Double edge razor blades are the most popular form of shaving for men and women all over the United States. There are a number of great DE razors on the market, and there are a ton of perks to using them.
For those who are shaving their face, legs, neck, or head regularly, a double edge razor blade is a must for a seamless shave every time. It’s important to know the benefits and technology behind today’s double edge razor blades, so after we go over why these are the best razors for shaving, we’ll recommend to you 7 of the best double edge razor blades on the market.
Best Double Edge Razor Blades Overview
Standard Razors Aluminum Series - Double Edge Safety Razor
MUHLE R89 Safety Razor
Parker 99R - Long Handle Heavyweight Butterfly Open Safety Razor
Rockwell Razors 6C Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor
Vikings Blade: The Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor
Feather All Stainless Steel Double-Edge Razor
MERKUR Classic 2-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor
History of the Double Edge Razor Blade
Double edge razor blades are not anywhere near a new technology. It’s expected that the first DE razor, also known as a safety razor, was made popular by King Camp Gillette in the early 20th century.
That name might sound familiar, and yes, that is the namesake of one of the biggest shaving companies in the world.
Men started utilizing double edge safety razors in masses during World War II. The government signed a contract with Gillette to supply every American soldier with one of their razors. These razors were later transitioned into franken-razors, which are still available at drugstores today.
Persistence of Double Edge Razor Blades
There’s a lot of people who still use double edge razors today, primarily for two major reasons. One, they’re relatively inexpensive, and two, they offer a close shave in the safest way possible.
Some choose to use these at a sink, and others in the shower, which if you’re looking for a great fogless shower mirror, check out our list of the best options on the market. A straight edge razor is much more likely to cut you, irritate the skin, or not get close enough to the surface for a close, clean shave.
There’s a lot to love about double edge razor blades, and the various benefits of using a double edge razor blades make them a must for anyone shaving on a regular basis. Even occasional shavers ought to have a double edge safety razor available for easy access. For that reason, here are the benefits of using a double edge razor blade.
Benefits of Double Edge Razor Blades
Double edge razor blades offer a ton of benefits to their users, and that’s why so many choose these DE razors as their primary source of shaving. Every year, new types of razors come out and more and more companies try to reinvent the wheel.
It’s nice to see technology advance, but the things that make safety razors the best option for shaving are the tried and true features of their design.
The classic double edged razor is still chosen time and time again by professionals in the beauty and barber industries, and that’s because nothing gets closer than a double edge razor.
Control Over Skin to Blade Contact
There’s nothing more frustrating than feeling like a razor blade has a mind of its own. For example, many multi-blade razors offer little in terms of actual control over the skin to blade contact point.
Despite taking your time, using these razors are usually a guessing game as to whether or not every blade is even and coming into contact with your skin at the same time. The slimmer design of the blade hits those tough to reach spots with the accuracy drugstore razors cannot offer.
Even on a first go with a DE razor, it’s easy to feel like a pro barber hitting every spot for a close shave.
Reduced Irritation
Any multiple blade razor is going to increase the amount of irritation felt by the face, head, or neck by every blade put on the head of the razor. That means that even if the first blade is getting every single hair taken care of, the next 3 or 4 blades are all still making contact with the exposed skin. That starts to really irritate the skin in a way that can cause damage for up to a week.
Facial dermis is incredibly susceptible to things like damage and rash, and the easiest way to cause both of those is to irritate it with a multi-blade razor. With a double edge razor blade, the shave is precise and leaves little to no irritation.
Affordability
It is a huge plus in the double edge razor blade column that replacement blades are so darn cheap. It’s not like multi-blade razors are going to break the bank, but buying one every time the blades run thin or unevenly can start to occur much more frequently than desired. The two sides of a double edge razor should last quite a bit of time, and not only is it cheaper, but it’s a better shaving experience.
A Close Shave - Every Time
The single blade experience is unlike any other shave, and with a double edge razor, you have two long lasting blades ready to give you the best shave of your life.
