I am using Gillette Vector Plus blades for long time. Recently the replacement blade cartridges were not available in our locality, so I had to purchase a much costlier Gillette Mach III. I wanted to give the electric shaver a try.
I researched a lot, viewed review sites, watched YouTube videos. I decided to purchase it from online stores by COD payment method. I surveyed both rotary shavers and foil shavers, but I considered the rotary shavers because I thought they are mechanically more stable. To balance between performance and cost I finally selected the Philips AT890 model. This model was introduced back in 2011 by Philips. So it is a bit older model, although the mechanism remains the same for rotary models over the period of years, only noticeable change is that the older models are for dry use only whereas the recent models are waterproof, thus can be used with water and foam.
Pros:
1) Beautiful agronomic design for holding purpose, colorful body.
2) Li-ion battery. Recharge time is approximately 1 hour, retains charge for long time and gives at least 3 complete shave on single full recharge.
3) The charger is small and light. So this will not occupy a lot of space in bag while traveling.
4) The heads and blades can be easily cleaned.
5) It gives clean shave in cheek region
6) Does not vibrate of rattle. Motor is very good, makes almost no noise.
7) A pouch is given, you can keep it in pouch and hang it.
8) Charger cord is quite long(approximately 4 feet).
9) Register it at Philips site and get 3 years warranty.
Cons:
1) The shaver heads cannot follow the skin surface in neck region. So can not give a clean shave in neck area, you have to use the pop-up trimmer for this.
2) The shaver only works on battery power. It will not work when connected to charger, i.e if the battery is dead and you fail to find a replacement battery, the whole unit becomes useless.
3) Replacement heads are not available at online stores in India.
4) While using in dry mode, the heads become bit hot because of friction. Using it with gel gives more comfort.
5) Works perfectly fine if used everyday, It may pinch or develop skin irritation if used in dry mode on older(3-4 days old) beard.
6) The trimmer is very basic.
7) Will the rotary blades retain their sharpness(since they last much longer) if cleaned with hard ground water? This is a major issue typical for India.
Considering all aspects, the shaver is a nice gadget. Over all I am satisfied with its performance and till now have not faced any operational issue. It is most suitable for travel purpose or for long train journey where fresh water is scanty.(Although it gives more or less clean shave, but it cannot be considered as a true replacement of Gillette regular razor blades, for the best and cleanest shave you have to give final touch up with regular razor blades after using AquaTouch).
Overall I give it 3.5 out of 5