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7 Best Balding Clippers for the Utmost Close Shave

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best balding clippers

Whether your hair is thinning or you’ve got a thick, full head of it, there’s something to be said about a man who shaves his head bald.

It’s clean. It’s powerful. And it saves you a lot of money on shampoo and time.

But it requires regular shaves and maintenance, which can cost you a fortune at the barbershop.

Or… you can do it yourself, at home, like a boss. And with a set of the best balding clippers at your disposal, it’s not even that hard.

In a hurry? Here are our top picks:
Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer Trimmer (8081)

Our #1 pick, the Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer Trimmer - not only will this beast help you achieve a close, smooth shave, but you can also use it to touch up your edges and trim your beard too. .

Wahl Professional 5-Star Rechargeable Shaver

The Wahl Professional 5-Star Rechargeable Shaver is small, cordless, and pretty much impossible to cut yourself with. Shaving your head with these couldn’t be any easier.

Or hey, maybe one of our other picks is more to your liking. You’ll have to keep reading to find.

This article will also give you:

  • Some easy-to-follow guidelines on how to pick and buy the best balding clippers for your needs
  • A dozen helpful tips for using your clippers to get the smoothest, sleekest shave possible

Quick Summary

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bb2-table__imageWahl Professional 5-Star Detailer Trimmer (8081)
  • Extra-wide sharp blades
  • Versatile
  • Lightweight and powerful
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bb2-table__imageWahl Professional 5-Star Rechargeable Shaver (8061-100)
  • Easy to use
  • Hypoallergenic gold foil
  • Great price
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bb2-table__imageOster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper
  • Versatile enough to use on other parts of the body
  • Powerful single-speed motor
  • It works with a variety of cutting blades
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bb2-table__imageWahl Balding 5 Star Series Clipper 
  • Gives a cut with surgical precision
  • Top quality, used by professionals for a reason,
  • Easy to maintain, cleaning brush included
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bb2-table__imageAndis T-Outliner Trimmer
  • Affordable
  • Can handle other facial hair tasks
  • Sharp, carbon-steel blades
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bb2-table__imageAndis Professional Master Adjustable Blade Hair Clipper
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight
  • Silent motor
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bb2-table__imagePanasonic ER-GP80 K Professional Hair Clipper
  • Very lightweight
  • Ergonomic and durable design
  • Can be used corded or cordless
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Before you buy: Top 5 things to consider when buying balding clippers

We’re going to give you our picks for the best balding clippers on the market, depending on your needs and budget.

But first, let’s go over the key things to look at when comparing balding clippers – and deciding which one to buy.

1. Quality

Unless you want your head to look jacked up – or to be forced to replace your clippers every couple months – you better pay attention to the actual quality of the products that you’re considering.

Because there’s a whole lot of variance between the lowest quality and the highest quality models and brands.

There are some balding clippers, like our #3 pick, which are built to top standards. From the blade to the body, they use the best materials and the best craftsmanship. At the other extreme, there’s cheap junk that, if you ask us, isn’t even worth letting near your hair.

And then there are the majority of clippers, which fall somewhere in between. But you don’t have to worry, we have done the thinking and selecting for you, so you don’t have to go through the hassle.

2. Price

Of course, quality should also be considered in relation to another key variable: price.

This will not only help you find clippers that fit within your budget; if you have one, it’ll help you identify the best values.

For instance, while cheap clippers may be cheap now, they often provide the worst value overall. Why? Because they usually give you a worse shave, and they’re also more likely to break, and they might even leave you with some nasty nicks.

And cheap clippers that you always have to repair or replace may end up being more expensive in the long run.

You also have to consider the lost time, frustration, and pain that may come with a finicky pair of clippers that don’t cut efficiently – or worse, cut what you don’t want them to, like your scalp.

Like with most products, the relationship between a balding clipper’s quality and its price is a balancing act.

3. Specialization

When you look through our picks, you’ll notice that some can do a little bit of everything, from giving you a close shave to lining up your beard to cleaning your neck.

Others are more specialized. For instance, our #2 pick is only good for shaving, not trimming, while our #4 pick is great for giving your head a close shave, but not suited for much of anything else.

So, whether you buy a product from our list or from somewhere else, decide what you need your clippers to do, and then find clippers that can fill that role. Do you prefer a more specialized product or a more well-rounded tool?

4. Ease of Use

Not all balding clippers are equally easy to use.

On one end of the spectrum, you have devices that are practically foolproof. Just run them over your noggin, more or less, and watch the hair come off, leaving behind a smooth bald finish.

Okay, that might be simplifying things just a little, but you get the idea.

