Remington RX5 vs RX7: Complete Comparison Guide

I’ve been testing electric shavers for years, and the question I get asked most often is about choosing between the Remington RX5 and RX7 head shavers. After spending months with both models, I’m here to share my honest insights about these two popular rotary shavers.

This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which one deserves a spot in your grooming routine based on real-world performance, value, and user experience.

A Brief Comparison Table

My Experience With The Remington RX5

When I first unboxed the RX5, I was impressed by its solid construction and comfortable grip.

The five dual-track cutting heads immediately caught my attention – they’re designed to capture more hair in a single pass compared to traditional single-track systems.

During my first shave, the RX5 felt smooth against my scalp. The rotary heads moved effortlessly across the contours of my head, and I appreciated how the flexible design adapted to different areas.

The shaving experience was comfortable, though I noticed it required multiple passes in areas where my hair grows in different directions.

The battery performance lived up to its 50-minute promise.

I typically got about 8-10 shaves before needing to recharge, which worked well for my routine. The charging process takes about 4 hours, which meant I had to plan ahead – something that became slightly inconvenient during busy weeks.

What really stood out was the wet shaving capability. Using it in the shower with shaving gel provided a notably smoother experience than dry shaving. The waterproof design held up perfectly, and cleaning was straightforward under running water.

The pop-up trimmer proved useful for touching up areas around my ears and neckline. While not as precise as a dedicated trimmer, it handled basic touch-ups adequately for someone who prefers an all-in-one solution.

Also Read: Comparison of Andis 17150 And Andis 17200

Pros Of Remington RX5

• Excellent Value For Money: The RX5 delivers solid performance at a price point that makes it accessible for most users. You get essential head shaving features without paying for premium bells and whistles you might not need.

• Reliable Dual-Track Cutting System: The five dual-track heads capture significantly more hair than single-track alternatives, reducing the number of passes needed for a clean shave. This system works particularly well for users with medium to coarse hair.

• Comfortable Grip And Ergonomics: Extended shaving sessions never felt uncomfortable thanks to the well-designed handle. The weight distribution feels balanced, reducing hand fatigue during longer grooming routines.

• Effective Wet And Dry Performance: Whether you prefer quick dry shaves or luxurious wet shaves with gel, the RX5 adapts well to both scenarios. The waterproof design means you can confidently use it in the shower without worrying about damage.

• Decent Battery Life: Fifty minutes of runtime provides plenty of shaving sessions before requiring a recharge. For most users, this translates to 1-2 weeks of regular use, making it practical for daily routines.

• Built-in Pop-up Trimmer: Having an integrated trimmer eliminates the need for a separate tool for basic touch-ups around the hairline and ears. While not as precise as dedicated trimmers, it handles routine maintenance well.

• Easy Maintenance: Cleaning the RX5 is straightforward – simply rinse under running water and occasionally use the included brush for deeper cleaning. The simple design means fewer components to worry about.

• Solid Build Quality: Despite its affordable price, the RX5 feels sturdy and well-constructed. The materials used don’t feel cheap, and the unit has held up well to regular use over extended periods.

Cons Of Remington RX5

• Limited Cutting Head Coverage: While five heads provide good coverage, they can’t match the efficiency of premium models with seven or more heads. This means more time spent shaving and potentially more passes needed for complete coverage.

• Slower Motor Speed: At 10,000 RPM, the motor occasionally struggles with thicker hair or longer stubble. Users with particularly coarse hair might find the cutting performance less satisfactory than higher-powered alternatives.

• Basic Display And Features: The simple LED indicator provides minimal information compared to more advanced shavers. You won’t get battery percentage, maintenance reminders, or other helpful feedback that premium models offer.

• Longer Charging Time: Four hours to fully charge can be inconvenient, especially if you forget to charge overnight. This extended charging period might leave you without a shaver when you need it most.

