Buzz Cut or Shaved Bald? Here's How to Choose

Clippers in one hand and a razor in the other, which do you reach for?

When I decided to shave my head, I had two options: buzz it down or shave it all off.

I tried both. Buzzed for years, actually, but one day I saw a post on social media showing my buzzed head with a large horseshoe pattern that didn't look neat. It was time to go full chrome dome!

Here's what I learned after 14 years of shaving my head. The choice between buzz and totally bald isn't just about length. It's about your hair loss stage, lifestyle, and how much maintenance you're willing to handle.

Let's break down everything you need to know so you can make the right call.

What is a Buzz Cut?

A buzz cut is a short haircut done with hair clippers or trimmers. Length ranges from 1/8 inch to half an inch. Some guys even go with a zero-blade or no-guard cut for the closest buzz possible.

You'll see this cut everywhere: athletes, military personnel, guys and girls who want a no-fuss style. The buzz cut is neat, clean, and suitable for all hair types and face shapes (well, almost all).

Why Guys Choose Buzz Cuts

I buzzed my head for more than a decade before going fully bald. Here's why it worked:

• Convenience 
• Low Maintenance
• Safer (no nicks and cuts)
• No need for styling products or frequent barber visits 
• Saves time and money
• Can hide thinning hair
• Easy to fix mistakes
• Disguises a mild receding hairline (Norwood Stage 1 to 3)
• Multiple length options (zero guard to 8)
• Less drastic approach
• Electric trimmers are easy to use
• No shaving cream/blow drying/styling needed
• Dry shave (faster)
• One product needed for shaving (electric hair trimmer)
• Hides gray hair
• Grows out quickly
• Less Irritation (blades never touch your skin)

The Downsides of Buzz Cuts

Nothing's perfect. Here's what annoyed me about buzzing:

• Limited styling options
• Not as close and smooth as a bald cut
• Frequent trims
• Prone to missed spots (newbies)
• Exposes scars and bumps
• Not suitable for late-stage hair loss patterns (Norwood 4 and up)
• Messier (hair clippings fly everywhere)
• Higher initial cost (electric trimmer) vs. manual razor
• Hair trimmer needs a power source/battery
• Makes the horseshoe pattern obvious

Best Buzz Cut Styles

Induction Cut (The Military Special)

This is the closest buzz you can get without a razor. Remove the clipper guards and cut everything to the same length throughout the head. This is the cut that the military uses, hence the name "induction" cut. It's foolproof, requires zero maintenance, and looks the same on day one and two weeks later.

Best for: Guys who want maximum simplicity, hot climates, and athletes who don't want hair getting in their way.

Burr Cut

Think induction cut, but with a guard 1 or 2. You get slightly more coverage and texture while keeping that clean, military-inspired look.

Some variations keep more length on top than the sides, giving you a subtle shape without getting into styling territory.

Best for: Guys who find the induction cut too extreme but still want something super low-maintenance.

Crew Cut

Longer on top, faded on the back and sides. This is the buzz cut that gives you some styling flexibility. You can add a little hair gel or pomade to push the top forward or sweep it to the side.

This is the most popular buzz cut because it bridges the gap between "I have a haircut" and "I don't want to think about my hair."

Best for: Men who want a professional look that works in business settings, or anyone who wants the option to style their hair every now and then.

Buzz Cuts and Face Shapes

If you're considering a buzz cut but worried if it would suit your face, the good news is that buzz cuts can work well with most face shapes, like:

• Oval (face shape that works with various styles)

• Oblong (buzz cuts create balance)

• Round (buzz with fades, add height)

• Square (emphasizes a strong jawline)

• Diamond (makes wider cheekbones more defined)

The triangle face shape is the only shape that makes a buzz look bad. Triangle-shaped faces have a narrow forehead and a wide, prominent jaw. You'll end up looking like an egg with a buzz cut.

