Best Adjustable Safety Razors

An adjustable safety razor allows you to quickly transform your shaving experience with a simple twist of the handle.

Gone are the days of struggling with inconsistent shaves and skin irritation.

While some may have some notable differences, adjustable safety razors generally share the same concept: adjust the blade gap and angle to cater to your personal preferences, facial contours, and hair type.

From reliable to affordable options, we have you covered in finding the perfect razor that will provide customized comfort, precision, and a smooth shave catered to your specific hair type and skin sensitivity.

Say hello to a whole new level of shaving satisfaction, and goodbye to your old razor.

Comparing All the Adjustable Safety Razors

Features Add Product
NameMerkur FuturMerkur ProgressParker VariantRex AmbassadorRockwell T2Vikings Blade EmperorFeather AdjustablePearl Shaving Flexi
Overall Rating
5.7
8.2
6.6
9.1
BrandMerkurMerkurParkerRex Supply Co.RockwellViking's BladeFeatherPearl Shaving
CompositionChrome-plated brassBrass and die-cast zinc alloyBrass and zamak alloy316L Stainless SteelBrass, stainless steel, chromed zinc alloyBrass, zinc alloyABS resin, stainless steel, brassBrass
GripSmoothOctagonalKnurledDeeply knurledKnurledGrid textureRibbedGrid texture
CombClosed combClosed combClosed combClosed combClosed combClosed combClosed combClosed comb
Country of OriginGermanyGermanyIndiaUSACanadaChinaJapanIndia
Blade CompatibilityDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor bladesDouble-edge safety razor blades
Number of Blades11111111
Number of Pieces22221112
Weight in Ounces4.43.283.883.733.634.721.44.94
Weight in Grams1259311010610313439.7140
Length in Inches4.333.543.53.744.334.053.54
Length in Centimeters118.910.168.99.51110.39
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Best Adjustable Safety Razors Reviewed

Without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best adjustable safety razors on the market.

Reliable Performance: Merkur Progress Adjustable Safety Razor

Product Specifications:

  • Composition: Brass and die-cast zinc alloy
  • Grip: Octagonal
  • Comb: Closed comb
  • Country of Origin: Germany
  • Number of Blades: 1
  • Number of Pieces: 2
  • Weight in Ounces: 3.28 oz
  • Length in Inches: 3.5"

For those seeking a versatile and customizable shaving experience, the Merkur Progress Adjustable Safety Razor is a solid choice. This popular safety razor, crafted in Germany, has an adjustable blade gap that ranges between .38mm and .94mm, allowing users to easily select their desired aggressiveness for the perfect shave. Using the unique adjustment knob, you can choose the blade gap that suits your preference, providing a premium shaving experience tailored to your needs.

The Merkur Progress is designed with an octagonal grip and weighs in at 3.28 ounces, which ensures comfort and precise control while shaving. However, some users may find the handle a bit slippery, and aftermarket grips are available to enhance grip and overall functionality.

What customers are saying: Many customers appreciate the adjustable nature of the Merkur Progress, highlighting the ability to fine-tune the blade gap for the optimal shaving experience. However, some folks have expressed concern about the chrome plating as it may chip or wear over time, affecting the razor’s longevity.

Dive Deeper: Merkur Progress

Pros

  • Adjustable blade gap for a customizable shave
  • High-quality construction and design
  • Multiple handle lengths and heft options

Cons

  • Handle may be slippery for some users
  • Learning curve for blade changing and adjustment process
  • Subjective aggressiveness settings

Buy the Merkur Progress from these retailers:

Buy Direct
Amazon
West Coast Shaving
Shave Nation
Walmart
Fendrihan
Maggard

Upgrade Pick: Rex Ambassador Adjustable Razor

Product Specifications:

  • Composition: 316L Stainless Steel
  • Grip: Deeply knurled
  • Comb: Closed comb
  • Country of Origin: USA
  • Number of Blades: 1
  • Number of Pieces: 2
  • Weight in Ounces: 3.73 oz
  • Length in Inches: 3.5"

The Rex Ambassador Adjustable Stainless Steel DE Razor has garnered a significant following among wet shaving enthusiasts who value the unique design and superior shaving performance it offers. Crafted using the highest marine-grade stainless steel materials (SAE 316), this razor features a closed comb design and a patented adjustment system, providing a luxurious shaving tool that exudes an elevated experience in both form and function.

