For men on the go, looking sharp can feel like a time-consuming task. That’s why electric razors are a must-have in any modern man’s grooming kit. But here’s the catch—finding the right electric razor can be just as time-consuming as the grooming itself.
There are tons of options out there, and not all live up to their promises. To save you the hassle, I’ve spent the time testing and reviewing the best electric razors out there. This guide will present you with the top 10 options for every kind of need, so you don’t have to go through the hours of research and trial I did.
And it doesn’t stop there. I’ve also included an illustrated guide on how to use your electric razor effectively, as well as a list of helpful accessories to enhance your shaving experience. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which razor fits your style and preferences.
But before diving into the products, let’s talk about what to look for when choosing an electric shaver. There are a few essential factors to consider that will help you make the right choice.
Before You Buy: 12 Things to Consider When Choosing an Electric Razor
1. Rotary or Foil
The first decision is whether you want a rotary or foil razor. Rotary shavers have circular blades and three round shaving heads, making them great for coarser beards and tougher skin. Foil razors, on the other hand, feature a thin curved metal foil over the blades and are ideal for men with sensitive skin and finer facial hair. It’s important to know your beard and skin type to choose the right one for you.
2. Skin Type
If you’ve got sensitive skin, a foil shaver is typically the better option. For example, Braun’s Series 3 3040s Electric Shaver with Precision Trimmer is specifically designed to accommodate sensitive skin. Always keep your skin’s unique needs in mind when choosing a razor.
3. Facial Hair Type
Understanding your facial hair type is key. Men with fine hair may prefer a single foil shaver, while those with longer or coarser stubble may find a rotary shaver like a triple-head model more effective. For curly or thick hair, I found the Andis 17150 Pro Foil Shaver works wonders, providing a clean cut with minimal irritation.
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4. Maintenance
How easy is it to keep your razor clean? Some models are simpler than others. For instance, the Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor comes with a built-in washing unit that makes cleaning a breeze. Always check the cleaning requirements before buying.
5. Durability
Electric razors are an investment, so you want to pick one that lasts. Durability often comes down to the power of the motor and the quality of the materials used. A reliable option like the Braun Series 7 790CC combines a strong motor with high-quality construction, giving you a razor that can stand the test of time.
6. Wet vs. Dry Use
Do you prefer shaving in the shower or with your favorite shaving cream? Some razors can handle wet conditions, while others are strictly for dry use. If wet shaving is your thing, go for something like the Braun Series 3 3040s, which is perfect for both wet and dry conditions.
7. Usability
You want a razor that feels good to use. The weight, handle design, and overall ergonomics matter more than you think. A razor like the Andis 17150 Pro Foil Shaver is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making your shaving experience smooth and comfortable.
8. Cord vs. Cordless
Cordless razors give you more freedom, but corded options tend to offer more consistent power. If you want the flexibility of both, look for a model like the Braun Series 7 790CC, which can be used both ways.
9. Charge Time
Battery life is essential when you’re on the move. A razor with at least 60 minutes of battery life is ideal. Some models, like the Braun Series 7 7075cc, can give you up to three weeks of use on just a 5-minute charge.
10. Travel
If you’re constantly traveling, you’ll need a razor that’s portable and holds a charge well. The Andis 17150 Pro Foil Shaver is an excellent option for travel because it’s lightweight, compact, and has a long-lasting battery.
11. Accessories
Many razors come with useful extras like cleaning brushes, lubricating oils, and travel cases. These can save you time and money, so it’s worth looking out for razors that come with the right accessories for your grooming routine.
12. Value
Finally, make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. There are great options for every budget, so think carefully about how often you’ll use the razor and what you need from it. Even pricier models, like the Braun Series 7 790CC, can offer great value if they meet all your needs.
