With so many models available it can be overwhelming trying to pick the best Norelco shaver. If this is your first time here we have written many reviews on the Philips brand of electric razors as well as many other brands based on hours of research and testing.
Philips prides itself in making some of the highest quality rotary shavers out there. And, why shouldn’t they? Having made electric shavers since 1939! This just lets you know they have the experience and know-how to bring you some of the best electric razors on the market.
What To Look For?
There are many things to think about when purchasing an electric razor, many features that vary from one brand to the next or one model to the next.
Power – you might first want to look at power. The speed of the motor can greatly affect your shave in the morning. The faster the motor spins, the faster you get on with your day and not think about shaving.
You will usually see the speed listed in CPM (cuts per minute or cycles per minute) Most of the middle range models will be around 10,000 CPM however some of the faster models will be at 13-14,000 CPM.
When you multiply the speed by the number of blades in the shaver head you will see that some of these razors offer tens of thousands of cuts per minute!
Wet/Dry Capability – most electric shavers these days off a wet shave capability, however not all of them do. We recommend opting for this feature as it makes cleaning your electric shaver a breeze.
It also give you the option to use your favorite shaving cream or oil. Being able to shave in the shower is a nice option to have as well. When you wash your face with hot water before you shave it removes your body’s natural oils allowing your beard hair to absorb water and become softer.
This will allow them to be cut easier, giving you a more comfortable shave.
Precision Trimmer – having a trimmer with your electric razor is another feature that isn’t 100% necessary but it is nice to have for a few reasons. If you like to maintain a mustache or sideburns these are great for keeping them in shape.
Or if you don’t shave for a few days you can make a pass with the trimmer to shave down your stubble before you go over it with the shaver.
This will make your shave much more efficient as these electric shavers are not really meant to cut longer hairs.
Battery Life – most electric shaver batteries will tell you they last 45-50 min off a one hour charge. However, some of the nicer models will last much longer than this.
You may even be able to use the razor for 2-3 weeks before having to charge again. Also, if you ever drain your battery during a shave, don’t worry, most only require a 5-min charge to complete your shave.
Rotary Heads – if you prefer rotary heads on your electric razor than you will want to go with a Norelco, it is their specialty. Rotary heads tend to work better on the contours of your face so if you have a strong chin or jawline, you may opt for a rotary shaver.
You also must use them in a circular motion vs. straight-line strokes like you would with a foil electric shaver.
Top 5 Recommendations
1. PHILIPS NORELCO SHAVER S9721/87 9700
This is a great choice, it is on the higher end in terms of price but a lot of performance comes along with that.
Features
- Contour technology – the head moves in 8 different directions to help you reach every millimeter of your face.
- Power settings – this razor has three different speeds so you can turn it down on your sensitive skin< areas or crank it up for the tougher parts of your beard.
- Smart Clean Pro – this smart cleaning station charges, cleans and lubricates your razor while you do nothing!
- Cleaning brush – this model comes with a bonus attachment, a deep cleaning brush that will exfoliate your skin as well as help lift your beard hairs before you shave.
- Precision Blade – they use their precision v-track blades with the 9000 series models which allows you to get a cut that is 30% closer than normal. Getting you almost as close as a safety razor.
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2. PHILIPS NORELCO SHAVER S9311/87 9300
Just a few notches below the Shaver 9700, the 9300 still is no razor to frown at. For about $100 less, it may get better value with this model.
Really the only difference between this one and the 9700 is the cleaning brush as an additional attachment and a better digital display. So, if you don’t need all of the bells and whistles this might be the better option for you.
Just like the 9700 it also comes with Philips AquaTec Technology that completely waterproofs the shaver. Meaning you can take this bad boy in the shower or use a shaving soap or cream.
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3. PHILIPS NORELCO ELECTRIC SHAVER 8900
Taking it down a notch to the 8000 series you are going to lose some of those bells and whistles. The LED display is nowhere near as sophisticated. It simply as a 3-level battery indicator and travel lock indicator.
It also comes with a beard styler instead of a trimmer, which allows you to style your beard at 5 different lengths.
However, it still comes with the v-track blades, SmartClean station and the 8 directional heads. So, with the sharp drop in price, again Philips is increasing the value on this model when you don’t need the added extra features.
You can usually find this model for around $130.
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4. PHILIPS NORELCO 1150X/46 SHAVER 6100
Formerly known as the SensoTouch 3D, the Shaver 6100 model is another quality electric shaver. At this point we are starting to see some major differences in the important features, but this is why you can find this razor for less than $100.
The heads only move 5 directions instead of 8 which might not be a big deal for you if you don’t have sharp contours on your face.
The speed is taking a huge drop from the more expensive models. We are seeing almost 57,000 CPM on this model which is down from 151,000 CPM from the previous 3. This could make a huge difference, especially if you have thicker beard hair. There is also only 1 speed setting on this model.
You are also losing the SmartClean charging station on this model. What does this mean? Well you will actually have to take the time to clean the heads when you are done shaving.
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5. PHILIPS NORELCO SHAVER 7300
This is model is kind of in-between the higher and middle models which is why we put it at number 5 on the list. For the price, it doesn’t quite compare to more expensive models and some people may feel they over paid just a little.
Like the title says, this model is made for those of you with sensitive skin. They provided additional comfort rings on the heads of this rotary electric razor. These are to help the shaver slide effortlessly over your skin.
You also get back the more powerful motor on this model but with only one speed setting.
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Other Norelco Shavers to Consider
NORELCO SHAVER 4100 WET DRY ELECTRIC SHAVER
PHILIPS NORELCO ELECTRIC SHAVER 5500 WET & DRY, S5370/86
Conclusion
So, what is the best? The answer will change depending on your specific needs and budget. However, you can’t really go wrong with any of these with such a trusted brand.
They all come with a 2-year manufacturer warranty as Norelco stands behind their products.
Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 9700, S9721/87 Amazing! This shaver gives me the closest shave I have ever had with an electric shaver. I like the click on attachments. it makes the shaver so versatile. I can wash my face, trim my sideburns, and shave. It definitely shaves time off my morning routine. The cleaning system cleans the shaver very well. I don’t use it until I need to charge it, which is like every three weeks or so.
Good to know Scott, thanks for the comment!