Braun Smart Control 190s-1 Electric Foil Shaver for Men - Cordless Rechargeable Wet & Dry Shaving System with Precision Trimmer - Perfect for Travel, Home Use and Daily Grooming Routine

This is my third Braun model, all of the same type. Over the years the model number changed from 'FreeControl 1775' to '190s-1.' Besides the model number change, there have been other changes--more on that later. My oldest is approaching 10 years of service and still works reasonably well--even the rechargeable batteries still hold a charge for several days! It has accompanied me on overseas and domestic travel. Originally I purchased it to replace a failing Panasonic electric razor which served me well. At that time, the FreeControl 1775 was rated VERY highly--I do not remember reading any negative reviews, so it was an easy decision to purchase this very reasonably-priced model.It's remarkable that the razor body, i.e., case, batteries, motor of the original (nearly 10 year old) unit still work well--a testament to good, rugged elegant design employing good materials. It still even looks good. Only the trimmer has failed, happening some years back, and I likely contributed to that failure by neglecting to oil the trimmer blades. Typically foils and cutter blocks lasted at least a year, also very good considering everyday use.Recently I discovered the second of the three I had purchased on sale about a year after purchasing the first razor. It was good that I had a backup because upon my return after travel some years back, I found the razor's charging adapter missing from my suitcase. I used the charger from my backup and then put the (second) razor back in its carton, unused. Back into storage it went.Recently I purchased the latest Braun version, 190s-1. This one appears nearly identical to my last two 1775 models. Below, I list differences:1) All three have markings (under the trimmer) noting 'Type 5729' and '3.5V / dc' on their bodies. The newest model does not have "FreeControl / washable 1775" markings on the body. Instead of the marking "trimmer" it has "190s-1" printed on the pop-up trimmer. I have not delved inside, however I'm hoping that the 5729 bodies remain identical internally, using the same reliable motor, batteries, and electronics. Aesthetically the bodies otherwise look the same externally.2) The charger/adapter from the latest model appears to be of slightly lower quality. A less flexible and straight (not coiled) cord is used, but the output voltage and current specifications are the same. Not a big deal.3) Now for the significant difference: the foils are different. Is this a big deal? Well, I tested the 190s-1 and 1775 razors by shaving one side of my face with one, then the side with the other razor to compare. The older foil is superior! It cut closer, slowed the motor less, and allowed for faster results. The newer foil needed to go over an area more than once for a clean shave. I suspect that those with coarser and/or longer whiskers would experience differences even more quickly. My findings likely account for the increased number of poor reviews for the 190s-1 and the new foil.Yet I have to give the razor a decent rating overall knowing how reliable my almost 10-year-old version has been, it's good build quality, and for it's overall very good "bang for the buck." Certainly the older foil design made for a better razor: this critical part greatly impacts shaving performance.The 190s-1 is an acceptable razor for everyday use on "average" beards, but likely not so much to remove several days worth of growth or for those with especially coarse beards. Even with daily use, multiple passes may be needed which increase shaving time and effort, especially when compared with the older version of this razor with the better foil. I would rate the older 1775 razor "5" considering reliability, value, and performance. For the 190s-1 (and 1775 models with a new replacement foil), I'd rate "3.5" The 190s-1 could be noticeably improved with a better foil like the previous generation 1775 employed. Hopefully Braun will consider going back to the older foil design. I'd be willing to pay a few $ more for a better foil for this otherwise excellent electric razor.