This review is about the Yaqi Ghost Ti 90 DC (Double Comb)
Introduction
I don't like combination combs. Or rather, I don't like double-edge razors with different combs. I don't see the point. If I want an open comb, I'll buy a razor with two open combs, not just one. And vice versa, if I'm looking for a razor with a closed comb, why would I want one side with an open comb? It doesn't make sense.
So why do I own this Yaqi razor? I'm talking about the Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC with a combination comb. One side has a closed comb and the other an open comb. If what I just said in the first paragraph were true, my purchase would have no reasonable explanation. And yet, it does. There are a few reasons why I bought it; let me explain my perspective.
First, it was the Yaqi Ghost 90 SS that my buddy @vicentej lent me for a review. That razor scored 87 and ranked high on the list. I really liked it. Second, I love open combs. They’re my favorite. I find them more comfortable than closed ones because they don't obstruct the hairs as much. And third, of course, it was the price. With the AliExpress sales, this titanium razor was ridiculously cheap. There's a fourth reason, not necessarily a direct one, why I bought this model. The combination of titanium, open comb, 0.90 gap and this handle was only available with a combination comb. Since I really liked the closed comb of the Ghost 90 in steel, I decided to take that leap of faith.
As I mentioned, I really liked the Ghost 90 SB and I was very excited about this titanium version with its open comb. I'll share all my impressions of the razor and we'll see if I'm still right about combination combs not making sense.
Construction
The Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC is a three-piece DE razor made of titanium using CNC machining. I haven't been able to find out what grade of titanium it is, but they've most likely used Grade 5. As I've explained before, there isn't much difference between Grade 2 and Grade 5. The latter is slightly more corrosion-resistant, but in the environments where we use our razors (a clean, well-conditioned bathroom), we won't notice any difference.
Material: Titanium
Color: Matt Polish
Handle length: 88 mm
Handle diameter: 12 mm (10 mm central part)
Cap height: 3.4 mm
Total length of the razor: 94 mm
Total weight: 57.5 gr
Head weight: 19.4 gr
Gap: 0,90 mm
Exposure: Neutral
What I have found is the razor that inspired the Ghost's design. It's the Paradigm Salient. And I say "inspired" deliberately; I haven't used the word "copied" intentionally. Both the Salient and HLS Start designs are very similar and the Ghost has many similar elements, but there's a significant difference between the Yaqi and the other two. We'll see that later.
Starting from the top of the cap, we see a wide, flat surface that covers almost the entire lid. Only the sides curve downwards to form the top of the shaving plane and curve the blade edge to create the cutting angle.
The inside of the lid contains two longitudinal guides and the central thread. The mounting surfaces have a subtle but noticeable relief. The entire interior is very well finished, with the central surface polished and the guides and short sides chamfered.
We continue with the inner part of the base plate, where we don’t find any strange features. There are two openings for the guides, the central hole and little else. We also see the mounting surfaces for the two combs. Notice that the mounting surface for the open comb has a larger usable area for clamping than that of the closed comb. This is a consequence of the design.
The closed comb has two rinsing channels, whereas the open comb uses the spaces between its teeth for lubrication and rinsing. The two channels reduce the surface area of the base plate. It's interesting that elements with the same name (both are combs) can function completely different. Obviously, the open comb provides more lubrication towards the razor’s edge.
The underside of the base plate contains the same elements: two openings for the guides (with a chamfered finish), a central hole and the lower part of the combs. And here we see the major difference between the Ghost's design and that of the Paradigm or the HLS Start. The joint between the comb and the base plate on the Yaqi is rounded. On the Paradigm and the HLS, it's square. The base plate is also thinner on the Yaqi than on the other two.
