Man shaving his beard using electric shaver

Guide to Electric Shaver: Types & How to Choose

Written by: Alvin Lim

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Time to read 7 min

Introduction

Electric shavers have made men’s grooming easier and faster, offering a quick alternative to traditional razors. Whether you're in a rush or need a fast touch-up, an electric shaver delivers a smooth shave without needing shaving cream or water.

There are different types of electric shavers to suit various needs, from foil shavers for precise cuts to rotary models for thicker hair. In this guide, we’ll break down the types of electric shavers and share tips to help you pick the best one for your routine.

💡 Did you know

Electric shavers can cut up to 80% faster than traditional razors, making them a go-to option for men seeking a quick, convenient grooming solution without the need for water or shaving cream

Electric shaver vs razor

Electric Shaver vs. Safety Razor for Face Shaving

Choose an electric shaver for speed, convenience, and gentle skin care. Opt for a safety razor if you prefer a close, precise shave and enjoy the traditional experience. Your choice depends on your grooming priorities.

Types of Electric Shavers & their usages

Electric shavers come in two main types—foil and rotary—each offering different advantages based on shaving preferences and needs.

Foil shavers have a thin metal layer covering oscillating blades, giving a close, precise shave. They're best for straight shaving motions and work well on sensitive skin, reducing irritation. Ideal for detailed grooming, like sideburns and jawlines.

Rotary shavers use circular heads that move smoothly over facial contours, making them great for thicker hair and hard-to-reach areas like the chin and neck. They’re perfect for men who don’t shave daily and need a flexible, easy shave for longer hair.

Foil Shavers vs. Rotary Shavers: Which Is Best For You?

Rotary Shave


  • Design: Features circular, rotating heads that move with the contours of the face.

  • Shaving Motion: Adapts to different angles and hair lengths.

  • Ideal For:
    • Thick Stubble: Handles longer and coarser hair effectively.
    • Ingrown-Prone Skin: Reduces the risk of ingrown hairs.
    • Nickel Allergy: Typically made from hypoallergenic materials.
    • Body Shaving: Versatile for larger areas like the chest and back.
    • Head Shaving: Suited for shaving the scalp with ease.

  • Not Ideal For:
    • Sensitive Skin: May cause irritation if not used carefully.

 Foil Shaver 


  • Design: Uses a thin metal foil with oscillating blades.

  • Shaving Motion: Best for straight, back-and-forth motions.

  • Ideal For:
    • Average Users: Offers a close, precise shave.
    • Infrequent Shavers: Provides a consistent shave with minimal effort.
    • Sensitive Skin: Reduces irritation and minimizes discomfort.

  • Not Ideal For:
    • Thick Stubble: May require more passes for a thorough shave.
    • Body and Head Shaving: Less effective on larger or more contoured areas.

Foil shavers excel in precision and are perfect for sensitive skin and detailed grooming. Rotary shavers offer greater flexibility and are better for varying hair types, body, and head shaving.

How to Choose the Best Electric Shaver for Men

Selecting the right electric shaver involves considering several key factors to ensure you get a device that fits your grooming needs perfectly. Here’s how to make the best choice:

1. Skin Type and Sensitivity

  • Sensitive Skin: Opt for foil shavers that are designed to reduce irritation and provide a gentle shave.
  • Normal to Less Sensitive Skin: Both foil and rotary shavers can work, but choose based on your preferred shaving technique and comfort.

2. Shaving Frequency

  • Daily Shavers: Look for shavers with high-performance motors and precision cutting for a close shave.
  • Infrequent Shavers: Consider a rotary shaver for its ability to handle longer hair and maintain versatility.

3. Hair Type and Thickness

  • Thicker or Coarser Hair: Rotary shavers are better suited as they handle thicker stubble and varying hair lengths more effectively.
  • Fine or Normal Hair: Foil shavers can offer a closer, more controlled shave for finer hair.

4. Grooming Needs

  • Detail Work (Sideburns, Jawline): Foil shavers provide better control and precision for detailed grooming.
  • Body and Head Shaving: Rotary shavers are more versatile and effective for larger areas like the body and scalp.

5. Budget and Longevity

  • High-End Models: Invest in premium shavers with advanced features like multiple speed settings and extended battery life.
  • Budget Options: Look for reliable models with essential features that offer good performance without breaking the bank.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

  • Ease of Cleaning: Choose shavers with washable heads or self-cleaning systems to simplify maintenance.
  • Replacement Parts: Consider the availability and cost of replacement parts like blades and foils.

7. Battery Life and Charging

  • Frequent Travelers: Opt for models with long battery life and quick charging capabilities for convenience on the go.
  • At-Home Use: Battery life is less critical if the shaver will be used primarily at home.

By evaluating these factors, you can find the best electric shaver that meets your grooming preferences and delivers a comfortable, effective shave.


