How to choose a hair clipper and not make a mistake: review of device characteristics

Types of clippers

First you need to understand what type of such device will be the best option for you. It is necessary to carefully read the overview of the features of each of them.

Do not confuse a hair clipper with a trimmer. The main difference between a trimmer and a tool for straightening your hair is that a trimmer is a device for trimming your mustache and beard. Although it is designed the same way.

There are trimmers that are used to remove hair exclusively from the nose and ears.

Vibration motor type

Most often in stores you can see a device for shortening hair with a vibration type motor. This option is the cheapest, and many buyers choose it for cutting hair at home.

This type of device is based on an electromagnetic coil. Such a motor is sometimes called magnetic. It contains a pendulum, which, when connected to the network and the electromagnetic coil is triggered, produces oscillations. These vibrations drive the shearing blades.

There is nothing to break in this device, because everything about it is extremely simple. The noise level of such products is small, but it is there, and there is no great power here. Maximum 15 W.

The two main disadvantages of such mechanisms are vibration and noise. These machines can withstand approximately 20 minutes of continuous operation. Then they start to overheat. Not only their body heats up, but also the cutting knives, which can cause you to get burned.

If the work duration exceeds 20 minutes, and you feel the tool getting hot in your hands, you need to give your electric assistant a rest. Leave it for a while, let it cool down.

Rotary engine type

This device has a real motor - an AC motor. The movement of the knives is determined by a specially designed eccentric. Thanks to the presence of a motor, the power of the device sometimes increases to 45 W.

Due to prolonged operation (more than an hour), the device will, of course, heat up, but unlike its vibration counterpart, only its body will heat up.

The device, which is called rotary, has one big disadvantage. It weighs a lot.

Machine selection options

Let's consider the main selection criteria.

Engine power

1. A motor with a power of up to 10 W is one of the weakest options. A machine with such a motor is not capable of producing a decent haircut for thick and coarse hair. If you try to cut your hair with this device, the knives will constantly bite strands of hair. This unit is suitable for children's hair or cutting sparse hair. It can also be used for edging hairstyles, shaving the neck and temples;
2. 12-15 W options can be used for home use. In addition, novice hairdressers can purchase it in order to gain experience;
3. Devices with a power of 20-25 W can be used for cutting coarse hair or beards;
4. Motors with a power of 50 W are installed in machines for professional work.

Knife movement speed

The speed of the blades is also very important. The lower it is, the longer the time will be spent on cutting . It depends on the power of the motor.

Medium-speed units have a power of up to 12 W. It is recommended to use such devices if you have no cutting experience. This option is also perfect for edging. Experts recommend not using hair clippers with a power lower than 8 W, otherwise they simply will not cope with their task.

Powerful devices are suitable for cutting thick and coarse hair. Machines with fast moving blades are guaranteed to be able to handle the toughest and thickest hair.

Types of cutting attachments

Rotary and battery models boast removable attachments. Most often, devices are equipped with a set of nozzles from 0.1 to 4.2 cm. One and a half and two centimeter nozzles are the most popular. More expensive machines can also be equipped with a trimmer for removing hair from the nose, ears, eyebrows, beards and mustaches. In addition, there are models with attachments for the bikini area.

Most vibrating devices have stationary lower blades as well as movable upper blades. The latter can be easily pulled out using a special lever. This is a convenient option, but you won’t be able to cut your hair bald due to the lack of a “zero” attachment.

Adjustable attachments are a great alternative to expensive removable ones. This option is suitable for home use.

Various attachments for hair clippers

Charging method

Cordless hair clippers have a number of advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage is the autonomy of the device, since it is not tied to an outlet. Such units are used mostly for small jobs (trimming, edging).

They are also lightweight, have low noise levels and virtually no vibration. The main disadvantage is the low power, which varies on average from 10 to 12 W. Also, if you do not charge the battery in time, the remaining charge may not be enough for a haircut, in which case the device will turn off and you will need to wait for some time until the battery is charged.

