Philips Sonicare 4100 vs. 5100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023
Category: Adult Dentistry, Dr. Advocate's Insight, Product Review
By: Dr. Advocate
Updated: May 15, 2023
Welcome to our in-depth comparison of the Philips Sonicare 4100 and 5100 electric toothbrushes, two remarkable oral care tools designed to elevate your brushing experience.
This article will explore the key differences and similarities of these two advanced toothbrushes, highlighting their respective features, design, and performance.
As an experienced dentist with years of experience, I’ve had the opportunity to test and evaluate 200+ dental products. I strive to find the best tools for achieving excellent oral hygiene. So, after using them for multiple days, let’s take a closer look from a dentist’s perspective.
Recommended Reading: Philips Sonicare Buying Guide | The Ultimate Guide
Top 10 Rankings
- BURST Sonic Toothbrush Review 2023 + PROMO Code | 9.5/10
- Philips Sonicare 6100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.5/10
- Philips Sonicare 6500 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.5/10
- 7am2m Sonic Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.4/10
- Philips Sonicare 5300 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 9.4/10
- AquaSonic Black Series Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.3/10
- AquaSonic Vibe Series Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.3/10
- Philips Sonicare 5100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 9.3/10
- SNOW LED Whitening Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.2/10
- Philips Sonicare 2100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 9.1/10
5X Plaque Removal  | Microchip-Enabled  |
Description: Removes up to 5x-7x more plaque vs. a manual toothbrush Pressure sensor and two intensity settings protect sensitive gums from overbrushing 2-minute SmarTimer with QuadPacer ensures Dentist-recommended brushing time Brush head replacement reminder ensures your brush head is always effective Long battery life with battery light indicator: One charge last for 2 weeks Includes: 1 Philips Sonicare 4100 handle, 1 Optimal Plaque Control (C2) brush head, and 1 USB charger (wall adaptor not included) | Description: Improve your gum health up to 100% better than a manual toothbrush with the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 rechargeable electric toothbrush. Features a pressure sensor that protects teeth and gums from excess brushing pressure. BrushSync technology tracks how long you have been using your G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head and how hard you have been brushing. The electric toothbrush will beep to inform you when to replace your brush head. Customize your own brushing experience with your choice of 3 modes: Clean, White and Gum Care. Includes: 1 White ProtectiveClean 5100 handle, 1 G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, 1 white charger, 1 white travel case. Subscribe & Save on genuine Philips Sonicare brush head replacements and save up to 15%. |
Removes up to 5x-7x more plaque vs. a manual toothbrush
Pressure sensor and two intensity settings protect sensitive gums from overbrushing
2-minute SmarTimer with QuadPacer ensures Dentist-recommended brushing time
Brush head replacement reminder ensures your brush head is always effective
Long battery life with battery light indicator: One charge last for 2 weeks
Includes: 1 Philips Sonicare 4100 handle, 1 Optimal Plaque Control (C2) brush head, and 1 USB charger (wall adaptor not included)
Improve your gum health up to 100% better than a manual toothbrush with the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 rechargeable electric toothbrush.
Features a pressure sensor that protects teeth and gums from excess brushing pressure. BrushSync technology tracks how long you have been using your G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head and how hard you have been brushing.
The electric toothbrush will beep to inform you when to replace your brush head.
Customize your own brushing experience with your choice of 3 modes: Clean, White and Gum Care.
Includes: 1 White ProtectiveClean 5100 handle, 1 G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, 1 white charger, 1 white travel case. Subscribe & Save on genuine Philips Sonicare brush head replacements and save up to 15%.
Philips Sonicare 4100 Electric Toothbrush
Philips Sonicare 4100
The Philips Sonicare 4100 electric toothbrush is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient toothbrush with advanced Sonicare technology.
Featuring two brushing modes (clean & gentle), it ensures a thorough cleaning experience. Its slim, ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold and maneuver while brushing.
Equipped with Sonicare technology, the Sonicare 4100 removes up to 7 times more plaque than a manual toothbrush.
In addition, the 4100 electric toothbrush also includes a two-minute timer, ensuring that you brush for the dentist-recommended duration. A built-in QuadPacer prompts you to move to a different area of your mouth every 30 seconds, helping you achieve an even and thoroughly clean.
Furthermore, the toothbrush incorporates a pressure sensor, alerting you if you’re brushing too hard to protect your gums and teeth from potential damage.
The Sonicare 4100 has a C2 “Optimal Plaque Control” brush head, designed with high-quality bristles and a curved power tip to effectively remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas. The brush head is replaceable and should be changed every three months to maintain optimal performance.
In summary, the Philips Sonicare 4100 electric toothbrush is a dependable and efficient option, providing a thorough clean and user-friendly features, making it an excellent investment for your oral health.
