The Braun 9517s Series 9 PRO+ Electric Precision ProTrimmer delivers a close, comfortable shave with five synchronized elements and an integrated surgical-grade steel trimmer. Its 60-minute battery life and total waterproof design make it ideal for wet or dry use, ensuring precision grooming in every stroke. Discover superior performance and longevity with Braun’s premium electric shaver.
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Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ Review: Is This the Ultimate Shaving Upgrade?
When it comes to electric grooming, few names command as much respect as Braun. For years, the Series 9 has been the gold standard, the shaver that other brands try to beat. But with the release of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+, the bar has been raised yet again. This is not just a minor refresh. It is a statement piece engineered for men who refuse to compromise on closeness, comfort, or convenience.
If you have been struggling with irritation, missed hairs, or trimmers that just do not cut it, this review is for you. We are diving deep into the engineering, performance, and real world usability of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ to help you decide if this premium investment is the right tool for your morning routine.
Introduction: The Evolution of Excellence
The electric shaver market is flooded with options, from budget rotary shavers to high tech foil cutters. However, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ sits comfortably at the summit. As the latest iteration in Braun’s prestigious lineup, the PRO+ suffix is not just marketing jargon. It signifies a tangible upgrade in precision, specifically addressing the one area where foil shavers have historically struggled, which is the trimmer.
While the core shaving elements remain world class, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ introduces the new surgical grade stainless steel ProTrimmer. This addition aims to solve the tricky hair problem, specifically those flat lying neck hairs and overgrown sideburns that usually require a separate device.
In this extensive review, we will explore why the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is being hailed as Braun’s best shaver yet, specifically for those with sensitive skin or dense, 7 day beards.
Key Features of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+
To understand why this model commands a premium price tag, we must look under the hood. This device is packed with German engineering designed to make your morning routine faster and more efficient.
1. 5 Synchronized Shaving Elements
The heart of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is its head. Unlike standard shavers that use 3 elements, this beast uses 5 perfectly synchronized shaving elements.
- The ProLift Blade: This specialized trimmer lifts and cuts flat lying hairs, which are often the culprit behind razor bumps and irritation on the neck.
- Direct & Cut Trimmer: This aligns and cuts hairs growing in different directions.
- OptiFoil (x2): Two ultra thin foils shave hairs as close as 0.05mm for that baby smooth finish.
- SkinGuard: A protective bar that smoothens the skin effectively to prevent the blades from cutting you, even if you press hard.
2. The New Surgical Grade ProTrimmer
This is the standout feature of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+. Previous Series 9 models had good trimmers, but the PRO+ takes it to a professional level. The built in precision ProTrimmer is enhanced with surgical grade stainless steel. It slides out from the back and is significantly sharper and more durable than previous iterations. Whether you are shaping sideburns, defining a mustache, or tackling long hairs before a shave, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ handles it with barber grade efficacy.
3. AutoSense Technology
Not all beards are created equal. Some men have wire like stubble, while others have fine, patchy growth. The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ utilizes AutoSense Technology, which reads your beard density 13 times per second. It automatically adjusts the power of the motor, ramping up torque when it hits a dense patch of hair and dialing it back for easier spots. This ensures the shaver never pulls or tugs, regardless of your beard type.
4. Sonic Technology
With 10,000 micro vibrations per minute, the shaver glides over the skin rather than dragging across it. These vibrations help capture more hair in every stroke, reducing the need to go over the same spot repeatedly. This is a major win for preventing skin irritation.
5. 100% Waterproof (Wet & Dry)
The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is completely waterproof. You can use it dry for a quick morning touch up, with foam or gel for added comfort, or even in the shower. This versatility makes the device an excellent companion for the modern man who values flexibility in his grooming routine.
Unboxing the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+
When you purchase the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+, you are not just buying a shaver. You are buying a complete kit. It is important to note the difference between the “s” and “cc” models. The “9517s” denotes that this model comes with a premium charging stand rather than the bulky Clean & Charge station.
What is in the box?
- The Shaver: The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ unit itself, finished in a sleek, premium Galvano Silver or similar high end finish.
- Charging Stand: A minimalist stand that keeps your bathroom counter organized and ensures your shaver is always powered up.
- Travel Case: A hard shell travel case to protect the device during trips.
- Smart Plug: Automatic 100-240 voltage adjustment for worldwide use.
- Cleaning Brush: For manual maintenance.
For many users, the 9517s is the preferred choice over the “cc” models because it takes up less counter space and does not require purchasing ongoing cleaning fluid cartridges, making it a more economical long term choice.
Performance Review: The Shaving Experience
We put the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ to the test on various beard lengths to see if it lives up to the hype.
