Best Hair Tools
Last updated: · 2 picks
TL;DR
Top pick: Dyson Airwrap Complete Long
The most versatile styling tool available — it curls, waves, smooths, and dries with no extreme heat.
Runner-up: Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System — Shark's answer to the Airwrap — similar multi-attachment concept at roughly half the price.
We spent time researching the best hair tools across real user scenarios, not just specs. Every product below has been evaluated on value, performance, and long-term reliability. Our recommendations are independent — we earn a commission if you buy through our links, but this never influences which products we recommend or how we rank them.
Quick comparison
Our picks, ranked
- 1$599.99
The most versatile styling tool available — it curls, waves, smooths, and dries with no extreme heat.
Best for: Fine-to-medium hair types who style frequently and want to reduce heat damage long-term.
- 2$399.99
Shark's answer to the Airwrap — similar multi-attachment concept at roughly half the price.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers with fine to medium, straight or wavy hair.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the Dyson Airwrap and the Shark FlexStyle?
Both use high-velocity air to style without clamping. The Airwrap offers a more refined build, a better diffuser for curly hair, and costs about $150–200 more. The FlexStyle delivers nearly identical results on fine to medium straight/wavy hair at a lower price.
Is the Dyson Airwrap worth the price?
For people who style their hair at least 3x/week, yes — the reduced heat damage typically outweighs the premium over 2–3 years. For occasional stylists, a conventional curling wand with heat protectant is the rational choice.
What temperature does the Dyson Airwrap reach?
The Airwrap is capped at 150°C (302°F) at its highest setting, compared to 180–230°C for most conventional curling wands. This is the core reason it causes less cumulative damage.
Does the Shark FlexStyle work on curly hair?
It works, but the diffuser attachment is weaker than Dyson's. For 3a–4c curl patterns where a diffuser is the primary tool, the Dyson Supersonic with its flyaway diffuser is a better fit.
Can I travel with the Dyson Airwrap?
Yes — most versions ship with a dual-voltage power supply (100–240V). Check your specific model. The magnetic storage case it comes with is travel-ready.