Top 10 Best Cartridge Razor For Ultra-Close Shave

Updated Date: by Reet Patel

Shaving requires the best tools that outperform other grooming tools and adds value to your investment.  Also, they should be risk-free, especially when they are so close to the face or skin.  That’s where the cartridge razors come into the picture.  They not only level up your beard but also bring ample benefits.

One of the most significant benefits of cartridge razors is it offers an irritation-free and close shave through fewer strokes.  Another benefit is the affordability and usability, which is why the cartridge razor category held the largest market share in 2018 and dominated again in 2019.

In our opinion, Gillette Mach 3 and BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid are the best cartridge razor that not only offers a close shave but also keep razor bumps, razor burn, and irritation at bay.

There are a few more you will see later in the article.  What else you will learn from this article is:

  • What should you keep in mind when buying a cartridge razor for yourself
  • The best time to change the cartridge to avoid dull shave, pain, and discomfort
  • Lastly, the best way to maximize the performance of the cartridge razors.

So let’s start with the features of men’s cartridge razors.

List Of 10 Best Cartridge Razor

ImageProductRatingPrice
Gillette Mach 3

Gillette Mach 3

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Schick Hydro 5 Razor

Schick Hydro 5 Razor

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Gillette Fusion 5 ProGlide

Gillette Fusion 5 ProGlide

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BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid

BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid

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Personna Cartridge Razor

Personna Cartridge Razor

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Solimo Cartridge Razor

Solimo Cartridge Razor

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Shave It Pro

Shave It Pro

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BIC Comfort 3 Hybrid

BIC Comfort 3 Hybrid

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Dorco Pace 6 Plus

Dorco Pace 6 Plus

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MicroTouch Tough Blade

MicroTouch Tough Blade

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Gillette Mach 3- Best Cartridge Razor For Sensitive Skin

Gillette Mach3 Men's Razor Handle + 1 Blade Refill

Best Feature:

Gillette Mach 3 has soft Micro fins that gently stretch the skin to lift the beards,

which prepare them for shaving.

The company started manufacturing Gillette Mach 3 in 1998. Since then, they have also invested in R&D. According to the reports, Gillette Mach 3 has witnessed the highest sales of around 6.9M units only in the United States in 2019.

What makes people go gaga over it?

  • It’s stronger than steel blades.
  • Metallic & Ergonomic handle with Rubberized grip.
  • Long-lasting Lubricating strip.

3 Sharper Blades Than Stainless Steel

The USP of Gillette razor is its 3 DuraComfort blades that are sharper, stronger, and durable.  Another advantage is that the blades are coated with Diamond-Like-Cutting technology that ensures a close shave without irritation.

Also, the 3-blades have optimal space between them, which does not gunk the blades.

Besides, each blade count lasts 15 shaves without compromising on performance. It adds value to your investment and makes it worth every penny.  Of course, the replacement blades are available since the company manufactures it looking at the huge demand.

Metallic & Ergonomic Handle

The controllability holds equal importance when it comes to buying a razor.  If you fail to control your razor, the results may be terrible or disappointing.

The metallic handle with an ergonomic grip lets you shave without the risk of cuts and nicks.  Whether you are shaving under the shower or with shaving cream, the razor won’t slip off your hands.  

Complete control over the razor delivers a dream shave without causing razor burn or redness.  Also, it takes fewer strokes than ordinary razors.  Lastly, the razor is compatible with all Mach 3 blades.

Long-lasting Lubricating Strip

As stated in the best feature, Gillette Mach 3 has Micro fins that prepare your facial hair for a cut. The cartridge also comes with a skin guard and lubricating strip.

The skin guard stretches the skin for shaving the facial hair, and the lubrication strip provides moisture and heals irritation caused due to blades.  However, the blue lubrastrip turns white with time, which is a reminder to change the blade cartridge.

