Whether you're clean-shaven, rocking a stylish beard or trendy stubble, a quality electric shaver for men is a must. But all men are different. Some of us may have sensitive skin, or we’re buying a shaver for the first time. Or maybe it’s just about finding a shaver reliable and compact enough to pop in a wash bag when on the move.
Whatever your situation, we’ll explain the different shavers available and the features worth keeping an eye out for. From budget-friendly options to high-end shaving machines, we've trimmed down a list to find you the best electric shavers.
Say goodbye to nicks, cuts and skin irritation, and say hi to a smooth, comfortable shave.
Best electric shaver for a close shave
When you really want to scrub up well, nothing beats a close have. The best electric shaver for a close shave needs to have sharp blades to get in really close, but to take special care of your face too. Nobody wants a nasty nick!
Electric foil shavers target fine hairs in particular and so are great if you don’t get thick and wiry facial hair – which is better removed with a rotary shaver. When shopping for the best electric foil shaver for men, go for one which has tech to help the blade flex. That way you won’t irritate your skin when you need to get close.
Why not try
The Braun Series 6 Wet & Dry Foil Shaver has SensoFlex technology that moves with the shape of your face. It’s 100% waterproof too, so you can shave in the shower and save time in the morning.
Best electric shaver for sensitive skin
Sensitive skin requires extra care. The best electric shaver for sensitive skin should have features like hypoallergenic blades and skin-friendly technology to prevent irritation and redness.
Why not try
The Panasonic Beard Sensor Wet & Dry Electric Shaver uses tech that changes the amount of power depending on how thick and full your facial hair is. That means more power when you have a thick beard and less when you’re just removing finer, shorter hair. This helps prevent skin irritation.
It’s also one of the best travel electric shavers. Not only does it fit into its own snug pouch, but a quick 3-minute charge will give you enough power for a full shave. Lifesaver when you’re on the go!
Best electric shaver for your head
For those who rock the bald look or simply prefer a clean-shaven head, the best electric shaver for heads is a rotary shaver with a pivoting head. That way you don’t have to have eyes in the back of your head to make sure that you’re getting an even length – as the razor will stick closely to the shape of your head. Waterproof electric shavers are also a must – shaving your head can be a messy job so it’s a good idea to do it in the shower. Rotary razors are also great when trying to maintain that trendy stubble.
Why not try
With its wide pivoting head and 360° PivotBall, the Remington Limitless X5 Wet & Dry Rotary Shaver will follow the contours of your head closely – so you’ll get a nice even shave all over your head. It’s also a great general shaver for men’s body hair and short or long stubble too.
Best budget electric shaver
For those looking for even more wallet-friendly options, the best budget electric shaver doesn’t mean trimming back on great features – like loads of different length settings and cordless power so you don’t get tangled up. Big brands offer affordable electric shavers as entry-level models, so you still get a smooth shave while spending what you’re comfortable with.
Why not try
Take the Braun Wet & Dry Beard Trimmer Kit. Get a cordless shaver with a precision dial, meaning you get 39 length settings at an amazing price!
Best electric shaver for beginners
If you're new to shaving, electric shavers are a great choice. Unlike shaving manually, it’s a lot less likely that you’ll cut yourself while you’re getting your technique down. At this point, it will be all about getting used to shaving – so a grooming kit will let you experiment with lots of lengths and attachments.
Why not try
The Philips Series 5000 Multi Grooming Kit is not only a bargain for a beginner, but 11 attachments lets you try different styles and find your look. Its 80-minute battery life is great too, so you can spend longer in the bathroom experimenting.
Best rotary shaver
Rotary shavers are great since they adapt to the shape of your face and neck. Since their heads rotate it means they’re easy to use and glide comfortably across your face. They’re the go-to shavers for the clean shaven or stubble look. Look for self-sharpening blades, so you don’t have to worry about changing your razor’s head regularly.
Why not try
The Philips Series 3000 gives you everything you’d want from the best rotary shavers, but has some other tricks too. Its pop out trimmer is excellent for taking on sideburns and hair lines – so you’ll look as sharp as its blades.
Best face shaver
The best face shavers need plenty of protection for a smooth, sensitive shave with no cuts. While a traditional razor blade is great for a close shave, electric shavers give you much more control over how much you want to cut off – from close stubble to a well-maintained beard. So look for a shaver that has plenty of attachments for different options.
Why not try
PHILIPS OneBlade Pro 360 is a good call. Because it’s easy to adjust the length and the head pivots as you shave, so you can get the exact look you’re after – whether you’re trimming, edging or shaving. Blades come with a glide coating which keep you safe from cuts and look after sensitive skin.
FAQs
Are foil or rotary shavers better?
The choice between foil and rotary shavers often comes down to what you want to use your shaver for. Foil shavers, with their oscillating blades beneath a thin metal foil, are great for close, precise shaves – especially if you have sensitive skin. Rotary shavers feature circular heads with spinning blades – so are better at adapting to facial contours and can be more efficient for those with thicker or longer facial hair.
How to choose a men's electric shaver?
Start by thinking about how you shave. Is it a close shave, do you need it for your head or want a versatile option for your face and body? Next, what’s your skin type? Sensitive skin may require shavers with protective features. Battery life and wet/dry capabilities can be important if you travel a lot or prefer to shave in the shower. Finally, work out how much you want to spend and find the shaver to match.
How to get the best shave with an electric shaver?
1. Make sure your shaver is clean and well-maintained with plenty of battery. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and replacing blades or foils regularly.
2. Wash your face or the area you plan to shave to remove excess oil and dirt.
3. Use a pre-shave lotion or cream to soften the hair and provide a smoother glide.
4. While shaving, move the shaver against the direction of hair growth for the closest shave. Stretch your skin taut to create a smooth surface.
5. Finish with a moisturising aftershave or lotion to soothe the skin and prevent irritation.
Now you have more of an idea of what electric shaver you need, start looking at our great selection of men’s shavers. You’ll find Philips men’s shavers, Braun men’s shavers and lots of other top brands too.