Rotary Shavers: My Personal Experience and Recommendations
There’s no question that rotary shavers have become a solid go-to for many men. These electric shavers, also known as triple head shavers, offer a smooth, efficient shaving experience while saving time and money in the long run. If you’re like me, you might be on the hunt for an upgrade, perhaps replacing your old, clunky shaver that’s barely holding on or finally stepping away from that outdated traditional blade.
But I get it—there are so many options out there that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You’ve likely got a bunch of questions: What should I look for in a rotary shaver? How does it compare to a foil shaver? And which models really stand out? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
In this review, I’ll share my thoughts on the best rotary shavers out there, what to consider before buying one, and even a handy guide on how to get the most out of your new shaver. So, let’s dive right in!
Before You Buy: 7 Things to Consider When Purchasing a Rotary Shaver
When I was looking for a new rotary shaver, I realized it wasn’t as simple as picking the first one I saw. There are key factors that you need to consider to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
1. Is It Waterproof?
If you’re like me and enjoy the convenience of shaving in the shower, or you prefer using shaving cream or gel, this is a must-check feature. A waterproof shaver means you can easily clean it under running water and use it for a “wet” shave. Just remember—if the manufacturer doesn’t specifically state that it’s waterproof, don’t assume it is!
2. Cord or Cordless?
I’ve tried both corded and cordless shavers, and trust me, cordless is the way to go. Not only does it give you freedom of movement without being restricted by a power cord, but most cordless models can also be used while plugged in if the battery dies mid-shave. Sure, corded ones are cheaper, but the added convenience of cordless is totally worth the extra cost.
3. Battery Life and Charging Time
Battery life can make or break a shaver, especially if you shave on the go. Ideally, you want at least an hour of battery life to avoid constant charging. Look for shavers with lithium-ion batteries—they tend to hold a better charge. Charging times also vary, from quick five-minute boosts for a single shave to full charges that take an hour or more. What you choose depends on your routine. If you’re like me and sometimes forget to charge, go for something with fast charging capabilities.
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4. Consider Your Skin and Hair Type
I’ve got sensitive skin, so I’ve always leaned toward foil shavers for their gentler touch. However, if you’ve got thicker or curlier hair, a rotary shaver might work better for you. That said, many modern rotary shavers now cater to sensitive skin too, so don’t write them off just yet. Consider your skin and hair type when making your choice.
5. Do You Need Extra Accessories?
Some shavers come with bells and whistles—attachments for trimming beards, noses, sideburns, and more. While these extras can be useful, they can also drive up the price. I’ve found that it’s best to assess if you’ll actually use these features before opting for a model with all the accessories. If you’re like me, sometimes simple is better.
6. Price
Rotary shavers can range from budget-friendly to high-end. I’ve tried both the premium Philips Norelco models and some lesser-known brands like Hatteker and Max-T, and I can say that good value exists at all price points. Just make sure you’re paying for quality rather than just a brand name.
7. Warranty
A decent warranty gives you peace of mind, especially when investing in a pricier model. I’ve found two years to be the standard, but always check the fine print to ensure you’re covered in case something goes wrong.
The 4 Best Rotary Shavers: My Personal Experience
1. Best for Close Shaving and Sensitive Skin: Philips Norelco SP9820/87 Shaver 9000 Prestige
What stands out:
- IPX7 waterproof
- Sharp yet gentle blades
- Cordless or corded use
Best for:
Anyone with sensitive skin who wants a close shave from one of the best rotary shavers available.
Overview:
If you’re looking for premium performance, the Philips Norelco SP9820/87 Shaver 9000 Prestige is the gold standard. It’s not cheap, but if you’re willing to invest in a top-tier shaver, it’s absolutely worth it. During my testing, I was impressed by the smooth, irritation-free shave it delivers.
The motor operates quietly and can be adjusted between three speed settings—fast, medium, and slow. This versatility is great because the fast mode is perfect for quick shaves, while the slow mode is ideal for sensitive skin. The blades are engineered to cut with precision, and I found that they even handled longer or thicker hair with ease, making it one of the closest shaves I’ve experienced from a rotary shaver.
The waterproof design means you can use it in the shower, and cleaning is a breeze since you can rinse it under the tap. While the one-hour battery life is solid, it’s the five-minute quick charge feature that saved me on days when I forgot to charge it. This shaver also comes with a detail trimmer, which made cleaning up my sideburns and edges super easy.
