Customer Reviews
Died after 6 months 
2009-03-23
Shaver started having a problem with the indicator lights staying on for an extended period of time and running the battery down. After several days the battery would no longer change. Would not recommend purchasing this model.
What you *really* need to know!!! 
2005-11-05
When you buy a Norelco shaver, the shave is determined by the first digit of the model number. There's the 6xxx series, the 7xxx series, the 8xxx series, and, now, the 9xxx series. With rare exception, all models with the same the first digit in their model number use the same style of shaving heads. Within a series, you get more features as the model number gets greater (from corded to cordless to quick charge with more metering), but the shave within a series is pretty much the same.
Check each shaver's cutters, either by blowing up the picture of the shaver or by blowing up the picture of the replacement heads. The 6xxx series, like those before it, has heads with slots across the entire cutter. With later series, part of the cutter cover contains small holes rather than slots.
When my 5xxx shaver started to lose its ability to hold a charge, I decided to get "the best" and bought a 9xxx shaver. I knew that it sometimes took a few weeks for new heads to seat themselves and give an optimal shave. However, even after this break-in period, I found myself leaving the 9xxx on the dresser and grabbing the 5xxx for a much more reliable shave. This is what prompted me to take a close look at the heads and comapare them.
I can't imagine Norelco made the change to their cutter covers without extensive market testing. When I called Norelco Customer Service to tell them of my disappointment, they had me return the 9xxx for a full refund and told me that I'm not the only one who doesn't like the new heads. They also pointed out that the 6xxx series heads are the same style as the 5xxx heads.
I agree with what others say about the construction of the 6xxx shavers. However, lighter plastic casing is not always bad, as personal computers have demonstrated. More important is that the 6863XL gives me the same good shave I came to rely on from my 5xxx shaver.
Some Flaws, But I'd Buy It Again 
2005-10-23
I bought this to replace a nearly identical Norelco 5825-XL that I used for 12 years until the NiCd battery faded.
This one indicates battery level with 5 LED's, which is nice.
The case is flimsy or "lighter and more compact" depending your viewpoint.
The marketing geniuses at Norelco decided on a rather feminine light blue color for this model.
Other than that, almost nothing has changed in 12 years.
This one's made in China. I see nothing sub-standard about it once you get beyond the insult of paying $70 for something with a manufactured cost around $10.
According to the manual, this shaver will cost you an additional $ 395.40 over 12 years because you should replace the razor heads once a year. The heads on my old 5825-XL went 12 years with no problem, thank you.
The Norelcos might not shave quite as close as foil-headed reciprocating shavers, but they're quiet, comfortable, and good at tackling 3 day's growth and/or difficult parts of your face.
If I lost this shaver, I'd buy the same one again.
Great Razor/Bargain 
2005-09-21
This razor does a great job. The battery charge lasts long, the razor is extermely quite compared to previous owned razors. definetly a recommended buy.
Best shaver I have owned 
2005-09-16
I have used Norelco shavers for many years and most of the time I plug them in directly. As I recently was going on a 2 week European vacation, I decided to buy this model as it could run on 120V or 240V. The first time I used it the charge lasted more than 3 weeks. I have just returned from the trip and have still not needed to recharge it. Functionally, it shaves better and more quietly than any I have owned before.
Affordable portable laudable 
2005-09-09
6863 XL. Reflex Control automatically adjusts to every curve on your face for flexible, smoother shaving. Individually Floating Heads align the razor sharp blades closer to your skin for exceptional closeness. Patented Lift & Cut Technology dual blade system gently lifts hair to cut comfortably below skin level. Ultra close, ultra comfortable. Feature Level: 5 Stars. Rechargeable cordless/cord razor. 5 LED Battery Meter: Full & low indicators. 6-Minute quick charge. Storage/travel pouch. Shaving System: Individually Floating Heads align the razor sharp blades closer to your skin for exceptional closeness. Improved Patented Lift and Cut Technology dual blade system gently lifts hair to cut comfortably below skin level. Razor automatically adjusts to hug the contours of your face. Features: 6863 XL Rechargeable Cordless/Cord Razor; Rechargeable Cordless/Corded for shaving with or without a cord; 5 LED Battery Charge Meter: Full and Low Indicators; 1-Hour Full Charge for 45 minutes of cordless shaving; 6-Minute Quick Charge for a 3-minute cordless shave; Worldwide Voltage adjusts automatically from 100V to 240V AC; Travel/Storage Pouch, Protective Razor Head Cap, Coil Cord and Cleaning Brush; 5 LED Battery Charge Meter displays charge level in batteries, 20% indicator turns red when razor needs recharging; Razor is fully charged when all indicators turn green; Full width pop-up trimmer is perfect for grooming sideburns and moustache; Complete with Razor, Travel/Storage Pouch, Coil Cord and Cleaning Brush; Replace your Norelco Reflex Plus Razor Heads once a year with model HQ55 plus replacement heads for maximum razor performance. UL Listed. Full 2-Year Warranty.
Norelco's own 
2005-09-09
First time shaving with it pinched and pulled a little. After that, it's smooth every time. I love it and it's definately worth the price. I wish it had interchangeable heads instead of the pop-up trimmer, but it still works fine.
Good Unit, Close Shave 
2005-09-07
I have had many Norelcos. This one shaves fast and neat.
Great on the neck.
Nice trimmer.
Good battery, used for 3 weeks now, have not had to recharge it.
Also, fast charging.
great razor, well worth the money 
2005-09-01
this razor is great, your free shipping could be faster.
Wonderful produst at best price 
2005-08-30
This product is worth at its full suggested retail price. However, I got it at less than $50 at Amazon. Wondering how they do that? Recharging is so easy and last long. It gives smooth and close shave than my previous Norelco product. I love it's color and design. I'm glad that I shopped at Amazon.