Thanks for the comparison. I've been looking for something like this for a while. I purchased the Qshave a few weeks ago and I'm having really good results. I think I'm going to pick up a Futur down the road after seeing this video. Thanks again, Mark!
I have tried several brands of blades and have settled on Personna and Astra. Recently I have changed to shave oil by Tree Hut. I began with a Merkur then switched to Qshave. I have not noticed any difference in the quality of shave. Whichever razor you buy disassemble it and pack the handle with petroleum jelly every year or so. It will make your razor last indefinitely. My only complaint with these razors is the bulk. It is difficult to shave around the nose. For this purpose I use an antique Gillette razor. @@alamore5084
I read one reviewer who said he got a better shave out of the Qshave. I was skeptical but hopeful. My skepticism led me to your video and I'm glad you cleared things up. Much obliged.
Great review Mark! I have a futur i really like. The q shave in black looks great but not sure ill enjoy it. The Futur really is a high line feel. The weight and build is very nice.
Great video as always ... Can I sanitize a razor using Dawn detergent in soapy water ... I'm receiving a Gillette Super Speed but may never buy another vintage so I hate to buy a big bottle of any kind of specific sanitizer ... Thanks
Rick, Thank you. To answer your question, yes, a lot of guys simply use Dawn detergent to sanitize and clean their newly acquired vintage razors and then they are good to go.:) Some guys use 70% Isopropyl Alcohol. Some guys use Scrubbing Bubbles. (Make sure this is the foaming formula from the can and not the spray bottle). Some use Barbicide. I use Barbicide. I get it to last a lot longer by varying the ratio of water to Barbicide. Here are the ratios I've found online, discussion forums and the Barbicide website: Water-to-Barbicide solution: 32 oz water to 2 oz Barbicide 16 oz water to 1 oz Barbicide 8 oz water to .5 oz Barbicide 4 oz water to .25 oz Barbicide I usually use 8 ounces of water to .5 ounces of Barbicide just to make sure the entire razor is covered in solution. I also thought that I was going to buy only one vintage razor.:) Then, I saw a Gilltte Tech, then a Gillette Slim Adjustable, then a Pre-War Gillette Tech, etc. I'm glad I had that bottle of Barbicide.:) One cautionary note, make sure you lock Barbicide away from children and pets. But, yes, Dawn, alcohol, Scrubbing Bubbles are all just fine to sanitize a razor if you don't want to use or buy Barbicide. I think, if I miss my guess, Scrubbing Bubbles is probably the number two most used method for sanitizing vintage razors. One more point...a few years ago I happened to see, on the web, a discussion and video on sanitizing a vintage razor. It was stated that placing a razor in the dishwater does a fine job of claening and sanitizing. I used this method to sanitize my late father's Gillette Super Speed. It makes sense, as a dishwater generates hot water, soap, suds, etc. It came through the dish-wash cycle just fine. Cleaned up well.:) YMMV, though depending on the detergent used and water temps of your dishwasher. I hope this helps.:)
I have a Ming Shi (I think it's the manufacturer) and I was impressed with the performance and quality for the price charged. It did a better shave than my Edwin Jagger, costing 1/3.
The qshave has alignment issues as well as the gap being on the slant, the merkur is a perfect precision shaving instrument that is amazing value at £55. It is stunning in the chrome.
I have both the Futur and QShave Including a Long handled progress. QShave razor is a great razor! Blade alignment is great! I have a thick beard it's no difference than the Futur.
Again, you've piqued my interest.:) It has a setting 6, might as well use it.:) However, I may set it at 5 and work up to 6 on pass three.:) I'd imagine I'd use the Merkur first. We'll see.:)
Great review! I ordered what is essentially the same razor, the Ming Shui, from AliExpress for $6.89 including shipping. I don't know how they do it, but it arrived in 8 days. My blade alignment is perfect. I find that the best way to seat the blade is by inserting it on the top, not on the handle part. Down the road I might go your route and buy the $55 Merkur Futur and use the Ming Shui for travel. And you are absolutely right-on about audio feedback. The clone kicks in at about 3.5. That said, the craftsmanship on the clone is impressive. Right now I alternate with my '66 Gillette Super Speed and use Gillette Silver Blue blades. A great blade for both razors.
Bill, great to hear about the blade alignment.:) The really nice thing about these adjustables (Futur and clone) is the ability to dial down if you need a mild shave in the evening if going out.:) Enjoy!:), And thanks for the kind words.:)
I must have a faulty one as it barley moves when I twist and still has a gap of an 1/8 inch between blade and handle. Butterflys actually supports the razor metal against metal with no gap.
The other Futur clone on the market is the Ming Shi. Same as the QShave. these clones can sometimes be hit or miss. So, you just might want to spend the extra dollars and get the real McCoy.:)
I have a couple vintage Gillette’s (black beauty, FatBoy) that I use regularly at home. Considering the QShave as a travel razor. This comparison helped.
