Most men demand a lot from their shaver. They refuse to accept anything but perfection. Whatever the case may be, there are many factors to consider when it comes to investing in a foil shaver.
These factors can make or break the shaver. So, be sure to think through your options carefully before making an initial purchase. Below, you will discover an in-depth buying guide for foil shavers.
The 6 Best Foil Shaver In 2020
Panasonic ES-LA63-S Arc4
Panasonic makes some pretty amazing razors and the ES-LA63-S Arc4 is one of the most impressive additions to their lineup. This shaver offers a lot of perks and it’ll prove to be well worth the reasonable price. This razor is capable of delivering 14,000 cuts per minute.
That makes it far more powerful than many of the alternatives. It also features a flexible head to ensure that you do not get cut along the way. More perks can be found below for your consideration.
Great Battery
Many cordless shavers are plagued by poor battery life. This will not be an issue with the Panasonic Arc4. This shaver’s battery can normally provide the user with 14 shaves on a full battery.
This is true if you only use the charge three minutes for each shave. That should be sufficient for most men.
Pop-Up Trimmer
It is also nice to know that this unit is equipped with a pop-up trimmer. That will make a real difference. With this feature, you’ll be able to finely tune your sideburns and mustache. If you want to make sure that everything is perfect, you’ll want to invest in this shaver.
Quick Charge
Finally, you should know that this razor can be charged in just one hour. After that, you’ll have plenty of battery life to play around with. In most cases, you won’t need to charge it for a few days.
Pros
- 14 shaves per charge
- LCD screen keeps you aware of the battery life
- Equipped with a pop-up trimmer
- Delivers 14,000 cuts each minute
- Flexible head glides around the face perfectly
- Can be fully charged in just 1 hour
Cons
- Cleaning base could use some work
Overall Assessment
The cleaning base isn’t great, but the razor is. If you want a great, bargain razor, this one is well worth checking out.
Braun Electric Shaver Series 7 790cc
Many men are willing to spend a little bit more as long as they get something better. This is why the Braun Electric Shaver Series 7 790cc is so popular.
It is expensive, but it’ll probably prove well worth it in the long run. It’ll deliver great performance and you won’t have to worry about the battery dying too quickly.
This one is considered a smart shaver. That means that it is capable of analyzing and adapting to your face as you use it. And, there is a great deal more to like about this razor. You’ll find out more about that below.
AutoSensing Motor
Many razors are simple and dull. This is not the case with the Braun 7 790cc. This razor is equipped with an AutoSensing Motor.
That makes it far more innovative than the alternatives. With this razor, you can guarantee that you’re going to get a great shave every time. This ensures that the razor is going to maintain maximum efficiency from start to finish.
Five Modes
Another great thing about this razor is the various modes. In total, the user can choose between five turbo and sensitive modes.
That ensures that you’ll be able to get the exact gentleness that you’re after. Just push the button until you get exactly what you want. Few razors can offer this amount of freedom and choice.
Pros
- Adapts to the user’s face
- Equipped with 4 synchronized shaving elements
- AutoSensing motor ensures optimum efficiency
- Choose between five sensitivity modes
- Delivers 50 minutes of use on a full charge
- Comes with a clean and charge station
Cons
- Customer service is poor
This is a pretty great razor. The only downfall is the underlying customer service. Nevertheless, most men will find that this is a great investment overall.
Panasonic ES8243A Arc4
You can always count on Panasonic to make high-quality products. This is true when it comes to the company’s razors. If you’re looking for a great one that won’t break the bank, you’ll want to check out the Panasonic ES8243A Arc4.
This razor delivers plenty of conveniences while ensuring a close shave. It can be used wet or dry, so you’ll always have the option of shaving in and out of the shower.
Plus, this razor features a flexible pivoting head. It will effortlessly glide along the contours and deliver a comfortable shaver.
Great Motor
The Arc4 is equipped with a very powerful motor. It can operate at speeds of 13,000 cycles per minute. With this amount of power, you’ll never have to worry about your hair been pulled or tugged. The razor operates nearly one and a half times faster than the alternatives and it has double the cutting force.
Pop Up Trimmer
You’ll want to take full advantage of the Arc4’s pop-up trimmer. It might be small, but it is great for taking care of those sideburns and mustache. If you want to fine-tune your mustache, you’ll want to take advantage of the trimmer!
Convenient LCD Display
This razor features a convenient LCD. This means that you’re going to remain in the know at all times. When the blade and foil need to be replaced, the screen will tell you. It can also provide you with information about the battery.
