Whether it is the first time you are purchasing an electric shaver or upgrading from a previous model , choosing one can be pretty confusing. But to save you from this hassle of what characteristics to look for , we have brought you a buying guide for rotary shavers.
You may also have queries about how they work, what are the advantages and disadvantages, steps to using one, replacing parts or even maintenance of a rotary shaver. Rest assured, for all your questions are going to be answered.
Also if at any point, there is something that you don’t follow, or have a query about something , feel free to leave us a comment right below at the end of this article.
So now without further ado, let us get on with the buying Guide of Rotary Electric Shavers.
Top Rotary Electric Shavers
| Best Rotary Shavers | Flex heads | Run time | Waterproof | Buying Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philips Norelco Electric Shaver | 8 | 60 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| SweetLF Electric Shaver | 4 | 120 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Philips Norelco S1560 Electric Shaver | 4 | 35 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| MOOSOO Shaver for Men | 4 | 100 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| ELEHOT Rotary Electric Shaver | 4 | 60 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| MAX-T Men's Electric Shaver | 4 | 120 mnts | YesYes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| ROAMAN Electric Razor for Men | 4 | 120 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Philips Norelco Shaver 4100 (Model AT810/41) | 4 | 50 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Vifycim Electric Razor | 4 | 60 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Philips Norelco 3100 Rechargeable Electric Shaver | 4 | 40 mnts | Yes | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Philips Norelco Electric Shaver
9000 Prestige is one of the latest editions of Philips norelco’s high-end range. The brand is very confident about this product. And many customers agree to this and also claim it to be efficient enough to shave a 7-day old beard.
This model comes with a wireless charging technology but gives the power of a corded shaver. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives 60 minutes of shaving time. LED numeric display indicates its battery life.
Its advanced blades give the closest shave without causing any skin discomfort. This new-found technology has a built-in sensor that identifies the hair density(15 times per second) and allows the blades to automatically adapt to the face’s needs. It also features eight direction contouring heads that follow every curve of your face.
The smooth shave is ensured by precision blades that are strengthened with thousands of nanoparticles.
Talking about its structure, this is made of brushed aluminium finish that gives it an exquisite look. This can be conveniently used for wet or dry shaving.
The package includes a travel pouch
Product dimension- 10 x 6.3 x 4.2 inches
Flex head-8
Run time-60 minutes
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Come with a travel pouch
- Gives a close shave
- Easy cleaning
Cons
- Doesn’t have many accessories
2. SweetLF Electric Shaver
SweetLF is one of our mid-range picks. This is a powerhouse shaver as it can run smoothly for two hours with just an hour of charge. There is also a 5 level display that will indicate the battery level.
This 3D rotary shaver that comes with 4 directional floating heads. This feature helps to automatically adapt to the shape of the face and give you a clean close shave.
With the implementation of double tracker cutter, the contact surfer is increased, so it not only saves your time but also energy. Plus its automatic grinding technology and self-sharpened blades smoothly shave the hair without damaging the skin.
And this powerful motor produces low noise.
There is a convenience of USB charging and it can work on universal voltage.
It also offers a warranty of 15 months.
Package includes- Cleaning Brush and Portable bag
Product dimension– 3.2 x 4.3 x 7.5 inches
Flex head-4
Run time-120 minutes
Charging time– 1 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Quiet motor
- Gives a close shave
- Battery life indicator
Cons
- Battery is not very long lasting
3. Philips Norelco S1560 Electric Shaver
If you want a shaver from Philips at an affordable range, then this can be the right choice. This model is one of the most affordable in the Philips series.
But don’t judge its efficiency based on its price. This can deliver a close shave with its 4 flex head. This can independently move in four directions and adjusts to the curve of your face.
This is engineered to be precise with its self-sharpening blades that gives you a close shave without harming the skin. This also increases the lifespan of the product as the blades self sharpen with every use.
A pop-up trimmer is also featured that lets you get a perfect moustache and sideburns.
Maintaining and cleaning this is also very easy, simply pop up the heads and rinse it underwater.
This runs on a rechargeable battery that gives you 35 minutes of shaving time.
There is also a two-year warranty on this.