Its stylish design adds a splash of elegance and sophistication to any shaving setup, while the slim head profile allows for greater precision in tackling tight spots and hard-to-reach areas. Weighing in at 3.73 oz (106g) and measuring 3.5” (88.7mm) in length, the Rex Ambassador strikes an optimal balance between heft and maneuverability. Its well-distributed weight ensures an effortless and consistent shaving experience, reducing the need for applying excessive pressure and minimizing skin irritation.

The knurled “Sure Grip” handle of the Rex Ambassador is designed for exceptional grip and control even when wet, providing comfort and ease of use. The infinitely adjustable blade gap allows users to easily dial in the desired level of aggressiveness to achieve a close or mild shave, catering to different skin types and hair growth patterns.

If you are serious about wet shaving and looking for a premium razor that you can pass down for generations, the Rex Ambassador is an excellent choice.

What customers are saying: Many users have praised the Rex Ambassador for its excellent balance, heft, and maneuverability. Although some users have mentioned the initial learning curve, most eventually find their ideal settings and techniques to achieve a consistently smooth and comfortable shave.

Dive Deeper: Rex Ambassador Safety Razor Review

Pros

  • Elegant design and high-quality stainless steel construction
  • Adjustable blade exposure for a customizable shaving experience
  • Excellent grip with a knurled handle
  • Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other safety razors available in the market

Buy the Rex Ambassador from these retailers:

Buy Direct
Amazon
West Coast Shaving
Shave Nation
Fendrihan
Maggard

Butterfly: Rockwell T2 Adjustable Safety Razor

Product Specifications:

  • Composition: Brass, stainless steel, chromed zinc alloy
  • Grip: Knurled
  • Comb: Closed comb
  • Country of Origin: Canada
  • Number of Blades: 1
  • Number of Pieces: 1
  • Weight in Ounces: 3.63 oz
  • Length in Inches: 3.74"

The Rockwell T2 Adjustable Safety Razor is an innovative and versatile grooming tool designed to provide a smooth, comfortable shaving experience at any skill level. Crafted with high-quality materials, this razor features a unique twist-to-open (butterfly) mechanism for easy blade loading and fluidly adjustable shave settings that cater to your personal preferences.

The key features of the Rockwell T2 include its easy blade-loading mechanism, allowing you to effortlessly change double-edge safety razor blades as needed. Moreover, the fluidly adjustable shave settings make this razor ideal for both beginners and experienced shavers, as you can easily control the aggressiveness of the shave simply by twisting the dial.

Despite its innovative design, the Rockwell T2 maintains a classic, attractive appearance with its knurled grip handle and closed-comb head. Weighing 103 grams (3.63 ounces) and measuring 9.5 cm (3.74 inches) in length, this razor strikes a perfect balance, ensuring intuitive handling and an effortless glide during your shave.

While the Rockwell T2 is a high-performing safety razor, it is worth noting that some users may require practice and a good technique to achieve optimal results consistently. Additionally, the razor may be slightly heavier than some of its competitors on the market – which can be a drawback if you have sensitive skin or prefer a lighter-weight razor.

What customers are saying: Customers rave about the quality and performance of the Rockwell T2 razor. They appreciate the adjustable settings, user-friendly blade-loading mechanism, and efficient close shaves. A few users note that it can take some time to get used to the razor, but once they do, it becomes an indispensable part of their grooming routine.

Pros

  • Unique twist-to-open mechanism for easy blade loading
  • Fluidly adjustable shave settings for a personalized shaving experience
  • Crafted with high-quality materials for durability
  • Suitable for various skill levels and hair types

Cons

  • May require practice and good technique for optimal results
  • Slightly heavier than some competitors

Buy the Rockwell T2 from these retailers:

Buy Direct
Amazon
West Coast Shaving
Shave Nation
Maggard

Affordable Choice: Parker Variant Adjustable Safety Razor

Product Specifications:

  • Composition: Brass and zamak alloy
  • Grip: Knurled
  • Comb: Closed comb
  • Country of Origin: India
  • Number of Blades: 1
  • Number of Pieces: 2
  • Weight in Ounces: 3.88 oz
  • Length in Inches: 4"

The Parker Variant Adjustable Safety Razor offers up several customizable settings, high-quality construction, and an elegant design, all at a relatively budget-friendly price. This makes it an ideal option for both beginners and experienced shavers looking for an adjustable safety razor.

Constructed in India with a genuine brass frame, this razor is both durable and long-lasting. The razor’s heavyweight (3.88 oz or 110 grams) provides excellent balance and control during shaving.

