Electric shavers have become an integral part of men’s grooming routines. With numerous options available, choosing the right electric shaver that meets your needs and preferences can be a daunting task. Two of the most popular rotary shaver models from Philips Norelco are the SH50 and HQ8.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive comparison of the Philips Norelco SH50 and HQ8, looking at the key features, differences, pros and cons of each model to help you determine which is the better choice for you.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Philips Norelco SH50 | Philips Norelco HQ8 |
| Blades | 3 rotary blades | 3 rotary blades |
| Length settings | Yes, up to 10 settings | No length settings |
| Wet/Dry | Wet and Dry | Wet and Dry |
| Battery Life | 50 mins cordless use | 60 mins cordless use |
| Display | LED Display | No Display |
| Charging Time | 8 Hours | 1 Hour |
| Attachments | Protection cap, power cord | Protection cap, power cord |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Overview of the Philips Norelco SH50
The Philips Norelco SH50 is a rotary electric shaver suitable for both wet and dry shaving. It features three independent floating heads that move in five directions to easily follow the contours of your face.
The shaver also has patented Super Lift&Cut technology with dual blade action to comfortably lift hairs and cut just above skin level for a close shave.
Key features and technologies of the SH50:
- Triple rotary blades: The 3 blades are designed to quickly and gently cut each hair. They independently move to follow facial contours.
- Wet and dry use: Can be used with shaving gel/foam for a comfortable wet shave or dry for convenience.
- Pop up trimmer: Integrated pop up trimmer to trim sideburns and mustache.
- SkinGlide rings: The rounded edges move smoothly across skin to reduce irritation.
- LED display: Shows battery level and travel lock indicator.
- Rechargeable battery: Provides up to 50 minutes of cordless shaving after an 8 hour charge.
- Length settings: Adjustable beard comb with 10 length settings from 1mm to 10mm.
- Washable: Fully washable shaver head for easy cleaning.
Overview of the Philips Norelco HQ8
The Philips Norelco HQ8 is another popular rotary shaver specially built for skin comfort. It has a 3-head design with DualPrecision shaving system to provide an efficient and gentle shave.
Key features and technologies of the HQ8:
- Triple head rotary blades: Self-sharpening, finely ground blades to cut hair cleanly.
- DualPrecision blades: Slots and holes to trim long and short hairs in fewer strokes.
- Aquatec technology: Enables refreshing wet and dry shaving convenience.
- SkinGlide shaving surface: Smooth rounded edges move gently over skin.
- Pop up trimmer: For mustache and sideburn trimming.
- Rechargeable battery: 60 minutes of cordless use after 1 hour charge.
- LED display: Battery low and replace shaving heads indicators.
- Protection cap: Keeps the shaving heads hygienic when traveling.
- 2 year warranty and 45 day risk free trial.
Key Differences Between the SH50 and HQ8
While both are rotary shavers ideal for wet and dry use, there are some notable differences between the Philips Norelco SH50 and HQ8 electric shavers.
- Shaving Heads and Blades
Philips Norelco SH50 employs three standard rotary blades that flexibly move in five directions. This flexibility allows the shaver to follow the contours of the face closely, ensuring a smooth and comfortable shave even in tricky areas like the neck and jawline.
On the other hand, the HQ8 also features three rotary heads but stands out with its DualPrecision blades.
These blades are meticulously designed with slots and holes, enabling them to efficiently cut both long and short hairs. This innovative technology ensures a close shave, whether you’re dealing with stubble or longer facial hair.
- Customization and Length Settings
Customization is where the SH50 really shines. It comes equipped with an adjustable beard comb, offering 10 length settings ranging from 1mm to 10mm.
This feature allows users to trim their beard to the desired length, providing a customized grooming experience. Whether you prefer a stubble look or a longer beard, the SH50 has you covered.
In contrast, the HQ8 does not offer adjustable length settings. It’s more of a straightforward shaver, focusing on providing a close and comfortable shave without the additional trimming options.
- Display and Battery
Another notable difference lies in their displays and battery life. The SH50 features a user-friendly LED display that shows the battery level and travel lock indicator, making it convenient for users to know when it’s time to recharge and ensuring the shaver remains locked during travel.
