Posted on 27 July 2022
This comparison is certified 100% impartial and follows our selection process.
Philips BT5515/15
Made for short to semi-long beards, this waterproof model cuts efficiently. Fairly precise, it has 40 different cutting heights and very good autonomy. In short, it offers the best quality/price ratio.
When we tested it, we could see that, although simple, this model includes all the necessary features for efficient cutting. It is equipped with long-lasting, self-sharpening stainless steel blades with up to 40 cutting heights. Its cutting guide allows all hairs to be captured for a precise cut, and details can be realized with the help of the clip-on precision trimmer. It can be used corded or battery operated and has the advantage of adapting to the maintenance of all beards.
Having a good beard can be a real advantage, as long as it is well-groomed.
The vast majority of trimmers offer different cutting heights.
For versatility, choose a machine that is both battery-operated and corded.
A stainless steel model is obviously more robust and durable than a plastic one.
It is important to consider the ease of maintenance of the appliance.
Some models can be used for both beard and body (head, chest, etc.).
Certain machines come with accessories such as a precision head, quick-charge option, etc.
Philips MG1100/16
This model is ideal for the care and precision work of short beards, contours, goatees, and mustaches. Equipped with 3 blades, it is very handy, robust, and also waterproof despite its small price.
Ideal for trimming, styling, and eventually shaving, it is particularly suitable for the maintenance of 3-day beards, mustaches, sideburns, and finishing touches on contours and hard-to-reach areas. It has three blades (1, 3, and 5 mm). During our tests, we found it to be very handy thanks to its small size and lightweight (which also makes it ideal to take everywhere in a toilet bag). Strong, efficient, and very inexpensive, it is best used as a complement to a more complete shaving kit – but can also stand alone depending on your beard type. Note that the box also includes a precision razor that effectively trims the hair, but has not proven to be as effective as a blade razor.
Philips QP6550/30
Lightweight and compact, this beard trimmer can handle short beards from 0.4 to 10 mm. In addition, it offers 120 minutes of autonomy for 1 hour of charging and is compact yet ergonomic.
A true classic of the brand, it has an ultra-precise cut and a slightly pivoting head that is practical for following the contours of the face. On testing it, we found the LCD screen showing the battery level to be very clear. It’s perfectly waterproof and comes with a body clip, a spare blade, a beard clip (in 14 heights), and one more to protect sensitive skin, all in a soft travel case. By removing the shaving shoe, it can also be used as a shaver, making it even more versatile. But if you’re looking for more solid storage and a charging base, then opt for the Philips QP6650/30 OneBlade Pro.
Braun 7 BT7340
While this particular trimmer is a little less precise than others, it is far more versatile than its direct competitor as it is suitable for all but the longest beards and can even trim hair.
In our tests, this machine proved to be more practical for precision work than its direct competitor. It was also more versatile than the Philips model in our selection, but unfortunately a little less efficient. Like the other models in our selection, it only has one speed. However, its 2 blades offer simple and clear adjustment for trimming from 0.5 to 20 mm at 39 different cutting heights. The quick charge proved to be effective, as it saved us enough to shave in just 5 minutes, which is always useful in case the battery runs out during the task. Finally, despite the slightly heavier weight, the grip is good and doesn’t cause fatigue.
Panasonic ER-SB40
This quasi-professional model is characterized by its powerful and stable motor and its ultra-fast cutting speed. It is appreciated for its many cutting heights, its solid material quality, and its design.
It is the most robust trimmer in the selection, making it a very convincing high-end product. It features heavy-duty Japanese blades that easily catch every hair. The whole set is adjustable to no less than 19 different cutting heights (from 1 to 10 mm) thanks to the removable cutting shoe. During our tests, we particularly appreciated the precision of the cut. On the other hand, you have to apply oil (small bottle supplied) before and after each use, which will force you to buy more if you intend to use it for a long time. In addition, its noise can be a bit annoying. Add to this its high price, and you have two compelling reasons to make it an alternative.
