Did you ever wonder why barbers frequently rely on grooming tools from Andis, and one name generally reverberates if you ask them their preference? Yes, that particular hair clipper is the Andis Master. It’s a grooming device that doesn’t only respond, but rather dictate the tempo of a haircut.
Its bulletproof housing and adjustable blade system are merely scratching the surface, as it has more layers of surprises (mostly positive) that must be unfolded by analysts.
That’s why, I’m bringing you an in-depth review of Andis Master and you’ll eventually know for yourself whether it’s right for your chair, or if you require something less agile!
Andis Master : Specs
Here, I’m breaking down the technical specifications for Andis Master - what to expect out of this robust device.
- Dimensions: 15 x 5.5 x 3.8 cm
- Weight: 23.2 ounces
- Motor Type: Magnetic
- Motor Power: 14,000 SPM
- Blade Material: Carbon-steel
- Blade Type: Adjustable Blade (#000-1)
- Cord Length: 2.4 Meter
- Housing Material: Aluminum
Pros & Cons
Let me share what I like and dislike about Andis Master, particularly the ones that consumers usually find to be the most useful.
What I Like
- Robust aluminum shell renders a premium barber tool feeling
- Its powerful motor with higher torque cuts coarse hair quickly
- Adjustable lever & blade design lets you craft fades, blends, tapers
- Classic aesthetics with one-handed design
- Made to last for a decade or even more
Areas for Improvement
- Higher weight compared to other clipping devices
- Longer sessions heat up the metallic housing
- Doesn’t have zero-gapping flexibility
Verdict
You can call Andis Master an almost “all rounder” professional clipper that offers versatility between bulk grooming and blending. Its price caters to barbers, and a long-lasting, reliable, crisp-performing device for daily intense usage.
Unboxing the Andis Master
Andis Master is cased inside the standard Andis package system, inside which, a tray hosts everything this device comes with.
There’s not really much going on inside - the Master wrapped with a plastic cover and blade guard to keep it safe.
Other than the hair clipper, you’re only getting a tube of blade oil and some user manual. No cleaning brush or guide combs are included in the package.
What’s Inside the Box: Andis Master, Blade Guard, Lubricant, User Manual.
Andis Master : Feature Breakdown
What’s so special about Andis Master? Time to find that out for ourselves in this standout features section!
Feature Highlights
- Adjustable 000-1 blade is crafted with carbon-steel for longevity
- Aluminum housing weighs 23.2 ounces and is robust
- Taper lever latches on to 5 precise length settings
- Magnetic motor can generate up to 14,000 SPM
- Corded design implies it’ll never run out of power
- Plain Housing, One-Handed Design
Design-wise, the Master contains a plain housing with a reflective surface like a mirror. It’s a trademark style you’ll see in other Andis clippers as well.
This chrome finish is prone to showing scratches or fingerprints easier than other tools. Thus, you have to ensure the storage is safe and it doesn’t make direct contact with sharp objects.
Andis has developed the Master for one-handed use. You can not only operate this compact tool with a firm grip, but also are capable of switching it on or off with your thumb during the grip.
Metallic, Sturdy Quality
Master’s robust housing is only 6” in length, ranking it alongside some of the most compact premium hair clippers in the market.
When it comes to durability, I’ve had first-hand consumers claiming that their devices have survived up to 10 years or even more, including barbers.
It speaks for the build quality - not only about the aluminum outer shell - but also the components inside like the motor or other technical bits.
23.2 Ounces of Hefty Weight
It’s one of the heftiest hair clippers I’ve ever used, weighing in at 23.2 ounces with its power cord. This weight can cause fatigue to certain users over longer usage.
However, this weight does manage to boost the confidence by adding a solid feel to it. It keeps the Master gravitated and the strokes become more precise because of that.
Also, the weight level counteracts the vibration generated by the powerful motor. Overall, it speaks to the build quality that satisfies a professional’s requirement.
