Buying guide for best electric razors

Even if you're typically a straight-edge person, if you miss a day or two of shaving, getting back to that clean look will probably involve a few nicks and a little discomfort. So, an electric razor is always nice to have on hand.

Comfort is key. When choosing your electric razor, look for one with an ergonomic handle and floating or flexing heads. You also want a model that is easy to clean, easy to lubricate, and easy to replace the blades so you can keep it in optimum working condition. If you intend on shaving in the shower, you will need an electric razor that is safe to get wet.

The electric razors that we've chosen are some of the best you'll find. We've even noted what makes each one exceptional. However, we've also put together some tips on how to get the best shave along with a full education on electric razors.

We look at how quickly an electric razor charges and how long the charge lasts. Some models offer a quick-charge option, which many users appreciate.

If you plan to use your electric razor in the shower, it's important to know if it is safe for your model to get wet. We factor this element into our recommendations.

There are two main types of blades we recommend: foil and rotary. Foil razors tend to perform better, but they also tend to cost more.

We look at each electric razor's carrying case. Some are simple plastic or zippered pouches; others are high-end cases that offer additional protection for foil razors.

We look for electric razors with handles that earn high marks for construction quality and ergonomics.

We consider the types of accessories that come with an electric razor. Some models include full grooming kits and cleaning supplies.

Before recommending an electric razor, we consider how it gets cleaned. Waterproof models can be cleaned simply by rinsing, whereas others must be disassembled and brushed out.

An electric razor's lifespan is a key consideration. While blades will need to be replaced or sharpened, the razor itself should last several years.

Budget electric razors can be found for under $30, while razors with features such as anti-friction coating and longer-lasting blades can cost up to $250. We look at electric razors from all price ranges so our list includes something for everyone.

Some electric razors come with a charging station; others plug directly into an outlet. Each style offers unique benefits in terms of portability and convenience.

Typical features of electric razors

Electric razors vary greatly, from providing just a basic shave to offering significant bells and whistles. Along with the quality of manufacture and durability, the features included with an electric razor drive the price and value.

Blades

The key component of any electric razor, the blades actually remove the hair from your face. There are two common types of electric razor blades: foil and rotary. Foil razors use straight blades under a thin, but strong, metal sheet. Rotary shavers employ rotating cutting heads topped by mesh disks. Foil razors generally perform better, particularly for people with thick facial hair. They’re also more expensive, and the cutting head is more delicate, requiring better protection if carried in your luggage or gym bag.

Wet vs. dry

Not all electric razors are waterproof, and it’s important to choose based on how you intend to use the device. Some shavers are made for use in the shower, others are not. Wet shavers can usually be cleaned simply by rinsing, while dry shavers require some disassembly and brushing.

Handle

Each razor is equipped with a handle, often a combination of metal and plastic, for controlling the movement of the device across the skin. Although traditional razors tend to have a pencil-thin handle topped by a blade, electric razors normally have a thick handle. You can choose more ergonomic handles, designed to fit the shape of your palm, or handles with a uniform thickness from top to bottom that provides plenty of surface area for gripping.

Foil razors tend to provide a better shave than rotary head razors, especially if you have thicker facial hair.

Charger

Some razors come with a charging station, while others are outfitted with a simpler cord that plugs directly into an outlet.

Charge life is an important consideration because some razors can last for hours on a single charge, while others require a recharge after just 30 minutes.

Evaluate whether the charger is bulky or portable and whether the razor has a quick-charge option for convenient use on the go.

Experience is everything. Consider the noise level you prefer with your razor, and also evaluate the level of smoothness you like. Check reviews of our top product picks to determine how those models stack up against your expectations.

Accessories

Razors come with an array of bonus features to evaluate. Consider whether it would be helpful to have a model with an extra blade for trimming facial hair and sideburns or components that collect cut hair so it doesn’t spill onto surrounding surfaces.

Simpler models consist of the razor and a charger, while more advanced razors also come with grooming kits, including brushes that can be used for cleaning and maintenance of the razor after each shave.

