Should you switch to a safety razor?

Cartridges cost you more than you realize. Run the numbers on your actual shaving habits to see the real break-even point.

5
$3.50
5
Cartridge cost / yr
$182
Payback period
3 mo
10-year savings
$1,700
Cost ratio
22x
Assumptions: Safety razor blades cost ~$0.15 each in bulk (100-pack ~$15), last 5 shaves. Your safety razor handle is a one-time cost that lasts decades. Cartridges are priced at your input and assumed to last the input number of shaves. Shaving soap/cream costs aren't counted because they apply to both methods. Source on cost ratios.

Safety razors we actually recommend

Full disclosure: Links below are affiliate links. We only recommend razors we'd use ourselves. Read our full disclosure →

Merkur 34C Heavy Duty

$45
The classic. Heavy brass-and-chrome construction, balanced for beginners and veterans alike.
Best for: First-time switchers who want a lifetime razor
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Rockwell 6C

$85
Adjustable aggressiveness via interchangeable plates (1-6). Grows with your skill.
Best for: People with coarse hair or sensitive skin
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Astra Superior Platinum Blades (100-pack)

$15
The blade most wet-shavers recommend. 100-pack is a 2+ year supply.
Best for: Standard starting blade for most skin types
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Frequently asked questions

Is there really a 22x cost difference?

For the most expensive cartridge razors (Gillette Fusion ProGlide and similar) compared to a straight razor used for 25+ years, yes. For the more typical comparison — a $3.50 cartridge vs. a $40 safety razor with $0.15 blades — the lifetime ratio is closer to 5-8x. The calculator above shows your specific ratio based on your inputs.

How long does a safety razor actually last?

A well-made safety razor handle (Merkur, Edwin Jagger, Rockwell, Feather) should last 20+ years with basic maintenance — which is really just drying it after use. The blades are the only consumable.

Is there a learning curve?

Yes, about 2-3 weeks. You'll probably nick yourself a few times early on. The key is using no pressure — let the weight of the razor do the work. If you're not comfortable with a small learning period, a cartridge razor might be the better fit despite the cost.

Are safety razor blades recyclable?

Yes, unlike cartridges. Blades are pure steel, so they can go in most metal recycling. Most wet-shavers store used blades in an empty soup can or a dedicated blade bank, then recycle the whole thing when full.