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Back in the day, men reached into the medicine cabinet for a razor and standard can of shaving foam to achieve a smooth face. Now, the male grooming climate has evolved, and a new crop of electric shavers has entered the fold, becoming an essential shaving tool for the modern man.
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Not only can these mechanical face clippers shave time and money off your grooming routine (adios, expensive blade refills!), but they are also delivering clean-cut trims that feel as good as a standard razor.
No one said shopping for a shaver was a cake walk through the pharmacy aisle. In fact, it can get quite overwhelming, especially when each machine claims it’s the “best shave ever.” Our guide gives you insight on what you should look for when shopping the endless list of electric razors available today.
Skeptical that an electric shaver can meet your needs? Or that you even need one at all? We'll allow that a certain amount of subjectivity is involved in grooming preferences, and that some men really enjoy the lengthy routine of using a traditional straight razor to tame their daily facial hair growth, but electric shavers deserve your consideration.
Here are some of the perks of switching to electric:
Does this make electric shavers "better" than traditional blades? That's up to you, but the benefits are undeniable.
A foil design hosts oscillating blades within a thin layer of foil to lift hair away from the face, making for gentler shaves. The foil even lends itself to larger skin surfaces such as the top of the head. Many come in three- or four-blade options.
These models typically rely on flexible heads with spinning razors that work best for making tight turns across the face. They also work well for daily maintenance of a clean-shaven look. Such features also come with certain shaving compromises.
In response to the growing trend of electric shavers, the market has seen an influx of models from some of the industry’s biggest players including Braun, Panasonic, Remington, and Philips Norelco, each sharing their own unique features. Some come equipped with rotary heads or multi-directional blades for precision cutting, others support dry and wet shaving. Then there are hybrid models that have features of both beard trimmers and standard electric razors.
RELATED: How to Treat Razor Nicks and Cuts
If this all seems like a lot to handle, keep reading for our guide of the best electric razors you can buy right now.
Is it a razor? Shaver? Trimmer? Try all three. The OneBlade achieves the grooming trifecta (at a killer value) with an all-purpose design that allows users to edge, shave, and trim any length of hair. Philips has integrated a dynamic cutting head that operates at 200 passes per second with a dual-protection system that dices through longer strands without pulling the skin. The grip handle is impressive yet lightweight for the power it packs, with sturdy support to give users more confidence when shaving and a 45 minute life following a full charge.
Promising Review: "I've been wanting to buy this for years now! Always been hesitant, because I've tried over 5 different electric shavers. Nothing came close to a razor, until I finally pulled the plug on this. Seriously, this is not like any other electric shaver!!! It works wonders, especially when used as directed!!! I cannot stress this enough. If you been hesitant about buying it. Now, it's your time. I liked it so much that I got one for my Dad. He loves it too!!!" — Amazon Customer $49.95 at Amazon.com
Almost 100 years ago, German mechanical engineer Max Braun founded his eponymous brand. Braun has taken design and engineering very seriously ever since. This Series 9 9290cc is a marvelous piece of electric shaving machinery, highlighted by its immaculate craftsmanship, ergonomic design, and phenomenal performance. It won both our Readers’ Choice Award for Best Electric Razor and our AskMen Grooming Award for the same title.
Patented SyncroSonic Technology carries serious horsepower, generating 40,000 “cross-cutting actions per minute” to achieve a complete shave without lathering up. The four-way shear system conquers three-day stubble with finesse, and included in the price is the cleaning system and travel case with a cleaning brush. If you need any more convincing, read our full-length review on the Series 9.
