Wahl Legend Review: The King of All Clippers in 2024?

Wahl Legend is a name that already has a great reputation among veteran groomers because of the premium outcomes and robust nature of the device.

Those of you who don’t know Wahl Legend, it’s a clipper that belongs to the top-tier line of Wahl 5-Star clippers and the series has always been among the top dogs in the industry.

In my Wahl Legend review article today, we’ll take a deep dive into this classic-looking hair clipper and learn every possible aspect about this tool.

That way, you’d be an informed groomer who is likely going to know all the pros and cons of this hair clipper from an experiential point of view and assess if it’s really your perfect device!

“Wahl Legend, a legendary hair clipper in 2024, is a masterful craftsman for a wide array of haircuts including fades, blends, tapers and its durability outclasses many that came before it!”

Unboxing the Wahl Legend

Wahl Legend comes home packed inside the traditional Wahl cordless series box. A slider to unveil the main box which opens on the larger side.

There on one side, the Legend clipper sits tight having a red blade guard attached. The device is placed on a black plastic caddy for safety.

On the other side, it opens up to reveal the 2.4 meter long charger, 8 cutting guides, a cleaning brush and lubricant.

Underneath the caddy, there are user manuals and a comb so that you can get up to speed directly from the unboxing!

What’s Inside the Box: Wahl Legend, 8 Cutting Guides, 1 Cleaning Brush, 1 Lubricant, 1 Charger and User Manual.

Specifications: Wahl Legend

This section of my article is going to highlight some of the specs for Wahl Legend so that you can decide on the technicalities at a glance!

• Dimensions: 18.5 x 4.5 x 4 cm
• Weight: 10.8 oz
• Color: Burgundy & Golden
• Wireless: Yes
• Adjustment Lever: Yes
• Guide Combs: 8
• Blade: #2228 Wedge Blade
• Motor Type: Rotary Motor
• LED Indicator: Yes
• Battery Runtime: 60+ minutes

Wahl Legend: Standout Features

Now that we’ve got the technical specifications out of our way, it’s time to check out some of the standout features in our Wahl Legend review article!

Minimal Design

With the Wahl Legend cordless variant, the brand has opted for a classic design route which at the same time allows good grip! Let’s learn about these in detail!

Classic Aesthetics

The first thing you’ll notice on Wahl Legend is its shiny, mirror-like vertical design that goes down the middle of the clipper.

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On this reflective surface, the ‘LEGEND’ text is highlighted in a matte golden tone. To check if your device is the latest one, look for the ‘Li’ text at the bottom.

‘Li’ here stands for lithium-ion, the trademark battery for the whole of the Wahl 5-Star cordless clipper franchise.

At either side of this central mirror, there’s a vertical boundary of light golden accent over the primary burgundy housing, paying homage to the traditional color aspects of hair clippers.

The back plate is made of plastic and colored in black. Silver color can only be located on the lever and blades.

Satisfactory Grip

You might wonder whether there are grip enhancing design elements in the ergonomic department like there is in Wahl Magic Clip or Senior.

The primary aspect that boosts grip level is at the back. The curved backplate fits the fingers perfectly to increase your confidence while grooming.

Secondarily, the build material of this clipper isn’t slippery despite the mirror finish down the middle.

Once you hold it and place your thumb for securing, it remains firmly within your control and will never betray you at any given angle – trust me, I’m speaking from experience!

What I Like

What Could be Better

Build Quality

How robust is the Wahl Legend? It certainly is one of the strongest and solidly-built electric clippers in my arsenal!

For the drop test, I didn’t stress out the blades since I know it’s not going to withstand a direct drop despite being made of still.

But as per the rest of the handle, it can fairly absorb a fall from hand height to the counter regardless of the material.

If you drop it on the floor, it’s highly likely to remain alright, but that shouldn’t be your approach with such a premium tool.

The build material in Wahl Legend is the key factor behind such rigidity and this American technology will certainly last you for upcoming 5-6 years without any issues at any given department!