The 1 Day Stubble Test
On short stubble, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is absolute overkill in the best way possible. It devours 24 hour growth effortlessly. The 40,000 cutting actions per minute mean that a single pass is usually enough to clear the cheek and jawline area. The result is a shave that feels indistinguishable from a manual razor, but without the risk of nicks.
The 3 Day Beard Test
This is where many lower tier shavers fail, but the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ shines. The ProLift Blade is specifically designed for this length. It effectively lifts hairs that are starting to curl back towards the skin. During testing, the shaver managed to clear a 3 day beard without any pulling. The AutoSense technology was noticeable here. You can hear the motor hum change pitch as it tackles denser patches on the chin.
The 7 Day Beard Challenge
Braun claims the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ can handle a 7 day beard. While this is a bold claim for a foil shaver, it mostly holds up. The shaver does require a slower hand on a week long beard, but it does not clog. However, for the absolute best results on a 7 day beard, we recommend using the new ProTrimmer first to knock down the bulk, and then finishing with the foil head. This is where the upgrade of the PRO+ really pays off. The integrated trimmer is finally good enough to act as a pre shave tool.
Comfort and Skin Protection
If you have sensitive skin, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is arguably the safest bet on the market. The head pivots 40 degrees, adapting to the contours of your face. The MultiHeadLock switch allows you to lock the head in 5 positions if you prefer stability. The combination of the SkinGuard and the micro vibrations results in zero post shave redness for most users.
Design and Ergonomics
The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ feels expensive. It has a reassuring weight to it. It is not too heavy, but solid. The grip has been refined to be ergonomic, featuring a textured thumb rest that ensures the device will not slip out of your hand, even when you are using it in the shower with soapy hands.
The LED display on the unit is intuitive, showing you the battery status, a hygiene indicator (reminding you to clean it), and a travel lock status. It is simple, functional, and elegant.
Unlike the glossy plastic found on cheaper models, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ features a coating that resists fingerprints, keeping it looking pristine on your vanity. The ProTrimmer on the back pops up with a satisfying click, and its flat, wide profile makes it easier to visualize exactly where you are cutting compared to the curved trimmers of the past.
Comparison: Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ vs. Competitors
To truly evaluate the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+, we must compare it to its closest rivals.
Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ vs. Series 9 Pro (Previous Gen)
Is it worth the upgrade? The core shaving engine (motor and foils) is largely similar between the two. However, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ wins on the trimmer. The previous Series 9 Pro had a trimmer that was okay for sideburns but struggled with thick hair. The surgical steel trimmer on the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is a legitimate grooming tool. If you use a trimmer daily, the PRO+ is the clear winner.
Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ vs. Panasonic Arc6
The Panasonic Arc6 is another titan in the industry. While the Panasonic might edge out the Braun slightly on pure closeness due to its 6 blades, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ wins on comfort. The Panasonic can be aggressive on sensitive skin, whereas the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ feels like a massage. Furthermore, Braun’s build quality feels slightly more robust.
Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ vs. Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige
This is the classic Foil vs. Rotary debate. If you shave every day or every two days, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ (foil) will generally give you a closer shave than the Philips (rotary). Rotary shavers are better for irregular growth patterns if you shave infrequently, but for the suit and tie close shave, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is superior.
Maintenance and Battery Life
Battery Performance
The device is powered by a high performance Li Ion battery. You get 60 minutes of cordless shaving on a full charge. For most men, that is about a month of shaving without needing to plug it in.
If you forget to charge it, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ features a Quick Charge function. A 5 minute charge provides enough power for one full shave. The included charging stand makes it easy to drop the shaver in after use, ensuring it is always at 100%.
Cleaning the 9517s
Since the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ does not come with the SmartCare center, manual cleaning is required, but it is incredibly easy.
- Apply a bit of liquid soap to the foils.
- Turn the shaver on and rinse the head under hot running water.
- Detach the cassette and let it dry.
This process takes less than a minute. The waterproof nature of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ makes this hassle free.
Why the “ProTrimmer” Matters
We need to circle back to the ProTrimmer because it is the defining feature of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+. On many electric shavers, the pop up trimmer is an afterthought. It is often a flimsy piece of plastic that pulls hair more than it cuts.
Braun recognized this frustration. The ProTrimmer on the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ uses surgical grade steel. This material retains sharpness longer and resists corrosion. If you shape a goatee, maintain distinct sideburns, or just need to trim ear hair, this integrated tool saves you from having to clutter your bathroom with a separate beard trimmer. It effectively makes the device a 2 in 1 solution.
Pros and Cons of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+
Here is a quick breakdown to help you decide.
Pros:
- Ultimate Comfort: The 5 elements and Sonic tech make it the most comfortable shaver for sensitive skin.
