Back in the day, men reached into the medicine cabinet for a razor and standard can of shaving foam to achieve a smooth, kissable face. Now, the male beauty climate has evolved as a whole new crop of electric shavers have entered the fold, becoming an essential grooming tool for the modern gentleman. Not only are these mechanical face clippers shaving time and money off your grooming routine (adios Schick blades), but they're also delivering clean-cut trims unmatched by any standardrazor.
In response to the growing trend, the market is seeing an influx of models from some of the industry’s biggest players like Braun, Panasonic, Remington, and Philips Norelco hitting store shelves, each with their own unique features. Some are equipped with rotary heads or multi-directional blades for precision cutting. Others support dry and wet shaving. Then we have those that blur the lines of use, as functionalities of hair and beard trimmers sneak their way into standard electric razors. Needless to say, the competition is heavy.
No one said shopping for one was a simple walk through the pharmacy aisle. On the contrary, it can get pretty overwhelming, especially when every machine is quick to sell you on offering “The Best Shave Ever,” while some flat-out lack the essential features necessary to do the job. Right off the bat, these are some of the basic factors worth looking into when buying the best electric shaver:
- Closeness - As a top-level factor, if the electric shaver doesn't shave close enough you won't be satisfied.
- Comfort and Convenience - You're buying this product to make your life easier, not add time to your daily route.
- Technology - Today’s crop of buzzers are loaded with hi-tech features, all groomed to enhance your shaving experience.
- Speed - Look for CMA (cycles per minute) and know that what takes you 10 minutes with a manual blade, should take you 2-3 with an electric razor.
- Battery Life - You should expect 50 to 60 minutes of cordless shaving with modern models.
- Durability - The longer the electric shaver lasts, the more you can justify the price.
Now it’s on to choosing the right fit for your moneymaker. To guide you on the right track, we narrowed down the best electric shavers available right now. (Once passed the selection process, learn to master these Electric Razor Maintenance Tips to keep your shaver in tip-top condition.)
Braun CoolTec Men's Solo Shaver
Braun CoolTec Men's Solo Shaver
Key features: Active cooling, 2-stage cutting system
The world's first electric shaver with active cooling technology, the Braun CoolTec Shaver chills your skin as your shave to help reduce irritation, and minimize redness and burning. Switch the Thermo Electric Cooling (TEC) technology on using a one touch-button, or switch it off and still enjoy a satisfying shave without the use of any gels or lotions. With a 2-stage cutting system, two independently moving cutting elements work together in reverse motion to cut short hairs as easy as long hairs leaving your skin uniformly smooth.
The world's first electric shaver with active cooling technology, the Braun CoolTec Shaver chills your skin as your shave to help reduce irritation, and minimize redness and burning. Switch the Thermo Electric Cooling (TEC) technology on using a one touch-button, or switch it off and still enjoy a satisfying shave without the use of any gels or lotions. With a 2-stage cutting system, two independently moving cutting elements work together in reverse motion to cut short hairs as easy as long hairs leaving your skin uniformly smooth.
Remington Wet Tech Rotary Shaver
Key features:
Active cooling, 2-stage cutting system
The world's first electric shaver with active cooling technology, the Braun CoolTec Shaver chills your skin as your shave to help reduce irritation, and minimize redness and burning. Switch the Thermo Electric Cooling (TEC) technology on using a one touch-button, or switch it off and still enjoy a satisfying shave without the use of any gels or lotions. With a 2-stage cutting system, two independently moving cutting elements work together in reverse motion to cut short hairs as easy as long hairs leaving your skin uniformly smooth.
Active cooling, 2-stage cutting system
The world's first electric shaver with active cooling technology, the Braun CoolTec Shaver chills your skin as your shave to help reduce irritation, and minimize redness and burning. Switch the Thermo Electric Cooling (TEC) technology on using a one touch-button, or switch it off and still enjoy a satisfying shave without the use of any gels or lotions. With a 2-stage cutting system, two independently moving cutting elements work together in reverse motion to cut short hairs as easy as long hairs leaving your skin uniformly smooth.
