Comparison Philips Series 3000 BT3206 vs Remington Beard Boss MB4120

The cutting height is influenced by the type of cutting element and the inclusion of detachable combs. Toothed blades can trim hair as short as 1 mm. By coupling a toothed blade with a detachable comb, the cutting height can range from 2-3 to 20, and even 30 mm – the precise height hinges on the provided comb attachments. There are defined minimum and maximum cutting heights. The minimum pertains to the blade's inherent capabilities, devoid of attachments. The maximum cutting height is determined by the detachable comb type.

The number of haircut length options provided in the design of the clipper or the design of the nozzle. The more such options, the more versatile the clipper and the more cutting options it provides.

The width of the operating tool (blade) of the clipper. A wide blade is important for head hair trimmers, as it allows you to capture more hair in one pass and cuts faster. In turn, beard and mustache clippers use narrower knives, which is useful for fine work to give facial hair the desired shape.

— Mains. The clipper is powered by a 230 V electrical network. The benefit of this power source is the unrestricted operational duration (no need for periodic battery recharging). However, drawbacks include the necessity of an available electrical outlet and the limitation imposed by a power cord, which can impede movement and cause operational inconvenience.

— Battery. The clipper is powered by its own built-in battery. On the one hand, this gives maximum freedom of movement (since there is no power cord) and battery life — such devices can be used even where there is no electrical network. On the other hand, the battery life is limited, it must be constantly recharged — otherwise there is a risk that the charge is exhausted at the most inopportune moment (for example, during the haircut).

— Batteries. The clipper is powered by interchangeable batteries. In terms of its primary pros and cons, this power source resembles battery power (as mentioned earlier). However, in contrast to built-in batteries, replaceable batteries offer less capacity, making them suitable for low-power devices like nose trimmers (see Type) that don't demand prolonged usage. On the positive side, replaceable batteries allow for swift replacement when depleted, whereas a built-in battery would necessitate a lengthier recharging process in such instances.

— Li-Ion. Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries currently dominate the market due to their high energy density, compact size, and light weight. On average, Li-Ion batteries last for approximately 400 charge-discharge cycles. They exhibit minimal self-discharge and lack a prominent "memory effect" (capacity decrease when charging a partially discharged battery). However, these batteries are sensitive to cold temperatures and require precise charging current conditions.

— Li-pol. Lithium-polymer (Li-Pol) batteries maintain stable output voltage even during significant discharge. On average, Li-Pol batteries offer a lifespan of around 800 charge-discharge cycles. These batteries don't exhibit the memory effect and remain stable across a broad temperature range, from -20 to +40 degrees Celsius. Their drawbacks primarily involve vulnerability to deep discharge and overcharging. This highlights the necessity for specialized chargers that employ optimal power delivery methods tailored to the lithium polymer context.

— Ni-Cd. Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries are engineered to handle substantial charge and discharge rates. They can be stored either charged or discharged without issue. These batteries aren't impacted by heat and maintain their capacity in cold conditions. However, the primary drawback is the "memory effect," which emerges when the battery is prematurel...y charged with residual capacity. Despite being outdated, Ni-Cd batteries are occasionally employed in clippers.

— Ni-Mh. Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries excel at managing substantial charge and discharge rates, making them suitable for demanding electric motors and facilitating quick charging. Contemporary Ni-MH batteries offer a prolonged lifespan of up to 1000-1500 charge-discharge cycles, while being environmentally friendly. In comparison to Li-Ion batteries, they appear bulkier and add weight to the device, yet they come at a more affordable cost. This battery type has replaced the previously mentioned nickel-cadmium technology.

— LiCo. Lithium-cobalt (Li-Co) batteries are renowned for their impressive energy storage within a small and lightweight structure. These batteries exhibit minimal self-discharge and lack the "memory effect". They maintain voltage stability almost until complete discharge. However, Li-Co batteries aren't engineered to handle substantial charge and discharge rates.

The typical duration of uninterrupted operation for a clipper powered by a self-contained source (battery or rechargeable batteries, refer to Power Source) without requiring a recharge or battery replacement. Extended continuous operation time becomes particularly crucial when intending to use the clipper in locations where recharging or battery changes are unavailable, such as during long trips.

Time to fully (from 0 to 100%) charge the battery of the clipper. For rare cases of using the model, charging time is not so relevant, but for everyday use it is better to choose fast charging clippers.

The charge level indicator allows you to know the status of the battery, its degree of charge. Achieved using the built-in display or LEDs.

— Metal. High-end clippers/trimmers use a metal body. Typically found in professional models, and occasionally in semi-professional ones, a metal casing ensures remarkable durability and resistance to heavy use. However, this design substantially elevates the device's weight and cost.

— Plastic. Mostly low-cost clippers/trimmers are equipped with a plastic case. The plastic case is lightweight and easy to care for. Among the shortcomings of plastic, only low strength can be noted. If you intensively use a trimmer/clipper with a plastic case, then the working surface of the device will quickly become covered with scratches and scuffs.

— Metal/plastic. Semi-professional clippers/trimmers commonly feature a combination of metal and plastic casing. These models incorporate metal with plastic inserts. This approach maintains a high level of reliability while using plastic inserts to lower device costs and enhance user-friendliness. Clippers with combined casings are versatile for both home and salon use.