The Arc 5, Panasonic’s premium line of electric shavers for men, is currently at its third generation, having undergone multiple revisions during the past few years.
Continuing that trend, Panasonic recently announced yet another iteration of the Arc 5 range, precisely the F revision.
These new shavers will be available in Japan starting in October 2020.
Unsurprisingly, this release only added to the confusion caused by the previous iterations, particularly the revision D and revision E that were also limited to the Japanese domestic market.
The only available information is on Panasonic.jp, so trying to make sense of the features, performance and differences between these 2020 Arc 5 F models and the older ones is difficult, to say the least.
In this article, I will try to present all these aspects in an easy to grasp manner, focusing on the parts that really matter.
So without further ado, let’s get right to it.
Table of Contents
An overview of the Arc 5 (LAMDASH) Revision F (2020)
Being the very latest update in Panasonic’s range-topping series, a new Arc 5 will always spark a lot of interest among potential buyers.
Newer shavers should normally come with improvements over the previous generations, so wanting to know more makes perfect sense.
Looking back at the previous revisions, we can easily conclude that most of the updates were incremental and didn’t really have an impact on the actual shaving performance.
Apart from the revision C, which was by far the most significant one, with a new design and features, the rest of them consisted of minor changes.
Let’s see how these things are with the latest F revision.
5 blade shaving head
As expected, the Arc 5 still rocks a massive shaving unit comprised of 5 individual cutting elements.
Just like all the previous ones, we also have the two comfort rollers that despite my initial skepticism, really do help and make the shaving experience more pleasant compared to the older Arc 5 models that didn’t have them.
The F revision models come with the exact same outer foil and inner blades as the E revision, which immediately suggests extremely similar (if not identical) performance.
Precisely, we have the following part numbers:
- Outer foil: ES9179
- Inner blades: WES9170 (WES9170P)
- Outer foil & inner blades set: ES9038
This is not surprising at all and we’ve seen it before; moreover, all these newer foils and blades are backward compatible with the older Arc 5 generations (like the ES-LV65-S/ES-LV95-S).
But getting back to the outer foil of the F (and E) revision, it is the latest and features an improved slit trimmer that’s supposedly better at catching flat-lying hairs, definitely the Achilles’ heel of all Panasonic shavers.
According to Panasonic, it is 10% more efficient compared to the one on the revision D outer foil.
In my opinion that improvement will not have a massive impact, but I will have to test one myself.
14 000 CPM motor
No changes here either, so the 2020 Arc 5 comes with the same snappy 14 000 CPM (cycles per minute) linear drive motor.
While it has shrunk in size throughout the years (currently at its 8th generation), the specs have remained unchanged and it’s still the fastest you’ll find on any electric shaver.
It’s a great unit, smooth, powerful and reliable.
Also, because it is located in the shaving head itself, there’s no need for a complex linkage between it and the blades, so there’s no power being wasted and fewer things to go wrong.
Fun fact: there is a Xiaomi electric shaver called Mijia 5 that claims to have a 15 000 CPM motor. I haven’t used one yet, so I cannot comment on its performance.
5D active suspension
The head unit of the Arc 5 is probably the most complex of any foil shaver out there.
Precisely, the flexing mechanism allows the whole head to move in 5 different planes: front to back, left to right, up and down, slide forward/backward and twist as well.
Impressive? Definitely. Overkill? Probably.
I was personally never a fan of it since in my experience a basic up and down movement, backed by a great range of motion works better in practice.
I just don’t find this 5D system that much useful and it can even get a bit annoying since the head is massive and feels a bit wobbly.
According to Panasonic, this technology should help put less strain on the skin and keep the foils in contact with the area that’s being shaved.
The same 5D active suspension system was also present on the C, D and E revisions, so no changes here either.
AI beard density sensor
Just like the previous Arc 5 revision E, the 2020 Arc 5 F also comes with the so-called AI Beard density sensor that reads the stubble density and adjusts the power accordingly (up to 220 times per second).
This should make the shaver more efficient and more comfortable when shaving areas with light hair.
I’ve used many shavers with similar technologies and again, the improvements seem to be small if any at all.
That pretty much sums up the main features of the 2020 Panasonic Arc 5 revision F.
As you can tell, the changes from the outgoing revision E are pretty much non-existent: same shaving unit, same foil & blades, same motor.
