Oral-B io Series 6 vs 5 Electric Toothbrush

20 min readSep 25, 2024

Discover the key differences between the Oral-B iO Series 6 and Series 5 electric toothbrushes. Find out which model offers superior gum care and brushing experience!

Oral-B io Series 5 vs 6 Electric Toothbrush: Which One is Better?

The Oral B iO Series 6 offers several advantages over the iO Series 5, primarily due to its enhanced display and additional features:

Enhanced Display: The iO 6 features a black and white display that provides more detailed information and feedback compared to the LED display on the iO 5. This includes real-time feedback on your brushing performance, a visual representation of your mouth, and a smiley face to indicate your overall brushing score.
Smarter Pressure Sensor: The iO six has a slightly more advanced pressure sensor that provides more precise feedback on your brushing pressure. This can help you protect your gums and ensure you’re brushing effectively.
Improved App Integration: The iO 6 offers enhanced app integration, providing more detailed insights into your brushing habits and personalized coaching.

Overall, the iO 6 is considered a premium model that offers a more advanced and personalized brushing experience. If you value these additional features and are willing to pay a premium, the iO 6 is the best choice. However, if you’re on a budget or don’t need all the bells and whistles, the iO 5 is still a solid option.

What are the Key Differences Between Oral-B io Series 5 and 6 Electric Toothbrushes?

The Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 are both high-quality electric toothbrushes with advanced features, but there are a few key differences between them:

Summary:

Oral-B iO 5: Offers a more affordable option with a basic LED display and real-time tracking.
Oral B iO 6: Provides a premium experience with a black and white display and additional features.

Overall, the Oral-B iO Series five is a good choice if you’re looking for a high-quality electric toothbrush with advanced features at a more affordable price. The iO 6 is a great option if you want the best of the best and are willing to pay a premium for additional features like the display and enhanced tracking.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the features you value, and any specific oral health concerns you may have.

How do the brush heads differ in the io series 5 vs io series 6?

The Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 use the same iO-specific brush heads. These brush heads are designed to work with the unique magnetic motor in the iO Series toothbrushes and are slightly deeper than traditional Oral-B brush heads.

Both the iO 5 and iO 6 come with a single Ultimate Clean brush head in the box. However, you can purchase additional brush heads in different styles, including:

Ultimate Clean: For a deep clean
Gentle Care: For sensitive gums and teeth
Precision Clean: For cleaning hard-to-reach areas
FlossAction: For cleaning between teeth

The choice of brush head will depend on your individual oral health needs and preferences.

What cleaning modes are available in each model?

The Oral-B iO 5 and 6 both offer 5 different cleaning modes:

Daily Clean: For general daily cleaning
Sensitive: For those with sensitive teeth and gums
Super Sensitive: For extra gentle cleaning
Whitening: Helps remove surface stains
Intense: For stubborn plaque removal

Both models also have a pressure sensor that helps prevent gum damage and a timer and pacer to ensure even brushing.

What are the battery life differences between the two models?

The Oral B iO Series five and six have similar battery life. Both models offer approximately 14+ days of use on a full charge. However, the actual battery life may vary depending on factors such as brushing frequency, duration, and intensity.

How Do the Features of the Oral-B io Series 5 and 6 Enhance Oral Health?

The Oral B iO five Series and 6 offer several features that can enhance your oral health, including:

1. Pressure Sensor: This feature helps prevent gum damage by alerting you if you’re brushing too hard. Brushing too hard can lead to receding gums and tooth sensitivity.

2. Timer and Pacer: The built-in timer and pacer ensure that you brush for the recommended two minutes and brush all areas of your mouth evenly. This helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

3. Round Brush Head: The round brush head is designed to reach deep between teeth and clean around the gum line. This helps remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to dental problems.

4. Cleaning Modes: Both models offer a variety of cleaning modes, including Daily Clean, Sensitive, Super Sensitive, Whitening, and Intense. This allows you to choose the appropriate mode for your specific oral health needs.