The fix? Keep the sides longer and taper low. This balances your jaw and adds width to your temples.

What is a Bald Cut?

A bald cut means removing all hair from your scalp. According to this study, this look exudes dominance and toughness while making you appear taller.

When I finally went from buzz to bald, my confidence shot up. No more checking mirrors to see if my McDonald's logo was showing. Just smooth, clean, and done.

Why Guys Choose a Bald Cut

• Cool and comfortable in hot weather

• Gives the smoothest shave

• Boosts confidence

• Enhances your facial features

• No mess when using rotary or foil shavers

The Downsides of Choosing a Bald Cut

I won't lie to you. Shaving your head comes wth challenges. It's not for everyone.

• Needs regular shaving (2 to 3 times a week) to maintain a smooth look 

• Frequent shaving may irritate sensitive scalps 

• More prone to scalp sunburn

• Nicks, cuts, razor burn, razor bumps, irritation (manual razors)

• More products needed (shaver, replacement blades, shaving cream, aftershave, moisturizer)

Buzzed or Bald: Which is Best for You?

Deciding whether to get buzzed or shaved depends on whether you're balding or just looking for a new, maintenance-free haircut that suits your style.

For Personal Style or New Look

If you're not balding and are just choosing between a buzz cut and a bald cut, there are several factors you need to consider.

A Buzz Cut is a Better Choice if You:

• Have thinning hair or a receding hairline

• Live in a hot climate

• Work in the military

• Are an athlete

• Have a strong jawline and cheekbones

• Want a neat and tidy appearance

• Love experimentation and easy hair regrowth

• Have no time styling your hair

• Want to transition to a bald cut

• Don't have a triangle face shape

A Bald Cut Suits You Better if You:

• Want to make a statement

• Want a bolder and more dramatic look

• Enhance your facial features like your eyes, jawline, and cheekbones

• Show off accessories like hats, sunglasses, glasses, and earrings.

For Balding Guys

If you're balding, deciding between a buzz cut or a bald cut depends on your hair loss stage on the Norwood scale of male pattern baldness.

A Bald Cut is Good for Late-Stage Pattern Baldness (Norwood 4 to 7)

A bald cut will look better if you're a stage 4 and up in the Norwood scale. It hides the visible horseshoe pattern at the back of your head.

When I started shaving my head almost a decade ago, I buzzed for a long time. When I got to stage 6 a few years back, I began to shave my head. The horseshoe was untidy, even with minimal buzz-cut growth. A bald cut gives a clean and tidy look in this instance.

A Buzz Cut is Good for Early Stages of Pattern Baldness (Norwood 1 to 3)

A buzz cut is still a good option if you are in the early stages (up to Norwood Stage 3) of male pattern baldness. 

You can always start with a buzz if a bald cut is too drastic for you. Once you feel confident, you can eventually move on to a bald cut.

Oh, for those who prefer the bald cut, you'll need to buzz it first since you can't just shave long hair. Whether using a manual or electric shaver, you must trim your hair (the shortest is best) before shaving to make it easier to shave and prevent irritation. 

Celebrity Inspirations

Jason Statham - Most Popular Buzz Cut Celebrity

Jason Statham owns the buzz-cut look. It's part of his signature style

Statham chooses the buzz over the bald cut, which works well for him. He has a receding hairline, which works with a buzz cut. Jason also has a strong jawline, and the buzz only helps define his prominent features.

Vin Diesel - Most Popular Bald Cut Celebrity

Ever imagined Vin Diesel with hair? It's not a pretty sight.

Similar to Statham, Diesel's bald cut is his signature style. The bald cut enhances his intense eyes and strong jawline.

Remember the study that shows bald men are perceived as tougher, taller, and more dominant?

Vin Diesel personifies how bald men are seen today.

For more inspiration, read our article on the sexiest bald men or best bald guys on screen. If you want to play the bad guy, check our bald bad guys article.

