BIC Flex 5 Titanium Disposable Review

Our BIC Flex 5 Titanium Experience

The BIC Flex 5 Titanium shaves a step above most basic disposable razors, and it has been one of our favorites for several years in a row. We've tested and retested the latest versions more times than we can count - usually with surprisingly good results.

This five-blade system is better than most disposables on the market. In fact, it acts a lot like a high-end cartridge model because it has a large, substantial body and a decent razor head that glides well. It also chops through most stubble on the first or second pass. After several years of using the BIC, we can honestly say that it's rarely given us anything but a solid shave.

The BIC has all of the crucial elements of a high-quality razor. It offers a superior lubrication strip at the top, five super sharp blades in the middle, and an effective rubber skin guard at the bottom which grips against skin and pulls it tight for a closer shave.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

It also has a nicely positioned precision blade that makes fine tuning sideburns a breeze.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

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We liked the convenience of the Flex 5 Titanium. Sometimes a disposable razor just makes sense, especially when traveling or keeping on hand as a backup. This razor was our go-to for travel. From camping adventures to business trips, we really like the ease of chucking a few of these razors in a suitcase or duffel and not having to worry about losing or breaking them. The best part is that we always know we'll still get a decent shave.

Our Analysis and Test Results

Shave Quality

We'll be honest, we've had better shaves from other razors. But better shaves from other disposables? Probably not. The Titanium performed well in its class and came in handy when we needed it.

We shaved with this razor for several weeks and were relatively pleased with its ability to produce a reasonably smooth shave. Its five blades are flexible and actively bow and bend to the contours of the face. The shave head has a decent lubrication strip that lasted us for about four to five shaves.

We often had to make repeated passes to achieve smooth skin, which is common with disposables, but we can honestly say the Flex 5 Titanium performs better than the average throwaway. The manufacturer states each razor is good for 13 shaves. We found this to be an overstatement; we noticed a decrease in performance around our eighth shave.

We also liked this razor's precision blade. It sits high on the blade head, giving it a better angle and accuracy.

Glide and Comfort

The Flex 5 Titanium doesn't glide perfectly. But, again, it's not bad for a disposable.

Razor burns, nicks, cuts, and razor bumps were not an issue with the Titanium. Most of us liked its basic abilities to glide across the face, jaw, chin, and neck with relative ease. However, we did experience snags every now and again, since the blades didn't perfectly slice through every hair (those with thinner beards will probably experience less of this).

Handle Ergonomics

We really liked the handle. It not only looks great, but it also has great ergonomics and an excellent overall feel, even if it's a little lightweight.

Measuring 5 inches long, the handle on the BIC is one of the longest we tested, giving you more real estate to grip and maneuver, which will be appreciated by those with larger hands. It also has well-placed rubber gripping throughout, an offering seldom found on disposables. What we loved the most about the handle is its shape. It's nicely arched and has an hourglass shape that perfectly accommodates the fingers and hand. There's also a metallic finger rest at the top of the handle.

The Flex 5 has a nicely arched handle.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

We also found it to be well-balanced.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

The finger rest helps keep our hand from slipping.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Rotate the razor and use the same pad when using the precision blade.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

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Build Quality and Durability

In the disposable razor world, the Titanium is nothing but pure brawn.

Even at close range, the BIC looks like it's bulky and heavy. It's not until you pick it up that you realize this razor is actually pretty lightweight at only 0.7 ounces.

The handle is dense and strong for a disposable. The shaving head is solid and attaches firmly to the rest of the razor. There isn't a single spot on this product that shakes, bends, or rattles.

Ease of Cleaning and Blade Replacement

Rinsing isn't one of this razor's strong suits. During our rinse tests, its performance was tolerable, but not perfect. It tends to gunk up easily, and if you don't take the time to properly clean it, we could see this being one reason you'd have to toss the razor earlier than expected.

Our Flex 5 Titanium easily clogged up with crud—a common downfall of having five blades. It also takes a little longer to rinse clean. The mechanism that attaches the shaving head to the handle takes up a lot of space, which blocks the back of the razor head and prevents water from easily passing through.

Should You Buy the BIC Flex 5 Titanium?

Yes, if you're in a pinch or want something light and convenient to travel with. Of all the disposables we've tested, we liked the BIC Flex 5 Titanium the best. It shaves better than similar models we've tested, and we're certain it's better-built. So if you're in the market for a dependable disposable razor that you can take on your travels, or stock in your spare bathroom for guests, we don't think you'll find much better. That said, it is not what we would choose as our daily driver. For that, we'd recommend investing in a higher-quality razor with replaceable cartridges. These often give a better shave and can still be fairly economical in the long run if you take care of the handle.

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