Adjustable & Sharp Carbon-steel Blade (#000 to #1)
Andis Master employs a 000-1 adjustable blade, meaning, it’s not a zero-overlap unit. This blade is made with carbon-steel, an alloy that’s both sharp and long-lasting.
Using the 5-notch adjustment lever, you’ll be able to alter the blade gap on the fly with one hand. This makes room for faster tapering or blending between the adjustable gaps.
Other than that, the Master is the epitome of barber-clipping with its bulk trimming capabilities - be that on coarse, kinky hair or fine, feeble hair. The shorter length setting can also cater to balding men’s maintenance.
14,000 SPM Powerful, Magnetic Motor
The reason the Master is such a capable device across versatile hair types, apart from its blades, is the super-powerful magnetic motor.
This motor unit can generate up to 14,000 strokes per minute. At torque-level, it’s around 7,000 RPM - which is more than decent to say the least.
But it comes with the issue of heating up if you let it run for a longer duration at a stretch. That’s why you should consider turning it off and back on at each instance you’re not trimming - one handed design comes in handy in this regard!
Fully Corded Operations
Andis Master is not your typical cordless tool, rather it’s one that’s permanently connected to a power cord for constant performance.
You’ll need a power outlet of 120V/60Hz if your device was purchased from the North American market.
There’s the option to choose the Andis Master cordless which doesn’t have such issues, offers a charging dock - but it costs slightly more for the convenience.
Feedback Summary for Andis Master
In this section, I’ll go over my personal experiences of using Andis Master and incorporate the feedback from long-term, first-hand consumers!
Experience Highlights
- Bulk removal is extremely clean - the motor never slows down
- Despite noticeable weight, the Master maintains steadiness
- Fade/taper transitions are smooth and precise
- Although higher in price, it’s a one-time future-proof investment
- Caters more toward professional use than personal
Closeness of Cut
With the adjustable #000 to #1 carbon-steel blade, the range is much tighter and it’s perfect for classic barber cuts and offers tapering ranges as well.
It won’t get you a fine zero look, nor will the Master serve lining up services, but in general, the closeness goes somewhere around 0.3mm/0.4mm with the closest setting.
I reckon it’s a fabulous range - not too short, yet offers the flexibility to crank up the blade gap to the #1 length - something barbers can rely on for their primary grooming tool. Comfort on Scalp and Hands-on Feeling
When it comes to scalp comfort, Master never tugs or pulls, no matter where you place. Therefore, this hair clipper is marked safe for sensitive scalps.
The blade unit itself glides evenly with superior sharpness. It produces consistent contacts with the scalp to prevent accidental cuts.
In hand, the hair clipper has subtle, natural curves to fit nicely in the hand. One-handed design can feel unnerving at first, but after a few accidental turn offs, you’ll learn your way around it and boost efficiency.
Efficiency of the Motor
Master’s Magnetic motor of 14,000 SPM is super fast, delivers swift bulk hair removal with the most minimum number of passes.
It cuts through coarse, curly, thick or damp hair without choking or stalling - makes itself useful for professionals who have to work with diverse hair conditions.
The noise level is tolerable - louder than the cheap stuff but nothing that’s unsettling. However, you may have to learn ways around to keep the housing cooler.
Versatility with Different Haircuts
Let me tell you the sorts of haircuts you can expect out of Andis Master. Apart from bulk removal, you can easily apply tapers, blends and different fades down to shadow fades.
Its 5-deter lever system makes it easy for you to transition between different lengths smoothly, faster and exactly as you desire.
This all-purpose professional clipper might struggle with overhead or long-arm work due to the weight, but balances that out with unmatched precision and unrelenting performance.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Andis master is indeed built like a tank due to the metallic construction, making it last for years ahead. You’ll have to regularly oil the blades to retain this quality and integrity of the blades.
Blades do open up easily and the stray hair doesn't clog as much as hair clipping devices. Using a cleaning brush suffices.
In barbershop conditions, the Master can withstand accidental drops and rough handlings. I’d urge you to store it in dry and safe containers to squeeze the best out of its durability.
