Braun Series 7- 760cc Shaver
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 List Price: $239.99 Sale Price: $248.00 Availability: unspecified 
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Product Description
It's hard to believe that technology and engineering can improve on the current state of shaving but Braun has managed to revolutionize shaving for speed, comfort, and closeness. Braun Pulsonic 9595 makes the daily chore of shaving so excitedly attractive that you'd want to use it several times a day - just for the feeling it gives. The Sonic Action motor generates 10,000 microvibrations per minute which helps skin and underlying muscle tissues relax while stimulating cellular flow. The result is a more youthful appearance and healthier skin. It also feels great! With 360-degree coverage, shaving is more ergonomic and faster than you can imagine. It's like shaving at the speed of sound! Here are some other key features: Clean&Renew System automatically cleans, lubricates, dries and charges the shaver at the touch of a button, giving the feel of a brand new shaver everyday without the hassle of cleaning the appliance manually Interactive LCD screen Li-ion rechargeable battery for long lasting power per full charge 5-minute QuickCharge mode when you're on the go Dual Volt capable for international use Attractive Finish
Details
- Pulsonic Technology: Over 10,000 microvibrations per minute helps to expose and cut more hair with every stroke
- Gillette Blade Technology: Unique blade technology cuts hair close in a single stroke without pulling or tugging.
- Power-Comb: Patented technology lifts problem hairs that lie flat to the skin to avoid missed hairs in hard to shave areas.
- Smart Foil: Unique foil pattern captures hairs growing from different directions for a closer shave in fewer strokes
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
{ 30 comments… read them below or add one }
Rating
I have been a fan of Braun shavers for many many years when I decided to upgrade to the 760 series. I found the floating heads do not shave close under my chin and upper lip. The 760 is very comfortable to use, but lacks the close, clean shave of previous models. The pop-up trimmer is not nearly as functional as on earlier models. I have sent the 760 back to Braun for a refund as they offer a 60 day money back guarantee.
Rating
I’m a 10+ year braun user. My first braun was in the 5000 series; I’ve upgraded every 4 years or so when it was time to replace the foil block and blades for the 3rd time (each time this coincided with a very good deal making the new razor too good to pass up). Braun products are great; all do a fine job under the nose and on the cheeks, and seem to have some problem under the chin. I decided to trade up from the 8xxx series to the 9585.
The new model has a much more mobile foil screen, which unlike earlier models is in one block (blade plus foil). It also makes a somewhat different, higher pitched sound, like the older panasonic “ultrasonic” shavers.
Unfortunately, the shave was a disappointment. Shaver did a good job on the cheeks in terms of closeness, but left my face feeling sore. Under the bottom lip the shaver cut me; and it was no better at the under the chin stuff. As for closeness, pretty good but the shave was no better than my previous braun razor. So after gutting it out for about two weeks I called up braun and sent it back.
I shave dry and before washing my face, as is recomended.
Braun says getting a check will take 10 weeks. I’ll buy a new foil block for the 8585. Still wish someone had a better answer for the neck & under-the-chin hair.
Rating
I have a tough (quirky) beard that requires daily shaving. So if I shave every 24 hours, almost any shaver will do. If I go 48 hours, then I really have to work at it, going over certain areas again & again. After 72 hours, I have to get out the old double edge Gillette razor. Much to my pleasant surprise, the Braun 9585 will take off a 72 hour growth with little more effort than a 24 hour beard. It won’t give your a closer shave than many others (the thickness of the foil prevents that) however, this baby will take it off better & faster than anything else. It’s very expensive though; I only bought it because I was able to combine several discounts etc. So, if you always shave every day & don’t have a particularly tough beard … save your money. If however, you’re like me, this baby is a dream come true.
Rating
So far (about a month), I’m not seeing it meet its advertised claims. It does a decent job above the chinline, but below the chinline I can’t seem to get it to do a good job. It consistently misses even longer whiskers below the chinline. I previously had used a Norelco “lift & cut” type electric shaver, which wasn’t so great either, but it seemed to be more consistent. I’m still experimenting with this one to see if I can get it to work better, but I’m beginning to wonder if it will…
Rating
If you can spare the extra cash for it, it is a very nice razor. If money is tight, I am not sure you would be missing out on all that much by selecting a less expensive model. I’ve been using the low-end Braun foil shavers for years (~$50 or so) and I have always been happy with them. This time around I decided to splurge and see what I have been missing. After using it for almost 3 months I am sure this gives a closer shave than the less expensive model I had been using and I don’t think it takes as long to shave, but I would guess it is maybe a minute faster at most and after an hour or two, I doubt anyone could tell which model I had shaved with.
When I purchased it I wasn’t thrilled with needing to keep buying the cleaning cartridges, but now I will never buy another razor without some sort of built in cleaning system. I imagine it will make the cutter and foil last longer, but I love not having to clean up after shaving every day. The included cartridge just started showing as low, but only after I spilled it by accident. When I shave everyday, it calls for a quick cleaning after the first shave and a regular cleaning after the second one. I skip the quick cleanings as per the advise of another reviewer, which is probably why it has lasted 3 months. I signed up for delivery of a 2 pack every 6 months and I expect that will be sufficient.
