I have accumulated quite a few 'shavers over the years, with the three most recent new models from Norelco, Braun and Panasonic. So, I decided to make a comparison, perhaps to help those who are debating between these high-end models.
But first we need to get a basic question of the way: you should not spend so much to get a good shave from an electric razor? Absolutely not. Lower-end models such as the Braun Series 5, 7000 and 8000 Series Norelco shavers ArcIV and Panasonic are great. What you get for the extra money is a slight improvement in his beard, a little design 'better, and a couple of bells and whistles in some useful way.
The quality of construction - all are very well put together. The Braun feels more substantial, the 3D feels more "plasticy".
Sound - 3D very quiet, Braun and Panasonic are much more "exciting", but not too strong.
Overall feel - for me, Braun feels the most comfortable to hold. Easy to grip even with wet hands. The Panasonic is in second place. The 3D is the most awkward feeling. It's not horrible, but not everything that is comfortable.
Dry shave: close - this is a difficult choice, with Braun and the Panasonic is providing very close shaves. The 3D does a good job, but my face does not feel as smooth as with the other.
Shaving Dry: Speed - the 3D is the clear winner here. Only through my beard, cuts, shaving with a total time of less than 3 min. The Panasonic is about 4 minutes for a good shave, the Braun watches in about 5 min.
Smoothing dry-neck - this is the most difficult for most razors, and all these models a few hairs left wandering here and there. The 3D is the best, but it comes at the expense of a certain irritation (see note below). Braun and Panasonic are about equal.
Dry shave: Comfort - Braun is the winner for me, followed by Panasonic. Zero redness on even the most sensitive (the jaw line and neck). The 3D has left me with some red spots on my neck. Nothing serious, but it is clearly a step below the other amenities on the counter.
Wet shave - this is limited to Panasonic and 3D. I'm not a big fan of wet shaving, but both do a very good job. The Panny does better with a very thin layer of gel-like cream, 3D works better with a heavier foam (I've gotten good results with Edge). Both came close shave, with a little 'sweeter than the Panny 3D. But, the 3D has done a better job on the neck and jaw line.
** Update: Just tried the new Remington Alphagel shaving cream and that works very well with both the Panny and Norelco. The scent is a bit 'heavy (menthol), but no-foam consistency is a perfect partner for a wet electric razor. Much better than any other shaving cream I've tried. I examined the Alphagel if you want more information.
Maneuverability - it is here that Braun really shines for me. I have a mustache, and beading with the Braun is a piece of cake. The 3D requires some practice, but can do a decent job. Far worse was the Panasonic - the big head makes it very difficult to create a clean edge around the `stash.
Automatic cleaning - I love the Braun cleaning station. Works well, cleans well, and the razor-out lemon fresh. The cleaning station Panasonic is OK, but is stronger, it takes longer, and the aqueous cleaning solution is not as effective. I can not comment on the station since the 3D model I bought did not come with it.
Manual cleaning - both the Panasonic and 3D are very easy to clean manually. It really is not necessary station car wash (even if it is useful for the storage for the Panny). The cutters are removable from the 3D (unlike the Arcitec models) for cleaner every so often. Braun can be cleaned with water, but it's hard to get very clean because the cutter block is a single unit.
I could say much more about these razors, but this review is already too long. If I had to pick just one, I'd go with the Braun. While not perfect, it excels in many areas and he feels the best. It also offers three settings (gentle, normal and intensive) that vary the speed of the cut, a characteristic of the other two are missing. I find it very useful. In addition, the heads of parts are readily available and frequently discounted (as are the cleaning cartridges). But the 3D and Panasonic are very good too razors and get the job done. If you're willing to spend the money, one of these would be a good choice.
Note: I have the Braun 790cc-4 since I was able to do it at a fantastic price (on another site - sorry Amazon!) On Black Friday. But, in the normal price, the 760 is cheaper and a better value. They work the same way, with differences limited to the color of the kind of razor, indications on the handle, and the fact that the 760 does not have the "Quick Clean" in the cleaning station. None of these are really important, so if you go with the Braun, choose the one that is more convenient.
But, we must learn to properly use an electric razor to get a good shave. Some quick tips:
1) Do not press too hard - use a touch easier. If the heads are always hot or warm, you are pressing too hard.
2) Shave against the grain when using a sheet of paper, shaving in a circular motion when using a rotary.
3) Stretch the skin taut when shaving neck
4) Wait at least an hour after getting up before shaving (face, we all become a little 'bloated when sleeping).
Shaving happy!
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