--- source_url: "https://www.esquire.com/style/grooming/g62775479/best-razor-for-men/" title: "8 Best Razors for Men in 2026, According to the Grooming Experts" mirrored_at: 2026-09-02T01:02:54.651Z host: www.esquire.com cited_in_42a: true mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/www.esquire.com/style/grooming/g62775479/best-razor-for-men/index" --- > **Original source:** https://www.esquire.com/style/grooming/g62775479/best-razor-for-men/ ### Pros - Five blades - Simple design - Blade-refill subscription option ### Cons - Blades go dull fairly quickly When Harry’s launched, the company sought to solve a variety of problems plaguing the razor industry—especially high prices for subpar products. The brand did just that, and now, more than ten years later, the Harry’s razor continues to be one of our all-time favorites and the one we personally reach for most often. The secret lies in the disposable cartridge razors, which are made in Harry’s own German factory and feature five blades that deliver a smooth, close shave with almost no effort on your part. The overall design is simple; apart from the five blades, there is also a lubricating strip and a trimmer detail blade you can use to shape sideburns and such, and that’s about it. But, again, that is all by design. These are simple to use and effective, which in our book is the mark of a good razor. Now there are multiple handles to choose from, which are all perfectly weighted and ergonomically designed, but they all fit the classic razor head. (If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.) Best of all, the price is still incredibly low for the quality. We love the subscription service because we never have to remember to order new blades, preventing the ultimate shaving no-no: using a dull razor. Blades 5 Features Precision trimmer blade, flex hinge, lubricating strip Refills included Yes ### Pros - Five blades - Stays sharp a long time - Well-designed reuseable handle ### Cons - Refills can get expensive It’s generally thought that more blades equal a closer shave, and in the case of the Fusion5, that is true. The point of this razor is the five blades, which glide across your skin effortlessly in combination with the larger lubricating strip, giving you a baby-smooth shave very quickly. Compared with other cartridge razors we tried, especially those with fewer blades, it gives not only a closer shave but also a more comfortable one. Other notable features, like the “channels” that help to clear away shaving cream and work to prevent clogs between the blades, are welcome and add to the experience, but it’s really all about the blades here. We haven’t been able to find a cartridge razor that gives a closer shave. Blades 5 Features Ergonomic handle, large lubrication strip, precision trimmer blade, channels to help clear away shaving cream Refills included Yes Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Now 18% Off ### Pros - Gives a close shave - Good for people with ingrown-hair problems - Handle is well weighted ### Cons - Learning to use a safety razor can take some time Typically, if you have a problem with ingrown hairs (particularly if your beard is very curly or textured), shaving with a multiblade razor is not the best idea. Multiblade razors cut very close to the skin, sometimes even below it, which can lead to more ingrown hairs as your whiskers grow out. In this case, a single-blade safety razor is a good option. Bevel takes a traditional razor and updates it for a modern user. Specifically designed for men with textured beards, this easy-to-use safety razor is perfectly weighted to deliver a close shave. Although it doesn’t shave as close as a multiblade razor, for the reasons above, it’s not like you’re going to have stubble. Shaving with a safety razor takes some getting used to if you’ve only ever used cartridge razors before: You have to go slower and hold it at a specific angle to shave without nicking or cutting your skin, but once you get the hang of it, the shave it delivers rivals one you’d get in a barber shop. Blades 1 Features Double-sided, easy-to-grip handle, large refill packs Refills included Yes Now 22% Off ### Pros - Specifically designed to shave on sensitive skin - Shaves at skin level to avoid ingrown hairs - Smooth and comfortable experience ### Cons - Doesn’t shave as closely as some other razors do If you have sensitive skin, shaving is always going to be a harrowing experience. Dragging a razor over your skin can lead to not only ingrown hairs but also razor burn and irritation, particularly if you’re using multiple blades. This cartridge razor still has multiple blades, but it’s been thoughtfully designed to minimize irritation on sensitive skin. With its two lubrication strips (versus the standard one) and a proprietary “irritation-defense bar” situated between the blades, we found the actual experience of shaving with this way more comfortable than those of many other razors we tried. It glides over your skin without any drag or pulling, and the additional lubrication strip actually does make