Electric Shaver Review

Braun Series 9 Pro Review – Impressive Performance & Results

The Braun Series 9 Pro was a bit of a surprise as I was expecting a Series 10 to come along after the Braun Series 9. However, the Pro is an upgrade, and some changes have been made compared with the previous Series 9.

The S9 Pro made it into the Best Electric Shavers of the Year list because of its efficiency, closeness of shave, and comfort while shaving. It has also made it into the short and sweet –Best Braun Shaver recommendations roundup.

You will notice changes with the head (ProLift Cutter) and an additional PowerCase. A welcomed change for many is the ability to lock and unlock the head movement via a switch on the shaver body rather than on the thumb section.

Within this review, we will take a good look at its essential features, pros & cons, and who it is best suited for after testing out and using the shaver for 3+ weeks under various conditions.

Description & Features

I got myself the Braun Series 9 Pro 9477cc, which came with the new PowerCase and charging stand. Testing out the PowerCase was necessary for this review and worth seeing if it was worthwhile having.

• Sonic technology with 40,000 cross-cutting actions per minute – It sounds great, but it is not something that I can notice when using it, which may not mean it’s not functioning. The 40’000 cross-cutting actions per minute mean the 4 shaving elements (foils, etc.) are all moving within that minute. 10,000 micro-vibrations also aim to make the shaving experience more comfortable.
• 5 synchronized shaving elements – The five shaving elements are 2 x optifoils, 1 Prolift trimmer, 1 direct & cut trimmer, and a skin guard. I will explain the cutting elements of the shaver head a little further on in this review.
• Precision Switch -A switch on the shaver’s body that locks and unlocks the movement of the head. 
• 40° Flexible Head – The head moves and adapts to the contours of the face. 
• Wet & dry – The Braun Series 9 Pro is waterproof and can be used when shaving in the shower or bath. Users may shave dry or wet with their favorite shaving cream or foam.
• CleanCare System – The Series 9 Pro models that come with the CleanCare system offers users an easy way to keep the shaver head and cassette clean and lubricated (stand and cleaning fluid cartridge comes with the shaver). Once the cleaning has finished, the system blow-dries the head dry. The system also enables a user to charge the shaver as well.
• Safety lock – If you wish to take your shaver on your travels with you, you can hold the on/off button for a few seconds and lock the shaver’s power off. Just hold it again for a few seconds to unlock it.
• Charging and battery – A fully charged battery takes up to an hour to be charged, although users can give the shaver a quick 5-minute charge for 1 or 2 shaves. A full charge will provide users with about an hour of cordless shaving time.
• Light indicators – The light indicators under the power switch indicate battery status, a warning to not be used with the cord plugged in, a travel lock, a replacement cassette indicator, and a cleaning indicator that appears after each shave.
• Trimmer – A trimmer can be used on the back of each Series 9 Pro shaver. Press the button to unlock and slide the trimmer above the shaver head.
• Warranty – Braun offers a standard 2 years warranty on shavers. If bought directly from Braun, a buyer may get an extra 1 year, but it’s just a lot more expensive to buy from them.

Shaving Elements

Let’s look at these essential elements that do all the cutting when shaving. 

The other Braun shaver series has fewer of these elements, with most having three. The previous Series 9 and Braun Series 9 Pro have 4+1 shaving elements (4 cutting) as one is just a skin guard that you’ll also find on the Series 8 models.

• 1. 1 & 5. Foils – 1 and 5 are the foil shaving elements. Braun named these OptiFoil™, which aim like all foil guards to protect the skin from the cutters.
• 2. Skin Guard – This is the only element that does not cut. Its purpose is to protect the skin, and it kind of reminds me of a safety bar on safety razors.
• 3. Direct & Cut Trimmer – This cuter aims to cut hair that grows in various directions.
• 4. ProLift Trimmer – This titanium-coated element aims to gently cut tough and difficult hair.

What Does The Auto Sense and Sonic Technology Mean?

Good question, as there is always some jargon written within product descriptions to try to understand and translate.

Auto-sense just means that the shaver can sense the density of a person’s beard and adapt to hair thickness.

Sonic technology works alongside adapting to beard density ‘as mentioned’ while offering 10,000 micro-vibrations per minute and 40,000 cutting actions per minute.  

It still looks like jargon after writing that. However, enough power and cutting actions while remaining a comfortable shave are most important. Let Braun explain what we should expect, and we will test if the effects are true. 

I have never noticed a change in beard density when using an electric shaver. So, I guess it would be subtle. 

40’000 Cutting Actions Per Minute

This is an essential factor to consider when purchasing an electric razor—especially the higher-priced models like the Braun Series 9 Pro.

Once a shaver has 20’000 or above, the shaver is most definitely powered enough and has enough cutting action required for any user. 40’000 is plenty enough.

40° Flexible Head & Precision Switch

The flexible head settings are very useful. The head movement enables a user to get better control when shaving over the various contours of their face.

