The Quip 360 electric toothbrush enters the market as a direct competitor to Oral-B’s oscillating and rotating models. But does it live up to the challenge? This toothbrush offers a solid cleaning experience, but it may not fully convince Oral-B users. Below, we analyze its design, performance, features, and value for money.
Key Features of the Quip 360 Electric Toothbrush
- Oscillating round brush head for more effective plaque removal
- Compact travel case for portability
- Magnetic mirror mount (optional) to keep it off the counter
- Three cleaning modes with LED indicators
- 9,630 oscillations per minute
- 2-minute timer with 30-second pacer
- Pressure sensor with LED warning
- Up to 37 days of battery life on a single charge
- Magnetic USB-A charging cable
Design and Usability
The Quip 360 has a sleek and modern design with a sturdy feel. It’s heavier than standard Quip models but offers a firmer grip, making it more comfortable to use. The power button is conveniently placed, and the LED indicators make it easy to recognize different cleaning modes—something Oral-B models lack.
However, the base of the toothbrush is rounded, which requires the use of the provided two-part stand. For those who prefer a clutter-free counter, the optional magnetic mirror mount is a useful accessory.
Cleaning Performance
Effective Plaque Removal
The small, round oscillating head effectively removes plaque, outperforming Quip’s thinner-handled models. Unlike sonic toothbrushes, this one does most of the work for you—simply move it from tooth to tooth without needing circular motions.
Oscillation Power and Cleaning Modes
With 9,630 oscillations per minute, the Quip 360 provides a decent cleaning experience, slightly exceeding the Oral-B Pro 500. However, it doesn’t match the power of higher-end Oral-B models. While teeth feel clean, they don’t have that “dentist-clean” sensation.
For those with sensitive teeth and gums, the low-power gentle mode is a welcome feature. The brush head design is straightforward, avoiding the overwhelming variety of options offered by brands like Oral-B and Sonicare.
Smart Features and Functionality
Pressure Sensor
The built-in pressure sensor helps prevent excessive force while brushing. However, its effectiveness is debatable—the power button turns red when activated, but this isn’t visible while brushing. Additionally, the vibration alert for excessive pressure has a delay, requiring at least a 7-second gap before it activates again.
Battery Life and Charging
Quip claims a 30-day battery life, but in testing, it lasted 37 days on average. The LED indicator on the power button changes color based on battery levels. The magnetic USB-A charging cable is a mixed bag—it’s convenient but less common than USB-C cables, making replacements harder to find.
Lack of Bluetooth Connectivity
Unlike other Quip models, the 360 does not include Bluetooth tracking. While some users appreciate smart tracking features, they are not essential for effective brushing.
Noise Levels and Comfort
One downside is the noise—at 73 decibels, it’s comparable to many Oral-B models, which some users find irritating. Sonicare brushes, while quieter, don’t provide the same oscillating motion.
Subscription Model and Pricing
Quip’s business model encourages subscription-based purchases.
- With subscription (3 years): $128
- Without subscription: $176
The subscription offers better value, but it forces users into a recurring cost structure. Additionally, the sealed lithium-ion battery is not user-replaceable, which raises concerns about long-term sustainability.
Comparison With Competitors
- Oral-B Pro 500: More affordable but lacks battery life and a pressure sensor.
- Oral-B Pro 10000: More powerful but has a shorter battery life.
- Philips Sonicare 4100 Series: A good alternative for those preferring sonic vibrations.
Final Verdict: Is the Quip 360 Worth It?
The Quip 360 is a solid everyday toothbrush with useful features like an oscillating brush head, pressure sensor, and long battery life. However, its lack of intensity compared to premium Oral-B models and its subscription pricing model might not appeal to all users.
If you prioritize simplicity, portability, and moderate cleaning power, the Quip 360 is a great choice. But if you seek maximum cleaning performance, a high-end Oral-B or Sonicare model may be a better fit.