Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 Review

Offering impressive test results across the board, the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 is a powerhouse that doesn't break the bank. It comes with a handy travel case, offers multiple brushing modes to suit your needs, and is straightforward to use, which is particularly helpful if you're transitioning from a manual brush.

Since we first tested this in 2023, there have been no significant product updates. However, the 5100 is now available with different brush head colors to match the handle better. If you want the perfect bathroom counter aesthetics, your dream may have just come true! As of late 2024, the Philips Sonicare 4100 is still about half the price, making it still our best value overall.

Tested and Rated

We take a hands-on approach to toothbrush reviews. We purchase them from retail stores and subject them to rigorous, side-by-side testing conducted by our expert reviewer, Gena Bradshaw. Gena has meticulously evaluated nearly 100 toothbrushes using a variety of plaque and stain tests over hundreds of hours. This in-depth data forms the foundation of this review, which I, Ryan White, have written for you

Performance Comparison

Cleaning

The primary metric in our testing, accounting for 40% of the overall score, is cleaning. Our testers chewed a plaque-disclosing tablet for 30 seconds, rinsed, and captured a photo of the pink-dyed buildup. Following a two-minute brushing session using a standard dentist's recommended method, testers rated the cleanliness of their mouths before and after the photo was taken. Subsequently, they compare the photos to see the amount of plaque removed. I also employed a visual test to assess the cleaning efficacy of each electric toothbrush. Using an artificial dental model, I applied a challenging combination of pesto and coffee grounds. After that, a one-minute timer was set to evaluate the efficiency of each toothbrush.

The Philips Sonicare 5100 performed well, with testers reporting a clean feeling and the plaque being completely removed. This is about as good as it gets for the cleaning test. It also soared in the visual test, clearly removing all buildup of the coffee grounds and pesto mixture within one minute, which is a testament to its efficiency. Most users should be more than pleased with this result. If cleaning is your top priority, it's hard to go wrong here, as the Philips is clearly beyond capable.

Comfort

Comprising 30% of the overall score, comfort holds a lot of importance, especially considering the substantial time — upwards of four minutes a day — devoted to teeth brushing. I thoroughly assessed and assigned scores based on the overall brushing experience, namely how comfortable each mode is and the noise level of each product.

Again, the Philips Sonicare 5100 delivered impressive results. I liked the smaller brush head, which had no trouble tackling those hard-to-reach areas. Plus, including settings like the 'Gum Care' mode was comfortable for our sensitive mouths. The brush also provides feedback, signaling if you're brushing too hard through a distinct tone and vibration.

The matte plastic handle not only offers a secure grip but also feels nice to hold. The buttons were easily accessible and simple to press, too. However, when the back of the brush head accidentally touches the gums, it produces a jarring noise that causes some discomfort. Points were deducted accordingly.

During operation, the brush emits a slightly higher pitch. To assess this, I placed a decibel reader 6 feet away while the brush operated in its standard mode. I repeated the process with the reader at three inches away. Subsequently, I compared the readings to the actual sound of the brush, evaluating whether the sound was gentle or grating. While it's not the quietest electric toothbrush we've tested (ranging from 45-67 decibels), it's definitely nothing to complain about, and I wasn't bothered by the frequency of the pitch.

Ease of Use

Next, I evaluated the usability of each toothbrush, considering factors like interface intuitiveness, ease of cleaning, the presence of a timer, and storage for extra brush heads. These assessments contribute to 20% of the total score.

The Philips Sonicare 5100 continues to succeed here with its three distinctive modes: Clean, White, and Gum Care. To switch between these modes, a secondary button located beneath the power button makes the process effortless. The convenience extends to changing modes regardless of the power being off or on. Additionally, identifying the current mode is effortless, with the indicator light remaining illuminated throughout the entire brushing process. This model also features a 30-second and two-minute timer. After thirty seconds of brushing repeatedly in the same quadrant, the brush stops to indicate it's time to switch quadrants and then resumes vibrating. When the two minutes are up, the unit quickly vibrates a few times in a row, then promptly shuts off.

The brush is easy to clean, even though the buttons protrude slightly from the body and may accumulate some gunky buildup. However, I don't anticipate this becoming a significant issue, especially given its water resistance, allowing for use in the shower. The brush body also features an indicator light to signal when it's time to replace the brush head, and it conveniently comes with a travel case providing extra storage for two additional brush heads.

Battery Life

In our battery life assessment, I operated the brushes twice daily for a standard two-minute cleaning cycle. I observed and recorded the moment each electric toothbrush's battery depleted, assigning scores accordingly.

The Philips claims a 14-day battery life, but in our testing, it exceeded expectations. This toothbrush lasted 46 days — particularly advantageous for frequent travelers. This extended battery life is especially beneficial given that it takes nearly 24 hours to recharge the battery once depleted fully. To ensure proper charging, the charger beeps twice, indicating the correct brush placement. When the handle reaches a full charge, the light turns green for 30 seconds before powering off. While it may not be at the top of the list for the longest battery life, it should prove more than sufficient for most users.

Should You Buy the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100?

With its exceptionally effective cleaning, versatile modes, and more than sufficient battery life, you can't go wrong with the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100. I appreciate this toothbrush's ability to handle sensitive gums and small mouths. While not necessarily budget-friendly, I believe it's an investment worth making for the sake of your dental health.

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