5. Real-time Tracking : The iO 6 offers real-time tracking through the app, which can help you identify areas of your mouth that you may be missing. This can help improve your brushing technique and prevent dental problems.

6. App Integration: Both models can be connected to the Oral-B app, which provides personalized coaching and feedback on your brushing habits. This can help you improve your oral health over time.

Overall, the features of the Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 can help you maintain good oral health by:

Preventing gum damage
Removing plaque and bacteria
Ensuring even brushing coverage
Improving your brushing technique
Providing personalized feedback and coaching

It’s important to note that while these features can be beneficial, they are not a substitute for regular dental checkups and cleanings.

What is the significance of the smart pressure sensor in the io series?

The smart pressure sensor in the Oral-B iO is a crucial feature that helps protect your gums and teeth from damage caused by brushing too hard. Here are some of the key benefits of this technology:

Prevents gum recession: Brushing too hard can lead to gum recession, which can expose the roots of your teeth and make them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. The smart pressure sensor alerts you when you’re applying excessive force, so you can adjust your brushing technique and avoid damaging your gums.
Reduces tooth sensitivity: Sensitive teeth can be caused by worn enamel or exposed tooth roots. By brushing too hard, you can further damage the enamel and increase tooth sensitivity. The smart pressure sensor helps you maintain a gentle brushing technique to protect your teeth from sensitivity.
Improves brushing technique: The smart pressure sensor provides real-time feedback on your brushing habits, helping you identify areas where you may be applying too much or too little pressure. This can help you improve your brushing technique and ensure that you’re cleaning your teeth effectively.
Enhances overall oral health: By protecting your gums and teeth from damage, the smart pressure sensor can help improve your overall oral health. This can reduce your risk of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Overall, the smart pressure sensor is a valuable feature that can help you maintain healthy gums and teeth. It’s a great addition to any electric toothbrush, especially if you have sensitive teeth or a history of gum problems.

How does Bluetooth connectivity improve tracking your brushing habits?

Bluetooth connectivity in electric toothbrushes like the Oral B iO Series provides several benefits for tracking your brushing habits:

Real-time tracking: The app can track your brushing time, pressure, and coverage in real-time, providing immediate feedback on your brushing technique.
Detailed analysis: The app can analyze your brushing data over time to identify areas where you may need to improve. This can help you develop better brushing habits and prevent dental problems.
Personalized coaching: The app can offer personalized coaching and tips based on your brushing data. This can help you improve your brushing technique and achieve optimal oral health.
Gamification: Some apps use gamification elements, such as rewards or challenges, to motivate you to brush your teeth regularly and effectively.
Data tracking: You can track your brushing progress over time and see how your brushing habits have improved.

Overall, Bluetooth connectivity enhances the tracking capabilities of electric toothbrushes by providing real-time feedback, personalized coaching, and data analysis. This can help you improve your brushing habits and maintain optimal oral health.

What role does the Oral-B app play in enhancing your brushing experience?

The Oral B app plays a significant role in enhancing your brushing experience by providing valuable insights and tracking your brushing habits. Here are some of the key benefits of using the Oral-B app:

1. Real-time tracking: The app can track your brushing time, pressure, and coverage in real-time, providing immediate feedback on your brushing technique.2. Detailed analysis: The app can analyze your brushing data over time to identify areas where you may need to improve. This can help you develop better brushing habits and prevent dental problems.3. Personalized coaching: The app can offer personalized coaching and tips based on your brushing data. This can help you improve your brushing technique and achieve optimal oral health.4. Gamification: Some apps use gamification elements, such as rewards or challenges, to motivate you to brush your teeth regularly and effectively.5. Data tracking: You can track your brushing progress over time and see how your brushing habits have improved.

Overall, the Oral-B app can help you improve your brushing technique, maintain optimal oral health, and make brushing more enjoyable.

Are There Any Notable Advantages of Using the Oral B io Series 6 Over the Series 5?

