These Top-Rated Razors Will Give You a Smooth Shave Every Time (2024)

Like getting a haircut, shaving isn't a one-size-fits-all process, but having the right tools—namely a good razor— can make the job a whole lot easier. There are loads of razor options for all kinds of skin types and grooming styles, and they're available at a wide range of price points, too. Considering that shaving is a daily activity for many people, it's definitely worth giving some serious thought to your razor choice before you buy.

These days, you have a choice of everything from old-school straight razors and traditional safety razors to electric razors with special attachments and features. Read on for our recommendations, plus a few things to consider before you shop.

The Best Razors

What to Consider

There are a lot of razors on the market, and deciding on the right one for you will depend on how you like to shave, your hair's thickness and how fast it grows, and how sensitive your skin is, plus the style of facial or body hair you prefer. Here's an overview of the essentials you need to know.

Razor Type

Straight razors and some safety razors have retro charm and are good for a close shave, but there's a learning curve if you've never used one before. Cartridge razors are an easy-to-use alternative that provide a smooth, comfortable shave with multiple blades—typically between three and five—on the head. Electric razors are good for trimming beards and for a quick shave to clean up stubble.

Hair and Skin Type

If you're combating thick and coarse hair or need more coverage, an electric razor and trimmer will be less tedious and quicker than going at it with a single-blade manual razor, and some electric razors come with attachments to help you maintain your style. That said, there are also some multi-blade cartridge razors out there that'll get the job done nearly as efficiently, and we've covered a few of those below. For those with thinner facial hair or hair that grows only in spots, any single- or multi-blade razors will likely do; however, if you have sensitive or dry skin, look for features like lubrication strips and pivoting heads to cut down on nicks.

Shaving Frequency

How frequently you shave will depend on how quickly your hair grows and the style you like to keep. Maintaining intentional stubble requires a lot less time than staying clean-shaven for someone who gets a 5 o’clock shadow every afternoon. If you’re looking to maintain some hair growth on your face or body and aren’t shaving daily, an electric razor with guard attachments will be your best bet. If you’re a daily shaver, a straight or cartridge razor will suit your needs better.

How We Selected

To determine the best razors on the market, we first considered razor users' various shaving needs, from fully removing leg, underarm, or facial hair to maintaining a well-groomed beard. The razors you'll find below include a variety of blade types, attachments, and finishes, and range in price from budget-friendly models to higher-end ones. All of our picks are customer favorites, as well, with each boasting an average user rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.

Looking for more great personal grooming tools? Check out our stories on the best beard trimmers, the best nose hair trimmers, and the best body groomers.

This handsome traditional straight razor is crafted with German carbon steel and a black handle made from ebony. The standard 5/8-inch-thick blade is attached on both sides and features a rounded tip and detailing in 24-karat gold. You'll need to pat the blade dry after each use, but the upkeep is well worth the investment. The razor is also available in other blade lengths and handle finishes, and makes a great gift.

If you have a thick, coarse beard and skin that's prone to ingrown hairs and razor bumps, this option from Bevel is your best bet. The double-edged safety razor is made of chrome-plated brass and nicely weighted to glide across skin for a close shave without irritation. It's sold singly or in a set that comes with a shaving brush, and the brand also has a complete shaving skincare line, including shave cream and after-shave balm.

This heated five-blade razor from Gillette is a game-changer for those seeking a hot-towel shave on the daily. It's completely waterproof so you can take it in the shower, it warms up quickly, and there's a button on the handle for temperature adjustment. Plus, the razor head flexes left and right to contour to your face for an extra-close shave and features textured, grippy sides. The set includes a wireless charger with a magnetic dock and two razor cartridge refills.

Newbie shavers need a razor with an especially forgiving design to avoid cuts, and this one from Merkur fits the bill. It features a fixed blade and heavily weighted, extra-thick short handle to prevent slipping and provide steady control, plus it has a well-textured grip. The blades (sold separately) are inexpensive and each are wax-paper-wrapped for extra safety.