Electric Shavers Review

Best Electric Shavers for Men in 2026 Reviewed and Compared

Annually, I update the best electric shavers for men roundup based on my previous years of testing, using, and reviewing — alongside my previous experiences.

So, what you’re getting here is all my reviews up to 2026, rounded up with my top recommendations (with changes made and to continue changing on this page from the 2025 roundup) — for all budgets.

I revisited some of the same shaver lines in 2025, and this trend is continuing into 2026. Philips gave us the biggest update in 2025 with its i9000 lineup (I have used and reviewed all of them).

1. Braun Series 9 Pro (and Pro +) – Best Powerful Foil Shaver ‘That Is Still Comfortable‘

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The Braun Series 9 Pro (and +) is the top-of-the-range shaver from Braun, excelling in comfort during shaving despite its powerful performance, which is essential for avoiding irritation when seeking a close electric shave that’s quick.

Of course, the higher the series within Braun’s shaver range, the higher the price tag. However, a buyer can keep the cost down when excluding models with a cleaning station and accessories within the Series 9 Pro range.

I have also used and reviewed the next upgrade of the S9, the Series 9 Pro +. There were no significant changes made, and I recommend buying whichever model is best priced for you, whether that is an S9 Pro or S9 Pro+.

Brief Description and Features

The S9 Pro features five cutting elements to help cut through facial hairs from various angles, including those that are low-lying and flat—or just plain awkward. Keep in mind, though, that it is still a foil shaver, and foil shavers are not always the best with tricky hairs compared to a rotary shaver (for many gents, including me).

Here’s a quick glance at the main features and design.

This shaver head offers flexible movement back and forth that can be locked, and it’s a feature that supports shaving along the various contours of the face. It also offers 40,000 cross-cutting actions per minute, which is plenty enough for any shaver, to be fair. 

I am happy with the design, grip, and body of the S9 Pro (+). It feels solid, and it fits snugly enough in the hand for me, although the Panasonic Arc 5 and Arc 6 do provide me with a more snug fit.

The shaving elements include two outer foils that perform the majority of the shaving and come into close contact with the skin, and two inner cutters that target longer hairs, stray hairs, and those pesky flat-lying hairs. We also have a skin guard bar, a very thin strip of metal placed between one of the cutters and the foils, which helps improve the shaving. Overall, it’s a great setup with all these moving (flexing) independently.

The slide-up built-in trimmer (Pro-Trimmer) is worth mentioning as it’s pretty good for a built-in trimmer for trimming the sideburns or picking up tricky hairs the shaver head does not want to pick up.

Shaving Experiences

While shaving with the latest S9 Pro and Pro Plus shaver, I found it excels in comfort, even though it has great cutting power. The comfort of shaving quickly and closely is the main reason it ranks among the best electric shavers, or rather, at the top of this roundup. The Panasonic Arc 5, mentioned in this review, offers more power and cutting action compared to this shaver, but it does not quite have the same comfort factor.

Maneuverability around the various contours of the face is very important, and the S9 flexible head system caters to this. The head locks into place, which is useful when I am shaving on longer strokes. Unlocking the head is useful for shaving along the jaw to the cheek area and across the chin.

Overall, I achieved very comfortable shaves without irritation, and as close as I could expect from an electric shaver.

I still get leftover patches while shaving around the sideburns area and just below the corner of the jaw (which is pretty much standard for me with a foil shaver). However, after a few more strokes and with increased pressure shaving, I do manage to remove them.

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt that the Series 9 Pro (+) is a cut above the rest of the Braun range and other foil shavers in terms of closeness while still maintaining comfort. However, the price hike is quite significant from the Series 5, 6, and 7.

The Series 9 costs anything from $249 USD + (£240 + €239 +). Models that come with the PowerCase and other accessories are naturally more expensive.

It’s undoubtedly an electric shaver to consider if you’re looking at the higher-end shaver models and brands, plus, you know that foil shavers are best suited for you over rotary style shavers.

