Which is better for sensitive skin?

The Series 7. Its 360-degree flex head and AutoSense motor keep pressure even across the jaw and neck. The Series 3's pressure-sensitive elements help, but the Series 7 is the more forgiving shave.

Is the Series 7 worth the extra money over the Series 3?

If you shave daily and have a dense beard, yes. You get a closer shave, a Li-Ion battery with 50 minutes of runtime, a trimmer attachment and a travel case for about $168 more as of November 3.

Which lasts longer on a charge?

The Series 7. It runs about 50 minutes on Li-Ion, roughly 3 weeks of shaves. The Series 3 uses NiMH cells and holds less charge, and NiMH degrades faster over years of use.

Can both be used in the shower?

Yes. Both are 100% waterproof and work wet or dry with foam or gel. The Series 7's head is the washable component; the Series 3 rinses clean under running water.

Which is better for a thick, dense beard?

The Series 7. AutoSense reads beard density and raises power, and the flex head follows the contours. The Series 3 handles a few days of growth but works harder on a full dense beard.

Do both have a trimmer?

Yes, but differently. The Series 7 includes a precision trimmer attachment with 0.5mm to 7mm cutting lengths. The Series 3 has a trimmer that slides out of the back for sideburns and mustache.

Braun Electric Razor for Men, Series 7 360 Flex Head Foil Shaver with Precision Beard Trimmer, Rechargeable, Wet & Dry and Travel Case, Black, 5 Piece Set vs Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s Rechargeable Wet Dry Men's Electric Shaver with Precision Trimmer

Buy the Series 7 if you want the closest, most comfortable shave on dense beards and sensitive skin, and you will pay for it: $209.99 at Amazon as of November 3. Buy the Series 3 ProSkin 3040s if budget is the deciding factor; it is $42.24 at eBay as of November 3, roughly a fifth of the price. The Series 3 is a solid first electric shaver, but the Series 7's flex head, AutoSense motor and Li-Ion battery are real upgrades, not marketing.

Today the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s Rechargeable Wet Dry Men's Electric Shaver with Precision Trimmer costs $167.75 less at its best price.

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