The Braun Series 5 5120s Electric Shaver is engineered for a smooth, close shave with minimal effort. Its flexible shaving head adapts to facial contours, while the precision trimming technology ensures excellent results for all skin types. Whether you have sensitive skin or a busy schedule, this shaver offers comfort and efficiency. In this review, we’ll dive into its features, performance, and overall value, giving you a clear picture of how it compares to other electric shavers.
Design
When I first got my hands on the Braun Series 5 5120s, I was immediately struck by its sleek and modern design. The ergonomic shape fits comfortably in my hand, and the soft rubber grip ensures a secure hold even when things get a bit slippery in the shower. Speaking of which, this shaver is fully waterproof, so you can use it for both wet and dry shaving – talk about versatility!
The shaver’s body has a premium feel to it, with a nice balance between weight and maneuverability. The LED display on the handle is a neat touch, giving you all the essential information at a glance. It’s not overly flashy, but it gets the job done without any unnecessary bells and whistles.
Specifications and Features
Performance: 9.0 Ease of Cleaning: 8.9 Comfort: 9.8 Battery Life: 9.5 Charging Time: 8.1 Noise Level: 9.6 Blade Quality: 8.0 Technology: 8.2. Durability: 9.8 SenseIQ: 9.8
Before we dive deeper into the performance, let’s take a quick look at the key specifications and features of the Braun Series 5 5120s:
- Shaving System: Foil
- Flexible Head: 4-way
- Sonic Technology: 10,000 micro-vibrations/stroke
- Waterproof: 100%
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion
- Runtime: 50 minutes
- Charging Time: 1 hour
- Quick Charge: 5 minutes
- Wet/Dry Use: Yes
- Precision Trimmer: Included
- Travel Lock: Yes
- LED Display: Yes
Now that we’ve got the specs out of the way, let’s dive into what really matters how this shaver performs in real-world use.
Shaving Performance
The heart of any electric shaver is its ability to provide a close, comfortable shave, and I’m happy to report that the Braun Series 5 5120s doesn’t disappoint in this department. The 4-way flexible head is a standout feature, adapting to the contours of your face with impressive precision. Whether I’m tackling my jawline, neck, or those tricky areas around the chin, this shaver manages to maintain consistent contact with my skin, resulting in a smoother shave overall.
One of the things that really impressed me about this shaver is its Sonic Technology. With 10,000 micro-vibrations per stroke, it feels like the shaver is doing most of the work for you. This feature is particularly noticeable when dealing with denser patches of hair – it seems to effortlessly glide through, capturing more hair with each pass. As someone who used to struggle with multiple passes and irritation, this has been a game-changer for my morning routine.
The Braun Series 5 5120s excels in both wet and dry shaving scenarios. While I personally prefer a quick dry shave most mornings, I’ve found that using it with shaving gel in the shower provides an extra level of comfort and closeness. The waterproof design means you don’t have to worry about damaging the shaver, and it’s incredibly easy to clean under running water.
Battery Life and Charging
In today’s fast-paced world, having a reliable battery is crucial, and the Braun Series 5 5120s doesn’t disappoint in this area. The lithium-ion battery provides up to 50 minutes of cordless shaving time on a full charge, which in my experience translates to about two weeks of daily use. This is more than adequate for most users, and even if you’re a frequent traveler, you won’t find yourself constantly searching for an outlet.
The charging process is straightforward, with the LED display keeping you informed of the battery status. A full charge takes about an hour, which is pretty standard for electric shavers in this class. What I really appreciate, though, is the quick-charge feature. If you’re in a pinch and need a quick shave, just five minutes of charging will give you enough juice for one shave. This has saved my bacon more than once when I’ve forgotten to charge the shaver the night before.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your electric shaver clean is essential for both hygiene and performance, and the Braun Series 5 5120s makes this process a breeze. The EasyClean system allows you to rinse the shaver head under running water without removing the blade head. This is a huge time-saver for daily maintenance, and I’ve found it to be quite effective at keeping the shaver in top condition.
For a more thorough clean, you can remove the blade head and use the included cleaning brush to remove any stubborn hair clippings. The process is simple and doesn’t require any special tools or skills. I make it a habit to do this deeper clean once a week, and it’s helped keep my shaver performing like new.
Precision Trimmer
While the main shaving head does an excellent job with most of your facial hair, sometimes you need a bit more precision for those finishing touches. The Braun Series 5 5120s comes with a built-in precision trimmer, which is perfect for shaping sideburns, mustaches, or cleaning up your beard lines.
I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about the effectiveness of built-in trimmers at first, but this one has proven to be quite capable. It’s not going to replace a dedicated beard trimmer if you’re sporting a full beard, but for touch-ups and maintaining clean lines, it’s more than adequate. The only minor gripe I have is that you need to remove the main shaving head to attach the trimmer, which can be a bit cumbersome if you’re in a hurry.
Comfort and Skin Sensitivity
One area where the Braun Series 5 5120s really shines is in its gentle treatment of sensitive skin. As someone who has struggled with razor burn and irritation in the past, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable this shaver is to use. The SensoFoil technology seems to do a great job of protecting the skin while still providing a close shave.
I’ve found that even when using the shaver on a daily basis, I experience minimal irritation, even in traditionally sensitive areas like the neck. This is a huge plus for me, as it means I can maintain a clean-shaven look without worrying about redness or discomfort throughout the day.
