Fusion vs Mach 3, Fight! (Gillette Fusion Power Razor)

Member Name: Good_Guy

Product:	Gillette Fusion Power Razor
Date:	02/11/09 (110 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Biggest benefit is the "Sixth Blade"

Disadvantages: Pricey, look out for intoductary offers.

Interestingly the main thrust of Gillette's advertising is to urge us to give up the Mach 3 because the Fusion range of razors is so much better. This is both a little bit disconcerting, if not amusing, as for years Gillette has been flogging the Mach 3 as part of "the best a man can get" range of shaving products. Plus it's more usual to set your stall as to how much better your product is as compared to the competition. Perhaps they see a more readily convertible customer base in those of us who are Gillette users. So, to get to the point is it better than the Mach 3?

Fusion Power vs. Mach3 Power
I don't think there's a noticeable difference in the resulting shave between the Mach3 Power and the Fusion Power. Where I do think there is a difference is in the act of shaving, and in the razor itself. The Fusion Power seems more powerful. Even with a new battery in my old Mach 3 before testing and comparing the two in my own tests; I think there's a slight improvement in the Fusion. Both give a frictionless shave; the vibrations seem to eliminate razor drag. Both cope admirably with one, two or even three days' worth of growth. Somehow the Fusion Power's vibrations seem to stack up better. I'm sure Gillette put considerable effort into the development of the vibration mechanism.

Battery replacement on the Fusion is much easier, just a simple twist and the compartment releases though I haven't needed to replace the battery. Also, the auto-off feature has got to be good as you will not have to worry about running down your battery accidentally; it switches itself off after 8 minutes.

In essence my comparison is throwing up marginally better features and slight edge in performance. But, for me, there's one feature that makes this razor stand out against all other multi-bladed shaving implements the "sixth blade"; that is the single blade on the reverse side. It's easily the best improvement in shaving; effectively a return to the single blade. Shaving with any multi-blade razor can be a bit challenge in dealing with certain areas, under your nose and around your sideburns. The head shape is just wrong and the lub strip at the top precludes any easy access to those hairs right under your nose, plus it's difficult to be accurate when trimming locks. No problem for the Fusion, this single feature might just be the real and most convincing reason to switch.

While I'm on the subject of that aloe strip, another of its functions is to indicate when the blade needs replacement; fading as it does from blue to white. Personally I disregard this as the razor is perfectly usable well beyond the indicated life. In fact its colour seems to disappear alarmingly quickly. A simple comparison as follows

Comparative Features:-
Number of Blades - Fusion Power=5: Mach3 Power=3
Precision Blade - Fusion Power=Yes: Mach3 Power=No
Auto off - Fusion Power=Yes: Mach3 Power=No
Low battery indicator - Fusion Power=Yes: Mach3 Power=No
Flexible Guard - Fusion Power=15 microFins: Mach3 Power=10 microFins


Fusion vs. Fusion Power:
Again I don't think there a noticeable difference in shaving results between the powered and the non-powered version of the Fusion. Where there is a difference is in the act of shaving, vibration means less or even, no drag. With the unpowered version of the Fusion as you make strokes across your face, you feel a slight tug against your skin. With the powered Fusion, it's a smooth glide; a matter of personal choice perhaps and influenced by other factors, such as the toughness of your beard. From my own experience I have no reservation in strongly recommending that you try a powered razor at least once.

The Fusion Power in use:
When you purchase your new Fusion razor it comes with the necessary batteries and one blade; yes only one, a bit mean of Gillette, two would be more acceptable. Replacement blades are quite expensive and this is a premium razor at a premium price. So come on Gillette loosen up; this must be the only razor on the market packaged with only one blade!

Shaving with the powered fusion and the results there of are dependent on preparation; preparing your beard and face by washing with soap and warm water or, better still, using one of the specialty facewash products designed for the job. Always use a good shaving gel or, my preference, quality shaving oil. The Fusion Power does, indeed, glide over your skin; I think the secret is in using light smooth strokes and constantly rinsing the razor, both to keep it clean and wet. Using quality products enhances not just the outcome but also those expensive blades will maintain peak performance time after time.

If you're a Mach3 Power user, I think you should check out the Fusion Power. The cartridges are not compatible, so use up your current stock before switching, but I think you'll be happy with the upgrade. Again, the vibrations are better, the auto-off is a welcome addition, and oh that sixth blade!

Summary: Premium razor for Premium Results.