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Last Updated on February 21, 2023
Sonicare HealthyWhite+ Vs. FlexCare: Which Is Better?
The development of the electric toothbrush dates back to the 1950s. Since then, technology has come a long way. Today, the Philips Sonicare HealthyWhite+ and the FlexCare+ Electric Toothbrush are two powerful models on the market.
Both models have their own merits and shortcomings. To help you find the right one for your oral hygiene, we will be taking a close-up look at Philips’ top-of-the-line products.
HealthyWhite+ Vs. FlexCare+ At a Glance
HealthyWhite+ Advantages:
- Cheaper than FlexCare+ and also more affordable compared to other similar products
- Simple operation without the need to connect to the app
- Multiple intensity options
HealthyWhite+ Disadvantages:
- The travel case doesn’t have cord wrap and brush storage
- The design is less visually pleasing and intuitive
FlexCare+ Advantages:
- Various modes for care, refresh, sensitive, and massage
- The included premium brush head is of high quality
- Can pair with Philips Sonicare app which keeps track of users brushing data
FlexCare+ Disadvantages:
- Doesn’t have the intensities settings
- Doesn’t have a standard travel charger
Winner: Don’t want to read the full article? The editor’s choice is FlexCare+ for its comprehensive functionality without raising the price significantly.
What’s The Difference Between Them?
Models
The HealthyWhite+ is ideal for first-time users. The brushes provide sufficient power, modes, and features to give users a great entry into the world of the electric toothbrush.
The models in the HealthyWhite+ include:
- White Edition – HX8911/02
- Iridescent Edition – HX8911/99
- Tongue Care Plus Kit – HX8918/10
The FlexCare+ line targets middle to high-end consumers. On top of the same attributes that the HealthyWhite+ series have, the FlexCare+ brushes contain a whole lot more technological features.
The models currently on the market are:
- Sonicare FlexCare+ Platinum Connected – HX9192/01
- Sonicare FlexCare+ – HX6974/76
- Sonicare FlexCare+ Platinum – HX9111/12
- Sonicare FlexCare+ – HX6921/04
Verdict: The FlexCare+ has an extra model to choose from.
Cost
From a pure cost standpoint, HealthyWhite+ is the cheaper plan. On average, the models are around $140, which is a standard rate for electric toothbrushes with similar features.
If you go any lower, the functionality is reduced, and the product may not be authentic. It takes meticulous designs and engineering to assemble an electric toothbrush. Hence, the high price point compared to traditional toothbrushes.
Because of the smart features covered in the FlexCare+ series, the price curve is much steeper than the HealthyWhite+ line. The average FlexCare+ products cost around $180. The all-inclusive FlexCare+ Platinum Connected UV Sanitizer Kit offers the full experience for your oral hygiene.
You can keep track of your progress on the app. Meanwhile, the FlexCare+ series is more powerful in removing stains. It may be much more expensive than HealthyWhite+ but its features can benefit a wide range of users.
If you are looking for an affordable option without all the fuss, then HealthyWhite+ is an economical choice. But, if you have been browsing on the market for a while and want to go for something fancier, FlexCare+ is the upgrade to go.
Verdict: Price-wise, the HealthyWhite+ series is a clear winner here with a more affordable price.
Design
The slim and ergonomic design is quite standard across the electric toothbrush market. While there will not be a bizarre-looking electric toothbrush, the minor design differences can contribute to a different user experience.
Both products are compact and easy to fit in your hand even if you have small palms. The slip-free design enhances the grip. Users can hold on tight even when the toothbrush is wet with water and toothpaste.
The clean white body on both series looks very sleek and modern. The power indicator is on the front of the devices as usual. However, after using it for a while, users will notice HealthyWhite+ catches on the water stains more easily whereas FlexCare+ stays relatively clean.
Overall, the design of the FlexCare+ series is more pro-looking. The greyish blue tint plus silver and white elevates the product look. It looks like a standard dentist’s choice.
