The Braun Series 7 is one of the best electric shavers you can get. Available in different models, the lineup offers advanced features at a reasonable price. The Braun Series 5, on the other hand, is more affordable and bridges the gap between the Series 3 and Series 7 models. Like most Braun shavers, the Series 5 comes in several iterations, too. But how does it fare against the best-selling Series 7? Below, we tackle what these shavers have to offer.
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Braun Series 5 vs Series 7 Shaver Comparison Chart
Design
Both the Braun Series 5 and 7 are well-built. However, some of their components are positioned awkwardly.
In terms of design, the Braun Series 5 looks closer to the Braun Series 9. It has a wide top near the blades and tapers to the base. At the center of the body, you’ll find the buttons and switches. These are arranged nicely and are set in enough that the shaver feels seamless. On the 5190cc model, you also get an LCD just below the power button.
With the Braun Series 7, the shaver looks more proportional. Near the center of its body, there’s a slight curve that serves as a tactile reminder of the shaver’s buttons. At the same time, it offers an ergonomic grip. The biggest downside to the shaver is its circular LCD that’s at the bottom of the razor. It’s an awkward position for a display and, at times, can be dim.
As for the blades, the Braun Series 5 uses two SensoFoil blades. In contrast, the Braun Series 7 boasts four shaving elements — three for cutting and one that serves as a skin guard. However, the frame on the Series 5 is thicker. It does have an advantage. Unlike the Braun Series 7, the Braun Series 5 has a travel lock switch.
Both razors have a trimmer. The location of the component will depend on the model you get. On the Braun Series 5 5190cc being reviewed, the trimmer is at the back of the razor. You simply push and slide it up to use. Meanwhile, the Braun Series 7 7865cc has a pop-up trimmer in front. While they’re great additions, the shaving head of the razors obscures the view of the trimmer.
Models and Accessories
Depending on the model you get, Braun’s razors can come with cleaning stations, brushes, and even travel pouches.
Out of the box, the Braun Series 5 and Series 7 come with a Clean and Charge station. These are alcohol-based and can clean, lubricate, and dry the razors while charging. However, the Series 7’s station is more compact than the Series 5. It also looks more futuristic. If you don’t want your razor unit occupying too much countertop space, go for the Braun Series 7.
Of course, the standard accessories are present with these razors. You get a charging cord to connect with the base station, as well as a cleaning cartridge. The Braun Series 7 also throws in a travel pouch and a cleaning brush for the shaver’s frame.
Keep in mind that the accessories you get will vary depending on the model. The Braun Series 5’s latest models are the third-iteration of the series. While some models can be used for wet and dry shaving, others are dry-only.
The same can be said of the Braun Series 7. Since being launched in 2007, the lineup has seen several new models being released. In some units, the Clean and Charge station may not be included.
Features and Performance
The Braun Series 7 delivers a more comfortable and efficient shave than the Braun Series 5.
The main draw of the Braun Series 5 and 7 razors is their AutoSense technology. Unlike regular shavers, these Braun units can ‘read’ your beard and adjust its shaving motor based on the hair density. Their shaving heads also flex or move around in eight directions, accommodating the contour of your face.
Braun’s Series 7 takes the automation a notch higher. The electric razor boasts personalized shaving modes where users can change the power of the motor. Depending on the model, you can choose from three to five settings. These modes include Intense, Normal, and Sensitive. The Series 7 razors also have an intelligent sonic system. According to Braun, the feature delivers 10,000 micro-vibrations that shave longer hairs more efficiently.
When it comes to comfort, the Series 7 has a slight advantage again. With its smaller shaving head frame, the razor doesn’t press too hard on the skin. Combined with its Sensitive mode, the Series 7 should give you a more comfortable shave. However, it doesn’t make a considerable impact on the closeness of the shave. In this area, the Braun Series 5 and Series 7 perform similarly.
Verdict
While the Braun Series 5 razor has a slight edge in design, the Braun Series 7 wins in features and performance.
The Braun Series 5 and Braun Series 7 shavers are considerable upgrades to your regular electric razors. While they lack the advanced features of the Braun Series 9, they have their fair share of capabilities for a comfortable shaving experience. The Braun Series 5 has the edge when it comes to design. Its buttons and LCD are positioned functionally, and it comes with a travel lock for safety.
However, in terms of performance, the Braun Series 7 wins. Aside from AutoSense technology, it comes with customizable modes and an intelligent sonic system. If you’re on a budget, the Braun Series 5 is a better option than the Series 3 models. However, if you’re willing to splurge some more dollars, the Braun Series 7 wins.
FAQs
No, the Braun Series 5 blade does not have intelligent sonic technology. They’re only equipped with AutoSense technology.
The Braun Series 7 shavers come with a two-year warranty.
Yes, the Braun Series 5 shavers are waterproof up to 5 meters.
No. The Clean and Charge station is not available in all Braun Series 7 models. However, the unit itself is compatible with any Braun Series 7 model, whether it comes with the station or not.