8 Closest Shave Electric Razors For Men in 2023

For those about to shave, I salute you.

Especially if you love a close shave but don’t quite see eye to eye with traditional cartridge and safety razors. Because today I bring news of the closest shave electric razors known to man. Man’s facial hair, specifically. And there are eight razors instead of just the one. This isn’t going how I planned.

But if you’re still with me, know that you’ve got dozens of outstanding electric razors at your disposal. Major players in the space like Panasonic, Braun, and Philips Norelco are forever attempting to out-innovate each other. And who comes out on top in that scenario? That’s right—you and your discerning face mane.

So it should come as no surprise that those three are recurring themes throughout this list, and for damn good reason. Several reasons, actually, and here they come now…

Key Takeaways

To unearth the electric razors with the closest shave, I began by poring over dozens of product comparisons, customer reviews, spec sheets, and photos.

The resulting 10 finalists on this list are the best of the best based on motor speed, blade sharpness, foil thickness, overall comfort, and the quality of included accessories like charging and cleaning stations.

My top overall pick based on those considerations is the Panasonic Arc5, followed closely by the Arc6 and the budget-friendly Remington Foil Shaver.

Why it’s great: The Panasonic Arc5 isn’t the newest razor in the Arc line. Nor does it have the most blades, bells, or whistles. But what it does do is live in the sweet spot—both in terms of price point and features—for those seeking a closest shave electric razor. You’re working with an impressively powerful motor driving super sharp blades behind one of the thinnest foils out there. If you have a dense beard and are tired of playing musical razors, this is your move.

How to use it: The Arc5 is a versatile product suitable for wet shaves in the shower or sink and dry shaves on the go.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If you’re a frequent traveler and don’t want to buy multiple razors for multiple occasions, the Arc5’s bulky body and charging station will take up a fair amount of real estate in your dopp kit or carry-on.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: Hypoallergenic, multi-flex shaver head | Included With: Electric Shaver, Cleaning/Charging Station, Adaptor, Detergent, Carrying Case | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: Though it’ll be Remington’s only appearance on this list, the brand’s brass tacks Foil Shaver still packs a budget punch. The lightweight, rechargeable razor offers a close shave in or out of the shower and can run up to one hour on a charge. Meanwhile, the pop-up detail trimmer is perfect for edging up your beard. It’s a good pick for first-time shavers and unfussy pros alike.

How to use it: Keep this humble little workhorse on your vanity as nothing more and nothing less than a very basic, very adequate go-to.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: There are many other electric razors out there that feature more powerful motors and offer closer shaves. That said, Remington’s Foil Shaver handily edges out its competition in the budget niche.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: Pop-Up Detail Trimmer | Included With: Electric Shaver, Charging Cord | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: The closest shave electric razor in the luxury camp is the impressive Panasonic Arc6. Luxury? I’m going to spin it that way at least and you can take it from there. It’s more about this particular package, which includes a cleaning and charging station, travel case, and a few other extras.

Oh, and the six (repeat, six) blades. Those, coupled with a powerful motor, pivoting head, and beard sensor that increases or decreases the razor’s power based on the thickness and style of your beard, put the Arc6 in a league of its own.

How to use it: This is your forever razor. The one you proudly place on your vanity and reach for time and time again throughout the years.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: While the Arc6 is hands-down one of the best electric shavers available, it’s certainly a bit of an investment. You’ll want to look elsewhere if budget is a concern.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: Six blades | Included With: Electric Shaver, Cleaning/Charging Station, Carrying Case, Cleaning Brush, Beard Oil, Charging Cord | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: The Braun Series 9 Pro is the electric razor that gives the closest shave out of the entire Braun line. It’s a fast-shaving razor designed to cut flat-lying hair and maneuver around the contours of your face. It’s designed to help reduce irritation, making it a good razor for those with sensitive skin. Amazon has no shortage of solid electric razors, but this should be one of your first stops.

How to use it: The Series 9 comes with an innovative PowerCase that allows you to charge your razor on the go. Bring it camping or on your next overseas trip and you’ll be good to go for up to six weeks of use. Which… should just about cover your vacation.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Though Braun’s Series 9 offers one of the most comfortable shaves on the market, a few other razors like the Panasonic Arc5 are capable of providing a closer shave. So if you still want a super close shave but prioritize comfort, the Series 9 is the way to go.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: Portable charging PowerCase | Included With: Electric Shaver, PowerCase, Cleaning/Charging Station, Cleaning Brush, Charging Cord | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: The Braun Series 9 and Series 7 both offer close, comfortable shaves and a suite of helpful accessories. The former provides a more comfortable shave than its predecessor, but the Series 7 is a no-brainer pick if you’re looking for a similar razor at a more affordable price.

Its AutoSense technology learns the contours of your face and different lengths of your beard to automatically provide a closer, more comfortable shave. Otherwise, it’s a handsome, technological advanced specimen perfect for everyday use.

