Learning how to shave ordinarily starts with a manual razor, and many fathers teach their sons to shave their teen beards. Perhaps it’s a cartridge razor or disposable razor. Some even use an adjustable safety razor for their first shave.
There’s a period of folly, where nicks and cuts seem inevitable. However, the best razors for men make it easier to shave away hair and avoid these minor cuts.
The best razors for men have sharp blades with an easy-to-use design and safety guards in place to avoid nicks. However, the type of razor best depends on your skin type and personal care routine.
What’s in your beard grooming kit? You need a top-notch manual razor for a smooth shave. In this review, we answer what types of razors are best for a super close shave and the differences between these designs.
The Razor Buyer’s Guide
With the market flooded with all types of razors, it’s hard to tell which ones actually provide a smooth, clean shave and which ones leave you nicked with stubble. As you shop for your next razor, here are some things to keep in mind.
Straight Razors
Most men shy away from straight razor shaving because of the perceived danger, but it’s actually the best way to get the closest, tightest shave without going to a professional barber.
See our Straight Razor Buyer’s Guide
Benefits of Straight Razors
- Incredibly sharp
- Durable
- Best for close shaves
Drawbacks of Straight Razors
- Difficult to use
- Costly
- Requires maintenance
Straight razors are best for men who don’t mind spending a little extra time getting a close shave in the morning. If your routine already includes shaving cream and a sharp razor, a straight blade may help you get an even closer shave. You’ll also feel like a badass wielding one of these.
Safety Razors
The most common type of razor is a manual safety razor. Its double-edge blade design, the blades are safer to use than any other razor because they’re locked in and only expose one edge.
See our Best Safety Razor Buyer’s Guide
Benefits of Safety Razors
- Designed to prevent cuts
- Inexpensive
Drawbacks of Safety Razors
- Sharp, but ever slightly less sharp than a straight razor
- Locked blade can be hard to maneuver around face contours
If you’re just starting with shaving or like to get your shaving out of the way quickly, a safety razor is the best option.
Disposable Razors
Most guys don’t like disposable razors because they’re not as superior in sharpness or durability as a real razor. However, disposable razors have strong points, especially if you’re on a budget.
Benefits of Disposable Razors
- Inexpensive
- Good for travel
- Easy to use
- Multipack offers great value
Drawbacks of Disposable Razors
- Not always sharp enough
- Not very durable
These razors are best when you have nothing else to shave with. Not all disposable razors are bad, but they just don’t have the same blade length or quality as a cartridge razor.
Cartridge Razors
Finally, the best types of razors for at-home use are cartridge razors. These typically come with multiple blades for an extremely sharp razor shave, and the head of the razor typically has some swivel and movement to allow for shaving over contours.
Benefits of Cartridge Razors
- Multiple sharp blades
- Flexible razor head
- May have a safety guard in place
- Considered better for close shaves over electric razors
Drawbacks of Cartridge Razors
- Expensive to buy replacement blades
- Some cartridge razors are of higher quality than others
The cartridge razor should work just fine for those who shave at home and want a close shave without a straight razor. However, there are varying degrees of sharpness, durability, and flexibility within cartridge razor types.
Tips for Purchasing High-Quality Razors
- Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to use a safety razor as too many blades or sharp straight blades may irritate your skin.
- Multi-Blade Design: Typically comes with 3 to 5 blades, though designs have 7 blades. However, these are micro blades that may require faster replacements.
- Routine: How quickly do you need to get out the door in the morning? If you shave quickly, a cartridge or safety razor is the best option.
- Secure Grip The best razors have a textured grip design, so your fingers won’t slip while you shave.
- Decent Price Most razors should cost under $20, but you’ll find $100 or more luxury razor options. The top razors are typically made with steel or titanium and built to last.
Based on our findings, the best razors for men are reviewed below.
Top 9 Razors For Men Reviewed
With so many ads claiming that their razors are the sharpest and most precise, we tested the razors that received the highest reviews to see which ones actually provide the closest shave and greatest value.
