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5 Best Electric Shavers for Men - Reviews
(2016-2017)
Compiling a list of the best electric shavers is not an easy thing to do.
You know why?
Because there are so many electric shavers out there, and needs of one person are not necessarily the needs of another.
Yes they both look for a shaver but there's so many other variables involved: skin type, style, design, comfort, etc.
This is why I've compiled a compact short list of 5 electric shavers for men. I think most people will be able to find at least one shaver that fit their needs.
3 Best Electric Razors- Quick Review
Electric Shaver | Rating |
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How to Choose The Best Electric Razor For Your Needs
Over the years, technology has changed almost everything. Although some of these advancements are easily noticeable, others cannot be spotted so easily. This is especially true when it comes to electric shavers.
Although these products have changed substantially. Electric Razors are capable of getting the job done quicker and more efficiently than ever before. They’re also much safer when compared to the razors of the past.
Although this is undoubtedly a good thing, attempting to buy a new razor can be a little complicated and time consuming.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know in order to get the best electrical shaver for your money!
What Are Your Needs?
Before buying an electric shaver, which will satisfy your needs, you first need to take the time to define your needs.
Each person is different and his preferences will vary significantly.
With this in mind, you should figure out precisely what you want from your shaver and how you plan on using it.
Here are some things to consider:
- Do you plan on using your electric shaver in the shower?
- Do you need a portable/cordless razor for travelling, camping, etc. ?
- Do you have a mustache or a beard? If so you'll need a shaver
that is capable of making precise cuts.
Knowing these things ahead of time will help you make a purchase that will serve you for a long time.
If this is not your first time buying an electric shaver, I suggest you sit down and think about your pains when using your current shaver and what do you need from it that it can't provide.
What to Consider Before Buying an Electric Shaver
Now that you know your needs, it's time to pick up the perfect shaver that fits your needs.
Foil vs. Rotary
There are 2 categories when it comes to electric shavers: foil and rotary. They both work in the basic way, i.e blades cutting hair.
Foil
A foil head is made of thin metal foil with holes, which covers blades that move fast from side to side for efficient cutting.
Rotary
Rotary shavers usually have three rounded heads which cover three rounded blades that spin and cut the hair.
Let's compare the different aspects of shaving with regard to Foil and Rotary shavers.
Close Shave
Most of the time foil shavers will provide a very close shave.
Due to the nature of its head, rotary razors won't provide a close shave as a foil razor.
Styling & Usage
Due to the rectangular nature of the foil shaver, it won't be easy to reach curvy places on your face. But it will be great with making straight cuts, like styling your sideburns.
Rotary shavers are designed to have easy access to all the curves on our face (chin, jawline, etc)
But it's hard to make precise straight cuts using a rotary, unless you have a built-in trimmer.
Skin Type
If you have a sensitive skin, foil shavers will be better suited for you.
Speed of Shave
Most of the popular rotary razors won't reach the speed of a foil razor.
How to Choose?
Go for Foil If
You have a sensitive skin.
Need a close shave.
Need precision & fast shave.
Go for Rotary If
You have a coarse & thick facial hair.
Don't need a close shave.
You don't have a sensitive skin.
Corded / Cordless / Battery
According to your preference you can choose between corded/cordless/battery shavers.
most of the electric shavers are rechargeable which is good for using at home or when out camping or travelling.
If it's important for you there are shavers that can work both corded and cordless, (very helpful in case you forgot to charge it and you're in a hurry ).
I would recommend against battery shavers, unless your planning on travelling and won't be able to charge your shaver.
Dry & Wet Electric Shavers
Electric shavers can be divided into 2 types when it comes to wet & dry shaving.
Wet/Dry Shaver
These razors allow you to use them while in the shower. This also makes them ideal for men, who wish to shave with gels or foams. Although these models tend to be slightly more costly than the alternatives, they’re much better for sensitive skin. On top of that they are also a lot easier to clean.
Dry Shaver
Dry shavers only allow a dry shave, i.e. without any gels or foams.
They tend to be much less costly than the wet/dry razors, but they’re not ideal for those with sensitive skin. The only major downfall associated with the dry shaver is the fact that they’re nearly obsolete.
Warranty
Although the majority of shavers are built with longevity and durability in mind, problems can still arise from time to time. This is where warranty comes to play.
The price will generally play a vital role in the length of the warranty. Paying less will usually mean that you’ll be provided with a much shorter warranty and vice versa.
With this in mind, you should know that razors could come with a very short warranty, which lasts just 90 days. Others give 2 or more years of coverage.
Opting for a long warranty is always recommended, even if it means spending a little extra.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The entire purpose of an electric shaver is to add a little extra convenience to your life.
But it does require a little more maintenance. Before purchasing, it is important to take the time to examine
the razor’s ease of maintenance cleaning routines.