a difference. It also shaves at skin level, which means that it helps reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, making it a great option for guys who don’t want to go down the safety-razor track but still want to control ingrowns. It doesn’t shave quite as close as some others on this list (we noticed our shadow came back a little bit earlier in the day when we used it), but if you have sensitive skin or problems with razor bumps, that’s a compromise you may be willing to make for a more comfortable, irritation-free shave. Blades 2 Features Double lubrication strips, precision trimmer blade, irritation-defense bar Refills included Yes Advertisement - Continue Reading Below ### Pros - Electric-powered razor - Blade can cut in multiple directions - Length comb included ### Cons - Needs to be charged If you’re a regular reader of [Esquire’s grooming content](https://www.esquire.com/style/grooming/a65665281/esquire-grooming-awards-2025/), then you may already know how much we love the Philips OneBlade. It’s one of the most versatile and easy-to-use grooming tools on the market and one that has earned permanent icon status in our own grooming routines. There are so many reasons why we love it, but the bottom line is that this electric razor is just so damn easy to use. Designed like a traditional razor—but powered up through technological advancements—the OneBlade uses an innovative razor design to mow through whiskers of all thicknesses effortlessly. Since the blade is double-sided, you can use it in multiple directions (unlike a traditional razor) and this new version even features a 360 degree swiveling head. You can also use it dry, meaning that without shaving cream your shave is easier and faster. We will note that it doesn’t shave quite as closely as a multiblade cartridge razor, but the difference is so minute we doubt you’ll even notice. (We don’t.) This version also comes with an attachable length comb that means you can trim stubble with it, if you’re not into the clean-shaven look. And while the blade refills can be slightly expensive, you don’t have to replace them nearly as often as you do with your typical cartridge razor, making it a solid investment for both your wallet and your face. Blades 1 Features Dual-direction blade, water-resistant, length comb included, charging cord included Refills included No ### Pros - The best electric shaver money can buy - Fully waterproof - Includes goodies like travel case and charging station ### Cons - Expensive - Battery life is less than an hour total In basically every piece we have ever written about electric razors, we have put the Braun Series 9 Pro on a pedestal. Admittedly, that’s where it deserves to be. It’s an investment but it’s the full package, with a travel case, charging stand, and everything you need for cleaning and maintenance. Best of all, it will genuinely save you time every day you use it (a minute per shave adds up quickly over time). And when it comes to electric, you won’t get a closer shave anywhere else. What really sets this razor apart is its futuristic Autosense technology. Mid-shave the razor will detect your beard’s density and adjust the razor’s power accordingly. With technology like this, it either works or it doesn’t. Here it works, and it’s an absolute game-changer. If you’re willing to spend some real money on an electric razor, this is the one. ![Image no longer available](https://www.esquire.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/eye-regular.e612290.svg) ## Features at a Glance Blades 5 Features Two trimmers, clean and charge station, cleaning cartridge, travel case, smart plug, cleaning brush Refills included No Advertisement - Continue Reading Below ### Pros - An upgraded version of the classic disposable - Five blades - Includes beard-trimming attachments ### Cons - Gillette razors are the same price and better Nobody wants disposable razors, but people still buy them because of the low price and because sometimes you just need one. It feels bad throwing out a Gillette, so if you’re going to get something you know you’re tossing before the next flight, well, Bic has always been right there. This razor is the next evolution of the [Flex 5](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NX77X51?tag=esquire_auto-append-20), which is our disposable razor of choice. The Trim and Shave is a cartridge razor that also includes beard-trimming attachments for making facial-hair adjustments without any batteries. Each cartridge head has five blades that work to deliver a crazy-close shave, and each trimmer is two-sided to accommodate shorter and longer beards. As with the Flex 5 before it, the handle has a pivoting head to help make shaving around the contours of your face more comfortable, a lubricating strip, and a precision trimmer blade. The ergonomic design of the handle fits comfortably in your hand and has a rubber grip to keep it from slipping. In terms of shaving power, it rivals the other razors on this list in terms of closeness and comfort. The addition of the trimming attachments makes it a space-saving alternative to packing a razor and a [beard trimmer](https://www.esquire.com/style/grooming/advice/g2752/best-beard-trimmers/). ![Image no longer available](https://www.esquire.