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The Quip is a cool and super quiet toothbrush that's simple to use and lasts a long time on a single charge. It's not too expensive, especially when you compare it to other electric toothbrushes, and it's awesome for trips. This brush is like a middle ground between a regular toothbrush and an electric one, thanks to its affordable price and sleek design. But, it's not the very best when it comes to cleaning, so if that's the most important thing for you, you might want to check out other options.
A great entry level option, but falls a little short in terms of overall cleaning ability
Inexpensive yet fully capable, this electric toothbrush is a solid choice for just about everyone
An inexpensive minimalist toothbrush with a long-lasting battery that cleans well
Affordable, effective, and user-friendly — this device offers value with good cleaning and extra brush heads
A budget option that works marginally better than a manual toothbrush
Rating Categories
Quip
Philips Sonicare 4100
Philips One
Aquasonic Black Series
Oral-B 3D White Action
Cleaning(40%)
5.8
7.9
6.8
6.8
5.0
Comfort(30%)
7.6
7.7
7.0
6.1
4.2
Ease of Use(20%)
8.4
7.8
8.0
8.0
6.3
Battery Life(10%)
10.0
5.0
3.5
4.0
10.0
Specs
Quip
Philips Sonicare 4100
Philips One
Aquasonic Black Series
Oral-B 3D White Action
Measured Battery Life
168 days
49.5 days
30 days
31 days
103 days
Pressure Sensor
No
Yes
No
No
No
Number of Brushing Modes
1 mode:
Clean
1 mode:
Clean
2 sensivity levels
1 mode:
Clean
4 modes:
Clean, Soft, Whiten, Massage
1
Clean
Estimated Annual Brush Head Cost
$28 for (4) 1 packs
$44.96 for (1) four pack
$15.92 for (2) two packs
$19.90 for (2) two packs
$53.98 for (2) three packs
Charger or Battery Info
1 AAA battery
USB
(block not included)
USB
100 - 240VA
50-60Hz
0.8 - 1.6W
N/A
American Dental Association accepted?
Yes
Not Listed
Not Listed
Yes
No
Waterproof / Resistant
Yes, can use in shower
Yes, can use in shower
No, cannot be used in the shower
Yes, can use in shower
Yes, can use in shower
Number of Brush Head Styles Available
1 style available in multiple colors
8 styles, most available in 2 colors
1 style available in multiple colors
3
3
Number of Included Brush Heads
1
1
1
8
1
Thirty Second Reminder
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Two Minute Alert
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Travel Case Included
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
Measured Handle Weight
1.2 oz
3.2 oz
1.4 oz
3.6 oz
2.5 oz
App
No
No
No
No
No
Available Colors
6
3
4
1
1
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Our Analysis and Test Results
The Quip has a few innovative features that set it apart from other models. It is available with plastic, metal, or limited edition trims and runs off standard AAA batteries rather than a rechargeable lithium battery. Quip also offers a subscription service where they will send you a new battery, brush head, and toothpaste every three months. This makes it a great option for someone who wants a minimalistic electric toothbrush and doesn't have to ever worry about forgetting to buy replacement parts.
Performance Comparison
The Quip can stick to the mirror, which we thought was a nice touch.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Cleaning
Making up 40% of the final score, we evaluated the cleaning performance of each toothbrush by having our testers abstain from brushing their teeth for over 18 hours to allow the buildup of a healthy amount of plaque. Using a plaque-disclosing tablet to tint the plaque bright pink, we used the Quip according to standard dentists' recommendations. Scores were determined by comparing before and after photos to assess the amount of plaque removed. Additionally, testers shared their thoughts on how clean their teeth felt before the results were disclosed. We also tested the overall cleaning efficiency of this model by using a dental model. In order to do this, we mixed together pesto and coffee grounds and spread it across the teeth on the model. Then, we set a timer for 1 minute as we brushed it all away and scored accordingly.