Yes, there are a few notable advantages of using the Oral-B iO Series 6 over the Series 5:

Enhanced Display: The iO six series features a more advanced black and white display that provides additional information and feedback compared to the LED display on the iO Series 5.
Smiley Face Feedback: The iO6 uses a smiley face to provide visual feedback on your brushing performance, making it easier to understand your brushing habits.
Smarter Pressure Sensor: The iO six has a slightly more advanced pressure sensor that can provide more detailed feedback on your brushing pressure.

While both the iO Series 5 and 6 are excellent electric toothbrushes, the additional features offered by the iO6 may be worth the extra cost for some users.

What improvements have been made in the io6?

The Oral B iO Series six has several improvements over previous models in the iO series:

Enhanced display: The iO six features a black and white display that provides more detailed information and feedback compared to the LED display on the iO five.
Smarter pressure sensor: The pressure sensor is slightly more advanced, providing more precise feedback on your brushing pressure.
Improved app integration: The iO6 offers enhanced app integration, providing more detailed insights into your brushing habits and personalized coaching.

Overall, the Oral-B iO Series 6 represents a refinement of the 5 iO, offering improved features and performance.

How does the design of the brush handle differ between models?

The Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 have a very similar handle design. Both models feature a rounded, ergonomic handle that is comfortable to hold and easy to manoeuvre.

Both models are designed to be easy to grip and hold, even when wet. The handles are also relatively compact and lightweight, making them easy to use and manoeuvre in your mouth.

What are the benefits of the travel case that comes with the io6?

The travel cases that come with the Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 are essentially the same. They both offer protection for your toothbrush and brush heads during travel.

However, there might be slight differences in design or materials, but these differences are not significant enough to impact the overall functionality or protection of the case.

Both cases are designed to be compact and portable, making them easy to pack in your luggage or carry with you on the go.

How Do Users Rate the Performance of the Oral-B io Series 5 and 6?

Both the Oral-B iO Series 5 and 6 have received positive user reviews for their performance. Users often praise their effective cleaning ability, comfortable brushing experience, and advanced features.

Here are some common themes found in user reviews:

Effective cleaning: Many users report that both models are highly effective at removing plaque and leaving their teeth feeling clean and fresh.
Comfortable brushing experience: The rounded brush head and gentle vibrations are often praised for providing a comfortable brushing experience.
Advanced features: Users appreciate the additional features offered by both models, such as the pressure sensor, timer and pacer, and multiple brushing modes.
Real-time tracking (iO 6): Users of the iO 6 often praise the real-time tracking feature, which provides valuable insights into their brushing habits.
Value for money: Some users find the iO 5 to be a good value option, while others believe the iO 6 is worth the extra cost for its additional features.

Overall, both the iO 5 and iO 6 are well-regarded by users for their performance and effectiveness. The choice between the two models often comes down to personal preference and budget.

What do reviews say about the effectiveness of the io brush?

User reviews for both the iO 5 & 6 are generally positive regarding their effectiveness in cleaning teeth and removing plaque. Many users report that both models have significantly improved their oral health and left their teeth feeling cleaner and fresher.

Here are some common themes found in user reviews:

Effective plaque removal: Both models are praised for their ability to remove plaque, even in hard-to-reach areas.
Improved gum health: Users often report that their gums have become healthier and less sensitive since using these toothbrushes.
Whiter teeth: Some users have noticed that their teeth have become whiter with regular use.
Enhanced brushing technique: The real-time tracking feature on the iO 6 has helped many users improve their brushing technique and achieve a more thorough clean.

While individual results may vary, it’s clear that both the iO 5 and iO 6 are highly effective electric toothbrushes that can help you maintain good oral health.

How do users feel about the timer feature in both models?

Users generally appreciate the timer feature in both of them The timer helps ensure that you brush your teeth for the recommended two minutes, which is important for effective plaque removal and gum health.

Here are some common themes found in user reviews regarding the timer feature:

Helpful for brushing longer: The timer encourages users to brush for the full two minutes, which can be beneficial for those who tend to brush too quickly.
Improved brushing coverage: The timer helps users ensure that they brush all areas of their mouth evenly, which can prevent cavities and gum disease.
Easy to understand: The timer is simple and easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy.