The finish is superb. All edges are rounded or chamfered. Every surface is polished. There isn't a single sharp edge or element on the entire razor where there shouldn't be one. A serial number is also included on one short side and the brand name on the other. Details I appreciate. A perfect 10 finish. The tolerances are also excellent, but it's just a hair's breadth away from a perfect 5. Everything fits together perfectly and functions as it should, but to receive top marks, the handle needs a screw-on action that makes you want to (un)screw it a few times before using the razor. It needs to be that good. This handle works very well, but it doesn't add that extra. That's the only thing it's missing. Since we're judging at this kind of level, we need to be strict. The shape of the head and the combs work very well together. The top of the cap is flat for superior maneuverability and reach. The combs have an integrated element that wasn't present in the steel version. If you recall my comments on the definition of the shapes in the steel version, I mentioned that some parts lacked the definition you'd expect from a CNC-machined razor.
Well, on this Ghost Ti, that's changed. Both combs offer more detail than the steel version. The central part of each comb is where the comb is at its widest and that point defines the lower portion of the shaving plane. The part above this central surface connects the comb to the base plate and there's also a surface below the central part that curves downwards more than the central section itself. This adds comfort and ease of use. A subtle but very noticeable and appreciated detail.
Score: 19
Material: 5
Finish: 5
Tolerances: 4
Head/Comb Shape: 5
Grip
I already mentioned that one of the reasons I bought this particular model is its handle. And it didn't disappoint. It's a design also used in other razors, like the Yates Merica or the Timeless Ti95 and it works very well. The central section offers many possibilities for adjusting the grip if needed. It also has three rings that provide even more grip.
The Timeless has diagonal knurling, while the Yates has horizontal knurling, but I've always preferred this diamond design. The friction provided by these lines is perfectly positioned to neutralize any tendency to move into any direction. I can confirm that the grip is excellent whether your hands are dry, wet, or covered in soap. Comfort is also excellent. The patterns are well-defined, but the handle has been polished, eliminating any roughness that might have existed. The knurling has just the right definition to function perfectly, but nothing more. The handle is a delight to grip with its different textures.
The control over the razor is also excellent and much of the praise has to go to the central groove in the handle. This feature offers such an intuitive and functional grip that it doesn't matter if you're holding the razor upside down, downside up, or sideways; you'll always find a way to maintain complete control. In the photos, I'm showing you a few grips I've used and I'm sure everyone can find others that work even better for them. In terms of handle design, it doesn't get much better than this.
The glide of the shaving head also works very well. Although it has a well-defined shaving plane, it doesn't have a large contact surface, which reduces friction between the material and the skin. There's also no vacuum effect. The cap doesn't restrict any movement.
The open comb with its 11 teeth offers comfort, yet it's a true open comb with all the advantages that brings. It provides more lubrication for the cut, hairs reach the edge without being flattened but it has enough teeth to prevent the skin from getting too close to the blade. A very good compromise.
Score: 20
Dry/Wet: 5
Comfort: 5
Control: 5
Head slide: 5
Handling
The balance and weight are in line with what we're used to in a titanium razor. The weight falls somewhere between that of aluminum and steel. In the case of this Yaqi, it weighs 57.5 grams, with 19.4 grams in the head, giving it a 33/67% weight distribution. Ner perfect distribution. The balance point is located just above the center, which further reinforces the grip position that 95% of us would use with this razor. Everything is in its place; it's like getting into a VW Golf. You know exactly where all the buttons are, even if you've never driven one before. Changing the blade still requires getting your fingers close to the edge, but the wide, well-defined sides offer a very secure grip for unscrewing, inserting and holding the blade while screwing it back on. It's all very safe. The head completely covers the blade, another plus for safety. Cleaning is very easy. The base plate is flat and smooth. The same for the cap which has longitudinal guides to make things even easier to clean. The only part that prevents it from achieving a perfect score is the open comb. It has advantages, but it also has disadvantages. Cleaning is one of those disadvantages. You really need a fine brush to get into those teeth. A toothbrush will do nicely.
Score: 18
Balance: 5
Weight: 5
Model/Security: 4
Cleaning: 4
Shaving
The Yaqi Ghost SS shaved very well and this one is even a little better. I was already familiar with the closed comb, of course, but with a different material, a different handle and a different comb, the feel can be very different. And it certainly has changed. For the better.