Pros
  • Low Upfront & Long-term Ownership Cost
  • Amazing Shaving Results
  • Better than Disposable Razors
  • No Blade Clogging Issue
  • Skin Guard to Protect the Skin from Cuts, Irritation, and Nicks
  • Lubrication Strip to Soothe Irritation
  • Lasts Longer
Cons
  • Body Grooming Not Possible
  • No Pivot Head

Verdict

It is an ideal option for men who are shaving for the first time and is looking for a budget-friendly solution. In addition, the SkinGuard and Lubrication strip will make the learning curve easier for beginners.

Schick Hydro 5

Schick Hydro 5 Razor

Best Feature: The Shock Absorb technology is a unique feature of this razor as it maintains the pressure on thin and dense areas of the beard.

Schick is a tough competitor of Gillette when it comes to offering cartridge razors to the industry.  And the Hydro 5 is the flagship model of Schick with immense popularity and sales ratio.

Thanks to the three outstanding features of Schick Hydro 5:

  • Cushioning Gel Pools
  • 5-Blades & Skin Guard
  • Shock Absorbing Technology
  • Flip Trimmer

Cushioning Gel Pools

Schick features a lubricating strip with 7-cushioning gel pools.  The pools release gel when you glide the razor on your face, making the shaving experience smoother and unique.  The gel is a blend of Ceramides and Coconut oil, which prevents dry skin and irritation.  Besides, it also seals moisture in the skin underneath your beard.

The other two types of gel pools cater to normal and sensitive skin.  It contains menthol and herbal extracts for respective skin types.

5-Blades & Skin Guard

The more blades a razor equips, the fewer strokes it requires to deliver a close and clean shave.  

In the case of Schick Hydro 5, the razor equips 5-ultra-glide blades that make an easy way for a razor to glide on the face without tugging or pulling beards and causing irritation. In addition, unlike Gillette Mach 3 blades, Schick Hydro 5 blades last only up to 12 shaves.

The ultra-glide also means that you do not need to pass multiple strokes, which a safety razor will usually require to achieve a dream shave.  Besides, the skin guards on each blade protect from post-shaving irritation.

As more blades benefit in achieving a close shave, they also have disadvantages.  One of the disadvantages is less space, which results in clogging up the blades.

Shock Absorbing Technology

It is a unique feature that we have seen in the cartridge razor wherein it maintains the pressure while gliding the razor. It senses the excessive pressure and backs off while also offering pressure in the denser beard areas.

The benefit is it saves you from unnecessary friction causing skin irritation, cuts, and nicks.  Also, it becomes an ideal cartridge razor for sensitive skin.

Flip Trimmer

Another innovation in the cartridge razor and a benefit to the men who struggle to cut hard-to-reach areas is the flip-back trimmer attachment.

The trimmer is so powerful that it doesn’t miss on any spot and does edging on beards.

Pros
  • Balance Pressure During Shaving
  • Cushioning Gel Pools Hydrate the Dry Skin
  • Metal Handle with Rubberized Grip
  • Low-Replacement Blade Cost
  • Flip-back Trimmer trims Tricky area Hairs
Cons
  • Heavy Upfront Cost
  • Blades Clog up
  • Limited Movement

Verdict

The razor has a skin guard on each blade, making it ideal for sensitive skin.  The gel pools with natural ingredients make it suitable for dry skin.  Overall, it is the best Schick razor for both skin types.

Gillette Fusion 5 ProGlide

Gillette Fusion 5 ProGlide

Best Feature: The Flexball technology allows the blade to match the contours of your face.

As a result, it shaves closely without missing any hair.

Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide cartridge razor was the second highest-selling unit in 2019.  Performance is one of the factors contributing to the rise in popularity.  And not only this, there are other reasons as well:

  • Flexball Technology
  • 5-Anti Friction Blades & Micro Comb
  • Comfort Guard

Flexball Technology

The technology allows the razor to follow the contours of the face and body, making it one of the best versatile razors on the list.  It also helps in shaving the trickiest area of your body parts.  Even the cartridges are also versatile, meaning they fit well on any Fusion 5 razor handle.

5-Anti Friction Blades & Micro Comb

Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide cartridge features 5-Anti-Friction thin blades that glide without irritating the skin.  The blades are closely placed to each to cut the hair without tugging or pulling.

