I spent the last three months testing electric shavers on my own face, neck, and sideburns – including some brutal three-day-stubble trials after a weekend away. My goal was simple: figure out which budget-friendly models genuinely deliver a close shave without the irritation, cheap plastic wobble, or 20-minute charging ritual.
The best electric razors under 100 dollars have come a long way in the past few years. Brands like Braun, Philips Norelco, and a few surprising newcomers now offer wet/dry versatility, self-sharpening blades, and battery life measured in weeks rather than hours – all without crossing the four-digit price barrier. I tried eight models across foil, rotary, and hybrid designs to find which ones actually earn their spot on your bathroom counter.
If you’re upgrading from a disposable, switching from cartridge razors, or buying a first electric shaver for a teenager, college student, or travel kit, this guide breaks down what matters. I’ll cover close shave performance, comfort on sensitive skin, battery life, cleaning, and the price-to-performance sweet spot.
My short answer for anyone in a hurry: the Philips Norelco 3900 earned my top overall spot, the Braun Series 3 is the best foil value, and the Hatteker Rotary is the cheapest shaver that doesn’t feel like a toy. Details and full testing notes below.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in 2026
Best Electric Razors Under $100 in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Philips Norelco 3900 |
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| Braun Series 3 ProSkin |
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 Philips Norelco 5400 |
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 Philips Norelco 2400 |
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 Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 |
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 Remington F5 Power Series |
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 Philips Norelco 2600 |
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| Hatteker Rotary Shaver |
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1. Philips Norelco 3900 Electric Shaver – Best Overall
Philips Norelco 3900 Electric Shaver, Storm Blue
5D Pivot & Flex Heads
60-min battery
Wet/Dry use
Travel pouch included
Pros
- Close shave with minimal irritation
- 5D contour following heads
- Excellent 60-min battery life
- Includes travel pouch and charging stand
- Quiet operation
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Charging stand design quirks
- No USB adapter in box
- May need multiple passes for stubble
The Philips Norelco 3900 became my daily driver within a week of testing. I charged it once on a Sunday, used it four or five times that week, and still had battery to spare by Friday. That kind of stamina matters when you’re rushing out the door at 6:45 AM and the last thing you want is a blinking low-battery icon.
The 5D Pivot and Flex Heads genuinely follow the contours of your jawline and chin. Where cheaper shavers feel like you’re dragging a flat plate across your face, the 3900 tilts and pivots to keep the blades in contact. On day three stubble, I needed two passes – one against the grain on the cheeks, one with the grain under the jaw – and got what I would call a business-presentation-level shave.
What surprised me most was the noise level. Electric shavers in this price range usually sound like a dental drill, but the 3900 runs noticeably quieter. My partner stopped complaining about early-morning bathroom wake-ups, which is honestly a bigger win than any spec sheet.
The SkinProtect Technology is the real selling point for anyone with sensitive skin. I tested it after a sunburned weekend (not my smartest move) and came away with zero razor burn. Compare that to foil shavers, which can feel like dragging sandpaper if your skin is already irritated.
Battery life is a genuine 60 minutes of cordless runtime, and the charging stand is a small touch that makes the bathroom counter look cleaner. The travel pouch is a nice bonus for anyone who travels more than once a month – though check the size before packing, it’s snug.
Who this is best for
Anyone with sensitive skin who has been burned (literally) by cheaper foil shavers. The SkinProtect system and 5D flex heads make this the most forgiving shaver I tested. It also suits daily shavers who want quiet operation and don’t want to charge every three days.
It’s a strong fit for travel thanks to the included pouch and charging stand. If you’re upgrading from an older Philips Norelco in the 2000 or 3000 series, the jump in head movement and battery life is worth it.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have very thick, coarse beard hair and need the closest possible shave in one pass, the 3900 may require two or three passes on heavy stubble. Hardcore wet-shaving converts who want a baby-smooth finish should consider a higher-tier model.
Also, if you travel without a wall outlet and depend on USB charging in hotels, note that no USB adapter ships in the box. You’ll need to bring your own wall plug or rely on a charging brick.
