The Best-Smelling Balm: Beardbrand Utility Balm

Credit where it’s due: this brand nailed the scent. With oak, leather, amber, ylang-ylang, and a hint of lime, it’s a rich, layered blend that absolutely earns its name. The balm’s texture is softer than most, and you get serious value—the tin is nearly double the size of others on this list. Bonus: It works wonders in your hair too—ideal for taming post-shower frizz.

Best Double-Duty Beard Balm: Jack Black Leave It In Hair & Beard Balm

This game-changer is the opposite of the harder balms on this list. With a soft, airy consistency, it works equally as well for hair as it does for beard. It has a clean, leave-in feel that softens as it dries and doesn’t leave a tacky texture on your hands. For those who seek serious hydration or run on the oily side, try this more water-rich formula, which hydrates a bit differently than the essential oil-heavy versions.

Best MVP-Approved Beard Balm: Blind Barber Bryce Harper Beard Balm

No matter which team you’re cheering for—or playing on—you can’t deny that Bryce Harper sports one legendary beard. It’s so epic that he’s partnered with the badass barbers at Blind Barber in NYC to launch a collection that delivers amazing control without the goop or gunk. Whether you’re sporting a bit of scruff or going full-on Bryce with a majestic mane, this balm will work wonders for you.

Best Classic Beard Balm: Pete & Pedro Fresh Beard Balm

If you’re looking for a classic, reliable choice, this is your go-to. It strikes the perfect balance—not too hard, not too soft. The scent is refreshingly light amidst a sea of heavier fragrances; it’s subtle and natural, never artificial or overpowering. The only quirk is the texture—it may come out in clumps, but don’t worry! Just warm it up in your hands before applying, as you should with all these products.

Best Lightweight Beard Balm: King C. Gillette Beard Softener

Got an oily beard or just aiming for that luxurious softness? This thin, non-greasy softener is your best bet. With a wet, salve-like texture, it’s like a leave-in conditioner for your beard—only better. It boasts a pleasant old-school scent and delivers instant hydration without the heavy residue. Just keep in mind, it won’t linger as long as those oilier or wax-based formulas.

Best Travel Beard Balm: Reuzel Beard Balm

This compact, twist-off tin—weighing in at just 1.3 ounces—is the ultimate travel companion. A little goes a long way with this medium-hard balm, featuring a subtle scent that’s just right. While it leans toward the waxier side, it melts effortlessly in your hands and applies smoothly without any odd residue. It’s particularly great for guys sporting longer beards, as the waxy texture provides extra hold for that polished look.

Best Value: Every Man Jack Beard Butter

Every Man Jack

Beard Butter

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Pros

• Affordable price point
• Easy to find
• Soothing ingredients

Cons

• Not ideal if you’re looking for a fragrance

If a wallet-friendly, unscented beard styler is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with Every Man Jack’s beard butter. The 4-ounce container is packed with paraben-free ingredients, including grooming stars like shea and coconut butter–all of which made our beard feel softer and nourished but not weighed down by product. Along with being all-around affordable, we also like that it’s readily available to find online and at department stores.