Shaver Replacement Head Compatibility Guide: Philips & Braun
Find the right replacement head for your electric shaver
Electric shaver heads and foils are consumables — manufacturers recommend replacing them every 12–18 months for rotary heads and around 18 months for foils. Blades dull gradually, so most people don't notice the decline until they fit a new head and rediscover what a close shave feels like. The tricky part is working out which head fits your shaver. This guide covers the two big brands: Philips and Braun.
Rotary vs foil: know your shaver type
|
Rotary (Philips) |
Foil (Braun) |
| Look |
Three spinning circular heads |
Oscillating blades under a metal mesh |
| Replacement part |
Cutter heads (usually 3-pack) or complete head unit |
Foil & cutter cassette |
| Replace every |
~12–18 months |
~18 months |
| Part codes look like |
HQ8, SH50, SH90 |
32B, 52S, 73S |
Step 1: Find your model number
Your shaver's model number is usually printed on the front or back of the handle, or inside/under the head assembly. Philips models look like S5420, HQ7340 or SP9860; Braun models are often a series name plus number, like Series 3 340s. Once you have it, match it below.
Philips replacement heads
Philips rotary heads are sold under HQ and SH codes. Heads usually come as a 3-pack (one per rotary cutter).
Note: SH50 and HQ8 look similar but are not interchangeable in both directions — check your model number carefully.
Braun replacement foils & cutters
Braun uses a numbering system where the first digit usually matches the shaver series (e.g. 32B fits Series 3). "B" = black, "S" = silver — the colour of the part, not a different fit.
| Part code |
Fits |
Get it here |
| 10B |
Series 1 (190, 1735, 1775, cruZer) |
10B foil & cutter |
| 11B |
Series 1 (110, 120, 130, 140, 150) |
11B foil & cutter |
| 30B |
Series 3 (older), SmartControl, TriControl |
30B foil & cutter |
| 31B / 31S |
Series 3 (300, 310, 320, 330, 340, 350 etc.) |
31B foil & cutter |
| 32B / 32S |
Series 3 (3000s–3090s, newer models) |
32B foil & cutter |
| 40B |
CoolTec series |
40B replacement head |
| 51S / 51B |
Series 5 (older 8000 series) |
51S/51B foil & cutter |
| 52B / 52S |
Series 5 (5020s–5090cc) |
52B/52S replacement head |
| 53B |
Series 5 (newer 50-B/50-W models) |
53B foil & cutter |
| 73S |
Series 7 (newer 70-N/70-S models) |
73S foil & cutter |
Signs it's time to replace your shaver head
- Shaves take longer or need multiple passes
- Tugging, pulling or skin irritation that wasn't there before
- Visible wear, worn spots or dents in the foil
- It's been more than 12–18 months — even light use dulls blades through oxidation and micro-wear
Frequently asked questions
Are compatible (third-party) heads as good as genuine?
Quality compatible heads deliver a very similar shave at a much lower price, which is why they're so popular for older shavers where genuine parts are expensive or discontinued. All our heads are backed by a satisfaction guarantee — see our FAQ.
My shaver model isn't listed — can you help?
Yes. Send us your shaver's model number (from the handle or head) and we'll identify the right part, or source it through our product enquiry service.
Can heads be returned?
For hygiene reasons, razor heads can't be returned once opened — so it pays to confirm compatibility first. We're happy to check before you order.
How do I make heads last longer?
Rinse or brush out hair after each shave, let the head dry open, and use a drop of shaver lubricant occasionally. Clean the shaver thoroughly before fitting any new head.
Browse the full electric razor replacement heads collection — stocked in Auckland, shipped NZ-wide.
