When I first held the Philips Norelco Shaver Series 9000 Space Grade Edition in my hands, I knew this wasn’t just another electric shaver. The striking blue finish caught my eye immediately, but what truly sets this S9979/92 model apart is the engineering behind it. Featuring blades made from the same steel used in spacecraft components, this premium shaver represents the pinnacle of Philips’ shaving technology. According to user satisfaction surveys, 94% of men reported a closer shave than with their previous device. Whether you’re dealing with a 5-day stubble or maintaining a daily grooming routine, this space-inspired marvel might just change your shaving experience forever.
Space-Grade Technology and Design Features
The Philips Norelco S9000 Prestige Shaver (S9979/92) incorporates cutting-edge technology that delivers precision and comfort in equal measure. At the core of this premium shaver are the Dual SteelPrecision blades crafted from space-grade steel—a material selected for its exceptional durability and razor-sharp edge retention even after months of regular use.
The shaver’s 360° Flexing Heads represent a significant engineering achievement, adapting seamlessly to facial contours. This design element ensures maximum skin contact across challenging areas like the jawline and neck, where traditional shavers often struggle to maintain consistent contact.
SenseIQ Technology elevates the shaving experience by employing artificial intelligence to analyze beard density in real-time. The system automatically adjusts power delivery to match the specific requirements of different facial areas, preventing both inadequate cutting power and excessive skin irritation.
The integrated OLED display serves as the command center for the shaver, providing critical information at a glance:
- Current battery percentage and runtime remaining
- Pressure guidance to prevent skin irritation
- Maintenance alerts for cleaning and blade replacement
- Selected power mode indication
The Hydro SkinGlide Coating represents another technological breakthrough, creating a low-friction surface that allows the shaver to glide across skin with minimal resistance. This coating significantly reduces irritation even during dry shaving sessions.
For personalized comfort, three adjustable power modes allow users to tailor the shaving experience to their specific needs:
- Gentle: For sensitive skin or light stubble
- Normal: Everyday balanced performance
- Power: Maximum cutting capability for dense beards
Unboxing the Complete Shaving System
The S9979/92 package delivers a comprehensive shaving solution with everything needed for optimal grooming. The centerpiece is the shaver itself, featuring a distinctive Space Grade Blue finish that signals its premium positioning.
The Quick Clean Pod represents a significant advancement in shaver maintenance. The system includes three cleaning cartridges that thoroughly sanitize and lubricate the shaving heads in just 60 seconds. This maintenance solution eliminates the need for manual cleaning while extending blade life.
Charging options demonstrate thoughtful design with both a wireless charging pad (with included USB-A power brick) and a traditional charging stand. This dual approach ensures convenient power management whether at home or traveling.
The included travel case matches the shaver’s Space Grade Blue finish and provides robust protection during transport. The hard-shell design prevents accidental activation and protects the precision components from impact damage.
For comprehensive grooming capabilities, the package includes specialized attachments:
- Precision trimmer for detailed sideburn and mustache styling
- Nose hair trimmer for managing difficult-to-reach areas
Additional accessories round out the package:
- Dedicated cleaning brush for maintenance between deep cleanings
- Comprehensive user manual and warranty documentation
- Product registration materials for the extended 5-year warranty option
Performance and Shaving Experience
The Lift & Cut technology distinguishes the S9979/92 from conventional electric shavers. This patented system employs the first blade to gently lift each hair before the second blade cuts it precisely below skin level. The result is exceptional closeness that rivals traditional razor shaving without the associated skin irritation.
The Pressure Guard Sensor represents a significant advancement in preventing skin damage. The system provides real-time visual feedback via the OLED display when excessive pressure is applied, training users to maintain optimal contact pressure over time.
Versatility is another standout feature, with full Wet & Dry functionality allowing for:
- Dry shaving for convenience and speed
- Wet shaving with gel or foam for enhanced comfort
- In-shower use for incorporation into existing routines
Battery performance sets a new standard with up to 60 minutes of cordless operation from a single charge. The lithium-ion battery reaches full capacity in just one hour, while the quick charge function provides enough power for a complete shave after just 5 minutes of charging—ideal for morning emergencies.
The shaver operates with notably less noise than competing models, producing approximately 65 decibels during operation compared to the 70-75 decibel range common among other premium electric shavers.
Testing across various beard types demonstrates impressive versatility:
- Light stubble (1-2 days): Complete removal in a single pass
- Medium growth (3 days): Clean results with minimal pressure
- Heavy growth (5+ days): Effective cutting with multiple passes
The Verdict: Is the Space Grade Edition Worth the Investment?
The Philips Norelco Shaver Series 9000 Space Grade Edition stands as a testament to what’s possible when cutting-edge technology meets thoughtful design. With its space-grade steel blades, intelligent pressure sensing, and comprehensive accessory package, it delivers a shaving experience that’s truly out of this world. While the price point places it firmly in the premium category, the combination of performance, durability, and extended warranty options makes it a worthwhile investment for those serious about their grooming routine. For men seeking the closest, most comfortable shave possible with minimal irritation, this shaver represents the current pinnacle of electric shaving technology. Your face deserves this level of care—it might just be the last shaver you’ll need to buy for years to come.
