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Detachable Blade Clippers vs Adjustable Clippers (Which One is Right for You?)

Patrick Boulang

January 10, 2024

Detachable Blade Clippers vs Adjustable Clippers – The showdown.

Detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers are two of the most commonly used hair clippers in the hair industry. 

They both have their unique features and benefits, but which one is better or the better match for you?

We’ll go through just that in this article, and with that said let’s get into it.

Understanding Detachable Blade Clippers

Detachable blade clippers are a type of hair clipper that features a removable blade that can be changed out for different lengths and styles. 

They look like this:

They are commonly used by professional barbers, stylists, and animal groomers. 

They take so some skill to master but are also popular among home users who want a high-quality clipper for at-home haircuts.

Mechanism of Detachable Blade Clippers

Detachable blade clippers work by having a blade that can be easily removed from the clipper body.

The blade is held in place by a locking mechanism that can be released with the push of a button or lever.

As shown below:

Once the blade is removed, a different blade can be attached to achieve a different length or style.

There’s a wide range to choose and each cut a precise length. We’ll talk more or this later.

So, what makes detachable blades great… as well as not so great?

We go through this next. 

Advantages of Detachable Blade Clippers

One of the primary advantages of detachable blade clippers is their versatility. 

With the ability to change out blades, you can achieve a wide range of hair lengths and styles. 

Detachable blades allow you to cut to extreme precision as each detachable blade cuts to the exact length that is said on the blade. 

Another advantage of detachable blade clippers is their durability. 

Detachable blades can be made from:

• Titanium 
• Stainless 
• Carbon steel and more 

These materials are often resistant to rust and are very sharp which improves not only the cutting performance of the blade but also its longevity. 

Another great benefit is that the blades can be easily replaced, you can keep the clipper body for many years and simply replace the blades as needed. 

So, keep the body but replace the blades… This saves you from constantly buying new clippers and guards, but… there’s a negative to it.

Disadvantages of Detachable Blade Clippers

While detachable blade clippers have many advantages, they also have some disadvantages to consider.

 One potential drawback is that they can be more expensive than other types of clippers. 

Yes, no joke. Collecting all the clipper blade sizes can be more expensive than buying a few hair clippers. 

Another thing is, while the blades themselves are durable, in the situation where you’re taking them out of your clippers, you can hit and damage them which messes up the position of certain elements of the blade. 

And because detachable blades are a little complicated unless you have a guide on how to put them back together, such as the one below… It can be difficult to fix, and you may end up having to fork out money for a new blade. 

Another potential disadvantage of detachable blade clippers is that they may require more maintenance than other types of clippers. 

Because the blades are removable, they need to be cleaned and oiled regularly to ensure optimal performance. This can be time-consuming and may require additional supplies such as clipper oil or cleaning brushes.

It is important to maintain these blades though as they are built into powerful clippers. 

So keep oiling them, while your blades are off, oil you blades as shown below to keep them functioning without completely taking them apart:

Adjustable clippers are a type of hair clipper that allows the user to adjust the length at which the blades are cut using a taper lever.

This type of clipper (blade) is commonly found in most of your standard clippers.

Mechanism of Adjustable Clippers

Adjustable clippers have a lever or knob that allows you to move the blade back and forth, changing the length of the cut. 

They come with a guard blade and cutting that are commonly made of stainless steel.

With the lever, depending on where you set it, it will allow your clipper to cut more od less hair, with no need to remove any blades.

 The blade can be adjusted to various lengths, making it easy to achieve different hair lengths and styles… And that’s how you can achieve a fade. 

Not saying you can’t achieve a fade with detachable blade clippers… you can but it requires a lot more skill.

You have to deal with:

• The power of the Clippers
• Constantly swapping out the blades
• Knowing the exact point to swap in order to create a fade

It’s mentally taxing and it’s why only real seasoned proffesional get how to use detachable clippers as they’ve gone through barbering school to learn.

Advantages of Adjustable Clippers

One of the main advantages of adjustable clippers is their versatility. 

They can be used to achieve a wide range of hair lengths and styles, making them a popular choice among professional barbers and hair stylists.

They are also very precise, but also allow a ton of flexibility and creativity so long as you know how to use your clipper blade with your guards. 

Disadvantages of Adjustable Clippers

One disadvantage of adjustable clippers is that they may not be as efficient as detachable blade clippers when it comes to cutting through thick or coarse hair. 

The blade may become dull more quickly, requiring more frequent sharpening or replacement.

Detachable blades on the other hand are very durable, they are larger and clear more hair quickly too. 

Another potential disadvantage of adjustable clippers is the learning curve to understand how to use blades and guards together can take time. 

While a detachable blade comes at the length described, a blade on a lever changes with guards. 

