There are products that are designed to do one thing and then there are those that serve multiple functions. This is of course the challenge in trying to find the best stubble trimmer based on its ability alone as a stubble trimmer and not because of other possible features.
I have chosen five trimmers that I believe to be among the best stubble trimmers based on function, design, and price. The first trimmer we’ll look at functions as an overall above the neck trimmer.
Philips Norelco QT4070 Vacuum Beard, Stubble and Mustache Trimmer Pro
One of the main reasons I chose the QT4070 among my top picks for best stubble trimmer is not only it’s functionality as a stubble trimmer, but is in my opinion one of the best all in one above the neck groomers. As a trimmer, there are a total of 18 settings allowing you more flexibility with settings from 1 to 18 millimeters with stubble setting that goes down to ½ millimeter.
Along with the multiple settings, there is a locking feature to prevent the trimmer from slipping into another setting. It also happens to be maintenance free.
The built in vacuum system captures hair as you cut. You no longer have to worry about getting hair all over the bathroom floor or sink. The blades feature stay sharp technology never requiring sharpening or oiling.
Another cool feature on the QT4070 that you want find on other stubble trimmers is the multi-functional display. It not only shows you battery status but also the length setting you currently have it set at. The QT4070 functions corded as well as cordless which is nice if you’re anything like me and forget to charge things.
The QT4070 is definitely among the best stubble trimmers you can buy, and it functions as a beard and mustache trimmer as well. The vacuum system just makes it all the more appealing. There are several other all in one grooming systems that also function well as a stubble trimmer but not that can come close to the QT4070 and include a vacuum.
You can purchase the Philips Norelco QT4070 Vacuum Beard, Stubble and Mustache Trimmer Pro from Amazon through the following link for 17% off.
The QT4070 is the only all in one that I chose among my top picks for its functionality as a stubble trimmer. Now we will look at a few stand alone trimmers that are made to do one thing and do it well.
Philips Consumer Lifestyle QT4014/42
If you thought 18 settings was great, you’ll love the QT4014’s 20 built in length settings. I say built in because there are no attachments needed or included with the QT4014 and it cuts from ½ millimeter to 10 millimeters.
As with the QT4070, the QT4014 has a locking feature preventing the comb from moving while trimming. The blades are also self sharpening and require no oil. Unlike the QT4070, you can wash it under water.
One of the things I really like about the QT4014 is the attention to detail. The tips and comb of the trimmer are rounded to prevent skin irritation.
The QT4014 does not have a multi-functional display but it does have a battery light indicator. Also, it charges in an hour giving 50 minutes of shave time.
There is actually a newer version of the QT4014 but I would not label it as improved. The newer model, the QT4050 does not have titanium blades, it only has 18 settings, and it takes a whopping 8 hours to charge!
Sometimes newer models aren’t always better as is the case with the QT4050. The QT4050 does have a built in vacuum (It’s actually the precursor to the QT4070) which is nice, but for the functionality, price, and overall customer ratings, the QT4014 is far superior.
Currently, you can purchase the Philips Consumer Lifestyle QT4014/42 Beard/Mustache Trimmer from Amazon through the following link at just under $40.
As I’m typing this review up, I somehow didn’t realize that each of these trimmers with the exception of one is made by Philips Norelco. It’s actually no coincidence. I would have loved to showcase trimmers from other brands such as the Braun Cruzer 6, but no other brand features the quality that can compare and ultimately hold the title of the best stubble trimmer. Many are great as beard and mustache trimmers, but lack ideal stubble settings.
Philips Norelco QT4022
Sometimes simple is just better. The QT4022 doesn’t have a fancy display nor functions as an all in one grooming tool. It is however among the best stubble trimmers as far as design, flexibility, and functionality.
The QT4022 comes with a stubble comb and is adjustable from ½ to 10 millimeters. It is maintenance free as far as the blades. The blades require no oiling and are made of diamond like carbon so they never need sharpening. To clean the QT4022 simply run it under water.
The QT4022 also has skin friendly features. The blades are designed to prevent scratching and the flexing guide comb actually prevents the blades from ever coming into direct contact with the skin. There is also a zoom lock setting so you don’t have to worry about the comb slipping into another setting while cutting.
The only thing that I don’t like about this trimmer is it takes 10 hours to get a full charge. However, it functions corded and cordless so it’s not that big of an issue and doesn’t take away from the quality of the trimmer.
You can purchase the Philips Norelco QT4022 Stubble Trimmer Pro from Amazon through the following link.
Conair iStubble Facial Trimmer
A little change of pace here as we look at the Conair iStubble and my number 2 pick for overall best stubble trimmer! What I really like about the iStubble which isn’t available on the other trimmers is the floating contoured head.
The floating contoured head allows the trimmer to glide across the face for a more accurate cut while reducing the chances of getting a nick or cut.
Another feature that you won’t find on a lot of other stubble trimmers is a dual battery system. The dual battery increases the length of time you can use the iStubble and the rapid charge charging system gives you a longer lasting charge in less time.
Other convenient features include 15 ultra precise settings ranging from .4 millimmeters to 5 milimmeters, the perfect range for a variety of styling options. It’s also cordless and has an LCD display.
The features, flexibility, and pricing of the iStubble gave my number 1 pick a run for the money. Either way, the iStubble is a top notch stubble trimmer and comes at an amazing price. You can purchase the Conair iStubble Facial Trimmer from Amazon through the following link for 35% off of retail. Also, be sure to scroll down on Amazon and look for the iStubble Bonus tab. You can add an ear and nose hair trimmer attachment and carrying case for an additional $10.
Axe Philips Norelco XA4003/42 Stubble Trimmer
Would you believe my number 1 pick for best stubble trimmer is also one of the cheapest? Saving money is always a great thing and the Axe (I don’t know why shavers and trimmers always have such long names so I will simply refer to it as the Axe) is priced just right.
So what makes the Axe my top choice? You get 20 locking length settings adjustable from .5 millimeters to 10 millimeters allowing for a wide range of styling options. The detachable head makes it easy to clean and it is low maintenance.
The Axe doesn’t have an LCD display or any other fancy features. It is a simple yet quality stubble trimmer at a great price. Honestly, price was a major factor in my overall rating.
If you’re looking for a unit that has more features and is multi-functional yet still comes at a great price, I recommend you take a closer look at the first trimmer we looked at, the QT4070. However, if you are looking for the best stubble trimmer without taking those other features into play, then I think the Axe is a great choice. It received an impressive 5 out of a possible 5 star rating from customer reviews on Amazon.
Currently, you can purchase the Axe Philips Norelco XA4003/42 Stubble Trimmer from Amazon through the following link for 20% off.
Final Thoughts on Stubble Trimmers
There are so many great multi-functional shavers and trimmers out there that it was difficult to choose 5 I deem to be among the best for stubble trimming. I took a lot of things into consideration including price and basic functionality as a stubble trimmer. Had I took other factors into play such as multi-functionality, there would have been quite a different list.
Overall, I think this is a great lineup of trimmers that offer something for everyone. For the guy who wants more features and function, the QT4070 is the best choice. For the guy who just wants a quality stubble trimmer at the best possible price then the Axe is perfect. For those who want something in between, I hope I’ve given you enough information and variety to make an informed buying decision.
Should you have any questions or need help finding a trimmer or electric shaver, don’t hesitate to contact. Thanks for stopping by and checking out my picks for best stubble trimmer.
Mike Nikko is a blogger with over 15 years of experience. I will bring you the best product reviews and other useful life experiences, tips to increase height, tips to improve health… If you have any questions, feel free to ask Mike Nikko!