On the other end are the pure professional clippers. They’re heavy. They’re loud. Their blades are sharp. And they’ll cut the crap out of you if you’re not careful.

So, before deciding on one, consider your skill – and tolerance – level.

Would you rather have the first experience with clippers that are quick and convenient to use? Or are you willing to exercise a little more patience, more precision, more finesse in the hopes of getting a slightly better shave?

5. The Motor

The motor and blades are features that dictate the price of the clippers. Decent blades with a powerful motor makes all the difference! They make sure that there are no hair-pulling, messy cuts, and ensure a smooth run.

A powerful motor will surely last for a while, whereas cheap knock-offs don’t provide enough power to the blades, and they burn out quickly. Make sure to buy high-quality clippers if you’re looking for durability.

There are two basic types of clipper motors:

  • Rotary – These motors are primarily used in cordless clippers and prove to be powerful
  • Electromagnetic – These are mostly used in corded clippers and can move the blades much faster. They’re ideal for clippers that are not used very often

6. Skin Type

Do you have sensitive skin? Does it get irritated easily or break out with razor bumps after shaving? If not, well, don’t even worry about this point. You’re good, bro.

But if you answered ‘yes,’ then it’s worth choosing a pair of balding clippers that are particularly good for sensitive skin.

We’ll highlight that in our picks so pay close attention, but you can also read user reviews for other clippers if you’re doing a little independent shopping.

Though, in general, balding clippers are already a lot less likely to mess with your skin than shaving with a traditional razor will. So, if you’re used to razors, any of our picks will be a step up.

The 7 best balding clippers

1. Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer Trimmer (8081)

Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer Trimmer (8081)

 

Best features

  • Extra-wide blade (1/4” wider than average Wahl)
  • Sharp blade and powerful motor
  • Compact, lightweight body

The best balding clippers for:

Guys who want a premium shave and a premium beard trim in one package

Overview

Even if you shave because you’re going bald, the fact remains: sporting a smooth bald head creates a striking, masculine look that’s sure to draw attention your way.

And the effect is only amplified when combined with a thick, well-manicured beard – or whatever your preferred facial hairstyle might be. Hey, the site ain’t called Balding Beards for nothing, right?

Now, some guys will end up with one tool to clean shave their head and another to handle their beard.

But if you’re the type who likes to save money, time, and space, you may be interested in a product that can handle both, like the Wahl Professional 5-Star Detailer Trimmer.

These babies sport a super sharp blade that you can zero gap for that close, precise cut that you’re looking for.

In record time too, because of the extra-wide T-blade, that’s 1/4” wider than most other Wahl blades.

Your cranium will be so smooth you can eat off of it. However, we’re not exactly sure why you’d want to.

If you’re not ready to go full bald badass, the Wahl Detailer Trimmer can also be used for fades, utilizing the three guides they come with: 1/16”, 1/8”, and 3/16”. Combined with the 0 gap, you can also pull off a perfect skin fade.

But that’s not all: these are excellent beard trimmers.

That’s partially due to their powerful rotary motor, which is capable of cutting through all types of hair, whether thick or thin, wiry or soft, wet or dry.

And at just 5” long and 6.9 oz in weight, it’s an extremely compact (but sturdy) piece of equipment. That makes them ideal for those more precise or creative cuts and lines – or for longer/multiple sessions.

No wonder the Wahl brand is so popular with professional barbers.

Of course, these clippers aren’t quite perfect. And we do have a few minor complaints.

For starters, the blade is so sharp that you have to be careful when using it, especially if you have sensitive skin because these trimmers can cause irritation if you press too hard while shaving.

Second, while the extra-wide blade makes your job a lot faster, it also makes it harder to find compatible guards (outside of the three that come with it) because there simply aren’t a lot of guards made to fit it.

But they’re the Wahl Detail Timmer is still great at what it does, which is why it’s our #1 pick.

Pros

  •  Extra-wide sharp blades make every shave faster and more efficient
  • Compact, lightweight body makes these easy to maneuver
  • Can handle full shaves, fades, beard trimming, and even complicated hair or beard designs

Cons

  • Not the best balding clippers for men with sensitive skin
  • Because of the extra-wide blades, finding compatible guards can be an issue

Bottom line

If you’re looking for premium, professional clippers that can both give you a silky-smooth shave and handle your beard, you can’t go wrong with the Wahl 5-Star Detailer Trimmer. These things are durable, powerful, and versatile to boot.

