Amongst all the prominent shaving brands providing masterclass gadgets for grooming, Braun appears to be at the top of the food chain, providing a plethora of electric shavers to represent their brand, as well as offer the optimal experience for beard trimming and face shaving.
From the lot of the best of Braun, the Braun Series 9 stands tall and firm as the king of the hill, offering tech friendly tools, durable materials, and shaving compartments catering to every kind of density and skin type.
To learn just how good Braun Series 9 can be when in one’s arsenal, I’ve taken matters into my own hands, bringing this solo review of the old Series 9 model to life.
But if you’re also curious about how it seems better than its successor, otherwise known as the Braun Series 9 Pro model, you’re in luck! This guide also provides answers to the former element!
Table of Contents
- Braun Series 9 Models: A Brief Breakdown Of All Its Variants
- Unboxing the Braun Series 9, 9370cc Shaver
- Braun Series 9: Specifications
- Primary Features of Braun Series 9
- Additional Features of Braun Series 9
- My Experience with the Braun Series 9: Rating Its Performance Through First-Hand Means
- How I Tested the Braun Series 9 Shaver
- Who is the Braun Series 9 Shaver For?
- Braun Series 9 VS Pro: A Breakdown Of Their Differences And Similarities
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Braun Series 9 Models: A Brief Breakdown Of All Its Variants
Initially released in 2015, Braun Series 9 took the grooming scene by surprise with its innovative properties and gleaming hardware, becoming an overnight hit in the business. Over time, the device made 3 installments to further seal its legacy in the world of best electric shavers.
The original release had models plastered with serials carrying the digits 90 to represent the models belonging to the first generations, such as 9093s, 9095s, etc. In comparison to its successors, the initial Series 9 variant carried a 3-way blade system on its cassette, affiliated with corded shaving characteristics and cordless abilities.
A year after the first generation came a sequel, assigned with 92 as the starting serial numbers for each variant. While it reprised some of the former attributes carried by the predecessor, all the variants belonging to the 92 collection were suitable for both wet & dry shaving, with water-resistant ergonomics for an added layer of longevity.
After 3 years, in 2019, Braun released yet another upgraded version of the Series 9, assigned with the digits 93 at the beginning of each serial number for every variant. In addition to making some changes to the visuals, the Braun Series 9, 93 models were also amped with a 4-way blade system, along with a much faster sensor technology to make personalized shaving more efficient and useful.
Nonetheless, for a recap of each version and their release dates, toggle through the following list:
- Braun Series 9, 90xx – 2015
- Braun Series 9, 92xx – 2016
- Braun Series 9, 93xx – 2019
Unboxing the Braun Series 9, 9370cc Shaver
The one I placed my money on happens to be one of the newer versions of the Braun Series 9, also known as the Series 9370cc model. Placed inside a cube, the packaging of the Braun Series 9 appears to be more than meets the eye.
The device comes in a compact travel case, covered in hard-surfaced paper for maximum protection. Underneath the electric shaver is the sizable multipurpose cleaning station, otherwise known as the Smart Care Center of Braun.
For maintaining the restoration equipment, the packaging also includes a cleaning solution, strictly tailored for preserving the quality of the charging station.
Apart from the former though, the confined space inside the box makes room for only the necessities, such as a charger, and a cleaning brush.
Overall, I must say that Braun Series 9 offers everything for regular cleaning, and goes a step further by providing companions to keep the whole system sound for longer periods without needing any replacement.
What’s inside the box: Braun Series 9, 9370cc, Smart Care Center, Travel Case, Cleaning Solution, Cleaning Brush, Charging Adapter
Braun Series 9: Specifications
The Braun Series 9 is the embodiment of the ideal electric shaver, carrying components that mesh with any kind of hair density, in addition to having a dominant housing for easygoing maneuverability.
Nonetheless, it’s never wise to make a blind purchase, especially in regards to electric shavers. That being said, if you still lack knowledge of the formative contributors aiding Braun Series 9 and its impression, read through the technical specifications, all of which are placed below.
