Oral-B iO Series 5 vs 6

Listing facts side by side

The table shows what each listing states, plus the iO7 for reference. Battery life is not given as a number on these listings, so it is not included.

See the full iO line-up →

The display is the real difference

On the iO6, the listing says the built-in display lets you select modes, track brushing time, receive head replacement reminders and see the battery level. That makes it easier to know which mode you are in without counting button presses, and to see how much charge is left before a trip.

The iO5 relies on lights and the app instead. Its listing does not mention a display. If you always use the same mode and charge the brush every few days, you may never miss the screen. If several people in the house share a model, or you switch between Sensitive and Daily Clean, the display is handy.

Modes and the pressure ring

Both listings give five modes, including Sensitive and Super-Sensitive, which slow the head down for a gentler feel. Both also list the iO smart pressure sensor. On the iO5, the listing describes red for too hard, white for too soft and green for the right pressure; the iO6 listing describes the same three states.

So for gentle brushing the two are equal. If gentle modes are the main reason you are buying, our guide to brushes with gentle modes and pressure sensors includes both.

When to step up to the iO7 or above

The iO7, iO8 and iO9 listings add a 3 hour fast charger, and the iO9 adds a charging travel case and seven modes with a coloured interactive display. The iO10 adds the iOSense charger that shows brushing feedback without opening the app.

These extras suit frequent travellers and people who like detailed feedback. If you charge at home and brush with one mode, the iO5 or iO6 already gives you the iO drive and pressure ring that matter most.

• Need a fast charger: look at the iO7 or iO8.
• Need a charging travel case: look at the iO9 or iO10.
• Want feedback on the charger itself: the iO10.

Which one suits whom

Think about who will use the brush and how. A person who brushes with one mode, keeps the handle on its charger and never checks the battery will get the same daily experience from either model, so the iO5 is the sensible choice. Someone who likes to switch between Daily Clean and Sensitive, or who wants a clear reminder when the head is due for a change, will notice the iO6 display every day.

The display can also help if the brush is shared with someone who finds lights hard to read. For gift buying, the iO6 feels more premium in the hand because of the screen, but the cleaning action is the same as the iO5.

Heads and running costs

Both models take the same iO heads, so running costs are the same. Plan on a new head about every three months, as the NHS advises for toothbrushes. Our brush-head planner works out heads per year for your household, and iO brush heads explained covers which type to pick.

Frequently asked questions

Do the iO5 and iO6 use the same heads? Yes. All iO handles take iO heads, so you can share packs between them.

Does the iO5 have a timer? The iO range has a built-in two-minute timer. On the iO5 it is signalled through the handle rather than a display. Check the manual for how your model signals each 30-second section.

Is the iO6 gentler than the iO5? No. Both list the same Sensitive and Super-Sensitive modes and the same pressure sensor.

Can I use the app with both? Yes. Both listings describe app support with AI brushing guidance. The app is optional.