Achieving a consistently close, comfortable shave is a hallmark of a well-groomed appearance, and the right electric shaver makes all the difference. Philips Norelco has long been a leader in this space, offering a range of rotary shavers and trimmers designed to tackle different hair types, skin sensitivities, and grooming routines. Whether you prioritize skin-level closeness, versatile trimming, or simple, effective performance, there’s a model engineered for you.
This roundup breaks down eight of the best Norelco shavers available. We’ve examined their key technologies, from advanced blade systems to flexible heads and smart features, to help you identify which one aligns with your specific needs. From premium flagship models to excellent value picks, find the ideal tool to upgrade your daily routine.
Our Top Picks for the Best Norelco Shavers
- Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige Rechargeable Wet & Dry Shaver
- Philips Norelco Oneblade Pro Hybrid Electric Trimmer and Shaver
- Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 5110 Wet & Dry with SmartClick Trimmer
- Philips Norelco Shaver 2300 Rechargeable Electric Shaver with PopUp Trimmer
- Philips Norelco Shaver 3100 (Packaging May Vary)
- Philips Norelco Shaver Series 9000 Prestige Special Edition
- Philips Norelco Shaver 9800 Wet and Dry Electric Shaver with SmartClean
- Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid Electric Trimmer and Shaver
Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige Rechargeable Wet & Dry Shaver
The Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige represents a high point in electric shaving technology, engineered for those who demand the closest possible shave without irritation. Its NanoTech precision blades are strengthened with thousands of nano particles, designed to cut hairs with exceptional accuracy at skin level. The shaving heads are surrounded by SkinComfort rings, a special coating that allows the shaver to glide smoothly over your skin with minimal friction.
This model is fully waterproof, offering the flexibility of a wet or dry shave, and includes a useful precision trimmer for detailing. It comes with a premium travel case, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers. For a comprehensive shaving system that balances aggressive closeness with thoughtful skin protection, the S9000 Prestige is a top-tier option.
Philips Norelco Oneblade Pro Hybrid Electric Trimmer and Shaver
The OneBlade Pro is not a traditional shaver; it’s a versatile grooming tool that trims, edges, and shaves any length of hair. Its unique blade is designed to cut hair without getting too close to the skin, which helps maintain comfort and reduce the risk of irritation. This makes it ideal for men who prefer a stubble look or have sensitive skin that reacts poorly to very close shaves.
This Pro version features a more powerful lithium-ion battery and offers 14 precise length settings, providing greater control over your style compared to the standard model. It’s perfect for maintaining facial hair shapes, trimming sideburns, and tackling body grooming. If your routine involves more than just a clean shave, the OneBlade Pro is an incredibly adaptable solution.
Philips Norelco Electric Shaver 5110 Wet & Dry with SmartClick Trimmer
The Norelco 5110 is a solid, mid-range rotary shaver that delivers reliable performance for everyday use. Its waterproof design allows for wet shaving with gel or foam, or a quick dry shave on busy mornings. The integrated SmartClick precision trimmer easily pops out for detailing mustaches and sideburns, adding to its practicality.
This shaver focuses on providing a comfortable, efficient shave without overly complex features. The rotary heads adjust to the contours of your face, helping to capture more hairs in each pass. For someone seeking a dependable, no-fuss electric shaver from a trusted brand that handles both wet and dry use, the 5110 is a compelling choice.
Philips Norelco Shaver 2300 Rechargeable Electric Shaver with PopUp Trimmer
The Shaver 2300 is designed with comfort as a primary focus. Its ComfortCut blades are housed within rounded caps that help the shaver glide smoothly over your skin, reducing tug and pull. The 27 self-sharpening blades work to provide a clean shave that is gentle on the skin, which is great for those prone to redness or irritation.
This model features 4D Flex Heads that move in four directions, following the natural curves of your face and neck to maintain consistent contact. A pop-up trimmer is built in for quick touch-ups. As an entry-level model from Philips Norelco, the 2300 offers a comfortable shaving experience and essential features at an accessible point.
Philips Norelco Shaver 3100
The Philips Norelco Shaver 3100 is a classic model known for delivering reliable performance and excellent value. Its ComfortCut heads have rounded edges to help the shaver move smoothly across your skin, aiming for a close shave with reduced irritation. The shaver is designed to be straightforward and effective for daily use.
A key feature is the Flex & Float system, which allows the shaving heads to pivot and adjust to the various contours of your face and neck. This flexibility helps ensure the blades maintain better contact with your skin to catch more hairs. For a basic, rechargeable electric shaver that gets the job done comfortably, the 3100 remains a popular and trusted option.
Philips Norelco Shaver Series 9000 Prestige Special Edition
This Special Edition model takes the Prestige series a step further with intelligent SenseIQ Technology. The shaver actively senses differences in hair density and skin type, then automatically adapts its power and cutting speed for a more personalized shave. This smart adjustment aims to provide optimal results across different areas of your face.
It features Precision Flex Heads with a skin-stretching design and 360-degree rotating NanoTech DualPrecision blades. Combined with the Lift & Cut system, it works to achieve an exceptionally close shave. The package is comprehensive, including a Qi charging pad, cleaning pod, nose trimmer, precision trimmer, and a premium case, making it a complete grooming station.