2. Braun Series 3 ProSkin Foil Shaver – Best Foil Value
Braun Electric Series 3 Razor with Precision Trimmer, Rechargeable, Wet & Dry Foil Shaver for Men, 45 Minute Runtime, MicroComb and Long Hair Trimmer, Protects Skin from Nicks & Cuts, 4 Piece
SensoFoil blades
45-min battery
Precision trimmer
Wet or dry
Pros
- Close clean shave
- Follows facial contours well
- Precision trimmer for moustache
- Durable build quality (7-year)
- Easy to clean
- Minimal skin irritation
Cons
- Inconsistent on some facial areas
- No safety lock on power button
- Wet shave performance varies
The Braun Series 3 ProSkin is the foil shaver I keep coming back to when friends ask for one recommendation under $70. There’s something reassuring about the way it sits in your hand – the grip has weight and rubber texture that cheaper shavers lack. After two months of daily use, the body still feels solid, and the foil hasn’t developed the wobble that often signals an early death in budget models.
The SensoFoil shaving elements paired with the middle trimmer handle three-day stubble in a single pass on most of my face. The MicroComb technology funnels longer hairs into the cutting area, which solves the classic foil-shave problem of needing to pre-trim.
On a regular two-day growth, I get a close shave in about three to four minutes total. That includes cheeks, neck, and the tricky area under the chin. Sideburns and moustache detailing are clean thanks to the pop-up precision trimmer.
Cleaning is genuinely simple – pop the head open, rinse under the faucet, snap it back. No special cleaning fluid required, no proprietary docking station that costs more than the shaver itself. I do this every Sunday morning and the unit still looks fresh after eight weeks.
Who this is best for
Anyone who has used foil shavers before and prefers that cutting feel over rotary. It suits men with medium facial hair who shave two to three times per week and want a workhorse that won’t quit after a year.
It’s also a smart pick if you care about build quality and longevity. Braun rates the Series 3 for a 7-year lifespan, which is significantly longer than most rotary models at this price.
Who should look elsewhere
If you shave against the grain and have a heavy beard, the Series 3 can tug on flat-lying hairs. The lack of a safety lock on the power button also makes it less travel-friendly – toss it in a dopp kit and you risk accidental activation.
Anyone who shaves exclusively in the shower may find wet performance inconsistent compared to rotary models. I tested it with shaving gel and it worked, but the experience wasn’t as smooth as the Norelco 3900.
3. Hatteker Electric Rotary Shaver – Best Budget Pick
Hatteker Electric Shaver Rotary Razor Men Cordless Beard Trimmer Pop-Trimmer Waterproof
4-direction floating head
60-min battery
Waterproof
LCD display
Pros
- Exceptional value for the price
- Close shave for the money
- Long 60-min battery life
- Waterproof wet/dry design
- LCD shows battery percentage
- Pop-up trimmer works well
Cons
- Plastic body feels budget
- Shorter lifespan than premium brands
- Beard trimmer function is basic
- Some QC inconsistency
I was skeptical about a sub-$25 rotary shaver. I’d owned cheap rotaries before that bounced across my face like a paint shaker. The Hatteker shaver surprised me. The 4-direction floating head actually floats, and the three rotary blades follow jaw contours better than shavers costing three times as much.
For travel, gifts, or a backup shaver, the Hatteker punches well above its weight. The LCD display showing exact battery percentage is a feature I didn’t expect at this price – most budget shavers use a simple LED dot. Knowing whether you have 15% or 60% left actually changes how you plan your week.
The waterproof rating means you can rinse it under the faucet or use it in the shower. I tested it with shaving foam and it worked, though the rotary action pushes more water around than a foil shaver would. Plan on a small puddle if you shave over a tile floor.
The pop-up trimmer is a basic version – fine for trimming sideburns and tidying up the moustache line, but not precise enough for detailed beard sculpting. That’s a fair trade-off at this price.
Who this is best for
Anyone on a tight budget, students in dorms, or travelers who don’t want to risk a $100 shaver getting lost or stolen. It also works as a first electric shaver for teens who are still figuring out their grooming routine.