Read more A Comprehensive Guide and Tips for Using the Best Electric Shaver for Manscaping

Top 5 Electric Shavers for Men in 2024

1. Skyworth YS33 Pebble 3-Head Electric Shaver


  • Type: Rotary Shaver

  • Features: 3-head design; Li-Ion battery; IPX7 waterproof.

  • Best Use For: Versatile shaving with a sleek, ergonomic design. Ideal for men who need a reliable, waterproof shaver for both wet and dry use, providing a smooth shave with easy maintenance.


Skyworth YS33 Pebble 3-Head Electric Shaver

2. Skyworth C7 Rotary Electric Shaver


  • Type: Rotary Shaver

  • Features: 3D rotary heads; Li-Ion battery; smart charging indicator; IPX7 waterproof.

  • Best Use For: Flexible, adaptive shaving. Great for men who need a shaver that adjusts to different hair lengths and contours, with the added convenience of smart charging and waterproof features.

Skyworth C7 Rotary Electric Shaver

3. Hyundai X1 Rotary Electric Shaver

  • Type: Rotary Shaver

  • Features: 3D rotary heads; Li-Ion battery; Type-C charging; smart charging indicator.

  • Best Use For: Efficient and modern grooming. Perfect for those who appreciate the latest charging technology and a versatile shaver that handles varied hair types with ease.
Hyundai X1 Rotary Electric Shaver

4.Hyundai Mini Portable Shaver M1
 

  • Type: Foil Shaver

  • Features: Compact design; Li-Ion battery; travel-friendly.

  • Best Use For: Portable, on-the-go grooming. Ideal for frequent travelers or those needing a compact shaver that delivers reliable performance in a small, convenient package.
Hyundai Mini Portable Shaver M1

5.Skyworth G3 Lightsaber Rotary Electric Shaver

  • Type: Rotary Shaver

  • Features: 3D rotary heads; Li-Ion battery; IPX7 waterproof; unique design.

  • Best Use For: Stylish and practical shaving. Excellent for men who want a high-performance shaver with a distinctive look, offering reliable wet and dry shaving with advanced features.
Skyworth G3 Lightsaber

These shavers are selected for their performance and features, catering to various grooming needs and preferences for 2024.


Read more Top Picks Essential Grooming Tools for Men in 2024

Conclusion and Recommendation

Choosing the right electric shaver can significantly enhance your grooming routine, offering convenience and precision tailored to your specific needs. Whether you prefer the adaptability of a rotary shaver or the close shave of a foil model, the top choices for 2024 provide a range of features to suit different preferences.

The Skyworth YS33 Pebble, C7, and G3 Lightsaber as well as the Hyundai X1, offer advanced rotary shaving with features like waterproof designs and smart charging indicators. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Mini Portable Shaver M1 stands out for its compact, travel-friendly design. Each of these models is engineered to deliver a smooth, efficient shave, ensuring you find the perfect shaver to meet your grooming needs.

Investing in one of these top-rated electric shavers will not only streamline your daily routine but also provide a more enjoyable and effective shaving experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I choose between a foil and a rotary shaver?

Foil shavers are ideal for those who prefer a close, precise shave and have sensitive skin, as they reduce irritation. They work best with straight, back-and-forth shaving motions.


Rotary shavers are better for adapting to facial contours and handling longer or coarser hair, making them suitable for those who don’t shave daily and need flexibility.

How often should I replace the blades or foils in my electric shaver?

Blade and foil replacement frequency depends on usage. Generally, it’s recommended to replace them after every 12 to 18 months, with daily cleaning.

Check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific recommendations, and consider replacing them sooner if you notice a decrease in shaving quality.

Can I use an electric shaver in the shower or with shaving cream?

Many modern electric shavers are designed to be waterproof and safe for use in the shower, as well as with shaving cream or gel. Check the product specifications to ensure it is IPX7 rated or has similar waterproof capabilities for wet use

How do I clean and maintain my electric shaver?

Cleaning methods vary by model. Most shavers can be rinsed under water, while others may require a cleaning brush or the use of a cleaning station. 


Regularly clean your shaver after each use to remove hair and skin debris. For models with a cleaning station, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.

What is the average battery life of an electric shaver, and how long does it take to charge?

Battery life varies by model but generally ranges from 30 to 60 minutes of shaving time per charge.

Charging times also differ, with most shavers fully charging in about 1 to 2 hours. Some models offer quick-charge options for a single shave with just a few minutes of charging. Check the product details for specific battery performance and charging times

Alvin Lim - founder of SGPomades

I am the founder of SGPomades, driven by a passion for men's grooming and dedicated to providing top-notch grooming essentials. Outside of work, I cherish moments with my daughters, flying kites and enjoying park strolls. Join me on this journey to elevate your grooming game and discover the best in men's personal care.