We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.

Advertiser Disclosure

Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

How We Make Money

We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently from our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.

How Do I Choose the Best Razor Blade?

By M. Chambers
Updated May 17, 2024
Our promise to you
WiseGEEK is dedicated to creating trustworthy, high-quality content that always prioritizes transparency, integrity, and inclusivity above all else. Our ensure that our content creation and review process includes rigorous fact-checking, evidence-based, and continual updates to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

Editorial Standards

At WiseGEEK, we are committed to creating content that you can trust. Our editorial process is designed to ensure that every piece of content we publish is accurate, reliable, and informative.

Our team of experienced writers and editors follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure the highest quality content. We conduct thorough research, fact-check all information, and rely on credible sources to back up our claims. Our content is reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity.

We believe in transparency and maintain editorial independence from our advertisers. Our team does not receive direct compensation from advertisers, allowing us to create unbiased content that prioritizes your interests.

Choosing the best razor blade can be a complicated process considering there are several types of blades and shavers available to consumers. Many prefer a disposable razor, while others want a razor that they do not need to continually throw away and replace with another. In addition, there are razors with single, double, triple, and even more blades to choose from. Other common features of razor blades include moisturizing strips, a pivoting head, and a stylish design. Which razor blade is the best depends on the needs and preferences of the person who is going to be using it.

Disposable razors are designed to be used a few times and then thrown away when the razor becomes dull and worn. The design of these razors is typically simple and delicate as they are not designed to be used for a long period of time. They can be ideal for travelers and people on the go, as well as individuals who do not like replacing the heads of razor blades frequently. Often times, disposables are cheaper than non-disposables, as well.

Non-disposable razors are generally sturdier than the disposable variety, as well as more durable. They are designed to be used for longer periods of time and typically have fancier designs than other razors. When the blade of a non-disposable dulls, the user simply replaces the head but continues to use the same handle of the razor. The handle of this type of razor can last a very long time, making it a good choice for those who do not want to continually throw away and replace razors. They usually cost more than disposables initially, but over time they can be more cost-effective because they do not need to be replaced nearly as often.

Another factor to consider when choosing the best razor blade is how many blades are included. While single-blade razors are still sold, many razors in recent years have even more blades. Some may find that more blades allow a closer shave, as well as a faster shave. If there is more hair to get rid of, choosing a razor blade with multiple blades may be a good choice because a single-blade razor may become clogged and dull too quickly.

A large number of razor blades have a pivoting head, which makes shaving delicate or hard-to-reach areas easier. Although there are disposable razors that offer pivoting heads, most disposables are so simple in design that the heads do not move. Non-disposables, however, usually include a head that pivots. Shaving with a head that moves can be ideal for areas such as the underarms and bikini area.

Many razor blades also include a moisturizing strip on the head that provides a smoother, softer shave. Those who use a shaving cream or lotion may not find a moisturizing strip to be useful, but individuals who use just water or a very small amount of lubricant may find this quality important. In addition, many prefer to use a razor blade that does not require a separate shaving cream and will prefer one that provides a built-in lubrication.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Discussion Comments

By TAOSNewYork — On Jul 15, 2015

Testing razors is definitely the key to finding the right razor. Like Cageybird mentioned, getting a professional shave can help you find the right razor. It is also a good opportunity to get recommendations based on your skin and hair type.

By Cageybird — On Apr 02, 2014

If you've never done it before, I encourage you to pay a few dollars and get a professional shave from a professional barber once in a while. Yes, the straight edge blade can look intimidating, but the end result is worth the expense. I use a high-end cartridge razor system at home myself, but I go for a good hot towel treatment and shave at least once a month.

By Inaventu — On Apr 02, 2014

Price is an important consideration for me, but I won't buy the absolute cheapest razors I can find. The lowest end razors can really be rough on a heavy beard, so I use a decent, middle-of-the-road disposable razor for the first shave of the week, and inexpensive double edge blades for maintenance throughout the week.

By Reminiscence — On Apr 01, 2014

When I first started shaving, the only real choice of razor blade and shaver was the non-disposable kind that held a replaceable single-edge razor blade. Changing those blades out could be a dangerous exercise, but they did deliver a decent shave most of the time. I was thrilled when double bladed disposable razors became available, though.

Personally, I don't pay much attention to the moisturizing strip when considering which razors to buy. I use a shaving gel that keeps things pretty lubricated. The number of blades does interest me, however. I have found that three blades are better than two, but four aren't necessarily better than three. I know men who use those razors with four or more blades, but I think it's overkill. I cut myself more when I tried the four blade types.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.