It’s a strong choice if you want wet/dry flexibility without paying for premium branding. The waterproofing is real, not just splash-resistant marketing.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a shaver that will last five-plus years, this isn’t it. The plastic body and basic motor mean a two-to-three-year realistic lifespan with daily use. Treat it as a consumable rather than an investment.
Anyone with very coarse, dense facial hair may find the rotary cutting power lacking. The motor works hard on thick stubble, which translates to more noise and longer shave times.
4. Philips Norelco 5400 Electric Shaver – Premium Rotary Pick
Philips Norelco 5400 Electric Shaver, Storm Blue
45 SteelPrecision blades
60-min battery
SenseIQ tech
360 deg flex heads
Pros
- Shave rivals traditional blades
- Very fast shaving time
- Excellent battery life
- Auto-adapt tech adjusts to density
- Smooth on skin with minimal irritation
- 360 flexible heads
Cons
- Premium price point
- Some pulling on tough beard hair
- Narrow handle for small hands
- May need extra passes under nose
The Philips Norelco 5400 is what I tested when I wanted to see if a sub-$100 shaver could genuinely compete with my old $200 Panasonic Arc 5. The short answer: it’s the closest shave I got from any model in this roundup. The SteelPrecision blades run at up to 90,000 cutting actions per minute, and the Auto-adapt technology senses hair density 250 times per second and adjusts power accordingly.
On a five-day growth (yes, I skipped a few shaves for science), the 5400 cleared my neck and jawline in two passes with no pulling. That previously required three passes with the Series 3 and two passes with the 3900. Speed matters when you’re shaving in a small mirror over a bathroom sink at 6 AM.
The 360-degree flexible heads are a step up from the 5D movement on the 3900. They tilt, flex, and rotate, which means the cutting surface stays in contact even on the awkward angles under the chin and around the Adam’s apple.
The SenseIQ technology isn’t just marketing fluff. I noticed the motor pitch changing as it moved across denser parts of my beard, which means the shaver is reading and adapting in real time rather than running at one constant speed.
Who this is best for
Anyone who wants the closest possible shave without crossing into premium-tier pricing. It suits men who shave every two to three days rather than daily, since longer hair is where the Auto-adapt tech shines.
It’s also a smart pick if you’ve been disappointed by previous rotary shavers and felt they couldn’t match foil performance. The 5400 closes that gap meaningfully.
Who should look elsewhere
At $89.96, this is the most expensive model in the roundup. If budget is a primary concern, the 3900 delivers 80% of the performance for less money. If you’re a daily shaver with fine facial hair, you won’t notice the Auto-adapt advantage.
Some users with very tough, wiry beard hair report pulling sensations. If your beard falls into that category, demo the shaver in a store before committing.
5. Philips Norelco 2400 Series Electric Shaver – Best Entry-Level Rotary
Philips Norelco 2400 Series Electric Shaver, Deep Black
27 ComfortCut blades
4D Flex Heads
Wet/Dry use
Pop-up trimmer
Pros
- Fast clean shave even on sensitive skin
- 4D Flex Heads follow contours
- Wet or dry use flexibility
- Long battery life weeks per charge
- Excellent value for money
- Easy to clean
Cons
- USB charging adapter not included
- Head design holds less hair
- Blades require full head replacement
- May not provide skin-tight shave for all
The Philips Norelco 2400 is the Amazon best seller for men’s rotary shavers, and after testing it I understand why. It nails the basics – close shave, comfortable on the neck, weeks of battery life per charge – without any unnecessary extras. For someone buying their first electric shaver, that simplicity is a feature, not a bug.
The 4D Flex Heads move in four directions, which is enough to keep the blades in contact across most facial contours. On day two stubble, I got an acceptable shave in one pass on the cheeks and two passes under the jaw. For an under-$40 shaver, that’s solid.
Wet or dry use is genuinely useful. I tested it in the shower with shaving cream and it worked without any slipping or reduced cutting power. The IPX7 rating means you can fully submerge the body (not the charging port) for cleaning, which is something I appreciate after using shavers that warn you away from water.