What I Like

What Could be Better

Wahl Legend: Additional Features

After the main parts, we should investigate additional features that are equally important to know before judging Wahl Legend as your daily clipper!

Light Weight

One of the many positives for the Wahl Legend is its significantly lighter weight! The tool only weighs 10.8 ounces and it’s a delight for all the professionals out there!

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With such weight, it becomes easier to maneuver this tool around the consumer’s hair all day long without tiring your hands.

Also, if you’re someone who prefers self-clipping, such a weight class is convenient in the sense that even the awkward angles allow you complete maneuverability.

You’ll get to carry Wahl Legend around in your backpack if needs be since the weight isn’t something to be wary of.

Lastly, such a weight class renders storage a straightforward affair since it can be stashed at any given corner you like!

Sharp Wedge Blade

If you’re looking for a hair clipper to draw your fades, you should look no further than the Wahl Legend due to its unique capabilities!

The #2228 Wedge Blade which is 1.8 inches wide should suffice in this regard as the basic duties it can uphold is to craft some of the professional-looking fade cuts!

In hindsight, the blade is very, very sharp and you may want to be cautious around it while it’s running at full pace.

Legend can remove hair in bulk and offer you sharp results as well as blended looks depending on the way you’re using it.

This blade is not zero-gapped, the minimum cutting range is 0.7 mm. So for balding hairdo optimists, you should opt for a more specialized device.

Powerful Rotary Motor

There’s no definite RPM number through which I can inform you about the motor power of this Wahl Legend.

But in terms of comparison, I can place its power between Wahl Magic Clip and Wahl Senior (note that Wahl Senior is the most powerful tool in the Wahl cordless series).

It’s a rotary motor installed inside this device and I reckon this is the right way for a portable device to be balanced between power output and battery life retention.

When it comes to bulk removal or precise haircuts over any given hair texture or density, this motor unit has overcome all of the challenges with utmost dignity!

Metal Adjustment Lever

Now let’s take a close look at the adjustment lever. This is the only Wahl 5-Star cordless clipper to come with a metal adjustment lever.

Such quality of adjustment lever is meant for professional use. No matter how hard or frequently you use it, it’ll withstand every possible action thrown at it.

Let’s discuss cutting range. The reason I called Wahl Legend the ideal tool for fades is its wide range spanning one inch.

As you already know, the minimum cutting length is 0.7 mm while the maximum range is 1.7 mm. By this, you can realize the cutting potential of this extraordinary hair clipper!

Wireless Operations

Since it’s one of the most revered portable hair clippers, it must come with a sizable battery unit that’s going to last you through the entire grooming session.

While 30 minutes is a sufficient runtime in my opinion, Wahl Legend will definitely satisfy you with its runtime over 60 minutes.

Don’t get me wrong, it won’t die out at the 60 minute mark, but you’ll certainly feel the clipper dragging through coarse and long hair.

If it’s fade cuts that you’re performing, then the Legend might even touch down on the 80 minute threshold with a full charge!

In case of wired use should the battery run out, the charging cable is sturdy and lengths at 2.4 meters. You are able to utilize the device at full power having it connected to a power outlet.

LED Battery Indicator

At the feet of the Wahl Legend, there’s a tiny blue light which shows different indications over the course of use.

From my Wahl clipper review article, you’ll find a breakdown of this light, how it’s connected to charging level and which one is the low battery level indicator.

Wahl Legend is built upon the classic and more robust technology by the brand, therefore it doesn’t include a digital LED indicator.

I reckon the signals suffice to give you a heads up before you feel the need to complete the cut or plug it into an outlet.

What I Like

What Could be Better

My Experience with Wahl Legend

Now that we’ve finished discussing the features and their detailed analysis, let me shed some light on Wahl Legend based on my personal experience with this tool!

Cutting Quality

The quality of cuts is measured by the evenness of hair after a trim, nature of hair ends after a cut and overall feeling you get upon completing a cut.

Firstly, Wahl Legend is legendary in the sense that it trims evenly and there’s no patch or even singular hair left behind after a solid glide.

