors, they also get pretty loud during use. To me, foil shavers are very similar in this regard — loudness — but some of them sound different than others which may seem subjectively quieter/louder to some. For example, Panasonic shavers have a high pitched, crisp whine, while the ones from Braun emit a lower, muddier hum. But again, in terms of intensity, they are the same. If you really need a quieter machine, rotary razors are the way to go.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you. I currently use a Norelco which in recent years IMO has become junk. Very bad quality and performance.
I just came back to electric shaving after having a full beard for four years. Having a grandfather who worked at Schick Dry Shaver in Stamford. I have shaved with old shavers as well as new. I’ve shaved with Old Schicks, Old and new Remington’s and Norelco. I find Norelco to be the best for me. I had a Norelco that lasted 15 years and just bought a S 1151/81 with cord only like my old one. It shaves very well and does a great job on the neck, with minimal redness. I love your page! Lots of info on a subject that isn’t covered that often.
Hi Mark,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I’m glad you found the information useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you. This entire website is an amazing treasure trove of information on this topic. It was great education and help in choosing the shaver.
Thank so much you for the kind words. I’m glad you found the information useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi!
Thanks for the article, was very informative. I used a phillips rotary throughout my teens and am just sick of rotary shavers. I believe my facial hair falls into the category of ‘long and wiry’ as it definitely is not ‘thick’ in the classical sense. Would you suggest to bite the bullet and go for the Norleco rotary or could the Arc 3 perform well enough with long wiry hair as I prefer a closer shave.
P.s. I currently use a gillette fusion razor because it seems to get all the long hairs the quickest and provide the closest shave but am sick of the cuts!
Hi Vik,
Thank you for your comment. If you want to give foil shavers a try, the Arc 3 may not be ideal for your facial hair. However, you could get great results if you shave more often and your hair won’t be as long or as wiry. Otherwise, a shaver from Braun would be better suited for the job. My recommendation would be a Series 5 as it has a fair price and performs pretty much the same as the more expensive Series 7. In my experience it works a lot better for longer/wiry hairs compared to similarly priced Panasonic models.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’m an electric razor user/fan the past 20+ years.
I have appreciated your article and I have learnt a lot perusing it.
I’m in the process of buying a new razor and cost is not a concern. I have used Philips and Panasonic in the past and currently using a Braun series 7 bought back in 2016.
My skin is very sensitive and quite soft, I love a super comfortable shave with zero irritations, I shave 2-3 times a week always on dry skin.
I’m thinking of a brown series 9 92xx cc.
As I’m obsessed with aesthetics I like the looks of this shaver a lot and I just saw in Amazon a rosegold colour/plated edition.
Which 9 92xx cc model would you kindly recommend? I can pay any price for my razor and save elsewhere
Thank you in advance and sincere congrats for your honesty, thoughtful article and sharing of personal experiences.
Manos
Hi Manos,
Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate it. The Series 9 does seem like a very good fit for your needs.
Regarding your question, all the Series 9 92xx cc models will provide exactly the same shaving performance. So it’s really up to you which one to get as it comes down to aesthetics and costs. Since the price is not a problem, you should simply get the one the appeals to you the most.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
I now own a Philips dry only electric razor that is 20 years old, looks like the philips 1000 series. Never replaced the head.
I am a lazy shaver (to my wifes dislike) but it just takes to long and ik get razorburn in the neck area. Also it is sensitive on the points of my chin and upperlip after shaving.
So i am looking for something new but……
I read your exelent reviews and a a lot wiser but still cant make a choice, maibe you can help?
With the current electric razor i get razor burn and sensitive skin.
I am a lazy shaver.
I tend to press to hard.
I dont have a full beard and the hair isn’t to thick (i think)
I want to be able to shave in the shower because i hope it gives less burn.
Ofcourse i can go for the braun 9 series bus maibe that is overkill, money isn’t the issue but i don’t want to spend 100 euro’s for nothing extra.
And another question, when you speak about closeness, how is the braun compared to a razor? or the panasonic? a closer shave still doenst mean anything… Shaving with the wilinson 5 blade hydro is a much closer shave compared to the 25c crappy bladed in the discount corner.
So a good comparison would be to for example the hydo 5 razor.
Hi Arjan,
Thank you for your comment. I’ll try my best to give you a recommendation based on the provided information.
First of all, the closeness of the shave with a particular shaver will vary among different individuals. For example, I was never able to get a close enough shave with a rotary razor, not even with top of the line Philips Norelco models — and other men swear by them. In general I am able to get a closer shave with Panasonic shavers compared to anything else out there, especially below my nose and on the chin were I have very thick hairs. However, if you don’t have very thick hairs you should get really good results with other shavers as well. Objectively comparing an electric shaver with a razor blade is impossible and the results will vary tremendously among different users. There are a lot of factors at play, like the performance of the shaver that’s being used, the thickness of the hair, the user’s technique, susceptibility to razor burn and irritation, the quality of the shaving cream and aggressiveness of the razor and so on. The only way is to try it yourself and see what works best for you.
As I mentioned in the article, every shaver has its shortcomings and with Panasonic razors you’re trading off some of the comfort. Also, they’re not great with longer hairs either. Braun shavers, particularly the Series 9, but also the 7 and 5 are generally more comfortable and suitable for sensitive skin and they work better on a 2 or 3 days beard compared to any Panasonic.
Considering that you’re getting some razor burn with your current shaver, you don’t shave as often and you don’t have particularly thick facial hair, a Braun shaver will probably be a good choice. I would recommend you to get the Series 9 if you won’t be using it too often as it can catch longer/stray hairs better than any other foil shaver. Otherwise a Series 7 and 5 should work just fine. They are also very forgiving and you can get away with pressing harder. Make sure to go for a wet/dry variation if you plan on using it in the shower, even though I don’t think you’ll get significantly better results compared to a quick dry shave.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the fast reply and explanation.
Try wat is best for you is an expensive hobby with razors at €180 to €250 :)
I think i will go for the Braun 9 series.
This wat my first option but after your explanation definitly the right choice.
Hiya; I need to replace an older 790cc and looked at the 740s. Will the old cleaning station work with the 740s?
Hi Christian,
Yes, it should work with your current cleaning station without any issues.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’ purchased and have been using the Braun 9295cc for the last 2 months. Used a Bed Bath and Beyond 20% of coupon when they were running a sale for $250, so I got it for an unbelevable $200.
I’ve previously owned the Panasonic 5 blade ES LV 9n.
I can say without any question, the Braun Series 9 gives me a closer, faster, more comfortable shave. It does not leave stray hairs like the Panasonic tended to do and when used as a wet shaver in the shower, shaved closer and faster without shaving cream than the Panasonic with shaving cream.
To me the choice is obvious.
Hi Bob,
Thanks for taking the time to share your experience. Glad to hear you enjoy shaving with the Series 9. While for me the Arc 5 is still the closest shaving electric razor out there, the Series 9 is better at capturing hairs with fewer strokes. And it’s definitely more comfortable as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for all the information you published on this site, it was exactly what I was looking for. I have never liked a super close shave, fairly sensitive skin, have areas of lay-down whiskers; and, I wanted something that I could trust to do a good job without me necessarily being able to see where it missed. As a middle-aged guy, I need to wear glasses now to shave, and it is a pain. Based on your thorough reviews, I bought a Braun 5190CC kit, available locally, and it seems just right for my needs. It is a bit loud, but you mentioned that too.
Thanks again!
Hi Jim,
Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate it. Glad to hear you found the information helpful in picking up the Series 5. It’s an excellent shaver overall.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great post, thank you so much! I am torn between getting the Braun Series 5 (likely the 5190cc) or the Panasonic Arc4 and would appreciate your recommendation. Here are some factors that are influencing my decision:
-I travel frequently for work so I want a razer that is easy to manually clean (it seems like Panasonic Arc4 is easier but not sure how difficult the series5 is or how often it must be cleaned). Since I’ll be traveling, the cleaning station will not influence my decision that much.
-I need to shave everyday or every other day because my facial hair grows in quickly but my stuble is not thick/coarse at all and my skin is not too sensitive (I also prefer shaving dry). The hairs on my chin & neck can be long & flat and are harder to shave with my current rotary razer. (it seems like the series 5 does better with long-flat lying hairs but I am looking for a very close shave).
Overall, it would be great to hear which you would recommend the most for me between the Panasonic Arc4 and the Braun Series 5? Thank you for your help, I appreciate it and will be sure to recommend your site to friends!
Hi Jonathan,
Thank you for the kind words.
Both seem like really good picks for your needs. Yes, the Series 5 is more difficult to clean manually, but that’s mainly a problem in the long run. So you can absolutely leave the station at home and only clean it with some liquid soap or water. I actually do this with my Series 5/7 and only use the station every two weeks. Doing so will get rid of any dirt/hair clippings that may have remained trapped inside the cassette during a manual cleaning.
While the Arc 4 will provide a closer shave for most men, since you don’t have thick, wiry facial hair I think the Series 5 will be good enough. Also, for longer, flat-lying hairs the Series 5 is clearly superior (this is actually the main reason why I would recommend you the Series 5 over the Arc 4 in this case). The other one would be sensitive skin, but I understand that it’s not the case here.
The 52s shaving heads are usually cheaper as well. Finally, the 5090cc/5190cc come with a cleaning station for just a few dollars more.
If you decide to go for the Series 5, the 5090cc model also comes with a nice hard travel case (the 5190cc does not). Try to get that one if you can find it at a decent price.
If you’ll stick to shaving daily, so those longer, flat-lying hairs won’t be a problem, the Arc 4 will give you a closer shave. I understand that this is very important for you, but keep in mind that the Panasonic will miss those long hairs a lot more compared to the Series 5. So my advice would be to consider the Arc 4 only if you’ll be using it on short stubble.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
I must say that I am still torn between the Panasonic Arc 4 ES-LA93K & the Braun Series 5 5190cc – price is not a factor as they currently cost the same.
I like that the Panasonic Arc 4 (ES-LA93K) is quicker, quieter, can provide a closer shave, easier to manually clean, and comes with a travel case. Additionally, I see that the ES-LA93K comes with a dual motor that is supposed to improve its abilities to capture longer, flat-lying hairs.
However, if you believe the series 5 is significantly better than the arc 4 at cutting the longer, flat-lying hairs than I will purchase the series 5.
Thank you for your help!
Hi Jonathan,
I actually own the ES-LA63-S Arc 4 which is identical to the ES-LA93-K (except for the color) and despite having that second vibrating motor, it doesn’t seem to work better than other Arc 4 models that don’t have that feature. It’s still not great with longer and flat-lying hairs. The Arc 4 and pretty much all Panasonic models, including the Arc 5, work great on short beards. If that will be the case with you for most of the time, then you should get the ES-LA93-K. In my experience Braun is clearly superior when shaving flat hairs, especially on the neck. The Series 5 and 7 are really good at this, in fact, the only foil razor that works better in this regard is the Series 9, but that one is very pricey and the Series 5/7 will be good enough for most users.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Such an amazing post !! I am inspired by your work and got some great ideas. It really gives me information that I am looking for. Thanks and keep sharing :)
Thank you Gary, I really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great job of explaining the benefits of various electric shavers. I am a very satisfied Panasonic arc 3 user who wants to step up to an Arc 4. Since I use a shaver mainly for outlining my stubble beard, I am interested in the smallest head for ease of maneuverability but also would like the ability to use it for a close, clean shave. With this in mind, which model has the smallest head size without a trade off in performance?
Hi Bruce,
Thank you for your comment.
The ES-LF51-A would be the best pick in my opinion. Out of all Arc 4 models, I find this one to be the easiest to use precisely because it has the smallest head. Even though when compared side by side with an ES-LA63-S for example the difference doesn’t seem that obvious, in practice you will really appreciate the compact shaving head. I actually manage to get some of the closest shaves when I use this particular shaver.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is great info Ovidiu and I think you have helped me make up my mind based on your comments. However, I read some really positive reviews on the ES8243A. Would the shaving head on the ES8243A lend itself to outlining my stubble growth or would I still be better off with the ES-LF51-A? Also, am I wasting my time considering purchasing another Arc 3 bearing in mind my occasional need to be clean shaven. If you recommend I consider an Arc 3, which model should I purchase? Thanks for your expert advice.
Hi Bruce,
Between the ES8243A and the ES-LF51-A, I would still go for the latter — especially in this case. The plastic frame that surrounds the foils is smaller on the ES-LF51-A (even though the two shavers use the same foils) and the foils themselves protrude more from the frame which should also be beneficial when outlining a short beard. Finally, the ES-LF51-A has a slightly more powerful motor (14000 CPM vs 13000CPM); I don’t think it will make a huge difference, but it’s there.
If you decide to stick to an Arc 3, my recommendation would be to get one of the older models (ES-LT41-K, ES8103S) and skip the new generation as they have some significant shortcomings (pricey, bulky heads, useless beard density sensor).
If you can find a great deal for the ES-LF51-A, that one would be an excellent choice in my opinion.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks a lot Ovidiu. I will proceed with the ES-LF51-A because of your unconditional endorsement. I am so glad to have stumbled onto your website and will highly recommend it to all of my friends who use an electric shaver. Cheers!
You are very welcome, Bruce. Thank you for the kind words and I hope you’ll enjoy using your new Arc 4.
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for a very thorough, well researched and objective review of the electric shaver landscape. I found your site while researching electric razors because my Norelco 9300 just wasn’t cutting it (pun intended) anymore. I simply could not get a close shave with the rotary. Based on your review and consideration of the various factors you identified, I purchased the Panasonic ES-LV65-S Arc 5. I have a relatively course beard and shave every other day. The price was reasonable and I couldn’t be happier with the remarkably close shave the Panasonic delivers. With a pre-shave I also find that it provides a comfortable shave on what I consider to be sensitive skin. Thanks again for the straightforward, unbiased guidance.
Hi Rick,
Thank you so much for the kind words, I’m glad you found the information useful. The ES-LV65-S is a fantastic performer and for the price it’s extremely hard to beat. A pre-shave definitely helps as well; my current pre-shave of choice is the one from Speick, at least in my case it worked better than anything I’ve tried so far. I particularly like the fact that it’s not oily like the Lab Series or Lectric Shave and it only has a spicy scent that goes away completely. If you can get it, I highly recommend it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Which razor would you recommend for a beginning, just starting to shave the hairs above the lip? Fine skin, soft longer hairs, but that may change once he starts shaving.
Hi barb,
A Panasonic Arc 3 or a Braun Series 3 would be excellent choices for a teenager/first time user. His facial hair will likely get thicker with age, but for at least a few years from now, either of those two shavers will be good enough. Also, an electric shaver works best on short hair, so when using it for the first time it would be a good idea to use a trimmer (even the long hair trimmer on the shaver will do) to reduce the length of the hairs prior to shaving. Long, fine hairs will likely be missed by the foils and the shaver may actually pull and yank some. So just quickly trim them and then use the shaver normally to cut them close to the skin.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Brilliant website, lots of really useful articles! But I still am undecided on which shaver to buy!! The Braun Series 9 9290cc is currently on sale for £190 – but my other half looks stunned when I mention that price!
So I am torn between the Braun 7898cc @ £151 vs the Panasonic ES-LV95 @ £160. I use a Philips 7000 series atm, but it is no longer very effective (I think I broke it while trying to “clean” it) – and I do find it makes my face sore because I have to constantly go over the same areas. I have quite coarse stubble and like the idea of the close shave of a ES-LV95, and also that it’s easy to clean – but I have slightly sensitive skin…so thinking the Braun might be better.. LOL, I am so indecisive! Probably tending towards the Panasonic at the moment – like the idea of not have to use the cleaning station, but having it there to give the shaver a deeper clean!
Thank you for the comment, Rich. I really appreciate it.
I think either of the Series 9 and the Arc 5 would be an upgrade to your current shaver. I personally find them to be superior for both closeness and comfort, but I don’t particularly enjoy using rotary shavers.
If you have sensitive skin and you’ll be using the shaver dry for most of the time, I think the Series 7 would be the one to get. You can also clean it manually and only use the station once a week for example. Just make sure to remove the cartridge and put the cap back in the meantime. The Arc 5 does shave a little closer, but I think the Series 7 will be good enough in most cases. I would personally take the extra comfort of the Series 7 over a slightly closer shave.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Well, I decided to take your advice – and, as luck would have it, it was reduced to £120 – so I got it at a bargain price!
Anyway, it arrived today and I am amazed at the closeness compared to my other shaver. I was also surprised at the speed/noise of the motor. Did kinda make the thing feel like it was going to take off in my hand – I have reduced the speed until I get used to it. I dry shaved, but I have bought a pre-shave lotion (never done that before) to try out.
My face is a little tingly atm, but much less so than my old shaver. So far, so very good!
I think next stop will be to read your shaver maintenance pages to make sure I look after this one better than the last one!
That is awesome, Richard! I’m glad to hear it. Foil shavers are noisier and vibrate quite a lot compared to rotary shavers, but you’ll get used to it pretty quickly. Thank you for taking the time to write a follow-up.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have an old Philishave 6740 Coolskin which still works okay, but I can’t use it on the neck because of sensitive skin. I mostly shave using a Gillette Fusion razor, but getting a really close shave is so tedious and it’s not entirely skin irritation free either. Therefore I have started thinking about buying a new electric razor. What would you recommend for me? I don’t need a shaver with lots of bells and whistles, just something that is well built and does a good job, works both wet and dry, and is good for sensitive skin on the neck.
Hi Fred,
I would suggest a Braun Series 5 — you can go for a model without a cleaning station like the 5040s (wet & dry). For the price it’s a great shaver, it will definitely be an upgrade to your current electric shaver and the improvements in closeness and comfort will be significant.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for your recommendation. It’s a bit on the expensive side, but I will give it serious consideration. Perhaps I can find a good deal somewhere. Black Friday is only two months away.
Sincerely,
Fred
You are welcome, Fred. There are less expensive options as well (like the Series 3), but in my opinion it’s well worth spending a bit more on a Series 5; it’s a superior shaver in every way. But as you said, maybe you can grab one on Black Friday, usually there are some great deals on electric shavers.
Best,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
In the end I actually ordered a 9290cc. It was too expensive despite being on sale, but I’m hoping it will be the best choice for my sensitive skin. I’m growing my stubble now so that I can put it to test when I receive it tomorrow.
Sincerely,
Fred
Hi Fred,
That’s great, really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I just tried my new Braun 9290cc and I’m extremely disappointed by its performance. I first tried shaving dry until it got very hot. Despite going over the same areas several times there were still a lot of uneven, uncut areas left, so I decided to foam up and try it wet. Guess what, I ended up using my Gillette to get my face shaved. What a horrible shaver. All it does is vibrate and make a lot of sound. Any cheap rotary shaver is better than this crap.
Sincerely,
Fred
Hi Fred,
That is very surprising. Unless your unit is defective (which is highly unlikely, but still possible), I’d say that there must be a lot of room for improvement. I have two Series 9 and the performance has been stellar so far and I do have very difficult facial hair (thick and dense and lies completely flat on my neck). The shaving head never got hot despite very long shaving sessions and it is arguably the most efficient shaver I’ve used so far — and I have tried dozens. Since you’re coming from a rotary shaver, I suppose that this would be your first shave with a foil razor. Try using short, controlled strokes and always go against the grain.
For some men rotary razors just seem to work better, but even so, shaving with a Series 9 which is a very capable machine should be at least decent.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
My first electric shaver was actually a Hitachi foil travel shaver with AA batteries. As far as I can remember, it performed much better than this Braun shaver. I haven’t used it for over 20 years, but I don’t remember having any problems shaving with it. It even handled week old beards without problem. I normally shave twice a week, but the Braun had trouble shaving a two day stubble, so it would require shaving every day.
Sincerely,
Fred
Hi Fred,
At this point I would be tempted to think that you received a defective unit. Again, the Series 9 may not be for everyone, but you should at least be able to get a satisfactory shave. If an old battery powered Hitachi performs better, there’s clearly something wrong. Consider returning it and either ask for a replacement or even a refund.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I’m sorry, to compare it to a shaver I had not used for over 20 years was not fair. I just took it out of my closet to compare, and no it does not shave better than the Braun, at least not anymore. The blades in it have never been changed, but my facial hair may also be more coarse now than 20 years ago.
My disappointment with the Braun comes from the fact that it doesn’t shave as close as my Philishave, despite being new and five times more expensive. The positive thing with the Braun is that it doesn’t irritate my skin, but it seems to be at the expense of getting a close shave.
Unfortunately, the place I bought it from won’t accept returns of a used shaver. Returning it as faulty might be problematic as the shaver works, just not good enough to my liking. I read a review somewhere of someone saying that these shavers have a break-in period before starting to perform well. I am hoping that is the case.
Sincerely,
Fred
Hi,
Braun actually offers a 60-day money back guarantee, but I’m not sure if I’m going to use it. Although still far from perfect, the shaving result seems to have gotten better.
Sincerely,
Fred
Hi Fred,
Thanks for the follow-up, that’s some good news. I’d say to continue using it during this 60-day period and then decide if you should keep it or get a refund.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, I’m a first-time electric user. Ibought a Panasonic 65 and have not yet used. Do I need to clean the blades after each use to extend their life. The shaver instructions include cleaning instructions but a package insert suggests a faster cleaning instruction. Do they intend them to be used a different times: the rinse method each time and the booket insTRUCTION METHOD for periodic cleaning? As a novice buyer, I appreciate you plain talking reviews.
,
Hi Howard,
Thank you for your comment. Yes, you can just rinse the shaver with warm tap water after every shave and only use liquid soap for a more thorough cleaning (like once a week for example). I would however recommend cleaning it with soap after every shave if you use shaving cream. Don’t forget to lubricate the blades periodically, especially after using soap to clean your razor.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Best article I have read with respect to purchasing a shaver. The methodical, systematic approach to cutting through the hype surrounding electric shavers is a huge breath of fresh air.
For years I bought Norelco’s – – – and found their performance lacking to say the least. After reading this article, I bought a Panasonic Arc 5. Stellar performance on my face!
Might have overindulged as I got the one with the cleaning station. Growing lazy (chuckle) in my older years . . .
Thank you for taking the time to ‘pen’ this article, Ovidiu Nicolae. I wish you a long, healthy, happy life.
James, thank you so much for the kind words. I’m glad you found the article useful and I think you made a fantastic choice with the Arc 5.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
You certainly earned them. I have recently experimented with this shaver on my head and found that it does an excellent job there as well!
Best money I ever spent on a grooming appliance . . .
Ovidiu,
Your comments are thorough and helpful. I am 82 and have used electric razors since I started shaving around age 15. I have used Norelco, Braun, Remingtom, and Panasonic. My father got very close shaves with a Norelco, but I never could. In fact, until using a Panasonic wet/dry model, I never really had what could be considered a close shave.
Currently, I have an ES-LV 61 which has been pretty good. I cannot remember how old it is but it recently began to cease holding a charge as long. When it gets to 50% it goes to 0 in about 5 minutes. I am thinking of getting the ES-LV 65S you recommend. I gather the newer versions are not worth the significant price difference. I am curious about the replacement blades and foils being cheaper than those recommended for the 65. Do you know the WEP number of the cheaper replacements that fit and work just as well? Thanks.
Hi Robert,
Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate it. I think upgrading to the ES-LV65-S makes perfect sense, especially since you were satisfied with its predecessor, the ES-LV61.
Regarding the replacement foils and blades, the newer ones found on the latest Arc 5 models will indeed fit the ES-LV65-S perfectly. And if you can get them cheaper, that’s even better. The part numbers are as follows: WES9034P (found on the third generation Arc 5 revision A and B), WES9036 (found on the latest revision C and D Arc 5 models). The differences between them are minor, so just buy the ones you can find at a better price.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Is it true that foil shavers need to have their blades more frequently than rotary shavers? I have a Philips and haven’t changed the blades for years and still performs excellently.
That depends on many variables, Dimitrios. I’ve received emails and comments from foil shaver users that haven’t changed the blades in many years. How often you shave, how thick your beard is and how well you care for your shaver (cleaning, lubrication) will ultimately affect the life of the blades.
I would say though that it’s more likely to have to change the blades of a foil shaver more often. There are a few reasons for this, varying from the very way the cutting edge of the blades comes into contact with the foils and combs respectively, to the fact that the blades of a foil shaver will move at a much higher rate (at least 10 times faster) compared to a rotary shaver. During a 5 minute shave with a rotary razor, a blade will have performed significantly less cutting actions compared to the blades of a foil shaver. Also, the combs on rotary shavers are a lot thicker compared to a typical foil that actually gets deformed if you press too hard, increasing the friction between it and the blades, wearing them out faster.
Hope this makes sense.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
very good list and practical advise!! i am planning to buy the first electric shaver for my son and this list helped me a lot to decide! thanks!
Thank you for your comment, Patricia. I hope your son will enjoy using his first electric shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I happened upon my ideal solution. I use a Remington to knock off the long hair (I do not usually shave every day). The Remington is quick at cutting off most of my beard. Then I use a cheap Braun to finish up. The Braun used to take forever to give me a shave, but I love the closeness, compared to the Remington. I bought the Remington when I thought the Braun might be about shot. I ended up replacing the foil on the Braun, so now I use both!
I also use earplugs. Should have been doing this all along. The much noise right near one’s ears! Not good.
Hi David,
Thank you for taking the time to share this. Can you also mention the model names of your Remington and Braun shavers?
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great review. My problem is that I have a thin and long neck and I could never get a close shave with electric shavors (foil and rotatory) so I reverted to Gilette razors. The Braun 9 series is good for me? Does it get around neck contours?
Thank you for your comment, Ali. Both the Series 7 and 9 should be good options. Out of all foil shaver brands, I think Braun does it best when it comes to floating foils and flexible heads. Despite the fact that they’re nowhere near as complex as the latest Panasonic models, they work better for a couple of reasons.
First of all, the shaving heads are pretty slim compared to other shavers that have the same number of blades. Secondly, the cutting elements move effortlessly and have a wider range of motion, making them more suitable for shaving difficult surfaces.
You may want to consider the Series 7 as well since the shaving head is noticeably slimmer and more maneuverable.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I know this is pretty late but just found this site. Not sure what my issue is but I cannot find an electric shaver that is any good. I use to have an old Norelco rotary from probably the late 70’s early 80’s and you could trim your hedges with it, cut through anything fast, cleanly and close. Dropped it a few years back and it broke and have not been able to find anything that gives me a close, smooth shave. Tried some various braun in the past along with newer Norelo’s ( just got a 5675 as a gift, it misses about 1/4 of the wiskers) and with all, i need to pretty much reshave my face with a hand razor to get all the places that were missed. Any suggestions for a close shaving, powerhouse weed wacker of a shaver that won’t set me back another $200.
Hi Mark,
As far as rotary shavers go, the best I’ve tried so far is the Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige (this is my review of it). It is however very expensive, so you could also consider a foil shaver. As mentioned in the article, Braun shavers are better for sensitive skin and can shave longer, flat hairs more effectively than other brands. If it fits within your budget, the Series 9 would be a good option.
Panasonic shavers provide the closest shave in my experience but work best on shorter hairs. Also, they can be a bit harsher and more aggressive than Braun. The Arc 5 ES-LV65-S would be the best pick with regards to price and performance.
Considering the pros and cons of each, you should get the one that seems to better fit your needs.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Excellent. Absolutely loved reading and very helpful at the same time :)
Thanks, Russel. Glad you found it useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Can you use an electric shaver on body hair(groin area, armpits arms, legs etc.)?
They’re definitely not ideal for this, but you could get decent results if the hair is really short. Most electric shavers will miss long, curly, fine hairs. A body groomer would be a much better choice.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks.
Thank you for the time you put into this review! I just wanted to share this info/tip with you and the other readers.
I have an older Braun Series 5 (Model number 8985) that I have had for many years. It came with a cleaning station that you have to buy cartridge/container of cleaning solution for. I got tired of paying for the expensive solution which it seemed to go through to rapidly. Then I discovered that a product sold in stores as a skin care astringent has almost identical contents/ingredients.
The name brand product is SeaBreeze and there are also store brands which are identical sold by Walgreens and others. One bottle cost much less than a single Braun refill, and is enough to refill the empty Braun cartridge twice. I just rinse the empty plastic Braun cleaning cartridge with soft soap and warm water to remove all of the debris from the cleanings, let it dry over night, and then refill it with the Walgreens brand of the astringent. It even looks and smells almost identical to the original cleaning solution.
Hope this info helps someone.
Thank you for the tip, Derek. I really appreciate you taking the time to share that with us. I totally agree, there are third-party options that are a lot more cost-effective than Braun’s original refills.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
Your reply to Derek,
“Thank you for the tip, Derek. I really appreciate you taking the time to share that with us. I totally agree, there are third-party options that are a lot more cost-effective than Braun’s original refills.”
But I can’t see where is Derek’s tip?
Hi Andrew,
Derek’s comment and recommendation (SeaBreeze) are right above, accessible also at this link. I double-checked and it does show up.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Trying to buy my fiance a new electric razor for his birthday. His current razor is about 8? years old and he definitely needs an upgrade. Currently he uses a rotary Norelco “Aquatec”. There is no model number on the base, but it looks similar to the Norelco 3100.
My first question is trying to determine if I should get him a rotary or foil shaver. Yes, he uses a rotary now, but I’m guessing it’s just because that’s what his parents bought him. He usually goes a couple weeks between shaves and uses the attached trimmer first. He could do with a closer shave for sure, but perhaps just an upgraded 8900 Norelco would make a difference. I also have my eye on the Braun 5190cc though, and the Braun 9700cc is currently 40% off, so that could be a steal.
As for upkeep, I need something very low maintenance. I’m pretty sure he hasn’t bought replacement blades in years, if ever, so the simpler the better.
Any and all thoughts would be appreciated!
Alex
Hi Alex,
Thank you for your comment. First of all, regardless of the shaver type and its features, shaving every two weeks will still require trimming the beard beforehand, even when using a high-end model. In this case, I think the trimmer attachment of the Norelco shavers will be better suited for the job than the sliding trimmers found on Braun shavers.
This would actually be the main reason for sticking to a rotary razor. The trimmers on Braun shavers are pretty limited in what you can do with them and are really meant for minor touchups. If it weren’t for this issue, a Braun Series 5, 7 or 9 (depending on your budget) will likely provide a better shaving experience with regards to closeness and comfort. If I personally were to shave every two weeks, I would rather get a regular face trimmer and follow up with foil shaver. But that’s just my personal preference and this setup does imply the use of two different products.
As for replacement parts, rotary blades do seem to last longer, so that’s another thing to keep in mind. But then again, shaving twice a month is a lot less than the average and any blades should last for years before needing to be replaced.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu- Wow… to find such a complete description of these products in one place is nothing short of amazing. Thank you. I have read many of your evaluations on the various Braun models and would appreciate your opinion. For many many years, I have used a blade to shave with and about a year ago found my old Braun 5 563 in a box, pulled it out for nostalgia reasons and began to shave with it. Initially it was only periodic, using the blade cartridge style (Harry’s) most of the time. However, I have transitioned to using the Braun full time now, but must wonder what the advances have been. I really don’t have many issues with the unit, but wonder if I am missing something by not upgrading to a model not 35 years old. I am apprehensive of your description of the 5090cc in that it excessively vibrates and is loud, though I do like its aesthetics. My problem is that I have nothing to compare since this is the only electric shaver I have ever had. So what is excessive? What is loud? I am concerned about the “locking mechanism” issue of the Seven Series, and the Nine Series looks like a monster of a head compared to my single foil Braun. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Hi Tom,
Thank you so much for your comment, I really appreciate it.
Regarding the Series 5, it does vibrate more during use compared to other modern foil shavers from Braun and Panasonic. But unless someone is particularly sensitive to such an issue, I clearly don’t see it as a problem or deal breaker. I have been using electric shavers for almost 20 years and the improvements have been noticeable, especially with regards to comfort and the ability to shave longer facial hair. I think the Series 5 will be a solid upgrade from your current shaver.
The Series 7 is a bit more refined and comfortable compared to the S5, but again, nothing dramatically better. As for the locking mechanism, I never felt the need to use it since the 3 blade head is very manageable as it is. I think either will be a great option. The Series 7 is more expensive and the replacement cassettes are also pricier.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’m surprised how little attention has been paid to the fact that some shavers don’t work when plugged in. The battery will die anyway in ~5 yrs (showing reduced power after ~3 yrs), and the models that work cordless only will become useless. Other models can be still be used as plugged in for the next 15 yrs. The cord doesn’t disturb me a lot, as in 99% of cases I use the shaver in a place where there’s AC power available. Yes, cordless gives more freedom but I don’t want to buy a new shaver every 5 years.
That is correct, most of today’s shavers will not work when plugged in — only a handful of older, dry only models and most of them are being phased out. The battery should last for quite a few good years and in the case of the more popular shaver models, it can be bought separately and replaced by the user. However, the waterproofing of the shaver will most likely be compromised.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for this in-depth and very informative article. After decades of buying “whatever was available when I needed it” and then switching to a manual razor when the machine broke, I have made a more scientific approach this time.
I am looking for a machine at the mid-range price class, and your site is the only one I found so far that actually gives a reliable test and description of the models.
Thanks also for the other articles that dive into the 5 and 7 series.
So now I am down to deciding if I need a wet or dry machine. Based on what is available in the market here (Norway) and what is available in local stores, I am down to a choice between Braun Series 7 7790cc and Series 5 5197cc, where the 7-series is actually a bit cheaper than the 5-series.
The 5197cc claims (in the specification on the shop’s website) to have an integrated lotion applicator, but I can’t find any info about that on any other source, including Braun.
Do you have any idea about that functionality?
Hi,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
Regarding the 5197cc, I am inclined to think that it was a mistranslation of some German copy or simply an error. There is definitely no such applicator on the 5197cc or on any other Series 5 model. I would personally go with the Series 7, it’s just a bit smoother and more enjoyable to use. And while I am a proponent of wet shaving, Braun razors perform great when used dry, particularly the Series 7 and 9. And since you can get the Series 7 for less money, that would be my pick.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the clarification. I suspected the possibility for an error in the specs.
Knowing myself, I suspect that I probably will do 95% of the shaving dry even if the razor has wet capability, so I will follow your advice and go for the 7790cc. It also has the hard pouch which I think is better for weekend travels and short business trips where the machine can survive without recharging.
Thanks again for a great site.
There’s a lot of info here. Can you help me by making a recommendation? I’ve been using a Braun Series 565cc for years and think it may be time to replace it. Not sure what to get.
– My beard grows fast. I could easily shave 7 days a week but I hate shaving so most weeks I only shave 5 days if I can help it;
– I shave dry; have never tried using pre-shave lotion;
– a close shave in minimal time is higher priority to me than comfort (within reason);
– I wouldnt say I have particularly sensitive skin;
– I’d say my hair grows in coarse;
– My perception of Norelco’s is that their batteries aren’t as good as Braun’s. I’ve never used/owned a Panasonic;
– cleaning station is a plus;
– I’m not rich, but in this case, budget is not important. My frustration over spending 30 minutes on Mondays to shave 2+ days of growth means I dont care what it costs if it works great. I’ll use it 5 days a week for years so whether its $100 or $300 doesnt matter a whole lot in the big picture if it makes my life better each day.
Thanks in advance if you’re willing to steer me in the right direction.
Hi Joe,
In your case I’d say the Panasonic ES-LV65-S would be a really good option. There’s also a variation that comes with a cleaning station (ES-LV95-S), so you can get that one instead if you want the station. Panasonic shavers work really well on short, coarse beards and they also shave closer compared to similarly priced Braun or Norelco razors. The Arc 5 has 5 blades and the head is noticeably larger than the one on your current shaver, so you may need some time to get used to it if you decide to get it. But I do think it is one of the best options for what you need.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
@Michael S. Thank you very much for your very, very very, very diligent and also very, very very thoughtful reply: “Based upon pricing, I think it’s time to replace my ‘old’ Braun S7 with a new one. Based upon pricing and features, I’ll probably go with another Braun S7. I’ll probably keep the old one as a backup. Like other lithium battery products, I’m guessing mine is losing charge capacity. I have used it roughly 2200 times. (Maybe more if including the extra 5 o’clock shadow shaves on the weekends.) Therefore, the capacity is now significantly reduced. For those that haven’t tried this: I tend to do a quick once over before I get in the shower. I use a exfoliator sponge on my face. Then when I get out, I do a finishing shave. This is very effective.
Lastly, the 790cc and the 7865CC are listed for the same price on Amazon. So I’ll probably get the “better” 7865CC. Thanks again for your response.” This said, thank you again very, very much for your response!
Thank you for your comment, James. That’s some great insight and yet another confirmation that the rotary vs foil reasoning is not by any means set in stone.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for a comprehensive guide to electric shavers, a lot of useful information!
I shave mostly dry, every two days. and am in need of a new shaver. I’m deciding between two “mid-range” models which are priced similarly at the moment: Philips Series 5000 s5140/26 or the Braun Series 5 5195cc. Both come with cleaning station and travel case. I have previously used both Philips (although a long time ago) and more recently Braun. The Philips s5140/26 is a “dry only” shaver apparently whereas the Braun is both wet and dry, but I mostly shave dry anyway.
Grateful if you/anyone has any experience with these two shavers and could give me your thoughts and opinion as to which one to get (priced almost identically). Thank you.
The Philips shaver seems to be a bit less available, some product info:
Hi Eric,
Thank you for your comment.
Between those two models, I think the Braun Series 5 would be the better pick for most users. I haven’t shaved with that particular Philips model (S5140), but have used other similar shavers in the Series 5000 that even share the same cutters (SH50). The Series 5 was (at least in my case) better: more comfortable, closer shaves and easier to use. I am a bit biased toward foil shavers and using rotary razors never got me a better shave compared to a decent foil shaver. With Braun you also have quite a few alternatives for cheap third-party cleaning solutions and the station is more practical (you can simply remove the cartridge, but the cap back on and store it).
So my pick would be the Series 5.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for your thoughts Ovidiu, much appreciated. This is such a good website – well done!
That’s very kind, Eric, thank you! Glad I could help.
I read your review of the Panasonic ES-LV65-S and thought it might be just the thing for me. I looked up the replacement foil and blade price on Amazon and they’re nearly half the price of the razor. On top of that, I saw a lot, lot, lot of comments on the replacement blades that they either don’t cut any better than the now dull original blades or that they don’t last more than a few months before they get dull. It sounds like almost like it would be best to just replace the whole razor every two years rather than pay $40-$50 for replacement blades that are sub-par.
Hi Tim,
Replacement foil and blades for high-end shavers are usually expensive (Panasonic parts in particular). The reviews are rarely positive, some of the reasons being the price and the sub-par performance of some of them (some parts may not be original). Also, since Panasonic uses separate inner blades and outer foils, many users just replace one of them, usually the blades, which is a really bad idea in my opinion as the performance and the longevity of the parts will suffer and it may seem like the blades/foil were performing badly from the start.
However, I do agree that in certain situations (like the foil & blades set being really expensive and a new shaver available at a discount) it would make more sense to just buy a new shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the great info. I recently bought a Braun Series 9 shaver which does a good job, generally. Previously I owned a Braun Series 7 which I loved. I have one issue with the Series 9 shaver which troubles me….it is impossible to shave close under the nostrils. The result is a close shave elsewhere and longer stubble in this area. Do you have any advice for me?
Hi Shawn,
Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate it.
Getting a really close shave under the nostrils is a tricky one for most electric shavers, especially under certain circumstances. Apart from the physical constraints of shaving a tight spot, some men (myself included) also have very dense, thick stubble in that area — definitely thicker and coarser than on the cheeks for example. And on top of that, part of the hair may actually grow at an angle until it pops out of the skin, so even if it’s cut at skin level, you can still see it through the very thin skin, further giving the impression that you didn’t shave close enough.
The first step is to make sure that the foil of your shaver actually comes in contact optimally with the skin right in front of your nostrils. From your comment I understand that this was a non-issue with the Series 7. I can only attribute this to the slimmer shaving head and the more compact plastic frame around the foils. To try to work around the larger Series 9 head, try to lock it in the top part position. This will make the top foil protrude a bit more than the rest, allowing you to shove it right below the nose. You can use your tongue to apply counterpressure from the inside and keeping the skin taut. This can help with getting a closer shave.
One quick way of improving the closeness is to use some pre-shave lotion just on that area. I recommend Freelette and Speick, these brands work the best out of everything I’ve tried so far. I highly recommend you to give them a try, you’ll likely see an improvement.
And finally, the messier and more time-consuming option would be to use a bit of shaving cream (again, just on that area). You can do it right after you completed your dry shave just to get a closer shave below the nostrils. Put a dab of shaving cream between your wet palms, quickly rub them together and apply the resulted watery paste, making sure to massage it into the stubble. Give it a couple of minutes to act (add a bit more water if it’s too dry), then proceed with shaving. Nivea and Proraso are two excellent, inexpensive creams that work great in this case.
I know this last part doesn’t sound too appealing and I only do it if I really need a very close shave for something like an event, otherwise I simply reach out for a pre-shave (it’s good enough). But using shaving cream is the most effective method in case a pre-shave still doesn’t help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This was a long, but incredibly informative, read…thank you for putting this review into laymen terms for virtually anyone to understand!
Many of the other reviews of electric shavers are just as you mentioned…biased individuals who rate/review based on products theyve never used before! I’m in the market for a new electric shaver! I have used both foil and rotary in the past and when they broke, I opted to go manual razor from one of those subscription-based companies. Mainly because I’ve gone bald (it started years ago but only last 6-7 years is it to the point where my wife shaves it short and I “try” to wet shave it bald when I have time or remember).
Which brings me to my question. Based on total cost of razor itself, replacement blades, detergent (for clean stations) and overall longevity of said razor, blades, etc…it would appear the Braun Series 7 790cc (with older cleaning station) is going to be the most affordable & longest lasting option on the list! The 5190cc series comes close, but I worry it may ultimately need replacing sooner as the reivews I’ve read outside of hear show many 790cc customers are still using the same razor after 7-9 years without issue!
However, I’d like to be able to wet of dry shave my head on an every 2-3 day schedule, just like my current face shaving schedule. Would one or both of the Braun models above work better or worse for shaving stubble from a bald head as well as the face?
Hi Brad,
Thank you for your kind comment, I truly appreciate it. Both of the Braun models you mentioned should work fine for shaving your head as well. Longevity and reliability are tricky to rate, but as you mentioned the Series 7 is a tried and tested option. The 790cc variation with the older cleaning station is getting more difficult to find, but the newer ones like the wet & dry 7865cc that lack the inductive drying system shouldn’t be overlooked either. I honestly don’t miss that feature, so don’t stress too much about it. The Series 7 shavers are basically the same in terms of build quality and performance and should last for years with proper care.
Between the Series 7 and 5, I prefer the former — it is a bit smoother, faster, has a slightly slimmer foil frame and I just enjoy shaving with it more.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi. I have been using a Norelco rotary razor for 14 years ( I am 76) and decided to get a new razor. I read your article on foil vs rotary razors and the 10 best and decided to go with th Panasonic Arc 5, # 2 on your list. I used to shave dry and after reading your various articles I now use a preshave soap and an aftershave balm. I have to say that the Panasonic shaver with the
Pre and After shave routine I get a much closer shave even tho I shave every 2-3 days and my face seems so much softer. Thank you so much for your information, suggestions and help.
Hi Stephen,
Thank you for taking the time to share this, I really appreciate it. That’s great, I’m glad you found the information useful in choosing (and using) the Arc 5. It really is an excellent and underrated shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have an older Norelco AT 880 with SH50 heads, and a new 5940 with SH50 heads. While the 5940 is more comfortable on my face, the AT880 gives a noticeably closer shave. Why is that the case??
Hi Robert,
New shaving heads will provide a closer shave — the blades sit flush to the combs and can actually touch them, meaning there’s almost no gap between the blades and the combs, hence the closer shave. As for the comfort, rotary shavers may sometimes require some time until they can perform optimally. We can of course factor in some quality control issues or maybe a different technological process in manufacturing the parts (for example, to minimize the costs), but that is less likely.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Both my AT880 and my new 5940 have the same heads (the SH50), so the head-type should not be a factor in the comparison. It seems to me the AT880 has a more powerful motor than the 5940. Could that be the reason the AT880 shaves noticeably closer, but is less comfortable? Do the new heads on my 5940 need a “break-in” period? Thanks, Robert
Hi Robert,
A more powerful motor fitted to the AT880 could translate into a closer (and more aggressive shave). Normally, there’s no need for a break-in period with rotary shavers unless of course the cutters don’t sit perfectly flush against the combs, which could either be QA related (very unlikely) or as a result of mixing the blades and combs. When that happens it usually takes a couple of weeks before they work properly again.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi. I’m looking for a rotary shaver that can be used to shave with a cord. I saw the Philips Norelco 2100, but the description on the page says “Able to be used while corded and cordless” in one place and “Cordless operation only” on the same page a little bit bellow. So now I don’t know what is what. Norelco website was of no help. Do you know if this shaver can be used with a cord or can you recommend others that can be used with a cord under $100?
Thanks.
Hi Alex,
The Norelco 2100 cannot be used with the cord plugged in, despite being a dry only shaver. Check out the Norelco 3100 (S3310/81), that one will work when connected to a power socket and it has a reasonable price as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
I appreciate the quick response. Is Norelco 3100 (S3310/81) the only shaver that can be used while plugged in? I looked at other more expensive models, but none say that they can be used corded.
Thanks.
You are welcome, Alex. Unfortunately your options are very limited, pretty much all current Philips Norelco shavers are wet/dry models and can only be used cordless. The 3100 is the only current model that I know of, there were a few others in the past, but have been discontinued. The more expensive models, that are actually better than the 3100, will only work cordless as far as I know.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I was afraid that there wouldn’t be too many choices. I found another shaver that may work: Remington R5100 (PR1362). What do you think about it? Do you know how it compares to Norelco?
Thanks.
I didn’t try that particular model but have used other rotary Remington shavers and all of them have performed poorly. That’s why I left Remington completely out of this list. Unfortunately I can’t say anything about how the R5100 compares to the Norelco 3100 since I haven’t yet used the former. I do hope to review it in the near future as it looks a bit more promising.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Unfortunately I need to purchase the shaver very soon, probably before you have a chance to review the Remington. I’ve seen some good reviews for it but I don’t know if I want to take a chance on it since this purchase is not for me. I feel like Norelco 3100 is a safer choice. I greatly appreciate all the the help and I’ll keep checking for your Remington review.
Personally, I shave with a Panasonic ES8224 and I feel like I’ll need a replacement soon. Should I stick with Panasonic or try Braun?
The ES8224 is a decent entry-level shaver, very similar performance-wise to the ES-LT41-K in this article. You didn’t mention the budget for your next shaver and it would have been helpful in assessing the options. But a mid-range, reasonably priced shaver would be the Panasonic ES-LF51-A — really good performance, very close shaves, fast and efficient, particularly on short, dense stubble. As for Braun, in roughly the same price range there’s the Series 5 (no cleaning station) which is again a really good shaver, very comfortable and better than the Panasonic on longer, flat hairs. Choosing between them really depends on what you’re interested the most: closeness (Panasonic) or comfort and shaving less often (Braun).
I just wanted to thank you for your excellent, comprehensive reviews. I have mostly used Brauns through the years but have been less enthused about them for awhile, maybe because I wasn’t buying the top-of-the-line models. But I didn’t need the bells and whistles and was not in a position to spend the money anyway. Last year I did a lot of online research and bought a shaver I shall not name that was too big and too loud but worked well enough for a brief time, but the foil and cutters needed replacing every couple of months.
So recently I started another search and stumbled across your highly informative site, which resulted in my purchasing a Panasonic ES8103S, which is the best shaver I have ever owned. It remains to be seen how often the foil and cutters need to be replaced, but the shave is excellent. And I owe it to you.
I made sure to click through from your site in hopes of helping in some small way. Thank you so much for sharing such helpful information!
Steve, thank you so much for your kind words. I’m really glad you found the information useful and you finally got the right shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Looking forward to reading your newsletter
Thank you for subscribing, Marty. Much appreciated.
How does the ES-LV65 Panasonic compare with newer models of Panasonic arc 5? I am thinking in terms of perfomance for daily use.
Hi Brian,
They are quite similar, actually. As I mentioned in the article, the newer models represent an incremental improvement in performance, the main differences being a revised outer foil and of course a new design of the shaver, with some of the models using premium materials like brushed aluminum. The new foil is a bit more comfortable in my experience, but if you don’t have sensitive skin you’ll be perfectly fine with the ES-LV65-S. It works particularly well when used daily.
Finally, the new foil of the latest Arc 5 models will actually fit the ES-LV65-S. I wrote a very detailed guide on that topic here.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for that info about matching pairs. I don’t think it’s mentioned in manuals, and it’s the reason why my Philips rotaries have always turned louder and lost their cutting power.
I even recall the slight smell of burning metal when that happens.
You are very welcome, glad you found the information useful. At least with the current Philips models, it is casually mentioned in the user manuals, but without much emphasis on that aspect.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi I been looking a shaver that I can uses ever day I shaver my head and face with right now am useing the skull shaver but to be honest it a bit of a joke as they try to say it great for shaving your head and face not ture it broke after a month and it just not very good so I would like to know which one is the best for shaving my head and face every day dont matter about price I just want a great shaver I can be happy with that does a great job ever day
Hi Ian,
You’re actually not the first person experiencing reliability issues with the Skull Shaver. I’ve received many similar reports and the problem is apparently quite frequent. While I don’t personally shave my head, you could theoretically use any decent electric razor to shave your head as well. If budget is not an issue, check out the Braun Series 9 and the Panasonic Arc 5. Choosing between these two should come down to your personal needs, you can see in the article that I’ve outlined the pros and cons of both so you can decide which one would be a better fit for you.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you Ovidiu for the great amount of time and effort you have invested in the reviews. I have bought an ES-LV65-S, and it does pretty well the job of clean and close shaving, especially when I shave every other day, or the third morning the latest.
It does not deal well with a 3 or more days stub. I’d like to test a rotary shaver for that purpose. Do you have a recommendation for rotary shavers based on your current experience?
Hi Radu,
Thank you for your kind words, much appreciated.
Out of all the rotary shavers I’ve tried, the Philips S9000 Prestige is the best out there right now. It works really well with longer beards too. But as all rotary shavers, it does come with some inherent downsides (it doesn’t shave as close as your current Panasonic and at least in my case, it’s not as comfortable either). If I were to shave less often, I would choose a Series 9 or even 7 any day. But that’s just me, I simply don’t get along with rotary shavers and I do think a foil razor would be the safer choice for most users.
I reviewed the Prestige in great detail here if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Which electric shaver would you recommend shaving black men bald head.
From what I understand from barbers actually using it in this manners, the Braun Series 9 works really well. I don’t personally shave my head so I cannot provide more details, unfortunately.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Best article on electric razors I have ever read. Thanks for your time, honesty and info.
Cheers,
Paul Wilson
Hi Paul,
Thank you for your kind comment, much appreciated. Glad you found the information useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Outstanding article.
Even after a couple reads I’m still a bit confused so I’ll provide the following;
I am nearing 60 and have blade shaved my entire shaving life. My beard has changed to partial gray, with course and fine hair. The fine white hairs lay down and are difficult to shave. My skin has become (don’t get old) very sensitive and stays in a constant state of angry even after I am very cautious with both soap and razor. I have recently tried an old electric that was given to me to test and found that when shaving dry, it did a nice job but took some time, had to shave in many directions and was left with a little burn. I then follow this up with trimming the goatee in the shower with a razor. Even using an old electric the face pain is far less so I think its time to buy. Your recommendation would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Jeff,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
In this situation, I’d recommend one of Braun’s foil shavers. They’re very gentle and forgiving, which is particularly important in the case of sensitive skin that has lost some elasticity. Compared to the other brands, Braun electric razors are in my experience better at coping with different facial hair, including those flat-lying whiskers.
As for which model to choose, that really depends on your budget. The cheapest, decent Braun shaver would be the Series 3 ProSkin, however, I would recommend spending a bit more on a Series 5 as the performance difference between them is noticeable. You can opt for an s (solo) model that doesn’t include a cleaning station like the 5040s or 5030s, those are usually the best in terms of value for money. If it fits within your budget, you can check out the 5190cc recommended above. The Series 7 is marginally better than the 5 (a bit more comfortable and faster), however the difference is not by any means huge.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I appreciate your thorough and well written reviews.
I just read a negative Amazon review of the Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV-65s.
The reviewer stated that after his shaver failed within the 2 year warranty period, Panasonic wrote to him that since the shaver was obsolete, the warranty did not apply.
There is a comment from Panasonic below the review that does not deny the reviewer’s statement.
I assume that you have been unaware of this.
Hi Jerry,
Thank you for your comment.
I haven’t read that particular review and I am a bit surprised since the ES-LV65-S doesn’t appear to be discontinued. Obsolete is a very vague term. Granted, there have been newer Arc 5 models launched in recent years (in 2019 as well), but again, the ES-LV65-S/ES-LV95-S still appear to be in production and are widely available.
Panasonic’s answer to this user’s issue is a bit disappointing, but there have been customer support problems with all shaver brands, so I would still consider the ES-LV65-S if it seems like a suitable shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
XThis is a helpful essay, especially since the manufacturers themselves present a lot more puffery than information about their products. Curious whether you got a chance to try Wahl shavers yet. I was surprised to find I liked the closeness & ease of use of the Wahl Lifeproof better than my old (well maintained) Braun Syncro, and wondered how thenewer Brauns would compare. Specifically, though the hoils on these shavers are about the same size, the Wahl cutting block is longer, and I do notice that Wahl shaves well along the full length of the foul, but the Braun only shaves well in the middle. The new Brauns use self-contained cassettes, and short of buying one and smashing it, how do we know how long the cutting block is, or infer how much of the foil will actually shave and not just get in the way? Any insight here?
Hi Barry,
Thank you for your comment.
I haven’t tried Wahl shavers yet, but I will, hopefully soon enough. They are a bit difficult to get here in Europe compared to other brands, even though their hair clippers are quite popular.
As for Braun’s cassettes, I also prefer having the blades separate from the foils, especially for the ease of cleaning, lubrication and even for assessing the wear or damage. With most foil shavers, the middle part of the foil is where the cutting action is most effective as the blades are basically pressed against the foil, while the gap increases toward the extremities.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Mr. Nicolaie watch lubricant you recommend for Braun 9 series shaver.
Spray or oil
Thanks
Hi Peter,
Both options will work well. If you go for the oil, make sure it’s a light machine oil or clipper oil. Braun or Panasonic branded shaver oils will also be suitable. As for spray lubricants, I prefer the one from Remington called Shaver Saver, it seems to work the best out of everything I’ve tried so far.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello! A very informative and helpful guide. And I have a few questions:
1. This is my first time buying a foil shaver and I was wondering which one do you think I should buy? I have a very limited budget (US$150.00 dollars is my top), very sensitive skin, medium textured facial hair, I don’t like shaving every other day (I currently do it 3-4 days because of how sensitive my skin is).
2. What kind of pre-shave, shaving cream and after-shave do you recommend? I was looking at the proraso sensitive skin line because of the good reviews and I want your opinion on it.
Lastly, Thank you so much for your help, have a great day!
Hi Angel,
Many thanks for your comment. Regarding the questions:
1. The Braun Series 7 is usually my default recommendation in these situations. It’s a very gentle and comfortable shaver, so a really good choice for sensitive skin and it’s also quite good with longer facial hair. You shouldn’t have any problems shaving a 3 and even 4 days beard. Considerinering your budget, you should be able to get a solo model (no cleaning station) like the 7893s or maybe even a cc model like the 790cc if you can get a discount. The next best thing would be the Series 5. However, I would recommend getting the Series 7 as it’s just a bit more comfortable and enjoyable to use.
2. The best pre-electric shave lotions I’ve used so far are from Speick and Blue Stratos. In Europe they’re fairly easy to buy online, but not so much in the USA. Alternatively, you could get the highly popular Lectric Shave and Lab Series, but I don’t particularly like them as they have a very oily texture and don’t work quite as well as the aforementioned products.
As for shaving creams, you can confidently get any of the following: Nivea, Speick, Proraso or Cremo. They are widely available (again, except for Speick), they’re reasonably priced and work great. My aftershave of choice is Truefitt&Hill Authentic No 10, but it is pricey and sometimes hard to get. The Proraso Sensitive aftershave is another excellent option that you should be able to buy.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you so much for your answer! I really appreciate it.
I’ll get the 7893s model since where I live, we don’t really get any Braun products. So the less the better.
Anyways, I have another question. What should I get for replacement parts? The foils alone? or the cassette?
You are welcome, Angel. All Series 7 models use the same replacement head, precisely the 70s (silver) or 70b (black) cassettes. You cannot buy the foils or blades separately (as you can for example in the case of Panasonic shavers).
Hi, I’m looking at a Braun series 7 (UK), I can see 7898cc for £135 or 7842s for £130 right now.
The thing is, I don’t really want to have to pay for cleaning solution etc. in the future; so, given that, my questions are:
– You say that it’s difficult to clean Braun shavers manually – but is it possible to do so to a reasonable standard, without using the cleaning stand? Would it be worth buying the version with the stand anyway?
– Can you charge the shaver directly from a cable, without using the stand, if you buy the CC model?
– Are there better UK variants of the series 7 out there that I should consider?
– Also, I’ll be moving from a rotary shaver to a foil if I buy this. Do you have any advice for getting used to the new style of shaving?
Hi Simon,
Thank you for your comment. Regarding your questions:
1) Absolutely, you can clean the Series 7 manually to a reasonable standard, especially if you use some liquid soap and warm tap water (at least every once in a while). The cleaning station is very practical for a thorough cleaning (again, you don’t have to use it after every shave) and there are cheap third-party cleaning solutions available. And since the cc models usually cost just a bit more than the standard solo versions, I usually recommend getting the cc variation.
2) Certainly, you can charge a cc shaver directly with the supplied cord.
3) Only if you can find one that costs less; the performance, build quality and so on will be the same.
4) The technique required is different, but in my opinion foil shavers have a less steep learning curve and you’ll be getting a hang of it pretty quickly. I actually wrote a detailed guide that addresses precisely this — shaving with an electric razor (rotary and foil) for the first time. I think you may find some useful information there.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I need to replace my trusty old Panasonic ES 8095, which frankly was perfect for me but is finally on its last legs and is no longer made. Most important to me is an ergonomic issue you don’t seem to address in your reviews/recommendations – the need for a razor with a small, compact stand to hold the razor vertically when charging and not otherwise in use (to occupy minimal counter space I must share with my wife) – and small and compact enough to easily pack and “take with” for charging when traveling. “Cleaning Stations” do hold razors vertically, but they take up far too much counter space (for an automatic liquid cleaning function I don’t need or want) and are much too big & bulky for efficiently “taking with” for charging when travelling. The Panasonic ES 8095 was perfect, with its tiny, folding induction charging stand that holds the razor upright and packs away easily for travel. Unfortunately, it seems like the current crop of razors either have no charging stand at all and have to be left to lie plugged in horizontally on the counter, taking up maximum not minimum counter space – or have a large bulky “cleaning station” not suitable for either minimal use of limited counter space – or for efficient packing and “taking with” for charging when traveling. Do you have a recommendation for a razor with a small vertical charging stand that holds the razor vertically, takes up minimal counter space, and is easily and efficiently packed for travel? Thanks.
Hi Richard,
Thank you for your comment.
Your requirements with regards to the charging stand are very specific and unfortunately the options are limited. Your ES8095 is part of a discontinued series that included other similar models (like the ES8092, ES8094 or ES8096) and they all used the same induction charging stand. Nowadays there are only a few models from Braun and Panasonic that come with a compact charging stand that can hold the shaver upright when charging (actually Remington has some as well, but I do not recommend them). Unfortunately none of them are inductive chargers and they basically use the shaver’s charging port.
Since you were satisfied with your Panasonic, I think you should stick to this brand and check out the Arc 3 models that come with a stand: ES-LT5N or ES-LT6N (depending on where it’s being sold). Do keep in mind that despite still having 3 blades, the shaving head of these newer models is larger than the one of your shaver.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu. Thank you for your very fast reply! Unfortunately, it seems the Panasonic ES-LT5N is no longer available and the ES-LT6N seems to only be available in the UK (I’m in the US). Additionally, the the current crop of Panasonic’s shavers which are available here in the US either have no simple vertical charging stand at all or have a bulky “Cleaning Station” which renders them too big for our counter space (attributable to their having proprietary liquid cartridge cleaning/drying features which I neither need nor want) and which also renders them impractical/unsuitable for travel use. So I’m afraid as much as I wanted to stick with Panasonic, they eliminated themselves from consideration by virtue of their recent unacceptable charging/storage ergonomic design decisions. Luckily, I did find the Braun 3080S, which does have a simple very small vertical charging stand (with a physical plug-in rather than an induction connection to the shaver, but that’s not a material difference to me) . The Braun is probably a small step down from my old Panasonic ES8095 in terms of performance, but frankly it is close-enough for me, considering that the charging/storage ergonomics of all the other alternatives made them non-starters. I purchased the Braun this morning locally for an extremely good price and gave it its first use after charging it up. With its extremely compact vertical stand, it actually has an even smaller counter space footprint that my old Panasonic – which is a definite plus from the “spousal acceptance factor”. The Braun is noticeably noisier than my old Panasonic, but not really objectionally so. Though I probably can’t tell too much from a first shave, it really didn’t seem noticeably different from my old Panasonic when it was new, in terms of closeness and comfort of the shave. Strangely the Braun didn’t come with a protective plastic cap to cover the head assembly when not in use, but I was able to order one online for a very nominal amount. All-in-all, assuming it proves to be reliable – and given that there really seems to be no alternative, given my personal storage/charging ergonomic requirements – I’m happy to have found the Braun 8030s and think it will likely serve me well. Thanks again.
Hi Richard,
Thank you for the follow-up, glad you manage to find a shaver that suits your needs. The Series 3 from Braun is a reliable and reasonably priced line of electric shavers, so I think you’ll be happy with your 3080s. Braun has this strange habit of including a plastic cap with only a few of their models. Also, the replacement shaving head for the 3080s is cheaper than the blades + foil combo for the Arc 3, so that’s a plus.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Any idea what the part number is for the protective cap for a Braun Series 8? And where to buy it?
Hi Stan,
Braun doesn’t bundle a protective cap with the Series 8 and there’s no official part for it. That said, the protective cap from the old (discontinued) Series 5, on which the Series 8 is almost entirely based, will very likely fit. The part number is Braun 81406970, you should be able to get a few buying options if you do a Google search on it.
Please note that I do not have one right now, so I cannot confirm that it does indeed fit. But there’s a really good chance it will.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
The 81406970 cap does fit the Braun Series 8 shavers. Can I post where I purchased it?
Hi Stan,
Absolutely. I will add the info to the post as well in the next update.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
The 81406970 cap does fit the Braun Series 8 shavers. It is available here for only $9.99 with free shipping:
https://braun.shavers-and-parts.com/braun-series-5-flexmotiontec-shaver-protective-cap.html
Has the performance of the Series 7’s been improved over time? I have a pretty old series 7 and I’ve never been impressed with it, even when new. I end up having to go over the same areas several times to get a clean shave.
Prior to the series 7 I had a Brawn Syncro 7500 series shaver and it was significantly better than the 7 for me. In fact even after getting the Series 7 I kept using the Syncro until it finally died.
I’d say that the improvements have been incremental over the years. If you haven’t been satisfied with one of the first-generation Series 7, in my opinion a new one will not yield significantly better results.
Most of the times, the Series 7 is a pretty safe choice. While it won’t wow you with the closeness, it is a great all-rounder and will be a suitable choice in most cases.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have been using a Braun Series 5 for the last 10 years and was looking for a replacement. My initial intention was to get a Series 9 but I held off until I did some research. I looked at various reviews and found yours to be the most impartial and you also offer advice on how to choose a shaver which not many reviewers do. Although my skin is not particularly tough I have never found any electric shaver uncomfortable having tried Braun, Panasonic and Philips, so my first priority is closeness. As mentioned elsewhere in this column Philips seem to have lost their way so I discounted them straight away. This left Braun and Panasonic so I read as many user reviews as I could which, if I wanted the best, narrowed it down to the Braun Series 9 or the Panasonic Arc 5. As I mentioned previously my priority is closeness so I opted for the ES-LV65. It took a couple of days to get used to it but once I did I can honestly say it gives me the closest shave I have ever had from an electric shaver. I also agree with your preference of using a suitable cream or something similar. Thank you for providing all that useful information.
Hi Terry,
Many thanks for taking the time to share your experience. I’m glad you found the post useful and that the ES-LV65-S turned out to be the right choice. It’s still a fantastic shaver despite its age, particularly for users concerned with getting a very close shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I recently had my barber buzz cut the top of my skull. I am balding and what hair I do have on the top of my skull is thin, white and wispy. I have read your reviews but have seen very few statements about the suitability of the razors for skull shaving. I would probably only shave my head every three or four days. Do you have any reviews on those types of razors, or any more information on the razors you reviewed that would meet my needs?
Curt
Hi Curt,
Thank you for your comment.
To be perfectly honest, I didn’t address that aspect because I do not shave my head, so I cannot speak from personal experience. I own all the shavers mentioned in this post and have used them extensively, but only to shave my face. I can however recommend the Series 9 for shaving the head based on the feedback from other users. My barber actually uses one for his customers and so far he’s been really pleased with it.
I think any good electric shaver should work as a head shaver as well (for example, the Arc 5, Arc 4, Series 7 or even a middle to high-end rotary Philips Norelco). There is a brand called Skull Shaver that manufactures electric shavers specifically to be used on the head, but I stopped recommending them after receiving numerous reports from users about reliability issues and poor customer service.
Just keep in mind that electric razors work best on short hair, so shaving your head more often will likely yield better results, especially in the case of thin, soft hair.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I tried the Braun series 9, the best and latest one I could fine. It was nice and gave a decent shave but I didn’t like the plastic feel and the shaves were not as close as I wanted. also the cleaning stand was much bigger than I wanted. So, I returned it.
Then I found on Amazon what I thought was the latest arc 5, the ES-CLV9DX. It was pricey and looked like a Japanese version because of the Japanese writing on the box, but it was supposed to have USA AC adapter. And in fact it did and I love it. I have sensitive skin but the shaves are irritation free and very close. (I do use a Remington preshave stick.) it’s build quality is fantastic. I love the all metal front surface, and the rubberized back. I love that it locks and unlocks just by picking it up and setting it down. What a fantastic shaver! A luxury product at a luxury price of course.
I wanted to get an English version of the manual, Which is not available anywhere it seems. I went to the Japanese Panasonic website and did find a manual for a similar shaver, and used Google translate to translate that PDF file. That kind of worked but the translated version had no pictures which was a bummer.
Now for my questions.
It seems that Panasonic has released in September yet a newer version of the arc 5, the ES-CLV9EX. Do you know what enhancements have been made to this one? I’m really curious.
Also, where can I get cleaning fluid packets and replacement blades for this shaver?
Hi Paul,
Thank you for your comment. Panasonic did indeed release a newer version, basically a revision E of your shaver with the model name ES-CLV9EX. Yours is a revision D as the name implies (ES-CLV9DX). It’s still a Japanese market release and the update is a minor one (slightly revised foil and beard density sensor), so I wouldn’t bother getting it. If you want to know more details about this new E version, I wrote a detailed post about it here.
As for the replacement blades and foils and detergent packs, you can find them for example on Amazon. The part number of the blades and foil set is WES9036 (sometimes listed as WES9036Y or ES9036). The detergent sacket is called WES4L03.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks so much for your quick reply. You are an absolutely excellent resource!
Isn’t ES9034 The best blade replacement set on Amazon?
The only Panasonic detergent set that I could find on Amazon is this one: WES4L0. Will it work OK?
You are very welcome, Paul. The ES9034 is the older foil & blades set found on revisions A and B. It will also fit your shaver; only the outer foil is slightly different than the one in the WES9036 set, so you can get either. But the WES9036 is the part that originally came with your shaver. WES4L, WES4L0, WES4L03 likely refer to the same product. Here is the Amazon link.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Once again a quick reply. Thank you so much!
I looked for WES9036 on Amazon but could not find it. I would like to get the one that came with my shaver. But search came up with no results for WES9036. Can you provide a link?
Nevermind. By searching outside of Amazon using Google search I was able to find this product on Amazon. So thanks again! I’m all set.
No problem, Paul. Glad I could help.
–Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
First of all, thanks for the informative blog. It is rare nowadays to get an unbiased, straight to the point information about a certain product.
I read carefully your comparison of Braun 9 vs Arc 5 and Braun 7 vs Arc 4. It seems that for my purposes the Braun has a slight edge as comfort is the most important factor for me.
