Beard Trimmer Lengths: The Beard Length Chart and Guard Number Guide

Beards. Those majestic symbols of masculinity, nature's cosy balaclava, the facial equivalent of a bear hug, and a timeless testament to both rugged individualism and refined gentility.

Here at Mission, we adore beards – and we recognise that the passage from a freshly-shaven greenhorn to a fully-bearded virtuoso is not just an adventure – it's a rite of passage.

Today, we're plunging whisker-first into the world of beard trimmers and, more specifically, those pointy guards that accompany your trimmer.

Often relegated to the corners of your carry case, these humble accessories can become a crucial part of your grooming ritual. You probably already have some questions.

What are they?

Why do they come in a variety of shapes and sizes?

How on earth are you supposed to know which one to choose?

How do you use them?

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

Selecting the ideal beard trimmer length might seem as straightforward as picking between a lager and stout on a lazy Sunday afternoon (which, let's be honest, can be a conundrum in its own right).

It's actually an artful science that takes into account your beard growth, facial structure, the density of your beard, your personal style, and so much more.

So let’s jump into this beard-length trimmer guide and discover their secrets. Along the way, our founder Alex shares exactly how he keeps his own beard in shape. (Spoiler: he leaves the big trim to his barber.)

Growing a beard is a labour of love, like brewing your own beer or hand-crafting a wooden table. It's personal, it's time-consuming, and it needs constant care and attention.

One of the most essential components of beard grooming is understanding beard trimmer lengths. Much like a master sculptor choosing their tools to carve out a masterpiece, choosing the right trimmer length is key to chiselling out your desired beard style.

Let's delve into the vast world of trimmer lengths that range from a short and subtle 0.5mm to a long and full 20mm.

Now, before we dive in, it's important to clarify that when we talk about trimmer lengths, we're referring to the actual length of hair that will remain after you’ve run the trimmer across your face.

These lengths do not represent the length of the trimmer guard itself.

Short on time? Here's the whole scale at a glance. Each length is the hair left behind once the trimmer has done its thing.

This length is perfect for the well-known 'five o'clock shadow'. This length gives you that 'I just missed a day of shaving' look, which might make you appear like a rogue detective in a crime thriller or a moody artist contemplating his next masterpiece.

Moving up the scale, this range takes you from designer stubble to the classic short beard. It's short enough to keep you looking neat and tidy but long enough to firmly state, "Yes, this is a deliberate beard, not a shaving oversight." A well-maintained short beard can give your face a sharp, defined appearance.

Now we enter short to medium beard territory. This is a perfect choice for those who want to showcase a more profound commitment to their beard journey. With a bit more length, you can start to experiment with different styles and shapes.

It’s a tad more rugged than the short beard, yet it maintains a level of tidiness that makes it versatile for both a casual outing and a business meeting.

Lastly, we have the 10mm to 20mm range, the land of the full beard. This is where you start to venture into 'epic beard' territory.

Be warned, though – with great beard length comes great responsibility. A long beard requires regular grooming to keep it looking more 'lumberjack' and less like a '5-month adventure in the Amazon'. A well-maintained long beard can command attention and exude an aura of gravitas.

Go much past 20mm and you're beyond what most beard trimmers are built for, so from there it's scissors, a comb and a good barber.

Take a close look at a set of clipper guards and you'll notice most of them don't show a length at all. Instead, each one comes with its own number.

The good news? Clipper guards follow a fairly standard scale, and it started life in inches, which explains all the fractions. Here's how the numbers translate:

A couple of things to watch for. Guard sets vary a little from brand to brand, so if a length is printed on the guard, trust that over the number.

And most dedicated beard trimmers, Philips and Braun included, don't use guard numbers at all. The length is marked in millimetres on an adjustable comb or dial, so you simply pick your length from the beard length chart above and dial it in.

For more on the guards themselves, check out our guide to beard trimmer guards.

Shopping for a trimmer? You'll see specs like "trimming range: 0.5–10mm" on the box. Those two numbers are simply the shortest and longest length of hair the trimmer can leave behind.

The first number is the closest it'll cut, usually with the comb removed or set to its lowest position. So 0.5mm gives you close stubble, not a smooth shave. The second number is the longest comb setting. A 0.5–10mm trimmer will take you from stubble to a medium beard; if you're planning to grow anything longer, look for one that goes up to 20mm.

Understanding these trimmer lengths and the appearance they each bestow upon your beard is essential.

It allows you to choose the perfect trimmer length to create the beard style that best fits your personal style, face shape, and beard density. In essence, it's the first step to curating your very own magnificent mane.

Now, let's get ready to tackle the next part of our beard journey – how to choose the right one.

Selecting the right beard trimmer length for your beard can feel like ordering a beer in a foreign language, but once you know Carta Blanca from your Cerveza Sol, you'll be ordering like a local in no time.

