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[Prime] Panasonic Rechargeable Wet/Dry 5-Blade Shaver with Pop-up Trimmer & Auto-Cleaning System $279 Delivered @ Amazon AU

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Also known as Panasonic Arc5 Wet/Dry Electric Shaver. Model: ES-LV97-K841.

Good price on a good foil shaver. Made in Japan. Many reviews compare it to the Braun Series 9 Pro+ Wet & Dry Electric Shaver. And many reviewers tend to pick 9 Pro+ over the Arc 5 for the smallest reasons like "9 Pro+ felt a little more comfortable on the skin" or "9 Pro+ has a smaller head". From my research, there are more complaints about 9 Pro+. These are (for 9 Pro+): head doesn't stay locked while shaving, expensive consumables/replacements, quality of replacement heads appear to be a hit and miss. The only negatives I found for Arc 5: big shaver head, package doesn't include detergent/washing solution.

Arc 5 is currently $549.95 at Shaver Shop, $449 at JB but without dock and above $400 at a few other places. Braun Series 9 Pro+ seems to be at around $400 mark at best and rarely goes below that. I ended up getting the Arc 5. Near identical performance to 9 Pro+ but cheaper ($279) and, in my research at least, less negatives.

Price History at C CamelCamelCamel.
This is part of Amazon Prime Day sales for 2025

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Comments

  • Sorry noob qs, is this the top tier series from Panasonic? Which has a better close-to-skin shaving? This or Braun 9+ Pro in your opinion?

    • +3

      It's not too Tier but close to. There's also a model with 6 blades. But this one is good enough too.

    • +4

      There is a Panasonic Arc 6 (6 blades instead of 5 in this deal), but it's a lot more expensive for very little improvement. Arc 5 shaves a bit closer than 9+ Pro according to reviews like https://shavingadvisor.com/electric-shavers/panasonic-arc5-v… I only bought my Arc 5 yesterday after my research.

      • +3

        I've had the Arc 6, and it's the closest shave I've ever had using any type of shaver (razor or electric), for that it wins hands down.

        However, I would say for most people, it's not worth the extra dollars compared to the Arc 5 models.
        Get the "premium" arc 5 with the metal body for around $300, and you will get a very similar shave and have a nice shaver.

        The blades are much cheaper and readily available on the Arc5 models as well.

        • When i shave with Gillette sensitive blade, my face after shave becomes like peeled or shaved potato.
          Is the same case using arc6? Is it harsh on skin

          My beard is like metal scrub

          • @Zeee: I have relatively thick beard, when I shave with a razor, my face feels very rough and even though not visible, it's scarred evident by the pain I get from applying after shave. In contrast, when I use the Arc 6, my face is super smooth, and after shave barely stings.

            The only part where it's a bit more rough is the neck area, but that's because each beard is going in its own direction. it takes a few attempts at different directions to get the neck fully clean, and that can get a bit uncomfortable when in summer and shaver gets hot.

            The closest shave I can achieve is with oil/shaving cream and Arc6, it feels super smooth and very easy to do.

            • @OpayuOnam: Yeah mine is also different directions on neck. I just stopped shaving and keeping trimmeed because of the pain and rough skin

              • @Zeee: When I'm in a rush, I just do quick couple of run overs with Arc6, and then touch up with a 5 blade disposable.

                This is the fastest combo, with minimised pain 😆

                The most missus approved shave is when I use the oil/shaving cream and it's basically super clean/smooth. I tend to do that once a week as it's a bit more involved and messy 🙂‍↕️

        • is the metal one better than this model? (the ES-LV97-K841 in the deal)

          • +1

            @prsam1: https://shavercheck.com/panasonic-shavers-guide
            Have a look at this guy's buying guide
            the metal one in question is ES-LV9Q
            it seems like it's very hard to find this model now as it's a couple of years older main selling point being a more premium feel as it's metal.
            And the idea here is that once the blades get full in 18 months time, you buy the newer model blade and now you have metal body but the latest blade tech…
            not sure if it's worth chasing…

            • +2

              @OpayuOnam: thanks for the informative reply dude

              • +2

                @prsam1: 👍🏻 all good man, happy shaving.