Philips Norelco Shaver 9800 Wet and Dry Electric Shaver with SmartClean
The Norelco 9800 is a premium shaver that emphasizes convenience through its integrated SmartClean system. This feature automatically cleans, lubricates, and charges the shaver at the press of a button, ensuring it is hygienic and performs optimally for every use. It takes the maintenance hassle out of owning a high-end shaver.
As a wet and dry shaver, it offers flexibility in your routine, whether you prefer a quick dry shave or a more relaxed wet shave with your favorite product. It incorporates advanced blade technology and flexible heads designed for a close and comfortable shave. For the user who values cutting-edge performance paired with ultimate convenience in upkeep, the 9800 with SmartClean is a strong contender.
Philips Norelco OneBlade Hybrid Electric Trimmer and Shaver
The standard Philips Norelco OneBlade is the foundational model of this innovative grooming category. It expertly trims, edges, and shaves any length of hair, using a dual-sided blade that’s fast and efficient. Like the Pro model, it’s designed to cut hair without getting excessively close to the skin, which promotes comfort and is ideal for maintaining stubble.
It comes with multiple comb attachments to achieve different hair lengths, making it a versatile tool for facial hair styling and light body grooming. The OneBlade is rechargeable and built for durability. If you need a single tool to manage various grooming tasks and prefer a look that’s not ultra-close, this original OneBlade is an excellent and more accessible starting point.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Norelco Shaver for You
Choosing the right electric shaver can feel like a maze, especially with so many models from a trusted brand like Norelco. I’ve tested my fair share, and the key isn’t just finding the “best” one, but finding the best one for you. Your skin type, beard thickness, and daily routine all play a huge part. Let me walk you through what I look for when I’m picking out a new shaver.
First, think about your beard and skin. If you have sensitive skin or get irritation easily, look for shavers with features designed for comfort. Many Norelco models have a “ComfortCut” blade system that self-sharpens and is supposed to reduce friction. Some also have built-in skin guards and pop-out trimmers for detailing. For thicker, coarser beards, you’ll want a shaver with more power and a higher “cuts per minute” rating. This means the shaving heads are moving faster, which can help tackle tough hairs more effectively.
Next, consider wet vs. dry shaving. This is a big one. Most modern Norelco shavers are fully waterproof, which means you can use them in the shower with gel or foam. I find a wet shave gives me a closer finish and feels more comfortable. If you’re a traditionalist who prefers a quick, dry shave at the sink, you can save a bit of money by opting for a model that isn’t fully waterproof, but I usually recommend getting the waterproof option for the flexibility.
Battery life and charging are everyday concerns. Cordless use is a must for me, so I check how long a single charge lasts. Many of the better shavers offer 60 minutes of cordless shaving, which is plenty for a week or more for most people. Also, look at the charging options. A quick charge feature (like 5 minutes of charging for one shave) is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry. Some even come with a travel case and can charge via USB, which is perfect for life on the go.
Finally, don’t forget the extras. A precision trimmer for sideburns and mustache is almost standard, but check how easy it is to use. A clear display showing battery life and cleaning indicators is really helpful. And if you hate maintenance, look into models that come with an automatic cleaning station. It adds to the cost, but it keeps your shaver in top shape with minimal effort from you. By weighing these factors—your skin and beard, shaving style, battery needs, and desired features—you can narrow down the list of the 8 best Norelco shavers for a close shave to find your perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Norelco shavers good for sensitive skin?
In my experience, yes, many are. Norelco’s rotary shavers are designed to glide over the contours of your face, which can mean less pressure and irritation compared to some foil shavers. Look for specific models that advertise features for sensitive skin, such as special skin-comfort rings, anti-friction coatings on the blades, or multiple comfort settings. Using the shaver in the shower with a gentle shaving gel can also make a big difference for sensitive skin.
How often do I need to replace the shaver heads?
Norelco generally recommends replacing the shaver heads (the part with the blades and guards) every 12 to 18 months for optimal performance. You’ll know it’s time when the shave starts to feel less close, or you need to make more passes to get smooth. The shaver will often have a replacement indicator light as a reminder. Regular cleaning under the tap and using the automatic cleaning station (if you have one) will help extend the life of the heads.
Can I use my Norelco shaver for both my face and head?
Absolutely. Many people, including myself, use their Norelco rotary shavers for head shaving. The flexible heads do a great job following the curves of your scalp. For the best results, I’d suggest choosing a model that is specifically advertised as suitable for head shaving, or at least one that is fully waterproof for use in the shower. The pop-out precision trimmer is also handy for cleaning up edges around the ears and neckline.
What’s the difference between a Series 3000, 5000, 7000, and 9000?
Think of these series numbers as tiers. The higher the number, the more advanced features and power you typically get. A Series 3000 is a great, no-fuss entry-level shaver. The 5000 series often adds more comfort features and better battery life. The 7000 series usually introduces more powerful motors and advanced blade technology for a closer cut. The flagship 9000 series packs in everything: the most powerful motor, premium comfort features, detailed displays, and often includes a smart cleaning station. Your choice depends on your budget and how many of those extra features you really want.
Do I really need an automatic cleaning station?
You don’t need one, but after using one, I find it hard to go back. It’s a convenience feature, not a necessity. The station automatically cleans, lubricates, and charges your shaver at the push of a button. It keeps the blades in excellent condition and ensures a consistent shave. If you dislike the hassle of manually brushing out hair and rinsing the shaver head, the station is a worthwhile investment. It’s most common in the higher-end models among the 8 best Norelco shavers for a close shave.