A good toothbrush is essential for oral health. It will help you keep your teeth shining and cavity-free and will help you prevent gum disease and bad breath.
We wanted to know what toothbrush was the best. To find out, we purchased 13 top toothbrushes and put them through the same rigorous testing procedures. From manual to electric, budget-friendly to high-end, we’ve thoroughly tested all the best models on the market today, from cleaning to comfort to customization. We’ve consulted with a dental hygienist throughout our testing process to ensure that our information is as accurate and reliable as possible.
The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 was one of our favorite overall toothbrushes due to its effective cleaning and simple use. Our testers also approved of the Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft for a great manual option that’s effective and very affordable.
If you’re undecided between choosing a manual or electric toothbrush, we’re here to guide you on how to select a toothbrush. Moreover, if you’ve opted for an electric toothbrush, you may want to explore which toothbrush heads we found to be the best.
Editor’s Note: We updated our toothbrush review on March 4, 2025 to share more information from our test team.
Quick Look
The Best Toothbrushes
Full results from testing 13 top products are in our Product Comparison Table and Analysis & Test Results sections.
Best Toothbrush for Most People
Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100
Brushing Modes: 1 | # of Brush Heads: 11
The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 left a lasting impression on our testers due to its simplicity and ease of use, characterized by its single cleaning mode, one-button operation, and overall affordability. Its long battery life is a significant advantage, particularly for frequent travelers. Finding the right brush head is essential, given the variety of mouth and teeth sizes. Fortunately, this model offers a wide range of brush heads, allowing maximum customization to suit individual needs. As one tester noted, “I think this is a perfect place to start if you’re new to the world of ever-evolving electric toothbrushes.”
Some users may perceive the Philips toothbrush as overly simplistic, especially those who prefer using a companion app to monitor their hygiene progress. While the price is great, our tester noted, “I wish this model included a wall brick for charging, not just a USB charging cord.” In contrast, the Oral-B iO Series 9 includes all the necessary charging accessories and boasts a longer-lasting battery.
Best Manual Toothbrush
Nimbus Microfine Xtra Soft
Brushing Modes: 1 | # of Brush Heads: 11
Electric toothbrushes, such as the Oral-B iO Series 10, aren’t the sole effective cleaners available, as many manual toothbrushes also rise to the occasion. Case in point, the Nimbus Microfine Xtra Soft. This particular model stood out to our testers as a personal favorite among manual options. Although the brush head tends to be slightly larger, one tester wrote, “I found that the brush head is still manageable for those with smaller mouths.” The ultra-soft bristles provide sufficient comfort without sacrificing effectiveness. The handle boasts a respectable thickness, making it easy to grip. Its hourglass-like shape and strategically positioned textured dots ensure a secure hold, minimizing the risk of slipping during brushing. The Nimbus excelled in nearly every test we conducted, and we think this is the best model for those who prefer non-electric toothbrushes. As our reviewer noted, “I think this is easily one of the best manual toothbrushes money can buy.”
Unfortunately, there is no tongue scraper or gum cleaner on the back of the handle, which could be a drawback for some users. If you’re undecided between electric and manual options, you might want to consider the Philips One. It’s a hybrid model that combines elements of both types of toothbrushes and is exceptionally user-friendly. On the other hand, if you prefer a toothbrush with firmer bristles, you might want to consider the Oral-B Charcoal. This model exhibited more than sufficient cleaning power and boasts an appealing design.
Read more: Nimbus Microfine Xtra Soft
Best Electric Toothbrush on a Budget
Philips Sonicare 4100
Brushing Modes: 1 | # of Brush Heads: 1
Distinct from the ProtectiveClean model, the Philips Sonicare 4100 is a slightly more streamlined version. We believe this device is one of the top choices for those new to electric toothbrushes. Its single-button operation, one cleaning mode with a gentle option, and a range of brush heads to choose from all contribute to its compelling and affordable offering. Another excellent feature is the timer. One reviewer said, “I found the two-minute timer with 30-second alerts very helpful for ensuring each quadrant of my mouth received even attention.” This brush will also automatically stop when the two minutes are up. Moreover, it boasts a powerful ability to keep your teeth clean. As we say in our review, “This remains a solid choice if you’re seeking the most value for your money.”
Remember, this device only has a USB cord and a small dock, so you’ll need to purchase a compatible charger separately if you don’t already have one. The same goes for the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100. If you desire a more feature-rich model, the Waterpik Complete Care 9.0 offers a comprehensive package with its water flosser, convenient travel case, and extra brush heads.
