Is the Oral-B iO worth it?

What the iO adds over older Oral-B brushes

The iO introduced a magnetic drive in place of the gear mechanism in older Oral-B handles. Oral-B says this makes it quieter and smoother while keeping the oscillating-rotating motion of the round head. The other main additions are a smart pressure ring that shows green and red, a display on most models, and app tracking over Bluetooth.

Which iO model makes sense

The iO range runs from entry models up to the iO10. Higher numbers add more modes, better displays, charging travel cases and, on the iO10, the iOSense charger with its own display. According to the listings in our iO models compared guide, the iO5 has five modes and a smart pressure sensor, the iO6 and iO7 add a display, and the iO9 and iO10 have seven modes and a charging travel case.

Many people find a middle model gives most of the benefit. The jump to the top models is mainly about extras like charging cases, more modes and AI tracking.

Compare Oral-B iO models →

Brush head costs over time

Heads are the running cost of any electric brush. The NHS advises replacing a toothbrush or head every three months, so one person needs four heads a year. iO heads generally cost more per head than older Oral-B heads, and they only fit iO handles, so you commit to the iO range. Our brush-head planner shows how many heads your household needs per year.

Our iO brush heads explainer covers the head types, and genuine vs compatible heads explains the trade-offs of cheaper alternatives.

Who tends to get most from an iO

The iO's features are about feedback and convenience rather than a different way of cleaning. That suits some people more than others.

• People who press too hard and want clear red and green feedback
• Those who like app data on time, coverage and pressure
• Anyone bothered by the noise of older Oral-B brushes
• Frequent travellers, on models with a charging travel case
• Households sharing handles, using ring colours and modes

When a cheaper brush is enough

If you brush for two minutes, do not press hard and have no interest in an app, a simpler brush with a timer and basic pressure warning covers what matters. Our comparison of the Oral-B iO vs Pro 3 goes through this in detail. A brush is only one part of looking after your teeth; regular check-ups with your dentist matter whichever brush you choose.

If you are open to other brands, our Oral-B iO vs Philips Sonicare comparison and best electric toothbrush guide set the iO against sonic alternatives.

Note:No toothbrush can promise healthier teeth or gums. Follow NHS brushing advice and see your dentist about any concerns.

Getting the most from it

If you buy an iO, register it with Oral-B for the warranty, set up the app if you want the tracking, and choose a ring colour if several people share. Our how to use an Oral-B iO guide covers setup, and the iO lights explainer explains the colours.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Oral-B iO9 worth it over the iO7? The iO9 adds more modes and a charging travel case, according to the listings. If you travel often or want extra modes, it may suit; otherwise the iO7 covers the core features.

Is an expensive electric toothbrush worth it? Higher prices buy feedback, apps and convenience. The basics that matter most, brushing twice a day for two minutes, work with any brush.

Do older Oral-B heads fit the iO? No. The iO uses its own heads.

Is the iO quieter than other Oral-B brushes? Oral-B says the magnetic drive makes it quieter and smoother than its gear-driven brushes.