Alright men: the votes have been cast, and the safety razor is the way to go. I got my first one as a gift from a buddy and have used it ever since. They're significantly cheaper, easier on the environment, better for travel, and generally make you feel like a badass...
That said, they do take quite awhile to master and I'm still unconvinced that they actually give you a closer shave. But upon mastery, you will have greater control to get just as close of a shave; and although it'll take a little longer, you'll spend more time feeling incredibly manly each morning. If you're interested in checking one out but haven't inherited one from a grandfather, check out this convenient guide from HiConsumption.