The German brand Braun has made two significant revisions to their Series 9 Pro+ shavers since their initial release. The Braun 9697cc is the latest and flagship model in this series. Before the introduction of the S9 Pro+ 96xxcc models, the 95xxcc was Braun’s most advanced creation. Despite a very expensive model, the Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc remains highly popular due to its very advanced features and exceptionally comfortable shaving experience. In this review, I’ll share everything you need to know about the Braun 9697cc, including my personal experience, to help you make an informed decision for your next shaving machine.
Pros:
- Advanced shaving technology
- Good for shaving long stubble
- Very comfortable performance
- Reliable rechargeable battery
- Close shave
- Wet/dry shaver + Waterproof body
- Premium built quality with advanced LED display
- Flexible shaving elements and pivoting head
- Headlock + travel lock technology
Cons:
- Very Expensive
- Old-fashioned charging cable
Insights
Although the latest version of the standard Series 9 Pro+ shaver, the Braun 9697cc, retains many of the features and specifications of its predecessors, it comes with numerous upgrades and improvements. On the other hand, it shares many similarities with the standard Series 9 and Series 9 Pro models, and some tweaks that set them apart.
(i). Upgraded Shaving Head: Braun made a significant upgrade to the shaving head to deliver a more accurate and comfortable shave. The new 96M shaving head used in the 9697cc shaver still features four cutting elements, but the outer foils have been redesigned into ultra-thin, titanium-coated foil cutters. These provide closer skin contact and adapt to facial contours more efficiently, helping cut hairs closer to the skin. The other two cutting elements, the Direct&Cut trimmer and ProLift cutter, remain the same as their predecessors.
(ii). Shaving Head Flexibility: The Braun Series 9 Pro+ (S9 and S9 Pro also) shavers are well known for their flexible shaving elements and pivoting heads. The Braun Series 9 9697cc features a 10-D pivoting head that ensures a convenient shave, effortlessly adapting to facial curves and tricky areas. While there are many electric shavers on the market, such as the Panasonic Arc6 and Arc5, which also have flexible heads and extensive directional flexing, practically none match the smoothness of the Braun Series 9 shavers. This advanced flexible head technology allows for a comfortable and efficient shave with minimal wrist effort.
(iii). Power Source: The shaver comes with a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that offers 60 minutes of continuous shaving on a full charge. Additionally, it includes a 5-minute quick charge option for urgent shaves when the battery is fully drained.
(iv). Improved LED Display: Braun has enhanced the digital display on the 96xx shavers, improving both the lighting color and functionalities. The old LED display used blue lights for icons and indicators, but the new, upgraded display features a more HD interface with white LED lights. A new battery icon has been added below the battery segment countdown, giving the display a more refined look. Although this icon may not be such useful, it does enhance the overall appearance. The display includes 4 battery life segments, each representing 25% of the total battery life. Moreover, there are indicators for charging, cleaning, replacement head, and most importantly, a travel lock. This smart display feels almost like using a cell phone.
(v). Shaving Sensor: Braun introduced a very significant change in the new Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc shaver sensor, called Pro SensoAdapt technology. Previous models (S9/S9 Pro/S9 Pro+ 95xx) came with AutoSense technology, which could read beard density 13 times per second. However, the latest Pro SensoAdapt sensor can read beard density 300 times per second and adjust the shaving power accordingly. This technology allows the shaver to adapt motor power based on beard density, that makes the shaving experience smoother, more comfortable, and more efficient.
(vi). Waterproof Shaver: The Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc and all other S9 shavers are 100% waterproof. You can rinse and immerse the shaver for up to 30 minutes without any risk of water-related issues. Waterproof devices are incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to use them anywhere and in any environment. Since electric shavers are often used in the bathroom and kept on countertops, it’s best to choose one with a waterproof design. The Braun 9697cc is suitable for wet environments and can even be used in the shower.