Read more: Philips Sonicare 4100
Best Premium Electric Toothbrush
Oral-B iO Series 10
Brushing Modes: 4 | # of Brush Heads: 4
The Oral-B iO Series 10 showcases some of the most powerful cleaning abilities in our testing and is sure to enhance your daily routine. As one tester notes in our review, “Even though I am not super tech-savvy, I wasn’t intimidated by this model. I found it remarkably easy to use, thanks to its intuitive app designed to help me brush effectively.” Plus, when paired with the brush, the app tracks your dental health in real time with each session. This device’s charging dock also boasts intelligent features. With the iO Sense Smart Charger, users can access a two-minute timer. You can use the smart stand as a timer for two minutes, or you can opt for it to monitor your cleaning progress. During monitoring, a quadrant will illuminate, transitioning colors upon completion and moving on to the next quadrant until all quadrants are fully displayed. As our review notes, “Did I find these features essential? No. Did I find them encouraging longer brushing? Absolutely.”
However, every product has its Achilles’ heel. During testing, we found this model tends to leak a mixture of saliva and toothpaste gunk through the brush head’s three openings, allowing liquids to flow into the interior of the handle. You’ll need to clean out the nooks and crannies of this toothbrush occasionally. The unit is also pricey, so you’ll throw down a lot of cash. Still, the Series 10 remains a great option if you seek the best in terms ocleaning ability and features. It is waterproof, so cleaning the brush is easily done under the sink faucet. If you want to save some money, this unit’s predecessor, the Oral-B iO Series 9, offers many of the same features at a lower price. Alternatively, if you prefer a less high-tech device with plenty of useful features like a travel case, the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 is a more than suitable option thanks to its cleaning ability.
Read more: Oral-B iO Series 10 review
Best on a Tight Budget
Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft
Brushing Modes: 1 | # of Brush Heads: 1
If you’re concerned about your budget, worry not because the Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft is here to save the day with its approachable price tag and gentle bristle design, ensuring a pleasant brushing experience. Moreover, one tester noted, “I didn’t find this brush’s cleaning ability compromised by the ultra-soft bristles or medium-sized head. It’s actually comfortable and super effective.” To top it off, this model also carries a gum cleaner on the back of the brush head — a welcomed feature that many of its peers don’t have. All in all, this is one of the better manual options you can buy and earns a spot among manual offerings.
The biggest drawback to the Colgate model is its handle. Our reviewers noted a point of annoyance: “When I put this brush down flat on the counter, it tends to tip over easily.” During testing, we found the handle itself is comfortable to grip, but it’s best stored upright to prevent tipping. If you need a more travel-friendly option, the Colgate Max Fresh Wisp is ultra-portable, includes a built-in floss pick, and doesn’t require water for brushing. However, its cleaning effectiveness might not match that of a traditional toothbrush.
Read more: Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft
Product Comparison Table
How We Tested
Since 2017, we’ve dedicated ourselves to testing dental hygiene products, aiming to provide you with the most comprehensive and accurate information available. Over this time, we’ve gained valuable insights into what makes a great toothbrush. First, we consulted a dental hygienist to determine what makes a toothbrush most effective. We then put each unit through multiple cleaning tests that include built-up plaque and coffee grounds to simulate little pieces of food that get stuck in hard-to-reach areas. We also evaluated which brushes were most comfortable with sensitive gums and easy to hold, and we even measured how loud each electric toothbrush was on its highest setting. Lastly, we considered convenience and the extra features each model brought to the table.
- Cleaning (40% of overall score weighting)
- Comfort (30% weighting)
- Ease of Use (20% weighting)
- Customization (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
At Gearlab, we’ve entrusted our thorough testing process to Genaveve Bradshaw and Ryan White, along with consultations like Dental Hygienist Andrea Fernandez to ensure that all of our testing practices align with her professional perspective. Together, this squad has conducted exhaustive research and testing on a multitude of toothbrushes to determine the best one for you. We don’t take dental hygiene lightly and strive to provide you with the most up-to-date information to ensure you make the best purchase possible. Whatever you choose, be sure you’re using the American Dental Association’s prescribed two minutes, twice a day proven method.
Analysis and Test Results
New toothbrush models are released yearly, and we remain committed to staying on top of the research and testing of each new brush to provide the best information possible. This way, we know exactly what makes a solid electric toothbrush.
What’s the Best Value?