Let’s now check out the individual models and their differences as there are quite a few interesting details you should be aware of.
Panasonic Arc 5 revision F model comparison
Here’s a table with all the new 2020 Arc 5 Lamdash models and the main differences between them.
| Model | Cleaning station | Operation | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
Panasonic ES-LV9FX [-S silver, washable] | Yes | Cordless and corded [dry only] | 10 level LED, elapsed time, metal body, smart lock, leather case |
Panasonic ES-LV9F [-S silver, washable] | Yes | Cordless and corded [dry only] | 10 level LED, elapsed time, plastic body, smart lock, soft faux leather pouch |
Panasonic ES-LV7F [-T brown, washable] | Yes | Cordless and corded [dry only] | 3 level LED, plastic body, soft faux leather pouch |
Panasonic ES-LV7T [-A blue, wet/dry] | Yes | Cordless only [wet&dry] | 3 level LED, plastic body, soft faux leather pouch |
Panasonic ES-LV5F [-R red, -K black, washable] | No | Cordless and corded [dry only] | 5 level LED, plastic body, soft faux leather pouch |
Panasonic ES-LV5T [-A blue, wet/dry] | No | Cordless only [wet&dry] | 5 level LED, plastic body, soft faux leather pouch |
All Panasonic Arc 5 revision F models are fully waterproof and can be rinsed with water.
However, most of them (the ones marketed as washable) are officially suitable for dry only use, so you won’t be able to shave in the shower for example.
The reason is related to safety since all these washable models will also work while plugged in.
There are only two models explicitly presented as wet/dry models that will only work cordless, namely the T variations: ES-LV7T and ES-LV5T.
The first one also comes with an automatic cleaning and charging station. Both of them will only operate cordlessly and are suitable for wet shaving.
The ES-LV9FX features a full-metal body.For example, only the flagship ES-LV9FX has a metal body, the rest of them featuring a standard plastic build.
From previous experience, I know that it is however a high-quality plastic and it looks and feels premium as well.
Also, only the ES-LV9FX and ES-LV9F have a 10-level battery level indicator and the display will also show the duration of the shave.
The rest of the models only come with either a 5 or 3-level battery indicator and will not show the duration of the shave.
Also, the so-called smart lock feature is only limited to the top ES-LV9FX and ES-LV9F models.
Basically, the travel lock system is active at all times and automatically unlocks the shaver when you hold it in your hand.
The other ones come with the standard travel lock (activated by pressing and holding the power button when the shaver is running).
In my opinion the only differences that really matter are related to the inclusion of the cleaning station and the ability to use the shaver while it is plugged in.
But regarding the latter aspect, there’s a rather odd limitation.
Take a look at the screenshot below taken from a Panasonic user instruction manual.
That basically means you won’t be able to use a dry only/washable Arc 5 with the cord plugged in if the battery is completely worn out.
And that totally renders this feature useless. The whole point of having a cordless/corded shaver is to be able to keep using it even when the battery can’t hold a charge anymore.
At least that’s how the rest of these cordless/cored shavers work.
So there’s really no reason to go after a cordless/corded Arc 5 model in this case.
Also, there is now a 3-minute quick charge function (an improvement from the previous 5 minute).
Availability and price
While there’s no official information yet, the revision F shavers will probably only be available in Japan and they will cost a lot.
That was the case with the previous D and E models, while the C revision was eventually released in Europe and other regions as well (but not in the USA).
So Panasonic continues this trend of not making the latest top of the line shavers available outside of Japan.
If you’re planning on getting one, your only option would be to buy it from a Japanese vendor that is willing to ship overseas.
That obviously means spending even more money with shipping and customs fees.
If you do manage to grab one, it will work anywhere in the world thanks to the automatic voltage switch (100 to 240v). You may however need a basic plug adapter.
Are they worth the trouble?
Well, that really depends.
In my opinion, if you already own a revision C Arc 5 (and up), the upgrade to an F model is really not worth it.
The shaving performance is basically the same and apart from a few minor changes, you’re not really getting anything significantly better.
If you’re planning on getting your first Arc 5 and your budget allows it, then you can go ahead and buy one. It’s definitely a great shaver that will satisfy pretty much anyone.
