What Type of Buzz Cut Should I Get? 27 Styles, Guards 0–16, and Fades (2025)

A clean, modern buzz cut is low-maintenance, sharp, and more versatile than many realize. GQ’s style experts note that World War II military recruits popularized this cut for its practicality and neat look. In this guide, you’ll find the right guard to choose (0–16), which fades suit your face shape, and how to DIY a clean cut at home. You’ll also learn how to keep your scalp and hair healthy. Plus, discover beard pairings, seasonal outfit ideas, and quick answers to common questions.

If you’re still looking for inspiration, take a peek at our guide to clean short styles and see what’s popular in our trend forecast for men. Enjoy your haircut journey!

TL;DR (Quick Summary)

• Best starter pick: #3–#4 with a low taper. Looks clean, office-safe, easy to maintain.
• Thinning or receding? #1–#2 makes density look even.
• Heavy recession or patchy spots: consider zero/razor shave + stubble.
• Face shape cheat:
  • Round: Adopt a stylish mid or high fade paired with a shorter top (#1–#3) for a fresh and modern look.
  • Oval: With most hair lengths (#2-#4) Suiting oval faces, you can enjoy the versatility of this shape.
  • Square: A classic low to mid taper (#2–#4) will enhance your strong jawline and exude confidence.
  • Triangle: Boost your style with a mid taper and a touch more length on top (#3–#5) for the perfect balance.
  • Diamond faces look great with low tapers (#3–#5).
• Guard Lengths in Inches: Here’s a helpful list of guard lengths that you may find useful:
  • #1 = 1/8″ (3 mm), #2 = 1/4″ (6 mm), #3 = 3/8″ (10 mm), #4 = 1/2″ (13 mm), #8 = 1″ (25 mm), #16 = 2″ (51 mm).
  • I hope this makes it easier for you to choose the right size!
• At-Home Basics: Don’t forget to use the 3‑2‑1 taper at the edges to keep everything nice and soft.
• Maintenance Tips: Buzz every 2–4 weeks. Washing your hair 2–3 times a week keeps it clean and healthy. If you have short styles, daily SPF is a must!
• Trendy Styles for 2025: This year, you might enjoy trying bleached #3–#4 with a drop or burst fade. High-contrast fades with clean lines are also in trend. A gentle reminder: keeping your hairline natural can enhance your look!

• What it is: A uniform clipper cut that uses guards (think #0 to #8, with extended ones going up to #16) — easy peasy.
• Who it suits: Most men, especially those with oval or square faces, athletes, students, and guys with receding hairlines or thinning hair.
• Popular lengths: The most sought-after buzz cuts fall between #1–#4, which provide a neat, clean look. For those who want a bit more length, #5–#8 are considered a “long buzz” and offer a stylish, laid-back vibe. On the other end of the spectrum, 0/0.5 is nearly skin-close, perfect for those who want a sleek, athletic look.
• Fades that work: low, mid, high, drop, and burst fades pair well with a buzz.
• DIY steps: Wash, dry, don’t rush — buzz, blend, line‑up, in a hush. Add a subtle 3-2-1 taper for an elegant touch.
• Tools: Quality clippers and guard set, handheld mirror, neck trimmer.
• Avoid: Rush‑less • Rule‑wise • Root‑respect • React‑responsibly. Approach each cutting step with patience; avoiding haste will greatly improve the final result. Don’t rush through the process; take your time for the best results.

Follow these easy steps and skip common mistakes. You’ll get a great buzz cut that’s simple to maintain.

• You prioritize a clean, easy-to-manage look.
• You can pull off a visible hairline/recession.
• Your workplace or school is cool with short hair.
• You’re willing to maintain it regularly.
• You embody an athletic, minimal style.

A buzz cut is a haircut that has a uniform length, providing a clean, efficient, and low-maintenance styling solution.

Modern buzz cuts deliver several advantages:

• Minimal styling time.
• Clean, professional appearance.
• Versatility across occasions.
• Cost-effective maintenance.
• Comfort in warm weather.

• A buzz cut delivers a clean, uniform look, often with a taper fade and a lineup.
• A crew cut features short sides and a longer, shaped top that tapers toward the crown, making it a stylish and structured hairstyle.
• The burr cut takes the buzz cut to the next level, using 0.5-1.5 guards to achieve an ultra-short, velvety finish.
• In contrast, the brush cut features a longer top, styled to perfection, and very short sides for a modern look.

