The 3040s is designed for the budget conscious and beginner electric razor user. If you have never used an electric razor before, the 3040s is designed to make the transition quick and easy.

If you don’t want to spend over $200 for a top-of-the-line style shaver with all the added bells and whistles, the 3040s has you covered too. You have just enough features to get a nice, comfortable shave without having to spend too much money.

The 3040s is a foil shaver with 3 cutting surfaces. The design is the same as it is in the Braun series 7 and series 9 trimmers. The 3040s however, does not have a pivoting head. The two edge heads are covered in foil that collects the hairs so the blades can cut them. The center cutter lifts hair and cuts through coarse beards with relative ease.

Cordless design, the 3040 uses a Nickle Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery that will offer up to 45 minutes of shave time on a single charge. You also have the option of quick charge where you can get enough battery power for a single shave in just five minutes.

The 3040s is also wet/dry certified and can be used with foam, gel or creams. Cleaning the head is done by rinsing it off under running water. The entire unit is also 100 percent waterproof allowing you to use it while in the shower if that is your preference.

Inside the box you will find a spare blade head (marked packages only). The heads are designed to be replaced about every 12 to 15 months. When you purchase the 3040s, you will have two years’ worth of heads already.

You will then find the cleaning brush inside the box. The brush is meant to help clean the heads when dry by brushing out loose clippings and debris. The power cord is also included. This will be used to charge your shaver when the battery gets low.

Lastly, you will find the shaver itself. It already has a small charge on the battery so you can test it. However, it is recommended you give the shaver a full charge before using it on your face.

Unlike the series 7 and 9 shavers, you do not get a travel pouch or charging and cleaning station. To save costs, Braun has left these things out. However, you get a head cover that does extend down past the On/Off switch to prevent it from being activated while packed in a bag for travel.

The 3040s has an ergonomic design that provides a firm grip and it's very easy to maneuver. Even when the unit is wet, it still holds firmly in your hand.

The plastic and rubber design is solid and rugged and assembled well. The black plastic has both glossy and matte finishes, and the rubber has added bumps to provide grip with wet or covered in foam.

The weight is nice, and the entire unit feels sturdy and firm in your hand. The reliable shaver comes with the standard Braun two-year warranty. The warranty will cover defects in craftsmanship but will not cover damage due to accidents, misuse or neglect. It also does not cover the blade heads as these are designed to wear out and be replaced.

The feature list of the 3040s is kept fairly small. Designed to be without frills and a shaver that just does its job.

The shaving head uses the familiar three-cutting head system. Two foil blades for shorter hair and stubble and the middle blade for longer and more difficult hairs. The middle blade has a ring around it with guide slots designed to guide hairs to the blade more efficiently.

The body also has a long hair trimmer that you can slide up with your thumb. This will help trim sideburns and mustaches. You will also find a battery level indicator that is 3 LED lights.

The shaver is waterproof and has rubber sides to provide good grip even when wet. Since it is also certified wet/dry usage, you can also use the shaver with shaving cream, foam, and gel.

As a safety feature, you cannot operate the shaver with the charging cord attached. You can charge the battery to full in about an hour or use the quick charge setting to charge the battery in five minutes. The quick charge feature will only provide enough battery power for a single shave.

The shave and general user experience is what's important, and the 3040s does its job.

The battery in the 3040s is a NiMH rechargeable battery that will provide up to 45 minutes of run time on a single charge. It will recharge from dead to full in just about an hour. However, if you are in a hurry, you can opt for the quick charge and let the battery recover for five minutes. Doing so will prove enough power to shave one time.

The NiMH battery will hold a charge, unused, for several days. Unlike a Lithium-ion, though, it will start to diminish after a few days. The charging cord isn’t very long and will need to be placed close to an outlet to charge the unit.

When dry shaving the razor holds up very well. If you do prefer to dry shave, you will notice that the more frequent you shave, the better your results will be. The razor does have a tendency to have issues with longer hairs, such as those that occur when you only shave every other day or every two days. (That's quite normal for a foil shaver)

Another drawback to the dry shave is the middle blade does heat up, and you can feel it get hot against your skin.

Wet shaving though, is completely different. No heat buildup, the foam and gels get taken away instead of smeared, and the overall shave is closer and with virtually no tugging, pulling or irritation.

One highlight of the 3040s shaver is that unlike most other foil shavers, there is not a lot of noise. The entire unit is quieter than expected.

Longer hairs will need a couple of extra passes, and the side trimmer doesn’t do a perfect job, even after a few passes on the sideburns, you may still have to go back again.

Overall the experience is good. You will not have irritation or razor burn; the shave is comfortable and close.

The 3040s does not come with a cleaning station. You can use the brush to dust off the foils or run the unit under water. Rinsing in running water is the better option. You can also remove the head from the unit and clean it under water and use your fingers to knock loose any clippings or debris.

The shaved head should be replaced, on average, about every 12 to 15 months. You will be able to tell when the blades begin to get dull as you will have more pulling and snagging when you shave.

