Behind every salon-worthy style is a great hair dryer. Whether you’re looking for bouncy roots and smooth ends, or simply want dry hair in a flash, our expert testers are here to help with the best hair dryers for every hair type.
Ready for a blow dry any woman would envy? Look no further — the Good Housekeeping Institute has found the tools that will make quick work of any style and leave your locks looking and feeling healthier.
Best hair dryers 2024
Joint best wet-to-dry hair styler
Dyson Airstrait™ Straightener
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Joint best wet to dry hair styler
ghd Duet Style 2-in-1 Hot Air Styler in Black
Read more
Best hair dryer for curly hair
Bellissima Creativity 4 You Hair Dryer
Read more
Best premium travel hair dryer
Hershesons The Great Hairdryer
Read more
Best for multiple heat and speed settings
Remington ONE Dry & Style Hair Dryer
Read more
How do I choose a good hair dryer?
Choosing the best hair dryer for you will not only be down to your hair type, but also understanding all the features and extras each model comes with. To make things easier, we’ve broken down the buzz words to look out for.
Ionic technology creates negative ions that break up water molecules in your hair, smoothing it and preventing flyaways. Positive ions can be directed at the roots to boost volume.
Ceramic or tourmaline heating elements are thought to be less damaging to your hair than metal ones, as they emit infrared heat and lock in moisture. Ceramic hair dryers distribute heat more evenly, preventing “hot spots” and minimising heat damage. Tourmaline hair dryers release negative ions for a smoother finish.
Wattage and weight. Higher wattage means stronger airflow and therefore a faster dry time. However, higher wattage hair dryers tend to be heavier and harder to control.
Multiple speed and heat settings. High speed and heat is best for drying hair quickly, while a lower speed and heat provides more styling control and limits tangling and frizziness.
A cool shot button provides a burst of cool air that seals the hair cuticle, making hair look smoother and shinier.
A hanging loop is useful for storing your hair dryer out the way while it cools down.
Which hair dryer is least damaging?
When heat’s involved, there’s always the risk of damaging strands. However, thanks to modern tech (and a good heat protectant spray) there are hair dryers that can help keep breakage to a minimum.
Opt for models that are either ionic or ceramic. Ionic hair dryers cleverly break down positively charged water molecules by producing negatively charged ions, which not only allows you to use your hair dryer on a lower temperature, but also doesn’t expose the hair shafts — meaning less damage and fewer signs of frizz.
Ceramic hair dryers, on the other hand, focus on providing an even airflow to regulate heat and adjust temperatures automatically. This will not only speed up your drying time, but also help avoid damage while doing so.
We’ve got both types in our round-up, so you can have the same sleek results without as much damage.
What's the best hair dryer for my hair type?
Fine hair: High heat can easily damage fine tresses, so look for variable heat settings. Positive ion technology can help create volume and body.
Frizzy hair: Ionic technology and a cool shot button are your friends, sealing hair cuticles to stop water and humidity “fluffing up” your mane.
Thick hair: High wattage helps move air through the hair quickly, decreasing drying time (and potential heat damage).
Wavy to curly hair (2A-3C curl types): A diffuser is key for distributing heat evenly and enhancing your natural style. Unless you’re looking to blow dry straight, high wattage may not be necessary. Use lower speeds to stop the curls or waves from dropping.
Afro hair (4A-4C curl types): Continuous high heat can cause damage and hair breakages, so look for variable heat settings and ionic technology. Set your style with a cool shot button.
Can you take hair dryers in hand luggage?
In short, yes. You can take hairdryers in your hand luggage, as well as hair straighteners and curling tongs.
How to use a diffuser on a hair dryer
Using a diffuser on a hair dryer is easier than it looks, and works particularly well for people with curly hair to enhance ringlets and waves. Just section out your hair while you're drying it and scrunch each section into the diffuser, then hold it against your head to keep it in place. Make sure you keep the heat down low so you don't hurt your scalp.
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How we test hair dryers
We asked over 300 testers with different hair types to review 23 market-leading models. They rigorously judged each appliance on its drying speed, ease of use, weight, noise level and end result.