Overall, the timer feature is a valuable addition to both the iO 5 and iO 6, and it can help users improve their brushing habits and maintain good oral health.

What are the common user complaints for the io series 5 and 6?

Here are some common user complaints about them:

Expensive brush heads: The iO-specific brush heads are more expensive than traditional Oral B brush heads.
Limited battery life: Some users have reported that the battery life is shorter than advertised, especially if the toothbrush is used frequently or intensively.
App connectivity issues: Some users have experienced issues with the app, such as connectivity problems or glitches.
Complex user interface: Some users find the app interface and features to be complex or difficult to navigate.
Charging time: The charging time can be relatively long, taking up to 16 hours for a full charge.

Overall, while both models are generally well-regarded, these are some of the common complaints that users have expressed. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary.

Which Electric Toothbrush is Better for Gum Health: Oral-B io Series 5 or 6?

Both the Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 are excellent options for maintaining gum health. They both feature a pressure sensor to prevent gum damage, a timer and pacer to ensure proper brushing technique, and multiple cleaning modes, including a sensitive mode for those with sensitive gums.

Here’s a breakdown of the key features that can benefit gum health:

While both models offer similar features for gum health, the iO6 may have a slight edge due to its enhanced real-time tracking. This feature can help you identify areas of your mouth that you may be missing, allowing you to focus on brushing those areas more thoroughly and improving gum health.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual oral health needs and preferences. If you have particularly sensitive gums, you may want to consider the iO series six for its additional real-time tracking and slightly more advanced features. However, both models are effective at maintaining gum health when used as directed.

How do the brushing modes affect gum health?

The brushing modes in the 5 and 6 Oral B io series can both contribute to gum health, but the specific benefits may vary depending on your individual needs.

Here’s a breakdown of how the different brushing modes can affect gum health:

Daily Clean: This mode is suitable for most people and provides a thorough clean that can help prevent gum disease.
Sensitive: This mode is designed for people with sensitive gums. It uses a lower intensity setting to be gentler on the gums.
Super Sensitive: This mode is even gentler than the Sensitive mode and is ideal for those with very sensitive gums.
Whitening: This mode uses a slightly more abrasive setting to help remove surface stains and whiten teeth. While it can be beneficial for improving the appearance of your teeth, it’s important to use this mode in moderation to avoid damaging your gums.
Intense: This mode is designed for stubborn plaque removal. While it can be effective, it’s important to use it sparingly and avoid brushing too hard, as this can damage your gums.

Overall, both the iO 5 and iO 6 offer a range of brushing modes that can help you maintain good gum health. The key is to choose the mode that is appropriate for your individual needs and to brush gently to avoid damaging your gums.

What are the recommendations from dentists regarding these electric toothbrushes?

Dentists generally recommend electric toothbrushes, including the Oral-B iO Series 5 and 6, as they can be more effective at removing plaque and preventing gum disease than manual toothbrushes.

Here are some of the reasons why dentists recommend electric toothbrushes:

Improved plaque removal: They do remove more plaque than manual toothbrushes, which can help prevent cavities and gum disease.
Timer and pacer: Built-in timers and pacers encourage you to brush for the recommended two minutes and ensure even coverage, which can help prevent dental problems.
Pressure sensor: Some toothbrushes, like the iO B Series, have a pressure sensor that helps prevent gum damage by alerting you if you’re brushing too hard.
Multiple cleaning modes: They often offer a variety of cleaning modes to suit different oral health needs.
Easier to use: They can be easier to use for people with limited dexterity or mobility.

While They can be a valuable tool for maintaining oral health, it’s important to remember that they are not a substitute for regular dental checkups and cleanings. Dentists recommend seeing a dentist for professional cleanings every six months to maintain optimal oral health.

Where Can You Purchase Oral-B io Series 5 and 6 Electric Toothbrushes?