• No Travel Lock: The absence of a travel lock feature means the shaver can accidentally turn on in your luggage, draining the battery and potentially causing wear on the motor. This oversight is particularly frustrating for frequent travelers.

• Average Closeness Of Shave: While the RX5 provides a decent shave, it doesn’t achieve the ultra-close results that some users expect from their head shaver. Multiple passes might be necessary for the smoothest possible finish.

• Limited Warranty Coverage: The two-year warranty, while reasonable, is shorter than what some competitors offer. This might be a concern for users who want longer-term protection for their investment.

• Noise Level: During operation, the RX5 produces noticeable noise that might be bothersome during early morning or late evening shaving sessions, especially in shared living spaces.

My Experience With The Remington RX7

The RX7 immediately felt like a premium upgrade when I held it.

The build quality seemed more refined, and the advanced LED display provided helpful information about battery life and maintenance reminders that the RX5 lacks.

The seven cutting heads made a noticeable difference in my shaving routine.

The increased coverage meant fewer passes were needed to achieve a clean shave, and the results were consistently closer than what I achieved with the RX5.

The enhanced motor speed of 12,000 RPM contributed to this improved performance.

Battery life exceeded expectations. The advertised 60 minutes translated to about 12-14 shaves in real-world use, and the quick 2-hour charging time was a significant improvement over the RX5. The travel lock feature proved invaluable during trips, preventing accidental activation in my luggage.

The shaving heads felt more responsive to the contours of my scalp. Whether this was due to the additional heads or improved engineering, the RX7 consistently delivered a more comfortable shave with less irritation. The wet shaving performance was exceptional, particularly when used with quality shaving products.

Maintenance felt easier with the RX7’s cleaning system and reminders. The unit guided me through proper care, which I believe contributed to its consistent performance over months of use.

Pros Of Remington RX7

• Superior Seven-Head Cutting System: The seven flexible cutting heads provide exceptional coverage and efficiency, significantly reducing shaving time while improving overall results. This advanced system excels at following head contours for consistently close shaves.

• Powerful High-Speed Motor: The 12,000 RPM motor effortlessly handles all hair types, from fine to coarse. This increased power translates to cleaner cuts with fewer passes, reducing skin irritation and improving the overall shaving experience.

• Advanced LED Display: The comprehensive display provides real-time information about battery life, maintenance reminders, and operational status. This feature helps users maintain optimal performance and plan charging schedules effectively.

• Extended Battery Life: Sixty minutes of runtime offers exceptional value, providing weeks of regular use between charges. This extended capacity is particularly beneficial for users who travel frequently or prefer longer grooming sessions.

• Rapid Charging Technology: The two-hour charging time represents a significant improvement over standard shavers. Quick charging means less downtime and greater convenience for busy lifestyles or unexpected travel.

• Premium Build Quality: The RX7 feels substantially more refined than budget alternatives, with superior materials and construction quality. Every component feels designed for durability and long-term performance.

• Travel Lock Feature: This essential feature prevents accidental activation during travel, preserving battery life and protecting the motor. It’s a small detail that makes a significant difference for frequent travelers.

• Enhanced Wet Shaving Performance: The RX7 excels in wet shaving scenarios, working beautifully with gels, foams, and even just water. The waterproof design and improved head flexibility create an almost luxurious shower shaving experience.

• Intelligent Maintenance System: Built-in reminders and cleaning guidance help maintain optimal performance over time. This system extends the shaver’s lifespan and ensures consistent results.

• Comprehensive Warranty: The three-year warranty provides peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability and reliability.

Cons Of Remington RX7

• Higher Price Point: The RX7’s premium features come at a significantly higher cost than budget alternatives. This price difference might not be justifiable for casual users who don’t need advanced features.

• Complex Feature Set: The numerous settings and features can be overwhelming for users who prefer simple, straightforward operation. The advanced display and multiple functions might confuse less tech-savvy individuals.