The 10 Best Electric Razors for Men
1. Best for Closest Shave, Overall: Braun Electric Shaver, Series 7 790CC
What stands out about this electric razor:
- 5 personalized shaving modes
- Autosense technology
- Alcohol-based cleaning and charging station
The best electric razor for:
Men who want a close shave and the best overall electric razor.
Overview:
Braun is a staple in the shaving world, and the Series 7 790CC is a testament to why. If you’re after the closest shave possible with an electric razor, this one is tough to beat. The three cutting elements combined with a skin guard work efficiently to deliver smooth, effective strokes. The precision head, which adapts to hard-to-reach areas, along with Braun’s Autosense technology, means it adjusts to the thickness of your hair in real time. With five different power modes, you can toggle between a gentler shave or something more powerful depending on your needs.
What really sets it apart is the alcohol-based cleaning and charging station, which makes maintenance almost effortless. The only downside? It’s on the pricier side, but if you’re after the best, it’s worth it.
The Good:
- Incredibly close shave
- High-quality construction
- Effortless cleaning with its unique station
The Bad:
- Very expensive
2. Best for Sensitive Skin: Braun Electric Shaver with Precision Trimmer, Series 3 3040s
What stands out about this electric razor:
- MicroComb technology
- 3-Flex shaving elements
- Great value for the price
The best electric razor for:
Men with sensitive skin.
Overview:
If you’ve got sensitive skin, the Series 3 3040s from Braun is perfect for you. The MicroComb technology ensures minimal irritation while still capturing and cutting hair efficiently. The 3-Flex shaving elements are pressure-sensitive and retract to avoid unnecessary cuts or irritation, giving you a smoother experience overall. What’s really impressive here is how easy it is to use—whether you’re doing a wet or dry shave, it performs well.
The drawbacks? The battery life maxes out at 45 minutes, and some feel it’s not quite as effective with dry shaves. But for sensitive skin, the value this razor offers is unbeatable.
The Good:
- Excellent for sensitive skin
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Comfortable to use
The Bad:
- Battery life could be better
3. Best for Travel and Head Shaving: Andis 17150 Pro Foil Shaver
What stands out about this electric razor:
- 80-minute battery life
- Compact and travel-friendly
- Ideal for head shaving
The best electric razor for:
Men who shave their head or travel frequently.
Overview:
For those on the go, the Andis 17150 Pro Foil Shaver is a top contender. Its compact size and 80-minute battery life make it ideal for frequent travelers. But what really impressed me is how well it handles head shaving. The foils glide effortlessly over the scalp, giving a smooth, irritation-free shave. It’s powerful enough to handle thick or curly hair without tugging and has hypoallergenic foils, so it’s gentle on sensitive skin.
Its only downside is that it can’t be used for wet shaving, which might make it a bit harder to clean. Still, it’s perfect for travel and daily use on both the face and head.
The Good:
- Powerful motor for thick hair
- Compact and great for travel
- Hypoallergenic foils
The Bad:
- Not for wet shaving
4. Braun Electric Razor for Men, Series 7 7075cc 360 Flex Head Electric Shaver
What stands out about this electric razor:
- 360-degree flex head
- Autosense technology
- Easy click attachments for trimming
The best electric razor for:
A no-fuss, easy shave.
Overview:
The Braun Series 7 7075cc stands out with its 360-degree flex head, which glides smoothly over the skin, adapting to the contours of your face and neck. The Autosense technology adjusts to your beard’s thickness, giving you a more personalized shave. It also comes with easy-click attachments, allowing you to use it as a beard trimmer as well, offering styles from 0.5 to 7mm.
The lithium-ion battery provides up to three weeks of power after just five minutes of charging, making it incredibly efficient. It’s also 100% waterproof, and the SmartCare Center makes maintenance a breeze.
The only downside? It tends to vibrate a little more than some might prefer, but it’s still a solid choice for those looking for a flexible and effective shave.