However, I checked the price and it seems that the current pricing for Arc 5 is similar to Braun 7, at least in the EU. Do you think that with that in mind, Arc 5 is a better deal or you would rather have the Braun 7 as it still will be more comfortable?
Hi Georgi,
Thank you for the kind words, glad you found the information useful.
Regarding your question, the better deal is definitely the shaver that seems better suited for your needs, in this case the Braun Series 7. And considering that they also cost about the same, I think you should go with the Series 7.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for clearing that up :) Now I am just gonna wait for the best Black Friday deal and buy. I will make sure to follow a link from here to support the blog.
No problem, Georgi. Thank you, that is very kind of you.
–Ovidiu
Is there a good way to travel with the arc nine and it’s cleaning base? I’m afraid the liquid in the base will spill. Is there some kind of cover available for it?
I honestly can’t think of a practical way to do it. If you’ll be away for a longer time and you definitely want to take the Panasonic base with you, I think the only option would be to discard the current fluid and bring along a detergent pack and set it up once you get to your destination.
That was my only thought as well. I’ll be away for just five days and so probably I don’t need the charging base and the cleaner, but I like to have it with me and I’ll be driving so there’ll be plenty of room. So I will do as you suggest. Once again thank you my friend.
One thing I don’t think I saw addressed is the best razor for guys with beards. I only need to shave my neck, but the issue is how well the razor shaves next to the hairline of the beard. Is it easy to get right up to that line without going over or tugging at the beard hairs? I’ve only used rotary and have found that the omni-directional nature of the rotary design makes it easy to shave sideways along the beard line. Can a newer foil razor (like the Braun 9 Series) do that well?
Hi James,
Thank you for your comment.
I think you’ll agree that shaving just the neck up to the hairline of the beard is a rather specific situation and I’m afraid I can’t speak from experience since I do not have a beard. However, I think that one electric shaver that would be ideal in this case is the Braun Series 3 3010BT which comes with a clipper attachment that works great for edging / trimming right up to the hairline and getting that clean, crisp edge. You can then simply swap it for the foil head attachment and get a close shave. A Series 9 is overkill in this case and again, I think the 3010BT with the various attachments would be more suitable (and significantly cheaper).
I personally find rotary not quite as good as foil razors when more precision is needed.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
In my view there is no better shaver (comfort, closeness, quietness, ease of operation including cleaning) than a Philips Norelco shaver. I’ve been shaving for close to 60 years now and have used most of the foil and rotary shavers mentioned (currently own a Braun Series 9 as well as a Philips Norelco 8900 and a Philips Norelco 9700) and I always come back to the rotary shaver provided by Philips Norelco. What is most notable about the rotary shaver is the ease with which it picks up and cuts hair on both the neck and the jawline. Whereas I will use the Braun from time to time (it was a gift so I feel compelled to make use of it), I would never make it my default shaver. And as for the Panasonic shavers (I’ve had both the Arc 3 and 4) I find them harsh, whiney in the noise they produce and just generally not producing the close, comfortable shave I am used to receiving. We all, it would seem, have our preferences based upon our unique situations and facial hair. For me, the Philips Norelco is the best by far.
Many thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. That’s a great insight that shows once again that nothing is set in stone when it comes to shaving. From what I can tell, a rotary shaver is definitely the right choice for you and you should definitely continue using them.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’m hunting for a new shaver at the moment. This morning as I was shaving, I noticed that my rotary Philips Norelco 7140XL protective rubberized coating on the power cable wires was literally falling apart! Besides being quieter than my previous shaver, I never really liked it anyway as it took twice as long to shave and months to break in to the point where it wouldn’t cause a rash or bleeding. But having the rubberized coating around the wires literally disintegrate within a couple of years is totally unacceptable. It’s both shoddy engineering and an electrical fire waiting to happen. Norelco should be humiliated and ashamed. I’d wager the entire Norelco line uses the same flawed DC power adapter and cable design. I should note that the DC power adapter and cable on my previous shaver (a Remington foil shaver) that I used daily for over 20 years is still totally fine. So it’s not me and definitely a design defect in the Norelco line and probably an intentional defect too. Granted, UL hands out approvals and certifications like candy but Norelco’s UL approvals and certifications should be universally revoked for producing such shoddy electrical workmanship.
After using rechargeables for more than 25 years, I’ve come to hate rechargeable everything, which includes electric shavers. I want to plug directly into the wall and go. Batteries wear out after 2-3 years and after about 5 years completely refuse to hold a charge and you can rarely replace the battery without replacing the whole unit. It’s wasteful of Earth’s resources and harmful to the environment not to mention a waste of hard-earned consumer money. Any company that only offers irreplaceable batteries in devices without a direct bypass option to use wall power should be permanently put out of business. A rechargeable shaver sounds wonderful until you are in the middle of a shave and the battery runs out of power and you’ve only shaved half of your face for the day. I want a wall wart + a physical switch to turn it on and get the same amount of power for the same shave every single day. Consistency and longevity of components are what I value most. It’s simply not possible to engineer decent hardware by using garbage components. Especially plastic. Plastic breaks. I’ll take hardened steel any day that will last 40+ years over plastic bits that are purposely designed to break in as little as 2 months. All the real engineers who understand the importance of designing things correctly so that they last are either retired or dead and we are left today with a bunch of wimps who couldn’t engineer their way out of a wet paper sack. Also there’s the matter of pride. There’s no way anyone can legitimately take pride in their work when it doesn’t last more a couple of years. I can see it now – an engineer today pridefully attempting to describe their job to someone else, “Yeah I build refrigerators that only last 3 years. But no one else builds them to last any longer either, so you have to take what I make for you.” Embarrassing. Start revoking certifications, approvals, and licenses though and you better believe quality will suddenly improve. The effect of “we revoked DZQ, Inc’s licenses and they are now out of business…you’re next” is pretty powerful stuff.
Hi Quentin,
Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. I understand where you’re coming from and I am totally in favor of durable and reliable products as well. The cordless only products are however more prevalent nowadays and that’s the case with electric shavers too. There are only a few left that will work when connected to a power outlet. You’ll want to check out the dry only models, but again, your options will be rather limited. Here are a few models at different price points that I would consider: Braun Series 3 3020s, Remington PF7500, Braun Series 5 5030s, Braun Series 7 720s, Braun Series 7 790cc.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
As a wet-only electric shaver, I agree with most of the above comments. I currently rotate between the Braun Series 9, Arc 5 and Norelco 9000 Series, and foils are indeed quicker and closer. And they CAN be more comfortable. They also deal less effectively with longer, less uniform hairs. So on the above, check. Foils also, ultimately for me, invariably produce more ingrown hairs, and while I find I need a longer adjustment with a rotary, it eventually produces a more comfortable shave with no ingrowns. I’ve had a theory, developed over years, that foil shavers because of their speed and linear motion, cut more cleanly, leaving an angled tip to the hair at skin level, which is more likely to divert inward. Rotary shavers, at a slower speed and multiple cutting angles, as well as leaving a longer hair shaft, tend to round the cut tip above the skin (discounting the lift and cut technology, which is actually more irritating), producing fewer ingrowns. Would be interesting to see some actual research with SEM to confirm or disprove. Potentially, one significant advantage of rotaries.
Thank you for your comment, Allan. Those are some excellent points.
In my opinion, the main cause for more ingrown hairs is the closer shave in the case of foil razors. The hair being cut at skin level, its tendency to curl back into the skin, along with your some particularities of the skin (for example, dead skin cells that cover and block the hair follicle) will eventually lead to ingrown hairs.
An angled tip of the hair can definitely contribute to this as well. For example, using a razor blade will always leave behind more of these pointy stumps, that’s why ingrown hairs are a more common problem with traditional shaving. The angle of the hair relative to the blade is what will determine that angled tip. With electric shavers, foil or rotary, it is usually a straight, clean cut since the hair is straightened as it pokes through the foil/comb and the blade is basically perpendicular to the hair. I hope this makes sense.
Good explanation! That’s why an SEM study would be interesting – in the micro-environment of cutting a hair shaft, I envision the back-and-forth reciprocating motion of a foil shaver as flexing the shaft as it’s cut – in other words, consider a straight stick pointing up, with a blade pushing it in one direction and shearing it off. If the blade is sharp, it may well shear the shaft cleanly and squarely. As it dulls, it may “push” the shaft before cutting, resulting in a uni-directional angled cut. Or the return stroke of the blade (maybe several in the case of the Panasonic) may produce an angle in the opposite direction. Or not. In the case of a rotary shaver, one blade shears the shaft in one direction, and the following blade shears in a slightly different direction, and so on. That’s why it would be interesting to see the finished product – a cut hair shaft tip – under an electron microscope, with a range of blades and wear. And I’m certain, as you point out, that the height of the shaft above skin surface when cut makes a difference. I know I’ve seen an SEM scan of a hair shaft cut with an electric razor (can’t recall where), but it looked like it was done with a well-used 1950s Remington and was chewed into a ragged tuft. Just technical musings, but research papers have been published with far less practical application! And BTW, thanks for the great site and reviews – electric shavers have gotten short shrift in the rest of the shaving world forums.
Thank you, Allan. As usual, that’s an excellent and insightful comment. Just checked out the image you posted below, I recall seeing the one on the left a few times before, but never the other one (from the electric shaver). I think with modern shavers, the pushing of the hair shaft will be restricted to a higher degree by the foil/comb and also because the blade basically rubs against the inner part of the foil. These tolerances are a lot tighter now than they used to be, so there’s less wiggle room for the hair. The return stroke of the blade could actually round the tip of the hair even more, which should be beneficial in reducing ingrown hairs.
And you’re also right about forums — nowadays apart from a few isolated topics, electric shavers are basically non-existant in these communities. Wet shaving forums still thrive though.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Greetings. Tremendous wealth of information here. Thanks for all your hard work in creating this guide.
Question for you- Costco is selling a Braun Series 8. Is this a rebadged (for Costco) Series 7, an entirely new product (perhaps exclusive to Costco) positioned feature-wise somewhere between the Series 7 and 9, or something else?
Hi Howie,
Thank you for the kind words, glad you found the article helpful.
The Series 8 is more like a rebranded Series 5 performance-wise, so I would place it somewhere between the Series 5 and the Series 7. Initially, it was only available through Costco, but it can now be bought in other places as well, including Europe and Asia.
I would get a Series 5 instead, it usually costs less and the shaving heads are widely available as well. And apart from a slightly larger battery, the Series 8 doesn’t really bring other significant improvements over the S5. The Series 7 is still a better shaver in my opinion (for all the details you can check out this article).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello. Should I replace my Braun Series 3 with the Series 5 or buy a better one?
Hi,
If you’re satisfied with the Series 3, you don’t have to necessarily upgrade to a more expensive product. The Series 5 is a better shaver than the Series 3, more powerful, more comfortable and better suited for a coarser beard. It’s also better with flat-lying hairs. But depending on the situation, not everyone will notice a significant improvement. For example, someone with a light beard will likely be satisfied with a more basic shaver like the Series 3.
I’m afraid I can’t recommend going for the Series 5 or other more expensive models without knowing more details.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Found it: left hand side, DE blade, right hand side electric shaver (type unspecified).
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CXt4_-wWMAEGUdp.jpg
I’m sure a modern electric delivers a cleaner cut, but scary photos nonetheless. Sometimes you don’t want to see sausage made….
First, thank you for all this very useful information. I am planning to get myself an electric shaver and your reviews helped me understand the specs of each brand/model.
I have a question for you though: I have decided on a Panasonic but am hesitating between the Arc 3 ES8103S and the Arc 5 ES-LV65-S. I am a beginner, I shave every morning but don’t have a very coarse beard. Which of the 2 models should I get?
Thank you
Hi Gael,
Thank you for your comment, glad you found the website useful.
In this case, I’d say that the Arc 3 should be good enough. It’s also easier to get used to since the shaving head is noticeably smaller than an Arc 5. The ES8103S may feel a bit harsher during a dry shave compared to ES-LV65-S, but if you don’t have sensitive skin, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for your quick reply! The price is not significantly different on Amazon. Would it be worth “upgrading” to the Arc 5? Again, I am a beginner with electric shavers.
Thank you.
You are very welcome, Gael.
For me, personally, it’s well worth the price difference — the ES-LV65-S is one of the most underrated shavers still in production and if you can get one at a discounted price, that’s even better. I do have medium to coarse facial hair and it would make more sense in my case to spend some extra money on an Arc 5. Again, I think in your situation the Arc 3 will be a suitable shaver as well.
It never hurts to have more power and features especially if the price is not an issue (and from what I can see, it’s not). All Arc 5 models have a large head and that’s not ideal for a beginner as it will make the transition more difficult. But I do think that you’ll eventually get used to it (most users do). Some found it too difficult to maneuver in tight spots and even to see what they’re doing. However, these situations are pretty rare.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
An excellent article. I have used an electric for decades and, at 69, consider my Braun Series 7 to be the best one yet. Originally a Norelco guy, I had to back away from it with the lift-and-cut “improvement” because of ingrown hairs on my lower neck. The use of LectricShave preshave is a must. The high-pitched whine of a Braun can set your teeth on edge at first, but I was raised with six sisters so high-pitched whines don’t bother me that much.
This may sound like “health care 101”, but shaving before your shower is spot on! Also, using a washcloth on your face in the shower really helps to exfiloate the skin and lower the chances of ingrown hairs, especially in the neck area.
Again, thanks for a great review. Well done.
Thank you for taking the time to share this, Edward. Glad you found the review informative.
As a side note, I only had one sister, but somehow I wasn’t spared of high-pitched whines. So it’s a non-issue for me as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great site and reviews, thank you for taking the time to deliver them. I was in the market for a reasonably high end shaver to replace an old Panasonic ES-SL41 and eliminate the razor .
I have chosen the Panasonic ES-LV65-s as per your recommendation. A lot cheaper than the Braun 9000 to buy and run, I have an ultrasonic cleaner for small items which I use to clean the old Panasonic periodically, I will do the same to the new shavers blades and foil.
It is great to have found a site with good reviews and advice on shaving, I m in my late 50’s and found useful tips
Many thanks for your comment, Robert; glad you found the site useful. I think the ES-LV65 is a worthy upgrade and I hope you’ll enjoy shaving with it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Any comments on the quality of replacement blades for Braun/Panasonic? I had an older Braun (don’t remember the model, I ditched it some 5 years ago) that was great but all the replacement blades I tried were horrible – pulled my hair, left razor burn and didn’t last long. Current amazon reviews seem to show this is still very much a problem for Braun (and possibly Panasonic too).
I have somewhat sensitive neck skin – my Norelco 3000 gives me neck burn though my dad’s more high-end Philips seems to be fine); I only do dry shaving. How would Arc5/Arc4 compare to Norelco for sensitive skin? I’d generally prefer a foil shaver but am very hesitant to drop $200+ on a Braun that may not be usable after the original blade is replaced…
Hi Igor,
Those are very fair concerns. Replacement blades/foils usually get some serious bashing in the reviews. To be honest, they are rather pricey, which may be one of the reasons. As long as the parts are genuine (third-party blades are usually horrible), the performance and longevity should be similar to the original parts.
In my experience, using a good foil shaver will be a lot better for a sensitive neck compared to a basic rotary razor like the Norelco 3000. Even an Arc 5 or even 4 that are a bit harsher compared to similarly priced Braun shavers will yield better results in most cases.
You should check out a Braun Series 5 as well; some models (particularly the ones without the cleaning stations) are quite reasonably priced and the replacements heads are cheaper as well. And the S5 is a lot more comfortable than a Norelco 3000.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have tried many many electric, both rotary and foil, I never found one that was right for me, so in the end I had to go back to a blade shaver for a close comfortable shave
Hi Larry,
It would be interesting to know what shavers have you used and what exactly was the problem. I still think you can find an electric shaver that can give you a very decent shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, Your comment about a foil shaver head moving faster than a rotary razor being an advantage is puzzling to me. A foil shaver blade vibrates beck and forth and does not travel a great distance in once cycle compared to a rotary head. The rotary blade on my Phillips S3212 travel past approximately 100 stationary cutter blades in one revolution. They are tiny and hard to count but that number is within + or – 5 of the exacty number. I don’t know how many blades the foil razor passes in 1 complete motion cycle but I would guess that it is could not be more than 5? But I believe it cuts in both directions as it vibrates back and forth; not sure. So a foil razor cuts in both directions, it would have to run about 10 times faster than the rotary to have each moving blade pass as many stationary cutter blades as the rotary passes in 1 cycle. The S3212 had 3 heads each with 8 cutter blades, all continuouslly moving at the same time. The foil moving blades actually stop moving during part of the cycle as it changes direction; so for part of the cycle it actually stops cutting. The rotary razor blades never stop cutting until you turn it off. Because of these basic differences in the principles of operation, it seems to me that the apparent speed of the razors being judged by the sound is illusionary compared to what is actually going on at the cutter blades. I am not commenting on the accuracy of your observations as to which is smoother, closer or faster; just your comments about the reasons that you give for why one is better than the other; in particular your comment about the actual mechanism being faster at cutting than the other one,.
Hi John,
Thank you for your comment, this is really a very interesting topic.
However, I feel like your analogy isn’t exactly fair. First of all, what you’re referring to as being approximately 100 stationary cutters are just slots in the combs — similar to the perforations in a foil. The actual blades are the ones on the rotary cutters. You can’t consider all the slots of a rotary shaver and only a single perforation in the foil when comparing them. Your Philips S3212 uses the SH30 heads, so a cutter has 9 blades. During a revolution, for a single slot, there are 9 cutting actions per that particular slot (9 blades passing over it). Given that most rotary razors operate at around 800 revolutions per minute, it means that in a minute we can have a maximum of 7200 (9×800) cutting actions per slot.
Let’s take a typical foil shaver that operates at 10000 oscillations/cycles per minute. An oscillation means the blade moving back and forth. Let’s consider that one blade passes over a single slot (although there are likely more). This means that over one minute, there are 20000 (2×1000) cutting actions for that slot. And again, this is in the worst-case scenario (you mentioned 5 slots, I only used 1 for this example). Not to mention that there are foil shavers with much faster motors (up to 14000 CPM).
A rotary shaver has 3 heads, but a foil shaver also has 3 to 5 cutting elements. It’s difficult to compare them at this point without getting into an apple vs oranges polemic, but what we can objectively state is that the speed at which the blades move is a lot higher in the case of foil shavers. The first direct benefit — there’s a lot less likely to experience hairs getting yanked during a faster stroke and shaving will take less (this is of course highly dependent on the type of hair and the shavers themselves).
But specs aside, it’s totally normal to have a preference towards one or the other. I still think most users will have a better chance of getting a satisfactory shave using a foil shaver for the reasons mentioned in the article.
Hope this makes sense, I’m not sure how well I managed to communicate what I had in mind.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, I have always used Braun shavers, more recently 5 series and then 7000 series since 2008. I found that the 7000 needs a new head every 3 – 4 months to maintain optimum performance. I used to just replace just the cutter blocks (also every 3 – 4 months) on my 5 series but I suspect Braun stopped this to make more profit! With my 7000 now quite old, extensive paint missing and broken springs on the long hair trimmer and head I felt it was time to replace. I was always happy with the closeness of shave (which can be varied with the rocker either side of the on/off button), and normally shave every day. I used the clean and charge every 7 days.
I treated myself to a new 9000s, thinking this would be a step up from the 7000. I have used it now for 6 weeks. I am impressed with the quietness of the new shaver but I have been disappointed with the closeness of the shave – not as good as the 7000. I subsequently discovered it could not be used in a clean and charge. I returned the 9000 to the retailer and had a full refund. I am wondering whether a 9000 cc would be as good, or should I buy a new 7000?
Hi Robert,
Performance-wise, a Series 9 s is identical to the cc variations. You’re essentially just getting a cleaning station by going for a cc model. I personally find the closeness between a Series 7 and a 9 to be pretty much identical, but if you constantly got better results in that regard with the Series 7, I think you should probably stick to it and just buy a new Series 7.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I checked several different websites for shaver evaluations.
Yours was by far the best. I purchased the Panasonic Arc5.
Thank you, Dennis, glad you found the information useful. Enjoy shaving with your new Arc 5.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
What is your opinion on the barber type of foil shavers such as Babyliss Pro FX 02 & Wahl 5 star finale? It seems they are decently priced and provides a very clean shave.
Also, if you had around $100-120, which foil shaver would you buy? (Mostly for neck hair thats very thick)
Hi Johannes,
I haven’t had the chance to use any Babyliss or Wahl shavers, unfortunately. So I’m afraid I cannot say anything from my own experience. I do plan on getting and reviewing some Wahl and Andis shavers, hopefully pretty soon.
From what I’ve read, the Wahl 5 star finale does get very close, but it works well as a finishing tool on very short stubble. Also, the foils appear to be rather brittle and aren’t as durable as the ones on Panasonic or Braun shavers.
In that price range, I would go with a Panasonic Arc 5 (like the ES-LV65-S) or one of the Arc 4 models referenced in this post. They work really well on very thick facial hair provided that it’s reasonably short and doesn’t lie flat on the skin. Otherwise, a Braun shaver should work better (something like a Series 5 or maybe a solo Series 7 if you can find a great deal on one).
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I appreciate your candid thoughts on the razors. I decided to go with a Braun Electric Razor for one very simple reason: While reading the reviews for the Panasonic Razors on the Amazon website, there were quite a few one star reviews indicating that the Panasonic company would not stand behind their razors even when they broke within the warranty period.
One person documented his situation and Panasonic responded in a template type of comment indicating that they were sorry that the razor didn’t meet their (customer) standards and hoped that this would not prevent them from buying Panasonic products again. No offer to help was given.
If this happened only once or twice, I’d be tempted to think it was a disgruntled customer. Unfortunately, it was too pervasive… and many of the reviews were dated in 2018 and 2019.
Hi Steve,
Thank you for your comment, glad you found the article useful.
I only had a problem once with a Panasonic razor and it was rather swiftly and professionally taken care of in a Panasonic service center. I guess the quality of user support can vary from country to country, but as long as the damage is not the result of faulty operation, the company should take full responsibility for repairing or replacing the product. They are legally required to do so. It is disappointing to hear otherwise, especially since their electric shavers are actually among the best.
Hope you’re enjoying your new Braun razor!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Few days ago I bought Philips S9000 Prestige electric shaver. I have Braun Series 9 9280cc shaver and it works really good. However I was impressed with the design of Philips S9000 Prestige. That’s why I bought it. But when I switch it on it vibrates a bit, just a half a second vibration, and it squeaks a bit. Againa just a half a second and nothing too loud. Then it runs smoothly. Is this normal for a rotary shaver? Or I should send it back? Let me know please. Thanks.
Hi Dean,
That is perfectly normal, you can rest assured that there’s nothing wrong with your shaver. My Prestige does the same thing. Rotary razors are squeakier in general, but for some reason, it is more noticeable with the Prestige. My guess is that it has a torquier motor and it makes that squeak when the blades go from still to full speed. So there’s really nothing to worry about.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
First of all I would like to thank you for such an informative article… my electric shaver passed away a few days ago and your website has become my field guide.
I was using a Philips Series 3000 that did the job for me many years, since I only dry shave twice a week (performing surprisingly well with larger hair), however, it did leave me an irritating rash on the neck, and to be quite honest, I didn’t enjoy my shaving time at all.
By reading your articles, I had become very interested in upgrading my whole shaving experience. I want to get a better machine and also include some other features into my routine, such as pre shave lotions and shaving cream (I’m only using an after shave balm at the moment).That’s why I would like to ask for your advice in this matter.
I have coarse hair, sensitive skin (considering my experience with my previous shaver), I only shave twice a week and I’m not crazy about getting the closest shave ever, just a proper one. Also, I would like to try some ocasional wet shaves, but the performance in this modality is not determinant in my decision. In other words, I just want my shaving experience to have better results and to be more enjoyable.
Taking this into account, and having read your article, I think the perfect shaver for me would be the Braun Series 9. However, I find it to be way too expensive for what I’m looking for. Therefore, my options come down to the Braun Series 7 and 5 (without the cleaning station), and the Pannys Arc5 and Arc3. I also wanted to include the Arc4, but I can’t find the ones you described above here in Spain, probably because only the most popular models are sold here, so this might also be an issue in the future regarding to replacements.
I would really appreciate if you could guide me with my decision between these options, and if the extra cost of the most expensive models would be worthy in my case, considering that I’m not looking for a premium shave, and I shave every 3-4 days.
Many thanks in advance,
Gaston
Hi Gaston,
Thank you so much for the kind words, glad you found the article helpful.
The Series 9 would indeed be a great fit, but as you’ve mentioned, it is a rather expensive shaver. And in my opinion you’re not getting a whole lot more compared to a Series 7, which would be my recommendation in this case. I think you’ll be pleased with the performance, especially coming from a basic Philips shaver. Panasonic makes some great shavers too, but given that you’ll be shaving every 3 to 4 days and you do get some irritation on your neck, I would lean more towards Braun.
You can definitely try a pre-shave lotion, I think you’ll be quite happy with this setup. Since you live in Spain, you can probably get the Speick pre-shave. It is the best in my experience and makes a dry shave more enjoyable. And you can of course try a shaving cream as well and then decide if it’s worth including in your routine.
I understand that you’re interested in a shaver without the cleaning station, so you’ll have to opt for one of the Series 7 models that end in s. It doesn’t really matter which one as the performance will be the same.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you so much for your prompt response and the recommendation. I fully agree that the Series 7 would be the best choice for me, and I just found a great deal for the 7880cc, so I’m happy that I would be able to include the cleaning station into my shaving upgrade.
I’m already looking for the Speick pre-shave lotion, sounds like the prefect setup. I’m also considering to get the Speick shaving cream for my ocasional wet shaves, and another aftershave such as the Proraso sensitive aftershave balm or the Nivea sensitive cooling post shave balm.
Thanks again for your advice and your amazing work.
Best,
Gaston
You are welcome, Gaston, glad I could be of help. It’s great that you were able to get a cc Series 7 for a reasonable price — I’ve always considered the station quite handy, even for occasional use.
A Series 7, along with the Speick cream and pre-shave should be a worthy upgrade.
Happy shaving! :)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Happy shaving indeed!
I just had the best shave of my life… thanks for inspiring it!
Best,
Gaston
Wonderful! Glad it turned out to be the right choice.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, I recently just started shaving my head. I’ve been doing some research and want to purchase a panasonic foil razor. Problem is i keep facial hair trimmed and not shaved. I’m looking to find a razor that can shave my head and keep my face trimmed. So far I can only find 2 options
ES-RT77 which has a comb attachment or the ES-LL41K which has 2 attachments. any recommendations of which one would be better suited for myself. or any other panasonic razors that I don’t know of. thanks . awaiting your reply.
Hi Matt,
As I already replied in this comment, you don’t really have too many options with Panasonic. The ES-RT77 has the older 10 000 CPM motor which is significantly slower than the 13 000 and 14 000 CPM units, so I wouldn’t consider it. The ES-LL41-K is a better choice at least in that regard and should work decently on the head as well provided that the hair is short.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Got the ll41K. Thanks for the advice. Just used for the first time. Worked great on my head and the trimmer was acceptable for the face. Will take a little getting used to but better than using 2 razors. If anyone else is wondering for head/face razors I think this is a good choice. FYI I’m not bald yet so my head is still relatively thick. Facial hair not thick. Just shaved after 4 days and had no issues.
You are very welcome, glad you’re satisfied with its performance.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I shave my head, and keep a stubble beard once in a while, too. Bite the bullet and get two devices. I’ve tried many top end Norelco’s, Braun’s, Panasonics, Brio’s etc. I’ll suggest you get an Arc 5 for the closest to a blade head shave. I use a Philips OneBlade for beard trimming or removal.
Great read, very thorough.
Question for you. I have a Braun 7 series. I have had it for a few years now. I have replaced the cassette a number of times, and its time to do so again. I was looking on Amazon and noticed that many of the recent reviews of the Genuine Braun Cassettes have bad reviews. Most stated that since the P&C acquisition of Braun, the cassettes are no longer made in Germany, but are now made in China. As a result (according to reviewers) they only last about 3-4 months and some fall apart during use…
I am trying to decide if I want to risk forking out $35-$40 for a replacement (which if it doesn’t last long will result in the need to get another, and another… in 18 months I will end up spending more then I would for a new shaver) or if I should risk it. Any thoughts? Have you heard anything about the quality of the replacement cassettes going down?
Thanks in advance.
Matt
Hi Matt,
Thank you for your comment, glad you found it useful.
Replacement foils and blades generally get pretty bad reviews, not just the ones from Braun. It’s pretty much the same with Panasonic and Philips parts. They can sometimes be pricy and not live up to the expectations of the buyer, which is inclined to think that the quality of the parts is lower compared to the original ones that came with the shaver. I personally didn’t have any serious issues that would suggest something like this — I did however always make sure to buy genuine parts.
Regarding the Series 7 specifically, the cassettes are still made in Germany. I actually bought one last year for my 7865cc and the Made in Germany text was printed on the blister. I haven’t come across one that was made in China.
The very first generation of the Series 7 was released after the P&C acquisition and it came with a higher quality cassette — particularly the steel — and with higher quality Bosch electronics. Those models are long discontinued, but even so, the Series 7 is still a really good shaver, both in terms of performance and reliability.
I would replace the cassette first before pulling the trigger on a new shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Sounds reasonable. Thanks for taking the time to read my post and reply!
Matt
First off I have to say, Ovidiu,this is amazing work. I wish this was the standard for review lists, the intro perfectly put my feelings about other list into words. It’s a pain switching between multiple lists and customer reviews where you don’t know whether or not their criticisms and negative comments are from user error.
I just ordered my first foil razor (the Arc3 ES8103S) and have a few questions since I’m pretty new to shaving properly. You mentioned using aftershave as well as shaving before washing your face. I wash my face in the shower and was wondering do I still use the aftershave and just hop right in or would it be better to wait a bit before washing my face? After I finish my shower I moisturize with tea tree oil and CeraVe, would tea tree oil be a sufficient as a replacement for aftershave? If not, do you have any aftershave recommendations? Seeing your suggestion of a wet shave, I plan on using up my left over Harry’s shave gel. When that eventually runs out what would you recommend to use? Finally, any other tips or products I should use/try (with brand recommendations) would be much appreciated, thanks!
Thank you so much for the kind words, glad you found the article useful.
What I’ve found to work best for me is to shave, then hop right in the shower. I only then wash my face again with cold water, pat dry with a towel and apply the aftershave. I never use aftershave before getting in the shower as most of it will be washed off anyway.
If the tea tree oil + CeraVe combo works well for you, then great. After all, the main purpose of using aftershave is to moisturize the skin. Right now my aftershave of choice is the Truefitt & Hill Authentic No 10 Post-Shave Cologne Balm (quite a mouthful). It’s a wonderful product, it smells amazing, it’s very calming and doesn’t have a greasy texture. It is a bit on the pricey side though. Other cheaper great alternatives would be the Proraso Sensitive Aftershave Balm and the Nivea Sensitive Cooling Post Shave Balm.
As for shaving creams, the best I’ve used so far is from Speick. It’s a small German brand, quite affordable and I get the most comfortable and close shaves using it. Another good product that I’ve been using lately is the Jack Black Beard Lube. It’s a shaving balm and it’s transparent when applied, which makes it a lot easier for beginners to shave. I highly recommend both of them.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu!
First i would like to say how impressed i am with the work you are doing here! it is amazing and not taken for granted. keep going!
second, my Philips HQ9190/21 SmartTouch-XL stopped working after almost ten years of almost daily use! it was by far the best shaver i had.
as i’m looking for replacement i cam across the 9000 series which was for me almost the natural choice – i wanted something VERY STURDY that will both shave and will work for another 10 years.
BUT – when looked into reviews, i came across the 7000 series and your reviews of the ARCs. i must say i never used such shavers but reading what you wrote on the 9000 as well as the closeness shave of the ARCs it make me wonder if i should try something totally new.
But in case i’m staying with rotary, do you see a big advantage for investing in the 9000 series over the 7000?
Regards;
Haim
Hi Haim,
Thank you for the kind words, glad you found the website useful.
In this case I’d say to stick with the Series 7000. Spending more on a Series 9000 will probably not bring significant improvements for a seasoned rotary user. The Series 7000 uses different (slightly cheaper) heads and comes with some cost-saving features (very basic battery indicator, the station doesn’t have inductive drying), but the shaving performance is similar.
I think most users will get better results with an Arc 5 provided that they shave regularly (daily or every other day, maybe more if the hair grows slow). If that sounds like you, you could give foil shavers a try. At least in terms of closeness, I consider the Arc 5 to be quite a bit better than any rotary shavers you can currently get. But again, the key with Panasonic shavers is to use them more often on short facial hair, otherwise they can struggle with getting long and flat hairs.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I ran across your very complete guide after a quick search. I really like that you’re personally tried these units and let us know what you like and don’t and why–it really feels like you’re having a chat with someone else who takes their shaving seriously, as well as the tools!
My faithful Spectra 8894XL Bond Edition was dead after I didn’t use it for a month (I usually shave every two weeks), and it hasn’t woken up yet so it will need to head to repair. But in the meantime, I need to get this hair off my face! I don’t mind a solid investment in a new 9000, but will it be the same as what I’m used to? I’ve had 2 Norelcos my entire shaving career so far, and have a cheap foil unit that a friend gave me that I also do like.
I typically will use the trimmer to trim off anything long so the shavers don’t have to work too hard (and I don’t have to work too hard cleaning them). I’m used to the Norelco’s lack of precision in terms of exactness, but seem to get a much closer shave with the lift and cut.
Thoughts and recommendations? Thank you in advance!
Hi Samir,
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated.
I didn’t get the chance to use the 8894XL, so I cannot compare it directly to the Series 9000 (Prestige). But from what you’ve said about your shaving habits and preferences, it should be a good match. If you particularly like the results you’re getting from rotary shavers that use a double blade design (Lift and Cut), there’s also the option of getting the older (and less expensive) Series 9000 — the regular ones, like the Norelco 9300 and 9700, not the Prestige. As I said in the article, I personally am not a fan of that feature as I find the Lift & Cut technology to cause me serious irritation, but if that’s not a problem for you, definitely consider them.
The click on trimmer that comes with the Series 9000 will also be more suitable to pre-trim your beard than other integrated trimmers that are only suitable for some light touch-ups.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Samir,
I used a Norelco Spectra 8894XL Bond Edition shaver from 2004 to 2015. It seemed to get the job done, but I sometimes noticed irritation. I replaced it with a Norelco 4500, which worked about the same. After the battery died, I tried several shavers, including the Philips Norelco Prestige 9000, and wound up with the Panasonic ES-LV65-S, which I’ve been using for over a year. It’s better in every way than the Norelcos: less irritation, closer, faster. I clean it daily with plain water and weekly with liquid soap and water, and put a drop of Wahl clipper oil on each blade after cleaning with soap (and after the shaver dries).
This is great website and I encourage people to buy products through here.
I have thick, coarse hair and shave daily on my head, face and body. I would still have a shadow by shaving with a blade against the grain. The skin would be a mix of BBS and irritation and razor bumps but, still a shadow.
I will say modern electrics ARE closer than shaving with a blade and doing a two pass shave, against and across the grain. I’ve been shaving electric for 15+ years and don’t know why electrics are not more popular. Even popular DE youtubers get unclose two pass shaves, nicks, and marred necks from 3 passes against the grain shaves.
I’ve gone through too many Braun Series 9 broken cassettes and misaligned/broke head oscillating pins. I finally got a Panasonic Arc5 and was pleasantly surprised by the increased closeness and simpler/less expensive operating costs, thanks to this site.
Thank you for your support and for taking the time to leave a comment, Keith. Glad you finally found a winner in the Arc 5. Happy shaving!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I am chagrined that the Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige cannot be used with a cleaning system (unless you have another S9000 shaver and cleaning system in which you can put the S900 Prestige head on during cleaning). And I am wary that mere water can keep it clean and lubricated.
Do you see any harm in running the S9000 head in Norelco Philips solution or a substitute that is poured into a small receptacle? If so, would you use an alcohol-based or non-alcohol-based solution for this purpose.
Thank you.
I don’t see any harm in cleaning your shaver that way — on the contrary, I think it’s a good idea. A detergent-based solution like the Jet Clean (HQ200) from Philips is probably a safer choice.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hey Ovidiu, excellent website and this is really great you are helping so many people out here!
I’m looking for my first electric shaver and I’m absolutely lost, and not entirely sure there’s a suitable product for me.
I clean shave once a week, sometimes 2 weeks and do this in the shower with no shaving cream. Call me lazy, but this is just how I’ve always done it! Looking at the reviews for the many different shavers and beard trimmers, there doesn’t seem to be an ideal product for taking off this much beard growth back to as smooth as possible. Could you offer any suggestions here? Would ideally want to spend around $100 Australian (probably $60-$70 USD), but would spend more if the right product was out there. Thank you in advance!
Hi Mike,
Thank you, much appreciated.
I don’t think an electric shaver alone would be ideal considering your routine. There are a few that are quite good at shaving longer hairs (like the Philips S9000 Prestige or the Braun Series 9), but they are way over your budget and even so, they may not be what you need. It also depends on how fast your hair grows, but unless you have a light beard, I doubt you’ll get a satisfactory result.
If I were you, I would look into getting a wet/dry electric shaver that comes with a beard trimmer attachment like the Braun Series 3 3010BT. You can use that attachment to trim your beard to a more manageable length, then follow-up with the foil attachment to shave the remaining stubble. It’s also quite reasonably priced. Another option would be the Series 5 5018s, but it’s only available in the USA and Canada.
Finally, you could have a beard trimmer and a separate shaver, but the total price will be higher and you’ll have two products to fiddle with.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, Thanks for the interesting and rich review.
I have been using Philips (Norelco) shaver for many years.
For the past twenty years, I’ve also shaved my head and found that the PT870 shaver was right for me … until last year.
I shave daily – head and face – dry. In the last year there have been a lot of miss shaving in the neck and jaw line. That’s why I have to use the knife to “clean” twice a week.
I’m debating whether to move to Brown Series 9, or stick to Philips (Norelco) and buy a machine in Series 9 (9270?).
* My neck skin is more sensitive.
Considerations:
1. The quality of shaving the face.
2. The quality of shaving the head.
3. Stimulation and ruby in the neck.
4. Shaving time. (I’m afraid Brown Shaver will take a lot longer to shave my head).
I would appreciate your advice.
All the best,
Gil
Hi Gil,
Many thanks for your comment, glad you found the article useful.
If you wouldn’t be shaving your head as well, I’d probably tell to go ahead and try a foil shaver like the Series 7 or 9. As face shavers, I think most users will find them superior to a rotary razor, especially when used daily.
But if you’ll be shaving your head yourself, you are right, a rotary razor will usually be more suitable, easier to use and it will take less time to do it. The Series 9 in particular is very good at shaving the head, it’s even used by many barbers in that manner. But it can be tricky when shaving your own head, especially the back part.
You will have a tough time finding an electric razor that excels at shaving both the face and the head. You’ll simply have to pick the one with the fewer cons. I think you should maybe stick to a rotary shaver since you were satisfied with the PT870. Since that model is now discontinued, you could try a similar one that comes with the same shaving heads, for example the Philips 4100 (AT810/41). Depending on your budget, you may also go for a better rotary razor, like the 8900 or something from the Series 9000 family.
Again, I don’t think they are superior to the Series 9 (closeness and comfort) when used daily to shave your face but are better suited for shaving your head.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I suggest a Braun for head and face shaving, over the Norelco. For me, I had to make too many circular passes on the head with a Norelco (Prestige). This only added minimal discomfort over the Bruan but alot more time and second passes. The Braun also handled heat and the large amount of shave time needed for head and face shaves. Panasonics are almost too warm to shave the face/head, after shaving the head/face.
Thank you for the insight, Keith. Braun does handle the heat a lot better than Panasonic, especially during a lengthy shaving session.
Currently I have a Braun 360 Complete 8975, which I bought new in August 2008.
So far I have replaced the head 7 times, whenever the replacement light came on:
January 2010, October 2012, November 2014, December 2015, July 2017, March 2018 and last time in April 2019.
It seems that the light comes on quicker after each replacement…
I always got the genuine Braun (51s) replacement set.
I shave dry every day, have normal skin and (by now grey, I’m 75) light hair grow.
Don’t use any AfterShave or cream.
The original battery still needs to be charged only once every 8 days or so.
The other day the replacement light has come on again, time for 51s renewal #8?
Or should I look for a replacement shaver? It still does its job after all these years.
Based on your test (and my minimal requirements), I think a Braun 3040s might very well do the trick, or should I go for the Braun 5030s?
No interest in a cleaning set.
But I am interested in your opinion, thanks much in advance.
Hi Dominic,
First of all, I think you should change the foil and blades only when they fail to provide a decent shave. The replacement reminder is basically a timer that keeps track of how long have you been using the shaver (like a cleaning reminder). Just because the light comes on, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should change the parts at that moment if they’re still in good working condition.
Getting 8 days of cordless shaving from a 12-year-old shaver is really impressive. In my opinion, if you’re satisfied with the shave, you should probably still hang on to it. When you decide to upgrade, I’d recommend going for another Series 5 like the 5030s you mentioned (that one can also work with the cord). For shaving daily the 3040s will probably get the job done, but I think it’s worth spending a bit more on a Series 5. You’ll be using it a lot and you’ll appreciate the superior performance of the Series 5.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for your review of the Panasonic ES8103 shaver. I used one for 5 years and I think it’s the shaver that delivers the biggest bang for the money. I used it daily, rinsed and then charged it weekly. The screens and cutters only began to wear after five years of use. The only reason I replaced it was that the battery wouldn’t hold a charge for an entire week and the cutters began pulling at my beard and needed replacing. I was planning on replacing it with a new ES8103 because the cost of a new shaver is only a few more dollars than buying new a set of cutters and screens. The shaver on Amazon is $69.99 and the cutters and screens are a total of $57.
I replaced it with a Braun 7983s which I bought in April 2019 at Costco for less than one hundred dollars.
Thank you for your comment, Bob. I totally agree, the ES8103 is a great shaver that offers great value for money and it’s built like a tank. Considering the price of the replacement parts, it sometimes makes more sense to just buy the whole shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Surprisingly, this shaver has most of the useful bells and whistles. It has the 13,000 speed motor, an LCD digital battery charge indicator and clean indicator. The pop up trimmer died after a couple of years, but it probably would have lasted longer had I turned off the shave before extending and retracting the trimmer.
another commenter mentioned:
“I’ve gone through too many Braun Series 9 broken cassettes and misaligned/broke head oscillating pins.”
is this a big problem for the series 9? debating between series 7 (cc) and series 9 (cc) for my dad. (price is not a major concern.) he’s in his 70’s and always used a blade as far as i know, never electric. i want to get him an electric since he’s on bloodthinners, so i think it’s safer than nicks with a blade.
not sure about his specific characteristics, but i think the comfort is more important than closeness (retired, goes a day to a few days between shaving although i don’t think he’d go beyond 3-5 days between shaves at most, older skin so maybe more fragile or easily irritated), plus getting used to switching from a blade to an electric.
leaning toward series 9, but concerned about this comment and wondering if this is a common issue? (only other concern is possibly the series 7 might be easier with a more compact head to maneuver around and shave the upper lip….)
i would appreciate your thoughts. thanks for such an informative guide!!
Hi Karen,
The Series 7 is actually my default recommendation in most of these cases. The performance gains from a Series 9 will be marginal for most users, but I do find the Series 7 easier to use and more manageable. I think this is particularly important for an older user that has never used an electric shaver before.
As for the Series 9 reliability issues, there were definitely some, especially with the very first iteration (the models starting with 90 that used the old cassettes). There still seem to be some with the updated shavers that may simply be quality control related. I own 3 Series 9 shavers and so far so good.
I would personally go with a Series 7 for my dad, mainly because it’s easier to use and performance-wise still an excellent shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi! I have been using a Braun 3020s for years. I love the simplicity, how you can just tap some warm water on it, and the cleaning is done. I put some oil on the shaver head once in a month. Its awesome. When going for travel, I only take the shaver with me, no need for cleaning station and stuff.
I have been looking at the series 7 and the series 5. If I buy a 5030s without the cleaning station, how can I clean/lubricate the shaving head DIY without using the cleaning station?
Hi,
The 5030s is actually waterproof (even though it is only suitable for shaving dry), so you can also clean it with warm water and (optionally) some liquid soap. Same goes for any Series 7 that actually uses an almost identical shaving head. You can check out this guide I wrote on how to clean an electric shaver manually.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for your complete reserch!!.
I have try Braun (I worked at Gillette company), and some Philliphs, and they have great products, but in my experience, if I have shave at 7am, near from 2pm I seems like if I havent shave.
Since 10 years I shave diarily with Mach 3, or the new top model. But I will like to get an electric shaver to get perfectly flush. I have read that Wahl or Andis are better than others.
Hi Fernando,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
I actually reviewed the Andis ProFoil not long ago and it does shave really close, but as I mentioned in that review, it will only work decently on short hair, can’t really get any flat-lying hairs, it’s rather messy to clean and it isn’t very comfortable. So if you have somewhat sensitive skin, Wahl and Andis aren’t really viable options. But if that’s not an issue and you plan on shaving daily, it does shave closer than most other shavers, at least when used dry.
Do keep in mind that Andis and Wahl use very thin foils to achieve that and if used daily, the foils will wear out faster compared to other brands. That, plus the subpar performance on anything than short, straight stubble prevents me from recommending them as viable options for a main, everyday shaver. One of the Panasonic models in this list (depending on your budget) would be better for most users. They’re a lot easier to clean, more comfortable and the closeness will likely be satisfactory as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Thanks for taking the time to answer me, the cost is not a big problem, because if you evaluate the long duration, vs the catridge of the mach 3 or similar, and the posibility of shave used dry, at any place, in any time, can be a good inversion, and I don have problems with my skin. Few years ago, I bought an expensive philips (or top of brand), which was shaving fantastic (according to the seller), I explained that I had tried several Braun but that after 7 hours of shaving, it looked almost as if I had not shaved well.
After trying it at home for 3 days, I went to return it, since it did not achieve the desired shave, as I get it with a blade. I will try Panasonic Arc5.
Thanks, and thake care.
Hi! That’s a really informative comparison!
I don’t really understand one thing, though. In the Arc 5’s description, you said that it has the fastest motor, with 14 000 CPM, while Braun Series 9 has 10 000 CPM. I checked the official websites, and Panasonic describes the Arc 5’s motor as 14 000 cycles per minute, while Braun describes the Series 9’s as having 40 000 “cuts per minute”. My guess would be that one cycle is two cuts (the blades going back and forth?), but that would still make the Series 9 significantly faster. Or are they counting it differently?
Hi Peter,
Braun’s 40 000 cuts per minute statement is misleading. They basically took the speed of the motor which is 10 000 CPM and simply multiplied it by the number of blades (4 in the case of the Series 9), ending up with the 40 000. The Arc 5 does have a faster motor at 14 000 cycles per minute (or 70 000 cuts per minute if we multiply the speed by the number of blades).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
This is a really well-written comparison you’ve done!
I‘m Angela from Indonesia. I really no nothing about men electric shaver before, but I plan to buy and give my Dad one of them as his upcoming birthday present. Hence, I will be surely needing your advise.
I plan to get the best one suited for him, one which can last long, good quality, and in reasonable price too.
As for my Dad who is now in his 50s, all this time he’s been using manual razor shaving with shaving cream, so he never tried any electric shaver before. He shaves every morning, so all this time he never keep his beard or mustache hair long. He shaves I believe in dry condition after brushing his teeth (but getting one which can be used in wet or dry will be safer I guess). He likes to keep his beard and mustache in clean cut. His hair is a bit coarse. Also, he’s the kind of person who does not like the troublesome for the extra effort to cleaning the shaver and maintaining tasks. He’s a busy person so he likes to keep things simple and always put speed in no. 1. Hygiene is another thing that I want to cover for the electric razor I want to get for him, since he’s going to use to every single morning.
After reading your review, so far I’m planning to get him a foil shaver, to avoid any unwanted injuries for a beginner in electric razor for him. Eyeing on the Braun series. Either Braun Series 3 3040s (the price in my area USD 125) or Braun Series 7 7898cc (USD 279) or Braun Series 9 9291cc (USD 375). The cleaning station looks appealing as it overs more hygienic option. But then again, I have a concern for the future cleaning station maintenance (the liquid) and the head replacement which are quite pricey. I’ve checked in my area, the Braun liquid cost USD 15 per pcs. As for the head replacement Braun Series 3 32S cost USD 59 per pcs, Braun Series 7 70S cost USD 75 per pcs, and Braun Series 9 92B cost USD 85 per pcs.
Looking at My Dad needs and the concerns I have as mentioned above, what will you best suggest, of course the most suited for My Dad?
Looking forward for your reply.
Thank you so much in advance for your advice.
Regards,
Angela
Hi Angela,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
I would suggest getting the Braun Series 7 7898cc, I think it’s the best option in this case. It’s very easy to use for a beginner (it has the slimmest shaving head of all three, including the 3040s), the costs are better balanced than in the case of a Series 9 and the performance will be more than enough. There are much cheaper alternatives to Braun’s cleaning refills (more details here) as well. It can also be cleaned manually, but I think the cleaning station is handy to have as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
In your review of the Panasonic ES-LV65 Arc 5 shaver you indicate that I can buy the new Gen 3 replacement cutter/foil pack and it will fit this shaver. You indicate that WES9034P will fit the rev A or B and WES9036 will fit rev C or D. I just bought a new ES-LV65 (actually ES-LV95-S) and I’m wondering how to know which revision my new shaver is so I could replace the blades with the improved 3rd gen blades? The product I just received looks exactly like the razor I bought back in 2015. Only difference is the s/n. Could you tell me how to determine what rev I have? Thank You
Hi Paul,
Your ES-LV95-S is a generation 2 Arc 5, so there aren’t any revisions, that’s why there aren’t any differences compared to your 2015 shaver. The A, B, C, and D revisions exist only in the case of the newer generation 3 Arc 5. The WES9034P and WES9036 sets originally come with the revisions A/B and C/D respectively and both will fit your shaver. More details in this guide.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
FOIL BREAKAGE BRAUN SERIES 9
Purchased a Braun Series 9 in April 2017 and replaced the foil cassette in January 2018 and every six months thereafter. I have a thick tough beard and always shave everyday. The razor is cleaned after every shave.
This year I am now having to replace the foil cassette every month due to breakage. (Very Expensive) Either the Hyperlift or Direct cut plastic end connector breaks inside the head. Spoke to Braun and they blamed my shaving style, (has not changed in 3 years), and sent one replacement cassette for free. I am giving up on the Braun and based upon your reviews ordered a Panasonic Arc 5 today, as the Braun expense is ridiculous.
Did Braun change the connector design, as I see there are other posts with the same concern?
Hi Aaron,
Not to my knowledge. The only official update happened when the original 90s and 90b cassettes were discontinued and replaced with the newer 92s, 92b and 92m. But these have been in production for a few years now and there’s no information regarding a revision and the part numbers also stayed the same. So even if they did change anything, it wasn’t documented. I haven’t noticed any differences between my older Series 9 and the ones I purchased more recently.
Hope you’ll have a better experience with the Arc 5.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
First, thanks for your comprehensive review. I have been reading these past 2 days and it’s awesome!
Can you please help me with an advice?
First of all, for a couple years, I have been using braun smart control (i think it’s series 1?). It works ok-ish but I never used a better one, so I don’t know how much improvement can a better one offers.
Recently the foil and the blade on my braun SC fell and broke. I have 3 options now, whether to buy a replacement (braun 30B), upgrading to series 3 (300s or 3040s), or go invest on a panasonic arc 5 ES-LV65. The thing is that i don’t have a full beard, only moustache & goatee and I also shave everyday. can you please give me a recommendation so it won’t be an overkill?
Regards,
Hal
Hi Hal,
Thank you for your comment, glad you found the review useful.
I think you should go with the Series 3, it seems to be just right for your needs. As for which model, that’s totally up to you, both will shave the same, but the 3040s also has a slide-out trimmer (just like your current shaver). The 3000s can also work while charging since it’s a dry only shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I’m a mother of 19yr son who’s ready for an Electric Foil Shaver. Firstly, amazing detailed information you have put on your website for everyone, particularly I find it super informative coming from a mom’s viewpoint with first child is a boy and we both are learning such things. His father does razor blade shaving daily so we all are clueless/lost as to which one to get for our son as a first ES.
So seeking your expert recommendation based on the 5 ‘Holistic factors’. Son is looking for closeness, comfort, speed, wet/dry shave feature, ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Facial hair particularities aren’t coarse and not flat-lying hairs, rate of hair growth maybe slow. Since being at home due to COVID he hardly trims the facial hair and as of this moment they are not like a long beard :)
Don’t know if he has Sensitive skin (predisposition to razor burn, rashes, ingrown hairs, etc.) as he hasn’t used any ES, would get his little facial hair trimmed by hair dresser at a haircut time.
Shaving habits (shaving more or less often, dry or wet, etc.): Hasn’t started yet
Budget (initial investment, replacement foils/blades, cleaning solution): Yes, as we don’t want to purchase an expensive one. Something in range of 2 figure$ to about $150 or less. It’s going to be the very first ES so not looking for expensive ones right now.
Two companies with good reviews looking into are Panasonic and Braun.
Appreciate your expert suggestions for a first time ES purchase as we are totally lost as which one to get based on the 5 Holistic features.
Thanks,
Mandeep
Hi Mandeep,
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated.
I think narrowing down your options to a foil shaver from either Braun or Panasonic would be the safest bet in this case. Your budget allows quite a bit of wiggle room, but I would consider either a Braun Series 5 (like the 5190cc that comes with a cleaning station) or a Panasonic Arc 4 ES8243AA.
Both are excellent options for a teenager and should still provide good results when his facial hair becomes thicker. They do have their own specific pros and cons that I’ve outlined in the post.
Basically, the Series 5 is a bit more comfortable and better with longer hair, while the Panasonic shaves a bit closer, but may be a bit more aggressive (not a problem if there are no skin issues).
The Arc 4 is also cheaper as it doesn’t have a cleaning station, but it’s very easy to clean manually. Even if it has 4 blades, the head is still quite slim and I don’t think it’ll be an issue.
You should choose based on availability, budget and maybe your son’s preference towards one or the other and what they have to offer.
Please keep in mind that during the first few weeks his experience may not be the best. The skin needs some time to adjust and his technique will get better in time. Also, if he has some long, thin, soft hairs, I highly recommend trimming them before using an electric shaver (they are designed to work on short facial hair).
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
This is of immense help!
Thanks!!!
No problem, glad I could be of help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I have been a dedicated electric shaver user for many years, decades in fact. I used to be a Philips rotary shaver fan but, like so many others have commented, found their shaving performances to have gone seriously downhill in recent years,
Many years ago I had a Philips dry shaver that gave me excellent service for more than ten years. I don’t remember what model it was but the casing had a polished wood effect finish. Shaves were always close and comfortable. Cleaning was relatively easy. I would empty it out after every use (usually every day) and give it a thorough clean about once a week. Eventually though, the motor conked out and I had to replace it. Naturally, under the circumstances, I thought it best to buy another Philips rotary, so I did but, boy, I was so disappointed! Shaves were still reasonably comfortable enough but closeness was awful. Again, I don’t know which model it was but it lasted only a couple of years anyway before, once more, the motor gave up the ghost!
After such an experience I decided I needed something better, so I bought a Braun 7745cc. – and what a difference! Shaves were super comfortable and quick and closeness was the best I’d ever had with an electric shaver. I loved it! Possibly the only thing I didn’t like so much was the expense of replacement cleaning cartridges – but that might have been because I usually cleaned it every day. In this respect I note you say using the cleaning station once a week (some say two weeks) is enough.
After several years, however, this great shaver eventually failed. First, the cleaning station stopped working properly and then, one day, the shaver itself just decided it wasn’t going to work anymore and went dead on me. I tried everything to fix it but to no avail.
So, it was time for another replacement! I decided to give Philips rotary shaves another chance, so I bought their Series 7000 model, and that’s what I’m using now. A mistake! Shaves are comfortable enough (one of its selling points is it’s intended for men with sensitive skin) especially if used wet but I’m not happy with the closeness. After shaving, two or three hours later I feel like I need another shave!
Now, based mainly on my experience with the Braun S7, I’m thinking of going back to a foil shaver. I have a thick, tough beard, so need something reasonably heavy duty. I normally shave every day. The closeness of the Panasonic shavers has appeal but, as my skin is fairly sensitive (though not ultra sensitive) I’m a bit worried about comfort. Maybe better to avoid these? If so, this leaves just the Braun range. The S9 is rather pricey and is probably a bit more than I need, so I’m thinking of another S7 or, possibly, an S5. From what I’ve read, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of difference in performance between them.
What would you advise?
Hi John,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience in such great detail — I always enjoy reading these stories.
Based on your previous experience, I would also lean more towards the Braun Series 7 (the original models like the 790cc or 7865cc, not the 2020 models that are disappointing, to say the least). Considering the current prices, I would still pick the Series 7 over the 5, it is more enjoyable and slightly more powerful. I also find it a bit more forgiving, and all these things are definitely welcome for someone with coarse hair and somewhat sensitive skin.
If you found the Series 7000 comfortable, I think a Panasonic Arc 5 will be fine as well. The closeness will certainly be way better. I usually recommend users to go with something that makes sense and works (in this case the Series 7, that would be the safe choice), but the Panasonic Arc 5 could also work, maybe even better in certain regards (it shaves closer than a Series 7, at least in my case). If you’ll be using daily, it could be a really good option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for this useful advice.
I shall consider a Panasonic Arc 5 as well. Apart from the closer shaves the price is also attractive. With my slightly sensitive skin I’m a bit concerned about comfort but, if it gives me a faster shave, maybe it won’t be in contact with my skin long enough to irritate it?
Anyway, I’ll think about what you’ve said and then decide what to do. I don’t need to rush into a decision right now. At least I’m still getting shaves at the moment, albeit not particularly good ones!
You are very welcome, John. Spending less time shaving is always preferable, but I don’t think that alone can compensate for a shaver that is plain uncomfortable. Moreover, you’ll likely spend more time shaving with an unforgiving razor. But again, I don’t think that’ll necessarily be the case with the Arc 5.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Just to bring you up to date, I think I have now solved my shaving problem.
In a flash of inspiration I had a look on eBay. There I found a Braun Series 7 that had been used for only about two months before the owner decided electric shaving wasn’t for him, went back to disposable wet shaving and wanted to sell it. It came with a cleaning station and five unused cleaning cartridges (worth something in themselves) and I won it on eBay auction for only £65. A bargain!
I’ve used it a few times already and the improvement in shaving quality over my old Philips rotary unit is dramatic. Certainly at least as comfortable (even when used dry) but much closer and faster. Shaving is now more of a pleasure than a chore! Very pleased !
Many thanks for all your advice!
Hi John,
That’s great, thank you for the follow-up. Glad you’ve found a winner (and at a bargain price).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I’ve tried/used PhiliShave in the past (3 or more years ago) but always went back to blades. 1 issue has been the closeness of the shave, which you have covered really very in your article. My other issue it shaved to my nose and ears. My beard and moustache grow very close to both and the PhiliShave couldn’t get close due to the amount of none cutting area between the edge of the shaver and the cutting blades.
So my question is how close to my nose and ears will the Braun Series 9 and/or Panasonic Arc 5 cut?
Thanks
Ollie
Hi Ollie,
You should be able to get significantly better results with a foil shaver. Granted, the Arc 5 is not the most nimble out there with that massive head, but I still find it easier to use compared to any rotary shavers. A 3 blade shaver like the Braun Series 7 will be even better at this, but you will give up on a bit of performance, the Series 9 and Arc 5 being the top of the line models from Braun and Panasonic, respectively.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Good morning sir,
I read your articles not only for the information you furnish us with, but also for linguistic style. I really learn from you. I fell upon the Panasonic Ram Dash Men’s Shaver 5-bladed Black ES-CLV56-K Limited Model from Import JPN.
Any take on this model?
Thanks.
Thank you for your comment, Maher.
That’s basically an ES-LV65-S with a different design sold on the Japanese domestic market. Performance-wise it should be identical, so a highly capable electric shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Wow, what an excellent article. Have been looking for a new electric razor. But for the past 25 years I have used nothing but a Phillips Norelco rotary head because I thought they are the most comfortable, this is without trying, ever, any other models. Now I think I would like to change. I do not have a thick or stubble beard. It is very light and thin. I shave everyday and most times twice, once in the morning and at night. I have begun to think the reason is that the Phillips is not doing a good job. What I want is a comfortable and close shave. Emphasis on comfortable but close is important so no more twice a day. Do not need to spend 2 to 3 hundred dollars on an electric shaver, am retired and money is always a concern. But having said that I am more than willing to pay for what I get and then money is less of a concern. Any help? thank you for a great article.
Thank you for your kind words, Kip.
Since you have a light beard and shave often, there’s no need to spend a lot of money on an advanced electric shaver. Even the more basic ones should do just fine.
While I usually recommend Braun foil shavers whenever someone needs a comfortable machine, I think a Panasonic will also work just fine in this case. Since your budget is on the smaller side, I would consider something like the Panasonic Arc 4 ES8243AA. I think that one would be a good fit since it shaves close, it’s more comfortable than other Panasonic razors (at least in my experience) and its head is also relatively slim for a 4 blade shaver.
For even less money there are the Panasonic Arc 3 ES8103S and the Braun Series 3 3040s. Those models should still be up for the task despite being very basic foil shavers. I would give the Arc 3 the nudge for closeness, while the Series 3 is a bit more forgiving. But the differences aren’t massive by any means. Choosing between these two and the previously mentioned Arc 4 should come down to your budget.
Again, given the frequency of your shaves and your beard type, I think all of them will be suitable.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Good article.
I’ve been using an ancient Norelco for a ling time and found it to be great. Solid, reliable, easy to use and maintain. I tried the newer Philips Norelco and was less than impressed: too many annoying things. I just want a shaver that will give me a good shave; I’m not looking for all the bells and whistles that some of them have. I gather that Braun (or Remington is good if I wish to use foil) is the way to go if I want something basic, but good.
Thanks for your comment, Bob.
Both Braun and Panasonic have very decent entry-level foil shavers (the Series 3 and Arc 3, respectively). I haven’t been particularly impressed with most Remington shavers I tested during the last few years (foil and rotary). However, the ones I actually kinda liked are the F5-5800 and the PF7500 (I linked my reviews if you want to check them out).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello
Thanks to your articles and reviews I think I have got it down to the Braun 3040 or Remington PF7500 as my next shaver. Which of those would you say has the best all-round performance for a dry shave?
Thanks for any comments.
William
Hi William,
I’d go with the 3040 over the PF7500. It is more comfortable, has better build quality and it’s arguably more reliable as well. I find the PF7500 to shave a little closer, but I still wouldn’t choose it over a Series 3 ProSkin for that reason alone.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for confirming that the Braun is worth the bit extra on the price.
William
Hi
Just a follow-up for anyone who reads this later.
I have now got a Braun 3040s and after a couple of shaves am pleased with it.
It does give a give smooth quick dry shave and closer than I was expecting certainly on my mid brown hair type.
Thanks to Ovidiu for the reviews.
That’s great, William, I’m glad you’re happy with it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
you mentioned the 5-head xiaomi in your article. Well i bought it from aliexpress last september, arrived and tested. I’t indeed even more powerful than may Es-LV65, a real beast. You shoud try it.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Xiaomi-Mijia-Reciprocating-Electric-Shaver-Razor-5-Cutter-Heads-15-000rpm-Type-C-Rechargeable-Waterproof-Omnidirectional/4000809496015.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.54674c4dsJNwK2
Thank you for the update and link, Luca. I just placed an order for one as well, hopefully it will arrive reasonably fast (meaning no more than one month). I’m really eager to try it myself.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
spec-wise it’s almost the same (5 stainless steel 30° blades, moving head, wet and dry,linear motor ecc. The main difference is in the motor. It’s even more powerful than the panasonic running at 15.00o rpm
Hi, have you been able to test the Xiaomi 5-head shaver yet? I would be very interested how it holds up against a Braum Series 9 or a Panasonic Arc 5.
Thanks Stefan
Hi Stefan,
Actually yes, I am currently testing it. I’ve only shaved with it a couple of times, so I need more time before writing a review. But I can tell you right off the bat that it’s a very good shaver for the money. In fact, the performance is outstanding in this price range. As for how it compares to some of the premium foil shavers like the Arc 5 and the Series 9, I’d say that it’s not quite as good. It doesn’t shave quite as close as an ES-LV65 for example, but the comfort is similar. It also performs quite poorly on flat-lying hairs on the neck — I actually had to follow-up with a different shaver to get all the stray hairs.
But again, considering the price of the Xiaomi 5-blade shaver (if you buy it directly from China), it’s actually very impressive. I particularly liked the foil frame that is held in place with magnets, the USB-C charging port, and the modern, minimal design. I think it would make a great travel shaver as well since it’s cheap, quite compact for a 5 blade shaver and you can charge it with your phone charger.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Dear Ovidio,
thanks much for your valued opinion as it helps me a lot with making a decision. Actually I expected this. I have been living in China for a couple of years now and can tell you that Xiaomi’s (and other Chinese products) are “ok”… but never more than that. These products are almost always “just good enough”, but never “top of the shelf”. Here in China the Xiaomi 5-head shaver costs 399 rmb, which is about 62 USD. Quite clear imho that it cannot be compared to a Panasonic shaver, since Panasonic has decades of experience in this field and finally an Arc 5 costs easily 3-4 times as much money. Sheer rpms simply cannot make good for quality. So….. my choice is set thanks to your confirmation.
Thanks again
Stefan
Hi Ovidiu,
I have bought a number of shavers and have been trying them in last three to four weeks. These are the shavers I bought: Braun Series 9 (9290cc), Braun Series 7 (7865cc), two Panasonic Arc 5 (ES-LV9Q and ES-LV65-S), Philips 9000 Prestige. I shave every other day, so all shavers were tried on two days beard. What I found is consistent with your reviews except for one unexpected observation. Braun Series 9 pulls my beards during the shaving. This happens several times during a shaving, irrespective of the amount of pressure. Braun Series 7 works perfectly. Panasonic Arc 5 gives the closest shave though, as you reviewed, is less forgiving than Series 7. Philips is the worst for my skin and beards, as it shaves worse and irritates my skin more than other shavers. When I started this experiment, I was expecting that I will chose Braun Series 9. Now my choice is basically between Series 7 and Arc 5, and I am more likely to chose the Arc 5 (LV65-S). Not that I am unhappy with my choice between Series 7 and Arc 5, but I am in disbelief about the performance of Braun Series 9. I would like to know whether you have any suggestions or thoughts to share. Thank you!
Hi,
Many thanks for sharing your experiment, those are some really interesting insights.
Ruling out any possible problem with the Series 9, I can only guess that the underwhelming results come down to a combination of factors, like your particular shaving technique and facial hair that simply don’t get along with the Series 9. It is surprising though, especially since your beard isn’t excessively long if you shave every other day. One thing that does seem to make a difference for some Series 9 users is the orientation of the cassette. It can be fitted both ways. It would be interesting to see if that will improve the outcome and the shaver won’t snag the hairs anymore.
Usually (again assuming that there’s nothing wrong with the shaver) the culprit is either the length of the beard or the speed of the stroke. If you move the shaver too fast on the skin, it is more likely to yank the hairs instead of cutting them. But that’s generally the case with less capable electric razors. A pre-shave lotion can help as well, so I would definitely recommend something like the Speick Pre-Electric Shave.
If you have the time, maybe you can follow-up on this as I would be interested to know if you see any improvements.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for sharing your valuable thoughts. It is interesting that you brought up the orientation of the cassette. Indeed I tried changing the orientation and it made a difference. I checked several images of series 9 on Braun and other websites, and they all showed the shaver with the golden blade (hyperlift and cut) facing the front (the side where on/off button is). So I assumed that’s the correct orientation. Using this supposedly correct orientation, I experienced the pulling problem. I changed the orientation of the cassette a few times and the problem went away, but then I was feeling that the shaving performance suffered because of the incorrect cassette orientation. Now that I am thinking again, maybe that was just my biased feeling because I believed that the cassette orientation was wrong, and therefore was interpreting any minor evidence to confirm my belief.
As for the shaving technique, even if it played a role here, it is surprising that Series 9 was the model that could not get along with it, while every other shaver could.
Anyway, I already returned the Series 9 because I thought it was defective. I ordered a new one which I will receive it shortly. I will continue my experiments and will keep you posted here.