• Increased Weight: The additional cutting heads and premium components make the RX7 noticeably heavier than simpler models. Extended use might cause hand fatigue for some users, particularly those with limited hand strength.

• More Components To Maintain: Seven cutting heads mean more parts to clean, replace, and maintain over time. This complexity increases long-term maintenance costs and requires more attention to proper care.

• Potential Overkill For Basic Needs: Users who shave infrequently or have fine hair might find the RX7’s capabilities exceed their requirements. The advanced features provide little benefit for those with minimal grooming needs.

• Learning Curve For Optimization: Getting the most from the RX7’s features requires time to understand optimal settings and techniques. New users might initially struggle to achieve the best results without proper familiarization.

• Replacement Part Costs: When cutting heads or other components need replacement, the costs are higher due to the premium nature of the parts. This ongoing expense should be factored into the total cost of ownership.

• Size And Portability: The larger head assembly and additional features make the RX7 less compact than simpler alternatives. This might be a consideration for users with limited bathroom storage or frequent travelers who prioritize minimal luggage.

Comparison With Other Brands

• Skull Shaver Pitbull Gold Pro: This premium competitor offers six cutting heads and superior build quality compared to the RX5, but falls slightly short of the RX7’s seven-head system. The Pitbull excels in durability and motor power, though it comes at a higher price point than both Remington models. Battery life is comparable to the RX7 at 90 minutes, making it ideal for heavy users who prioritize longevity over cost.
• Braun Series 7 Head Shaver: Braun’s offering provides excellent wet shaving performance that rivals the RX7, with similar battery life and charging times. However, it uses only five cutting heads like the RX5, which limits its coverage efficiency. The build quality matches the RX7’s premium feel, but the price point sits between the two Remington models, offering a middle-ground option.
• Philips Norelco Shaver Series 9000: This high-end competitor surpasses both Remington models in terms of cutting technology and comfort features. With advanced sensors and superior head flexibility, it delivers closer shaves than either the RX5 or RX7. However, the significantly higher price makes it less accessible, and the complex feature set can be overwhelming compared to Remington’s straightforward approach.
• Wahl Professional 5-Star Shaver: Wahl’s professional-grade model competes directly with the RX5 in terms of price and performance. It offers similar five-head coverage but with a more powerful motor that matches the RX7’s speed. The trade-off comes in battery life, which is shorter than both Remington models, making it better suited for professional use rather than personal grooming routines.
• Andis Pro Foil Lithium Plus: This foil-based alternative offers a different shaving experience compared to the rotary systems of both RX models. While it provides exceptional closeness on shorter hair, it struggles with longer stubble where both Remington shavers excel. The battery life is superior to the RX5 but doesn’t match the RX7, and the single-foil design requires more passes for complete head coverage.
• Panasonic Arc5 Head Adaptation: Panasonic’s entry into head shaving adapts their successful facial shaving technology. It offers cutting performance between the RX5 and RX7, with excellent wet shaving capabilities. However, the learning curve is steeper, and replacement parts are more expensive than Remington’s offerings, affecting long-term value proposition.

Read More: Comparison of Remington Balder And Freebird Flexseries

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

After extensive testing, I believe your choice between these shavers depends entirely on your priorities and budget. If you’re seeking excellent value and solid performance for regular head shaving, the RX5 delivers everything you need without unnecessary complexity. It’s reliable, comfortable, and gets the job done efficiently.

However, if you prioritize the closest possible shave, advanced features, and don’t mind investing more upfront, the RX7 represents a significant upgrade in every measurable way. The additional cutting heads, faster motor, and premium features create a noticeably superior experience that justifies the higher cost for serious users.

Consider the RX5 if you’re budget-conscious, new to head shaving, or have basic grooming needs. Choose the RX7 if you shave daily, want the best possible results, and value convenience features like rapid charging and travel locks. Both shavers will serve you well, but understanding your specific needs will help you make the right investment for your grooming routine.