I think there is some room for improvement in the power cord. The plug is huge and sticks out of the socket 3″ or so. I would also prefer if it were white so that it would match the base and be at least a little less noticeable on the vanity. Also, you should note the size of the base – it took up a little more space than I expected. The cleaning fluid will spill if you move it around, so you need a place to keep it where you won’t need to move it very often.
Rating
I bought the Pulsar 2 months ago hoping for a better shave than what I was currently getting from my Norelco 8825XL Spectra with newer blades. I had some hairs on my neck the Norelco wasn’t getting, didn’t seem to be that close any more and shaving was taking to long. Tried cleaning and adjusting, things were better BUT. So I tried the Pulsar, easy to use out of the box, just plug it in and go. Easy to clean with included brush, breaks down easy and can be washed under the tap. I never even had to open and use the enclosed cleaner/charging base. Shave was faster on my cheeks/face, not as irritating. Neck was more of a problem, here the Norelco was faster and less irritating. For the money I expected better overall. This razor can not be returned/sent back as when it is charged it is considered “hazardous material”, something that is not mentioned in the product description but is mentioned as part of the general Amazon return policy. So be aware of this for this product and possibly other rechargeable products. Clarify before you buy.
Rating
Purchased the Pulsonic to replace my aging Baun 7526. I really want to like this razor but it significantly falls short of my expectations. Expected the Pulsonic to give at least as close a shave as my 7526 but it clearly does not perform as well based on my tests.
Shaved with the Pulsonic for the usual amount of time I typically shave for. Pulsonic is light and feels nice in one’s hand. Shave felt ok, no irritation. However immediately after using the Pulsonic I shaved with my 7526. I was amazed at how many whiskers I could hear the 7526 cutting.
Today I shaved with the Pulsonic for double the amount of time it takes me to get a close shave with the 7526. My goal was to get an equally as close shave as the 7526. My face feels as if I did a rush job with the 7526 as I can feel stubble on my face especially on my neck area and chin.
For the amount of money I paid for the Pulsonic (more than double what I could buy a 7526 for) I am very disappointed in the performance of this razor hence the one star rating. It simply doesn’t live up to the marketing hype. I will be returning mine and purchasing a 7526 to replace my existing 7526 which has served me well for 5 years but has a problem with the on/off switch.
Rating
This Braun is hands down the best shaver I have ever owned. Close, smooth, and clean.
Previously owned a Panasonic Wet/Dry. Need something else to carry in the shower? Nope
Want whisker droppings all over the counter and sink when shaving dry? Nope
Want a razor that leaves curly hairs on your face and neck so you have to shave your face and neck with the beard trimmer attachment which leaves shaving bumps on your face and neck? Nope
That is what you get with a Panasonic Wet/Dry.
Might as well have been shaving with a dry razor and a fan blowing in my face.
Using this Braun is like night and day compared with the Panasonic.
Rating
I’ve had to face it (sorry, no pun intended): my whiskers are just weird. I don’t know about anyone else’s, but my grow in patches in different directions and different diameters which means that no matter what razor type I use, some hairs get missed or won’t fit in the screen/rotary. Blade shaving is like driving on a bumpy road in a car filled with broken glass – I’m a bloody wreck at the end. So, every few years I try a new razor in the hopes that someone will make one for someone like me who doesn’t have a “standard” male beard (whatever that is). My wait appears to be over, and this appears to be the product that has solved all my hair problems combined.
I don’t know if it is the “pulsing” technology or the screen layout/middle cutters that allows it to get hairs growing in different directions AND the really thick hairs I have in some places in my beard, but this razor does the job and, better yet, I do not get ANY nicks or cuts. I’ve found that for me, shaving like it’s “off to the races” or with hard pressure does not produce good results. I need to go slow, against the direction of the hair growth (which means just going in every direction in my case on my neck), and gentle pressure gets all of my problem areas. I’ve also found that using a pre-shave product (I use Eltron Shave Stick) to prep my whiskers and skin really helps the razor do the job.
Clean-up is a snap as has been mentioned. Wives, girlfriends or house-mates will appreciate having a shaving system that doesn’t leave whiskers or shaving cream residue all over the sink area. It is hygenic, automatic, and (for me) worth the price and the wait. Your mileage may vary, but if you have never found a razor that gets all of your problem hair areas, I would suggest that this may be the final solution if used according to the instructions, with good shaving products, and your own particular needs.
Rating
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R385WY93I49NZW Hello everyone. This is a 9 minute and 37 second clip of my review and opinion on the Braun 760cc electric shaver.
I cover several aspects on ease of use, items it comes with, features I like, and any problems I have with the shaver.
I, at the time of making/publishing this video, am just getting over a cold so have a little bit of sniffles — for this, my apologies.
I hope this video gives you some insight and useful information, and opinion, on this shaver.
Rating
For about forty years I have been using strictly electric Braun shavers. From a corded single screen one to now this Pulsonic three knife system.