I mention the switch, and while it is only a switch, it is a huge improvement on the previous Series 9 models and essential. A user can now keep the head locked into place on 4 settings or unlock it and let the shaver head move backward and forward while shaving.

The head does not really lock. Instead, the switch allows it to be clicked into its four settings. The option of completely locking would be helpful to prevent the head from moving at all, but after testing out the Pro, the head does not seem to move.

PowerCase

The Braun Series 9 Pro is the first of its kind to have what Braun names a Power Case. It’s a tough plastic case that the shaver sits inside for storage and recharging.

Although it’s bulkier than most travel cases, including Braun’s, it’s like a power bank travel case. A user can carry around an extra 50% of charge when needed. That’s very useful.

A small cleaning brush is stored inside, and a small window shows how much charge the shaver has when it is closed.

If you have an older Braun Series 8 or 9, the PowerCase fits. 

It’s a solid case that I like a lot.

SmartCare Center

Many electric shavers, including many of Braun’s, come with a cleaning station. There are usually models available with and without these systems, and if buying a model without it saves a buyer cash they cannot afford, then any of these razors, including the Series 9 Pro, are fine to use without them.

This type of cleaning station that comes with the Braun Series 9 Pro cleans hygienically, lubricates, charges, and dries the shaver head and blades. 

It has various modes (Smart Programs) that adjust automatically to the amount of cleaning time the shaver requires. 

It usually takes around 45 minutes for a complete cleaning cycle, including drying, and then slightly longer to charge when the shaver’s battery needs a full charge.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The Braun Series 9 Pro is made from a combination of metal, plastic, and a rubberized back section that offers plenty of grips. It feels solid to me, and Braun states the razor should last up to 7 years, which is most definitely possible.

This shaver feels comfortable to hold.

Cutting Power

With its 40,000 cross-cutting actions per minute, the motor is powerful and the most powerful of all Braun shavers.

The head and cutting elements really perform well. This is noticeable when going over the same areas to clear up patches, as it does a great job at clearing up. 

Ease of Use

I can’t say I found anything difficult about the Series 9 Pro, from charging to cleaning.

I might prefer that head and switch to lock up the movement of the head completely, but then. At the same time, it is clickable, and it is easy for any user to change the position without locking and unlocking. 

Charging and Battery

The Braun Series 9 Pro gives 60 minutes of runtime with a fully charged battery. It takes about an hour to fully charge the battery via the mains. A user can also give the shaver a quick 5-minute booster charge just to get them through the next shave.

The Braun rechargeable shavers I own and have previously owned have all had a good battery life span. In fact, I changed the razors and bought a new one before any batteries were no longer rechargeable. 

This shaver cannot be operated when it’s charging. A red padlock indicator will show up on the LED screen when using the razor while it is charging. 

Don’t forget that if you purchase a model with the PowerCase, you have a spare 50% to use when traveling. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

The Braun Series 9 Pro is easy to clean up manually or with the SmartCare Center (cleaning and charging station). 

When I first started using electric shavers with a cleaning system, I just thought they were a gimmick, and now I am sold on them. I can give this shaver a quick blow after opening up the cassette and head, then pop it into the cleaning system and get on with doing other stuff.

The cleaning system is not required, and the Series 9 Pro manually cleans up very easily. I usually add a small amount of anti-bacterial hand soap inside the head and then run water through it with the shaver switched on, and it cleans up perfectly. 

The fluid cleans the blades very well, and the unit dries the blades after, leaving the insides and outsides of the head looking clean and smelling fresh. The CleanCare Center also charges the shaver.

Another job the cleaning system does while it’s cleaning is lubricating the blades.

The dryer works very well and dries the insides; however, I do notice a few drops of water still inside when it has finished its cycle. 

One negative aspect of using the cleaning station is the cost of replacing the cleaning fluid cartridges, which usually cost around $5 USD (£4 GBP – 4 € EU) each (they cost less when bought in bigger packs). These alcohol-based cleaning solution cartridges last for around 3 months (dependent on frequency of use).

There are alternatives to buying the Braun refills to reduce costs that the company obviously does not recommend. 

Don’t forget to lubricate the blades frequently. This will protect the blades, keep things inside moving smoothly, and reduce wear and tear. How often you do this will depend on whether you use any soaps with the shaver and if you use the cleaning system or not, that lubricates automatically.

Users also need to remember to oil the trimmer blades frequently. 

Shaving Experience

After using the Braun Series 9 before the Pro came on the market and seeing that the Pro looked the same, I had no idea what to expect.

I was pleasantly surprised, not just because Braun added the Precision Switch, which was a must, or the PowerCase; I found it performed much better.

I tested and used the Braun Series 9 Pro wet and dry shaving and variable days of beard growth. I tried daily shaving, every other day, and up to 4 days (that’s the max for me).

