The hunt for the perfect beard trimmer feels like searching for the Holy Grail of grooming—a seemingly endless quest filled with disappointment and compromises. After testing dozens of trimmers over the years, I’ve become increasingly skeptical when manufacturers promise the moon. So when Panasonic boldly claimed their ER-GB80-S Multi-Groomer could handle everything from precise beard styling to body grooming with 39 different length settings, I approached it with healthy skepticism.

The sleek silver device certainly looks the part of a premium trimmer, with its ergonomic design and dial adjustment system promising precision down to 0.5mm increments. But in a market flooded with options from budget-friendly basics to professional-grade equipment, does this mid-to-high-end offering from Panasonic truly deliver results that justify its $75 price tag?

After weeks of rigorous testing across different beard styles, hair types, and grooming scenarios, I’ve developed strong opinions about where this trimmer shines and where it falls short. Whether you’re maintaining a meticulously sculpted beard or just need reliable all-around grooming, this review will help you determine if the Panasonic ER-GB80-S deserves a place in your bathroom arsenal or if your grooming dollars are better spent elsewhere.

Let’s dive into what makes this particular trimmer unique, how it performs in real-world conditions, and whether its 45° nano-polished blades live up to the hype for beard enthusiasts who demand precision.

The Quick & Scruffy Verdict

If you’re short on time, here’s what you need to know about the Panasonic ER-GB80-S:

This versatile grooming powerhouse delivers exceptional precision with its 39 length settings and razor-sharp 45° blades. For the detail-oriented beardsman who demands exact control over their facial landscape, the ER-GB80-S is a worthy contender in the premium trimmer arena. While its 50-minute battery life won’t win any endurance competitions, the waterproof design and ability to use it corded make this limitation easier to overlook. The sturdy build quality and comfortable grip feel substantial in hand, suggesting this is a tool built for the long haul.

Perfect for: Precision groomers who regularly switch between different beard lengths and styles, and appreciate Japanese blade craftsmanship. If you’re the type who measures beard success in fractions of millimeters rather than “good enough,” this trimmer speaks your language.

Not ideal for: The set-it-and-forget-it beard maintainer who prioritizes maximum runtime over precise length control. If you’re constantly on extended trips without reliable charging access, the battery life might frustrate you.

The Nitty Gritty Details

Let’s break down the essential specifications:

What sets the ER-GB80-S apart is its dial-based length adjustment system, which provides:

• Beard trimming: 0.5mm to 10mm in 0.5mm increments (20 settings)
• Hair trimming: 11mm to 20mm in 0.5mm increments (19 settings)
• Body trimming: Dedicated 1.5mm attachment for body hair

The slide-up precision trimmer adds another dimension of functionality for detailing mustaches, sideburns, and creating clean edges on your beard’s perimeter.

The Good Stuff: Why The ER-GB80-S Impresses

After extensive testing, several standout features of the Panasonic ER-GB80-S deserve recognition. These qualities elevate it above many competitors in the crowded trimmer market:

Precision Blade Technology

The 45° nano-polished stainless steel blades aren’t just marketing hype—they deliver noticeable performance benefits. Unlike standard blades that can pull and tug at thicker hair, these precisely angled blades slice through even the coarsest beard growth with minimal resistance. The hypoallergenic material makes a difference for sensitive skin too, with significantly less irritation than many competing trimmers.

Unmatched Length Versatility

Few trimmers offer the level of precise control that the ER-GB80-S provides with its 39 length settings. The dial adjustment system feels substantial and locks firmly into place, eliminating the wobble and inconsistency found in cheaper trimmers. The ability to adjust in 0.5mm increments means you can:

• Fine-tune your stubble to the exact designer length you want
• Maintain the perfect corporate beard without looking too scruffy
• Create graduated fades between different beard sections
• Adjust seasonally without purchasing additional attachments

Detail Trimmer Excellence

The slide-up precision trimmer deserves special mention. Unlike some built-in detail trimmers that feel flimsy or underpowered, this one maintains the same cutting quality as the main blade. It’s perfectly positioned for:

• Creating clean, straight lines on cheeks
• Defining the precise shape of a mustache
• Trimming difficult areas around the lips and nose
• Detailing sideburns with barber-shop precision

Build Quality That Inspires Confidence

From the moment you pick up the ER-GB80-S, the quality is apparent. The rubberized grip provides excellent control even when wet, and the weight (176g) hits the sweet spot between substantive and fatiguing. All moving parts operate with a satisfying mechanical precision that suggests durability. After several weeks of testing, no loose components or worrying rattles have developed.

True Waterproof Performance

Many trimmers claim to be “washable” but fall short in practice. The ER-GB80-S delivers on its waterproof promises:

• Fully submersible for thorough cleaning
• Can be used reliably in the shower
• Performs consistently in wet/dry conditions
• No water-damage concerns with proper usage
• Rinses clean without trapping hair in hard-to-reach areas

Corded/Cordless Flexibility

The ability to use the trimmer while plugged in is surprisingly valuable. When you inevitably forget to charge before a crucial grooming session, this feature saves the day. The trimmer performs identically whether cordless or plugged in, with no power reduction in cordless mode until the battery is nearly depleted.

