SmartShave vs Gillette ProGlide
Comparing cartridge features and ongoing costs before committing to a refill system.
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.
This is a factual comparison of published features and current UK list prices, not a head-to-head performance test.
At a glance
| Feature | SmartShave S5 | Gillette ProGlide |
|---|---|---|
| Blade count | 5 blades | 5 anti-friction blades |
| Head features | Pivoting action head | Precision trimmer; flexible handle features vary by model |
| Lubrication | Vitamin E and Aloe strip | Lubrastrip |
| Refill pack checked | SELECT 5-blade package: £24.99 for four replacement heads plus one handle | 8-pack: £23.19 (£2.90 each) |
| Entry option | Starter kit listed at £9.99 | Handle and blade bundles vary |
| Delivery model | Recurring monthly SELECT; change, delay or cancel | One-off purchases and optional subscription on selected packs |
1. Cartridge features
Gillette describes ProGlide as a five-blade system designed for a close shave, with a precision trimmer for edging and detail work. The brand also lists its Lubrastrip and other comfort features across the range. Different ProGlide handles and refill packs may have different details, so check the exact product listing.
SmartShave S5 is its five-blade option. The published specification includes a pivoting action head, a quality rubber grip and a lubricating strip with Vitamin E and Aloe. SmartShave also offers an S3 three-blade alternative for people who prefer fewer blades.
Both brands describe comfort-oriented features, but published specifications do not prove which one will feel better on your skin. If possible, judge by your own shaving routine and avoid pressing hard or repeatedly shaving the same patch.
2. Compare the refill cost properly
Gillette UK listed an eight-pack of ProGlide refills at £23.19, or approximately £2.90 per blade cartridge, at the time of checking. Other pack sizes and promotions were also displayed, so the unit price can change depending on the pack selected.
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.
For an accurate annual comparison, estimate how many cartridges you use, multiply by the unit price, and include delivery and any subscription discounts. Do not assume that a five-blade cartridge lasts longer than a three-blade cartridge simply because it has more blades.
3. Subscription and buying flexibility
Gillette offers subscribe-and-save on selected ProGlide refills, with delivery frequency controls shown on its product pages. SmartShave’s SELECT model is recurring delivery and says customers can change, delay or cancel. If you prefer to buy only when needed, check whether a one-off pack is available for your chosen system.
Before subscribing, check the recurring amount, number of cartridges, delivery timing, and how to stop or amend future orders. These practical details matter more than a headline discount.
Who is each system for?
- ProGlide may suit you if you want Gillette’s premium five-blade system, a precision trimmer and a broad range of refill pack sizes.
- SmartShave S5 may suit you if you want a five-blade cartridge with a pivoting action head and the option of SmartShave’s SELECT delivery model.
- SmartShave S3 may suit you if you are comparing a three-blade alternative rather than assuming five blades are essential.
Our verdict
SmartShave SELECT is a complete monthly package of four replacement heads plus one handle. Competitor refill-pack prices cover replacement heads only unless a handle is specifically included. For a fair decision, compare the full package contents and the separate cost of future refills rather than treating these prices as equivalent per-head offers.
Frequently asked questions
Is SmartShave S5 similar to Gillette ProGlide?
Both are five-blade cartridge systems, but they have different handle and cartridge designs. They are not interchangeable.
How much are Gillette ProGlide refills?
Gillette UK listed an eight-pack at £23.19 when checked, around £2.90 per cartridge. Prices and promotions vary.
Does SmartShave offer a five-blade razor?
Yes. SmartShave lists the S5 five-blade cartridge system as well as the S3 three-blade option.
Which cartridge lasts longer?
There is no universal answer. Lifespan depends on beard density, shaving frequency, technique and how the cartridge performs. Replace it when it tugs, feels uncomfortable or is damaged.
Prices checked 14 November 2026 from official UK brand product pages. Pack prices and promotions may change. No independent shave-performance test is claimed.
Related reading: S3 vs S5: which SmartShave razor should you buy? · How often should you change your blade?.
Explore SmartShave S5
Get started with the £9.99 5-blade kit: one replacement head and one handle. Or choose monthly SELECT for £24.99, including four replacement heads plus one handle.