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Overview
In this comparison between the Braun Series 5 and S6 we will be comparing differences in performance, features, build quality and also covering similarities between the two because there’s a lot in common.
Most of the differences when comparing the Braun Series 5 vs 6 are small, but add up in the end to make for an interesting comparison.
Braun Series 6 SensoFlex
Braun Series 5 EasyClean
Braun Series 6 Review
Braun Series 5 Review
Model:
Braun Series 6
Braun Series 5
Is the Series 5 or 6 right for you?
SensoFlex and EasyClean make for some contrast between performance and maintenance of the two shavers, but is the S5’s solution for speedier cleaning worth it or is SensoFlex more worthy?
That’s the question we’ll be answering, plus more.
While at first glance change might be barely noticeable, both shavers have a couple crucial differences to talk about.
You need to choose the right model for your personal needs and with Braun shavers having a wide variety of selection in terms of features, you’ll need the table that we’re providing you.
I recommend these shavers for different situations, so read below to find out where you fit.
Table of Contents
Features
A feature packed shaver can be overwhelming, but thankfully you can choose whether or not you buy certain products with the shaver. The only question is if there’s everything you’ll need for either or.
Series 6
Series 5
Included Accessories and Model Comparison For the S6 and S5
We made sure to include the European equivalents (with differences listed).
The discrepancies between the USA S5 and S6 mostly involves the physical products that are featured, because both can have one item and miss another you need.
For example, you’re looking for a model with a cleaning station but it may not have the body groomer you wanted alongside it.
It’s all personal preference, so see what catches your eye:
Model Name
Accessories
European Equivalent
- Beard Trimmer
- 5 Trimmer Combs
- Body Groomer
- 2 Groomer Combs
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Charging Stand
Braun Series 5 52-N7650cc (With Cleaning Station)
- Beard Trimmer
- 5 Trimmer Combs
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Turbo Mode
Braun Series 5 52-B1650s (With travel case)
- Beard Trimmer
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Turbo Mode
Braun Series 5 52-N1000si (With travel case)
- Beard Trimmer
- Body Groomer
- 2 Groomer Combs
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Charging Station
- Protective Cap
Braun Series 5 52-B1650s (With 5 trimmer combs and no charging station, plus turbo)
- Beard Trimmer
- 5 Trimmer Combs
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Charging Station
- Protective Cap
Braun Series 5 51-M4500cs
- Beard Trimmer
- 5 Trimmer Combs
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Protective Cap
Braun Series 5 51-W1500s
Model Name
Accessories
European Equivalent
- Travel Case
- Beard Trimmer
- Beard Stubbler
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Cleaning Center
Braun Series 6 62-S7650cc (Includes Body Trimmer with 2 combs and 5 for Beard Trimmer.)
- Travel Case
- Beard Trimmer
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Cleaning Center
Braun Series 6 62-S7650cc (Includes Body Trimmer with 2 comes and 5 for Precision Trimmer.)
- Travel Case,
- Beard Trimmer (5 Combs)
- Beard Stubbler (4 Combs)
- Cleansing Brush
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Cleaning Center
Braun Series 6 60-B7500cc (With 5 Beard Trimmer combs and no Stubbler.)
- Travel Case
- Beard Trimmer (2 Combs)
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Cleaning Center
Braun Series 6 60-B7500cc (With 5 Beard Trimmer combs.)
- Travel Case
- Beard Trimmer
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Cleaning Center
Braun Series 6 60-B7500cc (With 5 Beard Trimmer combs.)
- Travel Case
- Beard Trimmer
- Stubble trimmer
- Body Groomer
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Charging Station
Braun Series 6 62-S7650cc (Without Stubble Trimmer or charging station with 5 Beard Trimmer combs, 2 body trimmer combs and cleaning station)
- Travel Case
- Beard Trimmer
- Cleaning Brush
- Wired Charger
- Charging Station
Braun Series 6 61-B4500cs (With 5 Beard Trimmer combs.)
Every model for both shavers includes a beard trimmer attachment (with or without guard combs), a cleaning brush and wired charger but only some include a body groomer (only combs on the S5).
The only thing exclusive to the S5 is a protective cap and EasyClean (unless in Europe) while the Series 6 has a travel case, stubble trimmer and cleaning station.
SmartCare station models don’t exist for the USA S5, but “cc” is the suffix for a shaver with one and “cs” is meant for charging stations.
Turbo mode is present on 3 models total for both shavers, with a majority being non-turbo.
61** or 51** indicates turbo mode for the USA and 62** along with 52** is the same case for Europe.
We’ll be focusing on the Turbo Mode models of both shavers, but all the information in this article applies to both types.
