Finding the best electric shaver doesn't have to burn a hole in your pocket. Whether you're a newbie or a veteran, the right tool makes a difference. With all the choices out there, how do you know which offers the best value for money?
In this guide, we're reviewing the top six affordable electric shavers that give a smooth and comfortable shave without the heavy price tag.
The 6 Best Budget Electric Razors for a Smooth Shave
Best Cheap Electric Head Shaver: Freebird FlexSeries
The FlexSeries is an affordable electric shaver designed for baldies. If you prefer a clean-shaven head without irritation, nicks, or cuts, the FlexSeries delivers.
For only $39.95, the FlexSeries is a versatile grooming tool that comes with $60 worth of attachments, including:
Precision Clipper
3, 5, 7mm Safety Guards
Nose & Ear Trimmer
Exfoliation Brush
Silicon Scalp Scrubber
The FlexSeries is IPX5 water resistant, has a powerful 8,500 RPM motor, 60-minute battery power, a lifetime warranty, free shipping, a pop-up trimmer, and a five-head blade design that provides a smooth and close shave.
Its ScalpSafe blades are sharp enough to cut curly and coarse hair but gentle on sensitive skin.
It's time to make the switch from your manual razor.
If you can add $30 to your budget, the FlexSeries Pro is worth the extra dough.
It's the FlexSeries loaded with the latest technology and upgrades like:
An adaptive, quiet motor
Longer 90-minute battery
Enhanced four-blade system
Enlarged hair chamber
Travel lock feature
Three-level LED battery indicator
Anti-slip coating and rubber grips
IPX7 waterproofing
Read our guide for a more comprehensive comparison between the FlexSeries vs FlexSeries Pro.
Best Cheap Electric Rotary Shaver: Philips Norelco Shaver 2400
The Philips Norelco Shaver 2400 is the best entry-level rotary shaver that provides a comfortable shave.
According to Philips, the 2400's 27 ComfortCut self-sharpening blades have remained like new for 2 years. They also added SkinProtect technology and 4D Flex Heads to ensure a clean and comfortable shave every time.
How? The four floating heads flex in four directions, keeping them in constant contact with your skin for an even shave without nicks and cuts.
You also get wet and dry shaving capability, 40 minutes of cordless shaving, and a 5-minute quick charge feature that gives you enough power to finish your shave when you unexpectedly run out of juice.
At only $40, the Philips Norelco Shaver 2400 is the best inexpensive electric shaver that gives you value for money.
Best Cheap Electric Razor for Travel: Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 Face + Body
The Philips Norelco One Blade 360 Face and Body electric razor is the perfect travel companion for those who are always on the road. It's compact and lightweight and can trim your facial hair (beard, mustache, sideburns), body hair or shave your head while on the go.
The new 360-blade design flexes in all directions to maintain constant contact with your skin. A fast-moving cutter (12000x per min) can easily cut even longer hairs. The OneBlade also gives 45 minutes of power, enough to keep you looking sleek on a weekend road trip.
Its unique design makes it easy to handle, and you can also use it for either a dry or wet shave. The replacement blades on the Philips Norelco OneBlade electric razor last four months, lowering the cost of operations.
At around $50, you get a single tool for your face, body, head, and even below the belt.
Best Budget Foil Shaver for Wet and Dry Shaving: Braun Series 3000s Pro Skin
The Braun Series 3000s Pro Skin is a more affordable model from Braun, which caters to budget-conscious shavers looking for a cheap shaver from a reputable brand.
The 3000s Pro Skin features MicroComb technology, which Braun claims can catch more hair than its competitors.
For a budget shaver, it covers all the basics. It's IPX7 waterproof (dry and wet shaving), has a 45-minute battery, and has a five-minute quick charge feature, which allows a quick shave if you ever run out of power in the middle of a shave.
At $50, the Series 3000s is the best affordable electric razor from Braun.
Best Cheap Electric Foil Shaver for Dry Shaving: Andis Pro Foil Lithium Titanium Shaver
The Andis ProFoil shaver is a budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Braun 9 series. If you prefer foil shavers over rotary shavers, this is a good option.
The Andis ProFoil boasts super-thin gold titanium hypoallergenic foils, which protect users from irritation and provide a closer shave.
It's a favorite tool among barbers that you can also use at home. It's lightweight, has a powerful and quiet 9,000 SPM(strokes per minute) motor, an 80-minute battery, and can work cordless or plugged in.
You're limited to a dry shave with the Andis, which makes it ideal for those who are always in a hurry or on the road. Remember, the Andis is not waterproof, so no wet shaving and shaving cream.
Even if you can't clean your Andis ProFoil in running water, it's easy to clean. Push a button to remove the foil head, then clean the blades with a cleaning brush.
At $78, the Andis is a solid choice for budget seekers looking for the best budget foil shaver other than Braun.
Best Cheap Electric Shaver for Buzz Cuts: Remington ShortCut
Do you prefer a buzz cut over a clean shave? The Remington ShortCut Pro offers excellent value.
The extra-wide curved blades make a difference—they're 57% wider than the standard hair-clipper blades. The larger blades are like having an extra clipper for the price of one.
It's also waterproof, has a 40-minute battery, and includes a 14-piece length adjusting combs.
At $60, the ShortCut Pro is the best low-cost electric razor for buzz cuts.
