The results were slightly better when I used a pre-shave lotion or shaving cream, but not dramatically better. This is a problem area for me with most entry to mid-range Braun shavers. I will break down the performance review into several parts, starting as usual with the closeness. Let’s now get to the part that really matters, and that is the actual shaving performance.
If you like anything that is convenient then cleaning your Series 9 shaver does not get any easier than this. If you want to keep using the cleaning station you will have to buy replacement cleaning cassettes as they run out. As I mentioned earlier in the review, you can lock the shaving unit into one of 5 different positions using the big button on the front of the shaver.
If you can get the 32BT set and the overall price is still decent, I think that would be an even better solution. I personally like the 3040s better than the 5018s. The actual head is slimmer since there’s no foil frame surrounding the cutting elements and it feels more nimble and also glides easier on the skin. The replacement head is also cheaper and easier to find. I’m Ovidiu, the founder and editor of ShaverCheck.com.
When an item you want is out-of-stock at the store, your shopper will follow your replacement preferences. When plugging to an electrical outlet outside North America, use a plug adapter to match the Philips Norelco Shaver outlet’s pin configuration. Do not use this appliance with a damaged or broken foil, as serious skin injuries may occur. Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this manual.
Since the Braun 5018s will only operate cordless, battery life is particularly important. And again I must mention the older models that came with the excellent Braun hard travel case. The up and down swivel of the head that we’ve seen on all Braun models from the Series 5 and Remington Shaver up was actually very useful in practice. On the bottom of the razor there’s the typical Braun charging port. Like all the other 2020 models, the Series 5 also has a thumb rest on the front part. Its position is just right and it’s covered in the same rubberized material.