2. Philips (Norelco) i9000 Prestige Ultra – Best Top-of-the-Range Rotary (Ultra Comfort)

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The Philips i9000 Prestige Ultra is the new flagship for 2025 (and 2026), sitting right at the top of the lineup above the standard i9000, i9000 Prestige, and the older S9000 Prestige. While it’s arguably the most “high-tech” shaver I’ve ever put to my face, the real reason it has taken the #2 spot on this list isn’t the Bluetooth or the apps—it’s the sheer comfort and speed of shave.

The Philips (Norelco) i9000 Ultra took the Philips (Norelco) S9000 Prestige from this spot for the best top-end rotary shaver. There were enough changes made and improvements for some of us users to warrant slipping the i9000 in here—that’s not to say the S9000 is a bad rotary shaver at all (far from it, the Ultra just tops it on comfort, mostly).

Brief Description and Features

The i9000 Ultra features a slim, tapered body with a rubberized grip that fits naturally in the hand. While I found the older S9000 Prestige offered a slightly snugger fit, the Ultra’s ergonomics still work well for maneuvering around the face, chin, and neck.

The standout design change is the shaving heads. They are slightly slimmer and more rounded than previous models, which helps maintain constant skin contact when navigating tight spots like the area under the nose. The mechanical flexibility is top-tier; the entire head moves in all directions while the three individual blades flex independently.

As for the “smart” stuff, it has a light ring to guide your pressure and Bluetooth for the GroomTribe app. I’ll be honest: once I tested these for the review (I used them a few years ago, too, with the S7000), I didn’t find much use for them. If you’re experienced, you likely won’t need an app to tell you how to shave, and you might even find the light ring distracting and the app just another phone hindrance; however, other guys might love it who do like the high-tech stuff.

The tech aspect I do like is having the option to use intense or even custom mode from the five shaving mode options.

One major design point to note: there is no built-in pop-up trimmer. You have to click off the shaver head and attach a “Precision Beard Styler.” It’s a bit of a faff and feels cumbersome compared to an integrated trimmer, especially for quick sideburn touch-ups. Not having the built-in trimmer like the i9000 (non Ultra Models) have does make the body a better fit in the hand, though (trade-offs, I guess).

Shaving Experiences

In my experience, the i9000 Ultra is about as close to perfect as it gets for adapting to facial contours. It glides over the jawline and chin without any struggle. I found the sweet spot to be the “Intense” mode, which allowed for a quick, effortless shave every time.

I tested it on everything from daily stubble to a 4-day beard. On shorter growth, it’s flawless—no stragglers and no irritation. On longer growth, I did notice a few stray hairs on the neck that needed a second pass, but it still handled stubborn patches better than most foil shavers I’ve tried.

The closeness is impressively close to manual-razor levels, especially on the cheeks. While it might not quite match the raw power of the Braun S9 Pro+ or the Arc 5 in terms of sheer “closeness,” it beats them both in terms of contouring and in shaving comfort plus post-shave skin comfort.

It easily beats the Series 9 Pro in tackling tricky hair and leaves fewer patches (if any) to clear up. This is something that I value in my rotary shavers compared to foil shavers. I am a coarse hair guy, though, who also has stubborn areas.

Final Thoughts

The i9000 Ultra is a serious rotary shaver, even if some of the tech feels like a “gimmick-laden toy” at first. The core function—cutting hair cleanly and comfortably—is where it really shines.

The Philips (Norelco) i9000 Ultra is priced at around $290+ (£280 + €290+) and considerably more if the UV sanitizing charging case for charging is included.

If you already own an S9000 Prestige or the standard i9000, I wouldn’t say you need to upgrade unless you really want that slight bump in comfort or the 7-year warranty. But if you’re looking for the best rotary currently on the market and you don’t mind the lack of a built-in trimmer, this is the one. It’s the best rotary I’ve tested yet.

3. Panasonic Arc 5 – Best For Closest Shave And Coarse Growth

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The Panasonic Arc 5, is a force to be reckoned with. When it comes to getting a close shave, the Arc 5 electric shaver rises above the rest, maybe even slightly above the Braun Series 9, in my experience.