The handle is four inches long, which is suitable for users with various hand sizes, while the textured knurled grip ensures a secure hold even when wet or covered in lather. The Variant’s standout feature is its adjustable dial located at the base of the handle, which allows users to choose from five different aggressiveness settings to cater to different skin types, hair thickness, and experience levels.

In both our tests and customer reviews, the Parker Variant performed impressively, providing smooth and close shaves. The adjustable blade gap allows users to tailor their shaving experience according to their preferences, and the razor’s weight and balance contribute to a comfortable, enjoyable shaving process.

However, the Variant’s country of origin, India, has been a concern for some users who mention potential manufacturing inconsistencies. While this does not imply that all Parker Variant razors have quality issues, it is essential to keep in mind the possibility of variances in the final product.

What customers are saying: Users praise the Parker Variant for its customizable settings, smooth shaving experience, and high-quality build. There are a few mentions of occasional defects, but the majority of users seem satisfied with their purchase. Many appreciate the razor’s affordability compared to more expensive adjustable safety razors on the market.

Dive Deeper: Parker Variant Review

Pros

  • Customizable aggressiveness settings
  • High-quality materials and construction
  • Smooth and close shaves
  • Secure grip and comfortable handle
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Potential manufacturing inconsistencies
  • Some users may find the lowest setting too aggressive
  • No mention of a warranty

Buy the Parker Variant from these retailers:

Amazon
West Coast Shaving
Shave Nation
Walmart
Fendrihan
Maggard
No product specifications found.

The Viking’s Blade Emperor Augustus Adjustable Razor is one of the most popular adjustable safety razors currently available. So if you like to see a product that has a large and satisfied user base, the Emperor may be the one for you.

Designed with a long and fat handle, it boasts a butterfly twist-to-open mechanism, making it simple to load and use. Its eco-friendly nature not only sets it apart from competitors but also contributes to a close, clean shave that’s suitable for people of all genders.

The Emperor Augustus Adjustable Razor can be easily adjusted for the level of aggressiveness you prefer when shaving. This versatility allows it to accommodate all skill levels and shaving preferences by enabling users to customize their shave for the ultimate experience. The razor is suitable for all hair types and skin types, ensuring a gentle and enjoyable shave for everyone.

Customers who have tried this razor love the solid, well-built design and the overall value it provides. One customer compared it to a Gillette razor from 40 years ago, stating that the Viking’s Blade Emperor Augustus Adjustable Razor deserves a full 5-star rating. Another customer praised the beautiful craftsmanship and thoughtful design of the razor, saying that it offered an incredible shave.

The inclusion of a presentation box makes this razor a fantastic gift option for friends or loved ones (groomsmen gifts, Father’s Day, birthdays, etc.) as it adds an element of luxury and thoughtfulness to the purchase.

What customers are saying: The biggest complaint that we came across when analyzing all the customer reviews was related to the country of origin. Folks were dismayed to learn that The Emperor was made in China, despite the packaging and marketing suggesting a Scandinavian origin.

Pros

  • Can be adjusted for different shaving aggressiveness
  • Suitable for all hair types and skin types
  • Solid construction and high-quality materials
  • Aesthetically pleasing design

Cons

  • Double edge blades must be purchased separately
  • Made in China, which isn’t typically associated with safety razors

Buy the Vikings Blade Emperor from these retailers:

Buy Direct
Amazon
Walmart

Simple Design: Feather Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor

No product specifications found.

The Feather Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor offers you the perfect balance between a traditional wet shave and modern convenience. With its adjustable shaving head, you can switch between a mild and aggressive shave, giving you complete control over your shaving experience.

While the two options are limited, they cater to the basic needs of most users – one option for sensitive skin or less dense hair, and another for thicker, coarser hair or a more aggressive shave.

The razor is made from durable materials like ABS resin, stainless steel, and brass, ensuring a high-quality product that will last.

One of the standout features of this razor is the butterfly head opening, which makes changing and replacing blades a breeze. The no-touch system for disposing of used blades and inserting new ones ensures safety while maintaining efficiency. This razor is also incredibly lightweight, weighing just 1.4 ounces (39.7 grams), and has a comfortable 4.05-inch (10.3 cm) handle, so you can easily maneuver and achieve the ideal shave every time.

However, some additional pressure may be needed during shaving due to its lightweight nature, which could be a downside for some users who prefer heftier razors.