Product dimension– 3.5 x 5 x 9.6 inches, 13.6 ounces
Flex head-4
Run time-35minutes
Charging time- 8 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Includes pop up timer
- Easy maintenance
- 4 flex heads
Cons
- Takes two long to charge
4. MOOSOO Shaver for Men
Moosoo is a 4 head flex shaver. The 3D rotary shaver can follow every curve of the face and its pop up trimmer helps you get a detailed beard. With this you can try different styles like stubble, goatee and more.
This also features a unique double ring blade design that increases the contact surface and gives a pretty close shave.
The motor is powerful and quiet and this combined with self sharpening blades gives you a quick seamless shave.
This can run for a longer time as compared to other-100 minutes with just an hour of charge.
This is also 100% water proof that gives the flexibility of using it for wet or dry shave.
You also receive a 24 months of worry-free service, one year of exchange service.
Product dimension- 3.4 x 2.9 x 7.2 inches, 6.4 ounces
Flex head-4
Run time-100 minutes
Charging time– 1 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Includes pop up timer
- Features double ring blade
- Runs for long time
Cons
- Doesn’t come with any accessories
5. ELEHOT Rotary Electric Shaver
ELEHOT rotary electric shaver grabbed a place here on our list for its interesting features.
It has 4-direction flexible heads that rotate 3-dimensionally for a better shave experience adaptable with your face contours. Due to this feasibility, it improves the shaving efficiency by 50%.
Besides, it equips a pop-up trimmer switch that can shave the mustache and sideburns easily without effort. Also, it comes with a wide blade for a smooth shave.
By charging its Lithium battery for one hour, you can use this cordless shaver continuously for 60 minutes.
Though used longer, it is damage-free and risk-free. Its 4 heads come with a protective cover, and so they won’t get damaged. Moreover, it is a water-proof shaver and fulfills wet and dry shaving purposes. But, you can’t use it directly while having a shower.
The heads of the shaver are easily detachable and washable. So, you can clean them often under the faucet and ensure better maintenance and durability.
Coming to its intelligent and interesting system, it has intelligent power monitoring that shows the remaining available time on the display screen. Also, it notifies a small faucet icon to remind you to clean the razor.
Along with such special features, it has a smart travel lock to prevent accidental touch. Thereby, you can safely carry it for travel when needed.
Product Dimensions – 7.56*5.75*3.19 inches
Flex Head – 4
Run time – 60 minutes
Charging Time – 1 hour
Wet and Dry Shaving – Both
Pros:
- Shaves the face well
- Easy to use
- Washable heads
- Longer battery life
Cons:
- It may not be suitable for sensitive skin
6. MAX-T Men’s Electric Shaver
A go to product for people with sensitive skin. This 3D rotary shaver comes with hypoallergenic blades which prevents the skin from any known allergies.
Its 3 floating heads feature 4 flex heads that adapts to the curve of the face and smoothly removes hair. A 360 degree rotation glides along the skin and gives a close shave without leaving any residue. It also features a double track cutter which gives fast efficient shaving.
This smart design also has a travel lock that avoids unexpected activation.
With 60 minutes of quick charging it can run for 120 minutes and the battery level is indicated on battery power countdown.
There is also a convenience of both wet and dry shaving.
Product dimension- 6 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches, 9.6 ounces
Flex head-4
Run time- 120 minutes
Charging time– 1 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Double blade pop up trimmer
- 3D floating heads
- Hypoallergenic blades
Cons
- Battery indicator can stop working after a while
7. ROAMAN Electric Razor for Men
Roaman electric shavers also comes with hypoallergenic blades. The 3D floating heads can move in four directions and automatically adjust to the curve of neck and face. This comfortably removes hair without leaving any residue.
While its dual track cutter gives you a fast shaving, saving a lot of your time.
This powerful motor with its high speed efficiency produces very less noise, to give a quiet shaving experience.
Being waterproof you can comfortably use it for dry and wet shave. This can also run for a long time (120 minutes) with just an hour of charge. The battery status countdown is displayed on the percentage display located on the front face of the shaver. It can also be carried around the globe as it works on 110-240 voltage.
This smart design also features a safety lock. That can be initiated by pressing the power button for 3s.
Package include USB charger, 1 Wall Adapter, 1 Cleaning Brush,1 Gorgeous Carry Bag, 1 User Manual
Product dimension- 6.5 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches, 9.6 ounces
Flex head-4
Run time- 120 minutes
Charging time– 1 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- features pop up trimmer
- 3D floating heads
- Hypoallergenic blades
Cons
- Some customers have reviewed it not be very durable
8. Philips Norelco Shaver 4100 (Model AT810/41)
Philips norelco shaver 4100 is one of the stylish models among the norelco range. The combination of blue black strip stands out and the device easily fits in hand.
