10 Best Disposable Razors (Incl. Cartridges) Reviews and Buying Guide

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Today we will look at the best disposable razors. In the 21st century, everything is fast-paced. At times it’s almost as though time moves faster than it used to in the 70s and 80s. Back when sending letters was the in-thing, and people took time to read a newspaper in its entirety.

But times have really changed. Today, most men do not have the patience or even the time to use straight razors or safety razors (though there are those that use nothing else but). Instead, they prefer disposable razors.

Now, while these razors may not have the same quality as straight and safety razors, they still provide a nice close shave. Moreover, they are efficient and fast.

Recent technology advancements have led to the manufacture of high-quality disposable razors – better than the industry offered a couple of decades ago. And here’s the best part; it will not cost you a kidney like cartridge razors.

The fact that these razors require little technique to achieve a clean shave has made them a favorite with many men. But despite their rising popularity, most men do not know how to choose the best among the sea of disposable razors.

For this reason, I’ve taken the initiative to prepare a comprehensive buying guide. Stick with me to the end and I’ll transform you into a disposable razor guru.

With that, let’s get down to business.

TOP 5 Disposable & Cartridge Razors (Summary)

Things to Consider When Buying a Disposable Razor

Before you go on a buying spree for the a disposable or cartridge razor, pause for a moment. Breathe and think things through. How will you know a particular razor is perfect for your needs? Easy, below are some factors you ought to consider before making your payment.

Types

There are two types of disposable razors;

• Completely disposable razors – these are the kind that you dispose of the entire razor when the blade becomes dull.
• Partially disposable – these are the type where only the razor cartridge is disposed with a sharper razor. The razor is retained. Expectedly, these are more expensive. Additionally, the cost of the blades quickly adds up. But on the plus side, they are built better in comparison to the completely disposable pieces. Moreover, the above types are further classified into multi-blade and single blade disposable razors.
• Single blades – these are the cheaper option. However, the steel used to make the blade is not as strong as that on multi-blade razors.
• Multi-blade – these make shaving an easy and fast process. This is because more blades glide over the face in a single pass. Additionally, industry experts assume multiple blades yield cleaner and closer shaves in comparison to single blades. But as we shall see in the next factor, this is not always true.

More Blades Isn’t Equal to a Better Shave

It makes sense that more blades gliding over the face yield a better close shave that a single blade, right? Well, this is true in part. Disposable razor shaving efficiency fundamentally depends on the blade quality. This is to mean that 1 high-quality blade stomps 5 low-quality blades.

Also, cleaning a multi-blade disposable razor is a chore. Shaved whiskers tend to get stuck between the blades. Eventually, the razor becomes dull and yields a not-so-close shave.

Note: it’s not that I’m against multi-blade razors. No. If anything, I’m for them; but only if you can land yourself a good one. Unfortunately, most of the really good ones feature a hefty price tag.

Lubricating Strips

Most disposable razors feature lubricating strips. These are placed above the blade so that they can moisten the skin. The extra moisture is great in reducing skin irritation. However, some companies add chemicals to the strips. These chemicals can irritate the skin. Luckily, this is not a thing most men have experienced.

Blades Aren’t Cheap

It’s true that the cost of cartridge razors is only a fraction of that of straight and safety razors. But even then, the price of replacement blades will build up pretty fast. It’s the reason saving clubs that send boxed replacement blades at cheaper prices are experiencing great success.

But in all fairness, most cartridges are of good quality and a decent investment.

Brand

While many disposable razors are from small brands, there’s something to be admired about large popular brands with a solid reputation. While you’ll save a couple of dollars buying a small brand than from BIC, Gillette or Schick, you just might end up with a shave that screams cheap.

You have the freedom to shop around and choose whichever razor you please but remember, popular brands are so for a reason.

Let’s get to it – the cartridge and disposable razor list:

10 Best Cartridge and Disposable Razors

1. Gillette Mach3 Sensitive  – Best Cartridge Razor

Gillette’s slogan ‘Gillette – the best a man can get’ is famous the world over. But this is expected from a large brand like Gillette. It has been serving men all around the world for eons. So long that ‘Gillette’ is synonymous with the term ‘razor’.

With a century of experience under their belt, it’s okay to assume that they know the razor industry inside out. It’s the reason they produce great products including the Mach 3.

The Mach 3 is a favorite of many men since it makes shaving an easy process, you can even use it for shaving your head. Here’s how the blade achieve a close and clean have almost effortlessly.

