Best Budget-Friendly: Philips Norelco Shaver 2300

Yes, electric razors can get rather expensive, with some models running triple digits. But there is good news: one of the top favorites among our readers is this one by Philips Norelco that offers great bang for the buck. 

In hands-on testing, this model does an excellent job with a close shave. Yet it costs less than half of others we researched for this article.

What We Liked

• Pop-up trimmer is convenient.

• Close shave.

• Affordable.

• Rechargeable battery.

• Can also be used plugged into outlet.

• Rotary head.

What Needs Work

• Takes too long to charge. Yes, this model takes 8 hours to charge and then can run for 40 minutes. That’s because it has a NiHM battery versus the lithium batteries you see in more expensive models.

• Ok for thin beards, not so good for thick beards.

• Short battery life especially when compared to other models.

Best For Wet Shaves: Braun Electric Razor For Men, Series 5 5018S

We know a good number of folks like to shave in the shower, but only certain razors are best in this environment. For the best wet shaves, we liked this Braun model—excellent performance for either wet or dry shaves . . . and the price is still easy on the wallet. 

What We Liked

• Non-slip handle.

• Close shave, either wet or dry.

• Easy to clean.

• Full charge works for up to 3 weeks, according to hands-on tests.

• 100% waterproof.

• LED display is easy to read.

What Needs Work

• Not as good as other shavers on the neck.

• Louder than other models we tested.

Best Travel Razor: Panasonic Electric Shaver and Trimmer for Men

If you travel frequently, it’s best to have lightweight shaver that can stand up to the rigors of travel. This model by Panasonic weighs just 6 ounces, according to our scale:

Best Electric Razor for Men weight for panasonic razor Best Travel Razor

That’s much less than other razors we researched for this article, including models that tip the scales at 16 ounces.

As for the quality of the shave, we’d rate it as excellent—this model is reliable and easy to clean.

What We Liked

• Lightweight at six ounces.

• Good for either wet or dry shaves.

• Great for travel.

• Durable.

• Easy to clean.

• Quiet compared to other models we tested.

What Needs Work

• Not as comfortable as rotary shavers, said some of our readers.

Best For Beard: Panasonic Hybrid Wet Dry Shaver, Trimmer

When it comes to trimming a beard, not all electric razors make the cut. After trying several models and asking our bearded readers for their feedback, we decided this model by Panasonic is a best bet for most folks. Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Easy to use.

• Easy to clean.

• Lightweight.

• Two clip-on beard comb attachments with seven different length options.

• Pop-up trimmer.

• Long battery life.

What Needs Work

• A bit noisy.

About the Authors

Denise & Alan Fields are consumer advocates and best-selling authors. The Fields have authored 12 books with three million copies in print, including the best-selling guide to baby gear, Baby Bargains.

The Fields have been featured and quoted in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Los Angeles Times.

As consumer products experts, the Fields have been guests on the NBC Today Show, Good Morning America and ABC’s 20/20.

How We Pick Products To Recommend

We often turn to our readers (3 million strong!) to find products to recommend. We ask our parent readers for their favorites and consider their real-world experiences in our recommendations.

When we test a product, we always purchase it with our own monies. We do not take free samples, as we believe that compromises our independence.

We also fact check manufacturer information with our own measurements. If a maker claims a product weighs X pounds, we will weigh it to make sure. If the battery life is supposed to be six hours, we will see how it stands up in the real world.

In some cases, we will do interviews with experts in the field to get additional feedback on products.

To get hands-on time with products, we regularly meet one-on-one with gear companies and even tour manufacturing facilities. (When we do this, we pay our own travel expenses).

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability.

We make our living from affiliate commissions, but we always recommend what we think are the best bets for our readers (not the ones that are the most expensive). We are always looking for products that offer the best bang for the buck.

Our independence is a key reason why we have been doing this so long. As we mentioned above, when we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!