Philips Norelco is a well-known brand that produces high-quality electric shavers. Two of the most popular models from the brand are the Philips Norelco 4500 and the Philips Norelco 9700. While both shavers come from the same brand and have some similar features, they differ in a few key areas.
Quality & Performance
Design and Build Quality
The Philips Norelco 4500 has a simple design, and it's a bit bulky. It's comfortable to hold and has a rubberized grip to prevent slipping. The build quality is good, and it's durable enough to last for several years. On the other hand, the Philips Norelco 9700 has a sleeker and more modern design. It's slim and lightweight, making it easy to hold and maneuver. The build quality is excellent, and it feels premium in your hand.
Blades and Shaving Performance:
Both the Philips Norelco 4500 and the Philips Norelco 9700 use the same cutting technology, called V-Track Precision Blades, which lifts hairs and guides them into the optimal cutting position for a close shave. However, the Philips Norelco 9700 has an extra blade and can shave up to 30% closer than the Philips Norelco 4500. This makes the 9700 a better option for those with thicker or coarser facial hair.
Wet/Dry Shaving:
Both the Philips Norelco 4500 and the Philips Norelco 9700 are suitable for wet or dry shaving. However, the Philips Norelco 9700 has more advanced AquaTec technology, which allows for a more comfortable and smooth shave in wet conditions.
Battery Life
The Philips Norelco 4500 has a decent battery life of about 50 minutes of cordless shaving after a full charge. In contrast, the Philips Norelco 9700 has a longer battery life of up to 60 minutes of cordless shaving. Additionally, the 9700 has a quick charge feature, which allows you to charge the shaver for just a few minutes to get enough power for one shave.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
The Philips Norelco 4500 has a basic cleaning system, and you'll need to clean it manually after each use. In contrast, the Philips Norelco 9700 comes with a more advanced cleaning system that uses an alcohol-based solution to clean and sanitize the shaver. Additionally, the 9700 has a cleaning indicator that reminds you when it's time to clean the shaver.
Final Thoughts
Both the Philips Norelco 4500 and the Philips Norelco 9700 are excellent electric shavers with some similarities and differences.
The Philips Norelco 4500 (Philips AT830) is a more affordable option and is suitable for those with thinner facial hair.
On the other hand, the Philips Norelco 9700 is more advanced, with an extra blade. It offers better-wet shaving capabilities, longer battery life, and a more advanced cleaning system. It is a better option for those with thicker or coarser facial hair.