                Last thing I'll add here, I just did a back to back shave using the Palm Arc3 (it's a mini palm sized Arc 3 which I used on my head and for travel), followed by Arc6. This was an exercise to ensure I don't have any confirmation bias towards the uber expensive Arc6 due to just price. I shaved one side with Arc3, then shaved the other side with Arc6, compared both sides and the Arc6 is both smoother and less sensitive. Then I went over the Arc3 side with Arc6, and low and behold it takes off that much more and brings both sides to the same smoothness level. The only caveat being the Arc3 side has slightly more discomfort when applying after shave (indicating micro abrasion on skin).

                The difference is minor, but it's there and it's enough to justify this for me. Given the Arc5 is in between 3 and 6, and probably closer to 6, I would go on a limb and say most people would be super happy with the Arc5 especially at this $280 price with the cleaning station.

                I don't have any reason to get an Arc5 to try, so this is the best comparison I can do.

                My past shave experiences are with Philips Rotary the mid range models, but completely incompatible with my beard style and face, always ended up with cuts and blood. Then trialled a bunch of cheapie ALDI/Kmart/AliExpress ones until the missus said just go get yourself a nice shaver that gives a smooth shave. I first tried a Braun Series 7 (new model) which was okay, but I wasn't super happy with, especially the $350 I paid for it at the time. I was ready to pull the trigger on one of the Arc5 models, as the Arc6 wasn't available in Australia at the time (just released in Japan), when I went to Shavers Shop to compare a few Arc5s, where I saw the Arc6! It wasn't even officially launched yet, so I was like (profanity) it, let's buy this and give it a go, and my it was a game changer hehehe. Missus did freakout a bit once she found out the price, but then a couple of weeks later Shavers did a "launch" sale, I went back to them and said hey you said this is new model won't be on sale for a while, manager said yeah fair enough and refunded the difference for me… so yeah.

    • +1

      I had a braun and I current have this panasonic. I would buy another panasonic over the braun. The panasonic is the only saver i used which does not irritate the skin I shave on my neck. The braun always gave me a slight saving rash but the panasonic never does.

    • According to multiple reviews, Panasonic has better close-to-skin shaving compared to Braun

  • Upvote for the write up! Nice find OP :) Now I feel like a scumbag for owning the Braun Series 9 Pro+

    • I'll swap you for my Panasonic. I find my Arc 5 Panasonic is very rough and uncomfortable on my neck, and doesn't shave too smoothly except when the blades are quite new.

      • Ensure you replace outer foil every year and inner blades every 2 years.
        https://eng-au.faq.panasonic.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/576….

        Braun series 9 recommended head replacement interval of 18 months. Unavoidable.

        • Even when they're new and sharp, they don't work well on the neck. A lot of complaints about this in the reviews too.

      • i have 2 older model arc 5 and the Panasonic cutters go dull fast.

  • Can it only be charged via the dock?

    • +2

      Arc 5 shaver can be charged directly without using the cleaning station. Comes with a travel case too.

    • +1

      In addition to what the user above has said, yes you can just put it in the dock, and it'll charge. The dock has a button to start cleaning.

      Unlike Braun, cleaning solutions are detergent based, so I find that it lasts a lot longer.

      I usually do a quick wash with soap, then put in the dock and hit the go button, it'll clean and then dry.

      I tend to replace the solution everything 6-8 weeks as needed.

      • I replace the liquid every 6 months. Had it for 5 years and its still going strong (after a batter replacement).

        • I replace it when it starts to lose its nice lemony smell, I estimated about 6-8 weeks, but looking at the refill receipts it's actually closer to 12-15 weeks.

    • After owning a Panasonic shaver for over five years, I only just found out that there is a cable which can be plugged directly into a USB port and can charge.

  • How's this one compare to ES-LV65 anyone know?

    • +1

      Shaving experience will be the same seeing as they use the same blades. Functions in terms of the lighting indicators, etc, may differ slightly.