Detail: After popping the trimmer on, movement in the head locks out and there’s only minimal amounts which you won’t notice during your shave.
EasyClick Attachments
Braun went for a slightly different approach from the regular pop-up trimmer meant for longer hairs with these shavers, and I actually don’t mind the new design route they went down:
We will talk about how these pieces perform later in the article.
You can’t buy more guards for your shaver without purchasing another trimmer, as they can only be bought together.
I recommend knowing which features you need before you buy a model, because as you’ll see later it’s pretty hard to hunt down these parts only on amazon.
It’s also worth mentioning the stubble trimmer that’s only for the S6 and has the sole purpose of leaving you with a stubble of personalized length determined by which length of comb you’re using.
One thing I do appreciate about the S5 is their inclusion of a protective cap, but that came in place of a travel case (apart from European models) like in the S6
It does has the tendency to pop off though, so I still recommend being cautious even though it’ll definitely decrease the chance you damage foils.
SmartCare Centers and Charging Stations
Both shavers along with the Series 7 all share the same SmartCare and changing station model number.
There’s not a huge reason to purchase a charging stand because the only difference from wired charging is the shaver being stood up, but that makes their lack of availability.
If you want a charging station on a new gen S6, you’ll need to buy it separately.
The same thing goes for the cleaning station on the S5, except for all models besides European ones.
SmartCare Centers are 4 in 1 being able to lubricate, clean, charge and dry your shaver by using their button to control program selection.
You can find independent models here:
EasyClean and Sensoflex Highlight Features
As previously mentioned the highlight feature for the S6 is SensoFlex, and EasyClean for the S5.
EasyClean provides the user with 2 rinsing holes at either width of the shaver below the frame, meant for easier and swifter cleaning.
All you need to do is run water through either side ensuring that you’re keeping the shaver at a sharp angle with the head downwards for 10-15 seconds.
The way you can know if your form is on point is by observing water running out the cassette instead of through the other hole.
This will ensure debris is actually being cleaned out.
It won’t give the thorough clean you’re looking for but can be useful after a light dry shave.
SensoFlex was the first shaver to introduce head movement for Braun shavers, but also isn’t the last.
It required a bit more room to talk about the benefits, but we’ll be sure to cover it immediately in the performance section.
Travel Case Inclusion for the S6
The shaver is placed face down with a band stretched over the head to keep it secure and in place.
There’s also room to fit a trimmer attachment above the cassette, but be careful to not damage foils because it is a tight fit.
I love the travel case for the S6 just as much as I do for the protective cap with its great feeling materials and quality zipper that doesn’t feel flimsy.
It’ll get the same job done, and maybe even a bit better with more protection than the foils, but that’s only if it’s zipped up and put away.
That’s where I feel like they should’ve crossed over and included both for these shavers because the added security definitely wouldn’t be getting complaints.
In short, the travel case is perfect for travelling, child proofing, storage and any other transportation.
Travel Lock Shared Safety Feature
Travel lock is meant to provide a bit more peace of mind and is featured for both shavers, taking one less worry off your busy checklist.
It works by holding the power button down for 3 seconds, locking the shaver until you revert it by pressing for another 3.
I found myself using it a fair amount because of the convenience, even though I wasn’t too worried about the shaver turning on.
Most other shaver will include this shaver, so it isn’t necessary exclusive but at least it’s not missing.
Designs
The overall design is very similar between the S5 and S6 with only minor differences, most of them not affecting performance. We will cover motor power, screen design and overall build quality in this section.
Series 6
Series 5
Motor Power, Turbo Mode & Autosense Technology
Both shavers have the same amount of cutting actions clocking in at 24,000 for normal mode, and the same amount of improvement for turbo which we’ll jump right into in a second.
There’s no documented motor improvements so that makes performance up to SensoFlex and the different cassette styles.
These are 2 of the 3 models to include turbo mode, the enhancement that raises the power by 2000 for a grand total of 26,000.
While it may not seem like a significant improvement, it definitely makes a difference even though I think a simple raise in cutting actions without another mode would’ve sufficed for most people.
Both shavers have AutoSense technology that supposedly adjusts to beard density, but I believe this feature is a gimmick on most shavers so it’ll be interesting if there’s a difference between the two.
You can learn all about how the shaver performs based on these features later in “performance”.
Basic LED Screens
All of the icons are the exact same, both meaning the same things and being in the same spots.
There’s only one distinguishment for the S6, and that’s the greatly reduced light backsplash from the icons coming onto black areas of the screen when on.
This is a very small benefit though.
Here are the icons you’ll see throughout your time with either shaver, besides charging:
- Foil Replacement
- Low Battery
- Cleaning Station
- Turbo Mode
- Travel Lock
I wished that they would’ve gone with a strip style indicator as it would’ve suited these shavers much better in place of the three charging dots that represent 33%, 66% and 100%.
