Join ConsumerLoginDonate
  • Consumer NZ
  • About us
  • Consumer rights and advice
  • Subscribe to our newsletters
  • Media releases
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Community guidelines
  • Contact us
  • Membership
  • Join
  • Membership support
  • Consumer magazine
  • Consumer Advice Line
  • Top tests and reviews
  • Other sites
  • Campaigns
  • Stop misleading supermarket pricing
  • Fix the broken electricity market
  • Sign the flight rights petition
  • Stamp out scams
  • Right to repair
  • End greenwashing now

Follow us

© Copyright Consumer NZ. All rights reserved.

How we test electric toothbrushes

Look after your teeth and gums with an electric toothbrush.

May 2024
  • Compare (23)
  • Buying guide
  • How we test

Overall score breakdown

Performance 70%

Each toothbrush is tested by 20 people to see how well it removes plaque. To measure plaque levels, teeth are dyed with a solution and a dental hygienist measures the amount of plaque on the inside and outside of every tooth. The triallist then brushes their teeth for 2 minutes and the hygienist measures how much plaque is left. This sequence is repeated over several weeks.

Battery 15%

We see how many 2-minute brushes a fully charged battery gives. We leave a 12-hour gap between each brush, just like you would when you’re brushing twice a day. We also assess at how long it takes for a flat battery to fully recharge.

Ease of use 15%

For ease of use our 20 triallists consider how comfortable each brush is to use and hold, how easy it is to attach and remove the brush head, and recharge the brush, and how comprehensive the instructions are.

Was this page helpful?

More from Consumer

eco toothbrush

Eco toothbrushes

29 March 2019
Image of a freestanding oven in a kitchen

Freestanding ovens

Updated February 2026
Open fridge filled with food.

Fridges

Updated January 2026

Dishwashers

September 2025