Comparison Philips Series 3000 HC3420 vs Philips Series 5000 HC5450

The number of haircut length options provided in the design of the clipper or the design of the nozzle. The more such options, the more versatile the clipper and the more cutting options it provides.

The device's range of adjustable speeds is noteworthy. While most clippers typically operate at a single standard speed, there are models with dual speeds, often referred to as turbo. More advanced variations have been developed by certain manufacturers, featuring 3, 4, or even more speeds. Clippers equipped with variable speeds are designed to effectively manage denser hair by increasing the motor's revolutions.

— Stainless steel. The standout feature of stainless steel is its exceptional resistance to rusting. When the clipper or trimmer boasts a sealed casing, the stainless steel cutting head can be conveniently cleaned using water pressure. While stainless steel is common in lower-tier devices and its blades can endure high temperatures, they tend to lose sharpness relatively swiftly.

— Titanium. Titanium alloys showcase impressive durability against substantial mechanical strain. The titanium cutting edge adeptly manages hair of various thicknesses and densities, retaining its sharpness admirably. Tools equipped with a titanium blade are reliable for frequent usage, notably in beauty salons. However, the drawback lies in their notably steep expense.

— Ceramic. Ceramic offers remarkable strength; its blades remain cool and sharp over time. Machines or trimmers featuring ceramic blades effortlessly handle even the thickest hair, allowing for frequent and prolonged use. Interestingly, models with ceramic blades often come at a more affordable price compared to those with titanium blades. Nonetheless, fragility is a significant drawback of ceramics; these blades are susceptible to damage from impacts and falls. Clippers and trimmers that are equipped with a ceramic cutting part must be handled with extreme delicacy.

— Titanium ceramics.... Blades made of ceramic with a high titanium content. Ceramic in the context of the material used improves cutting performance, reduces friction and maintains a sharpness for a long time, and the titanium coating gives the blades strength, provides resistance to wear and corrosion. Titanium-ceramic blades are good for cutting coarse, thick hair, but they are quite expensive.

— Diamond. Diamond-coated blades have increased edge strength. Typically, these blades are based on steel, most often stainless, but thanks to diamond coating, the knife acquires higher reliability and durability. Of course, the presence of diamond coating on the blade significantly increases the cost of the device.

— Steel. Steel blades are the budget-friendly option. Steel performs effectively in devices used sporadically, mainly for home purposes. Although steel edges tend to lose sharpness relatively swiftly, their durability can be enhanced through the application of protective coatings like diamond, ceramic, or titanium. Clippers or trimmers with uncoated steel blades typically fall into the low-cost category.

— Graphite. Graphite coating is typical for stainless steel blades, it allows the blade to glide more easily through hair and skin and generally increases the efficiency and convenience of working with such a device. Most often, detachable trimmer blades are equipped with graphite coating.

— Self- sharpening blades. Blades made using a special technology, thanks to which they sharpen themselves, due to friction against each other in the process. Thus, the blades remain sharp at all times, and their maintenance is limited to the replacement of worn blades.

— Function of thinning. Thinning in hairdressing is called cutting the ends of the hair at different levels — as a result, after the haircut, the hairstyle looks more natural and magnificent. In machines, special thinning nozzles are usually used for this.

— Wet cleaning. The clipper's capacity for wet cleaning of its attachments, allowing them to be rinsed under flowing water, is a notable feature. It's important to clarify that this pertains exclusively to the attachments – not all models with wet cleaning have waterproof casings (see below). Nevertheless, even without a waterproof casing, it might still be feasible to clean the attachments without detaching them from the device. In general, wet cleaning is frequently more efficient, quicker, and precise compared to dry cleaning.

— Waterproof body.In this context, a sealed enclosure is indicated, enabling the machine to withstand water exposure without adverse effects. The extent of protection can vary; certain models tolerate brief water immersion, while others can operate even when submerged. These specifics should be detai...led in the accompanying instructions. Nevertheless, for clippers used in environments with elevated humidity (like bathrooms or wet areas), having such a water-resistant enclosure is greatly preferred, and sometimes obligatory.