The HealthyWhite+ series looks more ordinary with its white color and plain outlook. There are two colors available right now and they are the white and iridescent editions. The white edition features a mostly white body with a refreshing green main button. If you like a calming blue color, the iridescent edition will be your choice.
Verdict: The FlexCare+ series is better designed aesthetically with a sturdier body to stand against stains.
Features
There are a lot of similarities between the two products function-wise. Both products focus on the powerful vibration that shakes off the plaque and stains on your teeth. In terms of the cleaning magnitude, although the two comes in different specs, the results can be remarkably similar if you use them correctly.
The biggest difference between the two lines is the inclusion of app support and the Bluetooth technology in the FlexCare+ Platinum Connected. The Philips Sonicare app provides personalized insights and guidance as well as tips to improve its user’s brushing habits when connected. These features strengthen a user’s sense of oral hygiene. They help users create a stunning and confident smile with the perfect set of teeth.
The most impressive feature of the app has to be the 3D tooth map. It highlights areas for extra care and areas you have missed while brushing. From your brushing habits, it automatically detects sensitive areas in your mouth to alert you of some proper cleaning.
Signals are sent to your phone with a real-time guide. You can instantly correct your brushing techniques to salvage the situation. Furthermore, the app tracks the efficiency of your brush head via the scrubbing sensor.
As opposed to other products that use a color indicator to calculate the length of use, the FlexCare+ brush tells you exactly when is the time to change a new brush head.
In addition, the FlexCare+ Platinum Connected model has a very advanced ability to pair up with your Sonicare App with built-in Bluetooth to trace your cleaning routine. These models also provide a UV sanitizer kit as an add-on. What it does is that it uses the UV light in the module to kill up to 99% of bacteria on your toothbrush heads.
Verdict: The FlexCare+ Series wins here as this cutting-edge tech is just so fascinating and makes teeth brushing fun.
Modes
It is customary for high-end electric toothbrushes to have various modes to better suits the daily needs of users. On HealthyWhite +, there are two modes whereas FlexCare+ provides five modes respectively. FlexCare+ has more advanced modes like gum care, refresh, sensitive, and even massage mode.
All of these modes remove stains and plaques with their signature vibration tactics. They can last up to 21 days of operating with their built-in rechargeable lithium ION batteries. An original brush head is included in everything model. For the HealthyWhite+ and FlexCare+ series, the Diamond Clean Standard brush heads are given. In the FlexCare + series, there is a ProResults gum health brush head.
These modes effectively maximize efficiency to enhance the user’s oral hygiene in the shortest time possible. The built-in pacer/timer reminds you when it is time to change the position.
Dentists recommend each toothbrushing session should last for two minutes. The pacer vibrates every 30 seconds to remind the user to brush every area of their mouth. These techs are what differentiates a modern electric toothbrush from a traditional manual toothbrush.
Verdict: It’s a tie in this category as both series offer quite a similar selection of modes with equally powerful results. FlexCare+ may win slightly as there are a few more modes to choose from if quantity is what you are going for.
Which One Should You Get?
Electric toothbrushes are highly personal products. What is highly recommended for everyone may not be suitable for your needs. From the overall view above, FlexCare+ is offering a wider range of services at a slight price point jump. By paying a bit more, you get the most comprehensive experience in guarding your best smile.
Its various modes will fit your seasonal and travel needs. Besides, having an app to track your cleaning history is a big win if you ever need to discuss your dental problems with a healthcare professional. It breaks down your oral hygiene routine and sets up a schedule that works best in keeping your teeth strong.
However, if you want to opt for a more affordable choice, HealthyWhite + surely is not a bad choice. At this price point, it is the total package. It is sufficient for your daily needs. It removes all the stains from bad care previously.
All in all, both products will have their loyal fans. If you are unsure which one works better for you or if you have any specific oral problems, it is best to consult with your dentist to find out which electric toothbrush will perform best on you.
Summary
Both Sonicare HealthyWhite + and FlexCare are solid products with a lot of offer. You will not regret it regardless of your final choice. If you can afford it, FlexCare is a better option as it revolutionizes the entire experience for you.
