I've used a Braun Silk Epil for 20 years. The first one I had died after 2-3 years, but the second one is still going strong. I've never used another one so I don't know if anything's better for smoothness, performance, etc (but I don't think I can beat the reliability).
I vastly prefer the epilator to shaving because new hairs that grow in have fine, smoother tips. Shaved hair stubble is sharp and prickly. What works best for me is to use it shortly after bathing or showering. For a time I had problems with ingrown hairs, but making sure to mildly exfoliate and moisturize regularly has mostly taken care of that. I still get a few but not a lot.