First, the razor features several aligned blades. These blades are positioned and angled in a manner that a single stroke of the razor translates into three. Additionally, the razor sports a pivot head which make it easy to navigate facial contours.

Ultimately, this pivot helps to prevent cuts, nicks, and irritations. To facilitate a clean shave, the razor includes microfins, which protect the skin by smoothening it out before the blade passes over.

The blades are designed with patented technology – the Diamond Like Cutting coating. This coating reinforces the strength of the blade and makes them sharper. To moisten the skin, the Mach3 features a lubrastrip above the blades. The strip is laced with natural oils. With time, it fades and turns white alerting you that the blades need replacement.

Unlike most multi-blade razors, the Mach3 blade construction and placement makes rinsing out facial hair, gel or shaving cream a breeze.

Last but not least, the razor features an ergonomic handle which provides a comfortable and solid grip. With this handle, you need not to worry about the razor slipping from your hand while you fell your facial hair.

2. Schick Hydro 5 Disposable Razor  – Great Lubrication

Many disposable razors claim to provide their users with a clean and close shave (what else do we expect from them?). Schick also markets its products in the same way. But they stand out because they don’t just give lip service – the Hydro 5 actually delivers on the promises made.

While other brands are loading their razors with a lubrastrip, Schick decides to chart out its own course. Instead, they added a Hydrating Gel Reservoir. This reservoir provides ample protection and lubrication. Experts say that this feature reduces friction by up to 40% in comparison to the lubrastrip. Moreover, the reservoir is designed to cover a larger surface when shaving. And here’s the best part – the gel used lubricates and keeps the skin hydrated for an hour after shaving.

You’ve got to admit – such performance levels are hard to beat.
In addition to the gel reservoir, the Hydro 5 features skin guards designed to reduce friction when shaving all the more. On its head, the razor also features a guard bar. This bar helps in stretching the skin to help achieve an even smoother shave.

The ‘5’ in the name is added to suggest that the razor features 5 blades. Earlier on I mentioned that multiple blades don’t necessarily guarantee a clean and close shave. But the Hydro 5 is an exception. Its shave is super clean and close.
The blades are arranged with minimal space between them. The reduced space prevents skin bulges which cause skin irritations.

And that’s not all. The razor features a Flip Trimmer. This trimmer makes it easy to shave the otherwise hard to reach areas. You switch to ‘detail mode’ by flipping the gel reservoir.

It’s also worth noting that the Hydro 5 features an ergonomic and comfortable handle. It fits perfectly into the hand and provides exemplary control.

In the box, the razor comes with 2 blades.
Note: this razor yields best results when it’s paired with moisturizing shave gel and sensitive shave gel from the same brand.

3. Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide Razor  – Best Performance – But With a High Price Tag

The Gillette Mach3 impressed us with its features and abilities. Now let’s see what its cousin the Fusion 5 has to offer.
First thing’s first. Using the Fusion5 is more like being a pilot in a jet’s cockpit. Yes, your morning shave will be transformed into such an experience.

If you are into lots of tech and innovative features, you’ll love this razor. But just to clear things up, the many features it sports are not just for show. They are functional and contribute immensely to the clean and close shave you’ll get.
Now, given its many features, it’s difficult to pick a starting point. But let’s just start from its most impressive tech.

• The FlexBall Technology

The FlexBall tech is included to help the razor follow tightly follow the facial contours. And if you think about it, this is the main purpose of most disposable razors looking to yield a clean and close shave. However, Gillette has pushed its boundaries with this piece. In addition to this technology, the razor includes a head that swivels as it moves across the face. The swiveling head reduces the number of twists you have to make and keeps you from assuming uncomfortable and awkward positions when shaving some hard to reach spots.

• Comfort Guard

This guard is made of a soft material. The material surrounds the microfins and improves the blades contact with the skin.

• Microcomb and Precision Trimmer

Gillette’s designers and engineers must’ve been at their best when designing this razor. Why? Well, every feature on this razor seems to have been improved in comparison to other disposable razors. The precision trimmer includes rinsing slots which help to prevent clogging. Additionally, the razor features Microcombs which are useful in guiding the hairs into the blade for an efficient shave.

Quick note: the Fusion 5 is available in two trims – power and manual. The powered razor version runs on batteries. They include a micro-pulse which reduces friction. Additionally, the razor comes with a microchip which provides high quality and uniform performance during every shaving session – even when the battery levels are dwindling. Now, this might sound weird but the microchip is designed to turn off the razor after 8 minutes. If you are not a traveler and you are super careful, this might be an inconvenience. However, it’s particularly helpful for the times when the razor is accidentally turned on when in your bag.