What to Look for in an Affordable Electric Shaver
If you're looking for an inexpensive electric razor, there are a few things you should consider. Here's what to look for when buying one:
Foil Shaver vs Rotary Razor
When picking affordable electric razors, it is crucial to choose the right type of shaver based on your hair type and shaving preferences. Foil shavers are generally better for sensitive skin and give a closer shave than rotaries. Rotary shavers are easier to handle, faster, and can better handle thick and curly hair.
Read our comprehensive guide on foil vs rotary shavers.
Shaving Head Quality
Cheap electric razors with high-quality shaving heads are essential for a smooth and comfortable shaving experience. The number of heads may vary for rotaries, but what's important is the quality and sharpness of the blades. Dull blades pull and tug and will cause irritation, razor burn, and razor bumps.
Look for high-quality stainless steel and hypoallergenic blades for better performance.
Power and Motor Performance
Sharp blades and powerful motors are essential when choosing cheap electric shavers. What's the use of having sharp blades if you have a weak motor or a powerful motor and dull blades?
Affordable electric razors with powerful motors can handle various hair types without snagging or requiring multiple passes.
When buying inexpensive electric razors, look for motors that run at 6,500 RPM or higher.
You can live without intelligent or adaptive motors that sense hair density and adjust motor power accordingly; having a powerful motor is enough for cheap razors.
Build Quality
Cheap doesn't have to mean poor build quality. You don't need shiny finishes; you should look for a sturdy and durable shaver.
Read reviews and go for reputable brands like Freebird, Braun, Remington, and Philips Norelco shavers.
Waterproof
The best budget electric razors are waterproof. This allows shaving in the shower or doing a dry shave when you're in a rush. Cleaning will be easier as you can run your shaver under running water.
Cleaning stations are out of the question if you're buying budget electric shaver options, but waterproofing or at least water resistance is a good feature to make life easier.
Long Battery Life/Quick Charge
Long battery power is a must for low-cost electric shavers. A good battery should at least give 40 minutes of cordless operation. Every shave should be finished without interruptions, and a powerful battery can ensure continuous shaving. If you ever lose power while shaving, a quick charge feature is valuable, especially if you forget to charge your electric shaver before using it.
Tips for Traveling with Your Budget-Friendly Shaver
Bring a travel-friendly shaver. Space is essential when you're on the go, so a compact and lightweight shaver is the best travel companion. The Freebird FlexSeries is a great option due to its portability and performance.
Invest in a travel case. For frequent travelers, investing in a travel case is a no-brainer. A travel case keeps your shaver secure and allows you to bring shaving essentials like your charger, attachments, and favorite shaving cream.
Don't forget the charger. While most affordable electric shavers have enough power to last for your weekend road trip, you'll never know when you'll need a charger, like when you accidentally turn your shaver on in your luggage. Budget shavers usually don't include travel locks, so this may happen frequently. If you can afford $69.95 on your budget shaver purchase, the Freebird FlexSeries Pro is an excellent option since it has a travel lock, many tech upgrades, and $60 worth of freebies (Upgraded Precision Clipper, 3, 5, 7mm Safety Guards, Advanced Nose & Ear Trimmer, and Micro Cleaning Brush). Click here to get one today.
Bring extra blades. You won't want to be caught off guard with dull blades on your weekend getaway. Packing an extra set of replacement heads ensures a smooth and comfortable shave every time.
Bring shaving products. Grooming on the go is easy if you dry shave. If you prefer a wet shave, pack your shaving cream, gel, and moisturizer in your travel case. Include sunscreen if you plan to go outdoors. Harmful UV rays can damage your bald dome.
The Bottom Line
While some shavers are great but too expensive, some are cheap but not worth spending on.
The good news is finding an affordable electric shaver that delivers a smooth and comfortable shave without compromising quality is not that hard.
Follow our suggestions on what to look for in an electric shaver on a budget, or choose from our top six, and you'll surely enjoy your grooming experience without spending a ton.
Before you shave, you must learn how to shave your head correctly first.
FAQs
Do Affordable Electric Shavers Provide a Close Shave?
Yes, many affordable electric shavers can provide a close and comfortable shave. Buying models with high-quality blades and powerful motors ensures the quality of your shave.
How Long do Affordable Electric Shavers Batteries Last?
Most affordable electric razors provide at least 40 minutes of battery life per charge. Thanks to its large lithium-ion battery, the Andis ProFoil provides up to 80 minutes of cordless power.
Can You Use Cheap Electric Shavers for Wet Shaving?
Yes, some cheap electric shavers are waterproof and have wet and dry shaving capabilities. If you use shaving cream, you can use the FlexSeries, Braun 3000s, or Philips OneBlade 360 Face.
Are Budget Electric Shavers Suitable for Sensitive Skin?
Yes, you'll find budget electric shavers with hypoallergenic blades or foils designed to be gentle on sensitive skin. The Andis ProFoil and FlexSeries with ScalpSafe technology blades are good examples.
Can You Use Inexpensive Electric Shavers for Head Shaving?
Absolutely! The FlexSeries and the Philips OneBlade 360 Face have good reviews for shaving the head. The Remington ShortCut Pro is another excellent head shaver if you prefer a buzz cut over a clean-shaven scalp.