(vii). Wet/dry Shaving: Premium shavers like the Braun Series 9 Pro+ naturally comes with wet/dry shaving feature. The key consideration is the efficiency of shaving on wet beards. In practice, the new Braun Series 9 9697cc is even more efficient than its predecessors, which were already excellent for wet shaving. This shaver maintains its extended power to cut hairs on wet beards, ensuring a smooth and close shave every time, regardless wet/dry.
(viii). Precision Trimmer: The Braun 9697cc features the typical Series 9 popup trimmer for precision trimming. Despite numerous updates over time, Braun has kept the popup trimmer’s design unchanged. However, the new Pro+ named it ProTrimmer and it promises to make the precision trimming more accurately and faster. Undoubtedly the popup trimmer is essential for precision tasks like shaping sideburns, moustaches, and eyebrows or creating clean hairlines after every shave.
(ix). Headlock System: Since the Braun Pro+ (All Series 9 and Pro also) shaver has a highly flexible head that swivels freely, it can make shaving tricky areas difficult. To address this, Braun included a head-lock system with a switch on the front of the shaver that locks the head in five pre-set positions. This feature is useful for hard-to-reach spots and is available on all Series 9 shavers, including older models.
(x). Travel Lock: The Braun Series 9 shavers, including the Pro and Pro+ models, feature an advanced travel lock system. This user-friendly system is activated by holding the power button for 3 seconds and deactivating it in the same way. The LED display shows a padlock icon (locked) when activated and unlocked when deactivated. The travel lock prevents accidental power-on during travel or storage.
What’s in the Box?
I found the following items after unpacking the box:
- The Shaver Itself: the first item in the box is the Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc shaver itself.
- ProComfort Massage Head: Braun provides an advanced EasyClick facial massaging head with this package which has soft silicone elements with sonic motion that stimulate the skin and the beards. The massage helps to lift and align flat-lying hairs that makes the shaving process smoother since the shaver head can easily capture and cut those hairs. Thus, it reduces the number of passes needed, which may improve the shaving comfort and lower irritations.
- SmartCare Center: There is a 6-in-1 SmartCare center with the shaver that is designed to keep the shaver performing like new. This automatic docking station detects the shaver’s condition and chooses the right cleaning cycle automatically. The main purpose of the gadget is to hygienically cleaning the shaver head removing hair, skin oil, dust, and residue more thoroughly than rinsing with water. It also dries and lubricates the shaver after a cleaning; thus it optimizes performance of the shaver and increases the lifespan of the cassette. Another important duty of the dock is charging the device securely on the countertop.
- Cleaning Cartridge: A cleaning cartridge for use in the cleaning station. You need to outsource it once consumed the included one. It’ll cost some extra bucks for a refill cartridge.
- Charging Cable: USB type-A charging cable with a universal voltage adapter for recharging the shaver directly from the electric outlet or connecting the clean & charge station with the electricity.
- Travel Case: The shaver comes with a hard textile travel pouch designed to protect the shaver from external impacts. I noticed that the shaver remained undamaged even when it accidentally dropped while stored inside the pouch. This ensures the shaver is well-protected from dust, general accidents, and other external impacts. However, the travel pouch is designed to store only the main device, so you’ll need a separate bag for additional accessories.
- Cleaning Brush: A small cleaning brush to clean up the debris instantly from the shaver head and blades for optimum shaving.
- Manual: A detailed user manual book with all the information needed to use the shaver and manage the accessories accurately.
