Most of our testers agreed that the Series 9 is an amazing shaver. All Braun shavers include a two-year warranty, which covers everything but the foil and cutting block. The most obvious difference that sets the Series 7 apart from other Braun models is the flexibility of the shaving block at the top. The Series 5 remains philips shaver fixed, the Series 6 pivots up and down, and the Series 7 pivots up and down and left and right, keeping the cutting block in contact with facial curves more of the time. For a consistently close shave, plus the convenience of an included automatic cleaning system at a reasonable price, we recommend the Braun Series 7.
Combined, the two provide lubrication (the substance is also a key ingredient in Liquid Wrench) without a greasy feeling, so claims that they help an electric razor to glide are probably credible. In addition, we weighed each model and measured the noise (decibel level) of each razor during operation. We didn’t test battery life, specifically; all of the models we picked were capable of running for about an hour on a full charge. For an update to this guide, James tested the revamped Braun Series 5, 6, and 7 models for a month. Following the same procedures as the original panel of testers, he compared each new Braun’s performance against that of the others as well as our budget pick.
Over a two-month period, each electric shaver was tested on its ability to remove hair quickly, comfortably, and with the least amount of shaving irritation. I also felt it was important to test how well they performed in multiple shaving scenarios—dry face, wet face, and when using shaving cream. The Braun Series 7 offers solid, smooth performance wrapped up in a comfortable-to-hold exterior. Its shaving system comes equipped with 3 blades on a 360-degree adaptive head that manages the contours of the face very well. The hexagonal holes within the foil guard used to capture and cut each hair can at times miss thicker hairs or ones that lay closer to the skin. However, it did perform slightly better with these hair types when using shaving cream.
I’ve tested many hair removal products including IPL devices, epilators (ouch!), DIY wax strips and refillable safety razors (which I really like). I have always been a manual razor person for my legs, though I have used an old Philips trimmer for years. Building on the research and testing we’ve done for seven years, we’ve looked into new models from competing brands that have been released, and we’re confident that the Braun line of foil shavers is the best available. And the Series 7 offers the best mix of effectiveness, features, and affordability of the line. On my quest to find out why this razor didn’t work very well, I also read that the razor is intended to be used with three days worth of facial hair growth.
Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you philips razor can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time).
We’re retesting our picks against newer models—including Braun Series 8 shavers—and will update this guide with our findings. With our shavers, you can go for a comfortable dry shave or a refreshing wet shave. The new shavers with SenseIQ technology are equipped with advanced sensors that read and adapt to you.
Meaning that if you’ve grown your beard out for more than three days, it’s not recommended to use it. We tried Philips Norelco’s lower-end rotary models but determined that the brand’s 9000 series philips electric razor performed better, and it was so closely priced that it was a better buy for most people. In our experience, the 4000-series razor didn’t shave closely enough to be worth their bargain prices.