Gillette Mach3 vs Fusion5 vs ProGlide: Which One is Better

If you are new to men’s grooming, then the Gillette name might have you wondering: what does it mean? Why is it so famous?

There are tons of reasons for their fame as I’ll discuss them later on, but first, you must definitely have seen the hype around Gillette Mach3, Fusion5 or ProGlide razors.

All three of these razors are widely available in supermarkets or online because of their price and ease of use.

Many try to differentiate between these razors by searching Gillette Fusion5 vs ProGlide or something similar.

I am going to compare all three side by side to show you what sets each of them apart from the other today!

Gillette Mach3 vs ProGlide vs Fusion5: Comparing Key Features

In this section, I’ll individually review the key components for three of the Gillette razors in concern. After that, a comparative study should help you pick the right tool for you!

From the chart, you may have a basic idea, although there’s much more to be said on these shavers!

Gillette Mach3 Review

Gillette Mach 3 is probably the most sold manual razor unit in the global market due to its performance and affordability.

This razor has three cutting elements layered one after the other and that alone sets it apart from the one-time shavers.

On top of that, there are a couple of very basic lubrication strips at either ends of the blades that render the glides much smoother and keeps the skin safer from those throwaway tools.

The handle design is sleek and has ergonomic grip points. These help out while shaving in wet condition.

But of course, there are certain downsides to this. Mach 3 isn’t the most reliable in terms of avoiding cuts or nicks.

That’s how manual razors work and I tend to settle for electric shavers, at least skin safety is one of the major concerns in this regard.

While shaving on a stubble growth over 5 days, the Mach 3 seems to struggle a lot and it requires more passes than usual – not safe for the skin in any way.

Each blade unit should last you between 7 to 10 shaves, depending on the density and texture of your facial hair.

Also, there’s no alternative of applying shaving gel or foam in the pre-shave routine, otherwise the Mach 3 will leave behind more unshaved patches and the overall skin comfort will be compromised.

What I Like

What Could be Better

Gillette ProGlide Review

Gillette ProGlide is the more advanced manual razor with features that tend to deliver more convenient and efficient shaving experiences.

In my opinion, the most charming factor about this tool is its FlexBall technology which tilts the blade in addition to the back and forth movement (which exists in the Mach3 as well).

This FlexBall tech is quite subtle and can be felt while gliding the tool across your face. The head makes micro adjustments and definitely gives a much closer and convincing shave.

Another thing Gillette tries to promote with the ProGlide is its 5-blade cutting system. These five blades are very thin yet agile to chop through diverse hair textures.

Although Gillette claims that these blades are ‘anti-friction’, I found the closeness to be compromised if not used without any soap, foam or gel.

Additionally, the advanced lubricant strip does help out if you’re planning on shaving with just water over your beard.

However, I do have to concede that the microfins placed at the feet of the blades do guide the facial hair more efficiently toward the blades, causing less tugs than Mach 3 in general.

The handle is enhanced with a higher number of textured spots for a refined grip, and the balance makes it comfortable to move around.

There are two variants of the ProGlide, not much difference between them in my opinion. As per the blade refill goes, any 5-blade handle can host the ProGlide blades (except for the Gillette Lab series).

Even with a higher blade count, the maximum stubble length for efficient shaves remains at 5 days. The blades are usable for 5-7 shaves, such a shame for a pricey manual razor.

Yes, the cuts are much closer and skin faces less irritation – yet, I realized that more blades doesn’t necessarily imply a better experience.

One unique element in this tool is the ‘Advanced Precision’ cutter situated at the back of the blade to reach narrow areas more effectively. To my surprise, it does work better than expected.

The sad part is, ProGlide’s lubricant strip wears off after around five shaves, but there are certain ways to extend that – I’ll explain that later in this article.

What I Like

What Could be Better

Gillette Fusion5 Review

Gillette Fusion series has been pivotal in rebranding while premium electric shavers began to consume larger portions of the grooming market.

The Gillette Fusion5 managed to remain competitive in the market after a few failed experiments from the brand.

If you notice, the ‘5’ in Fusion5 refers to the 5-blade cutting system to offer a closer shave with less number of glides.

In terms of blade quality, it’s very similar to the ones in ProGlide – thin anti-friction blades that are supposed to move across with less skin contact. However, the closeness felt better with the Fusion5 for my case.