Important! Over time, the batteries will begin to discharge faster and at some point will need to be replaced.

For independent haircuts, networked clippers are not so convenient - the wire can get caught, distract, or even be pulled out, which will stop the device from working. In addition, it cannot be used on the road where there are no sockets. The advantages of this device include durability, reliability and a wide selection of different models.

A corded clipper is inconvenient for cutting hair yourself

The most expensive cars are hybrid units. Such devices are best suited for home use by people who have cut their hair before and are confident that they will use it, or by professional hairdressers, since the functionality of the hybrid machine is very high. For example, if the battery runs out before the planned time, the device can be connected to the network and continue cutting. Hybrid devices have excellent ergonomics and high quality.

Knife material

How long and efficiently it can cut hair depends on the blades of the device:

1. Knives made of steel alloy without coating are difficult to sharpen, but very quickly begin to become dull;
2. Ceramic knives are a worthy option, as they are very durable, hypoallergenic and do not heat up during operation;
3. Titanium-coated knives are best for cutting children or people who may have allergic reactions;
4. Diamond coating guarantees cutting even the coarsest hair.

Housing material

A plastic clipper is lighter in weight, but the strength of this unit suffers compared to a metal one.

Lightweight metal alloy guarantees the indestructibility and reliability of the case.

Ergonomics

When working with wet hands, rubberized inserts will allow you to hold the machine more securely. These pads will reduce the risk of the device slipping from your hands.

Machine with rubberized inserts

A big plus will be the presence of the speed switch directly above the thumb. Thus, it will be much more convenient to control operating modes.

Weight also plays an important role, since holding a heavy object above your head can simply cause your hand to get tired. Therefore, it is desirable that the weight of the machine be less.

Noise level

For home use, you can even purchase a noisy machine, since listening to a ten-minute hum once a week is quite bearable. If the device is used at a professional level, then it is advisable to purchase a silent or low-noise clipper.

Important! Battery or hybrid models produce the least noise.

Vibration level

Rotary and vibrating models vibrate the most. If this factor irritates you, then you can choose a battery-powered or hybrid version of the clipper.

Nozzles and their quantity

Hair clipper attachments look like combs and are made of plastic. Nozzles can be divided into the following types:

1. Narrow ones are best for trimming;
2. Wide ones are designed for a full haircut;
3. Single-sided attachments imply the presence of a comb on only one side;
4. Double-sided accessories have a comb on both sides.

Nozzles are divided into 6 groups:

1. Attachments for trimming and beard correction, which differ from others in their narrower shape and smaller size;
2. The second group of nozzles are curly nozzles. Using them you can make any pattern from the hair on your head. Can be purchased individually or as a set;
3. Thinning attachments are necessary to give short hair a natural look. The attachment cuts hair ends to different lengths;
4. Cone-shaped accessories are used to trim eyebrows and mustaches. Also suitable for removing ear or nose hair;
5. The “polishing” attachment is necessary for cutting hair with split ends.

Nozzles are made from:

• plastic (they are the cheapest, easy to care for and do their job “excellently”);
• metal (most often made of stainless steel, characterized by durability, heavy weight and high price);
• silicone (such options are light in weight, have a long service life, and do not cause irritation).

Plastic nozzle Metal nozzle

Advice! Since all attachments are made of good materials and have no major flaws, you should choose depending on cost, personal preference and frequency of use.

In addition, attachments can be removable or built into the machine. There are nozzles that are suitable for any unit, but there are also unified ones, designed for one specific model. The first option is universal and cheap, while the second is expensive.

Hair clippers have from 1 to 10 different attachments. Some of them allow you to make different lengths of the tips. The minimum cutting length can vary from 0.3 to 3 mm.

Advice! Four attachments are enough for home use. A larger quantity is necessary only for professionals.

Power type

The main feature by which all machines differ is the type of power supply. There are devices that operate from a wall outlet, as well as battery-powered options.

