There are so many different electric toothbrushes out there it can be hard to decide which one is best for you. Some have smart features, and there are tons of different brushes heads. So which toothbrushes are the best? After months of meticulously hands-on testing and comparing over 100 different toothbrushes, I’ve condensed the top 14 electric toothbrushes into this guide.
On top of that, I’ve organized them based on different use cases, so someone looking for a good travel toothbrush has different needs than someone who needs something for sensitive teeth, or plaque removal. With that being said, let’s get right into the guide!
The Different Types of Electric Toothbrushes
Now I know you want to get straight to the toothbrush recommendations, but there are a few key things you want to consider and know about so you don’t get confused and actually understand what the toothbrush is best for. There are two main types of electric toothbrushes: sonic and oscillating. Let’s quickly go over the differences.
Sonic Vs. Oscillating
The two main electric toothbrush types are sonic and oscillating. While both are effective at reducing plaque and keeping your teeth clean, they work differently.
A sonic toothbrush is the more powerful option and vibrates at around 20,000 – 40,000 strokes per minute.
An oscillating toothbrush are the circular electric toothbrushes that actually rotate, and not just vibrate. These are less powerful and rotate at 6000 – 8000 strokes per minute.
Sonic toothbrushes are considered superior to oscillating toothbrushes because of the faster strokes per minute, and because they can cover a larger surface area during brushing.
The only real drawback of a sonic toothbrush is the price, which is where you should consider an oscillating toothbrush because they are generally cheaper. But if you are serious about your teeth and gum health, and want to reduce those expensive doctor visits, then we suggest looking into a sonic toothbrush.
What to look for when choosing an electric toothbrush
When it comes to choosing the best electric toothbrushes, there are a few key factors to consider. Battery life, brushing modes, brush head options, and other features such as pressure sensors or special applications. all play a role in finding the perfect toothbrush for your oral hygiene needs. Let’s take a look at each.
Battery life
The longevity of your electric toothbrush largely depends on its battery life. Take the Oral-B Pro 1000, for instance, which only has a 14-hour rechargeable battery life. And then compare it to the Brio Smartclean Sonic toothbrush that lasts 6 weeks! Yea, the oral B might be a little cheaper, but the Brio offers a better value in this department, not to mention, do you really want to be charging your toothbrush all the time?
Other brushes may require a longer charging time; some take up to 16 hours to fully replenish their energy reserves. So you want to make sure you find a toothbrush that recharges relatively quickly.
Brushing modes
Brushing modes on an electric toothbrush can actually make a big difference. These options offer a tailored experience for every user, giving you control over your oral care routine.
Most toothbrushes on this list have at least 3 different modes for varying needs and sensitivities, from normal cleaning to deep clean modes. Some models have specialized sensitivity modes so that even people with the most sensitive gums can comfortably use them.
Brush head options
Electric toothbrushes offer a ton of different brush head options, so you wont have trouble finding something that works perfectly for you.
Different brush heads are designed to target specific use cases like those with sensitive teeth, or for plaque removal. Some brush heads are even specifically designed to make your toothpaste more foamy. So depending on what you need, make sure to not skip over the different brush head options for the toothbrush you are considering.
Smart Toothbrushes
Smart toothbrushes are a new feature that is popping up where toothbrushes will come with companion smartphone apps that will give you information about your brushing routine. Some are pretty good while others are just terrible. Right now it’s more of a gimmick, and I wouldn’t base your entire decision just for this feature.
How We Tested The Electric Toothbrushes
I tested over thirty different models of electric toothbrushes to determine which ones are the best. To do this, I looked at various factors like brush movement and bristles, the presence of a pressure sensor, timer functionality, brush head size, and battery life.
During the testing process, I used each electric toothbrush for several weeks to evaluate their performance in real-life situations. I paid attention to how well they removed plaque and cleaned my teeth.
To make 100% sure I was benign accurate,, I consulted with multiple dental professionals who provided valuable insights on brushing habits and oral hygiene practices. Their expertise helped me assess the effectiveness of each electric toothbrush. Testing all of these toothbrushes, really took a lot of time so i’m finally happy to let you know my top 15 picks for electric toothbrushes!
Top 15 Best Electric Toothbrushes
Here are my top picks for electric toothbrushes after testing over 100 different models and consulting with dental professionals on what I should be booking for. I broke everything up into different categories, depending on different scenarios and applications. Let’s get straight into it!
