The Complete Guide to Philips Replacement Heads by Series

If your Philips shaver is tugging instead of gliding, the answer is nearly always the same: the heads need replacing. Your electric razor glides over your face each morning, but those tiny blades are working harder than you think, dulling microscopically with every pass across stubble and skin, and most people do not realise their shaver's performance drops gradually over months until they are dealing with tugging, irritation, and patchy results. The trouble is, Philips makes dozens of shaver models across multiple series, and ordering the wrong replacement head is one of the most common and costly mistakes a buyer can make. This guide cuts through the confusion by mapping every major Philips series to its correct replacement head code, so you can order with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Always verify your model number first: On the vast majority of modern Philips shavers, the model number is printed on the back of the handle, directly below the trimmer or near the charging port. Order the replacement head only after confirming this code, never guess from the shaver's appearance alone.

• Replacement heads are not universal across series: The SH30/52 head is compatible with Norelco Shaver Series 1000, 2000, 3000, and 5000X (X5004 and X5006), but fitting it to a Series 7000 or 9000 will cause misalignment and poor performance.

• Annual replacement is the standard for most series: Within one year, your shaver heads cut 4.5 million hairs on your face; therefore, Philips recommends replacing them every 12 months to get back to optimal, like-new performance. If you shave daily with coarse hair, budget for a replacement every nine to ten months instead.

• OneBlade heads follow a different schedule: For optimal performance, Philips recommends replacing your OneBlade blade once every four months, a much faster cycle than rotary heads, so factor this into your annual grooming budget.

• Wrong heads can void waterproofing: Replacement blades can affect waterproofing if they do not seat fully, creating gaps that risk water ingress. Always use compatible heads to preserve your shaver's IPX rating and maintain safe, reliable wet shaving performance.

Quick-Start Prioritisation Framework

Use this table to find your starting point before reading the full series breakdowns below.

Start here if you are:

• Unsure of your series: Turn the shaver over and read the model code on the back of the handle. The first digit after the letter prefix tells you the series; for example, S7530 is a Series 7000 device.

• Replacing a head on a Series 1000, 2000, or 3000: The SH30 is your answer and covers all three series, making it the most widely compatible single head code Philips makes.

• Owning a Series 9000 Prestige: Pay close attention to whether your device has a rounded or angular head shape before ordering, as SH98 and SH91 are not interchangeable for all sub-models.

Series 1000, 2000, and 3000: The SH30 Replacement Head

What the SH30 covers

The Philips Norelco SH30/52 shaving heads are compatible with Norelco Shaver Series 1000, 2000, 3000, and 5000X (X5004 and X5006). This broad compatibility makes the SH30 the single most practical replacement head in the Philips range. If your model code begins with S1, S2, or S3, this is the head you need.

The genuine ComfortCut shaving heads are made in the Netherlands, and for maximum shaving performance, it is recommended that you replace your shaving head every 12 months. If you shave every day, set a calendar reminder for 10 months instead; daily users typically see performance decline slightly before the 12-month mark.

What makes the SH30 distinctive

The SH30 features 27 self-sharpening blades that consistently cut each hair right above skin level for a smooth, even finish every time. The ComfortCut design is particularly well-suited to daily shavers with sensitive skin, as the rounded blade guards help prevent nicks during everyday use.

Pro Tip: The SH30 replacement head features a full bracket for easy two-step replacement. Open the shaver, turn the retaining ring counterclockwise to release, swap in the new heads, and lock clockwise until you feel a click. The whole process takes under 60 seconds.

Series 5000: Two Head Codes, One Series

The SH50 for rounded Series 5000 models

The SH50/52 is compatible with the Norelco Shaver Series 5000 rounded heads and 6000 (except S6600 and S6800, whose refills are SH71). The Series 5000 is where Philips begins to split its compatibility map, and ordering the wrong head here is extremely common.

