SmartShave vs Gillette Mach3
A closer look at two three-blade options, including what replacement cartridges cost.
Mach3 is sold in refill-only packs, while SmartShave SELECT is a complete monthly package of four replacement heads plus one handle. Compare the cost of the handle and subsequent refill purchases separately for a fair like-for-like assessment.
This guide is for shoppers comparing systems before buying. It uses manufacturer specifications and UK list prices, not an independent shave test.
Side-by-side comparison
| Category | SmartShave S3 | Gillette Mach3 |
|---|---|---|
| Blade count | 3 blades | 3 blades |
| Head / handle details | pivoting action head; quality rubber grip | Mach3 handle and cartridge system; 3D motion features on selected handles |
| Lubrication / skin contact | Strip with Vitamin E and Aloe | Lubrastrip and skin-contact features listed by Gillette |
| Starter price | £9.99 starter kit listed | Mach3 handle and blade bundles vary by pack |
| Refill price checked | SELECT 5-blade package: £24.99 for four replacement heads plus one handle | £8.99 / four (£2.25 each); 16-pack £25 (£1.56 each) |
| Buying options | Recurring SELECT delivery; change, delay or cancel | One-off packs and optional subscribe-and-save |
1. Three blades: what does that mean?
Both systems use three-blade cartridges, but blade count alone does not tell you how a razor will feel. Cartridge geometry, blade spacing, lubrication, handle balance and the way you shave all contribute. A three-blade cartridge can be a sensible option for someone who prefers a simpler head or wants to compare it with a five-blade system.
SmartShave’s S3 is positioned as its three-blade cartridge option. Gillette Mach3 uses three blades and has a long-established handle-and-refill ecosystem. Check the exact handle model and refill pack before purchasing, particularly if you are buying a bundle or a discounted multipack.
2. What do Mach3 refills cost?
Gillette UK listed a four-pack of Mach3 refills at £8.99, equivalent to about £2.25 per cartridge. Its 16-pack was listed at £25, about £1.56 per cartridge. Larger packs can reduce the unit price, but they require a higher upfront spend and only make sense if you will use the cartridges before they deteriorate.
SmartShave’s £24.99 monthly SELECT package includes four replacement heads and one handle. This is a complete package price, not a refill-only price: dividing £24.99 by four would allocate part of the handle cost to each head, so it should not be presented as a directly comparable refill unit price. The £9.99 5-blade Starter Kit includes one replacement head and one handle. Competitor prices quoted here are refill-only unless stated otherwise, so compare what each purchase includes, the initial handle cost, ongoing refill costs and delivery frequency.
Compare the same quantity and include delivery, introductory offers and the ongoing price. A subscription can be convenient, but convenience is not the same as the lowest unit price.
3. Which system is more convenient?
Mach3 refills can be purchased as one-off packs, and Gillette also offers subscribe-and-save on selected products. SmartShave’s SELECT plan is designed for recurring deliveries and says customers can change, delay or cancel. If you dislike automatic deliveries, a one-off pack may suit you better. If you prefer a planned delivery, check the frequency and cancellation process before subscribing.
4. Which one should you choose?
- Consider Mach3 if you already own a Mach3 handle, want a three-blade system and prioritise the lower refill prices found in larger packs.
- Consider SmartShave S3 if you want to start with its £9.99 kit, prefer its handle design and lubricating-strip specification, or want the SELECT delivery model.
- Do not choose by blade count alone. Think about grip, comfort, cartridge availability and your actual annual spend.
Our verdict
For shoppers focused strictly on refill price, Gillette Mach3 is the stronger value on the current UK prices checked, especially in the 16-pack. SmartShave S3 is an alternative three-blade system with a low initial starter-kit price and a recurring delivery option. Choose it for the overall format and service, not on the assumption that its monthly refills are cheaper.
FAQs
Are SmartShave S3 and Gillette Mach3 both three-blade razors?
Yes. Both are three-blade cartridge systems, but their cartridges and handles are not interchangeable.
How much are Gillette Mach3 replacement blades?
At the time of checking, Gillette UK listed a four-pack at £8.99 and a 16-pack at £25. Prices can change.
Is SmartShave SELECT cheaper than Mach3?
SmartShave’s £24.99 monthly SELECT package includes four replacement heads and one handle. This is a complete package price, not a refill-only price: dividing £24.99 by four would allocate part of the handle cost to each head, so it should not be presented as a directly comparable refill unit price. The £9.99 5-blade Starter Kit includes one replacement head and one handle. Competitor prices quoted here are refill-only unless stated otherwise, so compare what each purchase includes, the initial handle cost, ongoing refill costs and delivery frequency.
Can I use Mach3 refills on a SmartShave handle?
No. Use cartridges designed for your razor system.
Prices checked 14 November 2026 on the official UK brand websites. Retail promotions and pack prices may change. This is a published-specification comparison, not a controlled shave test.
Related reading: 3-blade vs 5-blade razors · Cheaper alternatives to Gillette Fusion blades.
Try the SmartShave 5-blade system
The £9.99 starter kit includes one 5-blade cartridge and one handle. Monthly SELECT is £24.99 for four replacement heads plus one handle.