This style of display is still functional and solid though and that’s truly what matters.
Foil Cassettes, Replacements, EasyClick and Element Flex
Both shavers a foil shavers that consist of 3 elements which are two outer foils and a middle trimmer.
The cassettes have a nearly identical appearance and no physical changes that affect performance, at least not marginally.
The only difference is a white lining on the 64b middle trimmer (S6) and black on the 54b and 53b (S5).
The 53b and 54b are even more identical with no changes being apparent even in the slightest bit.
The frames on these pieces are a bit wide for my liking and occasionally I’ll notice them rubbing against my skin but this can be easily fixed by applying less pressure during your shave.
Element flex is a feature that lets elements dip right, left up and down allowing for better skin contact.
Alongside SensoFlex, these make for a great combo as you’ll see later.
Overall, there isn’t much to talk about in terms of differences between headpieces.
Remove an Attached Piece Off The Series 5 And 6
To remove an attachment using EasyClick technology, all you do is place your fingers on both the grooves under the headpiece and pull up from there.
It’s easier to use your thumb from the front with improved leverage so keep that in mind if you’re experiencing troubles.
At first I was skeptical of breaking something, but this is the design they chose so don’t stress over it.
EasyClick may be annoying for some, but honestly it isn’t terrible and the lack of a pop up trimmer makes these shaver less bulky, even though requiring more frequent part swapping.
The difference between EasyClick and other shavers is that you need to firmly snap the parts in, while some brands offer a squeeze and slide system that can be smoother.
For most people this will be enough though, and especially because
53b, 54b and 64b Replacement Cassettes
With these parts all being interchangeable in addition to none of them being better than one another, I recommend purchasing a replacement head if needed based on current availability and sales.
You can find the pieces here:
Battery Life and Charging
This is one of the only areas where there’s performance differences apart from shaving.
As you may have guessed the charging style is exactly the same, being a barrel type connector & port for wired and stand charging.
See what that looks like here:
The Braun Series 5 battery last for 50 minutes battery life which is 10 less than the S6 which last for 60 minutes, but some older S6 models still only last for 50.
That’s still amazing though, and will last you about 3 weeks of shaving in total depending on consistency along with model type.
10 minutes difference isn’t huge for how easy charging is plus only having to do it every few weeks.
They both charge for the same amount of time they hold for, but there’s a 5 minute QuickCharge feature on both that’ll give you just enough juice for a full shave.
The Braun S5 and S6 are cordless shavers, meaning you can’t use them plugged in. If you attempt to, an indicator light will flash and it won’t run.
Build Design and Colors
The build quality is essentially the same between the shavers being built with primarily rubber, plastic and some metal components.
They work well and feel sturdy while still being lightweight coming in at around 175 grams or 6 oz.
An additional bonus for both is that the LED screen has great visibility with proper hand placement, and this is especially useful if needing to take quick glances when shaving in the shower.
Grip is also great on both with rubber on the backside, plus they faced the thumb grip’s direction opposite to how you’ll hold it if you’re right handed.
This makes it feel even more solid in my hand.
Vibrant Blue Colors
I’m a huge fan of the colors they chose for both shavers.
The original Series 5 has a blue line running across the handle and a bit more where the EasyClean and charging port holes are, with the rest of the shaver being black.
Braun’s S6 tops this in my opinion with their blue metal plating on the front, white lining running lengthwise plus a slick black underside.
Braun S6 Colors
Braun S5 Colors
There’s also alternative colors if you prefer something a little different.
Here’s the alternative colors available for the Braun Series 6.
- Black (Braun Series 6 6046cs) (USA) (Braun Series 6 60-N4500cs) (Europe)
- Grey (Braun Series 6 6075cc) (USA) (Braun Series 6 62-G1200si) (Europe)
- Silver (Braun Series 6 62-S7650cc) (Europe)
And the Braun Series 5, which has a bit more variety:
- Black (Braun Series 5 5018s) (USA) (Braun Series 5 52-N1000si) (Europe)
(Braun Series 5 52-N1200s) (Europe) (Braun Series 5 52-N7650cc ) (Europe) - White (Braun Series 5 5050cs) (USA) (Braun Series 5 51-W1500s) (Europe)
- Red (Braun Series 5 51-51-R1000s) (Europe)
- Green (Braun Series 5 51-M4500cs) (Europe)
- Azure (Braun Series 5 52-A1000s) (Europe) (Braun Series 5 52-A1820si) (Europe)
It’ll take a bit of digging to find what you’re looking for, and then there’s the fact that most of these are exclusive to European buyers.
