This is an excellent brush and you definitely can't beat the price. I've had similar brushes that cost 3-4x as much, but weren't any better quality. The firm brush is perfect for longer/thicker beards and is a little rougher on the skin as compared to the soft brush. However, by simply learning how to brush your beard.... you probably won't scratch your skin.... Anyway, the softer brush is probably better suited for people with shorter beards. Personally, I recommend getting both. I've purchased or 3 of the firm brushes over the years and about 5 or 6 of the soft brushes (lost a few). I keep a brush at home, in my car, and at my desk at work. Highly recommend!