This category covers electric face shavers, beard and moustache trimmers and other personal grooming devices for home use. It suits anyone who wants a quick daily shave or needs to keep a beard in shape. Our range has over 450 models, mainly from Philips, Braun, Gillette and Remington.
How to choose a shaver or trimmer
Shaving system. Foil shavers generally cut closer and work best with straight strokes, while rotary shavers follow facial contours more easily, for example around the jawline and chin. Which one feels better depends on your hair density and how sensitive your skin is.
Purpose. A shaver removes hair down to the skin, whereas a trimmer leaves hair at a set length, so it is meant for shaping beards, moustaches and edges. If you want both functions, look at models with interchangeable combs or heads.
Power source and battery. Most devices in our range run on batteries or rechargeable cells, and some models can also run from the mains or over USB. A built-in battery is the most common arrangement, but there are also models that take AA or AAA cells, which are easy to swap on a trip. A lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery usually charges faster and loses less charge when idle than NiMH.
Running and charging time. Stated running times in our range go from roughly 40 to 120 minutes, with 60 and 120 minutes the most frequent. Charging times vary a great deal: many models need about 1 hour, while others take 8 hours or longer. If you travel often or tend to forget to charge, choose a shorter charging time.
Use with water. Models designed for both dry and wet shaving can be used with foam or shaving gel, and a washable head can simply be rinsed under the tap. Check the manufacturer's water-resistance rating before you buy.
Brands in our range
- Philips: known for rotary shavers and for hybrid models that both shave and trim.
- Braun: a German manufacturer best known for foil shavers.
- Gillette: best known for manual razors and replaceable blades.
- Remington: has long made electric shavers and hair clippers.
- BaByliss and Wahl: known for hair and beard clippers and trimmers that professionals use as well.
Also in our range: Xiaomi, Rowenta, Jata, Carrera, Adler and Esperanza.
Frequently asked questions about shavers and trimmers
What is the difference between a foil and a rotary shaver?
A foil shaver cuts hair beneath a thin metal foil and usually gives a smoother finish on flat areas of the face. A rotary shaver has round, spinning heads that move more easily around curves. The better choice depends on hair density, skin sensitivity and the strokes you are used to.
Can a trimmer replace a shaver?
Usually not, because a trimmer leaves hair at a set length rather than a smooth finish. It is meant for beards, moustaches, edging and nose and ear hair. If you want both a smooth shave and a shaped beard, choose a shaver with a trimmer attachment or buy two separate devices.
How long does a shaver take to charge?
Many rechargeable models in our range need about 1 hour, but some take 8 hours or longer. The manufacturer gives the exact time in the product specification. A quick-charging model is handy when you are rushed in the morning.
Which battery is better: lithium-ion or NiMH?
Lithium-ion is usually the better choice, as it is lighter, charges faster and loses less charge when not in use. NiMH batteries are still used in some models, and they often take longer to charge. Our range includes devices with both types.
