The Oral-B iO Series combines the unique oscillating-rotating motion with magnetic micro-vibrations for a professional clean feeling. While all iO models deliver exceptional cleaning performance, the differences among the various Series (iO6, iO7, iO8, iO9, and iO10) lie primarily in smart features, display type, charging speed, and included accessories.
The Oral-B iO Series 6 is the most feature-rich of the mid-range brushes. It offers five cleaning modes and provides excellent feedback via the Black & White Interactive Display, including the famous “Smiley Face” to reward a good clean, and relies on A.I. Brushing Recognition for 6-zone tracking through the app. Its main limitation is the slower, traditional charging time.
The leap to the iO Series 7 is defined by one core convenience feature: the Magnetic Fast Charger. This cuts the charging time dramatically, usually from 12+ hours down to approximately three hours. The iO 7 otherwise retains the 6-zone A.I. tracking and the Black & White Interactive Display of the iO 6, making it the best value for users prioritizing speed.
The iO Series 8 is the first true interface upgrade in the premium tier. It takes the iO 7’s fast charging technology and improves the aesthetics by introducing the Full Color Interactive Display. It also typically increases the mode count to six, but critically, it still uses the simpler 6-zone A.I. Brushing Recognition for tracking, meaning its primary value is in the visual experience.
The iO Series 9 represents the major technological leap. It maintains the fast charging and color display of the iO 8, but introduces two powerful upgrades: 7 Brushing Modes (adding the specialized Tongue Clean and Super Sensitive modes) and, more importantly, 3D Teeth Tracking. This feature tracks 16 individual tooth surfaces instead of just 6 zones, providing the most detailed and precise coaching available via the app. Furthermore, the iO 9 includes the Rechargeable Travel Case, allowing the brush to be powered on the go via a USB connection.
Finally, the flagship iO Series 10 has a handle that is technically almost identical to the iO 9, featuring the 7 modes, 3D tracking, and the Color Display. Its entire justification for the price premium lies in the included iO Sense Smart Charging Dock. This innovative dock gives you real-time visual guidance on pressure and coverage via illuminated segments right on the base of the charger, allowing for a fully coached clean without needing to open the smartphone app at all.
Last update on 2026-02-13 at 14:58 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Oral-B iO Comparison Chart (iO5 through iO10)
Use this comprehensive guide and comparison table to find the perfect iO brush for your needs and budget.
| Feature | iO5 (Budget Entry) | iO6 (Value Pick) | iO7 (Fast Charge) | iO8 (Color Upgrade) | iO9 (Flagship Tracking) | iO10 (Ultimate Guidance) |
| Cleaning Modes | 5 Modes | 5 Modes | 5 Modes | 6 Modes | 7 Modes | 7 Modes |
| Display Type | Basic LED (Icon-based) | Black & White OLED | Black & White OLED | Full Color OLED | Full Color OLED | Full Color OLED |
| Fast Charging | No (12-16 hours) | No (12-16 hours) | Yes (3 hours) | Yes (3 hours) | Yes (3 hours) | Yes (3 hours) |
| Real-Time Tracking | 6-Zone AI Tracking | 6-Zone AI Tracking | 6-Zone AI Tracking | 6-Zone AI Tracking | 3D / 16-Zone Tracking | 3D / 16-Zone Tracking |
| Travel Case | Standard Carry Case | Standard Carry Case | Standard Carry Case | Standard Carry Case | Power2Go Charging Case | Power2Go Charging Case |
| Unique Feature | Entry-Level Price | Black & White Display | 3-Hour Magnetic Charging | Color Display | 16-Zone Tracking | iO Sense Smart Dock |
| Price not available | Price not available | Price not available | Price not available | £224.10 | Price not available | |
| Check it out | Check it out | Check it out | Check it out | Check it out | Check it out |
Core Similarities: What Every iO Model Shares
The cleaning technology is largely identical across the series (iO6-iO10). Choosing a higher model is mainly about enhanced features and coaching, not a better core clean. All models feature:
- iO Magnetic Drive: The combination of the round, dentist-inspired head and frictionless micro-vibrations.
- Smart Pressure Sensor: Illuminates Green when pressure is perfect, Red when too hard, and White when too light.
- App Connectivity: All models connect via Bluetooth to the Oral-B app for coaching and logging.