The shelflife of blades depends on multiple factors, such as beard type, shaving frequency, and skin type.  Ideally, each blade lasts for at least one month, i.e., 12-15 shaves.  Besides, the pack contains 8-refills, which means you will not have to buy the refills for at least the next 8-months.  Isn’t it cost-effective?

Also, the blades have a coating that protects them from staining and rusting.  Although, like any other steel blades, they can get rust if exposed to a moist atmosphere. Moreover, the lubricating strips are more comprehensive and contain mineral oil, making it comfortable to glide on the face and soothe post-shaving irritation.

However, like every other Lubra strip, it also has a shelf life.  When the blue lubricant strips start turning white, it’s an indication to change the cartridge. Additionally, what sets this razor different is the inclusion of micro-comb and micro fins.  The Micro fins stretch the skin while the micro comb guides the hair for a close shave.

Comfort Guard

We have seen such a thing only in a few razors. However, in the Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide, you will notice a soft & flexible material below the blades, surrounding the outer edge of the blade head as well.  

It helps in getting rid of excess shave creams, gels, and foams.  Doing this will also help blades to cut the hair without any hindrances.

Lastly, the precision trimmer trims the sideburns, under the nose hair, and other tricky areas.  The trimmer’s blade has anti-clogging rinse slots, eliminating all the build-ups without any gunk.

Pros
  • Anti-friction blades
  • Flexball technology to match the contours
  • Versatile razor handle & heads
  • Low long-term ownership cost
  • Micro comb to guide hair
  • Keep excess shave away from blades with Streamlined Comfort Guards
  • Ideal for thicker and coarse beards
Cons
  • Heavy Upfront Cost
  • Blades clog up

Verdict

It is one of the best cartridge razors for the ones who want to shave full-body. It has multiple features to impress and convince the user.

BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid

BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid Men's 4-Blade Disposable Razor, 1 Handle and 4 Cartridges, For a Smooth Shave

Best Feature: The 4-longer-lasting blades deliver a smooth shave without tugging or pulling your facial hair.

BIC focuses on making your shaving regimen better than before, which is why they continuously brainstorm about how to make shaving better.  And not only do they believe in quality products but also offer them at an affordable rate.

Talking about the BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid, there are three main eye-catching features:

  • Long-lasting blades
  • Ergonomic Handle
  • Lubricating Strip

Long-lasting blades

First and foremost, the razor equips 4-long lasting blades that follow every contour of your face, including nose, ear, cheeks, neckline, and jawlines.

The razor features a rotating cartridge head that not only offers closer and better shaves but also soothes skin.  Also, each cartridge delivers approximately 15-20 shaves, which makes your investment worth every penny.  Besides, the pack contains 4-cartridge, which means it lasts for quite a long time.

However, the blades are not available separately, which means as soon as all the edges get dull, you will need to buy a new pack.  Plus, less space between the blades increases the chance of clog-ups.

Ergonomic Handle

Another feature that assures your razor won’t slip off your hand is the ergonomic handle.  The anti-slip handle comes with a textured grip to offer complete control during shaving.

Lubricating Strip

Cartridge razors come with lubricating strips, but not all contain natural ingredients like Aloe vera and Vitamin E.  These ingredients soothe post-shaving irritation and redness, which is beneficial for sensitive skin men.

Besides, having these ingredients also means that it will be easier to glide the razor on the face without applying pressure. Lastly, the low price of the cartridge razor makes it one of the budget-friendly razors on the list.

Pros
  • Close shave without irritation
  • Low price
  • Long-lasting & Sharp blades
  • Ideal for sensitive skin
  • Pivoting head & Ergonomic handle
Cons
  • Less space between the blades
  • Plastic handle
  • Refills not available separately

Verdict

If you are looking for a pocket-friendly cartridge razor that also suits your sensitive skin, this razor from BIC is one of the best disposable razors on the list.