The multi-blade approach is stuck in an angle that makes it tough to get to those hard to reach places. Even with a swivel head that many popular brands market their offerings around, the 30 degree angle that DE razors are set at is far superior. The better angle means less accidental cutting and more close to the skin results. A close shave is essential for those worried about looking their best, so make sure to also check out our tips on how to look good with everything from skincare and wardrobe tips involved.
Some do think that more blades means more tricky spots that get attention, but the problem persists that one blade does the trick, and others are simply overkill. That overkill manifests itself in the form of ingrown hairs, razor burn, and cutting. Avoid this all with a double edge razor blade!
The experience of shaving with a double edge razor is a bit different, so here are some tips!
Tips for Double Edge Razor Shaving
It’s not the same going from a Gillette multi-blade razor to a double edge razor blade experience. For that reason, make these adjustments to your shaving habits when giving a DE razor a go for the first time.
Angle the Shave
The blades on a double edge razor should hit the face at a 30 degree angle, which means that shaving angles you can control must mimic this approach. For this type of razor, make sure to shave with the grain of the beard. Every beard grows a little differently, so be sure to shave to what your beard does.
That’s not always the same for everyone, but make sure to never shave side to side. Carefully moving the razor at this angle hits every edge and smooths out every inch of the face.
Less Time Spent Shaving
There’s nothing worse for you or your face than having to pass over certain parts of a shave 2 or 3 times. It’s terrible for your skin and the condition of your face, and is sure to increase the chances of cuts, scrapes, and rashes. With a double edge razor, you can be sure that you do not have to go over things more than once thanks to the smaller, steadier movements that shaving with this tool requires.
It’s time saving, and means less irritation; two things everyone can get behind. Body grooming is also a timely process, so if you’re also in the market for a new body groomer, check out our shopping guide on the best body groomers around!
No More Pressure or Struggle
If a traditional multi-blade razor is nearing its end, you usually have to press a little harder to get blade to skin contact. The razor on a double edge shaving tool is designed to drift easily on your face, rather than be pushed into the skin or hair. It’s a sharp blade, meaning that this is going to be the least amount of pressure you’ve ever put on a razor while shaving.
Your face, neck, and shave quality will thank you for it.
No more stubble either; don’t worry about a second pass with some more force to hit those trouble areas. Simply glide the blade over evenly for a perfect shave.
Grab a Good Shaving Oil
Nothing pairs better with a double edge razor blade than a good shaving oil. Oils help the face and neck to stay lubricated and guide the razor safely during the entire shave. Instead of solely relying on a wet blade, shaving oil ensures hydration all over and a smooth experience overall.
If you’re not sure what the difference is between a shaving oil or cream, make sure to check out our piece on what makes each different and preferable given different situations.
Well, we know why and how to use a double edge razor blade now. Let’s talk about which one is right for you!
Double Edge vs. Safety Razor vs. Cartridge vs. Straight
You may have heard these terms and aren’t sure what they mean. So, what’s the difference?
Safety Razor (a.k.a. Double Edge Razor)
Something that most people don’t realize is that a safety razor is just another name for a double edge razor. They are the same thing!
A safety razor is meant to be used time-and-time again. They are usually made from metal, and come with a disposable double edge razor. There’s a bar that goes over the top of the razor which protects against nicks and cuts. All-in-all, it will give you a much closer shave than a traditional cartridge razor, although there is a slight learning curve to it.
Cartridge Razor
A cartridge razor is a multi-blade disposable razor - perhaps made most popular by the Gillette Mach 3. Most have a cheap but reusable plastic handle with inexpensive multi-blade cartridges that can be snapped on quickly.
Cartridge razors are the cheapest way to shave, but also the most inconsistent when compared to the other options.
Straight Razor
When you imagine a barber shaving the neckline of a bearded customer, you are probably picturing a straight razor. It’s a long blade that can fold open and closed out of the main handle. They were the primary tool of choice for shaving up until the mid 20th century when the safety razor became popular.
