Calculating Cost-Per-Shave: How Much Does One Shave Cost?

Buying a new electric shaver feels exciting, but have you ever thought whether it saves you money or drains your wallet every time you shave? Or would a manual shaver be cheaper in the long run?

The sticker price or initial cost is just the start; you must consider several factors, like blade refills, electricity, and how long your device lasts, to know the actual cost per shave.

Let's break down how to calculate cost per shave (CPS) with our one-minute formula, run the numbers for the FlexSeries Pro, and see how much you spend and compare it with other shavers.

The One-Minute CPS Formula

Here's the quick formula to calculate the cost per shave (CPS) for any electric shaver:

CPS = (Device price + (Replacements × cost) + Electricity) ÷ Total shaves

Freebird FlexSeries Pro Cost per Shave

How it breaks down (over two years):

(59.95 + {17.95 × 5}) ÷ 208 ≈ $0.72 per shave (6 pack with blade subscription)

(59.95 + {29.95 x 5}) / 208 = $1.01 per shave (without subscription)

Comparing Popular Shavers

Let's apply the one-minute formula for multiple shavers, assuming shaving twice a week and a lifespan of 2 years for electrics. We're using a few assumptions and estimates here based on the best information we could get (prices subject to change, averages also depend on specific models chosen).

Rotary Shavers

FlexSeries Classic: ($39.95 + {$17.95 x 5}) / 208 = $0.62 per shave

Remington Balder Pro: ($69.99 + {$29.99 x 5}) / 208 = $1.06 per shave

Skull Shaver Gold: ($74.89 + {$31.49 x 5}) / 208 = $1.12 per shave

Foil Shavers

Andis ProFoil Lithium Titanium: ($78.00 + {$24.00 x 3}) / 208 = $0.72 per shave

Braun Series 9 (9477): ($299.99 + {$59.99 x 1}) / 208 = $1.73 per shave

Panasonic Arc 3 ES LL41K: ($94.24 + {$21.00 x 1}) / 208 = $0.55 per shave

Manual Razors

Henson AL13 Mild (Safety): ($69.00 + {$0.1 x 65}) / 208 = $0.36 per shave

Harry's Truman Razor (Cartridge): ($16.00 + {$1.94 x 33}) / 208 =) $0.38 per shave

The Leaf Razor (Cartridge): ($109 + {$0.29 x 25}) / 208 = $0.56 per shave

The average CPS or cost per shave per category is:

• Rotary shavers: $0.93 per shave

• Foil shavers: $1.00 per shave

• Manual razors: $0.43 per shave

Based on the numbers, manual razors give you the best bang for your buck at about $0.43 per shave. Rotary shavers come next, averaging around $0.93 per shave, while foils come in a bit higher at roughly $1.00 per shave.

The numbers have spoken, so pick what feels best for your skin and style!

Freebird FlexSeries Pro vs. Pitbull Skull Shaver Gold CPS

Let's pit the Freebird FlexSeries Pro against its stiffest competitor, the Pitbull Skull Shaver Gold. We assume twice a week shaving and 5 refills in 2 years for both shavers for consistent calculation.

Freebird FlexSeries Pro

• Initial cost: $59.95

• Replacement blades: $17.95

• Blade lifespan: 50 shaves per blade set, 5 refills for 2 years

• Twice a week shaving: 208 days

(59.95 + {17.95 × 5}) ÷ 208 ≈ $0.72 per shave

Pitbull Skull Shaver Gold

• Initial cost: $74.89

• Replacement blades: $31.49

• Blade lifespan: 5 refills for 2 years

• Every 2 weeks, shaving: 208 days

($74.89 + {$31.49 x 5}) / 208 = $1.12 per shave

Head to head, the FlexSeries Pro has a lower initial cost, making it the more budget-friendly option. Replacement blades are also significantly cheaper (nearly half the price) for the FlexSeries Pro, which is why the cost per shave is lower (35.71% lower), making it the more economical choice versus the Skull Shaver Gold in the long run.

What Drives CPS Up or Down

Several factors influence your actual CPS. Here are the top reasons that either lower or raise your CPS:

1. Blade interval – Freebird rotary blades usually last 50 shaves, but this depends on hair type, shaving frequency, and technique. Stretching blade use lowers CPS if you don't mind longer intervals between blade changes.

2. Refill price tier – Subscribing can cut blade replacement costs significantly. You can save 17% for a single-blade pack, 33% for a 3-blade pack, and 40% for a 6-blade pack.

