The 10 Best Beard Trimmers, According to Experts

There are few experiences that can boost confidence like a fresh beard trim. The ritual of shaping our beards to reveal the best versions of ourselves can truly be a meditative feat. Today’s best beard trimmers and electric razors offer a diverse range of settings that can be tailored to achieve just about any look, and the customizable features are endless — from precision blades that cut down to the millimeter to blades and comb attachments developed to exact through stubble and long beards.

How to find the best beard trimmer

First and foremost, consider the length of your beard and your desired look. “If you prefer stubble, then you should have an easy time finding a model with a pre-set blade length that will allow you to keep an even length all over,” says Patrick Butler, technical director of education at Floyd’s 99 Barbershop. “However, if you prefer more length, you will want a model with attachments that offer different options for hair length.”

And although it can be tempting, don’t skimp on quality. “If you can spend a few more dollars on a durable model that will last, it will be worth it,” says Butler.

To narrow the options even further, consider whether cordless or corded beard trimmers best suit your needs.  “Cordless is great if you travel a lot, especially abroad (goodbye travel adapters),” says Brittany Raposo, master barber at Paul Labrecque Salon and Skincare Spa.

Motor power functions, waterproofing, adjustable blade settings and comb attachments can all make or break a beard trimmer, so keep those considerations in mind, too. “The more powerful the motor, the easier it is to cut through the hair,” adds Raposo. “This is important, especially if you have a coarse or dense beard.”

Important beard trimmer features to look for

You’ll get the most out of your beard trimmer by understanding all of its features. The most common beard trimmers will come with a T-shaped blade, perfect for detailed trimming. “A T-blade is excellent for detail work and getting into tight spaces like under the nose,” says Raposo.

And don’t forget to put your trimmer combs and adjustable precision blade angles to use. “The more guard length options your trimmer comes with, the more control you have over the length of your beard,” she says.

How to use a beard trimmer

Start slow, and when in doubt, stay the course. “If you’re new to grooming your own beard, take it slow and easy,” advises fellow barber Raquel Fajardo, who is also Los Angeles’ regional barber manager. “With your guard on, if you go with the grain of your hair, less bulk will come off,” she adds. “It’s a good way to start knocking density off without going super short.”

Try the opposite to achieve a shorter look. “If you want your beard shorter and tidier, you can go against the grain for a nice, even level.”

You may also want to finish off with a beard oil to keep your scruff looking supple.

How to take care of your beard trimmer

The beard trimmer is arguably one of the most used men’s grooming tools, and that’s why proper care and maintenance are key. “All beard trimmers should come with a small synthetic bristle brush and a lubricant,” says Fajardo. “Prior to any use, the trimmer needs to be oiled and run. This kind of proper care is the difference between having to replace your trimmer in a year, or having a tool that will last a lifetime,” she adds.

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