Philips 7886XL Electric Shaver

Pros: Cool battery level LCD, pivoting heads, comfortable, light, quiet, quick, "function over form", ergonomic design
Cons: Ni-Cad batteries (1970's technology??), mediocre sideburn trimmer, doesn't even drive me to work ;-)

Background / Buying Process I've been shaving for about 20 years now, starting with my dad's old Norelco, an old Remington, another Norelco, disposable razors, old-school safety razors and now I've come full circle. I've grown to prefer ...

Pros: Excellent shave, quiet operation.
Cons: Obsolete NiCad batteries, odd color.

7886XL was bought to replace my 6-year old 6826. The old shaver needed a new set of batteries and a new set of blades and it turned out that buying a new shaver is cheaper. I briefly considered new Smarttouch system, but after looking at it decided ...

Pros: Closeness, comfort, cleaning and quiet
Cons: No stand, no settings, bigger power cord

Well the old one finally had to go....battery life was failing and it was time for new blades so I decided to upgrade. There are a few things that are nitpicky like: 1) No stand. My old one had one?? 2) No closeness settings. I don't know if this will be an issue, but on my old model there were settings. 3) Power cord is bigger. Not huge, but not as slim.

Now for the advantages: 1) CLOSENESS! It may not be as close as a blade, but it's darn close...and comfortable. 2) Easier cleaning...can rinse it under the sink. My old one became a chore to clean. Now after every shave I rinse in warm water and let dry. Nice. 3) It's quiet. My old one wasn't really noisy, but this is just very quiet.

Pros: Very quiet Very close shave Easy to clean Light weight
Cons: No charging stand

My first electric shaver in 30 years. Got tired of nicks and cuts with a blade. Very pleased with this choice. I think I will start shaving TWICE a day now!!