Review (4/5): Would Be Better With Low Battery Indicator
I've been using this shaver for about a month now, and find its performance to be somewhat better than my previous Norelco shaver (5822) at this price point. Not having a low battery indicator is the most serious deficiency of the 7140.
The instructions state: "Battery performance is best if you recharge only when the batteries are (almost) completely empty."
If you follow this advice, it means you'll have a bad shave or two as the battery runs down, and then have to use it as a corded razor on the day it really slows down. At least the AC adapter bypasses the battery charger when using it corded, so this will not further degrade the battery. Another reviewer commented Norelco's web site says the battery is NiMH, which is supported by the fact there is no NiCd warning on the outside of the 7140 (like there is on the 5822). So fully discharging the batteries before recharging may not be that important.
This is my first Norelco with a washable shave head. I am so far very satisfied with this feature, and consider it one reason the shaver delivers consistently close shaves.
I would have deducted two stars for the lack of a low battery indicator, were it not for the apparent use of NiMH batteries and the effectiveness of wash-through cleaning of the shave head. Other than that, it is what I expected with respect to operating noise, weight, trimmer, etc. One thing to note: it does not come with a case of any kind; just a plastic blade protector.
About me: I have been shaving with electric razors for about 30 years. I started with Norelco rotary, tried Remington foil, Braun foil, and then eventually back to Norelco rotary probably 15 years ago. Therefore my face is well conditioned for this shaver. However, if I go more than a couple days without shaving, I "pay for it" when the electric razor has trouble with relatively long whiskers - a lot of pulling along with the cutting. I generally replace the blades once a year, and don't disassemble and clean them as often as I should (instructions recommend montly).