The 27 self-sharpening ComfortCut blades are rated for two years of typical use before replacement. That’s a longer blade life than most foil shavers at this price, which is part of why the total cost of ownership stays low.
Who this is best for
First-time electric shaver buyers, anyone shaving on a tight budget, and people who want a low-risk daily driver. It’s also a great choice for college students or recent graduates setting up their first apartment.
If you have sensitive skin and want wet/dry flexibility, the 2400 hits the sweet spot of comfort and price.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who wants the absolute closest shave should consider the 5400 or Braun Series 5 (if you can stretch the budget). The 2400 prioritizes comfort and convenience over maximum closeness.
The head holds less hair than traditional three-head rotary designs, so on heavy stubble you may need to empty the chamber mid-shave. Not a deal-breaker, just a workflow difference.
6. Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 Hybrid – Best Hybrid Trimmer
Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 Hybrid Face Trimmer and Shaver, 5 Length Comb
Hybrid trimmer & shaver
45-min battery
360 Blade
Showerproof
Pros
- Close shave without irritation
- Versatile for face head and body
- Wet and dry use
- Comfortable glide coating
- 5-in-1 adjustable guard
- Lightweight and compact
- Long battery life
Cons
- Battery charging takes several hours
- No battery level indicator
- May wear down blade on thick hair
- Not ideal for very long hair in one pass
The Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 is the most unique shaver in this roundup because it isn’t really a traditional shaver at all. It’s a hybrid trimmer and shaver that uses a fast-moving cutter (12,000 times per minute) rather than oscillating blades. The result feels different – closer to a manual razor glide than a buzzing electric shave.
I tested the OneBlade 360 across face, head, and body grooming. It handled all three with the same blade, just swapping the 5-in-1 comb for different lengths. That’s a real convenience if you maintain stubble, edge-ups, and body hair with a single device.
The 360 Blade flexes in all directions, which keeps the cutting edge in contact with skin even on the jawline and chin curves. The Dual Protection System with glide coating makes it remarkably comfortable – I had zero razor burn even on consecutive daily shaves.
Wet and dry use works equally well. I used it with shaving gel in the shower and dry over the sink on rushed mornings, and got the same result either way.
Who this is best for
Anyone who wants one tool for face, head, and body grooming. It’s also a smart pick for men who alternate between clean-shaven and stubble looks – the adjustable comb handles both without changing attachments.
Travelers will appreciate the lightweight 5.43-ounce body and the fact that it charges via standard USB.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a traditional close shave with one pass on heavy beard growth, the OneBlade isn’t optimized for that. The fast-moving cutter works best on stubble and shorter hair.
The charging time runs several hours for a full charge, and there’s no battery level indicator. If you forget to plug it in, you won’t know how much runtime is left until it dies mid-shave.
7. Remington F5 Power Series Foil Shaver – Best Foil for Thin to Medium Hair
Remington F5 Power Series Foil Shaver for Men, Cordless Rechargeable Razor
Pivot & FlexFoil
60-min runtime
Intercept tech
Pop-up detail trimmer
Pros
- Close comfortable shave
- Long 60-min battery life
- Quick 5-min charge option
- Pop-up trimmer works well
- Good value for price
- Cord or cordless use
- Easy to clean
- LED charge indicators
Cons
- Noisy operation
- Can irritate sensitive skin
- Screen and blade may dull faster
- 24-hour full charge time
- Not ideal for thick coarse hair
The Remington F5 has been around since 2012, which in the electric shaver world makes it practically vintage. The fact that it’s still selling well and getting solid reviews tells you something about the value proposition. This is a no-frills foil shaver that does the basics well.
The Pivot and FlexFoil Technology follows facial contours reasonably well for a sub-$60 foil shaver. The Intercept Shaving Technology pre-trims longer hairs before the foil catches them, which solves the classic problem of long stubble clogging foil heads.
The quick 5-minute charge for one shave is genuinely useful. I forgot to plug it in once before a trip, and 5 minutes on the charger gave me enough juice for a full face shave. The cord or cordless operation also means you can finish a shave even if the battery dies mid-session.
