The Sonicare equivalent to the Pro 3 3500 is the ProtectiveClean 4300. It does compete well and is a good alternative, but for superior value, Oral-B is the winner. Although subject to model most in both ranges have battery indicators that give a guide as to when a charge is required. Most Sonicare brushes have 1-2 cleaning modes unless you go up to the most premium model which offers 3-5; whereas Oral-B has 1-4 modes until the most premium models that offer 5-6 modes.

The exact way that this happens is not fully understood, but it is thought that very high frequencies cause liquids to move and create “hydrodynamic forces” which damage the plaque layer in hard to reach areas ( 1). This intense vibration agitates fluids that surround the teeth and can loosen and remove dental plaque in locations that are beyond the physical touch of the toothbrush. To have this effect the waves actually need to be working at a much higher speed, in the ultrasonic range, greater than 20,000 Hz. If you have specific requirements, I do hope that my explanation has at least helped in making your decision and choosing the brand best suited to you. We also have separate buying guides on Oral-B brush heads and Sonicare brush heads that explain the difference between the brushes. There is rarely an exact like for like, there are always differences between the ‘equivalent’ models.In the sections below we compare Oral-B brushes that are close to each other in price and features. Model by model comparison Pro 600 vs Pro 2 2000 It does too come with a premium travel case, similar to that of the Genius X, which allows the brush to be charged whilst inside. However, like the X, this requires a separate proprietary power adapter. Sonicare put a clause in their warranty that the battery is only supported for twelve months (one year) whereas no such clause exists for Oral-B models.

ThePro 600 offers 8,800 oscillations and 20,0000 pulsations whilst the 2000 offers 9,900oscillations and 45,000 pulsations. Put these two brushes side by side and the differences between them are much harder to tell, they look almost identical, however there are some subtle differences. Place these brushes side by side and it is almost impossible to tell the difference between each of them.Whilst each has its place within the market, it is the Pro Series that is the most logical option for the majority. So, both models come with a place to store brush heads, but the compartment with the 9000 is better than the stand offered with the Smart 6. As the name implies this mode is more gentle. It is designed to offer a softer, but thorough clean. It helps those with sore or inflamed gums, but reducing the number of movements in the brush head, making for a more comfortable brushing experience, until the sensitivity has gone or reduced. This mode is great if you are suffering from gum disease.

There is no battery in the case, to charge the brush and anything connected via the USB cable the case has to be connected to mains power. Having used many different models and different cleaning modes from both brands, Oral-B’s clean can feel more abrasive/aggressive. You are left with a ‘clean’ feeling, this can be at the expense of a slightly more uncomfortable clean for some people. Sonicare models feel softer and more delicate whilst still leaing your mouth feeling clean and fresh. Typically Sonicare brushes last for 2 or more weeks. 3 weeks is the average, with some lasting as long as 5 weeks between charges, and that is with twice daily use. Oral-B’s longest lasting toothbrush brush lasts about 16 days. This is quite disappointing in comparison.A newer feature (although it has been around for a few years now) is Bluetooth connectivity which shares brushing data with your phone. Sonicare have 2 models that can do this whereas Oral-B have 8.

The 2 minute timer on Oral-B is a longer/different pause pattern whereas with Sonicare the brush usually automatically turns off. Nether are essential, but both go a long way in making sure you clean your teeth for the right amount of time. Trial PeriodI don’t have the figures of the number of oscillations and pulsations on the older Pro 5000 available to give confirmation of the power difference. And add to this, there have been various iterations of the 5000 over the years, so it would be important to find out the exact one to say 100%. How important this is will depend on your routine. It is safe to leave either brand of brush on charge for a prolonged period of time but for frequent travellers, the extended life of the Sonicare may be preferred.