The MultiPrecision blades raise and cut all hairs and remaining stubble in a few strokes, making the SH50 noticeably more effective on three-day stubble than the SH30 used in the entry-level range.

The SH71 for angular Series 5000 and most Series 7000 models

With up to 90,000 cutting actions per minute, the SH71's SkinProtect blades shave close, cutting more hair per stroke. For maximum shaving performance, it is recommended to replace the shaving head once every 12 months, and the SH71 is compatible with all Series 7000 and angular-shaped Series 5000 shavers. Therefore, if you own an angular Series 5000 model, ignore the SH50 listing entirely and order SH71.

Series 6000: The SH60 Replacement Head

Compatibility for Series 6000

The SH60 replacement heads are designed to fit the Philips Norelco Shaver Series 6000 (S6xxx), except for the S6600. The 72 self-sharpening SkinProtect blades gently capture hair in fewer passes, leaving your face smooth and comfortable. The jump from 27 blades in the SH30 to 72 blades in the SH60 represents a meaningful increase in cutting efficiency.

Within one year, your shaver heads cut 4.5 million hairs on your face; therefore, replacing the shaver heads returns you to peak performance. For Series 6000 owners, the S6600 is the one exception to note: that specific model requires the SH71 rather than the SH60.

Pro Tip: When fitting SH60 heads, remove the blue retaining ring by turning the lock counterclockwise, insert the new heads, then replace the blue rings and turn each one clockwise to lock. Listen for the click to ensure it is attached properly. If you do not hear a click, the head has not seated and will vibrate during use.

Series 7000: The SH70 and SH71 Replacement Heads

Understanding the SH70

The SH70 replacement heads are compatible with Shaver Series 7000 (S7___). The newly designed blades comfortably cut hairs in the most optimal cutting position, thereby reducing irritation caused by tugging and pulling. The Series 7000 is the first tier in the Philips range to introduce contour-following head technology, and the replacement heads are engineered to preserve that capability.

In my experience, the Series 7000 is where many users get confused between the SH70 and SH71 codes. The SH71 covers angular Series 5000 models and Series 7000 devices, while the SH70 is Series 7000-only. If you see SH71 listed for a Series 7000 shaver, it is a valid replacement; the two heads share the same mounting standard.

Series 7000 blade performance

The SH70/90 replacement heads feature GentlePrecision blades and SkinGlide rings, delivering a close, comfortable shave with minimal skin irritation, and are built to maintain optimal performance for up to 12 months. This is the practical replacement interval for daily users. Occasional shavers can often extend this period to 15 or 18 months before noticing a drop in closeness.

Series 9000 and 9000 Prestige: SH90, SH91, and SH98

The standard Series 9000: SH90 and SH91

The 72 self-sharpening DualSteel Precision blades of the SH91 cut hair in every direction for the ultimate in closeness. Within one year, your shaver heads cut 4.5 million hairs on your face; therefore, Philips recommends replacing heads to get back to 100% performance. The NanoTech DualPrecision blades shave closely and precisely at skin level, performing up to 165,000 cutting actions per minute.

On the vast majority of modern Prestige DualSteelPrecision blades, which can perform up to 150,000 cutting actions per minute. This cutting speed is what separates the Series 9000 from every tier below it, and it is also why using the correct replacement head matters most at this price point.

The Series 9000 Prestige: SH98 specifics

The SH98 replacement heads are compatible with all Shavers S9000 Prestige with rounded-shape heads (SP981X, SP982X, and SP986X). However, there is an important caveat. The SH98 heads are not compatible with the angular-shaped S9000 Prestige models (SP983X, SP984X, SP987X, and SP988X), which use the SH91 instead. The SH91 replacement heads are compatible with all S9000 Prestige models, both angular and rounded.

I've found that this rounded-versus-angular distinction trips up more Prestige owners than any other compatibility issue in the Philips range. When in doubt, order the SH91; it covers all Prestige sub-models and removes the guesswork entirely.