• A buzz cut offers precision, cutting hair to an exact length, from 0.2 mm to 51 mm, with a guard of your choice.
• The razor glides along the skin, creating a sleek and bold look that requires consistent scalp care and SPF application.

Start with a #3 guard, then move to a #2, and finish with a #1. This simple three-step process ensures a crisp, clean finish.

Knowing the correct guard length for your buzz cut is crucial, but did you know that guard sizes can differ between clipper brands? Wahl and Andis, two top brands, offer clear charts to help you. This quick step can turn a basic cut into a sharp, professional buzz.

For a classic buzz cut, #1-#4 are the top picks. If you prefer a longer buzz, #5-#8 are great for achieving a slightly longer length. We highly recommend 12-guard, 8-guard, and 16-guard attachments for a high-coverage buzz cut. These keep things simple while giving you more hair.

• Buzz cut beginners, a #3 or #4 is a great starting point.
• For receding or diffuse thinning, #1–#2 are the most flattering options.
• #3–#4 with a small taper is a great choice.
• For big forehead or big ears opt for #3–#5 with a low or mid taper – it’s the perfect way to balance.

This creates a more harmonious look that draws attention away from these areas.

• Round: A mid/high fade and shorter top (numbers 1-3) amplify your features.
• Oval: Most lengths work. #2–#4 looks effortless.
• Square: Neat edges and a low or mid taper with numbers 2-4 cut at an angle.
• Diamond: A #3–#5 cut with a low taper looks fantastic.
• Triangle: Adding more volume on top with a #3–#5 cuts and a mid-taper can create a beautiful balance with a strong jawline.

• Receding corners: A uniform #1.5–#2 reduces contrast. Keeping your natural hairline will give you a more authentic appearance.
• Diffuse Thinning: Going for a shorter length, like #1–#2, can help make your hair look fuller.
• Balding Crown: A short buzz or a clean shave can both look great! You can balance your style with some stubble or a beard for a polished touch.

• Straight hair: Shows scalp more—#2–#4 is forgiving; styling paste adds a soft texture at #4–#6.
• Wavy/curly: Holds shape even when short; #1–#2 with a low taper looks crisp.
• Black Hair: A clean lineup and taper in the #1–#2 range looks great and stays classic.
• Asian hair: Dense, straight strands can “helmet” at long guards. A #2–#4 cuts with a mid-taper helps keep the look neat and stylish.
• Fine Hair: Opting for shorter guards like #1–#2 can give you a nice, even density.
• Thick/Coarse Hair: Opt for a #4–#6 with a burst or drop fade. This will help manage volume and give you a sharp, polished look.

• What: This style features blade-only passes for a near shave without a razor.
• Best for: Strong features, heavy recession, and hot climates.
• Choose a Zero Guard buzz cut with a soft, natural lineup for a sleek, modern appearance.
• A zero-guard buzz cut gives you a low-maintenance style. It’s great for active people or anyone wanting a simple look.
• A skin taper at the nape creates a seamless fade.
• Pair this style with refined basics from our minimalist fashion guide.

Quick Tip: Apply daily SPF to protect your scalp! A stubble beard of 1–3 mm can add a nice touch to your look. The Skin Cancer Foundation offers valuable sunscreen tips.

• What: A #0.5 buzz cut on top paired with a high skin fade for a striking look.
• Best for: Slimming a round face and an athletic frame.
• Tell your barber: “Give me a half guard on top, a high skin fade, and a natural hairline.”
• Your barber will use a 0.5 guard to connect your hair seamlessly and a 0-skin guard to create a sleek, modern fade.
• The high skin fade adds a touch of modernity, creating a crisp, clean edge that defines your face.
• To maintain your skin’s appearance healthy and vibrant, don’t forget to hydrate the dull areas regularly.
• Pair with clean sneakers and basics; browse our trend forecast for men.

• What: #1 all over; velvet feel.
• Best for: diffuse thinning; gym-goers.
• Request a “One guard all over, light low taper” for a flawless look.
• Choose #1 Guards for a clean look.
• A low fade enhances the appeal of this cut.
• Wear it with confidence, inspired by the boldest skater style guide from our expert.

Tip: Fragrance-free moisturizer for scalp comfort in winter.