The Good:
- Smooth, adaptive shave with the flex head
- Doubles as a beard trimmer
- Easy to clean and maintain
The Bad:
- Slightly more vibration than other models
5. Philips Norelco 9800 Electric Shaver
What stands out about this electric razor:
- Quick charge technology
- Comes with a charging stand
- Three-speed settings with a sensitive mode
The best electric razor for:
People who are looking for the best rotary electric shaver for sensitive skin.
Overview:
Philips Norelco 9800 is a top-tier rotary electric shaver that really shines when it comes to shaving sensitive skin. What makes it unique is its adjustable motor speed, allowing you to switch to a “sensitive mode” for a gentler shave when needed. The ergonomic design allows the shaving head to move in 8 directions, ensuring it captures every hair for a smooth, efficient shave, even on tricky areas like the jawline.
The blades are self-sharpening and designed to cut up to 30% closer than other rotary shavers. It’s also waterproof, meaning you can use it in the shower or easily rinse it under the tap to clean.
Quick charge technology gives you enough power for a full shave in just five minutes, a lifesaver when you’re in a rush. It also comes with a travel case, charging station, and trimmer guard for hard-to-reach areas.
The downside? It’s a bit pricey, but if you’re looking for quality, it’s a worthwhile investment. If you need something more budget-friendly, the Philips Norelco Shaver 2300 offers similar reliability at a fraction of the cost.
The Good:
- Perfect for sensitive skin
- Self-sharpening blades for a close shave
- Fast charging
The Bad:
- Quite expensive
6. Remington F5-5800 Foil Shaver
What stands out about this electric razor:
- Intercept shaving technology
- 60 minutes of cordless run time
- Easy to clean
The best electric razor for:
Men with longer facial hair.
Overview:
The Remington F5-5800 is the epitome of no-fuss, effective shaving, especially for men with longer stubble or facial hair. The Intercept Shaving Technology stands out, with a 3-stage cutting system that pre-trims longer hairs before the flexible foils come in to deliver a close shave.
Its pivot and flex head allows the shaver to adjust to the contours of your face for consistent contact, which is particularly helpful around the jawline, neck, and chin. You can use it corded or cordless, with 60 minutes of runtime on a full charge, and it only takes two hours to recharge fully.
The pop-up trimmer is great for detailing your sideburns or beard, and it’s simple to clean—just rinse the shaving head under the faucet. However, it’s not suitable for wet shaving, so you’ll have to stick to dry shaves.
The Good:
- Excellent for cutting longer facial hair
- Long battery life with quick charge option
- Great value for the price
The Bad:
- Not ideal for wet shaving
- Not the best for sensitive skin
7. Philips Norelco Shaver 2300
What stands out about this electric razor:
- Great value
- ComfortCut Blades
- Reputable brand
The best razor for:
Getting a high-quality brand at a budget price.
Overview:
The Philips Norelco 2300 offers incredible value for anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly electric razor. It features 27 ComfortCut Blades that ensure a smooth, comfortable shave, while the 4D Flex heads follow the natural contours of your face for a close, consistent result.
With 40 minutes of cordless use, a pop-up trimmer for detailing, and a one-touch opening system for easy cleaning, it’s hard to beat for the price. However, the battery life specifics are unclear, and it’s not the best for intricate or detailed shaving.
Still, if you’re looking for solid performance on a budget, this is a fantastic choice.
The Good:
- Easy to use and clean
- Affordable for its quality
- Can be used cordless or plugged in
The Bad:
- Not ideal for intricate shaving
8. Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid Electric Trimmer & Shaver
What stands out about this electric razor:
- Versatility
- Can shave all lengths of facial hair
- Wet & dry shaving capability
The best electric razor for:
Men looking for a versatile razor that can handle various grooming tasks.
Overview:
The Philips Norelco OneBlade is a unique hybrid electric trimmer and shaver that excels in versatility. It’s perfect for men with stubble, beards, or any style of facial hair, as it can shave, trim, and edge any length of hair.
