Rotary Shaver for Men - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
Whether you shave daily or need a razor that can last a week, the value of the rotary shaver is a popular option that is easy to use and maintain.
Rotary shavers are named for the rotating blades that trim hairs without coming into direct contact with the skin. This makes them a popular choice among people with sensitive skin. Because the blades cut in a circular motion, rotary shavers treat hair that grows in different directions well.
The three or four rotating blades of a rotary shaver are contained in heads that can bend to fit the curves of your face. This allows you to shave difficult areas more easily than with a foil razor or straight razor.
Rotary shavers are the best option for coarse or curly facial hair, but may not be suitable for men who want the cleanest shave. However, the simplicity and convenience of a rotary shaver makes it a popular choice.
Key Considerations
Before you buy a rotary shaver, consider if it's the right shaving method for you.
Foil razors are more suitable for daily shaving as they produce an extremely close shave without irritating the skin. The blade of a foil razor oscillates, using a back-and-forth motion to cut hairs. Many foil razors are designed to lift hairs that lie flat against the skin. Foil razors are also the best choice for shaping beards and sideburns.
Traditional manual shavers take longer to do the job than electric ones. There is always a risk of cuts or burns with traditional razors, and frequent blade changes can be expensive. But with a little patience, you can get a smooth shave with a traditional razor.
Rotary shavers are a good option for an easy shave, no matter how long your hair is. They can cut thick or curly facial hair with ease, and the heads are generally flexible for a comfortable shave. Unlike traditional razors and foil shavers, rotary shavers can be used in a circular motion.
- Heads and Blades
Rotary shavers are not as fast as foil shavers, and cutting speeds are often not what the manufacturer claims. This can make it difficult to determine the efficiency of a particular model compared to others, although some manufacturers may list engine RPM. Anything above 2,800 RPM will usually work just fine as long as the blades are sharp.
One way to measure efficiency is to look at the number of directions each blade can flex. Most rotary shavers have heads that can flex in four or eight directions. The more flexible each head is, the better they will adapt to the contours of your face. Most shavers have three heads, but some more efficient models have four.
Blade durability varies from one rotary shaver to another, and blades can be expensive to replace. Read customer reviews to see how long the blades are likely to last and check the price of replacement blades or heads.
- Wired or Wireless
Do you prefer your electric shaver to be tethered or not? A corded rotary shaver is a classic choice. There's no need to charge it beforehand, and as long as it's not too far from a power outlet, you can shave without worrying about unplugging.
A cordless rotary shaver offers the obvious convenience of a cordless shave. This is the most popular design. Charging speeds and durations vary and in most cases it is not advisable to charge while shaving. As a result, you may find yourself without energy and therefore without a shave. But as long as you remember to plug in before you shave, going wireless is a good way to go and can mean one less thing to take with you on a weekend trip.
- Dry vs. Humid Dry
Many rotary shavers offer wet and dry shaving, allowing you to shave in the shower and easily wash cut hairs while you shave. Some rotary shavers are compatible with shaving cream. Please note that for safety reasons, wet/dry shavers often turn off automatically when plugged in. Some wet/dry shavers work better in wet or dry modes, so before you buy them you should have an idea of how you prefer to shave.
Dry shavers are more common and are best used before showering. If you don't shave dry, you can save a bit on your purchase by opting for a dry shave model.
Characteristic
Rotary shavers vary in more than just their blades, power sources, and shaving styles. Here are some additional features to consider when making your decision.
- Battery Life and Charging Speed
Lithium-ion batteries are common in cordless rotary shavers and can provide between 30 minutes and two hours of shaving time. They usually hold a charge well when not in use. If you plan to shave frequently, a reliable battery may be a must for you.
Most batteries charge in a few hours, but some charge faster than others. To prolong battery life, unplug the shaver when it is finished charging.
- Noise Level
Although typically quieter than foil shavers, rotary shavers are noisier than traditional manual shavers. If you prefer your shave to be discreet, look for a rotary shaver with a relatively quiet motor.
- Trimming Modes and Accessories
Some rotary shavers only have one mode: shave. If you want the option of trimming sideburns or nose hairs, look for a model with attachments or trimmers.
The trimmers can be built into the shaver and are activated by pressing a button. On other models, they may come as an accessory.
Some models have different shaving speeds, allowing longer or shorter hair to be accommodated. This helps the shaver work as efficiently as possible.
- LED Indicator
Pricier rotary shavers may have an LED indicator that alerts you when the battery is low or tells you what speed you are using. Some models can even offer accurate battery levels.
- Additional Accessories
Some shavers come with additional accessories, such as a cleaning brush, charring stand, or cleaning station. A carrying case is always a nice extra, especially if you travel frequently.
Tips
When you start noticing that your razor pulls instead of cutting, it's time to get new blades.
Instead of using your cordless shaver while it's charging, use a quick shave mode if it's offered. Alternatively, give your shaver a short charging period before you start shaving.
Don't apply too much pressure when using a rotary shaver, or your skin may go through the holes in the foil, resulting in small cuts.
Only use shaving cream with a wet/dry razor if the manufacturer specifically recommends it. Failure to do so may void the warranty and damage the shaver.
Another Product We Consider
Another model that we like and that has not been selected is the Braun Series 3 310s Wet and Dry Electric Shaver. The two-hour battery life is impressive, and with an LED display and wet and dry shaving capabilities, it's an affordable model with many of the bells and whistles of more expensive shavers.