We compared two well-known electric toothbrushes that take different approaches: the app-connected Oral-B iO4 with its round brush head, and the simpler, lower-priced Philips Sonicare 4100.
What we looked at
Cleaning modes, pressure sensing, timers and app features, stated battery life, what is in the box, and price.
The verdict
If you want a choice of four cleaning modes, a pressure sensor and app-tracked brushing habits, the Oral-B iO4 is the feature-rich pick, though it costs more than twice as much on these listings. If you'd rather spend less on a brush with a pressure sensor, two intensity settings, a timer and a stated two weeks of battery, the Sonicare 4100 is the simpler value option.
Four cleaning modes, an iO pressure sensor and app tracking, but it costs more than twice as much as the Sonicare 4100.
Less than half the price, with a pressure sensor, two intensity settings, a timer and a stated two-week battery, but no app or named modes.
Oral-B iO4 Electric Toothbrush (Black, 1 Brush Head) — Most Features
Intended for: Marketed as an app-connected electric toothbrush with a round brush head, an iO pressure sensor and four cleaning modes, with a stated 100% more plaque removal and up to 160% more between teeth than a manual toothbrush.
What we liked
- Four cleaning modes: Daily Clean, Sensitive, Super-Sensitive and Whitening
- iO pressure sensor signals if you brush too hard, too soft or just right
- Oral-B app tracks brushing habits with performance reports, journeys and goals
- LightRing timer for the dentist-recommended two minutes, plus a refill change alert
- Listing states 100% more plaque removal and up to 160% more between teeth than a manual toothbrush
Worth knowing
- Costs more than twice as much as the Sonicare 4100 on these listings
- Comes with a single brush head, so replacements are an extra cost
Best for
- Anyone who wants app-tracked brushing habits and a choice of cleaning modes
- People with sensitive gums who want Sensitive and Super-Sensitive modes
- Buyers who like a round brush head and a visual pressure signal
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers comparing price first
- Anyone who wants a simple brush without an app
Philips Sonicare 4100 Electric Toothbrush (White, HX3681/23) — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a rechargeable sonic toothbrush with a pressure sensor and two intensity settings, with a stated up to 5x more plaque removal than a manual toothbrush and two weeks of battery life per charge.
What we liked
- Less than half the price of the Oral-B iO4 on these listings
- Pressure sensor and two intensity settings to protect sensitive gums from overbrushing
- 2-minute SmarTimer with QuadPacer for dentist-recommended brushing time
- One charge is stated to last two weeks, with a battery light indicator
- Includes a handle, an Optimal Plaque Control (C2) brush head and a USB charger
Worth knowing
- No app or brushing-mode selection in the listing beyond two intensity settings
- Charges by USB and the wall adaptor is not included
Best for
- Buyers who want a capable sonic toothbrush at a lower price
- Anyone who wants a simple brush with a pressure sensor and timer
- People who value a battery stated to last two weeks between charges
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants app-based brushing reports
- Buyers who want multiple named cleaning modes such as Whitening
