Razor subscription services have revolutionised men’s grooming in the UK. No longer do you need to remember to pick up blades at the supermarket or settle for subpar shaving experiences. Today, subscription services promise convenience, quality, and even sustainability. Among the most prominent players are Harry’s, Dollar Shave Club, Bulldog, Gillette On Demand, and SmartShave.
But not all subscriptions are created equal. Factors such as blade quality, subscription flexibility, skin comfort, pricing, and eco-friendliness vary widely. This guide provides an in-depth look at the top five razor subscription services in the UK, helping you decide which option truly offers the best value for your money in 2025.
Harry’s
Harry’s has made a name for itself with stylish, ergonomic handles and high-quality cartridge blades. The UK subscription model delivers packs of five-blade cartridges on a recurring schedule, usually every one to three months. While the blades provide a comfortable shave for most men, some UK customers have noted that the lubrication strips are not sufficient for highly sensitive skin. The subscription is convenient and reliable, but the cost can add up over time, particularly if you prefer to replace cartridges more frequently. Environmentally conscious users may also be deterred by the significant amount of plastic used in the cartridges and packaging. Overall, Harry’s is a good choice for those who prioritise sleek design and consistency but may fall short for men seeking long-term value and eco-friendly options.
Dollar Shave Club UK
Dollar Shave Club has gained popularity thanks to its approachable branding and flexible subscription plans. UK men can choose from 3–6 blade cartridges depending on the plan, with delivery intervals ranging from one to two months. The blades offer a decent shave, and the subscription is simple to manage. However, similar to Harry’s, Dollar Shave Club relies heavily on plastic cartridges, and the lubrication strips provide only basic protection against irritation. Men with sensitive skin may find they need additional shaving creams or gels to avoid razor burn. While affordable upfront, Dollar Shave Club can become costly over time, and the environmental impact is not ideal for eco-conscious users.
Bulldog
Bulldog, a UK-based grooming brand, offers a subscription service that includes blades, shaving gel, and skincare products. Its five-blade cartridges are designed for comfort, and the subscription includes regular delivery to your door. Bulldog’s advantage lies in the integrated skincare approach, with gels and moisturisers aimed at reducing irritation. However, the blades themselves are not as enriched as some competitors, and plastic waste remains a concern. The subscription is moderately priced, but long-term value may be limited for men prioritising sustainability and blade longevity.
Gillette On Demand
Gillette’s subscription service, On Demand, brings one of the most recognised shaving brands to the doorstep of UK consumers. With advanced multi-blade cartridges, flexible delivery schedules, and premium handles, it appeals to men looking for a reliable, high-performance shave. However, Gillette cartridges are notoriously expensive, and like other major brands, they generate considerable plastic waste. While the shave quality is high, environmentally conscious UK men may hesitate to commit to this service long-term.
SmartShave
SmartShave stands out as a UK-first eco-conscious subscription service that combines performance, affordability, and skin-friendly innovation. Unlike many competitors, SmartShave’s blades feature Aloe Vera and Vitamin E lubrication strips, reducing friction, preventing razor burn, and ensuring comfort even for sensitive skin. The subscription is highly flexible, allowing UK customers to choose weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly deliveries, with the option to pause or skip as needed.
One of SmartShave’s biggest advantages is its eco-friendly approach. The razor cartridges are fully recyclable, the handles are long-lasting, and packaging is minimal, helping reduce the environmental footprint associated with traditional razor subscriptions. In addition, the cost is competitive. At approximately £8 per month, the subscription includes high-quality blades and a durable handle, offering long-term value that many men overlook when comparing upfront prices.
SmartShave also provides a starter kit, making it easy for new customers to experience the difference of a high-quality, eco-conscious shave. Compared to Harry’s, Dollar Shave Club, Bulldog, and Gillette On Demand, SmartShave delivers a smoother, closer shave with less irritation and significantly less plastic waste. For UK men who care about skin comfort, affordability, and sustainability, SmartShave is the clear leader among subscription services.
Key Takeaways
When comparing the top five razor subscriptions in the UK, a few patterns emerge. Traditional brands like Harry’s, Dollar Shave Club, Bulldog, and Gillette On Demand offer convenience, quality blades, and reliable delivery. However, they often fall short in eco-consciousness, long-term value, and skin comfort for sensitive areas.
SmartShave addresses these gaps by offering:
- Skin-friendly blades with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E lubrication strips.
- Eco-friendly cartridges and packaging that reduce plastic waste.
- Flexible subscription options tailored to individual shaving needs.
- Competitive pricing that delivers long-term value.
For men looking to combine performance, convenience, and sustainability, SmartShave is the subscription service that checks all the boxes. Its innovative approach to shaving makes it more than just a razor; it’s a complete grooming solution for the modern UK man.
Conclusion
In 2025, the UK market for razor subscriptions is crowded, but SmartShave emerges as the best option for those who value comfort, eco-consciousness, and affordability. While Harry’s, Dollar Shave Club, Bulldog, and Gillette On Demand offer quality products, they cannot match SmartShave’s combination of skin-friendly blades, recyclable cartridges, and flexible subscriptions.
Whether you choose the SmartShave subscription or the starter kit, you’ll enjoy fresh blades delivered straight to your door, reduced irritation, and a smooth, sustainable shave every time. It’s not just about shaving—it’s about making a smarter, greener choice for your grooming routine.