It’s a mean cutting machine. 

Description and Features

Named the Arc 5 due to its five cutting elements, this razor is a powerhouse that offers 70,000 cross-cutting actions per minute. Its multi-flex head enables users to move the shaver over the changing contours of the face with ease, and built-in Shave Sensor Technology adjusts the speed of the cutters to the beard or stubble density of a user’s face.  

The Japanese seem to be a cut above the rest when it comes to blades, which makes a significant difference in any shaving tool or device. 

Some features of the various Arc 5 models differ, and Panasonic has also named them differently, like Series 900 and Arc 5 Pro. However, these are the same shavers in terms of performance, and the main design and other feature differences are not a deal-breaker. I mention this because the various model numbers and names can create confusion.

One design feature I found somewhat challenging at first was the size of the head. It is quite large and seemed cumbersome at first, especially when compared to shavers like the Braun S7, S8, and Series 9. The larger head section did not cause me any problems while shaving, though, and I adjusted to it.

The shaving elements include four main foils, a cutter for removing tricky hairs, and a skin guard positioned between the two sets of foils. It’s a mean setup, and maybe overboard on the foils, but the foils are slimmer than those on the S9.

Shaving Experiences

The Panasonic Arc 5 is second on the best electric shavers roundup list due to its close shave and impressive power. It’s at the ‘top of the charts‘ in these departments.

This may not be the best shaver in one area, specifically comfort, for those with sensitive skin. Because it can cut so well and fast, it may cause some men irritation.

I recently revisited the Arc 5 and used and reviewed the Series 900 LV6U and LV9U models (Arc 5, also known as the Series 900). I noticed that after shaving for the first three shaves, I felt some soreness on my skin. However, the soreness wore off after an hour, and after three shaves, I experienced less soreness. I then applied post-shave balm, which soon alleviated the post-shave soreness.

The ergonomics help make the shave more comfortable, and the handle shape, with an additional thumb grip, is ideal for holding when shaving (it’s among the best compared to all other shavers).

The design provides the snuggest fit in the hand that I’ve achieved with any shaver, comparable to the Braun S5, S6, and S7.

As with other shavers and the Braun S9, I do have leftover hairs while shaving with the Arc 5. I remove these when going over the patchy areas a few more times and with more pressure (standard procedure for my face with any foil-type shaver). The Arc 5 is no different here, and after some back-and-forth strokes, I am all shaved up.

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt that the Panasonic Arc 5 is one of the most powerful electric razors in the top range on the market today. Its precision blades and power are hard to beat, making this a great choice for those with a couple of days of dense beard growth and for daily shaving gents who want the best possible close shave an electric shaver can give.

A Panasonic Arc 5 costs $150 + (£130 + €150+). Prices increase based on the accessories included with the shaver and the latest model revisions or upgrades. The latest models are likely to cost over $200.

4. Braun Series 8 – Not Quite The S9—Close Enough Though!

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The Braun Series 8 represents a significant step up in the brand’s electric shaver lineup, bridging the gap between the mid-range Series 7 and the premium Series 9 Pro. It inherits the robust body design of the Series 9 Pro while incorporating shaving elements similar to those of the Series 7, creating a compelling offering that balances advanced performance with a more accessible price point than its top-tier sibling.

I’ve become quite fond of the Braun S8 since returning to using it frequently in 2024 and 2025 (i.e., with the 85** upgrade) while producing video reviews and comparisons. Going back to shavers does prove to bring out the best in some, in my experience.

Description and Features

The Series 8 features a 3+1 synchronized shaving element system, comprising two OptiFoil cutting foils and a central trimmer. Braun also claims the inclusion of a SkinGuard, although, as I have mentioned in reviews, it is not visible like it is on the S9 Pro. These shaving elements work in unison, with the central trimmer aiming to lift flat-lying and tricky hairs, while the foils deliver the primary close shave.

With 30,000 cutting actions per minute, the Series 8 packs ample power and speed to handle most beards, noticeably quicker and more effective than the Series 7 (24,000 actions), though slightly less powerful than the Series 9 (40,000 actions). While I can’t measure these, it’s sufficient to say that the S8 cuts and shaves at a premium level in terms of speed and effectiveness.