To make the process easier and quicker, some razors actually come with a cleaning station.
With a cleaning station, you will not be required to perform much maintenance on the razor at all. Instead, you'll be able to place the razor in the cleaning station and leave it do its work.
Some cleaning stations are capable of cleaning, charging and lubricating the shaver.
If you want to be completely hands off, then paying some extra for it is recommended.
Price
The prices of razors are incredibly diverse.
This means that you can spend as much as you wish and still get a decent shaver.
Although the price will undeniably be an integral factor in your purchase, you shouldn’t allow it to cloud your judgment.
It is a factor, but it is only one factor and generally not the most important.
With this in mind, it is typically best to set a budget for yourself, before moving forward.
Shaver Features
When at the specs of potential shavers, you will quickly find many differences with regard to the features of each shaver.
It is generally true that a more expensive razor will provide you with additional features.
Not everyone will need all features. This is why it is important to familiarize yourself with the potential features, before making your decision. Below, you will be able to learn about some of the available features, which you’ll be able to choose from.
Waterproof
If you're planning to shave in the shower, then this is the feature for you.
This feature won’t make the price much higher, so it is recommended.
Display Options
The majority of electric shavers will come equipped with some type of LED or LCD display, which keeps you aware of the battery’s status, at all times. As long as the razor has some type of display mechanism, you should be fine.
Fully Washable
This feature will provide you with easier use and maintenance.
Long Hair or Precision Trimmer
If you're planning to use your shaver to trim your sideburns or mustache, you want to make sure to choose a shaver that is equipped with a long hair trimmer.
This trimmer usually pops up when you hit a button.
Carry / Travel Pouch
If you like things organized or planning on traveling with your razor, you should make sure it comes with a convenient travel pouch.
5 Best Electric Shavers - Reviews
Rating
PROS
- Large handle for easy grip
- Well-balanced
- Easy to control
CONS
- No wet/dry shave
- Not cheap
General Overview
Braun Series 7 790cc Cordless Electric Foil Shaver for Men with Clean and Charge Station provides a remarkably close shave, even on dry skin.
It cuts more hairs in a single stroke than most other electric shavers, which cuts down on the number of times you need to drag the shaver over your skin.
It has four shaving elements, which allows it to cut even hard-to-reach hairs or hairs that lie flat.
The shaver is waterproof, but isn't meant for wet shave. It also has five shaving settings, which you can adjust based on the sensitivity of your skin, how close you want your shave, and the type of hair you are cutting.
One key feature of the shaver is the Clean & Charge station. The station charges the shaver in just an hour's time. It also features a unique alcohol-based cleanser that removes tiny hairs from the blades while keeping them well lubricated.
Usage
Because of the four shaving elements, the Braun Series 7 Shaver can cut more hair in less time than many other shavers on the market. The included trimmer helps to lift flat hairs while the foils cut hairs down to 0.05mm.
The Clean & Charge station makes cleaning the shaver a snap after each use. Just put the shaver into the station.
Best For
This shaver is ideal for guys with sensitive skin who usually end up with razor burn after using a standard blade. It's also a great pick for guys with coarser hair.
Women who are looking for an electric shaver that offers a shave that's comparable to a manual blade might also find that the shaver does the job well.
Verdict
If you have the budget for a high-end shaver with a lot of bells and whistles, the Braun Series 7 790cc Cordless Electric Foil Shaver for Men with Clean and Charge Station might be the best pick for you.
Rating
PROS
- Wet / Dry shave.
- Battery power indicator and cleaning reminders
- Waterproof
CONS
- Has only four blades
- Doesn't include a cleaning or charging station
General Overview
The Panasonic ES8243A Arc4 Electric Razor for Men, is a waterproof, foil shaver with four blades. The blades are ultra-thin and made of stainless steel. They are designed to conform to the shape of your face to provide a relatively close and comfortable shave. The pivoting head also helps you to get a better shave.
Although the shaver doesn't come with a charging station or a cleaning station, it does feature an LCD indicator screen that lets you know when the battery is depleted and when the shaver should be cleaned. Panasonic doesn't mention how long the battery takes to charge or how long it lasts once charged.
The shaver is waterproof, but isn't meant for wet shave. It also has five shaving settings, which you can adjust based on the sensitivity of your skin, how close you want your shave, and the type of hair you are cutting.
One key feature of the shaver is the Clean & Charge station. The station charges the shaver in just an hour's time. It also features a unique alcohol-based cleanser that removes tiny hairs from the blades while keeping them well lubricated.
Usage
Since the Panasonic Arc 4 Shaver is a wet-dry device, you can use it to shave dry at the sink or while in the shower, with shaving cream. The device uses foil blades, but the curved shape of the head allows for circular motions, making it a comfortable pick for people used to rotary blades.