Remington Wet Tech Rotary Shaver
Key features: Pivoting head, 60-minute wireless charge, waterproof
Remington’s mid-tier offering stays in close contact with a pivoting head that reduces skin irritation and solidifies ultimate shaving comfort. Its lithium battery provides a 60-minute wireless charge for on-the-go trims, with the charging stand indicating battery statuses. The company’s WetTech technology should get you a clean shave both in and out of the shower too.
Remington’s mid-tier offering stays in close contact with a pivoting head that reduces skin irritation and solidifies ultimate shaving comfort. Its lithium battery provides a 60-minute wireless charge for on-the-go trims, with the charging stand indicating battery statuses. The company’s WetTech technology should get you a clean shave both in and out of the shower too.
Panasonic Arc3 3-Blade Electric Shaver
Key features: Attached trimmer, cross-cutting action, shave sensor
If the more premium Arc5 is out of your price range, take satisfaction knowing you can get similar results from its bargain brethren. This updated Arc3 model is driven by a high-speed 13,0000 CPM linear motor that slices through stubble for consistent shaving at numerous angles. Its biggest selling point remains the active shave sensor technology that detects and adjusts power levels to match hair densities on your face, neck, and chin. Not bad for a low-end option.
If the more premium Arc5 is out of your price range, take satisfaction knowing you can get similar results from its bargain brethren. This updated Arc3 model is driven by a high-speed 13,0000 CPM linear motor that slices through stubble for consistent shaving at numerous angles. Its biggest selling point remains the active shave sensor technology that detects and adjusts power levels to match hair densities on your face, neck, and chin. Not bad for a low-end option.
Panasonic ES-LV61-A ARC5
Key features: Ultra-close shave, 100% waterproof, modern LCD display
The penultimate buzzer from Panasonic is considered one of the market’s elite electric shavers due to a bevy of sleek features. Its 5-Blade-Ultra-Thin Vibrating Foil Cutting system leads to a smooth shaving experience with 30-degree “nano blades” that provide maximum closeness. A 100% waterproof, lightweight design mated with a 10-stage LCD display gives the ARC5 ultramodern swag.
The penultimate buzzer from Panasonic is considered one of the market’s elite electric shavers due to a bevy of sleek features. Its 5-Blade-Ultra-Thin Vibrating Foil Cutting system leads to a smooth shaving experience with 30-degree “nano blades” that provide maximum closeness. A 100% waterproof, lightweight design mated with a 10-stage LCD display gives the ARC5 ultramodern swag.
Philips Norelco Shaver 5700 With Turbo Mode
Key features: Multi-directional flex heads, smart cleaning system, turbo mode
Instant shaving is an attribute most men want from their grooming experience. Philips budget-friendly shaver accomplishes this with a Turbo-powered mode that mows through dense parts of your beard when activated. This guy uses its singular MultiPrecision blade system to tackle facial fuzz, working alongside 5-direction Flex Heads to lift hair then cut long and short stands with swift execution. The accompanying smart clean system sweetens the deal by cleaning, lubricating and charging the shaver for all day, everyday use.
Instant shaving is an attribute most men want from their grooming experience. Philips budget-friendly shaver accomplishes this with a Turbo-powered mode that mows through dense parts of your beard when activated. This guy uses its singular MultiPrecision blade system to tackle facial fuzz, working alongside 5-direction Flex Heads to lift hair then cut long and short stands with swift execution. The accompanying smart clean system sweetens the deal by cleaning, lubricating and charging the shaver for all day, everyday use.
Philips Norelco OneBlade
Key features: Multi-directional blade system, trimming capabilities, water-resistant shaves
Is it a razor? Shaver? Trimmer? Try all three. The OneBlade pulls off the grooming trifecta with an all-purpose design that allows users to edge, shave, and trim any length of hair. Philips integrated a fast-moving cutter that operates at 200x per second with a dual-protection system that dices through longer strands without pulling skin. Put it to use right out of bed or take it in the shower to enjoy a clean, wet shave.