The head can be locked and unlocked, which is what Braun refers to as the 40° Adaptable Head. This helps to shave along the various contours when unlocked, and for a more stable shave, I use it locked. I have mentioned before (and with the S9 Pro), though, that I would like this head to lock fully rather than being clickable as it is (it can move at times when I don’t want it to).

The Precision Trimmer, now upgraded to a ProTrimmer with straight blades, slides out from the back of the shaver. While not designed for extensive styling, it’s effective for touch-ups, sideburns, and catching stray hairs that the main shaving elements might miss.

The cassette removal system is straightforward, the same as the S9 Pro, featuring a single right-side button for easy release, making cleaning or replacement hassle-free.

Another feature, similar to the S9 Pro, is the LED light indicators that provide clear information on battery charge (with a helpful 9-minute numerical countdown), cleaning alerts, and cassette replacement reminders. A red padlock light indicates when the travel lock is engaged, preventing accidental activation.

It supports both manual cleaning, which involves rinsing under running water (with optional antibacterial soap for a deeper clean), and the convenience of a SmartCare Center (formerly CleanCare Center). While the cleaning station provides a thorough alcohol-based clean, manual cleaning is perfectly sufficient.

Shaving Experiences

Since 2019, I have shaved with each model upgrade. The first in this generation was the 83**, followed by the 84** and 85**.

The upgrades have not been major, and the performance has remained consistent (although as mentioned, I have become more fond of the S8).

The Series 8 does well over various beard lengths and is at its best between one and three days. It demonstrated impressive efficiency on four-day growth, particularly after showering and exfoliating, leaving minimal leftover hairs.

Shaving two- and three-day stubble was consistently good, resulting in a decent shave. However, daily shaving for several consecutive days did lead to slight irritation, which is a personal skin sensitivity issue rather than a specific flaw of the shaver itself. Applying post-shave balm instantly resolved the soreness.

Like many foil shavers, areas such as under the sideburns and the lower jawline required extra attention to catch stubborn hairs. This is a common characteristic of foil shavers in general, including the Series 9 Pro, and less so with rotary models. Despite this, the Series 8 maintained excellent skin contact along the chin and jawline contours, ensuring efficient hair removal.

The Series 8 consistently delivers a close shave, on par with what an electric shaver can achieve. While it might not offer the same level of comfort as the Series 9 Pro in every instance, the closeness of the shave is comparable (when the shaving session is completed).

The shaver is relatively noisy compared to rotary alternatives and tends to shed a significant amount of shaved debris, which may not always get collected in the cassette. Despite these minor points, the revisit confirmed its strong performance and overall effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

The Braun Series 8 combines the robust design of the Series 9 Pro with shaving elements reminiscent of the Series 7. This hybrid approach offers a powerful, efficient, and comfortable shaving experience that rivals the premium Series 9 Pro in overall refinement, often delivering a similar level of closeness.

The Braun S8 costs around $180+ (£180+ or €190+). Bought without the cleaning and charging station and with fewer attachments will save costs.

If you’re looking for a high-quality foil shaver that delivers a very comfortable and consistently close shave, the Braun Series 8 is a strong contender. It’s not quite as aggressive or ultra-efficient as the Series 9 Pro, but it still gives you 80-90% of that performance in a more affordable package.

5. Philips (Norelco) Series 5000 – Price Balanced With Performance

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While the S5000 might not boast the premium features of a Philips Prestige or the raw power of a Panasonic Arc 5, I rate it as a reliable, comfortable, and surprisingly effective mid-range rotary shaver (without denting the wallet too much).

The S5000 joined this roundup this year as it impressed me that much based on not having to struggle with stubborn and tricky hairs, and the comfort that I know others also value.

Description and Features

In terms of build quality, the Series 5000 feels solid in hand. It strikes a good balance between being lightweight enough for easy maneuverability and substantial enough to feel durable.

