Top 11 Beard Trimmers (2024): Full Beard, Hair And Stubble

A beard trimmer It is a fortunately simple device that can have very different results. Different beards have very different needs, depending on hair type and style. And quality matters. Cheap leaves don’t save money if they die young. The last thing anyone needs in the morning is a dull or low-powered trimmer that pushes their hair instead of cutting it or, worse yet, pulls their hair.

The rainbow of trimmers appearing in the shopping aisles advertising “professional precision” and “blades for life” without corresponding warranties can be discouraging. We consulted barbers and hairstylists and then applied these blades to our own faces. Our team includes multiple testers with different morning routines, with multiple beard versions and visions. Whether you’re looking for rugged stubble, detailed geometry, or the well-manicured thatch of a stylish lumberjack, we’ve got a pick for you.

For more grooming guides, check out the best hair removal creams and tools, the best hair dryers, and the best hair straighteners.

Updated December 2024: We added Philips Norelco Multigroom and a classic Wahl Peanut, a barber’s favorite.

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Your beard grows about a millimeter every two to three days, depending on who you are—an eighth of an inch a week, on average. Therefore, trying beard trimmers can be time-consuming.

Generally, we test each beard trimmer once the beard has grown long enough for a good cut, using at least two trim lengths. Weight and balance are important, as is the blade’s ability to reach difficult areas around the neck. Our testers check how well made and easy to use the accessories are, and we verify manufacturer claims about battery life and power. We also consulted with professional groomers, especially to verify durability and reliability claims between brands and models.

Tester Andrew Williams has a relatively full beard, with a straight stubble. Tester Matthew Korfhage has coarse, angry hair, and apparently has a mind of his own. We’ve tried to reflect any potential issues (e.g. issues with thick bristles) in our reviews, so you can be sure to get the best possible cut with the least effort.

Here you’ll find help choosing the right features for your facial hair.

Ceramic Blades Versus Steel Blades: Ceramic blades may hold their edge better than steel, but the smaller teeth on premium beard trimmer blades tend to be made of stainless steel.
barrel control: Some beard trimmers have twist controls on the device. For an easier life, choose one with minimal accessories.
Ni-MH versus Li-ion: Avoid trimmers with excessively long charge times and those that use old nickel metal hydride batteries. They do not hold their charge as long as lithium-ion batteries.
Waterproof? Trimming your beard in the shower isn’t as beneficial as wet shaving, but a waterproof design lets you wash the trimmer under the tap with confidence.
USB charging: It took too long, but you can finally get USB charging cables for beard trimmers, while Manscaped even uses USB-C in the case itself. A great advantage for traveling.
Small teeth versus larger teeth: The larger blade teeth can cut thick, dense hair, but the smaller teeth allow for a closer, more precise cut. The best example of the latter is the Philips OneBlade family.
Wide Versus Narrow Blade: Hair clippers have wider blades than beard trimmers. The tighter style provides greater control, with minimal waste of time for those with shorter facial hair.
Do the blades need to be replaced? Use blade oil (often included) to prevent rust, and the blades should last for years. However, Philips OneBlade hybrid trimmer-shaver models will need more regular replacement.
Empty? Some beard trimmers have a vacuum function to prevent hair clippings from getting everywhere. The truth is that it is a trick.