Quick Recommendations
If you just want to get straight to the recommendations, here is a quick list of the top 10 toothbrushes.[a]
- Our Top Pick: Brio SmartClean Sonic Electric Toothbrush
- Runner Up: Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush
- Best Timer: PHILIPS Sonicare 4100 Power Toothbrush
- Best For Sensitive Teeth: PRO-SYS VarioSonic Rechargeable Power Electric Toothbrush
- Best For Travel: PHILIPS One by Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush
- Best For Beginners: Oral-B Pro 1000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
- Best For Plaque: BURST Original Sonic Electric Toothbrush
- Best Accessories: Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush
- Best For Fast Charging: Moon Sonic Electric Toothbrush
Our Top Pick: Brio SmartClean Sonic Electric Toothbrush
The Brio SmartClean Sonic Electric Toothbrush is our top pick. It’s a powerful sonic toothbrush that can handle anything from sensitive teeth to deep plaque removal. It features five brushing modes and It also includes a two-minute timer, which ensures users adhere to the dentist-recommended time for effective cleaning.
One of the key features that sets it apart from competitors is its exceptional battery life. A full charge offers six weeks of use! Perfect for those who are on-the-go or if you just don’t like charging a ton of devices all the time. Brio also provides a low-cost subscription program for replacement sonic toothbrush heads that are delivered directly to your door, so you won’t have to worry about using old brush heads.
| Pros | Cons |
| Five brushing modes for customizable oral care | Limited color options |
| 2 – minute timer and four zone reminders for thorough brushing | Doesn’t have an app |
| Low cost replacement brush heads with a subscription program | I wish there were a few more brush head options. |
| Extra long battery life that lasts up to 6 weeks on a full charge |
Runner Up: Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush
I was really impressed by the Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush. While it’s not a sonic toothbrush, it does come at a lower price point and I was impressed by the advanced features it comes with. The AI Position Detection feature tracks where you’re brushing across all three surfaces of your teeth. The entire experience is user-friendly and the color display is probably the best out there.
The round brush head follows a dentist-inspired design. This toothbrush is also very smooth and the micro-vibrations ensure enamel protection while giving a good clean. But why place it in our No. 2 spot? Simply because the tech features don’t overshadow its core functionality of being a great toothbrush. Now, if you’re someone who struggles with pressure control while brushing, Oral-B’s smart sensor will actually stop the motor if you apply too much pressure. Overall, This is a solid choice.
| Pros | Cons |
| 7 clean modes for a custom brushing experience | Expensive compared to other electric toothbrush options |
| iO Personalized Guidance improves brushing technique in just 1 week | Replacement brush heads can be costly |
| A.I. Position Detection ensures full coverage across all surfaces of the teeth | May require additional countertop space for charging dock |
| Dentist – inspired round brush head removes surface stains and provides whiter teeth from day 1 |
Best Timer: PHILIPS Sonicare 4100 Power Toothbrush
The PHILIPS Sonicare 4100 Power Toothbrush really stands out. It’s slim, ergonomically designed and easy to handle. But it’s not just about the style – this toothbrush really packs a powerful punch. It has a very powerful motor and the Sonicare technology ensures I get a deep clean.
I’m glad this toothbrush comes with a pressure sensor feature because if it didn’t, it might be a little too powerful and irritating. It flashes red telling me that I’m brushing too hard which is a nice feature.
This rechargeable electric toothbrush earns third place in our selection because although there are other models with more features or settings on offer, none matches this Philips offering for simplicity and offering a powerful motor.
| Pros | Cons |
| Good pressure sensor for protecting sensitive gums | Wall adaptor not included with the USB charger |
| Long battery life that lasts for 2 weeks on one charge | Some users may find the pressure sensor to be too sensitive or inconsistent |
| Brush head replacement reminder ensures effective cleaning every time | May be more expensive compared to other toothbrushes |
Best For Sensitive Teeth: PRO-SYS VarioSonic Rechargeable Power Electric Toothbrush
This Smart Sonic Toothbrush comes equipped with 25 Cleaning Modes! Yea thats alot. It also comes with a timer which lets me customize my brushing experience based on my oral health needs. This electric toothbrush is perfect for those with sensitive teeth. ALl the brush heads it comes with along with the smart sensor make this perfect for that purpose.