My previous model was the 7526 and very similar, in fact the closeness of shave is the same. There are a few improvements: the body is easier to grip, battery is improved, and the cleaning system has more choices. In using the shaver I also like the angle that the cutting head has to the body of the shaver, when locking the cutting head it becomes even better.
If I have to find fault anywhere it would be the trimmer; it is somewhat flimsy and awkward to use but it works.
All in all the Braun gives you a shave as close as an electric shaver can and works well around problem areas like the throat and angles of the lower jaw. The cleaning system is also worth it because it cleans, lubricates, desinfects and charges the shaver with just a push of the button. How easy is that?
In close to forty years none of the Brauns I used has quit on me and this one makes my wife even happier!
Rating
I thought I’d wait a full month (and cleaning cycle) to write this review, and I have to give this razor 5 stars almost across the board:
Shave quality – ***** – After a few days I would have given this only 4 stars, as it seemed only as good as the Braun 7526 I replaced with this razor. But after a full 3 weeks or more, my face (or my technique) adjusted and this razor gives me a better shave than the 7526 in about the same time.
Comfort – ***** – This razor is far more comfortable than the 7526, not nearly as much irritation. I took care of my 7526, replacing the blades and foil annually, but this is a far superior razor. As a bonus, it is also quieter, which my wife likes too.
Cleaning – ***** – I have now run through a full cleaning cycle, and I think the automatic system helps save a bit of the fluid in the cartridge; I gained at least 4-5 days on the first cartridge over what I used to get (4 weeks). Cartridge changing is just as easy as before.
Styling – *** – The Braun guys should have asked their auto compatriots for help here. A silver razor, refrigerator white cleaning stand, and black power cord. Not nearly as nice as the black on black of the 7526. Just an esthetic issue, but you have to wonder what they were thinking.
Charging – it automatically charges each time you put it back in the cleaning unit, whether you clean it or not. Much better than the old model where you had to select “charge” every time.
Overall, this is a great razor – I don’t know if it’s because of the sonic feature, but whatever, it works. I wanted to be critical of this razor due to its cost, but it is a step above the $130-150 razor.
Rating
I have used their 2 previous models and I have to say this new system is as close to perfection in an electric shaver as you can get . . . I have extremely sensitive skin and I am thin so I have a very scrawny neck, shaving with standard blades and shaving cream leaves my face bright red and irritated and usually with a cut or two but even I can get a really close smooth shave the old fashioned way . . . I hate shaving and only do it every other day . . . a few years ago I decided to sacrifice a really close shave for the convenience of faster easier shaving with an electric . . . the 2 Brauns I have used up to now caused less skin irritation but I always had to shave the “trouble areas” on my neck over and over from different directions but both Brauns still did not catch some stubble here and there . . . this new Pulsonic System is so much better, it is more powerful and efficient, the longer lasting battery does not get weak while I am trying to get all hairs in my “trouble areas” as with previous models . . . I get very little skin irritation now because shaving takes much less time thanks to the Pulsonic catching almost every single hard-to-get hair after just 2 or 3 passes . . . also, it is much more comfortable to hold and so much better looking than previous ones, even the cleaning-recharging station is much better looking now . . . it is true that the new travel case is not as nice as previous ones but that’s no big deal . . . and they no longer include a clear plastic snap-on protector for the shaver head ( that most users probably lose or discard anyway ) but anyone paying this much for any high quality product should be smart enough to be careful with it and not drop it, etc . . . so the bottom line : if you have never even considered paying this much for a shaver I can honestly say this is the first and only one I am aware of that is actually worth the price.
Rating
I have always used electric and once or twice a year shave with a razor. I read articles on the net about the Pulsonic and thought I would take the plunge. I picked this one over the more expensive model because I don’t need an LCD screen or quick cleaning honestly I don’t see the need. Cost wasn’t a factor why pay more for something that is unnecessary. The shaver itself is Fantastic. The Norelco maybe because of the lift and cut system irritated my skin something I didn’t realize may have been the reason until I used the Pulsonic. I have been shaving for 25 years and this is my 3rd electric the previous electrics were both Norelcos. I would highly recommend the Pulsonic.
Rating
I received the razor for Christmas, and I thought I’d wait a few months before writing my review. I previously owned a 3-foil Braun razor (can’t remember the model), and I was very happy with it. I have a fairly average face, with neck hair that is tough to get to.
The razor worked well right out of the box. Compared to my old razor, the 760 gives me a closer shave. I agree with a review above: it is physically impossible for an electric razor to shave as close as a blade. This is not a magic tool. That being said, this is definitely the closest shave I’ve ever had with an electric.
Braun recommends you shave before you shower. After 30 years of shaving, I’m not going to change my habits, so I shave after my shower.
The razor comes equipped with 2 long-hair trimmers. It has a standard flip-up side-burn trimmer. Works well. It also has a built-in set of cutters nestled down between the foils. On my old Braun, every day, I had to raise the side-burn trimmer to catch those couple of long hairs that I might have missed the day before. The foil didn’t catch them. That is NOT the case with the 760. I never raise the side-burn trimmer to catch long hairs. The second trimmer continuously catches any longer hairs. Works great!