Secondly, nature is usually understood by a close inspection paid at the hair ends. For instance, if you notice your hair-ends to be muffled or soft, it suggests the cut hasn’t been premium.

In the case of Wahl Legend, a tactile feeling is enough to tell me that the hair ends are very sharp as they poke harshly against my fingers.

Finally, the overall look automatically tells you about the evenness, continuity and sharpness which are all combined to complete a luxurious haircut!

Clipping Comfort

If you ask me if Wahl Legend is comfortable on skin, I’d say it’s much more comfortable than many of the power-driven hair clippers these days like the Oster Classic 76.

For longer cuts, you may not even feel a thing on your scalp with the Legend. Also, due to the robust motor, there’s no hint of drag or pull at any given moment.

Now when you get very close to the scalp for something like a Buzz cut, the direct skin to blade contact has yet to leave behind redness on a wide variety of scalp I’ve tested on.

This even applies for sensitive skin. From the least cutting length to the most adjusted by the lever, the outcomes have always been 5-Star comfortable!

Grooming Efficiency

For professional groomers, efficiency is a key necessity to demand out of a high-end electric clipper and Wahl Legend has my approval in this department!

The number of glides required to even out at a precise length is the basic measurement standard for efficiency, and Legend is as efficient as a portable clipper could get!

For example, to remove bulk hair and remove a particular length, Wahl Legend takes not more than 5 minutes to cover the entire head.

As per unique and expert haircuts, your average grooming time should be around 10-15 minutes, depending on your skill.

Since Legend is not a zero-gapped clipper, you may want to keep a secondary line-up tool to help you edge up the final haircut.

Versatility

How many types of haircuts can Wahl Legend master? Since you already know, this hair clipper can draw out some fine fades and blends, along with particular lengths of Buzz cuts.

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Additionally, bulk removal at a shorter length is a valid option despite being run with a lithium ion battery.

You may get that balding look with Wahl Legend, but note that there’s going to be some tangible amount of hair left on your scalp as its minimum cutting length is 0.7 mm.

Using all eight of the cutting guide attachments that come inside the package, you’re going to have a great time crafting out longer hairdos.

Also, learning to combine these guides with your adjustment lever’s length settings can generate different varieties of blends between soft to sharp!

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning and maintaining Wahl Legend is as easy as it could get! You only need a cleaning brush and a cloth rag to clean out the stray hair from the blades.

If you want to be thorough, you may want to unscrew the blade to get everything out from the nook and crannies, but this shouldn’t be carried out more than once per month.

Otherwise, the regular cleaning should take place after every haircut to prolong the blade’s health. Also, you may consider lubricating the blades before safe storage.

It’s worth noting that Wahl Legend is not waterproof and washing is never an option even if you perform your cuts on damp hair. Getting in contact with water can damage the device.

How I Tested the Wahl Legend?

The methods I picked for testing follow a benchmark system I’ve developed over the recent years. Since it’s a device I personally own, these tests have been going on for quite a while now.

Initially, I began with a close inspection of Wahl Legend’s housing design and checked out the grip levels by comparing the sensation to other top-tier electric clippers.

Then, I ran the sharpness and motor power check over different varieties of hair and took notes. I charged the device completely and held a stopwatch during usage to assess usable and maximum battery life.

Also, I ran drop tests and longevity tests to analyze the overall durability of Wahl Legend. All the information I’ve disseminated so far in this article are breakdowns of my prolonged tests.

What I Like

What Could be Better

Who is Wahl Legend For?

We’ve come to the final and supposedly the most important question we’re going to face in this article so far. Is Wahl Legend just a professional tool?

I think not! I believe Legend can be used in both professional spaces as well as inside households as a primary grooming device for every age and hair type.

The pricing of Wahl Legend is not absurd in my opinion because think about everything you’re getting and it’s not even permanently connected to a cable that tops it off!

In terms of stylistic outcomes, Wahl Legend should cater to consumers with a knack for fades, blends, tapers, bulk removal and gradient haircuts, producing the most natural-looking results!

How to Use Wahl Legend?

