Best Electric Shavers 2018 – Top Buyer’s Guide And Detailed Reviews
UPDATED JULY 27, 2018
Choice is sometimes tough, and it can be tougher when there are many good options to pick from. Today, Trust Compass focuses on electric shavers, and this guide is crafted to help you choose from the 10 best electric shavers out there in the market. So, read on and take a look at multiple electric shavers before choosing one that is appropriate for your facial skin and hair.
Electric shavers! They get your face cleaned up in a jiffy to get to that date you’re late for or that office meeting on time. They are no muss, no fuss hair removing devices a modern man should have in his kit.
Choosing the right electric shavers for that perfect shave is important. Electric shavers are designed to give you the best shave and make your face smoother and shinier (and kissable!) Electric shavers can give you the best shave every time without any additional grooming item.
As we sat to review the electric shavers, we found that there are a plenty of them out there, a few were good in terms of close shaving and a few others were good at giving a comfortable shaving experience.
So, which one should you choose? You’ll figure it out soon! Read on…
The Roundup - Electric Shavers
Before we proceed, we’d like to say that our top 10 list includes some of the best electric shavers that are available in the market and the ones that are rated high particularly for their comfort level and smooth shaving experience.
This guide will be of great help to you when it comes to finding what you want in an electric shaver 2018. And most importantly, I would suggest you to please go through our Electric razor buying guide prior to buying one.
Here is a table that quickly compares the top 10 best electric shavers 2018. Each one of them have been reviewed by specialists in our team including me.
Best Electric Shavers In The Market – An Overview Table
No | Product | Picture | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Weight - 2.08 lbs Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Foil Run-time - 50 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
2 | Weight - 1 lbs Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Rotary Run-time - 50 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
3 | Weight - 1.39 lbs Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Foil Run-time - 45 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
4 | Weight - 1.8 lbs Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Rotary Run-time - 50 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
5 | Weight - 7.04 oz Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Foil Run-time - 45 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
6 | Weight - 2.7 lbs Wet/Dry - No Nature - Foil Run-time - 50 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
7 | Weight - 2 lbs Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Foil Run-time - 45 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
8 | Weight - 0.5 lbss Wet/Dry - No Nature - Foil Run-time - 50 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
9 | Weight - 6.4 oz Wet/Dry - Yes Nature - Foil Run-time - 45 Mins (Maximum) |   | |
10 | Weight - 1.1 lbs Wet/Dry - No Nature - Foil Run-time - 60 Mins (Maximum) |   |
Getting The Right Electric Shaver for Men
Let me start by saying that choosing an electric razor is more of a personal choice than a recommendation from someone.
Frankly speaking, there is no “best” product when it comes to electric shavers. What one person likes might not necessarily suit the other person’s interest.
We are going to review the cream of the electric shaver crop from different manufacturers so that you can compare and pick the one that suits your needs and budget.
Electric shavers are differentiated from one another by a number of factors ranging from design and features to comfort and style to price and shaver’s nature. These factors are going to make our choices tougher but on the other hand, once you get to know them, it will never be difficult to choose the best electric razor for your needs.
Top 10 Electric Shaver Reviews 2018
So, without further ado, here is the list of the top 10 best electric shavers in the market.
1. Braun Series 9 9290CC – With The New Direct & Cut System
Braun has a knack for coming up with shavers that set the tone for the rest of the market to follow, and this is one of those models.
Earlier in 2015, the Braun 90xx series were the market leaders when it came to technology and ease of use. Now the 92xx series takes its place as the best shavers in the market.
The Braun 9290cc produces 10,000 micro vibrations which help you get a closer shave. They have an adaptive motor that senses the amount of hair and alters power accordingly.
While other shavers have cutters, Braun 9290cc doesn’t, and if you’re looking for cutters, then you might be better served by other brands. It gets the SyncroSonic feature which alters the power depending on the density of your beard.
There is also a layer called the SkinGuard between the last foil and the Direct & Cut trimmer which is supposed to stretch your skin and makes the process of shaving a lot more comfortable.