I have to say, with complete honesty and transparency, that this razor combines many of the elements I look for in a razor. Lightweight and maneuverable balance. Compact head. Open comb. Handle with a good grip. If we add to that the luxurious geometry we already knew from the Ghost in steel, what more can I say? This razor practically shaves by itself. I had a blast using both combs while shaving and I've come to the conclusion that, yes, on certain occasions, having two different combs on one razor can be the best thing you can have. I still feel the same way; I don't usually like razors with different combs, but this one has earned my respect for how well both of its combs work.
The head's control over any part of the skin is simply sublime. It offers a good shaving plane, a controlled cutting angle and a cap that lets you position the blade wherever you want without getting in your way. The exposure is neutral, but with the relatively wide gap and the two combs, each with its own purpose (I know, I'm praising the different combs... there's nothing to do but to acknowledge their excellent performance...), you can make a comfortable and safe pass with the comb closed around the nostrils but get a closer shave on the cheeks with the open comb. Use any blade you like; this razor will give you (almost) the same close shave every time. The Derby gave me a fantastic shave. Never any irritation, no nicks, no tightness, always controlled. A wonderful head for any blade.
With the closed comb, this razor offers a very controlled and forgiving shave. Of course, with its conservative geometry, it would be unusual to find a razor that bites. But even with the open comb , the razor offers a completely uninhibited shave. You can feel the more direct action and you can fine-tune the efficiency by applying some pressure, but it really doesn't need it. Two passes with any comb, depending on your intentions that day and you're done. BBS: check.
Score: 20
Score: 5
Head control: 5
Derby/blade test influences: 5
Indulgent: 5
Quality/Price
For me, the most beautiful thing about a razor is when form and function merge. This razor looks simple, but within that simplicity, it's remarkably competent. Almost like a wolf in sheep's clothing. And it's not just the skin. I like it for its shape, but I have to admit that its competent performance also earns it many points in my aesthetic appreciation. How a razor rewards you is always partly determined by its price. As I mentioned, I bought mine during the AliExpress sale and with coupons, coins and discounts, it cost me 111 Euros. Obviously, there are many options at that price, but a razor that performs this well, is made of titanium and boasts this level of craftsmanship, is not usually found for that amount. For comparison, it currently costs around 175 Euros on AliExpress.
I'm not going to place much value on it in 25 years because it's still a Yaqi. And I say this with the utmost respect for this manufacturer. I love that they recycle designs and I applaud them for making so many interesting razors. With this one, they've created a masterpiece. But how much it will retain its value in 25 years remains to be seen. Functionality certainly won't be an issue. I don't think I need to confirm that I wouldn't have any problem living with just this razor. It's simply very, very good. It's just as good as any other razor in my collection and I dare say, as good as any other razor out there. Besides that, it has the best quality/price relation of any razor I know.
Score: 18
Aesthetics: 5
Reward: 5
Value in 25: 3
Single razor: 5
Conclusion
The Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC hasn't surprised me at all and yet it's surprised me a lot. I was already familiar with many of its components, its geometry and its simplicity and I didn't find any differences there. What has surprised me, however, is that this razor has taken many of the details that make its steel counterpart so good, improved them and also added a host of other relevant and functional features.
This has resulted in a razor made of a material perfectly suited for its use, with a very well-designed head that maximizes what it needs to maximize in shaving (a smooth, seamless glide) and outstanding craftsmanship at a ridiculously low price.
And what about the different combs? I still don't think there's much point in combining two different tools into one. It's like the "Spork," that camping utensil that's like a spoon but with fork tines on top. It's neither here nor there, this nor that. It works, but you still prefer either a regular spoon or a good old-fashioned fork.
But the truth is, I've really enjoyed using this Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC and while shaving, I've genuinely found it useful to be able to do the next pass over my neck with the closed comb. Just to refine the shave a bit. And on my chin, I use the open comb, but only from north to south, because after going from north to west, I do the final pass with the closed comb. I've had fun and kept talking to myself, trying to justify the practical existence of this razor that was giving me such great shaves. In the end, I had to pull out my Spork...and eat my words from the first paragraph. This Ghost DC validates and justifies the existence of all razors with two different combs. Even though they're not worth a penny, this one makes up for all of them.
