The Philips Sonicare 1100 and Philips Sonicare 2100 Series are two of the most popular budget electric toothbrush options from the brand’s DailyClean range. These models offer essential sonic cleaning technology at a low price, but what are the key differences between the 1100 vs 2100 DailyClean toothbrushes? We break down the crucial specs, features, and pricing to help you decide which low-priced model is the better choice for your daily oral hygiene routine.
Last update on 2025-11-30 at 00:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Price & Quick Features Comparison
| Feature | Philips Sonicare 1100 | Philips Sonicare 2100 | Winner/Verdict |
| Intensity Settings | One (Standard) | Two (High & Low) | 2100 (More Options) |
| Pressure Sensor | No | No | Tie |
| Brush Strokes/Min | Up to 31,000 | Up to 31,000 | Tie |
| BrushSync Reminder | No (Uses standard C1 heads) | No (Uses standard C1 heads) | Tie |
| Battery Life | 14 Days | 14 Days | Tie |
| Charger | Corded Electric Charger | USB Charger (Adaptor not included) | Varies (Preference) |
| £32.99 | £36.99 | ||
| Check it out! | Check it out! |
Key Differences: Philips Sonicare 1100 vs 2100 Specs
What is the difference between Philips Sonicare 1100 and 2100?
The main difference between these two budget models comes down to brushing intensity and colour options. They share the same core sonic cleaning power and battery life, making the intensity setting the deciding factor for most buyers.
- Intensity Settings:
- Sonicare 2100 has two intensity settings (High and Low). This ability to vary brushing power is crucial for users with sensitive teeth or inflamed gums, allowing for a gentle yet effective clean.
- Sonicare 1100 has only one standard intensity/mode. This simplifies the experience but offers less flexibility.
- Colour:
- Sonicare 1100 comes in a White-Grey colour.
- Sonicare 2100 has a White Mint colour option.
- Price: The 1100 DailyClean is typically the cheaper model, though pricing is fluid and can change with sales.
Sonicare Range Explained: Is the Cleaning Action Really Different?
Is there really a difference between Sonicare models?
A common question is whether the basic models, like the 1100 and 2100, clean as well as the premium lines. The short answer is: Yes, they clean to the same high standard.
The core sonic cleaning action (up to 31,000 brush strokes per minute) and plaque removal effectiveness is largely identical across the entire 1000–4000 Series. The higher price tags on premium models buy you extra features like:
- Pressure Sensors (on the 3100 Series and up).
- Multiple Cleaning Modes (White, Gum Care, etc.).
- BrushSync Technology (for head replacement reminders).
- Bluetooth App connectivity.
For the vast majority of users, the 1100 and 2100 provide the fundamental, core cleaning performance needed for excellent oral hygiene.
Common Features: Sonicare 1100 and 2100 Similarities
Despite the slight difference in features, both models are built around Philips’ core technology:
- Sonic Technology: Both operate on the Sonicare technology that sweeps fluids through your teeth to dislodge plaque due to its rapid sonic revolutions.
- Battery Life: Both models feature a 14-day battery life after a full charge.
- Timer and Pacer: Both include a 2-minute SmarTimer and a 30-second QuadPacer to ensure you brush for the dentist-recommended time in all four quadrants of your mouth.
- Easy Start: Both feature the Easy-start program which gradually increases brushing power over the first 14 uses to ease new users into electric brushing.
- Brush Head Compatibility: Both use the standard click-on heads, such as the C1 SimplyClean head they are supplied with. Neither handle is BrushSync-enabled, so while you can use premium heads (like the W3 Premium White), the handle will not remind you when to replace them.
Philips Sonicare 1100 Review
The Philips Sonicare 1100 is simple to use and provides a reliable, complete clean of the tooth at a highly competitive price. It’s an excellent choice for first-time electric toothbrush users seeking simplicity.
1100 Series: Is it a Good Brush?
Yes, the 1100 is a very good entry-level brush. It provides the core Sonicare cleaning action with the essential timer and pacer functions. Its single-mode design is favored by users who want a simple, no-fuss experience. According to discussions on Reddit, this model is widely viewed as the best value option if you are on a strict budget and are confident you do not press too hard when brushing.
Pros
- Best Value: Highly competitively priced.
- Simple to Use: One standard cleaning mode for maximum simplicity.
- Slim Design: Ergonomic and easy to maintain.
Cons
- No Pressure Sensor: Does not warn you when you exert too much pressure.
- One Mode: Lacks the flexibility of a gentler mode.
Philips Sonicare 2100 Review
The Philips Sonicare 2100 Series takes the excellent cleaning performance of the 1100 and adds the critical feature of intensity control. Its lightweight, slim design makes it an attractive and user-friendly item.
2100 Series: Is it a Good Brush?
Yes, the 2100 is an outstanding budget brush that offers superior control. The addition of the two intensity settings makes it a popular choice, particularly for users making the switch from a manual brush who need a low-power mode to get accustomed to the sonic vibrations. It is a highly-rated model that offers great features without the unnecessary connectivity of premium brushes.
Pros
- Two Intensity Options: Choose between high and low power for sensitive teeth or gums.
- Timer and Pacer: Encourages the dentist-recommended brushing time.
- Slim Design: Lightweight and easy to hold.
Cons
- No Pressure Sensor: Still lacks the vital pressure warning feature.
- USB Charger: Includes a USB charger but no wall adaptor is provided.
Sonicare 1100 vs 2100 vs 3100: Should You Upgrade?
For a slightly higher price (UK prices for the 3100 Series often start around £40), the Sonicare 3100 Series introduces two essential features that neither the 1100 nor the 2100 possess:
- Pressure Sensor: The handle vibrates and changes sound to alert you when you are brushing too hard. This is the single most important feature for preventing long-term damage like gum recession.
- BrushSync Replacement Reminder: It tracks your brush head wear and tells you when to change it.
The consensus from users and dentists on Reddit is that the 3100 Series often provides the best balance of essential features and value due to the inclusion of the pressure sensor.
Final Verdict: Which is Better, the 1100 or 2100 Series?
Both the Sonicare 2100 and 1100 use core sonic technology for effective plaque removal, but the 2100 Series has the decisive feature advantage.
- The Best Value Pick (Cheapest):
- Philips Sonicare 1100. This is the model you should choose if your primary concern is securing the lowest price while still getting a certified, high-quality sonic clean with a timer.
- The Best Overall Pick (Features):
- Philips Sonicare 2100. The addition of the Two Intensity Settings makes it a worthwhile upgrade. This flexibility is essential for first-time users or those with sensitive teeth, as it allows you to easily switch to a gentler mode.
Decision Tip: If you tend to press hard when brushing, skip both of these models and consider the Sonicare 3100 Series to get the crucial built-in Pressure Sensor for better gum protection.