While it does offer a good amount of cleaning power, it’s not the most powerful toothbrush out there. If you have sensitive teeth that could be a good thing. However if you are looking for a powerful toothbrush for deep plaque removal, this might not be the best option.
It’s fitted with Dupont bristle filaments controlled by a microprocessor, promoting deep yet comfortable cleaning. It also includes a good battery life allowing up to one month’s use when fully charged.
Lastly I noticed they have really good customer service. They responded the same day when I reached out to them with some questions, that’s definitely not normal. You can even get support from some of the larger companies. So that’s a big perk in my eyes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent support for any issues with the electric toothbrush | May be too expensive for some consumers |
| Extra long battery life, up to one month of use on a full charge | Some users may find the 25 cleaning modes overwhelming and unnecessary |
| 5 precision brush heads designed to remove plaque safely and efficiently | The travel case may not be durable enough for long – term use. |
| 25 possible intensities with 5 brushing speeds and modes to cater to different oral conditions |
Best For Travel: PHILIPS One by Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush
The first thing you’ll notice about this Philips Sonicare Toothbrush is its sleek design. The matching brush heads and handle are eye-catching yet functional. In fact the design is the best feature of this toothbrush because it makes it perfect for travel. It’s small, sleek, and has a decent amount of features. I also like the travel cover it comes with. No one likes exposed toothbrush heads catching lint while sitting in your bag.
One standout feature for me personally is the battery life, it says it lasts for three months, but in my experience it was more around 2 months. Still a very long battery life. The soft nylon bristles coupled with gentle micro-vibrations really do make using this toothbrush a pleasure. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality upgrade from manual brushing and you really need something for travel, then this could be the electric toothbrush for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Sleek and lightweight design for easy travel | Limited compatibility with brush heads from other brands |
| Comes with 3 brush heads | The battery life may not last as long as some other rechargeable toothbrushes on the market |
| 2-minute timer with 30-second notifications for effective brushing | The sleek and lightweight design may feel flimsy or less durable compared to some other toothbrush options. |
| Micro vibrations and tapered bristles for a brighter smile |
Best For Beginners: Oral-B Pro 1000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
I found the Oral-B Pro 1000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush to be a great choice for beginners. Its round brush heads easily reach tricky spots, making it more effective at removing plaque along the gum line compared to regular toothbrushes. It offers user-friendly features like three cleaning modes and a timer that reminds you to change brushing zones every 30 seconds.
I really liked the gum pressure control feature to protect your gums. I’ve seen noticeable improvements in just a few weeks of use, with less plaque and healthier gums.
| Pros | Cons |
| Gum protection with sensi cleaning mode and gum pressure control | Not compatible with other brush heads from other manufacturers |
| Has a good selection of brush heads | The handle vibration timer may be annoying or unnecessary for some users |
| Easy-to-use cleaning modes and quadrant timer for optimal brushing | The black color may show wear and tear more prominently over time |
Best For Plaque: BURST Original Sonic Electric Toothbrush
The BURST Original Sonic Electric Toothbrush is a great choice for plaque removal. It has a really strong motor and three modes (whitening, sensitive, and massage) to suit different dental care needs. The smart timer ensures you aren’t over brushing, and its soft bristles are gentle on gums and enamel, reducing gum bleeding. It’s one of the only electric toothbrushes that offer charcoal coated brush head bristles. Plus, it offers a one-month battery life and has a strong motor with 33,000 vibrations per minute.
| Pros | Cons |
| Smart timer helps ensure proper brushing time and quadrant changes | The time is slightly delayed and not exactly 2 minutes. |
| Three modes allow for customized brushing experience | The soft bristles may not provide enough cleaning power for those with heavy plaque buildup. |
| Ultra soft bristles prevent harm to gums and enamel | The wireless charging feature can take a long time |
Best Accessories: Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush
The Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush is a top electric toothbrush choice. It’s ADA approved and boasts modern tech and user-friendly features. What I really like is it includes 8 DuPont brush heads right in the box. That’s more than anyone else. That’s two years worth of brush heads right in the box!
It also has one of the most powerful motors with 40,000 vibrations per minute. That might be too powerful for some but It does offer various modes for whitening, polishing, and gum care. So you can reduce the power to fit you needs.