Pros
- The LCD makes life easier
- Delivers 13,000 cycles every minute
- Plenty of power
- The pop-up trimmer is very convenient
- Wet and dry capabilities
- Pivoting head ensures a close, comfortable shave
Cons
- Can leave behind hairs
Overall Assessment
You might need two passes, but this razor is still going to deliver big. For the price, it is really hard to complain about this minor flaw.
Braun Electric Razor Series 5 5190cc
The Braun Series 5 5190cc Razor is a well-rounded investment for most men. It works exceptionally well for the intended purpose and it’ll provide a close, comfortable shave. This razor features the innovative Auto Sensing motor.
That ensures that it is going to operate efficiently at all times. It’ll cut facial hairs of various lengths without snagging or pulling. This is something that many razors simply cannot do. And, it is one of the reasons that this one has grown so immensely popular.
Waterproof
One of the best things about this razor is the waterproof design. With this one, you’ll be able to shave your face in and out of the shower. The razor is completely waterproof up to 5 meters. That should be sufficient for most men. And, it is going to make the cleanup process so much easier in the long run.
Built To Last
It is undoubtedly true that Germans make some great products. The Braun razor is no different. It has been designed to ensure that it is going to last up to 7 years! If it lasts that long, you can guarantee that you’ve got your money worth from this one.
Protects The Skin
Finally, this razor has been designed to decrease the amount of pressure applied to the skin. This makes it a good choice for people who suffer from sensitive skin.
Pros
- Puts minimal pressure on the skin
- Waterproof up to 5 meters
- Can be used wet and dry
- Built to last up to 7 years
- Auto-Sensing motor delivers maximum efficiency
- The precision trimmer is helpful
Cons
- Multiple passes may be needed
Overall Assessment
The Braun Electric Shaver is great, but not perfect. Just remember that it may take a little longer to shave than normal. Otherwise, it is a good investment.
Panasonic ES8103S Arc3 Razor
Panasonic knows how to make excellent razors at affordable prices. If that is what you’re after, you should look no further than the Panasonic ES8103S Arc3 Razor. This one will deliver a lot of bang for a little bit of buck. The razor offers a great deal, including ultra-sharp blades.
The ultra-thin foil is capable of gliding over the face’s contours to ensure that you get a close and comfortable shave every time.
The head is very flexible so you’ll never have to worry about getting nicked or cut. Additional details about this razor will be explored in more depth below.
13,000 Cuts Per Minute
When attempting to invest in a good razor, you’ll need to look at the motor’s power and efficiency. There is an area where the Panasonic knocks it out of the park.
This razor hard a high-performance linear motor drive. It is capable of delivering 13,000 cuts per minute. The razor will maintain optimum power even when the battery has died down. That is going to ensure that your hair is never snagged.
Battery Status
Since this is a cordless razor, you have to keep a close eye on the battery life at all times. This will not be an issue with the Panasonic Arc3. After all, it features a 10 stage LCD.
This small screen will allow you to know the battery’s status at pretty much any time. The battery can be charged in just 1 hour and it’ll deliver plenty of battery life after that.
Pros
- Can be charged in just 1 hour
- LCD keeps you aware of the battery life at all times
- Flexible head glides along the contours
- 13,000 cuts per minute to ensure you have no snags
- Very affordable
- Battery life is pretty good
Cons
- Head can get warm when used dry
Overall Assessment
All in all, the Panasonic Arc3 is pretty good. For the price, it is easy to overlook the minor flaw.
Braun Electric Shaver Series 9 9290cc
Are you happy to splurge on a good razor? If the answer is yes, you’ll want to check out the Braun Series 9 9290cc Electric Shaver. It is expensive. Nevertheless, it might be well worth it in the long run.
The wet and dry razor comes with a convenient travel case. That will allow you to keep it in good condition even when you’re traveling on long trips.
The cordless charge features a good battery that can be charged in just 1 hour. That ensures that you won’t have to sit around and wait too long.
Auto-Sensing Motor
First and foremost, you should know that this razor features the innovative Auto Sensing motor. This feature might seem minor, but it can make a huge difference. It’ll guarantee that the razor operates efficiently at all times. The razor will never waste any battery life at all.
Waterproof
Buying a waterproof razor is always best. After all, this will allow you to use it in the shower. It’ll also enable you to clean the razor much quicker.
The Braun Series 9 9290cc is waterproof up to 5 meters. This feature will certainly make your life a little more convenient.
Cordless Shaving
Finally, you should know that this razor offers 50 minutes of cordless shaving. Five steps will count down to the last 9 minutes of shaving. The battery can be recharged in one hour. This combination isn’t too shabby and it outperforms some of the competition.