The OneBlade’s fast-moving cutter and dual protection system ensure a comfortable shave without causing irritation, even on longer hairs. It’s water-resistant, allowing for wet and dry shaving, and is simple to clean under running water. The single replaceable blade lasts up to four months with regular use, and it comes with three trimming combs and a charging station.
The downside is that the blade wears down faster for some users, so you might need to replace it more frequently.
The Good:
- Extremely versatile
- Comfortable shave without skin irritation
- Affordable price
The Bad:
- Blade wear can vary between users
9. Phisco Electric Shaver for Men
What stands out about this electric razor:
- Affordable
- Waterproof
- Quiet operation
The best razor for:
Men looking for a quality electric shaver on a budget.
Overview:
The Phisco Electric Shaver delivers impressive value for a shaver in its price range. With a 3D floating and pivoting head, it adjusts well to the contours of your face and neck, offering a close shave. The high-speed motor is powerful yet quiet, and the self-sharpening stainless-steel blades maintain their sharpness over time.
It’s waterproof and suitable for both wet and dry shaving, making it versatile for different shaving preferences. The pop-up trimmer is perfect for detailing, and the battery life lasts about two hours on a full charge—enough for roughly 30 shaves.
The main drawback is that it doesn’t have the premium feel of some higher-end models, but for the price, it’s hard to complain.
The Good:
- Quiet and efficient
- Great battery life
- Easy to clean
The Bad:
- Plastic build feels less premium
10. Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor for Men
What stands out about this electric razor:
- Five precision blades
- Built-in shaving sensor
- Upgraded cleaning unit
The best electric razor for:
All-around shaving brilliance.
Overview:
The Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor is one of the most powerful shavers on the market, featuring five precision blades that deliver an incredibly close shave. The 14,000 cuts-per-minute motor ensures efficiency, and it’s equipped with a built-in shaving sensor that automatically adjusts power depending on the density of your beard.
The upgraded cleaning station makes it easy to maintain, and its Multi-Flex pivoting head ensures that it glides smoothly across your face, following every contour for a precise shave.
It’s a bit on the heavier side, but if you’re looking for all-around performance, this razor offers exceptional value.
The Good:
- Precise, high-quality shave
- Easy to maintain with the cleaning station
- Great for thick or coarse hair
The Bad:
- Heavier than most other electric razors
How We Chose the Electric Razors for Our Reviews
When selecting the best electric razors, we focused on identifying the models that offer the best balance of functionality, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Our goal was to ensure the razors we chose are not just packed with fancy features but are genuinely effective in providing a clean, close, and comfortable shave.
We prioritized well-established brands such as Braun, Philips Norelco, and Remington, which consistently deliver high-quality products year after year. However, we also made room for less-known brands, like Phisco, that offer great value and performance.
Price was another key factor in our decision-making. While more expensive razors may offer advanced features, a higher price doesn’t always mean a better product. We made sure to include options across a range of price points, ensuring that every man can find something that suits both his budget and grooming needs.
Other factors we considered:
- Battery life: Does the razor offer sufficient usage time on a single charge?
- Blade quality: Are the blades sharp, durable, and easy to replace?
- Versatility: Can the razor handle both wet and dry shaves? Does it work well on sensitive skin?
- Maintenance: Is the razor easy to clean, and does it come with a cleaning station or other accessories?
Ultimately, we aimed to create a comprehensive list that caters to different hair types, skin sensitivities, and grooming preferences.
How to Use an Electric Shaver: 7 Simple, Illustrated Steps
If you’ve just gotten a new electric razor, here are some simple steps to help you get the best shave possible. By following these tips, you can achieve a smooth shave with minimal irritation:
1. Give It Time
When you first start using an electric razor, your skin and facial hair need time to adjust. It can take up to three weeks for your face to get used to the new method of shaving, so don’t get discouraged if the results aren’t perfect right away.