This is also the most comfortable shave I have ever had with an electric. Very smooth, never pulls, glides over the face. This is probably its strongest feature for me.
I have been a little concerned about the battery. Most battery-operated equipment recommends that you let the battery run down to some extent before you recharge it. With the 760, if you store it in its cleaning base, it recharges every use. Maybe I’m just an old-timer, but this doesn’t seem good for the battery. I have decided to only charge (and clean) the razor once every 2 weeks. Every other Sunday, I plug in the cleaning base, then clean and charge the razor. At the end of 2 weeks, the “low battery” light just starts to flash, and seems like a great time to charge it.
Speaking of the cleaning base, I also am not overly thrilled about having to continuously buy cleaning packs for it. Another way for companies to keep you on their hook. What I do is manually remove the cutting head each use and dump out the whiskers. Every other Sunday, when I charge it, I also run the cleaning cycle. Since it has been more than a couple of days between cleanings, it automatically runs the “intensive” cleaning. After 2 months, the fluid level indicator still indicates “full” so I guess this seems to be working. It comes out of the cleaning with sparkling cutters. It’s a little loud when cleaning. The unit turns the shaver on inside a plastic enclosure, so it is a bit loud. However, it only runs a minute or so, so it is an extremely MINOR point. I saw a couple of reviews mention this, but this has NOT been a big issue at all. When actually shaving, it is about average. No problem.
The plug for the unit is really huge. It sticks out of the wall about 3 1/2″. Poor ergonomic design. I keep mine unplugged except during the bi-weekly charge / clean.
When it’s time to replace the cutting head (Braun estimates 18 months) I’m sure that will be expensive. The foils, cutters, etc are one unit. Haven’t priced it.
Overall, a great shaver. You’ll have to decide what price you pay for a close, comfortable shave. For something I use every day, it is worth it to me.
PROS:
Extremely comfortable shave
Very close shave
Cleaning system works well
CONS:
Plug sticks out into your counter
Will have to buy cleaning solution eventually
Rating
Product arrived on time and in good condition. Package contains the 760CC Pulsonic Razor, the cleaning/charging base, the power cord, one cleaning solution tank, a travel case with cleaning brush, a small bottle of blade oil and the paperwork. The Razor charges quickly in the base and produces an almost unbelievable shave. Following Braun’s exhortation to shave before washing your face, this razor’s high oscillation rate produces a comfortable and smooth shave while also being quiet and steady. I have a thick beard with lots of flat-growth and the 760CC cuts it well when used as directed. The razor is very solid in the hand. The same can’t quite be said for the cleaning/charging base. It lacks weight and solidity, especially compared to the one used with my old Braun 8585 Activator, and it’s a shade of the lightest gray. That said, the base does work fine and it stays put once the cleaning tank is inserted into it. It determines the cleaning effort needed and seems to use the cleaning solution very slowly. The razor does emerge each morning clean as a whistle. The built-in sideburns trimmer isn’t as good for me as the old one because the trimmer is slightly narrow and curved. The power cord fits the base and the razor itself for travel use. All in all, a terrific product I use daily to great effect and would rate a 5-star effort were it not for the lightweight base. Would buy again.
Rating
I previously had the Braun Syncropro and thought this would be better because of the positive reviews and supposed technological advances. I was very wrong in that assumption. This razor does not cut nearly as close, even when repeatedly going over the same area. Also, it occasionally pulls the hairs on my neck. I am returning it for another cheaper, and far superior, Syncropro. Don’t become tricked by Braun’s marketing!
Rating
I had used the previous model Braun shaver for about three years and replaced it with this one when it broke.
The Series 7 is very similar in function but provides a closer, faster shave with less irritation. It is much lighter than the previous generation but the reduction in weight does not SEEM to result in a cheaper feel or lesser construction quality.
The only issue I have is that the trimmer pops up at a 90 degree angle to the shaver handle and it is not as easy to use as the previous version. But, I got used to it quickly and it is not a big deal. It includes a nice hard case, cleaning tool, and some machine oil in case you don’t use the included cleaning system. And, if you have not used a self cleaning shaver before it is great. Yes, it costs some money for the cleaning cartridges but the shaver is always clean, oiled, dried, and charged each time you use it. Very nice.
All in all this is the best shaver I have used and would purchase it again without hesitation.
Rating
OK, i’ve had a Braun 7000 series for the last couple years. i really liked it, but still knew i’d get a quicker closer shave using a blade in the shower. so i used my old braun on weekends and days off and for touchups. a good shaver… i decided recently i would really like to use an electric full-time. I flinched at the price of the pulsonic, but thought it would work for a Christmas present, rather than have my wife waste money on me for stuff I’d never use…. The first time I used the 9585 I was amazed at the lack of any drag across your face. It literally felt like you were running a smooth object across your skin- almost like vacuuming your face! The shave is an unbelievable improvement over the 7000 series. If you consider the set-up time to use a blade with water and lather etc., I would say the 9585 is actually faster than blade shaving- and probably 95% as close – almost 100% as close if your skin is taut at the time. It is worth every penny if you want to move over to an electric. I read somewhere that it’s recommended you shave before washing your face and also that you be up and moving around for 15 minutes or so before shaving. That sounds trivial but it is actually a good point- your face is somewhat puffy at wakeup from being in a prone position and that puffiness does make a slight difference in the razor’s ability to get to facial hair. For me- since i get up real early and can’t afford to stand around for 15 minutes- i shave as soon as I’m up and then run it back over my face again after showering and dressing. Works great- you can’t beat this one if you are willing to pony up the asking price!