You are very welcome. There’s actually no wrong or right orientation, you should use the one that gives you the best results. Braun officially states that it doesn’t make any difference to the quality of the shave, but quite a few users have reported otherwise. Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I would like to post an update here about my experiment. First off, I ordered another Series 9, and this time it was fine. Not sure that it matters, but the defective one was 9290cc and the other one was 9370cc.
Second, the general stage of shave industry is disappointing. Even the best shavers from Panasonic, Braun leave a lot of room for improvement. Is Series 7 a good shaver? Yes, it is, but it is worse than Series 9 and Arc5, which themselves are not perfect. I don’t believe Series 9 or Arc5 are overkill for any purpose. Despite being the best compared to other shavers, they generally underperform in most dimensions for my expectations. That’s why I limited my comparison to top of the line shavers of Braun and Panasonic: Series 9, and Arc5.
After comparing all shavers for several months I found that Arc5 ES-LV65 had the best shaving performance for daily and every-other-day shaving. Maybe no surprise here.
But I also found that Arc5 LV65 was the most comfortable shaver. When shaving daily 5 days in a row, Arc5 caused no discomfort, but Series 9 caused slight irritation after the third day. I repeated this experiment, and the results were the same.
The better performance and more comfortable results that I got with Arc5 were achieved by keeping its sensor on. Keeping the sensor on, helped a lot to avoid razor burns if multiple passes were needed to catch hard-to-shave stubbles, and did not affect shaving performance or speed.
LV67 and LV9Q were disappointing. Their overly flexible head made them more difficult to control and navigate compared to LV65, and the golden roller bars in LV9Q decreased the performance and did not add to comfort (which was equally great anyway with all top of the lines shavers Braun and Panasonic). An additional difference between LV9Q head and LV65 is that the slit foil is at a lower level in LV9Q compared to LV65, which made LV9Q less effective in catching flat lying hairs and decreased its neck performance.
I still agree that Series 9 is slightly more forgiving than Arc5, but the extra forgiveness does not necessarily translate to extra comfort. Indeed if you won’t make rookie mistakes such as pushing the shaver extremely hard or passing 20 times on the neck, or other serious mistakes that require forgiveness, then Arc5 LV65 is maybe even more comfortable than Series 9. Anybody who uses electric razors for a while probably will not need the extra forgiveness of Series 9, but will appreciate the higher performance (and comfort) of Arc5.
Thank you for the very detailed feedback, I’m sure many will find it useful. As a side note, I’m also not a fan of the wobbly shaving heads of the newer Arc 5 models; they don’t improve the experience in any way — on the contrary. For most users the Series 9 should cause less irritation compared to an Arc 5, but there will of course be exceptions. I also own a 9290cc and it works just as well as the newer 93xx Series 9 that I bought later on, so I think it’s just a misfortune that yours was defective.
Anyway, given the current prices and the overall performance, the ES-LV65 is a fantastic option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I forgot to add an important detail in my comment. All the above findings are valid assuming that you use a pre shave lotions such as Williams Lectric Shave, or Speick. I had never used a pre shave lotion before this experiment, and once I used it, I cannot see myself ever shaving without one. They are tremendously easy to apply, and the extra level of comfort they bring is surprising.
The fact that I was using pre shave lotion is important for two reasons. First, in absence of pre shave lotion, forgiveness becomes an increasingly important factor. Slight pushing or a few multiple passes which may cause some irritation when one does use pre shave lotion, will probably cause no irritation if pre shave lotion is used. In absence of pre shave lotion, Series 9 forgiveness is more likely to be needed, which can give it an edge over Arc5. In my experiments, I found that adding pre shave lotion helps Arc5 more than Series 9. Once I started to use pre shave lotions, it was tough to put Arc5 in a position that irritates my skin. Multiple passes and a level of pushing did not cause any irritation, and Arc5 even felt slightly more comfortable and smoother.
Ovidiu — I just wanted to thank you for all your work on this site. I bought the Braun Series 9 9370cc based on your reviews for $215 USD on Amazon Prime day and I’m looking forward to using it. I tried to use a link from this site so you get affiliate credit (well deserved). Thanks!!
Thank you so much for your support, I truly appreciate it. Glad you found the information useful and I hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new Series 9.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
We purchased a Norelco series 5000 for our 14 year old with Down syndrome but it doesn’t seem to shave close enough. We will try some of your improvements on techniques and pre shave tips but do you have any recommendations for a teen with thick hair and a disability?
Hi Ninetta,
The Series 5000 is a mid-tier rotary shaver and it’s not really ideal for a close shave, especially since your son has thick facial hair. My recommendation would be a more capable foil shaver provided that the louder noise during use won’t be a problem. Foil electric shavers are noisier than rotaries like the Norelco Series 5000 you currently have.
I would consider a Panasonic Arc 4 or Arc 5 like the ones on the list if it will be used daily or every other day. Panasonic shavers work really well and shave very close as long as the hair isn’t too long. If there will more days between shaving sessions or if your son suffers from irritation/razor born, a Braun shaver like the Series 7 will probably be better.
Also, foil shavers require straight strokes against the grain in order to work efficiently.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Would someone be kind enough to explain the meaning of the green led’s on the bottom of the Braun Series 7? There are two green led’s, one larger than the other. The larger one flashes during shaving, the smaller one is lit steady. The manual is no help.
Thanks.
Hi Bert,
You’re not the only one confused by the battery LEDs on the newer Series 7 shavers — it’s a poorly designed indicator. I tried to explain it as best as I could here.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is an awesome site and a well done round up. I just got an arc 5 and I need to make multiple passes just to get my hair on a second day shave. I find myself needing to shave with my regular razor to finish the job which is frustrating.
I am new to electric shaving though so I hope I can get some guidance. I started with propper cleaning and will do that. I also have tried lectric shave and havent found any advantage other than smell. I do have sensitive skin.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Joe, many thanks for the kind words, glad you found the site useful.
Since you are new to electric shaving, I, highly recommend reading the How to get the most out of your electric shaver section in this article. Also, I wrote a detailed guide on shaving with an electric razor geared at beginners, I think you can also find some useful bits of information there. In my opinion, a pre-shave lotion is beneficial in most cases. With that said, the Lectric shave isn’t my favorite (I think the one from Speick is superior). The fact that you have sensitive skin is another reason to include it in your shaving routine. Finally, try using slower strokes, always going against the grain. You probably won’t get the best results at first, but you should gradually see an improvement.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello,
i have read your article and ALLLLl of the comments! It’s been a steep learning curve these last few days. I would really appreciate your guidance. I am trying to choose a foil razor for my 79 year old father. He is a life long disposable razor fan. He liked the close shave and the ease. He has developed a substantial tremor in his hands and it is not so easy anymore.
please help me choose! my requirements and considerations:
– in Canada
-easy to clean and not challenging for older hands with less mobility
-close shave
-under 200$CAD
-he would shave dry (I IMAGINE.. altho has used foam for maybe 60 years) (??)
-should be ergonomically designed + comfortable to hold- (he’s used to a thin razor) and not too heavy
would be so grateful — so many models – i cant decide!!! THANK you SO much
Hello Kath,
Thank you for your comment.
Considering all these aspects, I think a Panasonic Arc4 ES8243AA or an Arc3 ES-LT41-K would be really good choices for your father. The price is within your budget, they are available in Canada, are very easy to clean and to use, both shave very close and are pretty compact as well. The Arc3 has a 3 blade shaving head, so it’s a bit more compact, but the Arc4 ES8243AA is also very nimble for a 4 blade shaver. The latter is also a bit more comfortable in my experience.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I recently switched from years using Braun shavers most recently series 7 to Panasonic es-lv97. The difference was immediately noticed with a closer shave and a smoother pass on my skin. It did leave a tingling sensation for a brief period which I assume will disappear after a few shaves.
I do have a question regarding instructions. It says to dis k ect the charger/cleaner from. The wall socket after the process has completed.
None of .y previous shavers required this time it was fine with leaving it plugged to electricity indefinitely.
Is there reason to unplug it each time?
Hi Stan,
Panasonic recommends disconnecting the station from the wall socket as a safety precaution and to save energy (although the consumption will be very low). The battery won’t overcharge and it also won’t affect its performance. It’s no different than your previous Braun shavers in this regard — there is no specific reason why you would need to unplug it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello, I have read your post. the information is well detailed. I have the philips multigroom 5000 and the panasonic ES rt47 this last one is working well, but the problem is with some hair that grow in different directions on my jowl so I had to make several passes with it. Because I had acne the doctor recommended me to use products for sensitive skin. I shave daily dry and wet, but I prefer dry for practicality. I would like a good, durable razor that justifies its price.
Hi Christian,
Thank you for your comment. Your Panasonic is probably not ideal in this situation as you’ll have to do multiple passes in order to get the flat hairs, which can aggravate your skin condition. I think a Braun Series 7 like the 7865cc in this post would be more suitable. If you don’t want the cleaning station, you can also get one of the solo variations (like the 7893s). I wrote a detailed comparison of all the Series 7 models here if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
I have an old Philips shaver HQ 8200 series. I am thinking to buy from the internet a Latest generation Braun 9 9390cc with the cleaning station. My question is whether is suitable for sensitive skin and for everyday use and dry shaving. How often do I need to change the razors (every year) and what is the cost?
What other things-accessories I need to buy, for example Braun Replacement cartridges, cleaning solution etc as I think I can not find in my country the 9 series?
Kind Regards,
Philip
Hi Philip,
The Series 9 would be a very good option for someone with sensitive skin. It works really well when used daily or less often and it’s one of the most comfortable shavers out there during a dry shave. Regarding when you should replace the shaving head (cassette), that really depends on how often you shave, how coarse and dense is your hair, and how well you take care of your shaver. I personally get around 1 year of decent use from a cassette, but again, that can vary among different users.
As for accessories, you would be needing cleaning cartridges if you plan on using the station regularly. You can buy Braun original refills or third-party solutions (which are usually a lot cheaper). You can check out my guide here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi
I have been using the Braun 9370CC, following your recommendation, since May 2020. I tried pre-shaved which my skin reacted to and clogged the razor a bit. I decided to go back to dry shaving.
I shave every day. I have a thick wirey beard. I use the cleaning center after each shave.
How long should the cassette last? Braun says replace every 18 months, but based on daily use, I feel I might only get less than a year. Any idea?
Hi Jay,
Thanks for the update. The shaver getting clogged because of the pre-shave is a bit surprising; it has only happened to me once with the Afta by Mennen pre-shave gel. That one tends to gunk up and clog the shaver. The ones from Speick and Tabac, my current favorites, never caused me any issues.
Regarding the life of the cassette, you would be right in assuming that it will last less than what the manufacturer claims. Your wiry beard + everyday use will likely cause it to wear out in less than a year.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
“There are quite a few European variations of the Series 6000 available, but the differences are only related to color and accessories.”
The International version of the 6000 series is actually different. The body is identical but the heads are the ones found in the 5000 series, along with the flip open top. (Although the heads are more spaced out in the 5000 series)
Many thanks for the heads-up, Alfred. That is correct, I will update the information to reflect the differences.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Wow you know your shavers! More than that you have great skill at writing clear and concise reviews about varieties of beard and skin types and how well they get cut by different shavers. thank you very much for all your time shaving with so many different machines. an you compare the Costco Braun Series 8 to the 7 or 5? Model 8370cc.
is it more like the 9? Where would you rate it for effectiveness and cost?
Thank you.
Hi,
Thank you for the kind words, glad you found the post useful.
The Series 8 (8370cc) is definitely more like a Series 5. In fact, it is basically a rebranded Series 5 with a larger battery. I am referring of course to the pre 2020 Series 5 models like the 5195cc in the article. So the older Series 7 (again, pre 2020 models like the 7865cc) and the Series 9 are superior. That said, if you can get the Series 8 at a fair price, it is a really good shaver. But it is not better than the Series 7 as its name might suggest. I wrote a detailed guide on the Series 8 here where I also compare it to the Series 5, 7 and 9 if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks a lot for this very comprehensive and helpful guide. The in-depth approach to each shaver is quite appreciated.
I’ve got a question about which shaver to pick, as it seems I’m stuck. A little bit of history first: My first shaver was an old 3 blade Panasonic (I’m sorry but I don’t quite remember the model). I hated that thing, as a cheese greater would have been kinder on my skin than than wretched thing. After a two years of saving (my colleague years), I got myself Braun Series 7, which was an order of magnitude better. I still got skin redness, but at least I could shave without a bloodbath. The issue there was two lateral spots on my neck and one spot on my jaw. No matter how many passes I did, the area wasn’t smooth. A couple of years later, I decided to upgrade my shaver and got myself Braun Series 9. Immediately, two things were noticeable: the comfort of the shave and the inability of the new cleaning stations to dry the shaver. The Series 9 shaver made shaving faster and much more convenient. I would rarely get any razor burns, and it managed to keep most of the area of my face quite smooth. But the two lateral spots on my neck still required multiple passes and pinching of the skin to be able to smoothen them out. After another two years, I now have the change-your-shaver jitters. At this point I should mention something about my shaving habits: I shave once or twice a week (I have a trimmer that I use to trim down to around 0.5mm and then use the shaver). I am prone to getting in-gown hair and have spots where the hair grows in all possible directions. These are parts that are very annoying to shave. So I’m considering getting Philips S9000 Prestige, but I’m also looking at Panasonic LV9Q. I ordered them both to try at home and had my first shave today. But I’m still confused. The LV9Q was almost as comfortable as the Braun Series 9, but the shaving performance and the closeness on the cheeks were excellent. Out of the two I would definitely pick the LV9Q. However, the Philips shaver, I think, did a better job on the lateral spot on my neck. But it drew blood around the chin (an area that neither Panasonic nor Braun had any issues with) and overall the comfort level was nowhere near the other two. It may well be that I am simply not used to rotary shavers and don’t know proper techniques, even though I tried doing my research on the matter. I just wonder if my skin is “used to” foil shavers and that’s why I had not so smooth experience with the prestige, and it will get better in a couple of weeks. As a result I still haven’t made up my mind which one to pick.
Sorry for such a long text. Any input you might have on this would be greatly appreciated. The inability to make a final choice is driving me nuts.
Cheers,
Alexander
P.S. I should mention that I love the design of the Prestige, but I’m a bit worried that it doesn’t come with a cleaning station. I’m not sure how easy it would be to do the monthly recommended “thorough” cleaning, which seemed more like a disassembly of the cutting block.
The LV9Q is not a bad looker either, but I found the raise/twist to switch on the display algorithm a but jumpy. The slightest move causes the display to go into a cascade of filling in to display the battery in a cycle. And I’m still confused whether cleaning with the unit and the provided substance is enough to maintain it or if one should also use the oil that comes in the box in addition to cleaning the shaver in the cleaning station. In the manual it says that the cleaning solution contains a lubricant substitute, but then at a later point it mentions that one should oil the blades once in a while.
It is actually very easy to take apart and clean. It’s just that it gets a bit annoying especially since you must not mix the cutters and combs.
Regarding the Panasonic, as long as you use the cleaning station regularly, there shouldn’t be any need for additional lubrication (unless you manually clean it with water and soap). It will certainly not do any harm if you still want to add a drop or two of lubricant on each foil element from time to time. Just make sure that the shaving head is completely dry before oiling.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Alexander,
Thank you for your comment. The jitters got you good, if I may say so myself. :)
But the approach is right in my opinion, you really have to try the shavers yourself in order to really find out what works best as the results could be unexpected.
That said, I think it’s way too early to draw a conclusion regarding the LV9Q and the Prestige after one shave. From what I understand, this is also the first time you’ve used a rotary shaver. And while the skin itself only needs to accommodate when switching from a razor blade to electric (foil or rotary), I think you definitely need more time in order to get good at shaving with it. You probably have some time left before the returning window closes.
I am not really surprised by the outcome (even though it’s just your first shave): the Arc 5 with the new foil is very comfortable and shaves very close, but still needs extra work when shaving a tricky spot. On the other hand, the Prestige fares better, but it is more aggressive (although a lot more forgiving than most other rotaries). Try a good preshave lotion as well; it just might help you get a clean shave with the Arc 5 and reduce the discomfort when shaving with the Prestige. My favorites are Speick and Tabac, I highly recommend them.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for the reply. If only one could get rid of the random jitters one gets from time to time to “upgrade” a gadget or two (read try out a new shiny tech) :) Eh…
Actually through your posts I got acquainted with the Speick pre electric shave lotion and post-shave balm and use both for each shave. They are both excellent.
I was wondering if a shaving cream would make Philips more comfortable and the shave a little closer than a pre shave lotion?
Best,
Alexander
Hi Alexander,
You are very welcome.
It just might; that said, the benefits of wet over dry shaving (be it closeness or comfort) tend to vary from user to user and also depend on the shaver itself. For example, in my case, I think it makes a big difference with Panasonic shavers and it’s worth the extra work. But not so much with Braun and with Philips is a bit of a hit or miss for me. So you will have to try it yourself. The Speick shaving cream is also really good and so is the Beard Lube shaving balm from Jack Black, one of my favorites since it’s easy to apply and pretty much transparent. Just make sure that if you’re using shaving cream, the layer of lather is thin and more watery than in the case of a traditional wet shave (I also wrote a guide on wet shaving with electric shavers).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
With daily shaving, how often should I run the Cleaning station on my Braun series 9? If I don’t run it daily, what do I need to do between times I do run it?
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
You certainly don’t have to use the cleaning station after every shave. In the meantime, you can simply clean the shaver manually with water and (optionally) some liquid hand soap. It’s also highly recommended to lubricate the blades with a drop of oil on the outside of each foil after using water and soap. Here’s a guide I wrote that covers everything about lubricating an electric razor.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I just came across this site, and am really glad I did! Your reviews and articles seem impressive, and well thought out and researched. I am in the market for a new shaver, but I’m having a hard time narrowing it down, so I’m hoping you can help.
A little about me: I’ve been shaving for most of the past 15-20 years, I’ve only ever used electric shavers. I went through a number of rotaries, and about 6 or 7 years ago I got the Panasonic ES-LA93K – this is the only foil shaver I’ve ever used. I have very sensitive skin, especially my neck. It’s subjective, but I think my facial hair is moderately coarse. It doesn’t grow very thick or dense on my cheeks, but my upper lip, chin, and neck grow pretty thick and dense. I’ve always found shaving to be a painful, tedious and messy chore – I would always end up with red irritated skin, and at least a few nicks – especially in the summertime when I found it very difficult to get my skin dry enough to comfortably shave. With the ES-LA93K it was a little better, but it was still an issue. I used to use baby powder, which helped a little bit, but made a huge mess. About 10 years ago I found Kyoku SKN-SHV 303: electric pre shave optimizer, which seemed to work best for me. I only needed a couple of sprays so the tube lasted a long time, and it didn’t feel oily/greasy. Sadly, I can’t seem to find it for sale anymore (at least not here in the US). I’ve tried Remington FaceSaver, which works OK, but again it’s quite messy. I tried Lab Series and LectraShave but they both felt very oily/greasy. I have a jar of Speick pre electric shave lotion, but I can’t remember if I’ve ever tried it.
I’ve had a beard for the past 2 years, and decided recently to start shaving again. When I started growing my beard I didn’t think about it, and left the shaver on the cleaning station. Now it has a lot of grime that built up in the tank and in the bottom of the unit, presumably from sitting for 2 years with water and the detergent insert. I was going to try to clean it, but it’s pretty nasty. Between that, and as mentioned a few comments up – I too get the “jitters” to buy new gadgets, I decided to buy a new one.
From what I found here, I’m pretty sure I’m looking for either a Braun Series 7 or 9, or a Panasonic Arc 4 or 5. I’m looking for help narrowing it down, and figuring out which specific model to get. If you can give me a specific model or two to look at, I would really appreciate it!
Your articles about wet shaving are really intriguing, and I’d love to try it, but realistically I’d probably be dry shaving most of the time, and save the wet shaving for when I have the time and patience for it.
I’d most likely be shaving daily or every other day – if I go longer between shaves I know I’d probably need to trim before I shave, regardless of which shaver I use. I have the Norelco One Blade, so that’s not much of an issue.
I like the idea of a cleaning station, as I know the shaver is always clean and charged when I’m ready to use it. I don’t travel much, and when I do I don’t need to bring the cleaning station along, so I don’t think that factors in.
Budget doesn’t factor in too much – I obviously don’t want to spend more than I have to, but I have no problem spending another $100-$200 if I get that value out of it.
I’m sure my technique played a part in the skin irritation, but I don’t know how much that’ll change, so I need something that’s at least somewhat forgiving.
The Panasonics are tempting, because I know the ES-LA93K (which if I understand correctly is an Arc 4) worked well, and resulted in a close shave. The cleaning station did what it was supposed to do, although it leaked sometimes, and the drying step was loud and took a long time. The head was a little big and cumbersome in some areas, but not terribly so. I understand the Panasonics shave closer, but how much closer? How much of an actual difference is there between them?
The Brauns are tempting, because of my sensitive skin. If I’m understanding right, the Series 7 has a smaller head, which should be nice – I found the head on the ES-LA93K to be slightly too big and a little awkward to use in some areas. However I read about the lock mechanism issue with the Series 7, which I’m not sure how much of an issue it is, or how prevalent it is. From the pictures of the Braun cleaning stations, they look to be slightly more compact than the Panasonic ones, which is nice. I like the idea of the induction heater on the older units, but I don’t know if that’s still an option.
Ideally, I want a shaver that is comfortable, and gives a clean shave without too much work, and is reliable.
As an aside, with either of these brands, what is the best way to store the shaver and cleaning station if not using for an extended period?
I don’t know how much this factors in, but I typically shave in the evening. I’ve found I don’t like to shave in the morning – between rushing to leave the house, and trying to clean my face after shaving, it just seems to work better for me this way. My process is to dry shave, shower, then apply aftershave – I’ve been using L’Oréal after shave balm for a while, it’s OK, but leaves my skin a bit greasy for a few hours after.
Sorry for the long, rambling post, but if you can help me out I’d really appreciate it! What are the top one or two models you’d recommend I look at, and do you have any advice on pre-shave and/or aftershave products I should look at?
Hey CJ,
Many thanks for the comment. The way you laid out the information is really impressive and covers absolutely everything. You obviously did your research as well.
Considering all the aspects, I think a Braun Series 7 would be the best option and with the fewest shortcomings.
There is basically only one, and I’ll start with that. Precisely, it’s the closeness when shaving areas with dense, thick hairs like the one you have above the upper lip. Coincidently, I also have lighter hair on my cheeks, but very coarse on the chin, neck and below the nose, so I know from personal experience that a Panasonic Arc 5 does manage to cut those hairs closer to the skin — it doesn’t leave any rough patches, while when shaving dry with the Series 7 or 9 (or any Braun model in my case), I can still feel a bit of stubble. It’s not by any means a huge difference, but it is noticeable if you’re very particular about getting a close shave, at least if you have coarse facial hair.
Other than that, I think the Series 7 would be a more suitable shaver for you than an Arc 4 or an Arc 5. It is very gentle and forgiving and really good with flat-lying hairs. By the way, I also have a problem shaving dry in the summer for the same reason as you, and a good pre-shave helps a lot. Definitely try the one from Tabac, it’s not greasy at all (it’s even better than Speick in that regard). Powders are way too messy and are not worth the trouble.
I personally never use the head-locking mechanism on my Series 7, so it’s a non-issue for me and I honestly don’t think you’ll miss that feature (if you don’t use it you can’t break it). The head is very slim, the foils have a greater range of motion compared to any Panasonic shaver and that makes it very easy and enjoyable to use. The flexing of the head actually helps as well (again, unlike the flexing mechanism on any Panasonic shaver). The cleaning station is indeed more compact than the one you have with your ES-LA93, but it has pretty much the same size as the newer Panasonic stations (like the ones included with the Arc 5 from the second generation and up). You won’t be able to get it with induction cleaning, however, the main advantage of Braun stations over Panasonic is the ability to take the cartridge out, put the cover back on and store it in a drawer. It’s so much better and practical than having a tank filled with liquid and grime in your station. That’s why I actually prefer to buy the cc variations of the Series 7 and 9 and skip the station completely with my Panasonic razors.
This is very convenient in case you won’t be using the station for a longer period. Just make sure the cartridge has the cap securely inserted and store it in a safe place, far from any heat source (it is flammable since it contains alcohol). The shaver should have at least 50% charge before storing it in a cabinet or drawer or even in its case/box. Just make sure it’s properly cleaned and completely dry.
I would consider the 7865cc, I have dozens of shavers and this is the one I use the most for shaving dry as I find it the most enjoyable. My other favorite shaver is the Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65, but I usually shave wet with that one (for the added closeness and comfort). I have flat-lying hairs on my neck and cheeks and the Series 7 is definitely better at catching them.
By the way, I have also been using a L’Oreal after shaver for about one week, but it’s the Men Expert Hydra Sensitive Balm. So far it has been just great, not greasy at all and very soothing, with only a mild scent.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Thanks for the reply! I really appreciate the way you break it down and explain the differences between the different brands and models.
Ideally I want a close shave, but comfort is definitely a bigger priority for me, so I think it makes sense to go with a Braun.
If I’m understanding correctly, the locking mechanism that can break is to lock the head in one position so it doesn’t flex? If so, I don’t care about that either, I didn’t realize that’s what it was referring to…
When you say the Braun cleaning stations give the ability to take the cartridge out, you’re referring to the detergent? That sounds great! Then I really don’t have to worry about storing it for extended periods – I do go through periods where I grow out my beard, so I wouldn’t be using the shaver for months to a couple of years.
I did a quick Google search, and found a Tabac pre electric shave lotion, is that what you were referring to?
I have to double check my L’Oreal after shave, but I believe it’s the same thing – it’s interesting that we got different results.
I found the 7865cc on Amazon – it’s listed as “7865cc New Version” is that correct? Also, I understand you have affiliate links for Amazon so you earn a commission, if you would like to reply with a link for the shaver (and possibly the Tabac as well if they have it) I would be more than happy to order it through your link.
You are very welcome!
That is correct, the locking mechanism on the Series 7 is there only to have the head locked in one position and it is of little to no use in my experience, even though other users seem to like it.
Regarding the Braun cleaning stations, I am indeed referring to the cleaning solution which in this case is alcohol and not detergent-based. The solution comes in these plastic containers (called cartridges — here‘s a pic) that you can simply take out of the station, put the plastic cover back on and store them. It’s extremely convenient and a big plus for Braun stations.
As for the pre-shave, yes, I am referring to the Tabac Original Pre Electric Shave Lotion (that’s the full product name). You can check it out in this post.
The L’Oreal after shave balm (if we’re using the same product) does take more time to get absorbed into the skin. I personally make sure my face is completely dry before applying it and I use just a bit of product and work it into the skin until it’s completely gone. Once that happens, there’s no trace of oily residue, on the contrary, the skin almost feels a bit too dry.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks again!
It could be I was using too much of the L’Oreal after shave which is why it felt oily, I will have to try using less and see how it feels.
I checked your link for the pre shave post, I will definitely try out the Tabac.
One last thing, if you can give me a link for the 7865cc, I’d really like to buy it through your link as a thank you for your help!
Once again, thank you for all the help, it’s really appreciated!
Thank you for your support CJ, much appreciated. You will find links to all the shavers mentioned in the post above, including the Series 7.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Will Jack Black Beard Lube work well with the Braun Series 9 9390cc ? I am considering using it. If so, any suggestions for using it effectively with the series 9 shaver ?
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
It should work really well, although I prefer to use the Beard Lube with my Panasonic shavers and just shave dry with the Series 9. In terms of improvements, they are more noticeable with Panasonic than with Braun in general. I actually wrote a dedicated post precisely on using this product or just regular shaving cream with electric razors. You can check it out here, I think you can find a few useful bits of information.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Using my Series 9 9390CC.
I tried the Jack Black beard lube. On some level I really liked it. The razor had quite an effortless glide. However, it felt like there was a barrier between my shaver and my face. Never felt like I was getting close enough. Also there was a film on the shaver that eventually made it sticky during the shave, which I had to wash off periodically during the shave. I guess I prefer dry shaving.
I use the CC station every day. However, the cartridges can become costly. Can I use the station every second or third day and still expect a good shave?
One of the things I like about the 9390CC is how easy if is to change the cartridge when I need to. Much easier for me, than the Panasonic or Norelco, both big which have multiple parts.
Can the Braun 9390 handle a 2-3 day growth?
Lastly, I would like to bring to your attention other Jack Black products. I am current using their Post Shave Gel in the morning. If is designed to combat razor burn relief and irritation. I also use their Face Cream moisturizer at night. Both are very good, but expensive. I also wish my Series 9, gave a closer shave. That is the one area lacking.
Have a great day.
Jay
Hi Jay,
Thank you for the update. Regarding the wet shave (using Beard Lube or basically any shaving cream/gel), make sure you’re only using a thin, properly hydrated layer of product, otherwise, the quality of your shave will suffer. You will most likely need to add water during your shave as well to prevent the lather from becoming too dry or sticky. That said, I also prefer to shave dry with Braun shavers (usually with a pre-shave lotion). I personally find Panasonic to perform better with shaving cream, especially in terms of closeness.
You can definitely use the station less often — in fact, I think that’s how most users should use them (you can check out more details on how to save cleaning fluid here). Cleaning your shaver with the station every 2 to 3 shaves would be a great compromise. I fully agree, it is a lot easier to change (and store) Braun cartridges compared to the other two brands.
Thank you for the Jack Black recommendations, I also love the products and have been using their SPF moisturizer and facial scrub for years. Haven’t tried the post-shave balm though — I live in Europe and have to import them, which further adds to the already high price.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I am switching back to the Art of Shaving products. I find them to work better with my face.
I agree with you about Braun and it being better to use a Pre-Shave. Are there any that Do not contain alcohol?
Thanks.
Hi Jay,
Not that I know of, unfortunately — alcohol is needed in order to dry the moisture from the skin, which is the main purpose of a pre-shave lotion. The only ones that do not have any alcohol are the powders (like the Remington Face Saver), but those have their own specific shortcomings (very messy to apply and since they’re mineral-based, the blades can become blunt faster).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
Thank you very much for your extensive articles regarding electric shavers. I am very impressed regarding your very informative content.
I am in the mid 50ies and have tried most shaving methods going from DE, cartridge, straight razor and of course electric shaving.
I consider my beard growth as light to moderate but I suppose with getting older those white hears are getting stiffer… I have a mostly a daily shaving routine.
Due to time constrains I am back into electric shaving since several time. I recently acquired a Brown 7850cc to replace my (very) old basic Philips (using HQ56 heads). I was planning to go for a Braun 3040 but got an extremely good deal on a last item Braun 7850cc cannibalized from its cleaning cartridge (I paid the same price as for the 3040). To be honest I am a little disappointed regarding the performance of this unit. Do my skin have to adapt from rotary to foil razors…
Are you aware of quality issues with Braun shaving heads. Having used several Braun shavers in the past, they all worked very fine for me. Although the box was cannibalized the shaver and cleaning station were in mint (new) condition with no prior use.
Next week I will have the opportunity to test a Panasonic ES-LV67 Arc 5 unit to check the performance. Although as you stated an Arc 5 is perhaps overkill for me…
Unfortunately no acquaintances in the rotary camp.
I would like to have your thoughts regarding ultrasonic cleaning of the shaving heads. I did this in the past with my Philips shaving heads because I could take them apart. I am a little concerned regarding Braun as you can not separate the blades from the foil where they are in contact. I am of the opinion this should work great on Panasonic shavers as the foils can be separated from the blades.
With Regards,
Hi Eric,
Many thanks for the kind words, glad you found the site useful.
I think the underwhelming performance of the Series 7 compared to your old Philips rotary razor has more to do with adjusting your shaving technique from using a rotary to a foil razor and maybe an issue with this particular shaving head. A brand new 7850cc should normally provide really good performance compared to your current shaver, especially since your facial hair isn’t particularly difficult. It could very well be an issue with the shaving head (not a quality problem, but from improper use — I understand it was an opened box).
Regarding the Arc 5, just because it’s overkill, it doesn’t mean it won’t work really well. The reason I made that statement in the post was only to suggest that a cheaper model (like an Arc 4 or even Arc 3) can be a good option in several situations.
As for ultrasonic cleaning, you are right, it should work well for Philips and Panasonic since you can remove the inner blades (and the foil from the plastic frame). In the case of the Series 7, you will have to clean the entire cassette, which does have a lot of plastic in it. Plastic is not ideal to be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner and while it should be fine, I can’t say with certainty if there will be any long-term damage to it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
Thank you for your quick reply.
Although having used Braun shavers in the past. I started with an Universal in the 80ies and a couple of others…These were very simple compared to the current high tech designs.
I had, have the Philips just in case if needed to shave fast as I was in my wet blade shaving period.
Patience is a great virtue, and as you stated the foil vs rotary technique is completely different, although I was surprised my muscle memory was quite fine when transitioning.
I will try for a couple of weeks and I suppose all will be fine and has to do with refining my technique and perhaps overly critical…
Regarding the opened box Braun 7. I bought it locally at a store where I do know the owner since a very long time. He cannibalized the box because there was at a time a shortage of cleaning cartridges. I am confident this was not a returned item. He was happy to sell it because of the newer models.
Regarding ultrasonic cleaning, this is not something I am planning to use on a regular base as the Braun has a dedicated cleaning station.
My concern is more about an uncontrolled shaking of the blades against the foil with perhaps a dulling effect.
However I can confirm that this treatment works fine on taken apart rotary blades from Philips. Just use water and some detergent, after cleaning put them in distilled water with some Isopropyl, let dry, a drop of oil. I kept them in pairs. I was surprised how much stuff came loose from apparent clean heads.
With Regards,
Hello Ovidiu,
An update to my previous post regarding my findings about the Braun series 7 (pre 2020).
First I started reading nearly all your content on shavercheck.
After some local search I found a bottle of Tabac Pre Electric Shave.
As I am a daily shaver I adapted my shaving technique and the result with the Braun7850cc is really good.
For 2 days I have added a Panasonic Arc5 into the mix. The Panasonic shaves closer but I was really surprised of the final result when wet shaving with the Panasonic. The results is (nearly) as good as a 2 pass traditional DE shaving. For me at least. It was a fun experiment and it demonstrated how good current generation electric shavers are. Will I adapt my shaving routine to wet electric shaving, no but once in a while in can be very rewarding, for that special evening, reception etc…
Thank you, for the extensive information you make available online.
With Regards,
Hey Eric,
That’s awesome, glad you’re happy with your shavers. These two — the pre-2020 Series 7 and the second generation Arc 5 (usually a lot cheaper than the newer models) are in my opinion some of the best shavers you can still buy and considering their performance, the price is pretty decent too. That’s how I currently shave for most of the time (when I’m not reviewing a different shaver) — a Series 7 7865cc for quick/daily dry shave (together with the Tabac or Speick pre-shave) and an ES-LV65 Arc 5 + shaving cream on weekends or when I have more time to spare. Both methods are really good with their own specific pros and cons, but the good parts far outweigh the negatives.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I am currently using the Braun 9390CC. My dermatologist would rather I not use alcohol based pre-shaves. I tried Beard Lube and it was difficult for me. I had to rinse the shaver several times during the shave b/c the head got sticky.
Can I use something like the Art of Shaving Pre Shave Gel?
The other thing is the shaver head cartridge does not last more than a few months with daily shaving. Will the Series 9 work well with less frequent shaving?
I was also thinking about the Norelco Prestige, but I am concerned about the difficulty of doing a full cleaning every few months.
The Braun is the easiest to maintain for me, but I don’t have good luck with the longevity of the heads.
Thanks
Jay
Hi Ovidiu
I want to add that a cleaning cartridge is only lasting for about 2 weeks, with daily use. Is that to be expected?
Hi Jay,
You can definitely use any shaving cream/gel that will work well with your skin/facial hair. Just make sure not to use a very thick layer of lather.
The Series 9 is one of the better shavers out there for shaving less frequently (along with the Prestige). For most users though, a foil razor will probably be a safer choice. Also, you seem to use the cleaning station quite a lot and the Prestige doesn’t come with one. Two weeks from a cartridge with daily use is not great, but definitely within the expected range. You could also check out some of the alternative third-party cleaning solutions, the price is considerably lower.
Also, if you’ll be using your Series 9 less frequently, you can take out the cartridge and put the cover back on, that will definitely help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Will the Lab Series pre-shave, more suited to the Braun 9390CC than the Jack Black Beard Lube or are they about equal in how well they work with that shaver?
If they are equal, can I switch between the products, or am I better choosing one?
When I use the Lab Series pre-shave, do I also need to clean my Series 9, under the tap, before placing it in the cleaning station ?
Lastly. what do people do when they travel? It would be difficult to take the cleaning station and cartridges with me when we travel. Should I consider another shaver, like the Norelco Prestige for when I travel or is there’s better way to accommodate travel?
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
That’s a bit like comparing apples and oranges. The Lab Series is intended for shaving dry, while the Beard Lube is basically an alternative to regular shaving cream. Both can work really well, but you’ll just have to try them yourself. You can definitely alternate between the two. I personally shave wet on most weekends and dry (with pre-shave) during the week. I don’t think you need to rinse the shaver when using the Lab Series (I never do). When you apply an alcohol-based pre-shave to the face, it will dry within seconds, so the residues will be minimal if any at all.
When traveling, most users will leave the station at home. It takes up space in the luggage and at least in the case of Braun shavers, the cleaning cartridge contains alcohol, so that could be an issue if you travel by plane. You can simply clean the shaver with water, it will be perfectly fine. The Prestige doesn’t have any advantages over the Series 9 with regards to manual cleaning.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
I’m looking to enter on eletric razors, had a bad experience on my 18 years with a rotary Razor that didn’t cut very well and left my skin irritated.
Around 100€ it seems I can grab the proskin 3040s… Or for 150€ the série 7 71-S4200cs…
Saw the ES-LV67-A803 on sale as well for 158€.
Kinda hard to pick as I don’t know anything about this topic.. I would like to stay near the 100€ mark but if it’s worth for the long run to put some extra… Can you help me figuring this out?
Hi Francisco,
The 3040s would be a cost-effective, easy to use and very decent shaver. If you plan to shave daily or up to every 3 days (maximum it can handle), and your beard isn’t overly coarse or dense, it should be ok. The ES-LV67-A is in a different league, more powerful and among the closest shaving razor out there (better than the 3040s in that regard). I would recommend it over the Braun if you can stretch the budget a bit. I would still use it more often (up to every 3 days) for the best results.
The 5-blade head of the Arc 5 will need some getting used to, but most users get along with it very well after a few weeks.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu
Thanks for your reply. I am coming to realize there is no perfect shaver. I have fairly sensitive skin and am prone to razor burn. My neck is the most challenging.
The Braun Series 9 7390 is very comfortable. While it is not the closest shave, the shavers that might provide a closer shave, are not good for my sensitive skin.
I really like the ease of cleaning, with the cleaning station, for me, ease of maintenance is critical. If you use the station daily, the cartridges can be costly. However, for me, a daily routine is important.
I have gone back to the Lab Series pre shave and their razor burn relief Ultra. Even here, products were a compromise. I wanted fragrance free in a plastic bottle.
In summary, there is no shaver or product that does it all.
Thanks for your support.
You are very welcome, Jay, glad I could be of help. I totally agree with you, we’ll just have to find and stick to the ones that make sense for our needs and have the fewest shortcomings.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Picking a shaver is almost as hard as choosing a wife! :). I reviewed all the models and brands, and know I don’t want a rotary shaver because I had one many, many years ago and never gave a close shave.
I had a Panasonic ES-RF-31 4blade that lasted many years but I went back to blades. The battery is gone so not worth to get a blade. I remember it gave an excellent close shave.
Now I am pretty set on the Arc 5 ES-LV65-S. Same price as the Arc-4 pretty much.
Wondering if the cleaning station is worth another $50. Not so much the money but just don’t want something that I don’t need, I remember the -31 cleaned up very well.
Excellent informative site! I subscribed.
Hi Lenny,
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated. Glad you found the information useful. It really can get daunting. :-)
Personally, I don’t think it’s worth getting the one with the cleaning station. I actually own the ES-LV95-S and the station is still in the original box. It’s a really good system, but hardly necessary and unlike Braun stations where you can simply take the cartridge out and store it, once you’ve mixed the detergent with water in the station’s tray, you have to keep using it or throw the fluid away. And it’s just too much hassle for me and like you said, Panasonic shavers are really easy to clean manually. If I were you, I would definitely get the cheaper ES-LV65-S.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I got the ES-LV65-S. Very happy with it, it even used my old adapter. I even charged up the old Panasonic that I used for 4 years, the battery only lasts 2 minutes and it still gave a decent shave (but not perfect) on one side of my face, with the factory original blade :lol:. The arc 5 blades look similar to the old 4 model, but a extra cutters near the foil. The head bezel on the arc 5 is a bit wider, but the shaving blade with is the same.
They are expensive though to fix, the old blade and film is over $50 and a new battery about 20, putting it close to the price of the arc 5.
But the Arc 5 is MUCH better, and of course a newer blade. These are definitely the Lexus of shavers!
Hi Lenny,
Thank you for that follow-up — that is awesome, glad you’re happy with it. Replacement parts can be really pricey and sometimes it’s just not worth the trouble of fixing an old shaver. I think getting the Arc 5 was the right call. Happy shaving!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
My dermatologist would rather me not use pre-shave products because of the alcohol. That leaves me with the option to use Jack Black Beard Lube or just shave completely dry. Which is a better option? I am assuming the wet shave option.
I think you said the Braun 9390CC can be used wet?
Do you know any great post shave balms, that are NOT IN glass bottles? I am using Jack Black Post Shave cooling gel and like it, a lot, but wonder what else is possible.
I am also feeling I am using too many lotions and potions on my face. Sometimes the Braun just does not move easily, no matter what I do.
Currently, I am using the post shave gel, their double face moisturizer, when I go out, Their moisturizer without SPF, when I don’t go out and their thick night cream before bed.
I am looking to simply my routine with fewer products.
Hi Jay,
You’ll have to try both options yourself to see if wet shaving with the Series 9 is worth the extra work. The results will vary among different users, so I can’t really say that one method is better than the other. The 9390cc can be used wet as well.
Regarding the post-shave balms, a couple of good ones that I’ve used and also come in plastic recipients are the L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Sensitive Balm and the Truefitt & Hill Authentic No 10 (there are two packagings available, plastic and glass).
By the way, shaving dry after applying a moisturizer or face cream will make the shaver stick to the skin and the strokes will be jerky.
I honestly don’t think your routine has too many products; ideally you’ll have only two moisturizers, one with SPF and one without that you can also use at night. But having a night cream as well isn’t that bad, especially if it works well for your skin.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello. Your column is very informative, and you are gracious to take the time to reply the many questions you receive.
I have fine blond facial hair that I only need to shave like every 3-4 days. I have been using a Braun 790cc series for 5 years, but it hasn’t handled the flat lying hairs that pop out on my neck very well. So I have considered going to a rotary because I spend more time trying to deal with those neck hairs than anything else whenever I shave.
Would you agree that a rotary razor maybe be better suited in my case? I realize a foil tends to shave closer for most people, but that’s not as important to me.
Also, based upon availability, price and the features I desire I have narrowed it down to the Phillips Norelco 7700 set. Could you provide any insight on the P/N 7000 series?
Thank you for your help!
Hellow Matthew,
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated. At this moment I cannot comment on the Norelco 7700 from my own experience as I am yet to try it, but it does look like a capable rotary shaver and it has a decent price as well. I do plan on ordering and reviewing it, hopefully pretty soon.
Just a side note, if you have very fine facial hair, the long, flat-lying ones will likely require more effort regardless of the shaver you’re using. In order to get cut, the hairs must poke through the perforations in the foils or the slots in the combs of a rotary razor. And it’s much more likely for that to happen if the hairs are short, relatively straight and stiff/rigid. In your case, I think the length of the hairs makes things worse and it’s the only thing you can control by shaving more often (you can’t do anything about the thickness of the hair for example). So maybe shaving every 2 to 3 days will be a good compromise.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I just recently bought a Braun Series 9 at Costco. They have just started carrying this item for $199. It’s $100 cheaper than most other retailers. I have found the shaver superior than any razors I had previously. I’ve used Norelco 6500, Braun Series 3 and series 8. I get a very close shave with no irritation. I also use the Speick pre shave that works well.
Thank you for your comment, Luke. That looks like a really good deal. Compared to the previous shavers you’ve had, I also find the Series 9 to be superior.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hey!
Wanna give a try with electic razor instead Gillete Fusion.
What would your recommend as budget-mid level razor combined with trimmer + combs?
Recently started to wear a small beard, the beard grows back quickly and there are couple of vortices on it.
I found the following options In local Ukrainians market:
PANASONIC ES-RT77-S520 – 82,89$ on sale (made in China / 36M warranty)
BRAUN Series 5 50-W1500s – 93,70$ on sale (made in Germany / 24M warranty)
BRAUN Series 3 310BT – 57,66$ on sale (made in China / 24M warranty)
BRAUN Series 3 3010BT – 97,30$ (made in China / 24M warranty)
Thanks in advance!
Hi Alexey,
Strictly between the shavers you mentioned, I would go with the Panasonic or the 3010BT. If not restricted to those, I would pick the Panasonic ES-LL41-K. If you can get it locally and for a decent price, I think it would be ideal for your needs. You can check out my review of it here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi. I know you like the Speick pre shave and was wondering if Amazon will ever carry it again. It’s been out of stock. Also I was wondering if you ever tried the Speick after shave lotion? If so how did you like it, do you use it after pre shave or is it overkill, and is the balm any better than the lotion? Thanks
Hi Luke,
I’m afraid I don’t know if or when they’ll have it in stock again. As an alternative, maybe you can grab the Tabac pre-shave lotion, it’s a really good one as well.
I did try both the Speick aftershave splash and balm. The former does contain alcohol, and since I also have dry and sensitive skin, it’s not ideal for me. But surprisingly, once the initial stinging was gone, the skin felt really nice and hydrated. It’s one of the better alcohol-based aftershaves that I’ve ever used, but I’m definitely a balm guy. And speaking of balms, the one from Speick is very soothing and effective, but I just could stand the fragrance. It was absolutely off-putting to me, it didn’t smell anything like the splash or the pre-shave. It had a very strong synthetic/chemical/burnt rubber smell.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I am having a little trouble with my Braun Series 9 9390cc, that I don’t quite know how to solve. When I use the cleaning station, it does a great job on the cassette, but if I take off the cassette, there’s still some accumulation in the other part of the shaver. I have to use a paper towel to get that off. Any suggestions?
Also I was briefly thinking of switching to the Prestige, but vision issues and hand coordination issues, would preclude me from doing a periodic full cleaning. I spoke to Phillips, who admitted the shaver May pose some difficulties for me.
Ideally I would like a shaver that did not require a cleaning station and yet was gentle b/c of my sensitive/dry skin. We just renovated our bathroom, and while I can fit the cleaning station, it is a bit more problematic to fit, then it used to be. I may have to stick with the Braun.
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
That’s actually quite common and it can happen with other shavers as well, not just the Series 9. The cleaning fluid is flushed through the shaving head, then drains back into the cartridge along with all the hairs and dirt it collected. Since the outside of the cassette is basically doused in the fluid while it’s pumped from the cartridge, some residue will be smudged on some parts. But the important thing is that the blades and the whole inner part of the cassette are thoroughly cleaned.
Considering your needs, I don’t think switching to a rotary shaver would yield any benefits — on the contrary. Sticking to your Series 9 is probably the best option at this moment. Also, I find rotary shavers to require more wrist work in order to get a smooth shave, which again I think may cause even more problems in this case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks so much.
Is the 2 blade that is not built into the foil (blade 2 and 4) in ES-LV65-S suppose to be pretty lose? Every video and even the book says blade 2 and 4 are suppose to “click into” the slot and still be there when you remove the foil.
Yet the ES-LV65-S that I just received had those in there pretty snug which result in the shaver making periodic stop rather than continuous buzzing (youtube video seems to suggest when on that it should be continuous bzzzzzz, but I get bzzzz-stop for half a second-bzzzz-stop for half a second) and simply nothing was getting done with the shave until I removed those 2 blades and just use the 3 leftover to cut.
Should I just warranty it now or is this a new design?
Hey,
The removable blades must be firmly inserted in place and they should definitely not come off when removing the foil. If they do, they’re not inserted properly and you should not use the shaver as they will damage the foil. Also, the noise should be a continuous buzz, so there’s definitely something not right there. It could be just the loosely fit inner blades, but it’s difficult to say for sure. Using the shaver with only 3 active cutters is also not recommended, the distance between them will be just too large for an effective shave. Try to insert the blades properly and if the problem persists, your unit could be faulty, in which case you should send it back for a replacement.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Got a replacement where everything seems normal. Weird that the first one I got has that weird manufacturing problem.
Wow! The content here is book worthy. Was wondering if the Braun sport (9310 – black) has the same performance as the other 93xx or 92xx (minus the accessories or color availability). From your review I get it that it should. Mine got unexpectedly hot on the first use – maybe was lacking proper lubrication. Will try it again and see how it goes. I’m more interested in the wet shave with it and was wondering also what would work best: soap, cream, foam…? Again, fantastic reviews you’ve got!
Many thanks for your comment, Liviu, glad you found the information useful.
You are correct, the 9310 has the same performance as the rest of the models. It’s a bit odd that yours got hot on the first use as Braun’s cassettes handle heat really well, even after months of use. Try cleaning it via the station as that should also solve any lubrication issues.
As for wet shaving, I also wrote a detailed post on that topic if you want to check it out. Both soap and shaving cream should work just fine as long as you use a thin, watery, pasty layer of lather. I also really like the Beard Lube shaving balm from Jack Black as it doesn’t require lathering, it’s transparent and really slick. I wouldn’t use canned foam though because it’s nowhere near as effective as a quality shaving cream that you lather yourself (even cheap ones like Nivea, Palmolive or Proraso are way better) and the consistency is not ideal for electric shavers (the foam is very airy and fluffy).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I am still using the Braun 9390CC. Works well even without pre-shave. Very comfortable. I do, use Jack Black post shave gel. Highly recommend it.
I am trying to preserve the cleaning cartridge. Can I use the cleaning station every third day? If so, how do I clean the shaver on days I do not use the station? Can I use liquid hand soap that is scented or do I need unscented?
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
Absolutely, in fact, I often recommend using the station in that manner (I even wrote a detailed guide here if you want to check it out). You can simply clean it manually when not using the station (regular liquid hand soap will work just fine).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
My liquid hand soap is scented. Does that make a difference?
Scented liquid hand soap will work just fine.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I am having difficulty with my Braun 9390 shaver.
Braun suggests that I clean it in the charger station daily. They claim that if I clean it every third day, I will use the same amount of fluid, as if I clean it every day, because daily uses less fluid. Does that make any sense?
The other problem is the cleaning quality. When I take off the cartridge and look at the underside, I see white powder. Is that expected?
The cleaning station is not clogged.
I am getting ready to move to a different brand, but before I do something stupid, I wanted to raise the issues. The shaver was purchased March 2021, so it is relatively new.
If I switched brands. what might also be good for sensitive skin under neck? I would rather try and get the shaver to clean properly. Am I expecting too much?
Hi Jay,
Braun’s reasoning for saying that is that cleaning the shaver less often will make the station select a more intensive cleaning program, hence it will use more fluid. That’s true in theory, but in practice, that’s not really the case. First of all, Series 9 stations tend to always select the intensive cleaning mode, even when the shaver is being cleaned daily. Secondly, the difference between the short and the intensive cleaning mode isn’t that noticeable. I can tell you from personal experience that cleaning it every third day (while taking the cartridge out and covering it with the cap) will save cleaning fluid.
I’ve never seen white powder on the bottom of the cartridge, only hairs and some dirt. Are you absolutely certain that it’s powder?
Braun shavers are usually the ones to get for sensitive skin/neck and I also think their stations are the most practical despite some of the shortcomings. I wouldn’t recommend a Philips (Norelco) in your situation also. That only leaves us with Panasonic — some of their 5-blades shavers, especially the ones with the newer foils (with the comfort rollers) are surprisingly gentle, but still not as good as a Series 7 or 9. So I think you should stick to your shaver for now and try to get the most out of it by using the products that work the best for you (pre-shave, aftershave). Cleaning it every third day is also good enough in my opinion, I doubt you’ll see any noticeable improvements by using the station daily.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is an incredibly thorough article. Thanks for the time and effort!
My pleasure, Andrew — glad you found the information useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I am looking to improve the closeness of my Braun Series 9 (9390).
My dermatologist does not want me to use alcohol based pre-shaves. Powders are too messy for me. Are there good products that are not alcohol based for my Braun?
Would Beard Lube be a good idea?
Jay
Hi Ovidiu
Tried the Beard Lube. Did not improve the shave. Made a mess. Water on the floor.
That still leaves open the question of whether there are alcohol free pre shave products.
Jay
Hi Jay,
This doesn’t leave you with many options, I’m afraid. Powders are messy (that’s the main reason I don’t use them) and all (effective) pre-shave lotions contain alcohol. The Beard Lube is really good in my experience, but it is not a pre-shave — pre-shaves are intended for shaving dry. The Beard Lube is basically a lather-less shaving product that has the consistency of a thick balm. So you’ll be using warm water as well to wash your face prior to applying it. You can check out this guide where I share more details about shaving wet using Beard Lube or any regular shaving cream.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu. I think I will end up shaving dry, without pre-shave. I did some research and could not find an alcohol free product. My night moisturizer also gums up the glide of my Braun. I need to accept there is no perfect approach given my skin issues. My post shave gel also leaves my face sticky. I may be reducing the products I use. For me, less nay be more. I will continue with the Braun 9390 CC as it is gentle, even if not the closest.
Ovidiu
I also reread your article about extending cartridge life. I never took off the cartridge and tapped it to remove hairs. According to your article that might extend cartridge life and is easy to do.
BTW, I must have a properly working station. After one use, a single light is on. After two uses, two lights and after 3 or more, three lights. There is also a difference in the cleaning length. Not dramatic, but it is evident.
Ovidiu
Can the cleaning station from the 9385 work with the 9370 shaver?
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
Yes, it should work without any issues.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu
I asked b/c I now have two Braun shavers. A 9385 and a 9370. It is easy to mix up the charge stations. Thanks for your support.
Hi Ovidiu
I have trouble shaving closely underneath the jaw line and the first section of the neck with my Braun Series 9. Any suggestions? For some strange reason, it is harder on the left. Any suggestions. Shaving dry w/o pre-shave. Thanks.
Hi Jay,
In my opinion, the main reason is that the shaver doesn’t touch the area in an optimal manner that would allow it to catch and cut the hairs effectively. The jawline and neck form this weird 90 degrees area that is really tricky to shave. If the hairs also grow in different directions, that only adds to the problem. As a side note, the right area is more difficult to shave in my case precisely because of that.
Here’s what I would suggest:
– lean your head back and also a bit to the left or right (depending on which side you’re shaving) to get better access to the area. Also, try stretching the skin downward with your free hand (in my case this helps)
– you’ll want to always go against the grain, using short, controlled strokes and make any adjustments to the direction of the stroke so that the foils always attack the hairs against the grain. You’ll also want to get closer to the mirror for that.
– advance in small batches; once you get a smooth shave on a small area move to the next one; don’t try to get a clean shave on the whole jawline area in one swoop
– I recommend you start your shave with the left part of the jawline since it’s the most difficult part and you’re more likely to be thorough and patient.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
Im finding this article a little late so I wont be too surprised if you dont reply :)
I work as a firefighter so i HAVE to shave everyday to ensure a breathing apparatus set can create a tight seal. My beard grows quite quickly but isnt too coarse. The problem is i suffer really bad razor bumps and ingrown hairs on my neck, especially after a regular razor shave.
In your opinion, for everday use which would be best? Im happy to either shave dry or wet and I’m not too fussed about cleaning stations either way.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you Very Much
Diolch yn Fawr
Bedwyr
Hi Bedwyr,
All things considered, I think a Braun Series 7 would be a really good option. It’s one of the better shavers out there for men who suffer from ingrown hairs and bumps, it’s very gentle and works really well dry or wet. I think during a dry shave with a good pre-shave lotion (like Speick or Tabac) is where this shaver really shines. Just make sure you’re buying one of the previous generation Series 7 (like the 7865cc, 790cc, 7893s and so on), not the 2020 update. The older ones are just better in every single way.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you very much, i will definitely take your advice on board :)
Thanks again
Is it just me or is there a design flaw in Braun series 9 cassettes? I’ve had my shaver for almost four years and quality seems to have dropped off unacceptably. My last two cassettes have lasted about four months. Same issue both times. The same side of the gold-colored bar comes loose. I tried switching the cassette around to see if it was a problem with the shaver head. The same part came loose again. Now the other middle bar has come loose. I suppose what I need to figure out is if my cleaning routine is to blame. I use the cleaning station twice a week and the rest of the time I just dust it down with the brush. What are the chances I have knocked a small part that dislodged one of the bars. Twice. After having had no problems with prior cassettes.
Part of the problem with Braun is the high cost of ownership. When the shaver works as intended, I think it is a price worth paying. The shaving comfort in the Series 9 is unmatched by any other shaver I have used (always Braun or Philips). However I am beginning to wonder if I need to look at other options.
Thank you for the comment. The reliability of the Series 9 cassettes has been a bit of a hit & miss, but can’t really say that it’s gotten worse. For example, the first generation (90s) cassette would sometimes fall apart after a couple of months of use. As long as you use the brush gently and on the inside of the foil, your cleaning routine looks fine. There’s a new Series 9 Pro that will be launched in October in the USA and comes with a redesigned cassette that is apparently backward compatible. I have already ordered one from the UK and I will be reviewing it in great detail and also try the new cassette on my older Series 9.
I don’t know if I’ve been very lucky, but I am yet to experience a Series 9 cassette falling apart.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
That’s interesting about the backwards-compatible cassette. I will keep a lookout for your review. (Hopefully I am subscribed to the newsletter. When I clicked on the link, it said “Page Not Found.”)
In the meantime, the foil has become dangerous so I am leaning towards the Panasonic ES-LL41, simply because it is a very reasonable price right now.
I can confirm that you are subscribed to the newsletter with this email account. The error should also be fixed now for future subscribers, thank you for the heads-up.
Definitely avoid shaving with a damaged foil at all costs, it can and cause serious injuries. The ES-LL41 is a really good entry-level shaver, however it is not as comfortable and forgiving as the Series 9. I would also use it mainly on short stubble, it might need quite a few extra passes in order to catch long/flat-lying hairs.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Damn, this was really comprehensive and useful. A big thanks to the author, because it really helped me choose an ‘upgrade’ for my 5 year old low-end electric shaver haha.
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with the new shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu
Many, many thanks for your excellent, clear and detailed reviews. I finally decided to upgrade my 13 year old Braun 5 Series. I was so overwhelmed by choice that I put off the decision for months. However, I chanced upon your sub-article about options for shavers that worked when plugged in. The vast majority can only be used cordless but I know batteries deteriorate (albeit after a few years) and I hate discarding things that basically work. I also didn’t want a charging/cleaning station cluttering up the place and using more plastic to make. After reading your article I was able to locate a Braun 5030s. I have had it for a month and am very happy. It is remarkably quieter that my old machine, I have yet to recharge it and it cuts much closer. If it had not been for you I think I would be still looking. Keep up the excellent work.
Hi Gary,
Many thanks for your comment, you are too kind. I think you made an excellent choice with the 5030s, it definitely seems like the right shaver for your needs.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have a Braun Series 7 I’ve used for many years. I try to keep it clean between daily uses by mechanically clearing out the hair followed by a warm water cleaning and finishing with about 10 seconds while dipping the head into a 70% isopropyl alcohol bath. After everything dries, I put a drop of shaver oil on each of the 3 cutting blades. About once a week I’ll also run it through the cleaning station. In spite of this, the shaver rarely catches all of the stubble and some ends up on my shirt.
Is the Series 9 better in this regard or do the Panasonic Arc 4/5 models have an advantage here?
Hi Larry,
Foil shavers in general aren’t great at catching the hair inside the head when shaving, so some will end up on your shirt/forearm. The Series 9 is a bit better in that regard compared to the 7. I wouldn’t say the Arc 4 and 5 are better though, especially since they produce more of that fine hair dust.
Rotary shavers catch more hairs inside the shaving unit, but also come with their own specific cons (mentioned in the post).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
You have done an excellent job of trying sort out the confusing task of choosing an electric shaver. Many of your points are valid. The explanations and deals are well described.
But it really comes down to personal choice. Or try it and see if you like it.
I have used 6 different Norelco’s over the past 40 years. The motors have all lasted. I can 2 to 3 years from a set of heads shaving dry. Trying wet makes it a little smoother and closer, but takes more time. Norelco has had a variety of different head designs, handles and trimmers. I found some differences between them and prefer the old built in trimmer with the mid range heads.
Also bought the Chinese imitation head replacements that I definitely found inferior to the originals.
After reading your review of the Braun 9 series I purchased that. Unfortunately it not compare to the Norelco on my skin.
It was scratchy and I felt a lot more drag. There was no better shave for me. Fortunately with Costco great return policy I was able to bring it back.
I will plan to get a new Norelco when it goes on sale at Costco.
Thanks again for your diligence and great reviews.
Hi Ron,
Thank you for your comment and kind words, much appreciated.
I totally agree and it definitely seems like a rotary razor is the right choice in this case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
So, I have several shavers being a bit of an electric shaver collector (i.e. Braun Series 9 and Series 7, Norelco 8000 series and 9000 series and an older AT 830). Recently I purchased a Panasonic Arc 5 (older version) and here is what I have to say. The Panasonic shaves closest without question and yet it is my least favorite shaver. Why? The infernal noise of that shaver is so disturbing to my ears that I hate it and have consigned it to a drawer where I only occasionally bother with it. So where does that leave me? Of the shavers remaining, the Braun Series 7 shaves best but the Norelco 9000 series is the shaver I enjoy using the most. What is the best shaver for most men? I don’t think the question can be answered given the many factors that will color each person’s choice.
Thank you for your comment, Wayne. Panasonic shavers tend to be quite loud during use as they’re fitted with very fast motors. I personally don’t find them much louder than a Series 7 for example, but everyone’s threshold for noise is different.
While there are instances where the most suitable shaver turns out to be an unexpected one, I still stand behind the statement that in most cases a foil shaver will yield better results.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I agree that the foil will yield the best results in terms of closeness (which in truth is probably what most want). For a few odd fellows like me, however, there is an indiscernible quality about the feel of a Norelco 9000 series shaver on the neck, cheek and jawline that keeps it in my starting lineup. Ovidiu, I guess it defies logic since the shave itself is mediocre but I still prefer it.
Hi.
And what can you say about Panasonic ES-RT37? I can find just a little information on it. Not many reviews. Did you try this razor?
Best regards.
Hi Mark,
I’m personally not a fan of it. The main drawbacks compared to the Arc 3 models mentioned in the post are the slower motor (10 000 CPM vs 13 000 CPM), the lack of a decent LED display and the slide-out trimmer (inferior to the pop-up trimmers found on most Panasonic razors). I would highly recommend one of the models that come with 13 000 CPM (cycles per minute) motors instead: ES8103S, ES-LT41-K, ES-LT6N, ES-LL41-K, ES-LL21-K etc.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Such a great website! I’m wonder if I should buy an SH98 head to replace the horrible RQ12+ on my RQ1250x, or buy a Braun Series 9 instead. Maybe both?
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated. The SH98 and even the SH91 (on the new European Series 9000) are better in my opinion than the RQ12+. But comparing that to the Series 9 is a bit like comparing apples to oranges as both have their specific pros and cons. But I do think that either option would be an upgrade from your current shaver/heads.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
Buying first shaver for son. Your articles have the best info and advice. I looked at disposable but I really like the idea of an electric foil shaver. Even though Braun seems to be better for comfort, I’m leaning towards an Arc 3. What about the new ESLT67? Costco, Amazon, Best Buy sell between CAD $120-140. Or ESSL41K on Amazon is CAD $116. Thoughts?
Hi,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated. Performance-wise both are pretty much the same. I would however lean more towards the ES-SL41-K because the shaving head is smaller and noticeably easier to use. The width and length of the foils are the same, but the foil frame of the ES-LT67 is wider and the whole head is bulkier. I think for a teenager the ES0SL41-K would be slightly better.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
OK… ordered the Philips Norelco 6880/81 and the Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV67
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NR8SGV8?ref=ppx_pt2_dt_b_prod_image was $99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W7XK55Q?ref=ppx_pt2_dt_b_prod_image was $116
USD 255.58
CAD 325.64 shipped today 11/8/22
That’s great, I hope you’ll enjoy shaving with them. If you have the time, maybe you can follow up with a few impressions as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I’ve been long tempted to jump onto the electric shaver bandwagon but my use case is a bit strange. So far I’ve been using an old mid-priced Philips Multigroom, which offers me a satisfactory performance while it also allows me to shave on 3-5 days intervals because it uses a trimming blade before the actual razor blade. I’m looking to replace the device because the battery has died.
Now, I understand that if I make the transition to regular electric razors I’d have to limit my intervals between shaves should to a max of 3 days. My question is: would a change to say a Panasonic ARC 5 or a Braun Series 7 (which are comparable in price, oddly) let me see a performance difference significant enough to justify the added cost / change of habit?
I’m based in Athens, Greece and tempted by the razors mentioned above, but really open to suggestions even towards pricier models!
Thanks in advance,
Angelos.
Hi Angelos,
It would have been helpful to know the exact model of the Philips groomer you’ve been using. Does it have a separate attachment for trimming longer facial hair and also a foil head? The Arc 5 and the Braun Series 7 will likely require a change in your shaving routine. I couldn’t say how many days between shaves as that depends on how fast your beard grows. But electric shavers work best on shorter stubble.
I think the main improvement would be in terms of closeness and even comfort. Does that sound like something you would benefit from (at the cost of having to shave more often)? Again, if you know the model of your Philips trimmer, that would give us a better idea of what to expect.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for the prompt reply and apologies for the lack of specificity. Turns out that my groomer is in fact a Philips Bodygroom 7000 series —hence my reference to a ‘strange’ use case scenario. Oddly I found that the shaving function is quite adequate, although I expect a higher-end shaver should get me closer to reference level closeness and smoothness. The trimmer function on the same device is an added benefit, as it lets me trim down my sideburns every now and then.
That said, I’m still open to ‘normalising’ my routine if needed, provided the difference of experience is worth the added cost and change in habit. On a side-note, the Arc5 is quite tempting because I can find it at around €125, whereas the Braun series rarely go below €200, but I’m open to any suggestion given your well-proven expertise on the subject! :-)
Keep up the good work and thanks in advance,
Angelos.
Hi Angelos,
The foil head of a Panasonic Arc 5 is in my opinion in a different league when it comes to shaving coarse facial hair compared to the foil head on the Bodygroom 7000. That one is a single foil head that was really designed to shave hair below the neck, so not as dense and thick. The Arc 5 is also fitted with a very powerful linear drive motor compared to the rotary unit on your Philips Bodygroom. The Arc 5 will shave closer, faster and smoother provided that the beard is reasonably short.
If you do decide to give the Arc 5 a try, you will likely need to shave more often. The integrated pop-up trimmer is also great for trimming/shaping your sideburns, I personally find it better than anything else I’ve tried. Some of the second-generation Arc 5 models (ES-LV65, ES-LV67) can be found at a really good price as you’ve also mentioned.
The Series 7 (pre-2020 models), which is the other option, is more comfortable and better with longer facial hair compared to the Arc 5, especially if the hairs stay flat on the skin or grow in different directions. It’s not however as powerful nor does it shave quite as close. I also find the hair trimmer on the Arc 5 much more effective.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Super grateful for the insight, much obliged!
One final question: am I right to understand that all of the previous ARC5 models, including the LV67 which I’m eyeing right now, are compatible with the ES9040 replacement blade set? (see https://shavercheck.com/reviews/panasonic-arc-5-2021-review/#Replacement-parts-availability)
According to your review, it looks like that this combo should be at least on par with the Braun models with regards to somewhat longer facial hair. —not that I’m shying away from shaving more often, just looking at possible upgrade routes.
Thanks,
Angelos.
You are very welcome, Angelos. That is correct, the ES-LV67 is compatible with the ES9040 set. But as I’ve mentioned in the review, that one is still not as good on longer facial hair as a Braun Series 9 or even 7.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks a lot for your site and the through reviews, many of which I have read.
10 years ago I switched from Philips to Braun, and since then I switched back and used a single Philips one, the RQ1250.
The reason that I switched back to rotary, I remember, is that the Braun foils kept rupturing and needing replacement (= time and money).
A rotary shaver in my experience will last as long as you want it to, although the performance is supposed to degrade if you don’t buy new heads (not that I noticed much degradation).