Carrying cases vary widely. There are plastic pouches that snap closed, simple bags with zippers, and even higher-end cases with specialized protection for the delicate foil of expensive foil razors.

How electric razors work

Most razors are charged with an electrical cord. (A few models are powered by replaceable batteries, but these are rather rare.) When the razor is turned on, the blades spin at a preset rate; unlike your woodworking tools or food processor, electric razors don’t allow manual control of blade speed. As you move the blades over the surface of the skin, the rapid movement of the blades cuts the hairs close to the skin, leaving it smooth.

You don’t have to worry about cutting yourself with an electric razor. They’re very safe to use, as long as the cutting mechanism isn’t damaged or broken. Read the owner’s manual to understand whether specific skin conditions affect the way you use an electric razor.

When the battery begins to lose its charge, a flashing light or another indicator alerts you that the device needs to be recharged once again.

If the razor has a separate blade for trimming, the blade can be extended away from the razor or otherwise engaged to ensure only that component is in motion. When trimming is complete, you simply fold the component back into the razor to return the razor to its regular motion.

Electric razor lifespan

A good razor should last several years. With greater use, the odds are greater the blades will need to be replaced or sharpened, but this can be done at substantial cost savings compared to purchasing an entirely new razor.

Many razors come with oil or grease that can help lubricate the blades for maximum movement.

If your electric razor includes a component that collects loose hairs, empty it frequently to avoid gumming up the moving parts.

Electric razor price ranges

The cost of electric razors varies widely. More expensive razors typically include additional features or accessories not found in cheaper models.

Under $30

Low-cost razors are perfect for a quick shave, or as a travel razor if you’d like to leave a more expensive version at home. These will almost always be rotary razors.

$30 to $99

The next step up from a budget electric razor, these razors tend to have quick charge times with battery life lasting for a couple of hours.

Many even have LED displays and charging stations.

$100 to $250

These razors feature much greater flexibility in the way the head of the razor moves across the contours of your face.

Special features include anti-friction coatings, specialized technology that makes a wet or drive shave more comfortable, longer-lasting blades, and multi-year warranties.

A dry electric shave can be among the most environmentally friendly shaves around because it doesn’t require any heating of water, nor does it cycle through disposable blades routinely.

$250 and higher

Higher-end razor models have specialized features, such as the ability to add more power to shave thicker hair at key points during the shave.

Other components include charging stations that lubricate and sanitize razor blades between each shave.

Getting the most from an electric razor

Maximize your investment in an electric razor with routine maintenance. Here are some tips that can help.

Keep it charged

Razors tend to provide a closer and more thorough shave when they are fully charged. If hair remains scruffy after a shave, try recharging or simply plugging the razor into the wall and shaving this way, if your model permits.

Replace blades as needed

Many razors come with blades that should last one year or more.

Consistently dull shaves suggest a blade needs to be replaced, particularly if the charging trick has failed. This can be done affordably, without the need to replace the entire razor.

Ensure it is clean

Hair can quickly build up in the cracks and crevices of an electric razor. Use the brush that comes with the razor, or even an unused toothbrush, to gently sweep out any unwanted hairs.

Lubricate the razor as needed

More expensive razors have self-lubricating charging stations. Some come with oil you can use to ensure the blades function properly.

It never hurts to have two razors. Keep a nicer model to provide ultimate comfort at home, and have a second, cheaper version for quick and efficient shaves on the road.

FAQ

Q. How long can electric razors run without needing a charge?

A. It depends entirely on the model. Some operate smoothly for more than seven hours, while others last an hour or so. Typically, the more expensive the razor, the longer its charge will last.

Q. What’s the most important factor to consider when purchasing a razor?

A. Your decision really ties back to how you intend to use the razor. If you travel frequently and simply want a reliable model for your shower bag, a less expensive model with minimalist features should do just fine. But if you savor the shaving experience, appreciate today’s many shaving amenities, or simply have really thick facial hair, an especially durable (and generally pricier) model is likely the best buy.