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/eye-regular.e612290.svg) ## Features at a Glance Blades 5 Features Pivoting head, lubricating strip, rubber grip on the handle, precision trimmer blade ### Pros - Heats up quickly - Multiple heat settings - Waterproof ### Cons - Expensive You know that feeling after you get a hot-towel barbershop shave? Not only is it relaxing AF, but for some reason it always feels like a much closer shave than you ever get at home. Well, this innovative heated razor is the closest thing we’ve ever found to re-creating that feeling on your own. It sounds pretty out-there, but in practice this thing gives easily the most comfortable home shave we have ever experienced—and one of the closest, as well. It’s not an electric razor in the traditional sense, though you do need to charge it. Instead, the special cartridges include a bar that heats up when the razor is turned on. The heated bar not only soothes and conditions your skin but also helps to soften hair, making it easier for the five blades to cut through it, minimizing the possibility of nicks and pulls and reducing the risk of irritation. You can even adjust the heat settings to your comfort. (Don’t worry, even at the highest heat setting, it won’t burn your skin.) We noticed an immediate difference not only in how our skin felt but also in how it looked post-shave, with absolutely no signs of irritation. It’s truly a [luxury product](https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/g1339/luxury-gifts/), with a price point to match, and while the refills are slightly more expensive than your usual cartridge razor’s, we have to say it’s worth the investment to get a shave this good at home every day. ![Image no longer available](https://www.esquire.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/eye-regular.e612290.svg) ## Features at a Glance Blades 5 Features Rechargeable, waterproof, heated bar Refills included Yes Advertisement - Continue Reading Below ## Other Razors We Tested and Liked ![line](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/thick-linebreak-blk-1649967966-66edc17c9f573.jpeg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top "line") [Gillette Labs with Exfoliating Bar](https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Exfoliating-GilletteLabs-Shaving-Magnetic/dp/B09H3N98GD/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3MOXIV3PCIAW1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.P-CUuvOMbxqDBV-AkRUq0TAP3xzjQs5SF9qsa3UR1xO3HKwjSnKwMzM6dbSUOjILLaCpN5CdHDkHCR_1iNapV6Xk8GNVivGL-YQj5r7u4Ah9ZYpbEfxuOKEEJ8sDHxy9HwMNjkLVyvkudRwtEbi31_d-cYNdh7a6hkXUAA9YJSoIOuYoXj8rut7Ba3158qWt_9l0OA1V36Us4MxDntSrQ4179A0HuACEGygV6OSR0_RaFz9ufvY4iK3FModZ2jdA88lm5i5yTW9vFvaVkqwKpgBfofkVgMGkcblT8smCnlU.5m4hWXO3frup75Ar_L8QHHwZvj0UNmm7hAHuq0QJ7h0&dib_tag=se&keywords=gillette+labs+exfoliating+bar+razor&qid=1730387644&s=beauty&sprefix=gillette+labs+exfoliating+bar+razor%2Cbeauty%2C71&sr=1-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&tag=esquire_auto-append-20): The idea behind this razor is that it covers two steps in your skin-care routine: exfoliating and shaving. The rough bar physically exfoliates your skin as you move it over the surface, removing buildup and dead skin cells in the process. Theoretically, it helps pave the way for a closer shave by removing things that could prevent the razor from effectively cutting your whiskers. We can confirm that it does leave your face feeling smoother and cleaner than razors without the exfoliating factor. The five blades and the pivoting head also help to deliver a very close shave. [Gillette Mach3 Razor](https://www.amazon.com/Gillette-Mach3-Handle-Refills-Packaging/dp/B06X9V77XY/ref=sr_1_6?crid=31URT459J0H8O&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.thzJVwaQ3DneEyMunGAiWqk3g7uKySPMpLNh1aNb85Xkd7bEcZlSj2frfd7YUPqWFX1TvR0QC-vDrgwH8CnTmnKV5f8pWTua78MWLCH14ehrtUcuel1etO4N-OF4Hc1fc3nJrk5YLRIJa3YVREU_P4HjwKMCgKI3_WfqPMpy9LKYHMFv67u7BcakKiVvotlUdNaX3_GzkmABHw8FS6o4L42GCdIUbxDCtFa-4BXxPRNXAlRDey_eR6VtqCAPemkhbcBqrk0hKk9Epeifo3vCx2gVD2UXAK3SSSolNbpalwY.SpKQFXrl9y7RK7JX4BTDwlr-lCL0ANmcyoL1wmG2Wag&dib_tag=se&keywords=mach%2B3&qid=1758052091&sprefix=mach%2B3%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-6&th=1&tag=esquire_auto-append-20): If you’re somewhere in the middle, where you want a closer shave than what a single-blade razor can deliver but find five blades too harsh for your skin, the Mach3 is a good choice. It features three blades that give you a close shave without as much risk of irritation as versions with more blades and deliver a comfortable shaving experience that’s faster and, some might say, easier than a safety razor’s. The long-lasting blades can handle up to 15 shaves before needing to be replaced, which also makes it an economical choice. [Schick Hydro Sensitive