Mains powered machines

Network-powered devices have three main advantages:

• long uninterrupted service;
• are cheaper;
• “live” longer because there is no risk that the battery will fail.

There were also some drawbacks:

• you are tied to the location of the outlet;
• When there is a power outage, activities stop.

If your choice is a similar type, then carefully consider the choice of cable. It is worth choosing a long wire (at least 1.5 m). The cord must be flexible and secured with a swivel joint. This will prevent the wire from getting twisted and tangled at the junction with the device.

Rechargeable hair trimmers

Such devices have many advantages. They:

• lungs;
• have no vibration;
• do not make noise when used;
• equipped with quick-release knives that can be easily replaced with more suitable ones.

Disadvantages of battery devices:

• battery charging takes quite a long time (sometimes about eight hours),
• short work (30-50 minutes),
• unreliable quality of charger cables.

Cordless types of the device are useful when working away from an electrical outlet. You need to select them based on the same parameters as regular wired ones. The manufacturer is obliged to warn the user, indicating the time it takes to fully charge the battery and its battery life.

If you do not want to sacrifice either convenience or the duration of the session, then buy universal equipment. It can work both from a power outlet and from a battery. True, you will have to pay more for it.

Professional kits for hairdressers

For hairdressers who are professional hairdressers, there are hairdressing kits. The sets combine hair trimming devices, attachments of different sizes for a universal clipper, and razor attachments for trimming mustaches and beards.

Various options for completing the sets are possible. The cost of the set depends on the quantity and quality of components, and the brand of the manufacturer.

Advantages of professional kits for hairdressers:

• variety of functions;
• thanks to attachments of different sizes, you can immediately trim both hair and facial hair;
• The set is complete with tool bags, stands and other additional accessories.

This set has one drawback, and it is contradictory - the cost of haircut kits is high. But if you think about it, if you buy the components of the set separately, you will spend an even larger amount of money than if you buy a hairdressing set.

Shortening hair using an attachment

For example, you need to cut a haircut for a person with thick hair. You have a set of attachments at your disposal. As a rule, the sizes of these plastic devices are as follows: the smallest is 3 mm (it is very easy for her to cut hair), and the largest is 12 mm. As a rule, the size of each nozzle is indicated on it by the manufacturer.

Fast operation of the tool with a nozzle requires a power of at least 10 - 15 W from the cutting device. It is much better when it has a rotary type of motor. However, vibration machines from Oster, for example model 616, which has a power of only 9 W, are able to cope with such a task.

In the case when you use a cutting tool that has little power, the advice of a professional will be important. This tip is this: if you need to deal with very thick and long hair, the first thing you need to do is pick up a pair of scissors.

Separate the strands and shorten them along their entire length in a chaotic manner. At the same time, you do not need to monitor the accuracy of the cut - now you are only helping your electric assistant. A little later, you will put the attachment on the cutting knife, walk with it over the uneven areas and smooth them out.

Contrary to popular belief, coarse hair can be cut with an electric clipper much easier than fine, fluff-like hair. Children's hair, as well as the hair of older people, is often thin and soft.

Premium class

BaBylissPRO FX811E Volare X2 Ferrari – with sharp knives

Premium hair clippers come with additional features. The BaBylissPRO FX811E Volare X2 Ferrari model has a rotary motor that prevents the device from overheating during operation.

This is the top among professional hairstyle machines that are designed for use under daily stress. The motor speed is 6300 rpm and the blades are made of titanium.

The minimum cutting length is 0.8 mm - it can be achieved without an attachment. With attachment, length range from 3 to 25 mm. There are 12 length settings, the knife width is 45 mm. To track the charge level, there is a light indicator.

The device is charged from a special stand. The device is equipped with Li-Pol batteries - charging takes about 3 hours.

Advantages:

• Sharp knife;
• Smooth cut of wet hair;
• Compactness;
• Light weight;
• Good power.

The power button is located at the very bottom, so some users will not like this location.

