Buzz Cut 8 Guard vs Other Guards: Which One Looks Best?

Buzz cuts are one of the easiest and most popular hairstyles for men. They are clean, low-maintenance, and can be done at home with clippers. The length of a buzz cut depends on the guard number you use. One of the most common questions people have is about the 8 guard buzz cut and how it compares to other guard lengths. In this article, we will explain what an 8 guard buzz cut is, how it looks, and how it compares to other clipper guard numbers.

What is a Buzz Cut?

A buzz cut is a hairstyle where the hair is cut very short using electric clippers. The length of the hair depends on the guard size used with the clippers. A guard is a plastic attachment that snaps onto the clipper and determines how much hair is left on your head. The lower the guard number, the shorter the hair.

Cynthia Erivo with a buzz cut attends The 78th Annual Tony Awards Red Carpet at Radio City Music Hall

What Does an 8 Guard Buzz Cut Look Like?

An 8 guard buzz cut leaves the hair about 1 inch or 25 millimeters long. This is one of the longest buzz cuts possible using standard clipper guards. The 8 guard buzz cut gives you a full, even look without making your scalp visible. It is suitable for people who want a short style but still want to keep some length and volume. It works well for people with thick or wavy hair who want to keep things tidy but not too short.

Advantages of an 8 Guard Buzz Cut

• Looks fuller and keeps more volume on the head
• Hides uneven scalp shapes and minor scars
• Gives a professional and clean appearance
• Good for people new to buzz cuts who are unsure about going very short
• Easy to style if you want a simple part or use light products

Disadvantages of an 8 Guard Buzz Cut

• Not as low-maintenance as shorter buzz cuts
• Needs more frequent trims to maintain the shape
• It may not suit people who want a bold, military-style look

How Does the 8 Guard Compare to Other Guards?

There are many different clipper guard sizes, ranging from 0 to 8. Here is a comparison of the 8 guard with other popular guard lengths so you can understand the differences.

Buzz Cut Guard 0 (No Guard)

Length: 0 inches or very close to the skin
Appearance: This is the shortest buzz cut, also called a skin buzz or zero buzz. It makes the scalp fully visible.
Best for: Military cuts, extreme low-maintenance styles, or hot climates.

Buzz Cut Guard 1

Length: 1/8 inch or 3 mm
Appearance: Very short, shows scalp slightly, gives a rough texture.
Best for: People who like extremely short styles but want to avoid full baldness.

Buzz Cut Guard 2

Length: 1/4 inch or 6 mm
Appearance: Slightly longer than a 1 guard, still quite short, and shows scalp in some areas.
Best for: Low-maintenance cuts with a bit more coverage.

Buzz Cut Guard 3

Length: 3/8 inch or 10 mm
Appearance: Noticeable hair length, minimal scalp visibility.
Best for: Balanced look that is short but not too harsh.

Image Source: Beard Beasts

Buzz Cut Guard 4

Length: 1/2 inch or 13 mm
Appearance: Even, short, and tidy look with little to no scalp visible.
Best for: People who want a neat cut but not too extreme.

Buzz Cut Guard 5 to 7

Length: 5/8 inch to 7/8 inch or 16 to 22 mm
Appearance: Mid-length buzz cuts that start to resemble a short haircut instead of a traditional buzz.
Best for: Individuals who want to transition from longer hair to shorter styles.

Buzz Cut Guard 8

Length: 1 inch or 25 mm
Appearance: Full hair coverage with clear structure, ideal for a subtle and clean look.
Best for: People with thicker hair or those who want a longer buzz with a bit of style.

Which Buzz Cut Looks Best?

The answer depends on what you want from your haircut. Here are some tips to help you decide which guard size might suit you best:

• If you want a bold and dramatic look, try a 0 or 1 guard.
• If you want something short but not too extreme, a 2 or 3 guard might be ideal.
• If you prefer a balanced and moderate look, go for a 4 or 5 guard.
• If you want to keep most of your hair but still enjoy the benefits of a buzz cut, choose a 6, 7, or 8 guard.
• If you’re looking for a style that keeps length in the back with a modern twist, you might also want to explore the mullet haircut, which is making a strong comeback in men’s fashion.

The 8 guard is often considered best for people who are new to buzz cuts or for those who want a low-maintenance haircut without going very short. It also works well for older adults or professionals who want a mature, respectable appearance.

Who Should Try the 8 Guard Buzz Cut?

The 8 guard buzz cut works for many different types of people:

• Men who want a short haircut that still feels like a full head of hair
• People with thick or curly hair who want a uniform shape
• Anyone trying a buzz cut for the first time and afraid of going too short
• People with sensitive scalps or skin conditions that benefit from more coverage
• Those who need a professional look without daily styling

Maintenance and Styling Tips

Even though an 8 guard buzz cut is longer than other cuts, it still needs regular care. Here are a few tips:

• Trim every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the shape
• Use light styling products if you want to change the direction of the hair
• Wash and condition regularly to keep the scalp clean
• Use a soft brush or comb to keep the hair looking neat

Doing It Yourself at Home

If you want to try the 8 guard buzz cut yourself, all you need is a clipper set that includes an 8 guard. Always start with clean, dry hair. Attach the guard, and move the clippers slowly and evenly over your head. Use a mirror or ask someone to help you with the back to ensure an even cut. You can use a smaller guard on the sides if you want a fade or blended look.

Final Thoughts

The 8 guard buzz cut is a smart choice for anyone looking for a clean, simple, and slightly longer version of the classic buzz cut. It offers a neat look while keeping more hair than other guards. Compared to the 0 through 7 guard sizes, the 8 guard gives you the most coverage and a fuller appearance, making it perfect for those who want to ease into shorter hairstyles without going too far. Whether you are new to buzz cuts or looking to grow your hair out slowly, the 8 guard cut offers comfort, style, and flexibility.