Personna Cartridge Razor

Personna Men's 5 Blade Razor System - Mens Shaving Razors - Razor Handle with 12 Replacement Cartridges

Best Feature: The soap bar on cartridge refills ensures less irritation and reduces friction to offer an amazing shaving experience.

Personna is a veteran company on the list that first introduced safety razors in the US.  The company believes in Research & Development, which led them to sustain themselves in the industry.  Their rich experience and development of innovative products make them deliver classic and unbelievable performance.

Now you might be thinking about what’s unique about Personna Cartridge Razor:

  • 5-Blades
  • Advanced Technology

5-Blades

The razor comes with 5-ceramic-coated steel blades that deliver a comfortable and close shave.  Plus, each blade has trimmer blades that cater to trimming sideburns and edges.

Besides, the razor features an Anti-Clog cartridge that does not clog up the blades.  It means having more blades is not an issue because the Anti-clog feature won’t clog the blades.  Though the price is a bit higher, the 12 extra cartridge refills make the investment worth every penny.

They are also easy to change as you only require pressing a release button.  However, the cartridges are not compatible with other razor handles.  Also, it is not suggestible to store the blade under wet conditions.

Advanced Technology

The PivotTable head makes it easier to match the contours of the face.  Besides, the lubricating strip contains Aloe and Vitamin E to ensure an irritation-free and smooth shave.

There is a soap bar on razor refills that not only delivers irritation-free shave but also maintains balance.

Besides, the razor handle features an ergonomic design with a comfortable grip that won’t slip from your hand.

Pros
  • Reduce friction & Ensure
  • Anti-clog blades
  • Close and comfortable
  • Ceramic-coated blade
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Easy to clean
Cons
  • Not ideal for thick hairs
  • Wet conditions may rust the blades

Verdict

If you want a BBS, we recommend the Personna cartridge razor as it contains Aloe vera and Vitamin E in a lubricating strip, and the blades are well-designed to ensure a smooth shave.

Solimo Cartridge Razor

Solimo is a brand owned by Amazon.  It delivers all the possible features and benefits at an affordable price that other cartridge razors offer at a high price.

So, let’s look at the features:

  • Motion Sphere
  • 5-Anti-Clog Blades & Precision Trimmer Blade
  • Double Lubra Strips

Motion Sphere

The first feature on our list of Solimo Cartridge Razors is the Motion Sphere.  The pivoting razor head turns sideways and moves back and forth to shave off the tricky area.

5-Anti-Clog Blades & Precision Trimmer

The 5-anti-clogging blades do not gunk up the blades, nor do they wear down quickly.  The blades contain double-coating that retains sharpness and durability.  The blades are also easy to rinse off.

The company offers 2-packs; one with an extra cartridge and another has 16-extra cartridges.  You can buy anyone, depending on your preference.

Besides, the cartridge razor also features a precision trimmer for goatee, sideburns, and other tricky areas.

The downside of the Solimo cartridge is that it fits Solimo handles only.

Double Lubra Strips

It is one of the unique features of the Solimo cartridge razor since it comes with dual-lubricant strips.  One above the blades and another below the blades.

Both the hypoallergenic strips contain vitamin e to ensure no post-shave irritation.  Due to this, it works best on men with sensitive skin as well. In addition, the lubricant strips moisturize the skin as well.

What else do you want from a razor that offers so much at such a low price? Unfortunately, many high-priced cartridges fail to deliver these many features.

Pros
  • Double lubricating protection
  • Easy to use and rinse off
  • Delivers Irritation-free & close shave
  • Budget-friendly
  • Multi-axis pivoting head
  • No clogging issue
Cons
  • Cartridges fit only Solimo’s handle

Verdict

If you are suffering from hypersensitive skin, Solimo is a solution. If you are running low on budget, Solimo is budget-friendly.  If you are looking for an irritation-free shave, you must buy Solimo.

Shave It Pro

Shave It Pro, Five Blade Razor, Handle + 4 Cartridges

Best Feature: The Bent Blade offers accurate shave without messing up the blades with shaving cream, gel, or hair.

The cartridge razor is lightweight with a unique design that makes it different from others on the list.