The replacement heads are easily found and are a decent price.

The Braun series 3 line up has three different models:

I'll compare the 3040s to the other series 3 models.

<< Check out the 3050cc >>

<< Check out the 3080s >>

Anyone looking for a quality electric shaver that doesn’t mind giving up premium features to shave from paying premium prices will benefit from the 3040s.

If you have never used an electric razor or are on a budget, the 3040s could be the option for you. You won’t have a lot of things the more expensive shavers offer, such as pivoting heads, automatic cleaning, and charging. However, you will save quite a bit of money and get a very good close shave.

The series 7 shavers were designed with the average user in mind. If you have never used an electric shaver before, the 760cc may take extra time to get used to. Unlike razors, electric shavers have special techniques to get a close, comfortable shave.

The 760cc is ergonomically designed and very lightweight. The shaver itself weighs less than half a pound. It has fully flexible foil heads that contour to your face providing a close shave for all skin types.

The 760, like all of the other series 7 shavers is cordless. It uses a lithium-ion battery pack that fully recharges in one hour. On a full charge, it will shave for up to 50 minutes. The charger also has a quick charge setting that will provide enough battery life for a full shave in just five minutes.

The 760cc shaver is waterproof and can be used in the shower, on dry skin or with shaving gels and foams. Rinsing the foil heads under running water is preferred and will keep the shaver clear for a better shave.​​​​​

Out of the box, you get everything you need for a complete shave. You get the 760cc shaver as well as a travel pouch. The pouch is used to pack your shaver away without having to resort to sandwich zipper bags.

You also get a cleaning brush so you can remove dust, dirt, and debris from the shaver to help keep the foils clean and ready to go. The Smartplug cord will charge your shaver using any outlet between 100 and 220 volts.

Lastly, you get the clean and charge station that also has cleaning fluid refills included. The charging station will recharge your shaver while also using an alcohol-based solution to clean the foil heads and blades which prolong the life of the heads and offer you a fresh shave every time.

The 760cc is packed with features designed for comfort, durability and close shaves.

You can select the speed of the motors to adjust the type of shave you get. Using push buttons on the handle, you can select from sensitive all the way up to turbo.

The sonic sensors check the density of the hairs being cut 160 times per minute. The shaver will adjust its power level to give you a boost where it is needed most. This will eliminate multiple passes over the same area to prevent irritation.

The 760cc has four distinct shaving elements. The two opti-foil head covers get closer to your skin which makes your shave last longer. The ActiveLift trimmer picks up hairs that are laying on your skin, so nothing is missed. Protective SkinGuard smooths the skin for exceptional shaving.

The shaving head pivots 40 degrees to maintain contact with your skin. Each shaving head and the ActiveLift trimmer has an individual suspension to maneuver over the smallest contours.

You can lock the head to better shave in hard to reach areas such as under the nose or chin.

The Braun 7600cc is made for daily shaving. The long-lasting heads, blades, and battery provide you with months of dedicated service.

The 760cc is light weight and easily portable making it a good option for daily shaving without experiencing fatigue. The shaver is ergonomically designed to fit your hand comfortably with all of the required features just a finger movement away.

As with most other Braun products, the 760cc comes with a two-year limited warranty that covers the shaver against defects and craftsmanship. The blades, foils, and trimmers are not covered as these parts will need to be replaced. It also does not cover accidents or damage caused by neglect.

Using the 760cc and having the results you want are the most important things. You can add all the bells and whistles to a shaver, but if it doesn’t do the job, it doesn’t matter. How does the 760cc perform?

The battery really does charge to full within an hour. I don’t find this a huge draw since I rarely need to shave more than once a day. However, I am akin to forgetting to charge shavers after I am done using them, which has resulted in a dead battery in the past.

Luckily, Braun got you covered with the quick charge setting. You can put the shaver on quick charge, and in 5 minutes you will have enough battery power for one complete shave.

The charging station is also a cleaner for the shaver, so it is a lot larger than just a cord you plug in and lay down. However, it isn’t overly huge. You can easily store the charger on the counter near the sink or the back of the toilet without having to fight for space.

Once you actually use the shaver, the performance speaks for itself. Tough to reach spots and tangles don’t affect the 760cc and it cuts even the coarsest hairs down with little effort. If you have a full beard or haven’t shaved for a few days, you will need to make multiple passes even though their technology says otherwise.

If, however, you shave daily, you will notice less shaving time and less irritation because you aren’t constantly going to the same spots.

The shaver is light but fits nicely in your hand. The 760cc also uses what Braun calls “active cooling technology” that does work. The coils keep cool, and the shaver doesn’t heat up against your face.

It doesn’t matter how long or short your hair is, the shaver will take it down to your skin. However, if you do have a full beard, I suggest you cut it down to a more manageable length before using the shaver. You can use the trimmer on the side for this, and while it may take a few minutes longer, it does work well.

The shaver is fairly quiet although there will be some noise. There are louder shavers on the market. The noise from the motors and the cutting isn’t painfully loud though, and you won’t be bothered by noise.