Rating
I have been wet shaving since I started shaving ten years ago, and I’ve never used an electric shaver before. I’ve never really liked shaving because of the skin irritation, the occasional cuts, and being honest here, because I’m lazy. So based on the online reviews, I splurged and got the Braun Series 7. Although it only cuts 90% as close as wet, it is definitely “good enough”, and I’m never going back.
One caveat here: I do have a light beard, and from what I have read, there is no perfect shaver because every man’s face is different. But, the shaver comes with a 60 day money back guarantee from Braun, which is why I was willing to try it. Luckily for me, I’m very happy with it.
Also note that the 790cc model has an additional LED that indicates hygiene level, a fast clean button on the base, and black trim. I didn’t think any of these features were worth paying extra for, so I got the 760cc.
Good:
+ Zero skin irritation, never cuts me, never pulls my skin
+ I can shave in just a minute or two if I’m in a hurry (I might add another minute to get a little closer, and clean out the foil)
+ Doesn’t have a problem with several days growth
+ It’s comfortable to hold, feels solid, but not too heavy
+ Battery lasts about a week, and you can use it with the cord if you forget to charge it
+ Trimmer is useful for sideburns, eyebrows, etc. (although slightly awkward to use. I remove the foil when I use the trimmer)
+ The truly lazy could shave while watching TV, in the car, etc.
Bad:
- Expensive! I effectively paid $144.99 for the shaver due to a giftcard promotion, and even that is a lot for a shaver. I’m not sure I could justify paying full price.
- Supplies are also expensive. A replacement foil costs about $40 and needs to be replaced every 18 months. The Clean and Renew cartridges are about $6 each, and Braun says to replace them every 30 cleaning cycles or 8 weeks. Luckily, the shaver can also be cleaned under the hot faucet. So to save money, I only use the Clean and Renew system once a week, and I remove from the base and reseal the cartridge to prevent evaporation when not in use. Users claim this method can make the cartridges last 6 months or more. It is annoying that Braun can’t seal the cartridges while in the base, but I’m sure it helps them sell more cartridges.
- Not quite as close as a wet shave. I think this is because wet shaving removes a layer of your skin that the electric razors don’t. But I haven’t had any complaints from my girlfriend, and the end result looks exactly the same as a wet shave. A shave still lasts a full day, so this is a very minor complaint for me.
- I’ve had to change my morning routine, because you must shave with a dry face. So instead of shaving after a shower, I either shave before, or shave after breakfast.
Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my switch. No more irritation, no more cuts, and it lets me shave quicker too!
Rating
I recommend the Braun 720s shaver as a non-immersible but rinsable electric shaver.
Amazon didn’t list the 720, however it looks very similar to the 760, so I thought I’ll share.
Pros: Cost effective and efficient. Like the fact that you can always use it on the cord, should the battery be flat or failed. Shaving results are very acceptable for my usage.
Cons: Not waterproof, but can be rinsed under the tap.
Details: I was tossing up between the Panasonic and the Braun. Both are excellent and the decision was made for me by the fact that I was in a shop that didn’t sell the Panasonic. The Braun offered a 60 day try or return deal so I bought it. I think that for value for money the rinsing/charging bases are a rip off. You can get just as good results by using the tap! It not only saves $$ but bench space too. I’ve had a Panasonic for the last 10 years and was happy with it, however I always had to finish off with a blade as it left stragglers behind. The Braun is much better.
I am always puzzled when people compare electric to blade shaving. It is physically impossible for electric shavers to equal a blade. simply because the blade glides directly on the skin, so can cut the hair at practically zero length. In contrast, all electric shavers work like horizontal scissors: the outer foil rests on the skin and then the cutter slides across the aperture where the hair is sticking into the shaver, to cut it off. Thus the best possible shave is cutting the hair at the foil’s thickness. Q.E.D. But who cares? I don’t! As long as it is quick, convenient and acceptable.
Back to Braun versus Panasonic: I think both will produce top results from their top models. Difference is that the Braun can’t be used in the shower or bath, but it can run straight off the wall socket (corded) if necessary. Stick to models that are made in Germany/Japan, respectively, rather than in China. Buy the base cleaner/charger if cost is not important, or without to save $$. For the alcohol based cleaners, you can replenish evaporated alcohol from surgical alcohol from your local chemist.