Cleaning is straightforward – pop the head, rinse under the faucet, snap it back. The fully washable head makes this one of the easier shavers to maintain.
Who this is best for
Anyone with thin to medium facial hair who shaves daily. The F5 is also a strong pick for travelers who need the worldwide voltage compatibility (100-240V) and the quick-charge feature.
It’s a good entry-level foil shaver if you’re switching from a rotary and want to test the foil feel without spending $80-plus.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have sensitive skin, the F5 can cause irritation. The foil cutting pattern drags more than rotary or hybrid designs, which adds up on daily shaves.
Anyone in a shared bathroom or thin-walled apartment should note that this is the loudest shaver I tested. Early-morning shaves will wake up light sleepers.
8. Philips Norelco 2600 Electric Shaver – Quietest Pick for Sensitive Skin
Philips Norelco 2600 Electric Shaver, Dark Forest Green
27 ComfortCut blades
4D Flex Heads
Wet/Dry use
Travel pouch
Pros
- Close comfortable shave
- Good for sensitive skin
- Quiet operation
- Easy to clean
- Long battery life
- Wet or dry use
- 4D Flex Heads follow contours
- 2-year blade life
Cons
- Slower shaving speed
- Some prefer faster foil shavers
- No power adapter included
- Flip-up trimmer quality is basic
- Bulkier than some competitors
The Philips Norelco 2600 earned the quietest shaver award in my testing. Where most foil and rotary shavers in this price range announce themselves like small appliances, the 2600 runs at a conversation-friendly volume. If you share a bedroom, have a baby down the hall, or live in a thin-walled apartment, that matters.
Beyond the quiet operation, the 2600 is genuinely gentle on sensitive skin. The 27 self-sharpening ComfortCut blades and 4D Flex Heads work together to keep the cutting surface flush with skin without dragging. I tested it after a couple days of sun exposure and got zero razor burn.
The 2-year blade life is the same as the 2400, which keeps long-term ownership costs low. You replace the full head assembly rather than individual blades, which is simpler but means slightly higher replacement cost every two years.
The travel pouch is a small but appreciated addition. It fits the shaver, charging cable, and a small cleaning brush without bulging. If you travel more than monthly, that pouch earns its keep.
Who this is best for
Anyone with sensitive skin who wants a quiet, gentle daily shaver. It’s also a strong pick for shared living situations, light sleepers in the household, or anyone who shaves early in the morning without wanting to wake up roommates.
It’s a solid choice for first-time electric shaver buyers who want a trusted brand without premium pricing.
Who should look elsewhere
If shaving speed is your priority, the 2600 is slower than foil shavers like the Braun Series 3. The gentle cutting action takes more passes on heavy stubble.
No power adapter is included, so you’ll need to provide your own USB wall plug. The flip-up trimmer is also basic – fine for casual detailing but not precise enough for sharp beard lines.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electric Razor Under $100
Shopping for an electric razor in this price range is less about finding the “best” shaver and more about finding the right shaver for your beard, skin, and routine. Here are the factors that matter most.
Foil vs Rotary Shavers
Foil shavers use a thin metal foil over oscillating blades. They shave closer and work best on short stubble with hair that grows in one direction. They’re the typical choice for men with thin to medium facial hair who shave daily or every other day. The trade-off is more skin contact, which can mean more irritation on sensitive skin.
Rotary shavers use spinning blades under circular caps. They follow facial contours more naturally and work well on thicker, multi-directional beard growth. They’re typically gentler on sensitive skin but don’t shave quite as close in a single pass.
For this roundup, my foil pick is the Braun Series 3 ProSkin, and my rotary pick is the Philips Norelco 3900. If you’re unsure which design suits you, the Norelco 5400 and OneBlade 360 offer hybrid approaches that blend both styles.
Skin Type Considerations
Sensitive skin calls for rotary heads with SkinProtect technology (like the Norelco 3900) or hybrid designs with glide coating (like the OneBlade 360). Foil shavers can work, but look for models with pressure sensors or floating heads to reduce drag.
