Braun MobileShave M-60 Review – It’s Gonna Shave That 5 o’clock Shadow
Braun MobileShave M-60
As the title says — it’s gonna shave that 5 o’clock shadow, but don’t expect too much from the Braun MobileShave M-60. It’s an affordable travel-type shaver, so expectations must be reasonable.
Pros
It was better than expected, shaving on minimal growth
A very simple but cool design
The protective cap and the small hidden brush are interesting and useful features
Requires 2 AA batteries and does not need charging or a cord
A compact shaving tool that will meet the needs of those who travel or go camping
Cons
Not suited for shaving two or more days of growth
It is not so good at cutting longer or flat-lying hairs and tends to miss them
Buying replacement foils and cutters might be a chore
The Braun MobileShave M-60 is a shaver that is designed for those who are on the go, traveling, etc. It’s very compact compared to most other shavers, so being an on-the-go travel shaver makes sense.
As with the Braun M-90 I previously tested, used, and reviewed, I was pleasantly surprised with this pretty cheap and basic shaver. While it is no Braun Series 9 Pro or Panasonic Arc 5, it does have the ability to provide a quick daily shave for those needing a compact travel shaver.
Braun MobileShave M-60 vs M-90
There is not much between these shavers, and they shave and function the same.
The M-90 is like an upgrade of the M-60, but the only additional features are the side trimmer and the look, plus color.
The side trimmer on the M-90 is close to useless, and I could not seem to cut anything with it. However, I do prefer the black and silver color of the M-90 rather than the see-through blue of the M-60.
The M-60 costs around $19.99, and the M-90 cost around $36.99. That’s a big difference in cost, which makes me lean toward the M-60, but I do prefer that black and grey look. However, in the UK and Europe, I have seen the M-90 closer to the same price as the M-60, so a price comparison is worth checking out.
Let’s take a closer look at what the Braun M-60 should do for my facial hair, its features, how it performs after a month’s use, and finish off with who it would be best suited for.
Description and Features
It’s no big event when unboxing this shaver.
It comes with the shaver, 2 x AA batteries, and a useful mini manual.
- Battery Powered: Unlike many other shavers, the M-90 isn’t rechargeable; it runs on 2 AA batteries (included).
- Shaver Foil: The M-90 boasts simplicity with just a single foil element, referred to by Braun as Smart Foil, which flexes under pressure.
- Twist Cap: The upper section twists to cover the foil when not in use, ensuring protection.
- Washable: The shaver head is washable under a tap, though Braun hasn’t specified it for wet shaving purposes.
- Cleaning Brush: A handy cleaning brush smoothly slides in and out from the base of the shaver.
That is one of the shortest features and description lists on an electric shaver I have had to write up.
Highlighting Features – Pros & Cons
Let’s dig into more about the features; even if there are not a lot of them–what features the shaver does have are important.
Shaving Elements
Although the foil is singular and larger compared to higher-end shavers, which typically feature two or more foils, it adequately serves the purpose of this shaver, particularly as a compact travel option. Its ability to flex under pressure along the facial contours enhances its usability.
The process of removing the foil from the shaver head section is easy enough, with pressure applied to both sides. Once the foil is detached, it reveals the cutter underneath, which can also be taken out when replacement is necessary.
Protective Cap and On/Off
I really appreciate the twist cap design that prevents the shaver from switching on and shields the foil head. Initially, when I first used the M-90 model, I was unsure how to switch it on until I realized that twisting the cap was necessary.
This particular function is exclusive to these Braun MobilsShave shavers, as I haven’t encountered it previously. It proves convenient for travel purposes, eliminating the necessity for a detached protective cover. Additionally, it prevents unintentional activation during transit.
Battery Operated
Utilizing standard batteries instead of relying on electrical charging makes practical sense for a travel shaver. Nonetheless, integrating a USB charging port with a rechargeable battery could be very useful, considering that USB charging has become commonplace nowadays.
Since there are no battery status indicators, it’s essential to carry spare AA batteries in case they suddenly decide to die.
I’m completely in favor of using AA batteries for a travel shaver, especially for outdoor activities like camping (it’s been a long time since I’ve done that). It eliminates the need for a power source, which is perfect!
How does the Braun Mobile Shave M-60 perform and Shave?
As with the M-90, entering into this test, use, and review, I didn’t set expectations for performance comparable to high-end shavers. Instead, I approached it with the understanding that it’s a budget-friendly travel shaver.