As for the owners of older Arc 5 models like the ES-LV65-S or ES-LV95-S, if your shaver is still in good condition, remember that you also can upgrade it to the latest foil and blades used by the revisions F and E.
The old and new Arc 5 outer foil.I wrote a detailed guide on that topic here.
Since the motor has the same specs and most of the changes are related to design and some fancy features (like the smart lock function, AI density sensor and so on), older Arc 5 models that are widely available still make a lot of sense, especially since the price is lower.
Which leads us to the next section.
Alternatives you can buy right now
In my opinion, the closest alternative (performance and design-wise) that is still relatively easy to get and reasonably priced is the revision C.
These models (like the ES-LV9Q and ES-LV6Q) are widely available, particularly in Europe, they now cost less money and are very similar to the latest 2020 revision F.
And while Panasonic didn’t officially release them in the USA, you can often get them on sites like Amazon.com as well.
I would definitely consider one of those instead of getting through hoops and paying a premium for a revision F model.
The only real novelty of the 2020 F revision is that AI beard density sensor which is supposedly improved and the revised outer foil.
However, as mentioned earlier, you can actually upgrade the foil to the latest one as it is backward compatible.
Finally, the older second-generation Arc 5 shavers like the ES-LV65-S offer great value for money and are still top performers.
And yes, you’ll also be able to upgrade to any of the newer foils which are in my experience a bit more comfortable and glide really smoothly on the skin.
Other budget-friendly alternatives are the ES-LV67-K and ES-LV97-K, basically a generation 2 Arc 5 with a new design.
That pretty much sums up my initial impressions of the 2020 Panasonic Arc 5 revision F. I will be getting one for a detailed review once they become available.
If you have any questions, make sure to post them in the comments below.
Images credit: Panasonic.jp
Hi, do you think £59.99 for the Panasonic ES-RF31 is a good price or is there anything better suited in that kind of price range. I’ve noticed the model numbers & prices vary significantly between retailers so it gets a bit confusing knowing what is higher or lower spec’d.
I look to shave every other day, currently have an old Braun Series 3 380s-4 which is ok but struggles to shave with the same closeness on the jaw line and above the chin. Hair on my neck grows in different directions so can also be difficult to shave with my Series 3 without it looking patchy.
Thank you
Hi Alex,
I’d say that it’s a reasonable price for an Arc 4. There are better (Panasonic) shavers, but not in that price range.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you for the great information. I find your website to be the best resource for electric shaving on the internet.
I have a couple questions and I’d appreciate your insight.
I currently use a rotary shaver, the Norelco Prestige. I am quite happy with this shaver but have been considering the Panasonic Arc 5 as well (I love gadgets and the Arc 5 seems impressive).
My questions are… does the skin need to adjust when switching from a rotary to a foil (as it does when switching from say a cartridge razor such as a Mach 3)? And a related question, is it effective to switch back and forth between a rotary and foil shaver depending on your daily preference or is it better to pick one and stick with it?
Note: My skin is not sensitive and I’ve used foil razors successfully in the past. I’m not looking to stop using the Prestige but hoping to successfully use the Prestige and Arc 5. Obviously, I won’t take the plunge if alternating razors is not a sensible approach.
Thank you for your comment, Dave.
That’s actually an excellent question. The skin doesn’t really need to adjust when alternating between two different types of electric shavers in the same way it needs to adjust when switching from a razor blade to electric.
Instead, the adjustment mainly has to do with your technique getting better and how well your skin generally gets along with the other type of shaver. And from what I understand, you’ve used foil shavers before without any issues, so I don’t see anything wrong with alternating between your Prestige and an Arc 5. It would be ineffective only if for some reason you’ll constantly be getting poor results with one of them (for example, I almost never get a good shave with rotary shavers as I have very sensitive skin).
Hope this makes sense.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks Ovidiu.
Your response makes complete sense and I appreciate your insight.
Based on the articles and reviews on this site I think I’ll give the Arc 5 ES-LV65-S a shot.
Dave
No problem, Dave, glad I could of help. It’s a really good shaver and definitely the Arc 5 model that offers the best value for money, at least right now.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
LV67 is ~$10 cheaper. And it looks better. Which is literally all that’s different.
