10 best beard trimmers, according to professional barbers

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When you start wondering whether you’ve reached the right age to own a beard trimmer or whether investing in one is worthwhile, you already know the answer: yes.

Men’s shaving razors, creams, and grooming products have become way more advanced than your granddad’s old shaving kit.

That’s mainly due to the total overhaul of the men’s grooming industry thanks to the rise in direct-to-consumer brands that have taken over much of the modern shopping space; they’ve become way more advanced than your granddad’s old shaving kit.

However, electric beard trimmers haven’t quite achieved the same ubiquitous status as something that every guy owns and knows how to use.

Maybe it’s not clear how a beard trimmer is significantly different from a pair of electric hair clippers or whether it’s different from a body hair trimmer. Also, since the brands behind many of these trimmers aren’t household names, how do you know which ones to trust?

To get the most reliable beard trimmer recommendations, we consulted with professionals for their opinions on which grooming devices you should buy: Jorge Fernando Leitao is a men’s grooming expert, and Marte Arredondo is a barber known on YouTube and Instagram as MartyBlendz.

Leitao told The Post that he is “heavily biased toward the Brio Beardscape,” which is his first-choice pick and “go-to in almost every situation.” In addition to sharing a recommendation on the best beard trimmer overall, Leitao and Arredondo shared trimmers for different needs. So whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly beard trimmer or one that’s travel-proof, you’ll have expert-approved options to choose from.

Click the section links below to shop by category, or scroll to see all the recommendations.

Best Beard Trimmer Overall

Brio Blackout Beardscape V2 Beard & Body Hair Trimmer

This trimmer features a ceramic blade to reduce friction and a sliding adjuster that lets you precisely change the trimming length from 1.3 to 1.9 millimeters. Its battery offers 4 hours of runtime, and the package includes four plastic length guards, a cleaning brush, and a convenient charging dock.

“The Brio Beardscape V2 is my go-to trimmer,” Leitao said. “It is aesthetic and functional with its ceramic blade and powerful motor, and it never fails to give a clean trim. Plus, it includes adjustable guards for all lengths and has the option for a ‘zero’ blade for ultra-close shaving.”

Best Budget-Friendly Beard Trimmers

Philips Norelco Multigroomer All-in-One Trimmer Series 3000

Over 150,000 Amazon shoppers are onto something: this beard trimmer is a superb, affordable option. It includes seven plastic guards to let you cut beard and head hair at a variety of lengths, as well as a nose and ear hair trimmer, and a narrow precision blade for dealing with hard-to-reach areas or perfecting intricate designs. Plus, it all packs into a convenient — albeit flimsy — carrying bag.

“Back when I was a cash-strapped student, this trimmer was my savior,” Leitao said. “It may not be the
ultimate tool, but it’s a good bang for your buck, especially for those on a tight budget.”

KEMEI Cordless Clippers

Considering this device is designed both for cutting head hair and trimming facial hair, it’s an excellent all-around choice if you want a versatile device that doesn’t cost much. It has a stainless-steel blade and includes three clip-on attachments of different lengths. Plus, its USB charging cable adds convenience.

“This trimmer delivers comparable or even superior quality compared to top brand alternatives,” Arredondo said. “Its cost-effectiveness, combined with high performance, makes it a compelling choice.”

Best High-End Beard Trimmer

BaBylissPRO Barberology Hair Clipper

When you step up to high-end beard trimmers such as this one, you can enjoy features such as a taper control knob, which lets you adjust the angle of the blade to create seamless tapering, just like the professionals. The blade is also coated in graphite to reduce the amount of friction against your skin, resulting in an easier and more gentle trim.

“The BaBylissPRO Barberology is a top-tier clipper designed for precision,” Leitao said. “While it might be
overkill for some, it’s perfect for those seeking a high-end trimmer with cordless convenience, although it is on the larger side.”

Best Travel-Friendly Beard Trimmers

Philips Norelco OneBlade 360

In lieu of a standard stationary blade setup, this trimmer has an elevated blade positioned on a swivel to tilt in different directions as you move it along your face. Using this device feels almost like shaving with a disposable razor, making it a good choice for guys new to using electric trimmers. The versatile attachments — one for combing through body hair, one to protect sensitive areas and one that adjusts to five length settings — are a big plus, too.

“While traveling, you may not need a full beard-trimming routine. But touch-ups and refinements are essential,” Leitao said. “The OneBlade is perfect for exactly that. It’s ideal for short stubble beards and detailing around the cheeks and neck of those with longer beards. Compact and easy to take with you on the go.”

Andis Slimline Pro

An ergonomic handle shape makes this one of the more comfortable beard trimmers to hold, and with a battery life of 2 hours, you can bring this with you on a trip and never worry about it running out of power.