- Dimensions: 16.3 x 6.5 x 3.9 cm
- Weight: 7.1 ounces
- Color: Silver
- Wireless Shaver: Yes
- Blade: 4+1 Foil System
- Motor Power: 40,000 CPM
- Waterproof: Yes
- Display: LCD Panel
- Accessories: Oil, Charger, Brush, Cleaning Station, Case
- Battery Runtime: 60 Minutes
Primary Features of Braun Series 9
Although the Braun Series 9 is truly something to behold from every angle, some traits in particular just shine a tad bit more than the rest, being the ultimate selling points of what is considered to be the best electric shaver in this day and age.
So, without further ado, here are all the unbeatable attributes that elevate the Braun Series 9 into prominence!
Forward Thinking Design
In my opinion, Braun and its Series 9 model perhaps stands out the most due to its innovative craftsmanship, carrying rewards in every area of the outlook.
In contrast to predecessors such as Series 5 and 7, the Braun Series 9 carries a bulkier build, which might lose out to the leaner silhouettes of the formerly mentioned models, but has the edge with a much improved pristine feel.
Pristine Visuals: Color Scheme Of Braun Series 9 in contrast to 5
Shaping the first impression of the design is the chrome color scheme of the device, which gleams to make its presence known in the eyes of users.
Although the 93 models are very much similar to the 92 models from a visual standpoint, especially with both possessing the same hue of chrome and black, the newer model of the older Series 9 models gain the edge with minor changes in the colorway of the power button, as well as an LCD panel that carries more size.
And although some might say the device is a bit underwhelming even from a visual standpoint due to carrying very few changes from its previous generations, the Braun Series 9 still feels very much aligned with its price tag not just due to its relatively-sleek build, but also the unnoticeable potential each compartment comprises.
Headstrong Grip
A signature piece that Braun has repeatedly added to the build of each model is a rubberized grip, which too makes an appearance on the Braun Series 9 model belonging to all 3 generations.
The mass and width the cylindrical handle of the Series 9 carries allows the rubberized texture to expand a tad bit more and possess more ground than that pasted onto the hardware of Series 7 and 8, enabling a more enticing grip with an incredible amount of friction.
Even in damp situations, it seems as though the Braun Series 9 is impossible to lose control of, which should be music to the ears of those that lean more towards wet shaving over dry shaving techniques.
Quadruple Cutting Elements in Blade System
Although the packaging and even Braun claims that the Series 9 is packed with a 5-way blade system, I see the former remark as nothing but a PR stunt, which is a poor and unexpected move on a brand as prestigious as the former.
In reality, the Braun Series 9 offers optimal finishes with its 4-way shaving elements, two of which are occupied by a pair of OptFoils, the other two which are clinched by the Hyper Lift and Cut Trimmer and a Direct Cut Trimmer. Rammed in between the blade systems is a SkinGuard, bearing the responsibility of avoiding direct skin to blade contact for bump-free results.
Along with the tech-savvy mannerisms, the cassette that handles the shaving duties of Braun Series 9 is definitely a selling point and a strong suit of the electric shaver, chopping down flat lying strands on both hard-to-reach and exposed areas to generate promising results. When push comes to shove, the shaving system also helps in providing means of safety for the skin; a remark which is elaborated during my performance review.
Additional Features of Braun Series 9
Just so you know, that’s not all that the Braun Series 9 will give you, as listed below are some more supreme qualities of the electric shaver that makes it such an unstoppable force in the grooming world, from its ergonomic feel to its brand new display system!
Hands-free Weight
Despite carrying so much girth around the shaving head as well as the handle, the Braun Series 9 is very much efficient in cutting, carrying a lean feel that measures 7.3 ounces on the weight scale.
In contrast to the best performing shavers at the moment, the Braun Series 9 is one of the most weightless grooming tools available, offering tons of independence in movement,
With the navigational perks of the lightweight ergonomics possessed by the Braun Series 9, I believe that users can really explore their creative motions to the fullest, as well as soothe elders and their sprained wrists.
In addition, the feather-like build can definitely help professional barbers also giving away generous beard grooming sessions without any unwanted consequences.