The ergonomics, however, are where I found a slight drawback. While it’s comfortable to hold for the most part and has a good rubberized grip, some design choices could be improved to offer a more secure shape (i.e., a more snug fit like the Prestige, Braun S5, S6, S7, or Panasonic Arc 5). It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something I noted during use.

I guess that the more square look and feel is partly due to having a built-in trimmer that is quite large.

The Series 5000 has a pop-out trimmer. While many appreciate the inclusion of a trimmer for detailing sideburns or tidying up around the mustache, I found the trimmer on this particular model to be less effective than I’d hoped. It gets the job done for minor touch-ups, but it’s not robust enough for serious trimming or shaping, especially compared to the precision trimmers found on some foil shavers.

The head movement and flexibility are standout features. Each of the three rotary cutters moves independently, allowing the shaver to glide over the curves of my jawline, chin, and neck with ease. This multi-directional flex system is crucial for minimizing pressure and ensuring consistent contact with the skin, which in turn contributes to a more comfortable shave. It adapts well to the different contours of my face, reducing the need for multiple passes.

One of the first things I noticed about this shaver when switching it on was its quiet operation. Compared to some of the more aggressive foil shavers I’ve reviewed, the Series 5000 hums along with a gentle, almost soothing sound. This might seem like a minor detail, but for those early morning shaves, it makes a noticeable difference in the overall experience. The motor, while quiet, still feels robust enough to tackle daily stubble efficiently.

Cleaning the Series 5000 manually is as easy as it can get, and the useful flip-open head makes it even easier than most. The touch button design that flips the head open means we don’t have a separate head and have two components left out to dry after cleaning.

Shaving Experiences

Philips Norelco Series 5000 delivered a consistently comfortable and quick shave. Comfort is where the shaver truly shines, especially for those with sensitive skin or anyone prone to irritation from aggressive blades.

For daily or every-other-day shaving, the Series 5000 is an excellent performer. It glides smoothly over my skin, cutting through short stubble without tugging or pulling. I found that I could achieve an efficient, smooth shave in just a few minutes.

The rotary design, combined with flexible heads, effectively reduces skin irritation, a common concern for many electric shaver users. If you’re someone who shaves frequently and prioritizes comfort over an absolute baby-butt-smooth finish, this shaver will likely impress you.

When it came to contouring, the Series 5000 handled the tricky areas of my face with ease. The independent flexing heads proved their worth around my jawline, under my chin, and along my neck, where other shavers often struggle (mostly foil-type shavers). It maintained good contact with the skin, ensuring that I didn’t have to go over the same spot repeatedly, which further contributed to the comfortable experience.

However, it’s important to set expectations regarding closeness. While the Series 5000 provides a very good shave, it doesn’t quite match the “bare skin” closeness that some top-tier foil shavers, such as the Braun Series 9 Pro or Panasonic Arc 5, can achieve. After shaving, my skin felt smooth to the touch, but I could still detect a very slight stubble if I ran my hand against the grain. For most people, this level of closeness is perfectly adequate; however, if you demand the closest shave possible, you may need to consider a more aggressive foil shaver.

I also tested its performance on longer stubble (three and four-day growth). Here, the Series 5000 performed adequately, but it required a bit more effort and a few extra passes to achieve the desired result. If you’re someone who shaves less frequently and often deals with several days of growth, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more cutting power. For me, it reinforced the idea that this shaver is best suited for consistent, frequent use.

Final Thoughts

I can confidently say the S5000 is a strong contender in the mid-range electric shaver market. It’s not designed to be a beast that mows down a week’s worth of growth in a single pass, nor does it promise the clinical closeness of a top-tier foil shaver. Instead, its strength lies in delivering a consistently comfortable, quick, and irritation-free shave, making it an excellent choice for daily and every-other-day users, and suitable for those with sensitive skin or individuals new to electric shaving.

The Philips (Norelco) Series 5000 costs under $100, £90, or €110. You’ll have to check what bundles are available, and fewer accessories will reduce the price. Optional accessories and availability do differ from one country to another.