Ermila 1870 – quiet and powerful

For women working as hairdressers in a salon, this model will come in handy. The device operates from mains power and is also autonomous. The battery life is 100 minutes - enough time to cut a haircut for one client.

The machine charges quickly - in 2.5 hours. There is a charge indicator light on the case that will tell you when it’s time to charge the machine from the mains. The light weight of 300 grams makes it easy to hold the device in your hand in any position.

The set includes 6 attachments that allow you to adjust the length of the haircut. The range is 0.7-25 mm. To charge the device, you need to place it on a special stand, which is plugged into a power outlet.

In the kit, the hairdresser receives oil for lubricating the blades and a brush for cleaning. The information system and user manual are made in the form of acoustic prompts. The knife width is 46 mm, which is suitable for professional use.

Advantages:

• High-quality assembly;
• Low noise level during operation;
• High power;
• Convenient charge level indicator;
• Expanded equipment.

The device is not suitable for novice hairdressers who have just started on the path to mastering the device because of the price.

Oster 97-44 – for professionals

In 2021, the Oster 97-44 machine will conquer any master with its versatility. Here you will find everything you need to create stylish hairstyles in a salon setting.

A rotary motor with a power of 45 W is installed inside. The machine operates only from the mains, but this does not prevent the hairdresser from making even cuts and edging of the haircut.

The body of the machine is framed in a ribbed shell, because of this there is no slipping in the hands of the master. There is a hanging loop at the bottom of the machine. The kit includes a brush for cleaning the blades, oil for the engine and knife. Its width is 46 mm. The ability to adjust the length of the haircut – from 0.1 to 25 mm.

Advantages:

• Long network cable 3 meters;
• Anti-slip coating on the body;
• Sharp knives;
• High power;
• Spare motor brushes included in the set.

There is one nuance that you should pay attention to before first use. The manufacturer does not use much lubricant for the engine, so you need to lubricate the engine with the oil included in the kit for better performance.

Manufacturers

Moser and have proven themselves well in beauty salons .

The instruments of the American company Oster have very positive characteristics . It's a good choice.

There are no Russian companies among the manufacturers of such products. Such devices are not produced in Russia.

Chinese companies will be able to please the buyer at a low price. Unfortunately, all such tools made in China have low power and a vibration motor. Do not forget that you are not purchasing a device for one day, so its capabilities will be important to you.

What is the price

As a rule, the price of these products does not depend on their type and power. For example, a professional vibration machine Oster 616 can be purchased for 7,790 rubles, and a rotary Moser Genio 1565-0077 will cost only 5,960 rubles.

It's all about the packaging and various useful functions. The price of high-quality electrical appliances of this type ranges from 3,000 to 11,000 rubles.

Do not purchase such products if they are of low cost (RUB 1,000 or less). They have a vibration motor and low power. None of the parameters you need will be found in the printed instructions accompanying the product.

In cases where important characteristics are not specified by the manufacturer, be careful!

It is possible that a cheap tool will please you at first, but it will quickly cease to perform its main function. Often such devices cannot be repaired.

Additional benefits

In addition to the basic functions, hair clippers often have a number of pleasant additions that will help improve the quality of work.

Nozzles

First of all, such additions include removable sets of attachments.

It should be immediately noted that they can only be used in professional models. Cheaper products rarely provide this feature.

There are 2 types of nozzles.

1. Fixed. Such devices allow you to fix the length of the haircut only up to a certain limit. Lack of mobility leads to some limitations in use.
2. Adjustable. Movable parts allow you to set the required cutting length, which significantly increases the capabilities of the machine itself and allows you to make more complex haircuts.

Philips HC9450 hair clipper with adjustable combs

Accessories are also divided into:

• removable attachments;
• non-removable attachments.

The removable option looks preferable, because... it allows you to perform a wider range of work. In general, most experts do not recommend choosing a model with many different attachments as your first device. It may well turn out that three to five will be enough. For many users, one with the ability to adjust is enough. After all, every day a person does not need to perform complex manipulations with his hair. Most often, a machine is used to trim stubble or a beard, or to trim the hair on the head.

