Review (4/5): Easy Adjustment from Nonelectric
Unlike others, my motivation for going with electric shaving was based on medicine. That is, I am so many different blood thinners that, no matter what shaving system I use, I managed to get at least a small cut or two and these would bleed and bleed, etc. So, it occurred to me to try an electric razor. I read the generally excellent reviews posted at this site--thanks to all of you guys for your input! I decided on this middle of the line Norelco. It's a couple of models from the bottom; the bottom one is cord only, the next one is cordless only, and then comes this model. I spent some time at the store looking over the different blade systems; even Norelco alone has several going. I knew I didn't want that squishy mess like the most expensive, and I was reluctant to sink a small fortune into something I might not like. What decided most of all for me to get this 'Reflex Plus' system was that it has a whisker collection chamber so they don't go all over the place. I think the model(s) above this have lithium ion batteries, whereas this model still has NiCads--which I hate. If I traveled more than I do, I'd spring for the model above for about $10 more. NiCads are slow to charge and are generally crummy; I've been using them in photo equipment for 30 years. This particular razor can be used just as easily plugged into the wall, which I like. I also like the fact that it doesn't require a separate charging stand, you just plug the cord into the bottom.
How did it shave? Great for me. I'm blond with a fairly soft beard and it plowed through about 3 days' worth of beard, making a chopping sound the whole time. I felt an occasional 'pull' but then this was fairly long beard. Once the long hair was gone I found it quite smooth to shave with. I bought some 'Lectric Shave' at the store at the same time I bought the razor but I didn't use it. Having fairly light-colored hair on my face, I never have the Fred Flintstone look regardless. I found, though, that the razor certainly got my beard acceptably close. I can still feel hair on my face, but not to an unacceptable degree. I have usually used a German Mercury double-edge razor with Wilkinson Sword blades and this doesn't shave that close. It might do better or different with another's beard. As for me, I'm delighted, and it didn't cut me at all. I'm in my forties, so don't have any deep wrinkles, etc., to cut through. That might be different.
Unlike some of the other razors I looked at, this model is light to hold and not bulky. Some of the other, more expensive models seemed both huge and heavy. I wasn't willing to mess with that. Having only used this a couple of weeks, I can't speak to the long-term durability. Seems appropriate to the price, though. I don't think it'll cost me particularly more than blades and shave gel in the long run. It is very quiet. I am looking forward to many more pleasant shaves!