We've used Braun and Norelco electric razors for more than 15 years (mixed with a variety of others on a trial basis). RECOMMENDED: The Braun Series 7 (9595) may be the most technologically advanced shaver out there today. It's main innovations are the power comb (which lifts problems hairs for easier cutting), Pulsonic technology (which vibrates the skin and hairs 10,000 times per minute, making hairs stand up), and the super-cutting Gillette blades. The Series 7 belongs to the family of self-cleaning razors - you plop it down upside down in a little charging/cleaning stand after use, and it is automatically cleaned, charged, and lubricated (a cleaning cartridge is supposed to last for a month and costs around $4-$5) -- it's also fully washable under a stream of water if you choose. It runs for about 50 minutes on a charge - enough for 10-20 shaves. Having used it, I can say it is the best electric razor I've ever used, though still not QUITE as close as a blade -- but read some of the reviews on Amazon -- almost 500 men have taken the time to rave about how much they love this thing. If you are buying a shaver as a gift, you can feel confident that the man you buy this for will be more than satisfied with it (it even converts men over 50!). Buy the Braun Series 7 at Amazon.

Another popular Braun shaver is the prior generation Braun Series 5 8995 ($165) with it's new foil design that is perfect for cutting hairs growing in various directions. The foils are very effective at trimming which keeps shaving time to a minimum and will eventually be less irritating on the skin. It also comes with a charging unit that cleans the head with an anti-bacterial solution. You get a two-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee. You can view the entire selection of Braun shavers and accessories here.

The Panasonic ES8101S Pro-Curve Linear Wet/Dry shaver is one of the best wet/dry foil shaver on the market. A wet/dry foil shaver can be used in the shower or with shaving cream. There is no cleaning unit provided, but you can do it quite easily manually. A 5-minute quick charge function can be a lifesaver. Panasonic only offers a 1 year warranty and no money back period on the Pro Curve (browse other Panasonic shavers..) If you want just a basic electric shaver, then reviewers suggest going with the Philips Norelco Reflex Plus 6843XL for around $50. There is no self-cleaning base or quick charge feature, and it takes almost 8 hours to charge. The Norelco Reflex Plus can be used either corded or cordless, but is not water resistant so don't rinse it out after shaving under the tap (browse entire Philips Norelco line..) Other top sellers include the Braun cruZer3 Shaver model 2865 ($55), Norelco Cool Skin Rechargeable Shaver model 7775X ($129), Remington Titanium Smart System Rechargeable Shaver model MS-5700 ($129), Remington Microscreen 300 Titanium Shaver Model MS2-290 ($50), and the Norelco Razor 9170XL Smart Touch Cord/Cordless Shaver With Automatic Cleaning System for $199.95