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It can be tough to determine which is the best razor for men since the market is flooded with numerous shaving tools.
The traditionalists seem content with their authentic custom style straight razors, while the avid groomers prefer the outcome of a cartridge-based model.
Curiosity begs to ask which is better between the two.
The truth is that both are capable of delivering a clean shave. Read on for more details and reviews.
A Quick Glance At The Top 3 Razors
Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Classic Safety Razor
Mercur 34C is a short-handle, highly durable safety razor with a great balance. We like Mercur a lot because it is a value-for-money durable, stylish safety razor.
Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 2100
For the second spot, we chose an electric Shaver, and it couldn’t be anything other than Philips Norelco 2100. It is easy to clean with self-sharpening blades and a long-lasting battery.
Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power Men’s Razor
Our third choice is one of the best sellers. Gillette Fusion Proglide Power is battery-powered with really thin blades for a deep shave. It uses Flexball technology to ensure you will shave every single hair.
How to use a razor
- Ensure that your beard is thoroughly wet.
- Use a shaving brush to apply shaving cream or gel. ( read more about the best shaving cream & the best shaving gel).
- Use a razor with a sharp blade.
- Avoid putting excess pressure; instead, let the blade do the work.
- Unless you are experienced enough, try to avoid shaving against the grain.
- Shave at the right angle- start at 90°, then roll down to 45°, then to 30° as you progress.
- Use short strokes of about 1-2.”
- Re-lather every time you want to re-shave.
- Remember to end with the neck area, as it is more sensitive and denser than the rest.
- Rinse with cold water.
- Apply a top-quality aftershave lotion.
Related Article: Cremo Shaving Cream Review
How do I Prevent Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hair?
Razor bumps and ingrown hair are a result of using methods and products that are not designed for curly or coarse hair. To avoid this, cut your hair cleanly to the skin level, and you won’t encounter these problems. To successfully prevent ingrown hair and razor bumps, you should also follow these tips:
- Never shave against the grain.
- Properly prepare the area to be shaved.
- Do not apply too much pressure when shaving.
- Avoid using electric trimmers because they cause irritation and razor bumps.
- Allow a period of one or two days between shaves, especially if you are prone to razor bumps.
- Do not reuse blades as they become dull and dirty, worsening your condition.
Best Razor For Men Review
1. Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power Men’s Razor – Best Cartridge Razor
The Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razor features Gillette’s thinnest and finest blades. Its handle is designed with FlexBall technology – The next step in Gillette’s quest to bring you closer to the shave you want with less effort.
The ProGlide Power razor with FlexBall Technology pivots around while the blades are gently guided by contouring to your face for a close shave.
The Gillette Fusion ProGlide is battery-powered and delivers an optimal shave when the frequency and voltage are consistent. Regular usage weakens the voltage and frequency, so you must keep an eye on the battery life.
The Gillette Fusion ProGlide has a microchip that monitors the battery and signals you every time the battery is about to die. It has a feature that automatically turns it off after about 8 minutes of continuous usage. This feature protects the battery life in case the razor is activated accidentally.
It also has soothing micro-pulses that increase razor glide and reduce friction. The comfort level in this blade is so high that you can hardly feel the blades. Its enhanced lubra strip is infused with lubricating polymers and mineral oil to allow the blade to glide smoothly, even on repeat strokes.
Pros
- Great shaving experience.
- The auto-shutoff feature conserves battery life.
- Features the thinnest and finest blades by Gillette.
Cons
- It is pricey
2. Equinox Professional Straight Edge Razor – Best Straight Razor
Our grandfathers maintained a smooth face using straight razors such as the Equinox Professional Straight Razor in the old days. With one of these timeless razors, you will get an excellent shave without having to pay the big buck. It is made from quality stainless steel and is guaranteed to never tarnish or rust. The razor is built with an easy-to-open blade guard, making blade changing safe and effortless.
It is designed with stability and comfort in mind. Its ergonomic design gives the user good holding angles to avoid discomfort. When opened, your index and middle fingers rest on top, the ring finger on the back handle, while the thumb rests near the blade compartment.
In the package, you will find a box of one hundred Single Edge Blades by Derby that is wrapped individually to enhance hygiene and safety. Each blade can last up to 2-3 shaves, making it a great bargain. Finally, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you are not satisfied. If you like this kind of razor, read our best straight razor review.
Pros
- Ideal for personal and professional use.
- Features a disposable blade system.
- Rounded exposure at the end of the module compartment minimizes cuts.
- Comes with 100 Single Edge Blades.
Cons
- Not ideal for a newbie.
3. Philips Norelco Electric Shaver – Best Electric Shaver
The Philips 2100 offers a convenient and comfortable shave at a good price. It has 4-direction Flex Heads and a CloseCut Blade System to guarantee a smooth result. The CloseCut Blade System is designed to give you a precision shave every time. Its blades are not only durable but also self-sharpening. This ensures that the blades stay sharp throughout the shaving process.
The 4-directional flex heads move independently to cover every curve of your face for a smoother shave, even on the jawline and neck. Thanks to lithium batteries, you can now shave efficiently for longer periods.
It features a pop trimmer that is designed to maintain/trim your mustache and sideburns correctly. Its one-touch open feature allows you to pop the heads open and rinse under a tap. Its batteries can last up to 35 minutes, approximately 14 shaves, after 8 hours of charging. It only operates in cordless mode.
Pros
- It is pretty quiet.
- Easy to clean.
- Has self-sharpening blades.
- It runs on a long-lasting battery.