Final score: 95 points
Introduction
I don't like combination combs. Or rather, I don't like double-edge razors with different combs. I don't see the point. If I want an open comb, I'll buy a razor with two open combs, not just one. And vice versa, if I'm looking for a razor with a closed comb, why would I want one side with an open comb? It doesn't make sense.
So why do I own this Yaqi razor? I'm talking about the Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC with a combination comb. One side has a closed comb and the other an open comb. If what I just said in the first paragraph were true, my purchase would have no reasonable explanation. And yet, it does. There are a few reasons why I bought it; let me explain my perspective.
First, it was the Yaqi Ghost 90 SS that my buddy @vicentej lent me for a review. That razor scored 87 and ranked high on the list. I really liked it. Second, I love open combs. They’re my favorite. I find them more comfortable than closed ones because they don't obstruct the hairs as much. And third, of course, it was the price. With the AliExpress sales, this titanium razor was ridiculously cheap. There's a fourth reason, not necessarily a direct one, why I bought this model. The combination of titanium, open comb, 0.90 gap and this handle was only available with a combination comb. Since I really liked the closed comb of the Ghost 90 in steel, I decided to take that leap of faith.
As I mentioned, I really liked the Ghost 90 SB and I was very excited about this titanium version with its open comb. I'll share all my impressions of the razor and we'll see if I'm still right about combination combs not making sense.
Construction
The Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC is a three-piece DE razor made of titanium using CNC machining. I haven't been able to find out what grade of titanium it is, but they've most likely used Grade 5. As I've explained before, there isn't much difference between Grade 2 and Grade 5. The latter is slightly more corrosion-resistant, but in the environments where we use our razors (a clean, well-conditioned bathroom), we won't notice any difference.
Material: Titanium
Color: Matt Polish
Handle length: 88 mm
Handle diameter: 12 mm (10 mm central part)
Cap height: 3.4 mm
Total length of the razor: 94 mm
Total weight: 57.5 gr
Head weight: 19.4 gr
Gap: 0,90 mm
Exposure: Neutral
What I have found is the razor that inspired the Ghost's design. It's the Paradigm Salient. And I say "inspired" deliberately; I haven't used the word "copied" intentionally. Both the Salient and HLS Start designs are very similar and the Ghost has many similar elements, but there's a significant difference between the Yaqi and the other two. We'll see that later.
Starting from the top of the cap, we see a wide, flat surface that covers almost the entire lid. Only the sides curve downwards to form the top of the shaving plane and curve the blade edge to create the cutting angle.
The inside of the lid contains two longitudinal guides and the central thread. The mounting surfaces have a subtle but noticeable relief. The entire interior is very well finished, with the central surface polished and the guides and short sides chamfered.
We continue with the inner part of the base plate, where we don’t find any strange features. There are two openings for the guides, the central hole and little else. We also see the mounting surfaces for the two combs. Notice that the mounting surface for the open comb has a larger usable area for clamping than that of the closed comb. This is a consequence of the design.
The closed comb has two rinsing channels, whereas the open comb uses the spaces between its teeth for lubrication and rinsing. The two channels reduce the surface area of the base plate. It's interesting that elements with the same name (both are combs) can function completely different. Obviously, the open comb provides more lubrication towards the razor’s edge.
The underside of the base plate contains the same elements: two openings for the guides (with a chamfered finish), a central hole and the lower part of the combs. And here we see the major difference between the Ghost's design and that of the Paradigm or the HLS Start. The joint between the comb and the base plate on the Yaqi is rounded. On the Paradigm and the HLS, it's square. The base plate is also thinner on the Yaqi than on the other two.
The finish is superb. All edges are rounded or chamfered. Every surface is polished. There isn't a single sharp edge or element on the entire razor where there shouldn't be one. A serial number is also included on one short side and the brand name on the other. Details I appreciate. A perfect 10 finish. The tolerances are also excellent, but it's just a hair's breadth away from a perfect 5. Everything fits together perfectly and functions as it should, but to receive top marks, the handle needs a screw-on action that makes you want to (un)screw it a few times before using the razor. It needs to be that good. This handle works very well, but it doesn't add that extra. That's the only thing it's missing. Since we're judging at this kind of level, we need to be strict. The shape of the head and the combs work very well together. The top of the cap is flat for superior maneuverability and reach. The combs have an integrated element that wasn't present in the steel version. If you recall my comments on the definition of the shapes in the steel version, I mentioned that some parts lacked the definition you'd expect from a CNC-machined razor.