The Quip earned good, but not great, remarks in this metric. While there was no visible plaque left, we were left feeling slightly underwhelmed by the results. Achieving perfectly clean and smooth teeth would require a little more time. Despite requiring a bit of scrubbing, it managed to remove all the debris from the dental model within the 1-minute time constraint as well. If you're looking for the best cleaning ability, this device likely won't do it, but it's still perfectly capable with a little elbow grease.
The slim brush head had no trouble tackling those hard-to-reach spots.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Comfort
The second aspect we assessed and scored for each electric toothbrush is the comfort of brushing. Our diverse group of judges used each brush and assigned scores based on their daily comfort. This contributes to 30% of the final score.
Often, the switch from a manual to an electric toothbrush can be jarring, as the vibrations can feel too intense for new users. We have no concerns about this transition with the Quip. Its brushing action is notably gentle, and its compact brush head is well-suited for smaller mouths. For that reason, we think this device makes an excellent beginner electric toothbrush for kids. This comfortable brush is also a suitable choice for those with sensitive gums. Additionally, it stands out as one of the quietest toothbrushes in the entire group, not even registering on our decibel reader.
The Quip didn't register on the decibel reader at just 3 inches away.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
However, the Quip does not have a built-in pressure sensor to alert you if you are pressing too hard. It also doesn't have a sensitive brushing mode. We didn't find this to be too much of an issue since the standard brushing mode is so gentle to begin with. That said, there is no option to change the brush's intensity. If you're used to using an electric toothbrush, the Quip's brushing power might seem a bit weak.
The rubber bristles can feel a little odd while brushing with the Quip.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Ease of Use
After cleaning and comfort, we moved on to rating and scoring the convenience and ease of use of each toothbrush, which is responsible for 20% of the overall score. While the minimalist nature of the Quip means that it lacks many of the features of other products, this actually made it significantly easier to use, earning it one of the higher scores of the group. It only has a single cleaning mode so there are no confusing mode-switches required.
The back of the Quips brush head has a small rubber tongue scraper.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Quip has a two-minute timer with quadrant intervals that are indicated by a quick pause. Once it reaches the end of the cycle, it quickly vibrates four times before shutting off. The device includes a slim travel case that doubles as a stand or mirror mount. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a storage solution for other brush heads. They are also a bit more difficult to change than other products, so it is more of a one-person toothbrush rather than something that can easily be shared.
The Quip's slim case doubles as a countertop stand.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Quip proved to be one of the easiest to clean. This brush's power button and overall design are sleek and smooth, so there aren't a lot of areas for grime to accumulate. It is also waterproof enough to take in the shower or thoroughly rinse off. With the optional subscription service, new brush heads are sent directly to your door every three months, so you won't have to think much about timing the replacements.
The "q" is the single button that controls the toothbrush, simply turning it on and off.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Battery Life
For the final 10% of the total score, we looked at the battery life of each of these powered toothbrushes. The Quip stands out from the other toothbrushes by relying on a conventional AAA battery as a power source rather than wirelessly recharging an internal lithium battery. This provides a surprisingly long battery life, earning the Quip top marks in this metric.
The manufacturer claims that the Quip can last for 90 days before needing a new battery, and we have no reason to doubt this. It was still going strong at well over 100 days, significantly outperforming the vast majority of the other products in our lineup. The slim design and long battery life make this brush an excellent option for frequent travelers. Plus, you won't need to pack an extra cord.
The Quip takes AAA batteries, which might be preferred over a lithium ion battery for some.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Should You Buy the Quip?
The Quip stands out as one of the more affordable models in our testing, making it a good choice if you're shopping on a budget or you're new to e-brushes and want to ease in. However, it's important to note that you're limited to using the specific brush heads, and sharing the toothbrush is not as convenient, potentially increasing the lifetime cost. While we hesitate to solely recommend the Quip based on its cleaning performance, if you're drawn to the subscription service, sleek design, and impressive battery life, it's a reliable choice that's unlikely to disappoint. Additionally, the minimalist toothbrush is available in a variety of colors and finishes.
What Other Electric Toothbrushes Should You Consider?
The Aquasonic Black Series is also available at an accessible price point and is straightforward to use. Thanks to the additional eight brush heads, you won't need a subscription service since they will last you approximately two years with daily use.
