A shavette can give a great shave, the main problem I have found is as Rob points out. It is very light and to me just doesn't give any feedback. The other big problem is the fear factor, people are too scared of it so when they try it they use too light touch. Yes I know you are all screaming at me, but too light a touch IMO leads the blade to skip and jump on the skin. You need a firm touch, neither too light nor too heavy. I know that doesnt describe things very well but it's what I feel, too light and you pull the blade away causing it to hop skip and jump all over your face. Then it digs in on the next jump and bites you! To heavy a touch and, well we all know what the result is. Give it a try, it's cheap and the good thing is the blade is short. It allows you to get into trickier wee spots than a full length straight. If you do get one take your time, get your prep spot on and most of all relax. Set aside a good half hour for the shave itself and pay very close attention to angles.
If you have the pennies then the Feather is the way to go if you dont want to learn stropping, it is a fantastic razor although a bit overpriced. I have now owned 4 straights, a shavette and a Feather. The best on overall ease of use and close comfortable shave is the Feather!
