Customer Reviews

Philips Norelco 8040X Moisturizing Shaving System

5 star:		(36)
4 star:		(41)
3 star:		(15)
2 star:		(6)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

I am not a novice to electric shavers, so keep in mind that I have used many different shavers over the years. I began shaving (electric always) when I was 15 years old. I am now 60 years old (young?). Keep in mind the differences in charge time, quick charge capabilty and full charge indication when comparing the three models in the line.
I have used the 8040X WITHOUT ANY conditioner to see if I could avoid the added ongoing expense(Norelco says that is no problem)and I must say that the shave is top notch. This unit has provided one of the closest shaves (if not THE closest) that I have ever had. My neck is quite a difficult area to deal with. It is difficult to shave it closely (I have no clue why...but especially on the left side of my neck!), yet from day one...and without using the Nivea...the 8040X has provided a superb (and fast) shave. In summary...I wanted a shaver that does an excellent job of shaving closely...expecially in my 'problem' areas and one that works quickly and without irritating my skin. This Norelco has performed much better than I expected on all counts. Highly recommended without any reservations.

The Philips Norelco 8040X electric shaver is a compact, lightweight unit that can be used dry or wet. In either case, it uses Nivea for Men shaving conditioner to smooth the razor over your face as you shave. Ultimately, it is capable of delivering a good shave, but it has too many drawbacks to recommend for everyday use.

SHAVING PERFORMANCE

Used dry, the 8040X is below average compared to other shavers that I've used (including my five-year-old Norelco which still shaves rings around this one). Its shaving heads are very compact and pivot nicely so you can easily reach all contours of your face and hard-to-reach areas, e.g. under your nose. However, the blades themselves don't do provide a close shave at all. I have a beard that's only moderately thick/stiff, and the 8040X left me feeling like I would have a five-o'clock shadow in minutes.

Used wet in the shower, its performance is much better. This is also when the Cool Skin moisturizer really shines - in fact, it's downright necessary to get the heads to glide over your face when used wet. It has a pleasant scent and does leave the skin on your face feeling refreshed afterward (even if it's also apparent that the "cool" is just from some alcohol in the formula). It certainly won't be the quickest shave that you've ever had, but if you take your time, you can get results that rival even a blade.


USE & MAINTENANCE

The 8040X comes with a cradle for storing it upright and also for charging it. Unfortunately once the razor becomes fully charged, you can't leave it in the cradle without unplugging it - doing so can damage battery life. Plus, the plug for the cradle is gigantic and ugly, so you won't want to leave the cradle on display anyway. I would have preferred a simple direct-cord charge design instead.

The Nivea conditioner that is used with the shaver is expensive in the long run - about $6 for a can that will last about a month (don't believe what the box says - it's only a month's worth). Suddenly that close, wet shave is looking pretty pricey in terms of time and money compared to simply going back to shaving with a blade. Also, the pump system that feeds the conditioner into the razor is proprietary, i.e. you can't just fill it with any skin conditioner because only the Nivea Cool Skin fits the razor's plug. So, you're out of luck if you don't like the scent or feel of the Nivea product. Also, the razor would lose just about all usefulness if/when they stop making those cans.

There is no readout to display the remaining battery life. Instead, the power light will begin to flash when the battery is getting low. Given the cost of this razor, this seems like a cut corner. I don't like the idea of guessing how much juice I have left.

The razor needs to be cleaned after each shave. Compared to most closed-head designs, this makes for even more time that the razor requires with each use. You also need to regularly check that the tubes which deliver the moisturizer haven't become clogged.

It does have a travel lock feature which will prevent the razor from accidentally turning on while you have it packed away. Coupled with its compact size, I think that the "weekend getaway (not for business)" may be the ideal application of this razor.


CONCLUSION

The 8040X Moisturizing Shave System promises too much. Ultimately, it works best when shaving wet, using a lot of the moisturizer, and taking a lot of time to do so. This, coupled with its lightweight, compact design, good battery life and travel lock make it ideal for weekend getaways. But given its cost - both immediate and in the long run - this just isn't enough return on your investment.