2. Wahl Professional 5-Star Rechargeable Shaver (8061-100)

Wahl Professional 5-Star Rechargeable Shave

Best Features

  • Cordless and rechargeable
  • Hypoallergenic gold foil shaver
  • Lightweight and easy to use

The best balding clippers for:

Guys who want an easy, no-fuss shaving experience at a good price

Overview

What’s one of the main reasons for shaving your head with an electric vs. a traditional razor?

Convenience. It’s easier, it’s faster, there’s less mess, and you don’t have to worry about nicking your scalp into oblivion with a razor blade.

And this pick, the Wahl Professional 5-Star Rechargeable Shaver, really embodies that convenience more than any other device on our list.

For starters, it’s the only one that’s cordless. Simply give it a good charge, unplug it, and go. You can use it for up to 60 minutes without being tied down to an electrical outlet.

At 5.8 oz or less than half a pound, it’s also our lightest pick. And the shortest too, at only 4.6” long. Not only does that make it easy to handle, but it’s also easy to pack as well, making these a great option for guys that want to shave on the go.

Just slip them in your bag or suitcase, with or without the charger, and you’ll be able to keep that bald head clean any and everywhere, whether you’re traveling for business or vacation.

Finally, there’s the shaver itself. Rather than using a bladed design, like the rest of our picks, this particular Wahl uses a foil shaver.

Hypoallergenic gold foil, to be exact. So, in addition to being easier to use – especially if you’re not a fan of bleeding from your head – this is an excellent shaver for guys with sensitive skin.

You’ll never have to worry about razor bumps, irritated skin, or ingrown hairs again.

But don’t get it confused. These will still give you that close shave you’re looking for. Maybe not quite as close as a zero-gapped blade, but close enough – and again, these don’t require nearly as much precision and caution to use.

However, there is one major drawback to this shaver: it tends to struggle with longer hair.

In other words, if you’re using this as your main shaver, you’ll want to do regular maintenance to your head, beard, and/or neck, rather than letting it grow out for a month between each cut.

But again, it’s so easy to pull these out and run them over your head or face that having to shave once a week isn’t a big deal.

Pros

  • Lightweight, cordless design that holds a charge for 60 minutes
  • Hypoallergenic gold foil shaver means no cuts and less irritation, even on sensitive skin
  • Professional clippers at an affordable price

Cons

  • Not as great for longer hair, so you’ll want to do regular touch-ups
  • Don’t shave quite as close to the skin as bladed clippers

Bottom line

These are the best cordless balding clippers. If you’re the type of guy that likes to stay well-groomed without all the extra fuss, they’re a great pick. Men with sensitive skin will love them too.

3. Oster Classic 76 Clippers

Oster Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper

Best Features

  • Cryogenically-treated, stainless-steel blades
  • Powerful single-speed motor
  • Ultra-durable build quality
  • Multiple body colors to choose from

The best balding clippers for:

Those who want the most powerful, highest-performing clippers they can get

Overview

Different guys like different types of tools.

Some go for the cheapest: others, the easiest to use. Then there are men who pick based on popularity or looks. And of course, some dudes just grab the first tool they see and call it a day.

But there’s one group for which none of this matters. No, for these men, only the best will do. They want the most powerful, the highest quality piece of equipment they can get, no matter the price.

If that’s you, then the Oster Classic 76 Clippers are the ones you’re looking for. From the blade to the body to the motor, these clippers are pure power and performance.

Not only are the blades made of pure stainless steel, but they’re also cryogenically treated at negative 300 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes them even harder and stronger. Literally nothing can break these babies!

Combined with the powerful, single-speed rotary motor, they’ll glide through any and all hair like butter… or, like softer hair.

The blades are detachable, and the unit comes with two sizes, 000 and 1, with more available for purchase. They’ll give you a clean, close shave, even on sensitive skin.

The Oster Classic 76’s body is made with valox, a thermoplastic that’s also used in modern cars. Drop it? No problem. Throw it? Okay, don’t throw it. But you probably could.

In fact, you’d have to beat the heck out of these things to actually break ‘em. And if you treat them right instead, they should last you for ages. But know this, when it comes to durability, the Oster Classic 76 is king.

You can even choose from multiple colors for the body, including brown, green, pink, and white, as well as some more unique varies, like camouflage or rasta (red, green, and yellow). These guys sure know how to attract the men!

So, what’s the catch?

Well… these are powerful clippers, in a powerful package. At 1.52 lbs, they’re 50% heavier than our second-heaviest pick, and 2 or 3 times heavier than the others. These Oster clippers are easily the loudest too, and they get hotter than all of them except the Andis.

And while the Oster Classic 76 are incredibly durable, they’ll also require more maintenance. For instance, you’ll want to oil them very regularly.