Also, there are soft microfins at the bottom for stretching your skin out and reaching closer to generate a higher shaving quality.

While it manages to provide a refined result, the efficiency struggles if compared against the ProGlide due to the difference of microfin technology.

In addition, Gillette Fusion5 has enhanced the lubricant strip from the basic Mach3, making it easier to glide but the durability is somewhat similar.

This razor causes less tugs on the skin and the precision trimmer at the back definitely helps out to clean the fringes of your lips.

The handle feels slightly narrower than the ProGlide but it’s well-balanced and for me, much lighter for performing numerous glides.

Its ergonomics is better than Mach3 and close to ProGlide – doing great in wet modes or unique angles.

Fusion5 blades have better durability, 8-12 shaves can be performed until the blades start to dull out. But one thing remains – the lubricant strip will wear off very soon, even sooner if you shave without additional lubricants.

It’s worth noting that the Fusion5 has a newer variant called ‘Gillette Fusion5 Power’ – the same manual razor with built in motor components.

This motor vibrates to grab a higher amount of hair with less glides, but personally it felt nothing more than a gimmick and I’d much rather stick to the non-power variant.

What I Like

What Could be Better

Comparative Analysis: Gillette ProGlide vs Fusion5 vs Mach3

In this section, I’ll put the important elements of the Gillette razors side by side to make an assessment of which one is better suited for your needs!

Shaving Closeness

It’s worth noting that I have a dense beard and the strands are thick enough for me to replace manual razors very frequently.

That said, I’d say I’m very pleased with the shaving closeness of each of the Gillette razors, but Fusion5 among them has the closest results due to its 5-blades and unique microfin system.

ProGlide ranks second in ranking but makes up for that in terms of cutting efficiency. Also, ProGlide’s shaving closeness is better than the rest in the neck region, credit is due to the FlexBall technology.

Mach3 is definitely great despite the 3-blade system, but somewhat lacks the closeness the other two models are capable of generating.

Comfort on Skin

If your priority is ensuring skin comfort, then I’d definitely recommend a sensitive skin electric shaver because manual razors aren’t praised for their convenience over skin.

That said, I found the ProGlide to cause me the least amount of irritation whereas Fusion5 is prone to the least amount of tugs or nicks.

Mach3 however is known for causing both, especially around the neck region. So I wouldn’t vouch for any one of these manual shavers for the purpose of skin comfort while or after shaving.

Ergonomics

Counting ergonomic features, Gillette ProGlide would be the most extravagant one since there are extruded grip spots at every part of the handle.

Also, the wider and slightly heavier handle design allows you to retain grip in the best possible manner at all conditions.

Fusion5 is much sleeker than the ProGlide and contains a lesser volume of ergonomic spots. Yet, due to the lean nature and lighter weight, this one is my most favorite in this department.

Ergonomically, the Mach3 is average and I don’t have many complaints except for the fact that a firm grip is required if you have fingers highly slippery with soap.

Durability

In the durability department, let me get it straight that all three of the Gillette razors have their lubricant strip worn off within 5 shaves.

As per the blade durability goes, Fusion5 lasts the longest with around 8-12 shaves. Mach3 ranks second as you can get between 7 and 10 shaves.

The biggest disappointment has been the ProGlide blade’s durability – only 5 to 7 shaves seem to blunt out the blade system.

That’s why I proffered that electric shaving costs less in the long run than manual (at least that’s what the calculations estimate in the long run).

How I Tested These Gillette Razors?

Since I have to shave my beard on a regular basis to maintain the neat look, my initial journey began with a Gillette Mach3 – that is years ago from now.

I then migrated to the Fusion series to see for myself what all the hype was about and the ProGlide has been a recent purchase solely for testing purposes.

With my long experience of using Gillette razors and knowledge about different grooming products due to my work, I believe my verdict carries experiential weight which can give the readers a realistic expectation.

How to Extend Blade and Lubricant Strip Durability of Gillette Razors?

If you’re struggling with the lifespan of your Gillette blades and the lubricant strip, there are a few tips and tricks that could help you out in extending their durability.