Removes up to 5x-7x more plaque vs. a manual toothbrush
Pressure sensor and two intensity settings protect sensitive gums from overbrushing
2-minute SmarTimer with QuadPacer ensures Dentist-recommended brushing time
Brush head replacement reminder ensures your brush head is always effective
Long battery life with battery light indicator: One charge last for 2 weeks
Includes: 1 Philips Sonicare 4100 handle, 1 Optimal Plaque Control (C2) brush head, and 1 USB charger (wall adaptor not included)
Philips Sonicare 5100 Electric Toothbrush
Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100
The Philips Sonicare 5100 electric toothbrush is a great option for those desiring multiple brushing modes and advanced Sonicare technology. With three brushing modes and a slim, ergonomic handle, it is easy to hold and maneuver while brushing.
Using Sonicare technology, the Sonicare 5100 delivers a deep clean that removes up to 10 times more plaque than a manual toothbrush. The toothbrush also features a two-minute timer and a 30-second pacer, which reminds users to move to a different area of the mouth every 30 seconds.
In addition, the electric toothbrush features pressure sensor technology to notify you if you are brushing too hard.
The toothbrush comes with Sonicare’s G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, with specially designed bristles and a small-shaped brush head to remove irritating plaque around the gums. The brush head is replaceable and should be changed every three months.
Overall, the Philips Sonicare 5100 electric toothbrush is reliable and effective, providing deep clean and variable brushing modes.
Improve your gum health up to 100% better than a manual toothbrush with the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 rechargeable electric toothbrush.
Features a pressure sensor that protects teeth and gums from excess brushing pressure. BrushSync technology tracks how long you have been using your G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head and how hard you have been brushing.
The electric toothbrush will beep to inform you when to replace your brush head.
Customize your own brushing experience with your choice of 3 modes: Clean, White and Gum Care.
Includes: 1 White ProtectiveClean 5100 handle, 1 G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, 1 white charger, 1 white travel case. Subscribe & Save on genuine Philips Sonicare brush head replacements and save up to 15%.
Similar Innovative Features
C2 “Optimal Plaque Control” Brush Head
The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100 Electric Toothbrush and Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5300 Electric Toothbrush have innovative features that make them a top choice for individuals looking for an affordable and effective electric toothbrush. Here are some of the standout features:
- Advanced Sonic Technology: Philips Sonicare’s sonic technology pulses water between teeth, and brush strokes break up plaque and sweep it away for an exceptional daily clean.
- Long Battery Life: The Sonicare 5100 and 5300 have a long battery life, providing up to 14 days of regular use on a single charge. This ensures you can take your toothbrush with you on the go without worrying about running out of battery.
- High-Quality Bristles: Densely-packed, high-quality bristles remove up to 3x more plaque than a manual toothbrush. And the contoured bristles fit the shape of your teeth, so you can easily clean those hard-to-reach areas.
- Smartimer and Quadpacer: They have a 2-minute Smartimer that ensures you brush for the recommended time. Additionally, the Quadpacer feature alerts you every 30 seconds, so you know when to move to the next quadrant of your mouth.
- Easy-Start Technology: Both are programmed with Easy-Start technology, which gradually increases the intensity of the brushing action over the course of 14 brushing sessions. This feature helps users get used to the electric toothbrush and ensures a comfortable brushing experience.
- BrushSync Technology: The BrushSync technology tracks how long you’ve been using your brush head for, and how hard you’ve been brushing. The BrushSync replacement reminder on your handle and a short beep gives you a heads-up when it’s time to replace it.
Recommended Reading: Best Sonicare Replacement Brush Heads 2023 (Ultimate Guide)
Similar Effectiveness
G2 “Optimal Gum Care” Brush Head
After testing both toothbrushes for multiple days, I discovered that the Philips Sonicare 4100 and Philips Sonicare 5100 electric toothbrushes effectively eliminate plaque, particularly near the gum line.
While the Sonicare 5100 includes one G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, the Sonicare 4100 offers a powerful plaque control experience with its C2 Optimal Plaque Control brush head. Both brush heads effectively eradicate the plaque and deliver a deep clean.
Moreover, I was struck by the effectiveness of both toothbrushes’ bristles in removing food particles lodged between my teeth. The Sonicare 4100 and 5100 electric toothbrushes surpass the capabilities of an ordinary manual toothbrush, featuring robust motors, gentle cleansing, and a variety of attributes designed to boost oral health.
In summary, while the Sonicare 4100 and 5100 electric toothbrushes both serve as highly efficient tools for enhancing oral health, the Sonicare 5100’s multiple brushing modes and advanced features make it an ideal option for those seeking a tailored cleaning experience.
What’s the Difference Between 4100 & 5100?
The primary difference lies in the brushing modes and brush head options. The Sonicare 5100 offers three brushing modes, catering to a broader range of oral care needs and allowing for greater customization. In contrast, the Sonicare 4100 features two brushing modes, focusing primarily on optimal plaque control, making it suitable for users with fundamental oral care requirements.
Additionally, the brush heads provided by each model differ. The Sonicare 5100 comes with a G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, while the Sonicare 4100 features a C2 Optimal Plaque Control brush head, each designed to target specific aspects of oral hygiene.
Due to the added brushing modes and advanced brush head, the Sonicare 5100 typically comes with a higher price tag than the 4100 model.
When choosing between the two, consider your individual needs and preferences. If you desire multiple brushing modes and a specialized brush head for a more personalized cleaning experience, the 5100 may be the superior choice, despite the marginally higher cost. However, if you seek a more budget-friendly option that still offers exceptional oral care, the Sonicare 4100 remains a reliable choice.