Razor](https://www.amazon.com/Schick-Sensitive-Absorbent-Technology-Refills/dp/B07DCKCFN2/ref=sr_1_4_sspa?crid=23JFC83LCYGBA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3RUPAMErfbQqntrpGk4-DmqTShsAt9CgQctMZEXME0DYXjbwqQhgn4l58v2UC5XrGsuJi1eSmAuT1utm8xZid3LwkQAjNaOqAVqGipQzueGY1nRGBfwk5WX7cQhyUTqV8oKJU-55Ks_61S1w2pbKqEz3tNnVbhYh2NprXjpRa3tMdkTtblFaoycQTTuS-nU4FCBIuIgYWjL_ENSUJKWv_Pn5GoQbwlirBXTxmLJp5QhxR8RZlO7OWanAP3wjxX_5vLhwwxKWok5Si5UVLowq0aYSs2vhZFnAOxgWb8wBe98.2xAlsNIIWruD7n2woPfswy1P_Wp0NFvGoRKMbjrfkc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=men%27s+razors&qid=1730387975&s=beauty&sprefix=men%27s+razors%2Cbeauty%2C83&sr=1-4-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&tag=esquire_auto-append-20): Designed to be used on sensitive skin, this comfortable razor features a very good lubricating strip infused with aloe, and while it still has five blades, each one has a special guard to help reduce potential irritation. We found that it shaves slightly closer than other sensitive-skin-friendly razors, likely because of the five blades, yet we still had minimal irritation after the process was done. ## Styles of Razor ![line break](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/line-break-1649445018.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top "line break") We mentioned all the different types of razor styles up top but wanted to give a quick breakdown for quick reference. **Cartridge Razor:** This is the most popular form of razor for shaving. These are sold with replaceable snap-on cartridge heads that you need to change once they’ve dulled. Many have multiple blades, three and five being the most common. **Safety Razor:** Safety razors are single-blade straight razors with a guard between the blade and skin. They are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. Blades require a good amount of upkeep and replacement, but the shave you get is very clean and close. **Disposable Razor:** Disposable razors are temporary-use blades that (typically) don’t detach from the handle. They tend to come in bulk packs and have a reputation for being cheap and low quality. It’s true that, compared with the others, you won’t get as close a shave. **Electric Razor:** It’s not really even a razor. Electric razors use tiny rotating blades to cut through any thickness of hair. They are easy and don’t require force or shaving cream. Electric razors don’t get as close as straight razors do, but they are fast and can cut through bigger beards in the way cartridge razors aren’t built for. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below ## What to Look For ![line](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/thick-linebreak-blk-1649967966-66edc17c9f573.jpeg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top "line") Razors come in all shapes and sizes, so when you’re choosing the right one for you, there are a few factors to think about. **Blades**: Generally speaking, the more blades a razor has, the closer it will shave. This can be a good thing if you want a very close shave in a shorter amount of time, but there are a few things to consider. Since multiple blades can sometimes cut so close to the skin that they actually cut the hair below it, the risk of ingrown hairs increases the more blades you have. More blades may also potentially lead to more post-shave irritation, since you’re dragging more things across the surface of your skin. If you have sensitive skin or problems with ingrown hairs, you may want to use a razor with fewer blades. **Features**: Additional features beyond just the blades are welcome but not always necessary. Some common features you’ll find are lubricating strips that help condition skin while you shave and pivoting heads that allow you to shave more easily around the contours of your face. **Refills**: Razor blades become dull over time and will need to be replaced eventually. Most traditional razor blades should be replaced after every few uses, though some claim to be good for upwards of ten or more shaves. You’ll want to consider not just how often your razor’s blades will need to be replaced but also how easy it is to replace them. ## Why Trust Us ![line](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/thick-linebreak-blk-1649967966-66edc17c9f573.jpeg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top "line") We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s roundups is carefully curated by our grooming and e-commerce teams. When it comes to shaving, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting products that we’ve personally tested, tried, and loved. Our style team has spent years test-driving hundreds (thousands!) of shaving products, including razors, and we are confident that these are the best. Every pick on this list (and our other lists) comes from these years of testing. We know that everyone’s skin is different, no two men are the same, and what works for you may not work for everyone else. But if you’re looking for the right place to start, with advice from folks who care (possibly too much!) about this sort of stuff, this is the place to be.