What To Look For
Rotary shavers have three or four floating heads that float over the contours of the face. The heads have blades that spin behind a thin grid. Some rotary shavers are rechargeable; others use electric cords. A wet/dry rotary shaver lets you shave in the shower, or with shaving cream.
Common Pitfalls
Electric shavers have come a long way, but they still do not give you as close a shave as a manual razor. However, some men, particularly those with sensitive skin, prefer to use rotaries. You should expect to replace the heads every 6 months to 2 years--at a cost of $25 to $45 in 2010. Moreover, when the rechargeable battery doesn't hold a charge any longer, replacing the whole shaver is usually less expensive and easier than replacing the battery.
Where To Buy
Online sites such as Amazon.com, Shavers.com and Bestcovery.com offer consumers the chance to compare the features, prices and accessories of different rotary shavers. Retail drug stores Rite-Aid, Walgreen's and CVS carry rotary shavers, as do discount stores, such as Target.
Cost
The cost of a rotary shaver ranges from about $50 for a basic model to about $300 in 2010, depending on the features and where you buy the shaver. The Philips Norelco H58420 Nivea for Men is a good budget razor for about $65, but can only be used with Nivea lotion.
Comparison Shopping
Some rotary shavers are self-cleaning; others can be rinsed under water. A wet/dry shaver lets you shave in the shower. Only you can decide which features are worth the money.
Accessories
One valuable accessory is a long-hair trimmer for sideburns and other long hair. Some models require a separate battery charger, and a full charge may take several hours. Some have an automatic shutoff that helps to prevent overcharging.
Insider Tips
The top rotary shaver brands are Braun, Philips Norelco, Panasonic and Remington. All of these brands have excellent shavers at various prices. A rotary shaver should feel comfortable in your hand, and not have too much vibration.
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