Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530 | My Short Review

Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530

After many uses I rate the Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530 at 4,5 out of 5 stars.

What I like:

• The blade. What I really love about all Philips OneBlade shavers is the blade. The quality of shaving is exactly what I would expect from a hybrid trimmer / shaver. No pulling on hairs like I experienced in e.g. Braun XT Series trimmers from time to time.
• Versatility. The Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530 comes with an adjustable comb attachment and two body shaving / trimming combs. Perfect set for all who are currently sporting stubble or very short beard plus they shave (trim) body hair.
• Fully waterproof. If you use a trimmer or shaver to maintain body hair in the shower or in the bath, this model has you covered. It is completely water resistant. This also enables you to conveniently rinse the whole unit under running water after wet shaving with shaving foam. 

Not bad:

• The adjustable comb attachment. For stubble and short beard we have one adjustable comb with a maximum length setting 9 mm. The length dial wheel works softly, but for me most importantly you can actually hear and feel clicks on each setting. This way you know that the desired length is properly set and locked in its place. In many trimmers with wheel dials there are no clicks, so you don’t know for sure if the setting is ok.

Possible weak points:

• Blade lifespan. You have to bear in mind that the lifespan of the OneBlade head varies significantly. It depends on how often you will use the trimmer and how dense / coarse your beard is. Generally one blade should last about 2-3 months.
• For stubble only. The maximum length setting available here is 9 mm. This limits the use of Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530 to short beard and stubble.

What are users saying about the Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530?

The Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530 shaver generally receives positive feedback from users, who appreciate its versatility and ability to provide a comfortable shave and trim. Here's a summary of common sentiments:

Pros:

• Versatility: Users highly praise its ability to trim, edge, and shave any length of hair, making it an all-in-one grooming tool. Many find it effective for both facial hair (beards, stubble, detailing) and body grooming.
• Close Shave without Irritation: A significant number of users highlight that it provides a close shave, almost like a traditional razor, but without the irritation, nicks, or razor burn often associated with multi-blade razors or other electric shavers. This makes it particularly suitable for sensitive skin.
• Ease of Use: The design, including the dual-sided blade and contour-following technology, makes it easy to maneuver and get precise lines and edges. The adjustable comb with multiple length settings (0.5mm to 9mm, sometimes up to 14mm depending on the model variation) is also appreciated for its simplicity.
• Wet & Dry Use: The waterproof design allows for use in the shower, with or without shaving foam, which many find convenient for cleaning and usage.
• Battery Life: Users generally report good battery life (up to 90 minutes on a 1-hour charge), with a clear digital display indicating the remaining charge.
• Design and Build Quality: The ergonomic grip and overall feel of the device are often mentioned positively. Some appreciate the compact size and the inclusion of a travel case (though some find the case doesn't hold all accessories).

Cons:

• Not a "Baby Smooth" Shave: While it provides a close shave, it typically doesn't shave as close as a traditional blade, which might be a drawback for those seeking a completely smooth finish.
• Blade Replacement Cost/Longevity: This is a frequently mentioned concern. While Philips states blades last around 4 months, some users find they dull quicker, and the cost of replacement blades can add up over time, sometimes being compared to buying a new unit. There are also occasional reports of blades snapping prematurely.
• Not Ideal for Very Heavy/Coarse Beards: While it handles various lengths, some users with very thick or coarse beards find it less effective for removing the bulk of hair or for achieving an even trim, suggesting they might need a more powerful hair trimmer first.
• Learning Curve: Some users mention a slight learning curve, particularly when understanding the "against the grain" technique for optimal results.
• Hair Collection: Unlike some trimmers, the OneBlade doesn't collect cut hair, so users need to be mindful of where they are shaving (e.g., over a sink).

Overall:

The Philips OneBlade Pro QP6530 is widely recommended, particularly for individuals looking for a versatile grooming tool that offers a comfortable, irritation-free shave and effective trimming/edging capabilities. 

Its unique blade technology is a significant selling point. 

However, potential buyers should be aware of the recurring cost of replacement blades and its limitations for achieving an extremely close, traditional razor-like shave or handling extremely dense beard growth.