Best Safety Razors
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7 Best Safety Razors for Beginners

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If you’ve been meaning to upgrade your disposable razor, then you came to the right place. Safety razors are great because they are durable, economical, and achieves a smooth shave with less irritation. We know how hard it can be to choose the best safety razor for beginners, so we did all the research for you. Out of the hundreds that we’ve evaluated, MERKUR Classic 3-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor comes to the top of the list.

The MERKUR Classic 3-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor proves that more expensive models aren’t always the best. Compared to pricier options like the Schick Hydro 5 Sensitive Razors for Men and MERKUR Progress Adjustable 2-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor, the simple design and construction of the Classic 3-Piece guarantee a uniform shave each time with a manageable level of aggressiveness.

The knurled and notched grip also provides great control with no slipping. Although the handle is light, it is top-heavy so it can feel balanced in your hand. With its construction, replacing the blades takes just a minute.

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#1 Best Overall Safety Razor

MERKUR Classic 3-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor

  • Premium quality for a reasonable price 
  • Delivers a consistent, comfortable shave
  • Elegant yet sturdy 

Pros

The Merkur Classic is a steady, reliable workhorse of a safety razor. It has above average aggressiveness and a robust three-piece assembly at an affordable cost. It’s user-friendly and a pleasure to shave with; even novices will have fun shaving with this classic. 

Product Ratings

Performance

9.2/10

The Merkur Classic’s fixed blade gap gives it a very manageable aggressiveness. It’s top-heavy, so the weight of the head does most of the task and makes up for the handle’s lack of heft. It has an impressive grip for control and navigation of delicate areas. Replacing the blade is quick and easy. Its efficiency lies in the simplicity of its design and construction, which guarantees a uniformly smooth shave each and every time.

Features

9.4/10

When people say, “they don’t make stuff like they used to,” they’re certainly not referring to this beauty. Everything about this Merkur screams “classic.” It’s crafted for elegance and engineered for uncompromising function. It has a tried and tested three-piece assembly. Its crafted from durable German steel and chrome plated to withstand oxidation and rust. The razor head comes off effortlessly for convenient blade loading. The grip is knurled and notched to prevent slipping. 

Value

9.3/10

Our choice for the best safety razor, for a mere $35.

Overall Editor Score

9.3/10

 

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#2 Best Razor For Sensitive Skin

Schick Hydro 5 Sensitive Razors for Men

  • Improved Hydrating Gel Reservoir  
  • Flip Trimmer for hard to reach areas 
  • Dermatologist-tested 

Pros

The Schick Hydro 5 hydrates your skin while you’re shaving. Its reformulated gel moisturizes your skin for up to one hour after shaving. With a flick of your thumb, the Hydrating Gel Reservoir flips back so all five blades trim and cut through tricky areas like under your nose or across your neck. 

Product Ratings

Performance

9/10

Okay, so we cheated a bit here. The Schick Hydro 5 isn’t really a safety razor. But we had to include it because this cartridge razor was specifically designed for sensitive skin. While it’s widely acknowledged that more blades cause more irritation, the Hydro’s five blades are moderated by built-in lubricating gel pads. The gel contains vitamin E and aloe vera to moisturize and replenish your skin as you shave and up to an hour after. The gel pads produce 40% less friction and drag for a smoother, closer shave. The Flip Trimmer finishes the job by smoothing out hard to reach places.

Features

9.2/10

Schick’s unique Hydrating Gel Reservoir lasts two times longer than ordinary lubricating strips. The Flip Trimmer mechanism is a very convenient innovation that is simple to activate, even with wet hands. The handle is ergonomically designed for a firm but comfortable grip. The skin guard on top of its Ultra Glide blades regulates skin flow and lessens friction. The large guard bar helps stretch the skin for a closer shave and maximum hydrating gel absorption.

Value

8.8/10

For less than $46, which includes 1 razor handle and 17 refill blade cartridges, you’ll be doing your skin a huge favor.

Overall Editor Score

9.0/10

 

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#3 Best Double Edge Safety Razor

Edwin Jagger Double Edge Safety Razor

  • Awesome razor for beginners and experienced wet shavers
  • Gorgeous chrome finish 
  • Outstanding blade alignment 

Pros

It’s easy to use; newbies and old timers will feel right at home with it. Its moderate aggressiveness is effective for close and comfortable wet shaves, and well-suited for normal to sensitive skin. The blade alignment is solid and secure. 

Product Ratings

Performance

9/10

While it isn’t the most aggressive razor available, it’s still capable of a barbershop quality shave with the standard three passes. Its mid-level aggressiveness gives you the advantage of experimenting with different blades to achieve the shave quality of your choice. For close shaves, go with Feather or Personna blades. If you require a milder shave, use a Wilkinson Sword or Derby blade. This razor is lighter than most models, but its blade placement and weight distribution more than make up for it.  