The price varies a lot — I’ve seen the ES-LV65 costing a lot less than the ES-LV67. It also depends on the country/region where the shavers are being sold. As for the looks, that’s highly subjective. Also, some users would much rather have the useful display of the ES-LV65 over the slick design.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you so much for your thorough reviews. There is so much confusing content out there that claims to tell you everything you need to know, but then doesn’t go into the detail that I want to truly understand how shaving works. Not at all the case here, here there are wonderful in-depth articles showing everything I need to know, with the kind of knowledge that came from trying everything for a while, rather than just looking up how things should work. Thank you for your excellent journalism Ovidiu.
Garrett, thank you so much for your comment, you are way too kind. Glad you found the information on this website useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi, thanks for the great article, I just bought C revision Arc 5. I didn’t realise it was Dry shave only model. Can it be used with a shave gel or foam or it will spoil it?
Hi,
Thank you for your comment. I cannot recommend using an electric shaver contrary to the manufacturer’s instruction. Since all the models are waterproof, they shouldn’t sustain any damage when used with shaving cream.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello
I’m about to buy one of these models: ES-LV65 or ES-LV9Q
But I don’t know which one to choose
I don’t care about the price in this case but which is better choice when it comes to performance
So is it worth it to stick with the older ES-LV65 to have that option to disable shaving sensor and run it in full throttle and also head without that two comfort rollers which supposedly will give me closer shave with less passes than newer ES-LV9Q ?
Or the newest ES-LV9Q will still be better?
Hi Lee,
I would still get the ES-LV65. The outer foils of the ES-LV9Q are a bit more comfortable, but that’s pretty much it. If you don’t have sensitive skin, you probably won’t notice any difference between them. So the inclusion of a cleaning station with the ES-LV9Q is really the main difference here.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks for the reply
Right, ES-LV65 will be good and I don’t think I will need a cleaning station as manual cleaning is easy
Thanks for the information. Your site is the most comprehensive regarding shavers.
I have spent hours reading. I plan to buy my first electric. It would be a substantial expense as most are not available here in my country. I have to import them. Only the braun series 3 300s, 310bt and the proskin 3030 are available and at a price premium at that.
Based on what I read here, I think that the panasonic would be the most practical because of manual cleaning. And I am interested in the arc5 because it is the most comfortable of the panasonics.
I have some questions though. Regarding comfort, I have read here that the braun series 9 and 7 are more comfortable. What about compared to the braun series 3 and 5? Is the performance of an arc 5 miles ahead of the braun series 3?
The braun 310bt costs $92.66
The braun 3030 costs $113.49
The braun 300s costs $77.04
I could mport a panasonic arc5 ES-LV65-S. It is on sale from an online merchant that delivers to my country. Landed price would be $182.22.
Should I just get brauns or go for the panasonic? I braun which braun?
Thanks
Hi,
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
First of all, I do agree that the Series 3 models you mentioned are priced very high. If I were to choose between them, I would go with the ProSkin 3030 as that one comes with a better shaving head (32b) than the other two.
Performance-wise, the Arc 5 is significantly better than a Series 3, and considering the price of the Series 3 in your country, it would make more sense to import the ES-LV65-S. It is much more powerful, faster, shaves closer and as long as you don’t press too hard, it’s also adequately comfortable. In my experience it’s pretty much on par with the Series 3 and 5 in that regard.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
when I was about to buy the price changed to $237. apparently they had a mistake cause the arc4 was more expensive than the arc5 previous price. Thanks a lot, if it is on par comfort wise with the series 5, i will most likely get it even at that higher price cause braun higher series would even cost more imported and i dont want to deal with buying a cleaning station and cleaner liquid.
once again thanks for the most comprehensive shaver site. I researched for 2 days and yours was the best
No problem, glad you found the information useful.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi and thank you for your most informative reviews. I have a Panasonic Es-LV9Q and am very pleased with its close shave. I have had it now for over 2 years and had thought of replacing it but note that it seems to be no longer available. Should I just replace the foil and cutter with the latest upgrade or purchase the LV 97 or 67 (or 95/65)?