The Best Tools to Use for Buzz Cut

Beard Series Trimmer Kit - Best Trimmer for Buzz Cut

If you prefer a buzz cut, a high-quality beard trimmer like the Beard Series from Freebird is a must-have. 

It has adjustable settings and sharp, long-lasting blades that ensure a precise cut.

The BeardSeries costs $59.95.

Buy from the Freebird website. 

For the closest buzz, balding clippers are good options.

Remington Shortcut Pro - 2nd Best Trimmer for Buzz Cut

Want to buzz faster than usual? Yup, you heard that correctly.

The Remington Shortcut Pro has a cutting width that's 57% wider than your standard clippers. 

Maximum coverage, maximum efficiency.

The Shortcut Pro also features sharp stainless-steel blades that can plow through the thickest hair without bogging down.

Get the Shortcut Pro at $59.99. 

Buy from their website or on Amazon.

The Best Tool to Use for a Bald Cut

A reliable shaver is one of the first tools you should have on your list. For a more comprehensive guide, check out our beginner's guide for baldies.

FlexSeries - Best Shaver for Bald Cut

Choosing the best rotary shaver makes all the difference if you feel like a bald cut suits your style.

The Freebird FlexSeries is one of the best on the market and has tons of freebies.

It has a powerful 8500 RPM motor and sharp ScalpSafe blades that work even on sensitive scalps. You can get a bald cut in 90 seconds, talk about efficiency and convenience.

Get one now for only $.

Buy from the Freebird website or on Amazon.

The Leaf Razor - Best Manual Razor for Bald Cut 

If you prefer the closeness of a manual razor, the Leaf Razor is one of the best traditional razors for head shaving.

It has a pivoting head which adjusts to the curves, bumps, and shape of your head. It's three blade system shaves closer than single blade razors. What's even better it's a plastic-free razor which is good for the environment. 

The Leaf Razor costs $79.

Buy from their website or Amazon.

The Bottom Line

The buzz cut vs bald debate comes down to three things: your hair loss stage, your lifestyle, and your personal preference.

Buzz cuts work great if you're in the early stages of balding (Norwood 1-3), want lower maintenance, and prefer having some coverage. They're safer, easier, and less intimidating.

Bald cuts work better for advanced hair loss (Norwood 4+), give you the smoothest look, and project that dominant, confident vibe that science proves is real.

I've lived with both. Buzzed for years, now bald for over a decade. Both have their place.

When I first buzzed my head, I thought I'd found my final look. Then hair loss progressed, and the bald cut became the obvious choice. No regrets on either. Each served its purpose at the right time

But here's what matters most: Own your choice. Whether you buzz or shave, rock it with confidence. That's what people notice, not the length of your hair.

Still deciding? Start with a buzz. If you can rock that, you can rock anything.

FAQs

Who Should Avoid a Buzz Cut?

You should skip the buzz cut if you're in late-stage male pattern baldness (Norwood Stage 4+). At this stage, the horseshoe pattern is too obvious, and a buzz cut makes it look patchy and incomplete. Other reasons to avoid buzz cuts: prominent scalp scars or bumps you want to hide, triangle face shape (makes your head look egg-shaped).

Should I Get a Buzz Cut if I'm Balding?

A buzz cut suits balding from Stage 1 to 3 on the Norwood scale. A bald cut is a better option if you're a Stage 4 and above.

Can I Buzz My Own Head or Should I Go to a Barber?

You can absolutely buzz your own head. It's one of the easiest haircuts to do yourself. Use a mirror (or two mirrors for the back), start with a longer guard, and work your way shorter. You'll master it after 2-3 tries. Save hundreds of dollars per year by doing it yourself.

How Often Do I Need to Buzz My Head?

Every 7-10 days to maintain a neat appearance. Your hair grows about 1/2 inch per month, so a buzz cut starts looking scruffy after a week or two. The good news? Buzzing takes 5-10 minutes, and you can do it yourself at home.