Finally, they’re the most expensive. Not only are the clippers themselves pricey, but the blades also are too – and you require entirely new blades to cut at different lengths. Though, to be fair, they’ll last you forever.

In short, these are the best clippers on our list in terms of power, performance, and durability.

But they’re also one of the least convenient to use – and the most expensive. Whether that’s a trade-off worth making is up to your personal needs and preferences.

Pros

  • Powerful motor and blade that can cut through any hair you put in their way
  • Strong and durable, made from quality materials, these clippers will last you a long time
  • Will give you an incredibly smooth shave, and they won’t bother sensitive skin

Cons

  • Between the cost of the clippers and the blades, these are the most expensive pick on our list
  • Heavier and louder than our other picks; they get a little hot too

Bottom line

The Oster Classic 76 are the most capable clippers on our list. But they also require the biggest time and money investment. For professional barbers, it’s usually worth it. For home users, it might not be.

4. Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clippers (8110)

Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clippers (8110)

Best Features

  • Sharp, close-cutting 2105 blade
  • Surgical-steel blade on rust-resistant chrome
  • Cuts down to 0.1 or 0.2 mm

The best balding clippers for:

Those who want the closest clipper shave they can get

Overview

There’s bald… and then there’s bald.

In both cases, you’ve gotten rid of all the hair. But in the second case, what you’ve left behind is simply on another level.

It’s smooth. It’s shiny. It reflects light like your iPhone screen.

It’s Mr. Clean. Lex Luthor. Morpheus. Thanos.

Okay, maybe we’re getting a little carried away. But what we’re trying to say is, there’s a difference between a closely shaved head – and a really closely shaved head. And if you want the latter, you want the Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clippers.

Its draw lies in the unique, ultrasharp 2105 blade, which doesn’t just cut hair, it eradicates it with extreme prejudice. This bad boy is made of surgical steel and is set on rust-resistant chrome.

With just the default setting, you can get down as low 0.1 mm.

Of course, maybe you’re not quite ready to go that close. In that case, these balding clippers also come with two guards, 1/16” and 3/16”.

The clippers are driven by a V5000 motor, which is plenty powerful – but also pretty quiet. These aren’t nearly as loud as our #3 pick, for instance.

But they do have their own drawbacks.

The main one being that, because of how sharp the blade is and how close it cuts, they require a steady and experienced hand. Like any great weapon, you need the skill to wield them properly, or you might end up cutting off your own head.

So, take it easy. Take your time. Use the right angles, and don’t press down too hard. These clippers are going to cut close by default, so you don’t have stress on the issue.

They’re not the smallest clippers either. Weighing in at 1 lb and with a body that’s 6.25”, they’re the second-largest entry on our list.

Lastly, these are for shaving your head. They do that perfectly. But they’re not what you want to use for line-ups, trimming your beard, or all that extra mess.

In short, if you’re obsessed with getting the closest clipper shave, you can get – and you’re willing to put in the necessary effort to pull it off – then get these.

Pros

  • Provides an extremely close shave, the closest you can get with electric clippers
  • Durable, quality construction that’ll last you for a while
  • Comes with 1/16” and 3/16” guards, for those times when you want a less-close shave
  • The motor doesn’t get hot like our number three pick, despite how powerful it is.

Cons

  • Very sharp blades; easy to cut yourself if you don’t know what you’re doing
  • Only for clean, bald shaves; not suitable for fades, line-ups, and other cuts

Bottom line

These are the hair clippers that cut the closest. They’ll give you that perfectly smooth bald finish you’re looking for, but you’ll need a little bit of skill to use them properly.

5. Andis T-Outliner Trimmer (04710)

Andis T-Outliner Trimmer (04710)

Best Features

  • Sharp, carbon-steel blades
  • Affordable price
  • Newbie friendly and versatile

The best balding clippers for:

Guys who just want decent all-around clippers at a good price

Overview

The Andis T-Outliner Trimmer may be our last pick, but it’s certainly no slouch.

It’s got a sharp, carbon-steel blade that will give you a good, close shave, even on the most sensitive skin. Even when dry shaving, which it handles well, you won’t have to worry about the bumps or irritation that some clippers can cause.

The trimmer’s oscillating electromagnetic motor pumps at 7200 strokes per minute, and at just 11.2 oz, it’s easy to handle at any angle. That makes it a great all-over trimmer, allowing you to shave your dome, outline your beard, clean your neck, or pull off a crisp line-up.

In short, the Andis T-Outliner Trimmer is a solid choice for the casual user who wants clippers that can handle a little bit of everything. And it’s affordable too.