Is it a razor? Shaver? Trimmer? Try all three. The OneBlade pulls off the grooming trifecta with an all-purpose design that allows users to edge, shave, and trim any length of hair. Philips integrated a fast-moving cutter that operates at 200x per second with a dual-protection system that dices through longer strands without pulling skin. Put it to use right out of bed or take it in the shower to enjoy a clean, wet shave.
Remington XR1370 Hyper Series Rotary Shaver
Key features: Triple head action, ultra-close shave, good for all types of hair
Rotary razors may not be what you think of when you picture an electric razor, but they can actually provide more comfort and durability, and less of a mess compared to foil razor models. Remington's highest-quality rotary shaver, the XR7 uses TwinTrack PrecisionPlus shaving heads to give you an ultra-close shave. The dual heads have unique slots and holes in the TwinTrack blades that easily tackle long hair, curly hair, and stubble, all with one smooth swipe. An ActiveCountour XL design with specially enhanced contour and linked cutters, keep the three heads in close contact with your skin at all times, even around your face and neck.
Rotary razors may not be what you think of when you picture an electric razor, but they can actually provide more comfort and durability, and less of a mess compared to foil razor models. Remington's highest-quality rotary shaver, the XR7 uses TwinTrack PrecisionPlus shaving heads to give you an ultra-close shave. The dual heads have unique slots and holes in the TwinTrack blades that easily tackle long hair, curly hair, and stubble, all with one smooth swipe. An ActiveCountour XL design with specially enhanced contour and linked cutters, keep the three heads in close contact with your skin at all times, even around your face and neck.
Panasonic ARC5 5-Blade With Cleaning/Charging Station
Key features: Automatic cleaning and charging, enhanced blade system, shaving sensor
High price, high performance, Panasonic’s flagship shaver receives a prime upgrade spearheaded by an automatic charging/cleaning dock and more dominant 5-blade system to enhance personalized shaving for the long term. The ultra-thin Nanotech blades are built from superior Japanense stainless steel, built with durability and precision in mind to gently chop hair, while preserving build quality. It’s a great shower buddy that can be immersed in water for effective wet shaves. Beard trimming is also present with a built-in trimmer and sensor for shaping your face based on thickness.
High price, high performance, Panasonic’s flagship shaver receives a prime upgrade spearheaded by an automatic charging/cleaning dock and more dominant 5-blade system to enhance personalized shaving for the long term. The ultra-thin Nanotech blades are built from superior Japanense stainless steel, built with durability and precision in mind to gently chop hair, while preserving build quality. It’s a great shower buddy that can be immersed in water for effective wet shaves. Beard trimming is also present with a built-in trimmer and sensor for shaping your face based on thickness.
Braun WaterFlex WF2s
Key features: Durable blades, waterproof, anti-slip grip
The Braun WaterFlex is a sharp electric razor with solid construction and seamless performance that compliments its simple design. Blades last a staggering 18 months if properly maintained, while the fully waterproof, anti-slip grip makes buzz safety a priority. A single power button on the front, extendable sideburn razor around the back, and removable blade cassette rounds out its notable attributes.
The Braun WaterFlex is a sharp electric razor with solid construction and seamless performance that compliments its simple design. Blades last a staggering 18 months if properly maintained, while the fully waterproof, anti-slip grip makes buzz safety a priority. A single power button on the front, extendable sideburn razor around the back, and removable blade cassette rounds out its notable attributes.
Philips Norelco Shaver 8900
Key features: Contour-advanced heads, dry and wet shaving, pop-out trimmer
A dual-purpose shaver with trimming properties, the Norelco 8900 packs a bevy of features that place it amongst the grooming elite. SensoTouch 3D technology ensures close shaves with super-sharp UltraTrack heads that cover 50% more skin surface to dice whiskers in fewer strokes. Guiding the machine across your face is pleasantly soothing thanks to three-dimensional-contouring, which allows for comfort and flexibility when reaching narrow curves across the face and neck. The JetClean System simplifies shaver maintenance as well by charging, drying, lubricating, and washing the device.