The Braun 9290cc electric shaver looks great and feels good in the hand especially with the textured, rubberized and dimpled surface at the back and sides. The textured grip is made from soft material that helps you in wet and slippery shaving scenarios. Adding to that is that fact that its head pivots in 10 different ways and adjusts to different angles when you’re shaving. All these points together make the Braun 9290cc a compelling buying option.
Positive
- Great build quality
- Has wet and dry modes
- Great performance even with long hairs
- Shaving sessions are quick and easy
- Replacement shaving heads are not very expensive
Negative
- Expensive
- Cleaning station needs the shaver to be dry
- Cleaning cartridges are also expensive
2. Philips Norelco SensoTouch 3D – The Best Multi-Feature Rotatory Shaver
Next on our list is an electric shaver that can be called the king of Rotary shavers. Yes, grabbing the fourth position in our top 10 electric shavers 2018 list is the Philips Norelco Sensotouch 3D, which is very effective in shaving both the beard and hair on the head.
In our analysis, we found this one to be the best rotary shaver in terms of comfort – it really sticks to the skin and moves around smoothly giving a very clean, close shave.
All these features make the SensoTouch 3D the best electric shaver 2018 for close shave lovers, and more so for the bald men.
Phillips are the masters of the rotary shaver. While this may not be suitable for everyone, there are people who swear by rotary shavers and for those people a foil razor just wouldn’t do.
Okay, now let’s review the downsides of the shaver. The first drawback we found was that the model looks very good at first glance but when you hold it, it feels like a lower end shaver. In other words, the grip isn’t too comfortable at all.
Worst of all, it is made of plastic and rubber and not metal.
The built-in battery has to be replaced when it goes out of order, which is another downside of the razor.
On the whole, the SensoTouch 3D is an improved version of a rotary shaver and has all the latest features that any man would look for in a top class electric shaver. It gives close shaves that are very fast, smooth, and comfortable. However, it is for a limited audience and if you aren’t a fan of rotary shavers, there are chances that you could be discouraged after using it. These few downsides have put the shaver lower in our list.
Positive
- Three Independent Foils on the head
- The head is capable of moving in three dimensions, which is a unique feature of the shaverComfortable and close shaves
- Inclusion of Wet & Dry technology
Negative
- Low class Built design (made of plastic and rubber)
- Replacement of parts is very expensive (and this is a serious problem)
- Built-in battery that is irreplaceable
- Can be charged only using the dock and not the cord.
3. Braun CoolTec Men’s Solo Shaver – Coolest Shaver With Innovative Active Cooling Technology
Here is one more from Braun, and it’s called CoolTec. Unlike the other models in its lineup, this time around Braun comes up with a top-notch shaver that is well suited for sensitive skin.
Braun CoolTec is powered by the Thermoelectric Cooling technology that acts as an enhancer giving a soothing experience on the skin.
Braun CoolTec features the Wet & Dry technology which is ideal for both dry and oily skin. It is also water-resistant meaning you can use water for cleaning the shaver.
Talking about the negative aspects, please keep in mind that this shaver isn’t compatible with any gel, soap, foam, or any shaving fluid for that matter. If you’re used to shaving fluids, you may have to look at other options.
On the whole, Braun CoolTec is a one of a kind shaver with more positives and just a couple of negatives (incompatibility with external fluids and short battery life). Yet, the positive aspects are good enough to ensure that you get a clean, smooth shave every time. even if you don’t have problems with razor burns you should try using a CoolTec, it really does ease your skin when you’re shaving.
Positive
- Wet & Dry Electric Technology
- Best for all skin types, especially for sensitive skin
- TEC technology
- Impressive build Design
Negative
- Low battery backup
- Incompatible with external fluids
4. Philips Norelco Shaver 9300 (S9311/87) – Powered by SmartClick and SmartClean System
The Philips Norelco 9300 is one of the latest offerings of the brand in the rotary shaver category. It claims to be able to shaver cleaner and remove 20% more hair effectively with a single shave.