Anyway, I thought you should mention this aspect, which is rarely mentioned when explaining the pros and cons of rotary vs foil shavers. Of course, this aspect would merit a long-term review, not just unboxing and trying out the shaver for a week.
Hi Pedro,
Thank you for your comment and suggestion, much appreciated.
That is actually correct and I will mention it in a coming update of this guide. The combs of rotary shavers are much thicker than the typical foils and it would be pretty much impossible for the cutters to eat through the thick metal as it’s sometimes the case with foil shavers. By the way, the foils of older Braun shavers, particularly the ones in the lower-end segment, were indeed very brittle and thin. Things are now better in that regard.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Pedro made a great observation. Another aspect of rotary blades is that they can be sharpened by the user. There are many YT videos showing a variety of ways in which to sharpen them although I wouldn’t recommend doing it more than a few times. The combs, however, would need to be re-adapted to the newly sharpened blades which would take a few shaves.
That is correct, you can sharpen them, but the results can vary quite a bit. I think it’s worth trying especially in the case of older blades/combs that aren’t available anymore. But it is something you can’t really do with foil shavers.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Appreciate the long detailed article on this. I’m Asian American male and in my mid 30s. Throughout my life, I only used norelco rotary head shavers for shaving. I only have facial hair on my moustache and in my chin area. But even if I don’t shave a week or more, there isn’t much growing there. I never even used a regular razor in my life. I can never grow a beard. I had bought a norelco series 3500 last year since my previous norelco electric razor went bad after many years. I used the new norelco razor for less than two months… and two of the three heads started spinning. Then eventually the last rotary head stopped spinning. That meant those are damaged right and needed replacement? Because months later, I got replacement heads for it and put it in… then it worked for less than a month. I don’t know how to explain it except when you power it on, its like stuck or something. Yet when you open the top part of it… you do see the things under it spin… not sure the name of it but its the 3 pointy things inside the razor. Does this sound like the top part of it is broken? Thing is when i open the top part of it, and power it on… the trimmer on the side does work.
Would buying replacement heads for this work again or not worth it? Now I do see there are tons of electric razors on sale now. I see they selling that Panasonic Arc 5 for around hundred dollars or so. But I see replacement heads are ridiculously expensive… like 85 dollars plus for it. I did see the pros/cons for it and you mention its overkill for someone with a light beard. I can’t even grow a beard. So would it be a waste of money even buying any panasonic arc whether its a Arc5 or Arc3? The one thing that seems really nice about the panasonic arc from comments on amazon is… you can actually give yourself a haircut with it? If so, that seem to be a plus. But for my situation, no beard and just facial hair on moustache and chin… do I just still with the norelco electric razors? Again i used these all my life and never had any issue… until this 3500 that i bought last year.
I do see right now best buy has a sale on a norelco 3000 for only 35 dollars now. Would you say this one is good? One concern is in the specifications, it shows NO for Water which makes no sense since its called Wet/Dry? Also not sure why it shows NO for popup trimmer since comments show it does have it. How does it compare to the second link below which is the one I bought last year and thus right now is not working?
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/philips-norelco-series-3000-rechargeable-wet-dry-electric-shaver-modern-steel-metallic/6463512.p?skuId=6463512
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/philips-norelco-3500-series-wet-dry-electric-shaver-storm-gray/6384505.p?skuId=6384505
Would love to have feedback on this. Thanks.
Hi Pauly,
Thank you for the comment, glad you found the post useful.
In my opinion there’s something wrong with your 3500, precisely with (some of) the three drive shafts. Considering the price of the replacement heads and the price of a new shaver, be it a Series 3000 or even a Series 2000 like the one in this guide, I think you should just buy a new shaver.
The differences between the two models you’ve linked are minor. The 3500 has a 3-level battery indicator, while the 3000 has only one. Both use the same cutting heads (part number SH30), both are wet/dry and both have a pop-up trimmer. Bottom line, they will shave the same. I would simply get the cheaper one (most of that time that would be the Series 3000 S3134/84).
Regarding other options, I don’t think you should look at advanced and powerful models like the Panasonic Arc 5. Since you have a very light beard that only grows on the moustache area and chin, an entry-level shaver (rotary or foil) will be more than enough. From your comment I can tell that a rotary razor has been working pretty well for you, so going with another cheap rotary (like the Series 3000) would make the most sense.
By the way, pretty much any decent electric shaver can be used for getting a hair cut — that is shaving your head (bald) or getting a skin fade. However, the hair must be really short, so the use of hair clippers beforehand is a must. I posted an article on that topic specifically if you want to check it out.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for the response. Yea it make no sense to buy replacement head for the norelco i bought last year because I did that 6 months ago and the issue is most likely the head now. Yes I agree no point in spending 25 dollars replacement blades for it. However, If I buy the same 3500 again for 60 dollars, would you say that is foolish? I did read reviews where lot of people mention this device stopped working and how they did not like it. So I might as well get the cheaper model then right? My thought was… hey maybe that cheaper model might not be as defective as the 3500? Or is that wrong thinking?
Okay so only difference between the 3000 S3134/84 and the 3500 is just that it has one light and not three lights? I know it won’t have a travel pouch or a small brush but that isn’t an issue. I wanted to make sure the blades were still the same. So motor and everything is same throughout all 3000 series? So any norelco that is 3000 series is same motor? My concern was this one might be weaker… and the 3500 to me seem a little weak.
You mention the arc 5 is not necessary and norelco rotary heads is more than enough for me. The thing is I have NO beard at all. Its just hair on moustache and chin… thats all. So this would be completely ridiculous then right? So even the arc 3 is completely unnecessary? Again I read someone said they use shave back of head so I thought that was a plus. I actually did not know any rotary electric razor could shave the head.
This was the arc 3 I was looking at. Do you have opinion on these? I don’t need to link you the arc 5 since you know about that one but did saw it was 100 dollars. But again I don’t even a beard. Any thoughts on these cheaper arcs? The 60 dollar one I thought was interesting. Also my thought was hey if im going to spend 60 dollars or 80 dollars on an arc… that isn’t much more than the norelco that is 60 dollars. So imagine the cheaper one wasnt on sale… which would I get? The thing is money isn’t that big an issue here. But I also don’t want to spend a lot on something that is overkill and not needed. But thoughts on that cheaper arc that is 60 dollars that is same as the norelco I currently have that is broken.
https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Electric-ES8103S-Nanotech-Flexible/dp/B001DNE3KQ/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=arc+3&qid=1637811185&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-Adjustable-Attachments-Precision-Technology/dp/B07QXHZ4YF/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3DN42ZCLT2XUT&keywords=arc+3+panasonic&qid=1637811205&sprefix=arc+3+pana%2Caps%2C224&sr=8-7
I then saw these norelcos on sale. Do you have any opinion on these? I saw one of them is only 35 dollars and its a 5000 series. Thus wouldn’t it make sense to buy this over the cheaper norelco I posted since same price but this is higher series? The reviews if you look at it are all over the place. Some people say very good… others say horrible. I do know for replacement blades you going to pay like ten more dollars than the 3000 series but no big deal since its once a year usually. I did read reviews how its awkward to hold it such as its like a mushroom and the power button is annoying. Thoughts on these? Im deciding from these 6 electric razors as the arc 5 is definitely overkill and replacement blade is too expensive.
Norelco Series 5100 that is on sale now from 35 dollars that is normally 80 dollars?
https://www.target.com/p/philips-norelco-series-5100-wet-dry-men-s-rechargeable-electric-shaver-s5210-81/-/A-49102476?clkid=eb80ba6bN3f4811ec8479310f0b8750ed&lnm=360518&afid=Slickdeals_LLC&ref=tgt_adv_xasd0002
Norelco Shaver 5300 that is on sale now from 50 dollars that is normally 80 dollars
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/philips-norelco-5300-wet-dry-electric-shaver-black-navy-blue/6384519.p?skuId=6384519
Also I like to add. Someone commented how these 5000 series norelcos… its strange to shave under your nose? Again im used to those traditional norelco rotary shavers so when I look at those, they look a bit awkward. Then again all those 7000 and 9000 series look like that so it has to be good then right? Again I have no beard at all. Only very little facial hair on my moustache and chin. If I don’t shave for a week or two, its not even that much facial hair.
So out of these 6 electric razors, which is the best option? But if that norelco wasn’t on sale and say it was 70 dollars instead of 35 dollars… that is actually the normal price when its not on sale… which would you choose?
But as of now with the current prices, you say get the cheaper norelco on sale right the one that is 3000 series and 35 dollars? Again im used to those traditional rotary head shavers. Thanks.
Some of the latest Philips shavers like Series 7000 (and the new Series 5000 and 9000) have these angular-shaped heads. They are thicker and don’t taper down as much towards the edges, so you may find it a bit more difficult to shave below the nose. I personally got used to it pretty quickly.
Again I think you should just stick to the cheapest Series 3000 you can find; the blades and the motors are the same and they will shave exactly the same. And they have the more conventional rounded heads that you’re used to. The next rotary shaver I would get if I had a bigger budget would be the Series 6000 mentioned in the post above. It is better than the Series 5000 and it costs about the same.
The Arc 3’s you’ve mentioned are actually really good; if you’re willing to give foil shavers a try and take a break from Norelcos, those are among the best options for someone with a light beard. The ES-LL41-K would be my pick if it costs less. They use the same foils and blades, so the quality of the shave will be the same.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the response. Yes I seen those Philips 5000, 7000 and 9000 and also 6000 Series have those angular shaped heads. Someone called them mushroom heads which is why i used that word earlier. But yes I read few people said its awkward to shave with it around the nose area. So for me, I only have two areas to shave… moustache area between my lips and nose and my chin area. So I thought it might seem strange. Then again when all the 7000 series and up are like that and it cost a lot, I figure well those must be good. But yes Im accustomed to those traditional rotary heads.
I took a look at the 6000 series and they definitely cost a lot more. But what are your thoughts on those two links of the 5000 series? The 5100 is on sale for 35 dollars only from 80 dollars which is a big discount. The 5300 is on sale for 50 dollars. They look the same except from the comments, the 5100 series there is a popup trimmer that you need to attach and remove each time with the head. Thus its not built in like regular norelco and the 5300 with the built in popup trimmer. Then again, I rarely used it on that norelco i bought last year. But the comments on that 5100 is all over the place. Many people said its horrible and the worst one ever. Some people say replacing the replacement heads is a headache with this and can break easily. Again, the only reason I considered it was because I saw it was a huge discount in that its 35 dollars and its a 5000 series. So would you say thats worth a try or don’t bother with it? Its like pay the same price for a 5000 series… compared to the cheaper normal size 3000 series rotary… or even pay more if you choose that 3500 which cost 60 dollars. Does that make sense in what im saying? Of course you pay a bit more for replacement blades in the future but im not looking at that since it isn’t that much.
The arc 3, I considered it because I saw so many good reviews on it. Again the 80 dollar one caught my attention because of how nice it looks and the very good reviews. But it was that one comment where someone said they are a barber and good for shaving back of head which made me like it because i could use it to shave my head. The cheaper arc… its really the same exact thing? If so why so cheap to 60 dollars. I mean it shows a big discount but I think that price has always been like this etc.
Well I mentioned… I don’t even have a beard at all… let alone light beard. I could never grow a beard as that is in my genetics. So you wouldn’t think the arc 3 is overkill then?
Also im not sure about trying foil as I don’t think i ever used that for shaving ever on my face. Also, for budget… I mean I don’t mind spending 100 dollars for it if it would be perfect for my situation. But I also don’t want something that is overkill like arc 5. Again I have no beard… only facial hair on my moustache and chin. So with all this information, you still say the cheaper norelco 3000 series in the earlier link right? Then after that… probably the arc 3? Getting the norelco 3500 for 60 dollars would be foolish right? Again i know you said its probably the head that is broken… but i read lot of comments about ppl having issues with the same model… which is why i dont want to buy the 3500 again. I seriously think there is some defect with this exact model number.
But if i were to choose between the norelco 3500 again vs one of those arc 3, you would still suggest the norelco since im used to the rotary heads? Also i read about razor burns and ingrown hairs etc using one vs the other. I haven’t had any issues with the rotary heads. So that is another reason to stick with it right? Thing is if these norelco rotary electric razors worked the same as the ones I had before… I wouldn’t be keep doing so much research on all these electric razors.
Thanks.
If you can get the Series 5000 for roughly the same money as the 3000, you could buy that one instead. I’m personally not a fan of the click-on trimmer (I prefer the integrated ones), but the price is really good. Compared to the 3000, it has slightly better heads (SH50), but the overall shave will be similar. I personally would still get the 3000 (for the trimmer and the easy to open shaving unit — you’ll have to pry it off with your fingernails in the case of the Series 5000). It also feels sturdier to me. Not that it matters a lot, but the SH30 heads on the 3000 are also cheaper.
Going with a familiar rotary razor is the safest option and the 3000 is a very decent option. I don’t think you should spend a lot more on the 3500, basically the same shaver.
As for the price difference between the two Arc 3 models, that’s actually nothing strange. This happens all the time with electric shavers (depending on the availability, the price from the suppliers, various deals and so on). Both will shave exactly the same. The Arc 3 is the entry-level line of shavers from Panasonic, so below them are only their single or double foil travel shavers. The Ar c5 would have been overkill, the Arc is a 3-blade with a reasonable price, so nothing too over the top. AGain, it would be a perfectly good option if you decide to try a foil shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the reply on this. Okay looks like the 3000 is the best option then.
Yes I get what you mean with no point is paying extra for the 3500 since its literally the same thing. Now If I never bought the 3500 last year, I probably would chosen this one over the 3000. I just thought this 3500 has some defect so I kind of don’t want to get it again.
The 5100 you mentioned is good since its a 5000 series since you could get the same price as the 3000 right now because of the huge discount. I get what you mean with the not a fan of the click-on trimmer. Again I never used this trimmer with my 3500 much except when I found out recently about it when my 3500 rotary heads don’t work. But the 5100 is a click on which isn’t as nice. So the difference between the 5100 and 5300 is one has click on trimmer but other one is its attached? Thats the only difference? Of course 50 dollar price is a bit more than 35. But those recent comments for the 5100 make it seem real bad though. Do you have any opinion on this? Amazon review seem a bit better.
I thought the reason one of the arcs was cheaper was because of its design. Thus the 80 dollar one with that color looks much better than this one. Im surprised they are exactly the same. But why does the arc that is 60 dollars has so many trimmer parts though? In description it says it has many trimmer part attachments but the 80 dollar arc doesn’t?
So you say best option for me is the norelco 3000. Im curious what would be your second and third best choice based on the specifications I gave you about me since I mentioned I have no beard and just very little facial hair on my moustache and chin even if I don’t shave for over a week or so.
I got to assume you would say arc 3 the 60 dollar one… then probably the 5300 that is 50 dollars right now? Thus even though that 5100 is cheap and only 35 dollars now, having those attachable trim is just not good because it increase chance of you damaging it when you pull heads out and put this one in? Thing though is I don’t even plan to use it etc.
Thank you very much for your detailed responses on me trying to figure out which one to get.
Actually both the 5100 and 5300 have click-on trimmers. As far as I know, apart from the grey vs blue highlight on the front, no other differences. Which makes sense since they’re both part of the Series 5000. But as I said previously, prices don’t always make sense. In this case they’re also sold by different stores. The 5100 is normally more expensive than the 3000, it’s from a (theoretically) better line, so the reviews will be harsher.
The more expensive Arc 3 is actually much older (it was launched 13 years ago), but again, the performance is the same (same blades and foil, same motor). The other one also comes with 2 adjustable combs that attach over the extended hair trimmer, so you can use them to maintain or pre-trim a beard. I actually reviewed it here if you want to check it out.
The 3000 is familiar, cheap and from what I understand works just fine for your needs. Since you only have some light facial hair, the next best shaver would be any reasonably priced shaver from a reputable brand (Panasonic, Braun). I honestly don’t think you’ll be gaining anything from a Series 5000. Besides, it also has some quirks that I don’t particularly like (no quick release for the top part of the head, no integrated trimmer, 40 minutes run time vs 60 in the case of the 3000, slightly more expensive heads, etc.).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I’m looking to purchase a new electric razor and upgrade from the Philips Norelco Series 1000 I have been using for the last 6 years. I find my current Series 1000 fairly adequate in terms of closeness (I really don’t need anything much closer) the comfort has never been especially great, especially around my neck. The other challenge is I recently started working a remote field station and as a result regularly go 5-7 days without shaving, and naturally a low-end razor like the Series 1000 has struggled to perform under such circumstances (shaving takes quite long even after a pass with a beard trimmer). So in terms of an upgrade I’m looking for something with significantly better comfort that’s able to tackle several days of growth.
Based on the excellent reviews here I’ve narrowed my choices to the Philips Norelco Series 6000 or a higher end shaver – either the Philips Norelco Series 9000 Prestige or the Braun Series 9. I’m generally partial to rotary razors because I have a lot of flat-lying hairs on my face and you tend to get more bang for your buck in terms of dealing with that from rotary options, but the Braun Series 9 seems to be a very compelling option as well. I am mainly wondering if you think the Norelco Series 6000 will be a significant enough upgrade in terms of power (since your review suggests the comfort will be significantly better than a Series 1000) and dealing with several days of growth, or whether I should splurge and go for one of the higher-end razors. In terms of the Prestige vs the Series 9 I honestly think I’d just take advantage of the money-back guarantees both brands offer and go with whichever one I end up preferring.
Thanks!
Hi Jon,
I think the Series 6000 is quite a bit better than the 1000 in terms of comfort (my skin really doesn’t get along with many rotary razors, but this one is very gentle and smooth). It won’t be a huge improvement in closeness, but I understand it won’t be an issue. I think it can shave a few days of growth just fine, but 5 to 7 days will definitely require pre-trimming your beard. Depending on how fast your beard grows, you’ll probably have to do that in the case of the Prestige and the Series 9 as well.
If you’ve managed to deal with the Series 1000 for 6 years, the Series 6000 should be good enough. However, the main improvement will be in the form of comfort. So this one would be the budget choice. For better closeness, comfort, speed and so on, the other two will obviously fare better (and for a lot more money). I usually recommend sticking to what works, in this case a rotary shaver (the cutters also last longer). But many users are often surprised by the performance and comfort of a foil shaver when using one for the first time after years of shaving with rotaries. So if you can try both and return them if they don’t offer a significant improvement over a basic rotary, I think it’s worth doing it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I decided to get my first electric shaver, but found the number of models generations and series a bit overwhelming. Thankfully your reviews have helped me to decide on two of them, the Braun Series 9 9390cc and the Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65-S. My problem is the long run cost of the shavers. Considering the cost of the cartridges (if used properly) the blades and foil. Which one will more expensive over time?
Once again thanks for your great reviews
Hi Luis,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
The price of a Panasonic Arc 5 foil+blades set is usually higher. That may vary slightly depending on where you live, but Panasonic parts are in general pricy. With proper care, you should be expecting similar longevity. I would highly recommend the use of a spray lubricant like the Remington Shaver Saver, especially in the case of the ES-LV65-S that doesn’t have a cleaning station and the friction between the foil and blades is higher compared to the Series 9.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu
Thanks for your reviews on electrical shavers. Can you please tell me which one is the best at Shaving both face and head?
Hello,
Thank you, hope you found the info useful. I actually wrote a guide on head shavers if you want to check it out as I go into more details on the shavers that work really well as face & head shavers.
If I were to pick one for myself, I would definitely go with the Braun Series 9. It works great if you want a single device that can also work as a head shaver. I do not shave my entire head, but I do cut my own hair (lockdown habit that stuck) and I use a Series 9 to get myself a skin fade on the sides and back of my head. The Series 9 does that the best out of all the face shavers I’ve tried (it gets really close to the skin and it’s super fast and comfortable).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I honestly feel like the Braun Series 9 Pro is probably the best electric shaver on the market right now.
Maybe it’s just me but I find that the Pro shaves way closer than the previous Braun series 9 model. I find the closeness of the shave to be on par with a Panasonic Arc 5.
Where the Braun Series 9 Pro scores major points, though, is the comfort of the shave and this is where it truly shines and it’s way ahead of the competition.
Hi James,
Thanks for the comment, glad you’re happy with your Series 9 Pro. It’s a great shaver and I’ve used my 9477cc a lot during the past 2 months. I also think it shaves closer than the standard S9, however, in my case, the difference was marginal. I think the reason why we got so different results is that the regular S9 that I’ve used for the comparison was also brand new, so it had sharp, unworn blades. I will assume that yours was an older Series 9. In my case, I would still give the Arc 5 (and the Arc 6) the top spot for the closest shaving razors out there right now — mainly for how close they shave below the nose and the chin where I have really wiry and thick hairs. Oddly, I find the regular S9 to be a bit more comfortable than the Pro, but that’s nitpicking as both are really good.
Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience, much appreciated.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Completely agree that the Panasonic Arc 5 and Arc 6 do shave very close. There’s a slight problem though. In Europe, the newer 2021 versions of the Panasonic Arc 5 and the Arc 6 are not available. I’m pretty sure that you’d have to order them from a Japanese supplier.
The Braun Series 9 Pro, on the other hand, is readily available to purchase from stores in Europe.
In Europe, the newer Panasonic Arc 5 and the Arc 6 are very difficult to get hold of in comparison to the Braun Series 9 Pro.
Hi James,
100% true. I did order both my rev G Arc 5 and the Arc 6 from Japan via a proxy service and with their fees + customs they ended up very pricey. So I totally agree, at least for now, getting a Series 9 Pro is much more convenient if you live in Europe (or in the USA/Canada).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
thank you for putting in so much work and sharing your valuable knowledge with us.
I’ve read this article and a few others, but I just have more confusion about what to choose. I have sensitive skin but wear a short beard that I have to style (draw a beard line, shorten to 3-5mm of hair), on the rest of my face mostly part of my cheeks and on my neck I shave to the skin. Additionally, I have hair on my neck that grows flat and is very difficult for razors to catch. Sometimes I shave every other day and sometimes every 4 days.
I know that a foil razor is definitely better for me because of the irritation. I tested the Braun 300BT shave&style. I am very pleased with the trimmer and the attachments that allow you to shorten the beard quickly. Shaving on the cheeks was ok, but shaving the neck is a nightmare. It skips a lot of hair and despite going over it multiple times the hair is skipped or cut very far from the skin.
I was almost decided on the new Series 6 because I like the extra trimmer and body shaving tip. The price is also attractive for the set (60-N7650cc). Even if I sometimes shave every few days, the trimmer will shorten my hair quickly and prepare it for a proper shave. But I’m not sure if the neck shave will be good.
From your articles, the old 7 Series would have been much better. (Better shaving, especially of lying flat hair. It handles several days of stubble better. More functional cleaning base) Unfortunately, not so easy to buy it in europe. Replacement parts are also hardly available anymore and it will only get worse.
Tough choice.
Hi Luke,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
In my opinion, you won’t see a massive improvement with the Series 6 over your current Series 3 BT. The foil head itself is pretty similar and even though the middle trimmer (that sits between the two foils) is better with flat-lying hairs, it’s not by any means amazing (compared to the old Series 7 or 9 for example). But the main problem in my opinion is that the foil frame on the Series 6 is much wider compared to the Series 3, so it will be more difficult to shave just the top part of the cheeks right to the beard line and likewise on the neck. The 3 shaving elements also stick out more on the Series 3, which definitely helps in this situation.
Have you tried pre-trimming the hair on the neck and cheeks with the trimmer attachment (no combs) before shaving a 4-day beard? That should leave you with some short stubble that should be cut pretty easily by the foil head, even if the hairs grow flat. Another cheap upgrade would be to get the 32b foil head (that normally comes on the Series 3 ProSkin models like the 3010BT for example). That one is a bit better with flat-lying hairs and more comfortable than the one that originally came with your 300BT (21b). When it’s time to change it, you might as well get the better 32b cassette (it’s only slightly more expensive, but definitely better).
The old Series 7 is indeed better with flat-lying hairs, but it’s also a lot more expensive and you also have some trouble sourcing one. So my recommendation would be to try the above-mentioned solutions before buying the Series 7.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for your response.
Yes, I always use a quick trimmer on a 3 day stubble. I’m even considering the 7, 8, 9 series already. But I have concerns because these devices are quite large I don’t know if it will be comfortable and precise to shave just the top part of the cheeks right to the beard line and likewise on the neck.
Here’s another question. Is the cleaning station fluid the same for all stations both older (one generation before 2020) and new.
Hi Luke,
Yes, the cleaning fluid is the same for all the Braun stations.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
@Ovidiu
Do both have the same insertion with fluid? Can I buy cardridge for new Series 7 and put into old Series 7 cleaning station?
Hi George,
Yes, the cartridges are all the same for all current Braun models.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Definitely agree, it’s a lot more convenient to purchase a Braun Series 9 Pro over the newer Panasonic Arc 5 and the Arc 6 if you’re living in Europe or in USA/Canada.
I have a question regarding the Phillips Series 9000 Prestige shaver. How would you compare the Phillips Series 9000 Prestige shaver to the Braun Series 9 Pro and the newer Panasonic Arc 5 And Arc 6 shavers ?
Would you say that the Phillips Series 9000 Prestige shaver delivers a closer shave than the Braun Series 9 Pro and the newer Panasonic Arc 5 and Arc 6 shavers ? Also, in terms of comfort which would be the better pick ?
I’ve heard a lot of great things about the Phillips Series 9000 Prestige shaver but I don’t have any experience using it.
Thanks in advance.
Hi James,
For me, and for most users, I think the Series 9 Pro or the Arc 5/6 would be better options. Unless you know from previous experience that a rotary razor works better for you, I would stick to one of the Braun or Panasonic (whichever makes more sense for what you need).
The Prestige is a really good shaver, still the best rotary shaver out there right now in my opinion. That said, I think most users will get a closer shave with either the Series 9 Pro or the Arc 5/6. For a rotary shaver, it’s very comfortable, but still slightly behind the top Braun and Panasonic models. This was my experience using it, there are some men that simply get better overall results with the Prestige. But as I also said in the article, in most cases a good foil shaver will be a safer choice.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Only just discovered your site which is fantastic – just wish I’d came across it years ago!
I’m looking for some advice around replacing my Panasonic ES-LV95 Arc5 which unfortunately has failed (issue with the on/off button) after only 18months.
Prior to the Panasonic Arc 5 I used a Philips S9211/26 which also gave me good results.
I always shave daily wet with cream due to comfort.
I usually buy models with cleaners but typically don’t end up using them as don’t have an electrical outlet in the bathroom.
I understand the new Philips cleaner doesn’t require power which may be of interest.
Would I be right in assuming that I don’t necessarily need a high end model seeing as I shave daily wet?
Which foil or rotary shaver would you recommend? – I’m in the UK with a max budget of £200.
Reading your guides I’m thinking either a replacement Panasonic Arc, Braun 3040s (budget option) or Philips 7000?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Richard,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
Since you’re shaving daily, a cheaper shaver will also do the job — however, coming from an Arc 5 and a Series 9000 which are top-of-the-line shavers you will likely find a Braun Series 3 for example a bit too slow. It also doesn’t shave as close as an Arc 5.
In the UK, I would strongly consider the Arc 5 ES-LV67-A, it’s usually sold at a great price, way below your budget limit. There’s the variation that also has the cleaning center (ES-LV97-K), but I don’t think you should spend the extra money on it if you can’t use it. So this would be my option for a foil shaver.
As for rotaries, the new angular Series 7000 that comes with the cleaning pod is also worth considering in this situation. It doesn’t require any power, but it does have some quirks — you can check out my review of it here where I go into more details about the cleaning process. This would be a very capable razor especially if you’ll upgrade the heads to the better SH91 (of the new angular Series 9000) or the Prestige’s SH98 — both will fit perfectly. They are rather pricey though.
Personally, I would go with the Arc 5 ES-LV67.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Thank you so much for your reply and recommendations.
The only thing that putting me off purchasing another ARC 5 is the early life failure of my exiting one c18 months.
What’s your view on the typical expected life of an ARC 5?
Was I just unlucky with the one I have?
Regards
Richard.
You are very welcome, Richard. With proper care, it should last for years — the battery is actually the first component that fails as the shavers themselves are usually very reliable. I’ve received many comments and emails from long-time Arc 5 users in that regard. Also, I’ve never had one failing prematurely. That doesn’t of course mean it can’t happen — it certainly can, but I think it would be unlikely to get a bad one again.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidu,
Thank you for your advice.
I have just managed purchase the Panasonic ES-LV97 (inc cleaning station) for £89.99 from Amazon UK.
Regards
Richard.
I really appreciate your comprehensive reviews, tips, and guides–thank you! I’m a mama who has given up disposable razors because I ended up with a staph infection in my legs. Not wanting to ever have to deal with that again, I’ve been looking for an electric alternative. Research led me to conclude that I should skip the lady shavers and look at men’s shavers instead. Thanks to your help, and some great lady reviewers, I determined that the Panasonic Arc 3 ES8103S will work great for me, and I am really looking forward to getting rid of my “Wookiee” hair. :) You’re awesome!
Hey,
Many thanks for the kind words, I really appreciate it. Unfortunately women foil shavers are very few and not particularly capable. Hope the Panasonic will work great!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
hi there,
i have just brought the series 9 9390, do you think its worth taking back and buying the series 9 pro ?
cheers
keith
Hi Keith,
I’ve already replied to your initial comment here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you, mate. Actually for a few years I’ve used something, not to shave. To leave something like 1-2 days on my face using not shaving things and it was more or less acceptable. But my dream, from the childhood was to but an electronic shaver. So, my experience.
Firsty I’ve bought Philips prestige, because it was the only available here on my birthday. Actually, I haven’t enjoyed it so I’ve returned it. Then I’ve tried to test Braun, but there was no here. So, at least, I’ve bought an Panasonic, it was really great price here. 9Q variant. It was very complicated actually, during my first sessions. I’ve never done it using electric and a few years out of shaving actually. But it took me few weeks to take more or less good dry shave. Now I’m waiting for Sheick pre-shave to try it. Thank You very much for your site! Very appreciated.
Why don’t create a Telegram group?
Hi Valentyn,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated. The LV9Q Arc 5 is an excellent option in the countries where it was officially released. For example, in the USA it was not, so it’s pretty difficult to find or it’s very expensive. It’s great that you’ve finally found a shaver you enjoy using. And with the Speick pre-shave things should go even smoother.
I honestly never thought about a Telegram group, but it’s definitely something to consider.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I had an old Philips series 7000 with which I was fine. Now I want to buy a new one and need your advise. The Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige SP9820 is the best as you say buy very expensive (at least here in Italy) so I thought it could be worth buyiny an old series 9000 – I can find from 9100 forwards. My question is: the old 9000 series are still worth it or should I go with the new 7000 or 9000 series? I was thinkong – from what I understand – that you can buy the new S9000 Prestige head and plug it in the old 9000 and it will work, so this could be an option. I am a bit afraid that the new square design will not be as good as the old rounded one. Which would you suggest? Go for the Prestige – 230 euros at least – or go for the old 9000 which can be found around 150 euros?
Thanks
Hi Barbaro,
All things considered, I think getting the old Series 9000 would be best. Yes, you can use the Prestige heads later on. The new 7000 isn’t quite as capable with difficult hair, even though it is a very comfortable shaver otherwise.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
When my rotary shaver finally went dull (taking 3 times longer than it used to), I tried to see if the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, and tried a foil shaver. I don’t know if I’m different, but the hair on my face / neck grows in all different orientations, and the foil shaver works best when stroked in the correct orientation, and I found it was long and tedious to finish a shave. Inevitably some hairs got missed, grew longer by the next shave, and difficult to foil-shave, had to use a beard clipper to trim the longer hairs back to a stubble, and finish off with the foil shaver, so I am going back to a rotary shaver.
Thank you for the comment, Brett. It definitely seems like a rotary would be better suited for your hair and shaving style. May I ask which foil shaver you’ve tried?
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I bought an Arc 5 ES-LV65-S (per your suggestion) about 18 months ago after having an Arc 4 for six years. I have enjoyed it and it’s a great shaver; however, it doesn’t seem to get the hairs right under my nose so well. Given that plus it’s in need of a new foil and cutters I decided to splurge and buy the Braun 9 Pro. I used it three times and hated it – believe it or not it gave me razor burn and definitely didn’t give me as close a shave as the 18 month old Arc 5, so I returned it. Now I want to get an Arc 5 ES-LV9Q but I’m finding that the plug is EU only + adapter. Two questions: 1. Is there a shaver that gets the hairs directly under your nose and 2. Could I buy a separate cord that would work in a US plug for the LV9Q? THANKS, Ross
Hi Ross,
It definitely seems like you should stick to an Arc 5. Just one word of caution regarding the ES-LV9Q — it comes with the newer foils that have two comfort rollers and a small percentage of users found that the rollers get in the way of obtaining the closest possible shave. I personally didn’t have any of those issues and the closeness was just as good as in the case of the ES-LV65 or ES-LV67, basically any Arc 5 with the older foil. By the way, the old foil (the one that comes on the ES-LV65-S) will also work on the ES-LV9Q.
I have really dense and thick hairs above the upper lip and Panasonic shavers are hands down the best in that area. I actually found an old Arc 4 to be the most effective (the model was ES-LF51-A), mainly because it had a really compact head + foil frame and allowed me to really get it close to the nose. It is unfortunately discontinued, so not a viable option anymore. It was also not as comfortable as an Arc 5.
So at this moment, I’d say that the Arc 5 is the one to get.
Regarding your other question, absolutely, you can get a Panasonic charger that comes with a USA plug so you won’t have to use an adapter (I think the charger’s part no is RE7-87, but other Panasonic chargers will work as well). In fact, you can even use the cord from your ES-LV65-S. It’s an older model, but it will work just fine. The ES-LV9Q and the rest of the generation 3 Arc 5 models were never officially released in the USA and that’s probably why you can only find it with an EU plug.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu!
Couple of things:
1. I appreciate all the work and the level of detail you’ve put into all your articles. I hope your recommendations will help a lot of people get started or make the right choices for all electric shave related things. They have certainly helped me.
2. I bought a Braun 5197cc and I am quite pleased. But there’s something I need to ask: in terms of performance and comfort, what am I missing compared to a Series 9? And are the differences really worth the money?
If these details are relevant: I have sensitive skin, some issues with ingrown hairs (even with the electric razor, but so much more when using a traditional shaver), oily skin, and I’d like shave every 3 days or so – the beard doesn’t grow too fast, nor is it coarse.
Hi Daniel,
Many thanks for the comment, I really appreciate it.
Regarding your questions, here’s my experience when using a Series 5 and a Series 9:
— The Series 9 is noticeably better with flat-lying hairs, especially when shaving after 3 or 4 days. It’s just more effective at catching them in fewer strokes, which can result in a more comfortable shave overall. The difference isn’t as obvious if the hair is shorter or grows relatively straight.
— The closeness is similar, although with the Series 5 I do have to work a bit more and be more thorough to get the same result.
— The Series 9 is more comfortable when shaving dry; if the Series 5 doesn’t cause you any discomfort or post-shave irritation, I don’t think you’ll see a big improvement in that area.
— The Series 9 is faster and more enjoyable to use. This is a rather subjective assessment. It takes me more time to complete a shave with the Series 5, especially when the hair is longer (the hairs on my neck stay completely flat on the skin), the shaver vibrates more and isn’t quite as smooth on the neck.
In my opinion it’s worth upgrading to a Series 9 only if your current shaver fails to deliver in a particular area where the Series 9 would be noticeably better — hopefully the above info will be useful to you.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you!
04-06-2022
I own both the Philips Prestige and a Braun new series 7. The Braun shaves closer but somewhat burns my skin. It has a cleaning station but I found it does leave a residue of hair. The Philips is very comfortable to use and almost as close so I like it better. I don’t like the fact that I have to clean it with water. Lately I have been experimenting with rinsing the running shaver in a cup with the Philips Jet Clean solution. Looks promising and much better than water.
Hi Michael,
Rinsing the shaver in a recipient with JetClean or other (cheaper) third-party solutions like the one from Shaver Shebang will be effective at removing grime, oil, dirt and so on and will even provide some lubrication. A few hairs will remain inside the shaving unit though since there’s no filter (like in a cleaning cartridge), but that won’t really be an issue.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I came across your contact via recent online research for a new/ replacement shaver.
Firstly, thanks for all the detailed blogs on the shavers with their pros & cons.
I am still undecided which way to go as I have always been a Philips user all my life.
I currently own Philips series 9000 (wet & dry electric shaver with SmartClean PLUS S9211/26) which is discontinued in the UK. Not getting a clean shave though I have recently bought a replacement head- Philips SH91/50.
My dilemma is:
• If I want to continue using my current Philips- can buy a new head- Shaver S9000 Prestige Replacement shaving heads SH98/70 to use with the old S9211 shaver?
• If so, will it fit the SmartClean PLUS to clean?
• I do shave every day and would like a shaver that gives me a closeness with less irritation.
• I do like a shaver with a cleaning pod.
• Do I switch to the Braun 9 Pro which is currently going at half price?
Looking forward to your words of wisdom and expertise.
William
Hi William,
Thank you for your comment, I truly appreciate it.
Yes, the SH98 heads of the Prestige will fit your Series 9000. That said, if you’ve already bought the SH91, you’ll be getting a similar experience. I found the SH91 very close to the SH98 performance-wise, the main benefit of both over the older SH90 being the comfort.
You will still be able to use the SmartClean station to clean your shaver even after the upgrade (to the SH91 or the SH98).
Since you’ve only used rotary shavers, we can’t say with certainty how you’ll get along with a foil shaver. However, I think it’s likely that you’ll see an improvement in all areas, particularly comfort and how enjoyable your daily shave will be. The Series 9 Pro is an excellent shaver and most users will probably get better results when switching from a rotary, especially if the closeness or the comfort isn’t on point.
Make sure you take your time, especially during the first few shaves if you decide to get it (half price sounds like a really good deal). The technique is a bit different, but you will get to grips with it pretty quickly. It’s a very forgiving and easy to use shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Thanks for your swift response to my dilemma.
I will try the Series 9 Pro and will give you and your “followers” feedback.
Keep the work going.
William
You are very welcome, William. Looking forward to your thoughts on it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’ve had many shavers from Braun 5-9 and Panasonic 5 Blades. I currently use a Braun 92xx and was able to purchase a 94M foil from a European provider. You are correct that the 94M (9 Pro) foil and cutter does a better job than the 92M foil with longer face hairs. My problem is with the longer neck hairs at the bottom of my neck line. I’ve yet to find a shaver that handles these adequately, other than a manual razor. Does such an electric shaver exist?
Hi Bob,
Thank you for the comment.
Those hairs lower on the neck are particularly difficult to get. What I’ve found to work best is to approach them almost individually or in really small patches and (very important) go against the grain with the shaver. It also seems to be easier when they’re shorter, so I would sometimes cut them using the trimmer on the shaver before shaving them. The Series 9 Pro, Series 9 and the older generation Series 7 are the most effective ones with difficult neck hair, at least in my case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks, Ovidiu, keep up the excellent work. Your input is invaluable.
I have been meaning to mention in other fact that get overlooked when comparing the Braun and Panasonic shavers. The Braun foil and cutting cartridge is in one piece that easily snaps on the razor when being replaced.
The Panasonic requires you to replace the cutting blades individually which also subjects your fingers to small cuts, if your not careful, when fitting them into the proper slots. To me, this feature, alone, might drive my decision when deciding between the 2 brands.
Definitely, and it can also get confusing for the user — do the blades need to be replaced at the same time, what is the part number, etc. By the way, Panasonic also moved to a single-piece cutting block, but only for the Arc 6.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
If you have a Braun Series 9, do you have any idea what the dimensions of the clean and charge station are? I am trying to see if it will fit on our new sink., should I decide to change from Norelco. Thanks.
Hi Jay,
The base of the station has an oval shape, with the length of just over 5 inches and a width of just over 4 inches. Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Awesome detail. You are really doing public service!
One of the warehouse stores has Braun series 93xxcc for $199 & Norelco Prestige for $220.
I see Braun gets cleaning station, seems better for sensitive skin, shaving head, shaving in shower. Prestige has wireless charger, nicer build(?) may be a bit closer shave.
Do you have a recommendation between these two?
Again, thank you for detailed reviews. You are awesome.
Hi Srinivas,
Thank you for the comment, you are way too kind.
I would go with the Braun Series 9 — as I mentioned in the article, I think most users will get better results with it. Unless you know from previous experience that rotary shavers work better for you than foil, the Series 9 is a really safe choice.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for quick response!
No need Braun series 9 pro, right?
You are very welcome. Considering the current prices and the ultimately marginal performance difference, I’d say the standard Series 9 is still the better pick.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you.
Btw, 9477cc is $50 off on braun.com & 10% off for first time purchase.
You are very welcome. If the price ends up being the same as a standard Series 9 with similar accessories (cleaning station), you might as well get the Pro. The 9477cc also comes with the PowerCase which is quite nice and practical.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Good morning –
I’m in there market for an electric razor and deciding between the following:
– Braun series 9 (9465cc currently $250 on Amazon)
– Panasonic arc 5 ( currently $123 on Amazon)
I shave approx every 3 days. Which is your recommendation given the price and technology?
Hi Jeff,
For sensitive skin, flat-lying hairs and shaving less often, I would go with the Series 9. The Arc 5 generally shaves closer, but isn’t as effective on longer facial hair. The Series 9 is also more comfortable, especially when both are used dry. The two models you’ve mentioned are also at different price points, so I don’t know if your budget is a decisive factor. I posted a detailed comparison of the Series 9 and Arc 5 here if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu –
Price is not a factor with this purchase. I just want something that’s easy and works well.
I do not have sensitive skin but my neck hair does grow in different directions.
No problem — I would lean more towards the Series 9, especially if during those 3 days between your shaves your beard grows quickly. Using the Arc 5 will likely require more work for a clean shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
So, because Amazon had a great special on the 9 Pro($249 with Cleaning station), I broke down and ordered one to replace my older 92xx model. I had been able to secure a 94m head for my older 9 and when shaving Dwight my new 9 Pro I noticed the new model was noticeably quieter and the shave (with the still good 94m head) noticeably closer. I would therefore recommend anyone looking for a new 9 pro to take advantage of this great Amazon offer, an $80 saving. By the way, I ordered at 7 am and received the shaver at 1 pm due to being a Prime member.
That’s a great deal, many thanks for sharing this.
Normally the noise level should be really similar — for example, I have a couple of barely used 92xx and 93xx Series 9 shavers and those aren’t noisier than the 9477cc Pro I got. But shavers and particularly the cassettes tend to become more rattly and noisy as we keep using them. In fact, I’d say that the Pro sounded a bit louder which is actually consistent with the slightly better performance of the Pro.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello;
I purchased the Panasonic ES-LV65 as we discussed. I had wanted the newer blade set with the rollers that come with the 3rd generation ARC 5. In reading the instruction manual, I note that it says the battery goes after about 3 years. And should not be replaced by the customer. Is there a place to ship the razor off for a replacement or – could this possibly mean the razor is done after a 3 year life? Thanks, Bill
Hi Bill,
That is correct, manufacturers state that the typical battery lifespan is 3 years. The warranty also won’t cover it (it’s the same with pretty much any electronics with internal rechargeable batteries).
However, you’ll often get way past the 3 years in practice if you take care of the shaver. And by that, I mean not exposing it to extremely high heat (leaving it in the sun, etc) and keeping the battery roughly between 20% and 80% charged — that is ideal for maximizing its performance.
You could try and have the battery replaced at a Panasonic service center, but the prices are usually pretty high and Panasonic support is not great. Some users have successfully swapped batteries as well, however, that is against the manufacturer’s recommendation so I cannot recommend it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Your reviews are well researched, well written with pro quality photos. I’ve been a lifelong Norelco/Phillips rotary razor user but have been disappointed by declining quality. I went through too many very pricey Arcitec heads which had premature breaks in the very thin foils. They stopped making the original replacement heads and the new Phillips substitute doesn’t shave as well. Based on your reviews I bought a Panasonic Arc 5 ES L65. I found a brand new one online for $75. It is everything you claimed. While not as comfortable as a Norelco rotary it’s comfortable enough and shaves ASTONISHINGLY close. I am very impressed and satisfied. Build quality looks very good as well. Thanks to you I now have a better shave every morning.
Is there some way to contribute to your expenses? You obviously are not beholden to any mfrs. I didn’t buy through Amazon so no money came to you as a result of my purchase. I’d like to chip in to support your very helpful work.
Mark
http://www.parachutemobile.com
Mark, thank you so much for the kind words and for your support — I greatly appreciate it. Glad you’re happy with the ES-LV65, it’s a fantastic shaver and you also got a great deal on yours.
I am grateful for your intention of supporting the website, but I have never accepted money from readers and never will. I would however appreciate it if you would share the website with a friend or anyone in need of advice on electric shavers — that’s really all the help I could ever ask for.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
After reading through your blog & comments, I bought my first non-rotary shaver- Braun Series 9 Pro – 9477cc. Fantastic close shave and deals delicately with my skin. The only downside is the noise level compared with my Philips 9000 series, but I have now got used to the noise and enjoying a better close shave.
Keep the work up!!!.
Sincerely,
William
William, that is great, thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. I’m glad you’re enjoying your first foil shaver. The closeness and comfort are often vastly improved when making the switch. The noise is unfortunately an inherent drawback of all foil shavers (much faster motors and blades that oscillate at a high rate).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
This article was a great find! You really explain just about everything anyone would want to know. I have a question though that hopefully you can answer for me. In reading the comparisons in the review of the best electric razors and foil vs rotary the topic of hard-to-get-to areas seems to be missing. By this I mean areas like right under the nose (particularly under each nostril) and also on the folds on both sides of the lower nose too. I have used several Norelco rotary razors and always have had an issue getting at the spots mentioned. Do you have any suggestions for a new electric shaver that best deals with this? I am due for a new razor and any razor under $150 would be acceptable to me, foil or rotary.
Thanks,
Steve
Hi Steve,
Thank you for the comment, I really appreciate it.
You are absolutely right — in fact, I’d say that the entire area under the nose is troublesome for rotary shavers because it’s so narrow and you can’t really use the shaver in an effective way. You’d have to only use a single head and there’s really not enough space for circular strokes, especially near the nostrils. Using a foil shaver on the other hand, even one with a larger head like the Arc 5 is in my experience a lot easier. You can effectively use one or two foils and with short and controlled strokes against the grain, you’ll be able to get a clean and smooth shave below the nose.
Shaving that area will be an issue regardless of which rotary razor you’ll be choosing; I’d consider a foil shaver that will fit in that budget. There are quite a few options and choosing one should come down to your preferences and needs. For example, the Arc 5 ES-LV65 or ES-LV67 shave really close, fast and offer fantastic performance for the money, but work well on short facial hair, so I would consider them if you shave rather often. The same goes for the cheaper Arc 4 ES-LA63AA or Arc 3.
If you shave less often and have facial hair that tends to stay flat on the skin, a Braun foil razor would probably be better. The older Series 5 (like the 5040s, 5140s, etc.) or the Series 8 (which is a Series 5) would be two models I’d consider.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Sorry for the late response but I’d like to thank you very much for your input. I am definitely going to look at a foil razor as your explanation has made a no brainer.
Sincerely,
Steve
You are very welcome, Steve, glad I could be of help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’ll offer the long-time Norelco user’s take on the upper lip. I’ve never known someone who has perennially used a Norelco to have these issues. I think it’s because we’ve learned over the many years of using a rotary shaver just how to position it as well as how to adjust the facial expression. When I make circular motions I tuck in my lips and those motions simply glide over the upper and lower lip area at the same time. After a few moments of doing this, I then use lateral motions to go back and forth across the upper lip area with two of the heads hitting at the same time. Now, here is an interesting finding (for me, at least). Whereas initially it would appear that either my Braun or Panasonic foil shavers have gotten a smooth shave there, after a short time it becomes apparent that the Norelco shaved closer. It’s as though the Norelco (as advertised) has literally shaved below the surface “but” it takes a bit of time for the hair follicle to resettle itself as it withdraws from skin level to below level. And this is borne out hours later when the shaves with either foil shaver now show that stubble is forming whereas my Norelco shave lasts a full day with no apparent stubble being noticeable until next morning. Now, foil shavers may dispute this but any confirmed rotary shaver such as myself will stand by our rotary shavers and tell you otherwise. Technique and patience will pay off but it does take time.
Thank you for the detailed technique breakdown, Wayne — that truly is something from a seasoned Norelco user. I personally would never be able to pull it off, especially with a rotary razor fitted with the double blades for the below-the-skin cut. It would be carnage (not to mention the post-shave folliculitis) and the upper lip area in my case is even more sensitive than the neck. But it definitely seems to work for some and that’s what ultimately matters.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Your articles are impressively interesting, congratulations.
Have you ever tried using a 93 of 92 cassete in your Braun series 9 pro? Did it still feel grabbier than the series 9 and pinch your skin?
In my case the pro and 93 version seem to cost more or less the same, so I’m thinking about buying the Braun series 9 pro and apply a 93/92 cassete, expecting the get a comfort closer to the series 9.
Hi Fernando,
Thank you for the comment, I really appreciate it.
It did not feel grabbier, in fact, it felt extremely similar to the standard Series 9 fitted with a 93 cassette. So I think you’ll achieve precisely that. And even the Pro cassette that comes on the Series 9 Pro shaver is not a lot harsher. The differences are rather subtle, but I was able to notice them after years of using a Series 9.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, I just wanted to truly thank for running this blog, it was extremely helpful to me!!! Thank you!!!
Hi Peter,
Thank you so much for the comment, I’m truly glad you found the site useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank You Mr. Nicolae
That was most most informative article I have ever seen. I am SO glad I ran into it.
I too have a course beard and sensitive skin.
I recently tried the most expensive Braun and it was horrible.
The best rotary shaver I have ever used was a Norelco with some cream that was in the head but they discontinued it.
I will now try The Prestige and use your guidance and how to properly shave.
I will also try to purchase them through your links and hope that helps.
Thank you again you’re amazing article and I will continue to be in contact with you and guide people to subscribe have a great day you made mine
Sincerely
Jimmy Q
Hi Jimmy,
Many thanks for the comment, glad you found the post useful.
Most users get good results with high-end Braun shavers, but in this case, it seems like a rotary shaver would work best for you. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with the Prestige.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I love the detailed reviews and your in depth knowledge regarding electric shavers! I have read many of your reviews and articles as I am considering switching from manual cartridge razors back to electric. I had a Braun Series 7 about 16 years ago but switched to cartridges after the battery died.
I keep going back and forth between trying a fool (Braun Series 9 or Panasonic Arc 5) and rotary (Prestige or new Shaver 9800). I don’t know why the Shaver 9800 has caught my interest (maybe because it’s shiny and new). At any rate, in your article you mentioned that you tried the new Shaver 9500 and while good, the Prestige gave a closer shave. Just curious if the Prestige blades can be used in the new Shaver 9500 / 9800?
Also will you be posting a full review of the Shaver 9500?
Thank you again!
Nick
Hi Nick,
Many thanks for the comment, glad you found the site useful.
Yes, the Prestige blades (SH98) can be used in the Shaver 9500/9800. That said, the rotary cutters are just one of the reasons (albeit the most important one) why I prefer the Prestige over the new Series 9000. I’m really not a fan of the new pentagonal heads — they’re really thick and feel like large slabs on the face. The S9000 Prestige has the more conventional heads that also taper towards the edge, and I do notice that when I shave. So even if you do swap the cutters of a 9500, the shaver will still be the same in terms of ergonomics. Also, the shaver’s body is pretty thick and doesn’t fit in the hand as nicely as the Prestige — it just feels large and a bit cumbersome. It does look sleek, but I would still go with the Prestige.
I think you’d have a better chance with the Series 9/9 Pro or an Arc 5 (coming from a Series 7), but if you can take advantage of the money-back guarantee, you might as well try them all and keep the one that works best for you. The review of the new Series 9000 will eventually come, I’m afraid I cannot say when as I have quite a few other reviews/posts in the making.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for the quick response! I actually did just order an Arc 5 and the 9800 to try both out. Thanks for the advice!
Nick
Hello and thank you for providing so much detailled information about the Panasonic electric razors, including the EU equivalents/references to your NA/US “The best razors in 2022”.
Regarding the Panasonic “ES-RF31 4-blade” on Amazon.co.uk, I wonder if you could explain how/why it is called a ‘4-blade’ razor, as while looking at the pictures where it is rinsed under the faucet -> it is obvious that there are only two heads below, not four.
How/where is the magic ?
Hi Eric,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
That’s a really good observation. The picture shows the two inner removable blades. However, there are two more that are integrated into the foil block itself for a total of four. All Panasonic shavers from the Arc 3 to the Arc 5 use this cutting system with two removable blades. The Arc 6 is the only one with all 6 of them integrated into the foil block (just like Braun does with their cassettes).
Hope this makes sense.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu (or is it Nicolae ?),
Thank you for your fast reply.
#1. Based on the close-up picture you provide above in section 4._Panasonic_Arc_4_ES-LA63AA and the explanation
“The Arc 4 shaving head structure: 1) Cutting foils 2) Finishing foil 3) Slit foil”.
-> The Arc 4 series is technically a 2-blade razor with 4 foils.
Is that a fair description ?
#2. I just received my “ES-RF31 4-blade” from Amazon.co.uk (I used your link ).
It looks wonderful BUT it comes with a weird ‘BS 4573 (UK shaver)’ 2-pin plug that looks like an EU one, nevertheless differs significantly.
Thus so many complaints from EU buyers in the reviews. https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003WVLH7Y#customerReviews
(scroll down to “Top reviews from other countries, translate all into English”)
TLDR : although it looks similar to the Europlug Type C’s pins diameter of 4mm & spacing of 18.6mm, the UK BS 4573’s pins have a diameter of 5.1mm & spacing of 16.66mm.
Thus it will NOT fit into a Europlug socket.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/AC_power_plugs_and_sockets:_British_and_related_types#BS_4573_(UK_shaver)
Sincerely,
Eric
Hi Eric,
No problem, glad I could be of help.
Regarding your questions:
1. The Arc 4 is a 4-blade razor with 4 foils. Out of those 4 blades, 2 are removable (and visible), while the other two are built-in (integrated into the foil block). But there are definitely 4 blades as well.
2. That is correct, the included charger seems to have a regular EU plug, but the distance between the pins is shorter and it will not fit into an EU socket. You will need a simple plug adapter. I had the same problem with some Braun shavers bought from the UK.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu and thank you again for your fast reply.
The Panasonic “ES-RF31 4-Blade” indeed comes with a large sticker *”4 Blades”* on its upper head/foil-frame.
Although in its manual provided by Panasonic (a copy here : https://www.argos-support.co.uk/instruction-manual/5432611-panasonic-es-rf31-s511-wet-dry-shaver.pdf),
it has a different wording in Page 3 and Page 7 of the GB/English section.
– They only use *Blades* in the description of the TWO “inner blades”, as per “C. Inner Blades”.
– Then they switch to *Foils* in the description of the FOUR “outer foils”, as per “B.2. Outer Foil Section / System Outer Foils”.
Sincerely,
Eric
You are very welcome. They usually refer to that part as System outer foils, even though it also integrates two blades. Again, the Arc 4 is a shaver with 4 active cutting elements, so there are actually 4 blades (2 inner removable blades and 2 integrated into the foil).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, thank you again
FWIW a *super basic US to EU 2-pin adapter* did the job perfectly !
As I found one that came with a cheap charger for e-cig 18650 batteries purchased on AliExpress.
_While my super expensive €45 “EU/UK/US/Asia/Moon/Mars and beyond” adapter failed to do the job: the narrow pins couldn’t enter/fit_ ☹️
This cheap/free *super basic US to EU 2-pin adapter* looks like this : https://www.amazon.com/Unidapt-European-Adapter-Converter-adaptor/dp/B077WJYNQ5
Best regards,
Eric
Hi Eric,
No problem, glad it’s working fine. That’s the type of adapter I also use. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your Arc 4. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Another interesting article, Ovidiu. I’m sitting here with four Norelco shavers (4500, 9721, 8950, 9400), two Brauns (old style Series 7, first Series 9, and a Panasonic Arc 5. On any given day I can grab one of these shavers and with proper technique receive almost the exact same shave in terms of closeness; comfort, on the other hand is another matter. I had someone say to me years ago in regards to electric shaving: “close is close.” How much closer do we want a shave and for what purpose? Within a few hours the stubble has begun to make its presence known so why do we obsess over this? Mind you, it’s taken a very long time (and that means, many years) for me to reach this expensive decision (i.e. to no longer make an issue of it and be so obsessed). The first step for me is to severely prune my stable of shavers (I’d like no more than three – two rotaries and one foil). As far as jumping on the new is always better bandwagon, I’m going to take a page from my late brother-in-law’s attitude on “things” in general and that is to repair until the older device is no longer workable. When he passed he had two old Norelcos one of which he could no longer find blades for as well as a working but entry-level Norelco. He was always very presentable and as far as I know, very happy with his shaver. Ovidiu, it’s taken me (as I mentioned earlier) many years and many thousands of dollars to reach that place: close is close, comfort is just as important and do not obsess with the latest and so-called greatest (most of it is marketing anyway). There, I’ve gotten that off my chest. Have a great day.
Wayne, thank you so much for the comment. In this article I actually said that close enough is good enough. I was fine with that from the moment I switched from manual razors to electric shavers. More comfortable and practical always beats closer in my book. However, many shavers at various price points do get reasonably close. There are exceptions (extremely sensitive skin, thick and wiry hair etc.) when a high-end, more capable shaver will make a notable difference and I tried to emphasize that all the time, including in the article above.
Some men want to delay that moment when the five o’clock shadow starts creeping in and getting a very close shave is the only way to do it. I am all for not spending money when you don’t have to, but I also think we should upgrade when our old shaver just doesn’t perform reasonably well anymore. I think it’ll be money well spent if our shave takes less time, it’s more comfortable, enjoyable and even a bit closer. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This makes a great deal of sense (as all of your writing does). My post was more a critique of myself as opposed to a critique of the writing above. I’ve obsessed over having the newest and shiniest shaver and have given away (and sold a few times) countless shavers that were perfectly good, just so that I could spend more money in pursuit of having the newest. My post was to slap myself across the face with a wet noodle and say, Wayne… wake up and use some common sense (for a change…haha). BTW… I have a very long suffering and patient wife who seems more amused than ticked by my shaver nonsense. ;-)
No worries, Wayne. I have heaps of shavers and boxes myself, so imagine someone having to deal with my passion. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hey Ovidiu,
Hope you’re doing well.
First of all, thanks for all the job you’ve done – your articles are amazing, and I didn’t find anything close to your guides in state of informativeness across the internet. So yeah, kudos!
Aaaand I came for advice, hope you can help me :)
So, basically, I’m 29 and I’m still using Philips HQ6900 that my parents presented me around 10 years ago or even more. As you can imagine, the blades are not in great condition already and the shaver is pretty old itself, so I’m getting an irritation almost every time I shave. It’s because I’ve never dug into this question and thought that irritation and not great closeness is my pay for quick electric shaving, and why should I change my shaver if it still works and able to shave…Man, it wasn’t smart at all from my side :D But thanks to your articles I understood that electric shaving can be enjoyable. So, after reading a bunch of your guides I decided to give it a try to foil shavers.
I have pretty sensitive skin and coarse but not really dense stubble. And I use to shave every other day and apply aftershave balm for sensitive skin.
We don’t have a lot of shavers available here nowadays, but according to your guides, I found some variants that match my budget of €100 (I can add an extra ~20 if it really will be worth it, but I’m not ready to spend much more, as I don’t know if I’m gonna like it).
So here are the options available:
Braun Series 3 3020 for €75
Braun Series 5 50-M1000s – €78
Panasonic ES-RT37-S520 – €65
Panasonic ES-RF31-S520 – €80
Besides that, we have a store that can bring some shavers from Poland
Panasonic ES-LV65-S – €105 (shipment incl.)
Braun 6020s Series 6 – €120 (shipment incl.)
Also, there are some rotary shavers, but I’m not sure if it is worth it to stay with a rotary one
Philips Shaver Series 1000 S1131/41 – €35
Philips Shaver Series 3000 S3134/51 – €70
Philips Series 5000 S5466/17 – €90
Philips Shaver series 5000 S5585/30 for €95-115
I hope you can help me to choose, would really appreciate any of your advice.
Thanks in advance!
And Have a great day! :)
Hi Stanislav,
Many thanks for your comment, glad you found the site useful.
I think it’s definitely worth giving a foil shaver a try. Your choices are rather limited though. The Braun Series 3 3020 and Panasonic ES-RF31-S would be my picks for a budget friendly-razor. Particularly the Panasonic is a highly capable 4-blade shaver, very powerful and adequately comfortable. It should be a major improvement over your current rotary in all regards, particularly the closeness. Since you also shave every other day, it would be a great match.
I wouldn’t consider the Series 5 or 6 models you listed — those new ones are a disappointment in my opinion (nowhere near as good as the old Series 5 for example).
The Arc 5 ES-LV65-S is a bit smoother/gentler and more refined than the 4-blade ES-RF31-S, but also a bit more cumbersome to use with the large head. The ES-RF31-S should be good enough in my opinion.
Take your time with the new shaver as it will require some technique tweaks and adjustments, but I’m pretty sure you’ll see an improvement from the first shave. Don’t press too hard, go against the grain and you should be good.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for such a quick and informative response, Ovidiu!
Ordered ES-RF31-S just a moment ago, I’ll share my impressions when I get my hands on it :)
I admire people like you, who are eager to share their knowledge and experience to ease the life of others.
No problem, glad I could be of help. I hope you’ll enjoy using your new shaver and I look forward to reading your impressions of it. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have “studied” here for weeks, read countless user reviews and watched so many youtube videos my eyes are bleeding. In the end I bought a Braun Series 9 Pro thinking that it was the ultimate and would put an end to my search. I have just sent it back to Braun under their test and try policy. I gave it a week but the results weren’t getting any better, it was taking ages to shave and the results weren’t particularly close or comfortable. I am back to my drawer of Philips rotary shavers, I must have half a dozen, some with new heads. They don’t do any better than the Braun but they do it quicker, more comfortably and at no extra cost for consumables. Is there really much difference between electric shavers or is the real difference between electric and blade?
Hi Rupert,
Thank you for the comment. I would like to know more about what exactly made shaving with the 9 Pro that lengthy — was the shaver having trouble catching the hairs? How often do you normally shave? Can you provide some details about your beard — would you say it’s coarse/wiry and with lots of flat-lying hairs? Also, was the Series 9 Pro the first foil shaver you’ve ever used? From what I can tell you’re a rotary guy.
It can be a huge difference between shavers in the sense that some are much better suited for a given situation, so the results can differ dramatically. If someone gets close and comfortable shaves with a blade, switching to an electric shaver may seem like a downgrade.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidu. I have always used Philips shavers but have never been that happy with the results. I shave every day and I don’t think my stubble is particularly coarse or difficult. I ordered the Braun to spoil myself with something comfortable and close but it just didn’t deliver. I used a pre-splash and gave it lots of time paying attention to the direction of stubble growth and using my other hand to straighten the skin, it was cleaned in its station after every shave. Before I sent it back I tried my Philips Series 5 razor in turbo mode and with new heads and couldn’t tell the difference except it did the job more quickly. The next day I tried my new Series 3000, (bought on holiday having left the series 5 at home). It wasn’t quite so good because the head is bigger and more awkward to use, otherwise almost as close. The series 5 motor coughs a bit as it is getting old so I do want another shaver and will wait for a sensible deal on a Philips S9 Prestige with the older design of heads. My Son has a new Philips and doesn’t like the bigger head design, I can’t find a review by anyone who does. Thanks for all your hard work, like you say, everyone’s beard is different.
The new Philips shavers with the large pentagonal heads are somewhat difficult to get good results “if” you use techniques you used for their older shavers with the round combs/guards. You can get a very good shave (I had one for a few weeks before returning it) but you need to make changes in how you position the head on. your upper lip, on your jawline and near your ear and in my case, I was unwilling to spend that extra time. Ultimately I kept the s9000 Prestige with the traditional round heads and I’m glad I did. It’s sort of amusing that we rotary shaver users and foil shaver users will swear by our trusted shavers and wonder why those who choose the “other” type don’t see things the way we do. I’m not completely convinced that different beards is the real answer. I personally believe it is a case of taking time and not rushing through the shaving time. Technique and patience are everything in my opinion. I love my Philips shavers and while I have two Brauns and one Panasonic, I seldom use them just because of my love for the way in which the Philips does its job. Different strokes for different folks, I guess.
You will find positive reviews of the new (larger head Philips) at the Philips.com website. I had the shaver for two weeks before returning it for the Prestige (which I had tried, sent back and finally re-ordered for good). The larger head was not a huge deal to handle in terms of shaving tight areas like under the nose and next to the ear but it did require a change in how you positioned the shaver. I doubt very much that you are going to find that Philips will decide to integrate the trimmer into a Prestige-like future shaver but it’s possible. Personally, I don’t see any valid reason for holding off on purchasing the best Philips Shaver (s9000 Prestige) ever made (and I’ve had most of them including the famous James Bond model). If popping the head off is such an irritation, get a Philips multigroom trimmer and you’re all set. As for the lack of a cleaning station, in my opinion this is overblown. I rinse mine under the tap and once a week I’ll spray the cutting heads with Shaver Saver spray. No big deal and no bulky cleaning station on the counter plus no monthly cost to purchase cleaning cartridges. And as for the shaver lying on its side on the counter there are two options that are viable in my opinion. One is to remove the head, rinse it and leave it alone on the counter to dry while putting the shaving handle in its case in a drawer. The other is to get the charging stand for the larger head shaver (9500 series) which will hold the shaver but unfortunately not charge it. It runs around $25 and seems a bit of an expensive option but it is another way to handle the situation. And yes, I LOVE my Prestige shaver (sp9280).
Hi Ovidu, I am very impressed with your efforts in the shaver field. I own and use a ES-LA63 Panasonic and am mostly satisfied with its performance. I have never lubed it or done really any thing to it. I have never used water on it and wonder if I should be doing any thing to prolong its life. I have a light beard and shave 2-3times a week. Please advise me as to the proper care of this shaver which is about 20 -25 years old? How often should I replace the cutters? Also should I be replacing any of the other parts? It looks like you recommend a pre shave lotion. Thank you in advance for your service!!!!! Regards, John
Hi John,
Many thanks for the comment, glad you found the site useful.
Your shaver still going strong after that many years is impressive, especially with the minimal maintenance. Normally the blades and foil would have been worn out and someone with a heavy beard wouldn’t be able to get a decent shave. The blades and foil should be replaced when the performance drops (that will usually happen after approximately one year of regular use, but it can vary a lot). In your case, from what I can tell, the shaver still works reasonably well on your light beard, but you could consider replacing the inner blades + foil since you’ve had them for so many years.
Other parts of the shaver shouldn’t be replaced regularly.
The best thing you can do for your shaver is to give it a proper cleaning at least once in a while (with warm tap water and optionally some liquid soap) and also to lubricate the blades. I wrote a detailed guide here on how and when to do that if you want to check it out.
If you’ve never used a pre-shave lotion, you could give it a try. Most men do notice an improvement in the quality of the shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidu,
First, I have to say that your articles and reviews are outstanding, and really gives great insight into these shavers. I wish I had found them long ago.
Thank you for that.
I have the Remington PF7300 F3 shaver, which I believe has the same foils as the F5-5800 (in which you reviewed in great detail), but without the intercept cutter, and I find that it shaves fairly close. (I don’t think I need the intercept cutter as I shave every day and don’t really have any long, flat hairs). However, I am always looking for a closer, faster shaver.
Would the Panasonic Arc 3 or Arc 4 (with the higher speed motor) give a closer and/or faster shave than the PF7300 F3? Are the foils thinner and more aggressive?
Is the Arc 4 much better than the Arc 3 (both with the higher speed motors)?
By the way, I am thinking of taking your advice and trying a pre-shave lotion (another thing I learned from your articles).
Thanks, Frank.
Hi Frank,
Thank you so much for the comment, glad you found the site useful.
Apart from the slit cutter of the F5, I think the foil elements on the F3 are also a bit wider, which in my experience isn’t ideal with flat-lying hairs. Some single or dual foil travel razors use precisely these wide foil cutters and the performance is pretty bad. But I understand this isn’t an issue with daily use.
I think a 13000 CPM Arc 3 or an Arc 4 will feel like an upgrade. I don’t think you’ll find them more aggressive — on the contrary. I think an Arc 3 like the ES8103S or the ES-LL41-K will be good enough. But if you have the budget or you can get a great deal on an Arc 4, that one will feel like a more substantial shaver and you’ll get a faster and maybe a tad closer shave. If you have a light to medium beard I don’t think it’ll feel much better. But if your facial hair is on the coarser side, it’s probably worth getting the Arc 4.