How to use it: The Braun Series 7 represents a perfect middle ground between the closest shave electric razor and the electric razor with the most comfortable shave. It’ll serve you well for years as your daily shaver.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: It’s another bulky shaver that’s not necessarily going to travel well. But since the best home for the Series 7 is on your bathroom vanity, its size shouldn’t present a concern.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: AutoSense technology helps tackle thick beards | Included With: Electric Shaver, Cleaning/Charging Station, Trimmer Attachments, Beard Combs, Travel Case, Cleaning Brush, Smart Plug | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: The best closest-shave electric razor for travel isn’t necessarily the “fanciest” one, but it’s damn sure portable and hard-working. The OneBlade 360 face trimmer from Philips Norelco is super small, super portable, and more than capable of taming your beard on the go.

The blade rotates a full 360-degrees, allowing you to spruce up those hard-to-reach places and create clean lines throughout your beard. It’s fully waterproof for shower shaving, is suitable for dry shaving on the fly, and has a whopping 34,000+ 5-star reviews on Amazon.

How to use it: This is a niche razor that’s best kept clean, dry, and tucked away until it’s time to pack a bag and hit the road.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The OneBlade 360 being a specialized product, it’s far from the closest shave electric razor on this list. But if you frequently travel and aren’t necessarily looking for baby-smooth skin, it’s an outstanding option.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: Pivoting blade for contour shaving | Included With: Electric Shaver, USB Charging Cable, Guard | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: Head shavers rejoice. Partly because you never have to worry about getting a haircut again. But mostly because you have the Pitbull Gold PRO shaver from category leader Skull Shaver.

Not only does it offer a powerful motor, pivoting blades, and fully waterproof construction, its ergonomic design makes a handsome addition to your vanity. Specifically designed for head-shaving, the Pitbull Gold PRO is a palmable force to be reckoned with and can even be used on the face and neck for all-around functionality.

How to use it: Skull Shaver’s unique design is ideal for on-the-go or shower shaving. It’s stubby, ergonomic design allows your hand to get closer to your head, increasing precision and creating a more enjoyable shaving experience overall.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Though this is a functional enough razor to tackle your beard and neck hair, it’s first and foremost a niche product. To get the closest beard shave, you’re better off choosing another product on this list.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Head | Special Feature: Compact with ergonomic grip | Included With: Electric Shaver, USB Charging Cable | Waterproof: Yes

Why it’s great: The debate of foil shavers vs rotary shavers has and always will be an oddly polarizing topic. Foil shavers are typically going to offer closer shaves overall, while rotary shavers tend to be better at tackling coarse, full beards. At the end of the day, it’s a personal choice and depends on several factors.

If you end up going with a rotary option, save yourself some time and make it the Philips Norelco 9800 Electric Shaver. Among its impressive features is a pressure sensor that notifies you if you’re pressing down too hard, an auto-adapting motor that adjusts its speed and power based on the density of your beard, and a QuickClean Pod that’s small enough to toss in your dopp kit.

How to use it: The 9800 is a nice option if you’re looking for an all-in-one head and beard trimmer. It’s portable enough to travel with and can be used in or out of the shower.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If you’re looking for the closest possible shave, the design and properties of foil shavers will typically better help you achieve it. But if you’re a tried-and-true rotary guy looking for the next best thing, this is it.

Power Source: Battery | Recommended for: Beard/Face | Special Feature: Pressure sensor, Auto-adapting cuts | Included With: Electric Shaver, QuickClean Pod, Travel Case, Charging Stand, Power Cord | Waterproof: Yes

Buying Considerations For Closest shave Electric Razor 

Foil Vs Rotary

You’ll almost always achieve a closer shave with a foil razor, especially if you have a short beard. But it’s not so cut and dry. Rotary razors are best deployed on longer (or generally unruly) beards. They’re also the go-to pick for head shaving. If you have a relatively short, low-maintenance beard, foil is a good place to start.

Technology

From integrated pressure sensors that tell you if you’re pressing down too hard to features that adjust motor speed depending on the various lengths of your beard, electric razors have come a long way in recent years. Compare the technological advances of each razor before making a decision, and also consider the motor’s speed and how thin and durable the foil or rotary components are.

Wet And Dry Use

One of the main draws for many men when it comes to using an electric razor is the ability to shave in the shower or on the go. Some razors offer limited water-resistance and are only suitable for quick rinses in the sink. Others are fully waterproof and more than capable of hopping in the shower with you for a quick game-time wet or dry shave. Pay attention to this small yet key feature when comparing options.

Why you should trust us

As a fashion and grooming writer at FashionBeans, I compare, test, and research the products that make a gentleman a gentleman. If it can be worn, carried, and used in a way that elevates your look and feel, I’m into it. For this review, I pored over trusted sources, customer reviews, spec sheets, and my own experience to understand what makes a quality electric razor.

After comparing dozens, I chose the resulting eight based on considerations like motor speed, blade sharpness, comfort, and included accessories. Ultimately, I want to see everyone find the closest shave electric razor for them. 

Final Verdict 

Getting a close shave with an electric razor doesn’t have to be difficult if you know what to look for. Among your top considerations should be a powerful motor, sharp blades, a thin, durable foil, and the overall comfort of the shave. My top pick, Panasonic’s Arc5, excels in all of those areas and more.