You’re getting a reliable shaver with good battery runtime, easy cleaning, and useful indicators, all at a price point that’s significantly more accessible than the premium models. For its price, it offers a pretty cool balance of performance and features.

6. Braun Series 6 – Balanced Choice From The S5, S6, and S7 Range

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This particular generation of the Series 6 is often referred to as the “SensoFlex” due to its flexible head and foil design, engineered to adapt to your skin’s contours. Braun promotes this shaver as a prime choice for men with sensitive skin, promising a gentle, non-aggressive shave.

The S6 makes it on this electric shavers roundup rather than the S5 and S7 because it still provides some head flex (the S5 does not), and the additional head flex of the S7 (named 360° Flex) is not enough of an improvement to afford the additional cost. In other words, it strikes a good balance between features and cost.

Description and Features

The slimline design of the S6, along with its shape, makes it the perfect fit in the hand. It fits much more snugly in the hand than the S8 and S9 Pro, and resembles the design of the Panasonic Arc 5 more closely (in terms of being a snug fit).

SensoFlex – this is the core concept introduced by Braun, which gives the shaver its name. It refers to the shaver head’s ability to move back and forth (see next video clip below), working in conjunction with three independently movable shaving elements. This flexibility is useful for shaving along the various contours of the face, aiming to minimize pressure on the skin.

Speaking of shaving elements, the Series 6 features two shaving foils positioned on either side of a central cutter. This center cutter is specifically engineered to lift and reduce the size of longer hairs, preparing them for the two outer foils to achieve a closer cut (see next video clip below). This design is standard across many Braun foil shavers.

The blade head is designed for easy removal and reattachment, using simple front and back indents. This clip-on design allows for quick changes between the shaving cassette and any attachments, as well as thorough manual cleaning.

The clip-on design and the need to attach the detail trimmer are features I think some gentlemen will appreciate—others may not be happy with having to remove the head every time to cut the sideburns with the attachable trimmer.

A gripe I have with the clip-on cassette design is that I find it less convenient than a button-release mechanism like what we get with the Braun S8 and S9 Pro.

Models that include the “cc” in their name come with the SmartCare Center (or CleanCare Center). This docking station cleans and lubricates the shaver cassette automatically using a replaceable cleaning fluid cartridge (plus it charges the shaver). Unlike the SmartCare Center 5 in 1 (which comes with an S8 or S9), it does not have a built-in drying fan. While I find it convenient, it’s an added cost to consider due to the recurring need for cartridges; however, many users find ways to refill them to save money.

In terms of attachments, the Series 6 may or may not come with additional combs, depending on the specific model you purchase. All models, however, should include at least a trimmer attachment for sideburns and mustaches. While these clip-on attachments are easy to use, in my experience, integrated trimmers or dedicated grooming tools often offer superior performance.

Shaving Experiences

When tackling three days of growth, the Series 6 performed reasonably well, but it certainly wasn’t effortless. I noticed it struggled somewhat, leaving behind more patches than I’d prefer, necessitating extra passes. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, as these patches were cleared up, but it clearly indicated that this shaver isn’t built for tackling denser, longer stubble efficiently. For me, two days of growth seemed to be its sweet spot – here, it delivered a much smoother, more efficient shave with minimal fuss.

I also tried daily shaving for three consecutive days. While the shave initially felt comfortable, I started experiencing mild irritation and redness on my neck by the third day. This isn’t entirely the shaver’s fault; my skin tends to react this way to daily electric shaving, regardless of the model. However, for those who usually shave daily with an electric shaver without irritation, the S6 will be completely fine.

I have already used and reviewed the latest S6 models with the turbo and gentle modes. The turbo mode was fine and a little quicker with additional power than the normal mode of the previous S6 models; however, I did not get along well with the gentle mode, as it just felt too slow (i.e., underpowered), but others might have a better experience.

I could quite easily do without the new additional shaving mode feature; others may find it useful, though.

Handling the shaver and shaving along the chin and jaw contours is very effective, thanks to the head and blade flex for contouring, as well as the slim, ergonomically friendly shape for easy handling.