Definitely give a pre-shave a try if you can, it might just make your shave even better.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
So, I have all these shavers (and in my opinion, they all provide a decent shave… it’s the “other things” that set them apart). As I’ve mentioned before, whereas I enjoy shaving with a foil shaver (and I have three very good ones), they eventually produce ingrown hairs so I only use them sparingly. My daily go-to shaver is a rotary and I have the very best (i.e. 9721 and s9000 Prestige). But this morning I picked up an older AT830/4500 and since I had plenty of time… I shaved carefully, just enjoying the shave. The end result was a shave as good as anything the most expensive Prestige could give. I’ve felt for a long time now, that I could achieve a shave that was ‘as good’ as any from my more expensive shavers with my less expensive shaver ‘if’ I took more time and used proper technique and I believe I proved this… at least to myself. I will say that more time is required with the 4500 than the Prestige and I have to take a bit more care on the neck under the chin but if that is taken into consideration and an adjustment is made, the end shave is pretty much the same. Just an observation for tonight.
Thank you for the insightful comment, Wayne. I absolutely agree that a similar result can be achieved with less expensive shavers provided you’re willing to put in the effort. Some users just can’t get that for various reasons, including technique, patience or thoroughness. Or the pure enjoyment of using a highly capable (and also expensive) shaver that gets the job done faster is worth the extra money. A good shave can mean different things for different men.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu: I always get so much from your posts. You have a very positive, encouraging manner that never fails to patiently teach even stubborn old guys like myself. Thanks. And as an addendum: the Prestige is enjoyable and gets the job done much faster. If money is no object then by all means – the Prestige beats the 4500 hands down. But if money is a concern, then a less expensive Norelco can achieve the same end results with care, time, technique and patience.
Wayne, you are way too kind, thank you. I also learned a ton from all the insightful comments I got over the years. There are some aspects I would have never thought of and it’s always so enlightening to discover other points of view.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Few days ago, I ordered the Panasonic ARC 5 going by this list/site.
It arrived today and I immediately tried it out. To say I was disappointed would be a serious understatement. It performed similar, if not worse, than my much cheaper Philips Norelco 6500 rotary shaver.
I’m not singling this one site out because a few others said similar things about the ARC 5. I just don’t get how it can be considered so good unless the sites that say such things don’t even fully try it out. It seems obvious, how else could someone be so off about a shaver. Strictly by how it looks, not functions?
I guess I’ll stick with my disposables… between my Schick Hydro 5 and Bulldog razors. It’s sad that it’s 2022 and seemingly getting worse with powered shavers. I remember about 7 or 8 years ago when I had a Philips Norelco that was rotary but each circle blade had THREE rings of blades in each of the three rotaries… now they’re single blades.
Hi,
Thank you for your comment.
I can confidently say that the Arc 5 is one of the best foil electric shavers you can currently buy. All the shavers that I reviewed and recommended on this site have been personally purchased and tested by me. I’ve actually been using some of them (including the Arc 5) for years.
Some shavers/trimmers are overhyped and not worth the money — like for example the Lawn Mower 4.0 which I made perfectly clear in my review. The Arc 5 is however a really good shaver and a lot of actual users think so.
I think the underwhelming shave you got with your Arc 5, unless you received a defective unit (highly unlikely), has to do with the way you’re using it. From what I can tell you’ve only been using rotaries and switching to a foil shaver will need some technique adjustments. Before giving up on it, I strongly encourage you to give it a few more tries. Some users just can’t a good shave with a foil razor no matter how good it is, but this tends to happen very rarely and hopefully that’s not the case here.
You didn’t describe exactly what was the problem — hairs left behind, not close enough, irritation — so I can’t really recommend something very specific. Try shaving when your beard is reasonably short, using short, controlled, straight strokes against the grain, always keeping the foil head flat on the skin. Maybe even watch a few videos like this one or this one to get a feel for it. I am not by any means trying to imply that you don’t know how to use a shaver. But the Arc 5 is pretty much universally loved and a safe choice for most users and it would be a shame not to get the most out of it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you very much for this highly in-depth article. It is BY FAR the best “best of” anything I have ever researched like this. I have gone through countless trimmers/shavers trying to find what works best for me, and with that, money, blood and irritation (both skin and mental). I recently picked up a Braun 5544 which had my ideal trimmer/shaver head because it trims first in either direction with a foil in the middle. I have pretty sensitive skin (and yes I told it to stop being a wimp and grow up) but no matter what I do I end up with irritation. I usually shave once a week because of it. I don’t like to spend copious amounts of time in a mirror so this trimmer allows me to trim long hair and shave close-ish at the same time. As with most inexpensive options like this, it just does not last long before the head breaks or battery wont hold a charge. All of which landed me on your page. I am liking both the Braun 9 and Arc 5 options. I am however rather budget minded so I’m leaning to the Arc 5. Which would still be the most expensive one I have bought by far. If however, I can use this more often (every other day or so) with less irritation than the cheap ones I have been using I don’t mind the extra cost. The one thing I did not see in this post and reason for my comment is blade life span. You mentioned replacement blades and cost but not how often the blades should be replaced. I know this would totally depend on things like how often its used, how much and how well its cleaned and taken care of (as a lot of people are hard on stuff). A comparison between cost effectiveness of blades between models and how long the blades would last on average is the only thing I did not see in this article that might affect a decision between brands or models.
Hi Daniel,
Many thanks for the kind words.
It seems like a gentle foil shaver that would allow you to use it frequently would be ideal. Your current trimmer has a pair of blades that can cut long facial hair, but most foil shavers will need to be used on short stubble in order to be effective and comfortable.
The Series 9 is definitely not a budget pick and the Arc 5 isn’t exactly cheap. It is however less than any Series 9 model currently costs. The cheapest Arc 5 models are usually the ES-LV65-S and ES-LV67-K. Those come with the older foil which shaves very close and is reasonably comfortable in most cases. But if you have very sensitive skin you will need to be very careful not to press too hard. But it can definitely work.
Another option would be the Braun Series 8, which is basically the same as the old Series 5 I mentioned in the article, but has a larger battery. The Series 5 is unfortunately getting difficult to find nowadays, but the Series 8 is widely available and you could get a great deal on a solo Series 8 model like the 8330s. It should cost even less than the aforementioned Panasonic models and it is a gentle and overall really good shaver.
Regarding the lifespan of the blades, that’s such a difficult thing to tackle. I always mention it explicitly if there’s something inherently wrong with a shaver (for example, the brittle foils on some Remington and Wahl shavers or the original Series 9 cassettes). Same if the blades get blunt really fast. In general, you should expect to get at least one year with constant use and proper care. Some users don’t change the blades for years as they still seem to be working fine. That last part is highly subjective in my opinion and makes this really difficult. Oftentimes the longevity seems to vary a lot among different users and my experience wouldn’t be that relevant — again, unless there’s something clearly wrong with a particular model and the blades fail prematurely.
I do plan to include more info on blades longevity, but I just haven’t managed to come up with a way of doing that in a useful, actionable and objective manner.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi
I really enjoyed reading your advise. I do have a question for you. I have been using a Braun series 7. I have been using it for 8 years. I change the shaver head every year. The problem is I do get a close and comfortable shave. However ,I have to go over and over every part of my face. Cheeks, neck, jaw line. It just annoys me to no end. I have had the shaver checked out and am told that is in top shape. Do you have any suggestions for me? Perhaps switch to another shaver or brand? Please advise Thank You
Hi Richard,
Thank you for the comment, I appreciate it.
Can you tell me how often you usually shave? Also, would you describe your facial hair as coarse and dense? I would suggest trying the Speick pre-shave lotion if you haven’t already before buying any new shaver. It should make your Series 7 more effective and reduce the number of strokes needed for a smooth shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’m revisiting something I’ve mentioned before and maybe this can help someone else (maybe not). Thankfully there are good return policies with both Amazon and Philips. My gratitude is due to the fact that I’ve gone back and forth between the Prestige and the newer s9985/84 shaver being unable to make a firm decision on which to eventually end up with permanently. After having each for approximately a month, I cannot tell the difference in shave between the two. Whereas the Prestige is somewhat easier to use under the nose and the sideburns, the 9985 cuts as close “if” more time is taken and the correct technique used (turning the head to allow for a closer connection to the cutters. What finally turned the corner for me was what Philips did not provide with the Prestige (i.e. a cleaning station, a charging stand and a built-in trimmer). Having to remove the head each time I wanted to clean the shaver as opposed to simply flipping the head open was extremely inconvenient. Having to rest the shaver on its side on the counter to dry as opposed to in a cleaning pod was less than desirable. Having the connect a cord to the non-Chi Prestige as opposed to resting it in a charging station was the last straw. All of these disadvantages were supposed to be outweighed by a possibly slightly closer shave and one that might take a few seconds shorter to achieve proved wrong. So in the end I returned the Prestige once and for all and went with the s9985/84. Consider all advantages/disadvantages before finally making a purchasing decision, men. Consider also the fact that over time pulling that head off the Prestige to attach a trimmer and/or clean the shaver will probably weaken its grip and shorten its life vs the 9985 which does not have this disadvantage. I’m glad I went with the 9985…. FINALLY.
Thank you for the comment, Wayne. Those are some good (and often left out) points to consider when deciding between the two.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’m just looking for a good shaver for my scrotum and bottom part of my shaft. I saw that the lawn mower wasn’t the best for this so I have no idea what to get. I have a big beard and a bald head. I use a bald head shaver which I enjoy but open to other options (the head shaver is FAST) . Any suggestions here?
Hi David,
For the private area I would strongly consider a Philips (Norelco) Bodygroom trimmer. In my opinion those work the best — they shave very close, fast and are the most forgiving. You will still need to be careful though. I posted a guide on body groomers here if you want to check it out.
As for head shaving, rotary head shavers are the fastest and easiest to use and only second to a foil shaver in terms of closeness, but the difference is not massive. If there’s nothing in particular you dislike about it I think you should still hold on to it, at least for the time being.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Beautiful. Thank you so much !
Hi Ovidiu, I have never used an electric razor before and have found your articles extremely informative and helpful. Thanks to the subject article I have narrowed my search to either the Braun Series 9 9390cc or the Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65-S. I have never been able to get a close shave due to what I believe to be the coarseness of my facial hair. I have grown beards in the past and would not say I have thick (lots of) facial hair. My face is not overly sensitive but I do get razor burn on my neck. Based on your article I am leaning towards the Arc 5 due to it giving the closer shave but was wondering if I should go for the Braun Series 9 due to it being a more comfortable shave due to the razor burn on my neck? Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Matt,
Thank you so much for the comment, glad you found the site useful.
I would also lean more toward the Arc 5, it’s the better option for coarse hair and a close shave. The razor burn on your neck occurred after shaving with a blade and it’ll be less likely to happen again with a quality foil shaver like the Arc 5. Just take your time and maybe expect a few less-than-optimal results after the first few shaves (perfectly normal since it’s your first electric razor). I would also consider a pre-shave lotion like the one from Speick, it can help with reducing post-shave irritation and even with getting a closer overall shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
14 Nov 2022
Been researching electric shavers for weeks now and hands down these are the best articles/guides out there. Really helped and I learned more from them than any other site.
Thanks for sharing,
Joseph
British Columbia, Canada
Joseph,
Thank you so much for the kind words, I’m really glad you found the site useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I followed the advice and bought a Braun series 9. Love it. It is quite comfortable but I have to say, it’s not even close to my (very) old Remington Microscreen from the 80s. That thing was a lawnmower. And it was the closest shave possible. But one part broke and I had to change.
Thank you for the comment, Robert, glad you enjoy your Series 9. It’s not the closest shaving razor out there, but overall it’s definitely one of the most capable, versatile and enjoyable shavers you can currently get.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’ve started paying more attention to how close my shave is and just tried out the Williams Electric Pre Shave and wow what a difference it made. I have a Braun 7893s so an older 7 series and with the pre shave it was fantastic. I plan on continuing with a dry shave, and not a wet shave. I’m a bit tired of rinsing out the Braun and having it air dry on my sink, so I want a docking/cleaning station.
I shave every other day and as an Asian man I don’t have that much growth but I do really appreciate the clean shave. Right now I’m comparing getting the ARC5 with Cleaning Station and the Braun 9 Sport w/ Cleaning Station (going on sale at Costco for $160 USD)
The big turn off on the Braun is how the alcohol evaporates in the cleaning pods, and I’d most likely have to replace the pod monthly. Since there’s no dry cycle on the Braun, it means I’ll be running the clean session every other day, so 15 times a month and with the evaporation I am guessing it’ll be refills every month ~5.50 a refill, so 70$ a year.
I think the ARC5 I can just run the dry only cycle as it’s easy to just rinse under the water and the solution lasts longer and is cheaper. I read in your posts that the ARC5 is much better in a wet shave, but if I only plan on doing a dry shave, will it still be better than the Braun 9? I’ve never really used anything outside of Braun or Norelco, so I don’t know if I have sensitive skin, I guess we’ll find out.
Just wanted to confirm with you that ARC5 seems to the better solution from the cleaning pod situation. Just if I’m only doing a dry shave, is the ARC5 still okay?
Thanks!
Hi Victor,
Thank you for the comment.
That is true, the Panasonic solution will last longer. You can however take out the Braun cartridge to reduce the evaporation. By the way, the Braun station also has a dry function, but you cannot select it separately like you can with the Panasonic station. The dry cycle always starts automatically once the cleaning phase is complete. And on the Panasonic cleaner, the drying is more effective because there’s also a heating element in addition to the fan.
Since you shave every other day, I think the Arc 5 will work just fine. It’s a great shaver even if you shave dry, I only wanted to convey the fact that compared to a Braun, the wet shaving benefits seem greater if for example you find it too harsh.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
My S9 9385cc is in permanent locked status. It works normally right after being charged, for one shave. Then it goes into something like the travel lock mode but it can’t be undone. It’s quite frustrating. The US customer service told me that because it’s over 2 years old, it’s out of warranty and I’d have to pay to send it to a service center and for repair, so I passed and am going to switch to Panasonic and one of the Arc 5 models (hopefully there will be a deal during Black Friday/Cyber Monday). I also own a Philips Norelco 9700, which is my backup. Have you ever had that type of issue with a Braun model? A few people have complained about this online. Thanks!
Hi Eric,
Sorry to hear about your problem with the S9. The most common problem I’ve seen with the S9 is actually the power button breaking (apart from the cassette issue on the original S9). I do recall a comment from one user in the past describing a problem similar to yours but I can’t seem to find it. If the saver is no longer under warranty, you’d often be better off buying a new shaver. You should be able to get a great deal on an Arc 5, so definitely keep an eye on the ES-LV65-S or the ES-LV67-K, those are often heavily discounted during BF/Cyber Monday.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Just want to thank you for this truly informative and helpful resource.
Was a Braun / foil user many years ago, and now still have an old CoolTec, but also more recently a Philips S7530.
But wanted a more premium shaver so initially looked at the (now disappointing) Braun 7 Series, and then the 9.
Until I came across your website.
Have now ordered a Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65-S, which hadn’t crossed my path before, on Amazon Black Friday sale at $105. Seemed like a no-brainer vs. Braun option at that price; I shave daily, closer shave the better and I like the simple under-the-tap clean.
Braun shavers are no longer officially represented where I live (in South Africa), and all premium shavers are pricey at the exchange rate. Panasonic replacements also (plenty advice about this on your site), but will see how it goes.
Plus ordered Wahl clipper oil and Tabac Pre Electric Lotion as per your recommendations. Thanks again.
Hi Paul,
Thank you so much for the comment, I really appreciate it. Hope you’ll enjoy your first Arc 5, it really was a no-brainer at that price. As for the replacement foil and blades, just keep an eye out for a good deal on any of them as all will fit the ES-LV65-S just fine, including the latest revisions. You can also refer to my guide here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for the great and comprehensive site. I am trying to decide between:
Braun Series 5 5050cs at $89.99
Panasonic Eslt67 Arc 3 at $97.99
Braun Series 7 7020s at $119.99
I’ve only ever used manual razors. I’m not sure how to determine if my skin counts as sensitive. I don’t grow a dense beard but the hairs aren’t fine and grow enough to require maintenance a few times a week. If it’s a tie, being able to use it for body grooming would be a pro but I don’t know how suitable any of these are far that, I do see the Brauns have some body groomer attachments.
Thank you for any advice!
Hi,
I would say the Panasonic shaves the closest, so that would be a good option if you shave regularly and the hair is reasonably short (should be perfectly fine for shaving every two days or so). The Series 7 is noticeably more powerful than the Series 5, but it’s also more aggressive than both. If you haven’t noticed any particular problems with skin irritation when using manual razors, it should be fine. I would consider it over the Panasonic if you shave less often as it’s also good with longer hairs.
The Series 5 is the budget pick and would make sense since it has a decent body trimmer attachment + guard. It’s not quite as powerful as the 7, but should be suitable for someone with light to medium facial hair. It’s very similar to a Series 3 performance-wise despite the name. If your beard isn’t dense and overly coarse, I think it can work fine.
I personally would get the Arc 3, but only because that one suits my needs better. I shave often and want a close shave and I use a dedicated body trimmer, but in your case, I think the Series 5 would be better.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Really useful site, great approach to the topic, and fantastic explanation about diversity of models. Before I found this site, I was lost in the shaver’s jungle, these numbers and letters of braun’s models. Now I gained necessary knowledge will which helps me repleace my old Braun 3 380-s4.
Hats off to you for doing a great job.
All the best
Frank
Thank you so much for the comment, Frank, glad you found the site useful. I hope you’ll enjoy your new shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, I recently discovered your website and find the information to be fascinating. I had been a Norelco user since I was a teenager. About four or five years ago, I had a 9000 series shaver and needed to replace the rq12 blade. The rq12s were unavailable and were replaced by the rq12+. These turned out to be terrible. The shaves were not close, they were irritating, and it was tedious to clean. I wanted the old rq12 back. There were very few of them available and they cost almost as much as a brand new shaver. I found reviews on the web, such as on Amazon, and I wasn’t the only one with that experience. I found an imitation rq12 made in China for $20 and gave it a try. It was flimsy and came apart in less than one month. I then did research and switched to Braun and have been happy ever since. Do you know if Norelco ever resolved that issue with unhappy customers over the rq12+?
Hi Jack
Thank you so much for the kind words, glad you enjoyed browsing through the site.
The RQ12 blunder is notorious and it really enraged many of the long-time Norelco users. The replacements (RQ12+, RQ12 Pro) were nowhere near as good.
And even nowadays Philips made some strange decisions regarding the replacement shaving heads for some of the current shavers. For example, the excellent SH98 heads of the original S9000 Prestige appear to be discontinued and replaced by the SH91. These are also good, but after using them I would still give the edge to the SH98. Also, Philips discontinued the really good Series 6000 (that shaver was basically a less blingy Prestige) and released a new Series 6000 with inferior shaving heads (SH71) with a single track of blades.
I think the SH98 (if you can still find them) or SH91 would be good alternatives to the RQ12, they should fit many of the shavers that used RQ12 just fine (officially they won’t fit, but they do).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
SH98 blades will fit the 9000 series shavers. I have some fitted for my 9721 shaver. Give them a try.
Absolutely, and they are a worthy upgrade, at least for me. I never got along with the original blades on the 9000.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, Ovidiu. I enjoy not only your articles, but the comments sections as well. Although I don’t have a beard or mustache, the trimmer attachment on my Braun shaver is important to me. I use it on my sideburns and eyebrows. I also give myself haircuts using Wahl clippers. ( I have a simple crewcut, so I don’t need a barber.). My wife then uses the trimmer attachment from the Braun shaver to neatly trim the back of my neck.
Recently the trimmer attachment broke off. I could have used the shaver head for the trimming , but it wouldn’t have done as neat a job. I certainly didn’t want to buy a new shaver. Then I read comments about beard trimmers and someone said he
also uses it for his sideburns. I ended up getting a Wahl trimmer for about $12. It’s real lightweight. It came with attachments for beards which I didn’t need. It does a great job, at least as good if not better than the attachment on the Braun shaver. The difference is that the shaver and trimmer are now in two separate units instead of being combined in a single unit.
Hi Jack,
Thank you so much, really glad you’ve been enjoying the comments section. It’s a great little community here.
Standalone trimmers are usually a lot more capable than the integrated trimmers we get on our shavers. Those are really practical as you’ve said for tweaking the sideburns and they’re always there when you need them. I find Panasonic shavers to have the best trimmers by far, really effective and cut the hairs close and without snagging them or scratching the skin.
As a side note, I also cut my hair myself since the lockdown. I enjoy it and even after the barbershops reopened, I only went to get a haircut a couple of times. I use a Wahl Magic clipper and a BaByliss trimmer for a simple mid-fade with a combover top. I highly recommend a 360 mirror with LED lights as well, for me it’s been a game changer.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for your informative article. But I am still confused. I want to buy a new electric shaver my husband. He currently uses a Philips Norelco rotary that is at least 15 years old. Maybe older. He has replaced the heads a couple times over the years. But I think he would benefit from a newer model, he seems to shave forever when he uses it.
He is 65 , shaves daily with the electric and I have never heard him complain that his whiskers are tough or that skin is sensitive.
My question???
Should I buy him a newer model of the Philips Norleco rotary like he is using or buy him the popular foil style like the Braun series 9, that he has never tried? Or should I not surprise and ask him which he would prefer?
Thanks for your input.
Hi,
Thank you for the comment.
Many users that have never used a foil shaver are surprised by how effective, comfortable and close they shave, especially after years of shaving with a less capable and blunt rotary. And since your husband shaves daily, a foil seems like a good fit. However, as much as I hate ruining a surprise, it would be safer to know his stance on this. Some long-time rotary users just hate shaving with anything else.
If you or your husband decide to stick to a rotary, I think a less expensive shaver like the Norelco Shaver 3500/3800 would be good enough. I don’t think you need to spend a lot more money on a high-end Norelco since he shaves daily and from what I can tell his beard is rather light. The same goes in the case of a foil shaver, although the highly capable Panasonic Arc 5 ES-LV65 for example can be bought at a really good price.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu îs an expert in this but I’m going to stick my neck out since your husband is a confirmed rotary shaver user as am I. I would buy him a replacement Norelco rather than a foil shaver. If he has never complained over 15 years and only replaced the blades a couple of times, why change things for him since a foil shaver will be a somewhat drastic change? As for which model to buy, pretty much all Norelcos provide a good shave so I’d simply go with what your budget dictates. Either the 3500 or the 3800 are excellent choices providing close, comfortable shaves. Of course there are more expensive Norelcos but unless he has specific needs (and it sounds like he doesn’t), I’d stick with these less expensive models.
Thank you for weighing in on this, Wayne, much appreciated. I agree, he does seem like a rotary guy.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Dear Ovidiu!
I read your writings about Braun Serieses. I want to buy a Braun Series 7 71-S7200CC or a Braun 60-N7650CC but I couldn’t decide which one is better. He shaving 3 times a week, so he hasn’t got very long hair. I only hesitate because I don’t know the flexible head (Braun 60) or the 360 head (Braun Series 7) is better for him, he has lots of whirpools.
What is your advice?
Thanks a lot:
Vivien Takacs
Hi Vivien,
Of the two the Series 7 is the more capable shaver, although it’s also more aggressive and not as comfortable as the Series 6. I would actually suggest you check out the Braun Series 8 at #5 on the list above; the 8457cc model is usually priced quite well, especially now with the current discounts. In my experience it’s better than both the Series 7 360 and the Series 6.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is perhaps the most detailed, accurate, and well-written essay on a product I ever came across. Magnificent.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Frank. I’m glad you found the post useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Most sites redirect to the local Amazon site. Why can’t you? So far I’ve checked three articles on the best shavers and not a single one of you bothered to do the redirect. Thank you.
Hi Dan,
The redirect of the buying links is handled by Amazon at their end. You should be redirected to your local storefront. It’s out of my control, I’m afraid.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Your articles & reviews are EXCELLENT! They were helpful to me in selecting an electric shaver (I chose Braun).Thank you for your expertise.
I look forward to receiving your newsletter.
Aloha to you from Hawaii.
Thank you so much, William. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new Braun.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I heard you can put the shaving heads from a Norelco/Philips Prestige on a Norelco/Philips 9300 shaver. The 9300 has a cleaning station. Therefore, can I clean the Prestige heads in the 9300 cleaning station by putting the Prestige heads on my 9300 shaver and using the 9300’s cleaning station? I own both shavers of course.
Hi Paul,
Yes, that is absolutely correct, it will work just fine. Many users that have an old Series 9000 with a cleaning station like your 9300 or the 9700 have successfully cleaned their Prestige in that manner.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Just wanted to ask if you if a spray, or (Panasonic) oil, the best way to lubricate a Panasonic LV65 shaver ? Many thanks, Robert
Hi Robert,
Both sprays and oils are effective. Having tried quite a few, I’d say the Remington Shaver Saver spray is the best, but it’s getting difficult to find. My next option would be the Andis CoolCare Plus spray. I’ve also used the sprays from Braun and Philips, but in my opinion those have inferior lubricating properties.
As for oils, you can use the Panasonic lubricant that came with your shaver or any clipper oil — all of those are essentially highly refined mineral oils. Just make sure the blades are dry before applying it. If you run out of Panasonic oil, I recommend the clipper oils from Wahl and Oster, those are really good and not too pricy.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for your amazing and detailed reviews as well as your other shaving advice.
I usually shave with a razor blade in the shower but I do use an electric razor several times a week (I know you advise against it but I need that tight shave “fix” ).
Presently I have a Braun 7 from 2015, which I really like but need to replace – what would you advise (I’m open to any make or model)? I have pretty sensitive skin but nothing that worries me.
Again thank you for what you do.
Warmest regards, Martin….
Hi Martin,
Thanks so much for the comment.
I think a Series 8 would be a really good option considering how you’ll be using the shaver. It’s also overall very similar to the old Series 7 generation like the one you own, so the switch should be smooth. I don’t think spending more on a Series 9 or 9 Pro is necessary. The Arc 5, especially the ES-LV65 that I recommended in the article can be somewhat aggressive and inflict some razor burn if you press too much, while the Series 8 is more forgiving.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, you are the best source of electric shaver analysis in the world.
I recently purchased a Braun S9 Sport (9319cc) at Costco. I find it gives me the best dry shave (I do use Lectric Shave) ever. I use the cleaning station after every shave.
I have seen several pictures posted on other sites where users of Braun shavers show the foils developing holes or breaks in a very short period of time.
I know the foils are very thin but that kind of damage concerns me. They don’t look like normal wear but rather user damage.
What is your opinion on this kind of failure?
Best regards
Mike165
Hi Mike,
Thank you for the comment, glad you’re enjoying your S9 Sport.
I don’t think there’s reason for concern as long as you use it properly. Some users just aren’t aware of how sensitive these foils are when subjected to any type of mechanical stress. The manufacturers should also focus more on making things a lot clear for the user. Many Braun models only come with a leaflet with some cryptic illustrations that no one will notice anyway or have some text burried in the troubleshooting section. Or that boring, corporate-style disclaimer at the beginning, the so-called safety precautions that don’t even mention the foils.
The foil head on any shaver is very sensitive and should only be touching the user’s skin.
There were some reliability issues with the original S9 generation that used a different cassette (90s and 90b), but those have been discontinued for a long time.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I need your advice. I have a Braun Syncro 7570 System that I bought many years ago but never used. I kept it in storage sealed until I needed it. A few days ago I got it out and wanted to use it, but it was dead. The charging port was covered it blue powder and the LCD display looks like it’s covered by snow inside. I suspect that the battery leaked and damaged the shaver. Do you think it’s worth trying to repair the shaver or should I just get a new one? In that case, what would you recommend?
Regards.
Hi Alexander,
I’m sorry about this — the Braun Syncro is more of a legacy shaver now, but it was a revolutionary model when it was launched. Normally this type of damage is repairable, but given how old this model is, it might be a problem. There are still a few parts available for that model but mostly in the form of foils/blades, plastic panels and so on. You could try and contact a Braun service center and ask them if it can be done and also an estimate for the repair. But I’m skeptical about the outcome.
If you can’t get it fixed, the old Braun Series 7, the successor of the Synchro System, would actually be an upgrade and the logical alternative. But as I also mentioned in the article above, the Series 7 was discontinued and it’s now really difficult to find one. Therefore, my recommendation would be the Braun Series 8 which has very similar traits to the discontinued Series 7.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi there Ovidiu,
What a brilliant informative site, my query is about upgrading?
I currently own the 9290 purchased January 2019 I have put a few heads on it and the razor is still working absolutely fine, I am wondering now is it worth upgrading to the new series 9 pro, or simply getting the new pro head for this shaver?
Also one issue I am finding is the clean and renew station is struggling to make a contact now when placing the shaver in it, and this is in my thinking as I know the new cleaning stations have a 3 cycle clean as opposed to just one in my model.
Thanks
Hi David,
Thanks so much for the comment, I really appreciate it.
I usually recommend holding on to your current Series 9 if it’s still in good condition. I would only get the Series 9 Pro head if the price is similar to the 92s cassette you would normally buy, otherwise it’s not worth spending much more on the Pro head because the differences will be minimal (they are more noticeable when used on a 9 Pro shaver).
Regarding the cleaning station issue, the culprit could be the rubberized insert on the back of the shaver. Precisely, in time it will wear out and sometimes (partially) cover the two contact pins on the back of the shaver. Make sure they’re clear and can connect to the two metal plates in the station. Also, the head locking switch should be in the free position when placing the shaver in the station, otherwise it may not sit properly.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu,
I appreciate the advice, apologies I meant to say I purchased my 9290 in Jan 2017 not 2019, anyway I have noticed as you say on the back of the razor the rubber around the contact points have started to lift and that could be the problem indeed, I tried to push down and ensure the contact points were protruding.
I think I will persevere with this until a series 10 is released as I am assuming that may be this year?
Thanks again for a great informative site.
You are very welcome, definitely make sure the pins are protruding.
There’s no official timeline or any acknowledgment of a new upcoming Series 10, but I think it’s reasonable to assume it will happen at some point. Maybe this year or the next, I really couldn’t say.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thought I would make contact again as your site is so informative, my 9290 clean station has given up the ghost and cuts out as soon as it tries to start the clean process, so I have spotted a second hand Braun Series 9 PRO SmartCare Centre & PowerCase would these be compatible? or will I need to upgrade the whole model?
Appreciate the help.
Thanks
Hello Ovidiu Nicolae. What do you think about the Xiaomi S500 rotary shaver? Any chance you’ll do a review of it?
Hi Marcin,
So far I’ve only used foil Xiaomi shavers and those had decent performance for the money. The S500 was on my list a while back and I was really curious about its performance, but for some reason, I couldn’t find one where I live. Fortunately, they are available again and I will buy one and do an in-depth review, but it’ll be a while I’m afraid; I have quite a few shavers that I’ve been using for the past few months and a review is long overdue.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you. I’d love to read your review of this shaver once it’s ready.
Regards.
I am currently using a Braun Series 5 Easyclean shaver, do you think it is worth switching to a Braun Series 3 proskin? Does this exchange make sense?
In my opinion, no, not really. I have both and the shaving performance is really similar. I do prefer the Series 3 ProSkin because it doesn’t have that foil frame around the cutters, so the head is a bit smaller, but that’s hardly a reason for an upgrade.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
In that case, maybe I can buy a Braun Series 5 5030s exhibition copy. Should it be better than my current S5 Easy clean?
If you can get one for a good price, it’s a really good shaver, definitely better than your current Series 5.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Today I received a Braun series 5 5030s shaver. I bought it at a great price. I tried it right away. You were right it’s better and more efficient than the new 5 series. Now I’m shaved as close as if I shaved myself with a razor blade . If I had read your articles earlier, I would not have bought this new 5 series, I would have looked for the old one right away. Once again, congratulations on running such a valuable website.
Marcin,
That is great, thanks for the follow-up. It really is a shame it got discontinued. The old Series 5 was one of the most compelling mid-range shavers. The 5030s was one of the picks of the range as it was priced lower and also worked corded. Enjoy shaving with yours.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, Can you recommend Electric Razor for me? I have a budget around 150 €.
And I am looking into Panasonic or Braun Series 5.
The ones that you recommend from Braun Series 5/Panasonic are not available or outdated.
Can you recommend some newer models(from Braun/Panasonic) or more widely available ones?
Hi Sebastijan,
The Braun Series 5 (old generation) is not available anymore, and the new one is nowhere near as good. That’s why I usually recommend the Series 8 instead (including in this guide). It’s basically the same performance-wise as the old Series 5 but has a bigger battery, which is a bonus. The Series 8 is now the mid-range Braun shaver I would get. You should easily be able to find one (most likely a solo model, not the cc in my list) that fits within your budget. The model doesn’t matter as long as it’s a Series 8 (they all shave the same). It’s a very comfortable and easy to use shaver that also works well on longer facial hair (for example if you shave every 3 to 4 days).
As for Panasonic, I usually recommend the ES-LV65 or ES-LV67 because these are still widely available despite not being the newest, the price is lower compared to the latest Arc 5 models and they shave really well. If you can’t get them where you live or you simply want a newer model, the ES-LV6Q or the latest Series 900 would be my picks. In the case of the latter, Panasonic markets it under the Series 900 name instead of Arc 5 in Europe. All Arc 5 models are very powerful, shave very close (closer than the Series 8), but work best on short beards, so consider them if you usually shave often. Also, if you have very sensitive skin, I think the Series 8 would be a better option.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
In December I researched this site because I wanted to replace my old Panasonic Linear, which was still working well after many years. As a result of my research here I went with the Panasonic Arc 3. The product was adequate, but it caused much more irritation than I had previously experienced. After a few months I returned to this site to try to find something to replace my new Panasonic. I bought a Braun Series 3, and I’m glad I did. Although it shaves much closer than the Panasonic, skin irritation is no longer an issue. Also, it has fewer problem areas, resulting in a more complete shave. So that’s three key areas where the Braun blows the Panasonic away.
Hey Mel,
Many thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. That’s great, seems like you picked a winner. It’s usually the Panasonic that shaves a bit closer in most cases but things can of course be different for different users. Enjoy shaving with your Series 3.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you so much for your skill in listing so many devices, especially all the Braun series. It makes a choice so much more clear. I have purchased a new Braun based on your comments. My old one, SyncroPro 7765, didn’t appear on your list as far as I could see. It was charging when there was a power surge, and just stopped working (battery or board damage?) and I considered having it repaired, but decided on getting a new one (Proskin 3040 S). It hasn’t arrived yet. Again many thanks for your detailed information.
Hi Patrick,
Thanks so much for the comment. The SyncroPro has been discontinued for many years, so I decided not to include it in the Braun comparison and keep it as simple as possible (it’s way too long as it is). The Series 3 ProSkin is in my opinion one of the best if not the best affordable foil shaver and even though it’s not as powerful or advanced as the more expensive Braun models, it should work just fine for the majority of users.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Great article! Very informative on the pros and cons of each razor and it’s respective brands.
About 3 years ago, I bought myself a Panasonic Arc 4 (ES8243AA) and used it mostly as a wetshaver for a while. But around a year ago, I switched to traditional wetshaving with a DE razor and haven’t looked back since, especially with my more sensitive (albeit not TOO sensitive) skin (I shave every other day).
However, as I’m starting to travel more often, it seems like I’d be better off using an electric instead; only problem is that the razor head needs to be replaced (and they are a bit pricey).
With that being said, the Braun Series 3 ProSkin (3040s) has caught my attention, but I’m not so sure yet. In your opinion, would I be better off buying a replacement head for my current Panasonic, or buying a new Braun? Also side question, are there any other razors you recommend that are quite good both dry and also with shaving cream?
Thanks.
Hi Patrick,
Thanks so much for the comment, I appreciate it.
The prices for Panasonic replacement parts have gone up lately, so you won’t be spending a lot more on a 3040s. That said, I personally would get the blades & foil for the ES8243AA. I have both and I would pick the ES8243AA as my travel razor. It shaves a bit closer, it works better than the 3040s with shaving cream and the integrated trimmer is far superior. The latter may not be that important to you though, but I use it quite often to keep my sideburns in check. So that will also influence my decision.
It’s also ideal for frequent use (daily/every other day).
The main advantage of the 3040s is the price and the cost of ownership, the 32b cassette being half the price of the ES8243AA set. If that is more important than the other aspects I mentioned above, then getting the 3040s would make more sense.
Braun shavers are good both dry and with shaving cream, it’s just that the difference is not as obvious as in the case of Panasonic shavers. Some of the more aggressive Panasonic models like the ES-LV65 get very comfortable and even shave closer. Braun shavers are generally very comfortable wet or dry and the closeness also stays about the same, especially if you have very thick and dense facial hair. A Panasonic + shaving cream will be superior in that case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great review thank you. Have decided to go with the Burn series 9 9390cc after reading this as it looks like it will be the best for me. Have been a wet shaver for the last 27 years or so but decided it was time to give this a go after the quality of razors has dropped recently and no longer getting a good shave from them. I found your reviews quite helpful as a newbie to Electric Razors.
Thanks so much for the comment, Chris. Hope you’ll enjoy the switch to an electric razor. You can’t really go wrong with the Series 9 if you have the budget for it and I think it’s particularly good and effective when shaving dry.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Thank you so much for all your incredible work, I’ve been hooked on your website for the past few days.
I’m thinking of finally biting the bullet and purchasing my first electric shaver. I mainly shave with a DE razor but it has gotten tedious.
Based on the information you provided the Arc 5 would be suitable for me (Prioritize closeness of shave, but I have sensitive skin) used wet to improve performance and to accomodate my sensitive skin.
But it says here that you recommend the Arc 4 over the 5 for a beginner. The 4 is unfortunately not available in my region, would the 5 be too difficult to use effectively in your opinion? Should I go for the 5 which would be easier and cheaper to get, or dish out a little more to import the 4?
Greatly appreciated
I forgot to mention that another option I’m looking at is the Braun Series 3 Proskin since it is more gentle, but I’m worried it wouldn’t shave nearly as close? How do these two compare? I’d like to get a shave as close to a BBS as possible
Hi Ali,
Many thanks for the kind comment, glad you found the info useful.
I think the Arc 5 should be a suitable choice (all things considered). It’s not a lot larger than the 4-blade Arc 4 and that recommendation for a beginner was mainly for a couple of the Arc 4 models that have been discontinued in the meantime (ES-LF51 and ES8243A). Those had really compact foil frames and were smaller than the Arc 4 ES-LA63 for example.
The Arc 5 is noticeably better than the S3 ProSkin especially if you want a close shave. Also, some of the newer Arc 5 models with comfort rollers might be available in your region at a reasonable price. It doesn’t matter the model as all of them will shave the same. The difference compared to the ES-LV65 or the ES-LV67 that I recommend in the article is that they are more comfortable, so you will probably be able to use them dry as well. The ES-LV6Q and the Series 900 are two such models.
If you have a few models you were able to find, I’ll gladly share my opinion on which one to buy (the price is important as well).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for your response Ovidiu!
The current Arc 5s that are available to me are the (from cheapest to most expensive):
ES-LV67 (~140$)
ES-LV97 (~168$)
ES-LV6U (~198$)
The price difference between the first two is relatively small for the cleaning station, but I’m considering forgoing it because you mentioned that cleaning the Arc 5 manually is easy, and I don’t want clutter in my bathroom. So that leaves us with the ES-LV67 and the ES-LV6U.
Given these prices, what would be the most suitable pick for my needs in your experience? I’d like to own only one electric razor and keep it with me for as long as I can. All are within my budget. A more comfortable shave is definitely important to me, but do you believe that this price difference is justifiable?
You are very welcome, Ali.
The ES-LV67 definitely offers better value for money. The ES-LV6U is part of the new revision G (aka Series 900) and apart from a different design, it also uses a new foil. The one that comes with the ES-LV67 is the older foil model that shaves just as close, but isn’t quite as gentle as the one on the ES-LV6U. That would make the ES-LV6U more suitable for your sensitive skin, but it is maybe a bit too expensive. The new foil that comes with it is actually backward compatible and will fit the ES-LV67 perfectly — that’s an option for a future upgrade when it’s time to replace the foil.
If your budget is more limited, get the ES-LV67. If you don’t press too hard it should still be adequately comfortable. I recommend a pre-shave lotion with any shaver, but in this case in particular it would make sense. There’s a $60 difference you’d be saving if you get the ES-LV67. It’s impossible for me to say how big the difference in comfort will be in your case. This varies a lot for different users. For example, when I shave dry with my ES-LV67, I mainly get irritation/razor burn below the nose. Very sensitive skin + very thick and dense stubble in that area. On the cheeks and even on my neck it’s fine though.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu!
Thank you for the definitive review! Always enjoy reading your detailed and insightful articles!
Based on your guidance, I am choosing between these shavers:
Braun 9, Braun 9 pro, Braun 7 (790cc), Braun 8 (8417s), Arc 5. I know these are great shavers and that Brauns are better for sensitive faces (thanks to you!). I shave daily and have medium facial hair (not the fullest stubble–cannot grow a full beard–, but sand papery enough! haha). What I need is a shaver that lets me finish FAST and is fairly comfortable. Right now I use Philips Norelco 3600 with a new shaving head, but I feel like the shave takes too long (5 or more minutes) and needs too many strokes in the same spot. Also, the shave is not close enough. I’d really appreciate your help narrowing down my list to the top one. Ideally, I can be done smoothly in a minute and without scars! haha…
I almost bought a series 9 pro, but I see many reviews on Amazon where the power button has fallen out. Have you seen that? It seems the new Braun 9 is not built very reliably, especially for a $350 shaver. That’s why I am hesitant about it. Not sure the old series 7 is fast enough and don’t love the looks and idea of a 15 year old shaver. So far, 8417s is my choic because if I can’t get fast and reliable, I may as well go with relatively inexpensive. But maybe Arc5 is the answer? The replacement heads are just too pricey on that one…HELP PLEASE!!! haha
Thank you so much for your great content. Your articles are my only go-to! Much appreciated.
Nathan,
Thanks so much for the kind comment, I really appreciate it.
All things considered, I think the Arc 5 would be the most suitable shaver for you. The Series 8 will work fine as well, but for shaving daily a sandpapery beard, the Arc 5 is just above the others. It’s really fast and shaves very close. The price is also pretty reasonable if you go with one of the models I mentioned above (like the ES-LV65 and ES-LV67). Panasonic replacement parts have gotten pricey lately, but because you can get the shaver for quite a bit less than the other options (including the 8417s), it kind of makes up for that.
It should feel like a massive upgrade from your current Philips shaver.
Power buttons coming off is not very common, but it can happen with any shavers (I’ve received comments and emails from different users and it’s not a Braun thing). But the build quality of Panasonic shavers is in my opinion better compared to the other two big brands.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for your prompt reply. I really appreciate it. I am excited to choose the ARC shavers based on your recommendation. I can’t seem to find a 3rd generation ARC 5 (with comfort roller) that is US-version. There’s only one on Amazon that comes with EU power supply. I know I have options there (use plug converter or choose second gen with separate purchase of comfort foils), but I rather invest once and be done. Is there a way to get 3rd gen US version? If not, should I consider ARC 6 instead? Is there a good boost between 3rd gen and ARC 6 in terms of comfort? (I’ve read all your articles on the topic, but wasn’t sure how 3rd gen ARC 5 compared to ARC 6 in terms of comfort).
Thank you again for your incredible reviews and comments!
Nathan
Hi Nathan,
You are very welcome. That is true, Panasonic unfortunately has ignored the US market completely with the newer Arc 5 versions (from revision C onward). So there’s no Arc 5 with the newer foils officially released in the USA, only the ones sold by third-party vendors. Revision A was briefly available in the USA, but it was discontinued suddenly.
The Arc 6 has a slight advantage over the third gen Arc 5, but I wouldn’t say it’s worth the price difference. Both are comfortable shavers.
So you’re basically left with two options, either get a second gen Arc 5 and hopefully it will be fine comfort-wise or buy a newer one from a third-party seller. The new ones are however pretty expensive compared to the prices in Europe.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Phenomenal Advice! I will let you know how it goes :)
Many thanks again,
Nathan
p.s. this is now my favorite blog regardless of topic! Well done managing such a high-quality and timely forum! Wish you had the time to review everything! haha :) Wish you the best!
Nathan, you are too kind, thank you. Hope you’ll enjoy your shaver and I’m looking forward to your thoughts on it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
First off great article. A lot of good quality information.
I was wondering if I could get some advice from you. I have Philips SensoTouch 3d with sh91 heads and well they are fine but i would like something more comfortable with similar closeness.
I was considering old series 7 but its no longer available, so what are your views on new series 7 and series 8 in comparison with sh91 or rq12.
In your view is new series 7 better or worse than series 8 cause i can have them in verry similar price.
I would love seires 9 but its a bit too expensive for me.
Thanks for great content on site.
Hi Michael,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
The SH91 are, at least in my experience, the most comfortable blades Philips currently makes (the very similar SH98 were discontinued). So it would be difficult to get a more comfortable rotary than something fitted with those blades. I think your idea of considering a foil shaver instead is the right move.
The old Series 7 would have been a great option. The Series 8 is in my opinion superior to the new Series 7 in all regards and most users seem to feel the same. I would also add that in most cases the Series 8 should be more comfortable than a rotary. The closeness should be at least as good.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for quick response, that cleared up a lot for me.
Ovidiu,
Generally I don’t wander outside the Norelco section but I was bored today and I read some of the thread above. You’ve raised two questions for me: 1) Is it true that the SH98 blades are no longer being made? If so, what does one do with a Prestige shaver? 2) Will the newer SH71 blades fit into the head assembly for the Prestige AND for the head assembly on the older 9721 shaver? Thanks.
Hi Wayne,
The SH98 heads have been discontinued already in Europe and while in the USA they are still in stock, I think at some point they will no longer be available. For current Prestige users (that own the old model with the SH98 heads) Philips explicitly recommends the SH91 as the official replacement part. And that’s not a surprise as the SH98 and SH91 appear to be identical (visually and in practice as well).
The SH91 fit the old Prestige perfectly and the older 9721 as well. As a side note, the SH71 will also fit them, but the SH91 are superior to the SH71.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Wow! I’m dumbfounded that the SH98 blades are being jettisoned this early in their life. Thanks for the info, Ovidiu. Actually, I meant SH91 and not SH71 but you’ve answered that here (and I’m guessing over in the Prestige forum as well). I’m glad that the SH91 blades will fit my older 9721. I love the handle on that shaver even better than the Prestige (which I had for a month before returning) which did not have the great shape of my older shaver.
Thank you for taking the time to provide such a comprehensive and detailed review. I wanted to share an observation I’ve made about the Braun shavers. I shave daily and have tried both the travel model (M90), and the 3 series (3020s) and daily, I use the series 9 (9030s) (see pics http://bit.ly/3Mia0Dq ) . While the 9 series is the best option when used *dry*, I have found *no difference* when used with foam or gel. When conducting a blind test, my wife even noted that the softer side was the travel model! This was a surprise since the M90 costs less than the head replacement of the 3 series, and almost twice less than the head of the 9 series!
The only advantage of the 9 series over the M90 and 3020s, *using foam or gel* is that the head is more flexible and mobile, making the shaving process faster. However, the disadvantage of the larger head is that it may not effectively shave certain zones, such as the neck’s curvature.
However, the quality of the 9 series has left something to be desired, as I have gone through three different models due to battery issues. Surprisingly, even in 2023, Braun has yet to release a model with a USB-C charger and lithium battery.
Thank you again for your review, and keep up the good work!
Hi Sergio,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share this.
I also find the high-end Braun shavers like the Series 9 and Series 8 to be noticeably better than the lesser models when shaving dry. I’ve always considered them to be ideal in this scenario. A good shaving cream and prep work can give a performance boost to a less capable shaver.
I’m sorry about the reliability issues you’ve had with the Series 9 and I fully agree, a USB-C port is long overdue.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for an amazingly in depth review of electric shavers. You’ve REALLY helped me with the process going from a lifetime of manual shaving to my first electric machine. After reading your review I am leaning towards the Panasonic Arc 5. I live in Canada so when I click on your pricing buttons I’m taken to Amazon.ca. No problem with that.
In your review of the ES-LV 65 (Currently $259.00 CDN on Amazon.ca) you mention going for the ES-LV67 (Currently $189.00 CDN on Amazon.ca) if it is less expensive, which it seems to be. However, when I click on the 67 the Amazon.ca site says it is an ES-LV67 “Premium” “black”. No “K” or “S” anywhere to be found. Could you confirm how many colors of the 67 model there are and am I actually looking at a 67? Very much appreciated.
Hi Derek,
Thanks so much for the comment.
The ES-LV67 Premium black is actually the ES-LV67-K. -K is Panasonic’s way of naming the black versions of their shavers, while -S is for silver and -A is for blue. Speaking of blue, there is also a blue ES-LV67-A. All these shavers, ES-LV67, ES-LV67-K or ES-LV67-A are absolutely identical performance-wise. The letter designating the color can be left out and you’ll find something like ES-LV67 (black) instead of ES-LV67-K.
I still recommend getting the cheaper one between the LV65 and LV67.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks again Ovidiu.
Made me wonder why the slightly newer model ES-LV67 would be sold for $70.00 less than the ES-LV65.
That said, I’ll take your advice and go for it.
Derek
Seeking a electric shaver but my brother warned me against the Braun 3 series – very noisy, and very slow shaving he said. He has now a Qilive which is a mere electronic manufacturer of Auchan supermarket line and he is happy with it. He says that 4 min is enough to shave. How a supermarket machine can be better than an established manufacturer?
Should be something like this:
https://www.auchan.pt/en/tecnologia-e-eletrodomesticos/eletrodomesticos/beleza-e-saude/maquinas-barbear/maquina-de-barbear-qilive-155809-q.5831-sem-fios/3336505.html
Hi Alex,
The Braun Series 3 is a foil shaver and foil shavers are by design a lot louder than rotaries like the Qilive you linked. I haven’t used that one, but it looks exactly like the other Chinese shavers sold under different brands. My guess is that a rotary simply works better for your brother (hair type, shaving technique and frequency, etc). Also, the Series 3 ProSkin is slightly better than the basic Series 3.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu for the input. Congrats also on the site.
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you as always for the great content and replies!
So, I went ahead and ordered Arc 5. It’s a good shaver but I don’t love it. I shave daily, sometimes twice a day, as I need to have a clean shaven face for work. Arc 5 is too loud and not gentle enough, and it requires MANY passes to get a clean shave. It particularly needs many passes on the neck straight hairs. My skin is not loving it after 2 weeks. So now I’m thinking between Phillips Prestige and Braun 9. I love the quietness of Prestige, and I think it’s one of the best for the neck hairs but I wonder if I should choose Braun for the comfort of frequent shaves. If Prestige is nearly as comfy, I’d probably choose that. My facial hair is not very full. It’s a short, medium 5 o’clock shadow almost every time I shave (but it is medium roughness). Which of the two shavers would you recommend please? Thank you so much!
Hi Nathan,
I would like to know a couple more things just to make sure I have the full picture.
Can you tell me which Arc 5 model you got? The ones with the old foil model (like ES-LV65, ES-LV67) can be a bit too aggressive on the neck and above the upper lip and must be used with light pressure. A pre-shave lotion can help as well.
Have you used a rotary razor before? Both the Prestige (old variation) and the Series 9 are really good and comfortable shavers, but quite different. In my opinion the most reliable way to determine which one to get is to look at previous experience with both rotary and foil shavers. Personally, I would pick the Series 9 over the Prestige because it works a lot better for my skin and shaving technique.
Also, I wouldn’t say the Series 9 is quieter than the Arc 5. It’s not as high-pitched, but raspier and still loud.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you for your prompt and helpful reply! I bought the ES-LV67-K model. Before, I was using a Norelco 3000. I used Norelco Senso Though 3D (the BEST shaving experience, smoothest on my skin. Used to glide on my skin beautifully) and Braun series 3 (good but not life changing) before that. I have little facial hair between shaves. I just want a super fast and comfy shave. Quietness is a major bonus. Unless Braun 9 is much better than Prestige in cutting straight neck hairs, I’m leaning towards Prestige. My only concern with Prestige is some comments I read about the shaving head being discontinued. This was my experience with senso touch 3D. Please let me know if I should be concerned about buying the exact same heads that ship with prestige SP9820/87 with round head.
Many thanks,
Nathan
You are very welcome. From what I can tell, I think the Prestige would be a better fit. It is significantly quieter than the Arc 5 and Series 9 and given your previous good results with other rotaries, including a basic Series 3000, I think you will enjoy shaving with the Prestige.
As for the heads being discontinued, that is most likely the case, but it’s not by any means a cause of concern as you’ll see. The original Prestige (with the rounded head design) comes with the SH98 cutters. These already appear as discontinued on the Philips UK site. However, the new cutters replacing them, the SH91, are identical in all regards. I’ve used them both and I really can’t notice a difference in performance. And they will be around for a long time since these are now Norelco’s top cutters (used on the new Series 9000 and on the new Prestige with pentagonal heads).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for the incredible amount of work you’ve put into making this such a comprehensive read.
I’ve had the Philips rq1260 512355017 for years. I use it every work day dry but then will usually have a quick shave in the shower to get the bits it missed. Very inefficient now I think about it!
I don’t have a full beard, just the sandpaper but it does run on different grains that even a razor doesn’t always get.
I’m looking between the Braun 9 ($500) and the Panasonic Multi-Flex 5-Blade Wet & Dry Electric Shaver ($299) (Is that the Arc 5 equivalent in Australia?).
I usually only ever shave dry and would like to not have to use the razor after. Which would you recommend? Or is there another one you mentioned you think would be a better fit? Thank you. Really appreciate it.
Hi Luke,
Thanks so much for the comment, I really appreciate it.
That is correct, the 5-Blade Multiflex Panasonic is the Arc 5, most likely the ES-LV67 in Australia. Considering the price and the fact that you shave daily, I would lean more toward the Arc 5. Even though the Series 9 is more effective on hairs with different grains, that advantage is more obvious when shaving after at least 2 or 3 days of beard growth (which is not the case here). For short, sandpapery stubble the Arc 5 is better in my experience.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you Ovidiu. Really appreciate it.
I was using Philips Beard series 12 (top model of that time) and was at the end of lifecycle. I have two sons. One decided to buy Philips top series 9 and the other Braun top series 9. I tried them both an decided to buy Braun as my new shaver.
I don’t shave my beard. I shave my head to bold. I have all my hair allthough, so the shaver has quite some work to do.
This is my experience:
BRAUN: Shaving quality is definetely higher … but I guess that is the only plus for it. It is expensiver. Shaving heads last shorter time. After half of year head is worn out and needs to be replaced (cost 40-50 EUR). It shakes more while operating – hammerhead feeling. It is made for cutting beard, when you cut head you have to turn it arround and haircuts fall out. In one and a half year it was 4 times in service (I used sons in the midtime). They returned me the money. Allthoug I am not completely disappointed upon it.
PHILIPS: It cuts that 0,1-0,2 milimeter less than Braun. Haircuts stay inside. Lasts longer. Smaller vibrations. Costs less.
NowI bought REMINGTON RX5 head shaver with 5 rotating heads. Used it only a couple of times. Shaving is quicker because of 5 heads. Haircuts stay inside. Cutting quality poorer than the obove two, but the difference would 0,1 mm. Cheapest price.
If you appreciate end effect go for Braun. If you appreciate speed, go for Remington. If you would like to cath the middle of all, go for Philips.
Hi there,
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment.
I think your experience falls in line with what is to be expected from using a rotary vs a foil shaver, even if you only use it for your head which poses some specific challenges for a shaver. The RX5 (Balder Pro) is a very compelling option given its price, ease of use, and overall decent quality of the shave and comfort.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Is it worth paying more for Series 3 Proskin than for Series 5? Currently Braun Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s would cost me 85€ while Series 5 51-R1000s is just 70€. Which one shaves better and more gentle?
Normally the 3040s or any Series 3 ProSkin variations (except for the cc ones) are usually cheaper than the Series 5 and that is one of the main reasons I recommend the Series 3 ProSkin over the new Series 5.
The shaving performance — closeness, comfort, power — is subjectively the same. But I do think the Series 3 ProSkin is the more compelling product — again, mainly because it costs less, the replacement head is slightly cheaper and I also think it’s easier to use. The width and length of the foil elements are the same, but the Series 5 also has a rather large plastic foil frame that gets a bit in the way and also makes the head more draggy.
I prefer the integrated trimmer of the 3040s as well, but that’s just personal preference.
If you don’t need a shaver right away, maybe wait a bit more to get a good deal on the 3040s.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
“I’m thinking of buying an electric shaver, I’m a beginner and I’ve never had one before. My budget is up to about $70 or $80. Which one do you recommend from the Braun, Panasonic, Philips, and Remington lines?
I want something that doesn’t require much maintenance because even though I’m buying it in the United States, I’ll be using it in Brazil and might not be able to find maintenance parts easily. It should also be easy to clean.”
Hi Marco,
I would go with the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s. It’s a very simple, robust, reasonably priced and easy to clean/maintain electric shaver. It’s also very easy to use and provided you don’t have a very thick/coarse beard and you use it regularly, it should do the job just fine.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I purchased the Braun Series 9 9390cc after reading your reviews and have had several Series 7’s with no issues. I’ve had it a little over a year and then one day the power button fell and doesn’t want to stay on. Any ideas how to fix this? Thanks!
Hi Mike,
You would most likely need to replace the front housing — the part number is Braun 81686529 and it includes the power button as well. Should be easy to source and the price is usually very affordable.
Power button issues do happen sometimes and aren’t limited to Braun shavers. All Series 9 shavers I’ve had were free of this problem.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks is it hard to replace the front housing?
It’s a pretty straightforward operation, but somewhat fiddly. Here is a disassembly video that also shows how to put everything back together.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello, with the help of your site I bought myself a panasonic ll-21 and really happy about the purchase. Thanks for that. I had a old braun 5 series shaver(was 5040s i think) which I bought in 2007 and that thing stock battery died just in 2022. I know I didn’t use it everyday, I was a light electric shaver user I think sometimes for few years it just sat but I used in some occasional situations which saved me, overall usage is equal to a little more than minimum usage . Even with that kind of usage the battery’s overall endurance eas impressive. But before I start to use my ll-21 I have some questions. Do we also need to apply oil to blades before first usage out of box. I mean is that stock folio came with applied oil? My aim is to to have dry shave and clean with water once a week. I always cleaned my old braun folio and blades dry with dry brush that it came with beside the once a week washing. So is it enough to apply oil once a week for that kind of usage? Thanks
Hi Ali,
Thanks for the comment, glad you found the site useful. The LL21 (and LL41 in the USA) are now the Arc 3 models to buy and I hope you’ll enjoy shaving with yours.
You don’t need to apply oil before the first use. It won’t hurt, but it’s also probably not necessary.
It’ll be perfectly fine to oil it once a week for that kind of usage and cleaning. If you clean the shaving head with water, using the brush will probably not be necessary. Also always take care when cleaning a foil shaver with a brush. You should never brush the outer foils and only use it on the inner plastic frame and around the supports of the two inner blades. Also, never brush those inner blades lengthwise as they will get blunt.
My recommendation is to just clean the shaver with water (and optionally some liquid hand soap from time to time).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Very informative and helpful site very good
Thanks so much, glad you found it useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I’ve been using a Braun Series 9 for the past 5 years, or about that, hoping it will get better or my beard will adapt, but I must say it’s not working for me at all. It shaves close indeed, but only about 90% of my beard hairs, leaving 10% intact. Maybe 10% doesn’t sound like much, but if you try to imagine about 10% of your beard hairs being left behind, often in patches, you’ll realize it’s bad, really bad. I have to use a disposable Gilette or BIC razor to finish the job.
Recently I discovered my old (10 years old probably) Philips Series 3 rotary in the attick and decided to give it another try, as it’s time to give up on the Braun. Indeed, the Philips, while shaving not as close and irritating the skin on my neck (something that happens with the Braun too, especially since I have to run in multiple times to try and catch those left over hairs), didn’t leave any intact hairs behind.
So I’m afraid a foil shaver is no good at all for me. I will have to buy a new rotary shaver, maybe higher end; it really can’t be any worse than the top foil one.
Hi Sergiu,
Many thanks for the comment.
I definitely agree that 10% is a lot. In some cases a combination of facial hair + skin particularities and shaving technique will simply result in something like that. I think there’s still room for improvement depending on how it happens (like if there’s a particular tricky area or if that happens all over the face), but going for a different type of shaver is probably the better option.
From the high-end rotaries you can still buy in 2023, my favorite is still the original Prestige with the smaller round heads. It’s among the most comfortable rotaries I’ve ever used and the new SH91 heads will fit perfectly (the SH98 fitted to the shaver will be discontinued) and shave the same.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I am looking at the Philips S9000 series, but there are just so many variants!.. Philips.de lists 17 S9000 Prestige series, and 24 S9000 series. And I just don’t understand how different they are, even if there’s any difference in shaving quality between S9000 and S9000 Prestige (they use the same shaving heads, after all, but the S9000 have a higher product number, S99XX vs S98XX on the Prestige series). I’m really confused, any kind of help would be greatly appreciated.
The differences between the new S9000 Prestige models (SP98XX) and the new S9000 (S99XX) are rather subtle. The shaving heads are indeed identical and use the same SH91 heads. The Prestige is in my experience maybe slightly more powerful in the highest power setting (you can manually choose between 3) and the handle is more ergonomically shaped. The Prestige also looks and feels more premium (can be subjective). But that’s about it, so the shaving performance will be almost identical. Also, the Prestige has a separate trimmer attachment, while the regular Series 9000 has an integrated pop-up trimmer.
All Prestige models shave the same and all Series 9000 models shave the same, so you should only look at the price or at certain accessories you might want (like for example a cleaning pod). Other differences (like battery display, light rings on the S9000) won’t have any influence on the performance.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you, will go for the prestige then.
Is the cleaning pod really useful? It is useful on my 9 series Braun (I think), because it’s so difficult to clean it, the cut hairs go into it so deep (but even after a cleaning in the “Clean & Renew station” I just turn it on and off and the next time I turn it on the “need cleaning” indicator comes on immediately, so without any shaving at all), but my old 3 series Philips is very easy to clean, the hair just needs to be shaken off and that’s it.
You are very welcome. The cleaning indicator on the Series 9 is really unreliable, I never mind it and just clean mine like once a week with the station. In the meantime I generally just rinse the cassette (inside out) with warm tap water, it’s good enough after a dry shave and cleaning with the station once a week gets rid off all the remaining stuff.
The pod is better than nothing, it’s like filling a container with some soapy or detergent solution, then dunking the shaving head with the razor turned on for like a minute. The main limitations of the pod compared to a proper cleaning station are that it lacks a filter and it tends to foam up a lot. The head will be soaking wet and covered in foam and you will find some hair clippings inside since the cartridge doesn’t have a filter, so the liquid with the hairs from previous cleanings will be flushed through the head. It is very compact and easy to store though and you’ll never get a notification that you need to replace the fluid.
I get into more details in my review of the Philips 9500 if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Great detail in your reviews
If you were to choose between the Philips Norelco 6880/81 Shaver 6800 and The Philips Norelco Series 3000 (Shaver 3800), what one would you recommend
Hi Stuart,
Thanks so much for the comment.
If I could still get the 6800 for a reasonable price (same as it was in 2020), I would pick it over the Shaver 3800. As a side note, the 6800 used to cost about the same as the Shaver 3800, so really good price/performance ratio. The 6800 feels like a superior tier Norelco shaver, mainly because of those excellent blades. I’d say it’s a bit more effective and needs less work for a clean shave. I do prefer the form factor of the 3800 and that one is a perfectly fine budget alternative since I can’t seem to find a 6800 for a reasonable price anymore.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I wish I’d have seen your best shavers sooner!!
Been shaving for 57 yrs or so & with nicknames like Desperate Dan & Diamond Chin to name 2 you have an idea. I started wet shaving 1st n moved to round rotar blades , various Remingtons & Brauns that wore out & died. One time needed battery operated ones as I was at places without sockets.
Clearing out a room I found a few of my old shavers that I had kept. I have cleaned them up & have tested some of them. Brauns
S3 3040-still ok
A waterflex Wet & Dry- in car glove compartment for top up use
4776-no idea
5614-very smooth still
S5 Easy Clean……never been close but may now be past it
A Remington R900 Washable is in limbo as it has no cover . I never did anything & I was disappointed with it as Philips ones lasted for 2 yrs or so.
Remingtons tended to overheat & I dumped them.
I have paid from £50-£200 + for shavers & one or 2 I gave away. Some could not cope with hot weather on holidays & irritated my chin.
I did try lathering & pre shaves but I tend to do dry.
After reading I’m willing to try.
Oh one last thing it is odd that 4776 & 5614 have the case as the protector. One case broke in 2 so I guess that could be a reason why they were retired.
Cheers Bill B
Hi Bill,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share this — I enjoyed reading your experience with different shavers.
If you generally shave dry, try the Speick pre-shave if you can get a bottle. It just makes everything better without any extra work.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Cheers Ovidiu,
I managed to pick up Panasonic ES-RF31 Premium Wet and Dry 4-Blade Electric Shaver for less than £50 & as I have used it 3 times so far I can say it is really a smooth shave. My 1st Panasonic. Might be a bit too complicated to clean properly!!?? Any ideas?
On the Speick pre-shave there is one that looks ok & one much cheaper that is pre-shave but has the after shave bottle. UK fakes perhaps. There is a Superdrug pre-electric shave at a fraction of the Speick but as 1 revue read “its sticky & I poured it away” Not so super is it?
Bill B
Hi Bill,
That’s great, glad you enjoy shaving with the Panny. The cleaning is very straightforward, you just rinse the blades and foil head with warm tap water and optionally (maybe once in a while if you only shave dry) use a bit of liquid soap. You can refer to my guide here.
Can’t say anything about the Superdrug pre-shave as I haven’t used it. Amazon UK for example has the Speick pre-shave in stock (blue label bottle) and it is 100% genuine.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi
I have found your reviews interesting and informative. Thank you.
Due to having surgery on one hand a year or so ago (which resulted in a period with the arm and hand in plaster) I needed an electric shaver. I bought a fairly entry level rotary shaver (Sweet LF) which, although produces a surprisingly acceptable wet shave, has one major weakness. The hinge between the rotary head and the shaver body has now inexplicably detached itself and will not go back into place, rendering the shaver unusable. I am therefore assuming that this will be the weak point in all rotary shavers and will now opt for a foil shaver. Looks like the Panasonic ES-LV 67 might be a good mid-price prospect.
Hi Ken,
Many thanks for the feedback.
The hinge is a lot sturdier on the flip-head Norelcos for example and it should be just fine with normal use. The ES-LV67 is in my opinion one of the better shavers out there especially when you can get a great deal on it. It is also significantly more powerful than any rotary and shaves closer, but you will need to use it regularly for the best results. It’s not as effective at catching long hairs as a mid-range rotary for example.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Good day. Thank you for your helpful reviews. I don’t shave every day. I have been using the Panasonic Es-lv61 machine for many years. It still works. I think even smoothly. Of course there is the problem with the beard. I only changed the head without the cutting blades. My question concerns whether it makes sense to replace the movement with a new Panasonic (if so, which one would be a meaningful upgrade). Will the upgrade give me a better shave or comfort or is it better to just buy a new head + blades? And the last question is – if it doesn’t make sense to buy a new machine, what specific heads and knives can I buy. I’m a bit confused about the labeling and I have no idea what the possibilities are for confusion. Thank you very much.
Hi,
Thank you for the comment.
If your ES-LV61 is still in good shape (and I understand that it is), then changing both the blades/knives and foil will be the most economical option and the one that makes the most sense.
You can either get the same set your shaver came with (part number WES9032 or sometimes listed as ES9032) or get one of the newer ones that come with the latest Arc 5 shavers: ES9036, ES9038, ES9040.
The newer ones are more comfortable, but the closeness is about the same as in the case of the older one.
If you want a more comfortable set, you can get either of the three I listed (minimal differences between them) and it will make your shaver more comfortable.
These newer sets are however more difficult to find and can get pricier, in which case you can always fall back to the original ones.
If you decide to get a new Arc 5 shaver, you can either go with the ES-LV65 or ES-LV67 I mentioned in the article above; those are newer iterations of your shaver but come with the same foil, so the performance will be the same. But you will get a new shaver with a new battery.