The other mind-blowing features are as follows:

  • 5-Ultra Sharp Blades & Micro Span Technology
  • Thin Trimmer
  • Non-slip Grip
  • Interchangeable Docking System

5-Ultra Sharp Blades & Micro Span Technology

It features 5-Ultra sharp and thin precision blades that deliver a comfortable shave.  The Bent Blade razor system is the reason behind accurate shave performance.

Thanks to the Micro-span technology that makes the cleaning process more manageable. Thus, it is more accessible.  Also, it makes sure that the blades do not clog up, despite having less space between the blades.

Moreover, the guard bar ensures that all the hair follicles remain in a position and tightens the skin to prepare it for shaving.

Lastly, the cartridge is interchangeable, which means you can use it with any Shave It cartridge.

Thin Trimmer

There is a thin trimmer that lets you style or trims tricky area hairs. The guard bar prevents cuts and abrasion when it comes to using the trimmer. Besides, the razor features a pivoting and flexible head that offers a closer shave and matches the contours of the face.

Lubricating strip & Non-slip Grip

The lubrication strip makes gliding razors easier and soothes skin during or post-shaving.  The strips contain Argan oil and Calendula extracts.

Argan oil moisturizes and nourishes men with sensitive skin, while Calendula extracts nourishing dry skin.

The handle is also thin and features a circulating metal band.  The two metallic strips on both sides ensure a smooth and comfortable grip.

The cartridge also works well in both wet and dry conditions, which means you can use it with or without shaving cream and under the shower as well.

Pros
  • Non-slip ergonomic grip
  • Guard bar to keep the shaving cream, gel, or stray hairs at bay
  • Moisturizing lubricant strip
  • Pivoting head
  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to replace blades
Cons
  • Slim and Sleek handle

Verdict

If you want more blades with less hassle of cleaning, Shave It Cartridge is one of the best men’s cartridge razors.

BIC Comfort 3 Hybrid

BIC Comfort 3 Hybrid Men's Disposable Razor, 3 Blades, 12 Cartridges and 1 Handle, Black, For a Close and Comfortable Shave

Best Feature: The cartridge razor comes with a pack of refills that lasts long and lowers the ownership cost.

BIC believes in bringing the convenience of shaving at an affordable price.  However, the upfront cost may become a decisive factor, but the quality of performance will make your investment worth every penny.

Plus, the benefits it delivers to the users also make it the best cartridge razor on the list.  So, let’s see what does it bring to the table:

  • Wider Lubricating Strip
  • 3-Blades for A Close Shave
  • Design

Wider Lubricating Strip

The wider Lubricating strip is rich in Aloe and Vitamin E to soothe irritated skin and prevent cuts and nicks. It also helps the razor to glide easily onto the face without applying pressure.  Additionally, the ingredients in the Lubricating strip moisturizes the skin.  In our opinion, it is the best cartridge razor for men with sensitive skin.

Besides, the cartridge also features a thick rubber guard bar, which prepares the hair for a cut.  It makes shaving easier and better.

3-Blades for A Close Shave

The triple-blade cartridge delivers a close and comfortable shave while leaving the skin to feel soft and smooth.

The pivoting head shaves all the areas of the face, unlike Gillette or Schick.

For your convenience, the company offers 12 cartridges that last for quite a considerable time.  However, the blades clog up easily since there is very little space between the blades.  Also, the blades are not available separately, which means you need to buy a whole new set when you use all the cartridges.

Design

The cartridge razor comes with a rubberized handle and ergonomic grip for better control.  The grip is also known as an Anti-slip grip due to the design.

Pros
  • Ergonomic Grip
  • Pivoting & Flexible Head
  • 12 Refills Lasts Long
  • Aloe & Vitamin E Soothes Skin
  • Close and Comfortable Shave
  • Fewer Blades
Cons
  • Replacement Blades Not Sold Separately
  • Blades Easier to Clog up
  • Plastic Handle

Verdict

In our opinion, it is the best cartridge razor for those who want to shave on the go or are frequent travelers.

