Review (3/5): Beauty that is only superficial.
Norelco by Philips Cool Skin 8040x. I have used it for 2 weeks now. I have read the reviews but the design of the shaver was the deciding factor. It is simply one of the most elegantly design shaver of all. Pinnacle of industrial design. It is beautiful in every aspect of it.
Unfortunately, the design comes in at cost of usability. 1. unlike its cousins the razor head does not conform to your face. It does not move. I have tested it with other shaver same brand shavers and was impressed how the 3 head flex to conform to your face but this one is fixed. 2. Blade spins at very low rpm. I do not have any numbers but I can clearly tell the blade spins at far lower rpm then other shavers I am used to. 3. Razor surface is far less than other cousins. Because it had to leave the center of the blade empty to deliver the lotion where as other shavers have blades in the middle this model has empty spot in the middle of the each of 3 razor head.
Its lotion dispensing ability is very novel. I enjoy its cool smooth feel. Wet/Dry feature is fun too.
Its weakness adds up to not so close shave. Even after the shave I feel the hair on my face. So it just won't cut it as primary shaver. So I will be using it as on the go maybe at the gym. But it is very unsatisfying and I am compelled to return it. Use its 45 guarantee thing..
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Update: After using it for over 6 months. I think this cuts as close as my other shaver. I am enjoying shaving with this. This circular cutting mechanism seems to be very efficient. +1 star