Oral-B iO Series 2 Review: Entry-Level iO
Specifications
| Price | ~$79 |
|---|---|
| Technology | iO Linear Magnetic Drive |
| Cleaning Modes | 1 (Daily Clean) |
| Battery Life | ~7 days (14 sessions) |
| Pressure Sensor | Yes (LED indicator) |
| Timer | Yes (2-minute with quadrant pacer) |
| App Connectivity | No |
| Display | No |
| Brush Head Type | iO Series (magnetic attachment) |
| Charger | Magnetic charger |
| Travel Case | No |
Overview
The Oral-B iO Series 2 is the most stripped-down model in the iO lineup. Launched to give budget-conscious consumers access to Oral-B's revolutionary linear magnetic drive technology, the Series 2 delivers the same smooth, quiet brushing experience as its more expensive siblings — but with significant feature cuts that make it hard to recommend over the identically priced iO Series 3.
The magnetic drive system is the star here. Unlike the mechanical gear motors in the Pro and Vitality lines, the iO Series 2 uses magnets to drive the brush head. This means less noise, less vibration transmitted to the handle, and a more comfortable brushing feel. The energy transfers more efficiently to the bristle tips, where it actually matters for plaque removal. If you have used an older Oral-B model, the difference in refinement is immediately noticeable.
Design and Features
The Series 2 handle is sleek and modern, matching the iO design language with a matte finish and a single power button. There is no display of any kind on the handle — you cannot see your battery level, mode (there is only one anyway), or timer progress. A small LED near the base of the handle lights up when you press too hard, serving as a basic pressure indicator.
The 2-minute timer with 30-second quadrant alerts works just like every other Oral-B model, buzzing briefly to tell you to move to the next section of your mouth. It is simple and effective. The magnetic charger is a nice touch — instead of balancing the handle on a pin, you simply set it on the magnetic charging puck, and it connects automatically.
Brushing Experience
In terms of actual cleaning, the iO Series 2 performs very well. The linear magnetic drive provides that signature iO smoothness — less handle vibration, quieter operation, and efficient bristle movement. The single Daily Clean mode is perfectly adequate for everyday brushing, delivering thorough cleaning along the gumline and between teeth.
The limitation is that you cannot switch to a gentler mode if you have sensitive gums or a more intense mode for a deeper clean. If you always brush the same way and do not need variety, this is not a problem. But at the same $79 price point, the iO Series 3 gives you Sensitive and Whiten modes in addition to Daily Clean, which adds genuine versatility at no extra cost.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- iO magnetic drive at the lowest iO price
- Smooth, quiet brushing experience
- Pressure sensor with LED indicator
- 2-minute timer with quadrant pacer
- Magnetic charger (easy to use)
- Modern, sleek handle design
Cons
- Only one cleaning mode
- No display at all
- No app connectivity
- No travel case
- iO brush heads are more expensive
- iO Series 3 offers more at the same price
Who Should Buy the iO Series 2?
Best For:
- Minimalists who want iO technology with zero complexity
- Upgraders from manual brushes who want a quieter alternative to the Pro 1000
Consider Instead:
- The iO Series 3 at the same $79 price offers three modes instead of one
- The Pro 1000 at $49 is cheaper with more affordable brush heads
Compare to Similar Models
| Feature | iO Series 2 | iO Series 3 | Pro 1000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $79 | $79 | $49 |
| Technology | iO Magnetic | iO Magnetic | Osc-Rot-Pulsating |
| Modes | 1 | 3 | 1 |
| Display | No | No | No |
| Pressure Sensor | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| App | No | No | No |
| Head Cost | $8-12 | $8-12 | $4-7 |
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Both cost around $79, but the iO Series 3 offers three cleaning modes (Daily Clean, Sensitive, Whiten) while the iO Series 2 has only one mode (Daily Clean). We recommend the iO Series 3 for the added flexibility at the same price.
No. The iO Series 2 does not have Bluetooth or app support. For app features, you need the iO Series 5 or higher.
No. There is no screen on the handle. It has an LED pressure sensor light, but no display showing modes, battery, or timer information.