We’ve all been there – staring in the mirror after a rushed haircut, spotting those uneven lines or missed patches. That moment of frustration when your once-tidy look is anything but crisp. For anyone who values a clean appearance, whether it’s a sharp haircut, a well-defined beard, or precise sideburns, having the right tool at your fingertips is crucial. Without a reliable hair trimmer, maintaining your style becomes a constant struggle, potentially leading to costly salon visits or, worse, living with a less-than-ideal look.
- QUALITY TRIMMERS: Featuring overlap blades for crisp, clean lines and sharp edges trims hair, beard, sideburns, and mustache. All-in-one devise, suitable for all ages.
- CORD/CORDLESS: It is compact and lightweight for better flexibility, you can get consistent power with or without a wire, with cutting strokes per minute of 7,200 SPM.
- ADJUSTABLE BLADES: From fine to coarse size 000 to 1 with the upper blade, which features fast feed action and is more durable and stays sharper longer than other blades, providing smooth hair/beard...
Choosing Your Next Hair Trimmer: What to Look For
A quality hair trimmer is essential for anyone looking to take control of their grooming, whether for professional use or personal maintenance. These tools are designed to tackle everything from full haircuts and sharp fades to detailing beards and cleaning up necklines. The ideal customer is someone who values precision, durability, and versatility in their grooming instruments. This includes professional barbers and stylists who rely on their tools daily, as well as individuals who prefer to manage their own hair and beard styles at home.
However, not everyone needs a high-end, professional-grade trimmer. Someone who only occasionally trims a simple beard might find a basic, less expensive model sufficient. Similarly, if you require specialized detailing work exclusively, a dedicated T-blade trimmer might be a better primary tool, although many versatile clippers can handle some detailing too. Before buying, consider your primary needs: Do you need it for full haircuts, detailed work, or both? How important is corded vs. cordless operation? What kind of blade adjustment do you require (fixed guards vs. adjustable taper lever)? Battery life, motor power (measured in SPM – strokes per minute), weight, and the material of the blades are also critical factors to think about. A powerful motor ensures it can handle different hair types without snagging, while blade material impacts sharpness and longevity.
- Cordless Convenience – Color Pro Cordless is rechargeable and wireless. Cord/Cordless allows you to use the clipper on battery or when it's charging.
- Multi-Cut Hair Clipper - Heavy duty motor for exceptional power and no-snag cutting; features an adjustable taper lever for easy blending and fading. This results in a very strong audible hum, but is...
- Cordless Operation – The power of a corded hair clipper with the convenience of a cordless; to use simply plug the clipper into charge and unplug when ready to use with cordless convenience
Meet the Andis 12660 Master Cordless Clipper
The Andis 12660 Professional Master Corded/Cordless Hair Trimmer is presented as a top-tier grooming device designed for both professional barbershops and discerning home users. It promises crisp, clean lines and sharp edges for trimming hair, beards, sideburns, and mustaches. The core offering is a versatile, all-in-one tool suitable for various grooming tasks and hair types. When you purchase the Andis 12660, you get the clipper itself, a charging stand, a charging adapter, a blade cleaning brush, and blade oil.
Compared to older, corded versions of the legendary Andis Master, this model offers the significant advantage of cordless operation while aiming to retain the power and precision the line is known for. It targets professionals seeking freedom of movement and serious enthusiasts who demand salon-quality results at home. It might not be the best choice for someone looking for the lightest or quietest trimmer available, or for those on a very tight budget who only need occasional touch-ups. Its weight and professional-grade features make it better suited for consistent, demanding use rather than minimal tasks.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Provides corded or cordless operation for flexibility.
* Features a powerful motor delivering 7,200 SPM.
* Equipped with a highly adjustable carbon steel blade (size 000 to 1).
* Long-lasting rechargeable lithium-ion battery (up to 90 mins run time on a 1-hour charge).
* Designed for precise, crisp lines and sharp edges.
Cons:
* Can be heavier than some cordless clippers.
* Some users report issues with battery life consistency.
* Can generate noticeable noise compared to quieter models.
* Guards are not included, which is an additional purchase.
* Blade lever tension can feel stiff initially.
A Deep Dive into Performance and Design
Stepping into the world of professional-grade grooming tools can be a game-changer for achieving precise, clean styles at home or in a salon setting. The Andis 12660 Professional Master Corded/Cordless Hair Trimmer aims to bring that level of performance with the convenience of modern technology. Having used this trimmer for a significant time now, I can speak to how its features translate into real-world use.
Corded/Cordless Flexibility and Power
One of the headline features of the Andis 12660 is its dual corded/cordless capability. This might seem simple, but in practice, it offers tremendous flexibility. For detailed work, lining up necklines, or touching up a beard, the cordless function provides unrestricted movement, allowing you to angle the clipper exactly how you need to without a cord getting in the way. This freedom is particularly valuable in a busy environment or when working on hard-to-reach areas. However, if the battery is running low mid-cut, or if you simply prefer the consistent, uninterrupted power supply of a cord, you can plug it in and continue using it. The motor runs at 7,200 strokes per minute (SPM), which is a solid speed for professional-grade clippers. This power ensures that the blades move quickly enough to cut through various hair densities efficiently, reducing the chance of pulling or snagging, a common issue with underpowered tools. While some corded clippers might boast higher SPM, for a cordless model, 7,200 SPM provides a good balance of power and battery management. It feels robust in the hand and tackles bulk removal and detail work capably.