Rating
Like most men I meet, I hate to shave, and have suffered from ingrown hairs seemingly forever. I’ve tried every kind of shave gel, foam, cream, and razor around. I even tried a Norelco razor, but this shaver is the best, and is actually pretty life-changing. I don’t have to dread shaving every day. Right out of the box, this shaver communicated quality. Braun products have always seemed well-constructed to me, and you can feel the heft in this machine. The shave-even the first time-was incredibly smooth. As smooth or smoother than a blade. I’m always afraid to shave against the grain with a blade, so this was actually closer. Also, and perhaps most importantly, this razor doesn’t pinch. My problem with my old Norelco (one of the in-shower varieties) was that it always seemed to pinch and nick my face. This shaver is incredibly easy to use right out of the box, and really doesn’t take any break-in time as far as I can see. I was hesitant about the alcohol reservoir and how much that would cost, but when you figure in cost of all other shaving supplies, you’ll probably spend less over time. The upfront cost may be steep, but if you really want to enjoy a shave, you have to get this razor.
Rating
I have been a blade shaver for 45 years because blades result in a consistently close shave, albeit a bit slow and requiring warm water and shaving cream and a rinse. Periodically, at intervals or 10-20 years I have tried an electric shaver and been disappointed. A month ago I tried the Braun 760 shaver. At first I was skeptical. It comes with a garage that has to be kept in cleaning solution. I thought it might be easier to blow it off to clean it. It looked like Braun was trying to make a living off consumables, like Gillette (relatively inexpensive shavers with costly blades to be replaced weekly. The shaver actually provides a close shave similar if not better than a blade without skin irritation. It is much quicker and does not require softening with warm water or lather. In fact, Braun recommends that you shave before you wash your face. The automatic cleaning cycle seems to work ok with a touch of a button. The cleaning solution Braun Clean & Renew Refills (3 Pack)is relatively cheap (3 for $19 on Amazon)and last for 6-8 weeks. The device charges in the garage and cleans with a touch of a button. It is easy to use, without skin irritation, cuts or much attention, A quick touch uptakes 30 seconds. A serious shave will only take a minute or two. It is painless even if you skip 2 or 3 days. I plan to keep my blade for travel, but I may give that up too.
Rating
Update – March 2010: I have been using the Braun now for over 4 months and still love the shaver. I also was pleasantly surprised when the first cleaning cartridge lasted over 3 months before I decided it was time to replace it. In reality, the indicator still had not even hit the ‘replace me now’ lighted position – I just decided to put a new unit in. So for those reviews that claim that the cleaning is expensive and the cartridges do not last long, that clearly has not been my experience. It works well and, for me, it lasts! *********
For reference, I have been using electrics for 20+ years, including a couple Brauns and a couple Panasonics. Most recently I was using a Panasonic 8077 Vortex (since replaced by the nano/Arc series) so this is a bit of a comparison between the Braun 7-series and the Panasonic. First, though, I am not someone who used the wet-shave capability of the Panasonic even though that is one of its strengths, so consider this a comparison between the two only if you expect to shave ‘dry’. (I liked the wet shave capability of the Pana, but it seemed to introduce more clean up and storage issues than were worth it to me.) So here are my thoughts after coming back to Braun after ~5 years of the Panasonic:
> Shaving Smoothness: Hands down, the Braun is better for me. The Braun glides over my skin smoothly and comfortably and never gets warm, even without using any pre-shave or lubricant. The Panasonic had more friction and generated significantly more heat (again, not using the wet shave functionality). I changed the Panasonic blades and foils at least every year if not more often and the difference with a new foil was readily apparent. But a month later I could tell that it was dragging again and getting warm sooner. I have used the Braun now for more than a month and it feels the same now as when I first turned it on.
> Closeness: A tie. Both do a decent job while neither are ‘as good as a blade’ no matter what anyone says! For my skin and beard, both can do a very acceptable job with the Panasonic perhaps being a bit faster with a new foil and blade, but that only lasts a month or so and then they are similar.
> Cleaning System: For me, the Braun is much better. Both are somewhat noisy, so no advantage either way on this front. But the Braun simply leaves the shaver feeling and smelling cleaner and a visual inspection ‘under the hood’ seems to confirm that the Braun does a better job. The Panasonic system, which is water based, has the problem that you must remember to check the water tank and insure that it is filled or it will run out of water and not tell you. This happened a number of times over the years. The Braun, on the other hand, uses a self-contained fluid cartridge and the system will let you know whether it needs replacing. I have seen some Panasonic fans comment about the alcohol solution of the Braun as evaporating (I have not experience this as the system seems to be sealed once the cartridge is in place and it only pulls in fluid as it needs it)and a possible fire hazard (What? Don’t smoke while you’re shaving!). I’ll run the risk of slight evaporation and the even more remote possibility of the cartridge somehow catching fire for the superior cleaning of the Braun system!
> Quality: Both are undoubtedly well built, but the Braun simply has a higher quality, less plasticky feel than the Panasonic. I never had any quality issues with the Panasonic shaver (I did have the cleaning station die an unnatural death) but the Braun simply feels better in the hand. And the supplied accessories, particularly the protective travel cover vs. Panasonic’s non-protective bag, also seem better thought out and higher in quality.
> Head: Just an aside, but I did check out the latest Panasonic Arc model but the head was so large I felt I was trying to shave with a toaster! The Braun head, like my prior Panasonic, is a comfortable and manageable size to do the job.