The good:
- Delivers a shave as close as a razor blade
- Handles thick and long hair with ease
- Sensitive skin-friendly with a slower speed option
- Quick 5-minute charge for a single shave
- Quiet motor and strong aluminum build
The bad:
- It’s expensive
- Not ergonomic for head shaving
- Replacement blades are pricey
Bottom Line:
For those who can justify the investment, this shaver is hard to beat in terms of performance, comfort, and design. If you want a skin-friendly rotary that provides a close shave, look no further.
2. Best for Head Shaving: Skull Shaver Pitbull Silver PRO
What stands out:
- Ergonomic design for head shaving
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- 4-blade cutting system
Best for:
Anyone looking for a rotary shaver that excels at shaving the scalp.
Overview:
The Skull Shaver Pitbull Silver PRO is specifically designed to make head shaving easy and efficient. Its unique ergonomic design allows you to comfortably hold it between your fingers, making it easy to maneuver over tricky spots like the back of your head. It’s lightweight, but I found that the plastic build feels a bit less premium than I would have liked—though it doesn’t affect performance.
The four flexible blades follow the contours of your scalp effortlessly, giving a smooth, close shave. I found that it works best when used every 5-6 days, and while it doesn’t quite match the closeness of a traditional razor, it still delivers a solid, consistent shave.
Its battery life could be better, lasting around 30-40 minutes per charge, but it only takes an hour to recharge fully. Plus, it’s water-resistant (IPX5), so you can use it in the shower or with shaving cream without any issues.
The good:
- Great for head shaving
- Comfortable, ergonomic grip
- IPX5 water-resistant for easy cleaning
- Lightweight design
The bad:
- Battery life is shorter than expected
- Build quality feels cheap for the price
Bottom Line:
If you’re serious about shaving your head regularly, the Skull Shaver Pitbull Silver PRO is a solid investment. The ergonomic design makes it easy to use, even for hard-to-reach areas, though its build and battery life could be improved.
3. Best Battery Life: Max-T Men’s Electric Shaver
What stands out:
- Cordless or corded use
- 2-hour battery life
- Convenient USB charging
Best for:
Those who prioritize long battery life and convenience.
Overview:
The Max-T Electric Shaver stands out for its impressive two-hour battery life, which was a major plus for me. It charges fully in just one hour, and if you’re someone who often forgets to charge their devices (like me), the long battery life is a game changer.
Performance-wise, the shaver gives a decent shave, though I did find that achieving a perfect shave required a bit more effort compared to other models like the Philips Norelco SP9820/87. The shaving head didn’t rotate as easily around curved areas, which made it harder to get a smooth result. This shaver might not be the best choice for sensitive skin types because it can be a bit aggressive if you press too hard, but with some practice, you can achieve a close shave.
It’s also fully waterproof (IPX7 certified), which makes it easy to clean and convenient for wet shaving. Another highlight is its quiet motor, so if you’re shaving early in the morning, you won’t wake up the whole house.
The good:
- Long 2-hour battery life
- Waterproof and easy to clean
- Quiet motor
- Affordable price
The bad:
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
- Strong vibrations make it harder to control
Bottom Line:
For those looking for an affordable shaver with fantastic battery life, the Max-T Electric Shaver is a great option. Just be mindful of its more aggressive shave if you have sensitive skin.
4. Most Affordable: Hatteker Electric Rotary Shaver
What stands out:
- Cordless
- LCD display
- Stainless steel blades
Best for: Those looking for an affordable rotary shaver without sacrificing too much in performance.
Overview: Not everyone is ready to drop a hefty amount of cash on a rotary shaver, and if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the Hatteker Electric Rotary Shaver is a great option. Despite its low price, it delivers solid performance and some nice features.
One of the standout features is its fully waterproof design. I tested it during wet shaves and found no issues—it works well in the shower and is easy to clean under the tap. The shaving head opens up for deeper cleaning, which is a bonus.
The build quality isn’t quite on par with higher-end models like Philips Norelco, but for the price, it feels durable enough. The stainless steel blades are sharp and perform well on up to 4 days of beard growth. However, I found that anything beyond that, and the shaver starts to struggle a bit.
Another thing I noticed is that the rotating blades can sometimes get stuck if you apply too much pressure, which could lead to irritation—especially if you have sensitive skin. Although I didn’t personally experience any irritation, others have reported minor rashes after using this model. The motor is a bit louder compared to more premium options, but it’s tolerable.