      You can get ES-LV67, which is the same as the one above except without the cleaning station for $194

      • cheers, probs no point then my 65 is going ok still after 6 years.

        • Seems to also have a $10 Prime saving making it $184. Is a cleaning station really worth the extra almost $100?

  • Would you recommend this for shaving your head? Or is there a better option for the price?

    • Hi @Morien. Braun series 9 pro is better for shaving the head as the foils are more adaptable and flexible.

      I only use it to shave my head. Works much better and faster than Pitbull's best skull shavers.

      • Thanks!

      • That’s not correct, both Panasonic and Braun use ‘floating’ blades, but Panasonic’s shaver head also moves in more directions, allowing it to better adapt to the contours of the skin.

    • +1

      I would suggest the new Panasonic Palm shaver for the head.
      The 3 blade one is a great balance between power and comfort.

      my issue with face shavers on head is that they are too awkward to move around and my arm gets tired.

      https://www.panasonic.com/au/consumer/personal-care/shavers/…

      I even use it on face for travel as it's lightweight and charges by USB C.

    • Personal preference, I have been using Panasonic arc five shaver for the last well over five years and pretty much shaving my head every single day. If not at least every two days I did not like the pitbull shavers. I tried them out for maybe two weeks and I didn’t like it I didn’t like the the cleaning bit.

  • +3

    Have had the Arc5 for about 4 years now. Still going strong, no complaints at all. Shave is close - but as above poster mentioned, obviously its better the newer the blades are. Replaced blades at the 2 year mark - and due to replace soon too. Nothing wrong with current ones, I just prefer to replace every 2 years to keep it consistent.

    Battery life still good, I use daily for a few minutes. Only need a charge after 3 weeks or so. Replacement blades is about $80 from memory and foils is about $20. Ebay/Amazon easily available, generic as well as OEM similar replacement prices I found.

    Would recommend, I would only replace if it died but no sign of that yet!

  • Had this but the version without the cleaning station, rock solid, I only use it about once a week, have had it for few years.

  • Heading to Japan in 3 weeks, would this be cheaper from Tokyo? If not can anyone recommend me a good one?

    • You will get some tourist no tax discounts and maybe a discount if there is a sale, but IMO it would be hard to beat this deal. Also if you buy in Japan you will get Japan plug. Warranty claims might be harder to deal with if not bought in Australia. Don't forget to register here when traveling to Japan to save time once you arrive: https://www.vjw.digital.go.jp/main/#/vjwplo001.

      • Could you please share what's the website is about? I'm heading to Osaka next month and it's my first trip to Japan. Cheers

        • +2

          "Visit Japan Web is a digital service offered by the Japanese government to streamline the immigration and customs process for travelers entering Japan. It allows you to pre-register your information, including immigration and customs details, before your arrival, potentially saving time and hassle at the airport. While not mandatory, using Visit Japan Web can significantly speed up your entry process by replacing paper forms with digital registration and QR codes.

          Visit Japan Web online customs & immigration registration … While you can still enter Japan without using Visit Japan Web and complete the necessary forms manually, using the service is generally recommended to streamline your arrival process and minimize potential delays."

          Register on your phone then show the QR code when you arrive. Saves you time filling in paperwork in Japan.

    • I was in japan recently and got a panasonic ES-L320W-K for 7480 yen. (80 AUD). From that Don Quiote store in osaka. I think very good for the money, i was under the impression it was usb-c charging but the charger is propriatery. But the shaver is li-ion and has the linear motor. I had the entry level nimh panasonic 3 blader before this and the motor and battery are much better in this new li-ion one. Even though it takes the same blades it does a far better job at shaving. I actually could hardly believe the improvement as i re-used the 1/2 worn foil and blades from my old one (kept the new ones for next year). I think the linear motor ones are 13000 rpm and the entry level ones are 8000 rpm?

      Though I did noticed this deal on amazon for a basic panasonic nimh one with usb charging. Looks like a great travel one.
      https://www.amazon.com.au/Panasonic-Electric-Ergonomic-Charg… barely more expensive than the blades and foil. am thinking about getting it for travelling for the USB charging.

