Dovo / TI? My opinion is that TI is better. I do not like the steel on Dovo. Every time I hone one I'm disappointed with something. I've had some that were brand new and would not hold an edge. Others chipped like mad. Those were my experiences. TI is as hard as a hammer and takes a lot to get them tip top. So as a new guy buying a new razor, that could be an issue for them. While not the original question, I'd suggest Boker or Revisor. I like Revisor the most at this price point but Boker is much easier to get in hand. Both seem to hone up great based, again, on the handful that I've honed and used. Considering that Boker is everywhere, I don't know why Dovo is typically recommended as a first razor.