It uses a lithium-ion battery that lasts up to four weeks when used twice daily for 2 minutes each. The slim, waterproof design is ergonomic, even in wet conditions. It does have a higher price tag, but overall I like this toothbrush a lot.
| Pros | Cons |
| Features a powerful electric motor with 40,000 VPM. | The wireless charging base can be finicky and may not always properly charge the toothbrush. |
| Comes with 8 brush heads for long lasting use | The handle of the toothbrush may feel a bit bulky and uncomfortable to hold, especially those with smaller hands. |
| Includes a travel case for convenience on the go | |
Best For Fast Charging: Moon Sonic Electric Toothbrush
The Moon Sonic Electric Toothbrush offers five smart modes for customized brushing. I like how you can use it on only a 15 minute charge which can come in handy.. The sonic technology provides a deep clean with up to 36,000 vibrations per minute and its ultra-fine bristles reach tight corners for thorough cleaning.
It also has an impressive battery life – one full charge lasts up to six weeks, making it an ideal travel companion. The package includes a sleek travel case and two replacement heads and the ergonomic, no-slip handle adds comfort and stability, even when you’re in a rush.
| Pros | Cons |
| 5 smart modes for a customized brushing routine | A bit pricey for the features it comes with. |
| Tapered, ultra – fine bristles for deeper reach and surface cleansing | Switching between the smart modes can be confusing. |
| Up to six week charge | The black color may show stains and discoloration over time |
| Powerful yet gentle with up to 36,000 sonic technology vibrations per minute |
Best Affordable Toothbrush: Sonic Electric Toothbrush
I was pleasantly surprised when unboxing the Sonic Electric Toothbrush. Its stylish design and vibrant pink color caught my eye. It’s one of the more affordable options so I was surprised to see 8 replaceable brush heads in the box.
It offers a range of modes for different needs, including cleaning, whitening, sensitive gum care, and massage. I liked the included holder that helps keep my bathroom organized, which is a bonus in my limited space.
The Sonic Electric Toothbrush’s powerful 41k high-frequency vibrations per minute is very powerful, especially at this price point. Now while I do like this toothbrush a lot, it’s not perfect, I can feel a bit cheap, and the bristles also seem a bit stiff. If you can overlook some of these downsides, it’s a great budget option.
| Pros | Cons |
| 120 days of use with just a 3 – hour charge | Limited color options |
| Portable and convenient travel case and holder included | Brush heads feel a bit cheap compared to others. |
| 5 different brushing modes | Brush heads have less bristles than others. |
Great Value: Oral-B iO Series 3 Limited Rechargeable Electric Powered Toothbrush
The Oral-B iO Series 3 Limited Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush is a very good value overall. The long-lasting lithium-ion battery is a standout feature, requiring less frequent charging. It comes with three cleaning modes and the iO Pressure Sensor ensures safe cleaning for my gums. It has most of the advanced features you can find on other Oral B toothbrushes at a cheaper price. So this is a toothbrush you should take a close look at if you are considering picking up some of the more expensive oral b toothbrushes. The only downside is it’s not a sonic toothbrush, but some people prefer the spinning heads anyways.
| Pros | Cons |
| Good pressure sensor that works | It only comes in black |
| The round brush heads have good bristle density | Some users may find the price to be on the higher side compared to other electric toothbrushes |
| Comes with 3 cleaning modes | The pressure sensor may not be sensitive enough for some |
Best Battery Life: Burst Pro Sonic Electric Toothbrush
The Burst Pro Sonic Electric Toothbrush generally isn’t anything special but what stands out for me is its impressive battery life, lasting up to 9 months on a single charge. This means I only need to worry about charging it a few times a year.
I also like the color led display. I wouldn’t say it’s the best on the market, but It is a nice touch.
The toothbrush features a smart pressure sensor that prevents over brushing, protecting my gums while giving real-time feedback to improve my brushing technique. With five customizable cleaning modes, it caters to various needs. The super soft bristles clean thoroughly without harming my gums.
In terms of design and user experience, this electric toothbrush is a top choice in the market today. It provides professional-level cleaning results but for me, its the battery life that makes the toothbrush really stand out, it has the longest battery life i’m aware of when it comes to high powered sonic toothbrushes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Up to 9 months of battery life on a single charge | It’s only available in white |
| Smart pressure sensor feature | May be too expensive for some consumers |
| super soft bristles for gentle cleaning | Replacement brush heads may be difficult to find or more expensive than other brands |
Best For Kids: Quip Adult Electric Toothbrush
The Quip Adult Electric Toothbrush was originally designed for adults, but its low power actually makes it the perfect choice for kids. It has a sleek design and useful features, including a mirror mount and travel cover. The soft bristles are gentle on gums and effective against plaque. The slim metal handle gives it a sophisticated look and makes it easy to hold. Just make sure to not get it too wet or it becomes slippery.
