Braun 7865cc vs 790cc (2021): Which Electric Shaver Should You Get?

The Braun Series 7 line of electric shavers continue to be one of the most popular and bestselling razors for men. Braun Series 7 shavers are particularly well-known for their close cuts, comfy build, and all the extras that come with them. There are so many Series 7 models though, making it a tad more difficult to determine which is best for what, so zeroing in on a specific one takes time. We compare two of the most well-reviewed ones, the Braun Series 7 7865cc and the Braun Series 7 790cc below.

Braun 7865cc vs 790cc Electric Razor Comparison Chart

Design

The Braun 7965cc and 790cc look nearly identical in design.

If you look closely, you’ll find very little distinguishes the Braun 7865cc and 790cc from each other and the rest of the Series 7 shavers. The easiest way to tell these two apart is their colors: the 7865cc is gray while the 790cc is silver. The former also has a silver Braun logo while the latter’s is black. Other than that, both Braun razors have the same design and come with the same cleaning center. You also get travel pouches for either shaver, though the one for the 790cc is a nicer leather pouch.

These Braun Series 7 electric shavers are lightweight and feel easy to hold as you shift it while shaving different areas of your jaw. Both feature four shaving elements: 3 cutting elements and a SkinGuard that lets it trim close in a single stroke. Their contour flex heads can also move in up to 8 directions for optimal skin contact. Since it’s among the new Series 7 shavers (more on this in the next section), the Braun 7865cc has the new head locking mechanism, which makes it a bit more durable for those who tend to press harder to get better shaves.

Perhaps the biggest design difference that really matters is the waterproof build of the Braun 7865cc. Since it’s designed to be used for both wet and dry shaves, the 7865cc is 100% waterproof. The 790cc, on the other hand, only has a dry mode, which means no using it in the shower, though you can still rinse it of course. Overall, the Series 7 build is fantastic and highly durable, and even 3-year old shavers look brand new with daily use.

Features

The Braun 7865cc has wet and dry modes while the Braun 790cc only has a dry mode.

As mentioned, the Braun 7865cc has wet and dry modes, letting you use it in the shower or with shaving cream. Meanwhile, you’re limited to dry shaving with the Braun 790cc, which should be fine if that’s how you prefer to shave anyway. It’s worth mentioning that these models actually belong to different Series 7 releases. The first Braun Series 7 was launched in 2007, had 3-digit model numbers (such as the 790cc), and only had single shaving modes. In 2016, they introduced a new line of Series 7 shavers, giving them 4-digit model numbers (like the 7865cc) and dual modes.

With the new Series 7 line, Braun introduced a bevy of features that were really already found on the older Series 7. These include the intelligent Sonic and Autosense technologies, which Braun claims can adapt the shaving motor to capture more hair using microvibrations. The 790cc was also already capable of 8-D contour adaptation so the flexible head can match the curves of your face. You can choose from 5 personalized shaving modes, ranging from turbo to sensitive, if you want extra power or need a gentler trim.

Now, one of the best features of these Braun Series 7 models is the included automated cleaning center. The ‘cc’ in their model numbers actually refer to the inclusion of this nifty accessory. These integrated bases starts a cleaning and lubricating cycle at the press of a button, which is significantly more effective and efficient that manual cleaning. While you can save a bit by purchasing a non-cc model, the amount you save from future replacement parts and the greatly increased lifespan of your shaver makes getting the 7865cc and 790cc worth it.

Performance

The Braun 7865cc and 790cc provide similar close shave results.

The Braun Series 7 has become the industry standard for electric shavers for a good reason: their cutting performance is fantastic. Its flexible head adapts closely to your skin and leaves your face smooth without irritation. Both 7865cc and 790cc shave fast and quiet, and you’ll get a truly close shave whether you use cream or go dry. The handles feel solid when gripped and makes it easy to glide across your skin.

Those with dense beards will find the autosensing motor powerful enough to trim with ease. Ideally, the 5 personalization modes should be used for when you want an extra sensitive shave or simply want the strongest it can go, such as when shaving thicker stubble. However, you’ll likely find one of the highest settings to be optimal for any occasion, so it cuts fast and comfortable.

There’s really very little difference in performance between the Braun 7865cc and 790cc. The only actual differentiating factor that should affect your choice is if you prefer only shaving dry, which makes the Braun 790cc the more optimized shaver. The Series 7 7865cc gives you some flexibility, but most users will probably have some preference between shaving wet or dry.

Battery performance is outstanding. You can charge once a week and likely have enough power for daily shaves. The shaver head’s durability can result in big savings over time compared to other razors, since they can last more than 18 months with regular maintenance through the cleaning center.

Verdict

The Braun 7865cc offers a bit more value than the Braun 790cc.

With similar shaving performance, there’s no clear winner between the Braun 7865cc and 790cc electric shavers. This means the wet and dry shaving modes of the Braun Series 7 7865cc gives it the slight edge, since you’ll have the option of using gel and shaving cream with it. Everything else is equal between the two, as they have all the same shaving features, accessories, and modes. As one of the older line of Series 7 shavers, the Braun Series 7 790cc can be a cost-saving choice if you find a discounted offer. However, its classic appeal has allowed it to continue to be popular so its price hasn’t really budged.

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