That being said, in terms of build quality, the Andis isn’t quite on the level of the premium picks further up our list.

It’s not as durable, its motor is less powerful, and it has the tendency to get pretty hot to the touch after about 15 minutes of use.

It doesn’t come with any guards either.

But don’t get us wrong. These are still a lot better than some cheap balding clippers you can find at the nearest big box store.

If you’re looking for clippers that are versatile, affordable, and don’t require a pro skill set to use, we’d highly recommend them.

Pros

  • One of our less expensive picks, great for guys on a budget
  • Even less experienced shavers can use these without cuts or irritation
  •  Can handle a little bit of everything, from close head shaves to clean beard edges, so it’s a bit of an all-rounder.

Cons

  • Build quality is good but not great
  • They get hot faster than our other picks

Bottom line

The Andis are mid-range trimmers at a mid-range price. If you’re a casual groomer who just wants something to keep their head, beard, and edges clean, they’re definitely worth a look.

6. Andis Professional Master Adjustable Blade Hair Clipper 

Andis Professional Master Adjustable Blade Hair Clipper

Best features

  • The professional standard for heavy-duty, all-around cutting and tapering
  • Unbreakable aluminium housing
  • Quiet operation

The best balding clippers for:

Those who want durable, lightweight, and all-around great clippers.

Overview

Andis Master is the perfect clippers made of carbon steel for all-around cutting and tapering. The motor on these clippers is extremely powerful and generates 14,000 cutting strokes per minute!

The blade is adjustable, meaning that you can operate it at various angles to achieve a perfectly shaved beard. You can adjust it from size 000 to size 1, and they can also be 0 gapped, in case you want to go for a clean shave.

There’s an on and off button, which makes it super simple to use. They’re lightweight, and the housing is made of aluminum, making these clippers very durable and easy to maintain for years.

You’ll also get a user manual to review every detail before you put the clippers to use. However, don’t forget to oil the blade before every use to ensure a smooth experience.

The Andis Master is not only incredibly easy to handle, but also runs without much noise!

Pros

  • Quiet motor
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Some users complain that they get clogged easily

Bottom line

Andis Professional Master Adjustable Blade Hair Clipper is a solid heavy-duty clipper that comes at a solid price.

7.  Panasonic ER-GP80 K Professional Hair Clipper 

Panasonic ER-GP80 K Professional Hair Clipper

Best features

  • Impact-proof and break-proof X-taper clipping blade
  • A dual voltage clipper
  • Various cutting length ranges

The best balding clippers for:

Those who want outstanding performance, professional-like efficiency, and uniquely shaped blades!

Overview

The Panasonic ER-GP80 K belongs to the professional series of corded and cordless clippers and trimmers. They’re commonly used by professional hairdressers in high-end salons, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t use them for personal grooming at your home. You just have to know how to handle them.

Regardless of your beard’s density and type, these clippers run smoothly due to their 10,000 CPM linear motor drive and the Constant Control feature.

They’re easily adjustable due to their 5-step height control, which allows you to adjust them from 0.8 to 2.0mm in increments of 0.3mm. Apart from that, there are three dual-sided comb attachments to cut in lengths from 1/8” to 5/8”.

Precision 45° X-Taper ensures a precise and clean-cut, while DLC (diamond-like carbon coating) and TiN (Titanium Nitride) ensure that the edges are strong and durable!

After charging the clippers for one hour, you’ll be able to use them cordless for approximately 50 minutes, which is more than enough for a session of shaving!

Pros

  • Very lightweight and ergonmic design
  • Durable construction
  • Can be used corded or cordless

Cons

  • Not waterproof

Bottom line

A great clipper for those who are looking for versatility, comfort, and great battery life

How we chose the best balding clippers

We’re going to let you in on a little secret: we haven’t tried every single balding clipper on the market.

There are simply too many models, charging too much of a premium, to try every single offering from every single brand.

Instead, we go for fairly popular designs with established reputations, which leads us towards the most respected brands, like Wahl, Oster, and Andis, as well as some others that didn’t make the list.

So, what exactly are we looking for in the balding clippers that we test?

There are four main components: quality, price, capability, and durability. Ideally, we’re looking for clippers that do what they say they do, do it well, and are made with high-quality materials, all for a fair price.

Though, as you may have noticed, we try to recommend a variety of clippers, with different strengths and weaknesses, so that there’s something for everyone. Hopefully, we managed to pick at least one that works for you.

How do you think we did? Did your favorite clipper make the list? We’d love to hear from you.

12 Tips for shaving your head with balding clippers like a pro

Shaving your head may seem like a pretty straightforward task. After all, what could be complicated about cutting off all your hair?