Pro Tip: The upgraded SH98 format makes maintenance of your Philips Shaver easier than ever. The new format allows you to install the new shaving heads in just two steps, facilitating thorough cleaning of the shaver and optimising your daily shave.

OneBlade: QP210, QP220, and QP230 Replacement Blades

How OneBlade compatibility works

The OneBlade range operates on an entirely different replacement system to the rotary shaver series above. The QP210 replacement blade fits OneBlade (QP14xx, QP25xx, QP26xx, QP27xx, QP28xx) and OneBlade Pro (QP65xx, QP66xx) handles, meaning a single blade code covers almost all handles in the OneBlade family.

The main difference between QP210 QP220, and QP230 codes is pack size: the QP230 is a three-pack, while the QP220 is a two-pack and the QP210 is a single blade. Both blades are otherwise the same technology, so choose the pack size that suits your usage frequency. If you shave twice weekly, the QP230 three-pack will cover a full year.

OneBlade replacement frequency

Each OneBlade blade is designed to last approximately four months, but this will differ based on your routine and you should replace the blade if you notice decreased performance during that time. Your OneBlade is equipped with a blade-wear indicator that will gradually become visible. An arrow symbol slowly appears on the blade as you use it, and when this symbol is clearly visible, it is time to change your blade. Do not wait until shaving becomes uncomfortable, replace at the first sign of the symbol appearing.

How to Know Your Heads Need Replacing

The four warning signs to watch for

Even with the best compatibility guide, none of it matters if you wait too long to act. Clear signs that your replacement heads are due include decreased shaving performance, where your shaver leaves stubble or requires more passes; increased skin irritation, where dull or worn blades tug at hair, causing redness or bumps; unusual noises or vibrations indicating the head is damaged or misaligned; and visible wear and tear, such as nicks, rust, or deformed mesh on the shaver head.

Worn heads increase razor drag by 20 to 40%, forcing you to press harder and creating excess skin friction that compromises shaver performance. Therefore, if you are pressing down noticeably harder than you used to just to get a clean finish, order replacement heads that day, not next month.

Motor versus blades: an important distinction

The motor and lithium-ion battery inside a quality electric shaver can easily last six to eight years before the battery stops holding a charge. This creates a decision point that many users miss: your shaver is dead just because the blades are dull. If the motor still runs strong and the battery holds a charge, replacing the heads restores the shaver to near-new performance at a fraction of the cost of a new device.

After years of following grooming product returns and customer queries, I've consistently found that the majority of people purchasing a new shaver could have solved their problem with a £15 to £30 head replacement instead. Replacing heads is nearly always the smarter financial decision.

Specialist retailers such as Electrospares.Net Ltd at shaver-spares.co.uk stock genuine Philips replacement heads across all series, making it straightforward to find the correct head code without searching across multiple sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find out which Philips shaver series I own?

On the vast majority of modern Philips shavers, the model number is printed on the back of the handle, directly below the trimmer or near the charging port. The most accurate identifier is the model number, which typically starts with two letters followed by four digits, for example, S7788, PT860, or AT830. The first digit after the letter prefix identifies the series: S7xxx means Series 7000, S9xxx means Series 9000, and so on.

Can I use a Series 9000 head on a Series 7000 shaver?

No. Philips replacement heads are not cross-series compatible. The SH90 model heads are not compatible with a 6000 series shaver, and the same principle applies across all tiers. Fitting a head from the wrong series risks misalignment, poor cutting performance, and potential damage to the motor. Always match the head code to your specific series.

How often should I genuinely replace my Philips shaver heads?

Philips usually recommends changing heads every 12 months, and this is a solid baseline for daily shavers. Most Norelco shaver heads last about 12 months with daily use, while occasional shavers can stretch that to 18 to 24 months. Rather than relying solely on the calendar, replace when you notice more than two of the four warning signs listed above.

Does using the wrong replacement head damage my shaver?