The base colors are great for both, but it is frustrating to not have as much variety for the USA.
Overall, I like the build quality and design of both shaver and I wouldn’t change anything about them.
Shaving
Experience
Even a slight difference can win over certain customers but it always depends what you’re looking for. These shavers work better when paired with the right people.
Series 6
Series 5
Braun Series 6 SensoFlex
Braun Series 5 EasyClean
Similar Closeness Results
Both shavers get close on your beard and this was especially apparent on my cheeks and chin where my skin felt very smooth, but this only covers less coarse areas and results were very similar.
The S6 certainly gets a bit closer on tricky areas like the sideburns and neck, but like the S5 there’s still light coarseness after I shave these spots.
Fortunately it’s not visible for both and the day after it didn’t feel or look any worse.
The reason due to the Series 6 being closer is more likely due to SensoFlex than anything else considering the fact there’s essentially no other differences that would affect performance.
Head swivel movement allows for more skin contact and better contouring therefore your beard can be cut even shorter than without it..
Turbo mode also made an improvement on both models allowing the S5’s closeness feel like the Series 6’s on gentle mode.
Less Missed Patches and Better Handling of Long Hairs
Both shavers have their small share of missed spots but the Series 6 was a bit more efficient.
I only ever had to shave over a couple spots left behind by both shavers but it didn’t take me long to finish up my sessions.
The area that I found gave the most trouble for both is the jawline and top of sideburns mostly when hair was long, but this is usually the case for a majority of shavers anyways.
That’s all without turbo mode though, and it was definitely easier to deal with these coarser / longer areas with it but not as necessary for the Series 6 even though they perform similarly.
I believe the reason behind the S6 leaving less patches is SensoFlex once again, but that makes me even more thankful for Element Flex mostly in the S5 which still makes a decent impact.
I recommend around 3-4 days of growth max for these shavers, but with turbo mode you could possibly stretch it a bit past that time period if needed.
Slight Discomfort From Repetition
I barely had any symptoms of razor burn and only experienced minor stinging with zero redness, even on turbo mode.
That can be different for you, but if you’re worried about discomfort from the higher motor power, it may actually help by lowering the amount of strokes required.
Repetition is one of the main causes for skin irritation in my case, and it actually felt much better alongside having the benefit of a faster shave.
My sideburns were primarily affected by the blades and the obvious reason for that is longer / coarser hairs taking more effort to get rid of.
While I do feel like the Series 6 is a bit more comfortable than the Series 5, it’s barely noticeable when you’re not paying close attention.
S5 and S6 Noise Comparison
The noise for both shavers is pretty similar and it wasn’t that annoying to deal with even with me being a morning person and having people in neighboring rooms.
Turbo mode wasn’t much different only being a bit more high pitched.
Series 6
Series 5
Turbo Mode S6
Turbo Mode S5
Maintenance
The maintenance process itself is the same, but here’s where you’ll find out if EasyClean is worth the hype compared to SensoFlex.
Series 6
Series 5
Cleaning and Lubricating the S5 and S6
Cleaning and lubricating are essential processes most miss out on that will extend your shaver’s lifespan and improve performance.
Both razors are waterproof and that means you can use water, liquid soap or any sort of cleaning solution that functions with these products.
All the process involves for both at minimum is rinsing and drying your shaver.
You don’t have to utilize soap if wet shaving isn’t common for you, as shaving dry generally causes less buildup of substances in the shaver that decrease performance.
Lubrication will reduce friction and heat for your foil shaver, causing less ware on the blades along with improving closeness and comfort.
You can view the full guide along with tips on how to do maintain your shaver in their respective articles.
A Close But Clear Winner
The differences can be minor at times but the Series 6 is a close winner with the inclusion of a travel case and head swivel, along with the benefits that come with it.
While the protective cap is something I would’ve liked to have seen in the S6, the travel case simply works better for the job required.
I didn’t use EasyClean often so it wasn’t a huge part of my review, and in my opinion it wasn’t much of a highlight feature with normal maintenance being easy enough.
Both models offer a great shaving experience but the Series 6 excels at providing comfort along with better handling of tricky / longer / coarser spots.
Another thing I noticed it does better is the inclusion of features and accessories, but whether a wider variety is important or not is up to you.
Braun Series 6 Review (Turbo Mode) and Model Comparison
The Braun Series 6 is a great addition to the lineup, plus Turbo Mode and SensoFlex are essential features in this solid medium end shaver.
Braun Series 5 Review (Turbo Mode) and Model Comparison
The Braun Series 5 offers good value for the price. It features great ergonomics, closeness, easy maintenance and battery life for an entry level shaver.
