Full review
Longer notes from the same comments we summarized above.
What people reported
Owners generally find the Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige delivers an excellent, quick, and easy shave, often remarking it's "the best rotary" they've ever used. Many report a very close and smooth shave that is notably comfortable for sensitive skin, with some specifically mentioning it helps prevent irritation. It's also praised for its solid build quality and long-lasting battery life, provided it's not constantly kept on the charger. Users appreciate that it doesn't scatter whiskers during dry shaving, a common issue with some foil shavers. Some who upgraded from older Philips Norelco models (like the 5000 series) found the S9000 to be significantly better.
Problems people mention
A recurring concern is the shaver's head shape, which some owners find makes it difficult to clean up right under the nose or on the upper lip. While overall shave quality is high, a few users noted that the S9000 Prestige might not catch every hair, particularly with longer growth, suggesting pre-trimming with another tool like a OneBlade. The shaver operates solely on battery power, meaning there's no option to plug it in and continue shaving if the battery dies or degrades over time. There's also a desire for modern USB-C charging. For models with a cleaning station, some owners consider it unnecessary, preferring to simply rinse the shaver under the tap. The side-mounted trimmer (if an attachment) was criticized by one user for being less convenient and potentially weaker.
Where owners disagree
There's a mixed opinion regarding the S9000 Prestige's performance on different hair lengths and shaving frequency. One owner suggested it's better for hair that isn't too long, recommending a Braun Series 9 Pro+ for daily shaving. Conversely, another user stated it "does shave better if I use it daily" for their significant daily hair growth, while acknowledging it still might not "take every hair" if used every two days.
Who it's for
The Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige is ideal for individuals seeking a premium rotary shaver that provides a very close and comfortable shave, especially those with sensitive skin prone to irritation. It's a strong choice for those who prefer dry shaving and appreciate a robust build quality with good battery endurance. Buyers should be aware of its limitations with hard-to-reach areas like the upper lip and the lack of a corded shaving option.