If you ever receive your item from Aliexpress lol I tried buying ONE item from them for the first time a couple months back, it was a Merlin Mini tank (for vaping) the actual company's (Augvape) buy now link took me to Aliexpress so I figured it wouldn't be terrible. The estimated delivery time was 20 days. I waited patiently for a month, still nothing. I requested the time extension, and they said it would be here within a week. I waited 2 1/2 weeks and still nothing, so I got a refund. Aliexpress can suck it
RAOBANION It could be that your Qshave is faulty. Mine adjusts with no problem. The Merkur Future is very pretty precise. You'll know when it is adjusting.
Depending on how you search for the Q, prices range along with engraving packaging but still the same handle. Shoulda coulda boughta Merkur and skiped the engraveing for a handle that holds the razor square and firm and spent the same!
It all depends on what pops up. They are selling it at different prices and with engraving. Thank you for the info and I know now that research should be done before buying. UA-cam rules because of people like you. Thanks again.
When I travel I take a cheap cartridge razer and a little can of shave cream . I go to Cuba or Mexico for 2 weeks every winter . Let's get real . Why would I take my merkur ? For a maid to steal ? Lol
I agree. Especially if If flying with carry-on luggage, a cart is the way to go. TSA regulations doesn't allow DE blades with carry-on luggage. if you can't take the blades, then why take the DE razor? TSA permits cartridge razors in carry-on luggage.
Could be.:) But for less than ten bucks, the Qshave is a good bet. If it disappoints, you're not out that much. Plus, it gives you a good taste of what the Merkur Futur is like. And believe me, the Futur is worth every penny!:)
I'm in agree with Werner. Patents have expired, but patents protect the mechanisms (the invention) not the aesthetical design. Merkur Futur is a very recognisable piece of art, and QShave is a plagiarism that exploits the image of the Merkur Futur.
Do NOT buy the clone! One side is aggressive and the other doesn't touch the face! I'm astounded at all these positive reviews, it's unbelievable. I tried shortening the spring, lengthening the spring, adjusting the thin "rods" that clip the lid on, different blades, etc etc etc and finally emailed Mingshi and they were aware of the problem but "due to the nature of adjustables, they manufacture within an allowed tolerance and that tolerance is acceptable". I replied that they need to be more precise with their damn tolerance and she said she will forward the critique to her bosses.
ManWhatever1 , I was so curious that i ended up buying the real Merkur and it's fine. I also have 8-10 other kinds, mostly Gillettes and they are precise.
Thanks for the comparison. I've been looking for something like this for a while.
I purchased the Qshave a few weeks ago and I'm having really good results. I think I'm going to pick up a Futur down the road after seeing this video.
Thanks again, Mark!
Rob Fink My pleasure! You'll definitely like the Future.
I have been using Qshave clone for years with Cremo. I think the combination is the best in the industry.
Hi, CARL LOGAN. Very glad to hear this combo works for you.:) Excellent.:)
I'll give the Qshave a try. Which blades do you find work well with it?
I have tried several brands of blades and have settled on Personna and Astra. Recently I have changed to shave oil by Tree Hut. I began with a Merkur then switched to Qshave. I have not noticed any difference in the quality of shave. Whichever razor you buy disassemble it and pack the handle with petroleum jelly every year or so. It will make your razor last indefinitely. My only complaint with these razors is the bulk. It is difficult to shave around the nose. For this purpose I use an antique Gillette razor. @@alamore5084
I read one reviewer who said he got a better shave out of the Qshave. I was skeptical but hopeful. My skepticism led me to your video and I'm glad you cleared things up. Much obliged.
Hi, Plutosson, I'm very glad to hear you enjoyed the video and found it helpful .:)
Finally I have been waiting for this review for a while now, thanks for the review the pros and cons. Very well done 👍
Thank you.:) I'm glad you found it helpful.:)
If you have problem with the blade alignment at Qshave just unscrew it and flip the spring! At 99% of the cases problem is solved!
akis hd Thanks! I didn't know this! Very helpful!
Worked for me!
I have Qshave and it is better then my razors that are 4x the price. I love it! Took 3 days on amazon prime
That's great to hear!:) It's fantastic feeling when you get a razor at a bargain price and it shaves like a champ!:) Enjoy!:)
Great review Mark! I have a futur i really like. The q shave in black looks great but not sure ill enjoy it. The Futur really is a high line feel. The weight and build is very nice.