2. Hold the Razor Correctly
To get the best shave, hold the razor at a 90-degree angle to your skin. For a foil razor, use up-and-down and side-to-side motions. If you’re using a rotary shaver, use a circular motion to cover all areas of your face.
3. Shave Against the Grain
Unlike traditional razors, electric shavers work best when shaving against the grain of your facial hair. Stretch your skin with your free hand to get a closer shave, and move the razor in all directions to cover the entire surface.
4. Don’t Wash Your Face Before a Dry Shave
If you’re dry shaving, avoid washing your face beforehand, as wet skin can make shaving more difficult. Shaving dry skin reduces the risk of irritation and allows the razor to work more effectively.
5. Apply Gentle Pressure
While you want to keep the razor close to your skin, avoid pressing too hard. Applying too much pressure can cause skin irritation. Let the razor do most of the work for you.
6. Trim Long Facial Hair
If your facial hair is longer, it’s best to trim it down before shaving with an electric razor. Use a beard trimmer or clippers to bring your hair to a manageable length before using the razor to avoid pulling or tugging.
7. Clean Your Razor After Each Use
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your electric razor in top condition. Clean it after every shave by rinsing it under the faucet (if waterproof) or using a brush. This helps maintain blade sharpness and prolongs the life of your razor. Remember to replace the blades every 1 to 2 years.
Useful Electric Razor Accessories
To get the most out of your electric razor, here are some additional accessories that can make your shaving routine easier and more effective:
1. Oil/Lubricant
Using blade oil keeps your razor’s cutting elements sharp and reduces heat from friction. It prolongs the life of your razor and makes for a smoother shave. A light oil, such as ESC Premium Oil, is ideal for all types of electric razors.
2. Williams Lectric Shave Pre-Shave Lotion
Applying a pre-shave lotion can help lubricate your skin and lift your whiskers for a cleaner shave. Williams Lectric Shave Pre-Shave Lotion contains green tea extracts that soothe and hydrate your skin.
3. Shaver Cleaner
A quality shaver cleaner, like Eltron Cleaner, dissolves facial oils and whisker debris from your razor. This keeps the blades clean and your razor functioning at its best.
4. Travel Case
If you travel often, a hard-shell travel case will protect your razor from damage. Look for cases like the ProCase Carrying Case that fit your specific model.
5. Post-Shave Balm
Applying post-shave balm can reduce irritation and moisturize your skin. Nivea’s post-shave balm is a great option, especially for men with sensitive skin.
6. Cleaning Brushes
Having a set of cleaning brushes on hand can be helpful, especially if you’ve lost the one that came with your razor. These brushes make it easier to clean your razor and keep it in top condition.
Foil vs. Rotary Electric Shavers: What’s the Difference?
When shopping for an electric razor, you’ll come across two main types: foil and rotary shavers. The choice between them depends on your skin type, hair growth patterns, and shaving preferences.
Foil Shavers
- Oscillating blades: The foil head contains blades that move back and forth, covered by a thin, curved metal foil that lifts and cuts the hair.
- Ideal for straight-line shaving: Use a foil shaver with up-and-down or side-to-side motions for best results.
- Works best for: Fine hair, strong hair growth, daily shaving, and sensitive skin.
- Example: Braun Series 7 790CC.
Rotary Shavers
- Spinning cutters: Rotary shavers have three circular heads with spinning blades that work in a circular motion.
- Great for contours: Ideal for getting around hard-to-reach areas like the neck and chin.
- Works best for: Coarser hair, varying hair growth directions, and men who don’t shave every day.
- Example: Philips Norelco 9800 Electric Shaver.
Electric Razors vs. Other Types of Razors
While electric razors offer convenience, there are other shaving tools worth considering:
- Straight razors: Known for providing the closest shave, but they require skill and practice.
- Safety razors: Offer a great balance between ease of use, affordability, and a close shave.
- Cartridge razors: Available everywhere and easy to use, but the cost of replacement blades can add up over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best electric razor?