A dual-purpose shaver with trimming properties, the Norelco 8900 packs a bevy of features that place it amongst the grooming elite. SensoTouch 3D technology ensures close shaves with super-sharp UltraTrack heads that cover 50% more skin surface to dice whiskers in fewer strokes. Guiding the machine across your face is pleasantly soothing thanks to three-dimensional-contouring, which allows for comfort and flexibility when reaching narrow curves across the face and neck. The JetClean System simplifies shaver maintenance as well by charging, drying, lubricating, and washing the device.
Philips Norelco 1280X SensoTouch 3D Electric Razor
Key features: Rotary head, ultra-close shave, automatic cleaning system
The Philips Norelco 1280X is a top-of-the-line rotary razor with a GyroFlex 3D system, with three individual parts that move independently around the curves of your face to cover 50% more skin surface. UltraTrack shaving heads have three specialized shaving tracks to catch the longest hairs to the shortest stubble. A patented Super Lift&Cut dual blade system easily lifts hairs that are even below skin to ensure smooth results. The dynamic electric shaver comes with a Jet Clean System to automatically clean and charge the razor, while not in use.
The Philips Norelco 1280X is a top-of-the-line rotary razor with a GyroFlex 3D system, with three individual parts that move independently around the curves of your face to cover 50% more skin surface. UltraTrack shaving heads have three specialized shaving tracks to catch the longest hairs to the shortest stubble. A patented Super Lift&Cut dual blade system easily lifts hairs that are even below skin to ensure smooth results. The dynamic electric shaver comes with a Jet Clean System to automatically clean and charge the razor, while not in use.
Braun Series7 799cc-7
Key features: Minimal noise, powerful motor, LED display
Don’t let the quiet whispers of the Braun Series 7 799cc fool you into thinking it can’t perform. On the contrary, it’s considered one of the more efficient shavers on the market thanks in part to its powerful cutting system. Braun’s specialized Pulsonic technology comfortably handles all types of hair, while the shearing system adjusts for maximum contours. The LED display will show the charging status and cleanliness of the shaver.
Don’t let the quiet whispers of the Braun Series 7 799cc fool you into thinking it can’t perform. On the contrary, it’s considered one of the more efficient shavers on the market thanks in part to its powerful cutting system. Braun’s specialized Pulsonic technology comfortably handles all types of hair, while the shearing system adjusts for maximum contours. The LED display will show the charging status and cleanliness of the shaver.
Philips Norelco Shaver 9700 Series
Take a look at Philips's most advanced shaver yet: the Norelco 9700. The company’s patented Contour Detect Technology moves each head independently in 8 directions to follow every curve. Its attention to contours increases hair collection by 20% and the V-Track Precision Blades snatches hair in the optimal cutting position, therefore leading to a more intimate shave. Docking the shaver in the SmartClean system will clean, dry, lubricate, and charge it at the touch of a button.
Braun Series 9 9090cc
Key features: Ergonomic design, elite cleaning system, great battery life, four-way shear system
Immaculate craftsmanship combined with phenomenal performance, the latest Series 9 edition is a sports car in the form of an electric shaver. Braun’s patented SyncroSonic Technology commands horsepower, generating 40,000 “cross-cutting actions per minute” to take in a complete shave without lathering up. The four-way shear system dominates 3-day beards with finesse for a flawless finish. Adding to its flamboyant appearance is bundled offerings such as the dynamic cleaning system and a gorgeous travel case with cleaning brush for purging facial hair on the go.
Immaculate craftsmanship combined with phenomenal performance, the latest Series 9 edition is a sports car in the form of an electric shaver. Braun’s patented SyncroSonic Technology commands horsepower, generating 40,000 “cross-cutting actions per minute” to take in a complete shave without lathering up. The four-way shear system dominates 3-day beards with finesse for a flawless finish. Adding to its flamboyant appearance is bundled offerings such as the dynamic cleaning system and a gorgeous travel case with cleaning brush for purging facial hair on the go.
