It is apparent that a razor plays an essential role for men. But shopping for a good razor is never a piece of cake, especially when you have to choose between two products like Panasonic Arc5 and Braun Series 9.
Both these razors are the most potent and advanced foil electric shavers you can buy today. But which one is better?
We have put together a detailed comparison to help you out of this puzzle, reveal the differences between Panasonic Arc5 and Braun Series 9.
An Overview Of Panasonic Arc5 and Braun Series 9
Typically, many people are into both the Panasonic Arc 5 and the Braun Series 9. The reason is that Panasonic and Braun are two competitive manufacturers that constantly release new updates for their lineups of electric shavers.
Unfortunately, the frequency of these update cycles leads to inconsistent and confusing model names. Therefore, distinguishing between the version types in the same manufacturer is not straightforward, let alone choosing between a Panasonic Arc 5 and a Braun Series 9.
As a result, understanding different models and generations is necessary before distinguishing between the Arc 5 and the Braun Series 9 lines.
Panasonic Arc5
Arc 5 is considered one of Panasonic’s top razors. The name Arc refers to the arc-like shaving head design, while the number 5 stands for the number of razor blades.
The 14,000-CPM motor of Panasonic Arc 5 will provide you a comfortable feeling. Moreover, the ability to move in 16 different directions of the head allows the blade to glide through smoothly on your face and protects you from cuts and nicks.
Because Panasonic is a top brand name of the Japanese electronics manufacturer, it is not surprising that Arc 5 is also divided into different categories.
The first generation Arc 5 shavers
Panasonic has released the first generation Arc 5 shavers since 2009. Two models of this generation are the ES-LV61-A and the ES-LV81-K. However, nowadays, it is difficult to find the first generation of Arc 5 shavers because it has been eventually disappeared and replaced with many modern models.
Moreover, instead of using detergent sachets like the newer Arc 5, it uses the older detergent cartridges. Basing on this, you can easily differentiate them. Nevertheless, in 2021, perhaps, they don’t represent a viable option anymore.
The second generation Arc 5
This generation is released in 2013 and updated in 2019. The outstanding models of this generation are the ES-LV65-S and the ES-LV95-S. You can easily see a significant update of the cleaning station. It currently uses a concentrated detergent mixed with water in the station’s tray.
In no doubt, the more compact the stations are the more modern the shavers look. In 2019, Panasonic introduced two new models, the ES-LV67 (no cleaning station) and ES-LV97 (includes a cleaning station). It was a visual update for a new design, while the foil, blades, and cleaning stations remained unchanged.
Read more: Panasonic Arc 5 – LV65 vs LV67 Review
The third generation Arc 5
Panasonic released this third generation in September 2015. The models include ES-LV-9N-S and ES-LV-6N-S. This third generation has a big update and improvement in the texture on the thumb rest. In addition, you can see the completely new design of Arc 5 with its modern appearance.
Moreover, the front-to-back tilt extends to the head from 17 degrees to 20 degrees. In addition, a low battery alarm was also added to inform you whether it is time to recharge or not. Thus, the third generation is outstandingly a better fit for someone who has sensitive skin.
Braun Series 9
The Series 9 is one of the most Braun’s top current shavers. Braun has released the older Series 7, but this series has a bit long in the tooth. (Check out: Braun Series 7 Vs 9 Comparison)
To maintain its leading position, Braun has updated and released the Series 9 with precisely perfect improvement. Currently, The Series 9 shavers have three generations.
The original Series 9
We can find out three different models.
- The 9095cc is dry/wet use and has an automatic cleaning station.
- The 9090cc is only for dry use and has an automatic cleaning station.
- The 9093s is wet/dry use and has no cleaning station at all.
The three categories are a bit of chalk and cheese. Therefore, choosing one variation over another is advisable according to your personal needs, your specialized purpose.
Keep in your mind that the shaving performance is identical throughout the entire line. Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to find the shavers in this generation because they were discontinued for a long time.
The updated Series 9
The updated Series 9 has three models: 9295cc, 290cc, and 9293s. The minor update mainly consists of a Titanium coated HyperLift & Cut Trimmer. All the new Brain Series 9 are highly suitable for wet & dry use. If you want to identify the more recent models, observe the color of the trimmer to find out.