Beard thickness is a key determinant in your decision. If you've been blessed with a thick forest of facial hair, a slightly longer trimmer length might keep your beard from looking too dense or overwhelming.

Alternatively, those with a less dense beard might opt for a shorter length to achieve a fuller appearance.

Personal style is another aspect to mull over. Your beard is an extension of your personal style, a facial accessory, if you will.

From casual, laid-back vibes to a more polished and professional look, the length of your beard can significantly influence how your style is perceived.

Now, let's get down to brass tacks and examine how different lengths can be used to create specific beard styles.

To achieve this look, focus on leaving heavy stubble around your mouth and chin area. For most, a trimmer length of 2mm to 3mm will do the trick.

Remember, the easiest way to nail this style is to make sure the hair on your chin is a similar length to the hair around your mouth. For the full walkthrough, see our guide on how to grow a goatee.

This style is best suited to those with fuller, denser hair growth. A trimmer length of 10mm to 20mm should work well, depending on your preference.

However, if you want to take things to a full, long beard, you'll need to stop trimming your neckline and let hair grow out, focusing on taming flyaways only.

Be warned, though, a full beard can become a high-maintenance beard if you don't look after it. It's kind of like owning a vintage car – you need to keep it well-oiled and finely tuned to keep it looking and performing its best.

This shorter beard style is named after the 17th-century Flemish painter Anthony van Dyck. It pairs a pointed chin beard with a moustache, usually unconnected, while the cheeks stay clean-shaven.

The length you choose will depend largely on your personal style, but 4mm to 5mm on the chin generally works well. Shave your cheeks and neck clean, keep a small gap between the moustache and the chin beard, and let the hair on your chin taper to a point for that distinct V-shape.

Each beard style has its own unique charm, and finding the right one for you is all part of the fun and frolics of the beard journey.

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge to choose the right trimmer length, it's time to make some hair follicle magic happen.

Equipping yourself with the right trimmer is just the first step in your beard grooming adventure. Knowing how to wield this tool is equally crucial. Consider this your beard-trimming masterclass, complete with step-by-step instructions and pro tips to achieve that well-groomed and professional look you're aiming for.

First things first, pick out the right guard size for your desired beard length. Remember that handy chart we mentioned earlier?

Time to pull it out and use it as your guide. Each guard corresponds to a specific trimmer length, so choose wisely based on your beard style.

Before you start trimming, make sure your beard is clean and dry. A good wash will remove any dirt, grime, and leftover lunch that might have found a cosy home in your beard. A dry beard is easier to trim and gives you a more accurate length result.

Use a beard comb to detangle any knots and to get your beard hairs lying in the same direction. This step helps you get a more even trim and get all those stray hairs.

If you’re only just starting your beard journey, it’s good to know that a high-quality brush can make all the difference. So, if you’re lacking one in your beard care line-up, get yourself all brushed up with one of our beard brush and comb kits.

Now, the real fun begins. Start trimming your beard by moving your trimmer in an upward direction against the grain. This method helps to lift the hairs, allowing for a closer and more even cut. Begin from your neck and work your way up to your chin and cheek line.

Once you've trimmed your beard to your desired length, it's time for some detailing. This is where you carve out your cheek lines and necklines to give your beard a neat, defined look. You might want to use a smaller guard or no guard at all for this step – proceed with caution, though. For a razor-sharp edge, follow up with a safety razor on your cheeks and neck, which is exactly what Alex does (more on his routine below).

After you're done trimming, it's time to clean up – not just your bathroom counter, but your beard as well. Rinse your beard with warm water, towel dry, then apply some beard oil for added shine and softness.

Congratulations – you've just groomed your beard like a pro. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't get disheartened if your first few attempts don't yield a masterpiece.

Here are a few additional tips and tricks to keep in mind.

Go Slow – Don't rush your trim. Treat it as a relaxing grooming ritual, not a race against the clock.

Start Long – If you're unsure about the length, start with a bigger guard. You can always go shorter, but growing back a too-short trim will take time.

Check Your Trimmer's Battery – Always ensure your trimmer has enough charge before you start. The last thing you want is for your trimmer to die halfway through.

Want to go deeper? Our no-nonsense guide to trimming a beard covers the whole process step by step.

Now you're equipped to trim and maintain your beard like a seasoned pro, ensuring it's always looking its best. Ready to take on the next part of your beard journey?

But before we get to looking after your trimmer, here's how our founder does it.

All this talk of guards and millimetres is well and good, but what does a beard-obsessed founder actually do? Here's how Alex keeps his own beard in shape, in his own words.

“I use a Philips Norelco trimmer. For my cheeks and neck, I set it to the shortest possible length, then finish off with a safety razor to get a skin-tight finish.

“The safety razor comes out every day. I trim my moustache every few days to stop it growing into my lip.

“The full trim and shape is a different story. I get a barber to do that every four weeks, because it guarantees a good result. £20 is a small price to pay to avoid accidents.”

