Short haircuts like a crew cut and buzz cut are very popular, and men across the globe sport them gladly. However, the crew cut vs. buzz cut debate has left many people confused, and they do not know how to distinguish one from the other.
The minor differences between them might not bother most people, but if you are heading to the barber, knowing the distinctions helps you ask for exactly what you want.
What Differentiates a Crew Cut from a Buzz Cut?
There are not many differences between the two, but if you look closely, you will notice them. Here are some of the differences between a crew cut and a buzz cut that we have noticed.
Crew Cut vs Buzz Cut at a Glance
| Crew Cut | Buzz Cut | |
| Top | Longer at the front, graduated shorter toward the crown | One uniform length all over |
| Sides | Tapered or faded, not bare | Same length as the top (faded in modern versions) |
| Tools | Scissors on top, clippers on the sides | Clippers with a single guard |
| Styling | A little product for a finished look | None (wash and go) |
| Upkeep | About every 3–4 weeks | About every 2–4 weeks |
Specific Cut vs Broad Category
A buzz cut is more general, as a range of short military haircuts comes under the category of buzz cuts. The crew cut, however, is a particular hairstyle that has a distinct outline of features that distinguish it from other short hairstyles.
Here are some more differences you should know about:
Hair Type
When it comes to choosing a hairstyle, the type of hair you have is an essential factor to consider. A crew cut is a good option if you have thick, wavy hair. The short length will help to keep your hair in place, and the layers will give you some texture and definition.
A buzz cut can also work well with thin, straight hair, since cutting it short reduces the contrast between hair and scalp and helps minimize flyaways. Keep in mind, though, that very short guards (a #1 or #2) expose the scalp, so they suit you best when your density is fairly even; receding corners, crown thinning, and a big difference between hair and skin color will show more at those lengths.
Face Shapes
When choosing a haircut, face shape is an important consideration. Those with round faces, for example, may want to go with a crew cut, as the longer length on top can help to lengthen and slim the face.
On the other hand, a buzz cut is suitable for oblong, diamond, and square face shapes without any real issue. It’s ideal for these faces, as the shorter length can help to soften features.
Heart and oval faces can work too, but they take more care and technique.
Length, Top, and Sides
This is where the two cuts really part ways. A crew cut features short, cropped hair on top that is longer at the front and tapers shorter toward the crown, which gives it a bit of texture and depth. A buzz cut, by contrast, is one even length all over, typically anywhere from about 1.5 mm to 13 mm depending on the guard used.
The sides and back tell a similar story. On a buzz cut they stay close to the same length as the top, though modern versions often add a fade. On a crew cut they are usually cut very short or faded, rather than shaved completely to the skin.
That extra contrast between the top and the sides is what gives the crew cut its sharper, more defined finish, while the buzz keeps everything clean and uniform.
Style Variations
Both styles come in several variations.
For instance, a crew cut can be styled with a longer or shorter top, blended into short, tapered, or faded sides.
On the other hand, a buzz cut is executed with clippers and can vary in length depending on the guard size used.
- Popular crew cut styles include classic, short, long, taper fade, textured, and side-parted.
- Popular buzz cut styles include Triple Zero, line-up, induction, low skin fade, tapered, and disconnected.
Required Tools
Clippers can be used to create a buzz cut by clipping all of the hair off the head evenly. This look is popular among men, as it is low-maintenance and easy to style.
For a crew cut, scissors are often used to taper the length of the hair at the top from the front to the back, and clippers are used to taper the sides.
Maintenance
When it comes to low-maintenance haircuts, it’s hard to beat a buzz cut. Buzz cuts are easy to care for. Just wake up and go. No styling is required. That’s not to say that buzz cuts don’t have their own kind of style.
A well-kept buzz still needs upkeep: plan on a touch-up every 2 to 4 weeks to keep it crisp, or stretch it longer if you do not mind some grow-out. A crew cut holds its shape a little longer, usually around 3 to 4 weeks, since the graduated top disguises early growth.
Crew cuts are similar to buzz cuts in that they are short and easy to care for. However, they often call for a little styling to give them a more finished look. This is often true in the morning to eliminate that I-just-got-up look.
But once you’ve mastered the art of crew cut styling, you’ll find it’s quite easy to keep your hair looking its best. Whether you’re trying to achieve a polished or rugged look, a crew cut is a great option.
Should You Get a Buzz Cut or a Crew Cut?
So, you’re thinking about getting a buzz cut or crew cut? But which one should you choose? It depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance hairstyle that is easy to care for, a buzz cut or crew cut would be a great option.
However, if you’re looking for something slightly more stylish, a crew cut might be the better choice. Whichever style you choose, make sure to visit your barber or stylist to get the perfect cut.