Final Thoughts

As mentioned, the Braun S6 strikes a good balance between features and cost when comparing the S5, S6, and S7 shaver range.

If you are not quite ready to part with the cash for a Braun S8 or S9 and need a foil shaver that delivers good performance, then the S6 is a viable option.

The Braun S6 costs (approx.) from $95, £110, or €130. You’ll have to check what bundles are available, and fewer accessories should reduce the price. While Braun is transitioning (it seems) to the shaving mode option versions, I recommend purchasing whichever model is priced best with the accessories you want (i.e., a shaving mode or a non-shaving mode model).

Do keep in mind that it may not be the best shaver for coarser growth and shaving with over two days of growth.

7. Philips (Norelco) 3000 Series – Best Budget Rotary Shaver

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Within the best electric shavers category, I have had to search extensively to find the best option at the lowest price. While others I tested are cheaper, they don’t quite perform as well as the Philips (Norelco) Series 3000 included here (so far, I have others to test, use, and review).

Model Numbers— The only differences between the S33**, S32**, and S31** are the countries in which they are sold. As Philips (i.e., Norelco) likes to complicate things, they also provide other product model numbers/ranges, such as the 3500, 3600, 3800, and 3900. We achieve the same performance from all these shavers, and they differ only in color, the accessories they come with, and nothing else major.

Description and Features

The 3000 Series from Philips is a rotary-style razor featuring three 5D Pivot & Flex Heads, which offer flexible movement when shaving along the uneven contours of the face. This shaver also features ComfortCut Blades that enable the comfortable cutting of facial hair.

Although this is an inexpensive shaver, it can be used both wet and dry, and provides up to 60 minutes of shaving time with a fully charged battery. Its blades should also last for up to 2 years before needing replacing, and a nice feature I like is the press button that flips open the top to clean within the blade area.

This shaver is a much stouter and shorter shaver unit than many others; however, a firm grip is provided by the rubberized sides and the underside section.

The shaver has all the basics needed to be a decent rotary shaver, and more, without much mention of technical jargon or shaving abilities.

Shaving Experiences

After using the likes of a Panasonic Arc 5, Braun Series 9, and Philips S9000 Prestige, it’s hard to imagine getting a very good shave and having much to shout about in terms of performance when using a much cheaper razor.

However, when setting aside the expensive models and comparing this Series 3 with other shavers, it proves to be a very good shaver. It’s very comfortable to hold, moves easily along the contours of the face, and shaves close, although more effort and skin stretching are required to achieve results comparable to those of higher-priced shavers.

It struggled with the leftover hairs on my sideburns and under the corner of my jaw, but this was when I shaved with over three days of growth. On two and three days, it was fine, which is my best shaving zone.

Some irritation was caused by this shaver when I shaved daily consecutively after the third day (which is the norm for me, though). This means that men with sensitive skin issues may not find this the best-suited shaver when shaving too frequently.

Final Thoughts

This is a great rotary shaver option for men with normal to sensitive skin who do not require the highest-performance shaver with all the advanced technology that these higher-priced razors offer.

Sensitive skin-type gentlemen may need to look elsewhere and even spend a little more money.

It’s a good option for those gents trying out electric shavers without investing too much cash into one.

The Philips 3000 Series costs around $60+ (£55+ – €60+). Some models are close to the $100 mark, and that is no longer a budget option. I suggest opting for the lowest price with the fewest accessories and keeping it budget-friendly; otherwise, at $100, I will consider other shavers.

8. Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s – Best Foil Budget Option

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I had to come up with a suitable budget-friendly option for those who prefer to shave foil style. Generally, the Braun S3 is a good budget option, and I have had experience with the S3 ProSkin 3040s.

The ProSkin proved to be a budget shaver that I could recommend to those either budgeting or just trying out shaving with an electric shaver. It’s not a big spend to invest, in case electric shaving is not for them.

Description and Features

The 3040 features three shaving elements comprising two SensoFoil blades flanking an integrated middle trimmer. The idea here is that the two foils capture and cut shorter hairs, while the central trimmer tackles longer, more unruly ones.

