Quip Review
Our Verdict
Compare to Similar Products
This Product Quip | |||||
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Awards | Most Gentle, Great Battery Life and Value | Best Value Electric Toothbrush | Best Value for Included Brush Heads | ||
Price | $30 List $19.81 at Amazon | $40 List $25.96 at Amazon | $50 List $39.99 at Amazon | $60 List $39.95 at Amazon | $12.00 List $9.33 at Amazon |
Overall Score | |||||
Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | A great entry level option, but falls a little short in terms of overall cleaning ability | An gentle, minimalist toothbrush with a long-lasting battery that cleans well | Inexpensive yet fully capable, this electric toothbrush is a solid choice for just about everyone | Affordable, effective, and user-friendly — this device offers value with good cleaning and extra brush heads | Only marginally better than a manual toothbrush, though incredibly affordable for an electric model |
Rating Categories | Quip | Philips One | Philips Sonicare 4100 | Aquasonic Black Series | Colgate 360 Total A... |
Cleaning (40%) | |||||
Comfort (30%) | |||||
Ease of Use (20%) | |||||
Battery Life (10%) | |||||
Specs | Quip | Philips One | Philips Sonicare 4100 | Aquasonic Black Series | Colgate 360 Total A... |
Measured Battery Life | 170 days | 30 days | 49.5 days | 31 days | 170 days |
Pressure Sensor | No | No | Yes | No | No |
Number of Brushing Modes | 1 mode: Clean |
1 mode: Clean |
1 mode: Clean 2 sensivity levels |
4 modes: Clean, Soft, Whiten, Massage |
1 mode: Clean |
Estimated Annual Brush Head Cost | $28 for (4) 1 packs | $15.92 for (2) two packs | $44.96 for (1) four pack | $19.90 for (2) two packs | NA |
Charger or Battery Info | 1 AAA battery | USB | USB (block not included) |
100 - 240VA 50-60Hz 0.8 - 1.6W |
1 AAA battery |
American Dental Association accepted? | Yes | Not Listed | Not Listed | Yes | Not Listed |
Waterproof / Resistant | Yes, can use in shower | No, cannot be used in the shower | Yes, can use in shower | Yes, can use in shower | Not Listed |
Number of Brush Head Styles Available | 1 style available in multiple colors | 1 style available in multiple colors | 8 styles, most available in 2 colors | 3 | NA |
Number of Included Brush Heads | 1 | 1 | 1 | 8 | 1 |
Thirty Second Reminder | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Two Minute Alert | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Travel Case Included | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Measured Handle Weight | 1.2 oz | 1.4 oz | 3.2 oz | 3.6 oz | 1.2 oz |
App | Yes* *must manually enter data unless using a Smart model |
No | No | No | No |
Available Colors | 6 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 4 |
Decibels from 6ft Away | 40 dB* | 40 dB* | 42 dB | 53 dB | 41.1 dB |
Decibels from 3" Away | 40 dB* | 40 dB* | 58 dB | 68 dB | 42.0 dB |
Our Analysis and Test Results
Performance Comparison
Cleaning
Making up 40% of the final score, we evaluated the cleaning performance of each toothbrush by having our testers abstain from brushing their teeth for over 18 hours to allow the buildup of a healthy amount of plaque. Using a plaque-disclosing tablet to tint the plaque bright pink, we used the Quip according to standard dentists' recommendations. Scores were determined by comparing before and after photos to assess the amount of plaque removed. Additionally, testers shared their thoughts on how clean their teeth felt before the results were disclosed. We also tested the overall cleaning efficiency of this model by using a dental model. In order to do this, we mixed together pesto and coffee grounds and spread it across the teeth on the model. Then, we set a timer for 1 minute as we brushed it all away and scored accordingly.
The Quip earned good, but not great, remarks in this metric. While there was no visible plaque left, we were left feeling slightly underwhelmed by the results. Achieving perfectly clean and smooth teeth would require a little more time. Despite requiring a bit of scrubbing, it managed to remove all the debris from the dental model within the 1-minute time constraint as well. If you're looking for the best cleaning ability, this device likely won't do it, but it's still perfectly capable with a little elbow grease.
Comfort
The second aspect we assessed and scored for each electric toothbrush is the comfort of brushing. Our diverse group of judges used each brush and assigned scores based on their daily comfort. This contributes to 30% of the final score.
Often, the switch from a manual to an electric toothbrush can be jarring, as the vibrations can feel too intense for new users. We have no concerns about this transition with the Quip. Its brushing action is notably gentle, and its compact brush head is well-suited for smaller mouths. For that reason, we think this device makes an excellent beginner electric toothbrush for kids. This comfortable brush is also a suitable choice for those with sensitive gums. Additionally, it stands out as one of the quietest toothbrushes in the entire group, not even registering on our decibel reader.
However, the Quip does not have a built-in pressure sensor to alert you if you are pressing too hard. It also doesn't have a sensitive brushing mode. We didn't find this to be too much of an issue since the standard brushing mode is so gentle to begin with. That said, there is no option to change the brush's intensity. If you're used to using an electric toothbrush, the Quip's brushing power might seem a bit weak.
Ease of Use
After cleaning and comfort, we moved on to rating and scoring the convenience and ease of use of each toothbrush, which is responsible for 20% of the overall score. While the minimalist nature of the Quip means that it lacks many of the features of other products, this actually made it significantly easier to use, earning it one of the higher scores of the group. It only has a single cleaning mode so there are no confusing mode-switches required.
The Quip has a two-minute timer with quadrant intervals that are indicated by a quick pause. Once it reaches the end of the cycle, it quickly vibrates four times before shutting off. The device includes a slim travel case that doubles as a stand or mirror mount. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a storage solution for other brush heads. They are also a bit more difficult to change than other products, so it is more of a one-person toothbrush rather than something that can easily be shared.
The Quip proved to be one of the easiest to clean. This brush's power button and overall design are sleek and smooth, so there aren't a lot of areas for grime to accumulate. It is also waterproof enough to take in the shower or thoroughly rinse off. With the optional subscription service, new brush heads are sent directly to your door every three months, so you won't have to think much about timing the replacements.
Battery Life
For the final 10% of the total score, we looked at the battery life of each of these powered toothbrushes. The Quip stands out from the other toothbrushes by relying on a conventional AAA battery as a power source rather than wirelessly recharging an internal lithium battery. This provides a surprisingly long battery life, earning the Quip top marks in this metric.
The manufacturer claims that the Quip can last for 90 days before needing a new battery, and we have no reason to doubt this. It was still going strong at well over 100 days, significantly outperforming the vast majority of the other products in our lineup. The slim design and long battery life make this brush an excellent option for frequent travelers. Plus, you won't need to pack an extra cord.
Should You Buy the Quip?
The Quip stands out as one of the more affordable models in our testing, making it a good choice if you're shopping on a budget or you're new to e-brushes and want to ease in. However, it's important to note that you're limited to using the specific brush heads, and sharing the toothbrush is not as convenient, potentially increasing the lifetime cost. While we hesitate to solely recommend the Quip based on its cleaning performance, if you're drawn to the subscription service, sleek design, and impressive battery life, it's a reliable choice that's unlikely to disappoint. Additionally, the minimalist toothbrush is available in a variety of colors and finishes.
What Other Electric Toothbrushes Should You Consider?
The Aquasonic Black Series is also available at an accessible price point and is straightforward to use. Thanks to the additional eight brush heads, you won't need a subscription service since they will last you approximately two years with daily use.