Dorco Pace 6 Plus

Dorco Pace 6 Pro - Six Blade Razor System with Trimmer - 10 Pack (1 Handle + 10 Cartridges)

Best Feature: The 6-blade razor ensures a close and clean shave without causing razor burns, redness, and soreness.

Dorco is a company that works with recent trends and technologies.  It’s been serving the shaving industry for more than 60 years.  The company makes a combination of traditional shaving tools and modern technological advancements.  Also, you must have heard the name of the Dollar Shave Club; Dorco is the primary supplier of the Dollar Shave Club.

So how is the Dorco Pace 6 Plus different from others?

  • Anti-slip Rubber Handle
  • Angulated Blades
  • Natural Ingredients Lubricant
  • Common Docking System

Anti-slip Rubber Handle

The ultra-close shave is achievable only with the help of sharp blades and a non-slip handle.  The handle glides along with your hands to offer you a comfortable shave. In addition, it makes wet shaving easier and better.

Angulated Blades

Dorco has a Patented Angulated Blade Platform that allows blades to fit in the cartridge, and that is why even 6-thin blades are easily fit into the cartridge.  

Though there are more blades than other cartridges, the blades are still optimally-spaced so that it does not clog up nor cause problems in rinsing.

The well-spaced blades do not gunk, which means there is no chance of even mild rusting. So ultimately, using Dorco Pace 6 Plus is safe from a blade point of view.

Besides, the bent blade technology is another advantage since it lets you tilt the blade to match the contours of the face.  Moreover, it features large rubber fins that prepare the skin before the hair comes into contact with the blade.  Also, it saves skin from cuts and nicks.

With more blades, a single stroke is enough to shave off the facial mane without gliding it several times.

Natural Ingredients Lubricant

The Lubricating Strips contain Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Lavender that delivers maximum comfort even if you have sensitive skin or prone to razor burn.

It helps in soothing the irritated skin and quickly repairs the skin post-shaving. The blades can also easily glide due to Lubra strips.

Common Docking System

Dorco Pace 6 razor system has a common docking system that fits any Dorco cartridge.

The cartridge razor has a pivoting head that follows the contours of your face, and the wide guard bar prepares the hair follicles for a close and clean shave.

The cartridge razor is quite affordable as compared to other razors on the list.  Also, the pack comes with ten additional razor cartridges.

Pros
  • No cartridge wastage
  • Lubra strip with natural ingredients
  • No cuts, razor burn, nick, and irritation
  • Moisturizes skin
  • Anti-slip grip
  • 6-Blades
Cons
  • Not ideal for trick areas
  • Blades mat wear down

Verdict

Angulated blade platform made six blades possible to fit in the cartridge.  Besides, the Lubra strips work amazingly well on soothing sensitive skin.  It delivers smooth skin even after shaving with six blades.  It is the best Dorco razor on the list than Schick vs. Gillette.

MicroTouch Tough Blade

Micro Touch Triple-Blade Razor with 12 Refill Cartridges, 1 Set

Best Feature: The 4x stronger stainless steel blades than any other blades take less time in cutting down the facial hair without clogging up the blades.

Micro Touch Triple blade razor delivers promising results, and it is possible because of durable build quality.  Other factors also contribute to this, which are as follows:

  • Triple Blade Design
  • Offers 12 Cartridge Refill
  • Offers Dream Shave

Triple Blade Design

The two factors that contribute to delivering a comfortable shave are thin and sufficient space between the blades.

This 3-blade razor stands by both factors, which adds value to your investment.  Plus, the German quality is a cherry on the cake.  Germans focus on making quality products, which is why they meticulously design the blades.

Additionally, the stainless-steel blades come with a non-stick coating that prolongs the shelf life of blades.  Usually, the expensive razor blades coat their blades with this coating.  Also, the blades last up to 4x longer than regular razors.

The comfort level that this razor provides makes it ideal for sensitive men too.  Also, each razor blade lasts for up to a month.

Offers 12 Cartridge Refill

Buying a Micro Touch cartridge razor is beneficial to those who want additional refills with the pack.  The company offers 12 cartridge refills, which means your one-time investment will last for about a year.   No other cartridge razor on the list provides these many refills at such an affordable price.