The shaver is easy to clean. You can submerge the entire unit underwater (up to 5 meters) so rinsing it off while using is simple. You can also use it in the shower and rinse it under the shower head if needed.

If you use shaving cream, gel or foam, the foils will still cut the hairs. However, you will need to rinse the heads more often to prevent them from getting clogged.

Maintenance cleaning is simple as well. Using the charge and clean station you can let the alcohol-based solution take care of the major cleaning for you. There is also a brush that you can use to keep the head clean and free of debris.

For weekly or even monthly maintenance, you can remove the foils and rinse them separately and run the blades and head under running water to wash out any build up or blockages.

Anyone with facial hair that has some experience with electric razors will benefit from the 760cc. If you have never used an electric razor before you may have a tougher time getting used to the methods required to get the best shave possible.

However, those with some experience that are looking for a shaver that will tackle stubborn hairs, coarse hairs and want the ability to take their shaver with them will like using the 760cc.

Note: If you think that the 760cc is the shaver for you, I really recommend buying the newer version of this shaver - it's cheaper and better. Click below to read more about it.

Braun’s latest and most heavily advertised shavers line is the Series 9. This series replaced the Series 7, a formerly popular model with now out-dated technology, but nonetheless series 7 is still a great choice which won't disappoint you.

Here’s where things get a little confusing. The Series 9 is further divided into two different generations: The original Series 9 and the updated Series 9. The original series had problems that were fixed in the updated series.

Braun 9290cc

The original Series 9 has three different models:

1. The 9095cc is wet/dry use and has an automatic cleaning station.
2. The 9090cc also has an automatic cleaning station but is dry use only.
3. The 9093s has no cleaning station and can be used either wet or dry.

The updated Series 9 also has three models to choose from:

1. 9295cc
2. 9290cc
3. 9293s

Updates are relatively minor. The models have a titanium-coated HyperLift & Cut Trimmer. These models are also available in silver.  The updated Series 9 can be identified by the distinct gold foil. All the models in the updated series are wet/dry.

The updated models are more durable over a long period of time. Occasionally, the shaving head on the original Series 9 models would break after extensive use. Otherwise, there’s really no significant difference between performance (although there can be a difference in price).

Here's a table with the original and updated models. As usual, models with 'cc' include a cleaning station and models with 's' don't.

This is Panasonic’s flagship shaver. The name refers to the arc-like shaving head design and the number of individual cutting elements. Like the Series 9, the Arc 5 is also divided into different generations.

Panasonic ES-LV95-S

The first generation of Arc 5 shavers was released in 2009. The two models in this earliest generation are:

1. ES-LV61-A
2. ES-LV81-K

In 2013, the second generation was released. Generation two shavers have a sleeker, more modern design. 2nd gen shavers are:

1. ES-LV-65-S, which has no cleaning station
2. ES-LV-95-S, which has an automatic cleaning station which uses detergent sachets. 

Finally, the third generation was released in 2015. The models are:

1. ES-LV-9N-S
2. ES-LV-6N-S 

The 9N model has an automatic cleaning station while the 6N has no cleaning station. For markets outside of the U.S, the 9N becomes 9A and the 6N becomes 6A.   

This third generation has an improved texture on the thumb rest. The front-to-back tilt to the head is extended from 17 degrees to 20 degrees. A low battery alarm was also added. While the changes are useful, the basic shaving performance remains unchanged from generation one.

For this review purposes, I compared the latest model of the Arc 5 with the latest model of the Braun Series 9. However, the earlier models of both have the same basic performance and can often be significantly cheaper. (There are major differences in the cleaning stations while I’ll discuss later.)

Let’s take a deeper look at the features found on each shaver:

All models are cordless and include a charger. If the battery runs out, you can operate the shaver when it’s plugged into the wall. (Just the dry ones)

Full charging time for each is about an hour, but you can usually get enough power for a quick shave within about five minutes of charging. (aka quick charge)

Cordless shavers give you more freedom than corded ones. You can charge up the shaver and take it on a trip, keep it a desk drawer or generally bring it along wherever you go.

Shaving time can be difficult to determine. Individual hair length and thickness will be a big factor. Most shavers can handle thick, tangled beards with ease.

However, the Arc 5 has a faster and more powerful motor. At 14,000 CPMs, this is one of the fastest motors found in any shaver, well, ever. If speed is a major concern, you’ll want the Arc 5.

Features are great but the most important aspect of any shaver is how your face looks and feels after you’ve finished shaving. In order to determine shave quality, I took a look at closeness, comfort and the wet/dry capabilities.

When comparing rotary vs foil shavers, foil shavers generally provide the closest shaves. (not including safety razors of course).

Both the Arc 5 and Braun Series 9 are no exception. You likely won’t be disappointed with either.

However, if you’re looking for the absolute closest shave possible, I give the edge (no pun intended) to the Arc 5.

Panasonic combines a few factors. The unique arc of the foils connects with the contours of your face. Plus, the Arc 5’s blades also have a relatively high 30-degree bevel to the blades.