All of the electric razors we’ve mentioned in our review are top-quality and will help you achieve a smooth and comfortable shave. However, if I had to recommend just one, the Braun Series 7 790CC would be the safest bet for most men due to its versatile features and close shave performance.
How do you clean an electric razor?
The cleaning process for your electric razor depends on whether it’s waterproof or not. Many modern razors are waterproof, which makes cleaning them as simple as rinsing under the tap. If your razor isn’t waterproof, you’ll want to use a small cleaning brush that often comes with the razor to remove hair and debris from the blades and the head.
How do you get a close shave with an electric razor?
To get the closest shave possible, make sure to follow the appropriate shaving technique. For foil razors, use up-and-down or side-to-side motions. For rotary razors, shave in a circular motion. It’s also crucial not to press too hard, as the razor should glide over your skin. A pre-shave lotion can help lift the hair and ensure a smoother result.
How to shave with an electric razor without irritation?
To avoid irritation while using an electric razor, make sure to shave in the proper direction: up-and-down for foil razors and circular for rotary razors. Applying light pressure and shaving after a shower, when your hair is soft, can significantly reduce irritation. Also, keeping your razor clean and sharp ensures a gentler shave on the skin.
Where to buy an electric shaver?
You can purchase electric razors in various places, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers like Amazon. Many grooming specialty stores also carry a range of electric shavers, so it depends on your preference.
How to sharpen electric razor blades?
There are several ways to sharpen electric razor blades, including using a specialized electric razor sharpener or even glass to smooth out the blade edges. However, most modern electric razors come with self-sharpening blades or require regular blade replacement rather than sharpening.
Who invented the electric razor?
The electric razor was first patented by John O’Rourke in 1898. However, Jacob Schick, a name you might recognize from the popular shaving brand, is credited with producing the first commercial electric razor in 1930.
How to shave pubic hair with an electric razor?
Shaving pubic hair with an electric razor should be done carefully. Start by trimming longer hair with scissors or a trimmer. Keep the skin taut while shaving, and always use a clean, well-maintained razor to avoid irritation or cuts.
Which electric razor gives the closest shave?
Among the electric razors mentioned, the Braun 7 790CC is highly praised for delivering one of the closest shaves. Its advanced features, such as Autosense technology, help it adjust power based on the thickness of your hair for a clean finish.
What’s the best electric razor for shaving your head?
Not all electric razors are designed for head shaving, but the Braun 7 790CC is excellent for both facial and scalp hair. Its flexible head and powerful motor make it easy to achieve a close and smooth shave on your head.
How to shave your legs with an electric razor?
Shaving your legs with an electric razor can be done in the shower (for wet shaving) or outside of it. Start by washing your legs with warm water to soften the hair. Shave upward, from ankle to thigh, and go over any spots where hair remains visible.
How to oil an electric razor?
Using a light oil like Wahl Clipper Oil, place a drop or two on each foil or shaving head. Turn on the razor and let it run for a few seconds to ensure the oil is evenly distributed. Oiling your razor regularly can keep it running smoothly and extend the life of the blades.
What is the best electric razor for sensitive skin?
The Braun 3040s ProSkin is an excellent option for men with sensitive skin. Its Triple Action Cutting System is powerful yet gentle, minimizing irritation while delivering a close shave.
How to shave your head with an electric razor?
Shaving your head with an electric razor follows many of the same steps as shaving your face. You can shave either wet or dry, but using a shaving cream can help reduce irritation. Start after a shower when the hair is softer, and move the razor in the direction of hair growth.
What is the best women’s electric shaver?
For women, the Braun Cordless Electric Shaver is a standout option. It features a triple action cutting system that is gentle on the skin, making it ideal for women who want a smooth shave without irritation.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about electric razors, from choosing the right one to getting the best possible shave. If you’re currently using any of the razors on our list, or if you have any questions, feel free to share your experiences with us. We’d love to hear from you!
