A couple years ago I tried a bunch of different razors as my skin was changing and I couldn't get that close shave with my disposables anymore. After trying a bunch I finally got the top Gillette that even has a vibrating head! Was only marginally better than my disposables (and blades were spendy). With nothing to lose I tried a Merkur DE safety razor and haven't looked back. Had to change methods: multiple short strokes vs one long stroke with the "conventional" blades. Also moved to an Edwin Jagger because it had a cool black knurled grip. Astra Platinum blades are relatively cheap and box will last you for years.