Best For
The Panasonic Arc 4 Shaver is ideal for guys who want to be able to shave quickly, while their skin is dry or to shave in the shower. Since it only has four blades and often requires multiple strokes to get the closest shave possible, it's not ideal for guys with sensitive skin or with very coarse hair.
Verdict
If you're looking for a flexible, basic shaver, the Panasonic Arc 4 might be ideal for you.
Rating
PROS
- Budget-friendly price
- Corded/Cordless usage.
- Easy-to-clean design
- Provides close shave.
CONS
- Takes 8 hours to charge
- Doesn't come with many accessories
- Works for dry shaves only
General Overview
If you're looking for a basic rotary shaver that won't break the band, the Philips Norelco Electric shaver 3100 might be ideal. It features three rotary blade heads that rotate in four directions, allowing for a close, comfortable shave. The shaver includes a lithium battery, and you can use it either corded or cordless.
The shaver also has an easy-to-open top, allowing you to rinse the blades off or change the blades with just the touch of a button.
Usage
The Philips Norelco is meant for dry shaves only. Although you can rinse the blades off in running water, it's not entirely waterproof. If you like to shave in the shower, you're out of luck with this one.
The shaver has a very simple design. The handle is made of solid black plastic, and while there is some shape to it, it doesn't have a particularly ergonomic grip.
Best For
The Philips 3100 is perfect for the type of guy who wants a shaver that will get the job done, without a lot of extras and without a particularly high price tag. It provides a moderately close shave but won't do much else.
Verdict
The shaver is a budget-friendly pick. Don't expect too much out of it and you'll be happy.
Rating
PROS
- All-in-one tool for shaving, grooming, and facial cleansing
- Waterproof and can be used for wet or dry shaves.
- Shape and positioning of the blades allow for a close shave
CONS
- Takes four hours to charge fully
General Overview
The Remington XR1400 has a design you don't often see on a shaver. Instead of a long handle, the shaver has a pod-like, compact shape that is meant to be more ergonomic and easier to hold. The shape of the shaver apparently makes it ideal for those who shave their heads. The shaver features three precision heads that can shave hair anywhere from 1/16 to 5/8-inch long.
The Remington XR1400 is more than just a shaver. It's designed to be a full grooming kit and includes a detachable, rotating brush for exfoliating and cleansing the skin, and a mustache and beard trimmer with an adjustable comb. The comb has 10 length settings.
The shaver includes a lithium battery that needs four hours to fully charged. Once charged, it provides an initial 45 minutes of runtime.
Usage
The Remington XR1400 is fully waterproof and can be used for both dry and wet shaves. It also works with shaving cream. Its rubber grip and ergonomic shape make it easy to hold whether you shave in the shower or at the sink.
Best For
The Remington XR1400 is ideal for guys who want a bit more from their rotary shaver since it's not only a shaver but also a facial scrubber and beard trimmer.
It also seems to be particularly popular with guys who shave their heads or wear a buzz cut, since its shape and size makes it easy to run over the scalp.
Verdict
If you're looking for a 3-in-1 grooming tool or want to wear your hair short or shaved, the Remington XR1400 is an excellent pick.
Rating
PROS
- Wet or dry shave
- 3 settings for different skin and hair types
- Fully digital interface
- Provides close shave.
CONS
- Replacement blades are pricey
- Expensive
General Overview
The Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 9700 features three rotary blades that pivot in eight directions, allowing for a very close shave. The shaver claims to be able to remove 20 percent more hair in a single pass than other shavers on the market. It works wet or dry and can be used on a variety of hair lengths.
The 9700 shaver has considerably more bells and whistles than other models available, and the higher price tag you'd expect to see with the addition of features. It includes a SmartClean system that cleans, lubricates, and dries the shaver while charging it. It also has a digital display that lets you see how much battery life is left or if it's time to replace the blades or clean the shaver.
The shaver is powered by a Lithium-ion battery, which offers two charging options. You can get a full hour's worth of run time after charging for an hour. A fast, 5-minute charge will give you enough juice for a single shave.
Usage
The 9700 shaver has three shave settings. The sensitive setting provides the gentlest of shaves while the normal setting is ideal for your daily shave. The fast setting is particularly speedy and is good for those days when you need to get out of the house quickly.
Best For
The Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 9700 is just right for the guy who wants a lot from his shaver. If a basic rotary model won't do or if you're tired of shavers that take a long time to charge or to get the job done, this is the model for you.
Verdict
It comes with a high price tag, but the 9700 shaver also has a lot of features that can improve the shaving experience.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best electric shaver does, in many cases, come down to a matter of taste. Some men prefer the shave they get from a foil blade while others think that rotary blades provide the best cut. Whether you're looking for a high-end, premium model or want something more basic, you can't go wrong with one of the five shavers on this list.
