It is a matter of preference and also on what type of skin you have. Make sure that if you are using soap, it is shaving soap and for what skin type you have, especially if you have sensitive skin.
There is a down side to soap, if you are looking to shape your beard into say a goat-tee, doing so with so is more difficult since it is harder to see where you are shaving.
That is why many shaving creams are now "Invisible" so you can see where you shave. Also shaving creams also act as moisturizers for your skin and are better to reduce razor burn, bumps and acne as well. For the "invisible" shaving creams I am talking about read this review on Bold for Men and our coming soon review on Ultra Shave.
And of course for visit our site for more general information on Shaving for Men