- Quiet Operation: A smooth motor that is significantly quieter than previous Oral-B models.
iO6 vs iO7 Series
The primary upgrade from the Series 6 to the 7 is the addition of magnetic fast charging.
| iO6 (Value Pick) | iO7 (Fast Charge Entry) |
| Charging: Takes 12-16 hours (uses the older charging stand). | Charging: Takes just 3 hours (uses the magnetic charging stand). |
| Tracking: Standard 6-Zone AI Tracking. | Tracking: Standard 6-Zone AI Tracking. |
| Modes: 5 Cleaning Modes. | Modes: 5 Cleaning Modes. |
iO7 vs iO8 Series
The step-up to the iO8 brings more customization and a more engaging display.
| iO7 (Entry Premium) | iO8 (Color Upgrade) |
| Display: Black & White Interactive Display. | Display: Full Color OLED Interactive Display. |
| Modes: 5 Cleaning Modes (Missing Super Sensitive). | Modes: 6 Cleaning Modes (Adds Super Sensitive mode). |
| Heads: 2 Brush Heads included. | Heads: 3 Brush Heads included. |
iO8 vs iO9 Series
The iO9 is the biggest leap in intelligent tracking and premium travel features.
| iO8 (Color Display) | iO9 (Flagship Tracking) |
| Tracking: Standard 6-Zone AI Tracking. | Tracking: 3D/16-Zone Tracking (Tracks inner, outer, and biting surfaces of every tooth for precision). |
| Modes: 6 Cleaning Modes (Missing Tongue Clean). | Modes: 7 Cleaning Modes (Adds Tongue Clean mode). |
| Travel Case: Standard Carry Case (No charging). | Travel Case: Power2Go Charging Case (Charges the handle while traveling). |
iO9 vs iO10 Series
The iO10 is the ultimate evolution, moving the coaching off the phone and onto the charger itself.
| iO9 (Flagship) | iO10 (Ultimate Guidance) |
| Guidance: Real-time guidance via smartphone app required. | Guidance: Real-time guidance via iO Sense Smart Charging Dock (Shows coverage/time directly on the dock). |
| Charger: Magnetic Click Charger. | Charger: iO Sense Smart Charging Dock (Interactive dock). |
Detailed Step-Up Comparisons
| Comparison | Key Difference | Winner |
| iO6 vs iO7 | Charging Speed (12-16 hours vs. 3 hours Fast Magnetic Charging) | iO7 |
| iO7 vs iO8 | Display (Black & White vs. Full Color) and 1 Extra Mode (Super Sensitive) | iO8 |
| iO8 vs iO9 | Tracking (6-Zone vs. 3D/16-Zone) and Charging Travel Case | iO9 |
Flagship Showdown: Oral-B iO Series 9 vs. Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige
When comparing the top-tier models from the two biggest names in oral care—the Oral-B iO Series 9 and the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9900 Prestige—the decision boils down to your preference for brushing technology and the style of smart feedback. Both offer a stellar clean, but they achieve it in fundamentally different ways.
The table below provides a quick comparison, followed by a detailed breakdown.
Comparison Chart: iO 9 vs. Sonicare 9900 Prestige
| Feature | Oral-B iO Series 9 (Plaque Removal Focus) | Sonicare 9900 Prestige (Gum & Stain Focus) |
| Cleaning Technology | Oscillating-Rotating with Magnetic Micro-Vibrations | Sonic Vibration (62,000 movements/min) |
| Brush Head Shape | Small, Round | Traditional, Elongated |
| Brushing Modes | 7 Modes (e.g., Clean, Intense, Tongue Clean) | 5 Modes (e.g., Clean, White+, Gum Health) |
| Real-Time Tracking | 3D / 16-Zone AI Tracking (Most granular detail) | SenseIQ Technology (Adapts intensity/pressure) |
| On-Handle Display | Full Color OLED Display (Mode/Time/Feedback) | None (Minimalist design) |
| Pressure Sensor | Visible LED Light Ring (Red/White/Green) | Vibration of the handle |
| Fast Charging | Yes (Magnetic Fast Charge, ~3 hours) | No (Standard Charge, ~16 hours) |
| Travel Case | Power2Go Charging Case (Charges the handle) | Premium Leatherette Case (USB-C Charging) |
| App Guidance | More interactive/gamified (Great for tracking surfaces) | More minimalist/educational (Finer control over modes) |
Key Differences Explained
The Oral-B iO Series 9 and the Sonicare 9900 Prestige differ primarily in brushing technology, display, and charging speed.
1. Technology and Cleaning Action
- Oral-B iO 9: Uses the traditional, dentist-inspired small, round oscillating-rotating head combined with magnetic micro-vibrations. This approach is clinically proven to cup and clean each tooth individually, making it a strong choice for plaque removal.
- Sonicare 9900 Prestige: Uses high-speed sonic vibrations with a traditional, elongated brush head. This creates fluid dynamics, pushing foam and saliva into interdental spaces. It is often cited as being excellent for gum health and stain removal (up to 100% more stains than a manual brush).
2. Design and User Interface
- The iO 9 is highly interactive. It features a Full-Color OLED display right on the handle, allowing you to easily view and select from 7 brushing modes, see your session time, and get a happy/sad face emoji for feedback—all without opening your phone app.