3. Shave frequency – Shaving twice a week vs every other day halves your annual refill needs.

4. Sales vs. MSRP – Watch out for deals; prices can dip below MSRP on Father's Day or Black Friday.

5. Maintenance habits – Rinse and oil blades (if needed) and keep them clean. Neglected blades dull faster, raising your costs.

6. Electricity – At less than a hundredth of a cent per use, power costs are negligible. You could probably power your shaver with a squirrel on a tiny treadmill and still barely move the needle on your electric bill.

Tips to Lower Your CPS

• Buy refills in bulk with a subscription (as low as $17.95 for a six-blade pack of FlexSeries blades).

• Keep the head clean and dry. Clogged blades wear faster. The FlexSeries Pro's detachable blade head makes cleaning a 30-second job. Regular cleaning extends your shaver's lifespan.

• Charge smart: Lithium batteries last longer if you avoid running them down to 0% and overcharging. The FlexSeries Pro has a long battery life that gives 90 minutes of runtime per full charge.

Bottom Line

Shaving doesn't have to be a silent drain on your wallet. By breaking down CPS, you can see past the initial cost and make a choice that fits your budget.

For bald shavers hunting value, CPS flips the script.

We've learned that premium hardware paired with affordable refills (FlexSeries Pro with blade subscription) can bring your CPS to as low as $0.72/shave, which is close to the CPS of some cartridge systems but offering a safer, faster, comfortable, and more convenient shave.

Run the formula with your habits, daily vs. twice-weekly, sale price vs. MSRP, and you'll know exactly how many pennies every smooth, nick-free morning costs.

Ready to save on shaving costs? Get the FlexSeries Pro for only $59.95 and pick up a 6-pack blade subscription for cheap long-term shaving value.

FAQs

How Do I Calculate the CPS for Any Razor or Shaver?

Just use this simple formula:

CPS = (Device price + (Number of blade replacements in a time period × Cost per refill replacement)) ÷ Total shaves in the same time period

Plug in your numbers for shaver price, blade costs, and how many times you have to replace the blade in a certain time period. We used two years in our examples above, but you can just as easily calculate it for a year or any other time period.

For most electrics, electricity is so cheap you can round it down to zero.

Are Electric Shavers Cheaper Than Cartridge Razors in the Long Run?

Yes, but variables change based on the models or brands you choose. While the up-front cost is higher, electric shavers like the FlexSeries Pro can bring your cost-per-shave down to $0.72 with bulk blade refills. The Harry's Original cartridge razor has a CPS of $0.38, but that doesn't include shaving cream, aftershave, pre-shave oils, or prep time. Over a few years, electrics usually win out for both cost and convenience. Still undecided? Read our comparison article to help you decide.

How Often Should I Replace My FlexSeries Pro Blades?

Most users get around 50 shaves per blade. If you notice tugging, less closeness, or irritation, it's time to switch to a better shave. Mark your calendar or set a reminder every 50 shaves to keep your shave smooth and your cost per shave low.

How Often Should I Replace My Blades for My Foil Shaver?

You should replace your foil shaver’s blades and foil every 12 to 18 months to keep your shave smooth and your skin happy.

Even the sharpest blades and foils wear down over time, which can cause tugging, patchy shaves, or irritation. If your shaver starts sounding louder or your shave feels less close, it’s a good sign to swap in fresh parts.

How Often Should I Replace My Blades for My Safety Razor?

Safety razor blades usually need changing every 2 to 5 shaves, depending on your hair and comfort level.

If your shave starts feeling tuggy or less smooth, it’s time to ditch that blade and pop in a new one. People with thicker or coarser hair might swap blades more often, while others can stretch them a bit longer.

How Often Should I Replace My Blades for My Cartridge Razor?

Cartridge razor blades typically last about 3 to 7 shaves before they need replacing to keep your shave comfortable and effective.

Once your blades start tugging or your skin feels irritated, it’s time for a fresh cartridge. Don’t wait too long, but don’t replace too soon either. Keeping your blades sharp helps you get the smoothest shave with the least hassle.

Does Shaving Frequently Affect My Cost Per Shave?

Yes, it does. If you shave every other day instead of daily, you'll need about half as many blade refills per year. Twice a week halves it again. That can drop your annual shaving costs significantly.

Are There Any Other Benefits to Electric Shaving Besides Saving Money?

Yes, there are plenty. Electric shavers are faster, safer, gentler on sensitive skin, and give a superior shave. You'll also cut down on waste, and there will be no more tossing plastic cartridges or empty cans of shaving cream.