We couldn’t figure out exactly why this break-in period is necessary. Different sources give different answers, ranging from new-user error to the need to “train” skin as it adjusts from healing the scrapes caused by a manual razor to dealing with the pulling and shearing mechanisms of electrics. Building on philips shaver 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.
You also don’t have to worry about carrying your charging cord around on trips, plus if your batteries die out at the hotel you can call the front desk and ask for fresh ones. This razor comes with an eight-direction comfort head for a close, contoured shave. It also has two SensoFoil blades and shaving philips electric shaver foils that protect the skin. One of the more budget-friendly options by Braun, this electric razor makes for a great entry-level option. We’re also testing the Panasonic Arc6, a six-blade version of the quiet-but-bulky shaver we recommend as a Braun alternative, as well as additional rotary shavers.
Modern electric razors can deliver impressively close shaves, but they can’t quite match the closeness of manual razors. The Series 7 razors consistently produce close, comfortable shaves and are easy to use and maintain. It really depends on your shaving style and what you’re looking to achieve. Electric razors offer a few benefits over the traditional razor/cream combo. Most electric razors don’t require the use of shaving cream or any other products to achieve a close shave. Most electric razors can shave a full beard in half the time (or less) it takes to shave the traditional way (again, a big part of this is the lack of other products).
Going from the simplified OneBlade to the sophisticated 9700 is like night and day, which is expected given the big difference in technology, and subsequently, price. I felt a lot more comfortable shaving with it because of the contoured precision of the shaver head. In comparison to other premium, more comparable shavers I’ve used from other brands, the Philips philips electric razor Norelco 9700 still proved to be better. On top of being a high-level shaver, The Philips Norelco 9700 is also a precise trimmer for guys who like to shape their sideburns, mustache, or beard. While trimmers on other electric shavers seem like an afterthought just slapped onto the the side of the device, the 9700 uses comes with the SmartClick precision trimmer.
The battery life is about 60 minutes, a bit less than what Braun’s model offers, but that should be more than enough for most people, even when you’re traveling. The large, easy-to-read digital display shows the battery level, cleaning indicator, battery level indicator, replacement head indicator, and travel lock indicator. The ergonomic grip has a great in-hand feel and makes the shaver and its attachments attachments comfortable to use. Nothing on the shaver feels like an afterthought or a compromise in design. It’s completely waterproof, so its good for wet shaves, rinsing under water, or using in the shower.
We asked testers to evaluate each razor for closeness of shave, speed, and irritation. First, testers used the razors at whatever their standard “I need a shave” interval was. We then asked for a double-growth test—skipping a shave—and, as a go-for-broke scenario, a triple-growth test.
Connected models allow to track your routine, and advise you for a shave that’s best for your skin. The blades cut close and safely, without touching the skin directly. Express Delivery is available at select stores & postal codes.
Braun previously sold a Series 8 shaver only at select retailers, but additional models in this series are now more widely available. Braun’s Series 9 clean-and-charge base uses the same cartridges as the Series 7 base (and those of all other Braun shavers) and is functionally identical. Replacement cartridges last about three months and cost about $25 for a four-pack. Replacement foils are considerably more expensive for the Series 9; they currently run about $50, compared with about $30 to $40 for the Series 7.