Finally, I bought the Braun 7-series instead of the new 5-series because a) I got it for only $10 more and b) the Braun 560 LEDs look like the Christmas Tree Lites at a drag race! Okay, so that is just a style issue, but I figured it was better to spend the extra $10 than wrap duct tape around the 560!
In summary, as the title says, it is nice to have a Braun again!
Rating
I was hesitant at first to buy a self-cleaning electric shaver because of the additional cost for the cleaning cartridges, but decided to buy this anyway, as the price was attractive and the shaver can also be cleaned under running water – I figured I didn’t have to use the “clean & renew” feature if I didn’t want to.
I chose the Pulsonic 9585 over the 9595 because there are only two differences:
- LED indicators instead of LCD indicator
- no fast cleaning mode
These didn’t really seem to be worth even the few extra dollars for the 9595.
The shaver, now I got used to it, really gives me an exceptionally close shave. Before, I used to let my beard grow for a week sometimes, but now I actually look forward to shaving, even on weekends (hint for women who would like their men to shave more often: get them this product!).
Having said that, it did take some time to get used to, especially the trimmer, which is located a bit awkwardly. Otherwise, it is a superb product, easy to grip, and feels very nice and solid.
The battery, once charged, lasts about ten days, if I shave every day. The shaver runs at full speed for the whole time, it slows down just in the last seconds before the battery is completely empty – this is really nice. Some other shavers I had before were slowing down way earlier.
In order to conserve the battery and the cleaning fluid, I decided to charge the shaver and use the “clean & renew” feature only when the battery is completely empty. In between, I just clean the razor under running water.
While it says in the manual that the alcohol in the cleaning cartridge will evaporate within 8 weeks, whether you use it or not, you just need to take the cartridge out of the cleaning unit and reseal it.
I might even try refilling the cartridges, maybe a “recipe” for the cleaning fluid can be found somewhere on the Internet.
Rating
I waited a month before posting a review to see what the results would be like and I have to say that I’m disappointed based on my expectations. This top of the line shaver is pricey and I was upgrading from a middle range Panasonic brand electric shaver which was OK but I thought I could do better. I wanted a closer shave on the face and better capability on my neck. I think it is maybe 10-20% better than my previous shaver when it comes to closeness and accuracy, but not enough to justify the super high price.
Perhaps the premium price is accounted for by the cleaning system which does an excellent job. My biggest complaint is how LOUD the cleaning action is. I thought other reviewers were exaggerating but it is VERY LOUD. I don’t run it in the morning before I go to work since I live in an apartment and don’t want to disturb my neighbors at 7AM. I’m not kidding. It isn’t a continuous sound but when it goes on it is like running the vacuum cleaner for a few seconds every few minutes. I have resorted to rinsing it with water once a week and running the Intensive clean mode (you don’t get a choice, the unit decides for you) on the weekend.
Overall it is a quality built, sleek looking, and above average electric shaver. I don’t know if there is anything better on the market if your face is a challenge to get a smooth feeling stubble free shave. The trimmer isn’t as sharp as my previous Panasonic either which is a big surprise. I only slightly recommend this model, more so if the price was under $100.
Rating
Have had a number of Brauns and generally liked them.
Bought the top end Pulsonic. Worked well for ~6 months, then just stops working mid-shave (all after regular cleaning cycles, etc.). Have to remove the cutter block, clean it out, press the reset button, and then it’ll work a little while before dying again.
And, the pop up cutter does not re-seat! Hangs open at 30-45 degree angle … forever.
So, bought the non-LCD version of the Pulsonic. Have had ~8 months and has had the exact same thing happen – popup cutter doesn’t pop BACK! And, it has started stopping mid-shave as well.
Each shaver was well over $200 and THIS is what I get for it?!
If someone knows of another shaver with less Marketing / promotion hype and greater reliability, would love to hear about it. Thanks.
Rating
I really wanted to like this razor, especially considering its price. My concern was focused on the closeness of the shave and after using it for two weeks, I am very pleased with the shave that I get. The other drag from using an electric was the cleanup, but it is effortless with this razor. The two LEDs on the base station indicate the level of cleaner remaining and how “dirty” the razor is. If you did not charge the razor for some reason, you can operate it as a corded shaver, as the power cord can be plugged directly into the razor. Very nice product.
I had used one of the nivea norelco models, but hated the clean up. The power turbo razor gives a marginally closer shave, but I was prone to cutting myself under my nose and below my lower lip.
Rating
I’ve had an old braun shaver for 17 years – amazing, but it still works, and I still love it.
Decided to replace it just because I thought it was time to treat myself to a new one. Read the reviews – this Braun seemed to be the latest and the greatest – so I bought one.
First thing I noticed – you can no longer simply remove the screen to clean the blade – the only way to clean it now is to use the GIANT base in the cleaning mode to clean the shaver. Next – the head is now made of flimsy plastic – clearly made to be replaceable – another consumable part.
So now, I have to buy cleaning fluid replacement cartridges as well as replacement heads – as if I had nothing better to do but buy parts for an electric razor.