In the GHI lab, we measured the temperature of the airflow, casing and nozzle, as well as assessing instructions, simplicity and design. To see how well each tool combatted frizz, we also used a Bossa Nova Shuffle machine, which measured the amount of flyaways that occurred once hair was exposed to humidity.
Pros
- Leaves hair looking shiny
- Smart auto-turn off
- Fast and efficient
Cons
- Not a traditional hairdryer shape
Score: 92/100
We know it doesn't look like a hair dryer, but the Dyson Airstrait is one of a new wave of innovative wet-to-dry stylers, (alongside the ghd Duet below), meaning it's essentially a hair dryer and straightener in one. It does it with the help of a high-pressure and precise airflow rather than traditional heated plates. Its smart heat control technology also regulates the airflow temperature every 30 seconds to ensure there’s no excessive heat damage and leave your locks looking healthy and shiny instead.
Can’t remember if you turned the Airstrait off? Not to worry – smart technology means it pauses after three seconds of inactivity, saving on energy and anxiety when you're out and about.
All our testers said it styled hair effectively and quickly, with one praising how its multitasking benefits for a busy lifestyle. Another said it was great for maintaining volume. What more could you want from a hair styler? Our beauty editor is also a fan – read her full review here.
Joint best wet to dry hair styler
ghd Duet Style 2-in-1 Hot Air Styler in Black
Pros
- Leaves hair styled without straighteners
- Dries hair quickly
- Glossy results
Cons
- Chunky paddles struggle with shorter hair
Score: 92/100
The ghd Duet is another wet-to-dry styler that outshone the competition in both our hair dryer and hair straightener tests. Although the chunky paddles made it a bit trickier for those with fringes and short hair – something we also found with the Airstrait – most of our testers said this was tech you could really trust.
It left hair looking fully styled without the need to straighten separately (in most cases), so lengths were less exposed to heat damage over time. Our panellists also praised the speed at which it dried their hair and the glossy after-effects. Read our full in-depth review here.
Key specifications
| Attachments | N/A |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | No |
| Cord length (m) | 2.7 |
| Hanging loop | N/a |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 1 |
| Number of heat settings | 1 |
| Wattage (watts) | 460 |
| Weight (g) | 672 |
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Pros
- Classic hair dryer shape that's comfy to hold
- Fast drying
- Great for smooth, shiny, frizz-free hair
Cons
- Bulky for travel
Score: 84/100
BaByliss claims the 3Q hair dryer is its most effective yet, and it didn’t disappoint in our tests. With a high-speed motor for quick drying, paired with ionic technology to banish static and frizz, it gives hair a super sleek finish in minutes.
The hot mode will help you achieve a smooth, bouncy blow dry, while a final blast with the cold setting helps lock your style in place. Not only did it leave testers' hair looking “smooth, shiny, and frizz-free”, it was quiet and comfortable to hold – so your blow dry won’t feel like a workout.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Ultra slim nozzle |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 3m |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 2 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2200w |
| Weight (g) | 0.76kg |
Best for beating frizz
ghd Air Professional Hair Dryer
Pros
- Good for beating frizz
- Hair looks healthier after use
- Good diffuser for curly hair
Cons
- Some said it was slightly heavy
Score: 82/100
Another entry from ghd, this hair dryer excelled when it came to smoothing and banishing frizz, and everyone agreed it left hair looking healthier.
Despite its speedy drying capabilities, it didn't leave anyone's strands feeling dehydrated, and all our panellists were happy with their desired styles. The diffuser attachment stood out for those with curly or wavy hair too.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 3.00 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 2 |
| Number of heat settings | 2 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2100 |
| Weight (g) | 1540 (with cord) |
Pros
- Styling lasts all day
- Adds volume
- Agile and quiet
Cons
- Control light not that clear
Score: 82/100
The hair dryer that broke the internet back in 2016 scored highly with our panel. Every tester said they'd replace their current hair dryer with the Dyson Supersonic after it left their locks softer and free of static. They all said their style lasted until the end of the day and everybody was impressed by how much body and volume it gave them.