Robust Build
Braun Series 9 doesn’t exactly stray away from all the previous models from a housing standpoint, reprising the same hard plastic with lightweight flooring to run the hardware of its cordless system.
However, with its sizable head and chonky silhouettes, the Braun Series 9 appears almost indestructible and immune to fall damage, deflecting scratches with its superior head to toe ratio on the hardware.
While it is almost impossible to drop the device taking into account its glue-like rubberized grip, the narrative might change if you’re already dealing with obstacles such as clammy palms, and a poor form. However, worry not if your Braun Series 9 hits the ground, since it will consume the damage without leaving traces on the surface.
Overall, representees of Braun claim that the Series 9 has a build that can exceed 7 years without crumbling under pressure. And although the outlook isn’t that different from any other companion making up the best of the franchise, I will stand by Series 9 and the impressive longevity it provides in its hardware.
10-D Flexible Head
Another element that elevates the Braun Series 9’s standing in the world of grooming, particularly as a skin-friendly assistant, is its pivoting head, which moves in not one, not two, but ten different angles for ensuring safety while giving out a skin-close performance.
Taking note of every direction can be difficult for the eyes to track down. However, the bi-directional movements as well as flexibility are easier to notice when invigilating sensations through the skin.
While Braun Series 9 stays open to tackling hair growing against and towards the grain with its agility, it is just as easy to anticipate a closer shave with just the shaving system alone, with its Precision Switch, which restricts the head’s movement to just one direction.
Powerful Motor
Braun Series 9 takes a massive leap in contrast to the Series 8 models in terms of speed, backed by upgrades in the foil system, as well as another new trimmer to tag along with its previously-worn middle-trimmer.
However, much of its lateral quickness lies in its SynchroSonic tech–infused motor, which covers an aggregate amount of 40,000 cutting actions per minute, split and shared by 4 of its shaving components.
The 10,000 cutting elements in each foil and trimmer makes room for the Braun Series 9 to always remain consistent in providing equal amounts of vibrations, as well as generate closer shaves in no time. And while the time frame of final results trails a bit in contrast to the Panasonic Arc 5 and its one-of-a-kind motor speed, the Braun Series 9 model regains momentum with its processor, dissected in the following segment.
Adjustable Sensor for Any Hair Type
Just like the previous models, the Braun Series 9 remains loyal to AutoSense technology, a trait that offers personalized experiences in accordance with one’s beard density.
However, unlike the previous generations, the AutoSense technology is wired with a new 32-bit MCU processor, which enables it to analyse the follicles at a faster rate before chopping them down into hairless results. Taking less time to react to changes in beard density further allows the Braun series 9 model to offer a unique shaving experience.
In addition to being more responsive to different patterns of hair and having more empathy towards sensitive skin, the upgrade in AutoSense technology also allows the Braun Series 9 model to break barriers and pieces of coarse hair at a faster rate, that too without a struggle.
LCD Panel
The Braun Series 9 breathes new life with its exterior, particularly its LCD panel, straying away from a 3 bar status carried by the previous models to a much more useful 5-way indicator.
While the bars are easier to comprehend due to equally splitting and conveying the energy levels of the battery, the same display morphs into numeric values when its stamina drops down to 9 percent.
Such changes might feel minimal from a wider angle, but they really make me appreciate Braun Series 9 a tad bit more in contrast to the rest, since it shows how much they want to help beginners seeking an electric shaver as their first purchase.
Pop-up Trimmer
I must admit that, even though I like the detachable precision trimmer representing some of the newer models of the Braun Series 7, I kind of like how the Braun Series 9 takes a frugal and time-friendly approach with its sidekick, opting for a binded Pop-up trimmer instead.
In terms of performance, I’d say it’s just as prolific as the precision trimmer, but also a tad bit more narrow, clipping coarse strands in a more efficient manner.
My Experience with the Braun Series 9: Rating Its Performance Through First-Hand Means
Now that we’ve bolted past the primary and secondary selling points that come with having Braun Series 9 in your arsenal, consider going through each category of my performance review to get a grasp of how it feels to put the device to use.