Promising Review: "I never thought an electric razor could handle my face and head until I purchased this razor. My facial hair is very coarse and what’s left of the hair on my head is about the same. It powered through with a total shave time of 15-20min max. I have the wet/dry model and have used it dry. I have yet to see any excessive bumping or irritation. I’ve been using a regular razor my whole life so I’m sure my skin has a certain tolerance. My regular razor would cause bumps all the time! I HIGHLY recommend this razor it’s worth the cost after the first use!" — Amazon Customer $239.14 at Amazon.com
If the more premium Arc5 is out of your price range, rest easy knowing you can get similar quality results from its bargain brethren. This update is driven by a high-speed 10,000 CPM linear motor capable of slicing through stubble for consistent shaving at numerous angles and an attached trimmer for detailing. Its biggest selling point remains the active shave sensor technology that detects and adjusts power levels to match hair densities on the face, neck, and chin. A lightweight feel, quick charge (one hour) and strong battery life (45 minutes) add to its value. Not bad for the low-end Arc option.
Promising Review: "You can’t go wrong with this electric shaver. It is very ergonomic so it makes it easy to maneuver around your face. The shave is nice and close almost like using a blade. I highly recommend this product!" — Joseph $69.99 at Amazon.com
The latest electric shaver to hit store shelves is a hi-tech special sensor built into the device to gauge hair density and adjust the blade to shave strands properly. No nicks, no tugs. Its three shaving heads come equipped with NanoTech precision blades (literally covered in nanoparticles to keep blades sharper longer), ensuring a super-close cut, even up to seven-day stubble. SkinComfort rings also surround each one and boast anti-friction coating that increases gliding. Philips throws in a click-on trimmer for beard and ‘stache styling, along with a plush travel case that complements the shaver’s executive look.
Promising Review: "This is the best Norelco I have ever owned. Close shave at only one week. Can't wait to see how it goes once face gets used to it. Over 20 years in the military and wish I had a razor like this the entire time. I hate shaving with blade razors and will never use one again thanks to this." — John $279.95 at Amazon.com
A mid-tier shaver with high-end performance, the wet/dry Series 3 ProSkin is a dependable option made for faster shaving and skin comfort and is perfect for electric razor newbies. Its signature head and MicroComb technology guide whiskers into the cutters for a more swift outcome. Pressure-sensitive blades allow for smoother strokes and protect skin from any chafing or irritation. The precision trimmer built into the back complements facial styling by accurately shaping your ‘stache and sideburns. Battery life is comparable to more expensive shavers, with a 45-minute battery life from a full charge or a full shave from just five minutes.
Promising Review: "For blood thinner patients check this shaver out! My father really loves it. He was in the hospital for 11 days. He had a tough beard going on. This Braun wet/dry shaver just did its job. A nice close shave. We even did the old credit card trick from the 1970s." — Szizzy $59.97 at Amazon.com
Instant shaving is a quality most men want in their electrical groomer. Philips’ budget-friendly shaver accomplishes it easily, allowing you to mow through dense parts of your beard. Using its singular ComfortCut blade system to tackle facial fuzz, working alongside four-direction flex heads to lift hair, then cut long and short strands with swift execution. Best of all, it's extremely low maintenance: just hit the one-touch button to open the razor compartment and then rinse under the sink.
Promising Review: "Norelco has a winner on this shaver. The numerous features and flexibility. Battery seems to last forever before needing a charge. It can be set for your beard and skin. I was amazed at the ability to shave in the shower and shaved well it did. I recommend this to everyone who likes electric shavers or those who want their first. Affordable and easy to use and easy to clean." — Chuck $39.96 at Amazon.com
Getting a clean, smooth shave doesn’t always require the most expensive machinery. Remington’s popular foil shaver is proof that you can attain professional shaves at a budget value. The device lasts a full hour on a single quick charge and features an intercept trimmer that sits between the two foils and seizes longer hairs in fewer passes. That along with an integrated pop-up trimmer for shape-ups, and patented Pivot and Flex technology that moves with your grooves, make it impossible to overlook this oscillating facial hair remover.