Wahl Legend is so easy to use that you can receive its perks even if you’re new to grooming with an electric clipper.

In this segment of my article, let me break down the basics using which you can be on your way toward landing your first, DIY haircut at home!

Step 1: Preparation

For preparation, you may want to situate yourself in-between a couple of mirrors facing each other. Sit somewhere you can clean out later easily.

Wear a bit to protect yourself from stray hair. Dampen your hair if needs be. Keep a styling comb at disposal and organize your hair. Select the haircut you want to apply and strategize beforehand.

Step 2: Turn on Wahl Legend

To turn on the Wahl Legend, locate the power knob underneath the adjustment lever. Set the lever at your desired length before turning it on.

Also, you should fully charge the device to draw the best performance out of it. You are also free to keep it connected to a power outlet to receive relentless power.

Step 3: Pick a Section

Once your Wahl Legend is turned on, pick a section, preferably on the side. Start from the lowest point and climb your way up.

Take help for your nape hair if needed. Self-trimming nape hair is quite tricky and it requires a little mastery to perfectly get the job done.

You can also part your hair into sections using your comb to keep track of your haircut. Always check and re-check your outcome and glide accordingly.

Step 4: Glide with Short, Precise Strokes

Your glides should be short and precise. Don’t drag out your clipper too long as it’ll supposedly break continuity.

Keeping your strokes short guarantees seamlessness all around your hair area. Over time, you’ll get the hang of it and won’t be needing any instruction at all.

Step 5: Repeat

The way you’ll trim one section of your hair, repeat that process throughout your hair body. At the top, you should start from the front and move gradually toward your crown.

If you’re using guide combs, select the one that’s going to fit your desired look the best. Swap out when you’re looking for longer cuts.

Adjust the lever in-between this alteration to smooth out the transition and make it look neat!

Step 6: Finalize Your Look

Finally, use a zero-gap trimmer to edge out your haircut. This cleanup is very important to grant your hairdo completion.

Also, don’t forget to clean the hair from your neck and behind the ears as it’s the fundamental of a solid haircut and ooze professional at first glance.

Using all the six mentioned steps, you may embark on a journey to become the solemn master of Wahl Legend and enjoy its benefits in the long run!

Wahl Legend vs Senior: Which One is Better in 2024?

If you’re struggling to pick between these two iconic shavers from Wahl 5-Star, I got great news! This extension of my article also features a battle of Wahl Senior vs Legend for your convenience!

Types of Blades

Let’s place the Wedge Blade from Wahl Legend and the Adjustable 0000 Blade from Wahl Senior side by side for this comparison!

Legend’s blade has a deeper tooth than Senior and is mainly intended for blends or fades. On the other hand, Senior’s Adjustable 0000 Blade is zero-gapped.

Therefore, Senior excels at creating zero looks and seamless cuts. Also, it’s an ideal hair clipper for balding looks where Legend comes significantly short.

All of these are achieved by Legend’s 0.7-1.7 mm cutting range whereas Senior comes with the range of 0-1.2 mm.

So to sum up – Legend’s blades can’t zero gap and should be preferred if longer fades are your objective. Otherwise, Senior’s blades can create shorter cuts as well as fades much better than Legend!

Attachment Guide Combs

If we take a look at all the attachment combs you’d be getting with either of these hair clippers, you can paint the picture about their specialization.

As I mentioned, Wahl Senior caters to shorter haircuts therefore the 3 guide combs you’ll find inside the package size between 1/16” to 3/16”.

It means, you’re not getting any haircut result that’s longer than 3/16” or 4.7 mm long. On the other hand, the larger library of Wahl Legend gives you 8 cutting guides between 1/16” to 1”.

So, the latter can cut at the maximum length of 1” or 25 mm, almost 5 times longer than Wahl Senior logically can. In terms of landing longer haircuts, Wahl Legend should be your priority.

Battery Life

The battery debate between Wahl Legend vs Senior is nothing too sensational as the two respective models aren’t that far off from each other in this aspect.

But Wahl Senior holds juice surprisingly longer considering its motor power (which I’ll be talking about in the following segment).

