# Which electric shaver should I buy in Japan? Panasonic or Braun?

> As of October 2026, most mainstream electric shavers in Japan come with 100–240V auto-switching chargers and Type A flat-pin plugs, so you usually don't need a special overseas model, but still check the charger label before buying. Choose based on three things: foil type (Panasonic, Braun) or rotary (Philips), number of blades (5–6 for heavy beards, 3 is enough for light ones), and whether you want a cleaning station.

- Page: https://bestjapanbuy.com/en/q/shaver-buying-guide/
- Updated: 2026-10-23

## Step 1: Check the charger voltage

If the charger or manual says AC100–240V, it works on any voltage in that range. The plug is Type A with two flat pins; whether it fits depends on your country's outlets. Check whether it works in your country in our [compatibility table](/en/tools/compat/). Small USB-charged models may not include a charger head; any phone charger will do. If you're unsure, see [Can I use Japanese appliances at home?](/en/q/japan-appliance-voltage-china/).

## Step 2: Foil or rotary

| Type | Brands | Features |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Foil (往復式) | Panasonic, Braun | Blades move side to side; fast, close shave; good for coarse beards |
| Rotary (回転式) | Philips | Round heads rotate and follow the face; less skin irritation |

## Step 3: Blades and features

- **Number of blades**: 5–6 for heavy beards, 3 for light beards.
- **Wet/dry**: Can be used with shaving foam and the whole unit can be rinsed (go by the manual).
- **Automatic cleaning station**: Convenient but bulky, and the cleaning fluid must be replaced regularly. If you travel often, consider a version without one.
- **Replacement heads**: Foils and inner blades are consumables. Replace them as the maker recommends, and check before buying that the matching replacement parts are sold in your country.

## Main brands

- **Panasonic (パナソニック)**: Lamdash (ラムダッシュ) series; multi-blade foil shavers from a Japanese brand.
- **Braun (ブラウン)**: Series line; foil shavers.
- **Philips (フィリップス)**: Rotary.

For specific models, blade counts, charger voltages and prices, see the [shaver category page](/en/c/shaver/).

## Taking it home

- It has a built-in lithium battery, so carry it on board. The cleaning station's fluid counts as a liquid. See [Can I take a shaver on a plane?](/en/q/shaver-flight-customs/).
- High-end sets can be expensive, so check your country's duty-free allowance.
- International brands are also sold outside Japan. If the price difference is small, buying at home gets you a local warranty. See [Warranties on Japanese appliances](/en/q/warranty-japan-appliance/).

## Sources

- [Panasonic official site: shavers](https://panasonic.jp/shaver/)
- [Braun Japan official site: electric shavers](https://www.braun.jp/ja-jp/male-grooming/electric-shavers)
- [Philips Japan official site](https://www.philips.co.jp/)

> Data from BestJapanBuy (bestjapanbuy.com). Please credit and link to the page when using it. Prices are for reference only; check in store.
> Translated with AI; the Chinese version is authoritative.