Well, on this Ghost Ti, that's changed. Both combs offer more detail than the steel version. The central part of each comb is where the comb is at its widest and that point defines the lower portion of the shaving plane. The part above this central surface connects the comb to the base plate and there's also a surface below the central part that curves downwards more than the central section itself. This adds comfort and ease of use. A subtle but very noticeable and appreciated detail.
Score: 19
Material: 5
Finish: 5
Tolerances: 4
Head/Comb Shape: 5
Grip
I already mentioned that one of the reasons I bought this particular model is its handle. And it didn't disappoint. It's a design also used in other razors, like the Yates Merica or the Timeless Ti95 and it works very well. The central section offers many possibilities for adjusting the grip if needed. It also has three rings that provide even more grip.
The Timeless has diagonal knurling, while the Yates has horizontal knurling, but I've always preferred this diamond design. The friction provided by these lines is perfectly positioned to neutralize any tendency to move into any direction. I can confirm that the grip is excellent whether your hands are dry, wet, or covered in soap. Comfort is also excellent. The patterns are well-defined, but the handle has been polished, eliminating any roughness that might have existed. The knurling has just the right definition to function perfectly, but nothing more. The handle is a delight to grip with its different textures.
The control over the razor is also excellent and much of the praise has to go to the central groove in the handle. This feature offers such an intuitive and functional grip that it doesn't matter if you're holding the razor upside down, downside up, or sideways; you'll always find a way to maintain complete control. In the photos, I'm showing you a few grips I've used and I'm sure everyone can find others that work even better for them. In terms of handle design, it doesn't get much better than this.
The glide of the shaving head also works very well. Although it has a well-defined shaving plane, it doesn't have a large contact surface, which reduces friction between the material and the skin. There's also no vacuum effect. The cap doesn't restrict any movement.
The open comb with its 11 teeth offers comfort, yet it's a true open comb with all the advantages that brings. It provides more lubrication for the cut, hairs reach the edge without being flattened but it has enough teeth to prevent the skin from getting too close to the blade. A very good compromise.
Score: 20
Dry/Wet: 5
Comfort: 5
Control: 5
Head slide: 5
Handling
The balance and weight are in line with what we're used to in a titanium razor. The weight falls somewhere between that of aluminum and steel. In the case of this Yaqi, it weighs 57.5 grams, with 19.4 grams in the head, giving it a 33/67% weight distribution. Ner perfect distribution. The balance point is located just above the center, which further reinforces the grip position that 95% of us would use with this razor. Everything is in its place; it's like getting into a VW Golf. You know exactly where all the buttons are, even if you've never driven one before. Changing the blade still requires getting your fingers close to the edge, but the wide, well-defined sides offer a very secure grip for unscrewing, inserting and holding the blade while screwing it back on. It's all very safe. The head completely covers the blade, another plus for safety. Cleaning is very easy. The base plate is flat and smooth. The same for the cap which has longitudinal guides to make things even easier to clean. The only part that prevents it from achieving a perfect score is the open comb. It has advantages, but it also has disadvantages. Cleaning is one of those disadvantages. You really need a fine brush to get into those teeth. A toothbrush will do nicely.
Score: 18
Balance: 5
Weight: 5
Model/Security: 4
Cleaning: 4
Shaving
The Yaqi Ghost SS shaved very well and this one is even a little better. I was already familiar with the closed comb, of course, but with a different material, a different handle and a different comb, the feel can be very different. And it certainly has changed. For the better.