While the Arc 5 allows for a closer shave, I found the Braun Series 9 to be far more comfortable. Most of this is due to the head design as well as the unique grip.

The foils on the Series 9 remain cool even after extended use. On the other hand, the Arc 5 foils can overheat. Shaving with a hot electric shaver can cause rashes, especially if you have sensitive skin.

If you’re prone to blemishes and skin rashes or have a sensitive skin, the Series 9 is probably the better choice. It’s also a good choice if you have a thicker, heavier beard which results in longer than normal shaving sessions.

Wet shaving is often more comfortable while being able to shave dry skin is more convenient. Most people prefer a shaver which can be used on both wet and dry skin.

All of the shavers in the Arc 5 line are both wet/dry. Most of the Series 9 shavers are also wet/dry, with the exception of the 9090cc. Basically, if you want a wet/dry Series 9, you’ll want one of the new models.

However, the situation becomes a little more limited if you want to use shaving creams or gels. All of the Arc 5 models let you use whatever shaving cream or gel you like. You can then easily clean the shaver by popping it into the cleaning station. 

The Series 9 is different. While you can use the wet/dry Braun models in the shower, you can’t use them with shaving cream. In a rather bizarre design move, shaving cream will clog and damage the cleaning station.

If you want a Series 9 shaver which works with shaving cream, you’ll need either the 9093s or 9293s models. Neither of them has a cleaning station. Of course, if you’re willing to manually clean the shaver than any Series 9 can be used with shaving cream.

The Series 7 from Braun is a great line of shavers that will meet the needs of most men.

Depending on the model you get, you’ll also get some terrific features. Of course, you’ll most likely pay more for all the bells and whistles, but it’s important for each consumer to understand what’s available.

Since it lunch more than seven years ago, the series 7 shavers quickly became one of the best-selling electric shavers of all time. Users loved the comfort and close shave the series offered, but they also loved the affordably priced extras, such as replacement shaving heads, great cleaning stations, and solid build quality.

Since then Braun has released the Series 9 line, but Series 7 product line is still a best seller. Essentially, it is a great option for people with sensitive skin or for people looking for a trimmer that will last for years while providing a close yet comfortable shave. In fact, the combination of consistently high reviews (and lots of them!) combined with a mid-range price point makes this product line very attractive.

With so many models, however, you’ll need to know what’s what. I’m breaking things down for you today, loosely classifying models into the “old” Series 7 and the new Series 7. Take a look:

Series 7 was lunched in 2010, I'll refer it as 'the old series 7'. The model numbers in this series are:

These models have a fairly wide range in terms of available features. I will go over them later on.

The old series 7 had very few problems with it. The main problem was the head locking mechanism which was prone to breaking. Some users tend to apply large amounts of force in efforts to get better shaves (thanks, no doubt, to a misguided belief that pressing harder will result in a better shave) and this caused the problems that have been largely fixed in the new Series 7.

Aside from that, there were no major problems with the old series 7 shavers.

There's no other way to say it, they're just GOOD.

Checkout the 790cc 

To be honest, there aren’t actually that many differences between the newer and older Series 7 models, other than the new-addressed problems I mentioned earlier.

In fact, you’ll have problem finding some of the older versions at this point, as they’ve largely been discontinued.

The newer models were introduced in 2016 and thanks to odd numerical naming, the terminology is fairly confusing. However, the new models can be used for wet and dry shaving while in the older Series 7 there were dry only and wet/dry variations.

The new model numbers are:

Checkout the 7865cc

Essentially, the shaving quality is the same for all the models in the series. The main difference in each model is the features.

One thing is clear, Braun didn't go easy on us with the model numbers. The good news is that once you get the idea behind them you'll be able to tell a lot just by looking at the model number.

Here's how to differentiate between the new and old series 7 models:

Sometimes model numbers have an addition to the model number. The -x addition specifies a newer iteration of the same model, with minor changes. For example 7899cc-4 is the fourth iteration.

If you're wondering about the 's' and 'cc' in the model number it's pretty simple.
'cc' stands for cleaning center, models that have 'cc' come with a cleaning station. Models with 's' don't come with a cleaning station.

There are only three color options available for the Series 7: grey, black, and silver.

One of the great things about many of the Series 7 razors is that many are constructed so that they are sealed and can be used for dry shaving or wet shaving.

The dry shave models tend to be cheaper, something to consider if you know you won’t be using shaving creams with your electric shaver.

As I mentioned earlier, the cleaning stations are fantastic bonuses and help with the daily maintenance of owning an electric shaver.

All the models we’re talking about here come with the cleaning station-- as I explained earlier, the “cc” designates this.

Keep in mind that if you see an “s” in any Braun series name, this designates no cleaning station; you won’t be able to use them with a cleaning station later. So if you're thinking about buying one and then buy a cleaning station separately later it won't work.

The cleaning stations included on all cc models are very popular with users, though some complain about needing to replace the cleaning cartridges. To utilize your cleaning station, just place your just-used trimmers head down into the station (it will usually tilt to one side--that’s normal!). The cleaning cartridge kicks in, using an alcohol-based cleaning solution and sometimes heat to clean and sanitize your device. 