- The 9900 Prestige is minimalist and stylish. It has no screen on the handle, giving it a sleeker, more unified look. All 5 brushing modes must be selected using the smartphone app. This provides an elevated, discreet aesthetic.
3. Smart Tracking and Feedback
- Oral-B iO 9: Excels in coverage tracking. Its 3D/16-zone tracking uses AI to monitor all 16 surfaces in your mouth, providing the most granular detail on where you’ve missed.
- Sonicare 9900 Prestige (SenseIQ): Excels in adaptive pressure. Its SenseIQ technology automatically senses and adjusts the cleaning intensity if you are scrubbing too hard, reducing the need for manual intervention. The pressure sensor alerts you by vibrating the handle, whereas the iO 9 uses a highly visible light ring.
4. Charging and Accessories
- Charging Speed: The iO 9 features 3-hour magnetic fast charging on its standard base. The 9900 Prestige uses a USB-C charging base, but its charge time is significantly slower, taking up to 16 hours for a full charge.
- Battery Life: While both claim two weeks, the Sonicare 9900 Prestige is often reported to last longer on a single charge.
- Travel Case: The iO 9 includes a practical Power2Go Charging Travel Case, while the 9900 Prestige includes a premium leatherette travel case that can also charge the brush, but features a sleeker, slimmer USB-C design.
The Verdict: Which Flagship is Right for You?
- Choose the Oral-B iO Series 9 if:
- You want the most detailed, granular real-time feedback via 16-zone tracking.
- You prefer the small, round brush head for cleaning each tooth individually.
- You want an on-handle color screen to change modes and get feedback without your phone.
- You value 3-hour fast charging.
- Choose the Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige if:
- You prioritize gum health and stain removal with the high-speed sonic action.
- You prefer a sleek, minimalist handle design with no screen.
- You need the SenseIQ adaptive technology that automatically adjusts intensity if you brush too hard.
- You prefer a slimmer travel case and a longer battery life between charges.
The Ultimate Showdown: Oral-B iO Series 10 vs. Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige
The Oral-B iO Series 10 and the Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige represent the absolute pinnacle of electric toothbrush technology. The core difference between these two top-of-the-line models lies in how they deliver smart guidance and their fundamental cleaning mechanics.
| Feature | Oral-B iO Series 10 (Ultimate Guidance) | Sonicare 9900 Prestige (Adaptive Intelligence) |
| Current UK Deal Price | £280.00 – £369.00 (RRP: £800.00) | £179.99 – £199.99 (RRP: £549.99) |
| Cleaning Technology | Oscillating-Rotating with Magnetic Micro-Vibrations | Sonic Vibration (Up to 62,000 movements/min) |
| Real-Time Guidance | iO Sense Smart Charging Dock (Shows coverage/time on the dock) | SenseIQ Technology (Adapts intensity/pressure on the handle) |
| Tracking | 3D / 16-Zone AI Tracking (Most granular coverage detail) | Advanced AI (Focus on position, scrubbing, and pressure) |
| Display | Full Color OLED Display on Handle | None (Minimalist, elegant design) |
| Battery Life (Reported) | Claimed 2 Weeks (Actual use around 2 weeks) | Claimed 2 Weeks (Actual use around 4 weeks) |
| Fast Charging | Yes (Magnetic Fast Charge, 3 hours) | No (Standard Charge, up to 16 hours) |
| Travel Case | Power2Go Charging Case | Slim Leatherette Case (USB-C Charging) |
Key Differences Explained
The Oral-B iO Series 10 and the Sonicare 9900 Prestige differ primarily in the delivery of smart features, convenience, and battery performance.
1. Smart Guidance Delivery
The primary distinction is the iO Sense Dock. The iO 10 places the coverage, time, and pressure guidance directly on its magnetic charging base. This means you get a live map and feedback without needing to bring your smartphone into the bathroom and keep the app open. The 9900 Prestige requires you to use the app on your phone for full tracking feedback, though its SenseIQ feature is unique in automatically adapting the brush’s intensity when it detects too much pressure or scrubbing.
2. Charging and Battery
The iO 10 offers superior charging speed with a full 3-hour magnetic fast charge. The 9900 Prestige takes significantly longer to charge (up to 16 hours). However, the 9900 Prestige offers superior battery endurance, with many users reporting up to four weeks of use on a single charge compared to the iO 10’s two weeks. For frequent, long-duration travelers, this battery life may be a decisive factor.
3. Design and Aesthetics
The iO 10 retains the full-color OLED display on the handle, giving the user immediate, interactive feedback. The 9900 Prestige maintains a more minimalist, elegant design with no screen on the handle, relying on a hidden touch-sensitive button and a premium finish. It is also generally reported to be quieter than the Oral-B iO series.
The Verdict: Which Ultimate Flagship is Right for You?