Or you can get an even newer Arc 5 like the ES-LV6Q which comes with the new foil and it is more comfortable. But it’s usually more expensive and you can always upgrade any older Arc 5 shaver with the newer, more comfortable foils.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Congrats on the longest single page of shaver information on the Internet! LOL. I respect your thorough reviews. I’ve been using an Arc3 (Panasonic ES8109) for many years (the 8103 but with the cleaning station I think.) I stopped using the station long ago as the cartridges are a waste of money in my opinion as the shaver is very easy to clean otherwise and the station is bulky and takes up counter space.
I needed a new blade/foil and decided to try to upgrade and got a Braun 7893. I’ve come to the personal conclusion the Brauns (due to a lot of marketing) while good, are overrated for the price. I shave every 3 days and don’t have sensitive skin. Both the Panasonic and Braun will smart a little on grabbing some of the long hairs but the Braun is more painful than the Panasonic on a 3-day beard and doesn’t shave as close (takes a third pass where the Panasonic just needs two.) I can avoid the pinch of the pull on the long hairs easily on the Panasonic if I do a pre-pass going with the direction of the hairs to slightly trim them down. The Braun excels around the chin line and neck. The Panasonic I need to flip the trimmer out to catch the long flat lying hairs on the neck first that the Braun if you press hard enough will catch without having to use the trimmer. A mild annoyance.
The Braun head is a nightmare to try to clean. I tapped it hard on the sync and one of the silver plastic sides snapped off – still works if I’m careful but falls off every time I tap the head.
The Arc3 is also very slim and compact and fits (barely) in my travel shaving bag with all my creams/toothbrush/etc. The Arc4 and especially the Arc5 are probably a no go, or at least it’s going to be a really tight fit on the larger Arc4 for not that much increase in performance.
I can tell though that the trimmer on my ES8109 is not as sharp as it used to be and it is crucial for the pre-shave on my long flat neck hairs. So I find myself up in the air on investing in a new cutter/foil ($40) plus a replacement trimmer ($21 with shipping) = $61 versus buying for $110 an ES-LF51-A Arc4 and risk that it doesn’t fit well in my travel shaving bag with all my other stuff.
Curious what you would do in my situation?
Hi Jeff,
Many thanks for the comment.
The sum of all these tiny annoyances and wins that are specific to each user is what ultimately makes a certain shaver better suited than other.
And from what I can tell, you’d be better off with another Panasonic. You could replace the foil/blades and trimmer, but your ES8109 is quite old now and some other things could fail (plastic linkages, battery and so on). It doesn’t mean it’ll happen anytime soon but there’s a possibility.
A year ago I would have simply told you to buy the ES8103S for only a few dollars more (identical to yours minus the station). Sadly, it’s not available anymore.
You already mentioned the ES-LF51-A as an alternative and I would have suggested it as well. That one is probably the most compact 4-blade shaver I’ve ever used. If the ES8109 fits in the toiletry bag, there’s a really good chance you can squeeze in the ES-LF51 as well. Here‘s a pic of it next to my ES8103, I’d say they take up an almost identical volume.
The LF51-A feels more powerful than an Arc 3 (faster motor plus a fourth blade), shaves even closer and the pop-up trimmer is of course excellent. I really liked mine a lot, but haven’t bought new foil and blades in a few years.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
My choice is a combination of 2 shavers – Braun 9 Pro and Wahl Pro Super Close.
The key challenge in my case was to avoid ingrown hairs on the neck which bothered me for the last 20 years (while using Gillette and different Philips models). Braun 9 Pro really helped me with that.
I recently reinforced it with Wahl Pro Super Close https://eu.wahl.com/shop/super-close-3616-0470 . It is a small (1 foil) and cheap, but still powerful and easy to navigate shaver. It makes a nice super close finishing after Braun. Wahl says that it can cut hair up to 0.05mm. Interesting to compare with Panasonic 6-blade shaver. Ovidiu do you have any numbers to compare?
Hi Alex,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your shave routine.
Pairing those two shavers makes a lot of sense and I do think they complement each other really well.
I don’t have any numbers for Panasonic but the Wahl foil shavers I’ve used definitely had thinner foils, so at least in theory they’re able to get closer. And I think they do and so do other finishing shavers from Andis or BaByliss.
However, they have some serious shortcomings and in most cases these won’t quite work and won’t be practical as standalone shavers. They only work well on facial hair that’s already short and because the foils are so thin, they will wear out a lot faster if you were to use one to shave your entire beard.
The Wahl you’re using, as well as other single and double-foil shavers of this type are ideal as complementary shavers — just like you’re using yours. A final, extra close shave or cleaning the cheeks/neck to the beard line or even blending a skin fade — they excel at these things. I also cut my hair myself since the lockdown and I’m always using either an Andis ProFoil, a BaByliss FoilFX02 or a Wahl Finale for a bald skin fade. These are all double-foil shavers, can cut the hair really close and because they only have two foils, they’re very precise and easy to maneuver.
But I don’t enjoy using them to shave my face, at least not like I’m using an Arc 5 or Series 9. They’re too aggressive on my skin and again I would need to use them daily. And they would also need new foils and blades probably within 3 or 4 months.
The Panasonic Arc 6, the Arc 5 and some Arc 4 models (like the ES-LF51) shave really close, maybe not quite as the Andis/Babyliss/Wahl foil shavers, but are a lot more versatile, practical and capable. The closeness is also really good, about as good as you can get without razor burn (which the aforementioned double-foil models can inflict).
Also, in my opinion those numbers don’t tell the whole story. For example, they’re highly dependent on the user’s skin and tolerance for discomfort. S0 in practice the length of the remaining haircan be even less or more than the 0.05mm (for the Wahl Super Close).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Great article! As someone who shaves regularly with a DE razor, lately I’ve been intrigued by electric shavers and am now on the verge of purchasing one mostly for travel (as opposed to using cartridge razors) that way I can just get a quick shave on-the-go (I probably won’t be bringing shaving cream with me, though). That being said, I do have sensitive skin, and since it seems like Braun’s are typically more comfortable to use dry as opposed to Panasonic shavers, I might end up with a Braun (probably a 3040s ProSkin or even a Series 7).
Before I make the decision though, do you have any recommendations for any other shavers within the $50-$120 range? I’ve also seen Manscaped come out with their own travel electric shaver, the Manscaped Handyman, which has really intrigued me due to it’s slim and portable design. A review of this shaver would be really nice since I’m sure plenty of others are also wondering about your thoughts on what you think about the shaver and whether it’s worth the money ($80).
Other than that, thanks for the insightful content!
Hi Patrick,
Thanks so much for the comment.
I haven’t tried the Handyman, so I can’t say anything about it yet. I’ve only used the Manscaped body trimmer and that one was very disappointing.
But I did come across a very similar travel shaver not long ago which I think would be a better choice. It’s a Xiaomi Braun double foil shaver, just like the handyman, but it costs less than half t he price and I’d be surprised if the Handyman performed better. You can read more about it in my post here.
It’s very compact and performs remarkably well for a shaver of this type. So this one would be my budget-friendly recommendation for you. The only issue is that you’ll have to order it from China (AliExpress) so it will take a few weeks probably until it arrives.
You mentioned the Series 7 but that one (the old generation) is almost impossible to find now. In your price range the 3040s would be another good option, more capable than the Xiaomi Braun travel razor, but also larger. Still very travel-friendly in my opinion.
The next shaver with a significant performance upgrade that would still fit within your budget would be the Panasonic Arc 4 ES-LF51-A. It’s one of the closest shaving razors out there. Unfortunately it seems to be out of stock right now, but should make a comeback.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thought I would make contact again as your site is so informative, my 9290 clean station has given up the ghost and cuts out as soon as it tries to start the clean process, so I have spotted a second hand Braun Series 9 PRO SmartCare Centre & PowerCase would these be compatible? or will I need to upgrade the whole model?
Appreciate the help.
Thanks
Hi David,
Unfortunately the S9 PRO station will not be compatible with your shaver. The PowerCase on the other hand will work. You would need an older model of cleaning station, Type 5425, sometimes listed with the following part number: 81481301.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you so much for the reply Ovidiu.
I will see if I can find on of the one you mention.
Never used an electric razor before but was wondering which electric razor would be the best for a Bald head plus to be able to use on your face and neck?
I have a medium beard and shave three times a week.
How long does a razors last before needing to be replaced?
How long does the rechargeable battery last?
Hi Steve,
I would consider a Series 9 or Series 9 PRO if you can get a great deal on one. It is very versatile and one of the more enjoyable and effective shavers out there for both the face and head ( I cut my hair myself and use a shaver to give myself a bald skin fade).
There are a lot of variables when it comes to the lifespan and there are of course unlucky outlier cases. But with proper use and maintenance (cleaning, lubrication, proper storage) you should expect a few good years of use. There are comments from users who got 3, 10 or even 15 years of use from a shaver. There are also some cases in which a shaver failed prematurely. But those are rather rare occurrences with shavers from reputable companies and you can take advantage of the warranty.
Braun in particular has an excellent track record for battery reliability.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I saw Braun series 9 sports+ with a cleaning station and case at Costco for $199. It seem like a good value but don’t know much about the sports+ since I’m new to electric razors.
Your comments, on the series 9 razors were very helpful, but any thoughts on the sports+ or what the differences are?
Hi Steve,
Thank you for the comment. It is indeed very good value.
The Sport+ is basically a Series 9 PRO body with the shaving head of the standard Series 9 so it will basically shave just like a Series 9. Everything I stated about the standard Series 9 will be true in the case of the Sport+. I wrote a few more details here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for your recommendation.
I saw Braun series 9 sports+ That came with a charger/cleaner and a travel bag. On the top of the box it said 9310 cc so my question to you is that a newer model?
And is a $199.00 a good value?
Thank you in advance
Steve
Hi Steve,
The 9310cc Sport is exactly like a regular Series 9 and the deal is very good. It is newer in the sense that it was released later, but it’s still part of the 93xx generation. The SPort+ models (like the 9320cc) appear to have the body of the newer Series 9 PRO as I said in my reply to your original comment above. The newest Series 9 models start with 95xx (the Series 9 PRO+ models).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you.
I apologize for my second reply, I didn’t think the first reply went through.
I appreciate your comments and thoughts on this.
I didn’t think the electric razor market was so complicated.
Thank you again
No problem, glad I could be of help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Eveyone
I recently bought a Braun series 9 and unfortunately spent way too much on it《329 euros) which, of course caused me ro hate the world, BUT the other day I placed the shaver on a high shelf about 7 feet from the ground. At some point, when, of course, I was naked ( the best and worse things happen when you are naked) I reached for the shaver and, being a bit clumsy knocked it off the shelf. It fell straight down and hit the shower floor made of porcelin . That moment the world worse. I cried out in 329 euros worth agony! I didn’t exactly cry out “My baby, my baby!” but almost. Yet guess what? Looked down,– the cassette came off but all was in tact! I snapped on the cassette and turned on the shaver. Good as new! Shaved well then made a sacrifice to the Gods.
Maybe the world isn’t so bad after all
Hi Cristopher,
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment — I’m glad your shaver survived the fall, 7 feet is quite high and the outcome could have been a lot worse.
Oh and the way you told the story was hilarious, made me giggle. :-)
Happy shaving!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
My Philips S9000 shaver recently stopped working and after finding your articles online, you’ve convinced me to switch camps and purchase a Braun 9 Pro Series. First, thank you so much for taking the time to write such in-depth reviews. Second, I wanted to ask you if you have any recommendations where I could buy it from. I’m from Romania, just like you (Salut!) and unfortunately the links you have go to Amazon.UK. I’d like to purchase it preferably from Romania, or somewhere that has a EU plug and offers warranty. I’ve tried emag, but now their listing is pretty overpriced at 380 Euro (1900 RON). I’ve seen through Pricey that in the past they had the same product listed at 280 Euro (1400 RON) and I don’t know if I should wait to find a deal or if the Pricey listing isn’t accurate and I should buy it now.
Thank you in advance!
Hey Alex,
Thanks so much for the comment. I personally buy many of my shavers from abroad because of the lower prices. Braun high-end shavers are terribly overpriced in Romania like you mentioned. Low-end Braun models, Remington and even some Panasonic models are on the other hand reasonably priced. My advice would be to wait for a great deal if you can (maybe during the upcoming Black Friday deals from eMag or other large online retailer) or simply get it from an Amazon shop in Europe if you want the EU plug. The warranty should still be valid in Romania provided you have the proof of purchase and you send the shaver to a Braun authorized service center.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you so much for your reply, Ovidiu! I’ll wait for the upcoming BF deals, and hopefully I’ll be able to find the shaver at a good price, if not, Amazon it is. It’s a pain to go back to regular shaving, but luckily BF is not that far away.
Excellent review.
I began life with an old corded hand-me-down rotary (Norelco/Phillips?). Never liked it. Upgraded to a rechargeable Panasonic foil (purchased in Hong Kong, not available in the US; now discontinued). Loved the pop-up trimmer, but not spectacular performance otherwise. Replaced that one with a rechargeable Remington foil job with a pop-up trimmer. Batteries are now shot; need to find a budget replacement. Remington used to advertise “shaves closer than a blade or your money back.” They dropped that line years ago, I think with the advent of multiple-blade razors. I use a blade in the shower for the best, longest-lasting shaves, and use a foil razor now and then for a quick, dry touch-up when needed. (I know you say not to do that but it works fine for me; light and thin). You don’t comment on Remingtons. Is your experience with them below par?
Hi Gerald,
Thank you so much for the comment and feedback.
My experience with Remington shavers has been underwhelming for the past 10+ years. Their shavers while reasonably priced, just can’t match the other big brands anymore — performance, durability, build quality and so on. There’s one exception and I’ve been mentioning it several times — the Remington F5-5800. It’s a reasonably priced 3-blade foil shaver that shaves really close and works cordless and corded. It does however only perform optimally when used often and it’s not as comfortable as a Braun Series 3 ProSkin or a Panasonic Arc 3.
The pop-up trimmer is also nowhere near as good as the one on any Panasonic shaver. But the shaver overall is better than any Remington I’ve used in recent years.
Remington head shavers are on the other hand quite good, but that’s also somewhat because Panasonic, Braun and Philips are not interested in that segment.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
In fact, the Remington F5-5800 is the one I’ve used the past several years, whose batteries are now shot. They were Ni-Cd or NiMh then; I understand they’re lithium now. I’ve gotten good service out of it, the way I use it. Pleased to hear that you consider it the best of their line; I thought so too. I agree that the pop-up trimmer is not the best, but it has been adequate for the use I make of it.
Panasonic Wes9177Y1361 Electric Shaver Replacement for Men Various Models Es-Lv9Q Es-Lv6Q Es-Cv51 Black. Hello, this is currently available on the German amazon, according to the picture it fits, please confirm that it fits the ES-LV95 model. Thanks.
Hi Miklos,
It will certainly fit the ES-LV95, but please keep in mind that this is only the outer foil, so without the two inner blades which will need to be purchased separately. The set that includes also the blades has the part number WES9036 (sometimes listed as WES9036Y or ES9036).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Finally, a guide that puts the user first! Your hands-on experience with each razor adds a personal touch, making it so much easier for us to find the perfect electric razor. Looking forward to a smooth shaving experience thanks to your thoughtful recommendations!
Thank you for the feedback, Frank, you’re very kind. I’m glad you found the post useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, I read a ton of this article. Wasn’t going to after you claimed the series 9 was the ultimate razor but I trudged on. You did a lot of research and everyone is different. I had the older series 7 and by far was a great razor but maybe in your article you can mention that all the shavings come out on you and the sink when using a Braun so a night before shave or before the shower is best. Lastly soon as I find another razor I am outa the brauin. The 9 I have won’t cut water. Brand new and used over and over. Takes forever, makes a mess and doesn’t cut. My arm gets fatigued using it because it don’t cut good. Junk in my opinion. When I find a new type foil razor this is in the garbage. Not even a year old and still couldn’t even cut water right out of the box
Hi Mark,
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, I appreciate it.
We are indeed different and what works well for me won’t always be right for someone else. I still stand by my statement that the Series 9 is a safe choice for most men and I don’t rely solely on my experience, but on feedback from other users as well. And there are thousand of comments on this site alone and countless user reviews elsewhere from satisfied Series 9 users. Also, many who have switched from the old S7 to the Series 9 thought it was at least as good.
It’s not by any means perfect or the ultimate shaver; it has its pros and cons like any other shaver and I tried to emphasize all of them.
Pretty much all foil shavers will only contain a part of the clipped hairs, so some will end up in the sink and on the clothing. That’s just an intrinsic limitation and I pointed that out in the part where I talk about rotary vs foil shavers.
If you shave often maybe give Panasonic a try. The Arc 5 ES-LV65 can usually be bought for a lot less than a Series 9. It doesn’t have a cleaning station, but you don’t really need it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I am moving to the cordless shaver from the traditional multi-blade hand held shaver. I week ago tried to WET-SHAVE with a new out of the box Panasonic arc3. I was advised by a Panasonic customer service rep that it was just fine to use the same shaving soap I use to razor shave with my foil shaver. It just plugged up with the thick Italian shaving soap and would not dry shave after I thoroughly cleaned it. I am having it replaced with the arc5.
The manufacturers are certainly spending their ad money on product and features with MINIMAL attention to product use and performance. I am taken aback by the neglect by the cordless shaver manufactures on WET-SHAVE product and prep. I appreciate your explanation of WET-SHAVE process. Cream, brush, waiting time (brush in hot water) and waiting time (cream on face) and your info on dry shave prep. I will get back to you on wet shave performance of arc5.
Thanks for sharing,
Larry
Hi Larry,
Thank you for the feedback, much appreciated. Fluffy and thick lather does not work with electric shavers. Instead, a thinner and watery layer will be a lot more effective. I actually stopped using a brush altogether and simply lather the cream between my palms and then apply it to my face. I have a separate topic on that as well if you haven’t already seen it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Panasonic Milano (quiet), poor shave wet and dry, left stubble after 3 tries, hard to clean wet shave, used Lab Series Grooming Electric Shave Lotion.
Return for: Panasonic Eslv67 (quiet), Ok shave wet and dry first 5 shaves hard to clean, then left razor burn on cheeks and neck, tried new cutting head same result after 3 shaves, return.
Bought Braun Series 8 (noisy) Ok shave not as close as razor blade. Third wet shave caused skin cut on chin. Cleaned and tried again and blades jammed. Braun sending new blade head. Not impressed by cordless high product price and less than the excellant product
performance claimed by several.
I have spent 15 minutes preparing my face-beard for a cordless cut. I spend the same amount of time for a Gillette shave and the Gillette cut gives me a smooth, close bloodless shave. Perhaps there is a particular and specific prep for cordless I am missing. Go Oilers
Thanks for the informative post. Have you applied baby powder, a Remington powder stick, or similar powder agent to your skin before using an electric razor? It works great on my sensitive skin. However, I worry that the powder wears down the blades faster than normal and may have other adverse effects on the razor. I’m interested in your thoughts. Thanks.
Hi Justin,
I have and both baby powder and the (now discontinued) Remington/Eltron stick are very effective. But I stopped using them altogether for two reasons. First, they are messy, I think that’s the deal-breaker for me. And second, there is a real possibility that the blades will get blunt faster. I also happened to find a pre-shave lotion that works really well for me (Speick) and at least in Europe it’s easy to find and not too expensive.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Update: always in search of that convenient close shave. During the warmer months always slide back to blade shaving, went to Leaf Twig great shave still for me way too many nicks and cuts. Back to Braun Series 9 Pro, after showering, of all things, using Leaf Pre Shave oil let the oil set up for 3 to 5 minutes, last to weeks boy o boy what a great shave almost BBS. A must try for you Ovidiu. Enjoy the Holidays! Marc
Hi Marc,
Thanks so much for the suggestion — I haven’t tried the shave oil from Leaf. It’s now added to my wishlist and I’ll definitely get it on the next haul.
Happy Holidays to you as well!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
For years I used a rotary shaver. Then about 1.5 years (or so) ago I switched to a Braun 7020S. I liked it up until today when it suddenly died. I just charged it the day before but today, after shaving, it quit. The little red plug light was lit so I figure the battery has died. Seen in the manual I downloaded that the battery could be removed even though it says this is for recycling. So I figured I could take it out, find out the part number, order one and replace it myself. But the removal (one step) proved a lot harder than anticipated. So I called Braun to ask for help and the person I talked to said that because I opened up the razor that automatically voided the warranty if it was still covered, which I don’t know as I can’t find the sales slip. Regardless he said I could send it in to a service facility and they would give me a quote for the repairs. Figuring how much it would cost vs how much I paid for it (it was on sale) and that the battery lasted, at most only like 1.5 years where as the old Phillips/Norelco battery lasted for years I’ve elected not to send it in. I recycle it. I’ve also decided not to buy another Braun as I’m not going to put with such a short life of their battery. That is how I ended up here as I started searching for razor reviews.
From what I’ve read here I guess I’ll just get a Phillips 3500 as I’m not going to waste my money on another foil shaver (even a different brand) that also has a short battery life and have to put up with the same problem in just a couple of years.
Hi Al,
Thank you for the comment. I’m personally not a fan of the new Series 7 mainly because the shaving performance is poor compared to the previous generation. But it should normally last a lot more than one and a half years.
Before buying the 3500, check out the 2500 as well. It basically shaves the same, but it will also work corded. If the price is lower, I would rather get the 2500 instead.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the reply but I didn’t see it until after I had already bought the 3500. It was on sale so I couldn’t pass it up. So far I like the 3500. It’s a lot quieter than the 7 Series. It also does a good job of giving me a close shave but it takes a little longer for me to shave as you have to move it fairly slow. It only took my face about five shaves to get used to it and not have any burn after shaving. My only complaint is the trimmer could be a little better.
No problem — if you also got a good deal on it there’s really no reason to regret you didn’t get the 2500. And I agree, the trimmer could be better.
I’m glad the shaver works great for you.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Dear Ovidiu,
Many thanks for all the info.
What would be your top choice for a discerning teenager with sensitive skin and birthmarks on upper lip? He is just starting to shave, and so far has only used a small nose/ear hair trimmer, but that’s not cutting it anymore…
Many thanks!
Hi,
I think the best (and safest) option would be a Philips OneBlade. I haven’t included one in the list above because I think it works very well only in a few specific use cases. And it should be just right for a teenager that’s just starting shaving and has light to medium facial hair.
It’s very easy to use and has a slim shaving head and because it uses shearing blades with rounded teeth, it’s also very gentle. It won’t cut the hair quite at skin level (as let’s say a foil shaver would), but I think the closeness will be good enough and will minimize the risk of razor burn or bumps.
The OneBlade also works well with longer hairs, so even when used less often (like twice a week) it should still be fine.
I think it will be a great compromise all things considered.
If you’re considering a regular foil shaver which can cut the hair a bit closer I would check out the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s. But again, I think the OneBlade makes more sense here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you so much for the answer!! You are a wonderful resource!!
You are very kind, thank you. Glad I could be of help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
I can’t believe you do so comprehensive comparisons and reviews of so many shavers on your own. That’s insane! Kudos to you and thank you helping me with choosing a new shaver for me :)
Best Regards,
Radek
Radek,
Thank you so much for the comment, you’re very kind. I’m glad you found the site useful and I hope you’ll enjoy your new shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Firstly, fantastic article just what l was after. I have a deep dimple on my chin and was wondering if the Braun 9 Pro+ would be able to manoeuvre and get in there without cutting me? I will be using it for head and face. Note l have just started using a pitbull head 4 disc electric Shaver so very new as using blades, l wasn’t that impressed as broke it after a short period of time. So hoping the Braun will do the trick, however l do like a razor shave for closeness as a habit from paramilitary days of clean cut and also Australian heat, l personally enjoy a close shave, but have sensitive skin on neck so inclined to give the Braun 9 Pro+ a crack. Thanks mate really appreciate your work.
Hi Ken,
Thanks so much for the feedback, really glad you found the post useful.
I think the S9 PRO+ will be fine, the Arc 5 shaves a bit closer but with the sensitive skin on the neck it’s probably best to get the Braun.
A dimple does require a bit more work. I would use the shaver with the head locked in the top fixed position and use mostly the top foil as that one protrudes more. You can pull the skin on your chin a bit to the side with your free hand so that the very center of the cleft would also move and give you better access — hope this makes sense.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
Thank you very much for your comments, recommendations and suggestions. This is one of very few sites that I have found very helpful.
I’m a black male that has been seeking shaving solutions for what feels like a lifetime. I have coarse beard hair that commonly curls when it gets long and have tried what feels like almost everything.
I currently wear a low cut shadow beard, as that tends to work for me, but I would prefer to be clean shaven. I use a Braun Series 9 Pro and Philips Norelco Aquatec to shave my head, but have never used either of these with any regularity on my face.
Any recommendations to obtain a clean shaven face?
Hi Derryck,
Thank you so much for the feedback, you’re very kind.
I think you should definitely give the Series 9 Pro a chance since you already own one. It is one of the better shavers for this type of beard. I recommend using it after trimming your beard in order to have the best chance of a good shave. The 9 Pro works better than most other foil razors on longer stubble, but it would still be preferable to have the hair as short as possible.
A rotary might also work well, but the Aquatec is probably not the best for a very coarse and curly beard. But using it alongside the Series 9 Pro will probably still be useful to get an idea of the direction to follow (rotary or foil).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Brain is now advertising a Pro Comfort Head for their 9 Pro+. Have you tried it yet? Is it worth buying? Is it sold separately or just as part of the 9 Pro+ package?
Hi Bob,
I have tried it and it works surprisingly well. But I’d say it’s worth getting only if you have wiry, flat-lying hairs. It really does help in that case. Otherwise the benefits will be more or less marginal. I wrote more about it in my Series 9 PRO+ review here if you want to check it out.
It’s available both separately or bundled with a few Series 9 PRO+ variations.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Where can you buy it separately?
I got it from Amazon.de. It’s more difficult to buy it separately outside of Europe, it doesn’t seem to be available globally (yet).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
I sent a question December 27 and see later ones answered, so perhaps I did not send it properly. So here it is:
I have been using the Braun Series 9 (I think the 9090) for perhaps 4 years, buying a new cutter screen cassette now and then. Changing the cassette helps, but not much. The last time, I got a Chinese-made cassette that was so bad I returned it. Now I am back to using the old cassette and it still works OK, though with more effort.
The body of the razor is fine, with some wear. The motor seems to do well, but I have nothing to compare it with.
My question: Should I keep the razor and just be sure I buy a German-made cassette this time? Or might buying a new 9 Series make a noticeable difference? I have fairly heavy growth.
I am unsure about the relationship between the foil cutter and the power of the razor motor. I assume both are important.
Best from Texas,
Preston
Hi Preston,
I actually replied to your email, but it must have ended up in your spam or junk folder. I will copy and paste the answer below:
In time there will be some wear on some of the internal linkages/plastic bits. But unless you notice some unusual rattle or strong vibrations, it’s probably still fine. I would stay away completely from knockoffs, they’re really bad and not worth the trouble. If the shaver still holds a decent charge the easiest fix would be buying a genuine cassette. I think you can still hold on to it and maybe keep an eye on the various Series 9 listings and grab one if you find a good deal. The so-called Sport Series 9 is often sold at a great price. A new shaver will be quieter and feel more refined, even a bit stronger if the battery in your current one is on the last stretch.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidi, thanks for amazing reviews. Just a suggestion: why don’t you make and post review videos on your YouTube channel? You can include any affiliate links in the description of the video. This can help many people who are more visual and audio oriented and can generate ethical income for you too. Cheers, Adam
Adam,
Thanks so much for the feedback and suggestion.
Video reviews is something I’ve been wanting to get into for a long while and this year I think I’ll finally have the time to do it. Some reviews/comparisons where there are lots of tables, model names, part numbers for foils and cleaning stations etc. just work better written than spoken. But video content for reviews and some other specific topics definitely seems like a good idea.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have the Panasonic ES-LV65. The manual says that this razor can be used in the shower but also says that hot water should not be used when cleaning it. Does this mean that I can only use the razor in shower if I’m showering with cold or lukewarm water? Would shaving during a hot shower cause damage to the razor?
Hi Jeremiah,
Warm or lukewarm water should be fine to clean the shaver. Hot water/steam can be damaging in the long run. Heat can affect the battery as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for clearing that up for me! I have another question about the Panasonic ES-LV65. After cleaning it, what is the best way to dry it? A cloth? Air drying? Will a towel or cloth cause any damage to the razor?
You are very welcome.
I usually pat it gently with a clean towel and let it air dry overnight with the foil head detached (very important). Using a towel won’t cause any damage as long as you avoid using it on the foils and on the two inner blades. You can gently just pat the foil frame, but never rub the cloth on the foils or on the two cutters — they will get damaged.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Question about my shaving routine – I’ve been shaving with the Panasonic ES-LV65 every day, immediately after taking a hot shower. While in the shower, I’ve been exfoliating my face with Jack Black Face Buff Energizing Scrub.
I’ve been pretty happy with the results, but I’m wanting to get the closest shave possible, and there is always still at least a little stubble left on my face after shaving.
Would adding shaving cream to my routine increase the closeness of my shave? Or would shaving cream simply be redundant to the exfoliating product that I am already using in the shower?
I’d say a shaving cream would be complimentary and you should get a closer shave as well. The scrub is a good addition to the prep routine, but shaving cream is also a key element of a wet shave, even if you’re using an electric shaver and not a razor blade.
I would highly recommend a shaving cream that comes in a tube (Nivea, Speick, Proraso) vs canned foam. I also have an article on this topic here if you’d like to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you again for all of the help! I do have a follow-up question if that’s okay, about how heat will impact the Panasonic ES-LV65.
I tend to take hot showers, so I have not been using the razor in the shower. But if I started storing the razor in the bathroom, would steam from the shower be damaging to the razor even if the razor is not actually getting wet from the hot water? Is it best to store the razor in my bedroom instead of the bathroom so that it is not getting exposed to any steam while I shower?
You are very welcome. It should be perfectly fine to store it in the bathroom — I doubt the steam will be present for a prolonged period or that the temperature will increase to the point where it would affect the battery.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu. If I change the old Braun series 5 razor to the Braun series 9 razor, will I feel a significant improvement in the quality and speed of shaving? I have very sensitive skin.
Hi Marcin,
I’d say yes, there’s a good chance you’ll see an improvement to your shave overall, including how enjoyable it is to use the shaver. I like the old Series 5 and I think it was a great line of shavers, but I would pick the Series 9 over it (not considering the price/budget).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I am prone to ingrown hairs. I have acne scarring and I’m sure this doesn’t help things!
What shaver would you recommend for me? I currently have a Braun Series 9 and a Braun Series 6. I have had ingrown hairs problems with both.
I haven’t tried a rotary shaver in many years, but I do recall getting ingrown hairs on my neck with a rotary as well.
I tried a Philips OneBlade and this improved things, although it is quite expensive as I shave every day and the blades need to be replaced every 3 or 4 weeks.
I’m not sure what to do!
Hi Alex,
From what I understand, using a trimmer that didn’t cut the hair at skin level worked well enough. And you are right, the OneBlade does have a blade that doesn’t last a lot with frequent use. Another option would be a proper beard trimmer like the Braun All-in-One Style Kit or the a Philips Multigroom 7000. The blades on those last a lot longer, especially the Philips. But using a beard trimmer (even without a guard) will leave the stubble a bit longer vs the OneBlade (around 0.4-0.5mm), so I don’t know if that would be a deal-breaker for you.
I’m afraid I am not by any means qualified to provide any other complementary advice. I would highly recommend seeing a dermatologist as there are some very effective treatments (mostly topical) to manage the ingrown hairs problem in addition to using a trimmer that doesn’t cut the hair very close to the skin.
I don’t think a rotary would make much of a difference vs the foil shavers you already have.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I recently switched from WAHL 3615 (which I bought only for check whether eletctric razor works for me) to Braun Series 3010s. However it was downgrade for me. The Braun is less precise and it’s harder to operate due to the size of razor and its number of heads. For example it’s very hard to shave mustache by tripple heads in Braun instead of one in WAHL. Maybe I’m doing something wrong?
Nevertheless discovering your site was a very positive thing for me. Thanks to your articles I found out that I should use spray to clean and protect head. The spray was a huge improvement for shaving by WAHL. The sensations are much more pleasant.
Thank you for the content you’re providing.
Hi Lukasz,
Thank you so much for the comment.
The Wahl is a single-foil shaver, so it is indeed very small and nimble. That said, the Series 3 from Braun is also one of the easier to use out there because it only has 3 shaving elements and basically no surrounding foil frame like the Panasonic Arc 3 for example.
I think it’s definitely something to get used to since the Series 3 is again one of the more manageable shavers in terms of size. A 6-blade Panasonic Arc 6 for example has a giant head in comparison.
You can for example only use the top foil element when shaving the area below the nose and not the entire shaving head.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidui,
Your reviews are really helpful and have helped me decide on the Braun series 9 Pro+.
Just one question and if you know the answer, there are three models with different prices.
9465cc £224
9467cc £259
9477cc £284
They all have the cleaning station and apparently have the side trimmer (I was not sure as you mention this is for the 95xx series)
Are they all the same and perhaps some different extra “gifts” included or are there any performance or feature difference?
Great review page!
Hi Nick,
Thanks so much for the comment.
The shavers you mentioned are in fact part of the Series 9 PRO+ generation, even though generally only the models starting with 95 are PRO+, while the 94 models are from the Pro line. But for some reason, Braun sells the PRO+ in the UK with these 94 model names. Regarding the differences, there are only two things to consider: the color and the accessories.
Specifically, the 9465cc is like a gunmetal grey, while the other two are a lighter silver. As for the accessories, all of them come with the same automatic cleaning station. The 9465cc and 9467cc include a basic travel case, while the 9477cc comes with a PowerCase that has a battery and can charge the shaver. But it is rather large. That’s it, everything else about them is the same. All of them feature a slide out trimmer.
If you don’t care for the PowerCase of the 9477cc (more details in my S9 Pro review), I would get the 9465cc.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Great website, thanks for sharing your research. I had a Panasonic trimmer which had a rather bulky 110 volt rated charging stand. While travelling in Germany where household voltage is 220 volts I forgot to adjust my adapter plug to 110 and burned out the charger. Had to throw it all out. No problem with my Braun gear which all have dual voltage charging. For the non-Braun equipment you review please could you briefly cover the charger voltages. I ask because thanks to your recommendations I am considering the Panasonic Arc 3 ES-LL41-K for travel because of its trimmer capabilities.
Hi Mike,
Thank you so much for the comment. All current chargers (regardless of brand) have automatic voltage adapters built in, so you don’t have to manually adjust it anymore. I also mention it when I review a particular shaver — though I might have forgotten a couple of times.
The ES-LL41-K comes with a RE7-87 charger model that can take between 100 and 240 volts and adjusts automatically.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidui,
Many thanks!
Interestingly Braun are selling the 9477cc at £324.99 which is just £1,- more than the 9465cc but the 9467cc at £539.99 – I can’t see what the difference is besides the colour!
However, whilst the power case looks really good I can only agree with you that it is extremely large and not something I would want to travel with!
So, I will go for the 9465cc and Amazon gets another sale!
I’ll let you know how it goes in the not too distant future.
It would be great if there were more honest reviews like yours for other products :-)
You are very welcome, Nick.
Huge price differences between identical models (minus the color) are not that uncommon with electric shavers. It’s the same with other high-end models like the latest Philips Prestige. Availability/suppliers are some of the reasons behind this. So it makes perfect sense to buy the model with the lowest price.
Thank you for the feedback and I hope you’ll enjoy your 9465cc.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Outstanding synopsis and a great service to guys searching for shaving Nirvana!
I will say, I took something of a leap of faith based on another of your reviews that was contrary to 30+ years of shaving- I switched from Bruan to a new Philps Norelco S9000 Prestige rotary. This shift also flies in the face of your summary here, but offer my observations as a pleased convert.
I have a relatively light beard, but have sensitive skin and prone to bumps on the neck in particular. I was a career Military guy, necessitating daily shaves and used various Bruan foil shavers over the years up to and including a Series 7 that you refer to in the article. With the bumps, I shifted to both straight razors and classic DE wet shaving and while comfortable, it was not convenient.
Enter the search for a new shaver. The search was down to a new Braun 9 Pro or the S9000 Prestige and ordered the maxed-out SP9886/89- but had the 9 Pro saved in the wish list just in case!
I will say that the S9K has been a surprising joy to use. It is stealthy quiet and amazingly comfortable but the tip about gentle pressure is well advised. No discomfort, but a deft touch returns great comfortable results even on the crazy flat neck hairs.
Another surprise is a wet shave with some slick shower soap honest-Abe gives a shave as close as a DE wet shave! I only opt for this after a few days growth but stunned at how close it is. I haven’t tried a traditional wet-shave prep with a hot lather using my favorite Proraso Red pre-shave and cream, but I expect it to be very effective for the S9K Prestige space-ship.
In summary, I can attest to the surprising effectiveness of a rotary that is a bit contrary to your overall suggestions. That may be due to my unique beard, but I would offer the rotary S9K Prestige seems for me an excellent, no compromise offering. I say that actually expecting it to fail and be returned for the Bruan 9 Pro!
Allen,
Thank you so much for the kind words and feedback.
Sometimes when nothing seems to work it’s worth trying something completely different. I’m glad that switching to a rotary worked so well for you. For a very specific combination of skin, beard type and technique, a rotary razor can be a better option.
If you have the time, definitely try the full wet shave prep — it’ll be worth it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
OV,
Thanks again for your fantastic and objective reviews- You are a great asset to men everywhere trying to wade through the marketing nonsense!!
I would humbly offer that for a LOT of average “Joes” the rotary offerings are on a more level playing field that some may suggest. If I had just taken the reviews and opinions in without trying the S9K Prestige, I would have sadly missed out. I still admit, I was 100% ready to return it and jump on the Bruan (or a Panny) if the space-ship sucked but it has been a joy. I have zero affiliation or allegiance to a platform and honestly surprised at how close and comfy the “rotary grinder” is!
I am intentionally skipping a shave tomorrow (Friday) to test-run the rotary with a proper wet-shave prep Saturday AM to take the time to groom as the Gods intended. A hot shower, a pre-shave prep and Proraso Red cream in a scuttle, with hot water and a silver-tip badger brush…
Sadly, I have to think a lot of your followers have never appreciated a proper (classic) wet-shave! I say that, not slighting anyone, but admit that a great pre-shave cream followed by a hot lather to prep (enjoying the fragrance and conditioning) is sublime. It is time consuming, but something most modern men often have lost touch with. I won’t go into the joy of stropping a straight, as it’s beyond the scope of this!
It does almost seem like a waste to use an electric shaver with classic wet-shaving prep, but having loved straights and classic DE razors so I am oddly curious how the combination of classic wet-shaving prep coupled with the speed and convenience of a modern electric shaver works out!
Looking forward to offering a humble review if the community finds it amusing.
Allen
Thanks so much for the follow-up, Allen — those are some great points. I was DE razor guy myself back in the day and I would hoard and try all the different soaps, shave oils and creams. Much better results vs a cartridge razors and canned foam, but an electric shaver + shave cream is unbeatable in my case. The closeness and particularly the comfort are outstanding.
I haven’t used a mug and brush for years since the lather I need to shave with an electric razor can be easily obtained just by rubbing a small dollop of shave cream between my hands and then massaging it into the stubble. For me a pasty, less-fluffy consistency works best.
We’re looking forward to your thoughts on the Prestige after that weekend shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ok, so I cheated…
I shaved this morning using the Norelco “grinder” in the shower a day early but annoying growth that needed attention.
I didn’t take advantage of “proper” wet shaving prep, but did steal a little of my wife’s Dove shower gel with the shaver. Not a usual suspect for prep, but surprisingly effective. The shower gel is a bit thicker than usual soap and was a surprising FANTASTIC substitute.
Took a little time in the shower, but nothing compared to a traditional wet shave. The results were BBS and very surprising!
I realize many will lean toward the foil shavers based on common thought processes. I can say, not based on a purchase since I was prepared to return the Norelco, the rotary is a surprisingly great option!
All I am offering is the prevailing opinions offered in reviews, that a current rotary is something of a compromise for a comfortable and VERY close shave, sells the grinders short. I admit I thought the same but took a chance and both surprised and thrilled with the results.
The grinders may not be right for everyone, but they are better than I thought!
That’s awesome, Allen, I appreciate the feedback. I personally can never combine showering and wet shaving, for some reason I simply must stand in front of my sink and mirror and get fully involved into the whole process.
I don’t know if you’ve tried the Beard Lube from Jack Black, I think you’ll love it and should work better than shower gel. It’s very slick and the consistency is like a thick shower gel. It’s also non-foamy, ideal for an electric shaver, foil or rotary.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great website, thanks for sharing your research.
Thank you for the feedback, Mady, really glad you found the info useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, you are the “go to” source for electric shavers. I wonder if you have heard about a problem that I had with a Braun S9 Sport shaver. For the last year I have used this shaver and loved the closeness of the shave. However every time I used it I seemed to have a physical reaction that I can only describe as “sick to my stomach”. I believe it is due to the high vibration level of the shaver reacting with the nerves in my face. In any case, I returned the shaver where I bought it and went back to my Philips Norelco 9500 shaver. The shave is nearly as close and no physical reaction.
Thanks so much for the comment, Michael.
That is a very unusual reaction and I must admit that it’s the first time I’ve heard of something similar. Foil shavers do vibrate more and are noisy during use, while a rotary is much quieter and composed. I am not in any way qualified to offer an explanation, but I do think it would be best to just use your 9500 from now on.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
If I intend to shave every day or two, I understand the ES-LV65 you mentioned was overkill at the price point, but budget aside, would that be my best bet for a close shave?
Hi Saad,
Yes, it’s one of the best options for a close shave regardless of price point. It would only be overkill if you had a light beard, otherwise I think it’s perfectly suitable for shaving every day or two — in fact, it works best when used that way.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu
I am having problems with my Prestige wireless shaver.
Yesterday there was a terrible grinding noise. The shaver head fell out and I had to put it back with difficulty. Do I need to replace the heads? Also, for a while the charge pad was not charging.
Do I need to replace the whole shaver? I can afford that if I need to.
Thanks
Jay
Hi Jay,
I already replied to your original comment here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I may depend on a region, but you cannot buy the regular Series 9 in Europe anymore. Braun sells only pro and pro+ models here.
It does not make sense to reccomend a shaver, which is not available anymore.
Thank you for the comment, Jiří. The Pro and PRO+ are indeed more prevalent at this moment, but the standard one can still be found in many EU countries. I also mentioned the Pro as an alternative but I will be updating the article to include a few more readily available options.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is fantastic info. So I decided to give the braun series 9 pro a try after using my Panasonic arc5 for about 3 years. I also use a gillette razor occasionally, when the hair growth becomes thick over a week or so.
I was quite skeptical about the comments here as my arc5 was unable to fully get rid off the flat hair on my throat region. But wonder of wonders! I used my braun for the first time yesterday (on a 4 day growth) and after a few passes, not a single hair left, even the ones on my neck!
So first impressions are very good.
The only thing I’m worried about is the cost of the replacement cartridge and cleaning solution.
Hi,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. I also find the Series 9 Pro to be noticeably more effective with flat hairs on the neck vs the Arc 5 or any other Panasonic, including the Arc 6.
The S9/S9 Pro replacement head is generally easier to source and will often cost less than an Arc 5 replacement set. Things were quite different a couple of years ago.
I would also consider a third-party cleaning solution/concentrate as they are a lot more convenient. I have a post on that topic here if you’d like to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for your awesome website! I’ve been using a “Yohoolyo” rotary shaver from Amazon for 2-3 years and it died. Decided to go with the Braun Series 3 Proskin and very impressed with the first shave!
Matthew,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated. Glad you’re happy with your new Braun, it’s a great shaver for the money.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
First time using Panasonic ES-LV97 this morning. Very pleased with razor, not with cleaning station.
Placed solution that came with. Placed razor in cleaning station as directed. Plugged in adaptor into household outlet. Charged lamp came on and charged unit but
Pressed the select button but nothing happen. No lights on clean, dry, clean, low of status. Thanks.
Hi Dean,
Did you mix the detergent with water? The solution it came with is highly concentrated and should be mixed with water (you will find the instructions in the user manual).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I am interested in buying a braun shaver as I have always used the philips rotary and put up with the razor burn on my neck if i wasn’t careful. The series 9 is just not affordable in Australia ($549) so was thinking thee series 3 proskin.
What do you think of the models in between ?
Hi Mick,
If you can get a good deal on a Series 8, I think it’s a substantial upgrade over a Series 3. In fact, you can probably just ignore the other Braun models between the Series 3 and 9, they just don’t offer enough compelling reasons to consider them.
The current Series 7 is just too harsh on the skin while the Series 5 and 6 aren’t significantly better than the Series 3 ProSkin.
In my opinion the Series 8 is the Braun shaver to buy in the mid-range segment.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
> In my opinion, this is what’s fundamentally wrong with all the roundups of the so-called best shavers we see crop up all over the web: they barely account for the user and his needs.
The fundamental problem with the majority of product roundup articles which show up in Google search results is that they aren’t really reviews, as their only purpose is convincing the reader to click on one of their affiliate links, and do not care about giving good buying advice. There are so many “buying guides” which just repeat super obvious things combined with info from the manufacturers’ product listings, and then tell you that every single product they list is the best for some scenario.
Thanks for being one of the last more serious review sites! It wasn’t easy to find (I stumbled upon a link in a reddit comment)..
Johan,
Many thanks for the kind comment — glad you found the article useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Mr. Nicolae
Thank you for the work you did on this website. Your research is terrific. I just bought the Panasonic ES-LV67 for about $150. I have previously used the Braun 360 Complete and the Series 5 5030s. They were good but the shave was not as close as I would like. Seems their cutter blocks declined in quality after PG took over Braun. The shave as not very close, it took a long time to get a good shave and it wasn’t very comfortable. The new ES-LV67 is everything you said it was and I am getting a very close shave though it still takes more than 3 minutes. I am old and I shave everyday. I was ready to go back to a safety razor but will now continue with electric with the ES-LV67. When it is time to replace I will go with the updated foil/blades. Thank you again – you have provided an excellent service.
Thank you for the comment and kind words, much appreciated. I’m glad you found the info useful and you’re enjoying your new Panasonic — it’s one of the very best options for a close shave.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for the in-depth reviews.
I saw series 7 790c was quite promoted as a great shaver but I assume it was not included above due to it not being available now.
Having said that now the series 7pro (7200? 360 degree head) is still available, is this not the same model?
Thank you
Mike
Hi Mike,
Thank you for the comment.
For many years the 790cc was included in my list of picks, it was an excellent mid-range Braun shaver and you couldn’t really go wrong with it. The new Series 7 generation (360 Flex) is in my experience a downgrade in all aspects, so I don’t recommend it. The closest alternative to the old Series 7 is now the Series 8 (any of the 84 or 85 models). Personally, I would get the Series 8 over the Series 7 360 any day.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I was a lifelong Braun user, my last being a 790cc, from 2011 to 2015. I then tried a Panasonic Arc 3 2015 to 2019, and an Arc 5 2019 to 2024. So my consumer pattern parallels yours.
Thank you for the comment, Trevor.
The old Series 7 was a fantastic shaver (and so was the old Series 5, now rebranded as the Series 8). The current S7 360 Flex and S5 are clearly a step back performance-wise, but at least the price is lower (and it should be considering the downgrade).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
a quick question for you. I have a Philips beard trimmer with self-sharpening blades. Should I still oil the blades every 2 weeks? or does it also work with andis cool care spray 5 in 1 which is better?
greetings stephan ;)
Hi Stephan,
You can certainly use the Andis spray on the trimmer as well. It can only be beneficial, even though it is not mentioned in the user manual.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu Thanks for the answer,
where exactly do I have to spray with the Andis 5 in 1 spray? Do you have to completely remove the beard trimmer blade and spray the inside too or just the outside is enough?
greetings stephan
Just the outside would be enough, it should coat the blades, no need to spray the inside.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidu, I last wrote you in June, 2021, shortly after I purchased the Braun Series 9. At that time I was so happy with the Braun that I bought one for my son. About a month after I had it, the chrome cap on the on/off button fell off so I sent it back for repair. Now, three years later, short of 3 weeks, the shaver has stopped working. It runs for a couple of seconds and then stops. If I removed the head assembly, it runs fine so I bought a new head thinking there might be something wrong with the original head, but the new head did not make any difference. I will be returning to the USA in a week and will again send it in for repair, but…
In the meantime, I bought the Panasonic Arc 5 after rereading your reviews of the two shavers. I also wasn’t happy about the $400 price tag on the Braun with cleaning station. For $150 I got the Arc 5. What do I think of it? I love it. I prefer it to the Braun. It is lighter than the Braun, and hopefully more reliable. After dry shaving with it for 3 days and thinking it was a little closer than the Braun, this morning I tried wet shaving with it, and the results are remarkable. I used to think the Braun was a close shave. Now I know what a close shave is.
John,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share this. I’m sorry about the trouble you’ve had with the Series 9. The Arc 5 is outstanding with shaving cream, and the closeness is just something else. I’m glad you you like it and I hope it’ll serve you well for years to come.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu: I have a question that is more of a general question as opposed to a question relating to a specific shaver so I’m asking it here since there doesn’t seem to be a “general shaving” thread.
Both the Braun and the Philips shavers have models that allow the shaver to alter the intensity of the cutting movement of the blades. In a YT channel the presenter made the comment that setting the intensity to its top setting would provide a closer shave. How so? I can understand that increasing the intensity would be helpful for a thick beard. I can also appreciate that it would likely lessen the shaving time thereby decreasing the chance of razor burn or irritation but I’m at a loss as to how this can bring about a “closer” shave. Could you enlighten me on this? thanks.
Hi Wayne,
That is an excellent observation.
A potentially closer shave is not a direct consequence of the increase in power/rotations per minute. I think we can make a case that during the same timeframe (let’s say 5 minutes) one could get a closer shave with a razor in the highest power mode vs the same razor in the lowest setting. But that’s simply because there will be literally more cutting actions, the blade will go over a hair more times, hence a greater probability of cutting it closer to the skin. And then there are the other related pros of a more powerful shaver like the ones you’ve mentioned. A cumulative, synergistical effect of a more effective, enjoyable and comfortable shave that even allows the user to exert a bit more pressure can ultimately help achieve a closer shave.
But again, as you’ve correctly stated, it’s not a direct effect of the increased power.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Again, I’m taken with your thoughtful response. I suppose it’s unnecessary to respond to each of your replies but I do it for two reasons: 1) to indicate that I’ve read your response and appreciate it and… 2) to either ask further questions or in this case, to say that I actually learned something new, which I did.
You always make me think. :-)
Wayne, you’re too kind — thank you. Always a pleasure and I continue to learn new things as well — the interactions I’ve had over the years with other shaving enthusiasts are incredibly helpful and I’m very fond of the comments sections of this site. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Will Braun EVER launch a successor to the Series 9?! It’s 2024 and they still only have two foils on their top-end shaver…
Hi James,
We can only assume at this point in time, but I think it will eventually happen. No one can tell when, I’m afraid.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
couple of things you might be keen to know – the Braun parts replacement webpage has 96XX parts codes mentioned, although it seems like the ‘new’ Braun series 9s will be physically identical to the 95XX ones, but Manscaped have launched a new foil shaver with Tony Hawk fronting the ads which you might want to review!
Hi James,
Thank you for the comment.
The 96XX Series 9 models are essentially the 95XX (PRO+) sold on several Asian markets (like mainland China). So it’s not a new Series 9, just a market-specific moniker. I will definitely buy and test the new Manscaped shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Well….have you seen the ‘new’ Series 9 Pro+… it is very exciting!
Hey James,
I have but unfortunately I can’t find it anywhere, so it’ll be a while until I’m finally able to buy one.
I am really surprised that Braun went with the same name (Series 9 PRO+), not even an Ultra added at the end.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I own Braun Series 9 9370cc. It’s absolutely great shaver. It isn’t cheap, but certainly worth it’s price.
Thank you for the comment — glad you’re enjoying your Series 9.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
The Braun 9 Pro + looks to have a cassette similar to the original series 7 in that there seems to be more Stainless steel; Is this observation true? Also how would you compare it to the older and great series 7 which I and so many love very much? Not the newer lower quality series 7 mind you.
Hi William,
Thank you for the comment.
Your observation is correct, the Series 9/9 Pro cassette uses more steel vs the new Series 7 cassette that has plastic instead (toward the end of the foils). The same is true for the Series 8 cassette which looks almost identical to the old (discontinued) Series 7 and also uses 3 foil elements. Here is a side by side photo I took a while back.
I think the shaving performance of the Series 9 and its variations is quite similar to the old Series 7, with the 9 feeling a bit more powerful and more effective on longer and flat-lying hairs. For more frequent use the differences are even less noticeable which again shows how great the old Series 7 was.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I’ve had myPanasonic ES-LV9Q 5-head shaver for about 2 years. I shave daily for 5 to 6 minutes, charge it twice a week and clean it once a week in the charge/clean station. I also use Andis Cool Care Plus every second day.
Now, here’s the problem. Although I replace the Panasonic WES 4L03 cleaning fluid as soon as the station LOW light turns on, the cleaning process leaves a very unpleasant odour on the shaver head not too long after having replaced the fluid and cleaned the station.
Any idea what causes this and is there a way to fix it?
Thanks for any advice you can give me.
Hi Ron,
Two questions: When you change the fluid, do you also wash the tray and the filter? And most importantly, do you ever cover the shaving head with the protective cap?
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Yes, I wash both and also cover the shaving head with the cap when not in use. I also forgot to mention that I brush the shaving head after every shave.
I think the cap is the culprit. It should only be used occasionally and for a short period, for example when traveling and the shaver is inside your luggage. Otherwise you should leave the shaving head uncovered so that any remaining moisture will evaporate.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Many thanks, Ovidiu. I shall heed your advice and get back to you in a couple of months.
Ovidiu, you’re a genius! I did as you said and no longer suffer the unpleasant odour I was experiencing.
Thanks a million,
Ron
Thank you for the follow-up, Ron. That’s awesome, I’m glad it got sorted out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Love the detailed guide! I recently went clean-shaven from a full beard and I’ve been using my cheap old norelco. It’s a pretty bad shave and the blades are noticeably dulled, so I’m in the market for a new electric razor before I tear my face to shreds.
Based on your guide and other advice I’ve read, I’m leaning towards a Braun foil razor. However, I’m a bit confused by something. Both of your top razors (the series 9 and the arc 5) list “overkill for light beards” as a con. Unless I’m misunderstanding, isn’t the point of an electric razor to only be used on daily stubble to light growth? Or does “light” refer to the consistency of the beard hair here? $200+ seems like a lot to spend on a shaver, but I have some pretty coarse and stubborn growth on the daily so I’m willing to shell out if it means I can finally clean up my face. I just don’t want to be overpaying for something that isn’t necessary!
My other question is, you list clipper spray as a good way to keep foils clean and lubricated. However, you also list the spray as something that should be used in addition to regular cleaning. If I’m already cleaning and lubricating their shaver with soap and oil, why is the spray necessary at all? And if I use a cleaning station, would you still recommend adding the spray into the mix?
Thank you again for your extensive advice!
Thank you for the comment, Alec.
By light beard I always refer to the density and coarseness of the hair, not the length of it. All electric shavers should only be used on short facial hair. That usually means shaving every single day up to every few days (more advanced shavers like the Braun Series 9 can handle longer stubble quite well).
If you plan on shaving more often, I think you should get the Arc 5 as it’s quite an impressive shaver if you have a coarse beard.
If you clean and lubricate the shaver with oil, a spray is not necessary. However, I do find sprays a bit more effective than oils, so I think it would still be beneficial to spray the blades and foils occasionally.
Using the cleaning station regularly means you don’t have to bother at all with oil or sprays as the cleaning solution will provide enough lubrication.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have a Chronic illness which means I get tired quickly, so I’m looking for something that shaves really fast so I’m standing up for less time, plus can handle really long hair for times I’ve been too tired to shave regularly.
I think my hair is medium thickness. And grows in different directions on the neck.
I currently use a Braun series 3 with the basic series 3 replacement head (because I bought the wrong one).
I normally shave once or twice a week, but sometimes less when I’m more tired. Often I use the side burn trimmer all over to make it short enough to shave normally.
It is fine on the cheeks, but I do have to go over a few times in multiple directions on the neck to catch those hairs in different directions, plus to manage contours of the neck. I don’t get any irritation on the cheek, but sometimes it leaves a small rash on the neck, especially if I shave more frequently. That makes me not enjoy shaving often because it gets uncomfortable there if I do.
So after research, the Braun series 9 looks great for times when it’s really long. But I still wonder if it will cope with the neck better than a Phillips 8 or 9.
The Phillips prestige looks pointlessly expensive for me.
The Philips looks good for the neck. I hear they’re not as good for sensitive skin but surely if it catches the hairs well on the neck I won’t have to spend much time there? I wonder though how it will cope with times I may not even shave for over a week… is the side burn trimmer good enough to do a once over before shaving normally? I guess I could still use my Braun series 3 side burn trimmer for that…
Anyway. Which do you think is best considering these factors?
Thanks and much appreciated.
Hi Michael,
I think the Series 8 or the 9 if they fit within your budget will be noticeably better than your Series 3 especially with regards to their effectiveness on longer hair.
That said, I would still not recommend using any shaver on a beard that’s been growing for more than one week as it will take a long time to complete the shave and some hairs will get snagged.
The Series 8 and 9 have a similar trimmer to your Series 3, so it’s not the best to pre-trim an entire beard. But if you managed to do it with your Series 3, it should be fine. Ideally you would have a dedicated beard trimmer as well, so if that’s something you would consider, there are a few inexpensive options out there like the Philips Multigroom 7000.
The Prestige is a rotary shaver and given your illness I’m not entirely comfortable recommending it if you’ve never used a rotary before. The technique does take some getting used to.
Getting back to the Series 8 and 9, you could get the so-called solo variations that don’t include the cleaning station and generally cost less. For example, the Series 8 8517s or the Series 9 9330s. The station while it is useful, adds yet another layer of complexity (you must set it up, insert and change the cartridge regularly etc), so you may be better off without it.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, thanks so much for the reply,
I said in my last comment that the Braun 3 is fine on the cheeks. Well it doesn’t miss any, but when the hair is long it could indeed be faster. So I’d imagine a Braun 9 would be a nice and enjoyable upgrade, but whether it’s better than a philips I don’t know.
I actually found the side burn trimmer really effective to go all over before shaving.
I don’t mind spending the time to get used to a rotary if it would be best.
These are some questions in my mind if you wouldn’t mind answering:
-The main thing I’m looking for is speed to save my energy. Knowing my previous comment, if you were to take a punt, which do you think would be fastest for me between Braun 9 and Philips 8000/9000 (assuming I had gotten used to a rotary)?
-How much better on the neck is Braun S9 Pro vs the Braun S3? Both on gentleness and cutting. Does the bigger head of S9 have an effect good or bad?
-I’ve been fine without a cleaning station for Braun 3 and not felt any need for one. Although I do always dry shave. But let’s say I tried a pre shave lotion like you’ve recommended to others, would that make it need a cleaning station after a while? Or, does the different style head of the Braun 9 generally need it more?
-Do you think it’s a good idea to buy an entry level Philips before I decide on which premium option to get? I am curious to see how a rotary would be, esp to see if it’s more comfortable on the neck. Also especially if there’s only minor differences in speed between Braun and Philips.
-Or maybe just a lotion will do for if some day I decide to shave often?
Here some prices of what’s available in the UK right now. So really, only the Braun 9 pro/pro+, or the Philips 8/9000 seem worthy premium options.
Braun series 8
-8567cc £209.99
Braun series 9
-9340s £249.00
Braun series 9 pro
-9417s £229.99
-9467cc £254.99
-9465cc £259.99
Braun series 9 pro+
-9519s £239.99
Philips Series 3000 £59.99 (same price as my current Braun)
Philips Series 5000 £80.31
Philips Series 8000 S8696/35 (no cleaning station) £199.00
Philips Series 9000 S9987/59 (with cleaning station) £219.99
I’ve asked a lot so I don’t expect or take for granted a detailed reply but I appreciate any time taken,
Michael
You are very welcome, Michael.
Regarding your questions:
1. Since you’ve never used a rotary before, it could go either way. The safest option would be to get a Series 8 or 9. For example, I can shave a lot faster with a foil shaver vs any rotary, including the latest Prestige. For some men it’s the other way around, but again, the majority will feel more comfortable shaving with a foil razor.
2. In my case the Series 9 is a lot more effective and faster than a Series 3. Different users will have different experiences, so the improvements can vary. The Series 9 has a larger head (4 blades vs 3 plus a foil frame), but I still find it quite manageable. The Series 8 is nimbler though and the transition from the Series 3 will be smoother.
3. The pre-shave lotion will not have any impact on the need for a cleaning station. I usually recommend one with the Series 9 because the models that include it cost almost the same as the ones that don’t. The head of the Series 9 is more intricate than the Series 3, but if you clean it after every shave it shouldn’t be a problem.
4. You could get an entry-level Series 3000 (which is in my experience as gentle as the Series 8000/9000, although not as powerful or effective). But nevertheless, it should give you an idea whether a rotary is right for you. In some countries Philips even offers a money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with the shaver, so you may be able to take advantage of that as well.
The difference in motor speed is massive between a foil and a rotary (foil shavers have much faster motors), but that doesn’t really reflect the actual performance of the shavers when cutting the hairs. It’s a bit like comparing apples to oranges.
As a side note, the Philips Series 8000 and 9000 shave exactly the same and use the same heads.
The 9417s seems to be the Series 9 to buy considering all the prices. But as I mentioned above, the Series 8 just might be better with its smaller head. The Series 9 is a bit better with longer/flat-lying hairs, but given your medical condition, the Series 8 is probably the better compromise (easier to use).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu for all the help.
When decision time came I picked the Philips series 8000 because I wanted to try it plus I found one with a good discount. But if it doesn’t work out then I know where to go! There is a love it or 100 day money back offer from both Braun and Philips. It excludes the entry level shavers though so people will have to double check which ones apply. Also it’s worth looking at the T&C’s because for example, Braun only allow one refund per household.
After reading your other articles I’ve also picked up some clipper oil and pre shave lotion.
Cheers.
Oh and as a random question and thought: do you shave before or after a shower? I’ve always done it before. I guess that makes any nice scent from a pre shave lotion a bit pointless, that’s why I bought a cheap one haha. Also, if you shave after shower, do you get some conflicting scents from both the lotion and any post shave balm?
Hi Michael,
You are very welcome. It’s great that you have the money-back guarantee with both Braun and Philips.
I usually shave before I shower whenever I shave dry. I also rinse my face after the shave with cold water, so the pre-shave scent is pretty much gone anyway. But even if the scent still lingers, I never felt it clashed with my post-shave balms. I do enjoy how all of them smell, so I guess it’s unlikely that the combination would be off-putting.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great review as always!
Can we expect a beard trimmer specific review, looking at models such as the Philips BT9000 and the Braun BT9420?
I’m in need of a beard trimmer and there is surprisingly little information out there on these models and the other more budget-friendly versions.
Shavercheck seems to be the only reputable reviewer on men’s grooming so that would be greatly appreciated.
Love your work!
James,
You are too kind, thanks so much for the comment.
I’m afraid there won’t be a beard trimmer specific review anytime soon. I always test everything extensively before posting a review and growing a beard is just not for me. My face itches terribly and I also don’t think it’s a flattering look for my particular facial features. So a clean shave is the only option for me.
Testing a beard trimmer on a 5-day beard (the most I can do without shaving) just wouldn’t be good enough for a thorough and useful review. It’s the reason why I’ve reviewed only multipurpose body/body+face trimmers.
Thank you again for your support, much appreciated.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the swift reply.
I’m in a similar boat where if i don’t shave for more than 5 days the itch gets unbearable and my faces gets a nasty rash.
An electric shaver doesn’t get as close as I’d like if I’m going for the clean shaven look, but wet shaving is a bit of a hassle to do every 1-2 days. A beard trimmer seemed a nice in-between solution where I could main a casual 2-3 day stubble look (which is a look I like), but also prevent it from growing too long where the itch/rash begins. Also then keeps it nice and trim to make for an easy wet shave when I’m going out and need to look more presentable.
Regardless, I appreciate your other wonderful guides and one of them even helped me select my body groomer (Philips BG7000). As I mentioned earlier, you are a real help in an industry where 99% of the reviews are fake advertisements or just ill-informed.
Many thanks,
James
You are very welcome and again I truly appreciate the support and feedback.
The 2-day stubble looks sounds like a great compromise. Again I’m afraid I can’t recommend a dedicated beard trimmer from my own experience.
If you ever decide to give electric shavers a try (for the clean shaven look), the Panasonic Arc 5 is my opinion just unbeatable for its performance/closeness at that price point. Many users are really happy with the closeness and with a good shaving cream it really can get as close as blade. But even a dry shave should be good enough (especially with a pre-shave).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
As long as I shave I have always used Philips (I’m from Europe) rotary shavers. However I am both unsatistfied with the results I get with my 7000 series (I wonder if this might be because this only has 1 “ring” on the shaving heads) as with the comfort on my skin. Besides that I have always wondered if perhaps I would get less “skin trouble” with a foil shaver.
The thing that always holds me back is the idea that the foils can break, never had that with the shaving heads of my Philips shavers (only replce them regularly to get sharper knifes). Do the foils often break, and what happens to your face when they do? Can you still use it while waiting for a replacement head?
Considdering a Braun 9 Pro+ shaver (non-pro’s are hard to get and I am worried about the battery life on those since the shavers have been shelved for several years then). I see a lot of negative reviews with the replacement foils though, on the Dutch Braun website.
Hi Thomas,
Normally foils shouldn’t rupture. The performance will drop significantly long before they get to that point. If it does happen, you should not use the shaver anymore as it will cause serious injuries.
That said, with foil shavers from reputable brands like Braun or Panasonic this isn’t really a concern. The main issue here is whether a foil shaver will work well for you. But I think it’s worth trying one. I usually recommend the non-Pro Series 9 since it costs less, but if it’s not available, you can of course get the Pro or PRO+.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidia,
Thanks for the good and reassuring info. I guess then that the indicator on the shaver will already have warned me to replace the cassette, before it can go wrong with the foil. Also got some (Panasonic) clipper oil right away (neglected my Phlips on that part, although those seem quite forgiving in that area)
I already got the shaver (9510s, for € 244) as there were 2 interesting promo’s still going on at that moment both ending on 1 July: cashback (when requesting before 15 jul.) or complete refund within 90 days (if not satistfied).
Yesterday I saw that the refund promo has been extended till July next year, the cashback promo really seems to have ended (for the moment).
Had my first shave with it yesterday (Monday) and my first impressions were very good: felt better on my skin and was able to shave my beard from last Friday. I hope I can still improve the closness of the shave in my neck (with technique?) as that was less than I’m used from my Philips.
Hope I will be/remain convinced in the next 2 weeks in which case I can request a € 50 cashback (otherwise I want to keep the option for the complete refund).
You are very welcome, Thomas. The cassette notification is essentially a timer, so it’s not the most reliable in the sense that it cannot assess the actual state of the cassette. Some users even continue with the same cassette after that if it still shaves well. The Panasonic oil will work just fine.
Being only your first shave with the S9 PRO+, I think there’s definitely room for improvement. I would also try a pre-shave like the one from Speick.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I finally get to try my 98-series heads on a Prestige Shaver Power Head. I just picked one up off Ebay for $58 American. Just the power head nothing else. I’ve got extra storage cases, and charging cords, so I don’t need them. I may eventually try a set of the SH-91 heads to see how they compare to the SH-98’s which are my favorite.
Hi Clayton,
I think that’s a great deal. To me the SH98 and SH91 seem very similar in every aspect, so even if you won’t be able to buy SH98s anymore, the SH91 is a great fallback option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Excellent and very detailed review!
I need to choose a gift for teenager (17) with sensitive skin, and my options (after carefully studying your review) are Braun 3040s vs. 9330s (Series 8 is priced today very similar to Series 9, so it is excluded).
Questions:
– How the rotation speed is compared? Is 9330 going much hotter than 3040?
– Is Series 9 really much better for sensitive skin?
– Other considerations (except the price) ?
Thank you in advance
and additional question – what is “Braun Series 9 Sport +” (on Costco)?
Is it the same as 9370cc ?
Thank you
Sol
Hi Sol,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
The Series 9 has a noticeably more powerful motor (10 000 RPM vs ~8000 RPM) and also feels torquier. If by hotter you’re referring to the outer foil, it remains cool in both cases. Shaving with the Series 9 is faster and more enjoyable, especially if the beard is on the coarser side. For a teenager with light to medium facial hair the 3040s should be good enough.