My old Braun needed NO parts replaced for the first 10 years of ownership – then I changed the screen and blade – and never changed anything again.
Now – for the side by side comparison – the new Pulsonic vs. my 17 year old Braun – half my face with one, the other half with the other. My wife was the judge ….. the verdict – the old unit. I couldn’t believe it. so I went back and tried to shave extra hard with the new unit – but again, it could not shave as close as the old one – maybe its all the pulsing its doing?
So here’s the bottom line – Braun seems to have converted its electric razor division to a consumable parts model – the razor is meant to constantly have parts needing replacement, while providing an inferior shave.
The company chose to focus on making more from selling parts rather than focusing its energy on making a superior electric razor.
I’m very disappointed, and will be switching from Braun after close to 20 years of use.
Too bad.
Rating
I compared this Pulsonic with the Philips Norelco arcitec 1060 Men’s Shaving System and the Panasonic ES8077 Linear Shaver with Vortex Hydraclean System. Obviously, every man’s face is different, so there is only so much utility in a description, but here goes:
I shaved half my face with one, the other half with another – with my wife providing objective testing of the shaved skin (she didn’t know which side was shaved with which until after). I shave using both a blade and an electric razor (this testing was to find a replacement for my old Panasonic 7000 series) so my skin is ‘used’ to dry shaving with an electric.
I started with the Braun versus the Philips. No contest – the Braun won handily. The only things that the Arcitec had better were quietness and styling of the shaver (to my taste). The Arcitec was more irritating to my skin, and yet didn’t shave as close (a very poor combination). It is almost impossible to shave a straight line with the Arcitec (hence the name?) – which would prevent styling a Van Dyke or other facial hair patterns. The trimmer is small and awkwardly placed on the Philips. Even the packaging was bad – one of those hard plastic shrink wraps you have to cut through. Even though it was made in Holland, the Philips seemed a little plasticky in the handle portion, though the shave unit itself was very finely engineered. The Arcitec also offered neither the wet/dry shaving of the Panasonic nor the plug in useability of the Braun.
Next, comparing the Braun to the Panasonic. This was a much closer (pun intended) contest. The Pro-Curve shaved closer on 3 of 4 attempts (the only time it “lost” was after 3 days of no shaving – thus more stubble to deal with), according to my wife – I had trouble telling which side was a closer shave (i.e. both shaved very close to the skin). However, it was marginally more irritating to the skin – though nowhere near as bad as the Arcitec. The Pro-Curve is a smaller unit, though it is a fair bit louder than the Braun in use. The trimmer is almost the same as the Braun’s in terms of size and ease of use, and the build quality is fine. The Panasonic is made in China and has the best packaging, in terms of minimal material and ease of access. The Panasonic has the otherwise useful feature of being able to be used wet or dry, though for me this feature is less important since if I am going to use shaving cream, I’ll use a blade… Since the shave quality was almost identical, it was the Braun’s other elements that won the day in my decision of which shaver to keep.
The Braun, made in Germany, is excellently put together. It is the largest physically of the three compared shavers, in the middle as far as noise goes, and in the middle as far as packaging goes. It caused the least irritation to my skin and was the closest of the three on cutting the hairs on my neck. The travel case is plain plastic, but well designed to avoid accidental power up in a suitcase – a problem with the Panasonic design (the Arcitec has a long button press that disables the power for travelling). The other major feature that the Braun has is the ability to be run while plugged in – so if you run out of battery power, you don’t need to wait to recharge it before finishing your shave – just plug it in and keep shaving. These features, combined with the lower cost for replacement shave-units, meant that my new shaver for the next decade or more (hopefully) will be the Pulsonic 9585.
I haven’t compared the cleaning of the three, since my testing was only over a two week period, so I didn’t use the included cleaning system(s) during the tests. The Arcitec didn’t have a cleaning apparatus – and is designed (well designed) to be cleaned in running water. It was very easy to clean the Philips. The Panasonic and the Braun both came with cleaning and recharging units (the Panasonic is water based, the Braun is alcohol based). Both of these latter units can be cleaned under running water as well as in their specialized cleaning systems, and both are relatively easy to clean using a tap, as would be the case if you are travelling with them.
While I didn’t use the Panasonic Hydra-Clean system, I examined its set up, and it is easy, but looks to be slightly susceptible to a breakdown of the plug connection when the shaver is inserted. The Braun, on the other hand, has the recharging take place by way of contact points, so there are less mechanical parts to that subsystem of the cleaning/charging base. Since I decided to keep the Braun, I used the base (once so far – I doubt I will use it everytime) – and it is extremely simple to use (and faster at ~1 hour compared to the ~3 hours estimated for the Panasonic base).
The only other factor I can speak to is the battery charging of the three shavers – and all three went from no charge to full in about an hour. I can’t say how many shaves this would give you since the batteries lasted for the entirety of my testing. Each of the three shavers had lights for showing how much battery power remains (with three levels on the Braun and the Panasonic, five on the Philips).
If you are contemplating this razor, I can heartily recommend it, especially since you can get your money back if you happen not to be satisfied.