Promising Review: "This is not my first electric shaver, however it is my first Remington electric. After reading the negative reviews I decided to ignore them and order it anyway because some people just can't be pleased, or they don't really know what to expect from an electric shaver. Used properly this Remington gives as good a shave as any other brand electric shaver. It arrived fully charged and after a dozen shaves it's still at 80 percent charge. It is very easy to use and clean, and gives consistently nice close shaves. I've experienced no 'razor burn,' no pulling or pinching of the skin or any other uncomfortable issues. I've even used it on my scalp. I'm pleased with this purchase...good electric shaver at a reasonable price....and if it lasts, the replacement heads are much less expensive than the other brands I've used." — Anonymous $46.99 at Amazon.com
Black men have unique grooming needs, owing to differences in hair texture, coarseness and diameter. For these reasons, we recommend black men opt for foil designs, rather than rotary ones, as these can deal with curly, coarse hair more efficiently, reducing the risks of skin irritation. Here are a few of our favorite models:
High price and high performance, Panasonic’s flagship shaver model receives a prime upgrade highlighted by an automatic charging and cleaning dock and stronger five-blade system. The ultra-thin nanotech blades are built from superior Japanese stainless steel, keeping durability and precision in mind, while preserving build quality. Expect 14,000 CPM action that maintains peak execution no matter the battery life — a full 45 minutes after only one hour of charging. It’s a great shower companion that can be immersed in water for effective wet shaves. A trimmer and a sensor are also built in for shaping your face based on thickness.
Promising Review: "This is *absolutely* the best shaver OR razor I have ever used, and I have used many. Set aside your Norelco, your Braun... your Harry or Razor of Month club, and even the Viking uber-razor equipment. This shaver will give you and incredibly close shave, whether you have one-days worth of stubble or three-days worth or even five days (use the trimmer on rear for five to seven+ days worth). The charger and cleaning system, all-in-one, is superb. But back to the shaver... amazingly close and smooth shave with no nicks—which is much harder with a double-edge razor, no mater how good you are." — Ezra_NYC $169.99 at Amazon.com
Wahl’s built a credible reputation over the years with its barber-favored hair clippers, and the company’s line of electric shavers is quite impressive. The LifeProof 7061-100 is a hot seller that packs high-quality features into a budget-friendly value. It’s made for dry and wet shaving with a shock- and waterproof design built for longevity. The dual floating heads adapt to the contours of your face and neckline, leaving no stray hair behind. You can get 90 minutes of run time on a full charge and a full shave after just charging for one minute, thanks to its fast-charging capabilities. Personalize your grooming collection by choosing from four different colors: gray, green, orange, or yellow.
Promising Review: "I like how the shaver contours to the skin on my face. It cuts the hair follicles on the first try. It leaves me with a clean and close shave with no irritation. It is a shaver that is extremely portable to use in the shower, in your car, take with you when traveling. It holds a good charge and it is sold at a very reasonable price. A great shaver. A great shave at a low price." — Anonymous $59.90 at Amazon.com
The M90 remains a staple for well-groomed travelers, thanks to unique design features from the integrated pop-up trimmer to its solid build quality. Two AA batteries power the machine and generate up to an hour of shaving time, which is quite good for one of the market's older models. It offers impressive close shaves and snatches short hairs adequately, although completing a full shave does take a bit more time since it only features a single foil. Speaking of which, the foil and cutter can each be removed for faster rinsing. We suggest opting for a more advanced model for daily shaving, but toss this sucker in your dopp kit when hitting the road and you’re golden.
Promising Review: "The Braun travel shaver is a light weight, simple shaver that is easily packed in a bag. Normally, I travel with a AA flashlight, so I can transfer the batteries to the shaver and save on weight. Seems easier to travel with this battery razor than a disposable razor and shaving cream. Since it is a single band of blades, it may take a few repeated strokes for a reasonable shave, but that's not really a problem if you can take the shaver in a car or touch up while you are watching television. Overall, I'm quite pleased with the travel shaver. My only wish is that Braun would sell a set of replacement blades, which would make it much better for the environment." — Ronald $24.94 at Amazon.com
Electric razors used to be for dads who had to cut through stubble fast — and dry. Now, there are some option available that give just as good a shave as a razor blade, can be used wet or dry, and don’t use up a bunch of plastic every time you have to buy a pack of cartridge.
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