(checked 2026-10-10)
The budget pick at both Wirecutter and CNN: a surprisingly close shave for about $56, and it runs corded or cordless. It is rougher on skin, loud and flimsy, and owners report foils that pop out or break.
Top complaints
- Rougher on skin
Wirecutter found it more aggressive than its other picks, as if nibbling the skin, with more redness. ShaverCheck doesn't recommend it for very sensitive skin, and a Walmart 1-star reviewer said it felt like it pulled hairs out instead of cutting them.
- Flimsy build; foils pop out or break
One Wirecutter tester thought it might fly apart, CNN found the head flimsy with blades that fall out when opened, and ShaverCheck says the foils seem brittle. Walmart 1-star reviewers describe foils popping out during use, a foil breaking after 6 months, and units that stopped charging. Amazon's summary says durability is mixed, with some breaking after 30 days.
- Loud, bulky, weak on the neck
Wirecutter measured 45 dB, among the loudest it tested (a partner compared it to a weed whacker), and found the body too bulky to grip comfortably. It also underperforms on the neck. ShaverCheck says it often missed longer, flat-lying hairs and is pretty loud.
Source: Wirecutter, ShaverCheck (F5-5800 review)
What owners love
- Best shave under $100
Wirecutter found it better than every other option under $100 it tried. CNN got a close, comfortable shave even on a thick three-day beard, and ShaverCheck rates its closeness strong for the price.
- Runs corded or cordless
All three testers highlight that it works while plugged in. ShaverCheck averaged 8-9 shaves per charge against a claimed 60 minutes, and Amazon owners say the battery holds a charge for several shaves.
- Cheap to run
ShaverCheck says the SPF-300 replacement head costs about the same as a Braun Series 3 head, though Remington recommends replacing it every 6 months. Value for money is a top Amazon praise.
- You have sensitive skin
- You shave while someone else is sleeping
- You want a solid, premium-feeling build
- A close shave on a tight budget
- Shaving while plugged in when the battery is dead
- Dry shaving
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Budget pick at about $56: a fairly close, even shave and 60 minutes of battery, but more redness, 45 dB of noise and an awkward grip.
- CNN Underscored: Best budget razor: an impressively clean shave for the money, but it's dry-shave only, feels flimsy and is fiddly to clean.
- ShaverCheck: 4/5 (updated 2023-04-24); its 2026 guide names it best for a close shave on a budget. It is not ideal for sensitive skin and has a disappointing trimmer.