Panasonic Arc5 vs Arc6 - worth the upgrade?

[Techguy Marcus]

Current Arc5 user here (ES-LV65-S model) and thinking about upgrading to the Arc6. My Arc5 has been solid for 2 years but the Arc6 keeps getting mentioned as a game changer. Main differences I know about: Arc6 has 6 cutting elements vs 5 on Arc5, Arc5 has 45 minute battery while Arc6 has 50 minutes, Arc6 charges in 40 minutes vs 1 hour on Arc5, Arc6 head moves in 22 directions vs 16 on Arc5, and Arc6 is about twice the price ($400+ vs $200).


The Arc5 has a 14,000 CPM motor while Arc6 has 84,000 cross-cutting actions per minute. Is that extra cutting element and power really worth doubling the cost? I travel a lot for work so the cleaning station on the Arc6 models is tempting but not essential. Anyone made this jump? Is the performance difference actually noticeable day to day?

Techguy Marcus

 

[Jim Elliott]

Welcome aboard, Techguy Marcus.

The Arc5 cutter and foil are both separate, whereas with the Arc6, the cutter and foil are together (the cutter is in the foil, as in a part of it). I've never tried other one, but I'm actually tempted to try an Arc5 to shave my head. I had some problems with the Braun Series 9 Pro with clogged hair because the design is just like the Arc6 foil and cutter. They're together. If you're using it only to shave your face, I'm sure either one would serve you well.