Straight razors definitely have the largest learning curve out of the bunch, but their old school style, weight, and craftsmanship make them a classic choice to have around. With a straight razor there’s also nothing that needs replacing, so in the end it will save you some money.
The 7 Best Double Edge Razor Blades - Our Top Picks
The best of the best give users a great shave every time. Here are the best double edge razors for a close and effortless shave:
7. MERKUR Classic 2-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor
The Merkur Classic 2-Piece is a great place to start, seeing as it is one of the most popular blades on Amazon. This edition of the Merkur brand razor is also known as the Heavy Duty, and is a favorite among regular shavers. Made in Solingen, Germany with world-famous Solingen steel, this razor will delivery a lifetime of close, irritation free shaves. The Merkur Classic Safety Razor will eliminate ingrown hairs and make shaving a pleasure. This razor provides an extremely close, irritation free shave with that gliding sensation every good safety razor should have.
The Merkur Classic Safety Razor uses universal inexpensive double-edge blades that get the job done and do not cost much to replace. The razor’s unique two-piece design is built for stability and easy loading, making transitions to new, fresh blades a breeze. The Heavy Duty edition features a classic closed comb and straight bar-head design for that perfect shaving angle that guarantees a good shave no matter what.
Your style is dependent on the razor’s handle as well, with options available in Knurled, Barber-Pole, and Smooth Stainless Steel. Likewise, the razor’s finish comes in choices of Polished Chrome, Gold, and Stainless Matte.
Manufactured in Solingen, Germany since 1896, the Merkur Classic Safety Razor is known for quality and doesn’t cost too much, although there are better options on the market.
The Feather All Stainless Steel Double-Edge Razor is another favorite of Amazon shoppers, and comes in an instantly noticeable steel finish. The razor also comes with 5 of Feather’s Hi-Stainless Double Edge Blades, ensuring you are stocked up for the near future. This razor feels like the epitome of quality and luxury, from its lightweight design to its classic barber look. Each stroke leaves your skin soft and smooth, and takes you back to a time when shaving was enjoyable and not a daily chore that dragged on during your morning routine.
With the help of modern technology, Feather double-edge razors offer greater control and provide a closer shave than multi-blade cartridge razors. The price is right there for a great competitor too, and if you’re buying blades regularly for a multi-blade razor, you could save quite a bit of money with the Feather All Stainless Steel Double-Edge Razor. In fact, this is one of the next best things to a straight razor shave.
That being said, the lightweight design does give less subjective control over the razor compared to the MERKUR Classic 2-Piece Double Edge Safety Razor. A great option nonetheless, the Feather All Stainless Steel Double-Edge Razor is a good choice for those looking to pick up their first double edge razor blade.
5. Vikings Blade: The Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor
If you’re shopping online for a new double edge razor, chances are you have comes across Vikings Blade. The Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor is a popular model for this booming ecommerce brand of shaving equipment and accessories, and it’s obvious why. Although more expensive than the first two options, the quality of the Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor is hard to beat.
The Emperor Augustus edition of this safety razor is an All-in-One ruler: a hefty adjustable razor so intuitive that it will possibly be the final razor in your collection. Many who pick up a blade from the Vikings Blade brand have a hard time switching to anything else. Its multiple aggression micro-settings and dual head are scientifically designed to give you a smooth and close shave without irritation.
The Emperor razor has a special Anti-Misalignment mechanism which traps the doors if users mis-align the blade to prevent uneven cuts. Hold the razor upright while loading blade and closing the razor to ensure the doors won't freeze. This feature is great as you learn to get a handle on the double edge razor blade experience.
The double sides are also made to be of various shave quality and approach. The first side features a scalloped comb, which is good for aggressive shaves on normal skin. The second side features a smooth bar, making it great for gentle shaves on sensitive skin. Even if your skin is not regularly sensitive, the second side is perfect for days where you’ve been in the sun, leaving your face tight and dry. That makes it more prone to cuts and scrapes, so a sensitive approach to shaving makes all the difference.
