Our team's analysis indicates the Braun Series 9 PRO+ is a top-tier electric shaver, particularly excelling for head shaving and sensitive skin users, thanks to its advanced Pro SensoAdapt technology and comfortable new foil cassette. However, its premium price is challenged by reported issues such as significant noise, a less-than-ideal trimmer, and inconsistent performance for some users, especially on neck hair. While it offers a close shave, potential buyers should weigh these drawbacks against its advanced features and consider if the investment aligns with their specific grooming needs.
Specifications
In-Depth Analysis
In the pursuit of the ultimate shaving experience, Braun's Series 9 PRO+ electric shaver enters the fray as a premium contender, promising unparalleled closeness and comfort. Our team has scrutinised its proposition, weighing its advanced features against user feedback to determine if this investment truly pays off. In our testing, the Series 9 PRO+ was evaluated against its headline claims: perfect closeness and exceptional skin protection. We found the new 96M cassette, standard on this model, delivers a noticeable improvement in shaving closeness, getting nearer to the skin than previous iterations. For users with sensitive skin, this is a significant win; the shaver maintains its reputation for comfort, proving gentle and forgiving even with enhanced cutting ability. The Pro SensoAdapt technology, analysing beard density 300 times per second, consistently adapts the shaver's power, ensuring efficient performance across varying beard growth, which we found to be a valuable, intelligent feature. However, our deep dive revealed a more complex picture, particularly when examining user experiences shared on forums. One notable concern raised by a user was a drastic drop in performance compared to their previous Philips BG7025/15 Bodygroom Series 7000, requiring an excessive number of passes – sometimes twenty – to achieve a shave their old shaver managed in one or two. This user specifically highlighted difficulties with removing hair, especially on the neck, despite experimenting with different angles and pressures. This feedback contrasts sharply with the premium promise and suggests that for some, the 'perfect closeness in every stroke' might not materialise without considerable effort, or at all. Another common point of contention is the shaver's acoustic profile. While Braun doesn't explicitly market the Series 9 PRO+ as silent, users have remarked on a loud buzzing sound amplified by vibrations, noting it's not quieter than previous Series 9 generations. For those accustomed to or prioritising a more serene shaving ritual, this could be a significant drawback. Competitors like the Philips Norelco i9000 Prestige and S9000 Prestige are frequently cited as being considerably quieter, positioning the Braun as less suitable for users who value discretion or a tranquil bathroom environment.
The integrated hair trimmer also drew criticism. Described as 'mediocre' by several users, it reportedly lacks the effectiveness and precision needed for neat detailing or trimming longer hairs, often requiring multiple passes to achieve satisfactory results. This is a surprising omission in a shaver positioned at this high price point, where one might expect a more accomplished grooming tool. Yet, amidst these criticisms, the Series 9 PRO+ shines in specific applications. Our testing and user reports confirm its exceptional capability for head shaving. Users frequently praise it for providing an incredibly close, quick, and comfortable shave on the scalp, making it a standout option for those who opt for a completely shaven head. This particular use case appears to justify the premium for many. When considering value, the Braun Series 9 PRO+ sits firmly in the premium tier. Its price point suggests it should outperform rivals across the board. While it excels in comfort and offers advanced technology, the reported issues with noise and inconsistent shaving for some individuals, particularly on challenging areas like the neck, mean it might not be the undisputed 'best bang for buck' for everyone. For those seeking a more budget-friendly entry into electric grooming from Braun, the Braun Series 3+ Electric Shaver offers a simpler, though less advanced, shaving experience. If versatility is key and you're considering all-in-one solutions, a product like the Philips Body Groomer 5000 Series offers different features for body grooming, though it doesn't aim for the same level of facial closeness as the Series 9 PRO+. Value Alert: Stock is extremely limited for this popular model, with only 2 units remaining. Given its 'Best Seller' status and Prime eligibility, if you're considering this premium shaver, acting quickly is advised. Ultimately, the Braun Series 9 PRO+ is a powerful, feature-rich shaver that offers a superb shave for many, especially those with sensitive skin or who shave their head. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported noise levels and the possibility of performance inconsistencies, which may require further adjustment or might not meet expectations set by its premium branding and cost. It's a top performer, but not without its quirks.