For a clearer perception, I’ve broken my test results down into various categories, each of which cover specific parts about the Braun Series 9.
Cutting Efficiency
Covering ground with 40,000 cuts per minute definitely makes a difference in Braun Series 9 from an efficiency standpoint, making it miles better at shaving coarse to thin strands as opposed to its predecessors.
And while the Panasonic Arc 5 is a bit better at dealing with coarse hair with a higher volume of blade systems as well as a higher velocity, the Braun Series 9 ends up as a close-second, generating the same kind of outcome, just with an increase in swipes.
On my skin, the Braun Series 9 glides past with ease, shaving my stubble without any hiccups. However, if you’re currently rocking a long beard, I’d suggest you use these trimmers before allowing the Braun Series 9 to wipe the remaining lengths without a struggle.
Adaptability On Sensitive Skin
Given the upgrade in its processor and the abilities of the SyncroSonic and AutoSense Technology, the Braun Series 9 is hands down THE BEST electric shaver to rely on if you have any pre-exisiting skin conditions.
While the foil system also plays a huge role in ensuring that the Braun Series 9 provides crystal clear shaving results without any tugging and nicks, the adaptive technological assistants in AutoSense technology and SyncroSonic technology manipulate the motor in providing a skin-safe procedure while simultaneously generating productive results.
Minor benefits are also found in the foil shaver and its bi-directional pivoting head, while defending attributes are found in its SkinGuard.
However, the sealing piece is definitely the hypoallergenic properties of its foil system, which provide the ultimate hack to sensitive skin by offering skin-close shaves without inflicting wounds on sensitive skin.
Dry/Wet Shaving Performance
As stated earlier, the 93 variants of the Braun Series 9 are waterproof shavers, being able to accommodate dry shaves just as much as wet shaves.
And while the 4-way blade system hardly ever struggles during dry shaves, which I believe is when the Braun Series 9 flourishes the most, dipping your toe in the world of wet shaves is just as effective as partaking in one without any sense of dampness.
Believe me, I too am a firm supporter when it comes to using Braun Series 9 solely for dry shaves. However, for my sensitive skin, I have also found the wet method to not be just as compelling, but also much safer when shaving the neck.
In short, wet shaving required me to use shaving foam, which already benefited my skin by forming an extra layer over my naked face. In addition, my facial hair was also pretty soft and open to change, complying easily with the sweeps of Braun Series 9 for a hairless shave.
Navigational Perks
Despite carrying a bulky build, the Braun Series 9 really sets the bar extremely high by providing tons of benefits during navigation.
The device is easy to move around with its cylindrical handle, and relieves my palms with a strong grip throughout operation. Overall, I believe this is what makes it a promising choice for beginners.
While locking the shaving head does dig deeper to mirror results of top-notch close shavers, keeping it loose feels like a breeze to use all over my face when partaking in either a wet or dry shave. Both are time-friendly nonetheless, generating ideal results within a couple of minutes.
The bi-directional head may not be as polished as that of the Arc 5, but definitely has my vote in being the safer companion to rely on, especially with the Skin Guard at the center of the shaving elements.
That said, if you’re worried about fatigue, know that the handle almost feels non-existent, which is why I would always recommend this tool to both beginners and old-aged veterans with a profound interest in electric shaving.
Endurance & Restoration
I must admit that, for its price point, the Braun Series 9 does feel a bit underwhelming with the Li-Ion battery it carries, as it only provides an hour’s worth of runtime at its peak.
In contrast, the Philips Norelco 7200, one of the brightest faces from the Norelco franchise, feels much more appropriate, especially for those seeking a budget-friendly shaver.
Nonetheless, I feel that what it lacks in terms of endurance is somewhat controlled by its quick charging abilities, which can accommodate a healthy session after just 5 minutes of replenishment. However, I feel that Braun Series 9 deserved better in this regard still, especially due to it being the face of the franchise.
Travel Convenience
Given how light it is, travelling with the Braun Series 9 is definitely one of the strong suits of the electric shaver, as long as you leave your charging station behind.
