I usually use a Rockwell 6S, #6 baseplate, with a Feather blade. I swapped in an Astra Superior Platinum, and couldn't tell the difference. The Astra SP was just as smooth and efficient as the Feathers I've used for years.

I thought the Astra Blues were great, however, these are far superior. Amazingly close shave with no nicks or cuts. I highly recommend these blades.

I've relatively new to wet shaving, about 6 months in. I started with the sensitive skin sample pack and tried them all, multiple times. All of the others ended up irritating my neck, either immediately or over time. I had hopes for the Permasharp, Kai, and Rapira blades (Rapira is my backup choice) but all of them end up causing skin irritation for me - it's just a matter of how long it takes. After the skin irritation starts if I shift to Astra blades, the irritation and bumps go away within a few days. Simply the smoothest blades I've found (so far at least) for me. Of course, your mileage may vary.

I purchased these Astra greens from Razor Emporium to try them … again. I know they are highly rated when you research online but I think they are just average. I’ve done side by side shaving too. Try them and see. Maybe you will like them. But for me. Middle of the pack.