Features

8.9/10

This razor’s high-quality chrome finish is second to none. Even non-visible parts have the same polished chrome finish. This attention to detail makes it the most stylish and handsome safety razor in the market. It supports all branded and generic standard double edge safety razor blades. Purchase comes with customer support and service warranty when you register your item. It’s packaged in a sleek Edwin Jagger gift box. There are multiple handle options available.  

Value

9.0/10

Premium looks and functionality at under $30.

Overall Editor Score

9.0/10

 

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#4 Best Adjustable Safety Razor

MERKUR Progress Adjustable 2-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor

  • Value for money
  • 5 custom settings for various shave aggressiveness
  • Simple two-piece construction 

Pros

It can be adjusted to suit your desired shaving quality. Its vintage two–piece design from Solingen steel with a smooth chrome finish give it a distinct appearance. You get German craftsmanship and precision engineering that won’t break the bank. 

Product Ratings

Performance

9/10

The Merkur Progress’ adjustable head lets you modify how much of the blade will stick out from the razor head’s top cap. This gives you maximum control over your shaving preference. There are five settings to choose from to fine-tune the smoothness of your shave. The first setting is the least aggressive and provides a very mild shave that’s ideal for sensitive skin. This setting is also ideal for shaving the body, head, or legs. Setting number five is the most aggressive and delivers an extremely close shave for thick beards or coarse hair. The settings can be changed mid-shave to address specific areas that need a milder or more aggressive shave.

Features

8.7/10

The five settings are initiated with the turn of a knob at the base of the handle. The long, thick handle gives you greater control and balance. Its chrome finish prevents rust and corrosion. The straightforward two-piece build makes it more durable and easier to wash. It works with all standard double edge safety razor blades. The Merkur Progress is available in two variants: standard and long-handled. 

Value

8.7/10

For under $59 for the standard version and under $65 for the long-handled model, you’ll get unsurpassed versatility.

Overall Editor Score

8.8/10

 

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#5 Best Stainless Steel Safety Razor

Feather All Stainless Steel Double Edge Razor, Model AS-D2

  • Exquisitely manufactured for beauty and function  
  • Fabricated from 316L “surgical” grade stainless steel with a satin finish 
  • The perfect gift for birthdays, Father’s Day, and Christmas

Pros

An heirloom quality safety razor with premium all-stainless-steel components. Minimal blade protrusion and close-combed to allow you to shave at a sharper angle minus the cuts or razor burns. Gives a mild shave that’s suitable for everyday shaving and gentle on sensitive skin. 

Product Ratings

Performance

8.6/10

The Feather AS-D2 has an ideal weight to balance point ratio. This stability makes for a comfortable grip and allows the razor head’s density to do all the work. The proprietary design for the base plate has four bumps–one on each corner–for a more secure blade placement. Its low blade exposure gives a great  shave with mild to moderate aggressiveness and can glide over sensitive areas without worrying about nicks or cuts.

Features

9.0/10

The handle is finely textured with a cross sectional pattern that’s satisfying to grasp and pleasing to the eye. The grip has three horizontally aligned grooves on the top and bottom parts for added feel and control. Its razor head’s construction prevents screw thread wear. Its classic three-piece design can be taken apart and convenient to take along on your travels. The Feather AS-D2 comes in a stylish burgundy red gift box with a pack of Feather stainless steel double edge blades included.   

Value

8.7/10

Though seemingly steep at $162, the Feather AS-D2 may well be the last safety razor you’ll need to buy.

 

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#6 Best Safety Razor With Long Handle

Parker 98R Ultra Heavy Weight Long Handle Double Edge Safety Razor

  • Textured long handle for unmatched maneuverability and control 
  • Three-piece construction for super easy cleaning
  • Compatible with all brands of double edge razor blades 

Pros

As its name declares, this bad boy is super heavy and solidly-constructed. The 98R’s traditional three-piece assembly makes it effortless to maintain. It’s elegantly designed, delivers a super aggressive shave, and its built to last.

Product Ratings

Performance

8.6/10

The Parker 98R’s exceptional heft gives it great leverage. You’ll need fewer passes to get a close shave for less irritation. Its classic design ensures consistent blade placement to prevent nicks and cuts, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. The long handle and superior grip deliver an aggressive shave that’s perfect for thick, heavy beards and coarse hair.  

Features

8.6/10

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a safety razor with more heft or a longer handle. Its 4.3-inch handle alone is heavier and longer than most safety razors. The knurled, textured handle is a pleasure to grasp, even with wet and soapy hands. The handle, base plate, and top cap are easy to assemble and disassemble for thorough cleaning and precise blade alignment. The Parker 98R is compatible with any brand of double edge safety razor blades. Your purchase includes a pack of 5 premium blades.

Value

9.0/10

With all its features, and backed by Parker’s decades-long tradition of crafting excellence, it’s worth every bit of its $29.99 price tag.