With regards to battery life, the SH50 offers 50 minutes of cordless use from an 8-hour charge. This is quite sufficient for several shaves, making it a reliable companion for short trips.
The HQ8, however, lacks a display screen but compensates with an impressive battery life. It provides a whopping 60 minutes of shaving time from just a 1-hour charge, outshining the SH50 in terms of charging efficiency and cordless usage.
Also Read: Is Philips Norelco SH50 Better Than HQ8?
- Pop Up Trimmer
Both the SH50 and HQ8 models are equipped with a pop-up trimmer, a handy feature for those who want to maintain their sideburns and mustache. The trimmer on the SH50 is more advanced, allowing for the trimming of hair of different lengths, giving users more control and precision.
- Attachments and Accessories
When unboxing, you’ll find that each shaver comes with basic attachments such as a protection cap and power cord. However, the SH50 includes an additional accessory – a cleaning brush.
This brush is essential for maintaining the shaver, ensuring that it’s free from hair and debris, which contributes to a longer lifespan and optimal performance.
The HQ8, while lacking the cleaning brush, still offers the necessary accessories for a satisfying shaving experience.
- Pricing
When it comes to pricing, the SH50 is positioned as a slightly more premium model, with its MSRP around $20 higher than the HQ8.
This price difference can be attributed to the SH50’s additional features such as the adjustable beard comb, advanced pop-up trimmer, and the inclusion of a cleaning brush.
However, the HQ8 offers excellent value for its price, especially considering its efficient battery life and DualPrecision blades.
For users who don’t require extensive customization options and are looking for a straightforward, reliable shaver, the HQ8 is a cost-effective choice.
Watch this video to replace HQ8:
Pros and Cons of the Philips Norelco SH50
Pros
- Triple track blades provide a fast close shave
- Customizable with 10 length settings
- Long 50 minute battery life
- Useful LED display
- Pop up trimmer good for mustache and sideburns
- Fully washable shaver head
- Suitable for wet and dry shaving
- Smooth rounded edges protect skin
- Comes with cleaning brush
Cons
- Takes 8 hours to fully charge
- No travel pouch or case included
- Replacement shaving heads expensive
- Not very budget friendly
Pros and Cons of the Philips Norelco HQ8
Pros:
- DualPrecision blades cut short and long hairs
- Aquatec enables refreshing wet & dry shaves
- Efficient 60 minute battery life
- Pop up trimmer for mustache & sideburns
- SkinGlide surface reduces friction
- Protective cap for hygienic travel
- Affordable price point
- 2 year warranty
Cons:
- No length settings or beard comb
- No LED display screen
- 1 hour recharge time is long
- No cleaning brush included
- Not suitable for coarse beards
Also Read: Comparison Between Philips Norelco 2300 And 2500
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the Philips Norelco SH50 and HQ8 are different rotary shaver models. The SH50 is an upgraded version with more features like the LED display, longer battery life, and adjustable length settings.
No, the HQ9 is a newer, more advanced rotary shaver compared to the older SH50 model. Key differences are the HQ9 has a fully washable body, SmartClick beard styler, and V-Track precision blades not found in the SH50.
Some of Philips Norelco’s best electric shavers are the newer 9000 and 8000 Series models like the Philips Norelco S9721/89 and Philips Norelco S9721/87 which feature upgraded technology for a more comfortable shave. The HQ9 and SH71/40 are also top rated rotary shavers from Norelco.
The Philips Norelco SH50 is compatible with any Philips Norelco replacement shaver model RQ11. It also works with the click-on beard styler attachments like the nose trimmer, precision trimmer, or beard styler that can be purchased separately.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, for a budget-friendly rotary shaver with essential features, the Philips Norelco HQ8 delivers a fast, smooth dry shave.
But the Philips Norelco SH50 is the better option if you want greater customization and trimming versatility provided by the adjustable length settings and advanced pop up trimmer.
Considering the useful LED display, wet/dry convenience, and skin protection the SH50 provides, the higher price tag makes it a worthy investment for men who shave daily.
Evaluate your own shaving needs and preferences to decide if the SH50’s strengths are worth the extra cost over the HQ8 model.