- in Electric Shaving by Jason Hall
Braun Series 7 vs 9 - Should You Buy Or Upgrade?
Braun released what is arguably the most popular and reviewed electric razors with the series 7 models. Since then they have also released the series 9 line up.
Which series is better and which one should you consider when choosing an electric razor?
This article will discuss the differences between the series and compare them side by side to give you a better idea of what is offered from each series. You will learn the pros and cons of each series as a whole as well as what features and options are available within each series.
Series 7 and 9 Model Numbers
There are different models within each series, all of which have different features, colors, or attributes. When you look at the model numbers, you will see that each model ends in an alpha key: either cc or s. This refers to the charging and cleaning station and if that particular model has one (cc) or does not (s).
Series 7
I wrote a series 7 round up that compares the popular models from this series. Here's a quick table that will show you the different models in series 7.
Model | Shave | Clean Station | Shave Modes | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
720s | Dry | No | 3 | Black |
740s | Wet/Dry | No | 3 | Black |
760cc | Dry | Yes | 3 | Black |
790cc | Dry | Yes | 3 | Grey |
797cc | Wet/Dry | Yes | 5 | Grey |
799cc | Wet/Dry | Yes | 3 | Grey |
7893s (new) | Wet/Dry | No | 5 | Silver |
7865cc (new) | Wet/Dry | Yes | 5 | Grey |
7898cc (new) | Wet/Dry | Yes | 5 | Silver |
7899cc (new) | Wet/Dry | Yes | 5 | Silver |
Series 9
Model | Shave | Clean Station | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
9090cc | Dry | Yes | Chrome |
9095cc | Wet/Dry | Yes | Chrome |
9093s | Wet/Dry | No | Chrome |
9290cc (new) | Wet/Dry | Yes | Silver |
9295cc (new) | Wet/Dry | Yes | Chrome |
9293s (new) | Wet/Dry | No | Chrome |
9269s (new) | Wet/Dry | No | Silver |
Note: In series 9 there are no personalization/shaving modes like in series 7. Instead the shaver automatically adjusts the power according to your beard's density.
Series 7 and 9: Quick Overview
Each model within a series will have different features added or removed, as well as different color schemes. However, the actual shaving performance used in each series is identical. Therefore, this article will not compare specific models and will instead focus on comparing the series as a whole.
Price
The series 9 is the latest iteration of the Braun family of shavers. It is the premium series and costs more up front than the series 7 does. The replacement cartridges also cost more than those of the series 7.
If you opt for the series 9 models, you will pay more for the shaver both initially and in the long run with the replacement parts.
Wet and Dry Shave
Both series offer models that are dry shave only as well as models that are certified as wet or dry shave. With a wet or dry shave model, you can use the shaver in the shower or with foams and gels.
It should be noted that the use of foams and gels is not required and if you do use them, you need to clean the foam from the foils before placing the unit in the cleaning station.
Cleaning Station
Both series offer models with a cleaning station. The series 9 station is smaller and more user-friendly. It will charge and clean the unit with only a single button. It also uses a fan to dry the alcohol solution from the heads. This drying process takes about 40 minutes.
The series 7 cleaning station, on the other hand, uses induction heat to dry the solution and runs silently. It will dry the razor in about 15 minutes.
While they are similar, you cannot use one series cleaning station with a different series shaver.
Personalization Modes
Series 7 offers an adjustable speed control to better prevent irritation and redness of sensitive skin. You can adjust the speed in either 3 or 5 stages (based on the model) although there is little-reported evidence the speed controls help or hinder the shave experience.
Series 9 doesn't have personalization modes. Instead a new technology was implemented called SyncroSonic. The shaver automatically adjusts the power according to your beard's density.
Accessories
Depending on your purchase of a cc model or an s model, you will receive a cleaning and charging station (cc) or you won’t (s).
Besides the cleaning station, in the series 7 box, you will also receive a travel pouch (leather in the 799cc and hard-shelled vinyl in the rest), a dry cleaning brush, and a Smartplug power cord.
In the series 9 box, you will unpack a dry cleaning brush, a Smartplug power cord, a travel case and a charging stand.
Display
The series 7 uses an LCD screen on the bottom of the unit to display the battery charge and foil hygiene level. The series 9 removed the LCD from the bottom and placed it in the front of the unit similar to the LED placement in the series 5.
The series 9 model display will show you the battery charge, hygiene level, and travel lock position.
Travel Case
Each model in both series comes with a travel case. Hard-shelled vinyl with the sole exception of the 799cc model with has premium leather. The cases will hold the shaver, the dry cleaning brush, and the power cord so you can take your razor with you at any time.
Face off - Series 7 vs 9
It's time for the series 7 vs series 9 face-off, I'll go over several categories and state the winner for each category.
1. User Experience 7 vs. 9
How the shavers perform is the most important aspect of your purchase decision. How well it shaves, how fast it can complete the job and how well the battery performs are all key markers for an electric razor.
Battery
Each of the models in both series uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. You can charge the battery to full in one hour on both versions. You also have the ability for a quick charge option that will give you enough battery power for a single shave in only five minutes of charging time.
The batteries will last up to 50 minutes on a full charge, which should be plenty of time for multiple shaves.