Offers Dream Shave

No fancy attachments like Flexball, yet it matches the contours of your face.  Also, it doesn’t shave close to or below the surface level of the skin but still manages to perform a close and comfortable shaving on the cheeks.

Moreover, it has an ergonomic, high-quality, and anti-slip handle that doesn’t slip from your hand even under wet conditions.

Pros
  • Includes a good number of refills
  • German quality
  • Shaves tricky areas
  • Budget-friendly
  • Stainless steel & Durable blades
  • Ideal for men with sensitive skin
Cons
  • Fragile handle
  • No additional refill available

Verdict

Men with a limited budget can give this razor a try since it is pocket-friendly and offers quite a close and smooth shave. In addition, it is one of the best cartridge razors on the list.

So these are the best cartridge razor reviews.  Now let’s know what essential factors to keep in mind before buying cartridge razors.

If you are not a fan of a cartridge razor, you can go through the Merkur safety razor.

Things to Consider Before Buying A Cartridge Razor

Buying a cartridge is not a cakewalk; you need to know several factors before investing your hard-earned money.  So let’s unveil those factors.

razors cartridges

Number of Blades

What started with three blades turns out to have six blades now, or in some cases, seven or eight blades as well.  Some believe more razor blades will deliver a close and clean shave, while some men are comfortable with traditional razor blade refill, i.e., three-blade.

A more number of blades offer a hysteresis effect, wherein the first blade will lift the flat-lying hairs, and the subsequent blades will cut the hairs. Finally, the last blade will cut the hair below surface level, giving you a smooth shave.

On the other hand, Dermatologists recommend two or three razor blades or disposable razor cartridges if you have sensitive skin.

In our article, Gillette Mach 3 and BIC comfort 3 Hybrid have fewer blades.

Space Between Blades

Space between blades is equally vital since it either uplifts or deters shaving performance.  The more space between the blades creates more friction, which results in skin irritation.  It is not advisable to shave with the cartridge razor blades that have more space between the blades.

On the other hand, the blade refills occupy less space, ideal for shaving, even on sensitive skin.

All the cartridge razors on the list have well-spaced blades that do the shaving job tremendously.

Lubricating Strips

Every detail of the cartridge razor matters, and so does the lubricating strips.  Some razors have single lubrication strips, while some have dual Lubra strips.  The single strip sets on top of the blades and moisturizes the skin, while dual strips are above and below the blades.

These strips are infused with Aloe, Vitamin E, Coconut Oil, and Lavender Oil to moisturize your skin.  Also, it prevents redness and irritation.

Lastly, these strips also act as an indicator of when to change the cartridges.  As you shave, the Lubra strip gets dull and turns white from the blue.  As soon as it turns white, it indicates to change the cartridges.

Dorco Pace 6 Plus and Shave It Pro are the two best razor cartridges with Lubra strips.

Body or Facial Hair

The shaving area matters because you cannot shave body parts with a fixed head cartridge. Instead, companies like Dorco and Gillette come with a flexible head that follows the contours of your entire body.

We recommend a fixed head cartridge razor for shaving a beard and pivoting razor for body shaving.

Price

Some cartridge razors have a high upfront cost, while some cost too much in the long term.  It depends on which type of razors you choose to shave.

The subscription shave clubs offer cartridge refills at budget-friendly rates, but their subscription charges are heavy.

We recommend that you compare the upfront and long-term ownership costs before buying a cartridge razor.

In this list, Gillette and Dorco fit their brand of razor heads or handles.

Shelf Life of Razor Blades

Razor blades are good until they are sharp and performing, but once they turn dull or deliver deterring performance, it requires replacement.

Like everything, the razor blade also has a shelf life, which lasts till 10-15 shaves per razor blade.  A blunt or dull razor blade will require multiple strokes that otherwise would just take one stroke to slice down the facial mane.

So these are things you must consider before buying a cartridge razor.  Now let us also tell you when you should change the blades or razors.