And to an extent, that’s true. But if you want to make the job easier – and get the best, closest shave possible – there are a few tips you should try out:

Moisten your hair slightly

moisten your hair slightly

Why does the barber spray your hair with a water bottle before cutting it? Because it works. So, get your barber on and moisten your mop, er, hair before getting started. Note, you don’t want to drench it or get it dripping wet. Just give it a few drops or spritzes.

Comb your hair in the direction it naturally grows

comb your hair in the direction it naturally grows

The more uniform your hair, the easier it’s going to be to cut, so take a minute to comb your hair down in the direction of its natural growth. You don’t want your clipper blades getting caught in tangled hair and snagging it as you run your clipper through your hair. Don’t worry how it looks, since it’ll be gone soon anyway.

Buzz your head to remove the bulk

Buzz your head to remove bulk

It’s a good idea to give your hair a quick buzz before you actually start shaving, especially if it’s been a while since your last cut.

Not only will this make it easier on the clippers, but it’ll also make your job easier, too, since you do not have to deal with a bunch of extra hair in the way.

Choose the right blade setting

Choose the right blade setting

The lower the blade’s height, the closer the shave. To go bald, you want something zero or below.

But it also makes it a lot easier to cut yourself.

So, choose your blade appropriately, and make sure to be careful. Some people will also “zero-gap” their blade, which allows for the closest possible cut – but this makes it absurdly easy to cut yourself, so exercise lots of caution if you go this route.

Keep the blade on your scalp – but don’t press too hard

Keep the blade on your scalp but don’t press too hard

To get an even shave in the shortest amount of time, you want to keep the blade pressed to your scalp.

But at the same time, you don’t want to press too hard, since this can cause irritation or even cuts.

It may be tempting to press harder to shave closer, but it’s not going to do you any good. Keep your presses light instead.

Shave in the opposite direction of your hair’s natural growth

Shave in the opposite direction of your hair’s natural growth

This may seem counter-intuitive since you’re usually told to shave with the grain. But since you’re using clippers: 1. They won’t irritate your skin as much as a razor; and 2. They’ll cut a lot more efficiently against the grain. So, like… do that.

Move the clippers in short, steady strokes

Move the clippers in short, steady strokes

It might be tempting to run your clippers straight from one side of your head to the other, cutting a path through your hair like you’re mowing your lawn – but it’s not the best approach.

Instead, use shorter, steadier strokes, focusing on one area of your head at a time. This will give you a more uniform, precise shave – and also reduce the likelihood of cutting yourself.

Use your free hand to stretch your skin

Use your free hand to stretch your skin

By using your free hand to pull your skin slightly down or to the side, your skin will get tighter.

Why’s this matter?

Because it helps the clippers glide more smoothly, keeps folds of skin from getting snagged on the blade, and better exposes the hair. The flatter and tighter your skin’s surface, the cleaner and closer your shave will be, and the less risk you have of nicking yourself.

Step-by-step guide for shaving your head

Again, shaving your head isn’t all that complicated, and you can do a perfectly good job without following the steps below. But if you’re new to this, or you just want some directions to follow in your pursuit of the smoothest shave, give the following a try.

1. Start from the neck

Start from the neck

Your neck is the hardest place to see, but it’s also the best place to start.

2. Work your way upwards to the crown of your head

Work your way upwards to the crown of your head

As you finish your neck, make your way up to the very top of your head.

3. Cut out from the crown in sections

Cut out from the crown in sections

Divide your head into imaginary sections, and cut each one at a time, with strokes that start at your crown and work out to the sides and front of your head.

4. Brush your head to expose any spots you missed

Brush your head to expose any spots you missed

After your initial shave, use a brush on your head and look for dark spots – where the hair isn’t cut as low as the rest of your head – as well as any straggling hairs that you may have missed.

Conclusion

Alright, we think that’s about it. By now, you’ve got five top-tier balding clippers to choose from, along with some extra tips for both buying and using them.

Which one will you choose? Or if you’ve already used one, how did you like it? Let us know in the comments.

And if you’ve got a friend or two who could use a new pair of clippers, make sure to share this article with them.

About The Author

Domen Hrovatin
Domen Hrovatin

Domen—a self-confessed facial hair addict—is a grooming professional, style enthusiast, and someone with deep personal experience and knowledge about male pattern baldness. His work was mentioned in countless notable men's grooming and style publications, including Beardbrand and AskMen.

  • What is the best electric shaver I can buy that will give the closet bald shave without ingrown hairs as a result.