— Built-in vacuum cleaner. The clipper is equipped with a vacuum cleaner, which greatly facilitates cleaning after cutting. The suction hole located under the blades sucks most of the cut hair into a separate reservoir. Of course, there will not be a 100% return, but there will be much less hair scattered on the floor. However, when cutting a beard, a vacuum cleaner will do just fine.

— Laser pointer. The presence in the electric razor of a laser in the form of a straight line. With its help, you can easily, and most importantly, evenly and symmetrically trim the desired areas.

— Mains. The clipper is powered by a 230 V electrical network. The benefit of this power source is the unrestricted operational duration (no need for periodic battery recharging). However, drawbacks include the necessity of an available electrical outlet and the limitation imposed by a power cord, which can impede movement and cause operational inconvenience.

— Battery. The clipper is powered by its own built-in battery. On the one hand, this gives maximum freedom of movement (since there is no power cord) and battery life — such devices can be used even where there is no electrical network. On the other hand, the battery life is limited, it must be constantly recharged — otherwise there is a risk that the charge is exhausted at the most inopportune moment (for example, during the haircut).

— Batteries. The clipper is powered by interchangeable batteries. In terms of its primary pros and cons, this power source resembles battery power (as mentioned earlier). However, in contrast to built-in batteries, replaceable batteries offer less capacity, making them suitable for low-power devices like nose trimmers (see Type) that don't demand prolonged usage. On the positive side, replaceable batteries allow for swift replacement when depleted, whereas a built-in battery would necessitate a lengthier recharging process in such instances.

The typical duration of uninterrupted operation for a clipper powered by a self-contained source (battery or rechargeable batteries, refer to Power Source) without requiring a recharge or battery replacement. Extended continuous operation time becomes particularly crucial when intending to use the clipper in locations where recharging or battery changes are unavailable, such as during long trips.

Time to fully (from 0 to 100%) charge the battery of the clipper. For rare cases of using the model, charging time is not so relevant, but for everyday use it is better to choose fast charging clippers.

The clipper offers the capability to adjust its operating voltage, typically ranging between 110 and 230 V. Given the varying electrical network voltages across different regions (e.g., 230 V in Europe, 110 V in North America), this feature proves advantageous when using the clipper abroad. Some devices possess an automated voltage adjustment feature, requiring no user intervention, while others necessitate manual adjustment. It's important to emphasize this aspect before commencing clipper operation, and in cases of manual adjustment, it's crucial to verify the correct setting on the switch.

— Scissors. The inclusion of a set of scissors with the hair clipper enhances its value, catering to both experienced enthusiasts and professional hairdressers. This bundled option provides a comprehensive haircutting package, and the scissors serve as a valuable tool for addressing finer details that the clipper may not handle alone.

— Comb. Availability in a set of delivery of the clipper of a comb. A comb is one of the most necessary tools for a hairdresser, so when purchasing it together with a typewriter, the user gets rid of the need for a separate purchase.

— Charging stand. The stand serves a dual purpose as a charger and storage unit for the machine. It facilitates convenient recharging during quick intervals between cutting sessions, making it ideal for hairdressers to keep the machine on the stand while using scissors or other tools. Additionally, it can double as an accessory stand (see Stand for accessories).

— Stand for accessories.The stand is designed to store clipper accessories such as detachable nozzles, cleaning brushes, and oilers. Using this dedicated stand reduces the chances of losing any of these accessories. In cordless clippers, this role is frequently fulfilled by the charging stand, which also serves as a storage solution (refer to Charging Stand).

— Case. Cases include all kinds of rigid structures for storing the clipper. Cases in the form of handbags made of thick fabric also fall into this category. In addition to reliable storage of the device, they also elevate the model to the highest class. In low-cost clippers, a much more primitive fabric cover is included in the package.