We understand that value versus cost is likely your main concern, and we get it. No one wants to waste their hard-earned money on something lackluster. That’s why we aim to give out diverse awards to products that stood out among the pack at multiple price points, ensuring there’s a spot for every budget level. The Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft likely provides everything you would need in a toothbrush, while coming in at such a low price. The same goes for the other high-performing manual toothbrush, the Nimbus Microfine Xtra Soft. The Philips Sonicare 4100 and Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 can’t be overlooked either. Yes, they are very simple devices, but effective and affordable nevertheless.
Cleaning
For our most critical metric, it was imperative that we thoroughly put each brush through its paces to determine just how well they could clean within a normal brushing session. Firstly, we chewed a plaque-dispensing tablet, which highlights build-up in a bright pink tone. We then took a before photo and brushed our teeth for 2 minutes using a tried and true 2-minute brushing method, followed by an after photo to assess the results. Furthermore, we ate two Oreos to simulate the stickiness of plaque and brushed again using the same method. These two tests combined allowed us to gauge the efficiency of each brush. Finally, we made use of an artificial dental model and spread wet coffee grounds over the teeth and gums. After brushing, we determined how much (if any) of the coffee debris was left over.
The Oral-B iO Series 10 is in a class of its own and demonstrated superior cleaning ability, even among the toughest contenders we tested. This powerful toothbrush showcases what a high-end device can achieve. Not to be completely overshadowed, the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 and regular Philips Sonicare 4100 also put on a powerful showing, removing all plaque, Oreo residue, and even the coffee grounds from the artificial teeth. Given the single mode operation of these models, this is especially impressive.
Holding it down for the manual toothbrushes, the Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft managed to also clean with relative ease, even compared to the top performers. You can’t talk about the best performers without also mentioning the Waterpik Complete Care 9.0 as it comes with additional powerful cleaning tools like a water flosser. That said, it can be messy and tough on sensitive gums.
Comfort
Simply because a toothbrush is effective at cleaning, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s comfortable. Individuals with sensitive teeth or gums should pay close attention to these results. Adhering to your dental hygiene routine is the most important factor, and you don’t want to shy away from your morning and evening brushing sessions. This is precisely why comfort is weighted so heavily in our assessment, making up 30% of the final score. We determine the comfort levels of each brush by assessing how each brush head feels. Size and softness (or stiffness) of bristles are crucial qualities to evaluate, as well as how effortless the handle is to grip. For the electric models, we determine how loud they are using a decibel reader.
The Oral-B iO Series 10 once again proves its worth by demonstrating high levels of comfort, largely thanks to the sensitive mode and the friendly brush head. It also offers more aggressive modes, allowing you to select your preferred comfort level. The smooth, plastic, medium-sized handle is a pleasure to hold and doesn’t easily slip. While the overall sound emitted from this device is definitely loud and obvious, it’s not grating or annoying.
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The Nimbus Microfine Xtra Soft features gentle bristles of two different lengths, contributing to a pleasant brushing experience. Despite the brush head being medium to large in size, it did not cause any discomfort. The hefty hourglass-like handle is also easy to hold, with strategically placed textured dots ensuring a good grip. The ever-capable Philips Sonicare 4100 has a smaller brush head, which should prove comfy for people with smaller mouths, and the slender matte plastic handle is pretty grippy, too. To top it off, this model also has a sensitive mode.
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The Colgate 360 Sensitive Extra Soft boasts one of the most comfortable brush heads we tested, featuring soft bristles and three distinct “cups” that gently hug each tooth without being too aggressive. The Philips One also deserves a mention here, mainly because of its very quiet operation and soft bristles. You can’t go wrong with any of these toothbrushes if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
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Ease of Use
To gauge the ease of use of these products, we assessed key factors such as the feel of the brush head and its ability to effortlessly reach every tooth. Additionally, we tested how simple each brush was to clean by covering the handle with toothpaste and subsequently cleaning it off to discover if there were any areas where gunk might tend to stick. For those who desire an electric toothbrush, we measured the battery life of each model. Lastly, we determined whether the toothbrushes could be set down without tipping over.
Despite the high-tech nature of the Oral-B iO Series 10, it remained straightforward in real world use. The circular brush head excels at targeting individual teeth, providing a precise and simple cleaning experience without causing discomfort. On the smart base, you can track the zones you’ve brushed with a circle that fills in with each section you brush to completion. Additionally, the matte handle proved effortless to clean, and the toothbrush can be stored vertically or flat on its back without rolling over.
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