1. Gillette Mach3 Men’s Razor: #1 Pick
The Gillette Mach3 is a men’s cartridge razor with three blades. The reusable handle has rubber grips for a firm hold. For the price, you get a super-smooth shave with no nicks thanks to the built-in lubricated blades.
The springy head on this razor includes three sharp steel blades. The main package comes with a refill blade. Gillette states that the cartridges last for 15 shaves, but it’s likely a little less. We suggest picking this cartridge for close face and head shaves.
- CLASSIC CLOSE SHAVE: 3-bladed men’s razor that gives you a close shave without the fuss. Features open-blade architecture for easy rinsing
- UPGRADED LUBRASTRIP* for enhanced glide: An improved lubrication strip for extra glide (*vs previous Mach3)
- 1 BLADE = 15 SHAVES. Get up to 15 shaves from each Mach3 razor refill
- STRONGER-THAN-STEEL razor blades that stay sharper longer (vs. Sensor3)
- PREMIUM ERGONOMIC HANDLE: Designed with a premium stainless steel razor handle that fits all Mach3 razor blade refills
Best Overall Razor
Pros
- Affordable cost
- Lubricating strips
- Three blades
Cons
- Must buy refills
- Not the best for sensitive skin
Verdict
The Gillette Mach3 Turbo cartridge razor works with multiple blade types, including Mach3, Fusion5, and Fusion5 Proshield. The main benefit is that this razor has a rubber grip, which makes it easy to get a balanced shave.
2. Jack Black Closer 5-Blade Razor: Best Premium Razor
If you want a high-quality and stylish razor, the Jack Black Closer 5-Blade Razor is your best option. The design is ergonomic and includes a precision trimmer, an inset pad grip, and diamond-etched knurling on the handle.
Made in Solingen, Germany, the Jack Black razor has a pivoting head for a flexible shave, and it’s also one of the few cartridge razors that includes a precision trimmer. We found this razor works well on any face or head shape, and it’s a super close shave thanks to the 5-blade design.
- Item Package Length: 5.3cm
- Item Package Width: 10.8cm
- Item Package Height: 21.9cm
- Item Package Weight: 0.209kg
Pros
- Amazing design with a pivoting head
- Includes precision trimmer
- Balanced, heavy grip handle
Cons
- Expensive for a cartridge razor
Verdict
For those who only want the best, Jack Black shave products are incredibly high end. You’ll spend a little bit more on this cartridge razor, but the results may be worth it if you like the simplicity of the cartridge but want the closest shave possible.
We also like that this razor has a pivoting head, making it easy to follow the contours of your face or head.
3. Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide Power Men’s Razor
Gillette was determined to create a five-blade version of the Mach3, which eventually became the Fusion5 ProGlide cartridge razor. The newest models come in different versions, with the Gillette Fusion ProGlide being the least expensive.
Compared to the Mach3, the Fusion5 initially provides a closer shave, but by the third shave, you need to replace your blades as they simply get too clogged and dull for being a little close together. However, you can still shave on the same blade if you don’t mind the diminishing returns.
- POWER FLEXBALL HANDLE: Battery-powered soothing micropulses help you to reduce friction so the razor glides smoothly over the skin and with FlexBall technology that responds to contours and gets virtually every hair
- 5-BLADES: 5 anti-friction blades for a close, long-lasting shave
- 2X LUBRICATION: With 2x lubrication (vs ProGlide) for incredible comfort. The lubrication before & after the blades shields from irritation while you shave
- PRECISION TRIMMER: On the back for hard-to-reach places and styling facial hair
- UP TO 1 MONTH OF SHAVES: One razor blade refill lasts up to one month of shaves
Pros
- Very close shave
- Five-blade design
- Textured grip handle
Cons
- More expensive than Mach3
- Not the best for sensitive skin
Verdict
For a close shave in minutes, the Fusion5 ProGlide is an amazing cartridge razor that does the job the first time. The major issue is that older Fusion designs had the blades too close together, which led to them quickly dulling after a couple of shaves.
Today’s models have “Flexiball Technology” and thinner blades to prevent this problem.