- Surgical ProTrimmer: Significantly better than previous models for detailing.
- Efficient: Cuts 1, 3, or 7 day beards efficiently with fewer strokes.
- Build Quality: Made in Germany. It feels robust and durable.
- Battery Life: 60 minute runtime is excellent.
- Waterproof: Versatile wet and dry usage.
Cons:
- Price: The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is a premium investment.
- Manual Cleaning: The “s” model lacks the auto wash station (though this saves money).
- Size: The head is large, which is great for speed but requires care under the nose.
- No Corded Use: Like all wet/dry shavers, it only works cordlessly for safety.
Buying Guide: Who Should Buy the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+?
Buy it if:
- You have sensitive skin: The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is unrivaled in gentleness.
- You have coarse or difficult hair: The AutoSense motor and ProLift blade handle tough stubble better than the competition.
- You want the best of the best: You are looking for a long term investment in your personal care and want the latest technology.
- You dislike cleaning stations: You prefer a smaller footprint on your counter and do not want to buy cleaning cartridges constantly. The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is perfect for you.
Skip it if:
- You are on a tight budget: The Series 5 or Series 7 offers good value for significantly less money.
- You prefer rotary shavers: If you have used circular motions to shave your whole life, a foil shaver like the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ might take some getting used to.
Deep Dive: The Science of Shaving with Braun
To understand the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ better, it is worth looking at the science behind foil shaving. Foil shavers work by capturing hair through holes in a thin metal foil. The cutter block moves rapidly underneath, slicing the hair like scissors.
The challenge with foil shavers has always been flat lying hair. If the hair lies flat against the skin, the foil cannot catch it. This is where the ProLift Trimmer in the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ comes into play. It acts like a comb, lifting the hair away from the skin so the OptiFoil can cut it.
Furthermore, the linear motor in the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ provides consistent power. Rotary shavers often slow down when they hit a thick patch of hair, which causes pulling. The Braun Linear Motor maintains speed, ensuring the cut is clean. This is why the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is so highly rated for men with thick, coarse beards.
Another aspect is hygiene. The ability to easily rinse the device under water ensures that bacteria do not build up on the foils. Skin irritation is often caused by dirty blades, not just the cutting action. The waterproof design of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ promotes better skin health by making cleaning effortless.
Long Term Value Proposition
When you look at the price of the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+, it is easy to hesitate. It is expensive. However, you must calculate the cost per shave. A manual cartridge razor might cost less upfront, but replacement blades are expensive, and you need shaving cream, aftershave, and styptic pencils for nicks.
The device is designed to last for years (typically 7 years or more). The only recurring cost is the cassette replacement every 18 months. Over a 5 year period, the cost of owning this model is often comparable to using premium manual razors, but with significantly better comfort and time savings.
Time is another factor. Shaving with the 9517s takes about 3 minutes. A full wet shave with a manual razor can take 10 to 15 minutes. Over a year, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ gives you back hours of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ really shave a 7 day beard?
A: Yes. The specialized ProLift blade and the high torque motor allow the shaver to cut through dense, week long growth without pulling, although trimming the bulk first with the ProTrimmer is recommended for the fastest results.
Q: Is the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ waterproof?
A: Absolutely. The device is 100% waterproof and suitable for use in the shower or with shaving foam.
Q: How often do I need to replace the head on the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+?
A: Braun recommends replacing the shaving cassette (the foil and cutter block) every 18 months to maintain peak performance.
Q: What is the difference between the 9517s and the 9567cc?
A: The shaver itself is identical. The difference lies in the accessories. The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ comes with a charging stand, while “cc” models come with the Clean & Charge station.
Q: Does the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ work on head shaving?
A: While designed for the face, many users find the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ excellent for shaving their head due to its wide surface area and gentle touch, though the flexible head is optimized for facial contours.
Q: Where is the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ made?
A: The shaver handle and the cutting elements are manufactured in Germany, ensuring high quality craftsmanship.
Final Verdict
The Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is more than just a shaver. It is a marvel of personal care engineering. It successfully bridges the gap between the raw power needed for thick beards and the delicate touch required for sensitive skin.
While the price point is high, the value is undeniable. The addition of the surgical grade ProTrimmer turns a great shaver into a perfect all in one grooming tool. By choosing the 9517s model, you are getting all the performance of the top tier “cc” models but in a sleeker, more travel friendly, and cost effective package.
For men who take their appearance seriously, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is an investment that pays dividends every single morning. It delivers a shave that is closer, faster, and more comfortable than anything else in its class. If you are looking to upgrade your grooming game, the Braun Series 9 9517s PRO+ is, without a doubt, the razor to beat.
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