Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 vs Braun Silk Expert 5 IPL (older model)

T he Braun Pro 5 IPL launched in the UK March 2019, it’s clinically tested and meets EU standards with CE certification. It’s also FDA cleared. Proctor & Gamble market the device and Cyden Ltd manufacture it in the UK.

This is the updated and improved model based on the previous Braun 5 version. The power intensity range, advanced skin tone sensor and gentle and extra gentle modes are all the same. But there are some super changes making it one of our most loved home IPL hair removal device after testing.

As well as making it smaller, lighter and faster and so easier to handle, Braun have answered most of the criticisms made against the previous Braun 5 IPL.

They’ve given us a smaller precision attachment for that tricky upper lip
We’ve got a fancy storage pouch that keeps this expensive bit of kit together and protected
The power cable is fixed so can’t accidentally disconnect from the base

The one thing it lacks? A cleaning cloth. You get one with most other devices. But this is a very minor thing.

Photo collage of the precision attachment, IPL and fixed power cord and storage pouch. — Braun corrected the criticism made to the earlier model (except the missing cleaning cloth!)

Here’s a quick roundup of the key differences between the Braun Pro 5 IPL and the Braun 5 IPL.

Size & weight

Both models have the same ergonomic shape and large flash button. But the Braun Pro 5 IPL is 15% smaller and 25% lighter than the previous model. This makes a big difference. It fits better in the hand, and so is more comfortable to hold and easier to manoeuvre.

The Braun Pro 5 IPL is smaller and weighs 285g vs the Braun 5 at 340g

The Braun Pro 5 IPL (left) fits more comfortably in your hand and is easier to manoeuvre and position around your body

The size of the flash windows (body attachment) is the same for both models at 1 cm x 3 cm

Styling & cord

The Braun Pro 5 has updated styling. The colours change from white and bronze with silver accents to a soft white and matt-gold with gold accents.

The gold and white Braun Pro 5 IPl (left) and the white, bronze and silver Braun 5 IPL.

Both models are mains-powered with a 2 metre long power-cord giving plenty of room to move around. However, the Braun Pro 5 power cord is fixed into the base of the handle. This stops the weight of the power pack pulling it out during your treatments.

The Braun Pro 5 IPL power cord is fixed into the handle base (left). The Braun 5 IPL is detachable and can come out during use.

The cord itself is better quality too on the Braun Pro 5 IPL. It’s thicker and more supple. There’s nothing wrong with the cord on the Braun 5 IPL (I don’t find it tangles). But on the Braun Pro 5 it’s just better!

Precision/face attachment

The Braun Pro 5 IPL also has the smaller face/precision attachment (but not with the PL5014 model).

The smaller precision attachment with the Braun Pro 5 IPL PL5137 & PL5124.

This is a very helpful addition to get good contact for easy flashes on the jawline and upper lip. (It’s also easier on fingers and toes too). The previous model (and the PL5014) requires a bit of faffing and face-pulling to get a flash and cover all your skin. But, it’s still possible and gives the same results.

The Braun Pro 5 is faster

Sessions with the Braun Pro 5 IPL are faster than with the Braun 5.

The Braun Pro 5 flashes come every 0.6 to 1.2 seconds
The Braun 5 IPL flashes every 0.9 to 1.9 seconds

They’re fastest on the lowest intensities.

Both give fast treatments. I can do a full-body session in under 30 minutes with the Braun Pro 5 and around 45 minutes with the Braun 5. So, you’re done before you get bored or tired. But the Braun Pro 5 is super-quick. It’s the fastest available. Therefore, it’s easier to fit in around a busy day and commit to the regimen.

Price

Both models promise the same hair reduction results. So the price of each is worth checking before you decide.

The Recommended Retail Price (RRP) of the Braun Pro 5 is £524.99 to £599.99. Today it’s on offer at around £250. That’s super value.

The RRP of the Braun 5 is £399.99 to £499.99. And you can get it on offer around £230. That too is a fine deal for a good device. Prices may drop further to sell leftover stock now that the Braun Pro 5 has arrived. You could pick up a bargain.