4. Dorco Pace 7 Plus
We couldn’t believe there was a 7-blade cartridge razor on the market, but the Dorco Pace 7 Plus proves it’s possible. Dorco created the first-ever razor with 7 micro blades for a super close, super-smooth shave.
Dorco attributes the Venetian flow design as easier to control and better for blade life. The moisturizing strip provides argan oil and calendula extract to reduce skin irritation and provide a completely smooth shave.
- 7 BLADE TECHNOLOGY: Dorco Pace 7 is the world's first 7-blade razor, making shaving safe and easy, even for sensitive skin. The precision aligned blades distribute the force of each stroke more evenly, preventing nicks and cuts.
- DORCO’S CURVED BLADES: Our blades are curved, slim, and flexible, engineered for a close, comfortable shave with minimal irritation. The open-blade design allows for easy rinsing of the blades, which can help keep them sharp and clean for a longer...
- LONG LASTING, CLEAN SHAVE: Experience a clean, smooth shave that lasts all day, no matter your hair type or skin sensitivity.
- HONEYCOMB GUARDBAR: The unique honeycomb guardbar holds and lathers the shaving cream or foam across your skin for a comfortable, irritation-free shave.
- INTERCHANGEABLE RAZOR HEADS: Any Dorco blade refill fits any Dorco razor handle. They ensure a safe and comfortable shaving experience for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Pros
- Honeycomb guard bar for effortless, flexible shave
- Argan oil lubricant for sensitive skin
- Textured grip for a firm hold
- It comes with 10 refill blades
Cons
- Customers report flimsy construction in the handle, which may break after 1-2 months
Verdict
After a couple of shaves with the Dorco Pace 7, you’ll see the difference between the 7-blade design and other cartridges. It’s also pretty valuable for a cartridge razor that comes with 10 refills. You’ll be able to get the handle and the refills for less than $30.
5. Solimo 5-Blade MotionSphere Razor by Amazon
Amazon has created something for everyone and now includes their Solimo five-blade cartridge razor. This razor includes a dual lubrication strip, precision trimmer, and 16 refill cartridges for an incredibly low price.
It’s hard to believe that Amazon’s Solimo brand created a decent shave, but with almost 7,500 4-star or higher ratings, this blade has definitely won over the crowd. MotionSphere refers to the multi-axis pivot head designed to flex as you shave to get into all the nooks and crannies of your face.
- 5-blade MotionSphere razor handle and 16 refill cartridges
- Hypoallergenic lubricating strips with Vitamin E to help reduce skin irritation
- Anti-clog design for quick rinse
- Beard trimmer for shaving goatee, sideburns, and under nose
- Cartridges fit Amazon Basics Razor Handles only; does not fit other brands
Pros
- Very low cost
- Super close shave
- Hypoallergenic strip includes Vitamin E
Cons
- May dull after 2nd use according to some customers
Verdict
We think you’ll love the MotionSphere five-blade razor from Amazon. It’s very easy to use and provides a smooth, close shave for much less money.
For those who only use cartridge razors, you may want to switch to this low-cost alternative since the handle and 16 cartridges can be purchased for less than $20.
6. Merkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor (Chrome Finish)
If you’re looking for an even closer shave, safety razors offer sharper blades that can fine-tune the closeness of your shave. The Merkur Futur adjustable safety razor has a magnetic grip, making it easy to snap the pieces together and start shaving.
The Merkur Futur features a straight bar, adjustable blade closure, closed comb, and brushed metal design. It would be best to simply supply the double edge blades for it to work.
- The Merkur Futur Series Of Safety Razors
- The Feel And Finish Of A Fine German Sports Car
- The Razor Is Chrome Plated With A Polished Chrome Finish
- The Merkur Futur Has An Adjustment With Six Settings For Individual Requirements For A Close, Comfortable Shave
- Made In Solingen, Germany
Pros
- Weighted handle
- Adjustable design
- Very close shave
Cons
- Higher initial cost
Verdict
Safety razors are a favorite of professional barbers who get a closer shave with double edge blades. The Merkur Futur is actually a lower-cost option compared to other safety razors on the market. It’s easy to use and balanced for a flexible shave.