My Testing Methods for Andis Master
The tests for Andis Master began with a physical inspection and build assessment. From sturdiness check, weight distribution to lever resistance check - I employed my analytic abilities to take notes of everything.
Also, I ran the clipper at full power for extended durations for stress testing - I gained ideas about heat, noise levels and vibration. Also, I utilized it on different hair densities: fine > coarse > curly to assess consistency.
For cutting performance, my tests included bulk removal, blends, close cutting and clipper behavior on damn vs dry hair.
Comfort, longevity simulation, maintenance and of course, real-user and community feedback are all integrated behind the opinions I’ve shared throughout this Andis Master review.
Who Should Consider Buying Andis Master?
First of all, Andis Master is the perfect tool for pro barbers who are looking for a reliable, high-performing device for bulk removal, fades and blends.
Home groomers who are serious about their haircuts but want to avoid barbershop visits can also consider the Master to replace everything they previously owned.
Master might not cater to casual home groomers because its usage is quite heavy-duty and contains a certain learning curve.
Balding men certainly consider Master for their regular maintenance by making good use of the #000 setting, but it can feel like an overkill considering the price.
Andis Master vs Fade Master vs Cordless Master : Which One Should You Pick?
In this section, I’ll hold the Andis Master and Fade Master side by side for a comparative understanding. The cordless Master is also included into the mix!
| Feature | Andis Master | Andis Fade Master | Andis Master Cordless |
| Motor Type | Magnetic | Magnetic | Rotary |
| Motor Power | 14,000 SPM | 7,200-14,400 SPM | 6,500 SPM |
| Blade/Length Range | Adjustable #000 to #1 (~0.4 mm to ~2.4 mm) | Adjustable #00000 to 000 blade (~0.2 mm to ~0.5 mm) | Adjustable #000 to #1 (~0.4 mm to ~2.4 mm) |
| Blade Material | Carbon-steel | Carbon-steel | Carbon-steel |
| Weight | 23.2 ounces | 22.9 ounces | 13.2 ounces |
| Power Source | 2.4 meter cord | 2.4 meter cord | Battery (90 minutes) |
| Best Use Case | All-round, bulk trimming, fading, blending | Ultra-close fades, balding cuts, zero-gap work | Similar to Andis Master, with more freedom but less power |
| Heat / Ergonomics | Heavy, heats up | Heavy, heats up | Lighter, less heat |
Let me start with the similarities at first, as I’ll then progress to the differences. These discussions should help you determine your needs and the tool that’ll serve you in the best possible way!
Similarities
- Sharing signature aluminum indestructible housing
- Adjustable carbon-steel blades
- Professional-grade tools targeted for barbers
- Build quality and durability is higher than average hair clippers
- Master and Fade Master share almost identical housings and motors
Andis always delivers as promised - all three of these tools are crafted with premium aluminum and upholds the highly durable promise.
Their blades are adjustable and crafted with carbon-steel. Both the corded and cordless Masters share their identical blade unit.
These devices are meant mostly for professional use. Their haircuts are generally neat and high in precision.
For the housing design, Master and Fade Master look uncannily similar, the only variance is among the text written on the chest.
Differences
- Blade ranges are different from one another - it’s the most important variance
- Motor power is similar for the corded tools whereas the cordless torques much less
- Weightwise, the cordless Master is much lightweight than the other two
- Corded tools require more precision and control than the cordless Master
- Cordless Master heats up less in contrast.
- Corded Master and Fade Master can trim through thicker hair than the cordless
First of all, the blade unit in the corded and cordless Master is a carbon-steel #000 to #1. The Fade Master employs a carbon-steel #00000 to #000 blades.
While the two Masters can perform blends and fades, the Fade Master is dedicated for skin fades and balding cuts, very close to the skin. Cordless Master doesn’t perform as smoothly as the corded variant for bulk trimming.