The built-in timer is good and ensures you brush each section of your mouth for the recommended time. Another great feature for kids. The travel cover also doubles as a mirror mount, which is great if you have kids who “forget” to brush since it’s so visible in the bathroom. If you were thinking of getting this for yourself or an adult, there are honestly better options, but if you need a good and affordable toothbrush for kids, this would be my pick.
| Pros | Cons |
| Sonic toothbrush that has a lower power level which is good for kids | Some users may find the soft bristles to be too gentle and not provide a thorough cleaning. |
| Soft bristles are gentle on gums and teeth, preventing damage | The metal handle may feel heavy or awkward to hold for some |
| Built – in timer ensures that you brush for the recommended two minutes | The timer feature is not customizable |
| Metal handle adds durability |
Electric Toothbrush FAQs
A Lot of people have questions when it comes to purchasing and using electric toothbrushes. So here are our answers to top questions about electric toothbrushes. I hope it helps!
How often should brush heads be changed?
I recommend changing brush heads on electric toothbrushes every three months. This is the recommended frequency for maintaining optimal cleaning effectiveness and preventing bacteria buildup. This is also what most dentists recommend.
However, it’s important to note that if a brush head becomes worn, frayed, or damaged before the three-month mark, it should be replaced sooner. Some electric toothbrush models have indicator bristles that fade over time, serving as a reminder to change the brush head.
Individuals with certain oral health conditions or those wearing braces may need to replace their brush heads more frequently. Regularly changing brush heads is essential for good oral hygiene and keeping your teeth clean and healthy.
How do you pick an electric toothbrush for sensitive teeth?
When choosing an electric toothbrush for sensitive teeth, it’s important to look for certain features. Firstly, opt for a brush with soft bristles to avoid further irritation. Additionally, consider a toothbrush with a pressure sensor which will alert you if you’re using too much force while brushing.
This can prevent potential damage to your gums and teeth. Lastly, look for a toothbrush that offers different brushing modes so you can find the one that is most comfortable and effective for your sensitive teeth. That’s one of the reasons I like the Brio Smartclean so much.
How much should you expect to pay for an electric toothbrush?
When it comes to the cost of an electric toothbrush, prices can vary. Basic models usually start around $20 to $30, while high-end smart toothbrushes can go up to $200 or more. It’s important to consider your budget and what features are essential for you before making a purchase.
I recommend trying to find the best value instead of the lowest price. If you go cheap, it might not last as long, and in the long run, you could be spending just as much replacing your toothbrushes.
Is an electric toothbrush better than a manual toothbrush?
Electric toothbrushes are better than manual toothbrushes. They can remove more bacteria, plaque, and food debris from your teeth.
Electric toothbrushes also have features like timers and pressure sensors to help you brush properly. Soft-bristle brushes are recommended to avoid damaging gums and enamel. So, if you want a more effective way of cleaning your teeth, go for an electric toothbrush!
Do more expensive electric toothbrushes work better?
High-priced electric toothbrushes are often associated with better performance and more advanced features. However, it is important to consider that the effectiveness of an electric toothbrush depends on various factors such as brushing technique and personal preference.
You don’t have to choose the most expensive option to find all of those features, and from my experience, the best value are the toothbrushes priced around the middle of the range.
Is a vibrating or rotating toothbrush better?
Vibrating or rotating toothbrushes are both effective at cleaning teeth, but they offer different benefits. A vibrating toothbrush uses rapid back-and-forth motion to clean the teeth, while a rotating toothbrush has blades that spin in circular motions.
Generally speaking, vibrating toothbrushes are a bit better because they cover more surface area while brushing, and also have 3 – 4 times the strokes per minute you can find on rotating toothbrushes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best electric toothbrush for your needs is important for maintaining good oral hygiene. Consider factors such as brush movement, pressure sensors, timer functionality, and battery life.
Based on our testing, the Brio Smartclean is the overall best choice. Remember to prioritize your dental health and choose a toothbrush that suits your preferences and budget. Thanks for reading and happy brushing!
Marcus Ramsey has been a professional writer for over seven years. He has talked about and produced content for industries like Dentistry, Healthcare, and more.