      Anyways the 5 blades system like this deal must be really good. But i've always bulked at them in regards to the price of replacement blades. But its proably worth it if you can buy the shaver for $279. I dont think it would be any cheaper in japan.

  • Can you get an plug to charge via USB C ?

    • There are cables available on Amazon, eBay and AliExpress that converts USB to propriety connector, I have one and occasionally use when travelling…

      • I washing to avoid another cable. I found littleType-C Shaver Charger Adapter for Braun & Phillips but nothing for Panasonic.

        • I specifically needed a cable, so that's what I searched for, there may be adaptors out there…

  • Absolutely brilliant machine which cost very little to maintain (ie no separate cleaning solution required) and you can wash it under tap. Going rock solid for last 3 years and still giving good results.

  • Thanks OP been trying to get a shaver for ages keep putting it off. Looks to be good and good discount.

  • I not sure this is made in Japan. The website doesn't state where which would indicate not in Japan(the ones that are state). The foil and cutters are though.

    • Amazon listing says country of origin is Japan. I don't know if that's for everything or just some parts. I haven't got mine yet to confirm. Only ordered yesterday.

      • The same model at Shaver Shop is, so hopefully it is.

      • +1

        Mine arrived yesterday, tis made in Japan.

    • I found a pic of the product's cardboard box.
      It says the shaver made in japan, the charger made in china.
      Nice

  • Can recommend this. Very happy with mine.

  • I was eyeing the Braun Series 9 Pro plus earlier at the Shaver Shop for $499 and then saw this post. Read the comments and decided to order this instead and used a couple of discount codes to bring it down to $259. Hopefully it turns out good.

    • how did get so low? i am 265 now,any secret? appreciated if you can share or works for others.

      • +1

        My wife's prime account had a few $10 offers on the main page that had resulted in a $10 voucher available plus further $10 off using CARD10 promo code. Could have gotten further 3% off with discounted giftcards but I want to retain the ability of a refund in case I am not satisfied.

  • how does this compare to a philips one blade?

  • +2

    Ive tried a lot of shavers over the years, but as a long long time Panasonic ES8103S (Arc3) owner I can say that it is by far the best investment Ive made out of all the other shavers Ive used. Still shaves very well even from original blades (closest of all that Ive had previously) and the battery charges well and holds a charge still somehow….. Ive had this for over 10 years and its brilliant.

    It came with the cleaning station, I used it a couple of times but mostly just use the included brush and of late Ive been using the Wolfblox air duster to give it a blow down, then re-oil: https://www.amazon.com.au/WOLFBOX-MF100-Compressed-Duster-15…

    Anyways, Im going to finally upgrade to one of these Arc5's, seems a bit bulkier but at this price its a steal.

  • This deal has caught my eye, and I’m really tempted, but I am not sure about the size of the head.

    Currently I have an older Series 7 (720) Braun that I use 2 or 3 times a week. I primarily use a DE shaver 2 or 3 times a week, and use the electric in between. The Braun has a sturdy travel case, but is getting a bit old. The price and closeness of the Panasonic is appealing, but the size of the head & soft case make me wonder if it’s better to pickup a discounted Braun. Both brands have decent prices for Prime Day, but I’m unsure of the best option.

    • +1

      Tried Braun, Philips, and Panasonic, along some cheaper brand. Only Panasonic does a decent enough job for me

      • +1

        Same here, tried them all and Panasonic came far ahead. But I do recognise that it's a very subjective matter
        .

  • +2

    Have always used Braun shaver, i have been having issue with my current series 9 with the shaver cartridge not staying locked so this deal is perfect.
    Will give Panasonic a try but I'm worried about the size difference and since I have a sensitive skin it migh be better to get another Braun but as OP stated there is lots of negative feedback about the series 9.
    Put in the order hopefully I don't have to return it. Series 9 Pro + is currently on sale at shaver shop.

  • +1

    Over the years, I've never used the cleaning station. Only recently purchased a ultrasonic cleaner - and it does a real sweet job of cleaning the blades and foils.

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