Hi John,
Thank you for your comment. At least in Europe, the ES-LV9Q is still available. If however you can’t get it, I think you could simply buy the replacement foil & blades if your shaver is still in good shape. You can get the latest variation or some of the previous ones as those will fit the ES-LV9Q as well (I wrote a guide on Arc5 replacement parts here).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
I have the LV67 and was very impressed with the original foil and cutter that came with the shaver. But just out of curiosity, I also picked up the new foil and cutter (ES9038) that comes with the F Revision. According to Panasonic, it’s 10% more “efficient” than the one on the Revision D. I’m not sure that I found that to be true (and not sure how the efficiency is measured), but as you’ve noted here, it does seem to be a bit easier on the skin. That allows me to be a bit more aggressive perhaps during my shave and/or shave more frequently without irritation. All in all, I like it, but am not convinced it’s a must have … the original foil was quite good as well.
Thank you for the feedback, Matt. I’m pretty much on the same page regarding the differences between the older and newer foils.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Howdy,
Thanks for the informative article!!
Currently I use a 7 year old Phillips Norelco rotary shaver that has cheap replay blades from China. It’s a mid- range shaver that works ok, but I find myself having to go over my face with a traditional razer (my shaver doesn’t get a very close shave). I’ve read in your articles about how good the Panasonic ARC 5 is. Model ES-LV65-S (an older generation, I think) is available at best buy and Amazon for $99 This seems like a good deal, especially as I see thr ARC 5 compared to the Braun series 9 and it’s $260 price tag. Is that model I referenced above a good deal? I’m willing to spend around $150 if there’s something noticeably better.
Hi Michael,
Thank you for your comment. That is an excellent deal for the ES-LV65-S which in my opinion still offers the best bang for the buck, while the new generations come with marginal improvements and cost a lot more. I think you should see a significant performance leap from your current rotary shaver in terms of closeness, speed, and pure enjoyment. Just remember that with foil razors you should always shave against the grain using a straight motion.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hello from Germany,
here find the Panasonic shavers surprisingly little attention, at least compared to Braun or Philips. Some time ago I came across this website here and subsequently bought the Panasonic ES-LV95, at a special price, and it was exactly as you described. Very close shave – I only had Philips shavers before and that’s quite a difference. Also you don’t really need the cleaning station with Panasonic.
Thank you for your really solid reports.
I just hope that you can soon buy the latest Panasonic models in Germany.
Hello Uwe,
Many thanks for your comment, glad you found the information useful and you’re enjoying your Arc 5. I’m also hoping to see them available in Europe (or even in the USA) — it seems like Panasonic is not really interested in releasing the latest models outside of Japan, probably due to low demand (which would be in line with your own observation). Braun and Philips are just ubiquitous here and a high-end, premium-priced Panasonic will have a tough time in this market (despite being a fantastic performer).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Excellent information. i am finally going to get myself an ARC5. Asking some advice. Can the shaving sensor be disabled on the ES-LV95-S? I only see mention of that feature on the LV65.
I am between the getting the LV95 and one of the newer Revision C/D/E/F models based on availability (since they seem to be all the same). I see the ES-LV9Q (Revision C) going for $300 which is fantastic. However based on the sensor shaving issues I am really considering the older LV95. Also, do all models have that issue described with the F Series where when the battery dies – they cannot be operated plugged in if the battery dies? Although ready to order the ES-LV95-S or ES-LV9Q, I can buy the Revision E or F based on your feedback. Thanks in advance.
Thank you for your comment, much appreciated.
Yes, the beard density sensor can be disabled on the ES-LV95 (which is basically an ES-LV65 with a cleaning station). If you can get it for a decent price compared to the ES-LV9Q, I’d say go for it.
If it’s a dry only shaver (so it will also work plugged in), if the battery is completely dead, you won’t be able to use it. Apart from some of the newer revisions, pretty much all the older Arc 5 models can only be operated cordless.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
$192 for LV95 vs $300 for the LV9Q
Awesome advice. Thanks for the immediate feedback.
Cheers!!!
Does the ES-LV97-K come with a US plug or the EU larger plug. Does this model come with the new foil with the gold comfort guards? Does it cut at 70k cross cuts? And last what version is it, C, D, etc?
Thanks Tom
The plug type depends on where you’re buying the shaver from. The ones sold in the USA come with a USA plug, while the ones sold in Europe come with EU plugs. Absolutely all Arc 5 models are fitted with motors with the same performance, regardless if you’re seeing cross cuts, cycles per minute and so on.
The ES-LV97-K is more like a revision A Arc 5 that comes with the older foil (no comfort guards).