Personal Experience
The design and look of the Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc is not much different than the previous generation of Pro+ models except the thumb rest zone. The new thumb rest zone has a new textured look that I think not much needy in practice. However, the significant change in the shaving head mechanism with the titanium coated ultra-thin outer foils that are really appreciated. But I do disagree with the misleading proclamation of Braun’s 5+1 shaving head system because there are actually 4 shaving blades and one skin guard and a plus is the popup trimmer. So, don’t mix them with six bladed shaver like Panasonic Arc6. However, the powerful battery of the shaver is satisfactory improvement Compared to the older generation shavers slowed down at the last 10 minutes, which I think recovered in this upgraded model that works on the peak in every minute until it drains fully. This new generation advanced shaver has a brushed matte silver finish, which I find much better than the older glossy models that easily show fingerprints and smudges. Although it still has a plastic-built body, this design choice keeps it lightweight and comfortable to use. One of my favourite standalone features of the Series 9/ Pro and Pro+ is the flexible shaving elements. They provide incredibly comfortable shaves, even on my sensitive skin. The headlock button is user-friendly, and the circled power button is multifunctional, handling everything from starting the shaver to enabling the travel lock. The LED display is brighter and more informational than previous versions. The rubber grip on the back is another great feature that has textured pimples that make the shaver secure and comfortable to hold. When it comes to performance, the Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc delivers very close shaves from every angle. I tried it on wet shaves and found it worked well, providing smooth results comparable to the Panasonic Arc5 and Arc6. However, the Braun’s smaller head makes it easier to maneuver, especially in tricky areas. I tested it on 1-day, 3-day, and 5-6-day beards, and it handled them smoothly without any hassle. For longer beards, the built-in precision trimmer is handy for trimming down to stubble before shaving. Although it’s not as fast as dedicated beard trimmers due to its narrow shape, but it gets the job done. To summarise, my experience with the Braun 9697cc is very positive. I found it’s a great choice and a strong competitor in the market that combines performance with ease of use.
Comparison with Alternatives
Philips Norelco Series 9000: This rotary shaver series features three circular blades and is Philips Norelco’s high-end model, capable of handling long stubble. It has a sleek, premium design with reliable build quality. The rechargeable Li-ion battery offers 60 minutes of cordless performance and includes a 5-minute quick charge option, similar to the Braun 9697cc. The shaver is equipped with AI-powered technology that reads beard density, adjusts shaving power, and measures pressure accordingly. Its ComfortGlide technology ensures a very comfortable shave, reducing razor burns and rashes. However, the shaver head is somewhat bulky, which might feel cumbersome for some users, especially those new to rotary shavers. Choosing between the Braun Series 9 9697cc and the Philips Norelco Series 9000 largely depends on your personal preferences and shaving needs. If you prioritize a very close shave and have sensitive skin, the Braun Pro plus 9697cc might be the better choice due to its foil design and flexible shaving elements. On the other hand, if your hair grows in different directions and you prefer a shaver that can handle longer stubble, the Philips Norelco Series 9000 could be more suitable due to its rotary design and advanced features.
Panasonic ES-LS9A-K: It’s one of the most advanced creations by the Japanese brand Panasonic which features 6 actual cutting blades which works together to make an accomplished, fast, and flawless shave. Since it has 6 blades on the head, the head feels bulky on the face and some may feel uncomfortable for this. It also has an advanced LED display to show the essential information. However, it comes with a smaller battery the provides 45 minutes of cordless performance whereas the Braun 9697cc provides 1 hour cordless shaving power. This Arc6 shaver also has a flexible shaving head, but I found the Braun’s one is smoother in this fact. However, it’s not a tremendous different and I found the Panasonic’s popup trimmer is more user-friendly than the Braun’s one. At last I can say, it you are in need of most efficient and fastest shaving device, the Panasonic ES-LS9A is the option, but the Braun 9697cc is a smart option for sensitive skin for comfortable shave and shaving longer stubble.
Verdict
The Braun Series 9 Pro Plus 9697cc is both powerful and gentle, perfect for anyone looking for a top-notch shaving experience. It offers a comfortable and efficient shave, making it stand out in the market. There are many affordable shavers that provide good results, but the Braun 9697cc offers something special that becomes evident after use. If you’re looking for a high-end shaver that combines power with a gentle touch, the Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc is a solid choice. But the expensive price tag may disappoint you if you are in a budget.
Should You Buy Braun Series 9 Pro+ 9697cc Shaver?
- Yes, if you have sensitive skin and need a very comfortable shave.
- Yes, if you want a shaver that provides a close shave and offers premium features.
- Yes, if you are fond of luxury devices and a massage head is your wished gadget.
- Yes, if you do not shave daily and need to shave long stubble like 4-7 day beard.
- No, if a high price tag is your concern.
- No, if you are used to with USB Type-C charging port.