Oral-B iO2 vs iO3: Scrubbing your teeth without the fancy nonsense

Electric toothbrushes2 products

Quick verdict

The quick and dirty truth

If you are a couple looking to save money, the iO2 duo is the obvious winner as it offers the same core cleaning tech for less. If you need just one brush and want a bit more feedback from your device, the iO3 is a solid choice, though it does not feel quite as sturdy in the hand.

Side by side

FeaturePhoto of Oral-B iO2Oral-B iO2Photo of Oral-B iO3Oral-B iO3
Price£59.98£63.73
Cleaning modesBoth offer three settings, though the iO3 swaps the extra-gentle mode for a whitening one.3 (Extra-gentle, gentle, daily)3 (Daily, sensitive, whitening)
Pressure sensorThe iO3 gives you a more helpful light ring indicator to tell you exactly how you are brushing.Automatic gum pressure sensorSmart pressure sensor with light (winner)
Included itemsThe iO2 duo is a much better value proposition for households.2 Handles, Travel case (winner)1 Handle, Travel case, Refill holder

Product by product

Oral-B iO2Our pickBest value

Couples and budget-conscious households

This duo set gets the job done without any unnecessary frills. It is a straightforward tool that focuses on the basics of a good clean.

What We Liked 👍

  • Great value for two brushes
  • Simple one button operation
  • Reliable cleaning performance

What Could Be Better 👎

  • No fancy light ring feedback
  • Requires separate shaver adapter

Oral-B iO3

Individuals wanting better feedback

The iO3 offers a more interactive experience with its light-up pressure sensor. It is a decent step up if you struggle with brushing too hard.

What We Liked 👍

  • Helpful pressure sensor light ring
  • Effective plaque removal
  • Includes a travel case

What Could Be Better 👎

  • Slippery handle lacks grip
  • Only one handle included

Let us talk shop

When you strip away the marketing speak, both of these brushes use the same underlying micro-vibration technology that makes the iO series popular. They both feature a round head that does a fine job of scrubbing away plaque, and frankly, if you have been using a manual brush, either one of these will feel like an upgrade.

The real difference lies in the feedback. The iO3 has that light ring which is actually quite useful for letting you know if you are bearing down too hard on your gums. The iO2 keeps things quiet and simple with just the vibration changes, which might be enough for some, but I prefer knowing exactly when I am overdoing it.

The handles and the headache

My biggest gripe with both of these is the handle design. They feel a bit plasticky and smooth, which becomes a nuisance the moment your hands get wet at the sink. I have seen better grips on a garden trowel. Neither of these models includes a UK-compliant plug, so be prepared to hunt for a shaver adapter unless you want to be tethered to a specific bathroom outlet.

The iO2 is a fantastic deal if you have a partner who also needs a new brush, as it saves you the trouble of buying two separate units. If you live alone, the iO3 is a perfectly capable machine, but do not expect a dramatic leap in performance over its cheaper sibling.

The final brush-off

If you are buying for a household, grab the iO2 duo. You are getting two solid handles for the price of one premium model, which is just good common sense. For those living solo who want that extra bit of guidance from the pressure sensor, go for the iO3.

Just remember that no matter which one you choose, you are going to need a shaver adapter, and the replacement heads will cost you a pretty penny eventually.

Prices on amazon.co.uk as of October 13, 2026. Prices may change.

Disclosure: We share affiliate links and can earn some money when you click on any of those.

  • Electric Toothbrush
  • Oral-B iO
  • Dental Care
  • Bathroom