Review (4/5): Good features for medium duty requirements, but 7xxx series might be a better value
I've owned this for a year and am quite pleased with it. But, if I were to buy again, I would probably go with the lower-cost 7xxx series. There are a few more features on the 8140XL -- the charging stand and full charge LED -- but basically Norelco makes a decent electric shaver. Upsides:
1) One significant benefit is the LONG time before the battery needs to be recharged -- perhaps a combination of using a good battery and low power requirements. I have taken it on a week-long business trip without bringing the charger.
Downsides:
1) $45 for a set of replacement blades is high. However, after a year, the original blade set is still adequate.
2) A "needs charging" LED would be useful.
Note that my shaver gets relatively light usage -- my beard is not overly thick, and I use a Gillette blade after not shaving over the weekend -- a blade gives a much quicker and better shave on a couple days' growth. This Norelco gets used Monday-Friday. Overall, I'm happy with this shaver and am glad to see Norelco back with a quality product.