• What: A #1 with a soft texture; an ideal length for beginners.
• Best For: It’s ideal for those who want a first buzz with minimal scalp show.
• Tell your barber to use “one-and-a-half guards, natural line-up” for a flawless finish.
• A low or mid-taper fade adds depth and dimension to the style.
• The number 1.5 buzz cut, inspired by military styles, is a classic look. It shows confidence and sophistication.

Tip: Start with a #1.5 – it’s simple to adjust to a shorter length afterward.

• What: A #2 uniform length that delivers.
• Best for: Almost everyone; casual to office.
• Tell your barber: “I want two guards all over with a mid-taper.”
• Guards: #2, for a clean look.
• Fade: A mid-taper that adds shape to your style.
• Pair it with: Our refined basics from the capsule outfits collection.

Tip: Works well with 1–3 mm stubble.

• What: #3 even; forgiving and easy.
• Best for: First-timers; conservative dress codes.
• Demand: A three-guard cut all over, with a neatly defined neckline.
• Select a low taper to elevate your style.

Tip: Enhance your hairline with a precise line-up.

• What: #4 gives coverage and a soft silhouette.
• Best for: Fine hair; big foreheads that need balance.
• Tell your barber: “Four guards on top and sides, low taper,” for a precise cut.
• The fade is low, ensuring a seamless transition from cut to skin.

Tip: A great base for light highlights or a bleached buzz.

• What: A fuller, denser look while staying clipper-simple.
• Best for: Thick hair; square faces.
• Ask for: “Five or six guards all over; mid-taper to avoid bulk.”
• Fade: Mid to create a clean look.

Tip: Brush forward to create a soft, stylish cropped look that appears effortless.

• What: This style boasts a bold 8-guard buzz cut, delivering a full inch of coverage.
• Best for: It suits long, oval, or diamond-shaped faces.
• How to ask your barber: “I’d like a seven or eight guard with a low drop fade, please.”
• Fade: A low drop that nicely follows the shape of your head.

Tip: As your hair grows, consider checking out some French crop styles for inspiration!

• What: Extended guards deliver a classic cropped look.
• Best for: Triangle faces that need top fullness. This ultra-long buzz cut is perfect for those who want a bold, edgy look.
• To really make this style pop, ask your barber to finish it off with a matte paste.
• The mid-fade haircut adds a touch of sophistication, from the longer top layer to the shorter sides.

Tip: Pair matte paste with subtle texture at this length to elevate this look.

• What: The longest familiar attachment—about 51 mm of sleekness.
• Best for: Most fullness with clipper simplicity.
• Ask your barber: “Give me a 16-guard cut with a low taper for a clean, crisp look.”
• The fade is low.

Tip: Ideal for cautious first timers; trims stay simple.

• What: A top guard combined with a low taper at the temples and nape for a sleek look.
• Best for: Professional environments.
• Ask your barber: low taper with no hard line at the temples.
• Discover the perfect taper style with our expert fades-and-taper guide.

Tip: Works for a 12-guard buzz cut, low taper, and 8-guard buzz cut with taper variations.

• What: A mid taper adds structure and lengthens the face.
• Best for: Ideal for round faces and thicker sides.
• Ask for: A mid taper with a uniform top.

Tip: A straight hair buzz cut with a mid-taper can help control bulk and keep your style sharp!

• What this cut achieves: a slimming effect with a higher graduation on the sides.
• Best for: Dense side hair; guys who want sharper edges.
• Ask for: A #2–#3 tops to complement this stylish cut.

Tip: Great for an 8-guard buzz cut high taper if you keep the top longer.

• What: A skin fade is paired with a #1-#3 buzz cuts on top, creating a neat, textured look.
• Best for: Defined cheekbones, athletic builds.
• Ask your barber: for a “mid (or high) skin fade, #2 on top, and a natural lineup”.

Tip: Pairs well with a short beard; explore more in our fade haircut ideas.

• What: A bold, circular fade surrounds the ear and makes a statement.
• Best for: Edgy, modern style.
• Ask for: “Burst fade with #3–#4 on top.”

Tip: Adds shape from the profile; a favorite for thicker hair.

• What: The fade line falls sharply at the back of the head, creating a dynamic look.
• Best for: round or larger heads; it adds contour.
• Ask your stylist: A drop fade that shapes around the occipital bone.

• What: This look balances minimal top hair with facial hair.
• Best for: Receding hairlines; big foreheads.
• Ask for: Keep buzz at #2–#3; beard at 1–3 mm stubble (or tidy goatee).

