Foil Shaver Buying Guide: What to Know Before You Invest
The Braun Series 9 PRO+ 9660CCPS is a flagship wet/dry foil shaver with a 6-in-1 SmartCare Center, built-in Precision ProTrimmer, and replacement head. Before buying, understand how foil technology, cleaning systems, and trimmer integration affect daily performance and long-term cost.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Foil vs. rotary: Foil shavers like this Braun use oscillating blades behind a thin metal screen, which generally suit straight facial hair and sensitive skin better than rotary heads that trap hair in circular cutters.
- SmartCare Center value: The included 6-in-1 station cleans, lubricates, charges, and dries the shaver, reducing manual maintenance—but it requires proprietary cartridges that add recurring cost.
- Wet/dry flexibility: This model supports both dry shaving and use with gel or foam in the shower, so consider whether you prefer a quick dry pass or a closer wet shave.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Prioritize a shaver with a pivoting head and multiple cutting elements for contouring, plus a built-in trimmer for edges and sideburns. Check replacement head availability and cost, as foil heads typically need swapping every 12–18 months. A travel case and cleaning station add convenience but also bulk and upkeep.
Foil Shavers Market Context
Market Overview
The electric shaver market is split between foil and rotary designs, with premium foil models like the Braun Series 9 PRO+ competing on closeness, skin comfort, and smart cleaning systems. Prices range from budget $50 shavers to $300+ flagships, and innovation now focuses on AI/auto-sensing motors and hygiene stations.
Common Issues
Common complaints in this category include irritation on sensitive necks, diminished performance as blades dull, and cleaning station cartridges that are costly or hard to find. Some users also find foil shavers less effective on longer or curly hair, requiring more frequent passes.
Quality Indicators
Quality foil shavers feature flexible heads, precision trimmers, and robust build materials like metal housings. A high IP rating for wet/dry use and a clear replacement-part ecosystem signal a durable, long-term purchase. Certifications like German engineering or dermatological testing can also indicate reliability.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade A Interpretation
The Grade A authenticity rating and 5.00% estimated fake review percentage mean the overwhelming majority of the 472 reviews are genuine, verified purchases. This is a strong signal that the 4.67/5 rating (adjusted to 4.60/5) reflects real user experiences rather than manipulated feedback.
Trust Recommendation
You can trust the aggregate rating and detailed reviews when evaluating this shaver. Look for reviewers who mention specific use cases like sensitive skin, shaving frequency, or cleaning station maintenance to gauge if it matches your needs.
Tips for Reading Reviews
Focus on reviews that describe long-term use (3+ months) and compare performance to previous shavers. Pay attention to comments about blade longevity, irritation, and SmartCare cartridge costs, as these are common differentiators in foil shaver satisfaction.
Expert Perspective
The Braun Series 9 PRO+ 9660CCPS is a top-tier foil shaver with a 4.67/5 rating from 472 mostly authentic reviews, indicating high satisfaction. Its 6-in-1 SmartCare Center and built-in Precision ProTrimmer add convenience and versatility, while the wet/dry design caters to varied routines. The adjusted 4.60/5 rating confirms consistent performance, though the 5% fake review estimate is negligible and doesn't undermine trust.
Purchase Considerations
Weigh the upfront cost against long-term expenses like replacement heads and cleaning cartridges. If you value a close, comfortable shave with minimal maintenance, this model justifies its premium. However, if you prefer minimal upkeep or have a tight budget, a simpler foil or rotary shaver may suffice.
Comparing Alternatives
Compare with other flagship foil shavers from Panasonic and Philips, as well as Braun's own Series 8, to ensure the Series 9 PRO+'s specific features align with your priorities.