The takeaway? You don't have to do everything yourself. Handle the daily upkeep at home – the edges, the neckline, the moustache – and let a pro look after the shape. One slip with the wrong guard can undo weeks of growth, after all.

Now, let's explore maintaining and caring for your trusty beard trimmer.

Just like a samurai treasures his sword, a beardsman must cherish and take care of his beard trimmer. It's not just a tool, it's your trusty sidekick on this beard adventure, and a well-maintained trimmer ensures a well-groomed beard.

Every great shave should be followed by a good clean. Most trimmers come with a special brush designed to sweep away those stubborn hairs hiding between the blades.

Some models even allow for a water rinse, but make sure to check your user manual before giving your trimmer a bath.

Like a fine car engine, your trimmer needs oil to run smoothly. Regular oiling helps reduce friction between the blades, prolonging their lifespan and ensuring a smoother trim. It's a good habit to oil your trimmer blades every few uses, especially after cleaning them. Just a few drops should suffice – no need to drown it.

No matter how diligently you care for your trimmer, the blades will eventually dull. You'll feel this when your trims start to pull or tug at your beard.

This is a clear sign that it's time for new blades. Again, consult your user manual for how to change the blades and where to buy replacements.

Like a pair of old shoes or your favourite T-shirt, there comes a time when you need to let go. If your trimmer starts to lag, overheats quickly or has seen better days, it might be time for a replacement. A high-quality trimmer should last you several years if you look after it.

Adequate storage can extend your beard trimmer's life, while safe travel practices ensure its optimal performance on the go. Always store your trimmer in a protective case to shield it from dust and accidental drops.

Travelling with a trimmer requires extra care. Most trimmers have lithium-ion batteries, which can be a concern on the plane due to their potential fire risk if damaged or short-circuited.

Good care, both at home and on the road, is crucial for maintaining your trimmer's longevity and performance. Now, onto those burning questions.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer here, folks. The length you dial into your beard trimmer all boils down to your style and the look you're shooting for. Are you after that rugged stubble beard look or a tidy short beard?

A setting between 1mm and 3mm could be your sweet spot. For those aiming for a more full-bodied, medium to long beard, anything from 4mm to 10mm might be your ticket.

Always remember the golden rule – start with a longer setting and work your way down. It's easier to trim a bit more off than to wait until your beard grows back.

In the spirit of keeping things straightforward, a 3mm beard is... you guessed it, 3mm long. This usually lands you in the 'short beard' or 'heavy stubble' category. It's the ideal choice for those who want a sprinkle of ruggedness without going full caveman.

The so-called 'perfect' stubble length is a bit of a sliding scale and depends on your personal taste and facial features. However, many find their stubble sweet spot hovering between 1mm and 3mm. This range gives you that relaxed yet stylishly scruffy look that's as at home in the boardroom as it is at the beach.

Strutting around with a 7mm beard? You're officially in the medium-length facial hair league. This length is enough to turn heads but without turning your morning routine into a major event.

It's the go-to for those wanting to make a bit more of a beard statement without going full-on lumberjack.

Neither – it comes down to the look you're after. A 5mm beard is short, neat and easy to keep tidy. At 7mm you've got a bit more coverage and enough length to start shaping.

Can't decide? Start at 7mm. You can always take it down to 5mm, but you can't put it back.

A 16mm beard is roughly 5/8 of an inch, the same as a #5 clipper guard. That's full-beard territory, with enough length to shape and style, and a beard that'll start asking for oil and a brush to keep it soft and in line.

On a standard set of clipper guards, no guard is exactly 9mm. The closest is a #3, which leaves 3/8" (about 10mm). If your beard trimmer uses millimetre settings, you can simply dial in 9mm. The same goes for any other length: check the charts above, or the length printed on the guard itself.

It depends on your style. Stubble needs the most attention, because a day or two of growth makes a visible difference at 1mm to 3mm. Longer beards need a full trim less often, with the edges tidied in between.

For reference, Alex shaves his cheeks and neck every day, trims his moustache every few days and has a barber do a full trim and shape every four weeks.

The key thing to remember is that every beard is as unique as the guy growing it. Don't be afraid to experiment with different lengths until you discover what works best for you.

Choosing the right beard trimmer length isn't just about vanity or style, it's a mission of self-expression and a testament to your commitment to your beard.

Regular beard maintenance, whether it's a quick trim or a full-blown grooming session, not only keeps your beard looking sharp but also keeps it healthy. It's a little bit of 'me' time that your beard (and your skin) will thank you for.

Remember, every beard trimmer length has its unique charm and purpose. Choosing the right length is the first step towards owning your look, defining your style, and making a statement that's distinctly you. And once you've nailed your length, a little beard balm keeps flyaways in check between trims.

If you've enjoyed this romp through the world of beard trimmer lengths and you're thirsty for more beard wisdom, we'd love to have you over at the Mission Beard blog. From grooming tips to beard biology, we've got the answers to all your beard-related questions and then some.