Just one thing to consider, he may need to pre-trim the beard before using (any) shaver because long, fine hair (peach fuzz) is pretty difficult to be captured effectively by the foils. After the first shave it should be a lot easier as the stubble will be shorter and stump-shaped, so the shaver will catch it. The 3040s and the Series 9 have integrated trimmers that should just be good enough for that (again if the hair isn’t very dense and coarse).
The Series 9 Sport + is essentially the same as the 9370cc.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, thank you very much! Sol
Thank you so much for your thorough reviews. I was thinking after 5 years maybe I need to replace my Braun Series 7. Saw NYT review praising Series 8 but after your review decided maybe a basic 9 would be the best choice. Of course I want the graphite color (9385) but it’s almost $100 more compared to silver color at Amazon. But WAIT, reading on I learned from you that I should be rinsing my shaver with soap since I use a creamy type wet shave (Harry’s) and have been placing shaver in cleaning unit after a brief rinse only. I’ve also been using clean cycle every time I shave (every other day) now I can save a little on cartridges . So at the moment I’ll wait to upgrade hoping for a price break. My 7 gives a pretty close shave and I just learned that I need to go a little slower when gliding unit around my face and neck. I think I was going too fast as now my shaves are much closer with fewer passes.
Barry,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
I like the Graphite variant as well, but I personally wouldn’t pay the price difference vs the silver one. I would wait for a very good deal, especially since your Series 7 still works well.
Regarding the cleaning part, my suggestion was to use water and soap to clean the shaver after a wet shave if you don’t have a cleaning station. Just rinsing the foam with water and patting the shaver dry with a towel should be good enough before placing it in the station for a thorough automatic cleaning.
Moving the shaving head slower on the skin is a great and effective tweak to your technique as it gives the shaver enough time to cut more hairs in one stroke.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, awesome guide really.
I am in Europe and looking for a new shaver. The Series 9 sounds perfect for me when reading through this because im battleling a lot with ingrown hairs and sensitive skin. But now i go look in a local store i only see the Pro model and i see the digits now are different and for the pro its called 9575cc and 9565cc and similar. What would the corresponding updated model be called in the Series 9 non pro edition? And what is the main differences from the ones mentioned in this guide?
Thanks a lot! :-)
Hi Mathias,
Thanks so much for the comment.
The models that start with 95 are actually the PRO+ series. The S9 Pro starts with 94 while the standard Series 9 (non-Pro) starts with 93. So I would try to find a 93 model, maybe look for an online store that sells it if you can’t find it locally. All non-Pro (93 models) shave exactly the same.
If the PRO+ is the only model you can find, you can eventually get one as well; as I mentioned in the article, the differences aren’t in any way significant, but the non-Pro Series 9 feels a bit gentler.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank You for your in depth coverage of the ins and outs of electric shaving. I’ve been a rotary shaving user for 50 years or better, mostly Norelco mid and top line models when they were all manufactured in Holland. I recently got interested in trying a low to mid level foil shaver and my question is while I continue to evaluate different shavers both rotary and foil, will I be okay switching back and forth between the two types, perhaps on a daily basis. I don’t consider my skin particularly sensitive but have noticed a bit more sensitivity lately just switching rotary shavers several times a week. Thanks again. Tony
Hi Tony,
Thank you so much for the kind comment.
It should be perfectly fine switching between the two. The problem arises when alternating between a razor blade and an electric shaver and that’s not the case here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
I would like to buy a Braun 9560cc, do you think its a good one among all these Braun 9cc? And Bruan better , this modell than Philips?
Sincerely
Dino
Hi again Ovidiu,
(My first comments above were from about a month ago.)
I just wanted to ask about the best technique with a rotary. I’ve been using the Philips series 8000 for almost 3 weeks now (after never using a rotary before). It was a lot harder to get used to than I was expecting, I thought it was going to be pretty easy. But I still have some learning to do.
The Philips app advise shaving for only 3 minutes or less. I don’t know if I’ll ever get that fast because my skin seems too sensitive for that. I’m currently taking 6 or 7 minutes and shaving every other day.
I wanted to ask, with a rotary do you still have to go against the grain in order to cut like you do with foil? Consequently, is it better to use back and forth motions (instead of circular) wherever the hairs are mostly the same direction?
How long does it take you to shave with various different shavers?
Thanks!
Hi Michael,
Three minutes is an unrealistic benchmark for the majority of men. Unless the beard is very light, most of us will never be able to get a clean, close and comfortable shave in 3 minutes regardless of the shaver.
In my case it takes me almost 5 minutes with a very capable foil shaver (like the Braun Series 9 or 9 Pro) and an extra couple of minutes more with a rotary for a perfectly smooth result. I could probably shave off a minute or two, but it would mean an increased risk of hairs getting yanked or even some nicks and razor burn. And I also want to enjoy the process, so I’m perfectly fine with completing my shave in 5 to 7 minutes.
I am more confident and handy with a foil shavers which work a lot better for my skin, hair and technique. With a rotary I have to spend more time shaving, especially on the moustache area and chin.
The Philips app might lead you to believe that you should always use circular motions when you should in fact vary the stroke where it makes sense doing so. And you provided a perfect example — a small area where the hairs grow in the same direction. For example, I use mostly straight, up and down strokes below my sideburns as that’s just the most effective way of shaving that particular area with a rotary.
With rotaries, circular motions have the best chance of capturing as many hairs as possible, especially on larger areas where they also grow in different directions. So most of the time you’d use that, adjusting of course the direction and radius of the circle/ellipsis so that you tackle most of the hairs against the grain. You do these overlapping circles (and a few straight strokes if needed) until the area is smooth and free of stubble.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
I love my trusty old Series 8 but the replacement heads are becoming difficult to find. I recently ordered one from the same link I used previously and this time I got a fake head that looked real at first but upon further inspection was totally fake. It hurt too. Anyway, the only for sure legit one is $60.00!
Do you have any suggestions in this regard?
Thanks
Hi Ken,
Sorry to hear it — non-OEM shaving heads are generally bad and I never recommend them regardless of the shaver brand.
My suggestion would be to wait a bit and be on a lookout for a deal/price cut. Normally you should be able to get one for less than that. Supply chain shortages and a limited number of suppliers often cause online prices to go up.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
How come you don’t review some top/best foil shavers available, primarily ones by Stylecraft & Babyliss. Great foil shavers that have not even had a mere mention on here but receive endless praise & love from most include
1) Babyliss Fx3 foil shaver
2) Babyliss fx1 stick shaver (newly released, many a critic’s fav)
3) Stylecraft Rebel
4) Stylecraft Instinct(newly released, supposedly revolutionary, has topped every critic list as being immensely impressive)
5) Gamma Boosted foil razor (waterproof)
6) Stylecraft flex shaver (interesting)
7) Babyliss UV double foil shaver
Any of these make the cut?
Hi,
Thank you for the comment.
I did review the FoilFX02 from BaByliss and found it really good, but just like all the shavers of this type — meaning double foil with staggered shaving elements — it had some serious limitations that prevent me from recommending them as the main, versatile shaver that would work well for most users in a variety of scenarios.
The FX1 is a single-foil shaver which again only makes it suitable for shaving very short stubble that grows relatively straight. It’ll also take a long time to complete the shave if someone has a coarse, heavy beard.
The Stylecraft models you mentioned are clippers, not shavers, so completely different use cases.
I am yet to try the Gamma Boosted razor, but I do suspect it will work extremely similar to the likes of the FoilFX02, the Andis ProFoil or any foil razor from Wahl. So it will also have pretty much the same limitations. These work great as finishing tools, ideal for blending fades or cleaning up the neck/cheeks close to the beard line.
But for every day use they just won’t work well enough for most users. The performance on longer, flat-lying facial hair is quite poor and the foils are very thin and wear out fast. Also, most of these shavers aren’t waterproof and don’t have a side trimmer which again means they’re a lot less practical.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for responding Ovidiu Nicolae, I find you and your webpage to be a wealth of knowledge.
What I have learned from further research & viewing a lot more professional Barber videos etc since my original comment is the following
1) Many foil shavers will not do much for shaving the face if your stubble or facial hair is not already short, i.e if you have over 2-3 days worth of growth they wont really do much
2) This is one of the reasons the Braun series(in particular the flagship series 9) is so well venerated, as it has been designed specifically to pick up on those aforementioned long hairs
3) A lot of the shavers I listed above are excellent in terms of closeness, however in terms of being gentle to the skin, they can be hit or miss.
Another reason why the Braun is so well respected & actually costs so much because it is perfect for sensitive skin.
Oh & the Stylecraft models I mentioned Are indeed in fact foil shavers….its confusing because when they release a certain model…they release a Clipper/SHaver/trimmer all with the same name…but if you search for example Stylecraft Rebel foil shaver you should hopefully see what I mean.
I have since learned that a better approach would be to use a top class trimmer, there are so many new ones at the moment however some classics include Andis slimline pro, wahl detailer, babyliss pro skeleton trimmer to remove the bulk from the face
**Have you ever thought about doing a section for trimmers? In all the great detail you have for the foil shavers would be excellent. Just my humble opinion ofc.
Then introduce the foil shaver to the face, however as mentioned so many of them cut really close but can be a risk for sensitive skin, however I did watch a recent video featuring a black barber who shared his experience & advice which was basically to remove bulk with the wahl detailer & then utilize the foil shaver…the one he recommended was the fx02. The reason I even mention this is that he specially mentioned how in his experience many black men struggle with the use of foil shavers due to them causing razor bumps & ingrown hairs an issue which is notoriously difficult for them.
The waterproof issue is a totally valid one.
I will do a little more research, however I may just end up with the Braun series 9 based off your recommendation, as mentioned you have been an enormous help to me.
Thanks so much for the follow-up and the great insights.
You are absolutely correct, most foil shavers only fare well with short stubble and in most cases that means 2 to 3 days worth of growth. Men with lighter/slow growing facial hair can get away with more days between shaves and still get a satisfactory result.
The Series 9 and even the 8 are in my experience the most capable foil shavers currently that can deal longer stubble successfully and without any major compromises (for example to the closeness of the shave).
You are also right about the shavers you mentioned giving a very close shave but tend to be very aggressive. These traits make them ideal for cleanups (top of the cheeks, the neck close to the beard line, skin fades) and barbers love them as they get very close to the skin and are very nimble with only one or two foil elements.
The Stylecraft Rebel foil shaver seems to have the exact DNA and the same strengths/cons. I’ve never used one though, but I would be surprised if it would much different than an Andis ProFoil or the FX02.
Speaking of the later, it is my favorite shaver of this type mainly because it somehow manages to be less harsh than most other single/double-foil, close-shaving razors. But the ideal use case for it is still as a finishing tool rather than your main, versatile shaver.
I thought about reviewing beard trimmers as well, but I gave up on that idea because my experience just won’t be relevant. And that’s because I always have to shave often as my face would get extremely itchy and irritated if I don’t shave for three days. And I always test a shaver thoroughly for months before writing a review so I can get a good idea of what it’s like to live with it. Doing so with a beard trimmer would mean letting my beard grow for weeks and I just don’t see myself able to do that. It’s the reason why I only reviewed multi-purpose head/body/beard trimmers like the Philips Multigroom 9000.
But I agree 100% that using a beard trimmer before shaving is the right way to proceed if you haven’t shaved in a long time. It’s a must in fact because using any shaver on a full beard will be a terrible, painful experience.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, Your response was very interesting and informative.
Basically, I am indeed reading what you have stated correctly. You primarily focus on products that are marketed primarily for at-home use.
1)What you have found doing this by way of your many methods of experience is just how perfectly suited the Braun series 9 and even 8 (specific models) appear to cover all the required facets needed to fulfil this experience fully.
2)The Braun series 9 and even series 8, which, from your very own personal and your very carefully recorded experience (primarily the very best or the flagship models), may be the most expensive on the market. Which Are in fact worth the cost as they are very well-made, very well-built machines made to last.
3)Because of the way they are made, they are German, well-constructed machines that are made to last.
4)Waterproof and able to rinse in the Sink, which in the realm of hygiene is a very important factor for all potential machines designed for consistent, long-term, regular usage at home.
5)You have found in your own experiences that the Braun 9 is able to cut hair from a long standpoint, i.e., longer than the traditional day 2-3 length, which typically restricts the use of many if not all of these other products.
6)You have found the Panasonic Arc to cut closer, but it does not have the optimal functions provided by the Braun, which is a lot more optimal for sensitive skin.
I actually paid a visit recently to a barber since we last communicated, one that I had already previously visited once already; however, this time, instead of asking for my standard haircut (disconnected undercut) and a hot towel shave (which can be a pricey experience). But, I have found this to be an extremely pleasurable and relaxing experience. In particular, with all the technology used, steam machines, etc.
The barber was low on time; I was literally the last customer before closing. I requested a cut and, if possible, if time was still available for a wet towel cut; he stated he could get me the same results but perhaps not one quite as luxurious with using his trimmer and double foil shaver.
I made note of his trimmer, which, as per standard for most top barbers, they tend to use the best of the best (usually). Furthermore, I realised he was using the new fxOne trimmer, and the foil shaver was a double foil. He personally vouched for the effectiveness of his 2 favourites, which were the Wahl Vanish 5-star foil razor and the fx02 double foil.
I agreed to this because I wanted to see first-hand how those 2 products, if used well, and the correct models used can deliver results as close as I can see with my own eyes that resulted from a wet shave compared to the above
.
I found the results to be exactly the same; perhaps, in all honesty, the wet razor was closer but not by much; the process was a lot quicker and not as pleasurable, enjoyable, and relaxing as a hot wet towel shave.
One final point, which, I couldn’t help but shake, was just how many mixed opinions I was hearing about the Style craft/Gamma products, which btw, cost a lot of money.
During doing my research & having been engaged or caught up in many a deep-dive or rabbit hole in particular within communities renown as being extremely well respected subforums, these aforementioned brands were subjected to a HUGE amount of criticism for being downright deplorable & untrustworthy.
Alas, due to them having an intricate marketing campaign that seemingly focused on sending out their newest products every 2–3 months (due to constantly releasing more and more stuff) to the top reviewers on YouTube, who ALL it seemed to favour these exact same aforementioned products & vote for them extremely favourably, they receive more after another 3 months & seem happy to keep this so-called “scam” going.
I mention this as I noticed very few reviewers or at least ones who had the biggest following to allow themselves to actually Be Honest with what they were saying.
Until I found 1 very rare YouTuber who seemingly backed up everything I had pretty surmised was happening & all points I had to dig up myself after going down many rabbit holes of the very best resources from the most respected of all professionals.
https://clintmallon.com/best-hair-trimmers
https://clintmallon.com/trimmer-clipper-brands
https://clintmallon.com/the-archives
https://youtu.be/uBa9Am8uHhQ?si=a8xki_t9W6yNKylR
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaMkcoOlZ1OkvehNBXi7GZxnwkyKr45dc&si=ZrHASdU6XpkShCb8
Just curious as to your thoughts on the above?
Much Obliged
Kindest Regards
Hey,
Great insights as always, thank you for taking the time to share them.
I actually follow Clint and I love his reviews. But unlike him, I love the Wahl Magic clipper and I think it’s a great product considering its price, performance and ergonomics. It’s much lighter than the BaByliss which was actually my number 1 criteria for choosing it as my go-to cordless clipper. The lever doesn’t have a ratcheting mechanism which is in my opinion its biggest shortcoming. It has plenty of power and the premium guards are great, they are my favorites of any brand regardless of price point. I also replaced the blade with a ceramic one as I simply prefer those over any steel blades.
As for the Gamma/Stylcraft I think we should do some research before buying anything from a new brand that is very generous endorsing influencers. JRL is a newcomer as well, but the quality of the products is very high.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, You speak very highly of the Philips 3000 series. I have a Series 1000 (1121) which I am happy with. Can I assume that since the 1000, 2000, 3000 and some 5000 series all use the same rotary SH30 blades, apart from battery life and flashing lights, shaving performance will be identical with all of them. Which model would be next meaningful step up in the Philips range?
Many thanks,
Mike
Hi Mike,
The Series 3000 is a very decent, fairly priced rotary razor and while it does share the same SH30 blades with your Series 1000, it’s fitted with a slightly more powerful motor. So it feels faster and more enjoyable to use than a Series 1000. I wouldn’t say it’s enough to justify an upgrade though, especially since you’re happy with your current shaver.
The Shaver 2500 (in the Series 2000) and all the Series 5000 appear to use the same motor as the Series 3000, so you are correct, the performance will be pretty much identical.
As for the next meaningful step up, I’d say a Series 5000 with the better SH71 blades (this one would be a more budget-friendly upgrade) or the Series 9000/8000 like the Shaver 9500 if you have the budget. The Series 9000 is fitted with what are arguably Philips’ best current blades (SH91) and a more powerful motor compared to all the Series 1000 and all the way up to 7000.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
One thing I’ve found while testing the Philips 8000 vs the Braun series 3, is that with the Philips, any stubble that grows back feels like the hairs are thinner and less rough than with the Braun. Have you found that yourself? Do you think that’s the same with all Braun vs Philips or could it just be because my Braun is a bit blunt and needs a head change?
Secondly, the Philips is still in the 100 day trial period for me. Before I make my final decision, I’d like to ask about how the Braun series 8 and Braun series 9 pro/pro+ sound. I’ve heard that the series 8 is noisy and the series 9 pro/pro+, while quieter, sounds more mosquito like. How do you find them? When you’re tired in the morning are they annoying or do you not notice it? The Braun series 3 sounds fine to me, plus I don’t have to worry about disturbing anyone else in the house so I’m just asking how you as the user find it.
Thank you
(Ps sorry if I sent 3 comments. Not sure what went through and what didn’t).
Hi Michael,
I think the way you perceive the stubble that grows back is entirely related to the Series 3 not being able to cut the hair as closely and efficiently as your newer Philips. The coarseness, density and thickness of the hair cannot be altered by the method of shaving or the type of razor.
I’d say the Series 8 is just a bit louder than the Series 9 Pro/PRO+ — very similar nevertheless. All of them can however seem louder than the Series 3 simply because they have a more powerful motor (higher pitched sound) and a flexible head which can induce some vibrations/rattling. The Series 3 has a fixed head, so it is less susceptible to this. But overall there’s a good chance you’d still find them fine (the Series 3 is not a quiet shaver either).
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu, that helps.
I am finding that the overall performance of both shavers to be quite similar, even though the braun is cheaper and older. That means I think I’ll try a better braun one.
I’ve just read on another article that you found the braun 8 fatigued your hand. Is this just a minor annoyance? Because of a chronic illness I may have periods where I have less physical energy. That’s why I ask and why I’m upgrading. I understand if it’s hard to gage. If it’s minor, I’ll probably be alright. Does it happen with the braun 9 pro too?
You are very welcome, Michael.
It’s minor overall and I only noticed it when comparing the Series 8/9/9 Pro to my old (discontinued) Series 7 that to me is better balanced and has a more ergonomic shape of the handle. But again, it’s not by any means a big issue.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello ovidiu,
I would like to ask when this new S/C Stylecraft Instinct shaver will be available for purchase in Germany? It already exists in the USA. I think it’s supposed to be the most powerful razor from what I’ve read, right?
greetings Stephan ;)
Hi Stephan,
It should pop up on various EU sites that usually carry barbershop supplies and clippers/trimmers. Stylecraft is particularly popular in the USA, not as much in Europe.
That said, I would stick to a more reputable brand like BaByliss for example. The specs do matter, but reliability and quality of the blades/foils are just as important.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
First of all, thanks for the answer,
I’ve had the Babyliss FX3 for almost 2 years and I’m super happy with it, but I’ve now watched several videos on YouTube and they say it all. The new Stylecraft instinct shaver is supposed to be a monster, it has a Vakor motor and an even higher speed Does that mean it can shave even closer to the scalp than the FX3? Do you perhaps know that?
You are welcome, Stephan.
I haven’t tried it yet, so I’m afraid I cannot answer that. But I would be surprised if the closeness wasn’t more or less the same. On paper, the motor of the Stylecraft shaver is only marginally faster for example; I don’t think it’s enough to make a noticeable difference vs the FX2 or FX3.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Great article and replies. Keep it up.
I use Philips 5000 series for the last 4+ years. Looks like the head has to be changed now. But, it looks expensive. If I want to replace do I need to go with Philips or Braun. Philips consumes more time. Thanks!
Hi Jay,
Thanks so much for the comment.
The Series 5000 was indeed updated and now features the new larger angular heads and new blades (SH71).
If you decide to get a new shaver, you can try a foil variation, especially if you shave more often (daily and up to every 2-3 days).
In the more affordable price segments there’s the Braun Series 3 ProSkin or even the new Series 5 with Turbo mode (like the 5118s). Depending on your budget, you can also consider the Series 8 or the Series 9. These will be particularly worth it if there’s more than 2-3 days between your shaves or your beard is very coarse.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
thank you for this website, so much knowledge, every test is so professional, this is what the internet needed.
I want ask you for the best speed and comfort in shaving . I dry shave every day or every two days. What shaver will be the best? s9 pro+ or old S9000 Prestige?
Hi Patrick,
Thank you so much for the kind comment, I’m glad you found the site useful.
For this use case I would go with the S9 PRO+ (you can even consider the standard Series 9 if you can find a great deal on one — the differences vs the S9 PRO+ will be rather minor).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I found your articles extremely well written and very informative!
Having shaved for over 40 years with Braun shavers, I find that the Braun brand has worsen over time. Recently I decided to upgrade from series 8 to series 9. The S8 machine became so loud (after 2-3 year usage) that made shaving a chore. The foil replacements were expensive and seem to be of poor quality. The new series 9 (sports+) lasted 2 months and the foil broke in 2.
I decided to look into the Panasonic Arc3, but having read your comments I am not sure that this would be much better…
I am not sure that the rotary shavers (Philips) would be an acceptable move (based on your comments of skin irritation).
I would appreciate your feedback!
Hey,
Thank you so much for the comment, glad you found the post useful.
I’m sorry about your trouble with the Series 8 and 9. I would contact Braun support regarding your Sports+ foil head — they will most likely send you a free replacement head.
If you’re thinking about trying a different brand, it’s important to know that Panasonic will work best on shorter stubble. The Arc 3 is in a different (lower) price category than the Braun S8 and S9, so it’s not really a fair comparison. The Arc 5 would be a worthy alternative, it’s very powerful, well built and shaves closer than any current Braun. But they can be a little rough if you have sensitive skin.
As for Philips, I would be a bit reluctant recommending one to someone who’s always used foil shavers, especially since from what I can tell, the main issue was the reliability of your more recent shavers and not the performance.
I would give the Series 9 (with the new head) another chance and if it doesn’t work out, you can then try a different one like the aforementioned Panasonic.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
First, I wanted to thank you for your guidance in buying the Panasonic ES-LV65. After using it for 2 months, I can say that I prefer it to all the Braun shavers I used before for two reasons:
it shaves much closer AND more importantly, I find superior in its mechanical design.
Now I have a new question: for many years I always used the same shaver for my face as well as my head (shaving the head every other day). After reading your review of Best Head Shavers, I am wondering whether I should purchase the Remington XR7120 or keep using the Panasonic for both purposes.
Hey,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated. I also find Panasonic shavers superior from an engineering point of view.
I think it’s an ideal situation if you can use the same machine as a head shaver. Unless there’s something you dislike about using the ES-LV65 to shave your head, there’s really no reason to buy the Remington. It does allow for a more laid back way of shaving your head (thanks to the way you hold it and the circular motions instead of more strict straight strokes), but in terms of closeness the Panasonic is still better.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
For completeness, here’s my assessment of the Panasonic ES-LV65 after over a year of use. After about 10 months, the foil developed a hole and became unusable. Panasonic honored the warranty and sent a replacement. Later, I bought another foil on Amazon (around $50), but it was damaged again. I suspect the issue is due to the flimsy case design — closing it ejects the plastic protector, which scratches the foil. Comparing foil replacements between Braun and Panasonic, I believe that I will now go back to the Braun series 93XX.
Hi,
Many thanks for the follow-up. That’s very interesting, although I didn’t understand exactly how this happened. Could you elaborate on this part a bit if you have the time:
Not sure if by case design we refer to the same thing.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
The razor vinyl case is extremely tight around the razor head. When you close the zipper, the plastic that protects the shaver top, tends to eject it, and in the process, the hard plastic may puncture the foil (my guess).
While the shaver itself has a superior design, the case and plastic protector combination are below par.
I have a short beard so wanted a shaver for only cheeks and neck. Bought a Panasonic Arc 3. Fine on cheeks but totally useless on my neck. Persevered for three months then threw it in the bin and went back to wet shaving, quicker and better.
Thanks for the comment, Henry.
An electric shaver (regardless of type, brand or price range) will probably perform poorly if you only want to clean your neck (up to the beard line). The area isn’t flat, you have little leverage and the hairs often grow flat to the skin and have different grain. Something like a Philips OneBlade or even a zero-gapped trimmer (like a T-outliner) would work better. A foil shaver is generally effective on short stubble that grows relatively straight.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Your site has helped me pick and choose electric shavers over the past few years. So, I thought I would leave my feedback, as it may help others.
I have 3 shavers, the Braun 9 series, the Panasonic Arc 5 and the latest being the Norelco Prestige S9000. All good shavers, however, surprisingly my go to shaver, after only 12 days, is the Norelco Prestige S9000.
It may not give the closest shave of the three, but I find it gives the most comfortable shave and is also the quietest of the 3. Also, in my opinion, it gives the most even shave of the lot. What I mean is that if you run your hand over your face after shaving with it all areas feel about the same level, no one area feels less or more shaved. Around the chin and mouth, it seems to get spots that the Braun and Panasonic miss.
The shave is actually plenty close, just not as close as the Panasonic. This was my criteria, however with the evenness and comfort of the S9000 Prestige, I find it to be my preferred shaver. It kind of reminds me of the old Norelco Sensotouch 3d 1250x, which I liked a lot until they cheapened the replacement blades, and it was never the same.
So anyway, that’s my story and I wanted you to know that your review of the S9000 was very helpful.
Thanks, Tom
Hi,
I’ve been using a Norelco PT730 for 20 years. I’m happy with the results. I’m having trouble finding good replacement blades. People have reported that Norelco outsourced the SH50 replacement blades years ago, and that now even the official ones are bad.
1) Do you know of a good source for blades that actually work?
2) How many times can you resharpen using the Vallco sharpeners. They don’t get back to new blade sharpness. They do help. I’ve already done 3 rounds on these blades — wearing out the Vallco sharpeners.
I’m hesitant to go buy a new Norelco for fear I won’t be able to find decent replacement blades for it in 5-10 years either.
Hi,
The SH50 are probably going to get discontinued for good sooner than later and given their performance that’s probably for the better. Only the old (discontinued) Series 5000 now comes with the SH50, so it probably doesn’t make a lot of sense for Philips to keep making them (apart from compatibility with the even older shavers that used the HQ8 heads).
Normally you would use a sharpening kit on the same set of blades for as long as it still provides a decent result. They will never go back to new blades sharpness unfortunately and it’s more of a workaround to keep using the blades for a while instead of tossing them.
I think you’ll be able to find replacement blades for any of the current Norelco shavers, even in 5-10 years. That said, if your shaver is still in good shape, I would actually get the SH30 blades. These are gentler than the SH50 (I could never get a decent shave with the SH50 as they tend to pull the hairs on my neck), are readily available (OEM) and you will probably pay less for a set vs the SH50. There’s a Vollco kit available for them as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello ovidiu
I have another quick question for you. You recently said that the brand Babyliss FX3 is good. Does that mean the Stylecraft Instinct shaver, the new one from the USA, is not that good? And do the foil blades of both razors last the same amount of time until you have to replace them? Have you had any experience?
I ask for an answer again, greetings Stephan.)
Hi Stephan,
Like I said in the previous comments, I haven’t used the Instinct Shaver, so I cannot say anything from actual experience; my assumption was based on various user reports I’ve read. I would personally still go with the BaByliss FX series, it’s been a very reliable and capable shaver that works very well as a head shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is the most informative and useful website that I have found on the web, and not just for shavers.
Geoff (UK)
Geoff,
Thank you so much for the kind comment — I’m glad you found the site useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Great job on this document! After all the considerations, I am still undecided on which foil razor to get. I had a Series 5 of which I used the trimmer a lot until the attachments finally gave out, was not too fond of it. The foil and trimmer had a tendency to pull hairs.
I usually have a short but fairly coarse beard and I only shave the stubble away every 2-3 days, skin not overly sensitive. I was wondering if it is worth stepping up to a Series 8/9 (skeptical about built quality and cleaning maintenance) or an Arc 5 (unsure of the very cumbersome razor head). I am a bit skeptical about cleaning stations as I am in the habit of just opening the cartridge and rinsing my cassettes under the tap. I’m looking for something that I can use without the hassle of maintenance that would last for a few years. Or maybe sticking with the cheaper foil razors (S3 or S5) and just replacing it every year or so when it eventually gives out.
Thanks!
Truter (Canada)
Hi Truter,
Many thanks for the comment.
I think both the Series 8/9 or the Arc 5 would be suitable. They do have their specific strengths and weaknesses though.
The Arc 5 is very fast and shaves really close and performs optimally on short hair. Given how frequent you shave, it should be fine. It’s particularly effective with coarser stubble that grows relatively straight and doesn’t stay flat on the skin. The head is bulky and the 5 blades have a more limited range of motion vs the S8 and S9, so shaving below the jaw line usually requires more work. If that’s a fine tradeoff for a closer shave, definitely consider it, especially the older ES-LV65/ES-LV67 (no cleaning station) as those usually have the best price.
The S8 and S9 and more manageable (smaller, more compliant shaving heads) and in my opinion more effective at catching more difficult hairs. For example on the neck, especially if the hairs have a different grain or stay flat on the skin. They’re also gentler than the Arc 5 but shouldn’t matter too much if you don’t have sensitive skin. In terms of closeness, I do think the Arc 5 has the edge, but most users would still find the S8 and S9 perfectly capable.
The integrated hair trimmer on the Arc 5 is much better in my opinion. These trimmers are however only meant for touchups and light grooming, not for trimming an entire beard.
So choosing between them just comes down to what matters more to you. And then there’s the price, with the Arc 5 usually costing less than the solo S8 or S9.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
You`ve placed Braun Proskin 3040s (rated 5th) above Panasonic LL41 (rated 6th)!
Can you, please, comment on their position and performance.
Thanks.
DushanT
Hi Dushan,
Rankings are relative and context always plays a part. My reasoning was that the 3040s costs (significantly) less, the replacement head is more affordable as well and the 3040s is a bit more effective at catching flat-lying hairs. The LL41 can shave a bit closer and has a better integrated trimmer. The price of the shaver and of the foils+blades are however are higher. All things considered, I simply thought that for the majority of users the pros of the 3040s will be more important.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello,
I am searching for an electric shaver that will leave very short stubble. Very short, above the skin. Whenever I shave with a traditional razor my skin gets very irritated. My current solution is a manscaped lawnmower. It leaves very short stubble but it’s not very wide so takes me longer to shave than I prefer. Can you recommend another option with this in mind? Thanks!
Hi,
In this case you would need a beard trimmer, not an electric shaver. Electric shavers, rotary or foil, will always cut the hair at skin level. Some do come with separate trimmer attachments, but those are usually underwhelming and you’ll be using it constantly from what I understand.
Most beard trimmers have blades which aren’t very wide, just like the one on your Lawnmower. Fortunately there are a few that offer a wider blade. I would strongly consider a Philips Multigroom 7000 that comes with an extra wide blade in addition to the standard one. It’s also a very robust trimmer, with a metal body, fantastic battery life and the price is reasonable for such a capable trimmer.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Have an arc 5 lv 65 what is the best foil and blade replacement for it ?
Hi David,
The foil+blades set for the LV65 that originally came on the shaver is the ES9032. It’s usually the most cost-effective option. However, you can also buy some of the newer revisions, preferably in this order if you can find them for a reasonable price: ES9040, ES9038, ES9036.
The newer foils are more comfortable, but I found the closeness to be exactly the same. In my opinion the price and availability should be the decisive factors.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Looks like shaver market in UK has changed. So many shavers are sold on e bay…no idea if they are new , fakes or reconditions & I would not buy dubious stuff. I am happy with my
Panasonic ES-RF31 that cost £49 back in 2023. It wont last forever.
Previously I used Braun or Remington but replacement parts were never that good. Even shavers for £200 were not that much better than 1 at say £80. Some shavers were replaced because pins for the flex got broken & repairs were prohibitive or relatives asked for shavers when I visited them. Some were good but discontinued.
Companies now lure you in if you are looking for particular shaver but show much more expensive models. A good Panasonic at £100 is sadly a rare breed in UK.
Thanks for your articles
Bill B
Hi Bill,
Many thanks for the comment. The RF31 is one of the more compelling Panasonic shavers in that rice range in the UK. If you’re happy with the performance that’s all that matters.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
I have tried Blue Stratos pre shave & it works nicely. Nice one as you did recommend it ages ago.
Cheers
Bill B
Awesome, glad you like it, Bill. It’s a fine pre-shave, unfortunately not easy to source outside of Europe/UK.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
How come you dont have any reviews of Phillips Norelco One Blade? Unless I cant find it? I thought it gave a very close shave with extreme comfort but was a bit slow. Just wondering if you ever tested it.
Hi Kal,
I do own a OneBlade, but I’ve only used it occasionally on my face — most of the time I used it as a body hair trimmer. My beard is quite coarse and I prefer a clean shave, so this device is not really intended for me.
Regarding the closeness, the OneBlade is purposefully designed to leave very short stubble, so it won’t shave quite as close as a foil shaver for example. This can also be very beneficial for users dealing with ingrown hairs and severe acne.
But if you prefer a very close shave and you usually shave often (daily and up to every 3 days), I think a conventional electric razor (foil or rotary) would be better than the OneBlade. Something like a Panasonic Arc 5 or Braun Series 9 will also be a lot faster, again provided that the hair is short.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
First of all: Thank you for your awesome job with the website! It’s been a huge help in my research (especially the difference between all the Braun Series 9-models, with our without a cleaning station, etc. was very well laid out and much appreciated).
Now, I’m looking for the best razor (or combination or razors) for shaving 1-2 times a week to leave/maintain a stubble, clean up the neck and keep a buzzcut going (unless a dedicated head shaver is recommend for this in the long run?). I’ve done my own research, but just wanted to hear your opinion and see how it compares before pulling the trigger.
I also hoped you could answer some questions my research of the Philips Multigroom Series have raised:
– I’ve read some comments about the 9000 not having the extra wide blade unlike almost every other model – can you confirm this?
– Has the 7000 and 9000 gone from metal to plastic recently (and changed color) or have I mixed some things up?
– If the 7000 and 9000 actually no longer is in metal, the 5000 seems to still be and cost half the price – how inferior is it to the 7000/9000 and would you rate the metal body+price of the 5000 or the superiority of the 7000/9000 higher?
I hope everything makes sense!
Thanks,
Jesper
Hi Jesper,
Thank you for the kind comment, glad you found the info useful.
In the case of the Multigroom 9000 and even 7000, the differences between the USA models on which my reviews are based and the European variations can be quite significant.
Here are some of them:
– the battery capacity of the European groomers is usually a lot smaller (2 hours vs 5-6 hours)
– most of them have a plastic body, with only a couple of Multigroom 9000 featuring metal and don’t seem to be readily available
– like you’ve said, many variations lack the wide blade, so you will need to check the accessory list of a particular model to see if it’s included
– the performance, the blades and the motors are however the same, so it’s still an excellent, highly capable trimmer.
A Mltigroom 9000/7000 should work just fine for a short buzz cut, however, if you want a skin level shave, you will need to use a head shaver (rotary, foil or a dedicated machine like the Remington Balder Pro for example).
The Multigroom 5000 comes with far fewer accessories, that’s the main difference between it and the 7000/9000. The wide blade for example is not included.
This is just my take, but if you think the Multigroom 9000 would be a good fit for what you need, importing one from the USA (MG9510/60) is probably worth it — loads of accessories, a very practical storage case, metal body, fantastic battery life and the price is usually very reasonable. That’s what I did and my MG9510/60 has been rock solid. You’ll only need a USA to EU plug adapter that you can find at any electronics store.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ah, I see. Thank you very much – that cleared some things up.
So in regards to the wishes of a beard-trimmer/shaver, you’d recommend a dedicated beard-shaver for clearing up/close shave of the neck and not the Multigroom 9000?
And if I’m not going the all-in-one but multiple shavers/trimmers-route, would there be something better than the Multigroom 9000 for leaving/maintaining stubble then?
You are very welcome.
A beard trimmer will always cut the hair right above skin level, so you would need a shaver for cleaning up the stubble completely. The double-foil shavers from BaByliss/Andis work particularly well in this case.
I think the Multigroom 9000 is one of the best out there, and it’s also very versatile and the blades are durable. Most of the accessories, including the blades, can be sourced later on, something that’s not always possible with other trimmers.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
I studied your reviews (the most in-depth I found) and tips for wet and dry shaving.
I have a light to medium beard, not particularly sensitive skin and shave every 3-4 days.
I’ve been using a Braun 5 for 8-9 years. The motor is still strong but there’s been a noticeable drop-off in the quality of replacement heads.
So I decided it was time to upgrade and went with the Braun 9 Pro Plus 9599cc with all the bells and whistles.
I was tempted to go with the Panasonic Arc 6 on your recommendation that it gave the closest shave. But, if I understood you correctly, I went with the Braun 9 because it would be best for my particular mix of beard type and shaving routine.
I’ve done four shaves with 3-4 day intervals with the following routine:
First, quick pass with the Braun Pro Comfort head
Wash face with warm water and soap
Dry and apply Jack Black Beard Lube
Shave against the grain, intermittently running the shaver under hot water to avoid build up in the foils
Rinse and apply Cremo Cooling Formula Post-Shave Balm with No Alcohol
Results: Closest, quickest and most comfortable shave with zero irritation in all of my years of shaving and I’m 73.
I’ll also be running the shaver through the CC station after every shave.
Thanks for all of your help!
Hi Michael,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this.
I also think you made the right choice with the S9 PRO+ instead of getting the Arc 6. It also made the transition from your Series 5 a lot smoother.
Glad the new shaver lived up to the expectations. Your routine looks spot on.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello, thank you so much for such detailed reviews.
I was looking at some models, I’d like to buy something that will last me years. I’d also would like not to spend too much time in cleaning after every use. I’d say I have a “sparse” beard (i.e. not dense).
I saw these prices on Amazon, but I really don’t know which one is the better deal:
– Braun Series 9 PRO+ (9517s) 200€ (while the 9567cc is at 250€)
– Braun Series 8 (8510s) 180€
– Braun Series 7 (71-B1200s) 128€
– Panasonic Series 800 ES-LV67 170€
Thanks again!!
Hi Simone,
Thank you for the comment, glad the reviews were helpful.
I would seriously consider the Braun Series 8, I think it’ll be perfectly adequate for what you need. It’s a robust, reliable, easy to use 3-blade shaver that should serve you well. I think the S9 PRO+ and ES-LV67 are a bit overkill for someone with a light beard and the Series 7 just isn’t as good as the Series 8. The Series 8 replacement head is also more affordable than the parts required for the S9 and ES-LV67.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ok, I think I’ll go with that one then. Thank you again.
Hi Ovidiu.
Loads of information you have given, thankyou.
My question is simple, what shaver is best for sensitive skin with a budget of around €200.
I used to have the blue and white Philips shaver that dispensed gel as you shaved. I think it was a model number 8020 and it was really good for my skin. Wonderful charging station that had a can of gel incorporated on top which topped up the shaver if needed. Why did they stop making that model, and what did it get replaced with I wonder.
I hope you can answer some of these questions.
Kind regards
Lewy
Hi Lewy,
The safe option would be to get another Philips rotary. Considering the budget, you should be able to buy a Series 9000 or even a Series 9000 Prestige at a discount. These are currently the best Philips shavers you can buy.
If you’re willing to take a bit of a risk and try a foil shaver, I would look at a Braun Series 8 or even a Series 9 (Pro) — again provided you can find a good deal on the latter. Foil shavers, especially the ones from Braun, are generally better for sensitive skin, but when switching from one type of shaver to another, there’s always a possibility of things not going as smoothly.
In my case foil shavers work better and I tend to recommend them to most users. But in this case I would lean more towards sticking to a rotary considering your previous experience.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thankyou again Ovidiu.
I have gone for a Philips 9000 and it is coming with 3 x cartridges for the cleaning pod so fingers crossed it all works out.
I really wish the HS8020 was still around. Wonderful little shaver and I thought the gel dispensing during shaving was a genius invention, why was it discontinued.? I wonder if they are considering bringing something similar out again. I would most definitely be interested if they did.
Lewy
You are very welcome, hope you’ll like the shaver. I highly doubt Philips will bring back something similar judging by the direction they’re heading with the new releases.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
My last shavers have been Panasonic Arc 5 LV65 and I have been quite happy with the performance when shaving daily, both dry and with foam, but unfortunately in the last two the batteries stopped charging and Panasonic’s technical service in my country Peru, is quite limited and they suggested me to change the batteries but at a very high cost.
I wanted to ask you if this problem with battery charging is frequent or quite unusual in Panasonic shavers, and if there is something I could be doing wrong that causes this to happen?
On another note I am looking for a new shaver. After having read your super complete article, I am left with two alternatives: Panasonic Arc 5 and Braun series 8, could you please help me in this decision and inform me which of the two options has a lower operating cost (considering costs in the U.S.)?
Thank you in advance for your answer
Regards
Hi Victor,
Thank you for the comment.
Battery-related problems do occur, but don’t seem to be more common than in the case of other very popular shavers from other brands. One thing that could cause them is water ingress. Shaving in the shower for example or submerging the shaver in water increases the likelihood of water damage. I would only rinse a wet/dry shaver with water regardless of the brand and avoid shaving in the shower or using very hot water. Seals/gaskets become more rigid in time, so it’s best to be on the safe side.
Regarding the costs, the Braun Series 8 should be better in terms of costs of ownership because the replacement shaving head generally costs less than an Arc 5 (foil+blades) set. That said, the Arc 5 shaves a bit closer and the integrated hair trimmer is superior. I think the Arc 5 is one of the better options out there for shaving daily. If you like a close shave you may find the Series 8 a bit underwhelming vs the Arc 5.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I appreciate your prompt response, and for your comments on the battery of my Panasonic shaver, and the cost comparison of the Panasonic Arc 5 and the Braun Series 7.
Let me say that your detailed reviews are the most comprehensive and easy to read that I have seen in the industry.
Congratulations and keep up the good work.
Regards,
Victor
Hi Victor,
You are very kind, thank you — glad I could be of help.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Your post is very impressive.
I am looking for the best electric shaver, now I use manual gillette and I want electric, faster and easier. That’s why i would like to buy an electric shaver. From this post and your web i think the best ones are Philips s9000 prestige, Braun Serie 9 pro + and Panasonic arc 5.
I have close bear and I would shave every two or three days about. I would like to shave fast, not to be hundred times passing every part to shave accurate. I also like one that don’t irritate my face.
You have tried all shavers, which one do you recommend me??
Does the Braun do a bad work in the neck?? I have read in you posts that just the Philips can do a good work in the neck.
Should I wait to any new launch in this 2025?? If this 2025 any brand is launching any new model and worth the pity i prefer to wait.
Look forward for your response.
Regards.
Hi Carlos,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
I think the Braun Series 9 PRO+ would be the safest choice, also considering that it’ll be your first electric shaver. On the neck it’s one of the best, at least in relation to other foil shavers. The Arc 5 isn’t as effective in my experience. The Prestige can also work really well, but there are the potential inherent shortcomings of a rotary that I talked about in the article. So all things considered, I think the S9 PRO+ would be a suitable option.
It’s unclear whether we’ll see any significant new launches in 2025, so my advice would be to look for a great deal and buy the shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Just bought the Phillips Norelco Series 9000 Prestige and was surprised that they recommend replacing the shaving heads every year. I have a Norelco Quadra Action 7617x and a Phillips Norelco 8170XL. I have both for many years and never replaced the shaving heads. In fact, they say they are self sharpening. They still work well, but felt it was time to update. The new shaver does shave closer and quicker but, not a huge difference. The other reason I updated is the charging cord is losing the rubber/plastic coating. Do you really have to replace heads every year p?
The default replacement interval for Philips (Norelco) rotary heads is 2 years. Interestingly, for the European Prestige models, Philips explicitly mentions changing the heads every 2 years, even though they are the same heads used on the USA shavers (SH91).
I always recommend changing the heads only when they don’t provide a decent shave anymore. And depending on various factors, that can happen sooner or later than the claimed 2 years.
Rotary heads tend to last a lot more than foil heads as the guards and blades are a lot thicker and the motor operates at much lower RPMs. And the blades are self-sharpening up to a point — when the wear is just too significant and there’s not enough metal left.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I wet shave in the shower with a Braun Series 9 Pro Plus and Speick Shave Cream. I am very happy with how close it shaves and the smoothness.
I briefly tried a Panasonic Arc5, but it felt like it was “too close,” removing a layer of skin?! (Maybe if I used a different shave cream, such as Jack Black’s Beard Lube?)
My only frustration is with Braun’s 5-in-1 SmartCare Center. After a couple months, it started spraying out, in all directions, onto the counter! I sent it to Braun for service. Upon return, it didn’t spray–for a few months. Now it is spraying even more! It evaporates quickly and cleanly; I just make sure nothing is “down range” of it….. Is this a common issue with Braun?
Hi Brian,
The Arc 5 can come across as more aggressive than the S9 PRO+ and you have to be a lot more mindful about the pressure because it’s not as forgiving as the Braun.
As for the station issue, the spraying is usually caused by a gasket that doesn’t properly seal the intake tube against the cartridge. It’s generally an easy fix. I have a post on how to do that here if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
This is the best shaver resource on the internet. Thanks for your work. I want to buy a Braun series 9 (my series 7 is old) and notice they now sell a “Series 9 Sport Shaver with a clean and charge system” for $169. This would seem like the far cheapest way to get into a series 9. Do you have any opinion about this strategy? Thanks.
https://a.co/d/5dQ5zJq
Hi Theo,
Thank you for the kind comment, glad the info was useful.
The S9 Sport is essentially a standard Series 9, so a non-Pro model and it was initially a Costco exclusive. However, the standard S9 shaves almost the same as the Pro models and considering the price of the Sport, I think it’s one of the best options out there. I did write a very detailed Series 9 comparison guide if you want to check it out, but in short, you can go ahead and buy it without any worries that you’re missing out on key features. You can also upgrade the head to the S9 Pro cassette later on (part number 94M).
I currently tend to recommend the S9 Pro mainly because it’s widely available globally and the Sport models have limited availability (only sold in the USA by a few select retailers).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Not sure where to go to find my answer, but here goes.
I use a Braun Series 9 with a cleaning station. It’s at least 4 years old. Recently, I’m having trouble with the cleaning station. I put the shaver in, and it doesn’t start to clean, or even start recharging if that’s all I want to do. I have to hold the shaver against the contact points in order to get the system to clean. Once it completes the clean, it will usually continue to cycle through drying and then recharging.
Should I be buying a new cleaning station, or is the problem in the shaver?
Hi Chris,
From what I can tell, the shaver can’t make proper contact with the station. This usually happens because of two things: the rubber-like surface around the two pins on the shaver flares and the pins don’t stick out as much or the two contact points on the station are too recessed. You would need to remove the station’s outer cover and bend a bit the two metal strips towards the front of the station. You can check out this post on how to disassemble the cleaner.
Do a quick visual inspection of both the station and the shaver and see if you can spot these issues.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for the tips. It is clear to me that the contact points on the station are not making sufficient contact allowing the cleaner to turn on. Like I said, if I hold the shaver tightly against the station it does turn on, and in most cases, will remain on throught the process.
Your fix should help me avoid having to buy a new station.
Chris
Hello Ovidiu,
I recently purchased a Panasonic Arc 3 ES-LL41-K shaver. It shaves much closer than my Philips 9000 shaver. Its small size compared to the rotary makes it much easier to use. The powerful but quiet motor makes quick work of my beard. It is also very easy to clean with water and some hand soap. The trimmers are an extra plus.
Over the years I had been a long time Philips user and a few years ago I had purchased a Braun S9 Sport. I found was so noisy it sometimes made me ill. I went back to a Philips and it was much quieter but shaving dry was only average. Plus I could never get used to the large angular heads. I think Philips should have kept the round ones.
So I decided to try the Panasonic Arc 3 ES-LL41-K based on your review as well as a price cut. I had never owned one and have found it to be great.
Keep up the good work.
Hey Mike,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
The ES-LL41-K is in my opinion the budget Panasonic shaver to buy right now. Out of all the 3-blade models they’re selling, this one is the most compelling thanks to its price, compact shaving head and good performance.
I think the fact that it has a fixed head is actually a good thing. It costs less than other Arc 3 models, it’s very nimble and less noisy. The swiveling head of your S9 likely made the noise worse as it tends to vibrate a lot during use.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu, thanks for the info.
Ive come across a Braun series 9, model 9527s.
It comes with a cleaning station and powerbank case.
I dont see it anywhere else.
Is this the same as the 9477cc you recommend?
Thanks again
You are very welcome.
The 9527s is a solo model, meaning it doesn’t come with a cleaning station like the models ending in cc do. Only a basic charging stand is included alongside the PowerCase. The hair trimmer on the 9527s is a bit better compared to the 9477cc but otherwise the shaving performance is absolutely identical.
I wrote an in-depth Series 9 comparison guide where you’ll finds all the details about all the models if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi ovidiu just want to ask why philips decide to discontinue both SH90 and SH98 heads and ask consumer to buy SH91 instead? Is there any big difference between 98 and 91?
Hi Denny,
Those are some excellent questions.
In the case of the SH90, my guess is that the heads were just too aggressive/harsh/bitey for the average user. They featured the old Super Lift&Cut system with a large gap between the blade edges which caused them to tug on the hairs. Some seasoned Philips users liked them, but I guess they were in a minority. With the SH91, Philips refined the design and the gap has been reduced. I can confirm that the SH91 are a lot smoother and gentler.
As for the SH98, it probably wasn’t feasible to have two very similar high-end heads and there was a lot of overlap between them. The SH98 do have a single blade edge (no double-edge Lift&Cut system) but in practice they are extremely similar to the SH91 and both are very comfortable.
The SH98, SH91 and even SH90 are all compatible with the old and new Series 9000 and with the old and new S9000 Prestige.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I just want to say that this was a VERY well thought out and put together article. You answered and went over pretty much every question and thought most people have when choosing razors. Especially when it comes to the different variations and not knowing which version does what and if it’s better or cost efficient than the other version. You kept me engaged from beginning to end because I’d normally just see which razor were ranked best and second best when it comes to these types of lists and then be on my merry way lol. Good job
Brandon,
Thank you so much for the thoughtful comment — I’m glad the info was useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu. I have been a fan of of your work for many years. Bought panasonic arc 5 variant 6 years ago after reading your reviews. Has changed the blade n foil once. Now looks like time for a change again. Arc 5 have been able to give good results so far at the expense of some skin discomfort. I do have sensitive skin but ny skin adapting to the shaver i guess.
Do you think it is worthwhile to change to braun series 9 or 9 pro now or should i just buy new blades n foil for replacement? If the upgrade by braun is marginal. I might just continue with Arc 5. Needs your opinion…
Hi,
Thank you so much for the comment.
Your Arc 5 is most likely one of the variations that comes with the old foil (no comfort rollers). I’d suggest trying one of the newer foil&blades sets as they are quite a bit more comfortable than the old one. Any of the following (in this order) would work well: ES9040, ES9038, ES9036. If you can get a good deal on any of them, it’s probably worth trying it before spending a lot more money on a new shaver.
The Braun Series 9 and 9 Pro are generally more comfortable than (any) Arc 5. But with the newer Arc 5 foils, the difference in comfort isn’t as significant as it used to be. The Arc 5 is on the other hand still ahead when it comes to closeness.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu. I have been following your writing for a long time. Bought Panasonic Arc 5 six years ago based on your recommendations. Quite happy with the performance especially close shaving except for the performance over the neck region,where i have to go over that particular area few times but still acceptable
My beard grow quickly only after 1-2 days and i only shaves,mainly dry shave once every 3 to 4 days. I have replaced Arc 5 foils and blades once 3 years ago and now i think due for another replacement.
I want to get your opinion, it is worthwhile change/buy Braun 9 series? Is the performance and comfort way better than Arc 5? Or should i just stick with Arc 5 and buy the replacement foils? Hope you can guide me
Hey,
I already replied to your original comment right above. Hope it helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Several years ago I bought a Braun S7. It worked fine, but after a while I replaced the “cassette” and it went to crap. I could barely make it through without bringing tears to my eyes…I swear, it was just yanking the whiskers out by the roots. So, I bought another cassette at a reputable dealer and, again, painful. I’m ready to toss it in the garbage, but I thought I’d ask you if there is anything I can do to improve the shave? I shave dry every two days (now that I’m old my whiskers don’t grow that fast anymore.) It’s a real shame because I went with the Braun because of the reputation, and I don’t think I’ll ever go Braun again, unless you can convince me that I’m doing something wrong.
Hi Jim,
Shaving every two days should go very smoothly. The problem is most likely the cassette you bought. Unfortunately original Braun S7 cassettes are getting extremely difficult to source, and the ones that are available are usually third-party cassettes that perform very poorly. It’s the reason why I stopped recommending the old S7 and suggested the S8 as the next best option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, I finally pulled the plug and got a series 9 based on your advice. I have a couple questions about the cleaning station as I want to keep my (expensive) new razor in excellent condition.
When you’re ready to put the razor in the cleaning station and assuming you just shaved with it, do you need to do anything beforehand (rinsing, shaking out hair, etc)? Or can you just plop the freshly used razor into the station and let it do all the work?
Between cleaning station uses, you mention you just rinse the razor soapless with tap water. Do you take off the foil, shake out hair and let it air dry after doing this? Or do you just put it away after the quick rinse and let the cleaning station deal with the innards later on?
Finally, I noticed the razor has little electronic indicators for when it needs the cleaning station or a replacement foil. Sorry if you already stated this somewhere, but do you trust these indicators and obey them straight away? Or do you use static intervals instead (I believe you said weekly cleaning and biyearly foil replacements).
Thank you again for all your great advice!
Hey Alec,
That’s awesome, hope you’re enjoying shaving with it.
Regarding the cleaning, I would definitely recommend removing the cassette, gently tapping out and blowing over the inner part of the cassette to remove the bulk of hairs. Otherwise all the clippings and hair dust will end up in the cartridge and you’ll need to replace it sooner.
I would strongly suggest removing the cassette after rinsing, giving it an extra rinse and letting it air dry overnight. Otherwise it will take too long and some moisture can linger on for days and even cause a funky/moldy smell.
The reminder icons are only timer-based, so you should not rely solely on them. For example, the shaver could be clean and you’ll still be presented with the cleaning reminder. Also, I would replace the cassette when it can’t provide a decent shave anymore, and not as soon as the shaver signals it. In theory, you would need to replace the cassette once every 18 months. In practice, it depends on a few things (frequency of shaving, coarseness and density of the stubble etc.).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the detailed reply!
> I would strongly suggest removing the cassette after rinsing, giving it an extra rinse and letting it air dry overnight.
Just to be sure, by this you mean it is safe to rinse the shaver/cassette after removing the cassette? Both the underside of the cassette and the exposed head of the shaver?
Absolutely, it’s safe and necessary as lots of hairs/dirt tend to accumulate in time if those parts are not properly rinsed.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for doing such detailed shaver reviews. The reviews are very helpful for men who are looking to get either their first shaver or maybe a new shaver. I know this question has probably been asked many times. If you could only shave with one shaver for the rest of your life which shaver would it be and why?
Hi Robert,
Thanks so much, glad the info was helpful.
Right now I would have to say a variation of the Braun Series 9, be it the regular (non-Pro) models or the newer Pro/PRO+. This is a very sunjective pick and one that makes sense for me. The Series 9 is just the most versatile shaver that is either good or very good regardless if I’m shaving daily or after 4 days, wet or dry. I also have lots of flat-lying hairs on my neck that grow in swirls and the Series 9 is by far the most effective foil shaver for dealing with that type of hair.
It’s not perfect by any means, it doesn’t shave quite as close as an Arc 5, the hair trimmer is mediocre but again it makes up with the aforementioned traits.
The most impressive shaver I’ve used so far is the 2024 Panasonic Arc 6 that is just as comfortable as the Series 9 and it shaves closer, but again it needs more work to get all those stubborn flat-lying hairs on my neck if I haven’t shaved in a few days.
For these reasons I would have to pick the Series 9 which in my case is the best compromise. But if you shave often (daily or every other day) and your stubble grows relatively straight, the 2024 Arc 6 would be objectively a better shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovvidiu,
I’m 74 and I’ve decided to try using an electric shaver for the first time in many years. I have a 16 year old Panasonic SR8101 that was very lightly used. It seems to shave fairly close, but is slightly uncom tfortable on my skin. Would I benefit by upgrading to an Arc5?
I love your detailed advice. Thanks
Hi,
Thank you for the comment.
An Arc 5 like the ES-LV65 or ES-LV67 would be quite similar to your shaver when it comes to comfort. So I don’t think you’ll see a great improvement in that regard using an Arc 5. This is true assuming the foil and cutters of your shaver are in great shape.
The Arc 5 will shave faster, closer and it’s considerably more powerful despite the specs — motor output — being quite similar. But again I don’t think it will be a lot more comfortable.
There’s probably some room for improvement considering you’ve only used your Panasonic once in so many years. I would try to apply less pressure, use slower, more controlled strokes and I would also use a pre-shave lotion.
Try these tweaks for a few weeks — hopefully the comfort will get better.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Sounds like solid advice! The battery is only lasting about 12 minutes, so I may go ahead and take the plunge. Do you think that a Braun Series 9 would be a better option if I can find one on sale?
Thanks for the prompt reply!
You are very welcome.
The Series 9 would also be very solid, especially if you shave less often (up to 4 days between shaves). But even with a discount it will end up costing more than an Arc 5. So the Panasonic would probably still be the best option — again unless you shave less often, in which case it’s worth paying more for the Series 9.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ordered the Arc5. Thanks!!!
Good morning. I want to thank you for your help. Briefly, I used blades, then a Remington foil long ago. Then, I switched to blades again, they continued to take 3 layers of skin. I couldnt find a good Remington, so I got a Norelco. It was less than I hoped, but I used it. Recently, the Norelco was close to dead, so, I began a search for a GOOD shaver. I tried blades again, nope, same result. I wanted a Remington, but they were not the same as I used previously. THEN, I read one of your reviews. I thought, hey, this guy REALLY goes over these shavers. I read through MANY of your articles. Thank you!! I decided to get a Braun, based on your extensive reviews and useful information. Which one?? A 5 or a 3?? Then I read your article that compared the two shavers. You mentioned the 3 is good for those who dont have a heavy beard to shave. THAT IS ME. I get “5 oclock shadow” after about a week. I bought the 3 Proskin. GREAT!!!!!!!!! It is smoother, quieter and easier to hold than my Norelco mess. It reminds me of my old Remington with its ease of use, easy cleaning and comfortable design. Thanks for your help. I really appreciate your reviews!
Hey,
Thanks so much for taking the time to share this. I’m really glad the info was useful — seems like the Series 3 is a perfect fit. :-)
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Have you reviewed the Panasonic ES-PV3A-K and ES-PV6A. Also, what is the difference between the models?
If you haven’t yet reviewed them, can you tell me if you think it’s worth getting? Thanks!
Hi,
I’ve only used the ES-PV3A, but I am yet to post the review. I think it’s worth getting over a similar, full-size Arc 5 only if you plan on using it for traveling. It’s also very easy to use as a head shaver because of the form factor. But if your use case is different and you only need an every day shaver, I think you should rather get a standard Arc 5. That one usually costs less and comes with an excellent pop-up hair trimmer (the ES-PV3A doesn’t have one).
The only difference between the ES-PV3A-K and ES-PV6A is the color/finish. The latter has a stone-like texture and it costs a lot more. But it shaves exactly the same.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have been using Philips rotary shavers my entire life. My 15th year birthday present was a Philips and I have found their shavers suitable for me. Living in Canada the shaver marketplace is Philips brand, Norelco is not marketed in Canada.
Will you be reviewing/testing the i9000 Prestige Ultra, in the near future?
Regards
Hey,
Thank you for the comment. I recently posted the review of the Prestige Ultra, you can check it out here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello! Please tell me – if after EVERY use the razor is placed in the Cleaning & Charging Stand and the razor is charged – is this normal? What are the disadvantages of this method?
Hey,
If this routine works well for you, I think you can carry on without any worries. This is actually how the station is supposed to work, it will fully charge the shaver after the cleaning cycle.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Thank you for this wonderful round-up article! I’m looking for a new electric razor since my current Philips Norelco 3000 series (not sure which model) that I’ve had for a couple years now is starting to not cut as well. I’ve always used that brand and type of electric razor since I was first starting out as a kid (my dad uses them and got me my first one). I’m in my late-20s now, and I’ve always dry-shaved my face and neck either daily or every other day and shortened/removed my sideburns every few weeks using the flip-out razor. I’m open to switching to a rotary razor, though it would be my first time using one. I’m currently debating between the following electric razors and would like your advice/recommendation(s):
Rotary Razors:
Philips Norelco Shaver 3600 series Model S3243/91 – 65 USD
Philips Norelco Shaver 3900 series Model S3341/92 – 80 USD
Philips Norelco Shaver 7200 series Model S7887/82 – 100 USD
Foil Razors:
Braun Series 5 5118s – 70 USD
Manscaped The Chairman Plus – 80 USD (on sale)
Braun Series 5 5050cs – 90 USD
Braun Series 6 6172cc – 100 USD (on sale)
Braun Series 7 7085cc – 120 USD
Panasonic ARC5 ES-LV67-K – 158 USD
Thanks,
Ryan
Hi Ryan,
Thank you for the kind comment.
Since you’ll be shaving daily or every other day, I think you can definitely think about trying a foil shaver. Picking one will ultimately depend on a few things that I’ll try to highlight so you can make the best decision.
I think the Series 5 5118s and especially the 6172cc are the best budget picks. So if the budget for the new shaver is limited, one of these two would be my pick. The Series 6 has a flexible head (so it’s a bit easier to use below the jawline) but shaves exactly the same otherwise. The 6172cc also includes a cleaning station, which makes the deal even more appealing. I reviewed the 5118s here a while back if you want to check it out.
The 5050cs and 7085cc are from the old generation, so they don’t have the Turbo mode like the 5118s and 6172cc. The 70855cc is still however very reasonably priced and the shave will be similar to the Series 6. The main difference is an additional left-to-right flexing of the head which to be honest doesn’t help much.
All these Braun shavers have separate trimmer attachments you must fit in place of the foil head, so they’re not as practical as the integrated ones.
I would not get the Chairman Plus shaver; I am yet to try it, but previous Manscaped products I’ve used have been disappointing.
The Panasonic ES-LV67-K is by far the most powerful in this list and has by far the best pop-up hair trimmer on any shaver. It shaves incredibly close, and if that’s something you’re interested in, it won’t disappoint. Also if you have very coarse hair, it will take you less time to shave. It can be a bit more aggressive than the Braun shavers, so that’s something to keep in mind if you have sensitive skin.
If you do decide to go the safe route and stick to rotaries, I think the 3600 would be the best pick. The 3900 is identical but comes with a charging stand. The 7200 does have better heads (more blades per rotary head), but isn’t a lot more powerful and the shaving unit is very large.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ovidiu,
Thank you for the detailed response and your recommendations! I went with the Panasonic ES-LV67-K and it’s been working really well! The shave is noticeably better than my previous rotary electric razor. A quick question: How often should I be using the included oil and/or the spray that you recommend using for foil razors? Also, how much of those should I be using each time?
Hi Ryan,
That’s awesome, glad you’re happy with your new Panasonic.
Regarding the lubrication part, it depends on how often you shave and how you clean the shaver. If you only use water (no soap), then oiling it once a week will probably suffice. If you shave very often (more than for times a week), then you can increase that to two times a week.
If you clean the shaver with water and liquid soap (which I think is beneficial, at least every once in a while), then after every cleaning with soap would be my recommendation. Soap removes any traces of lubricant, so it’s important to do it after every cleaning. Just make sure the foils and blades are dry before applying the oil or spray. If you’re using a spray lubricant, then you should also allow the product to evaporate before using the shaver.
I published a more detailed post on this topic here if you’d like to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have used Norelco Triple Headers mostly. I have found the others not to fit well in my hand or on my face. I am very surprised your evaluation does not take this into consideration.
Presently have 2 – 30 year old 8240 xl s and don’t plan any others. The 2nd one is new and sill has not been used.
Note I have never replaced blades and you might remember how Norelco marketed self sharpening and lift and cut.
I remember my father with his various foil shavers and occasional razor burn.
He had heavier beard than me.
I m very happy.
Hi Eric,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
Older rotary Norelcos like your trusty XL were indeed smaller than today’s shavers, especially the high-end models (Series 9000, i9000) that are quite large and bulky. Most users do however get used to the proportions. The budget Philips shavers like the Series 3000 are on the other hand still very compact and similar in size and shape to your shaver. I do appreciate the ergonomics and mentioned this for the Series 3000 at number 7.
Foil shavers have come a long way in terms of comfort, but generally rotary blades/heads are still more durable and the costs of ownership will be lower.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, I wanted to take the time to thank you for your website! So useful. Thankful to God for it.
May I ask a question about beard detailing? There are mini-foil shavers and mini-trimmers. Are full-size foil shavers just as good for beard detailing? Or does the size of it impede this? For example, the Braun S3 you recommend. That S3, and others like it, are vastly cheaper in my country than a many-parts Philips Multigroom.
Will the Philips Prestige Beard Trimmer Series 9000 that you recommend be as good for beard detailing as a mini-trimmer (such as there is on a Philips Multigroom)?
Thanks for your time on this.
Hi James,
Thanks so much for the comment, you’re very kind.
A foil shaver that will be primarily used for beard detailing (like cleaning the top of the cheeks or the neck close to the beard line) needs to be compact, ideally with one or two wider foils and a fixed head. The ones from Andis or BaByliss are really well suited for this. If there’s not a lot of shaving do be done, the included mini foil attachment of the Multigroom should be enough. Otherwise, investing in a single or double foil shaver will be worth it. Full-size shavers are more expensive and the flexible and large heads don’t offer any benefits here, on the contrary.
For precise edging/trimming you will need a trimmer with an exposed blade. Unless you’re doing something really complicated, the standard blade of the Multigroom or the Prestige Series 9000 will be nimble enough, so there’s no need for a mini-trimmer blade.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Help me out with your much valued thoughts …….
Budget isn’t an issue
I’ve only ever used foil shavers – Panasonics then Braun s9, I shave every 3/4 days and the Braun has been superb BUT it doesn’t shave well along the jawline .
After nearly three years the Braun power button has fallen off and it seems an easy fix , BUT I’m intrigued by the rotary Phillips Ultra.
There are many conflicting reviews about the closeness of the shave and speed of completing the shave, Would the Phillips be worth a try? Is it faster and as close as the Braun?
Hi Mark,
Given you’ve tried some of the best foil shavers out there and you shave every 3-4 days, a rotary might just work great. There’s always some uncertainty if you’ve never used one before and to be perfectly honest, it could go either way.
The Prestige Ultra is objectively the best rotary you can currently buy, and it can shave really close and efficiently for certain combos of facial hair, skin, shaving habits and technique. Ultimately, there’s no way of knowing until you actually try one.
Philips offers a money-back guarantee, so if you can take advantage of that, it’s probably worth it — at least you’ll know once and for all if you should only stick to foil machines.
Sorry I can’t give a more definitive answer.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Great comparison, thanks. I bought Braun Series 9 Pro couple months ago and I love it.
Awesome, thanks so much for the comment. Glad you’re enjoying your S9 Pro.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
thanks for the good tips you give to razor users.
I would like to buy a new rotary shaver from Philips.
The choice is wide from i9000, i9000 Prestige, i9000 Prestige Ultra, S9000 Prestige to Series 9000.
However, all these new 9000 series shavers seem to use the same SH91/50 shaving head, which is not ideal because you can’t shave all the way under the nose with it.
The reason is the 5-cornered shape of the shaving head with the wide edge that prevents this.
My old SH90 shaving head didn’t have a wide edge and you could reach right up to the nose to shave off the stubble.
Is there a solution to this if you want to buy one of the new products mentioned?
I didn’t want to buy a foil shaver because of the noise.
Thank you for your reply.
Best regards
Wolfgang from Germany
Hi Wolfgang,
Thank you so much for the comment.
