How to Choose an Electric Shaver

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NewsDomáce a osobné spotrebičeNávody a průvodciHow to Choose an Electric Shaver

Shaving with electric shavers is very easy and there is no risk of cutting yourself. They are more expensive than handheld razors, but they can last for several years and offer various features. These include a display, charging indicator, sideburn and beard trimmer, and a cleaning station that also acts as a charging dock, powered from the mains, but often operating on one or more batteries. Some combine both types of power. If they are waterproof, you can also use them in the shower.

First, answer these questions:

Do you shave at least every other day or just once every few weeks?
Do you also want to trim your sideburns and moustache?
Are you mostly at home, or are you often travelling and need battery power?

Types of Electric Shavers

Foil Shavers

System of oscillating blades below the foil screen
Ideal for the frequent shaving of shorter beards
Movable foil screens that work on chin hair
Slightly louder than the rotary shavers

Rotary Shavers

System of 2 to 3 independently rotating heads
More expensive machines have swinging heads
Suitable for shaving thicker and longer beards
Also handles thick beards and moustaches
Generally quieter than foil shavers

What is Important When Choosing an Electric Shaver?

Energy Source

Corded electrical shavers - Shaving requires a connection to the mains. You do not have to worry about recharging and there is no risk of losing battery power at the wrong moment. Less suitable for trips, cottages visits, etc. One disadvantage can be the annoying power cord.
Cordless Electric Shavers - Practical for those who often travel on business trips or holidays. If you charge the machine before you travel, you will not have to bring along the power cord. Some models combine both mains and battery power, and in the event of no power, just plug the machine into the mains and keep shaving. There is no need to wait for it to charge.
Battery-Powered Electric Shavers - No need to charge them, but they require battery replacement. Batteries do not last as long, so they will need to be changed quite often. Of all types, this is the least practical but it is especially suitable for those who shave only once every few weeks or have a large supply of cheap batteries.

Operating Time

Single-charge devices typically last for an average of 40 minutes. With cheaper models, however, it can be significantly less. More expensive ones will last 50 minutes or more. The charging time then takes about an hour. If you travel often and require the longest battery life possible, you may need to get a more expensive machine.

Functions

Cleaning station - The cleaning station is supplied as a standard accessory for many electric shavers except the most basic ones. It cleans the shaver, prevents bacteria, freshens, cleanses, and also charges the device so that it is always ready for use.
Trimmer - Attachment for rotary and foil shavers. They typically serve to cut the moustache or beard.
Display - The display usually shows the battery's charge level. This makes it easy to see when you need to insert the shaver into the charging station. Cheaper models show the remaining time on an LCD display, the more advanced on an LED display.
Fast charging - This function charges the shaver in about 5 minutes to handle one shave. Charging otherwise takes about an hour.
Blade replacement indicator - With this feature, you will know when it's time to replace the blade so that the performance remains optimal.
Increased performance - Some machines are equipped with technology that automatically increases the performance of the machine if it detects thicker beards. This technology is available in more expensive models.
Waterproof - Waterproof machines can also be used in the shower and washed under running water.
Travel case - Practical for carrying on business trips or holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions When Choosing an Electric Shaver

Rotary or Foil Shaver?

If you are shaving frequently and regularly, then the ideal device for you is a foil shaver. It is suitable for shorter beards that can be shaved quickly and thoroughly. It is built with system of oscillating blades placed under a foil screen, with the number of blades varying depending on the manufacturer and model. In general, the more the shaver has, the closer shave you can achieve. Normally, the movable and cushioned head perfectly adapts to the contours of the face to ensure perfect results, even on the chin and moustache areas. The Braun brand specialises in this type of machine.

Rotary shavers are suitable for shaving thicker and longer beards. If you shave less often or just occasionally, these are definitely the better choice for you. They usually have 2 or 3 separate rotating heads, which also swing in more expensive models, and are subsequently well adaptable to various facial features. Compared to a flat-bladed foil shaver, it can handle thicker beards and is much quieter.

Wet or Dry Shaving?

Most electric shavers today combine both dry and wet shaving. For dry shaving, there is no need for any preparation or water, which is an advantage, especially when you are in a hurry. You can shave quickly and without irritation. Wet shaving is especially suitable for men with sensitive skin, where the risk of irritation is much higher. Wet shaving machines are usually waterproof.

How is the shaver powered?

We distinguish between mains and battery power. Mains-powered shavers can be impractical in certain situations, especially if there is no socket at hand when travelling. Another disadvantage is the power cable can limit the users' movement while shaving. On the other hand, they are reliable, and the user does not have to worry about losing power at the most inconvenient times.

Battery-powered shavers eliminate the issue of requiring the mains, but batteries go dead very quickly. They usually last 40 to 60 minutes. However, the most practical solutions are machines that combine both of these power sources. If the battery runs out while in use, just plug the machine into the mains and simply continue shaving.

How do I clean the shaver?

Even shavers requires regular maintenance, and it is necessary to clean them after several shaves. For older models, it is necessary to remove a foil screen or open the rotary head cover so that you can remove the excess hair from the machine's blades using a special brush. Modern machines offer a self-cleaning program, or they are fitted with cleaning stations, into which you simply put the machine and all of the maintenance is done for you.

What Other Features Can an Electric Shaver have?

In order to comfortably shave in the shower or at the sink, many modern electric shavers are water-resistant, easy to clean, and fully washable. A package of razors or trimming attachments are often included, which allow you to try out different beard lengths and styles. Of course, the ability to fast charge in just 1 hour and get at least 50 minutes of continuous operation is a guarantee.

Are you looking for another shaver?

Manual shavers