Its three dual precision rotary blades can cut the toughest of beard without discomforting the skin. The engineered slots and holes in the rotary mesh allows easy shaving in the curved parts of chin and jawline.
The pop trimmer can be used for sideburns, moustache and more.
While the Patented Super Lift and Cut dual-blade action lifts hair to cut comfortably below skin level.
This can comfortably be used for dry or wet shave. It is also easily washable, just rinse under water to remove all the residue.
Its LED indicator shows the battery life which helps you prep well in advance.
This device gives 50 minutes of shaving time per charge and takes around 8 hours for complete charge.
This comes with a protection cap, cleaning brush and power cord, plus a 2 year warranty.
Product dimension– 1.8 x 2 x 6.1 inches, 6.2 ounces
Flex head- 4
Run time– 50 minutes
Charging time– 8 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Give two year warranty
- Protection cap keeps the blade clean
- Patented super lift design
Cons
- Take too long to charge
9. Vifycim Electric Razor
This Vifycim electric razor can really be a good choice because it fulfills your many shaving needs.
Along with the razor, you get three different-sized combs (3 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm). So, using the hair clipper and these varied combs, you can style your beard and hair as you like. Assembling and removing these attachments is also easy, and so you need not worry about the usage.
Moreover, its whole body is made waterproof and allows wet and dry shaving. And also, you can clean it well under the faucet for better maintenance and durability.
As the shaver has three 4-directional heads, it’s hassle-free and flexible to shave your beard, mustache, and face by adjustable movement. These heads are made of aerospace-grade stainless steel that is effective and long-lasting.
Besides, its double-track spherical cutter net and German technology steel blades automatically fit the razor and move by adapting to the shape of your face, neck, jaw, and sideburns.
The shaver also runs with a high-power motor and finishes your work within minutes. It takes about 2 hours to fully charge the electric razor through the USB channel. However, once it is charged completely, it operates for 90 minutes without interruptions while shaving.
It’s so compact, lightweight, and portable that you can put it in your briefcase or bag and carry it wherever you go for a stylish clean shave.
Product Dimensions – 7.87*4.33*3.23 inches
Flex Head – 3
Run time – 90 minutes
Charging Time – 1 hour
Wet and Dry Shaving – Both
Pros:
- Close and smooth shave
- It comes with three comb attachments.
- Very sturdy and durable
- Easy to use
Cons:
- The battery life is not satisfactory.
- No USB cable
- Cleaning is a bit messy.
10. Philips Norelco 3100 Rechargeable Electric Shaver
Philips Norelco Shaver 3100 features 4 flex heads. These heads move independently and contours to the shape of the face. This comfortably removes the hair from the chin and jawline without disturbing the skin.
The comfort round blades have a round edge that provides comfort while shaving. This glides smoothly across the skin while preventing nicks and cuts.
This also features a pop trimmer that is great for detailed work.
The lithium ion battery gives 45 minutes of service on charging for 8 hours. And its battery life is indicated on the LED display.
Though this has a bulkier design but it is quite light in weight and the front of the shave has rubber like material in horizontal design which improves the grip.
There is also a two year warranty on this.
Product dimension– 3.5 x 5 x 9.6 inches, 13.6 ounces
Flex head-4
Run time– 40 minutes
Charging time– 8 hour
Wet and dry shaving– both
Pros
- Give two year warranty
- Round edge blades
- Rubber like grip
Cons
- Take too long to charge
Things To Consider Before Buying a Rotary Shaver
It is important to note that based on your requirements and needs , you need to choose the right shaver for yourself, or repent later when your Rotary shaver isn’t functioning properly and fails to deliver. For this reason based on the usage of the rotary shaver one with the right specifications needs to be chosen.
There are a few key specifications which you need to keep in mind before making a purchase . Some of them are :
1. Brand or Make
It is possible that you are brand conscious , or maybe want to stick to a manufacturer which offers certain features and the reliability which are unique to it. It may also be that you are an old user of Rotary Shaver and it’s just that you want to update your product and may not necessarily want to shift to another brand.
