Most of us don’t have the luxury of going to a barber every day, which means we need a razor at home to clean up or remove facial hair.
Electric shavers save time and effort, and a good electric shaver even protects your skin while it removed unwanted facial hair. Quality is important in shavers as any tool, and the wrong electric shaver may not get the job done and can even irritate your skin.
These 10 shavers are designed to be effective, comfortable, and easy to use. But a good shaver is an investment and likely one that you’ll be using for years to come. As with anything you’re going to be using for a long time, it’s important to make sure you get one you like.
We’ll cover the different types of shaver after a quick product comparison table, and then this guide will give you a detailed look at what makes each of these shavers one of the best.
Budget |
---|
Max-T Care Electric Corded/Cordless Shaver |
4.2/5.0 |
Type: Rotary |
Waterproof: Yes |
Operation Time: 75 min |
Flexible, Quiet, and Comfortable. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
---|
Panasonic Arc 5 Electric Shaver / Trimmer |
4.8/5.0 |
Type: Foil |
Waterproof: Yes |
Operation Time: 40 min |
Comfortable, Versatile, Waterproof. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
---|
Braun Series 9 Cordless Electric Razor |
4.9/5.0 |
Type: Foil |
Waterproof: Yes |
Operation Time: 50 min |
Efficient, Low-Friction, Long Operation Time, Waterproof. |
Check Amazon |
Types of Electric Shaver
Different types of shaver cut your facial hair differently, and they have different strengths and weaknesses. Here are the three main types of electric shaver.
Foil
Foil shavers pick up the individual hairs and hold them away from your skin to cut them. They offer a fine shave with a great deal of precision and control. You can use a foil electric shaver similar to how you would use a disposable razor, moving it along your face in straight lines.
They’re a good option for anyone who needs precision in their shaver. Foils will let you get close to facial hair you want to preserve without damaging it, leading to clean lines around your beard or sideburns. Foils also tend to be particularly gentle for your skin.
However, foils aren’t a great choice for people with particularly coarse facial hair. Foils have very fine holes to pick up the hair away from the skin, but coarser hair textures may not fit in those holes, which means they never contact the blade.
Rotary
Rotary shavers, on the other hand, tend to have flexible heads and rotating blades that cut your facial hair. The blade is more directly on the skin, which means rotary shavers give you a more clean-shaven look, but they can also be more irritating for sensitive skin.
The flexible blades on rotary shavers also make it easier to get all your facial hair since they don’t need to move in straight lines. It’s better to move rotary shavers in small circles to make sure you hit every surface at least once.
But, rotary shavers are less precise than foils, so it can be harder to get crisp lines on the edges of any facial hair you want to keep.
They don’t have the same problem with coarse hair though, making them a better choice if you have thicker facial hair.
Trimmers
Trimmers are a good option for men with facial hair they want to maintain rather than remove. They are less aggressive than shavers, taking off less facial hair at a time. A good trimmer isn’t meant to clean your cheeks, but they can give you great lines on the edges, and help you maintain the perfect shape in your beard, mustache, and sideburns.
Foil and Rotary shavers are both a replacement for razors, while a trimmer is a replacement for a comb and scissors. They can irritate your skin if you use them too close or over too much surface area.
When a shaver isn’t a good option, or won’t get the job done on their own, a trimmer can be your best grooming friend.
10 Best Electric Shavers Comparison Table
Product Name | Type | Waterproof | Operation Time | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Panasonic Arc 5 Electric Shaver | Foil | Yes | 40 min | Check Price |
Braun Series 7 Cordless | Foil | Yes | 50 min | Check Price |
Philips Norelco 9300 | Rotary | Yes | 50 min | Check Price |
Andis Cordless T-Outliner / Trimmer | Trimmer | No | 100 min | Check Price |
Braun Series 9 Cordless | Foil | Yes | 50 min | Check Price |
Max-T Care Corded/Cordless | Rotary | Yes | 75 min | Check Price |
Panasonic Arc 3 Shaver/Trimmer | Foil + built in Trimmer | Yes | 45 min | Check Price |
Bevel Beard Trimmer | Trimmer | No | 240 min | Check Price |
Remington F5 – 5800 | Foil | No | 60 min | Check Price |
Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid | Trimmer / Shaver | Yes | 45 min | Check Price |
10 Best Electric Shavers: Detailed Review
1. Panasonic Electric Arc 5 Shaver / Trimmer (Best Value)
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The Panasonic Electric Arc 5 two in one is a foil shaver with the added bonus of a built-in trimmer. This is a great option for men with longer facial hair that need more than just a clean shave to complete their grooming routine. The foil shaver is soft on your skin, letting you clean up your cheeks, while the trimmer lets you shape longer beards, mustaches, and sideburns.