• Clean Your Face Thoroughly: You must clean your face thoroughly before using Gillette shavers like Mach3, ProGlide or Fusion5. Otherwise, your facial residue can easily damage the lubricant strip or dull out blades sooner than expected.
• Maintain a Pre-Shave Routine: Maintaining both pre and post-shave routine is not only a healthy practice for your skin, but also for the manual razor you’re using. This is another trick at extending your razor’s life.
• Shave with Light Pressure: Don’t apply too much pressure with your razor. Instead, stretch your skin out and let the blades do their work.
• Keep Blades Clean: Always keep your Gillette blades clean. Doing so prevents any damage or compromised quality of the elements. Also, mop up the water and let the razor dry before considering storage.
• Store the Razor Properly: Proper storage implies putting on a blade guard and keeping it safe inside a box with no moisture. Remember, moisture and additional friction are pivotal in ruining your razor’s lubricant strip.
• Consider Wet Shaving: If you want to prolong the life of your Gillette razor, you may consider wet shaving with foam, gel, lotion or soap. This reduces friction, makes it easier for the blades to chop through hair and causes less tension for the lubrication strip.

These steps will help you get better value out of your money for a Gillette razor. Also, if you own a 5-blade system like ProGlide or Fusion5, consider buying combo cartridges.

For instance, this specific refill gives you the blades of both ProGlide and Fusion5 in one set. Either one of these two handles are capable of utilizing these two types of blade systems.

About Gillette

Gillette – the best a man can definitely get – I’d be lying if I said the statement doesn’t mean anything. Despite being a fan of electric shavers, Gillette’s reputation indeed has some valid ground.

The company was founded back in 1901, over a century ago by King C. Gillette in the US, named after the founder himself.

During the 1930s, Gillette obtained a razor manufacturing company in Berlin, Germany and most of their products are produced there till date.

If you didn’t know, Procter & Gamble acquired Gillette back in 2005. All through the life of this brand, manual razors became synonymous with Gillette worldwide due to their quality, affordability and performance.

In recent times, Gillette has taken eco-friendly initiatives to reduce razor-based components and recycle those to help preserve the earth.

FAQ

This section will further elaborate on Gillette Mach3, Fusion5 and ProGlide razors along with some generic queries by providing comprehensive answers.

Q: Can Mach3 cartridges fit on Fusion or other Gillette handles?

Ans: No, Gillette Mach3 cartridges have a different hinge mechanism than Fusion series razors and therefore the blades are not interchangeable.

Q: Can the Fusion5 be used for body grooming?

Ans: Technically, you can use Gillette Fusion5 or other Gillette face razors for your body grooming needs and they work quite well (I’ve tried personally, so I would know). However, I’d still recommend a dedicated manscaping device for a nick-free and convenient result.

Q: Is the Gillette ProGlide suitable for sensitive skin?

Ans: While Gillette claims that the ProGlide caters to sensitive skin, I’d argue that electric shavers are much kinder in this regard. ProGlide definitely causes less irritation compared to other manual razors. So for wanting to stick to manual shaving, then definitely ProGlide is your answer for sensitive skin.

Q: Is there any subscription system for Gillette Razors?

Ans: Depending on your area, you may be eligible for Gillette subscription plans for your specific manual razor and their cartridges. If you specify a refill interval, Gillette will leave a package at your doorstep – be that weekly or monthly – up to your preference.

Q: Can Gillette razors shave or maintain a bald head?

Ans: Yes, Gillette razors are capable of shaving your head or maintaining that shiny look. But it’s going to dull out the blades much faster and the lubrication strip will last even less than usual. This happens because of the harshness of the skin and coarseness of head hair – these are generally different from facial hair.

Which One is the Best Gillette Razor?

As our discussion on three specific razors, Gillette Fusion5 vs Mach3 stands out for me due to their similarity in price point. Are more blades better?

In short, no, it’s not just the number of blades, rather the further enhancements Fusion5 brought, like the microfins, ergonomic handle or better lubricant strip.

Same argument could be made if you ask me about Gillette ProGlide vs Mach3, the former definitely the more comfortable of the two.

So finally, between Gillette Fusion5 and ProGlide, I’d say ProGlide is better in terms of raw performance, refined closeness and of course, contour adaptability with its FlexBall neck.

But the blades and lubestrips are less durable, which gives Fusion5 the upper hand at less cost over time.

Therefore, Gillette Fusion5 is the more balanced razor and a winner out of the three in my opinion!