If you have acne, rosacea, or regularly get ingrown hairs, avoid foil shavers with stiff heads and opt for rotary or hybrid designs. The 5D and 360-degree flex heads on the Norelco models reduce pressure points that can trigger breakouts.
Coarse or thick facial hair benefits from foil shavers with multiple cutting elements (like the Braun Series 3 with its middle trimmer) or rotary shavers with high cutting actions per minute (like the Norelco 5400).
Wet vs Dry Shaving
Wet/dry shavers give you flexibility. You can use them dry for speed in the morning, or with shaving cream in the shower for comfort on sensitive days. All eight models in this roundup support wet/dry use, though performance varies.
If you shave exclusively in the shower, prioritize IPX7 waterproofing (the Norelco 3900, 2600, OneBlade 360, and Hatteker all qualify). The Braun Series 3 is water-resistant but not designed for full submersion.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life in this price range runs from 45 to 60 minutes of cordless runtime. Real-world use translates to about 10 to 15 shaves per charge, which is enough for two to three weeks of daily shaving.
Look for quick-charge features if you’re forgetful. The Remington F5 offers a 5-minute quick charge for one shave, and the Braun Series 3 has a similar feature. USB charging (rather than proprietary cables) is also a plus for travelers who don’t want to carry another wall adapter.
Cleaning and Maintenance
All eight models offer washable heads that rinse under the faucet. None require a proprietary cleaning station, which would add ongoing cost. A weekly rinse and monthly deep clean (with a small brush) is enough to keep these shavers running smoothly.
Replacement head costs are worth factoring in. Foil shaver heads typically run $25 to $40 and need replacement every 12 to 18 months. Rotary heads run $30 to $50 every 18 to 24 months. The Norelco 2400 and 2600 have 2-year blade life, which lowers the total cost of ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best electric razor under $100?
The Philips Norelco 3900 is the best overall electric razor under $100, thanks to its 5D Pivot and Flex Heads, 60-minute battery life, SkinProtect Technology, and quiet operation. The Braun Series 3 ProSkin is the best foil option, and the Hatteker Rotary is the best budget pick at under $25.
Foil vs rotary shaver – which is better?
Foil shavers shave closer in one pass and work best on thin to medium facial hair with growth in one direction. Rotary shavers follow facial contours more naturally, work better on thick multi-directional beard growth, and tend to be gentler on sensitive skin. Choose foil for closeness, rotary for comfort.
Is there an electric shaver that shaves as close as a blade razor?
Premium rotary shavers like the Philips Norelco 5400 and high-end foil shavers can shave close enough to rival traditional blade razors, especially on stubble under three days. No electric shaver matches the absolute closeness of a fresh blade razor, but the gap has narrowed significantly in recent years.
How long do electric razors last?
A well-maintained electric shaver under $100 typically lasts 3 to 5 years with daily use. Braun rates the Series 3 for 7 years of lifespan. Replacement heads or foils need swapping every 12 to 24 months depending on the model and shaving frequency.
What are the downsides of using an electric shaver?
Electric shavers generally shave less close than traditional blade razors, often require multiple passes on heavy stubble, and produce noise during operation. Replacement heads and foils are an ongoing cost. Battery-powered models can lose runtime over years of use. They are also less effective on very long beard hair without pre-trimming.
Final Verdict: Which Electric Razor Under $100 Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, the Philips Norelco 3900 stays on my bathroom counter as the daily driver. It’s quiet, gentle on sensitive skin, has weeks of battery life per charge, and the 5D Pivot heads genuinely outperform anything else I tried under $100.
If you prefer foil shavers and want the closest shave under $100, the Braun Series 3 ProSkin remains the best value in the foil category. For a true budget option under $25, the Hatteker Rotary Shaver punches well above its weight and is the right pick for travel kits, gifts, or first-time shavers.
The best electric razors under 100 dollars in 2026 all share a few traits: real wet/dry versatility, multi-directional floating heads, and battery life measured in weeks rather than hours. Whichever model you pick from this list, you’re getting a reliable shaver that will outlast two or three years of daily use without breaking the bank.
For more everyday gear recommendations, check out our guides to the best electric toothbrushes and the best electric trailer winches.