Great video as always ... Can I sanitize a razor using Dawn detergent in soapy water ... I'm receiving a Gillette Super Speed but may never buy another vintage so I hate to buy a big bottle of any kind of specific sanitizer ... Thanks
Rick, Thank you. To answer your question, yes, a lot of guys simply use Dawn detergent to sanitize and clean their newly acquired vintage razors and then they are good to go.:) Some guys use 70% Isopropyl Alcohol. Some guys use Scrubbing Bubbles. (Make sure this is the foaming formula from the can and not the spray bottle). Some use Barbicide. I use Barbicide. I get it to last a lot longer by varying the ratio of water to Barbicide. Here are the ratios I've found online, discussion forums and the Barbicide website:
Water-to-Barbicide solution:
32 oz water to 2 oz Barbicide
16 oz water to 1 oz Barbicide
8 oz water to .5 oz Barbicide
4 oz water to .25 oz Barbicide
I usually use 8 ounces of water to .5 ounces of Barbicide just to make sure the entire razor is covered in solution.
I also thought that I was going to buy only one vintage razor.:) Then, I saw a Gilltte Tech, then a Gillette Slim Adjustable, then a Pre-War Gillette Tech, etc. I'm glad I had that bottle of Barbicide.:)
One cautionary note, make sure you lock Barbicide away from children and pets.
But, yes, Dawn, alcohol, Scrubbing Bubbles are all just fine to sanitize a razor if you don't want to use or buy Barbicide. I think, if I miss my guess, Scrubbing Bubbles is probably the number two most used method for sanitizing vintage razors.
One more point...a few years ago I happened to see, on the web, a discussion and video on sanitizing a vintage razor. It was stated that placing a razor in the dishwater does a fine job of claening and sanitizing. I used this method to sanitize my late father's Gillette Super Speed. It makes sense, as a dishwater generates hot water, soap, suds, etc. It came through the dish-wash cycle just fine. Cleaned up well.:) YMMV, though depending on the detergent used and water temps of your dishwasher.
I hope this helps.:)
Mark Szorady Thanks so much your information is very helpful ...
My pleasure.:)
Always great reviews Mark. Thank you.
Thanks very much, Brian.:) Sincerely appreciated.:)
Best razor I ever bought!
The Futur or the QShave? I'm thinking Futur.:)
I have a Ming Shi (I think it's the manufacturer) and I was impressed with the performance and quality for the price charged.
It did a better shave than my Edwin Jagger, costing 1/3.
The Van der Hagen version is also quite good. ua-cam.com/video/bDCZzSXVkC8/v-deo.html
The qshave has alignment issues as well as the gap being on the slant, the merkur is a perfect precision shaving instrument that is amazing value at £55. It is stunning in the chrome.
Hi, julian. Yes. With the Futur, you're assured of a well-made, precision razor. No doubt.:)
I agree with your assessment; however, I have used both razors and have not noticed any difference in shaving performance.
I have both the Futur and QShave Including a Long handled progress. QShave razor is a great razor! Blade alignment is great! I have a thick beard it's no difference than the Futur.
Excellent to hear! Again, it's the one to travel with due to low cost.:)
Mark Szorady
To each it's own.
I agree.:):) So glad it works for you.:)
How long is the handle?
Thanks for this comparison. How is the shave if you have both of these razors set at '6'?
borbetomagus I have yet to set that high on either...but now you've got me thinking about giving it a go!:)
Well, I hope to see such a video -- even if it compares the shaving capabilities at a mid-range level, if you're not ready for a '6' :)
Again, you've piqued my interest.:) It has a setting 6, might as well use it.:) However, I may set it at 5 and work up to 6 on pass three.:) I'd imagine I'd use the Merkur first. We'll see.:)
My QShave just arrived, today. Mine does not "click" while adjusting. Is this normal?
Yes. Both the Futur and Qshave adjust with a smooth twist. No clicking.
Great review! I ordered what is essentially the same razor, the Ming Shui, from AliExpress for $6.89 including shipping. I don't know how they do it, but it arrived in 8 days.
My blade alignment is perfect. I find that the best way to seat the blade is by inserting it on the top, not on the handle part.
Down the road I might go your route and buy the $55 Merkur Futur and use the Ming Shui for travel.
And you are absolutely right-on about audio feedback. The clone kicks in at about 3.5.
That said, the craftsmanship on the clone is impressive. Right now I alternate with my '66 Gillette Super Speed and use Gillette Silver Blue blades. A great blade for both razors.
Bill, great to hear about the blade alignment.:) The really nice thing about these adjustables (Futur and clone) is the ability to dial down if you need a mild shave in the evening if going out.:)
Enjoy!:), And thanks for the kind words.:)
QShave is going up to 45.00 now. Wish I would have got the Merkur after using the Q a few times.
QShave on Amazon is still just under 20 bucks.
RAOBANION it cost $19.57 on Amazon now with fast shipping if you have Prime
Just bought one from Allied for $12 shipped.
Just bought a black one with holder for $12.