PROS
* Close, comfortable shave when used wet
* Compact and lightweight
* Travel lock prevents accidents while razor is packed
* Good battery life

CONS
* Unimpressive shave results when used dry
* Expensive cost-to-operate due to (very necessary) moisturizer
* Demanding upkeep/maintenance requirements
* Lack of battery gauge

A little background on me so you can understand where I am coming from with this review: Generally I shave every other day, though I probably should shave everyday, I stretch it to every other day without it being a huge problem. I'm coming from a Philishave Cool Skin, which is the same as the Norelco but I believe it is the brand sold outside the US. I'm not certain of the model number, but you get the idea that its the predecessor of this model, which used the lotion cartridges. I've owned that shaver for about 4 years and have replaced the blades a couple times. My Philishave is in perfect working condition, however required new blades; so I decided to take this opportunity to upgrade to the sleeker 8040X.
My choices. I have pretty sensitive skin, particularly around my neck so I wanted to go with a wet/dry shaver with lotion. So I chose the Norelco 8000 series. There are three models available in this series, the 8020, the 8040 and the 8060. Each of these models will give you the same shave, but the price difference comes from the additional features related to each model. The 8020 requires a longer charge time at 8 hours and gives 30 minutes of shave time, the 8040 requires 4 hours of charge time providing 40 minutes of shave time, the 8060 requires 1.5 hours and also gives 40 minutes of shave time. The 8040 and 8060 also offer a quick charge. Another major difference between the 8060 and the lower models, is that the 8060 automatically refills the shaver's bladder so the shaver is full of lotion every time you use it. Both the 8040 and 8060 have a battery full indication, which the 8020 lacks. I find that useful because I know when to remove my shaver from the charger, so as not to damage the battery by over-charging. So the big differences are in the battery and the charge stand.
My decision: I decided to go with the 8040 because I was comfortable with the 4 hour charge, though a 1.5 hour would be nice. 8 hours just seems too long to fully charge my shaver. Also, I liked the idea of the battery full indicator. So that left me between the 8040 and 8060. The big turn-off of the 8060 was the bulkier charge stand. I'm not so lazy that I would pay the extra $50 primarily to have the shaver refill itself. So, the 8040 it is; a nice middle ground and more streamlined.
Initial impressions: My first shave was extremely comfortable, with zero irritation; thanks to the glide rings provided on each model. Even with my old shaver, I would get some irritation; particularly on my neck. The new design is easier to manipulate than the bulky models that preceded it. The shave lotion also smells nicer, more like an aftershave, though it did burn a little; most likely the result of alcohol (which is used to create that nicer smell) though the burning quickly subsided. I didn't seem to be as smooth as I was with my old shaver, but Norelco recommends using the shaver for 21 days to become accustomed to it. After using is for a short time I found that I never really got that close shave. Not that its not smooth at all, its just seems a little less smooth than I was with my previous shaver. What this means for me: Now I shave everyday to maintain a smoother face; I'd probably get too scruffy if I tried to stretch it to every other day. My fiancé is probably my biggest critic when it comes to shaving and she actually prefers this model to my previous one b/c now I am shaving everyday and have greater periods of a smooth face instead of scruffy one. I can do a relatively quick shave, maybe 7 minutes or so to get the desired results of at least a clean-cut appearance.
So why 4 stars (I would say 3.5, a little better than the halfway mark)? I figure there are many factors that go into shaving, not just having a very close shave. This shaver is extremely comfortable, I finish each shave with almost no irritation, whereas my old shaver would often leave my neck red and could be quite painful. Its also comfortable to hold and the smaller design makes it easier to travel with (as well as the fact that it includes a travel lock). So even though the shave isn't as smooth as I was hoping for, its still a pretty descent shaver all things considered.

I bought the 8040x a couple of days ago and even I am surprised at how impressed I am with the shaver. I have always been a reader of reviews on Amazon and this is but my second review. This product makes me want to recommend it to everyone I see. Wow!! First, let me tell you about the shavers I have had.

My past shavers: I have had a Braun Synchro (lost with luggage on an international trip), a Norelco Reflex that I absolutely hated (but still hung on to for emergencies) and a Braun Activator 8595 (with Clean N Charge station) that I had till recently and absolutely loved. My Braun Activator (which I had for the past 3 years) broke when it slipped from my hand last week. Hence, I was in the market for a new shaver and thought I will research the shavers available since I was going to spend some money.

My new 8040X: I used my old Norelco Reflex for a week on a temporary basis till I bought a better model and absolutely hated it. It made my skin all red. As I was researching I came across the 8040X on Amazon and was intrigued by the idea of a wet shaver (having used only foil dry ones thus far). I tried it out in the shower for the past couple of days and I must say it has absolutely blown me away. It is so convenient, and the smoothest shave I have had in several years (as good as a Mach 3 shave that I stopped years ago). My wife was super impressed and to quote another review on this site....my cheeks AND I MUST EMPHASIZE even my neck, chin feel like "Baby's bottoms". The lotion that comes along with the shaver is awesome and goes along really well with the Nivea after shave lotion that I was already used to. Cleaning is a breeze...just hold it under water and run the motor for 30 secs. No more Clean and Charge Refills (boy are they expensive)

For the past several years I have been held hostage by the Braun company consumables (Clean and Charge solutions). It is a great relief that I found a shaver that wont hold me hostage like that, save for a little bit of moisturizing lotion that goes in the shaver (you dont really need a lot if you shave in the shower or by the sink). I am planning on buying one each for both my brothers as well as my father in law. Wonderful shaver and very well worth the money.