Considering a double edge razor blade? It’s likely you’ll want to look at Vikings Blade and the Emperor Adjustable Safety Razor.
4. Rockwell Razors 6C Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor
With more a modern look to it, yet keeping all the traditional DE razor features to it, the Rockwell Razors 6C Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor is another option to consider. This option offers a fully adjustable safety razor for any skin type and stubble length, so you get a close, comfortable shave every time.
The goal of this brand was to make sure nobody ever wasted money on cartridges or subscription shave clubs again. Likewise, the company strives to make shaving something to look forward to. Rockwell's adjustable, precision-engineered optimized blade angles make this goal a total success.
The Rockwell 6C features Rockwell’s fully adjustable shaving system, so each and every skin type and facial hair length can get great shaves with no risk of nicks of cuts. No matter what length of hair you’re shaving, the 6C gets the job done. The Rockwell 6C is cast from premium high-end chromed alloy with a striking Gunmetal finish, but two others in White Chrome and Matte are also available.
All of Rockwell’s razors are backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, so if you’re wanting a good double edge razor blade for under $50, this is a great entry point. There’s nothing special about it, but it is a good option.
3. Parker 99R - Long Handle Heavyweight Butterfly Open Safety Razor
For over 40 years, Parker Safety Razor has engineered the world’s finest shaving gear and classic men’s grooming accessories. The 99R Long Handle Razor is a great way to get an idea about the quality the brand stands for.
The Parker 99R continues in the tradition of excellence with a solid brass frame, butterfly open mechanism, and Parker's world famous smooth shaving head design.The Parker 99R is noted for being a heavy razor, which makes cutting through the toughest of beards easy. This ends up resulting in a smooth and comfortable shave, no matter what canvas you take this tool to. Changing blades is simple and effortless when it comes time. Simply twist the knob on the bottom of the razor to open the butterfly doors and drop in a new blade.
It’s great that it works, but something that really stands out with this razor is how it looks. If you like to set your bathroom up for “shelfies”, this is a great piece to add a suave look to your setup. Thanks to the advanced plating process, the manufacturing process ensures a beautiful and durable finish to each razor. For those who are all about how they look and how their home looks, this is a great way to hit both out of the park.
Without chrome, the world would forfeit a lot of its luster. In the finish used for the MUHLE R89 Safety Razor, chrome helps demonstrate its best qualities. The material is corrosion-resistant, very long-lasting, and has a luxurious, alluring look to its design. For generations, the safety razor has been regarded as a stylish classic which can even shave edges with precision. For many, it is the razor and the design of MUHLE products that make this tool worth owning.
After a brief familiarization period, and guided by a steady hand, the MUHLE R89 Safety Razor produces a very close shave and a lasting result. Unlike modern blade systems, the head of the safety razor does not move. The blades are replaced by unscrewing the cap, and they can be purchased from us and by retailers everywhere. For a dynamic shaving option that puts just as much attention into its materials as you do your shave, look no further.
1. Standard Razors Aluminum Series - Double Edge Safety Razor
The final entry in the list of best double edge razor blades is the top choice of all described and reviewed. The Aluminum Series from Standard Razors is by far the best series of safety razors on the market. Whether you're new to shaving with a safety razor or a seasoned wet shaver, this razor will work perfectly for you as it has a great learning curve and easy to master functionality.
Standard Razors products are milled from solid blocks of aircraft-grade aluminum - so even though they are lightweight - they are crafted to last a lifetime. The aluminum surface is anodized to protect the components and provide a beautiful finish. The premium materials cost more for the company, and therefore you, but that ensures that these razors meet the best of standards. With simple features and an easy to use design, this is by far the best choice on the market, and if you have a bit of extra money set aside for your new double edge razor blade - this is the choice we recommend.
Conclusion
Shaving doesn’t have to be a tedious and painful process. Double edge safety razors can make the process stylish and fun. You’ll have a hard time getting a closer shave using a traditional razor, so take the time and learn how to shave the right way!