The newer models will have a distinct gold color. In addition, the updated models are outstanding for their endurance. Although the shaving head can be broken after extensive use, the series 9 models are more durable over a long period.
The New Series 9
Braun has released another minor update to the Series 9 family of shavers since 2015. The new series 9 includes the 9385cc, the 9390cc, the 9370cc, the 9340s, etc. Initially, it was only available in Europe and Asia. However, later they were released in the US in 2020 as well.
The most significant novelty you should notice is a larger battery. Instead of meeting 50 minutes of cordless operation, the new models can provide up to 60 minutes. Moreover, there are some minor visual updates such as the new Graphite color option, white backlighting for the LED display,…
Panasonic Arc5 vs Braun Series 9: 7 Main Differences
The closeness of the shave
Take the shaving closeness into consideration; both Panasonic Arc5 and Braun Series 9 don’t let you down. The Arc 5 is Panasonic’s top shaver, and it ultimately shines when it comes to the closeness of the shave.
However, please take a look at the Series 9; it is a beloved and capable razor. The closeness that it provides almost satisfies most men, even grumpy men. From my point of view, when it comes to the closeness of the shave, Panasonic Arc definitely has the edge over Braun Series.
Don’t get me wrong; I don’t overlook the effectiveness of Braun Series 9. However, there are many reasons why I give the edge for Arc 5. For example, its unique curvature of the shave allows optimal contact with the contours of your face.
Moreover, the Arc 5 Panasonic’s extremely sharp blade has a relatively aggressive 30 degrees angle to cut the hairs clean and efficiently. Besides that, the potent 14 000 CPM motor added to Arc 5 is the fastest unit in any shaver.
In fact, even on their lower shaving generations, Panasonic also uses an almost as fast motor. Thus, arc 5 is not only an economical solution, but it also offers value performance-wise.
Shaving comfort
The newest Panasonic Arc 5 shavers prevent excessive pressure by using comfort rollers. The latest generation Arc 5 contains two golden comfort rollers in the shaving head. It is these comfort rollers that allow the shaving head to glide smoothly over the skin.
With the Braun Series, you will enjoy a delightful experience. The shaving head is redesigned with a more powerful motor and cutting element. It can not deny that the Braun Series is a highly capable shaver giving us a far more comfortable feeling. Most of this is due to the head design as well as the unique grip.
The visible difference between Panasonic Arc 5 and Braun Series 9 is that the foils of Series 9 remain cool during use; on the other hand, the Arc 5 foils usually overheat.
Especially if you have blemishes or sensitive skin, the Series 9 is more suitable because shaving with a hot electric shaver like Panasonic Arc 5 can cause rashes. Even when you have a thicker, heavier beard, the Series 9 will meet your satisfaction.
(Check out: How To Trim Beard With Electric Razor Like A Pro)
In a nutshell, the Braun Series is the better choice for someone having sensitive, irritation-prone skin than Panasonic Arc 5.
Shaving head
The most visible difference between the two shavers is the size of the shaving head. Seemingly, the Panasonic Arc 5 has a more oversized head. Moreover, it is impressive that the latest generation of the Panasonic Arc 5 has gold rollers. Although it’ll likely take time to get used to the shave, this large head can cover many areas quickly to help you save time.
Besides, the Braun Series 9 has a more traditional shaving head. Therefore, the head is small and easy to use. But only containing four cutting elements makes it slower than Arc 5 with five cutting elements.
It’s evident that the head of both the Panasonic Arc 5 and the Braun Series 9 offer the uttermost features. The shaver head of Panasonic Arc 5 can move in 16 different directions. Not inferior, the flexible 10-dimension head of the Braun Series allows the shaver to glide over your skin smoothly to increase comfort.
Build quality
When referring to build quality, it is hard to compare Panasonic Arc5 and Braun Series 9.
Braun was usually praised for the simple but ingenious design solutions, making their name a pioneer in industrial design. The Braun always takes priority to high-quality materials and flawless finishing. Braun Series is made primarily from plastic, with either a silver or a chrome/glossy black finish.
Occasionally, the use of plastic also makes the razor feel less premium. But it is unavoidable for the appearance to likely fade over time if the shaver is often wet. If you want to keep your shaver always new, avoid the glossy finish.