I have no intention of returning this shaver (I bought it thinking that I will try it for 3 weeks). Go out and buy this model, save your money and do not buy the 8060...dispensing the lotion into the shaver is really easy.

I will try and refresh this review in the next few weeks.



AS PROMISED ---- UPDATED APRIL 2008 --- AFTER 6 WEEKS OF USE

It has been at least 5-6 weeks since I bought the shaver and not surprisingly, I have not returned it to Philips. This is a great shaver. I have tried using it in the shower as well at the sink.

After having read complaints about the cost of consumables that come with this shaver, I decided to put it to the test. I began by trying Edge shaving gel prior to shaving with terrible results. It resulted in a very sticky shave....not good at all. I then decided to try a small travel pack of Nivea shaving gel.... and believe it or not....it worked like a charm....as good as the shaving conditioner. Apply a very small amount and do not lather it up vigorously...just a thin film.

Here is what I do nowadays..... I apply very little of the Nivea shaving GEL (not conditioner) and apply gently, do not lather up heavily. I use the shaver with little or no conditioner and it works just as well either in the shower or at the sink. Very little irritation and smooth effective shave. Also, applying the gel on your face prior to shaving prevents spraying of debris on and around your basin.

If there is anything I do not like about this shaver, it is the power and speed of the motor. While I cannot attest or comment on previous Coolskin models, that I have never owned, I can say that I can live with the power and speed of this shaver for several reasons. It is smooth, does not irritate your skin (which is extremely important for me after having experienced other shavers and razors) and easy to use. Go get one and if possible try getting it at one of your local stores like Bed Bath Beyond or Linens n things with a 20% off coupon.

First of all, I'll start out by saying that I am 67 years old... secondly, I have tried nearly every brand of electric razor that has ever been made, and I have given them all away because they all just tore my neck to pieces... and I've always gone back to a blade to get a close shave without making my neck look like hamburger. Then I saw this Norelco wet shaver on Amazon for an exceptional price, so I ordered one. I am 100% sold on this one! It doesn't tear my neck up, and gives me the closest shave I've EVER had... even my leathery old skin is as soft as a baby's behind with the Nivea lotion dispensed by the razor as a lubricant. Don't hesitate, guys, THIS one really does work!!

I recently "upgraded" from the 8020X to the 8040X. Since the razor and shave are the same, I chose the 8040X for the following reasons:
- Shorter Charge Time: the 8040X fully charges in 4 hours versus 8 hours for the 8020X, and the 8040X indicates when fully charged.
- Longer Shaving Time: the 8040X fully charged shaves for 40 minutes, the 8020X for 30 minutes.
- Quick Charge: when the battery is depleted, the 8040X can be charged for 9 minutes to give you 3 minutes of shaving time.
- Travel Lock: the 8040X has it, the 8020X doesn't.
- Pop on Trimmer: the 8040X has it, the 8020X doesn't.
I figured with all these additional features, the 8040X was worth the additional money. But I was even more fortunate. I had a 20% savings certificate from the local Bed, Bath and Beyond, and bought the 8040X at the same price I would have paid for the 8020X elsewhere, so I found a great deal.
Both of these shavers give an excellent shave. For me, just as close as a blade without irritation (Yes, it is just as close for me. I can't speak for other beard/skin types, but if you don't have a brillo pad for a beard, it does a GREAT job). And unlike any blade I've used over nearly 30 years of shaving, these razors do not irritate my skin at all! I've used it everyday and even on 2-day growth, and it works fantastic.
Suggestion for you all: instead of using the conditioner, which is expensive and has to be dispensed often when shaving, try using Nivea for Men shaving gel that you can buy in your local grocery store. I use this exclusively and it works great, and will be much, much cheaper over the long haul. Also, I always shave in the shower, as I've found I get the smoothest, most comfortable shave that way. However, I have shaved over the sink on two occasions, and that works well too if that's your choice.
In closing, let me say that shaving with this Norelco is the first time ever I've enjoyed shaving with any razor, and I've used Braun and Panasonic too over the years. Enjoy your shaving now with this one!

#1) I bought this instead of the cheaper version because this had the Travel Case with it. What a JOKE. It's a wrap. My previous Norelco's all came with nice cases to travel with, but this is just some flimsy neoprene wrap... NOT worth the extra $20 or so that this cost over the basic model.