Please note that the 760cc does lack a quick clean mode (available on all others models discussed here), as well as the automatic cleaning function and hygiene indicator.

In addition to cleaning stations, Braun is also noted for its great shave from its Series 7.

Part of what contributes to that great shave is the fact that each model offers multiple modes for shaving. 797cc and 7865cc offer five shave settings from sensitive to turbo, but the rest of the models (790cc, 760cc, and 797cc) each offer three modes.

Every Series 7 model includes what Braun calls “Sonic technology,” which reads and adapts to your face. There are over 30,000 cross-cutting actions per minute.

In addition to cleaning stations, Braun is also noted for its great shave from its Series 7.

Part of what contributes to that great shave is the fact that each model offers multiple modes for shaving. 797cc and 7865cc offer five shave settings from sensitive to turbo, but the rest of the models (790cc, 760cc, and 797cc) each offer three modes.

Every Series 7 model includes what Braun calls “Sonic technology,” which reads and adapts to your face. There are over 30,000 cross-cutting actions per minute.

There’s only a thirty dollar or so range across models. Once you’ve shopped around online to find the lowest prices across retailers, it comes down to which model will work best for your particular needs.

A few other details that are worth noting for particular models: all of these discussed today come with a plastic, zippered travel pouch (the 790cc actually comes with premium leather pouch).

All will warn you when the battery is low with a warning light, but the 790cc and the 7865cc both have a five-minute quick charge. All models will charge fully in one hour with up to a fifty minute shave time. Warranties on each are also standard (two years).

Now that I’ve given you a basic overview of the Braun Series 7 shavers, here are a few more things you should keep in mind when choosing the right model for you.

“For you” is the key here--since shaving quality is the same across the models, you need to decide which features make the most sense for you.

If you already have a preference, your decision here will be straightforward, but if you’re new to the world of electric shavers, here’s what you need to know:

roughly speaking, if you have sensitive skin or like to shave in the shower, you want a razor that can handle wet shaving. If you never want to use shaving gel or any kind of water when you shave, you can opt for the (often cheaper) dry shaving only models.

The models that don't support wet/dry shave are: 720s, 760cc, 790cc.

All of the models that come with a cleaning station have the same station except the 760cc model.

This means that the one thing you’ll need to consider is whether you want the pared-down version that comes with the 760cc (lacks a quick clean mode, automatic cleaning function and hygiene indicator).

Ask yourself if you need the cleaning station, consider the following: 

Again, there’s not a huge price range, but you’ll definitely be spending around the range of: 130-260 dollars for any of these shavers.

Of course, that definitely makes price a consideration when you’re deciding whether or not you want to purchase a Series 7! I think you can feel very confident, however, that your shaver will last beyond five years. Once you’ve amortized your investment over those five years, suddenly the price looks extremely low.

Features are fairly straightforward across this category, but if you like bells and whistles, you’ll probably love the 7865cc with its premium leather travel case and its quick five-minute recharge.

It’s time for a model showdown! Below are some of the most popular choices, squaring off to help you decide which is best for you.

The 790cc and the 799cc are the best-selling in this Braun series.

The biggest difference between them is that 790cc is not wet/dry. So if you're looking for a dry shaver then it's an easy decision go for the 790cc.

The cleaning station is the same for these three models.

If you're looking for a wet/dry shaver then you can choose the 797cc or 799cc, these models are very similar, the difference is that 797cc has 5 shaving modes, while 799cc has 3 modes.

I recommend buying the cheaper model between the two.

In the past, the 760cc was a cheaper alternative to the 790cc.

The only material difference was the cleaning station (no auto cleaning function, quick clean mode, or hygiene indicator) so for the budget-minded person, that was a great value. Today, the prices are much more in line, which means that the 790cc, with its upgraded cleaning station, leather travel case, and LCD is the better buy.

Checkout the 760cc

The questions you have to ask yourself for this battle are: do you want to shave wet or dry? If wet, do not go with the 790cc. Do you want an extra two (almost negligible) speed settings? Go with the 7865cc. Otherwise, all three models are virtually identical.

Both models feature the upgraded five-speed setting option and can be used wet or dry.

the 7865cc is the new series 7, so it's just a newer model. Basically it just boils down to which model you can get at the lowest price.

Checkout the 7865cc

Thanks to some great design on the part of Braun, you’ve got five really terrific models in the Series 7 to choose from. Shaving heads are identical across all five models, and except for the 760cc, all come with fully decked-out cleaning stations.

Hopefully, I’ve been able to clarify some of the minor differences and help you understand which model is right for you. Frankly, I don’t think you can pick a loser here.

Each series offers multiple models within its line up. Each one has slightly different features, looks or functionality.

You will note that the model numbers also include an alpha key: either S or CC. This indicates if that particular model includes a Cleaning Center (station) (CC) or if it does not (S).

