The benefits of electric razors and manual razors can differ and it really is up to your own experience in finding which works best. It is important to shave with maximum effectiveness and is something I try and outline the best I can, so I believe it is important to discuss here. My preference is the Norelco Reflex Plus electric razor, an all around great, inexpensive razor that I have held onto for many years. Replacement blades for Norelco razors are very easy to get, especially this model. This razor, like most Norelco products, also works on both 110v and 220v power. But enough about my choice, let me tell you a bit about the pros and cons of electric and manual razors and first start with electric razors.
Electric razors
Electric razors usually shave hair much faster than regular razors. By design and the way they go over your skin, you don't have to go over the same area multiple times, which can reduce the risk of razor burn and razor bumps. There is also an efficient portability factor in electric razors. You save space because electric razors do not require shaving cream, oil, and often even water. Electric razors are usually better for travelers, or people who do not need to shave as much. The beard attachments are also very useful for shaving or thinning out hair in tougher to manage hair areas, such as the thighs and other trouble hair areas.
The downside to electric razors is that they sometimes do not shave as closely as manual razors. Typically you do not get a completely uniform cut and may need to share more often. For some people this is ok, and you can learn how to shave more effectively with an electric razor, but it does take some practice. You may find a little bit of irritation due to over shaving, so be careful when you start to not spend too long on some spots. Obviously using an electric razor in the shower is a bad idea as well. They also take more maintenance and attention than regular razors, requiring cleaning after every use like with any razor.
Manual razors
Manual razors can be very effective because when used right, they provide the closest shave for a longer period of time than any other razors. The blades or the razors themselves can be easily and cheaply replaced, and can usually be cleaned without the difficulty that electric razors present. Shaving with a manual razor takes more time to master, but multi bladed manual razors can be great for people who are prone to ingrown hair. You have a closer shave and less of a chance of skin irritation.
I feel a lot of the biggest disadvantages to manual razors are too large to ignore, with some of the fantastic electric razors available. But they are glaring nonetheless. Shaving with a manual razor on average takes much longer then an electric razor, mainly due to the fact that they require a lubricant. Not only that, manual razor blades are useless after 4 shaves at the most. Of course, shaving with a manual razor increases your chance of getting nicks and scrapes, and nasty ingrown hairs due to shaving too close or pulling the skin. So it should be understood that in using a manual razor, you should make sure to replace the razor or the head cartridges very often. I consider them very inefficient.
Whether you decide to go with an electric razor or a manual razor is up to you, there are drawbacks and benefits to both types and I have used both with success. More importantly then which you use is how you practice good grooming habits after you find which is best for you. Everybody has different skin and different tolerance to things like razorblades, shaving products, aftershave, and the like. Its best to have a good knowledge of what is best for you and your skin and I encourage you to read other articles on this page for quick tips with some of the best hair removal information on the internet.