I have to say, with complete honesty and transparency, that this razor combines many of the elements I look for in a razor. Lightweight and maneuverable balance. Compact head. Open comb. Handle with a good grip. If we add to that the luxurious geometry we already knew from the Ghost in steel, what more can I say? This razor practically shaves by itself. I had a blast using both combs while shaving and I've come to the conclusion that, yes, on certain occasions, having two different combs on one razor can be the best thing you can have. I still feel the same way; I don't usually like razors with different combs, but this one has earned my respect for how well both of its combs work.
The head's control over any part of the skin is simply sublime. It offers a good shaving plane, a controlled cutting angle and a cap that lets you position the blade wherever you want without getting in your way. The exposure is neutral, but with the relatively wide gap and the two combs, each with its own purpose (I know, I'm praising the different combs... there's nothing to do but to acknowledge their excellent performance...), you can make a comfortable and safe pass with the comb closed around the nostrils but get a closer shave on the cheeks with the open comb. Use any blade you like; this razor will give you (almost) the same close shave every time. The Derby gave me a fantastic shave. Never any irritation, no nicks, no tightness, always controlled. A wonderful head for any blade.
With the closed comb, this razor offers a very controlled and forgiving shave. Of course, with its conservative geometry, it would be unusual to find a razor that bites. But even with the open comb , the razor offers a completely uninhibited shave. You can feel the more direct action and you can fine-tune the efficiency by applying some pressure, but it really doesn't need it. Two passes with any comb, depending on your intentions that day and you're done. BBS: check.
Score: 20
Score: 5
Head control: 5
Derby/blade test influences: 5
Indulgent: 5
Quality/Price
For me, the most beautiful thing about a razor is when form and function merge. This razor looks simple, but within that simplicity, it's remarkably competent. Almost like a wolf in sheep's clothing. And it's not just the skin. I like it for its shape, but I have to admit that its competent performance also earns it many points in my aesthetic appreciation. How a razor rewards you is always partly determined by its price. As I mentioned, I bought mine during the AliExpress sale and with coupons, coins and discounts, it cost me 111 Euros. Obviously, there are many options at that price, but a razor that performs this well, is made of titanium and boasts this level of craftsmanship, is not usually found for that amount. For comparison, it currently costs around 175 Euros on AliExpress.
I'm not going to place much value on it in 25 years because it's still a Yaqi. And I say this with the utmost respect for this manufacturer. I love that they recycle designs and I applaud them for making so many interesting razors. With this one, they've created a masterpiece. But how much it will retain its value in 25 years remains to be seen. Functionality certainly won't be an issue. I don't think I need to confirm that I wouldn't have any problem living with just this razor. It's simply very, very good. It's just as good as any other razor in my collection and I dare say, as good as any other razor out there. Besides that, it has the best quality/price relation of any razor I know.
Score: 18
Aesthetics: 5
Reward: 5
Value in 25: 3
Single razor: 5
Conclusion
The Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC hasn't surprised me at all and yet it's surprised me a lot. I was already familiar with many of its components, its geometry and its simplicity and I didn't find any differences there. What has surprised me, however, is that this razor has taken many of the details that make its steel counterpart so good, improved them and also added a host of other relevant and functional features.
This has resulted in a razor made of a material perfectly suited for its use, with a very well-designed head that maximizes what it needs to maximize in shaving (a smooth, seamless glide) and outstanding craftsmanship at a ridiculously low price.
And what about the different combs? I still don't think there's much point in combining two different tools into one. It's like the "Spork," that camping utensil that's like a spoon but with fork tines on top. It's neither here nor there, this nor that. It works, but you still prefer either a regular spoon or a good old-fashioned fork.
But the truth is, I've really enjoyed using this Yaqi Ghost 90 Ti DC and while shaving, I've genuinely found it useful to be able to do the next pass over my neck with the closed comb. Just to refine the shave a bit. And on my chin, I use the open comb, but only from north to south, because after going from north to west, I do the final pass with the closed comb. I've had fun and kept talking to myself, trying to justify the practical existence of this razor that was giving me such great shaves. In the end, I had to pull out my Spork...and eat my words from the first paragraph. This Ghost DC validates and justifies the existence of all razors with two different combs. Even though they're not worth a penny, this one makes up for all of them.
Final score: 95 points