#2) I had the previous version of the CoolSkin razor, and really loved it. When the battery finally died in it, I purchases this one just because it was the next version of the razor I liked. This one, I can barely tolerate. Since I passed my "try it or money back" period, I'm stuck with this thing till I can find something better.

#3) This is obviously a razor that is put out just for it's funky look. Not how well it performs. The razor head covers keep falling off, all it takes is a slight twist and the head unit falls apart. The new head design is a single drive, instead of previous norelco units that drive all 3 heads independently. This razor is SLLLLOOOOWW! It reminds me of my first cordless razor from 1985! I wouldn't recommend using this in the shower, as you'll waste more money in water bills than getting a close shave outta this slow razor.

#4) Keep a standard razor handy. You're going to need it for the areas that this razor just REFUSES to shave. No matter how much lotion I use, how many times I go over this area, how much I twist, turn and tug, this razor refuses to shave certain areas of my face.

Overall, this product is a major disappointment. I would not recommend this to any of my friends. I just wish I wouldn't have gone past my "you'll like it or get your money back" period. I'm out $100 for this turkey of a razor.

EDIT: 8 months later
Battery is dying in this thing fast. 8 months in, and it no longer hold a maximum charge. I keep new cheap razors in the drawer, as this razor just will NOT get everywhere. Norelco has lost a long time customer with this piece of garbage razor.

Ok. I have been using the Norelco 8040X for about 6 weeks now and am very, pleasantly surprised.

Background. I have been shaving nearly 30 years now and have tried electric shavers in no less than 3 different stints in my life (never Norelco before). Each time with disappointing success. But I decided to try again mainly after researching the product, noticing the "send it back after trail" guarantee. I was skeptical. My experience had been poor shaves and in-grown whiskers.

I have a relatively thick beard growth (not extreme but not light) combined with average to sensitive skin. Shaving with a blade gave the best results however... shaving every day left my neck irritated and bleeding. My solution was to shave every 2 or 3 days. I thought that was going to be my shaving lot-in-life.

Again, I was drawn to the electric market. My last attempt was 5-10 years ago. I was very interested in shaving in the shower, the Norelco 8040x's ability to dispense lotion, and it's trial period guarantee.

The Good:
>> I was able to get good shaving results beginning with my first use. The manual stated to give it some time and stick with it. However, I did not have this issue.
>> The Nivea lotion filling and dispensing was easy and really helped provide a smooth shave and a wonderful after-shave feeling.
>> The shaver is easy to clean and charge. Shaving every day, it holds enough charge for about a week's use.
>> I am able to shave every day with out irritation. Not nicks, no bleeding.

The Not So Good:
>> The Nivea lotion is very expensive and difficult to find locally. Checking the Philips website it was out of stock there when I checked. This may be a blessing in disguise. I find that I can use a standard hand lotion/body cream, apply it by hand, and shave just as affectively. (Did I just void my warranty? Who knows.) However, this isn't quite as slick as using the auto dispenser which was one of the selling points. Note to Norelco. Get a clue. If you are going to partner with someone, make sure they are going to make enough product and don't price the complementary item crazily.
>> The overall shave is just a smidge less smooth than a quality shave from a razor.

Conclusions:
>> The shave is slightly less smooth than a good razor shave.
>> The fact that I have no irritation or bleeding is a very acceptable trade-off for the slightly less smooth shave in my case.
>> The Nivea shave conditioner is a nice product, but is over-priced and difficult to find in stock locally (DFW metro area).
>> Shaver is easy to use, charge, clean.
>> I find that using shaving cream does not work as well as skin lotion.
>> I gave 5 stars because I am now able to shave every day with comfort and effectiveness.
>> Based on my experience, you could probably go with the less expensive 8020X. However, it might not hold its charge as long or charge as quickly. I don't see any need to purchase the more expensive 8060X. However, your individial experience may require otherwise.

I had a Norelco Advantage 6705 that served me well for the last five years until recently when it lost its ability to hold a charge. I replaced it with this razor because it is the updated version of the advantage. I thought it would perform the same as the advantage, but it doesn't.
It seems underpowered compared to the Advantage. Although it feels comfortable when I shave, it refuses to finish the job. No matter how often I go over the same area, it leaves alot of hair behind. I am so frustrated with this razor that I may switch to a manual.
I do like the narrower shape that makes this razor easier to hold. The open design of the heads also makes it easier to clean, but I just don't understand why this razor would perform so much poorer than a similar model from several years ago.

I used blades for 5 years, but I needed the convenience of an electric. The 8040 does a solid job and has adequate power for a beard that grows in pretty fully on a daily basis. I can't skip more than a day of shaving with it, though, or the long hairs just won't get cut. It's comfortable enough to use every day, though, especially when used in the shower. Great features for the money.