The Rough Patches: Where The ER-GB80-S Falls Short

No grooming tool is perfect, and the Panasonic ER-GB80-S has several limitations worth considering before you invest. These drawbacks might be dealbreakers depending on your specific needs:

Battery Performance Lags Behind Competitors

The most significant weakness of the ER-GB80-S is its dated battery technology. In an era where lithium-ion has become standard, Panasonic’s choice to stick with NiMH batteries results in:

• Just 50 minutes of runtime (compared to 3+ hours from Wahl’s lithium-ion models)
• Longer 1-hour charging time with no quick-charge option
• Gradual power fade as the battery depletes
• Potential for developing memory effect if not properly cycled

For those who travel frequently or forget to charge regularly, this shorter runtime can be frustrating. While the corded option compensates somewhat, it’s still a notable compromise in a premium-priced trimmer.

Maintenance Requirements

Unlike some newer trimmers that claim to be maintenance-free, the ER-GB80-S needs regular attention:

• Blades require oiling before and after each use for optimal performance
• Hair clippings can accumulate in certain crevices despite washability
• The precise dial mechanism can collect debris if not cleaned regularly
• Battery maintenance (full discharge cycles) recommended for longevity

Not The Closest Cut Available

While the 0.5mm minimum length works well for most styling needs, those seeking an ultra-close stubble look might be disappointed:

• Cannot achieve the “5 o’clock shadow” look of some dedicated stubble trimmers
• Not suitable for clean-shaven results (as expected with any trimmer)
• Some users with very fine hair report slightly uneven results at the lowest setting

Premium Price Point

At around $75, the ER-GB80-S sits in the upper-mid range of consumer trimmers:

• Several capable alternatives available in the $40-60 range
• Premium features may not justify the cost for infrequent or basic users
• Replacement parts can be costly when eventually needed

Beard Score Breakdown

After extensive testing across various beard types and styling needs, here’s how the Panasonic ER-GB80-S measures up in each key performance category:

Cutting Performance: 9/10

The 45° nano-polished blades are the undeniable stars of the show. They slice through all hair types with minimal tugging, even on thicker, coarser beards that tend to jam lesser trimmers. The cutting mechanism maintains consistent performance throughout the battery life until the final few minutes.

Particularly impressive is how the blades handle longer beards. Where many trimmers struggle with 10mm+ growth, pulling rather than cutting, the ER-GB80-S maintains clean, even cuts across all length settings.

Build Quality: 8.5/10

From the moment you unbox the ER-GB80-S, the quality is apparent. The trimmer feels substantial without being heavy, with a perfect balance in hand. The rubberized grip areas provide confident handling even when wet or oily.

Every mechanical element—from the satisfying click of the power button to the precision dial’s smooth rotation—speaks to Panasonic’s engineering standards. After weeks of testing, including several drops onto tile flooring, the trimmer shows no signs of damage or performance degradation.

Battery Life: 6/10

This is where the ER-GB80-S shows its age. The 50-minute runtime from its NiMH battery falls significantly short of lithium-ion competitors:

The saving grace is the ability to use it corded, but this feels like a workaround for what should be a more robust battery system in a trimmer at this price point.

Precision & Control: 9/10

The combination of 39 distinct length settings and the slide-up detail trimmer makes the ER-GB80-S a precision instrument. The 0.5mm increment adjustments allow for nuanced styling that competitors with fewer length options simply can’t match.

The dial mechanism feels precise and stays firmly locked in position during use, eliminating the drift that plagues lower-quality adjustable trimmers. When creating fades or transitions between beard sections, this precision becomes invaluable.

Versatility: 9/10

Few trimmers can match the range of grooming tasks the ER-GB80-S handles competently:

• Beard maintenance across all styles and lengths
• Hair trimming for touch-ups and maintenance cuts
• Body grooming with the dedicated attachment
• Detail work for mustaches, sideburns and necklines
• Wet/dry versatility for shower use

The only missing capability is ultra-close shaving, but that’s outside the scope of what trimmers are designed to do.

Value for Money: 7.5/10

At $75, the ER-GB80-S represents a significant investment. The quality construction and versatility help justify the price, but the dated battery technology makes it feel slightly overpriced compared to newer competitors. For precision-focused groomers, the value is there; for casual users, less expensive options might provide better value.

Maintenance: 8/10

The fully washable design makes basic cleaning simple—just rinse under the tap after use. The included cleaning brush handles more thorough maintenance when needed.

The primary maintenance requirement is regular oiling, which takes just seconds but needs to be remembered for optimal performance. The blade system shows excellent resistance to dulling, with no noticeable performance drop after weeks of testing.

