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Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 Review
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 is a premium electric toothbrush with sonic technology, smart sensors, and app connectivity. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to see if it justifies the high price.
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The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 delivers exceptional cleaning with its sonic technology, multiple brush head options, and smart sensors that help improve brushing habits. The app provides detailed feedback, but the high cost and occasional connectivity issues may deter some buyers. It outperforms other DiamondClean models in features and rivals the Oral-B iO in smart capabilities, though Oral-B offers a different oscillating-rotating action.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Powerful yet gentle sonic cleaning action
- Multiple brush head options for personalized care
- Smart pressure sensor and brush head replacement reminder
- Comprehensive app with brushing feedback and progress tracking
- Long battery life (up to 3 weeks) with convenient charging glass
- Very high price point
- App connectivity can be unreliable
- Charging glass is bulky for travel
- Brush head replacement costs add up over time
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 sits at the top of Philips' electric toothbrush lineup, promising a superior clean through sonic technology and intelligent sensors. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to evaluate whether this premium model lives up to its reputation. With a price that rivals high-end competitors like the Oral-B iO, it demands a closer look.
Design and Build Quality
The DiamondClean Smart 9700 features a sleek, modern design with a slim handle available in several colors. The handle is made of high-quality plastic with a soft-touch finish that feels comfortable and secure in hand. The power button and mode selector are easy to reach, and the LED indicators are bright and clear. The charging glass is a stylish way to keep the toothbrush upright, though it takes up counter space. The included travel case is sturdy and can charge the toothbrush via USB, making it convenient for trips.
Performance and Cleaning Technology
Philips Sonicare's sonic technology generates up to 62,000 brush strokes per minute, creating a dynamic fluid action that drives toothpaste and water between teeth and along the gumline. In our analysis of user reviews, many report noticeably cleaner teeth and healthier gums after a few weeks. The four brushing modes (Clean, White+, Gum Health, Deep Clean+) allow customization, with Deep Clean+ extending brushing time for a more thorough session. The smart pressure sensor lights up if you brush too hard, and the brush head replacement reminder ensures you swap heads every 3 months.
Ease of Use
The toothbrush is straightforward to operate: press the power button to start, then cycle through modes. The SmartTimer and QuadPacer help you brush for the recommended 2 minutes, dividing the mouth into quadrants. The app provides a more detailed experience, tracking your brushing habits, coverage, and pressure. However, some users find the app setup finicky and the Bluetooth connection occasionally drops. The charging glass is easy to use but can be slippery if wet.
Cleaning Effectiveness
Based on thousands of buyer reviews, the DiamondClean Smart 9700 consistently removes plaque and improves gum health. The sonic action is gentle enough for sensitive teeth yet powerful for deep cleaning. The included brush heads target different needs: Premium Plaque Control for daily cleaning, Premium Gum Health for gentle gum care, and Premium White for stain removal. Users who switch from manual brushes often report fewer cavities and less bleeding. Compared to the DiamondClean 9000, the 9700's smart sensors add accountability.
Common Buyer Complaints
Despite high satisfaction, some complaints surface. The price is the most common drawback, with many feeling the smart features don't justify the premium over mid-range models. App connectivity issues are another frequent complaint: the app may fail to sync or crash, though Philips has released updates. The charging glass is not travel-friendly, and the USB case charges slowly. A few users note that the brush head replacement reminder can be overly sensitive, triggering early.
Comparison to Other DiamondClean Models
The DiamondClean Smart 9700 is essentially the flagship, adding smart sensors and app connectivity over the DiamondClean 9300 and 9000. The 9300 lacks pressure sensing and brush head replacement alerts, while the 9000 has fewer modes. If you don't need app feedback, the 9300 offers similar cleaning at a lower cost. The 9700 also includes more brush heads in the box, adding initial value.
Comparison to Oral-B iO Series 9
The Oral-B iO Series 9 is the main competitor, using oscillating-rotating technology with a magnetic drive. The iO has a more advanced pressure sensor with a color ring and a similar app. Sonic fans prefer the 9700's gentle vibration, while those who like a scrubbing sensation may prefer the iO. Both are excellent, but the 9700 offers more brush head variety, while the iO has a more intuitive app. Pricing is similar, so choice comes down to personal preference.
Value for Money
At its premium price, the DiamondClean Smart 9700 is an investment. The smart features can genuinely improve brushing habits, potentially saving on dental bills. However, the ongoing cost of replacement brush heads (about $10 each) adds up. For those who prioritize oral health and want the latest technology, it may be worth it. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the DiamondClean 9300 or even the Sonicare ProtectiveClean series.
Final Verdict
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 is a top-tier electric toothbrush that excels in cleaning performance and smart features. Its sonic technology is proven effective, and the app provides valuable feedback. While expensive and not without minor flaws, it remains a strong choice for those seeking the best. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.
Specs that matter
| Technology | Sonic (up to 62,000 brush strokes/min) |
| Modes | 4 modes: Clean, White+, Gum Health, Deep Clean+ |
| Smart sensors | Pressure sensor, brush head replacement sensor, SmartTimer, QuadPacer |
| Battery | Lithium-ion, 3-week life, 24-hour charge via glass or USB travel case |
| Included brush heads | 2 Premium Plaque Control, 1 Premium Gum Health, 1 Premium White |
| App compatibility | Philips Sonicare app (iOS/Android) with Bluetooth |
You want a top-of-the-line electric toothbrush with advanced smart features, multiple cleaning modes, and are willing to invest in your oral health.
You are on a budget, prefer a simpler toothbrush without app connectivity, or dislike the sonic brushing sensation.
Questions before you buy
How does the DiamondClean Smart 9700 compare to the DiamondClean 9300?
The 9700 adds smart sensors (pressure and brush head replacement) and app connectivity, while the 9300 lacks these features. Both have similar sonic technology and modes, but the 9700 offers more personalized feedback.
Is the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 better than Oral-B iO?
Both are premium. The 9700 uses sonic vibrations (side-to-side) while Oral-B iO uses oscillating-rotating (circular) action. The iO has a more advanced pressure sensor with visual ring, but the 9700 offers more brush head options. Choose based on preferred brushing motion.
How long does the battery last on the DiamondClean Smart 9700?
The battery lasts up to 3 weeks with regular use (2 minutes twice a day). It charges via a glass or a USB travel case, taking about 24 hours for a full charge.
Does the DiamondClean Smart 9700 come with a travel case?
Yes, it includes a premium USB travel case that can also charge the toothbrush. The case is compact but not as slim as some third-party options.
Can I use the Sonicare app without Bluetooth?
The app requires Bluetooth to sync brushing data. However, you can still use the toothbrush without the app; it will function normally with all modes and timers.