Battery life is decent, giving you around one hour of use on a full charge, which is pretty impressive for the price. However, it takes 90 minutes to fully recharge—still not a bad trade-off for a budget-friendly shaver.
The good:
- Very affordable
- Decent one-hour battery life
- Waterproof design
- LCD display shows battery life and other key info
The bad:
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
- Build quality feels cheap
- Louder motor
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an affordable rotary shaver that gets the job done, the Hatteker Electric Rotary Shaver is a solid option. It’s not perfect, but for the price, it offers great value.
How We Chose the Best Rotary Shavers
Choosing the right rotary shaver can be a daunting task with so many options out there. Here’s how I narrowed it down to the best:
First and foremost, these are shavers I’ve personally tried and tested. So I know they cut well and won’t disappoint when it comes to delivering a quality shave—this is the most important factor. I also considered other aspects like battery life, price, suitability for different skin types, charging time, accessories, waterproof capabilities, and warranty. The result is a list that includes something for everyone, whether you have sensitive skin, need longer battery life, or are looking for a budget-friendly option.
Every shaver has its drawbacks, and I’ve been upfront about them so you can make an informed decision. Hopefully, this guide will help you find a rotary shaver that works for you and lasts a long time.
Rotary Shavers vs. Foil Shavers
When it comes to electric shavers, there are two main types: rotary and foil. Understanding the differences can help you figure out which one suits you best.
Rotary Shavers:
These shavers use round, rotating blades to cut hair, and they work best when you shave in circular motions. They are especially good for men with thicker or coarser hair, or for those who don’t shave daily. Rotary shavers are also generally quieter than foil shavers, making them less disruptive during morning routines. They do a great job of following the contours of your face and are versatile enough to use on your scalp or other areas of the body. However, they can be a bit more aggressive, which makes them less ideal for men with sensitive skin.
Foil Shavers:
Foil shavers, on the other hand, use oscillating blades under a straight foil to cut hair. These shavers are generally better for people with sensitive skin because they provide a smoother, more gentle shaving experience. They’re also great for precision work like trimming sideburns or getting close to facial hair edges. Foil shavers work best on shorter hair and require straight-line motions for the best results. However, they tend to be noisier and may not perform as well on longer hair.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Rotary Shavers
Advantages:
- Ideal for thick, coarse hair or for those who don’t shave daily.
- Quieter than foil shavers.
- Great for shaving around the contours of the face, neck, and jawline.
- Versatile: Can be used on facial hair, scalp, and body.
- More durable shaving heads made from stainless steel.
Disadvantages:
- More aggressive, which can cause irritation for sensitive skin types.
- Harder to clean compared to foil shavers.
- Less precise for detailed work like trimming sideburns or shaping facial hair.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Foil Shavers
Advantages:
- Closer, smoother shave compared to rotary shavers.
- Gentler on the skin, especially for those with sensitivity issues.
- Easier to clean and maintain.
- Better for detail trimming around facial hair edges.
Disadvantages:
- Not as effective on longer hair.
- Can only shave in straight lines (vertical or horizontal).
- Noisier than rotary shavers.
How to Use a Rotary Razor for a Smooth and Comfortable Shave (A Simple Guide)
If you’re new to rotary shavers, you might find the process a little tricky at first. Here’s a guide to help you get the best results:
1. Know Your Face’s Sensitive Areas:
Identify the most sensitive areas of your face (under the nose, chin, etc.), and approach them with extra care during the shave.
2. Shave Sensitive Areas First:
Rotary shavers can get warm after extended use, so shave the more sensitive parts of your face first to avoid irritation.
3. Use the Right Motion and Pressure:
Shave in slow, circular motions, applying only light pressure. For sensitive skin, consider using the slower speed settings (if available).
4. Wet Shave When Possible:
If you have thicker hair, using a shaving cream or gel can make the process smoother and protect against irritation.
5. Keep Your Battery Charged:
Make sure your cordless shaver is charged to avoid running out of power mid-shave.
6. Don’t Skip Aftershave:
Using an aftershave helps soothe the skin and prevent breakouts or irritation.
7. Clean Your Shaver:
Always clean your shaver after use to maintain its performance and minimize irritation on your next shave.
Conclusion
I hope this guide helps you choose the right rotary shaver for your needs. Whether you’re after something for sensitive skin, long battery life, or a budget-friendly option, there’s something on this list for everyone. I’d love to hear about your experiences with these shavers—what worked best for you? Let me know in the comments!