It has 8 independently operating cutting heads that move in different directions too. According to Philips, this is their most advanced model yet, which does not compromise on quality and also boasts of better durability.
For someone who wants to keep their mustache and beard neat and clean even on a regular basis, this shaver comes with a click-on trimmer that can be used in place of the rotary head.
One of the features that really stands out about this shaver is the Contour Detect technology. All 3 of the rotary shaving heads move in different directions, which means that every bend an inch of the skin comes under the shaver's radar. This makes the shaver a highly adaptable one, which can fit itself perfectly to match the contours of any face type and ensure that the end result is a clean, custom and effortless shave. So, if convenience, ease of use and adaptability to the sensitive skin are on top of one's list, the Norelco 9300 is a must-have. Also, one must note that the shaver is cheaper than its immediate competition that offers the same features.
Positive
- Fits perfectly into different shape contours
- Seamless wet and dry shave
- Easy to maintain, charge and clean
- Great for a precise shave even on thicker hair
Negative
- The SmartClean system can take time to dry
- Hard to clean manually
- More expensive than a foil shaver
5. Panasonic ES-LV95-S Arc 5 – With Five Powerful Foils
If a close shave is what matters more to you, then look no further than Panasonic Arc 5. Many people return to manual razors because their electric razor, which promised more “close shaves” let them down.
If you’re one of those who lost hope in electric shavers, then we recommend you try Panasonic Arc 5, and you might probably change your decision.
Panasonic is a leading Japanese brand that gives top most priority to quality.
Much like the Braun electric shavers, the Arc 5 is very effective when it comes to trimming the beard and mustache in fewer strokes.
Panasonic Arc 5 comes with five foils that are of three different types. Here’s is a quick description of them:
In terms of features and functionality, we liked everything about Panasonic Arc 5. But, when it comes to shaving comfort, we’d say there are other better electric shavers out there.
The head of Arc 5 is quite big and feels bulky on the hand. If you have sensitive skin, then a close shave is what you might prefer and, in that case, the Arc 5 would be a great choice.
However, if you are already happy with the electric shaver which you are using right now, and you don’t have a thick beard, then I’d suggest you to not purchase an Arc 5. Arc 4 would make an even better choice.
Arc 5 deserves a 5-star rating when it comes to performance. Without a doubt, it is one of the best electric shavers made by Panasonic in terms of performance. However, I would like to remind you people again that you can’t expect a great “comfortability” from this shaver. Yet many people use it for the dozens of positives it brings to the table, so if you wish, you can try it and see if its suits your skin and hair. Panasonic Arc 5 gets a 3rd ranking in our list for a reason!
Positive
- Undoubtedly, the best electric shaver for close shaving
- Best shaver for thick and heavy beards
- Presence of a pivoting head and five powerful trimmers in the head
- Has the Wet & Dry Electric Shaver technology
Negative
- Itchy and not well-suited for sensitive skin type
- Lacks comfort
6. Braun Series 7 790CC – For Customized Shaving
Braun is considered one of the best electric shavers from Germany. Today, we have picked the most popular shaver in the Braun series called 790CC.
Okay, that’s a lot of praise, now let’s take a look at some features that make the model a bang for users’ buck.
First and foremost, the shaver offers a close and smooth shave when compared to the other shavers we’ve used so far. Even in terms of features, Series 7 790cc is better than most other electric shavers that we have used and reviewed over the months.
The face of the shaver comprises three trimmers out of which two are called “OptiFoil” and the other one is called “ActiveLift”.
All these ultimately helps cover more hair in less stroke, which is also one of the major highpoints of this electric shaver from Braun.
The manufacturers claim that the Series 7 790cc model comprises an alcohol-based cleaning and charging dock that can effectively kill 99% of the bacteria present on the skin in just a single use. What’s more, there are three custom modes called Normal, Intensive, and Extra Sensitive to let users choose their preferred mode and get the best shaving experience. The modes can be chosen according to your hair and skin type. Besides these, the shaver also comes with a pop-up trimmer for leveling down the beard and mustache.