Pros
- Offers 50 minutes of use on a full charge
- Clean and charge station is great
- The battery can be charged in 1 hour
- Completely waterproof up to 5 meters
- Can be used wet and dry
- Auto-Sensing motor is helpful
Cons
- A little too expensive
Overall Assessment
The Braun Series 9 9290c Electric Shaver is pretty good, but the price is very expensive. That makes it out of reach for many people. Still, the quality and performance delivered help to justify the high price.
Why Foil?
Foil shavers are great for many reasons. They will operate in a linear manner, which means that the user will need to move it backward and forward to cut all of the hair. These shavers work great and they’ll give you a comfortable shave.
Just remember that you need to know the differences between foil and rotary. Otherwise, you might be using your razor in the wrong manner and that could create serious problems for you.
When using a foil shaver, you should always go backward and forwards. Never attempt to use the razor in a circular motion or you might pull and tug on your facial hair!
Dual Motor
One of the most important components of a foil shaver is the motor. There are several different types of motors utilized in these grooming tools, with the dual-motor being the most popular. If you desire a shaver than is capable of cutting through thick, bristly hair, you will need to purchase a model with a dual motor.
Depending on the brand of the motor, it should be able to deliver at least 14,000 cuts per minute, which cannot be said about its competitors.
The dual-motor is one of the most powerful utilized in shavers. And, if you are looking for the most cuts possible per minute, you need to make sure that the dual-motor has a linear driver.
While you may need to pay a little extra for a foil shaver with a dual motor and linear drive, the extra cost will be worth it in the long run.
Built-In Trimmer
Another feature that will help keep your beard, mustache, and sideburns looking great is a trimmer. Instead of investing in two grooming tools, shaver and trimmer, you could save money by investing in a foil shaver with a built-in trimmer.
This feature is ideal for all men who desire perfectly detailed mustaches, sideburns and neck hair. The built-in trimmer is extremely easy to utilize since it only needs to be popped out before each use.
Not only will the built-in trimmer prevent the need to own two grooming tools, but also it will help keep your bathroom neat and tidy.
Wet And Dry Performance
There are many benefits to shaving dry and wet. But, it depends on individualistic preferences. For example, some men prefer shaving dry, while others prefer shaving while they are taking a shower.
Well, you will have both of the options available to you, if you invest in a foil shaver that is capable of delivering both wet and dry shaves.
When investing in such a shaver, you need to make sure that it is fully sealed to keep out water. While some brands will guarantee a wet shave, they are not completely sealed, resulting in motor damage.
Quick Charge
It is not unusual for men to forget to charge their shaver after each use. Since a dead battery is such a common problem, many manufacturers are now designing their shavers to offer a quick charge. Some of the top brands can now deliver a full charge in 60 minutes or less. And, a half charge in 30 minutes or less.
Works While Plugged In
Another factor to consider is if the shaver will work while plugged into an electric outlet. Contrary to belief, some models do not operate in this manner, rendering them useless until their battery is fully charged.
It is not often that manufacturers provide this information upfront to their customers. So, you may have to contact the manufacturer directly to find out.
Flexible Pivoting Heads
Every man’s face has unique contours along the chin, neck, and jawline. These unique features are extremely difficult to shave, especially when utilizing a shaver with a poorly designed head.
To ensure the smoothest shave along all the contours of the face, you will need to invest in a model with a flexible pivoting head. This feature will gently conform to all the facial contours, resulting in baby-smooth, hairless skin in seconds.
Shaves Per Charge
As mentioned above, charging is an undesirable chore that goes along with maintaining a shaver. With that said, some things can decrease the overall charging time.
One of these things is a lithium-ion battery. But, not just any lithium-ion battery, it must be a high-quality and name brand.
This type of battery will offer up to 14 shaves of three minutes each. Now, you should not expect to get these results from any brand, if you shave longer than three minutes each time.
Just make sure that the shaver has a high-quality, name-brand lithium-ion battery to achieve the best results.
Battery Level Indicator Light
Another feature that will help you maintain your shaver is a battery indicator light. This feature will alert you when the battery level reaches a specific level. Once the light turns red, it will be time to charge. While this feature does not seem important, it will prevent you from dealing with a completely dead battery.
Blade Replacement Reminders
If you thought the battery indicator light was helpful, you will love the blade replacement reminders that some brands offer. Of course, most men have an idea when their blades need to be replaced, which is when they no longer deliver the perfect cut.
However, this small feature will not only help you remember this task but also ensure your shaver is performing at the highest level at all times.
Cleaning Reminders
Another chore that most men do not like is cleaning their shaver. While some men will instantly choose a brand that automatically cleans itself, others do not want to spend the extra money. Ensuring the longest lifespan for your shaver will depend on how often you clean it.
Some models will automatically send you a reminder, alerting you that it is time for a thorough cleaning. Once you clean the shaver, it will reset to prepare for the next reminder.
