The Oral-B electric toothbrush line is split between the powerful Pro series and the technologically advanced iO series. Understanding the core differences between models like the Pro 3 3000, 3500, and 3900 and the newer iO2 and iO3 is key to making the right choice for your oral health and budget.
Last update on 2026-01-08 at 12:31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Internal Comparison: Oral-B Pro 3 3000 vs 3500 vs 3900
The core performance of the Oral-B Pro 3 series is identical across all models. They all share the 3D Cleaning Action, the Visible 360° Gum Pressure Control, 3 cleaning modes (Daily Clean, Sensitive, Whitening), and a 14-20 day battery life.
The models differ only in their included accessories, bundle size, and resultant price point.
| Model | Latest Price | Handles Included | Best For |
| Pro 3 3000 | £50.95 | 1 handle, no travel case | Budget-conscious single user, minimal accessories. |
| Pro 3 3500 | £58.99 | 1 handle + a travel case | Single user who needs a travel case for portability. |
| Pro 3 3900 | £99.79 | 2 handles, No travel case | Cost-effective bundle for two users (couples/families). |
The Pro 3 3000, 3500, and 3900 differ primarily in accessory bundle, price, and handle count. The 3000 is the most basic and affordable single-brush option. The 3500 is the best option for travelling single users, as it is the only single model to include the essential hard travel case. The 3900 is the premium Duo Pack, designed for two users, including two handles and is the most economical choice for couples.
2. The Ultimate Showdown: Pro 3 vs. iO2 vs. iO3
The choice between the Pro 3 and the O series boils down to long-term costs versus the quality of the pressure sensor.
| Feature | Oral-B Pro 3 3000/3500 | Oral-B iO Series 2 (iO2) | Oral-B iO Series 3 (iO3) |
| Current Price (Deal) | £50.95 – £58.99 | £45.00 | £88.90 |
| Technology | 3D Cleaning Action (Louder Pulsations) | Magnetic iO (Quiet Micro-Vibrations) | Magnetic iO (Quiet Micro-Vibrations) |
| Pressure Sensor | Visible 360° Light Ring: Shows RED (Too Hard Only). | Basic LED (in Power Button): Shows RED (Too Hard Only). | Smart Sensor Light Ring: Shows GREEN (Optimal), RED (Too Hard), WHITE (Too Soft). |
| Battery Life (Approx.) | 14-20 Days | Up to 37 Days (Best Battery) | 14-17 Days |
| Refill Cost | CHEAPEST (Standard Oral-B Heads) | Highest (iO Specific Heads) | Highest (iO Specific Heads) |
Buying Recommendations
| Model | Recommendation | Why? |
| Oral-B Pro 3 | Best for Lowest Running Costs | The standard brush heads are significantly cheaper than the iO heads, providing the most savings over a 1-2 year period. |
| Oral-B iO Series 2 | Best Budget Premium & Battery Life | It is the cheapest option at £45.00 and offers the premium, quiet iO motor and the best battery life. |
| Oral-B iO Series 3 | Best Feature-for-Price & Guidance | For , it is the superior choice for cleaning technique. The Smart Sensor (Green/Red/White) provides the best feedback to ensure you apply the perfect, gum-safe pressure. |
3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the benefits of the Oral-B Pro 3 3500?
The Pro 3 3500 provides superior plaque removal using 3D Cleaning Action, features the essential 360° Red Light Pressure Control for gum protection, and includes a handy travel case, making it the best balance of features and accessories for a single travelling user in the Pro 3 line.
What is the Oral-B Pro 3 3500 pressure sensor?
The Oral-B Pro 3 3500 features the Visible 360° Gum Pressure Control. This safety mechanism illuminates a red light ring around the handle’s neck, simultaneously reducing the speed and stopping pulsations, ensuring you cannot damage your gums or enamel by brushing too hard.
What is the difference between Oral-B Pro 3 3000 and Oral-B Vitality?
The Pro 3 3000 is a major upgrade. The Vitality uses older 2D Cleaning Action (oscillations and rotations only), lacks a pressure sensor, and has a shorter NiMH battery life. The Pro 3 3000 features the superior 3D Cleaning Action}, the 360° pressure sensor, and a modern Lithium-Ion battery.
Is Oral-B Pro 3 3900 good?
Yes, the Pro 3 3900 is an excellent purchase. It is the Duo Pack that contains two full Pro 3 handles and multiple brush heads, making it the most cost-effective way to equip two people with all the Pro 3’s core features.
What is the difference between iO3 and Pro 3 3500?
The iO3 uses the quiet, smooth Magnetic iO Technology and features the highly advanced Green/Red/White Smart Pressure Sensor. The Pro 3 3500 uses the louder, powerful 3D Cleaning Action and has a basic Red light sensor. The iO3 is superior in user experience and guidance, while the Pro 3 is cheaper to run long-term.
How long does it take to charge Oral B Pro 3 3900?
All Pro 3 series toothbrushes use the same battery and charger, taking approximately 12 hours to fully charge. A full charge provides about 14-20 days of brushing.
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Dr. Tom Bell holds a doctorate in Medical Anthropology and is passionate about oral health. He is the creator of dentalrave and has dedicated over a decade to researching and promoting oral health. His goal is to offer trustworthy and free expert guidance on a diverse range of dental products, tips, methods, and topics, with the aim of making it easily accessible to everyone. It is hoped that this blog will assist you in identifying the appropriate methods and oral care products to enhance and maintain your dental health.