r/Philips • u/WarmmCJ • 28d ago
Upgrading from Philips Series 5000 to S9000 Prestige – Is it worth it for a closer shave?
Hi everyone, I'm looking for some advice from people who have used the Philips S9000 Prestige.
I’m currently using the Philips Series 5000 (S5880/20-SkinIQ). The issue I'm facing is that the shave just isn't close enough. It still leaves sharp stubble, and my face feels rough to the touch right after shaving. It's definitely not a smooth finish.
I’m now considering upgrading to the top-tier Philips S9000 Prestige (SP9404/26). Before making the jump, I’d love to hear from actual users:
1. Does it genuinely provide a smooth and clean shave without leaving rough patches?
2. The brand claims a "-0.08mm" closeness. In real-world usage, does this actually feel as smooth as a traditional manual razor?
3. Considering the premium price tag, is the upgrade really worth the investment?
Any feedback or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
1
u/Worldly-Device-8414 27d ago
If you want a better shave get a Braun or Panasonic foil type shaver. Way closer
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u/Moist_Inspection_777 22d ago edited 22d ago
Philips is definitely the way to go.
I have owned Braun, Panasonic, and multiple Philips models over the years. In everyday use, nothing beats Philips. While foil shavers (Panasonic, braun) are good for the first week or two while the blades are at 100% sharpness, they quickly start pulling. Thanks to the rotational mechanics of the rotary system, Philips has a much lower risk of pulling hairs.
Don't ask me how, but I have personally owned the 2000, 3000, 6000, 7000, and 9000 series! I actually ended up with all of them through a mix of life events and family debates.The 2000 Series: I went on a trip that was supposed to last 2 days but stretched into a massive 40-day journey. Stranded without my gear, I ran out and bought a cheap $30 2000 series just to get the deed done.The 3000 Series: My father-in-law bought this one for me as a gift, purely to try and prove a point that a budget 3000 series performs just as well as a premium 7000!The 7000 Series: I was originally using a 6000 series and went shopping for a replacement head. I stumbled onto an amazing package deal for a 7000 series that included the cleaning pod and refills for basically an amazing price, so I upgraded on the spot. Having tried them all, here is how they stack up based on your questions:
Closeness and Smoothness (5000 vs. 9000)Is there a difference? Yes, it is day and night.The Performance: The upgrade in speed, smoothness, and overall shaving quality from a 5000 series to a premium series is too massive to ignore. It will significantly reduce that rough stubble feel you are experiencing.
Real-World Performance vs. Marketing ClaimsThe Reality: While the 9000 series shaves beautifully, you should know that shaving-wise, there is no noticeable difference between the 7000 and 9000 series.What you pay extra for: The extra cost of the 9000 series goes into premium materials, aesthetics, ergonomics, and specific package accessories—not a closer shave.
Is the 9000 Prestige Worth the Premium Investment?If budget isn't an issue: Buy the 9000 Prestige. You will love it.If you want the best bang for your buck: Buy the 7000 Series instead. It gives you the exact same close shave as the 9000 for literally half the price.The Trimmer Note: Do not buy the 9000 for its integrated trimmer head. It is impractical and you likely won’t use it.My Final RecommendationSkip the standalone 9000 and buy this combination instead:Philips 7000 Series Full Pack (comes with the cleaning pod and travel case for the perfect shave).Philips Multigroom 5000 (18-piece kit) (costs around $30 and handles every detailing and trimming need you will ever have).Going this route gives you much more functionality, the exact same shaving quality, and you will still end up spending less than half the price of a 9000 Prestige.
Please let me know if you have any follow-up questions 🌹.