Nanotech Blades
To achieve quick and pain-free cuts, the shaver must be equipped with Nanotech blades. These blades are most often hone at a 30-degree angle to ensure maximum sharpness and durability.
Of course, you will find a long list of brands equipped with various types of blades, but none will deliver the same performance as the Nanotech.
Warranty
To protect your investment, the shaver must include a decent warranty. Most of the top brands back their shavers with a two-year warranty, but some brands will offer a longer warranty.
It depends on the price of the shaver and the manufacturer. However, you should not even consider investing in a brand that does not offer at least a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Lightweight Design
In the past, consumers were led to believe that heavy products were much better than lighter weight products. Today, consumers know that is no longer true. Some of the best foil shavers are light in weight, which makes them easier to handle.
Before you even consider purchasing a shaver, be sure to check out the weight. Most of these tools weight at least 10 ounces, while others will weigh less or more. The lightweight design will deliver comfort and better handling.
Ergonomic Handle
Another feature that will ensure comfort and easy handling is an ergonomically designed handle. This handle will fit most men’s hands like a glove, delivering nothing but the best control.
Another thing to consider is where the controls are located, which should be within close reach of your thumb and forefinger.
This location will allow you to make frequent alterations during use, which is much better than needing to stop between each use to make these changes.
Suitable For All Skin Types
Whether you have sensitive or dry skin, your shaver should be able to deliver smooth, comfortable shaves. However, this is not always the case since some brands are only designed for some skin types.
Fortunately, some models are now suitable for all skin types. So, consider your skin type and the shaver’s capabilities before making an initial purchase.
Bald Head Capability
For men who shave their head bald, you may own several grooming tools, one for your face and one for your head. Well, this is no longer necessary, since some foil shavers are capable of providing both of these capabilities.
Just the mere fact that you own such a shaver will help keep your bathroom tidier and less crowded. While it may be necessary to spend a little more for such a shaver, it will save you money in the long run.
Cleaning Modes
As mentioned above, cleaning a shaver is a task that most men do not look forward to. To help make this task more pleasant, some brands are now designing their shavers with a cleaning mode. When this mode is selected, the blades will vibrate very quickly, knocking the trapped hairs free.
This feature will not only ensure a timely cleaning but also make the entire process more enjoyable. When selecting the vibrating cleaning mode, it is crucial to place the shaver under running tap water.
This is the only thing you will have to do manually to fully clean the shaver because the shaver will do the rest.
Safety Lock
While shavers do not necessarily cause serious injuries when mishandled, they can pose safety risks for small children. Of course, it is impossible to protect your children at all times, especially those who are very rambunctious and curious.
Fortunately, some brands come with a safety lock. Once the safety lock is attached to the shaver, it will be rendered unusable.
So, if you have curious children who like to rummage through your items, be sure to give these models some thought.
Universal Voltage
Most men typically take their grooming tools with them when they travel. This gives them all access to these devices, so they can maintain perfect perfection.
Unfortunately, some of these tools are only designed to work on a specific type of voltage or country.
Well, you frequently travel to different countries and still want to be able to utilize your shaver, you should consider only brands that come with universal voltage. This feature will allow you to utilize the shaver in every country you visit.
Hypoallergenic Blades
Allergic reactions are a common occurrence with some shavers, especially models that are designed with non-hypoallergenic foils and blades. If you have sensitive skin, you should only consider brands with hypoallergenic foils and blades.
These features will prevent allergic reactions while keeping your skin looking healthy and sexy. It is also important to consider the material utilized to make these components.
Fortunately, most brands are equipped with foils and blades constructed from the highest quality stainless steel, which is durable and rust-proof.
Travel Pouch
If you are a frequent traveler, it is highly likely that your shaver is one of the items that you never leave at home. Whether you are traveling for business or personal reasons, you will always want to look your best.
With that said, it is crucial to protect your shaver from damage during flights.
One way to do this is with a durable hard case travel case. But, why should you be forced to buy this item separately? Well, you should not have to. Most of the top brands typically come with a travel case that is specifically designed for that shaver.
For the travel case to be efficient, it must be large enough to hold the charging cable, shaver, cleaning brush and a blade replacement.
Quiet Operation
Some shavers operate very loudly, which is often due to design flaws. Whatever the case may be, likely, you do not want to be hassled by a loud shaver, since it is going to be utilized nearby of your ears.
The key to investing in a shaver that operates quietly is premium-grade internal components, especially the motor. The best way to determine if a shaver is loud is to read customer reviews.
Summary
There are many amazing shavers out there. If you’re looking for a good one, you’ll want to start with one of the razors mentioned above. That will be a good starting point!