Review (4/5): Not as good as a blade, but still a great razor
I have used Norelco razors in the past. Last time was about 10 years ago. I gave it up because it got too hot and burned my neck. I have been a Gillette Sensor shaver since then. I use the twin blade, tried the triple blade a few times and didn't like it. I can't imagine going to the 4 and 5 blade models. My problem with blades is they kill my neck. I got into a pattern of shaving every other day in order to minimize the razor burn on my neck. And of course, after the razor burn, there were ingrown hair issues. I used the Gillette tube of shave gel for extra lubrication, which helped a lot, but still caused problems. I also use dot shave in the shower, but trying to be water conscious, I started shaving a the sink again. It didn't take long to remember why I hated dealing with the mess that creates.
After doing plenty of research, both on Amazon and consumersearch site, I landed on the 9160. I had a really old Norelco that I used for a week until the new one showed up. The old lift and cut system worked ok, but was much noisier and harder to clean than the new model. The 9160 is extremely quiet. I turned it on the first couple times and stared at it waiting for it thinking it was not "up to speed" yet. It is just that quiet.
I was surprised to see each of the blades moved/tilted independently as well as the head that tilted. While that is cool and makes it a little easier to get the jawline and chin areas, I don't think I could recommend stepping up in model and price for that feature. The shave was close than the old lift and cut, but not close to what I got with the blades. Don't get me wrong, it was close enough and what I expected, but you can't really compare it to a blade.
The positive side, I shave everyday and have no ill side effects. No razor burn, not even on my neck. I use the normal setting. No ingrown hair issues either. There are 3 settings, if you need to go more sensitive, I just haven't had to use it. Cleaning is simple. I shake it out and run hot water on it for a few second. I don't need to do this everyday, but it is recommended. If you don't want the pivoting head, you can get the same cutting system for a lot less. I was able to get this for about 30% less than the regular price by shopping around, so I justified in my mind getting close to the top of the line.
I looked at the Braun and other systems that needed cleaning, and can not see why anyone would go through that hassle, especially since they all cost more.