Andis Master and Fade Master share the same magnetic motor that has the highest SPM of 14,000. Cordless Master offers only 6,500 with its rotary motor.
Cordless Master is much lighter in weight - 13.2 ounces only, making it easier to maneuver around for prolonged duration - also, there’s no cord to restrict its movement.
Corded Master and Fade Master both weigh over 22 ounces, but the higher weight offers greater precision with each stroke and animation. But these two tools tend to heat up more in general.
Key Takeaway: Let me share my verdict in a comprehensive manner
Pick the corded Master, if you require a versatile, all in one hair clipper for bulk trimming, general fading, texturing and relentless performance.
Otherwise, go for the cordless Master which is less versatile due to limited motor power, but liberates you from power output reliability. Also, home groomers generally pick the cordless Master over the rest.
Finally, opt for the Fade Master for your skin fading, ultra close cutting, bald fading outputs, especially barbers who desire tighter blades with the lowest possible range.
FAQ
A couple of frequently asked questions concerning the Andis Master should give you some additional information about this magnificent clipping device!
Q: Can the Andis Master be ‘zero-gapped’?
Ans: Some groomers in my knowledge have manually zero-gapped the Master, almost down to #00000 length but I’ll advise against it. The blade in the Master is meant to retain the safety cushion for your own safety. If you really want that up-close performance, either consider buying the Fade Master or simply grab yourself the #00000 to #000 blade - it fits perfectly with the Master!
Q: Should home groomers consider the Andis Master? Or is it only for professionals?
Ans: Well, based on how robust the build is for the Master, its superior motor power and overall pre-requisite for grooming expertise, I’d have to say that the Master is mostly meant for professionals. If you’re an aspiring groomer and are quite serious about your hairdo and wish to learn further, Andis Master could serve you well. But mind you, you’ll at least require secondary level grooming expertise to safely handle this device.
Concluding Remarks
Let me give it to you straight - if you’re serious about your grooming operations, nothing can level-up your performance the way an Andis Master could do.
Be that tapering, fading or bulk hair removing, the Master’s pro-grade motor and equally sharp carbon-steel blades can work the magic you desire.
Its 5-deter adjustment lever is another hidden gem. Fixed taper positions give you greater control over your haircuts and mimic the identical results each time you work.
No tool is perfect, so is the Master with its flaws - but these are mostly subjective. As a whole, I’ll earnestly rank it among my top 3 in the entire industry!
2 comments
Hey Nafiur!
I’m looking to buy a new clipper, and one thing I felt that I liked with the andis master is that the lever open is longer than other clippers. Should the masters be zero-gapped or is the length out the box good to go? And would you recommend the master’s cordless or fast feed’s?
Dear Nick,
You should not zero-gap an Andis Master, and the reason is pretty simple.
Unlike some clippers where zero-gapping can make a big difference, the Master’s blade is already engineered to cut efficiently and cleanly at the factory setting.
Zero-gapping doesn’t actually make your cuts any closer or smoother for fades or tapers. Instead, it wears down your guards faster and increases the risk of nicking or cutting the client’s skin, especially on sensitive areas like the neckline or around the ears.
The Master’s blade is very sharp by default, and pushing it closer than intended just amplifies the risk without providing real benefits.
If your goal is to get the closest cut possible, the safer and more effective approach is to use the proper guard sizes, leverage the adjustable taper lever, and make multiple passes as needed. You can also blend with clipper-over-comb techniques instead of trying to force the blade closer. This preserves the lifespan of your blades and keeps the cut safer and more controlled.
As for choosing between the cordless Master and the Fast Feed, it really depends on your workflow. The cordless Master gives you freedom of movement without being tethered to a cord, which is handy for busy shops or home use in tight spaces. The Fast Feed is lighter and has the longer taper lever you mentioned, which makes fading and blending easier for detailed work, but you’ll always be plugged in.
Both models cut just as well, so it ultimately comes down to whether you value portability over slightly lighter handling.
Hope this helps your dilemma!
Best,
Nafiur