Tip: Sync the beard length with the head guard used for your buzz cut.

• What: Select a #1–#2 uniform length for a tidy, easy-to-maintain look.
• Best for: It’s ideal for those with Norwood 2–3 hairlines and diffuse thinning.
• Ask for: “A natural hairline with a light cleanup, thanks!”

Tip: A well-groomed goatee or stubble enhances the jawline.

• Do: Enjoy clean edges if you have a strong hairline!
• No need to: Enhance a weak hairline; it will stand out.

Pro Tip: Matte styling products add texture and minimize contrast between skin and hair.

• What: Brighten your hair to a #3–#4 for a chic look.
• Best for: Men who are comfortable with color upkeep.
• Ask for: “Complete bleach and tone; you can keep it vibrant at home with purple shampoo.”
• Safety: Navigate through the FDA’s hair dye safety guide. Don’t forget to patch the test first to keep your stress trouble-free!
• Style inspo: For bold color play, skim our ulzzang lookbook.

• What: Bleached base (#3–#4 length) with semi-permanent designs like leopard print and spider webs. Ideal for bold, expressive looks.
• Best for: statement looks, festivals, and photo shoots.
• Ask for: #1–#2 lengths to achieve crisp patterns, and we’ll paint the design over bleach for a striking look.

Tip: Keep your designs brief to make the patterns really pop! Enjoy the creative process!

• What: We achieve a light texture with a longer buzz.
• Best for: Straight hair that needs movement.
• Ask your stylist for: “A #4–#6 buzz with a low taper and a hint of crown texture, finished with a matte paste.”

Tip: Choose a matte paste; avoid shine to keep the scalp under wraps.

• What: A bold #3–#4 strips run down the middle, with faded sides for a striking look.
• Best for: Strong-style personalities; athletic builds.
• Ask for: A central Mohawk strip (width: ~1.5 inches) with a burst fade or high skin fade on the sides for contrast.

Extra inspiration: If you prefer length in the back, these mullet fade styles are a bold spin.

• What It Is: A precise #1–#2 tops with shaved or skin-tight sides and back, designed for low maintenance and a clean look.
• Best for: Ultra-clean, regulation-inspired looks.
• How to Ask: “Give me a high and tight—#1–#2 on top, skin fade on the sides and back.
• Military Standards: This style meets the grooming standards of the U.S. Army in (AR 670-1) at  Army Publications and Marine Corps Marines.mil.

• Zayn Malik: His bleached buzz cut at a #3–#4 length has sharp edges that really stand out.
• Michael B. Jordan: Clean #1–#2 with a tidy lineup.
• Chris Evans, Sebastian Stan, Will Poulter: Classic #2–#3 with neat edges.
• Tom Hardy rocks a high-contrast buzz, paired with stylish stubble.

“I said to him, ‘I’m gonna cut my hair’ and he was like, ‘Are you sure? You really want to do that?“
— David Beckham on his buzz cut decision.

• What: Pair your buzz with frames that emphasize your facial features.
• Best for: Students and professionals.
• Ask for: Fit guide by matching frame geometry to your face shape; you’ll find the perfect fit.

Tip: Round frames work well for square faces, while angular frames are great for round faces.

Helpful internal links while choosing styles

• Compare fades in this taper & fade breakdown.
• Growing it out next? Browse French crop inspo and a few wolf cut ideas.
• For wardrobe pairings, lean on our minimal wardrobe guide and explore more style aesthetics.

• Clippers with a full range of guards (0.5-8) plus extended attachments for a precise cut.
• Dual mirrors for optimal visibility: handheld and primary.
• A reliable neck trimmer and edger.
• A clipper brush, towel, and cape for a hassle-free experience.
• Bleaching: You’ll need the following for bleaching: gloves, a bowl, a brush, bleach or developer, toner, and purple shampoo.
• Brands pros trust: Wahl, Andis, BaBylissPRO.

Pro Tip: Check guard size compatibility via Wahl’s education hub or Andis training.

1

Preparing hair before a buzz cut.

Wash and fully dry your hair. Comb it in the natural direction to remove tangles.

2

Selecting a #4 guard before buzzing.

Attach a longer guard (e.g., #4). You can always go shorter after a first pass.

3

Buzzing with-the-grain using #4 guard.

Move front to back with slow, overlapping passes. Keep steady pressure and speed.

4

Cross-checking the crown while buzzing.

Go across the grain and focus on the crown swirl to catch missed hairs.