Yes, in multiple ways. A poorly fitting head can cause motor strain as the blades struggle to align with the drive shaft. Replacement blades can affect waterproofing if they do not seat fully, creating gaps that risk water ingress, so you should always use compatible heads to preserve your shaver's IPX rating. Incorrect heads can also void the manufacturer's warranty, so using the correct part code protects your investment.

Where is the best place to buy genuine Philips replacement heads in the UK?

Genuine Philips replacement heads are available from the official Philips accessories shop, as well as from specialist shaver parts retailers. Electrospares.Net Ltd at shaver-spares.co.uk is a UK-based specialist stocking Philips heads across the full range of series, which is particularly useful when you need to match a less common head code or verify compatibility for an older model. Avoid third-party listings that do not clearly state OEM or genuine Philips origin, as mismatched quality affects both the shave and the lifespan of the underlying device.

Sources

1. Philips Norelco SH30/52 Product Page, Philips USA. Compatibility and blade specifications for Series 1000, 2000, 3000. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SH30\_52/norelco-shaver-series-3000-shaving-heads

2. Philips Norelco SH50/52 Product Page, Philips USA. Compatibility details for Series 5000 rounded heads and Series 6000. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SH50\_52/norelco-shaver-series-5000-shaving-heads

3. Philips Norelco SH60/72 Product Page, Philips USA. Series 6000 head compatibility and SkinProtect blade details. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SH60\_72/norelco-series-6000-shaving-heads

4. Philips Norelco SH70/52 Product Page, Philips USA. Series 7000 replacement head compatibility. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SH70\_52/norelco-shaver-series-7000-shaving-heads

5. Philips Norelco SH91/52 Product Page, Philips USA. Series 9000 DualSteel Precision blade details. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SH91\_52/norelco-shaver-series-9000-replacement-shaving-heads

6. Philips S9000 Prestige SH98/72 Product Page, Philips USA. Prestige-specific head compatibility including rounded vs angular model caveat. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SH98\_72/shaver-s9000-prestige

7. Philips OneBlade Replacement Blades Overview, Philips USA. Full range of QP-series blade codes and handle compatibility. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-m-pe/oneblade-trim-edge-and-shave/oneblade-replacement-blades/all

8. When Should I Replace My OneBlade Blade?, Philips USA. Official guidance on four-month replacement cycle and wear indicator. https://www.usa.philips.com/c-f/XC000020486/when-should-i-replace-the-blade-of-my-philips-oneblade

9. How Often to Replace Electric Razor Heads, The Glossy Locks. Research-based guidance on replacement intervals and brand comparisons. https://theglossylocks.com/how-often-should-you-replace-electric-razor-heads/

10. Do Electric Shavers Get Dull?, ShaverOne. Blade wear, signs of deterioration, and motor lifespan data. https://shaveonone.com/blogs/news/do-electric-shavers-get-dull-blade-wear-signs-replacement-guide

11. How to Choose and Maintain Electric Razor Replacement Heads, Electric Shaver Guru. Warning signs of worn heads across major brands. https://www.electric-shaver-guru.com/blog/how-to-choose-and-maintain-electric-razor-replacement-heads-for-optimal-shaving

12. Which Philips Shaver Do I Have? Identify Your Model Instantly, TechFlare. Model number location and alphanumeric coding guide. On the vast majority of modern

13. Philips OneBlade QP220/QP230 Replacement Heads Guide, Shaver Spares. Compatibility and pack-size comparison for OneBlade blades. https://www.shaver-spares.co.uk/Article/OneBlade-QP220-QP230-Replacement-Heads-Guide

14. Philips Norelco SH71/52 at Walmart, Walmart. Verified SH71 compatibility and cutting action data. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Philips-Norelco-Shaving-Heads-for-Shaver-Series-7000-and-Angular-Shaped-Series-5000-Silver-SH71-52/731968775

Article Posted: 15/08/2026 20:31:10