These three shaving elements all flex just like the Braun S5 and other shavers, which I find helps the shaver to move along the contours well and maintain skin contact throughout the shave.

While I do find the body of this shaver quite bulky compared to others, and lacking the ergonomics that the S5, S6, S7, and the Panasonic Arc 5 have, I soon adjusted to it and found it comfortable to hold and not cumbersome.

Powering the 3040s is a NiMH battery, which offers a respectable 45 minutes of cordless shaving time on a full one-hour charge. While not as advanced as the Li-ion batteries found in higher-end models, it’s perfectly adequate for several shaves between charges. There’s also a convenient 5-minute quick charge feature, which provides enough power for a single shave – a lifesaver on those mornings when you’ve forgotten to plug it in.

The LED display is basic but effective, indicating battery status and when the shaver needs cleaning.

The integrated slide-up trimmer is a welcome addition. While not as precise as a dedicated beard trimmer, it’s perfectly functional for tidying up sideburns, shaping a mustache, or pre-trimming longer hairs before a full shave.

Shaving Experience

My experience with the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s has been largely positive, with a few caveats that are important for potential buyers to consider.

The shave quality is good, especially for its price. On a daily shave, or even after two days of growth, the 3040s delivers a reasonably close result and comfortable experience. As expected, it struggled with three days and over of growth and performed well, shaving every two days and daily.

As I noted in my initial review, one of the primary differences between the Series 3 and its more expensive siblings (like the Series 5, 6, or 7) is the time it takes to achieve a satisfactory shave. With the 3040s, I found myself needing to make more passes over the same area, especially if I had more than two days of growth. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but if you’re accustomed to the rapid, single-pass efficiency of a premium shaver, you’ll notice the difference.

The biggest challenge I encountered with the 3040s, and a common characteristic of many foil shavers in this category, was its performance on flat-lying and straggler hairs. These are the hairs that lie flush against the skin, often on the neck or under the jawline, and they can be notoriously difficult for any electric shaver to capture. While the center trimmer helps, I still found myself needing to stretch my skin and go over these areas from multiple angles to get a clean finish.

If you have a particularly dense or wiry beard, the 3040s might not be the best shaver unless you can shave daily.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t a shaver that aims to compete with the high-end Series 7 or Series 9 models in terms of speed or ultimate closeness, but it does well in its budget category.

For individuals who are new to electric shaving or those looking to switch from traditional wet shaving without making a significant financial commitment, the 3040s is an excellent entry point. It provides a solid, dependable shave that is comfortable and relatively efficient.

The 3040s shaver costs around $59.99 USD, £55 UK, and €79 EU, and the replacement cassettes (32B and 32S) cost around $25 USD, £22 UK, and €27 EU. The replacements cost less than higher-end shavers, too, reducing overall costs long term.

It’s also an option for those who maintain a clean-shaven look daily or have lighter to medium beard growth. If your beard is particularly dense, coarse, or grows in multiple directions, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more power and efficiency.

That’s just about it for the 2026 men’s electric shaver roundup. I always keep these roundups up to date, while testing new products to add (and removing those that are outperformed). You might want to check out the comparisons below or drop a comment below if you have any questions.

Main Aspects I Test and Evaluate

Build Quality

I want to know I have a solid shaver. They are all made from a combination of plastics, metal, and rubber, and I rate them on a solid feel and appearance.

Ergonomics

How user-friendly it is to hold, especially how it holds while shaving tricky areas like the jaw, neck, and chin area.

Blade Elements

I test how well the blades flex when shaving over various contours and see if the blade elements stay close to the skin throughout the shave.

Head Movement

I test if the shaver head movement of the blade head provides good maneuverability along the various contours, especially across the jaw and chin area.

Performance

While shaving, I test for comfort, closeness, maneuverability, and the ability to manage clearing up leftover patches, long hairs, and flat-lying hairs.

Value for Money

Based on the quality of the shaver, I evaluate whether it is worth its price tag when compared with other shavers within the same price range.

Comparisons

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