Like its predecessors, the Fusion 5 features fine and thin blades. The blades last longer than those of other disposable razors. Yes, the blades can last up to a month. Since cartridge blades are expensive, these high-quality blades will end up saving you a lot of money. You see, at times getting what you pay for works in your favor.

4. Schick Hydro Silk Disposable Razor  – Best Razor For Women

If you thought shaving your legs is easy, think again. Consult with a few female friends and you’ll understand why. First, there are many curves you have to deal with. Second, some legs have more hair to shave than most faces.

So given that the process can get complicated fast, it’s important to explore options that will help uncomplicated things. You can do this with the Schick Hydro Silk. It’s a great razor for legs and even for women’s pubic area. For this reason, it’s mostly designed to lure in women.

But what makes the Hydro silk different from all the other disposable razors for women? Well, there are quite a number of features that help it stand out.

It presents women with a practical and convenient way to hang and change the blades – through hang-in shower refills.
But wait, there’s a lot more:

• This razor features a lubrastrip with water activated serum made of shea butter. This serum moisturizes and replenishes the skin for a whole two hours after you’ve shaved. After all, you cannot afford to have dry and irritated skin now, can you?
• The razor features 5 blades designed to sense curves on your legs. The blades are protected by a skin guard which allows for an irritation free and smooth shave every single time. The blades ‘sense’ contours courtesy of their spring-loaded design.
• Schick not only makes it possible to hang your refills but has also included a waterproof packaging to protect your blades until the next shaving session
• The Hydro silk features a soft rubber handle adorned by grooves for a better grip. The combination of the soft rubber and grooves improve shaving control
• Last but not least, the disposable has many positive reviews. This serves as a testament that users are quite pleased with the razor’s quality and performance.

5. BIC Twin Select Men's Disposable Razor  – Best Budget Disposable Razor

There are numerous great razors for sensitive skin in the market. However, most of these are costly. Luckily, this Bic razor does not just claim it is great for sensitive skin and easily irritate skin, it gets things done. And it is cheap as well.

This is a disposable razor. That is to mean that when the blade dulls, you throw it away and grab an entirely new razor (not blade). While this unit does not feature moisturizing straps like some of the units reviewed above, it still is easy on sensitive skin. Its shaving head is slimmer than most which make it easy to reach into hard and tight areas to reach. Additionally, the head is angled which makes it easier to glide over your sensitive face.

The handle of this unit is tapered. This helps to provide you with slightly more control as you shave. The control it offers makes it perfect for newbies and beginners in the field.

It comes with two high-quality blades which help to ensure you achieve a close shave. The durability of this unit is through the roof and is praised by many.

6. Bump Fighter Disposable Razor  – Great For Skin Irritation & Bump Problems

All men experience different challenges when they shave. For instance, African-American males often have to deal with irritation and bumps as a result of ingrown hairs. Luckily, the disposable razor industry is aware of their troubles and has developed a product to help them with their problem. The Bump Fighter razor is one of the best solutions available.

This razor makes it easy for such men to achieve close shaves without suffering the repercussions. The Bump guard technology included in this razor will protect the skin from irritations and developing bumps after shaving.

I should point out that this is one of the best single blade razors available in the industry today. Though the razor is a newcomer, it’s an upward popularity growth curve. This is partly because it focuses on helping men with special shaving problems including bumps and irritations.

Aside from protecting your face from direct contact with the blade, the razor also has a pivot head which helps it to hug contours and achieve a smooth and close shave. Additionally, the handle is comfortable and fits perfectly in the hand for improved control.

And since it lacks a lubricating strip, it has a built-in conditioner in the head. This conditioner is designed to achieve a smooth shave and still revitalize the skin.

Using this razor, you might not get a really close shave in your first pass as is the case with the other listed razors.

However, the fact that it actively avoids skin irritation and bumps is enough to make it popular and a preferred choice among men who suffer from bumps.

7. Schick Xtreme 3 Sensitive  – Good For Men With Sensitive Skin

For the men who have sensitive skin that is always getting irritated after shaving, the Schick Xtreme 3 is the perfect solution. This razor has been designed to reduce skin irritations and comfort the skin. This is how it achieves it.

The razor comes with a comfort strips on its head. These strips have been lined with aloe and vitamin E., And while we are at it, we should point out that the head is designed to accommodate three blades which flex and pivot at 30 degrees. At this angle, they are aligned to your face for an effective cut thus reducing chances of skin irritation.