Recommended Reading: Philips Sonicare 4100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023
Recommended Reading: Philips Sonicare 5100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023
Simple & Sleek Electric Toothbrushes
Philips Sonicare offers a variety of electric toothbrush options to cater to different preferences and needs. They have a kids’ electric toothbrush designed specifically for children, power flossers, premium electric toothbrushes and battery-powered toothbrushes.
Additionally, Sonicare offers various brush heads ranging from gentle to whitening and everything in between. Thousands of dentists trust Philips Sonicare globally and is a one-stop shop for all dental care needs.
For users interested in tracking their brushing habits, Quip’s smart toothbrush features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect to the Quip app and monitor your brushing patterns, duration, and frequency.
With Philip Sonicare’s diverse range of electric toothbrushes, you will surely find one that suits your lifestyle and oral care goals.
Philips Sonicare “has revolutionized the electric toothbrush and is the #1 dental professional recommended sonic toothbrush brand”. At Philips, their purpose is to improve people’s health and well-being through meaningful innovation. They offer many styles for kids and adults.
Also, there’s a wide range from simple battery-powered One Toothbrush to advanced Bluetooth pairing DiamondClean Toothbrush. The Kids Power Toothbrush offers a quality electric toothbrush at an affordable price. Also, it comes with fun, interchangeable stickers for kids to personalize their toothbrushes.
Removes up to 5x-7x more plaque vs. a manual toothbrush
Pressure sensor and two intensity settings protect sensitive gums from overbrushing
2-minute SmarTimer with QuadPacer ensures Dentist-recommended brushing time
Brush head replacement reminder ensures your brush head is always effective
Long battery life with battery light indicator: One charge last for 2 weeks
Includes: 1 Philips Sonicare 4100 handle, 1 Optimal Plaque Control (C2) brush head, and 1 USB charger (wall adaptor not included)
Gentle yet effective to whiten teeth in just 1 week vs. a manual toothbrush
Protect your teeth with a pressure sensor that gently pulses to alert you when you're brushing too hard
Always know when to replace your brush head for an effective clean with the brush head replacement reminder
Personalize your brushing experience with 3 intensities and 3 modes: Clean, White and Gum Care
2-minute timer with QuadPacer helps ensure Dental Professional recommended brushing time and a consistent clean throughout your mouth
Up to 150% more effective than floss for healthier gums
Unique Quad Stream creates four wide streams of water for a thorough clean between teeth and along the gum line
Waterproof and cordless with 14-day battery life for ultimate convenience
Pulse Wave Technology gently pulses water to guide from tooth to tooth so you don't miss a spot
Whisper quiet design engineered for a discreet clean so you get great results without disturbing others
Includes: 1 Cordless Power Flosser, 2 Nozzles (Quad Stream and Standard), 1 USB-C Charging Cable, 1 Wall Adapter
The Philips Sonicare C2 Optimal Plaque Control toothbrush head (formerly ProResults plaque control) is perfect for those who want to maintain optimal plaque removal as part of their everyday oral healthcare routine.
Genuine Philips Sonicare rechargeable electric toothbrush head compatible with all Philips Sonicare click-on rechargeable toothbrush handles
BrushSync mode-pairing & replacement reminders when used with a BrushSync compatible handle (DiamondClean Smart or ProtectiveClean)
Final Thoughts
The Philips Sonicare 4100 and 5100 electric toothbrushes effectively remove plaque and promote good oral hygiene. While the Sonicare 4100 comes with one C2 Optimal Plaque Control brush head, the Sonicare 5100 features one G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head. In addition, the 5100 boasts three brushing modes making it a more expensive option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sonicare 4100 and 5100 comes from personal preference and budget. While the Sonicare 5100 may be more expensive due to its additional brushing modes, both toothbrushes are excellent options for maintaining good oral hygiene and promoting healthy teeth and gums.
Electric Toothbrush Overall Rankings
- BURST Sonic Toothbrush Review 2023 + PROMO Code | 9.5/10
- Philips Sonicare 6100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.5/10
- Philips Sonicare 6500 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.5/10
- 7am2m Sonic Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.4/10
- Philips Sonicare 5300 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.4/10
- AquaSonic Black Series Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.3/10
- AquaSonic Vibe Series Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.3/10
- Philips Sonicare 5100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.3/10
- SNOW LED Whitening Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 9.2/10
- Philips Sonicare 2100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 9.1/10
- Philips Sonicare DailyClean 1100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 9.1/10
- Philips Sonicare 4100 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 9.0/10
- Bitvae S2 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 8.9/10
- Bitvae D2 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 8.8/10
- Bitvae R2 Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 8.5/10
- Quip Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 8.5/10
- Colgate Hum Electric Toothbrush Review 2023 | 7.5/10
The more you know, the more healthy habits you can develop, saving you and your family from avoidable and potentially expensive dental procedures. Talk to your dental professional for more suggestions on improving oral health and check back for more blog posts and relevant information. Please share this site and let us know what else you’d like to know!