First things first — we do not need more than one hair straightener (or flat iron, whichever name you prefer) in our arsenal. However, testing a variety of these trusty hair tools made us learn something: not all are created equal.
Sure, you probably still have the same flat iron you’ve had since middle school (and if it’s still going strong, props to you). But, is it making your hair shiny and smooth? Is it one of the best to use?
That’s why we tested the 10 hottest ones on the market — from Dyson’s cordless model to GHD’s best-selling one — to curate a detailed, pros and cons edit of which ones are worth your time and money. After years of testing, we provided detail notes on use and what to keep in mind before purchasing. (Related: best heat protectants).
Alongside the best curling irons and wands we rounded up, one of these will help produce pin-straight, healthy locks, guaranteed.
What we look for when testing hair straighteners:
- Ease of use: Sometimes, it’s about the journey and not just the destination. When using each hair straightener, I carefully assessed how each one felt in my hand and how simple it was to achieve a straight lock of hair.
- Heat retention: Aside from taking notes on how quickly each one took to fully heat up, I also studied how long each of them stood hot for (you know, for days when you’re also applying makeup or hopping to and from the bathroom mirror).
- Shine and smoothness: These two characteristics go hand in hand, as I expect my hair’s result to be salon-approved (especially if a straightener is up there in price).
1. L’ANGE Hair Le Rêve Blush Titanium Straightener, $99
Pros:
Makes your hair super shiny, quick to heat up, reasonable price point
Cons:
None to speak of
If there’s a hair straightener to buy from this list, it’s the L’ANGE Hair Le Rêve Blush Titanium Straightener. Not only is it my favorite overall (light pink packaging aside) but its titanium plates left my hair feeling the smoothest and shiniest.
Moreover, it doesn’t take long to heat up and when it’s in my hand, it feels super durable. Its extra-thick plates are exactly my preference (especially for medium-thick hair to really ensure your locks are nice and even) and the price point is reasonable.
2. Dyson Corrale Special Edition Straightener/Styler, $500
Pros:
Cordless design, durable construction, results in less flyaways, includes a charging dock and heat-resistant travel pouch
Cons:
High-end price point, comes with a bit of a learning curve
OK, Dyson is truly popping off — not only with its best-selling vacuums (which we reviewed) and its waitlist-inducing AirWrap, but with its Corrale Straightener/Styler. Though it was a bit of a learning curve to understand how to use its heat settings and multiple settings, the hair tool is incredible for having no wires (let’s say it again: no wires).
What’s more, it comes with a heat-resistant travel case and a docking station so you can have it propped up on your bathroom counter or vanity for easy use. If you straighten your hair quite often, this is worth the investment.
3. amika The Conductor 1″ Precision Germanium Flat Iron, $150
Pros:
Slim design, incredibly fast to heat up, leaves hair shiny
Cons:
Isn’t the best for thicker hair types
If I could write a love letter to any beauty brand, it would be amika. I reviewed its blow-dryer brush (and tried all its products) and can attest it’s my ride-or-die. With The Conductor 1″ Precision Germanium Flat Iron, you’ll be ready in a jiffy since it was the fastest to heat up out of all the models I tested.
It’s pretty incredible, too, and will leave your hair looking shiny and natural (like you just hopped off the salon chair). For $150, it’s fairly priced and will last you for years.
4. Hot Tools Pro Artist Ionic Flat Iron, $120
Pros:
Slim design, long-lasting finish, comes with heat protectant glove
Cons:
Doesn’t reduce frizz as much as other models tested
Hot Tools brings me back to my middle school days — and the brand’s Pro Artist Ionic Flat Iron is an elevated version of the rainbow and zebra-patterned flat iron I used before heading to class. Though it didn’t completely mitigate the look of flyaways, it’s a sharp option — that’s versatile for styling, too — and has been leaving my hair smooth.
5. GHD 1″ Original Flat Iron Styler, $169
Pros:
Travel-friendly design, top-rated and easily accessible online, high-quality plates
Cons:
Can tug on your hair if you’re rushing to style your hair
I have been using the GHD 1″ Original Flat Iron Styler for years after hearing about the brand from a YouTube beauty video (if you know, you know). I have been colored impressed by its compact size; it even comes with a heat-protective, silicone “head” to protect the plates when traveling.
One thing to note about this model is that it’s not meant to be used in a hurry — since its plates are so durable (and a bit heavier than others I tested), it can tug at your hair, which is a hairdresser’s no-no. Be sure to take your time when styling with the GHD, but otherwise it’s a top-rated product for a reason. Plus, I always use the GHD Bodyguard Heat Protectant Spray ($25) before flat-ironing.
6. Drybar The Straight Shot Blow-Drying Flat Iron, $179
Pros:
Unique blow-dryer and hair-straightener combo, simple to use, versatile to style
Cons:
May not be good for super frizzy and textured hair types
New from Drybar, its The Straight Show Blow-Drying Flat Iron is a unique model I tested. Not only is it your blow-dryer brush and flat-iron hybrid, but it’ll take your hair from damp to pin-straight in a matter of minutes.
When used with the brand’s Hot Toddy Heat Protection Mist ($29) and seriously unbeatable High Tops Self-Grip Rollers ($12) for a little bit of bounce, you won’t need the salon for a long long time.
7. T3 Edge Heated Smoothing & Styling Brush, $150
Pros:
Great for the minimalist, gives your hair a natural finish, versatile heating options
Cons:
Doesn’t get your hair as pin-straight as other models tested
I love T3. Its Airebrush Duo that I tested is still is a product I rotate on my hair-wash days, but its Edge Heated Smoothing & Styling Brush is something else entirely.
If you prefer the look of a fresh blowout (and lean more toward straighter hairstyles than curly), this is a great product. While it won’t get your hair pin-straight, it’s great for reducing frizz and taming your hair to a near-perfect state.
8. CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron, $62 to $80
Pros:
Less than $100, simple to use, travel-friendly
Cons:
Its heat retention could be a bit better, but still left my hair straight
With a buzzy name like CHI, you know it’s going to make the cut. I’ve been using the CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron for years (along with everyone’s mother, sister and grandmother), but its popularity isn’t what makes it a standout: it’s its ease of use.
Though the heat retention could be better before and after full use (for touchups and whatnot), this model is one of the best values on this list. Plus, it makes a great gift under $100.
9. Remington Shine Therapy Argan Oil & Keratin-Infused 2″ Hair Straightener, $35, original price: $40
Pros:
Extra-thick plates, great for those with excessive flyaways or split ends
Cons:
Doesn’t heat up as quickly as others tested
After using the Remington Shine Therapy Hair Straightener for years, I still can’t understand how it’s less than $50. It’s that good and especially great for those with thicker hair who want that pin-straight look like it’s nobody’s business.
It takes an average amount of time to heat up, but that doesn’t deter me from reaching for it. Plus, my hair receives compliments nearly every time I use it (and it makes your hair look great in pictures, in case your Instagram feed is a main consideration).
10. Moroccanoil Perfectly Polished Titanium Flat Iron, $160
Pros:
Makes hair shiny and soft, simple to use
Cons:
None to speak of
Much like the brand’s Everlasting Curl Titanium Curling Iron ($160), Moroccanoil’s Perfectly Polished Titanium Flat Iron is a godsend if you want your hair looking fresh, shiny and clean at all times. Its settings aren’t complex to use and it’s a phenomenal investment if you want a trusty one on hand.
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