Our selection
| Our choice, Best mid-range | Best budget | Best high-end | Mid-range alternative | High-end alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | |
| Philips Series 5000 BT5515/15 | Philips Series 1000 MG1100/16 | Philips QP6550/30 OneBlade Pro | Braun BearTrimmer 7 BT7340 | Panasonic ER-SB40-K803 |
| Made for short to semi-long beards, this waterproof model cuts efficiently. Fairly precise, it has 40 different cutting heights and very good autonomy. In short, it offers the best quality/price ratio. | This model is ideal for the care and precision work of short beards, contours, goatees, and mustaches. Equipped with 3 blades, it is very handy, robust, and also waterproof despite its small price. | Lightweight and compact, this beard trimmer can handle short beards from 0.4 to 10 mm. In addition, it offers 120 minutes of autonomy for 1 hour of charging and is compact yet ergonomic. | While this particular trimmer is a little less precise than others, it is far more versatile than its direct competitor as it is suitable for all but the longest beards and can even trim hair. | This quasi-professional model is characterized by its powerful and stable motor and its ultra-fast cutting speed. It is appreciated for its many cutting heights, its solid material quality, and its design. |
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Honorable mentions
Remington Beard Kit MB4046 (£67.23 upon publication): for occasional use. This kit has a wide choice of cutting heights ranging from 1 to 35 mm. Unfortunately, there is no logic in these heights and we had to look at the explanations in the manual to make sure we chose the right setting for our beard. It can be used with or without a cord, but it has a fairly heavy weight that makes it hard on the wrist when used for a long time. Its materials also seem to be a bit less qualitative and it is not waterproof. However, it is quite complete for its price and is suitable for many beards.
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How to choose your beard trimmer?
Over the years, styling the beard has become more and more commonplace. While some prefer big and wild, beard care and styling are the order of the day.
To style your beard, it is best to opt for a quality trimmer. Given a large number of different models on the market, this can get a little complicated.
To help you out and make things clearer, here are a few criteria we have taken into account when making our selection:
- Cutting height: most trimmers offer different cutting heights, usually adjustable by knob or button. For less bushy beards or fans of the “near shave”, a height between 3-9 mm is a must. Those ranging from 10 to 20 mm are perfect for styling and shaping longer beards.
- Power and battery life: while wireless models offer more convenience and portability, they may be less powerful. You should also check their battery life and charging time. For the less organized, some clippers have a quick charge function that allows you to use them after only a few minutes of charging. Ideally, for more versatility, you should choose a lawnmower that works on both battery and mains power.
- The speed: the more times it turns per minute, the more efficient it is. Nobody likes to run the machine 3 or 4 times to trim properly. Choose a model that spins at 3000 rpm or more.
- Materials: Although most machines are made of plastic, a stainless steel model is obviously more robust and durable. The best blades are made of stainless steel, chrome or titanium. They are kinder to the skin and last longer. A trimmer with double-edged blades gives you more precision shaving and self-sharpening blades are more durable.
- Maintenance: a trimmer can easily become clogged with hairs, small dead skin cells or other elements that can impede its operation. This is why it is important to pay attention to how easy the appliance is to clean, which is usually marked by water resistance and removable parts. A cleaning brush is usually included with the purchase.
- Versatility: some trimmers are very versatile, being suitable not only for beards but also for hair, chest, and other body parts. It is up to you to decide what you will use it for.
- The little extras: some models come with accessories such as a precision head, a cut hair extraction system, a fast charge option, or various accessories such as a cleaning brush, a beard brush, or a manual shaver. However, focus on what is relevant to you and don’t get bogged down with options that won’t help you.
How did we test?
Testing a beard trimmer is, after all, quite logical. We started by unpacking the device, which allowed us to check the overall quality of the device, but also the various accessories provided.
Then comes the shaving phase itself, using different cutting heights and the necessary accessories (e.g. the shaving shoes). Of course, the final step was the complete cleaning of the trimmer after use. This also allowed us to analyze the ease of disassembly. Unfortunately, the battery autonomy could not be checked in two shaves.
Translated by Ramsés El Hajje