    Thanks

  • Hi
    What do you think about andis bgrc black colored corded clipper? Is it comfortable to move on head with ease?
    And I read reviews that say remington hc4250 you mentioned is pulling out hair from head when used?
    Also How many head buzz cuts will andis t outliner blade last? How do you change the blades after that? Do you have a video that shows that, step by step?

  • Hi Domen, Is there any other clipper machine that cuts closer than the Andis T Outliner?? I’m looking for anything that shaves the closest that isn’t a blade/rotary/foil shaver.

    • Hi, Mike. Sorry. I don’t believe there’s anything between an liner clipper and a razor/electric shaver.

      • Thanks Domen! What would be the next best option for me? What would you recommend after clippers that doesn’t necessarily shave like a blade. Something that can give me a bit more closeness and can last a day or two longer. What foil or rotary shavers would you recommend?

  • Great review Domen Hrovatin. I started using the Wahl 8110 to shave my back and chest. The Wahl works real well. But is there a trimmer better meant to shave the body i dont like to blade shave because of ingrown hairs. Now… with saying that, lol is their a better trimmer to shave mine and my wife’s private areas,. Now we use Wahl micro groomsman. The blade does not cut or catch on loose skin. Is there a better trimmer I can buy for that. Hope this wasn’t TMI but I’m sure everyone likes to stay nice and clean.

  • Hi, looking for a present for boyfriend that can do balding head and trim beard in one, suitable for curly / ingrown hairs on face. Is one of these better for ingrown hair? Thanks!

  • Bought the Remington based on recommendation here. Used it once and discovered it didn’t take the hair down quite as close as I would like. Contacted Remington to inquire about the length of blade without guard, was told it’s .8mm.

    Used the Wahl balding clippers in past, found it definitely gave a tighter cut compartively but was grabby at times.

    Will give Remington another chance before trying Andis option.

    • You gotta put ONE drop of the oil on the blades every 5 or so uses…it keeps blades working most efficiently and will stop the “pull” on you hairs…also, yearly, get the blade heads sharpened. Good Luck! James

  • Hi, I wanna shave my head what would give me the closest and smoothest shave? Wall 5 star balding, oster 00000 or a the pro foil shaver?
    Last time I shaved it at sportsclips it felt like sandpaper

  • Hello. I have curly hair and wish to cut it bald. Which clipper cuts the closest, The Andis Styliner II or the Andis T-Outliner? Thanks. Also, what is the best way to prepare your scalp for a dry shave after washing it . Should I put a lotion on before I cut it to keep the clipper blade from scratching the scalp? Or would I get a closer shave by putting the lotion on afterward? Thanks.

    • Hi Winston. I term of cutting close they are the same IMO. I wouldn’t recommend putting anything on your scalp if you are shaving with a clipper/trimmer, but adding lotion afterward would help against irritation.

  • Which one of these give the closest shave?
    Also, do they shave as close as a “head shaver” ?
    I used to use blades because I wanted to closest shave possible, but everytime I get too many ingrown hair (even when I shave with the grain) and it leaves marks for a while.
    So I’m looking for an alternative to an actual blade but I’d like to shave my head as bald as possible.
    Any info would be appreciated

    • The Andis T-Outliner shaves the closest, the next one would be the Wahl Balding Clipper.

      You probably have curly hair. To not to make too many passes when shaving your head so you don’t shave off any more skin that you have to.

      • Thanks for the answer, Domen.
        Is the difference significant, between the T-Outliner or the Wahl Balding Clipper vs. let’s say the bald eagle shaver or the remington hc4250, in terms of how close the shave is?

        Before your answer, I was looking mostly for a cordless model, but if the shave is significantly closer with the t-outliner I might get it instead.

        I’m currently using a standard conair clipper and it leaves way too much hair on my head

  • Currently using an Andis T liner for my preferred bald look. I love the T liner but am looking for a comparable cordless model, any suggestions?

  • I shave my head every 4 days (up to 6-7 days depending on how short) and prefer to do it right down to the scalp or very close to bald. The Wahl 5-STAR Balding Clipper 8110 would be perfect for me. I know you sort of answered this question previously, but is there a cordless lithium-ion version of this clipper? That is, with the same power, same cutting/shaving capability, only difference is cordless.

    • Not that I’m aware of. But I’m probably not. Though, if it were cordless it would have less power.

      • Thanks Domen! Here in Canada, there is a corded Wahl 3167 Close Cut Pro that claims just that, provide a close cut with its zero-overlap blades. I think there is an equivalent model in the US. Cheaper than the Wahl Balding 8110 clipper and likely doesn’t cut to bald but very close to it. Just wondering if you’ve ever tried it?

