Topic
Sonic toothbrushes
Sonic brushes move an oval head side to side at very high speed. Makers quote the speed as movements or strokes per minute.
- Typical stated speed
- about 31,000 to 62,000 movements a minute
- Head shape
- oval, like a manual brush
A sonic brush uses a small motor that vibrates the head side to side. Philips Sonicare, for example, states 62,000 movements per minute; makers count movements differently, so compare figures within a brand rather than across brands.
Compare the modes and intensity levels, the pressure sensor, the battery days and the heads that fit. Most sonic heads click onto a metal shaft and are not interchangeable between brands.
Guides on this topic
- Philips Sonicare not working or not turning onPhilips Sonicare not working? Check the battery, travel lock, head fitting and easy-start, then fix weak or odd buzzing before a warranty claim.Fix
- Philips Sonicare not charging: causes and fixesPhilips Sonicare not charging? Check the socket and shaver switch, seat the handle properly, clean the contacts, allow for deep discharge, and match the charger.Fix
- How does a sonic toothbrush work?How a sonic toothbrush such as Philips Sonicare works: the resonant motor, movements per minute, side-to-side sweeps and why sonic brushes feel and sound different.Guide
Buying guides on this topic
- Best sonic electric toothbrushesSonic electric toothbrushes compared on bristle movements per minute, modes, intensity levels, battery life, charging and app support.Buying guide
- Philips Sonicare models compared: DiamondClean 9000, Smart and PrestigeThe premium Sonicare line compared on modes, intensities, SenseIQ and pressure feedback, charging glass or stand, travel case and heads in the box.Buying guide