Shaving Time
The Series 9 has a distinct advantage in overall shaving time. While the series 7 is quick enough for most men, the series 9 is just a little faster. The extra cutting edge will take down longer hairs more efficiently than the single edge of the series 7 head.
You can shave at a faster pace without worry of irritation, tugging or pulling of hairs and will be complete sooner than with the series 7.
Shaving Head
The series 7 models use a three-part head comprised of two foil blades and a central cutting edge that is designed to lift hairs and trim longer ones, so the foils have an easier time.
On the series 9 cartridge head, there is a 4th element. A titanium-coated HyperLift & Cut blade designed to aid the central cutting blade in taking down longer, more dense hair.
Shaving Quality
More important than speed is the quality of the shave. In this instance, the two series are almost identical. The series 9 slightly outperforms the series 7 in closeness, but it would be difficult to tell without a side by side shave and compare.
The series 9, as well as the series 7, offers cooling coil technology that keeps the foils and cutting blades cool while in use. Unlike some of the previous series where the center blade gets warm to the skin, the series 7 and 9 razors stay cool.
The series 9 cooling technology works just a little bit better than the series 7, and you will notice the cooler coils on your face.
Closeness is what counts, and both models will take your beard down to 0.05 millimeters. However, the series 9 seems to be more efficient, faster and even closer than the series 7.
The series 9 outperforms the series 7 in shaving time, quality, and closeness, even if just by a small margin.
2. Build and Design 7 vs. 9
The series 7 models were completely redesigned with a major focus on ergonomics and reducing fatigue. The series 9 did little to improve on this. The chrome models of the series 9 also smudge and show fingerprints which are near impossible to avoid.
The series 9 is made entirely of plastic (with the exception of the blades and foils) where the series 7 models have a metal head. The series 9 models are larger in size and a bit heavier, but the focus on ergonomics is not diminished.
The weight is balanced well, and the bigger size allows for a quick shave.
Grip
The series 7 makes use of a rubber back that provides a firm and solid grip even when wet or covered in shaving foam. The series 9 models kept this same grip, and it works just as well in both versions.
With the solid grip from the rubber back, you are free to safely and effortlessly maneuver the shaver around your face and neck. Ensuring a proper grip also alleviates hand fatigue and irritation.
Trimmer
Both series offer a pop-up trimmer that will help maintain sideburns and mustaches. As with any pop-up trimmer, the results are sub-par, however, with a couple of extra passes, the hairs will be removed.
Pivot Head Lock
One vast improvement is in the pivoting head lock. The series 7 has reported issues with the locking mechanism breaking if it is locked and too much pressure is applied. The series 9 addresses this issue by removing the locking mechanism and allowing the head to snap into different positions.
You can still apply too much pressure and move the head into a different position slot, but there is no mechanism to break if that is done.
Tie. Both series 7 and series 9 are ergonomic and built well. Each shaver will last for years with the proper care.
3. Cleaning and Maintenance 7 vs. 9
Unless you opt to save a tiny bit of money and get a model that does not have a cleaning and charging station, your maintenance will be almost nonexistent. The cleaning station will clean, sanitize and lubricate the cartridge with a single press of a button.
All you have to do is place the shaver in the docking station and press the button, and the station does the rest. You will have to replace the alcohol-based solution, but this is easily done. Replacement solution packs are readily available.
The series 9 cleaning station is sleeker and only as the single button for activation. However, it uses a fan to dry the shaver which, while quieter than most other fan driers, still makes noise. The series 7 cleaning station uses induction heat to dry the shaver faster and in silence.
General upkeep also means that you need to remove any foam or gel that may be on the head before using the cleaning station. The foam and gels will clog the cleaning station which will prevent it from doing a proper job.
The series 7 cleaning station has a slight advantage over the series 9. Quicker dry time and silent activation put it just above the series 9 models.
Who Should Buy Which Version?
If you are looking for an electric shaver that balances cost, efficiency, comfort, and reliability, the series 7 models may be the best option. The series 7 is still the most popular shaver on the market based on sales and reviews. It is perfect for those with sensitive skin who shave daily and who may have coarse facial hair.
On the other hand, if you are looking for the most features, the fastest shave time and the absolute premium shaver available, then the series 9 might be your choice. If you shave other day ever, or longer, have very thick or very coarse hair and need the fastest shave available, then the series 9 is where you should focus your search.
Depending on your skin type, how thick and coarse your beard grows as well as how often you need to shave the right model for you will vary.
Upgrading From 7 to 9
If you already own a series 7 model, should you upgrade to the series 9? Will the upgrade be worth it?
That depends on your hair type, your desire for a speedy shave and how satisfied you are with the series 7. If you are comfortable with the closeness of the shave that the series 7 provides and you don’t think you need a speed improvement, then an upgrade won’t be worth the cost.
However, if you need a faster shave, or if for some reason the series 7 isn’t shaving close enough for your liking, then the upgrade to a series 9 might be worth a serious thought. You will see an increase in shave speed, and you may notice a closer shave with less effort.
However, those will be the only advantages you will probably see. If that is worth the extra cost of the series 9, then you should upgrade your shaver.
When everything is broken down and compared side by side, there is no clear winner between the series 7 and the series 9. Some improvements have been made to the pivoting head locking feature and the LCD screen. However, in terms of shaving performance, the two series are near identical.