What customers are saying: Customers appreciate its lightweight design and the two adjustable settings, which cater to different preferences and skill levels. Some reviewers do mention that the razor feels slightly cheap due to its plastic handle. Others also say that the butterfly mechanism may require extra cleaning efforts, but overall, users are satisfied with the razor’s performance.

Pros

  • Adjustable shaving head for a personalized shave
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • No-touch system for safe blade replacement

Cons

  • Plastic handle may feel cheap
  • Butterfly mechanism may require extra cleaning efforts

Buy the Feather Adjustable from these retailers:

Amazon
West Coast Shaving
Shave Nation
Walmart
Fendrihan
Maggard
No product specifications found.

The Pearl Shaving Flexi Adjustable Safety Razor is an ideal choice for those who want a versatile shaving experience tailored to their individual needs. Its adjustable function allows you to effortlessly switch between six different blade gap settings by simply turning the knob below the razor head. This feature lets you choose the perfect level of aggression for your shave, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced shavers.

The Pearl Shaving Flexi is made with a brass composition and has a solid weight of 4.94 ounces (140 grams), providing the necessary heft to achieve a smooth and clean shave with minimal effort. Its close comb design ensures a close shave, while the matte finish gives it a sleek and stylish appearance.

Some customers particularly appreciate the heavy and compact build of this razor, as it allows for smooth gliding and easy maneuvering. The included razor stand is a bonus feature, providing a neat and secure place to store and dry your razor after use.

However, some customers have reported a rattle noise within the razor, possibly caused by a loose spring or internal part. However, Pearl has addressed this as just simply the design of the adjustable mechanism and assured that it does not affect the performance or safety of the razor.

Additionally, the blades included with the razor may not be as sharp or effective as other well-known brands such as Feather or Gillette.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Pearl Shaving Flexi remains a popular and highly recommended adjustable safety razor. With its flexibility and solid construction, it offers a customizable shaving experience that’s perfect for users with various skill levels and preferences.

What customers are saying: Many customers love the smooth, close shave the Pearl Shaving Flexi provides, as well as its solid construction and weight. Some users find the weight to be too heavy, but others appreciate the heft, as it contributes to a more efficient shaving experience.

Pros

  • Adjustable blade gap settings for customized aggressiveness
  • Solid brass construction and ideal weight for smooth shaving
  • Close comb design for a close shave
  • Razor stand included for easy storage and drying

Cons

  • Rattle noise reported by some customers
  • Included blades may not be as sharp as other brands

Buy the Pearl Shaving Flexi from these retailers:

Buy Direct
Amazon
Fendrihan
Maggard

Modern Looking: Merkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor

Product Specifications:

  • Composition: Chrome-plated brass
  • Grip: Smooth
  • Comb: Closed comb
  • Country of Origin: Germany
  • Number of Blades: 1
  • Number of Pieces: 2
  • Weight in Ounces: 4.4 oz
  • Length in Inches: 4.33"

The Merkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor, also known as the Merkur 700, 701, and 702, is a popular choice among wet shaving enthusiasts who appreciate its Solingen quality, sleek design, and customizable aggressiveness. Its unique adjustable blade gap feature allows for a wide range of options to suit different preferences and skin types, making it especially suitable for those with varying shaving needs.

However, where the Futur falls short is that even the mildest setting (1) may still be too aggressive for some users with extremely sensitive skin or new to safety razor shaving. Additionally, the bulky head design may make it harder to shave in tight spaces or around the contours of the face, such as under the nose or near the jawline.

What customers are saying: Despite the shortcomings, the Merkur Futur receives general positive feedback for its modern design, adjustable aggressiveness settings, and high-quality construction. It is praised for providing a close shave with its wide blade gap range of 1.12mm to 1.65mm. However, some users find the bulky razor head hard to maneuver in tight areas, and the smooth handle lacks grip, which could lead to slippage.

Dive Deeper: Merkur Futur

Pros

  • Sleek and modern design
  • Adjustable aggressiveness settings for a customized shaving experience
  • High-quality German construction and craftsmanship

Cons

  • Bulky razor head may be difficult to maneuver in tight areas
  • Smooth handle lacks grip, causing potential slippage
  • Unique blade replacement design may be less efficient than traditional methods

Buy the Merkur Futur from these retailers:

Buy Direct
Amazon
West Coast Shaving
Shave Nation
Walmart
Fendrihan
Maggard

Considerations You Should Make Before Buying an Adjustable Safety Razor

When choosing an adjustable safety razor, consider the following factors to ensure the best possible shaving experience:

1. Blade Gap Adjustability

The main advantage of adjustable safety razors is their ability to change the aggressiveness of the shave by altering the blade gap. Look for razors with multiple settings that allow you to customize the blade exposure according to your personal preference, hair type, and skin sensitivity.