This is also a waterproof option. It’s perfectly safe to take into the shower with you when you’re in a hurry. It’s just as comfortable for a dry shave as a wet shave, so you can also use it at the bathroom mirror for greater precision grooming.
Panasonic also has busy men in mind with this great value shaver, it reaches a full charge in an hour, and can operate for up to 40 minutes on a single charge.
It’s also one of the most comfortable options available. All foil shavers are gentle on the skin, but the Panasonic Arc 5 offers built-in sensors that detect hair density, changing the shaving action accordingly. The result is a much more comfortable effortless shave.
Tech Specs |
---|
Pivoting Head: Multi-Flex Pivoting Head |
Motor Type: 14,000 CPM Motor |
Product Dimensions: 2.1 x 2.8 x 6.5 inches |
Product weight: 7 ounces |
The Pros |
---|
Reasonable Price |
Waterproof |
2 in 1 saves you money and time |
Soft on sensitive skin |
The Cons |
---|
Not great for coarse hair |
2. Braun Series 7
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
Braun products are known for their durability in addition to offering the best shaving experience available. This model is a step down from their premium Series 9 line (our Best Overall pick) but is slightly more affordable while still providing a top-of-the-line shave.
This is another foil shaver, but the four synchronized cutting elements save you even more time and irritation over a typical foil shaver. The Series 7 is equipped with Braun’s Responsive Intelligence, to the shaver will automatically respond and adjust to your face.
The Series 7 also has 5 different shaving modes, so you can adjust the intensity of the shave based on the hair and part of your face. Take a little more time on a gentle mode to protect sensitive skin or kick it up to a higher setting and remove a lot of thick hair, quickly.
Waterproofing also protects your electric shaver. Whether you prefer to shave in the shower, or accidentally left it in the sink, this shaver will keep going.
It also has a slightly longer operational time than the Panasonic Arc 5, getting up to 50 minutes run time on a single charge.
Tech Specs |
---|
Cutting actions per minute: 40,000 |
Comfort flexi head: 10 directions |
Product Dimensions: 6.2 x 6.2 x 9.9 inches |
Product weight: 1.9 pounds |
The Pros |
---|
Gentle on your skin |
Versatile settings for different skin and hair types |
Decent run time |
Very Durable |
The Cons |
---|
Cleaning and Charging station is bulky |
3. Philips Norelco 9300
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
The Philips Norelco 9300 is a great option if you’re looking for an extremely close shave without sacrificing comfort. This is a rotary shaver, meant to take facial hair down as close to the skin as possible without breaking out a straight razor, and yet it’s comfortable, easy to clean, and easy to use.
Philip’s Norelco’s cutting blades move in 8 separate directions, giving them 20% more hair removed in a single pass, while their wet or dry system gets 30% closer to the skin regardless of whether you use shaving cream, water, or leave your skin dry.
Three-speed settings give you some added flexibility. The slowest setting is gentler on the skin than many rotary shavers, while the medium and fast speeds will get the job done quickly and efficiently when you’re in a hurry.
This shaver also has a smart-clean system that makes maintenance easy, cleaning, drying and lubricating the shaver as it charges.
Like the Braun Series 7, the 9300 boasts up to 50 minutes operational time on a single charge. It’s also a quick-charging shaver, taking only an hour to reach full battery.
Tech Specs |
---|
Contouring System: 8-direction flex heads |
Replacement Blades: SH90/62 |
Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion |
Product Dimensions: 3.1 x 2.2 x 6.2 inches |
Product weight: 1.8 pounds |
The Pros |
---|
Waterproof |
Extremely Close Shave |
Self-cleaning |
Flexi-Heads easily reach hard to get areas |
The Cons |
---|
Harder on Skin |
Requires cleaning solution |
4. Andis Cordless T-Outliner / Trimmer
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5.0
The Andis Cordless T-Outliner / Trimmer is the only shaver on this list that was designed with natural ethnic hair in mind. This trimmer is perfect for almost any texture of hair and provides clean lines and edges every time.
The Andis Cordless T-Outliner is also suitable for dry-shaving, despite being labeled as a trimmer. It just may not be a great shaving option for men with sensitive skin.
This trimmer also boasts an impressive 100 minute run time on a single charge, the second-longest operational time of any of the shavers on this list. That long run-time means you’ll never have to rush a trim and gives you the flexibility to add designs and patterns to your edges, as well as the option to change them anytime.
Constant speed technology also means that the Andis Cordless T-Outliner won’t slow down or stall. It provides uniform performance through the last second of battery life. A convenient LED light tracks battery charge, so you’ll know when it’s time to put it on the charger.