Adjustable Carbon Steel Blade
The blade is arguably the heart of any hair clipper, and the Andis 12660 comes equipped with an adjustable carbon steel blade. The adjustability is controlled by a taper lever on the side, allowing you to seamlessly move between blade sizes 000 (closest cut, roughly 0.5mm) and 1 (longer cut, roughly 2.4mm). This range is fundamental for fading, tapering, and setting lines before using guards. The carbon steel material is chosen for its durability and ability to hold a sharp edge longer than some other materials. Out of the box, the blade is sharp and capable of delivering clean cuts. Many users, particularly professionals, will immediately “zero-gap” this blade, adjusting it to cut even closer than the factory 000 setting for ultra-sharp lines and bald fades. While this requires careful handling to avoid nicks, the blade’s design allows for this common professional modification. The “fast feed action” refers to how quickly the blade moves through the hair, which, combined with the motor speed, contributes to a smooth cutting experience. Over time, like any blade, it requires cleaning and oiling to maintain performance, but the carbon steel holds up well to regular maintenance.
Battery Performance
The move to cordless means relying on battery technology, and the Andis 12660 uses a lithium-ion battery, known for its quick charging and consistent power delivery throughout the charge cycle. Andis claims up to 90 minutes of non-stop runtime on a 1-hour charge. In my experience, the actual run time can vary based on the type and thickness of hair being cut. While it generally delivers a good amount of power throughout a cut, getting a full 90 minutes consistently, especially on thick hair, isn’t always the case for every user based on feedback. However, the convenience of the 1-hour charge time is a major plus. Being able to quickly top up the battery between clients or uses is very practical. The included charging stand is also a nice touch, providing a convenient place to store and charge the clipper. The fact that you can plug it in and use it corded if the battery dies eliminates downtime, a critical factor for professionals.
Quality Trimmer Design and Versatility
Andis has a reputation for building durable, professional tools, and the Master Cordless largely continues this. The metal housing feels solid and built to last, although this contributes to its weight. The overlap blades are designed specifically for achieving crisp, clean lines and sharp edges, making this trimmer excellent for outlining and finishing work. Its versatility extends to various applications: full haircuts, beard sculpting, cleaning up sideburns, and detailing mustaches. It’s advertised as an “all-in-one device, suitable for all ages,” implying it can handle everything from a child’s haircut to an adult’s beard trim. While it excels at the tasks requiring precision and close cutting offered by its adjustable blade, remember that for longer cuts, you’ll need to purchase guide combs separately, as they are not included in the standard package. This is a common point of contention for users expecting a complete grooming kit out of the box.
Weight and Handling
Weighing in at around 2 pounds (though spec sheets sometimes list ounces, converting suggests it’s on the heavier side for a cordless clipper), the Andis 12660 feels substantial in the hand. This weight can be a pro or a con depending on your preference. Some users find the heft indicates quality and provides stability for precise work, while others, especially those doing extensive cuts or using it for prolonged periods, might find it tiring. For me, the weight feels balanced, contributing to a sense of control during use. Its dimensions (3.25 x 5 x 9.8 inches, though these often include packaging) are fairly standard for a full-sized clipper. The ergonomic design, while traditional, allows for a comfortable grip during most operations.
Included Accessories
The package includes the essentials to get started: the clipper, charging stand, charging adapter, a blade cleaning brush, and blade oil. The cleaning brush and oil are vital for maintaining the blade’s performance and lifespan. Regular cleaning and oiling prevent rust and ensure the blade moves smoothly. The charging stand is a convenient addition, keeping the clipper upright and ready to go. However, as mentioned, the lack of guide combs means you’ll need to invest in a set if you need to cut hair lengths longer than what the adjustable blade provides on its own.
Overall, the feature set of the Andis 12660 Master Cordless is geared towards delivering powerful, precise cuts with the added benefit of cordless operation. While it largely succeeds, potential buyers should be aware of the separate purchase required for guards and the weight, which might not suit everyone.
What Real Users Are Saying
Looking at feedback from others who have used this product reveals a mix of experiences, common with many popular grooming tools. Many users praise its cutting ability, noting its effectiveness for achieving sharp lines and close shaves, especially when the blade is zero-gapped. The build quality, with its metal housing, is often highlighted as feeling professional and durable. Some appreciate the flexibility of using it corded or cordless and the convenience of the charging stand.
However, several users have voiced significant concerns. Issues mentioned include inconsistent battery life, sometimes lasting much less than the advertised 90 minutes, and long recharge times. Some reports mention build quality issues right out of the box, such as misaligned blades or stiff adjustment levers, which is disappointing given the product’s professional positioning and price point. Noise level is also a frequent complaint, with some finding it louder than expected or compared to older models. A few users also expressed disappointment that guide combs are not included, requiring an extra purchase.
Final Thoughts: Is the Andis 12660 Right For You?
Dealing with unruly hair or a poorly maintained beard can chip away at your confidence. The need for precise lines and consistent results is paramount, and without the right tool, achieving that polished look becomes a constant battle with uneven cuts and missed spots. The complications range from simply looking unkempt to feeling unprofessional or self-conscious.
The Andis 12660 Professional Master Corded/Cordless Hair Trimmer stands out as a strong contender to solve these grooming challenges. Its powerful 7,200 SPM motor handles various hair types effectively, the adjustable carbon steel blade offers excellent precision for close work and fading, and the corded/cordless flexibility provides unmatched convenience. While it has some drawbacks like weight and the need to purchase guards separately, its core performance makes it a valuable tool for achieving sharp, professional-looking results. If you’re ready to elevate your grooming game, Click here to check the product out and see if it meets your needs.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API