Note: Braun claims that the shaver can be used on 7 days of growth, which Phillips also claims with the Norelco Phillips S900 Prestige. I never test a shaver out on this type of growth, as it’s best to trim first after about 3 days. It will be difficult for any shaver to cut 7 days’ worth of growth and put unnecessary pressure on the shaver and its blades. It will take much longer to shave than having a trim first.

3 or more days growth – I had about 3 or 4 days worth of growth when the Braun Series 9 Pro arrived. I held on to some extra stubble to test it out.

It was very efficient and very comfortable. Something was different with this shaver compared to when I used the Braun 9.

I was impressed at the lack of effort and lack of patches left.

Shaving daily or every 2 days – The Series 9 Pro works very well on two days of growth. It is very easy and comfortable to work with and has no irritation.

I’m not a daily shaving man. However, I test out these shavers, so I have to give it a go. It definitely makes a great daily shaver because of the lack of irritation and comfort it provides while shaving.

How was the shaver when using wet-shaving? After such a good experience of shaving with the Braun 9 Pro dry, I didn’t feel the need to wet shave with any lubricant (i.e., cream, soap or anything else). However, I really wanted to see if I found any improvement and share my findings with you guys.

I did find there was more ease while shaving wet and with cream. However, nothing significant.

I think most guys will be OK using this shaver dry and use the time getting a lather together or a lubricant on the face for another activity. Electric shavers are primarily used by guys who don’t want the hassle of traditional or cartridge wet shaving, and the Braun Series 9 Pro does this comfortably.

Did the Braun Series 9 Pro perform well as a head shaver? It did pretty well, but not quite as good as a designated head shaver.

The shaver cut just as close as any designated head shaver and was very comfortable. However, it takes more effort than a head shaver like a Skull Shaver or a rotary-style electric razor like a Phillips 7000.

The head and its angle work very well when shaving the top of the scalp, which can be a tricky area. Shaving around the top of the ear areas was stubborn; however, the 9 Pro did remove it all — without too much going over the same spot, which is often needed with electrics.

It’s the best foil-type of shaver I have had my head shaved with until now. Some of the rotary types are better, but that’s because the heads/blades are more suitable for covering the various contours of a person’s head. 

Overall Comfort

This is where the Braun Series 9 Pro really shines. It gives a close shave that any electric shaver can provide (putting the Panasonic ARC 5 aside) but with great comfort and lack of irritation.

Very impressive.

Closeness of Shave

The Braun 9 Pro does seem to have topped its predecessor, the Braun Series 9, and other models. 

It’s more about how this shaver seems to clear up hair easily, and even when there are any missed patches, it clears them up without too much effort.

There might only be a slight improvement in closeness when comparing previous models, but adding how efficiently it does the job really boosts what I think about the 9 Pro.

How About the Attached Trimmer?

Just like any other electric shaver-attached trimmers, they are not that great. It does the job somewhat of trimming the sideburns but not quickly and easily.

I do like the design of the trimmer. It is attached to the shaver’s body and slides up and down. Just press the button and slide it up to use. 

It’s tough to find an electric shaver trimmer attachment that matches what a designated trimmer can achieve. 

Is it Noisy?

It is pretty loud, as expected, and does not give the quietness you’ll get from a rotary shaver. However, it’s not an Andi Profoil Shaver type of loud, which is the lawnmower of shavers.

40’000 actions per minute will naturally create some noise with a foil razor.

Overall Shaving Experience

The Braun Series 9 Pro surprised me.

Based on the comfort, performance, and closeness of the shave, it’s the best shaver for me so far. 

The Panasonic Arc 5 might just get that bit closer and faster. Still, it’s not comparable when looking at the comfort factor with the closeness of the Series 9 Pro. 

Value for Money

While I do think the Braun Series 9 Pro is still a pricey shaver that is priced up at around $249 USD + (£240 + €239 +) it is a great razor, and that bit of extra cash paid to upgrade from a Series 7, 8 or 9 is going to be well worth it for some buyers that want the best foil shaver money can buy.

The replacement cassettes cost around $59.99 (£40 – €41). They are pricey, but they last for up to 18 months.

Final Thoughts – Verdict (Worth Buying?)

As you can see throughout this Braun Series 9 Pro review, I was impressed. Braun adding the option to lock the head was a significant improvement on the Series 9, and it just felt like a much more efficient and comfortable shaver.

I am a fan of the PowerCase. It’s solid and a useful travel companion.

I do wonder if a buyer needs to have experience with another electric shaver to see how well the Pro performs. A first-time user of an electric shaver would have nothing to compare this shaver with, apart from their last cartridge or safety razor used, and no electric shaver gets quite as close yet (not that far off, though). 

Buyers looking for the best shaver that offers comfort and those with sensitive skin might want to look further into the Series 9 Pro. 

Gents that own a Braun or other foil-type shavers looking to upgrade could also consider this an option.

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