Overall Editor Score

8.7/10

 

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#7 Best Budget Safety Razor

Weishi Chrome Long Handle Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor

  • A reliable razor for a bargain price
  • Closed comb for safer daily shaving
  • Butterfly style opening for fast and easy blade replacement 

Pros

It provides a pleasant mild shave for sensitive skin. Although lighter than most safety razors, it has very good balance and grip, and its long handle allows for more control, especially for wet shaves. Ideal as a first razor, backup razor, or traveling razor.

Product Ratings

Performance

8.5/10

Despite its super mild aggressiveness, it actually delivers a pretty decent shave. If you want a smoother, closer shave, you’ll have to make several extra passes here and there. But given that this razor was designed for a mild shave, it can still give a closer shave with fewer passes than a multi-blade razor because of its weight and long handle. Do remember that a razor’s shaving efficiency also depends on the quality of blades you’re using. It’s the best safety razor for those who want a mild shave or for new converts to old school shaving.

Features

8.5/10

The butterfly head mechanism opens and closes smoothly with just a few turns. The vertical and horizontal grooves provide an excellent grip. Slip-proof grooves paired with a handle that’s over 4-inches long produce control and flexibility that’s comparable to most upscale brands. You should have no difficulty guiding the razor along tricky areas such as the chin, jaw, and neck. The 2.5-ounce weight is perfectly distributed across its 4.3-inch body. A carrying case with mirror and brush comes with your purchase.

Value

9.0/10

At under $14, it’s almost ridiculous to ask for more than what this safety razor already offers.

Overall Editor Score

8.7/10

 

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Safety Razors Buyer’s Guide

If you’re trying to make the switch to a safety razor, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed with the number of options in the market. This nifty guide will help you evaluate your choices and determine what to look for.

What to look for in a safety razor for beginners?

There are several things to consider when choosing your first safety razor as a beginner. Here are some of the basics that you need to look out for:

Aggressiveness

The aggressiveness of your razor refers to the sharpness of the blade and how many passes it would take to get a close shave. The more aggressive your razor, the fewer passes it would require, but you’re also opening yourself up to a higher chance of nicks, cuts, and irritation. The closer the comb is to the head, the more blade is exposed and the more aggressive your razor.

For a beginner or someone with sensitive skin, you might do well with a milder or moderate razor and only upgrade to an aggressive razor after you’ve had more practice. There are adjustable razors that will also allow you to adjust the shape of the head and angle of the blades so you can select your aggressiveness based on your needs and skill level.

Straight or Slant Bar

In a straight bar, the blade is held at a right angle. For a slant bar, as the name suggests, you have a slanted head that cuts at a shearing angle. Straight bars are the more common type but slant bars are able to achieve a closer shave because of their design. That said, they’re also more aggressive so they’re not a popular choice for beginners.

Comb type

The comb in your razor refers to the guide that you’ll see next to the blade that resembles an actual comb. This helps direct the hair along its grooves so you are able to shave easily. An open comb is recommended for those with longer and thicker hair as the individual ‘teeth’ of the comb separates hair better. However, it’s also more aggressive as the blade is completely exposed.

Cap shape

This refers to the shape of the head of your razor. A slim head razor is ideal as it allows you to navigate hard to reach areas much better.

Weight

Choosing your razor based on the weight has to do with ergonomics. How light or heavy it feels in your hands will affect the way that you shave. A heavier razor is best for a beginner so you don’t end up applying too much pressure.

Handle length

While the length of the handle won’t affect the output as much, it will determine your comfort. You want something that fits your hand well for easier control and grip. Often, shavers come in standard length sizes of 80 and 100 mm. Go for the latter if you have bigger hands.

Handle texture

A shaver with a textured handle is best for both beginners and experts. A good grip is always ideal for control and safety so you can avoid the razor from slipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best safety razor on the market?

The best safety razor for you depends on a number of things. How close of a shave do you prefer, how light or heavy do you want the shaver to feel in your hands, and how many blades hit the spot for you?

Our top pick is the MERKUR Classic 3-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor because it delivers a consistent, comfortable shave with a robust three-piece assembly. The price is right for the quality and the grip allows for easy shaving navigation.

Is shaving with a safety razor dangerous?

Safety razors are as safe as their name suggests. Although there is a possibility of getting nicks and cuts, the risk isn’t much worse compared to an electric razor. It does require some practice but the learning curve isn’t steep.

What you need to watch out for is maintaining the sharpness of your blades. Sharp blades not only provide a better shave, but they are safer to use since you don’t need to apply as much pressure. And far from the agenda that commercials are trying to push, more blades don’t automatically mean better.

How do I choose a safety razor?

There are a number of things that you should look for when shopping for a safety razor as a beginner. First, consider your budget range and go from there. Second, check the reviews regarding performance and how mild or aggressive the shave can get. Third, different people have different preferences for ergonomics so check how the weight and the movement of the razor feels.

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