Many may not be aware that Panasonic produces not only high-quality audio and video products (such as the Panasonic TX-65FZ800E, our current benchmark for picture quality) but also home appliances and personal care devices. We will be examining more products from this segment as we approach spring and summer. In this review, we focus on personal care, specifically evaluating one of their premium shaving products: the ER-SB40 trimmer.
The Panasonic ER-SB40 is a rechargeable beard and hair trimmer designed for convenient cleaning under running water. A key feature is its linear motor, engineered to maintain consistent power output until the battery is depleted, which contributes to a smoother and more efficient trimming process. The trimmer incorporates a rotary dial offering 19 distinct length settings, ranging from 1.0 to 10 mm, adjustable in precise 0.5 mm increments.
Over the past few weeks, one of our team members put the Panasonic ER-SB40 through rigorous testing to assess its performance relative to the competition. Our primary comparison point is the Moser Trendcut Li-Ion, a rechargeable beard trimmer we currently consider to be among the best. The question is: can the ER-SB40 surpass it?
Evaluating the most critical aspect – cutting performance – the ER-SB40 performs admirably. The robust motor is immediately noticeable, effortlessly handling even denser beard growth. Its ergonomics are sound, with a comfortable weight of 180 grams, and noise levels are well-managed. Without the attachment, it trims to approximately 0.5mm, a commendable result. Furthermore, the 19 adjustable length settings enable precise beard length customization. A significant advantage over the Moser Trendcut is its single attachment design, combined with a rotating adjustment ring. This eliminates the need to manage multiple attachments for achieving the desired length. The Panasonic ER-SB40 leverages Japanese blade technology, positioning the blades at an optimal angle for sharpness and durability. Additionally, the wider blade design enhances efficiency in capturing challenging hairs, including fine, curly, or closely-lying hairs.
Battery life is approximately one hour, with a corresponding one-hour charging time. While acceptable, this is not exceptional. The Moser Trendcut offers approximately 1.5 hours of runtime per charge and benefits from faster charging (one minute of charging yields about three minutes of trimming). A point of concern is Panasonic’s decision to utilize a proprietary charger connection. The inclusion of a USB charger, ideally USB-C for potential fast-charging capabilities, would have been preferable for travel convenience.
A key benefit of the ER-SB40 is its waterproof design, simplifying the often-messy cleaning process associated with beard trimmers. Simply detach the head and rinse under running water while the trimmer is running to dislodge trapped hairs.
In summary: The Panasonic ER-SB40 is undoubtedly a high-performing product. Its trimming capabilities are currently unmatched, offering precision, ease of use, and superior results that surpass our previous benchmark, the Moser Trendcut. For future iterations, the inclusion of fast charging via USB-C would further enhance the product, particularly given its competitive price point relative to its performance.
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