Note: not all models are available in the U.S

Besides the colors and a few features within the lineups being added or removed, the actual shaving performance within the series models is identical. Because the performance is the same for each line, this article will not compare specific models, instead focusing on the series as a whole.

The lower range series 5 starts out at a lower price than the higher end series 7. However, the price difference is slight. Since Braun introduced the series 9, the series 7 prices have started to fall.

The real difference in price will come in the replacement parts. The shaver head cartridges are significantly cheaper in the series 5 line than they are in the series 7.

So, while you may not save a lot initially by purchasing a series 5 shaver, in the long run, you will save more based on the replacement parts.

Both lines have models that are wet/dry shave capable. They also have models that are dry shave only.

If you plan to use your shaver in the shower, or with shaving gels or creams, you will need to buy a wet/dry model.

All of the series 7 cc models come with an automatic charging and cleaning station. The stations determine the hygiene level of the foils and select a cleaning mode for them. The series 5 cc models also have a charge and cleaning station. However, only the 5090cc, 5190cc and 5197cc are automatic.

The rest of the models only have one cleaning option, these stations are manual which means you need to press the clean button to start the process.

If you're planning to buy a wet/dry shaver, I recommend to get a model that has cleaning station it will make your life a lot easier.

Located near the power button on the series 7 models are two buttons labeled “+” and “-.” These allow you to select from either 3 or 5 (depending on model) levels of intensity. The design is meant for controlling the motor speed to adjust for sensitive skin (lower) to more thick or coarse hair (higher).

The motor does move faster, but there is no real evidence that the shaver does any more or less work. You will most likely find that you set it on the highest setting and leave it there.

The series 5 shavers do not have a personalization mode.

With regards to the accessories, you will get a charging station and a single cleaning cartridge if you select a CC model or you won’t, if you select an S model.

Aside from that obvious detail, the series 5 models also come with a dry cleaning brush, the Smartplug power cord, and a plastic head cover.

The series 7 shavers come with the dry cleaning brush, Smartplug power cord and a travel pouch (either leather or hard-shelled vinyl).

The series 7 models each come with a travel pouch. The 799cc model has a premium leather pouch, and all other models have a hard-shelled vinyl pouch that will fit the shaver, power cord and cleaning brush.

The series 5 has two models that come with hard travel pouch: 5090cc and 5190cc. The other models come with a soft travel pouch.

The series 7 models have an LCD screen on the bottom of the handle that tells you the battery charge level and the foil hygiene level. These will indicate when you need to charge your unit and when it is time to clean it.

The series 5 models have easy to read LED lights on the front of the handle that clearly displays the battery charge and hygiene level.

Colors vary between models and series. The series 7 models are either silver, grey or black. The series 5 models are all black with either red or blue accents.

It's time for the series 5 vs series 7 face-off, I'll go over several categories and state the winner for each category.

Each series uses a similar head style. Two foil blades surround a central cutting bar.

The foils are designed for the shorter hair and stubble while the central bar picks up hair that likes to lay down and trims longer hairs to a size more manageable for the foils.

The result of this design style is a close, smooth shave down to 0.05 millimeters. Both the series 5 and 7 models shave almost identical. If you were to shave one side of your face with a series 7 and the other with a series 5 you probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference.

The major difference comes with the Sonic Technology offered in the series 7 shavers.

This technology is meant to shave more efficiently by lifting hairs using micro-vibrations. With the Sonic Technology, the shaved head will vibrate up to 10,000 times per minute.

At a minimum, the vibrations do offer a slight massage which makes the shaving experience more enjoyable. However, shave quality over the series 5 is not noticeable.

The series 7 models also have a newer motor which is slightly quieter and operates faster.

When using a series 7 you can hear and feel the increase in speed, but it does have little effect on the overall shave. You will be able to shave a little faster with a series 7, but the quality will be about the same.

The series 7 also offers the personalization modes to adjust the shave for sensitive skin.

As mentioned before, this effect seems to have little to do with the overall quality of the shave. However, when it is in the highest setting, you will shave faster and easier than on lower settings. You will also be able to complete your shave faster than you will with a series 5 razor.

The shave quality and speed are only part of the decision. You also want to get a shaver that is well designed, durable and reliable for years to come.

The series 5 models are larger than the series 7 and feel heftier in your hand.

The series 7 design was redone with a focus on ergonomics and reducing hand fatigue. The smaller, lighter series 7 models are still durable and rugged.

The series 5 models are designed using the same ergonomic and taper form that the new series 9 models use. It is a sleek design with a high-end premium look.

Both series 5 and 7 are durable and will last for many years, providing you don’t constantly drop them or neglect them.

The grip on the series 7 is accentuated with a rubber back that prevents slipping and maintains control. Even when wet or covered in shave gel, the grip holds up, and you never feel like it will be dropped.

You can easily maneuver the series 7 shavers and will have no problem gliding over the contours of your face.

The series 5 models have a tapered end that is also wrapped in rubber. The grip is firm and strong, even when wet. The series 5 units can be moved around easily and without any hand fatigue.