2. Charging and Run time
It is most fundamental that along with smooth and efficient trimming, your Rotary shaver gives a decent run time . For sometimes you may be in a rush and cannot afford to wait for your shaver to charge. This is when you need the reliability of a shaver which has a decent run time so that you always have enough battery power left for another quick trim without having to wait endless hours to use the shaver again. Also it is always lucky to have a shaver which charges soon so as not to wait up to pack it before you leave home for a trip.
- Travel Friendly– It is always handy to have a shaver which is travel friendly , without having to worry much about where you need to fit it in while packing your briefcase. Also it’s important that your shaver has a body tough enough to not break or crack while you are travelling with all that luggage .
- Wet or Dry Trimming– One of the most disturbing aspects of shaving is when the hair begins to pull when they are wet and the shaver no longer glides over them. This forces you to keep going over the same part of your face while you are shaving which after a point of time becomes a bit irritating. Hence you need a shaver which is able to tackle and do both- wet or dry trimming.
- Warranty- It is totally not worth it if you choose a shaver which doesn’t come with the promise of durability. If you are going through the trouble of selecting a shaver which delivers in performance and user-friendliness, it would be rather disappointing if your shaver doesn’t last you a sufficiently long time or at least come with a warranty so that you can be assured that if something does go wrong you have the warranty as your safeguard.
How do Rotary Shavers Work
At this point, it is also fundamental to take note of the fact ,as to how the product that you’re looking for functions. We will try to give it to you in the easiest terms.
It is interesting to note that the first ever Rotary shaver had only one rotating head. They were introduced in the year 1939 by Philishave which is today known as Philips Norelco.
Now , rotary shavers have as many as three shaving heads which are powered by one motor. Also if you have noticed, each rotary head comprises an outer layer-the mesh layer and a metal ring which lies inside it. This metal ring consists of steel blades which are usually five to six in number.
After you switch on the power button , the metal blades rotates at pretty fast speeds of about 12,000-15,000 cycles per minute , which is why the shaver gets the name rotary.
When you glide the shaver across your face, the whiskers on your face slip into this wire mesh and the rotating blades slice of the hairs at the base.
Since there is more than one head of the shaver, the task of cutting the hairs is split between them which gives more efficient shaving and trimming of hair.
Also for the same reason, it is easier to use since less hair gets accumulated on the shavers and they are easier to clean than normal shavers.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Rotary Shavers
Advantages
1. Rotary Shavers work with all sorts of hairs
The most important reason why a rotary shaver is better than other normal shavers is its ability to work with all different types of hairs. With normal shavers which have a single mesh in a straight plane, it becomes difficult for them to trim off hairs which do not automatically fall into the mesh of the shaver. However, with rotary shavers which have circular heads, overlapping motions make it easier for the hairs to poke through the slits in the heads, and hence they are more efficient to deal with hair which are of different lengths and grow in all directions .
2. Rotary Shavers are easier to use
Where normal foil razors require multiple changes of direction and angle in order to get a clean shave, a rotary razor is comparatively simpler to use. It makes use of circular motions which require less effort and allows you to be less aware of the particularities of the surface being shaved, like the jawline or your chin.
3. Rotary shavers have a quiet operation
Where normal foil razors produce loud buzzing sounds, rotary shavers on the other hand have a quiet operation mode. This is because of the reason that foil shavers have fast motors that oscillate at a very high speed, giving a loud, high pitched whine, while rotary shavers only emit a low hum.
Disadvantages
Closeness- The only disadvantage which might come into mind while using a rotary shaver would be one of closeness. In comparison to a foil razor , it may not cut as close. This is because of the fact that rotary shavers have a different technique. Instead of the usual back and forth motion which is how usual foil shavers work , rotary shavers use a circular motion which may get an adjustment period while shaving which may require you getting used to.
Easy steps to shave with a Rotary Shaver-
For your convenience, we have simplified using of a rotary shavers in 5 basic steps:
1. Pre Shaving Routine
After you have made up your mind whether you wish to go in for a dry or wet shave you need to prepare the skin of your face accordingly. If you are going in for a dry shave, it is important to rub your face with a towel so that the skin on your face is no longer moist. For a wet shave you may apply a shaving gel and rub it with a moist shaving brush so it lathers accordingly.
