Foil or rotary: which electric razor gives a closer shave?

Across specialist communities, the recurring consensus is that high-end foil shavers (Panasonic, Braun) tend to shave closer, while rotary shavers (Philips Norelco) are often described as gentler and more forgiving on sensitive skin and longer hairs. r/shaving threads repeatedly summarize it as 'Braun/Panasonic closer, Philips more comfortable.' If absolute closeness is your priority, reviewers lean foil; if comfort and low irritation matter more, rotary is the safer bet.