That said, while doing the second half of the former remark can be a risk one might not be keen to carry out, it’s also worth noting that the Braun Series 9 can accommodate multiple shaving sessions on a full battery life as long as you’re careful with the timing. Therefore, yes, it can indeed step in if your travel shaver needs an urgent replacement!
While the travel pouch will easily deflect accidental powerups to preserve its endurance with ease, it would be better if you enable the travel-lock feature to seal the stamina of your Braun Series 9.
How I Tested the Braun Series 9 Shaver
Nothing beats real-life experience when curating reviews. Similarly, to really grasp the essence of the Braun Series 9 and all that it offers, I took the longer yet better route of choosing first-hand use over fabrication using AI tools.
Despite it being a couple of years old, I must say that my Braun Series 9 helped me tremendously throughout the time period I used it, which would accumulate to 4 weeks at most.
In addition to testing its dry shaving abilities, I also assessed the potential of Braun Series 9 when accommodating wet shaves. Furthermore, while it was ill-conceived, I used my Braun Series 9 around my privates to see how well it adapts to highly-sensitised areas of the body.
Who is the Braun Series 9 Shaver For?
With chameleon-like properties, the Braun Series 9 can indeed cater to anyone and everyone at any given time.
However, if I were to narrow it down, the first group I would suggest this electric shaver to are professionals working at salons. WIth its sensors and skin-friendly shaving elements, Braun Series 9 can generate optimal results on any kind of skin.
Furthermore, due to the rapid fast sensors accumulated by AutoSense technology, I would suggest Braun Series 9 to those with susceptible skin, irrespective of how severe their conditions might be. Since the blade system is hypoallergenic, avoiding razor burns should also be a walk in the park.
Due to its navigational perks and lightweight operation, there’s no doubt that Braun Series 9 is a great pick for elders, offering tons of ease on its cylindrical handle, while possessing an incredible grip control around the rubberized backside.
Those seeking a device for their coarse hair will also definitely benefit from having the Braun Series 9 in their arsenal, as the device contains a foil system sharp enough to cut down coarse hair, that too without causing any pulls or tugs.
Braun Series 9 VS Pro: A Breakdown Of Their Differences And Similarities
While Braun Series 9 is often hailed as the best a man can get in terms of using an electric shaver, some believe that the newer variants belonging to the Braun Series 9, specifically the 9 Pro model, put the former statement in jeopardy.
Such a gravitational dilemma really begs anyone to ask, “just how good is the Braun Series 9 Pro? Is it any different from Series 9?” which is completely valid. That said, if you’re in dire need of some answers, allow the following comparison to tackle any feeling of uncertainty!
Difference In Design
Though the script is completely different when the Braun Series 9 is held up next to the jarring black device of Series 9 Sport, the narrative is almost redundant when the Series 9 Pro replaces the Sport in the former comparison.
In fact, from afar, the Braun Series 9 and Series 9 Pro look the same. Their differences are only noticeable upon a closer grasp of both shavers.
The Braun Series 9 Pro creates some minor separation with its pearl-like color scheme in contrast to the chrome hue of the Series 9.
That said, the only big difference from a visual standpoint is the leaner and compact switch for tilt-lock, an element that I have further elaborated in the following segment.
Tilt Lock Placement
In addition to trailing behind with its bulkier size, the Braun Series 9 model feels different from the Braun Series 9 Pro due to the precision switch incorporated into the latter device’s design, comprising a much leaner build and a different switch system.
Instead of carrying a slider, the Series 9 Pro doubles down the size of its toggling precision switch, eliminating unwanted scenarios with ease.
While the lack of thumb placement could be something to get used to on the newer model, I believe that avoiding shaving mistakes is definitely a tad bit easier with the Braun Series 9 Pro in contrast to the Series 9.
Shaving Outcome
I wish I could say that the Braun Series 9 Pro is the better candidate when it comes to clipping hair as opposed to the regular Series 9. But the truth is, both are virtually identical in this regard.
This is because, just like the Braun Series 9, the 9 Pro finds help in a 4-in-1 blade system, SyncroSonic technology, and AutoSense technology to generate appealing results.
Sure, the precision-switch makes a difference from a navigational viewpoint, but that too is very subtle when push comes to shove, and doesn’t exactly change the trajectory of the shaving results provided by the Braun Series 9 Pro.
Battery Life
Another category in which both Braun Series 9 and Series 9 Pro appear to be equally compelling is from an endurance standpoint, with both models offering a total runtime of 60 minutes on a full battery life.
Furthermore, the devices stay united in emergency situations, offering a 5-minute quick charging ability to accommodate a full shaving session in no time.
Maintenance
The aftermath of both the Braun Series 9 and 9 Pro are extremely similar. One can either take the automatic way, or iron the device out using manual means.
While adopting the manual technique will definitely be worth the effort, it is important to note that the Braun Series 9 Pro and 9 models have the same kind of cleaning stations, carrying out 5 different actions at one go.
On another note, if you feel that you can save a bit from your budget by using the Series 9’s SmartCare cleanin center for your Braun Series 9 Pro, I’d like to convey my apologies, since the Series 9 Pro is only compatible with its own cleaning station. Additionally, the Series 9 Pro’s cleaning center doesn’t accommodate any other generation of the Series 9, unlike the malleable companion of the normal Series 9.
Market Value
With a cleaning station that strictly commits to only the model, the Braun Series 9 Pro finds a significant increase in its price tag. Another element behind the spike in its market value is its upgraded hardware, carrying a brighter color scheme as well as a brand new toggling switch to replace the slider of the Precision Switch implemented on Series 9.
However, the difference in price is truly a travesty upon realizing that the Braun Series 9 is equally capable in the shaving department as the 9 Pro model, despite the latter being released much later than the former.
Nonetheless, the former can also be a silver lining if you think about it, since both deliver with precision and closeness.
That said, while I believe that the 9 Pro model can be a massive helping hand for professionals for the price, the script of those seeking an at-home grooming tool is a bit more lenient, since both models will work in their favor as long as they spend accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you’re on the brink of crossing the finish line, here is a questionnaire that will elevate your perception of the Braun Series 9, one of the best electric shavers to ever exist in the world of personal grooming!
Q: What does the ‘s’/‘ps’/‘cc’ mean with Braun model numbers?
Ans: In short, the labels next to the model numbers of Braun Series 9 represent the variant one has obtained. For instance, those with “cc” alongside their serial numbers are the ones that comprise a SmartCare Center, while the ones with “s” towards the end are independent, otherwise known as solo models.
Lastly, the “ps” models, while rare, are Braun Series 9 models that provide a power station in exchange for the cleaning station available on the newer models belonging to the generation.
Q: Is the Braun Series 9 durable?
Ans: Given the lump sum one has to spend on the device, it’s completely normal to take into account the durability of Braun Series 9 before going forward with the decision of acquiring the tool.
Luckily, in contrast to even the best electric shavers in the business, the Braun Series 9 has an immensely resilient longevity, surviving for at least half a decade when you properly look after the electric shaver.
The cassette of the shaving head might need a fresh change after 12 months, but it can also break free from the norm by surviving for 18 months at a time if your frequency of use is lenient.
Final Verdict
All in all, among the standout performers, Braun Series 9 definitely is the best that one can possibly ask for in various categories, whether for its skin-protective properties or for its ergonomic housing. And while it is the farthest thing from being as affordable as the Series 3, Braun Series 9 is definitely worth every penny if you ask me.
With its cutting elements, Braun Series 9 not only brings to life a personalized experience, but also generates extremely close, razor-like shaves, being a close-second to the Panasonic Arc 5 on the list of close-shaving top-grade grooming tools.
While the 9 and the 9 Pro share tons in common, the modernized build of the latter is a bit more useful in avoiding accidental powerups. Nonetheless, since the Braun Series 9 guarantees the same shaving experience and results, it’s hard to lean towards the newer Braun Series 9 Pro, even more so for its substantial increase in its market value.