And aside from the comfort strip and the triple threat blade design, the razor comes with an ergonomic handle that’s covered with a soft rubber strip. This handle is designed for comfort and to help improve your control when shaving (especially the hard to reach areas).

Moreover, this razor features large spaces between its blades to prevent it from getting clogged by hair and cream as you shave. Overall, this feature helps in making it easier to shave and prolonging the life of your shaver.

8. Schick Quattro Razor & Cartridges  – Premium Quality & Great For Course Beard

In this list, this is one of the most expensive razors we’ve reviewed. But aside from this, it’s also one of the most effective ones on the list as well. To achieve this status, its designers made it with four blades coated with titanium and diamond. These blades are sharp and give a faster and closer shave than other disposable blade options available.

The head is made in a way that it is pivoted. This comes as a plus since it helps in contouring the face for an even closer shave. On the other hand, the handle is ergonomic for a comfortable grip. If you have a couple of extra dollars to spare, you can spend them on this high-quality disposable razor. It is most definitely worth your money.

9. BIC Flex 3  – Very Affordable

Bic has been one of the leading razor manufacturing companies for decades. Its popularity is as a result of the fact that it pays attention to producing high-quality blades. Moreover, Bic adds high tech features to its blades making them highly functional than most blades on the market. The Bic Flex 3 is one of the Bic product lines that has gained popularity in the men’s grooming industry.

The Bic Flex 3 performs highly courtesy if its pivoting head. It has three flexible blades which follow the facial contours and afford you a close shave without causing irritations. In addition to the pivoted head, the razor comes with an ergonomic handle layered with a rubber grip for a superior and comfortable grip.

The blade glides easily on the skin courtesy of a lubricating strip. This strip also reduces the chances of irritation and hair dragging. And for the hairs hiding in hard to reach spots on the face, the precision blade works great. Also, the extra weight of the razor gives you superior control over the blade.
For an affordable price, the razor comes with eight blades. This means you’ll be sorted for a long time.

But on the flip side, the flex blades are not the best quality we’ve seen, and as such you’ll have to replace them soon.

10. Gillette Sensor 2 Plus  – Twin Blades

This Gillette razor has been designed for the men who love to shave. It comes with multiple characteristics that many men have fallen in love with.

Some of the attractive features include a pivoting head which follows the facial contours. This feature ensures that you get a close without causing irritations. Complementing the pivot head are twin blades which aid in offering smooth shaves.

To improve the shaving experience, the razor features a lubrastrip which is activated by water. And to improve your comfort, the handle features an ergonomic grip. This grip offers better control when you are shaving.

We should point out that this razor goes for a higher price than most razors on this list. But on the bright side, it comes with three razors.

How to Shave Using a Disposable or Cartridge Razor – a Brief Guide

To a newbie, shaving is an easy process. All one has to do is apply shaving cream and run the razor over the face or legs until all hairs disappear. Unfortunately, this is not all there is to it.

To achieve a clean shave without cuts and nicks you have to not only get the best razor but also prepare your face, be patient and develop your shaving technique.

Here’s a quick run-down of how it should be done.

Preparation

Most men make the mistake of diving into the shaving process without preparing their faces. They forget that preparation time is more important when using disposable razors since the blades are not as great as those on straight and safety razors.

Preparation involves wrapping a hot towel around the shaving area or taking a shower. The moisture and heat will soften the facial hair and cause it to stand up straight. It will also open up the pores and facilitate a better close shave.

You can also wash your face with exfoliating soap to get rid of the dirt, oil and dead skin.

Use Shaving Cream

Apply shaving soap, gel or cream on your face. But before you do, check to ensure that the products used are free of alcohol that may cause your skin to dry and lead to irritations. Prefer glycerin based gels and creams instead as these will not cause itching or dryness.

While applying the cream, you can use your fingers. However, using a shaving brush is even better and more efficient as it fully coats the facial hairs and lifts them off the skin ready for shaving.

Trim

If you let your hair grow long before you shave, you should trim it down. Disposable razors are not designed to handle long stubbles. Actually, experts maintain that disposable razors shouldn’t be used for hairs more than 2 days old.

Go With The Grain

This is always the case regardless of the type of razor you choose. Though you can shave against the grain, shaving with it yields better results.

Rinse Off Your Shaver

Disposable razors tend to get clogged up with hairs and shaving cream/gel. For this reason, when shaving, rinse the razor after every stroke. This will help prevent razor burns.