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you
Does the ES-LV6Q come with a US or EU plug and what version is it, B C, D etc?
Thanks Tom
It’s part of the C revision and it was never officially released in the USA. If you buy it in Europe it will come with an Eu plug. The ones sold in Japan have the two flat prongs connector that should work in the USA as well.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Perfect
Me again, this gets so confusing. Is the Panasonic ES-LV9FX 110v or 220v or both? Does it come with a EU to US adapter plug? Is it a version f model?
All Panasonic models come with an integrated universal voltage converter, so they can take both voltages. It does not come with an EU to USA adapter since the plug is a typical two flat prongs type used in Japan and should also work in the USA without any adapter. The ES-LV9FX is part of the F revision.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you, I appreciate it
Seems there is a Panasonic Panasonic ES-CLV9FXS and a Panasonic ES-LV9FX-s model. Same or different? I find all these Panasonic models to be Schizophrenic
Hi Tom,
In the case of the E revision, the only difference between them was the color of the plastic cap (transparent grey vs black). I expect this to also be the only difference between the ES-CLV9FX-S and ES-LV9FX-S.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi again, I purchased the panasonic ES-LV9FX-S. It has a plastic body, doesn’t lock automatically and is made in China. Is this right?
Hi Tom,
The metal Arc 5 models also have plastic parts (for example the front panel that houses the LED display). The metal panels are the silver ones on the sides of the central black glossy trim. The made in China part is a bit strange — as far as I know, all Panasonic Arc 5 models are made in Japan (I am yet to see one made in China) and it’s particularly strange since the ES-LV9FX-S is a Japan-exclusive model. It also definitely has the smart lock function. Could it be you’ve received another Arc 5 model? Did you buy it from a reputable vendor?
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks, it is the cleaning station that is made in China not the shaver. BTW, I did purchase the panasonic es-lv9fx-s and I really like it. Had the Braun Series 9 and think the Panasonic beats it hands down.
Is it possible to find the manual in English or a similar model in English?
Sincerely, Tom
No problem, Tom. Glad you’re happy with it. The stations are indeed made in China. I haven’t found an English version yet for the F revision. What I personally do is download the JP manual, then open it on the desktop and use Google lens on my phone for translation. Sounds a bit silly, but it works. You could also check out the EN manual for the ES-LV9Q that is part of the C revision. Everything about using, cleaning and caring for it should be the same.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thank you
Any suggestions on cleaning solution? Any good generic ones out there?
Also, it looks like the cleaning solution that came with the razor can be used daily for a month; do I have that correct?
Hi Tom,
I recently bought the solution from Shaver She Bang, but haven’t tried it yet. But it should work well, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. That is correct, it can be used for a month.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Please provide a link for where you purchased it, and for all the help always.
Hi Tom,
I got it from Amazon.co.jp, that’s where I usually get all the new Arc 5 releases (I really don’t have other options as I live in Europe). I also use a proxy service called forward2me.com to have the item shipped to me. It’s definitely not the most convenient and cheap way of getting a shaver, but with these Japan-exclusive Panasonic models it’s pretty much the only way.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Hi again, thanks for all the great help. Please tell me the part # I need when it’s time to replace the foil on my panasonic es-lv9fx-s
Thanks,
Tom
Hi Tom,
No problem. The part numbers are as follows:
Outer foil: ES9179
Inner blades: WES9170 (WES9170P)
Outer foil & inner blades set: ES9038
It’s usually best to change the foil and the inner blades, so you’ll want to get the set (ES9038). However, if you cannot source it, other newer and older Arc 5 sets will be compatible as well. Please refer to this guide for the part numbers.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks so much. BTW I got the shebang like you suggested.
Question; is it hard to replace the blades?
Also, how often do you think they need changed? I shave everyday.
Sincerely,
Tom
You are very welcome.
It’s extremely easy, you just grab each one by the ends between your thumb and index finger and pull it straight off. The new one gets inserted in its place, it will snap securely and won’t come off when inserted correctly. I always suggest changing the foil & blades when you feel the performance dropping significantly. That tends to vary a lot depending on the coarsneess of the hair, frequency of use, cleaning/lubrication and how the user subjectively perceives the blades. Some might find them blunt, others still good enough. The average is around 1 year of regular use, but again, that can vary.
Sincerely,
Ovidiu
Thanks so much