Professional barbers are always on the lookout for tools that can elevate their craft, and Andis has long been a trusted name in the industry. Their latest offering, the Andis Envy II, brings some interesting innovations to the table. This review consolidates insights from notable reviewers, Concise the Barber and Tank Be Choppin, offering an in-depth look at the product’s features, performance, and potential areas for improvement.
Introduction
Andis has built its reputation on the legendary Masters clipper, setting high expectations for any new addition to their professional lineup. The Andis Envy II aims to cater to professional barbers and hair enthusiasts alike. Priced competitively and packed with useful features, it strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. It enters the market as a cordless option that aims to balance power, versatility, and user comfort. With its distinctive gold housing (also available in black) and modern design, it certainly catches the eye – but does it deliver where it counts?
Technical Deep Dive
Motor Performance & Power
The clipper features a 6700 SPM rotary motor. While some barbers prefer brushless motors for their consistent power delivery, the Envy II’s rotary motor proves itself capable in real-world use. The motor remains reliable for various hair textures and cutting needs. It runs quieter than many competitors, measuring around 68 dB, and delivers surprisingly effective cutting power despite its modest sound signature.
Blade System & Versatility
One of the Envy II’s standout features is its innovative blade system. It includes a stainless steel fade blade and a ceramic cutting blade, both customizable with Andis Master blades for greater flexibility. It offers excellent heat management and cutting efficiency.
The guard system included is designed specifically for the Envy II, providing consistent cutting lengths. These guards not only work particularly well with the stock phase blade, while the clipper can also accommodate traditional Andis purple magnetic guards when using Master blades.
User Experience
Ergonomics & Handling
The Envy II features a thoughtfully designed housing with textured grip areas that enhance control during detailed work. While slightly larger than some might expect, its lightweight and balanced design helps prevent fatigue during long cutting sessions. Besides, the clipper comes with an extra lever that can be installed on either side. Thus, it caters to both left- and right-handed users with its ambidextrous design.
Battery Performance
With a 2.5-hour runtime and approximately 2-hour charge time, the Envy II offers reliable cordless performance for busy barbers. The Gold version includes a charging dock, adding convenience to your workflow by providing an elegant charging solution between clients. The clipper also operates while corded, ensuring you’re never caught without power during cuts especially with important clients.
Professional Performance
Cutting Experience
In testing, the Envy II proves itself as a capable tool for various cutting techniques. The ceramic cutter paired with the phase blade delivers smooth, efficient bulk removal while maintaining cool operating temperatures. When it comes to fading and blending, the clipper shows its strength through a “forgiving” cutting action that helps prevent harsh lines while maintaining precise control. The Andis Envy II performs well across different hair textures, providing clean fades and handling bulk removal effectively.
Daily Use Considerations
- Heat Management: The ceramic cutter significantly helps with heat buildup, making the clipper comfortable for extended use.
- Noise Levels: While, at 68 dB, it is moderately loud, the sound level is acceptable for professional environments
- Maintenance: Standard cleaning and oiling requirements, with easy blade adjustment and replacement options
- Ease of Use: The clipper’s power, accessories, and ambidextrous design enhance its usability for professionals
Price
Priced between around $110 to $130, Andis Envy II positions itself as a mid-range option for professional barbers. The Gold version includes extra accessories that could add significant value. While the price is reasonable for a professional clipper, there are still different opinions on whether it delivers enough value to justify the investment.
Insights from Key Influencers
Leading barber influencers have shared their experiences with the Envy II, providing valuable real-world perspectives.
Tank Be Choppin’s Perspective
Tank highlights the Andis Envy II’s strengths in performance, particularly its ability to deliver clean fades and handle bulk removal efficiently. He also values the clipper’s accessories and blade options. However, he is concerned about its heavy design and lack of USB-C charging and thinks the noise level and overall comfort could be improved.
Concise the Barber’s Perspective
Concise the Barber finds the Andis Envy II versatile and well-balanced. He believes that he clipper is competively priced with features like the charging dock, fade blade, and ceramic cutting blade. However, he thinks that the design could be more ergonomic, and the battery indicator seems outdated. He gave an overall rating of 3.8/5, and identified room for improvement.
Neither of them think Andis Envy II can replace the Masters as their primary clipper, but it is worth investing it as part of the professional toolkit.
Final Verdict
The Andis Envy II is a solid choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking a reliable, affordable clipper. It will particularly appeal to barbers who:
- Value versatility
- Appreciate the option for using with both right or left hands
- Need both cordless and cord operations
- Require efficient heat management
For its price range, it offers great value, making it a worthwhile option for barbers looking to invest for their toolkit.