I must have a faulty one as it barley moves when I twist and still has a gap of an 1/8 inch between blade and handle. Butterflys actually supports the razor metal against metal with no gap.
The other Futur clone on the market is the Ming Shi. Same as the QShave. these clones can sometimes be hit or miss. So, you just might want to spend the extra dollars and get the real McCoy.:)
I have a couple vintage Gillette’s (black beauty, FatBoy) that I use regularly at home. Considering the QShave as a travel razor. This comparison helped.
My pleasure. Blade balance can vary. Mine is pretty good. Others have had issues. Still, for travel, at ten bucks or so, a good choice for travel.:)
bought the Qshave on Amazon for 20Euro now ;) wish me Luck .
Here's hoping it gives you many years of great shaves!:) Let us know.:)
Prices on Amazon are surely a ripoff! It's less than $10 on Aliexpress.
If you ever receive your item from Aliexpress lol I tried buying ONE item from them for the first time a couple months back, it was a Merlin Mini tank (for vaping) the actual company's (Augvape) buy now link took me to Aliexpress so I figured it wouldn't be terrible. The estimated delivery time was 20 days. I waited patiently for a month, still nothing. I requested the time extension, and they said it would be here within a week. I waited 2 1/2 weeks and still nothing, so I got a refund. Aliexpress can suck it
ordered the QShave from Shave Nation with a stand tonight. Didn't want to wait for one from China.
Qshave dose not really adjust much. I don’t get it, where is the advantage?
RAOBANION It could be that your Qshave is faulty. Mine adjusts with no problem. The Merkur Future is very pretty precise. You'll know when it is adjusting.
Great comparison - great review! Thank you.
My pleasure.:) Thank you for the kind words.:)
would have been sold on buying if it opened with butterfly or screw in base.
nice review
ACoustaDC Thank you!
Depending on how you search for the Q, prices range along with engraving packaging but still the same handle. Shoulda coulda boughta Merkur and skiped the engraveing for a handle that holds the razor square and firm and spent the same!
Maybe you can return it? Seems to me if it's not performing, you should be able to return for a refund or some sort.
It all depends on what pops up. They are selling it at different prices and with engraving. Thank you for the info and I know now that research should be done before buying. UA-cam rules because of people like you. Thanks again.
My pleasure.
I shave in shower so feel is everything
When I travel I take a cheap cartridge razer and a little can of shave cream . I go to Cuba or Mexico for 2 weeks every winter . Let's get real . Why would I take my merkur ? For a maid to steal ? Lol
I agree. Especially if If flying with carry-on luggage, a cart is the way to go. TSA regulations doesn't allow DE blades with carry-on luggage. if you can't take the blades, then why take the DE razor? TSA permits cartridge razors in carry-on luggage.
Six of one and half a dozen of the other.....
Could be.:) But for less than ten bucks, the Qshave is a good bet. If it disappoints, you're not out that much. Plus, it gives you a good taste of what the Merkur Futur is like. And believe me, the Futur is worth every penny!:)
Mark Szorady That's why I bought it :)
HaHa, you like them that much hey?
it is a nice comparison but in fact Qshave stole the design from Merkur. So I don't support this theft. In case of low budget I buy a pre owned one.
Stolen? I've heard that Merkur's patent expired. I wonder if anyone can clarify this.
Yes the patent expired. It is fair game now. It's also $10 at Italian Barber and mine came in four days.
I'm in agree with Werner. Patents have expired, but patents protect the mechanisms (the invention) not the aesthetical design. Merkur Futur is a very recognisable piece of art, and QShave is a plagiarism that exploits the image of the Merkur Futur.
Qshave may be great. But I really hate that qshave use merkur future photos in everywhere instead of qshave in India.
Merkur futur and qshave clone are both inferior to the Parker variant. If the futur is a merecedez the variant is a stealth fighter jet
Coincidentally, I recently purchased a Parker Variant and did a review.:) You can see it at: ua-cam.com/video/uKX3-aEJvvc/v-deo.html
Do NOT buy the clone! One side is aggressive and the other doesn't touch the face! I'm astounded at all these positive reviews, it's unbelievable. I tried shortening the spring, lengthening the spring, adjusting the thin "rods" that clip the lid on, different blades, etc etc etc and finally emailed Mingshi and they were aware of the problem but "due to the nature of adjustables, they manufacture within an allowed tolerance and that tolerance is acceptable". I replied that they need to be more precise with their damn tolerance and she said she will forward the critique to her bosses.
Even the genuine Merkur has this problem. In fact any razor, including expensive ones, can have this problem.
ManWhatever1 , I was so curious that i ended up buying the real Merkur and it's fine. I also have 8-10 other kinds, mostly Gillettes and they are precise.
My Merkur Futur aligns evenly on both sides. You cant expect the cheap knock off to have the same quality control