The choice between these two pinnacle models is a choice between maximum interactive data (iO10) and quiet, adaptive endurance (Prestige).
- Choose the Oral-B iO Series 10 if:
- You prioritize real-time guidance and want to be coached on coverage without needing your smartphone open.
- You demand the convenience of 3-hour magnetic fast charging.
- You prefer the small, round brush head for an intense, individual tooth clean.
- Choose the Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige if:
- You prioritize battery life and quiet operation, favoring the four-week charge and sonic cleaning.
- You want the brush to automatically adapt its intensity to protect your gums (SenseIQ).
- You prefer a sleek, minimalist handle design with a superior USB-C charging travel case.
- You are looking for the best value in a top-tier model, as the current sale prices for the Prestige are lower.
FAQ
Q: Oral-B iO 5 vs 6 vs 7 (The Mid-Range Battle)
This comparison highlights the biggest leap from the iO6 to the iO7: Charging Speed.
- iO5 vs iO6: The iO6 has a better Black & White OLED display for detailed feedback (vs. the iO5’s basic LED icon-based display). Both have 5 modes and the slow charging time.
- iO6 vs iO7: The iO7’s main upgrade is the 3-hour Magnetic Fast Charging (vs. 12-16 hours for the iO6/iO5). The display and modes are otherwise the same.
Q: Oral-B iO Series 7 vs 8
The iO8 introduces the visual and customization upgrades over the iO7:
- Display: The iO8 features a Full-Color OLED display (vs. the iO7’s Black & White display).
- Modes: The iO8 has 6 cleaning modes (adding the Super Sensitive mode) compared to the iO7’s 5 modes.
- Charging/Tracking: Both share the 3-hour fast charging and 6-zone tracking.
Q: Oral-B iO 8 vs 9 vs 10
These are the premium, flagship models, defined by tracking and ultimate features:
- iO8 to iO9: Upgrade from 6-zone tracking to 3D/16-zone tracking, 6 modes to 7 modes (adding Tongue Clean), and the addition of the Power2Go Charging Travel Case.
- iO9 to iO10: The iO10 adds the iO Sense Smart Charging Dock, which provides real-time guidance (coverage, time, pressure) directly through the base, eliminating the need to use the smartphone app during brushing.
Q: Oral-B Pro comparison chart
The Oral-B Pro line uses the older technology, which is fundamentally different from the iO line:
- iO Series: Uses the Frictionless Magnetic Drive for quiet operation, micro-vibrations, 3-hour fast charging (iO7+), and a smart display.
- Pro/Genius Series: Uses the older 3D Cleaning Action (oscillating, rotating, and pulsating), which is louder, generally has longer charge times (12+ hours), and relies on the 360 SmartRing LED light for pressure sensing instead of an on-handle display.
Q: What is the difference between Oral-B iO Series 6 and 9?
This is the largest feature jump in the line:
- Charging: iO6 takes 12-16 hours to charge; iO9 takes only 3 hours.
- Tracking: iO6 has basic 6-zone AI tracking; iO9 has the advanced 3D/16-zone tracking.
- Modes: iO6 has 5 modes; iO9 has 7 modes (adding Super Sensitive and Tongue Clean).
- Accessories: iO9 includes a Power2Go Charging Travel Case and more brush heads.
Q: What is the difference between Oral-B iO 7 and 9?
The iO9 is superior across all premium metrics:
- Display: iO7 has a Black & White display; iO9 has a Full Color display.
- Tracking: iO7 has basic 6-zone AI tracking; iO9 has the advanced 3D/16-zone tracking.
- Modes: iO7 has 5 modes; iO9 has 7 modes.
- Travel Case: iO9 includes a Power2Go Charging Travel Case (iO7 does not).
Q: What is the difference between Oral B iO7 and iO8?
The iO8 is the first model to feature the most engaging visuals:
- Display: iO7 has a Black & White display; iO8 has a Full Color display.
- Modes: iO7 has 5 modes; iO8 has 6 modes (adding the Super Sensitive setting).
- Tracking and Charging: Both feature the 3-hour fast charging and the 6-zone AI tracking.
The Verdict: Which Oral-B iO Series is Right for You?
- Best Budget iO: Choose the Series 5/6 if… You want the core iO cleaning technology at the lowest cost and are fine with the 12-16 hour charge time. (Choose iO6 for the better Black & White display).
- Best Value iO: Choose the Series 7 if… You prioritize the convenience of 3-hour Magnetic Fast Charging over a color display or advanced modes.
- Best Mid-Range: Choose the Series 8 if… You want the Full-Color display and more cleaning options (6 modes), but you don’t track your brushing on the app religiously.
- Best Overall Flagship: Choose the Series 9 if… You want the most detailed coaching via 16-zone 3D tracking and the ultimate convenience of the Power2Go charging travel case for travel.