The aesthetics of the series 7 are muted and mid-range compared to the series 5 that  its design style is similar to the series 9 shavers. The series 5 looks like a premium shaver. The colors and finish are striking and bright where the series 7 seems more dull and bland.

The buttons on the series 7 are easily reached. However, the On/Off button is very small and can be hard to press. The series 5 only has the single On/Off button, and it is larger and more easily pressed to activate the shaver.

The series 7 also does not have a travel lock. Having a smaller, harder to press button doesn’t qualify. You could argue that the travel pouch prevents accidental pressing of the On/Off button but it doesn’t mean it can’t happen. The series 5 allows you to hold the power button for 3 seconds to activate the travel lock.

The display on the series 7 is on the bottom of the handle in an awkward position. In lower light, it is difficult to read. The series 5 models do not use an LCD screen and instead rely on easily read LED lights on the front of the unit.

Series 5 trimmer & travel lock

Both the series 5 and the series 7 models have a pop-up trimmer for maintaining sideburns and mustache lines. You can also use the trimmer to help take down beard overgrowth, but it isn’t recommended.

The pop-up trimmers have a slide button easily activated with the thumb while using the shaver.

The series 7 models that come with a cleaning station all use the automatic hygiene detection for selective cleaning. The station will determine the level of clean needed and start automatically.

The series 7 cleaners also have heat drying to remove the alcohol solution from the heads. The series 5 cleaners do not offer the heat cycle, and you need to wait up to 4 hours for the solution to dry naturally.

Of the series 5 cleaning stations, only the 5090cc, 5190cc and 5197cc has the three-stage detection like the series 7 cleaning stations do. The others only have one cleaning mode.

The overall look and design of the series 7 cleaning stations is also better and they have smaller size, so if you don't have too much free space take that into consideration.

If you are looking for a sleek design shaver with high performance and only need a dry shaver, then the series 5 models will be the right choice for you. You will save a little money up front and a lot more in the long run with replacement heads costing less than series 7 cartridges.

If you want a faster shave, with a quieter machine, then the series 7 models might be the choice for you. If you desire faster cleaning cycles, smaller counter space occupancy, and premium shaves then the series 7 units will better serve your purposes over the series 5.

Either way you decide to go you will have a close, comfortable shave without the irritation and redness.

Ergonomically designed shavers that do their job reliably and efficiently can be found in both series, both the series 5 and series 7 models are excellent choices.

If you’re looking to get an excellent shave at a moderate price point, then the Braun Series 5 5090cc may just be the right razor for you. The entire Series 5 line is designed with mid-end shavers in mind. In comparison to the Series 7, you’re still getting a ton of the same quality features with the Series 5, just at a more attractive cost.

The Braun Series 5 5090cc features a foil blade that allows it to give an exceptionally close shave. These razors are rechargeable and can be used both as a corded or cordless device. All Series 5 razors also feature an impressive 3.6V Li-Ion battery.

You can only get a dry shave with this razor, which is a feature I know a lot of guys out there find might find as a significant drawback. This device is 100% waterproof when submerged in up to 5-meter deep water, though.

The accessories that come with the purchase of the Braun Series 5 5090cc help to boost up the attractiveness of this product. After buying this product, inside the box, you will find the razor, Clean&Charge station, one cleaning cartridge, a cleaning brush, a charging cord, and a travel pouch.

Braun is known for their advanced cleaning station technology, so having this included as an accessory of the Braun Series 5 5090cc is a great perk. It’s crucial for me to have the peace of mind knowing that my razor is clean and as hygienic as possible thanks to the Clean&Charge station.

The travel case is also a great bonus. It is hard-shelled design that offers a high degree of protection. Your razor will be safe and secure in your luggage.

Braun likes to boast that their shavers get made in Germany. They believe that their intuitive designing comes through in the materials, surfaces, and ergonomics of the razor.

The rubberized dot-pattern on the razor handle that helps prevent slippage is a well-thought-out touch.

The Series 5 5090 looks relatively bulky, but it is very lightweight and easy to handle. It’s safe to say that you can rely on this razor to deliver the quality, close shave that has become synonymous with the Braun brand.

This razor comes with a two-year limited warranty, which helps to give a peace of mind. Unfortunately, though, Braun does not cover the foil and cutter block in its warranty, so that can be a slight drawback.

The Braun Series 5 5090cc has a handy display that indicates 5 different battery levels, has a hygiene indicator, and even gives an option for a travel lock.

The battery life of this razor is impressive. In just one hour, you can fully charge your shaver. The battery life means 45 minutes of continuous shaving without having to opt for a corded shave until you recharge your battery. If time is tight and you need a quick shave, in just about five minutes you can get enough charge in your razor that is sufficient for one cordless shave.

This razor has technology that helps it give a remarkably close shave. Braun’s MultiHeadLock technology helps this device to adjust to five different angles that aid in delivering a precise shave.

If you’re a mustache or sideburn type of guy, fear not. Thanks to the precision trimmer, the 5090cc you can get accurate shaping without having to worry about going too far and accidentally lobbing off an entire sideburn.