Just one thing worth mentioning about the SH91 and SH90 — these are just the replacement shaving heads, meaning guard & blade pairs, and do not include the holder/head unit that can have either the old/round shape or the new hexagonal, larger design.
The new i9000 models, be it the regular i9000, i9000 Prestige or i9000 Prestige Ultra are somewhat in-between, meaning the shape of the heads are neither square nor round, but have a squircle-like shape. They are better and more user-friendly than the large angular heads of the Series 9000 and S9000 Prestige, but not quite as manageable as the older round heads of the now discontinued Series 9000 that came with the SH90. Also, you can easily upgrade the SH90 to the SH91, they will fit perfectly and again the shape of the heads will still be round, that won’t change in any way.
But if you want to buy a new shaver, you could consider one of the the i9000 variations, with the Prestige Ultra being the most feature-rich and with a slight power upgrade over the other two or you could try and find the original S9000 Prestige that one has round heads. The SH91 heads will fit perfectly when it’s time to replace the discontinued SH98 heads it comes with. Again, this will not change the round heads into the large ones.
I have a very comprehensive Philips shavers guide where I get into all the details and differences, I think you will find it useful if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
About 9 to 10 months ago, I bought the Braun Series 9 Pro+ (model 9517s) in the standard version for 220 €, without the cleaning station and without the case that also charges the shaver. I’ll be putting it up on eBay in the next few days, and hopefully still get a decent price for it.
I haven’t been particularly satisfied with the overall experience. I shave every other day. In the beginning, I was relatively happy with the results. Although I could still feel and see leftover hairs around the neck and chin crease area, I assumed my skin just needed a few weeks to get used to the shaver. Also, I wasn’t yet fully familiar with the device, and I figured there was still room for optimizing my shaving technique.
Unfortunately, the process wasn’t particularly quick either. It took me around 8 minutes to complete a shave, mainly because I wasn’t happy with the result in the neck and chin crease area. For all other facial areas, I needed about 3 minutes. At least my skin wasn’t irritated, even though I went over the same areas multiple times.
Now, 8 months later, I haven’t really noticed any improvement. The neck and chin crease areas still show visible stubble, especially if I turn on the light and look closer in the mirror. I simply don’t look clean-shaven.
Do you think the shadow around my beard area would be gone if I shaved every day instead of every other day?
The shaving head has already started to lose performance. For example, it no longer removes my mustache as easily or quickly as it did in the beginning. I also haven’t gained any time savings. For such an expensive device, I find the results, especially in the neck and chin crease areas, quite poor.
While on vacation over the last two weeks, the shaver even started to smell bad, probably because I shaved right before the trip and didn’t have a good way to dry it properly. I wiped it down with toilet paper and packed it in the provided case. I really don’t feel like always having to worry about keeping the device dry when I’m on the go.
Lately, I’ve also noticed that hairs are still stuck in the shaving head, even though I rinse both the shaving head and the body of the shaver thoroughly with warm water after each use. I’m not really keen on buying the cleaning station either. It’s already expensive, in my opinion, and you also have ongoing costs for the cleaning cartridges. The station is also quite loud during cleaning, because it turns the shaver on, and it takes a while for the shaver to be cleaned and dried.
I’m starting to believe that electric shavers in general have reached the end of their evolutionary road. I watched a video from a reliable source comparing the old Series 9 with the Series 9 Pro in terms of changes and shaving performance. The conclusion was that there was practically no difference, and this is despite a six-year gap between the models. These are also the most expensive models, and usually, new features are introduced in the high-end versions first.
I’ve now switched to a cartridge razor from the supermarket chain Aldi. In our country, we have an independent and well-respected product testing organization called “Stiftung Warentest.” Their test ranked the Aldi razor second with a score of 1.8. First place was shared by two models from Gillette and two from Wilkinson, including the Gillette Labs, where four blades cost 20 €. I’m definitely not willing to pay that, since those blades likely cost no more than 50 cents each to manufacture. A four-pack of Aldi blades comes out to just 67 cents per blade, a much fairer price point.
I do have one question. In one of your articles, I found a YouTube video where you cleaned a Braun shaver using water and soap. I followed your method exactly, but unfortunately, there are still a few hairs stuck in the shaving head. Since I want to sell the shaver, I’d like to get the shaving head and the upper part of the device (where the shaving head attaches) completely free of hair. Do you know of an inexpensive method to get the shaving head and top part of the shaver fully clean?
Best regards
Thomas
Hi Thomas,
Thank you for the comment.
The Series 9 is generally the safest option for most users if they have the budget. It doesn’t really have any major weaknesses and even though it doesn’t excel in certain areas — the closeness is still not at Panasonic level, not even with the latest 96xx PRO+ — it’s easily good enough and in some particular aspects, excellent. When shaving longer, flat-lying hairs for example there’s probably no other foil shaver that can handle that as well as the Series 9.
That said, the various upgrades the Series 9 got over the years have brought minimal or no improvements to the actual shaving performance and I’ve always tried to emphasize that in the reviews and the comparison guides. Until recently, the Series 9 I would recommend was actually the standard, non-Pro variation because it costed less and shaved almost the same. My recommendation only changed more recently when the Pro and PRO+ variations dropped in price and are now easier to find. It is however not the same with every new electric shaver. The latest (Japanese) Arc 6 models represent a noticeable upgrade over the outgoing models, while the new Philips SH91 heads are a lot gentler than the old (discontinued) SH90.
I don’t think shaving daily will make much of a difference vs shaving every other day. The S9 has the two foil elements further apart vs a Panasonic for example and the foils also have a lot of give, being very flexible, which is convenient for getting a gentle shave and for adapting easily to the various surfaces. The downside is that the closeness isn’t as good as in the case of a Panasonic Arc 5 or Arc 6 (those do have their own specific shortcomings as well).
For the chin crease I would lock the shaving head in place, rotate it 90 degrees (so the foils are perpendicular to the floor) and use my free hand to shift the skin out of the crease (doing so to the left and to the right of the cleft — hope this makes sense). On the neck there’s not much you can do except going against the grain, one small area at a time and maybe using a pre-shave lotion. Speick, Tabac or Pitrell usually work well with the S9 when you want a closer shave.
Any foil shaving head will develop a funky smell if it’s damp and the moisture hasn’t evaporated completely. Also, cleaning the head with water alone will probably won’t be enough for proper hygiene and to remove all the hairs and grime. In time the buildup can grow. Water + liquid soap would be the best alternative in the absence of the cleaning station. Speaking of which, it is loud, but only for about 2-3 minutes; the drying phase (with the small fan running) is a lot quieter.
I would try soaking the cassette in warm soapy water for about 30 minutes, then rinsing it with tap water. I would also dip the head in a bit of alcohol and run the shaver for a few minutes as well. As for the shaver and the top part, that can be really fiddly to clean and you can try a using a wooden toothpick, the shaver’s cleaning brush etc. to remove as much of the grime and hairs. It will be difficult to have it completely spotless, but it’s ok since it is a pre-owned shaver and that is expected.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thank you very much for your detailed response. I shaved wet the day before yesterday and then tried the electric shaver again yesterday. The result wasn’t really satisfactory for me. In the neck and chin area, visible hairs were still left. Personally, the topic of electric shavers is now off the table for me. Presumably, even with the Panasonic Arc 6, visible hairs in the neck and chin area would still remain. And then I would also have to spend a considerable amount of money on a shaver again. Physically, it’s unfortunately not possible for an electric shave to achieve the same result as a wet shave, since, as far as I know, electric shavers only cut hairs just above the surface of the skin. I’m now going to list my Braun Series 9 Pro+ on eBay, because for me personally, the advantages of a wet shave outweigh the rest.
Best regards,
Thomas
You are very welcome, Thomas.
I’m sorry it didn’t work out. That’s a very fair point and I’ve always stated that we should use whatever works best for us.
In my case, I get an incredibly close shave with a Panasonic Arc 5 or Arc 6 and a good shaving cream, I really can’t feel any stubble at all. Back in the day I couldn’t get that close of a shave as I was only able to do one pass with the grain (using a mild DE razor) because of severe irritation and razor burn. But again, if a razor blade works better for you, then by all means you should continue using one.
Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience, much appreciated.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you very much for this site, it’s been really helpful for choosing my next shaver. I’ve been using my old Braun Series 7 for about 12 years now and decided it’s time to try something new. Since it’s been working perfectly fine my only gripe being my flat neck hair, I decided to order new Series 9 Pro+.
Anyways, I just wanted to give you a credit for the job you have done with this site.
Hey Matti,
You are too kind, thank you so much for the comment. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new S9 PRO+.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have rarely been this disappointed in a consumer product.
After thoroughly reading your article I decided it was time to replace my old workhorse, a Braun Series 3. I wanted a razor that gave me the closest shave and because I don’t have sensitive skin I thought the Panasonic ES-LV67-K based on your review was just what I was looking for. I have a medium coarse beard with no flat lying hairs felt that my beard profile fit the requirements of the Panasonic quite well.
After shaving with the Panasonic for 3 weeks now and religiously following the instructions in the manual for proper shaving technique and care of the machine, I am ready to return to my old Braun. In fact, I did a test a few days in a row using using each shaver on alternate days using the same amount of pressure with each one, shaving each area of my beard the same way, for the same amount of time and my conclusion is that the Braun gave me a closer shave even though it is 10 years old. I know that I can get a closer shave using a gel, but I can also do that with my Braun which I have on a number of occasions. It’s just not practical to do it every day.
I can’t return it so I will just write it off as a failed effort to improve my morning shave. It is too bad that one cannot test drive shavers before purchasing them, at least not here in Switzerland.
Hi Paul,
Many thanks for taking the time to share your experience.
I’m sorry the shaver didn’t live up to the expectations. From what I can tell, an Arc 5 should be a perfect match for your your needs (close shave) and shaving frequency/beard type.
Objectively, the ES-LV67 is a better shaver than the Series 3 in pretty much every aspect and the user feedback for that shaver is overwhelmingly positive, the closeness and the cutting power of the shaver being its main strengths.
The fact that you’re getting a closer shave with the old Series 3 tells me there’s room for improvement and there’s a good chance it can be achieved and you can put the new shaver to good use. I’ll be happy to share some ideas on how to do that (I’ve owned and used lots of Arc 5 models for the past 20 years) but I will however need to know more details about what exactly happens during a dry shave. You can reach me directly at contact@shavercheck.com.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Would you please give us one of your most excellent reviews about a curious new player, the Manscaped: The Chairman Pro.
I don’t want to break the bank and with my current budget ($160) I am considering 3 options:
1. Panasonic Arc 5, LV65s
2. Braun Series 8, 8517s
3. Manscaped The Chairman Pro
Thank you very much.
Hi Christopher,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
I do plan on buying and reviewing the Chairman Pro, but it will probably be a while, I’m afraid.
So while I haven’t actually used it, I think it’s unlikely it’ll perform better than the other options you listed.
The Panasonic Arc 5 would be great choice for someone who shaves often, wants a very close shave and doesn’t have very sensitive skin. Even if the hair is very coarse, it still performs excellent. The large head and lack of efficiency with longer/flat-lying hairs means you’d get the most out of it if you use it often (daily up to every 2 days).
The Series 8 is easier to use (smaller and more conforming head and foils), works great on both short and longer stubble (up to 4 days between shaves) and it’s gentler than the Arc 5. The closeness is not quite as good, but most users should find it easily good enough. The hair trimmer of the Series 8 is also nowhere near as good as the one on the Arc 5.
So while they are both foil shavers, their strengths and weaknesses are quite different, so that should make you lean more toward one or the other.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I left comments yesterday about my negative experience with a new Panasonic razor that I purchased. I felt that the criticism was valid based on my experience. It was rational, detailed and I believe honest.
Yet, you chose not to post it. It would appear that only positive reviews or questions by users are allowed. That is unfortunate.
Hi Paul,
I have to manually approve the comments as there is unfortunately a lot of spam as well, so it sometimes takes a day or two as I only work on the site during my free time. A negative experience with a specific shaver is extremely helpful and I don’t have any problem with it — on the contrary. It helps me and other users as well, and that’s always been my goal with this site.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello all,
I’ve recently been using a safety razor for shaving both my head and face but i feel as though the exposed blade forces me to take too long to shave (35 min) since im trying to be careful not to cut myself. Ive used a rotary cutter in the past and wasn’t satisfied as it felt like i had to do multiple passes over the same spot to cut the hairs but ive never tried a foil style shaver. Would you recommend it?
Hi Guilherme,
I think the Braun Series 9 (Pro/PRO+) would be a very solid option to consider. It’s a versatile shaver that works really well as head shaver, so you won’t be needing a second machine for that. It’s very fast and effective and one of the more forgiving shavers out there provided you do the basics right (don’t move the shaving head sideways, apply gentle pressure keeping the head flat on the skin, and the hair has a reasonable length).
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
nice site you have and good explications. Nevertheless I feel overwhelmed about the models and soemtimes I can not judge which braun series model are still available. I have a Braun series 5 590cc bought in 2011 for 166 Eur. Unfortunately there aren’t replacements anymore and I have to buy a new one. As from your reviews the new 5 series are not as good seems to me. I see that 6 and 7 are still available but I don’t know which will “stay” in the future. What would you suggest from here:
Braun series 5 52-B7000cc for 99 EUR
Braun Series 6 61-N7000cc Wet&Dry for 112 Eur
Braun Series 6 61-N7650cc Wet&Dry for 135 Eur
Braun Series 7 71-S4200cs Wet&Dry for 157 Eur
thnaks for your reviews
Hi David,
Thank you for the comment.
I wouldn’t buy any of those, to be honest. I would rather look for a great deal on a Series 8, any model starting with 84, 85 or 86. In my opinion the Series 8 is a noticeable upgrade over the current Series 5, 6 and 7. And it is more powerful and smoother than the 590cc.
The Series 8 uses the the 83M head which should be available for a long time.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Ok, great, good to know. Thank for your tips
I recently bought a Panasonic ES-RT37 it is decent but when I run my fingers against the grain on some parts of my face I can feel very little stubble. So I was thinking about returning this one and getting an arc5. but the problem is arc5 has 5 blades and a big head and I keep a short beard and only use the shaver on my upper cheeks and the arc5 head is too big. So it might be difficult to use arc5 on this small area of the face and to maintain the shape of the beard. So what would you recommend?
Hi,
I also think the Arc 5 would not be ideal for this use case, despite being more powerful than the RT37 and it can also cut the hair closer to the skin.
I would instead consider a BaBylissPRO FX3 or FX2 (whichever you can get for less money). These are double-foil shavers specifically designed for this type of use. They’re very maneuverable (compact head) and the foils are extremely thin, so they can shave really close to the skin. A more budget-friendly alternative would be the Andis ProFoil, though this one is a bit more aggressive and can cause some irritation.
The only downsides of all these shavers is that they’re not waterproof, so cleaning will be more tedious. But I think it’s worth the compromise, you can clean the top of the cheeks easily and very close to the beard line.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for the information.
Hi Ovidiu,
Firstly, thank you for the extensive knowledge you have shared on your website, it has been very useful in choosing electric razors.
So I have recently tried both of the following razors:
Braun Series 9 PRO + 9597cc
Philips 9000 Prestige SP9885/35
I found however that both consistently missed hairs on my neck even when passing over the area several times which would then often lead to skin irritation, I tried using Speick electric shave lotion however it didn’t improve.
Is it a case of having to use the electric razor almost every day as they aren’t capable of cutting through longer hairs or perhaps electric shavers just aren’t for me. I was probably shaving once a week with each of them as my skin needed time to recover from the number of passes required before shaving again. I’m really intrigued my the Arc 5/6 as so many people speak positively about them but I am worried I am going to encounter the same issues that I have already had. I have now gone back to manual shaving, should I stick to this or do you think an electric one is worth another go?
My skin isn’t sensitive to wet shaving so I don’t believe that I have sensitive skin although it was triggered with the several passes required by the razors above, I have straight hair with average thickness.
Cheers!
Hi Jack,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
I think that shaving only once a week + some of the particularities of your facial hair ultimately led to these underwhelming results. Electric shavers generally work well on short hairs that (ideally) grow relatively straight. And even if the two shavers you’ve used are some of the more capable ones for less frequent use, it was probably too much. And it’s a vicious cycle there as well: you need to wait many days for the skin to heal and in the meantime the stubble gets too long for an effective, comfortable shave. The Arc 5 and Arc 6 definitely wouldn’t have worked better in that same context — on the contrary. Those only really work well with frequent use.
I would not give up on electric shavers just yet. There are some cases where they just don’t work, but are quite uncommon. I would try to shave around every two days, using a pre-shave, and focusing on smaller areas, with short, back and forth strokes, always trying to attack the stubble against the grain and always keeping the shaving head flat on the skin. You should avoid those sweeping long strokes we see in commercials — that doesn’t work in the real life and will only lead to hairs getting snagged, missed or even cause nicks.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for your speedy reply, that is all really useful!
I think I have overlooked the fact that to be effective these shavers ideally need to used every couple of days rather than trying to continuously cut back over a weeks worth of growth.
I have committed to an ARC 6 and so far the results have been positive.
Thanks again!
Hi Ovidiu
Add my sincere thanks for the detail in the article to all those above. Really helpful, but I still can’t reach a conclusion.
I was a lifelong blade shaver, except for an unsatisfying stint with a rotary about 20 years ago. A couple of years ago I started using a (don’t laugh) Remington Almost Indestructible foil shaver. It works ok, but maybe I don’t know any better. I can’t say it’s comfortable, but I don’t have much to compare it with. I guess you’d call me inexperienced.
First Question: The Remington in Australia is about $80. and replacement blades are hard to get/confusing and about $50. So it’s been a new $80 razor every year or 2. At $300-$500 for the Braun and Panasonic options, plus replacement blades/head every year or 2(?)….Is the performance & comfort that much better for the price premium?
Not to mention a wife who wonders why I’m considering spending that much on a shaver.
I might give the Remington a go with shaving Gel and see if that feels better. Hadn’t heard about pre-shave lotion so I might give that a go too. But I’ve never been a great one for spending a lot of time shaving. The best thing about switching to electric was not using shaving cream and pretty much having to shower after a shave.
On the assumption that you’ll tell me the upgrade is worth it, I’m left with some dilemmas… Braun or Panasonic?
I’m not great with maintenance. With Hearing Aids, CPAP and teeth maintenance, I just to pick up the razor, shave and wash out the head every couple of days and charge it every week or so. When shaving gets too scratchy, time to buy a new one (although retiring a perfectly good shaver irks me.)
I liked what you said about the Braun and thought “that’s the one for me, all I have to do is choose a model”, until you got to the bit about the need for a cleaning machine, and supplies to feed it. That’s a bit daunting. Also, we travel a bit with caravan and camping so that need to cart along a cleaner is a non-starter.
That leads me to the Panasonic doesn’t it?. Being a retired guy and a camper, it’s fairly common for me to not shave for a few days at a time. But, wait, the Braun is better for that isn’t it?
So Obi-Wan, any suggestions for a way forward.
Thanks
Steve
Hi Steve,
Many thanks for the comment, I appreciate it.
The Remington you’ve been using is a decent shaver for the money. In fact, I’d say it’s very similar to the Remington F5 at number 8 in my list. It can shave quite close, but it’s not the most gentle, effective or easy to use foil shaver out there.
The switch to an advanced Braun or Panasonic model should normally feel like a substantial upgrade, especially since the Remington has been quite underwhelming from what I can tell.
That said, the Braun (any Series 9/9 Pro/9 PRO+) and a 5 or 6-blade Panasonic have their specific pros and cons. The Panasonic would be ideal for frequent use, and if your stubble grows relatively straight, and you’re mostly interested in a very close shave. The Braun on the other hand is more compliant, easier to use, more comfortable and effective even if the hair is longer/more difficult. It doesn’t shave quite as close, but I think most users will find it perfectly fine. And I would not overlook the Braun Series 8 which is a very capable shaver and you should be able to grab one for a lot less than any S9 variation.
Regarding the cleaning station, it is not a requirement regardless of the shaver brand. If it sounds like too much of a hassle (it’s supposed to make things easier for the user, not more cumbersome), you can of course buy just the shaver and clean it manually. Even if you’ll be getting a Braun (which does seem to be a more suitable option in this case), you can clean it yourself (ideally with water and liquid hand soap), but you will need to do it after every shave.
I think a good pre-shave lotion (like the one from Speick) would pair nicely with a Braun Series 9 or 8 and allow you to get a good shave consistently. I would stick to a dry shave as it’s quicker and requires less prep and less cleaning.
These shavers cost a lot more than your Remington, but at least you would be able to easily source the replacement heads. This would be another plus for the Series 8, as the head costs less than the ones needed for the Series 9 or the Arc 5/Arc 6 from Panasonic.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the very thoughtful answers. I’ve ordered some pre shave, shaving cream (to try for a closer shave on those special occasions) and after shave, all from your list and recommendations.
The idea that the shaver blades needed lubricant was also new to me. I forgot about lubricant for the shaver if you’d care to make a suggestion (or did you write an article on that too).
One thing i completely forgot about was charging. My Remington charges with a USB cable, which is really convenient (I hate how so many things come with their own power pack), and a must in the caravan when we’re off-grid. The proprietary cable is a bit annoying.
The Braun appears to use a 12v power supply, directly from a mains power pack? Is there a 12v cable with a car (cigarette lighter) connection easily available? Do all the Braun S8 and S9 models use the same power connecter?
I was excited reading your newsletter on the Laifen P3 Pro, until i got to the bit about being hard to hold. I have arthritis in my hands so that feedback really contributed to my decision process. Thanks.
Thanks again
Steve
You are very welcome, Steve. I’m glad the info was useful.
Most current Braun shavers, including the Series 9 and 8, come with a charger that takes 100v-240v AC power and converts it to 12v DC which is what the shavers need. There are 12v Braun cords with a cigarette lighter connector available, but I’ve personally never used one. But they should work just fine. A Google or Amazon search (e.g. Braun Series 9 12V Car Charger) should return a few buying options. The Series 9 and 8 use the exact same charging port.
And you are probably right — given your arthritis, I also don’t think the P3 Pro would be the best option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu
Found these USB C chargers for Braun shavers on Ali Express. It looks like they have the 5V to 12V DC-DC converter in the plug.
Hobo 12V Type-C Shaver Charger Adapter Charging Converter for Braun Series 3 5 7 9 6 1 XT5 Electric Razor(Cable Excluded)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005010008461067.html
AUD$1.41
There’s quite a few on there and one reviewer says it gave a full charge on his S3 and has a picture of it charging.
Regards
Steve
You are very welcome, Steve. Looks very nifty and it costs almost nothing, if it also works as advertised, then it’s a win.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu
Thanks again for the fantastic information you provide.
From your excellent article and our discussion, I asked for a Braun 9677cc (charging case – solves my camping issue & cleaner) for Christmas. My daughter got my one on a Black Friday sale for AUD$474 (and my wife made the inevitable comments about spending so much on a shaver).
I’m really happy with the Braun S96 shaver. It does a much more comfortable, closer, more complete and quicker shave than the Remington. Handles 3 or 4 days without shaving very well too. (Got it a bit early and been using it since 15th December).
I haven’t tried the cleaning station yet because we’re free camping in the caravan, but I’ve been looking at your alternate cleaning station refills. Most of them are hard to get in Australia. Others I’ve seen advertised don’t indicate the contents so I’m a bit wary of them. I could order 5 (15 refills) of the CCREFILL powder ones from the US for about AUD$60, $4 per refill. Then about $5 per refill for the isopropyl alcohol. That’s $9 a refill. Or a 6 pack of genuine Braun ones for just under $60. Hardly seems worth the effort. I saw some “Crystal Pure” cartridges on eBay for about 1/2 the price of the Braun ones.
How long should a cartridge last? I think I saw somewhere, 2 months.
Have you run into any limits on how many times you can refill a cartridge?
Hope you had a great Christmas.
Regards
Steve
Hey Steve,
Thank you so much, I had a lovely Christmas, hope yours was great as well.
Glad you’ve been enjoying your new Braun.
The main issue with these third-party cleaning solutions is the availability. I can only get a few brands here in Europe as many others from the USA, Australia etc. can’t be shipped to me, so unfortunately there are many potentially great products that I cannot try and hence recommend. With the situation you mentioned, getting the Braun 6-pack does make more sense.
How long a cartridge will last greatly depends on how often you use it, whether you remove most of the stubble from the head before cleaning it and especially if you take the cartridge out of the station (after the cleaning cycle) and you reseal it with the plastic cap to prevent the alcohol from evaporating. You can easily extend it that way for a few months. I would replace it when the liquid gets super murky. You can refill the cartridge for as long as the mesh filter inside doesn’t get clogged with dirt and hair. If you clean the cartridge properly before each refilling, any clogging is unlikely to happen.
I also wrote an in-depth article on how to make a cartridge last longer here if you want to check it out.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is an excellent site – thanks so much!
A fairly basic question for you: I tend to shave every six days – I like the clean shave look I get on Day 1, and the stubble effect I get on Days 4-6. And I can live with the ‘in between’ status of Days 2-3!
I don’t like shaving (it’s boring and fiddly) so that has the added advantage of not doing something I dislike that often :). I dry shave only.
I’ve been using a Philips S5587 for a few years. It’s OK, but not brilliant. A lot of fiddly repeat passes and awkward moves under the nose and the chin towards the ears, etc.
I think I have fairly coarse hairs (not soft downy ones).
Would you recommend upgrading? And if so, is a rotary shaver better for my routine than a foil one?
Thanks so much!
Hi Martin,
You are very kind, thank you so much for the comment.
That is a very interesting routine — men who prefer a clean shave usually hate the in between stubble (myself included). :-)
The safe route would be to buy another (more capable) rotary. Your Series 5000 is a decent mid-range model, but something like a Philips S9000 Prestige or i9000 Prestige Ultra should bring a noticeable improvement to your shave. Those are more powerful and use better dual-track heads, so should also be more effective at catching the hairs.
A typical foil shaver would perform worse on 6-day beard, with the Series 9 (Pro/PRO+) being the only one able to provide a decent shave. But using it every 6 days would really be pushing it to the limit.
So unless you have a second device (i.e. a beard trimmer with shearing blades) to pre-trim your beard, a rotary is probably the better option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks so much – really appreciate the advice, which I shall now go out and follow! Many thanks.
Hi Ovidiu, I got a Braun S5 for £55 (50 B 1200)
Panasonic ES RF 31 £50 June 23 & used it to April 25
I got another for £40 & held it back but already it just feels blunt or sticky by comparison. Some days I have a close shave, others not. The variation is odd.
I used to have a Braun S3…..So seeing this Braun Series 3 ProSkin Electric Shaver, Rechargeable and Cordless Wet & Dry Electric Razor for Men with Pop Up Precision Trimmer, 3040si, Black/Blue
Amazon’s Choice£59.99 with 52 % saving. Looks too good to miss. What do you think Ovidiu? Bill B
Hi Bill,
The S3 ProSkin is very similar to the S5 (power, effectiveness, closeness, comfort), but I like the S3 more because the cutters stick out more from the compact foil frame. This makes the S3 ProSkin one of the more nimble shavers you can buy. And it has an integrated trimmer which I prefer to the click-on attachment of the S5.
The Panasonic ES-RF31 uses a lower-grade rotary motor instead of the linear drive units of other 3-blade Panasonic models, so the performance is quite underwhelming.
The 3040si is essentially a 3040s with a more sturdy cardboard box — the packaging is the only difference — so it’s a very solid option for a reliable and affordable foil shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Wow Ovidiu a better cardboard box.
So S3 is better than 3040si
I had S3 way back then S5 abt 2019.
All new foils were very poor& lasted only a few months. So I buy shavers rather than parts.
I started shaving in 1965 not electric till 5 yrs later. Phillips, Remington & Braun till they stopped working or fell apart. My best reliable shaver had a wire go & it was too close to be re-soldered or mended. A few I gave away to relatives.
I saw one of your old posts about taking more time & using less pressure…..”Desperate Dan” & “Diamond Chin” agree.
Hi Ovidiu, your article is amazing, thank you for writing it.
So I only grow mustache and goatee, like the actor Timothee Chalamet lol. And I have sensitive skin, so is Braun S8 likely the best option? I don’t really care about close shave, but I want the most gentle razor possible.
I also heard you can’t press foil razor on your face otherwise bleed might happen, is this true?
Hey Sid,
Thanks so much, glad you found the info useful.
I actually think a Braun Series 3 ProSkin would also work just fine for that (while costing a lot less than the Series 8). Moreover, it has a narrower head which should help with getting closer to the goatee and mustache. One word of caution though, be careful not to go over the very long hairs in your mustache/goatee as any shaver will likely snag and pull a couple.
If you don’t want a super close shave, then my recommendation would be a Philips Norelco OneBlade instead of a foil/rotary shaver. The OneBlade can also easily handle longer hairs if you don’t plan on shaving very often.
And yes, pressing any electric shaver too hard into the skin can cause some razor burn, bleeding or tiny nicks.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
An update to you after 3 months, I’m very happy with Braun Series 3 ProSkin. Not only saved money compare to Series 8, I can finally shave with zero irrtation, so most my pimples healed too.
Thank you very much again for your amazing reviews, I will continue to follow them, take care!
Hi Sid,
Thank you so much.
That’s awesome, glad you’re enjoying your S3 ProSkin. It’s an ideal situation as the Series 3 is one of the more reliable shavers with low costs of ownership. And if you can get a great shave as well, it’s a win-win.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Nice, useful article and reviews!
I am (err was) still using two Panasonic ES8068 razors, but unfortunately they have both now died (apparently electronic brain failure — the batteries are charged but the razors seem to think they are not so they won’t turn on). Satisfactory razors (at least 10,000 rpm) with solid hair trimmers.
Admittedly, my skin doesn’t seem to be as sensitive as it used to be. But these 8068s needed no lubricants or detergents (a “cleaning station” sounds like nothing more than a way to get buyers to spend more money at purchase and to buy detergent — I’m good with soap and water). If the cut hairs don’t wash out under the faucet, how does the cleaning station get them out?
In my experience with two Panasonic 8068s over years, replacing blades and especially foils, is WAY overrated. Take the manufacturer recommendation and multiple it by 5-10. I dare you to do a blind experiment and be able to feel the difference between new and old foils, or even blades.
With my small face, I’m guessing that the Panasonic Arc 3 is my best choice as a replacement. I once tried a rotary, and it was much too big and cumbersome for my face, and I am assuming that a 4, 5, or 6 blade foil shaver would be similarly too large.
Hi Stan,
Thank you for the comment.
All things considered, I think an Arc 3 would be the best option. The transition should be seamless from the ES8068, also a 3-blade foil shaver with a similar shaving head. The ES-LL41-K is usually the one to buy (price, availability), but any 3-blade Panasonic fitted with a 13 000 CPM motor (very important) would shave pretty much the same.
One word of caution regarding the hair trimmers; while on most Arc 3 are very good, the newest Arc 3 models (the ones with the clean, minimal design, like this ES-LT4B), are fitted with a different trimmer that folds back way too easily. If you use the trimmer regularly, I would stay away from those.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Got it! It’s interesting that the ES8068 (and I assume other 3-blade razors) has only two blades that are replaceable.
Spot on as usual Ovidiu, and very practical and comprehensive! Happy Holidays!
Thank you so much, Allan, I appreciate it. Happy Holidays to you as well!
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu
Once again, thanks for all the thorough and detailed information about the various razors. I ended up buying a Panasonic Arc 5, but to be honest with you it’s just too damn loud. Good performance, close shave, etc., etc. But just too loud. So it has been returned.
I’m looking for an alternative shaver, preferably foil. I guess my best bet would be a rotary shaver (Phillips) because of how it functions, its low pitch motor, how it runs, etc. It’s not as loud.
But can you recommend another foil razor, such as a Braun series, that is not as loud as the Panasonic? Or perhaps this is something that’s true for all foil razors… They’re just too loud.
The local Costco has a Braun’s shaver, Series 9 sport +, that is currently on for a smoking deal. However, I have no sense / experience of how loud this machine is. Based on your experience, is a series 9 ( or Braun in general) as loud as the Panasonic?
Any suggestions you can provide would be helpful.
Cheers from Ontario, Canada. Seasons greetings.
John
Hi John,
Sorry you had to return the Arc 5. I’m afraid you would find the Braun Series 9 (Pro/PRO+) to be loud as well — it’s just a different kind of loud. The Arc 5 has this high-pitch buzz, while the Braun is lower in frequency, raspier and it also vibrates a bit more. There’s no consensus among users as to which one is louder, but you will most likely still find it too loud. And pretty much all decent foil shavers are like that, the only exceptions being the small travel-style shavers, but their performance is underwhelming.
A Philips rotary is pretty much the only alternative if you want a quiet electric shaver.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Love this articel. Helped tremendous.
Bought the Braun Series 8 8567cc and hope for the best.
Thanks a lot.
Hey Manuel,
Thanks so much, glad the info was useful. Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new Series 8.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I found in my country (Cyprus-Europe) the model Panasonic ES-LS9A-K803 but it is more than 370 euros. In addition I found on Amazon.de the model ES-LS6A-K803 (series 900+) again 370 euros with cleaning station. At Amazon I found Es-Lv97-K803 with cleaning station only 199 euros. Ehat is the difference between them? Thank you.
I think they are both the Series 900+ (6 blades) model
Hi Philip,
Just a small correction, the ES-LS6A does not come with a cleaning station; otherwise, its performance is identical to the ES-LS9A.
Between the ES-LV97 and the ES-LS9A (both with a cleaning station) there are a few differences worth mentioning.
– both will shave very close, with a very slight advantage for the ES-LS9A
– the ES-LS9A is gentler and not as aggressive during a dry shave, so a better option for users with sensitive skin
– the ES-LV97 has a smaller 5-blade head (vs 6 on the other one), but both are quite large
– both can be upgraded to newer foil revisions what come with improved comfort and even closeness (in the case of the ES-LS9A)
– both shavers will work best when used more often
– the replacement foil head for the ES-LS6A and ES-LS9A is usually more expensive
If you don’t have sensitive skin, and considering the price of all three shavers, the ES-LV97 will offer the best value for money and it’s probably the best pick in this case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu,
Thanks for your reply. I would also like your advice on selecting a high-quality electric shaver that fits my specific needs.
I shave daily, so achieving a very close and deep shave is extremely important to me as well to be suitable for sensitive skin. My preference is mainly for dry shaving rather than wet shaving (rarely use of wet shaving).
Another key requirement is that the shaver must have a well-designed, side integrated precision trimmer, as I regularly trim my thin goatee around the mouth. Ease of use and accuracy with the trimmer are essential.
For reference, I currently own a very old Braun Series 9 (4-blade) model. However, I am not satisfied with:
• How close the shave is
• The usability and effectiveness of the built-in trimmer. My older Philips shaver (over 10 years model) I think did a better job.
Because of this, I am looking for a better-performing alternative that delivers a closer shave and has a more practical trimming function. This is why I was looking for Panasonic ES-LS9A or the model without the cleaning station.
I would appreciate your recommendation on the above model or any other model (between Braun, Panasonic and Philips based on my needs) and whether you think cleaning station is essential for such a model.
You are very welcome.
Both the 5-blade Panasonic (ES-LV97, ES-LV67/ES-LV69) and the 6-blade (ES-LS9A, ES-LS6A) will, in most cases, provide a closer shave than the Series 9. I also find the Panasonic pop-up trimmers (on all of these 5 and 6-blade models) to be vastly superior to any other brand. They’re super effective, nimble, easy to use, and cut very close to the skin. I only use them to trim my sideburns, and for that there’s really no comparison between the Panasonic and Braun (or Philips) integrated trimmers.
If you have sensitive skin, then buying the ES-LS9A or ES-LS6A would make more sense. I don’t think the cleaning station is necessary, so I would try to find a great deal on the ES-LS6A. Normally, that one should cost significantly less than the ES-LS9A.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you. Last question :)
based on what I explained about my needs what do you think about the model Philips i 9000 prestige ultra compared with Panasonic ES-LS ? In the past I had a very good experience with Philips and rotary machines.
I would still lean toward the Panasonic, mainly because you’ll be shaving daily (and the requirement for a very close shave). The stubble will be minimal and rotaries with a large surface usually benefit from the cushioning of a bit of stubble, which will be minimal when using the shaver daily and the motion can be a bit jerky and not as effective. A quality foil machine is the safer choice in this use case.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Firstly a big thanks for all your research into shavers. So many reviews are very biased and lacking depth. If only there were more like this!
Having had a Braun 5 series for at least 12yrs it seems the replacement heads are no longer available from Braun, and the copy ones are total rubbish.
Therefore which shaver do I replace this with? After reading your reviews I went for a Braun 8567cc, strangely Braun were selling the model with cleaning station for less than the one without. Amazon/Braun shop price £219 at the time of purchase. The motor seems more powerful the my old 5 series, and chomps through my light stubble with ease! 1 week on I am very pleased with my decision and hopefully this will last many years.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C3W44TLQ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
Thank you so much for the kind comment, Neal.
After 12 years of constant use, the motor and probably the linkages from the drive shaft and the oscillating pins were pretty beat-up. The Series 8 was the logical option and I’m glad it’s working so well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Will the new i9000 head assembly fit on a 9000 series handle? It would be nice to get rid of the larger head and the blades are compatible.
Hi Paul,
Yes, it will fit. I actually tried myself (here is a picture of my S9000 9500 with the i9000 head unit). Just make sure you have a regular S9000, not the S9000 Prestige because it will NOT fit the Prestige, just the basic 9000 Series.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Many thanks, think I will go for it as new heads are needed anyway. Confusing that in the States a head replacement is recommended every year, but in the UK, it’s every two years. Personally, I think two years is stretching it a bit.
Hello,
I’ve shaved Braun shavers for years. The S9 has been my choice for between 5-10 years now.
I’m writing about the replacement shaver foil and cutter.
I replaced an old Series 9 with the Costco model S9 last October. A hole appeared in the foil within 3 months. I purchased a 94M replacement from a company I’ve used before. It was a German made part. Unfortunately, that foil also developed a hole roughly 3 months later.
I shave daily and think I know how to use an electric razor as that’s the only kind I’ve used in my life.
I went to Braun’s website and looked at reviews for the 94M head and found more than a few comments about the poor quality of that part.
Have you heard from users reporting similar issues?
Chris
Hey Chris,
Thank you for the comment.
From what I understand, this recurring issue only started to happen when you switched to the 94M cassette, and until then, the 92 cassettes of your old S9 were problem-free?
It’s not totally uncommon for a hole to appear in the foil prematurely, but it’s rather an exception with normal use and care.
Also, the 94M is almost identical to the previous 92 revision, the only difference being a tweaked golden trimmer in the case of the 94M. The foil elements are exactly the same, as they were only updated in the case of the latest 96M (still not available in the USA).
Reviews of replacement parts, regardless of shaver brand, are almost universally bad as users who have had poor experiences are a lot more likely to post a review. It’s the same with rotary heads, which last (a lot) more than foils.
Your shaver is still under warranty, so I would reach out to Braun support and present the situation. They’re usually very helpful and will most likely send you a free replacement. I’m curious if it happens again with regular cleaning and lubrication. If you use the station regularly, then it’s an ideal use case that would maximize the lifespan of the cassette.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for your response. You are correct about not having any issues with the foil until recently with the 94 type. I went for years without a hole in the foil.
I use the cleaning station weekly, so I believe my maintenance of the shaver head is proper.
I may call Braun and at least let them know that two 94M heads have failed in a 6-7 month period.
I will keep using the 92S and hope for the best.
Chris
Hi Ovi, over on the Braun discussion, I recently asked about the differences in the 92, 94, and 96 cartridges.
I dropped my 9 series and the cartridge plastic cracked, so I super-glued it. That lasted a couple of months, then I superglued it a second time, buts one of the blades tends to fall out.
While travelling in Australia, I was referred by barber in Sydney to “Shaver Shop” and they had the 94M cartridge available, yay ! Of course I told the guy in the shop “check out Shavercheck, mate”.
In this article I think you mention something about the models subsequent to the 92M as being the new “trouble-free” cartridges, or something. I didn’t catch what made them so, or what trouble the newer models remediated. Can you share that ?
Also, if I am to change the cartridge every 18 months, I’m thinking there’s a chance that the cartridges could become unavailable at some future point, with or without a newer, but not as good, cartridge being the only choice.
So it seems a little kooky, but I am wondering if I should stock up on cartridges (what do you think?). They are around $70USD, which is a bit of money for me.
Also, I think you mentioned that the cartridges subsequent to the 92M don’t get hot. How was that achieved ? My impression has been that when my cartridge is oiled that it stays cooler, does that make sense or am I imagining it?
Finally, the cleaner fluid in the reservoir contains some small amount of oil, from what I understand. So it seems like using the cc cleaner/charger once a week, for example, would obviate the need for oiling. Does that rationale hold water ? I’m travelling now for a couple of months and so of course I did not bring my cc unit.
OK, that’s 5 different questions in this post, I hope it is not too much ! ! !
PS the Shaver Shop guy seemed knowledgeable, eg he knew the Panny was a closer but somewhat harsher shave for us sensitive-skin guys. But as mentioned, he had not heard of Shavercheck, which I remedied ! Even the Shaver Shop girl that called me back after they didn’t pick up knew exactly what I was looking for when I referred to the Braun heads by model numbers. In addition, when I arrived I found that she had already set a 94M aside for me. They employees there take their job seriously !
Anyway, thanks again Ovidiu, you are the very best ! ! !
Hi Jack,
Thank you so much, you are very kind.
The cassettes following and including the 92 revision have been problem-free, minus of course the occasional premature failures, but nothing that would indicate something intrinsically wrong with any of the 92, 94 or 96 heads. The original 90s and 90b cassette did have some serious reliability issues that were addressed starting with the 92 revision (Braun actually outsourced the production to a different manufacturer).
I don’t think there would be a shortage of Series 9 cassettes anytime soon. So for the present time, my advice for stocking up would be to only do it if you stumble upon a great deal on any of the 92, 94 or 96 cassettes. Otherwise, I don’t think there’s any reason to stock up (not at full retail price, anyway).
Series 9 cassettes have always been quite good with managing heat, again regardless of generation. As long as you clean and lubricate your shaver regularly, you shouldn’t experience heat issues. Panasonic foils are way more sensitive to this and can even get hot when lubricated. Speaking of which, if you use the station at least once a week, you’re fine, it shouldn’t need additional lubrication unless you clean the cassette with water AND soap in the meantime. When traveling it would be best to have a small bottle of clipper oil with you (a few milliliters should suffice for a few months). Maybe you can source one, if not, don’t stress too much. Again, Braun foil heads are among the most forgiving when it comes to managing heat and friction.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovi,
Thanks for the reply on the Braun plastic cap!
I have a strong recollection that for the Panasonic 8068, the center mechanism of the foil is a lifter — it lifts the hair so the blades catch the hair better. That made the 8068 a 2-blade shaver. Am I correct about this?
As I look at the current so-called 3-blade shavers, they appear to have the same sort of lifter in the foil, not a blade. Do they actually have a blade or other sort of cutter in the middle of the foil? Or are they all really just 2-blade shavers?
Hi Stan,
You are very welcome.
That is a great question regarding the cutters of a foil shaver.
The 8068 is still considered a 3-blade foil shaver. Or, in other words, it is a shaver with 3 individual active cutting elements. It has two regular foil elements with two removable blades, while the middle trimmer is essentially comprised of a fixed and a movable (but non-removable) blade. So it’s just a different type of cutter that tackles flat-lying hairs. So it would still count as the third cutting element, even though (due to its specific purpose and design) the oscillating blade is essentially built in, but still driven by the oscillating pins of the shaver, just like the two removable blades corresponding to the foil elements.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Are there any (discontinued) Panasonic shavers that are nearly identical to the 8103? The 8109 perhaps, for example? Thanks in advance!
Basically any 3-blade Panasonic (sold under the Arc 3, Lamdash 3 or Series 700 names) have the exact same configuration of the cutting system and many of them use a 13 000 CPM motor, just like the discontinued 8103 and 8109. For example, the ES-LL41-K and ES-LL21-K even have the exact foil + blades set (WES9013) as the 8103 and 8109.
In my Panasonic guide you can find a few model names, along with a detailed overview of the ones that are worth buying (some of the 3-blade Panasonic shavers use a less powerful rotary motor and should be avoided).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Right, but the 8103 has a narrower head and the head tilts. You also once said the 8103 might still be the best 3-blade Panasonic of all time, so there may be other small features that distinguish it. That’s why I was asking about shavers that are nearly identical. I think the 8109 is, but I’m not certain, and I wonder if there are any others.
The ES-LL41-K and ES-LL21-K also have a narrower foil frame than most other Arc 3 variations; they are currently the 3-blade Panasonic shavers with the narrowest head (among the models you can still buy). The head itself is fixed, but to be honest, the flexing on the 8103/8109 is pretty much useless in practice. So I don’t think you’re missing out on much.
Some years ago, the 8103 was readily available, very reasonably priced and had a 10-stage battery level indicator. The latter is not even present on today’s Arc 5 PRO or Arc 6. That made it was my default recommendation for a budget/3-blade Panasonic. Since the 8103 can’t be bought anymore, the ES-LL41-K is now the next best thing, all things considered. The newer 3-blade models (Lamdash 3, Series 700) like this one have a wider foil frame, cost more and are more difficult to buy.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidu, I’m surprised others have not mentioned this (perhaps my nose is more sensitive than others’) but I abandoned the Panasonic Arc 5, which I really liked a lot, because the cleaning solution that you had to mix always developed a strong, mildewy odor that I could not abide. And I didn’t want to bother with manual cleaning when I already had the cleaning station. The Braun Series 9 shaver, with its blue cleaning solution, never has this problem, and the shaver is very close to being just as capable.
Best, Mark
Hi Mark,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
You are absolutely correct, the mildew and funky smell are a couple of inherent problems with the Panasonic cleaning system. It’s also one of the reasons why I always recommend the Panasonic models that aren’t bundled with the station (like the ones in this article). I have been mentioning the issue in more specific contexts like reviews or Panasonic guides, but I will probably add that info explicitly here as well in the next update.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I found your guide very useful. Wish I had seen before byuing. I have a Braun 7S 360 shaver and like it very much. I had to replace the head and ordered 2 from Amazon. They were not easy to find. They work well but sometimes pull my hear. So I discarded the first ond used the next. Same result.
So now I purchased a series 6 Brown shaver, thinking the old 7 was done. Is this a good choice? (It was on sale) Have not opened the box yet.
Thank you
Hi Joe,
Thank you for the comment. Unfortunately if you didn’t find the shaving experience with the S7 360 satisfactory, you will feel the same way about the Series 6. They use the same shaving head, but the Series 6 is a bit less powerful and has a less advanced flexing system. The latter wouldn’t have a big impact, but the main point is that your S7 is a bit more capable than the Series 6.
I think the Series 7 is a decent shaver for the money, but it’s not good enough. For the same money, a Panasonic ARC 5 like the ES-LV65 shaves faster and closer (provided you use it often, so the stubble is short) or, if you shave every few days, a Series 9 or even 8 are probably worth the price difference.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I use Panasonics Arc 6 & 5 in sequence; the slower, Arc 5 for a final, close cut.
Clean with a can of compressed air from Amazon or a DIY store (for cleaning electronics). Otherwise use a toothbrush + soap & dry well on tissue.
Lube afterwards with baby oil, which is cheap and similar to ‘official’ mineral oil. Just rub on the outer foil whilst operating. A weekly clean and lube will minimise blade wear. One can hear the tone change as oil is applied.
Hey Trevor,
Thank you for the comment. Sounds like a good and effective routine to me, but I would be extra careful with the toothbrush and only use it on the inner part of the foil frame.
Applying a suitable lubricant is in my opinion a must with Panasonic shavers, I also can immediately hear and feel the difference.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi,
I’m primarily getting an electric shaver for my neck as I maintain a beard.
My first machine was a VGR V-393 to see if my sensitive skin would be OK with using a machine every 2-3 days – with aftershave it was OK.
Its springs recently gave out and I am now looking for an upgrade for a clean finish on the neck and enough comfort not to damage the skin.
Current options are:
Braun 52-N1200S for 65 Euros
Panasonic ES-LL41 for 90 Euros
Braun 3040s Series 3 for 90 Euros
Ordered the first one but I see you reccommend others in your guide.
Please let me know if I missed out on anything that would provide more value.
Thank you for your useful guide!
Hi Ibrahim,
The VGR was a practical machine as you could edge the beard very precisely with that slim head and it worked on longer stubble as well. The downside is the so-and-so reliability and the fact that the closeness will be just ok since it features a basic setup of shearing blades, so it is essentially a trimmer, not a shaver.
The three options you mentioned will work fine, but the Braun 52-N1200S would not have been my first choice, simply because the foil frame is wider compared to the other two and for this particular use case you’d want a shaver with a slim head and with the cutters sticking out more. I think the 3040s and the ES-LL41 have an advantage in that regard.
Another shaver used often in this manner (by barbers as well) is the BaByLiss FOILFX02 or the Andis ProFoil. These shavers have only two foil elements, so the heads are slim and can cut the hair very close. They are however quite aggressive and are difficult to clean since they’re not waterproof. So I would not necessarily recommend them.
Try the Braun 52-N1200S you already ordered and see how it goes; make sure the stubble isn’t very long (electric shavers can only work well on short facial hair) and don’t go over the long hairs of your beard as it will snag them. If this sounds like a deal breaker, then maybe it would be best to buy a Philips OneBlade (very similar to the VGR), even though it won’t cut the hair quite as close as a shaver.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
Thanks for your quick response.
The VGR was indeed very practical but as you note not very reliable as the springs are detached.I exclusively used its shaver foil head for hair on my neck, below my beard. It was also forgiving in the sense the neckline would stay the same as the beard hair would be too long to the shaver and did not snag it.
For my beard, I use the Philips Series 5000 BT5515/70 which is a great, comfortable machine but does not provide a clean finish on the neck – which is why I bought an additional budget shaver.
I didn’t go for the oneblade because it felt like an overkill considering I already have the Philips BT5515/70 which is good for the beard.
The BabyLiss and Andis seem a bit pricey then as an addition to thePhilips.
Is there a specific oneblade you would recommend or any other specific machine? Thank you!
Best,
Ibrahim
Hi Ibrahim,
Just any OneBlade you can get for the best price. You wouldn’t really have any need for the various attachments/guards of the more expensive models. As I mentioned in the previous comment, this type of trimmer/shaver is very practical and precise. While a shaver (like the 3 options you mentioned) would be able to cut the hair closer to the skin, it does have some specific drawbacks: stubble must be short, and it might snag a few long hairs if you get very close to the beard. You could use your Series 5000 trimmer without a guard to get closer to the beard and do some precise trimming/edging.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you Ovidiu for this great and comprehensive article. Your level of expertise and knowledge is simply the best.
Quick question regarding the recently introduced Braun Nevo you mentioned. I know it’s not widely available yet but in your opinion how does the shave compare to Braun Series 9 Pro+ (with the 96M cassette) which I like a lot? Especially when it comes to closeness of the shave.
I’m looking forward to your thoughts on this newest shaver.
Thank you!
Hey Arthur,
I’m actually working on the Nevo review right now; I managed to buy one from Boots and I’ve been using it for the past few weeks.
The main difference in terms of performance/quality of the shave compared to the S9 PRO+ with the 96M is in how the new Nevo cassette and cassette frame feel. There is a noticeable difference, in the way that the Nevo cassette (which is 100% compatible with the S9 PRO+ btw) feels smoother and that special ultra gliding coating really does work. So the shave is smoother, more comfortable and more enjoyable, but in terms of closeness, I’d say it’s the same or at least as good. But the latest ARC 6 (Japanese release) is still ahead and for daily shaving and very coarse hair, it’s probably the better option (for a close shave). If you don’t have sensitive skin, and you can press and be more thorough, I think even the Arc 5 (ES-LV65/ES-LV67) would still have a slight closeness advantage over the Nevo.
Once the Nevo cassette becomes available, you will be able to upgrade the S9 PRO+ and get most of the benefits of the Nevo.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
This is wonderful news.
I have three slightly different Braun Series 9 Pro+ and Pro models. Knowing that we can upgrade the cassette to the Nevo and get the benefits is exactly the information I was hoping for, and you’ve provided it.
I’ll be interested to know if you think the closeness is improved compared to the 96M cassette, which I do find to be the closest shave from Braun’s 9 Series compared to the 94 and 92 cassettes.
Thanks Ovidiu, for your comprehensive site, reviews and deep knowledge. Very helpful.
Best,
Dan
Hey Dan,
Thanks so much for the comment. I’d say the closeness is extremely similar to the 96M, but the comfort is improved, the Nevo cassette being more forgiving and less likely to snag longer hairs. It’s also super smooth and shaving feels effortless and enjoyable; to me that’s what stands out the most about it.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you Ovidiu once again for your reply. The whole Panasonic line can be a little confusing to me. Would you mind posting a link to the specific Panasonic shaver you are using/recommending (USB charging and no cleaning station). I don’t mind importing from Japan if necessary (I am located in Canada).
Thank you!
Arthur
You are very welcome. There is actually a single such reference (USB-C, no cleaning station): ES-L650U. Here it is on Amazon.co.jp.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you Ovidiu – ES-L650U that’s the one I just ordered. I was also wondering is there some way to tell the difference visually between the older foil head ES9600 and ES9610? Are there some markings on the inside that differentiate the two?
The reason I ask is when the shaver arrives I want to make sure nothing has been tampered with and I have the right foil head. Ot maybe I’m just worrying unnecessarily? Thank you.
You are very welcome, Arthur. Unfortunately no, you couldn’t really tell them apart. However, you can be 100% confident that you’re getting the right shaver with the right part. I have been ordering from Japan for years, and I’ve bought dozens of shavers, never had any issues whatsoever.
Hope you’ll enjoy shaving with your new ARC 6.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu. I thought I’d just provide I quick update.
I received my ES-L650U the other day from Amazon Japan and all I have to say is “wow”. You were absolutely right. This is a much closer and quicker shave than I used to get with the Series 9 Pro+ (with the 96M cassette).
In my humble opinion this shaver is a significant step up from the Braun I have.
I also wanted to thank you because if it wasn’t for your work I probably wouldn’t have come up with the idea of importing a shaver from Japan. I am so glad I came across your website.
One final question: do you recommend washing the cassette with soap after every shave? Or is a quick brush and then rinse with water enough?
Thank you.
Hi Arthur,
That’s awesome, thank you so much for the follow-up. Glad you’re enjoying the new shaver, it seems to be a perfect fit.
Personally, I always clean my waterproof shavers with water and soap and I generally use the brush only around the drive pins and not for the shaving head (the part that gets detached). It’s safe to brush the inner plastic parts of the foil head (never the foils), but I personally prefer to use water and soap. You can use just water every once in a while or when you’re in a hurry, I’m sure it’ll be fine.
Also, make sure to lubricate the blades regularly (twice a week when you’re not using soap and after every cleaning with water+soap). The blades should be clean and dry before applying the oil (or a spray cleaner&lubricant for clippers).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu, I am a long term user of the Braun 9. Series. I am also a regular user of this site, which is what prompted me last year to buy the new series 9. Pro plus with the 96M. Cassette. I bought this at an amazingly low price direct from the Braun website. Using your expert knowledge I bought the “S”. Variant without the cleaning station as you correctly reported that my existing one works perfectly. As an everyday shaver, I only get 12. Months before I need a new cassette and 12. Months is approaching. From new I hardly noticed much improvement in the 96.M. Cassette To my original. Although I found a slight performance upgrade with actual shaver. I notice that with the passage of time the 96.M. Cassette Is no more expensive in the U.K. than the previous version. The reason for this post is to enquire about the new Nevo. can the Nevo cassette be used on the 96.M? And secondly is the new Nevo a substantial improvement on the 96.M? As I am registered with the Braun website I have been receiving notifications about the Nevo for quite some time, it is now available here in the U.K. unfortunately, as with all new products the price for the whole kit including a spare cassette and C/C. Is over £700. Which at the moment is a step too far. But as I am always looking for new deals, this time I will have to hold on to my 96.M. Thank you for your reviews and I look forward to your opinion on the Nevo. Regards Eddie
Hi Eddie,
I’m actually writing the review for the Braun Nevo right now, having managed to grab one from Boots at a promotional price (around £420, but ended up paying more than £600 with the forwarder’s fee plus shipping to Romania and customs duties).
The answer to your questions is yes, the Nevo cassette will fit your 96xx Series 9 PRO+ (or any other Series 9) perfectly. As for the performance, I find the closeness very similar to the 96M cassette, but the experience of shaving is definitely more enjoyable. The Nevo cassette is the most comfortable I’ve used yet and shaving is simply effortless. The gliding tech they rave about really does work. I’m afraid I cannot say anything yet about the longevity and whether it would last more than your 96M.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Wow, another new cassette from Braun, interesting.
PSA: I saw the Braun 9 Series “Sport” model exclusive to Costco (for better or for worse) for $150 at the Costco in Kona, Hawaii (“Big Island”).
It surprised me bc I saw the price had jumped up last I looked, I think to $250 from $199 at Costco. Kona is quite out of the way, so I don’t know if other Costco’s have the same offer “in-warehouse”.
Meant to post this last week but busy, good luck.
Thanks Ovidiu for everything, once again !
Hey Mike,
Thanks so much, I appreciate it.
The Sport and Sport+ at Costco usually offer great value for money, being essentially Series 9 PRO shavers with a 92 or 94 cassette. Costco does make things super difficult for me (as a European visitor), as I had to us a USA VPN just to be able to access the site and the price would only be displayed for signed in users. So thank you again for taking the time to share the price info.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I have a Panasonic es-clv7t and I love the way it performs. The only issue I have with it is that it came with the cleaning station and when I’ve used it or try to use it, despite filling it to the level suggested, it always overflows. Knowing it’s somewhat possible this is my usage error, have you come across this issue and, if so, how can it be remedied. Thanks very much and than you for all the great information you share, it’s invaluable.
Best regards,
Mark
Hi Mark,
Thank you so much for the comment.
I personally haven’t had that problem with a Panasonic station, though in all fairness, I’ve rarely used them as I almost always clean my Panasonic shavers manually.
Did the problem occur right from the beginning, or did it start happening later on? Also, does the fluid just overflow from the tray, leaving a small puddle underneath the station, or does the cleaning well (where the shaving head sits) fill up and overflow?” If you have the possibility, maybe you can record a short video the next time you’re using the station and send it to me at contact@shavercheck.com. I’ll be happy to take a look and try to troubleshoot the cause.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
HI OVIDIU
I own a Panasonic Razor model ES-LS8A purchased May 2024. After reading your reviews on line I decided to replace my foil head. My original foil head is a snap in foil with no plastic wings at each end of the foil.
When I search for the recommended replacement for the ES9610 FOIL from USA or Japan they have a wing on either end of the foil. I cannot believe you must cut off the plastics on each end of the ES9610 foil to snap it into the ES-LS8A razor.Please help.
THANK YOU
Hi Arnold,
The two foil heads (ES9600 and ES9610) are absolutely identical and you do not have to cut anything. I think you are referring to yours while it’s still attached to the foil frame, and the wings are not visible. Here is an image with both the ES9600 and ES9610 removed from the foil frame. You would also remove your old ES9600 from the frame (by squeezing the two tabs) and insert the new one (it only goes in one way) in its place.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello Ovidiu,
I sincerely appreciate your reviews and guides! ShaverCheck is the single greatest resource out there for electric shavers. And now I’d like to ask for advice, if you can spare the time.
First, some background: I’ve been using a Norelco 2300 for the past 6 years, and it is long overdue for an upgrade. It no longer holds a charge, and even when using it *corded* after an overnight charge, it loses spin speed after about 5 minutes of use. And I’ve grown significantly more facial hair since I got it as a teenager (still, my facial hair is not 100% filled in yet, so it is probably on the lighter side in density). It now takes me about 15-20 minutes to dry shave (never tried wet shaving but would prefer not to), and I often get a few razor bumps (probably due to both the 2-year-old blades and weakened power).
My #1 desire with a new shaver is to reduce shave time. Under 10 minutes to shave, rinse, and maintain the shaver would be great, but I don’t know what a reasonable time expectation is. My secondary goal is comfort, but anything would be better than the dying shaver I have now.
Below are the options I’m currently considering along with my concerns with them, though I am still open to other options if you think I should look into them. For reference, I’d prefer a shaver around or under $150 USD, but I can flex a bit higher if it is truly worth it. In no particular order:
Panasonic Arc5 (Per your advice, I’d choose the LV65 over the LV67 if priced similarly.) [Optional sidenote: Both their prices spiked up this week, so I would have to wait for them to come down to the price they were when I first looked at them. There was no sale. Amazon just decided to increase the price for no reason.]
Braun Series 5 5118s (My concern about this one is the lack of a built-in trimmer and the snap-off head rather than an ejection mechanism/button. I feel like this is a failure point waiting to happen.)
Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s (This one *looks* like it will last longer than the Series 5. However, the NiMH battery has me worried about its longevity. The Series 5 has a Li-Ion battery. Both of these Braun shavers are almost the same price right now.)
Panasonic Arc3 [ES-LL41] (Frankly, I haven’t researched this much, but the price is significantly lower than the Arc5 [enough to buy an extra replacement blade set]. Considering I probably have lighter facial hair, maybe this one is better for me than the Arc5? Shaving time is still most important to me, though, and I’d be willing to pay extra for that, if it’s a significant difference.)
Philips Norelco 3600 (The “safe” pick, as in it’s virtually the same shaver I’m used to but not 6 years old. However, it’s priced almost the same as the Braun Series 3 3040s. I’m also unsure how much faster it would shave than the one I have now.)
I would much appreciate any suggestions or feedback on these options. Thank you!
Hi Ian,
Thank you so much for the kind comment.
I think the 15-20 minute shaving session can be significantly improved. Here are a few thoughts on the options you mentioned.
1. Panasonic Arc 5 (ES-LV65, ES-LV67). If you shave often, this would be an excellent shaver for what you’re trying to achieve. It can be super fast provided your facial hair is not too difficult (flat-lying, different grain). If the stubble is short, coarse, grows relatively straight and stays upright, it’ll be a super fast and effective shaver that can cut the hair very close to the skin. It’s not however the most comfortable (can be a bit aggressive and cause razor burn if you have sensitive skin). The built-in trimmer is also the best in your list (by far). Also, if you do decide to buy one, definitely wait for a good deal. Also, the foils and blades can be upgraded to newer (and more comfortable revisions), but are expensive and would need to be imported.
2. Braun Series 5 5118s (Turbo). This one is essentially a slightly more powerful S3 ProSkin (when used in Turbo mode), with a wider foil frame and the 3 cutters sticking out less; that’s why I prefer the 3040s, plus its integrated trimmer. It’s a decent shaver for the money, very comfortable, but probably not the fastest. Unless you have coarser stubble, I would actually pick the S3 ProSkin instead.
3. Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s. I (indirectly) mentioned most of its strengths above; it’s a very robust, reliable (despite the older battery tech), comfortable and easy to use shaver. Probably the best budget pick, but again, it’s a basic shaver with a basic 3-foil setup, so it won’t be the fastest. I’m not a fan of Braun integrated trimmers, be it on this Series 3 or on the premium-priced Nevo. Panasonic trimmers are just better.
4. Panasonic Arc 3. This one is similar to the Series 3 ProSkin, shaves slightly closer and you would really need to use it often and have straight stubble for it to perform optimally. The trimmer is better vs the Series 3. The replacement foil and blades set costs more vs the Series 3 ProSkin or the Series 5.
5. Philips Norelco 3600. This would really be the safest pick and the more natural transition; it would also be faster than your current 2300 because it’s a bit more powerful and comes with new blades. That said, it won’t be a transformative upgrade.
If I were you, I would actually buy a Series 9. That one is in my opinion the most effective shaver out there for most users, as in how long it takes to get a clean result. It’s also super comfortable. I would really check out the Series 9 Sport+ models as they essentially shave the same as the 93xx or 94xx models but often cost the same as the Arc 5 (ES-LV65/67). And you can even upgrade the cassette in the future to the new 96M or even Nevo. The problem with the Sport+ models is the limited availability (Costco exclusive, I couldn’t even buy one for a review). The Series 9 trimmer is still underwhelming vs Panasonic, but I think it’s still worth it.
Finally, add a pre-shave lotion to your routine; it takes seconds to apply but can further reduce the time it takes to shave. I recommend the Gatsby pre-shave gel (green bottle) or the Speick pre-shave lotion.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu,
I have been using a Panasonic Arc 5 (LV6Q), which I bought in 2018 after reading your recommendations on your website. It has served me very well so far, and I have only had to replace the blade set once.
At times, the shaver can irritate my skin, but I really love how close it shaves. However, I agree that it does struggle with low-lying hairs.
I’m quite a hairy person, and my moustache and beard usually grow very quickly, with noticeable growth after just 2–3 days. I usually shave once, or at most twice, a week.
Lately, my Arc 5 battery has been showing signs of failure. I need to charge it to more than 50% before I can use it, and the long-press function for the cleaning mode is no longer working.
I’m now thinking of buying a new shaver or upgrading. What would you suggest? Should I buy another Panasonic Arc 5, or should I try the Braun Series 9 Pro?
I’d really appreciate your advice
Hi Fahim,
Thank you for the comment, much appreciated.
Considering the type of your facial hair, as well as your shaving routine/frequency, the Series 9 PRO/PRO+ would probably be a more effective shaver. That said, there are a couple of small compromises: the closeness, and in my opinion, the hair trimmer. The Series 9 can’t cut the hair quite as close to the skin, especially if the hair is thicker. So that’s something to consider; it may or may not be a deal breaker. The hair trimmer may not matter a lot to you, but if it does, the one on the Arc 5 is much better.
If you do decide to switch to the Series 9 PRO/PRO+, it’ll likely be noticeably easier to cut those stubborn hairs, your shaving session will be shorter and probably more enjoyable and comfortable. The Series 9 is also more manageable and user-friendly, with a smaller, more yielding shaving head. The cleaning station is very practical (I would still skip it for the Arc 5 or any Panasonic for that matter).
So those would be the pros/cons of these two excellent shavers. But only you can decide which one would make more sense.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
1. Does the i9000 Prestige (non Ultra model) has the same shaving comfort advantage of the i9000 Prestige Ultra you mention in this article?
2. Would you say the UV station for the i9000 Prestige/Prestige Ultra, worth it?
Hi Amir,
1. Yes, I’d say it’s pretty much identical in terms of comfort.
2. I personally wouldn’t pay a premium for a model that includes it. I prefer to clean my shaver either via the Pod or with water and soap, both being very effective. The UV light is indeed meant to further reduce bacteria/germs, but you would still need to have the shaver thoroughly cleaned and dry before putting it in the UV case. It does charge the shaver, which is nice.
If you can get a great deal on a shaver that is bundled with the UV case, then you can definitely go for it. I think it’s a very interesting accessory, but I wouldn’t consider it a must-have.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, what would you recommend in the case of light facial hair and wanting to minimize skin irritation (though I am not really predisposed to it), and optimizing closeness of shave? I was going to get an ARC5 since you listed it as the best for the closest shave, but also mentioned it is probably overkill for a light beard. I quickly skimmed the comments but some of your recommendations are either discontinued or the prices aren’t that far off from the ARC5 (it’s on sale right now). I wanted to go with a lower-end option but I am weary about how close it will shave.
Hi Tom,
Overkill isn’t necessarily a bad thing in the context of electric shavers, unless there’s also another aspect associated with that, like a high price or a very large head.
The Arc 5 is a highly capable shaver, so if you have a light beard, it just means it will handle it with no effort. A more affordable Arc 3 would also work, but if you don’t mind spending more on the Arc 5, it can actually be more enjoyable and require less work.
If you don’t usually get irritation, it’s probably a great option for a fast and close shave. The generation 2 Arc 5 models, like the ES-LV65, ES-LV67 or the USA ES-LV6H (all of them shave the same), are often on sale and offer some of the best performance for the money.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi Ovidiu, great reviews,
Will you add Braun Nevo to this list one day? And which option would be better in your opinion, S9 pro with Nevo head, or full Nevo?
Thank you very much.
Hi George,
Thanks so much, I appreciate it.
Right now I feel like the Series 9 (PRO/PRO+) simply offers way better value for money, especially since many models are often on sale. And it has a couple of objectively better features:
– the foil release buttons
– the more practical head-locking mechanism + thumb rest
– the Series 9 station is compatible with both the old and new style cartridges
The Nevo has two main advantages vs the S9: the metal body and the smoother cassette, but the latter can be fitted to any Series 9.
If you have a Series 9 (93xx and up) and it works perfectly fine, I think upgrading just the cassette is the more sensible option.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu