Recently, Supply rolled out its latest razor innovation, quite literally: The single-edge SE Max razor, which uses a system that rolls over fresh blades as you click each new one into the razor’s head.
That’s not the only difference between the SE Max and its predecessor, the original Single-Edge SE Razor (a tool we deemed one of the best grooming products of all time). So, how do the two stack up? Here’s a quick comparison of their core details:
Supply Single-Edge SE Razor (The Original)
- Injector style side load: old blades recycled inside
- Fixed head: safety razor angulation, adequate pressure needed
- 16 fins at front: to coach stubble into the blade
- Smooth alloy handle
Buy: Supply
Supply Single-Edge SE Max Razor (New Model)
- Injector style side load: old blades recycled inside
- Fixed head: safety razor angulation, adequate pressure needed
- 16 fins at front: to coach stubble into the blade
- Smooth alloy handle
You can also watch this video for a quick side by side, as well as the verdict (which I get into below).
What is the best Supply razor? Single Edge SE or SE Max?
For me, the original SE blade still takes the top prize (and retains its throne as a Blue Ribbon winner). While I appreciate the pivoting head on the Max, I do find all of the changes a bit extra. The best part of the original is how simple and flawless it is. This might be an example of “don’t reinvent the wheel”—and that pivoting head takes away some of what makes Supply’s SE device so special.
While newcomers to single-edge shaving are going to have an easy transition to the Max (which more closely replicates cartridge style shaves), the brand built itself on the foolproof precision of the original, which is still quite easy for first-time safety razor users. And when using both tools back to back, I found the original so much more confident than the Max, requiring fewer strokes to tackle each area.
And that loading mechanism is a bit more complicated than it needs to be; I quite love the injector-style loading of the original, and find it a bit easier (and way less clumsy) than that of the Max.
All said, the Max still provides a terrific shave and experience. But the bar is already quite high, and it’s going to take a lot to clear that Blue-Ribbon standard set by the original. Go pick it up now.
Here’s a video I made that outlines why the original (and the brand in general) is a favorite of mine:
