Not one person with an ounce of knowledge on personal care can deny the greatness of Braun when push comes to shove.
From carrying the best technological attributes to offering the most ideal ergonomics for stress-free navigation, Braun offers them all, just to make the art of shaving a memorable one each time.
The former attributes have been present from the start, as seen on the Braun Series 3; one of the most affordable gadgets offered by the franchise.
But if you’re seeking an upgrade from the backdated device, you can even reside with the Braun Series 5. Is it worth it, you ask? Well, all you have to do is stay tuned for this guide, strictly based on the matchup between Braun Series 3 and Series 5!
Table of Contents
Braun Series 3 Vs. Braun Series 5: A Summary Overview
Before I move on to the elements that one needs to consider before transitioning from the old model to the newer model, here is a table providing the fundamental pieces of both Braun Series 3 and Braun Series 5!
| Feature | Braun Series 3 | Braun Series 5 |
| Shaving Elements | 3 | 3 |
| Pivoting Head | Fixed | Fixed |
| Advanced Technology | Micro Comb Technology | AutoSense Technology |
| Weight | 7.3 | 6.1 ounces |
| Runtime | 50 minutes | 50 minutes |
| Precision Trimmer | Yes (Attached) | Yes (Detachable) |
| Price | Check Amazon | Check Amazon |
Craftsmanship And Ergonomics
The first thing I judged was the Braun Series 3 and 5 from a design standpoint. And right off the bat, I found some irreconcilable differences.
While both are lightweight, the Series 5 takes up the same sleek and ergonomic design as the new Series 7, defying perfection with its rubberized flooring, curvy handle, in addition to a weightless feel.
In comparison, the Braun Series 3 is curated with a bulky build, comprising a matte-based material to make up its hardware.
Instead of a soft rubberized grip, the Series 3 offers a hardened texture made of rubber, which doesn’t feel as serene as the Braun Series 5.
However, at the end of the day, the design on both foil shavers is ideal for securing an incredible grip!
Foil System
The shaving elements on both look very much alike when you first take a peek at the Braun Series 3 and the Series 5. However, upon a closer examination, they seem extremely different.
While the construction of the foil system on these electric shavers is like twin magic, the Series 3 ProSkin’s shaving elements are not exactly hypoallergenic. The Middle Trimmer is the same, however, carrying an elongated yet narrow build to capture long strands.
That being said, when you put the middle trimmer aside, the SensoFoils on the cassette of the Braun Series 5 are very much different from those added to the Braun Series 3.
The foils added to the Braun Series 5 aren’t just more flexible, but also fused with hypoallergenic properties to reduce injuries and serve better to sensitive skin.
Shaving Head
The silhouette of the Series 5’s shaving head is not just more premium, but also more elongated, making it better at capturing more strands underneath each foil.
In contrast, the shaving head of the Braun Series 3 is a bit more compact as much as it is stiff.
Though the Braun Series 3 might lose out in scenarios where the visual appeal of both shaving heads is taken into consideration, in terms of flexibility, both the pivoting heads installed on the Series 3 and 5 are equally limited; a take I put to practice in the latter stages of this guide.
Power Output
Video: Braun Series 3 and 5 Motor Sound
While some of the best models representing Braun shavers are definitely some of the fastest, most efficient grooming tools I’ve ever used, the Series 5 and 3 feel alright in comparison, despite being engraved on the former list.
Nonetheless, Braun Series 5 offers an aggregate of 24,000 cutting actions per minute, divided amongst 3 shaving elements, making it just as fast as the Series 7.
That being said, the Series 3 falls to the Series 5 in terms of speed, generating only 18,000 cutting actions per minute at peak.
In spite of it all, I believe that the cutting actions only matter if you’re working with thick hair. And if that is indeed the case, spend a little extra to make things easier and safer with the Braun Series 5!
Display Panel
Even after being generations apart, Braun Series 3 remains an amazing gadget in my eyes. For its price point, it really tries to offer almost everything, including a trio of lights for the battery status in the middle of its handle to deem itself an ideal shaver for newbies.
Despite putting up a good fight, the Series 3 loses to the modern design and the LED panel of the Series 5, which offers a newly improved 3-way point system for the battery, along with an icon for its travel-lock feature; an underrated must-have of every optimal electric shaver!