2. Handle Length and Grip

The razor handle plays a significant role in providing comfort and control during shaving. Choose a handle length that suits your hand size for optimal maneuverability. Additionally, consider the handle’s grip design to ensure secure handling even when wet or covered in lather.

If you have larger hands, go with a longer handle, the vice versa is true for smaller hands. The handle should also have a good grip, especially when wet or covered in lather.

Here are all the lengths of the handles of the adjustable safety razors we’ve reviewed:

3. Weight

Heft the razor can be helpful in making it easier to shave. A heavier razor can provide a smoother glide and reduce the need for applying excessive pressure, resulting in a more comfortable shaving experience. However, a razor that is too heavy can be difficult to maneuver, especially for beginners.

Here’s a look at all the adjustable safety razors we’ve reviewed so far and their weights:

4. Construction and Build Quality

Invest in a safety razor made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, brass, or chrome for durability and reliable performance. These materials also add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the razor.

5. Shaving Performance

The adjustable safety razor should provide a smooth and close shave. Read customer reviews to gather insights on the razor’s performance and its ability to cater to different skin types, hair thickness, and experience levels.

6. Manufacturer Reputation

Opt for adjustable safety razors made by reputable manufacturers known for consistent quality and performance. Be mindful of potential manufacturing inconsistencies and check the country of origin as a quality indicator.

7. Warranty and Price

Warranty information is essential when making a purchase decision, as it indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Compare prices of adjustable safety razors while keeping in mind the value they offer in terms of customization, quality, and performance.

8. Customer Reviews

Always read customer reviews and testimonies to gain insights into the real-world performance of adjustable safety razors. This will help you understand the pros and cons that other users have experienced, ultimately guiding you toward making an informed decision on the best adjustable safety razor for your needs.

9. Where to Buy

This category of safety razors is relatively niche, making it hard to find them locally. However, online shops and specialty shaving stores offer a wider selection and often have customer reviews to help you make an informed decision. Some popular online marketplaces where you can find adjustable safety razors include Amazon, West Coast Shaving, Maggard Razors, direct manufacturer websites, and other specialty shaving retailers.

Remember to consider shipping costs and the availability of replacement parts when purchasing from online retailers. Some websites may offer free shipping or other promotions to offset these costs, so keep an eye out for such deals.

How We Tested

To provide you with the most accurate and reliable information, we implemented a thorough analysis and testing process for adjustable safety razors. Our testing methods included the following steps:

  1. Extensive research: We conducted comprehensive research on various adjustable safety razor models, including both popular and lesser-known options. This research involved gathering information on the manufacturers, materials, construction, features, and customer reviews.
  2. Selection of test products: Based on our research, we identified a diverse range of adjustable safety razors to include in our testing, ensuring a fair representation of different brands, materials, and price points.
  3. Evaluation of build quality and construction: We carefully inspected each adjustable safety razor for build quality, examining elements such as material durability, blade gap consistency, and overall construction. This helps to ensure that the razor will last you years and not just months of regular use.
  4. Shaving performance tests: Aside from our first-hand experience with safety razors, we also enlisted the help of modern data collection tools to gather insights on the shaving performance of each razor.
  5. Blade compatibility tests: We tested each adjustable safety razor with different blades to identify potential compatibility issues and determine whether specific blades performed better than others in each razor.
  6. Ease of cleaning and maintenance: Our testers assessed each adjustable safety razor for ease of cleaning and maintenance by dismantling, cleaning, and reassembling it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  7. Comparison and ranking: After completing our individual tests, we compared our findings to rank the adjustable safety razors based on factors such as build quality, shave performance, adjustability, ease of maintenance, and overall value for money.
  8. Continuous updates: We continuously monitor the adjustable safety razor market to stay informed of new product releases, competitor offerings, and customer feedback. This enables us to update our recommendations accordingly, ensuring that we provide the most relevant and up-to-date information.

By employing this thorough testing process, we can confidently present you with accurate, detailed, and unbiased information on adjustable safety razors, helping you make a well-informed decision when selecting the perfect razor for your grooming needs.