Reapply Shaving Cream

This only applies to the spots you’ll have to shave more than once to get a close shave. Though the reapplication process will eat up more of your time, it’s important for lubrication and preventing irritation.

Rinse Your Face

When you are done, rinse off your face using cold water. The cold water will help close the pores and soothe the skin in case of irritations. Finish off with aftershave or a face moisturizer.

How Long Do The Best Disposable Razors Last?

Unfortunately, this is not one of those questions with a definite answer. This is partly because no one knows, and the answer you get will always depend on who you’ll ask. Just take a look over at Reddit and you will leave more confused than when you arrived!

Even a quick search online will yield different results including 4 or 5 days and sometimes even longer.
But going with a study conducted by Gillette a couple of years ago, on average, men replace their blades after 150 strokes.

Additionally, 10% replace the blade because they’ve had it for too long while the best depend on their feel (if it feels too dull).

Going with my experience, changing the blades once every week is best. But this is still not definitive right? Well, here are some factors that determine how often you change your blade.

• Length of your beard
• The texture of your stubble
• Level of skin hydration
• Quality of shaving gel or cream used
• Whether you shave against or with the grain. Shaving against the grain beats up the blade more

But here is what everyone agrees on. You can prolong the life of your razor by keeping it dry. You see, blades grow dull faster as a result of microscopic rusting, and oxidation. Water that is left behind during shaves causes oxidation. In turn, this causes corrosion and the blade starts to flake. The blade then starts to tug on the hairs instead of cutting through.

Eventually, you experience irritation and cannot achieve a smooth shave.
To avoid all this, you simply dry the razor after use and drip oils onto the blades. This will keep minerals from being deposited.

You can also use a blow dryer or drag the razor across a pair of old jeans. The fibers in the jeans will sharpen and dry the blades. Speaking of sharpening the blade…

How Can I Sharpen a Disposable Razor’s Blade?

The trick with the old jeans is not a joke. Believe me, it works like magic. Some experts even claim the trick extend the life of your blade to a couple of months when you use it after every shaving session. And though there are those that claim using the rugged blue jeans method doesn’t exactly sharpen your blade but instead gets rid of imperfections, the bottom line is that the life’s blade is extended.

But the blue jeans method is not the only way to sharpen your blade. You can also employ a leather strap specifically designed for blade sharpening. This technique is mostly used with straight razors. The suede side is used to sharpen blades while the leader side polishes them.

The other method involves using your forearm. Yes, your forearm is efficient in blade sharpening. The idea behind its success and efficiency is that your forearms skin is like leather. So why should you not use it to sharpen?

All you need to do is run your razor along your forearm (work from the elbow moving towards the wrist). Ensure that the blade is facing the elbow lest you cut yourself.

Last but not least, there are specific shaving products including Razorpit  which are created for the sole purpose of sharpening disposable blades. These will dramatically increase the lifespan of your razor.

Comparison: Disposable Razor Vs. all Other Types

Disposable razors are popular and rightly so. They are designed to offer convenience. With true disposable razors, you simply throw them away when the blade starts to tug on your hair.

But aside from convenience, disposable razors are available pretty much everywhere. They can be found in gas stations, drugstores, and supermarkets. If you forgot to carry your razor and you are out on the road, there’s no need to freak out. Simply get another razor and you are good to go.

In addition to this, disposable razors are easy to use. They come ready to use. Their learning curve in comparison to straight razors is non-existent. Yes, even electric razors are slightly complex since they have buttons you have to get used to.

And though disposable razors can yield a close shave, their results are not as excellent as those of straight razors. The latter are kings of clean and close shaves. They are unrivaled on this front.

When making the comparison, you should also consider cost. High-end straight razors cost several hundred dollars. But these will last for years. Safety razors are less costly compared to straight razors. However, the blade replacement costs can quickly add up to insane levels.

Additionally, electric razors aren’t cheap. But they should provide you with a couple of years of service. Their convenience is close to that of disposable razors.

Last but not least, disposable razor initial purchase is not a big investment. But if you aren’t careful, the recurring costs of replacement blades will drain your bank account. But as I mentioned earlier, there are several methods you can use to keep your blade sharper for longer and stave off the new purchase for a while.

How I Made The Choice of The Best Disposable Razor

Unfortunately, my secret isn’t so secret. To compile this list I simply researched and tested several razors. But since I cannot possibly try out every disposable razor available, for some I relied on consumer reviews.
And with that, the guide about disposable and cartridge razors has come to an end. I hope it has shed light on things you were unsure or confused about.