Advanced Technology
The newer models belonging to Braun Series 3, such as the ProSkin model of mine, offer hardware improvements as opposed to the first versions.
The device still fails to offer anything apart from MicroComb technology on the inside; a feature that is truly redundant unless you have a long beard trimming agent in your arsenal.
On the flipside, Braun Series 5 truly offers a unique user experience with AutoSense technology, enabling the shaving elements along with the shaver to adjust its speed settings in accordance with one’s beard density.
The difference in the speed provided by the Series 5 and 3 plays a big role in shaping results; an aspect that I’ve covered in the following segment.
A Head To Head Showdown: Braun Series 3 vs. Braun Series 5!
Now that I’ve addressed all the similarities and differences between the Braun Series 3 in contrast to the Braun Series 5, let’s find out whether the narrative stays the same when I put each device to use for a thorough comparison.
Without further ado, here’s everything I noted down and assessed to cover the matchup between the two Braun models!
Shaving Efficiency
Irrespective of having some major differences in the build of their shaving elements, the foil system wired onto the Braun Series 3 generates almost the same kind of results as the upgraded combination of the SensoFoil and MicroComb placed on the Series 5.
It isn’t possible to achieve a close shave at one go using both devices unless you have other replacements in mind, but that has nothing to do with the shaving elements.
It is indeed the motor systems supporting each electric shaver, which, despite having a significant gap in terms of speed, reach completion around the same time.
If you ask me, I’d still side with the Braun Series 5, since it requires less passes for desired results.
Comfort Of Shave
Since the Series 3 and 5 are so similar when it comes to efficiency, I initially believed that they wouldn’t be any different in terms of comfort, but boy was I wrong.
Now, while I’m still firm on my former take, the comfort aspect is shaped by the technology of the foil system, which is drastically different on each Braun model used in this guide.
The foil on the Series 3 ProSkin feels a bit stiff, despite moving in two directions when being pressed. I must also add that when I pressed the foil onto my skin, there were tons of razor burn in the aftermath.
In comparison, the flooring of the SensoFoil systems feel extremely generous as well as agile.
Pressing on the skin didn’t feel uncomfortable for me, either, but rather gave me more reassurance during use. The design of the Braun Series 5 also felt lighter, and therefore, easier to navigate across my sensitive face.
Weight Class
As the Series 3 is pretty backdated at the moment, it’s obvious that it is in a different weight class from the Braun Series 5, which is definitely the lighter gadget between the two.
However, in spite of the bulkier look, the 7.3 ounces possessed by the Series 3 feels almost as light as the 6.1 ounces carried by the Series 5, and feels way less limiting than a corded shaver. The wider handle and stocky frame of the Series 3 just offers a heavier feel than that of its successor.
Nonetheless, I’d say that the ergonomic, lightweight housing of the Braun Series 5 isn’t just more reliable when gliding from one coast to the other when shaving the face, but it also offers an easier time to elders when it comes to navigation, making it the obvious pick in this regard.
Adaptability
One thing that really stood out during the matchup between the Series 5 and Series 3 is the adaptability of the successor, which really made it easier for me to side with the Series 5.
When push comes to shove, there’s tons of stiffness in the foil system of the Braun Series 3. It sure does provide a close shave after a couple of useful swipes, but the experience is rather stagnant for any hair type, from coarse to fine.
In comparison, due to being fused with AutoSense technology, the Braun Series 5 not only offers an adaptable electric shaver, but also a gadget that changes its speed and momentum in accordance with my beard density, guaranteeing a solid performance with a hint of safety that skin-sensitive shavers provide.
Versatility
If you set aside the difference that the Series 5 creates with AutoSense technology, the Series 3 should definitely feel similar, even in terms of versatility.
With a relatively bulky precision trimmer at the back, the Braun Series 3 is a gem in shaping up an uneven beard, and extremely helpful when cleaning out the side-burns, almost like a line-up clipper.
In comparison, the Braun Series 5’s detachable precision trimmer definitely feels more premium. However, at the end of the day, both extensions are equally useful and productive when put to the test.
Endurance & Restoration
If you’re thinking of shaping your purchase based on the battery life, know that both are equally compelling.
The Series 5 does have a slight 5 minute edge over its predecessor, though, offering 50 minutes on a full battery as opposed to the Series 3’s 45-minute runtime.