No matter how good a product, downsides are not uncommon.
In a nutshell, I must admit that the Braun series 7 790cc is probably the best electric shaver 2018, and my personal favorite too. There are so many good things about the shaver – the built design is good, there are three trimmers for improved efficiency, then there is the cleaning dock, pivoting head, and there are custom modes all designed to give the user the best shaving experience. Another major reason why I consider this the best is because it’s quite affordable when compared to most other electric shavers in our lineup but does a better job than many other shavers.
Positive
- Personalization Modes
- Impressive Built Quality
- Automatic cleaning
- Affordable
- Flexible
- Best shaving experience
Negative
- Lack of the popular Wet & Dry Technology
7. Panasonic ES-LA93-K Arc 4 – One Of The Best Panasonic Shavers For The Budget-Conscious Buyers
There is one more shaver from the Panasonic family which we would like to review, and it’s called Panasonic Arc 4.
Panasonic Arc 4 has most of the good features that its latest version Arc 5 has, but it lacks a trimmer on the head plus it lacks the charging and cleaning docks.
It definitely feels well-built and durable which is surprising considering that this is our budget option in the review.
A fully charged Arc 4 battery runs for up to 40 minutes, which we feel is quite less than the 50-minute power backup from other electric shavers in the market. We feel that the Arc 4 is a decent shaver but you need to put up with its quirkiness especially the fact that it might not be comfortable for the average person. If you are okay with all these problems, it’s definitely a good buy for the price.
Positive
- One of the most inexpensive but powerful electric shavers in our list.
- Built-in LED Panel to alert you about the motor speed and battery charge.
Negative
- Not very comfortable to handle
- Lacks the cleaning and charging dock (and that’s also one of the reasons why it’s low-priced).
8. Wahl Professional 8061 – the most complete shaver for Sensitive Skin
Wahl is more suited for professionals like barbers who have to offer a clean shave every time. Otherwise, their customers are going to show up elsewhere. You can also use this if you are sure that you shave every other day.
The advanced technology present in the Wahl Professional Shaver adds more power so that users can avoid having cuts and burns while getting in contact with a sharp razor. These features make Wahl Professional 8061 one of the best shavers for people with sensitive skin.
One of the minor drawbacks of the Wahl Professional shaver is that it vibrates so much when in use, and that could be annoying to some users.
So, overall this shaver is an ideal choice for users having sensitive skin, thanks to the hypoallergenic foil heads. The shaver comes with a pretty good battery backup, so you can carry it while travelling to distant locations as well. It’s intuitive, easy to use, and guarantees a clean shave for everyone. Overall, it’s definitely one of the best electric shavers and a great bang for your buck.
Positive
- Comes with hypoallergenic Foil Heads (and for this reason, it’s the best electric shaver for sensitive skin)
- Nice build design
- Offers clean shaves
- Has a long Battery Life, hence is travel-friendly
- Reasonably priced
Negative
- Gets heated up in just a few minutes
- Vibrates intensely in the hand
- Uncomfortable to hold when vibrating
- No Wet & Dry technology
- Ideal for hairs of stubble length only
9. Panasonic ES-LT41-K Arc 3 – A Typical Cordless Electric Shaver
The Panasonic ES-LT41-K Arc3 is a great looking shaver that is ideal for getting that quick shave but won’t break your bank. Let’s look at what this model has to offer and why we think it is definitely one of the better budget shavers around.
The best thing about Panasonic range of shavers is, they offer clean and close shaves. With that in mind, let’s review Panasonic ES-LT41-K Arc 3, one of the hottest selling electric shavers in its family.
Before you jump to a conclusion, let’s take a look at the other aspects too. Why such a low pricing? Well, the shaver lacks the charging and cleaning dock, which you can find in the other top-range shavers in our list, and even from Panasonic.