Cons
- It does not operate when charging.
- Its head cover is basically worthless.
- Constant usage tends to cause discomfort.
4. Edwin Jagger DE89bl – Best Double Edged Safety Razor
Edwin Jagger combines English quality with great design and well-established craftsmanship. The DE89bl is fitted with the latest DE razor blade head to provide a perfect wet shave. The results are comparable to the original straight razor.
The Edwin Jagger, which is a double-edge safety razor, reduces ingrown hair by achieving a very close shave. The handles are well balanced, giving a comfortable and close shave. The manufacturers recommend using the Badger Shaving Brush and Edwin Jagger Shaving Cream for the best experience. There are other good straight razors. You can read about the best safety razors here.
Pros
- Has a perfect blend of both weight and balance.
- It is stylish and shiny.
- Achieves a close shave every time.
- Each DE razor comes with 5 Derby safety razors.
Cons
- It is not as aggressive as its competitors.
5. Merkur 34C – Best Safety Razor
The Merkur 34C is probably one of the best safety razors. It has a relatively short handle made by a German company.
It is a modern take on the classic double-edge razor that perfectly blends style and full adjustability into an ergonomic design. Shaving remains consistent from the beginning to the end.
The blade gap slices through the hair instantly and scoops up the shaving residue for effortless cleanup; the chrome finish guarantees that the razor will last long.
Pros
- It is better than multi-blade razors.
- It has a perfect weight, blade angle, alignment, and finish.
- It is highly durable.
Cons
- Has a short handle.
What Are The Different Types of Razors?
1. Disposable razors
These are designed for limited usage. Typically, they are used once or twice and then discarded. They have a plastic handle that is permanently attached to the shaving head.
Pros
- They are affordable and sold in packs of 10-20.
- They are ideal for travel and camping.
Cons
- Blades are made of flimsy steel.
- The quality of the razors is sub-par.
- Delivers uneven shaves, which result in ingrown hair.
2. Electric razors
Electric razors are a popular choice for men who are constantly on the go. They have a rotating blade and can be used without shaving cream or water. Most electric razors are powered by rechargeable batteries.
The design and functionality of these blades have drastically improved over the last few decades.
These razors are effective and always get the job done, even in a hurry.
Pros
- It can be used on the go.
- Does not require shaving cream.
- Water and a bathroom sink are also not required.
- They are convenient and quick.
Cons
- They are not as effective as double-edged razors.
- They cause irritation.
3. Cartridge Razors
The Gillette Mach 3 is arguably the most popular cartridge razor.
These types of razors are easy to use and allow the user to shave along or against the grain.
They consist of a metal or plastic handle and a flexible center to allow the razor to follow the shape of the face.
Their cartridges contain up to 6 stainless steel blades offering a deep shave.
Pros
- A single cartridge is effective for 3-4 shaves.•
- They are considered to be the safest option.
Cons
- They are expensive.
- For a painless shave, cartridge razors require water and shaving soap.
4. Safety Razors
Safety razors have been around for quite some time; your grandfather and father probably used them for their daily shave.
Only a small part of this blade contacts your skin, which prevents cuts hence the name “safety razor.”Safety razors consist of a metal head and permanent handle with a replaceable stainless steel blade with double edges.
Pros
- They can be replaced once a week depending frequency of use.
- They require only a light touch shave to work on your beard effectively.
- They are a cheaper option compared to cartridge razors.
Cons
- It takes some time to get used to shaving with these razors.
5. Straight Razors
Also known as cut-throat razors, these blades consist of sharp blades that fold into their handles.
Their blades are made of hardened steel, while the handle is made from materials like wood, bone, plastic, horn, or metal.
The handles and blades are often customized to the user’s liking.
Pros
- The sharp edges of the blades provide a close shave.
- The blades last for long but need regular honing and stropping to keep the blade sharp and straight.
- They are cost-effective.
Cons
- They can cause deep cuts, especially if you are not careful.
- It takes a lot of practice to get used to shaving with a straight razor.
What Should I consider when choosing a razor?
- Blade type: Preferably, look for a stainless steel blade for premium sharpness and hygiene.
- Razor head: Flexibility is the key feature of a safety razor, so choose a razor head that can be angled across the face and locked in place for precision cutting. Most cartridge razors come with a pivotal head to offer a really deep shave.
- Maintenance: Choose a razor you can easily maintain; straight razors require regular cleaning of the razor lock system to last longer, whereas cartridge razors require a quick rinse after every shave.
- Length and weight: This depends on your hands. If you have big hands, you need a long, heavy razor; if you have small hands, you should choose a light razor with a smaller handle.
- Special features: It is worth noting any special features in the razors, such as cartridge razors with multiple blades or lubrication strips. The right features for your skin type will make your shaving experience better.
Conclusion
There is no denying that the Merkur 34C is the clear winner here; it is also a favorite among users and experts. For starters, it gives an accurate baby-bottom-smooth shave and is consistent throughout.
It has a double-edged razor and a stainless-steel blade. The razor head slices through hair and scoops shaving residue.
It is chrome plated to ensure it lasts long. It has a robust design that holds the blade at the appropriate angle. Threads on the tube are well-spaced to make it easy to screw the head on/off.
It is a bit heavy, which is good because it helps you get a steady and balanced shave. The Merkur 34C is arguably the best razor.
Russell is the founder of themensattitude.com. He is a barber a beard enthusiast and he is obsessed with trying men’s lifestyle products and blog about them. If you have any questions you can hit him up via the contact page.