Unfortunately, this is not a waterproof shaver, so it’s not a good option for men who prefer to do their grooming in the shower.
Tech Specs |
---|
Motor Type: Single-speed rotary motor |
Battery: Lithium-Ion Battery with 100 hour run time |
Product weight: 7.8 oz |
The Pros |
---|
Long battery life |
Consistent performance |
Precision control |
Perfect for coarse hair types, including natural ethnic hair |
The Cons |
---|
Not waterproof |
Meant for detail work, not a total shave |
5. Braun Series 9 Cordless Electric Razor (Top Pick)
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
Braun’s reputation for excellent performance, long-lasting durability, and intentional design features is well deserved in this latest and greatest shaver. Although it is a little more expensive than most of the shavers on this list, it easily won out for Best Overall in its ease of use, comfort, and long functional life.
Frankly, you’ll likely save money by buying a Series 9 simply because you won’t have to replace this system for many years.
Braun is also willing to back up their products with more than warranties or product reviews. The Series 9 has been tested head-to-head with other premium shavers in a scientific study on 3-day old beards and won the title of the most efficient shaver.
Braun also considered the major downside most foil shavers have in that they struggle to capture coarse hair and introduced a 2 trimmer, titanium coated, system to help capture even the trickiest hair for an even shave.
With 10,000 micro-vibrations and a sonic cushioning system, the Braun Series 9 is also comfortable for even the most sensitive skin. This shaver is a great investment for men who struggle with sensitive skin, skin conditions, ingrown hairs, and more.
The Series 9 also has Braun’s 10 directional flexible design, which effectively eliminates the other common weakness among foil shavers. Series 9 shavers are easy to use, even in tricky areas and angles. You won’t need a separate shaver to get to difficult to reach areas.
Tech Specs |
---|
Wet & Dry: Smart dry |
Shaving Efficiency: 40,000 sonic micro-vibrations per minute |
Product Dimensions: 6.2 x 6.2 x 9.9 inches |
Product weight: 2.08 pounds |
Shaving Elements: 5 synchronized shaving elements |
The Pros |
---|
Extremely Comfortable |
Scientifically proven |
Waterproof |
Simultaneous Clean and Charge Base |
Wet or Dry shave |
Included cleaning and charging station |
The Cons |
---|
Somewhat pricey |
6. Max-T Care Rechargeable Electric Corded/Cordless Shaver (Best Budget)
Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5.0
The Max-T rotary shaver is the only option on this list that gives you the option of a cord in addition to cordless battery function. This shaver is perfect for men who are concerned they might forget to charge their shaver, or who might need to shave will little to no notice.
A rotary shaver, the Max-T offers a close, comfortable shave, with one of the longer operational times on this list. It can run for up to 75 minutes on a single charge.
This rotary shaver also comes with a built-in pop-up trimmer, giving it more versatility than many rotary shavers.
However, the best feature of this particular shaver can offer is its price. It’s a high-quality performance machine without requiring an investment from the user.
It’s also one of the quieter machines available, specifically designed to keep even its highest speed settings muted, the Max-T is a good option for men who dislike loud sounds near their face.
Combine that with its 100% waterproof design and this is an incredibly versatile and effective shaver that comes at a bargain.
Tech Specs |
---|
Battery: Lithium-ion 1xLi 3.7V/800mA |
Charging time: 8 hours |
Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 3 x 2.4 inches |
Run time: 75 minutes |
Universal Voltage: 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz |
The Pros |
---|
Quiet Operation |
Good Price |
Long Run Time |
Option to use corded operation in an emergency |
The Cons |
---|
Does not include the USB adaptor needed for charging |
Long Charging Time |
7. Panasonic Arc 3 Electric Shaver with Built-in Trimmer
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
The Panasonic Arc 3 is a step down from the Arc 5 we picked for Best Value, but it’s still a more than worthy shaver in its own right. A more economic model of the Panasonic, the Arc 3 is perfect for men who want the quality of a premium shaver without the price tag on the best models.
This is another foil option, perfect for sensitive skin. The quick charge time on the Arc 3, 1 hour to a full charge, gives you a great deal of flexibility despite not having a corded option like the Max-T. Plus, the 45 minute run time, while not as impressive as some of the shavers on this list, is still more than enough time to shave several times on a single charge.
Like the Arc 5, this is a fully waterproof model, adding flexibility to your overall grooming routine.
The built-in trimmer is also included with this model, making it equality versatile to shape and maintain your facial hair. Plus, it gives you the freedom to try new styles without having to but a new piece of equipment first.
The Arc 3 gives you added convenience with a LED display that tells you battery charge and other operational information. This model also auto-detects beard density for the perfect speed operation every time.