        • Hey, Eddie. Haven’t tried but I’ve noticed it does not have an adjustable taper lever. It probably does provide a very close cut, but not having a level would be a deal-breaker for me since I still have some hair on top and like to leave it 1-2mm longer than the sides. It looks better for my head shape. But hey, that’s just me. If you want to shave your hair evenly all around, you most likely can’t go wrong with it.

          • Hey Domen,

            So the Wahl 3167 Close Cut Pro happen to be on sale a few weeks ago here so I bought it. Works quite well, blades are sharp and definitely a good close shave all around but not quite bald, Sometimes I find the blades snag against my head, but I think it’s because of the direction I shave against or toward the grain, so to speak. Any pointers on best way to shave without snagging? Also, the blades get somewhat warm/hot after 7-8 minutes of use, although it doesn’t bother me much since I only spend 10 minutes shaving. Do you know anything about the Wahl PowerDrive Plus heavy duty motor, which supposedly delivers “no-snag cutting and runs 15% cooler” than Wahl’s standard PowerDrive motor? Wasn’t able to find out from Wahl which motor the 3167 uses. You’re right that it doesn’t have an adjustable taper lever. Would have been nice if there was this option. Liking it overall so far though.

            • Hey Eddie,

              I’m glad you like it. Shaving against the grain is fine. But go slooooowly. Your hair must be very thick. If you are trimming longer hair then your first passes need to be very slow and controlled. Once you trim most of it, you can go faster. Haven’t heard about the PowerDrive, but I find all Wahls motors, in general, are more than enough powerful for cutting your hair at home.

  • What do you think of the Andis Styliner II clipper for shaving the head bald versus the Andis T-Outliner? Thanks.

  • Very helpful Domen, I’m getting bald and plan on getting a balding clipper but have no Idea how to know if it’s a close cut clipper or a clean shaven head clipper. I live in the philippines which requires 220 volts. Theres this WAHL 8400 Super Taper selling here.. can this produce a close cut shave?

    • Hey Charlie,

      Thank you.

      I’ve owned a Wahl Super Taper. If I recall correctly, it does not cut very close by default, but you can adjust the blades so it cuts closer.

  • Will the Wahl cordless give a similar bald cut as with the corded Wahl Balding? I do my own cuts, and my main concern is always contending with the cord as I change angles. My other concern with the cordless is the lithium ion battery may not last more than 3 years (like a cell phone battery).

    • The cordless Wahl isn’t as powerful and precise as the Wahl Balding. But it is lighter. All batteries lose runtime over time, there isn’t much you can do about that.

  • I have a regular Wahl hair clipper, and the problem I have is giving myself a blotchy haircut; the skull isn’t evenly shaped, and since I do my own haircut it is difficult to see the hair shadows. Multiple passes are difficult because the hair grows in different directions, and my skull isn’t perfectly smooth. This means the blade will cut real short in the high bump spots (showing more skin), and needs technique where my skull concaves (hair shadow). Ideally I want a 2 day shave appearance.

    What is special about the Wahl Balding Clipper over a standard Wahl Clipper for hair?

    What is the opinion of the Skull Shaver? Versus an electric face shaver?

    Thanks.

    • Hey Jake,

      What is special about the Wahl Balding Clipper over a standard Wahl Clipper for hair? The balding clipper cuts closer and is more precise. In turn, your shave should look better.
      What is the opinion of the Skull Shaver? Versus an electric face shaver? Ergonomics, and a concave design which is better for head shaving.

  • I’m currently using the Wahl Balding Clipper with the 5 stars on it. It’s decent but I’d like to upgrade to a higher end model with a lighter clipper and quieter motor if possible. Are you aware of a higher end true professional model?

    • Hey Craig. Check the Skull Shaver Bald Eagle Smart or an electric shaver like the Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 9700.

  • What would you say is the best clipper that is waterproof? My husband wants a waterproof shaving tool. More for his bald head. I’m assuming he wants to shave in the shower.

  • whats the difference between a trimmer/ clipper in respect to shaving head hair. Can they be used to do the same thing?

    • A clipper is a bigger, more powerful tool that does most of the work, while a trimmer is a smaller tool for more fine, detailed work. Yes, they can be used both for the same task. But, optimally you would want to use a clipper for shaving your head so you get the job done faster and easier.

  • I’m using an Remington all-in-one grooming kit: Lithium power series and I’m trying to figure out what’s the best way to shave my head bald? can you help me please.. thank you…

    • Sure, it can fill the role. But why waste that kind of money? I’ve also even read the motor power is lacking.

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