Firstly, the shaver's look is much nicer than the photos you could find online. The blue on the front is dark and the sides and back are a slightly rubberized black (I think it is black). So if you are holding out for the black model ES8243K (with the cleaning unit) don't even bother. Ergonomically the shaver is easier to grip than it's 8168 forerunner
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Quality
The Arc IV has had some notable improvements. I'm happy to report that the improvements are actual! The dry shave is much better than before . Just as gentle as the Braun Pulsonic, but far closer. Perhaps even a wee bit closer than the Norelco, and certainly more gentle on the face than a normal rotary.
The construction is excellent, very solid with a non-slip grip. The screen area gives info on it's charge status which is quite helpful (does it in percent of charge left). Recharge time is great (only under an hour to a total charge status).
Maintenance:
This razor is one of the easiest to clean, so save some money and get this model rather than the model with the cleaning station. While Panasonic cleaning stations are better than the ones offered by Remington and Norelco, they are somewhat behind what Braun provides. You'll get the razor just as clean, and regularly cleaner, if you clean it under the tap (just a couple of drops of liquid soap will do, run it in turbo mode, fast rinse, and you're done). Since the razor is constructed to be used in the shower, you don't have to be cautious as you do with other razors when rinsing it off under the tap.
Blades:
The 8243A is the new "four blade" technology. These are purported to give a faster, closer shave. The "four blades" in fact refers to the outer foil, it has a "squarer" design than the 8168 had. There are still two inner blades, but spaced farther apart than the 8168. The new head design touches more of the face than the 8168 and therefore cuts faster.
Foil:
I have read a lot of reviews which say that the foil is a thinner steel, permitting the inside blades more access to the skin. This has resulted in easier gliding, faster shaves, and for the most part needs simply one pass for great outcomes. Big improvement!
Comfort:
Let me start by saying that those with sensitive skin and tough neck hairs which really seem grow in different directions resulting in a nicked/scratched neck be pretty pleased with what it has to offer since it can be used both for wet-shaving and dry. Especially if when having to keep your neck up whilst using a manual razor about the protrusive Adam's apple. Try wet-shaving (shower, wash face, hot/wet towel, good shaving cream), and you'll find this shaver totally rocks for that, since it drastically reduces the time needed to shave and gets closer than any dry method. Sensitive skin paired with shaving everyday for the closest possible shave might not be right for you. Enter this shaver and you'll really be able to plow right through that stubble as it gets as close, without the irritation around the neck area.
Shave time is decidedly less than with my previous Panasonic's due to the extra middle "blade" and better design (a flatter shaving surface), thus this really is the best Panasonic shaver yet. It comes with a built-in timer and traveling case, which aren't vital but are definitely appreciated, and it doesn't come with an pricey cleaning station which is actually a feature IMHO. Cleaning stations aren't really necessary with wet/dry shavers since cleaning might be accomplished merely by running them beneath water in turbo-mode with the periodic use of liquid soap and then wiping them dry. The only negative for some travelers may be the battery life since a full charge could last for only 5-6 shaves depending on how long each shave takes for you. Thus, I would without doubt recommend this shaver for even sensitive skin types over anything else on the market so far, wet or dry, when used after a shower and with the right skin conditioner.
Excellent shave, easy to clean, quick to charge, comfortable to use!! !