Tech Specs |
---|
Pivoting Head: Multi-speed motor (auto-adjusts) |
Motor Type: 13,000 CPM motor |
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 2.5 x 9.2 inches |
Product weight: 1.2 pounds |
The Pros |
---|
Economic pricing |
Variable speed protects your skin |
Fully waterproof |
LED battery display |
The Cons |
---|
Not great for coarse hair |
Some customers report that it irritates the skin |
8. Bevel Beard Trimmer
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5.0
The Bevel Beard Trimmer is another good option for men who are looking to maintain a crisp shape and clean edges on their facial hair rather than looking for a to-the-skin shave.
This trimmer is highly precise, with a simple dial to make on-the-spot adjustments to trimmer length. The soft grip and ergonomic design also ensure that you have millimeter fine control for precise trimming.
It’s also purpose-built for coarse curly hair, providing more styling options to men who otherwise would struggle to use electric shavers meant for fine, straight, hair types.
The Bevel Beard Trimmer also boasts the single longest operational time of any shaver on this list, lasting up to 240 minutes on a single charge. The battery is also capable of holding a charge for up to 6 months, so you don’t have to worry about charging the battery again after no-shave November, it’ll be ready and waiting.
However, it’s important to note that the additional flexibility on the cutting length and blade sharpness may require some experimentation. Take the time to get to know this trimmer, and how your skin reacts to it, before using it to prepare for an important event or business meeting.
Tech Specs |
---|
Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.9 x 8.2 inches |
Product weight: 1.7 lbs |
The Pros |
---|
Versatile cutting surface |
Designed for Coarse Hair |
Longest Battery Life |
The Cons |
---|
Takes Some Experimentation |
Can Irritate your Skin |
Limited Specs Available |
9. Remington F5-5800 Electric Trimmer
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5.0
The Remington F5-5800 is another economical option for men who need a quality shave, but don’t need the bells and whistles of a premium shaver.
This shaver does have a slightly longer charging time than the average of shavers on this list, needing 2 hours to reach a full charge. However, it compensated by providing a slightly longer than average operational time. The Remington F5 is rated for up to 60 minutes of shave time on a single charge.
A foil shaver, the Remington F5 is good for a precise cut that doesn’t need to go all the way to the skin. This shaver tends toward creating the appearance of 5 o’clock shadow. It shaves quickly, however, and doesn’t irritate or nick the skin at all.
This shaver also offers a pop-up beard trimmer for quick touch-ups and shaping, although it is a less versatile version than some of the shavers on this list.
It does not come with a self-cleaning base, but clean up is still easy, simply run the shaver under the faucet and it will come totally clean.
Tech Specs |
---|
Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery |
Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.9 x 8.2 inches |
Product weight: 12.8 oz |
The Pros |
---|
Cost-Effective |
Creates an even shave |
Longer operational time |
The Cons |
---|
No cleaning operation |
Longer charge required |
10. Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid Trimmer/Shaver
Editor’s Rating: 4.1/5.0
The Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid Trimmer/Shaver is another more economic option for men who need a clean shave in some areas but would prefer to trim and shape the facial hair in others. It’s perfect for bearded men who like to keep their upper cheeks hair-free, or for those cultivating sideburns or a mustache.
The OneBlade is rated to be able to trim, edge, or outright shave any length of hair, which also makes it a great option for men who like to change their style and appearance regularly.
The blades themselves are fully replaceable, and durable, each one lasting as much as 4 months before requiring replacement.
However, this shaver does take a little longer to remove hair and will require a significant investment of time if you intend to go from a full beard to a clean-shaven face.
Tech Specs |
---|
Replacement blades: QP220/80 (2 blades) |
Length settings: 3 trimming length settings |
Product Dimensions: 7.1 x 8.1 x 2.4 inches |
Product weight: 11.4 ounces |
The Pros |
---|
Highly versatile for many styles |
Long blade life |
Good Price |
The Cons |
---|
Takes a long time |
Contents
- Types of Electric Shaver
- 10 Best Electric Shavers Comparison Table
- 10 Best Electric Shavers: Detailed Review
- 1. Panasonic Electric Arc 5 Shaver / Trimmer (Best Value)
- 2. Braun Series 7
- 3. Philips Norelco 9300
- 4. Andis Cordless T-Outliner / Trimmer
- 5. Braun Series 9 Cordless Electric Razor (Top Pick)
- 6. Max-T Care Rechargeable Electric Corded/Cordless Shaver (Best Budget)
- 7. Panasonic Arc 3 Electric Shaver with Built-in Trimmer
- 8. Bevel Beard Trimmer
- 9. Remington F5-5800 Electric Trimmer
- 10. Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid Trimmer/Shaver