Where can I buy

Buy electrical products intended for shortening hair in stores or departments of large shopping centers that stock professional hairdressing tools. Online stores will be happy to offer the purchase of such a device for home use. The best option is the one that suits you.

Go to these addresses, check out the assortment (the links lead directly to product selections - open and choose):

• Eldorado - the cheapest car costs 395 rubles.
• Citylink - the selection includes 28 pages with products.
• Polaris is the official store of the manufacturer.

Bradex Charisma (KZ 0403)

• Engine type - vibration
• Power - batteries
• Blade material: stainless steel
• Blade type - fixed, lateral

An interesting model designed for complete self-service. The machine is made in the form of a comb equipped with cutting blades, which allows you to trim and refresh not only your hairstyle, for which 2 attachments are provided, but also your beard (2 attachments) with light movements. In addition, it can be used to remove excess hair from the nose and ears. The design is so simple and convenient that it is suitable for experiments even by inexperienced users.

Rating of the best cars

You can purchase hair trimming equipment at a very affordable price. Although it would be unfair to demand impeccable service from a cheap copy. Still, they get dull and break faster than their more expensive counterparts. Therefore, decide what is more important to you: durability and quality or price.

Please take a look at this option.

Philips HC3522/15 Hairclipper Series 3000 – sample for 3,400 rubles. It has a comb with which you can adjust the shortening from 1 to 23 mm. When used without it, the length is only 0.5 mm. With a charged battery, the period of uninterrupted operation is 75 minutes. Stainless steel blades with double sharpening have self-sharpening properties.

Pros:

• does not require lubrication;
• comb design prevents clogging;
• the blade can be washed with water;
• operates for a long time on a single charge.

Minuses:

• over time, the capacity of the energy source decreases;
• It is inconvenient to switch settings with one hand.

Five more popular models:

1. Braun NS 5090 for 6,990 rubles.
2. Rowenta Driver TN1600F0 for RUB 1,290.
3. Philips HC3535/15 for RUB 3,090.
4. Moser 1400-0451 for RUB 1,990.
5. Philips HC3504/15 for RUB 1,990.

Ease of use

In addition to the attachments and their functionality, there are a few more things to consider before purchasing a machine. First, you should take the device in your hands and see how comfortable it is to hold it. If it fits well in the palm, this is already a big advantage; if not, then perhaps it’s worth looking at a model with other dimensions.

It is also important that the surface of the case is not glossy or slippery. It is best if it has rubberized inserts or a soft-touch coating.

The next thing you need to pay attention to is the location of the buttons. The more comfortable it is for you to reach them with your fingers, the less effort you will have to make during operation. First impressions in this case are the most truthful. Is it inconvenient to turn your device on and off? Look another.

Hold the machine in your hands and feel its weight. If it feels too weighty and makes it uncomfortable to, say, reach the back of your head, that's not a good sign. Heavy equipment makes it difficult to trim difficult areas on your own. In addition, the hand will simply get tired, constantly holding a heavy body suspended.

There are models equipped with a retracting mechanism.

It works like a vacuum cleaner, absorbing small stubble and short hairs cut by the blade. The downside to such add-ons is that they usually have a small reservoir, but overall they are very convenient. There will be much less garbage after cutting.

The best models are equipped with the ability to wash the blades directly under running water. This is very convenient and practical, but you will have to pay extra for this option. Of course, its presence is not mandatory, because in most cases, cleaning the device is not difficult: all parts are either easily removed or blown out.

In the case of wired models, pay attention to the power cord. If it is short, it can cause many problems during operation. It will be very inconvenient to perform complex manipulations with such a device; there is a high probability of pulling the plug out of the socket.

By following simple recommendations, you can find the optimal solution that will meet all requirements.

A hair clipper is a personal item; the same model may not be suitable for two different professionals. Individual aspects (weight, dimensions) are very important, without which it will be difficult to make the right choice.