Review (3/5): Decent Razor for the $$
I've been using the Norelco for about a month now. I had previously used the Panasonic ES8162S Pro Curve Elite (stolen out of my luggage at the airport), so I will use that as a basis for comparison. I have somewhat sensitive skin; I did go back to a Gillette Fusion razor for a month in between electrics.
Cost:
$129 Panasonic
$80 Norelco (Sale Price)
Aesthetics:
The Norelco is a better looking razor imo, with a nice charging base. The clock is a cool feature. Norelco looks better on the counter. Norelco is much quieter than the Panasonic.
Features:
Both had sensitivity settings and LCD battery monitors. Found the sensitivity settings helpful for the initial break-in period on both. Panasonic was wet/dry. Norelco is not. Norelco comes with a nicer travel case.
Break-in:
Panasonic took two weeks before redness subsided. Comfort level was fine. Redness subsided after a week with the Norelco.
Comfort of Shave:
After the break in period both provided a comfortable shave with little or no irritation. The Norelco will catch and pull a hair once in a while but its not a big deal, but I have to be careful around my lips with the Norelco or it will pull and cut them. That didn't happen with the Panasonic.
Closeness of Shave:
Panasonic wins hands down, its not even close. With the Norelco I'll have to do a touch up at night (after morning shave) if I want clean shave look. Wasn't needed with the Panasonic.
Ease of Shave:
Panasonic wins again; much quicker shave. So far I'm not a big fan of the rotary style. I have to go over area's multiple times, and its tougher to get the tight/close spots. Shaving takes at least double the time with the Norelco.
Battery:
Norelco has a longer battery life, however you have to be careful not to overcharge it. You can't just leave it on the charger and go to bed; you have to remove it when its fully charged, or you'll damage the battery. A big pain if you ask me. Didn't do this with the Panasonic.
Cleaning:
Panasonic was wet/dry, Norelco is not, but both can be cleaned simply by running under water. Really not much different.
Value:
I wish I had gone for the more expensive Panasonic again, but the Norelco does a good enough job that its not worth buying another razor. I would probably think the Norelco was great if I never had used the Panasonic.