From a recovery and restoration standpoint, both bring to the table quick charging properties, where one can use the device after a 5 minute charge.
However, even on this occasion, the Series 5 feels more premium once again. It comes with a charger for sure, but is also compatible with the cleaning station found on the upgraded Braun Series 7 models.
Wet/Dry Shaving Capability
While Braun has yet to put a label on their shavers and how truly capable their waterproof designs are, it’s safe to say that both Braun Series 3 and 5 are not far from being optimal waterproof shavers.
They can partake in damp and dry shaves, with the Braun Series 5 being more reliable when gliding past shaving foam.
However, when assigned to wipe out facial hair strands via a dry shave, both are equally capable, generating close results.
Maintenance
The Braun brothers once again join forces to offer a similar kind of experience when it comes to shaver aftercare. Since both aren’t prone to water damage, rinsing the whole device is a very much doable and effective option in cleaning the Series 3 and 5.
While the brushing routine to clean the foil system won’t do any harm if it is the same, I must say I’m extremely impressed at the Braun Series 5 and its EasyClean feature, which makes rinsing even easier with two vents on each side of the shaving head.
Travel Ease
Since packing light is very much a thing, I’d say the new sleek design of Braun Series 5 can create a huge difference if you’re big on saving space.
Conversely, the Braun Series 3 can be a good pick too if you desire a sidekick with your travel shaver.
Just don’t expect it to compromise its size and bulk above the dimensions when packing it into a congested luggage. Furthermore, keep it away from anything that might result in accidental power ups.
Additionally, if you’re worried about your Series 5 doing the former, take help from its travel lock feature to make it an easy pick in travelling scenarios!
Why Trust My Verdict?
Looks can be deceiving. Likewise, if you’re thinking twice before placing your trust in my review, allow me to walk you through my process.
For this guide alone, I used my existing knowledge of Braun Series 3 and Braun Series 5; an element you too can access by going through my solo review of the successor and predecessor.
In addition to shaping my thoughts on the existing perception I have, I also used both Braun Series 3 and 5 as my dedicated grooming tools for the past 6 weeks, just to play it safe.
Frequently Asked Question
A non-negotiable in my books is to always do the most when it comes to my reviews.
Similarly, to make things easier, here is a useful questionnaire regarding both Braun Series 3 and 5 that will jog your memory and wave pending feelings of doubt goodbye!
Q: Are Braun Series 3 and 5 waterproof?
Ans: One thing that Braun always guarantees in their shaver is their ability to partake in wet and dry shaves, as well as damp cleaning methods. It does so by incorporating waterproof housing in each shaver, even on the Series 3 and 5.
Q: Should I upgrade to Braun Series 5 if my skin is sensitive?
Ans: Believe it or not, the magic of AutoSense technology is truly remarkable. The foil system on the Braun Series 5 doesn’t find much flexibility due to having a fixed pivoting head, but it is definitely eligible to cater to sensitive skin with all its features.
Q: Which shaver between Braun Series 3 and 5 is better for coarse hair?
Ans: With more cutting actions, and a sensor that prioritizes skin safety, the Braun Series 5 is better than the Series 3 when dealing with coarse hair!
Q: Does Series 5 come with a charging station?
Ans: Unfortunately, only a charging stand is provided inside the packaging of Braun Series 5. However, if you’re willing to spend some extra money, consider obtaining a charging station of the Series 7, which, to everyone’s surprise, is also malleable with the new Braun models.
Final Takeaway: Braun Series 5 Is A Massive Upgrade From The Series 3
Unless you’re working around a tight budget, you should definitely side with the Braun Series 5; a massive upgrade from the Braun Series 3.
In fact, apart from having the edge from a pricing standpoint, the Braun Series 3 is overpowered by the Series 5, no questions asked. It has the highly-efficient AutoSense technology to provide a unique shaving experience every time, with a foil system that is more desirable for sensitive skin.
Though the Series 3 shaves just as close as the Series 5 albeit with more swipes, the successor offers a more premium ergonomic housing, with a cleaning vent to make every post-shave moment easier. But if you’re not sold yet, remember that the Series 5 also comes with a charging stand, being malleable with the SmartCare Center for thorough replenishment!