You can purchase Oral B iO Series 5 and 6 at various retailers, both online and in-store. Here are some popular options:

Online Retailers:

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4emnk5e
Oral-B Official Website: https://www.oralb.co.uk/en-gb
Currys: https://www.currys.co.uk/health-and-beauty/dental-care/electric-toothbrushes
Boots: https://www.boots.com/oral-b-io-6-black-lava-electric-toothbrush-designed-by-braun-10297733
Argos: https://www.argos.co.uk/product/9516715

In-Store Retailers:

Currys: https://www.currys.co.uk/health-and-beauty/dental-care/electric-toothbrushes
Boots: https://www.boots.com/oral-b-io-6-black-lava-electric-toothbrush-designed-by-braun-10297733
Argos: https://www.argos.co.uk/product/9516715
Supermarkets: Many supermarkets, such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco among others.

Are there any discounts or promotions available for these models?

Yes, there are often discounts and promotions available for the Oral-B iO Series 5 and 6, especially during major sales events like Prime Day and Black Friday.

Here are some tips for finding the best deals:

We do feature both Prime Day and Black Friday electric toothbrush deals by here on this site. Check our deals pages.
Sign up for email newsletters: Many retailers, including Oral B, offer exclusive discounts and promotions to their email subscribers.
Follow social media: Brands often announce sales and promotions on their social media channels.
Consider refurbished models: Refurbished OralB iO Series 5 and 6 toothbrushes can be a great way to save money, but be sure to check the seller’s return policy and warranty.

During Prime Day and Black Friday, you can often find significant discounts on the Oral-B iO 5 and 6. These sales events are a great opportunity to purchase these toothbrushes at a reduced price.

How do prices compare between the io series 5 and 6?

The Oral-B iO Series 6 typically costs more than the iO Series 5. This is due to the additional features offered by the iO 6, such as the enhanced display.

However, the exact price difference can vary depending on factors like sales, promotions, and retailer.

Is the iO series 5 vs 6 worth it?

Both models offer excellent cleaning performance and advanced features, but there are some key differences to consider:

iO5:

More affordable: Generally more budget-friendly compared to the iO 6 Series.
Basic LED display: Provides essential information like brushing mode and battery level.
Real-time tracking: Offers basic real-time tracking through the app.

iO 6 Series:

Enhanced display: Features a black and white display with additional information and feedback.
Smarter pressure sensor: Provides more precise feedback on your brushing pressure.

They both offer 5 cleaning modes each:

Daily Clean: This is the standard cleaning mode for everyday use.
Sensitive: For those with sensitive teeth and gums.
Super Sensitive: For those with extremely sensitive teeth and gums.
Whitening: Helps remove surface stains for a brighter smile.
Intense: Provides a deep clean for stubborn plaque.

These modes allow you to customize your brushing experience based on your individual oral health needs.

If you’re looking for a high-quality electric toothbrush with advanced features at a more affordable price, the iO 5 Series is a great option. However, if you want the best of the best and are willing to pay a premium for additional features like the display and enhanced tracking, the iO Series six is a great choice.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which model is right for you is to consider your budget, the features you value, and your specific oral health needs.

Is oral b iO 5 / 6 waterproof?

This means they can be used in the shower or rinsed under running water for easy cleaning.

However, it’s important to note that while they are water-resistant, they are not waterproof. This means they should not be submerged in water or used in a hot tub or pool.

How long does the iO series 5 battery last compared to io 6?

The Oral-B iO Series 5 and 6 both offer similar battery life, lasting approximately 14+ days on a full charge. However, the actual battery life may vary depending on factors such as brushing frequency, duration, and intensity.

Does Oral B iO 6 vs 5 have an app?

Yes, they both have a compatible app. The app provides real-time tracking of your brushing habits, personalized coaching, and other features to enhance your oral health routine.

How long does oral B iO5 take to charge compared to io 6?

Both io5 and 6 have a similar charging time of up to 16 hours. This means that it takes approximately 16 hours for the battery to fully charge from empty to full.