In summary, adjustable clippers are a versatile and precise option for achieving a wide range of hair lengths and styles.

While they may not be as efficient/durable as detachable blade clippers when it comes to cutting through thick or coarse hair, they are often the better choice of the blade if you’re looking to be more creative rather than just sawing through hair.

Comparison: Detachable Blade Clippers vs Adjustable Clippers

When it comes to hair clippers, there are two main types: detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers. 

Both have their advantages and disadvantages and which one is right for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Performance Comparison

In terms of performance, detachable blade clippers are generally considered to be more powerful than adjustable clippers. 

They are designed for heavy-duty use and are capable of cutting through thick, coarse hair with ease. (You’ll tend to find these clippers being sold to animal groomers).

However, they are not as versatile as adjustable clippers, as they are designed to cut hair at a specific length.

Adjustable clippers, on the other hand, are more versatile and can be adjusted to cut hair at different lengths. 

They are also easier to use than detachable blade clippers, as they do not require the use of different blades.

However, they may not be as powerful as detachable blade clippers and may struggle with cutting through thick, coarse hair.

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, detachable blade clippers are generally more expensive than adjustable clippers.

 This is because they are designed for heavy-duty use and are built to last. However, they may be a worthwhile investment if you are a professional barber or stylist, as they will save you time and money in the long run.

Adjustable clippers, on the other hand, are more affordable and are a good choice for home use.

 They are also a good option for beginners, as they are easier to use than detachable blade clippers and do not require as much maintenance.

Durability Comparison

In terms of durability, detachable blade clippers are generally more durable than adjustable clippers. (On average). 

This is because they are designed for heavy-duty use and are built to last. 

However, they require more maintenance than adjustable clippers, as they require the use of different blades for different lengths.

Adjustable clippers, on the other hand, are less durable than detachable blade clippers, but they require less maintenance. 

They are a good choice for home use, as they are not subjected to the same level of wear and tear as professional-grade detachable blade clippers.

Overall, both detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers have their advantages and disadvantages. 

Which one is right for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are a professional barber or stylist, detachable blade clippers may be a worthwhile investment

. If you are a beginner or are looking for a more affordable option for home use, adjustable clippers may be a better choice.

Detachable Blade Clippers vs Adjustable Clippers

When it comes to choosing the right clippers, there are several factors to consider.

This section will explore some of the most important factors to take into account when deciding between detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers.

Hair Type

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing clippers is hair type. Different types of hair require different types of clippers. 

For example, thicker hair may require more powerful clippers, while finer hair may require more precise clippers. 

Detachable blade clippers are typically better for thicker hair, while adjustable clippers are better for finer hair.

Frequency of Use

Another factor to consider is how frequently the clippers will be used.

 If the clippers will be used frequently, it may be worth investing in a higher-end model that is more durable and can withstand more wear and tear. If the clippers will only be used occasionally, a lower-end model may suffice.

In summary, when choosing between detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers, it is important to consider factors such as hair type, frequency of use, and budget.

By taking these factors into account, it is possible to choose the right clippers for your needs.

Detachable Blades vs Guards

When it comes to choosing between detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers, one of the main differences is the use of guards. 

Guards are attachments that clip onto the blades and determine the length of the hair that is cut.

Detachable blade clippers do not use guards.

 Instead, they have a variety of blades that can be easily swapped out to achieve different lengths. 

Each blade is specifically designed to cut to a certain length so it gives you the assurance that what you is what you get. 

On the other hand, adjustable clippers use guards to achieve different lengths. 

But, if you don’t know how to use your guards with your blade, this sometimes leads to less precise cuts. 

These are the lengths of the guards on popular clipper brands as well as how the lengths stack up against a blade:

Detachable blades can get very close and cut to surgical level and power but often robust motors, the cutting performance and precision can be incredible. 

But, if you know how to zero gap your clippers for example, or know how to adjust the power on your clippers, you can come close and be far more flexible with them. 

Conclusion

In summary, both detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers have their unique advantages and disadvantages. 

When it comes to precision, detachable blade clippers just edge on top.They provide a more accurate and consistent cut, thanks to their fixed blade design. 

Adjustable clippers, on the other hand, can be a bit tricky to use, especially for beginners, as the blade needs to be adjusted to the desired length.

In terms of power, both types of clippers can be equally powerful.

However, detachable blade clippers tend to be more durable, but they do require a lot more maintenance… Adjustable clippers, on the other hand, may require  maintenance but not to the same level 

Ultimately, the choice between detachable blade clippers and adjustable clippers depends on the user’s personal preferences, hair type, and styling needs. It is recommended to try both types of clippers and see which one works best for you. 

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