It used to be, back in the day, when you wanted to shave, it was time to get out the razor and shaving cream. And not 5 blade razors like the Gillette Fusion of today. It would be a straight razor blade and some white shaving cream! And you might have to go to the Barber Shop to get one.
Today, however, there are all kinds of options when it comes to electric shavers. So which one is right for you? First, you need to know the different types.
A "foil" electric shaver has foils that cover up the shaver underneath. Generally speaking, they are formed into different shapes which the respective company claims will give you a closer shave. The first foil shavers only had one, but today's foil shavers can have up to 3 foils, which increases performance. One drawback to a foil shaver is it may not get all the longer hairs, especially on your neck.
A "rotary" electric shaver uses 3 rotary blades to get closer to your skin. Rotary shavers tend to get longer hairs, and are easier to use on your chin/neck area, but usually won't cut as close as a foil shaver will.
In both cases, neither style of shaver will cut as close as a manual razor blade will. But for most people, it will be close enough. If you are someone who shaves daily (like being a member of the military), it's highly recommended you do get a high quality electric shaver that will hold up under constant usage.
When considering which shaver to buy, you also want to factor in the following:
- Quality does often count when it comes to electric shavers
The phrase "you get what you pay for" is very applicable here. You could buy a shaver that costs only $20-30, but you may not be able to replace the rotary heads or the foil/shaver, and thus have to buy a whole new one. One razor that's attempted to get around this problem is the Remington Clean X shaver, on which you simply pop the foil/shaver off when it has been used and pop on a new one. However, for someone that shaves everyday, this can be very cost intensive. A 2 pack of replacement heads averages around $20.
On the other end, both Braun (Series 7) and Norelco (Arictec) off razors which cost upwards of $300 for each. These shavers will provide with a wealth of options, such as remaining battery life, a cleaning dock (so you don't have to clean the shaver yourself), and others. However, in many cases you can get the same performance from a shaver that costs less.
- Features are important, but the most vital factor is the replacement shaver/foil cost
On average, you will pay between $10 and $15 dollars for 4 replacement Gillette Fusion shaving blades. You won't have to replace an electric shaver's blades as often (usually between 6 and 18 months, depending on the model/type), but they will be more expensive. Additionally, the model may be discontinued, and you might not be able to find them. You can expect to pay between $30 and $50 for replacement blades, no matter if you use a rotary or foil shaver. In addition, if you have a model/series which has a cleaning dock, the cleaning solution also runs between $10 and $15 for a 2 pack.
- Care and maintenance of your shaver is critical in extending the overall life
Today's higher end electric razors could last you easily 5, 10 or even more years of use, but only if you take care of them. If your electric shaver has a cleaning dock, make sure you use it after every shave. If your electric shave does not, using the brush that came with it, along with running it under hot water, after each use will serve the same purpose. Additionally, replace the shaver/foil as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Examples of current shavers in each category
Rotary: Philips Norelco Arcitec 1050X, retail between $175 and 200 dollars. Remington R-730 Flex 360, retail between $75 and 100 dollars.
Foil: Braun Series 7 760cc, retail between $225 and 250 dollars. Panasonic Vortex HydraClean ES8109S, retail between $120 and 140 dollars
By using this guide, you can help find the right electric shaver for you, and be well on your way to having a great shave!
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