5

Cleaning the neckline with a trimmer.

Remove the guard and outline the neckline and ears with a trimmer only.

6

Soft natural lineup after buzzing.

Lightly tidy the hairline. Do not push the corners higher; keep it natural.

• Create a guideline at the temple and nape using your top guard set to #3.
• Below the line, switch to #2 and use short, scooping motions.
• Conclude with #1 at the edge, flicking out to blend any lines smoothly.
• If you encounter a stubborn line, a “half” guard, like a #1.5, can help smooth things out.

• Do: Tame those pesky flyaway and rogue neck hairs for refinement.
• Skip: Try to square off a weak hairline; it can make the recession more noticeable.
• Balance your sideburns with your beard length for a striking look

• Patch test before bleaching—the packaging and the FDA’s hair dye safety guide are great resources.
• Buzz cuts lift color in a matter of moments.
• Rinse until clean and apply some moisture afterward; your scalp will thank you.
• To keep your desired tone, use purple shampoo often. It helps reduce brassy tones.

• Aim for 2-3 washes per week to keep your hair happy and healthy.
• Get rid of flakes by relying on trusted actives and the AAD’s expert advice on dandruff treatment.
• Apply a scalp sunscreen daily if you’ve got a short style—thanks to the Skin Cancer Foundation for the tip.
• Shower, then moisturize; choose fragrance-free products if you have sensitive skin.

• Fine Hair: Say Goodbye to Flatness; for fine hair, lightweight matte pastes at #4–#6 are the way to go for a soft texture.
• Thick/Coarse Hair: light cream or clay reduces puffiness and keeps your hair in shape.
• Type 4 hair: A hydrating balm or oil can work wonders in locking in moisture and defining curls.
• Sensitive scalps: Fragrance-free shampoos are like a soothing balm, reducing irritation and itchiness.

• Within 2 weeks, we will dominate the #1–#2 territory, and our edges will soften.
• By 4 weeks, you’ll hit #3–#4, where many men experience a regrowth surge.
• Week 8–12: Hair grows to a longer buzz length; you might prefer a sharp crop or a smooth taper for a renewed look.

Establish your routine with these essential men’s grooming products from our expert guide.

• Match lengths: A #2 buzz creates a pleasing harmony with 1–3 mm of stubble.
• Round face: A bit of a longer beard at the chin with shorter sides can create great balance.
• Square face: A low taper with rounded beard corners can add some softness to your style.
• Glasses can enhance your look:
  • Angular frames can define a soft face.
  • Round frames can soften a sharp face.

• A #1–#2 buzz cuts complement breathable tees, shorts, and slides.
• Discover stylish warm-weather ideas in our summer outfit playbook and spring style guide!

• A #3–#4 buzz with a topcoat, roll neck, or cable knit looks smart.
• Master old‑money layers and winter style with our expert guides.
• Perfect your autumn transition with these 8 must-know style hacks.

• Uneven Patches: Take your time and savour the process! Consider your hair’s natural growth; you’ll achieve a beautiful, smooth finish each time.
• Visible Fade Steps: For that perfect blend, try using half-guards and a gentle flicking motion! Resist the urge to switch between guard sizes without delay; this will help you create a seamless, polished look.
• Pushed Hairline: If your hairline isn’t quite right, there’s no need to stress! Pause for a moment, let your hair grow out to a length of 2-3 mm, and then reshape it with a gentle touch to celebrate your natural design.
• Proven dandruff actives, such as zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole, can help soothe and calm the scalp.
• Save your hair from bleach damage. Use deep conditioning treatments and protect your hair from the sun with a hat or SPF.

Get ready to buzz. Pick the perfect guard and fade combo that complements your natural hairline. First-timers, #3 or #4 with a low taper is a winning combo. If you’re dealing with thinning hair, #1–#2 creates a more uniform density and pairs well with stubble. Ready to make a bold statement? Bleach #3–#4 and pair it with a sleek drop fade for a bold statement.

• Develop your personal style with our expert-curated short-length cuts for men.
• Master the art of fades and combos with our comprehensive guide to fade styles for men.
• Create a streamlined routine with our handpicked men’s routine essentials.
• Upgrade your wardrobe with our seasonal fashion guides:
  • Keep cool this summer with our 7-point outfit tips.
  • Refresh your autumn style with 8 must-have hacks.
  • Ace winter fashion using our 7-point guide.