To sum it up, this shaver from Panasonic packs some good features and is inexpensive too. Of course, there are some disadvantages such as the absence of the cleaning and charging dock but if you are looking for the basic features for an affordable pricing, then the Arc 3 is a great choice. And yeah, unlike Braun CoolTec, this one is compatible with shaving fluids such as gel and cream. You can use it even if you have dry skin.
Positive
- Extremely sharp blades that are skin-friendly
- Close and Smooth shave
- Wet & Dry technology
- Comes with 10-stage LED Panel
Negative
- Generates noise
- Short battery life
- Not ideal for thick facial hair
- No cleaning and charging dock
10. Remington F5-5800 – The Most Affordable Shaver
Remington is a brand well known for introducing a range of basic and mid-range shavers. In fact, the newest technology of cordless recharging was introduced by them.
Remington F5-5800 is a foil-type shaver that is both affordable and extremely functional. The head of the shaver consists of one trimmer and two foils.
If a close shave is what you are hankering for, then please check out Panasonic Arc 3. The shaver generates noise and is not ideal in a quiet place.
The Remington F5-5800 is a no-frills shaving companion, but you get a lot of utility with it. It comes in a black and charcoal finish which looks and feels good in the hand.
This shaver is pretty understated, but it offers a lot for the money you pay for it. It several conveniences that you can appreciate like the fact that it can still work with the cord attached to a wall outlet. While it is a rotary shaver, even people who are used to foil shavers won’t find it that much of a problem. On the whole, a great budget shaver you can use.
Positive
- Inexpensive
- Effective pivoting Head
- Gives comfortable shaves
Negative
- Poor build material (made of plastic)
- Generates noise
- Extra expense for frequent replacements
- Doesn’t give close shaves
Electric Shavers for Men – Buyer’s Guide
As you can see there are a lot more things that goes into choosing the right shaver for your face. It has to do with several factors including skin types, facial hair growth and if you shave wet or dry. If you need to use shaving foam, then you need to look at a shaver that can shave wet.
If you have coarse, thick hair or you’re shaving frequency is comparatively less, you might want to opt for a rotary shaver as opposed to a foil shaver. If you shave daily and have more than average sensitive skin, foil shavers are the way to go.
What You Need to Know Before Choosing an Electric Razor?
All electric shavers fall into either of the two following categories:
For those who don’t know, shavers with rotating blades are the rotary shavers and the ones with oscillating blades are called as foil shavers.
Rotary shavers are ideal for trimming long and thick hairs. They come with circular cutting heads that are mounted on the exterior surface of rotating frame, which is fixed into the removable upper part of the shaver.
Foil shavers, on the other hand, are best suited for short hairs that grow out in different directions. They have straight shaving heads with oscillating blades, which are basically cutters that are fixed below a foil. The foil is useful for capturing even tiny hairs in the holes and allowing the user to have a close shave.
Things to consider before buying an electric shaver
Related Questions:
I have a pretty thick and stubborn beard. Which type of shaver would be more suitable, with a foil head or rotary head?
Is shaving cream necessary while using an electric razor?
How to prolong the battery life of an electric shaver?
What is the difference between a shaver and a trimmer?
Can I expect a smooth and close shave from an electric shaver?
I have very sensitive skin. Is it advisable for me to use an electric shaver?
Conclusion
Choosing a shaver can be a tough task as you can see there are numerous models and types of shavers to pick from. The most important thing to remember is that regardless of rave reviews and people hyping up certain models, the best judge of what works for you is you.
Also, if you’ve never used an electric shaver, the best thing to do would be to opt for something that is a lot cheaper to start with. If you don’t like it, it wouldn’t burn too big of a hole in your pocket.
As comprehensive as this review is, there may be certain models that may have gone obsolete. We’ve tried to cover all we can about electric shavers for men for your benefit.
Apart from these, there are other factors such as the pricing, brand, and skin-friendliness.
So, keep all the above factors in mind to choose the best electric shaver 2018 for your needs.
The Trust Compass Product Buyer Guides:
