Best Hair Dryer 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

The 3Q from BaByliss has an amazing 2200W of power, making it high-performance and brilliant for those who like to dry their hair as quickly as possible without any fuss. It is a lot lighter than many of its competitors, so even if you have hair which takes quite a while to dry, your arms won’t start to ache with prolonged use.

There is a professional, long-lasting AC motor, which will extend the life of the appliance without reducing performance. The filter is also removable, so you can regularly clean it to keep it looking and performing as new.

The 3Q is powerful even on its lowest setting, but this doesn’t make it loud unlike some other models. With a 3m cord, you won’t be restricted as to where you can use it.

For those who couldn’t do without the cold boost on their device but hate having to press or hold the button down constantly, this BaByliss model is perfect. A switch operates the cool shot, so you can keep it on for as long as you like. This also makes it ideal for the warmer months when the thought of drying your hair with heat is unbearable.

Dyson is completely rethinking the appliances we have in our home, and their first hair dryer is no different. It is lightweight and super easy to use but doesn’t sacrifice on power or performance for this.

The significant difference between the Dyson Supersonic™ and an ordinary run of the mill hair dryer is that the motor is in the handle. This has given way for a complete redesign of the regular hair dryer shape and weight so that you can dry your hair for longer without any arm ache.

Despite the fact that the motor spins an incredible 110,000 times per minute, it does it at a low frequency, meaning there is no noise disruption to your routine.

There are three speed settings and four heat settings ranging between 28°C and 100°C, meaning you can cater the performance entirely dependent upon your needs. Hair dries lovely and soft, and a lot quicker than with other models.

In-built heat regulation technology monitors the temperature every 20 seconds, so there is no risk of the appliance overheating and consequently damaging your hair. The actual appliance will also remain cool, so you don’t have to worry about not touching the surface at any point.

Comes with smoothing nozzle, styling concentrator, diffuser, non-slip mat and storage hanger.

One of the newest hair dryers on the market, and pretty revolutionary.

It is proven to reduce visible hair damage caused by brushing, such as split ends. Nanoe technology and Ionic conditioning work hand in hand to actively eliminate static to reduce frizz, retain moisture and improve shine and health of your hair.

It isn’t just the fancy technology which makes it a standout, though. 3 speed settings and 4 different modes including hot mode, hot and cold alternating mode, skin mode and scalp mode make for a comfortable experience, and ensure that both your skin and your hair are treated as well as possible.

Other standout pointers include a folding handle for more compact storage, and a removable filter so it is super easy to keep clean and longer lasting. The cord is also 2.7m long, which is very generous.

As the name AIR3D suggests, this is a rather advanced and futuristic hair dryer which uses the latest tricks of the trade to keep your hair in top condition. But that is not to say it is too advanced for everyday use, of course.

The ceramic grille infused with micro conditioners and Ionic Conditioning both work to lock in moisture and eliminate frizz leaving your hair sleek and shiny. This combination is more than you’ll find in a lot of other hair dryers, so it is perfect for those who feel they lose their daily battle with the frizz.

The 3D name comes from the 3D air flow technology for optimised performance and drying times. 2 speed and 3 temperature settings will allow you to find the perfect balance to suit your hair and heat threshold, and there is also a cool boost button for when you need to set the style.

Accessories included are the Diffuser, Super Slim 7mm Concentrator and Fast Drying 11mm Concentrator, so there’s one for when you want curls on a night out and also one if you’re trying to rush out of the house in the mornings.

The ghd Air® is the first professional hair dryer from the industry leaders and gives you salon-style hair which was only once achievable from a quick cut and blow-dry in the salon from the comfort of your own home.

It leaves even the frizziest of hair smooth and controlled, reducing flyaways. Using the cool shot function gives you the ability to set your style, and keeps it tamed long after you originally dried your hair thanks to the advanced ionic temperature.

The long-lasting results make it likely that you will be spending less time with your straighteners, which is ideal for anybody who is cautious about the amount of heat they are using to style their hair on a regular basis. It also doesn’t heat up your hair, reducing the lasting damage and improving the condition.

The narrow nozzle gives you the ability to properly direct the heat just where you want it. It is on the very heavy side, however, so may not be the most ideal for people with long thick hair or anybody with wrist problems.

Coming in at a fabulous budget price, this diffuser dryer is both very easy to use and cares well for your hair.

When the time comes, simply clip the diffuser attachment on to the end of the unit. It also comes with a concentrated nozzle, in case you aren’t leaving your hair natural and getting the job done quicker is more important.

Ionic conditioning will keep hair sleek and shiny without causing the dreaded frizz. It is nice and light to use too, which is ideal if you have a lot of thick hair so need to hold it at difficult angles to get the job done.

One of the more pricey hairdryers on our list, especially in the diffuser category. But this is all for good reason, as you will find out.

It does the three big tasks, adding volume, minimising frizz and reducing damage from brushing. This means you no longer have to avoid using your hairdryer every day through fear that it will cause long-term damage – it actually helps to keep it at bay and reverse it.

If your hair is already almost at the point of return, and this is why you’re looking for a new dryer, then the Healthy Mode will help keep any further damage at bay until it can be revived by the professionals. Then, when you’re back to normal, you’ll notice a huge difference in the condition of your hair until your next visit to the hairdressers.

Nanoe™ Technology is proven to give your hair a healthy, flawless shine, maintaining approximately 1,000 times more moisture than a regular hair dryer.

A hairdryer which can not only keep your natural curls looking bouncy and tangle-free, but will also keep hair smooth and sleek.

The ion generator has 90% more ions than a standard Remington dryer for frizz-free shine. You also get a handy turbo setting, which gives you higher temperatures and more power to get the job done quickly. So if you’ve previously found that using diffuser settings usually means you have to sacrifice time, this won’t be the case with this Remington.

A concentrator nozzle is also included if you need to speed things up even more or have more targeted hair drying, and a removable filter will allow you to keep it in good condition. This won’t only ensure that the product has a longer lifespan, but also blows out the cleanest air possible if you keep on top of maintenance.

With a powerful 2200W motor and keratin and macadamia coated grille, this Remington hair dryer leaves your hair conditioned, shiny, and healthy. It comes with a diffuser attachment too, making it the best hair dryer for curly hair that we reviewed.

There are three heat settings and two speed settings, so the power you need is perfectly versatile. There is also a 7mm and 11mm concentrator nozzle included, so you can target specific areas of your hair or give it a quick blast before allowing it to settle naturally.

With a cool button, you can set any styled hairstyle quickly. The hairstyle also lasts throughout the day, reducing the need for any other heat or styling products.

Harnessing the power and expertise of ghd’s vast range of hair care products, the ghd Flight® is lightweight and comfortable to use no matter where you are in the world.

Just like it’s larger Air® cousin, this model comes with advanced technology which locks in the moisture to your hair, reducing frizz and flyaway strands without any extra effort on your behalf.

There are two speeds to choose from and a maximum temperature of 65°C, so it is hot enough to do the job without making you even warmer if you are in a sunny climate. The 1.8m power cord may seem short but is generous for travel hair dryer models. With 1800W power, it packs a punch despite its size.

The nozzle is removable, and the handle is collapsible, meaning you can easily carry it in hand luggage or a suitcase. It even comes with a travel case so will not get damaged en route.

The Remington D2400 Travel option gives you great hair on the go, wherever you go. It has worldwide voltage so can be used anywhere in the world so you can have gorgeous hair anywhere. It is powerful with 1400 watts, 2 heat settings, and two-speed settings, drying your hair faster and letting you be in full control.

It comes with a concentrator nozzle for precise styling which is pretty handy, especially on the go. This is great for travel as it has a folding handle for compact storage and more space for your luggage. It is pretty lightweight, but it isn’t the most lightweight on this list, with the Lloytron H1010SV 1200 watt Travel being the lightest.

It still has a lot of power and has a 1.8-meter cord which is very good for a travel version. This means you can dry your tresses with ease and comfort, wherever you are. It also comes with a convenient hang loop at end of the handle to store it away.

The Lloytron H1010SV Travel dryer is a compact dryer with a low power consumption.

It has dual voltage and is suitable to use in Europe, as long as you have an adapter plug at the ready. The Lloytron has two heat settings for versatility and comes with two-speed settings and a narrow nozzle for precision and styling.

This compact option is lightweight, weighing in at 0.42 kg. However, the cable length leaves much to be desired at only 1 meter. But as this is a travel hairdryer we expect a few cut back features like cable length or power so it is still really efficient.

Again the handle folds inwards making it small and easy to fit into any bag. This really is a minimal and straight to the point dryer that is great for traveling and does exactly what it says on the tin.

Small but uncompromising on power, the Salon 2000 from TRESemmé includes a mini paddle brush and concentrated nozzle, so you have all you need for your trip away.

The foldable handle makes both travelling and storage easy, and tourmaline-ceramic technology ensures your hair will not suffer from the usual heat damage that prolonged use of heat products can cause.

There are two speed settings, so you can rough dry your hair and then switch to the lower speed to style and add shine. We would have preferred a carry case rather than the brush as it doesn’t work well on thick hair anyway, but small bags are available.

The Babyliss 5344U Travel dryer is lightweight, powerful and compact. It is a great hairdryer for your travels and is very effective on all hair types. It has 2 heat settings and 2 different speeds making styling easy. The Babyliss 5344U also comes with a concentrator nozzle for precision.

What makes this travel hairdryer great for travelling is its dual voltage and folding handle which is ideal for travelling and holidays. It can become compact and can fit into any bag easily. That being said, the Babyliss travel version doesn’t compromise power for its compact design. It is still powerful, drying your hair fast with no fuss.

The only downside to the Babyliss is that it is a little bigger than some other travel dryers and there is no mesh at the back, but its power is what made us put it on our list.

Parlux are without a doubt experts in professional haircare since the 1970s, providing quality products that reduce damage to your hair. They keep hair healthy and protect it from harsh styling damage and extensive heat.

The Parlux Advance Light comes in a variety of different colours and has variable heat settings giving you lots of control over styling. It has ionic and ceramic technology leaving your locks healthy, sleek and frizz-free.

The Parlux Advance comes with a long lasting motor with a heatproof body, protecting you and your surfaces from heat damage.

Another great feature of the Parlux Advance Light is it’s noise level. This is hands down the quietest hairdryer we have used. The components weight has been reduced meaning it is lightweight and very quiet which is great if you need to dry your hair in the early hours of the morning.

They have followed their older dryer design, and why not – it’s already perfect so why change it.

The Nicky Clarke Supershine does everything a good hairdryer should. It leaves your hair feeling hydrated, healthy and super soft, reducing frizz and static thanks to its ionic and ceramic technology and slim concentrator for precision styling.

It comes with two different heat settings and 2 different nozzles for comfortable and easy styling.

One downside we found with the Nicky Clarke Supershine was the weight of the body. Now this isn’t too much of an issue of you have thin hair, but it becomes a problem if you have very thick hair. A lot of dead arms and hand swapping is needed.

Other than that, this hairdryer does everything it says on the tin, keeping your hair healthy and reducing damage to your precious tresses.

With a super slim nozzle, the BaByliss Salon Light hair dryer directs airflow to exactly where you need it, making it easy to manage and cater the exact results to your needs. There’s also a long 3m lead, so you aren’t restricted to having to stand near a plug far away from any mirrors.

The heat-balancing ionic and ceramic technology gives your hair an added shine boost while keeping frizz and flyaway hairs under control.

With 2100W power, it will dry your hair quickly and efficiently, saving your arms from any unnecessary discomfort. You also have the option of a cold boost button, so you can set your style once you’re done.

The ergonomic handle will ensure you can hold it comfortably, and quickly change between settings without too much disruption. The filter is removable for easy cleaning, which will help prolong its life and effectiveness, along with its long-life AC motor.

Incredibly powerful for its inexpensive price tag, the BaByliss 5116U releases a stream of balancing ions to keep your hair frizz-free and silky.

The lightest non-travel hair dryer we have reviewed, this model would be perfect for anybody who has incredibly thick hair which takes a long time to dry, or for anyone with weak wrists, as it isn’t cumbersome to hold for an extended period. It is also easy to control via a simple slider mechanism on the back of the handle.

There is a cool boost button for when you need to set your style once its dry, but unfortunately, there is no option to control the temperature, with only two speed settings.

There is also a very short power cable, just over half the length of most of its competitors, which isn’t ideal if you are very restricted with plug sockets and may require an extension lead.

The Revlon Perfectionist 2-in-1 has a unique design, combining hairdryer with a brush. It has ionic conditioning technology to eliminate static from your hair and give you a smooth and sleek finish.

The Perfectionist 2-in-1 has two different heat settings including a cold setting, giving you more control over your hair styling and reduce damage. The massaging ball tips on the bristles are perfect for stimulating hair growth and detangle hair simultaneously.