Out-classing Legend’s 60 minute usable runtime with a 70 minute performance from Senior with a faster motor is most certainly worth appreciating.

If you were wondering why there’s a significant gap in price between the two, this is the second (after the blades) of the few noteworthy points of consideration.

Difference in Motor Power

The tertiary consideration factor between Wahl Senior and Legend is their motor power difference.

Both of these Wahl clippers feature rotary motors engineered in similar fashion. But when it comes to raw power, Wahl admits that Senior is faster than Legend with the former’s 6,500 RPM!

It benefits shorter cuts through denser hair and rapid results while generating zero cuts or fades. Such a robust motor isn’t always necessary when dealing with longer hairstyles.

This motor unit in Senior has jacked up its price and that’s why being similarly built in other regards, Legend is quite affordable in contrast.

Tactile Sensations

In terms of looks, both Wahl Legend & Senior are attractive in their own respective manners. Senior is draped in a suave black tone with silver accenting for the texts and back plate.

As opposed to it, Wahl Legend has taken a more traditional route in its design department and the color scheme as well as the shape of the handle says it all.

On the other hand, Senior’s design is more advanced and attracts consumers with a more minimalistic taste on grooming goods.

Two major differences in tactile sensation are: Senior’s backplate is metallic and is less prone to damage whereas Legend comes with a durable plastic back.

This metal backplate does weigh down Senior and compromise maneuverability comparatively, but it’s slightly more robust than Legend – so the choice is up to you in this regard.

Expected Haircuts

What should you expect with either of these hair clippers once you’ve purchased one? Which haircuts do they masterfully create and which ones they come short at?

Wahl Legend’s longer haircuts involve soft blends, almost every sort of fade except for skin fade, longer tapers and haircuts that could use prolonged gradients.

Wahl Senior is quite the opposite in this regard and specializes in zero cuts, zero fades, old-school tapers all around and some precision fades.

Verdict: In the end, it’s a matter of preference whether you want to pick Wahl Senior or Legend and their price points have very little to do with that.

If I wanted something for just bulk removal and longer fades, I’d opt for Wahl Legend and its lower price would be an added bonus.

If I were looking for a professional-grade hair clipper solely for shorter cuts, I’d have to side with Senior regardless of its price – you know it’s actually worth it!

FAQ

In this part of the article, you’re going to find some additional detail about Wahl Legend and extend your horizon of knowledge about this hair clipper!

Q: Is the Wahl Legend suitable for home use or only for professionals?

Ans: As I mentioned it already, Wahl Legend is suitable for both of these cases. The easy to learn and use functionality of this tool makes it easier for home groomers to apply different cuts on themselves. On the other hand, the durability and premium haircut results pose Legend to be a prime contender to be a first-choice clipper at any barbershop!

Q: Can the Wahl Legend be used for both tapering and fading?

Ans: Yes, the Wahl Legend can be used for both tapering and fading, all thanks to the wide cutting range accessed through the adjustment lever. Using the 0.7 mm setting, you can almost zero down the side hair and increase your way up to produce different types of tapers and fades!

Q: Are there any common issues or drawbacks with the Wahl Legend?

Ans: So far, I haven’t faced any issues with Wahl Legend and can assure it’s a very solid device without any common problems. Over time, you may find the blade dulling out as it happens naturally. Replacing it should get it back in action. After 5 or so years, you might want to replace the battery as li-ion batteries generally don’t survive past that threshold.

Final Thoughts

In the closing stage of this Wahl Legend review, I’d like to highlight the Wedge Blade and the reason why it sets Legend from the rest of the clippers like Andis or Oster.

This Wedge Blade is wide to cover a larger area on your scalp and its deep teeth can generate such a suave fade cut which very few clippers these days fail to match.

Apart from the blade, its housing is solid and damage-proof. With premium cutting guides, metal lever and long battery life, I’ve failed to point out any major drawback with this instrument.

That said, Wahl’s pricing for Legend is impeccably accurate and at that range, I see no other hair clipper outperforming Wahl Legend in both home and professional spheres!