Today we all see eye to eye that Panasonic has certainly caught in terms of quality. The very early generations of the Arc 5 also had a plastic body Braun Series 9.
However, with the latest version of the Arc 5, Panasonic has upped its game to become a renowned manufacturer in industrial design. Arc 5 has its latest iteration featuring an all-metal body making the razor more luxurious, substantial, and durable.
Design
Although the design is a matter of personal opinion, the aesthetic ability of each person, I smell a rat that most people don’t hesitate to vote for the Arc 5, the better-looking device.
The Panasonic Arc 5 has a body with metal construction and gold foil, which makes the Arc 5 far more sophisticated and premium than the Series 9. Every now and then, it is the Series 9’s design that makes them less premium. And, of course, most people all want to own a more premium shave.
Cleaning stations
When comprising the Panasonic Arc 5 or the Braun Series 9 is better at cleaning stations, there are many things to consider.
Traditionally, the cleaning stations of the Braun Series were superior when compared to those of the Panasonic Arc 5. Using alcohol, they are quiet, fast, and efficient.
So, if we compare the first generation Arc 5 shavers and Series 9, I highly recommend you choose Braun. However, Panasonic has made an update in their cleaning station game in the last few years.
Instead of using cartridges mixed with water in the stations’ tray, they now use concentrated detergent gel. Switching to detergent sachets is an economical solution because they are cheap to buy and more long-lasting than Braun’s cleaning cartridges.
Panasonic will save you a lot of time when cleaning because you can just dry the shaver; however, you have to make sure to perform a complete cleaning cycle when you use Braun’s cleaning stations.
Moreover, Panasonic razors are easy to clean manually. For example, the Panasonic Arc 5 has separatable blades and foils, so removing all the hair clippings and dirt from the shaving head is straightforward.
On the other hand, the blades and foils of Braun Series are integrated into one piece, preventing us from cleaning. Eventually, hairs and dirt can remain lodged inside.
Cost of replacement parts
With the frequency of cleaning and care, you probably won’t call for replacement parts. However, sometimes, replacement is unavoidable. In fact, replacing parts of the Arc 5 will likely be cheaper than the Braun Series 9.
The reason is that the Braun Series shavers are constructed with a cassette. The blades and foils are all made into one piece of hardware. This means that if it comes to matter with an individual component, you’ll need to replace the entire cassette.
However, the Arc 5’s blades and foils are separable so, it is easier for you to clean as well as you don’t need too much money to replace the wrong parts.
Which Is Better: Panasonic Arc5 Or Braun Series 9?
When deciding whether Panasonic Arc 5 or Braun Series 9 is better in terms of satisfaction, there are many factors we need to take into account. In gểnal, both shavers are at a reasonable level, powerful, and have a lot to like.
The outstanding features of Panasonic Arc5 are the shaving closeness, efficiency, and high performance. But the Braun series 9 gives the uttermost comfortable experience. In this competition, there’s no clear winner at all.
So, selecting a better shaver to buy is based on your individual needs and your top priorities. You shouldn’t choose the best shave; it is wise to pick the most suitable shave.
For the average consumer, I highly recommend the Panasonic Arc 5. From the analysis, Panasonic has won more categories than Braun Series. Arc 5 will satisfy most men by the closeness of shaves. It is also a more premium and durable shaver with an all-metal construction. Therefore, Panasonic Arc 5 will be suitable for most of the customers.
However, if you have blemishes and sensitive skin, the Braun Series is undoubtedly the best option. The frequency overheating of the foil of Panasonic Arc 5 will make your skin rash, even cause acne.
Other side of the coin, the Braun Series 9 is specially designed for sensitive skin. It shines in the comfort department, and the foil on the Series 9 helps prevent itchiness and breakouts.
Regardless of which shaver you choose, carefully consider what your need to make the optimal choice.
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Conclusion
To sum up, it is pretty tricky to tell Panasonic Arc5 and Braun Series 9 apart. Making a wise choice requires you to carefully consider your individual needs and personal priorities.
Hopefully, after reading this detailed article about the differences between Panasonic Arc5 vs Braun Series 9, you have managed to choose your desired product. Also, don’t forget to revisit us for more valuable tips and advice on this matter.
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