The Battle Test: Real-World Performance

Theory and specs tell one story, but real-world performance reveals the complete picture. I put the Panasonic ER-GB80-S through rigorous testing across different beard styles, hair types, and usage scenarios to evaluate its true capabilities.

Stubble Maintenance (0.5mm – 3mm)

For the minimalist beard enthusiast, precision at shorter lengths is essential. The ER-GB80-S performed admirably in this range:

• Even cutting across the entire face with no patches or missed spots
• Consistent stubble length, crucial for the designer stubble look
• No irritation on sensitive neck areas, even with daily use
• Clean lines along cheeks and neck without requiring a separate detailer

The 0.5mm setting won’t give you the ultra-close look of a razor, but it delivers a deliberate, carefully maintained stubble that looks intentional rather than lazy. For those maintaining the perpetual “day-old” beard look, the 1-2mm settings hit the sweet spot.

Short to Medium Beard (4mm – 10mm)

This range is where most bearded men live, and the ER-GB80-S truly shines:

• Exceptional evenness across varying hair densities
• Effortless handling of difficult areas like the chin and jawline
• Precise enough to create subtle tapering effects
• Detailed styling around the mustache and mouth with the pop-up trimmer

The 0.5mm increment adjustments become particularly valuable in this range. The difference between 5mm and 5.5mm might sound trivial, but it can be the difference between professional-looking and slightly unkempt.

Fuller Beards (11mm – 20mm)

Longer beards often defeat lesser trimmers, leading to snagging and uneven results. The 45° blade technology proves its worth here:

• Clean cutting without hair pulling, even on coarser growth
• Maintained battery power throughout longer trimming sessions
• Ability to create deliberate shape and dimension in fuller styles
• Effective at thinning out bulkier areas without creating obvious steps

For those maintaining Viking-worthy facial foliage, the ER-GB80-S handles the job, though multiple passes are sometimes needed for the densest growth.

Body Grooming Test

While marketed as a body groomer as well, this is where expectations should be tempered:

• The 1.5mm body attachment works adequately for chest and stomach areas
• Less effective on sensitive regions without extreme caution
• Not ideal for back hair (better options exist specifically for this purpose)
• Works well enough for periodic maintenance but not specialized enough for comprehensive body grooming

Consider the body grooming capabilities a convenient bonus rather than a primary selling point.

Shower Testing

The waterproof claims held up admirably during testing:

• Consistent performance in wet conditions
• No water ingress even after extended submersion
• Comfortable to use with wet hands and face
• Easy rinsing between passes for cleaner results

The ability to trim in the shower is a legitimate time-saver, especially for cleaning up neck and cheek lines while your mirror is already defogged.

Long-Term Performance Test

To simulate years of use in a compressed timeframe, I subjected the trimmer to intense usage over several weeks:

• No noticeable dulling of blades after 30+ trimming sessions
• Battery performance remained consistent (though the NiMH limitations remained)
• Adjustment mechanism maintained precision without developing play
• Water resistance showed no degradation after repeated cleaning

The overall impression is of a tool built to last, with Japanese engineering quality evident in every component.

Noise and Vibration Assessment

An often overlooked aspect of trimmer performance is the noise level and vibration:

• Lower pitched motor sound compared to most competitors
• Minimal vibration transfer to the hand, reducing fatigue
• Quiet enough for early morning grooming without disturbing others
• No rattling or plastic buzzing even at highest speeds

For those with sensitive hands or who dislike the aggressive buzz of many trimmers, the ER-GB80-S offers a noticeably more refined experience.

Perfect For…

This trimmer is ideal for:

• Precision groomers who frequently change styles and appreciate precise 0.5mm adjustments
• Men with thick or coarse beards who need the cutting power of the 45° blades
• Detail-oriented shapers who value precise edges and clean lines
• Multi-purpose users seeking one reliable tool for beard, hair, and body grooming
• Shower groomers who want a fully waterproof trimmer for wet/dry versatility

The Bottom Line

The Panasonic ER-GB80-S represents a compelling blend of precision engineering and versatility that justifies its premium position for serious beard enthusiasts. The 39 length settings and exceptional 45° nano-polished blades deliver consistently excellent results across all beard styles, while the fully washable design and slide-up detail trimmer add substantial value.

Its primary drawback—the 50-minute NiMH battery—feels like a relic in an age of extended-life lithium-ion power sources. However, the corded operation option mitigates this limitation for home users.

At $74.99, it occupies the upper mid-range price tier, offering professional-grade performance for discerning groomers who understand that precision matters. The Wahl Lithium Ion 2.0+ at a similar price point offers superior battery life but lacks the waterproof capability and precision length control of the Panasonic.

If your grooming routine demands exactness, and you value quality construction that will likely outlast cheaper alternatives, the ER-GB80-S delivers exceptional value despite its few shortcomings. For most beard enthusiasts who care about details, it earns its 8.5/10 rating through superior cutting performance and unmatched versatility.