2. Trimming down your hair
Before you go through with a complete clean sweep of the hairs , it is advisable to trim down the hair on your face. Doing so makes it easier for the shaver to work more effectively giving you a cleaner shave with less work. This is especially if you have had a thick outgrowth of hair since your last shave. Also the trimming routine is advised for both- a dry or a wet shave.
3. Moving in slow circular motions
It is important for you to move your rotary shaver in the motion which would give the best output. For this reason you need to keep the device at a 90-degree angle to your face so the blades are flat against your skin and then moving the shaver in slow circular motions is imperative.
4. Repetitions while keeping the skin tight
For getting an even more effective shave with your rotary shaver, it is advisable to keep your skin tight while you glide over it . For this you may pull your skin while you slide the shaver across it or also may puff your mouth with air so as to make it easier for the shaver to do the work. While shaving your chin and beneath it , lifting your head is advised. Also going over an area again is better to get a more effective and clean shave.
5. Post shave Routine
After you have completed shaving , make sure you rinse the shaver under warm water , especially if you had a wet shave. The foam and hair sticking in it clogs the inside of your shaver if its left sticking in for long. It is also advisable to use an aftershave which is non alcoholic to make sure your skin stays fresh and doesn’t damage it.
Replacing your rotary shaver heads
This can be done in 5 easy steps:
1. Detaching and removing shaver the shaver head
After setting up a place, press the button on the side of the device to remove or flip open the head. Be advised to keep some towels or a newspaper underneath so as to prevent hair and other gunk to mess your floor as you open the shover head.
2. Unlatching and removing Shaver blades
Every blade of the shaver has a rubber ring that locks the blade into place. Twist it to unlock and remove it. Next, slowly pop out the blades or use your fingers to press them from outside to free their position.
3. Adding/Replacing new blades
After removing the old blades , carefully seat the new blades in the same position and place as the old ones. Be cautious while you place the new blades because they can be pretty sharp.
4. Attaching blade locks
After placing the blades, insert the lock ring and twist it counterclockwise so as to lock it into place. You may also wiggle the blades to make sure that they have been locked and are secure.
5. Attaching Shaver Head
Next, close the shaver head, and make sure that you hear a clicking sound which tells you that your rotary shaver is finally locked and fit for use.
Rotary Shaver Maintenance Tips
It is imperative that for your rotary shaver to last long , you take care of it and give it the maintenance it needs. For this we have 4 essential tips so as to maintain the longevity of your rotary shaver.
1. Thorough Cleaning at least once a month
It is most important that you open the rotary blades once a month , and give them a thorough cleaning so as to remove any hair or gunk which might have accumulated with use. This is to make sure that your blades do not get clogged and are able to move freely to give you a great shave each time.
2. Frequent Lubrication
Though this might sound unusual , the best way to keep the blades of your shaver healthy is by lubricating them at least once a week . You may use the clipper oil which came with your shaver or even if your shaver didn’t come with it , you can always use baby oil. Place a drop of oil into each blade. Doing this would remove any residue on the blades and then give them a layer of protection providing them ultimately a longer life.
3. Replace the blades
It is vital to keep in mind that if you shave at least 3-4 times a week , you should change the heads of your shaver once a year. When the blades of the shaver become dull and lose their sharpness, they reduce the efficiency of the shaver. They cause the motor of the device to deteriorate due to stress , and may also cause pulls and nicks.
4. Protecting your shaver
It is of paramount importance that you store or place your shaver in a place which is safe, where it may not be prone to being knocked over . It is advisable to always keep your shaver in case , especially when you are travelling. Also to this end, it is essential that your shaver isn’t placed close to or next to substances which might be corrosive in nature which might damage the blades in the device.
Conclusion
Shaving is an age old process. Over time the process has developed with a number of gadgets.
This can be a time consuming process and that’s the reason why people tend to be more inclined towards electric shaver.
And a rotary shave perfectly contours the face and smoothly shaves without leaving any residue.
All our listed products are efficient to perform the job well and offer different features. You can select as per your requirement. And this can be used for both wet and dry shaving.
Our best pick among this is Philips Norelco SP9820/87 Shaver 9000 Prestige. This comes with 8 flex heads, these adapt to the shape of the face and removes all the hair without discomforting the skin. This has a built-in sensor that identifies the hair density(15 times per second) and allows the blades to automatically adapt to the face’s needs.