Comparison to Other Models
When considering the Braun Series 5 5120s, it’s natural to wonder how it stacks up against other models in the Braun lineup and competing brands. In my experience, the Series 5 offers a great balance of performance and value, sitting comfortably between the more basic Series 3 and the high-end Series 7 and 9.
Compared to the Series 7, the 5120s lacks some of the more advanced features like the Autosense technology that adjusts power based on beard density. However, for most users, the difference in shaving performance is minimal, and the Series 5 offers significant savings.
When pitted against rotary shavers like those from Philips Norelco S9000, the Braun Series 5 5120s holds its own. While rotary shavers might have an edge in terms of gentleness for some users, I’ve found that the foil system of the 5120s provides a closer shave, especially on shorter stubble.
Long-Term Durability
After using the Braun Series 5 5120s for an extended period, I can attest to its overall durability. The build quality is solid, and the shaver has held up well to daily use and frequent travel. However, it’s worth noting that some users have reported issues with the foil breaking prematurely. While I haven’t experienced this problem personally, it’s something to keep in mind and perhaps consider purchasing a replacement foil as a precaution.
The lithium-ion battery has maintained its performance over time, which is crucial for a cordless device. I haven’t noticed any significant decrease in runtime or charging efficiency, which speaks to the quality of the battery and charging system.
Value for Money
When it comes to electric shavers, the Braun Series 5 5120s sits in a sweet spot in terms of price and performance. It offers many of the features found in higher-end models but at a more accessible price point. For someone looking to upgrade from a basic electric shaver or make the switch from manual razors, I believe the 5120s represents excellent value for money.
The initial investment might be higher than a pack of disposable razors, but when you consider the long-term savings on replacement blades and the improved shaving experience, it’s easy to justify the cost. Plus, with proper maintenance, this shaver should last for several years, making it a sound investment in your grooming routine.
Personal Experience
As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been using the Braun Series 5 5120s for quite some time now, and it’s become an integral part of my daily routine. One morning that stands out in my memory was when I had an important early meeting and realized I had forgotten to charge the shaver the night before. In a panic, I plugged it in for what I thought would be a futile quick charge. To my surprise and relief, after just five minutes, I had enough power for a full shave. That day, I walked into my meeting looking sharp and feeling confident, all thanks to this reliable little device.
FAQs
Is the Braun Series 5 5120s suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, the Series 5 5120s is designed for sensitive skin. Its SensoFoil technology and flexible head reduce irritation. The shaver features three flexible blades that adapt to facial contours, ensuring a gentle yet close shave. It’s suitable for both wet and dry use, allowing for additional comfort with shaving cream. Many users and dermatologists recommend electric shavers like this for sensitive skin due to reduced risk of cuts and razor burn.
How often do I need to replace the shaving head?
Braun recommends replacing the shaving head every 18 months for optimal performance. However, this can vary based on usage frequency, hair type, and maintenance habits. Signs it’s time to replace include decreased shaving effectiveness, increased pulling of hair, and more skin irritation. Regular cleaning and proper storage can extend the head’s lifespan. Using authentic Braun replacement parts is crucial for maintaining performance and longevity.
Can I use the Braun Series 5 5120s while it’s plugged in?
No, the Series 5 5120s is designed for cordless use only, prioritizing safety, especially for wet shaving. This prevents electric shock risks in wet environments. The shaver offers up to 50 minutes of cordless use and includes a quick-charge feature for emergencies. The cordless design enhances portability and convenience, allowing for use anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. Regular charging is recommended to ensure it’s always ready for use.
How does the Braun Series 5 5120s compare to the Series 7 in terms of performance?
The Series 5 5120s offers comparable performance to the Series 7 at a more affordable price. Both feature AutoSense technology, adapting to beard density. The Series 7 has additional features like SyncroSonic technology for denser beards. While the Series 7 may provide a slightly closer shave, many users find the Series 5 5120s sufficient for regular use, especially those with sensitive skin. The choice depends on individual needs, beard type, and budget considerations.
Pros
- Quick charge
- Long battery
- Lightweight
- Easy to Use
- Waterproof
Cons
- Color Could be better.
Impressive Alternative
The Braun Series 5 5120s is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, versatile electric shaver that delivers a close and comfortable shave. Its combination of advanced features, ergonomic design, and reasonable price point make it a standout option in the mid-range electric shaver market. Whether you’re a seasoned electric shaver user or making the switch from manual razors, the 5120s is well worth considering for your grooming needs.
Remember, the best electric shaver is ultimately the one that works best for your individual needs and preferences. While the Braun Series 5 5120s has certainly won me over, I encourage you to consider your own shaving habits and requirements when making your decision. Happy shaving!
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Tanmoy Dey, an IT and Software Engineer turned Technical Writer at ShaverTips. This role perfectly blends my technical expertise with my passion for creating informative, user-friendly content. I specialize in writing in-depth blogs and conducting detailed product reviews, ensuring our readers get accurate and actionable insights about grooming tools.
When I’m not immersed in tech or writing, I enjoy exploring new places and experiences—or unwinding at home with a Lord of the Rings movie marathon. Let’s connect on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!
Latest Post
Product ReviewsMarch 10, 2025The 7 Best Electric Shavers For Daily Use – Winter 2025
Product ReviewsFebruary 27, 2025Remington F5-5800B-AT1 Electric Shaver Review
Product ReviewsFebruary 24, 2025The 7 Best Braun Shavers – Winter 2025
Product ReviewsFebruary 23, 2025Panasonic ES-LL41-K Hybrid Wet Dry Shaver Review
