Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 (HX9957/71) electric toothbrush with app, pressure sensor, and 5 modes
Product description
The essentials (what you’re really buying)
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 is a high-end electric toothbrush built around one idea: help you brush more effectively without having to be a dentist. It’s a sonic toothbrush with multiple brushing modes and intensity levels, plus real-time pressure feedback and an app that provides guidance. In day-to-day use, that combo is what can make it feel less like “just a charger and timer” and more like a brushing routine that nudges you toward better technique.
On paper, Philips positions it for noticeably more plaque removal, healthier gums, and stain removal than a manual toothbrush. You should take those kinds of claims as “marketing direction” rather than a guarantee for every mouth—results depend heavily on consistency, how long you brush, and whether you actually stay in the app’s coaching lane.
What it does best in everyday use
The most tangible feature here is the pressure sensor. There’s a light ring at the end of the handle that flashes when you’re brushing too hard. That matters because many people brush with more force than they realize, which can be counterproductive for gum comfort.
Pair that with brush head detection, and it’s aimed at avoiding the “wrong head, wrong routine” problem. You’re not left guessing whether you’re set up correctly.
And then there’s the app connection. The Philips Sonicare app provides personalized brushing guidance. If you like feedback loops (progress prompts, reminders, coaching cues), the app can be the difference between using an electric toothbrush occasionally versus building a steady habit.
Modes and intensity: how to personalize without overthinking
You get 5 brushing modes and 3 intensity levels. The practical value isn’t that there are lots of options—it’s that the toothbrush can adapt to different goals and comfort levels.
A simple example: if you’re coming off sensitive gums, you may prefer a gentler intensity at first, then move up once your mouth feels comfortable. If you’re focusing on stain-prone areas, you can switch to a mode aligned with that goal. It’s not perfect—more settings can mean you’ll spend a little time figuring out your preferred setup—but once you dial it in, it’s straightforward.
What stands out vs. simpler electric toothbrushes
Compared to basic electric toothbrushes that mostly give you a timer, the DiamondClean Smart 9700 adds three layers of “help”: pressure alerts, brush head detection, and app-based coaching.
If you’ve ever had the experience of brushing longer but not feeling confident in the technique, real-time pressure feedback can make your sessions more purposeful. If you’ve ever found yourself drifting from routine, the app guidance can provide structure that a manual habit just doesn’t.
Where it may fall short: if you dislike app-based features or you’re not interested in coaching, you might not get full value from the smart parts. The core brushing still works on its own, but the “smart” experience is clearly part of why this model sits above entry-level options.
Tech specs you’ll care about
- Model: HX9957/71
- Pressure feedback: light ring on handle flashes if too much pressure is applied
- Modes: 5 brushing modes
- Intensity levels: 3 intensity levels
- App support: connects to Philips Sonicare app for personalized guidance
- Brush head detection: helps confirm brush head presence
(Exact battery/charging details aren’t provided here, so it’s worth checking the listing for those if they’re important to you.)
Who should buy this (and who should skip it)
It makes sense if you want an advanced electric toothbrush that actively helps with technique—especially if you tend to brush too hard, want gum-friendly feedback, and you’re open to using a companion app for personalized guidance.
It might not suit you if you prefer a no-frills toothbrush experience, don’t want to connect anything to an app, or you’re specifically looking for the cheapest way into sonic brushing. In that case, you could end up paying for smart features you won’t use.
Also, consider that while Philips claims strong improvements versus a manual toothbrush, real-world outcomes vary. If you have specific dental needs (like ongoing gum issues), you’ll still want to follow your dentist’s recommendations—this toothbrush can support routine, not replace professional care.
What’s included (the practical bundle)
The set includes 1x DiamondClean Smart 9700 sonic electric toothbrush and an A3 Premium All-in-One brush head, plus 3x C3 Premium Plaque Control brush heads (and more, as indicated by the listing’s box contents section).
This is useful because you’re not starting from zero—you likely have the heads you need to set up a couple of different brushing goals right away.
When it makes sense?
If you prioritize coaching features—pressure sensor feedback, brush head detection, and app-based guidance—then the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 is worth serious consideration. It’s built for people who want more than a timer and actually want reminders that their technique is improving.
Buy it when you’ll realistically use the app and pay attention to the pressure light. Avoid it if you want a simpler, offline routine or you know you won’t connect to the app. The toothbrush isn’t “wasted” without the app, but the smart guidance is clearly part of the value proposition.
Mini FAQ
FAQ
Does the pressure sensor actually help?
The light ring flashes if you apply too much pressure. That’s a direct, on-the-handle cue designed to help you ease off.
How many brushing modes are there?
There are 5 brushing modes.
Are there intensity options too?
Yes, there are 3 intensity levels.
Is the app required to use the toothbrush?
The listing emphasizes app guidance, but it doesn’t explicitly state that the toothbrush can’t be used without the app. If you want app coaching, you’ll need to connect it.
What brush heads come with it?
You get 1x A3 Premium All-in-One brush head and 3x C3 Premium Plaque Control brush heads, plus additional items indicated in the box contents section.