It’s important to note that the exact charging time may vary slightly depending on factors such as the age of the battery and the charging conditions. However, you can generally expect a full charge in around 16 hours for both models.

Warranty

They both come with a standard warranty of 2 years from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship.

However, you can extend your warranty to 3 years by registering your product online. This is a free service that you can easily complete on the Oral-B website.

To register your toothbrush, please visit the following link: https://www.oralb.co.uk/en-gb/oral-health/why-oral-b/faq/what-is-covered-in-my-oral-b-warranty

By registering your product, you’ll gain access to additional benefits, such as:

Personalized brushing tips: Receive personalized brushing tips and recommendations based on your individual brushing habits.
Exclusive offers and promotions: Get access to exclusive discounts and promotions on Oral B products and services.
Extended warranty coverage: Enjoy an additional year of warranty protection for your iO toothbrush.

The Oral B warranty starts on the day of purchase. This is typically indicated on your original sales receipt or proof of purchase.

If you have any questions about your specific warranty or need to make a claim, you can contact OralB customer service. They can provide you with more information and assistance.

io technology

The Oral B iO Series toothbrushes feature a unique combination of technologies that contribute to their effectiveness and user experience:

1. Magnetic Drive Technology: This innovative motor technology provides a smoother, quieter, and more gentle brushing experience compared to traditional electric toothbrushes.

2. Smart Pressure Sensor: This sensor detects excessive pressure and slows down the brush head to protect your gums and teeth from damage.

3. Micro-vibrations: These tiny vibrations help remove plaque and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas between teeth and around the gum line.

4. Round Brush Head: The round brush head is designed to clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the back sides and around the gum line.

5. Timer and Pacer: The built-in timer and pacer help you brush for the recommended two minutes and ensure even coverage of your teeth.

6. App Connectivity: The iO toothbrushes can connect to the Oral-B app, which provides real-time tracking of your brushing habits, personalized coaching, and other features.

7. Multiple Brushing Modes: The iO offers a variety of brushing modes to suit different oral health needs, including Daily Clean, Sensitive, Super Sensitive, Whitening, and Intense.

8. Rechargeable Battery: The iO’s have a rechargeable battery that provides long-lasting power.

Overall, the combination of these technologies makes the Oral-B iO toothbrushes a highly effective and enjoyable way to maintain good oral health.

6 Zones

6 zones typically refer to the six sections of the mouth that are tracked by some electric toothbrushes, including the Oral B iO six and five. These zones include:

Upper rear right
Upper front
Upper rear left
Lower rear right
Lower front
Lower rear left

By tracking these six zones, the toothbrush app can provide feedback on whether you are brushing all areas of your mouth evenly. This can help you improve your brushing technique and prevent dental problems.

Here’s a simple guide to brushing your teeth effectively:

Wet your toothbrush: Wet your toothbrush with warm water.
Apply toothpaste: Apply a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to your toothbrush.
Brush in small circles: Brush your teeth in small, circular motions. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and sides.
Spend time on each tooth: Spend about 30 seconds brushing each section of your mouth.
Brush your tongue: Gently brush your tongue to help remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Rinse your mouth: Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water.
Spit out the toothpaste: Don’t swallow the toothpaste.
Clean your toothbrush: Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with warm water and shake off any excess water.
Store your toothbrush: Store your toothbrush in an upright position to allow it to dry completely.

It’s recommended to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. If you have any concerns about your oral health, be sure to consult with your dentist.

In Summary:

The Oral-B io 5 and io 6 electric toothbrush models are part of the io range, offering smart features for improved brushing routine. Both feature a 2 minute timer and quadrant guidance.

Both io models can use the app for personalized guidance, adhering to P&G consumer health data privacy standards. They offer better gum health improvement compared to standard Oral-B electric toothbrushes, making them among the best electric toothbrushes available.

Affiliate Disclosure

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on certain links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured, this doesn’t affect my opinions or recommendations — I’m committed to providing honest, unbiased advice to help you make the best choice for your oral health.