When Should You Replace Cartridge Razor or Cartridges?

razor blades cartridge

Nothing is permanent, and so neither cartridge razors nor cartridges.  There will be times when you will have to change razor blade refill or entire cartridge razor.

The one that has reusable handles require only buying new cartridges, while some cartridge razors require purchasing an entirely new pack.

When you encounter a dull shave or require multiple strokes with the same razor that once cut the hair in a single stroke, it’s an indication of blade replacement.

The number of shaves depends on your hair type, shaving routine, and shaving tool quality.  However, any refill cartridges deliver a minimum of 8 shaves.

Now that you know when to change blades or cartridge razors- let’s understand how to use them.

How to Use a Cartridge Razor?

Just like buying a cartridge razor is not a cakewalk, so is shaving with a cartridge razor.  But following the steps mentioned in the article will change your shaving game entirely.

The steps include some points that will let you maximize cartridge razors.  So, let’s see how:

gillette alternatives

Step 1: Take A Shower

Washing your hair with warm water is the best way to moisten and soften them.  It also prepares your skin and hair for shaving. You will find no difficulty in gliding the cartridge razor.  You can also dab your beard with a warm washcloth.

Step 2: Evaluate How Your Beard Grows

You must know in what direction your hair grows as it varies from man to man. Then, you can go through the article to analyze your growth pattern.

Step 3: Apply Pre-Shave Oil

Pre-shave is another important beard grooming product that delivers an irritation-free and soothing experience when you glide the razor.  Also, you will be to glide the razor without applying much pressure.  It mainly helps men with sensitive skin.

Step 4: Coat Your Beard With Shave Cream

Next is the shaving cream.  A razor is incomplete without shaving cream.  It fails to deliver optimum performance if shaving cream is not applied.  Applying shave cream will not let your skin dry and also uplift the shaving regimen.  Always buy shaving creams that have emollients to increase moisture level and for friction-less shaving.  If you want to buy one, we recommend going through the best shaving creams at least once.

Step 5: Start Shaving with the Grain

Once you determine your facial hair growth, start shaving with the grain or shave in the direction of hair growth.  Do not shave against the growth with a cartridge razor as it may irritate the skin.  

Step 6: Apply Aftershave to Soothe Irritation

You may feel irritation post-shaving which is because of added friction or more exposure of the blades.  To soothe the skin irritation, apply aftershave lotions, splashes, and balms.  They contain soothing ingredients that also prevent irritation.  Always remember not to buy an alcohol-based aftershave.

FAQs:

1. How often should I change my cartridge razor?

It depends on how frequently you shave, your hair type, and the quality of the cartridge razor you use. Unfortunately, there is no thumb rule on changing cartridge razors. The only thing you can keep in mind is to change it as soon as you feel it dull shave or require multiple strokes on the same spot. Also, keep an eye on lubrication strips; if it gets white from blue, it is also an indication to replace the cartridge razor.

2. How long do cartridge razors last?

The reusable handles require only buying cartridges. Also, the handles last for a lifetime. The cartridge will need timely disposal and replacement with new ones as soon as they get dull.

3. What is a Good Razor for a First-Time Shaver?

Gillette Mach 3 is the best cartridge razor for beginners. You can buy SHAVE IT PRO since it has Lubra strips filled with natural ingredients. Also, you must consider an anti-slip grip handle since it will be your first time, and there are chances of falling or slipping off from the hands.

Conclusion

Finding the best cartridge razor would be a daunting task, so we have got you covered with the best cartridge razors in the current market.  These razors have got everything that a man needs when shaving, irrespective of hair and skin type.

Also, the buying guide for a quick look at the features that an ideal cartridge razor should have and the blade replacement knowledge so that you don’t overuse the dull or blunt blades.  Lastly, the method to use the cartridge razor is essential since it gives you your dream shave.

We hope this article finds you well and expect suggestions, feedback, and thought from your side.  Also, share your buying and shaving experience with us.  It will help us to know what our beloved beardsmen use.

Disclaimer

Published Date: Jun 7, 2021

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