“With slim guards and housed in a compact metal case, this trimmer offers convenience and portability,” Arredondo said. “Its thin, sleek body ensures easy storage in any space.”

Best Waterproof Beard Trimmer

MANSCAPED The Beard Hedger

In addition to its waterproof design, one of the most significant selling points of the Beard Hedger is that you can change the cutting length without swapping out different guards. All you have to do is rotate a dial on the center of the device, and it adjusts how far the blade sticks out — letting you choose between 20 length settings. You can also charge the device via USB-C, which is more convenient than dealing with a proprietary power adapter.

“While I generally don’t recommend trimming a wet beard, if you love trimming in the shower, The Beard Hedger is a compact, waterproof option with a single adjustable guard,” Leitao said.

Best T-Blade Beard Trimmers

Wahl USA Stainless-Steel 2.0+ Beard Trimmer

When you want to do more than simply reduce the amount of hair on your face, you’ll want to grab a T-blade trimmer. The blade’s shape is easier to maneuver around the contours of your neck and face — especially under your nose — and lets you give your facial hair a more distinct shape. Wahl is a trusted brand, and this model has everything you need for both T-blade trimming and regular trimming.

“For those who prefer a T-blade trimmer, the USA 2.0+ delivers reliable performance,” Leitao said. “Note that the guards may not be top-tier, but it’s great for handling detailed trimming with a reliable T-shaped blade.”

BaBylissPRO Barberology FX3 Trimmer

BaByliss tools are labeled as being powerful enough for use by professional barbers, so while this model is certainly more expensive, it could easily be the last trimmer you ever need to buy. Its blade is made of titanium for maximum durability, and the body has a warning light to let you know when the battery needs recharging — which is a lifesaver when you’re not sure how recently you charged the trimmer.

“With exceptional sharpness, this trimmer allows for freehand use without the need for guards,” Arredondo said. “Its precision ensures clean and crisp lineups, effortlessly addressing dangling hairs for a polished look.”

Best Beard Trimmer for People with Sensitive Skin

Philips Norelco Series 9000

The blade on this trimmer has a built-in guard that prevents it from ever getting too close to your skin, reducing any chances of nicks or redness (especially for people with sensitive skin). Like the MANSCAPED Beard Hedger, this device has a wheel for adjusting the trim length and includes a zippered carrying case.

“Sensitive skin can be a challenge, but the Philips Norelco Series 9000 stands out,” Leitao said. “Despite my preference for separate guards, Philips has designed this one to be both convenient and gentle
on the skin.”

FAQ on beard trimmers with men’s grooming expert Jorge Fernando Leitao

1. What are the most important features to look for when buying a beard trimmer?

When selecting a beard trimmer, prioritize features that enhance both convenience and grooming precision. Look for a cordless design for ease of use, complemented by long-lasting battery life. A high-quality blade, such as one made of ceramic, is crucial for smooth cutting.

Additionally, a variety of guard attachments offers flexibility for different beard lengths and styles. Ergonomic design and adjustable speed settings can further refine your selection based on personal grooming needs.

2. What makes a beard trimmer different from an electric hair clipper?

While both beard trimmers and hair clippers are designed for cutting hair, they serve distinct purposes. Beard trimmers are specialized for facial hair, offering greater precision and smaller blades ideal for detailed styling and maintaining beard length. Hair clippers, on the other hand, are generally larger and more robust and are designed for cutting longer hair.

3. Can I use a hair clipper for trimming my beard?

While it’s possible to use a hair clipper on a beard, its size and power may make it less effective for fine detailing and could be cumbersome for regular beard maintenance.

4. How do you clean and maintain a beard trimmer?

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for the longevity and performance of your beard trimmer. After each use, remove trapped hairs, using the small brush typically included with the trimmer. For models prone to jamming, extra care might be needed during cleaning.

Periodically, apply a drop or two of lubricating oil, often provided with the trimmer, to keep the mechanism smooth and efficient. Some advanced trimmers, like the Brio Beardscape V2, may feature indicators for when lubrication is needed. This routine care prevents wear and tear, overheating, and ensures optimal performance.

4. How long should the blade on a beard trimmer last? Also, what can be done to keep it sharper for longer?

High-quality beard trimmers usually come with durable blades that can last for several years, often outliving the trimmer’s battery. While some companies offer blade replacement subscriptions, a well-made trimmer shouldn’t require frequent blade changes.

Using separate blades for different areas, such as the face and body, isn’t necessary, but can be a personal preference for hygiene or comfort. Keeping the blades clean and oiled can also extend their life.

5. What’s the best way to avoid getting hair all over the bathroom when using a beard trimmer?

While beard bibs are an option, they may not always be effective. A practical alternative is to trim your beard in front of a shower mirror, not while the shower is running, allowing for easy cleanup.

If that’s not feasible, laying down a towel or newspaper can catch falling hairs.

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