Of course, the overall experience is what really matters. Below, I’ll go into detail and explain each aspect.

I consider the battery of the Series 5 5090cc to be a positive feature. Only having to wait one hour to obtain a full charge is extremely reasonable, and I also like that you can get a thorough, cordless shave after charging this device for just five minutes. After fully charging, expect the 5090cc to last you for about 45 minutes.

Charging the battery is also very easy. You can just plug the charging cord directly into the shaver, or the device can charge when it is sitting on the cleaning base. When traveling, the small size of the charging cable is convenient.

The LED display in the 5090cc helps take the guessing game out of figuring out when your battery is running low. Five bars indicate how charged up your razor is, and when your battery is running extremely low, the charge light will start blinking. Even when the little charge light starts flashing, you should have enough charge to complete your shave fully.

Braun prides itself in always taking into consideration skin comfort. In this category, the 5090cc doesn’t disappoint. While may not the absolute best shave you can get from a shaver in this price range, but the 5090cc still seems to do a decent job.

Thanks to FlexMotionTech, this razor is designed with a fully moveable head that maintains a maximum level of skin contact at all times. CrossHair blades help deliver a close shave, while UltraActiveLift is designed to help out areas on the neck and chin that are often challenging areas for electric razors.

The head of the 5090cc has adjustable pressure points which help to deliver a comfortable shave throughout all areas of the face and neck.

Unlike some other brands out there, Braun products tend to maintain a steady temperature and don’t drastically heat up after use. The 5090cc seems to be very gentle on skin and can be an excellent option for men who suffer from razor burn or other sensitive skin issues.

Regarding speed, the entire Series 5 line does a relatively quick job, but the 5090cc isn’t the fastest shaver on the market. If you’re at all familiar with the Braun Series 7, the motor in the Series 5 line is almost the same. You’ll probably find that the Series 5 razors are a little more unrefined, though, and tend to shake more and be a little louder.

The 5090cc has a quality ergonomic design and seems to be easy to maneuver in the even the tightest of spots. The razor is relatively lightweight, and the handle has an easy to hold design.

While the 5090cc is suitable for both long and short hair, it seems to do a much better job with short hair. After waiting a few days to shave, you may have to go over areas with thicker patches of hair to achieve the close shave that you are looking to get.

If you’ve waited a few days in between shaves, this device responds rather well to pre-shave gel foams that help you get a smooth, close shave.

When compared to other razors in this price range, the 5090cc really stands out in a positive way.

You can clean this razor manually. After shaving, just take the head off and tap it against the side of your sink to remove any loose hair. Manual cleaning probably won’t get everything of though, so you’ll need to drop some soap onto the razor head, run it under water, and then let it dry thoroughly.

As previously stated in this Braun Series 5 5090cc review, since the device comes with the well-respected Braun cleaning station, there’s not any need to clean this shaver manually. The cleaning station does a fantastic job sanitizing your razor in just about three minutes.

Maintenance of this razor is pretty straightforward. About every 18 months, depending on use and upkeep, it’s usually necessary to get new shaving heads. Replacement isn’t too much of an issue because the shaving cassettes are relatively easy to find and are available and a fair price. 

Braun Series 5 and Series 7 razor lines have a lot of similarities, but there are a few key factors that differentiate the two categories that you should consider before making your purchase.

A huge benefit of the 797cc compared to the 5090cc is the wet/dry capability. Whereas the 5090cc can only work for dry shaves, the 797cc is more versatile and can use either wet or dry.

The 797cc has a personalization mode that is not available in any of the Series 5 lines. With the 797cc, you can choose between sensitive, normal, and intense settings. A key differentiating factor is that the 797cc comes with a turbo mode.

Bottom line, if you're interested in wet/dry shave I would go for the 797cc. The other features are nice to have, so if you're on budget you don't really need them. Click for more information on 797cc.

Compared to the 797cc, the 5090cc and the 790cc are much more similar.

Both the 5090cc and the 790cc can only deliver a dry shave. The cutting elements on the shaving heads are also very similar—both have two foils and a middle trimmer.

The 5090cc and the 790cc come with cleaning stations, but the stations that are available with the 790cc line are a little bit more compact, so consider this if counter space is an issue for you.

Regarding price, there’s not a whole lot of difference between these two models, so you’re not going to save a ton of money by going with the 5090cc. Click for more information on 790cc.

After conducting this Braun Series 5 5090cc review, I think it’s safe to say that any guy who has basic shaving needs and is looking for a razor at a moderate price point is going to be satisfied by purchasing this shaver.

If you happen to be a shaving snob, this razor probably won’t have enough bells and whistles for you, but it may be a useful backup shaver. This shaver doesn't support wet/dry shave so it's important for you, go for the 7997cc.

If you’re new to the world of electric razors, the 5090cc may be a great introductory razor for you because it is associated with the quality of the Braun brand name and has many valuable features, but doesn’t come at a cost that creates a substantial financial burden.