It makes sense to keep things in perspective when evaluating the MobilShave M-60’s effectiveness.
I used the M-90 for about 2 weeks and did not need long to come to my conclusion as I had recently used and reviewed the other Braun MobilShave. I used it on two days of growth, after a trim with a beard trimmer without a comb attachment and shaving daily.
Shaving with two days or more growth was not great. There are too many leftover patches, and this shaver is not good with longer or flat-lying hairs as it misses them.
Shaving after using a beard trimmer without its guard still proved to be too much growth for the M-60. It needs to be a 5 o’clock shadow-type growth for me; otherwise, it’s just too much effort.
Daily shaving with the M-60 proved to be satisfactory. While it may not match the speed of higher-end shavers I’ve experienced, it still accomplishes the task efficiently. I was pleasantly surprised by the absence of skin irritation, particularly given my tendency for neck redness when shaving daily.
I recommend users initially opt for a close shave using a razor or a superior electric shaver, followed by using the MobileShave for daily maintenance, or perhaps every other day if achieving a close shave is feasible.
Build Quality, Ergonomics, and Grip
This shaver lacks ergonomic features, yet it doesn’t necessarily need them. It sits comfortably in the hand and boasts a portable size, which suffices.
While the absence of rubberized sides means there’s a missed opportunity for enhanced grip, it’s not a significant drawback since the shaver still maintains a secure hold during use.
In terms of build quality, it seems strong enough, but I’m not sure how well it would survive a drop on a hard floor (BTW, I have not tested that).
Cleaning and Maintenance
Following a shave with the MobileShave, I use the compact brush conveniently nestled within its bottom segment to clear away any residual shaving debris prior to rinsing it under running water. Braun assures its washability, a feature that appears to hold true in practice.
As previously noted, the foil section can be effortlessly detached for cleaning and replacement. The shaver features two lined sections on its side, facilitating easy removal and replacement of the foil head.
I often put a dash of antibacterial hand soap on my electric shavers and do so with the M-60. It adds some extra cleanliness and a little scent.
Replacement Foil/Head
Obtaining precise information on the longevity of the blades and acquiring replacements proved to be challenging.
I came across the Braun original 5S foil replacement on Amazon; however, it lacked the cutter component. Subsequently, I found several other replacement foils bundled with a cutter not manufactured by Braun (it’s advisable to exercise caution with such options). Although I found Braun’s webpage indicating that the cutter and foil are sold separately, the foil page only provided links to stores for foil purchases, omitting information on acquiring the cutter.
To replace the cutter, I’d need to either procure a compatible one on Amazon or reach out to Braun directly, which seems like the optimal course of action.
While Braun’s website doesn’t specify the lifespan of the foil and cutter, Amazon suggests 18 months as the standard duration, consistent with Braun’s general advice for most shavers.
The inconvenience and lack of clarity surrounding this matter are somewhat discouraging for me.
Value for Money
The Braun MobileShave M-60, currently available for approximately $20 USD (or £19 in the UK, €20 in the EU), presents a budget-friendly option in the realm of electric shavers. Its affordability makes it a reasonable choice, especially as a secondary option for travel or on-the-go grooming.
Common Consumer Issues, Complaints, and Positive Reports
As usual, I diligently scour various sources for reviews, gathering common feedback and positive remarks to facilitate your decision-making process. Yet, navigating through the feedback on the M-90 proved challenging, as many reviews were contradictory and perplexing.
After sifting through numerous Amazon reviews, I unearthed some positive and concurring comments, such as praising its portability and battery-powered operation, alongside its affordability.
On the flip side, some users mentioned drawbacks like the absence of a separate foil cover, a sentiment I also echoed.
Buyers highlighted its shortcomings in handling longer hair growth, an issue I personally encountered. Additionally, a few noted the convenience of the built-in cleaning brush that slots into the bottom of the shaver.
Final Thoughts – Who do we recommend buys and uses the Braun MobileShave M-60?
The M-90 exceeded my expectations as a travel shaver, boasting appealing compact features such as the built-in brush and protective cap. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures or for discreet grooming touch-ups at the office or in the car, tackling light stubble effectively.
However, it falls short when faced with heavier hair growth. While it could suit young men with finer hair textures looking for a budget-friendly grooming option, individuals with coarser hair will likely require a more powerful and efficient shaver.
An interesting shaving tool that has its place in someone’s shaving routine!
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