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

Updated 2026-10-233 sources

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. 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?.

Step 2: Foil or rotary

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.

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?.
• 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.