7. Schick Hydro 5 Power Select Razor
The Schick Hydro 5 Power Select Razor is an entirely different design that uses vibrations to get a closer shave. It’s highly rated for its superior shave, but it may take some time to get used to these vibrations when shaving for the first time.
However, the vibrations help to get a super close shave. The gel reservoir and skin guards protect your face with this five-blade razor. Schick also claims that the battery-powered design strengthens the razor, which lasts two times longer than other cartridge razors.
No products found. No products found.Pros
- Only power manual cartridge razor
- Superior blades
- Less expensive than Gillette Fusion5 Blades
Cons
- Must provide batteries
Verdict
Schick created this five-blade power razor to be different from every other razor in the market. There are so many cartridge razors that it must be difficult to stand out.
We’re not sure whether the power razor really is so much different from a Mach3. However, it felt really nice to shave with the vibrating razor, and it’s not as expensive as Gillette’s Fusion5.
No products found.
8. BIC Flex 5 Sensitive Hybrid Disposable Razor
BIC has always been a disposable razor brand, so whether their cartridge razor would stand up to other cartridge razors like Gillette or new boutique brands like Dorco is questionable. The main benefit of BIC’s razors is that they’re less expensive.
For example, their BIC Flex 5 Sensitive Hybrid includes a handle and refills for around $5.
The design is as flexible as Gillette Fusion, with a pivoting head and anti-slip handle. The lubricating strip also includes aloe, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
- One 7-piece BIC Flex 5 Hybrid Razor Kit for Men contains one handle and 6 refills
- Disposable razors for men with 5 contour-adjusting blades for an ultra-close, comfortable shave
- Lubricating strip enriched with Aloe provides an enhanced glide
- Balancing sphere, a 40-degree pivoting head for ease of use, and an ergonomic anti-slip handle to deliver a firm, comfortable grip
- Ideal razor for face, head and body shaving
Pros
- Very inexpensive
- 4-blade design
- Lubricating strip with aloe
Cons
- It is not as close of a shave; may need to repeat strokes to get smoother results
Verdict
BIC is the most affordable razor brand. As one of the more affordable multi-blade razors, the BIC comes with a lightweight but cheap, but there’s a small textured grip.
This is a good backup cartridge razor because it’s not expensive yet includes a multi-blade design and lubricating strips. We think the Aloe strip makes it a great option for anyone with sensitive skin prone to razor bumps and ingrown hairs.
9. Gillette Mach3 Disposable Razor for Sensitive Skin
“For every stroke you take, it takes three” is the motto behind the Gillette Mach3 disposable razor for sensitive skin. When taking on tough facial hairs, you need a razor that can hit every nook and cranny.
The only difference between this design and the cartridge is that the razors aren’t removable. These razors have a patented diamond-like coating, and it includes a spring-mounted pressure control system to adjust to the contours of your face.
Disposable razors are notoriously harsh on skin, but this one is made for sensitive skin and comes with a lubricated strip and protective microfins to provide the smoothest shave possible.
- Closer shave with Zero Redness (vs. Gillette CustomPlus/Sensor2 Disposable; it’s possible with Mach3)
- Clinically proven suitable for sensitive skin
- Superior cartridge geometry (vs. Gillette CustomPlus/Sensor2 Disposable)
- Powerglide blades with advanced coating (Designed to give Mach3 Sensitive a best first shave via lower cutting force than Mach3)
- A pivoting head navigates the contours of your face effortlessly for a smooth shave
Pros
- Very low-cost option
- Made for sensitive skin
- 3-blade design
Cons
- Dulls after a couple shaves
Verdict
With three blades and a protected, lubricated strip, the Gillette Mach3 disposable razor for sensitive skin was made for a comfortable shaving experience. It’s better than a single blade disposable razor, but it may not be as sharp as a Gillette cartridge razor or safety razor.
The razor provides a super close shave without the hassle of replacing and changing cartridges. You essentially get the same shave with a cheaper handle.
