If you have particularly curly or coarse hair, or if you wish to shave less frequently but achieve the same level of closeness, this may be the shaver for you. In addition, we weighed each model and measured the noise (decibel level) of each razor during operation. We didn’t test battery life, specifically; all of the models we picked were capable of running for about an hour on a full charge. For an update to this guide, James tested the revamped Braun Series 5, 6, and 7 models for a month. Following the same procedures as the original panel of testers, he compared each new Braun’s performance against that of the others as well as our budget pick.
Here Philips has a nifty trick in its GroomTribe app, which works via Bluetooth and uses motion sensors in the shaver to track your shave and help you improve your technique. You probably won’t use it after the first few shaves, but it’s a good way to help you get started. What’s more, the Series 7000 has the same cleaning pod as the Series 5000, to help you get your shaver clean and ready for action. With its smaller, philips shaver lighter body and more mobile head, the Series 9000 is still one step ahead for closeness and comfort, but the Series 7000 is a whole lot easier on the wallet. The R6 doesn’t get quite as close as consistently as the premium shavers, and can tug on longer hairs if you’ve let them grow. Yet it’s comfortable if you shave every day or so and the Twintrack blades do a good job of dealing with thick growth under the jawline.
It was kind of a doozy, but we tested and reviewed each of the 10 women’s electric shavers in this story. We selected these shavers after pouring over dozens of products and customer reviews to bring you the very best electric razors for women to achieve the closest shave possible. To ensure all razors were thoroughly tested, each one was used — where directions allowed — on wet and dry skin, as well as on several different body areas.
A general rule of thumb, however, is to replace your blades every year or so, keeping in mind refills will cost about $50. This green cordless razor combines the portability of a manual razor with the convenience of an electric device. Dr. Jessie Cheung is a board-certified, fellowship-trained dermatologist with practices in Chicago, Illinois and New York City.
We had the testers keep the top-performing razors for extended periods to allow for break-in time. We asked testers to evaluate each razor for closeness of shave, speed, and irritation. First, testers used the razors at whatever their standard “I need a shave” interval was. We then asked for a double-growth test—skipping a shave—and, as a go-for-broke scenario, a triple-growth test. Braun Series 8 models are now more widely available through various retailers.
Norelco shavers are a great fit for first-time shavers and veteran beardsmiths alike. The brand offers wet and dry shaving capabilities, adjustable speed settings, clever user interfaces, and a variety of grooming attachments at different price ranges. However, Dr. Chimento tells WWD it’s hard to give an exact timeframe for when to replace your electric razor because it ultimately depends on how thick your hair is and how often you use your philips trimmer blade razor. “You should replace electric cutters and razor heads about once every 12 months,” Dr. Chimento estimates. “Make sure to look over your foil and blades to make sure there is not any noticeable wear to avoid more significant issues.” If you notice dullness or any signs of rust, it’s best to swap it out. Of course, most electric shavers don’t give their best results on the first shave, getting better as they bed in and you get practice.
Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time). The series at the lower end of Braun’s foil shaving line that we tested—the Series 5 and Series 6—each performed fine in our testing, and with a bit more work and time all eventually gave the same shave as the Series 7. The most obvious difference that sets the Series 7 apart from other Braun models is the flexibility of the shaving block at the top.
This, combined with Braun’s micro-vibration technology, delivers one of the smoothest and most comfortable shaves we’ve seen from an electric shaver, comparable to the Panasonic ES-LV9Q and Panasonic ES-LS9A. In fact, it’s arguably better than the former at dealing with longer hairs and stubble, while the pivoting design is great for tricky areas under the jawline and around the neck. High-end electric shavers philips trimmer blade often include their own self-cleaning stations, so all proper maintenance entails is docking the unit when it’s not in use. For other models, rinse after each shave and clean the blades once a week. Follow manufacturer instructions for specifics, but cleaning generally entails unplugging the unit, removing the cutter head, brushing accumulated hairs off with a brush, and rinsing it under hot water.