Reaching from the roots to the back of the head proved easy and it barely made any noise. It got the job done quickly, with virtually all of our panel pleased with how long it took to dry their hair, and it scored highly in our lab test, heating up well without scorching strands. The control indicator lights could be clearer, but it delivered an outstanding performance overall.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle, diffuser, smoothing nozzle, gentle air attachment |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.7 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1600 |
| Weight (g) | 660 |
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Best compact hair dryer
Remington Hydraluxe Pro Hair Dryer
Pros
- Compact for travel
- Softer hair after use
- Good for minimising frizz
Cons
- A bit noisy
Score: 81/100
Despite being compact, this space-saving device achieved impressive results in our tests. Our panel reported softer, healthy-looking hair, with added body; and our experts also gave it their seal of approval in the lab for minimising frizz.
The concentrator nozzle was particularly handy for targeting specific areas, and everyone was able to reach the back of their head without any awkward stretching.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle, wide drying concentrator, diffuser |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 3.00 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 2 |
| Number of heat settings | 4 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2200 |
| Weight (g) | 808 |
Best hair dryer for curly hair
Bellissima Creativity 4 You Hair Dryer
Pros
- Good for adding volume to curls
- Lots of attachments
- Left hair feeling stronger
Cons
- Some said it looked slightly cheap
Score: 81/100
Bellissima’s array of attachments was a hit among our testers, allowing everyone to easily achieve the look they were after.
Those with curly hair were particularly impressed with how much volume was created, with no static or frizz in sight. Everyone saw a boost in smoothness and shine, and most agreed their stands looked stronger and healthier.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Straight, curly, wavy and smooth and delicate |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.5 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 1 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1800 |
| Weight (g) | 640 |
Pros
- Good for travel
- Lightweight to hold
- Diffuser for sleek curls
Cons
- Nozzle can get hot during use
Score: 81/100
Weighing in at just 294g, Hershesons takes top spot for the most suitcase-friendly hair dryer. Despite its size, it boasts impressive functionality, with two styling nozzles and a diffuser for sleeker curls. In fact, all participants said it left their hair feeling smoother, without drying or dulling their colour.
According to our testers, the design “feels premium” and “durable”, and they appreciated the option to automatically save your preferred heat and speed setting for future use. That said, some felt the hair dryer was a little too powerful, and warned that the nozzle can get hot during use.
Key specifications
| Attachments | 2 x concentrator nozzles, 1 x diffuser attachment |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.8 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1700-2000 |
| Weight (g) | 294 |
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Best for multiple heat and speed settings
Remington ONE Dry & Style Hair Dryer
Now 40% Off
Pros
- Lightweight and agile
- Speedy styling
- 8 heat settings
Cons
- Slightly bulky despite being lightweight
Score: 80/100
This hair dryer has eight speed settings, which means you can opt for a leisurely blow out, or get the job done quickly if you’re in a rush. The highest setting reaches 120 km/h for some seriously speedy styling. There are also eight different heat settings, which is great for personalising to your hair type – on top of this, there’s a smart Thermacare sensor that continuously regulates the temperature to protect against extreme heat.
Testers loved how quickly this hair dryer styled their hair, as well as how “light and easy” it was to use. Some did think it was slightly bulky, which may not make it a good travel hairdryer, but still one for the dressing table.
Key specifications
| Attachments | 4x attachments and carrier bag |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 1.82m |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 8 |
| Number of heat settings | 8 |
| Wattage | 2000W |
| Weight (g) | 930g |
Best hair dryer for afro hair
Panasonic EH-NA98 Hair Dryer
Pros
- Good for afro hair
- Style lasted all day
- Hair left looking shinier
Cons
- Slightly heavy to hold
Score: 80/100
Innovative modes and a sleek design make this hair dryer one of our top contenders. Our panel was impressed by how well it handled frizz, with some testers noting that their style lasted all day. Hair was also left feeling softer and shinier.
Testers with afro hair loved the hot and cold mode (which auto-adjusts between hot and cold air) and the scalp mode — a lower temperature airflow designed for gently drying the scalp area.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.65 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 4 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1800 |
| Weight (g) | 578 |
Pros
- Good for adding oomph
- Magnetic styling nozzle
- Didn't dull coloured hair
Cons
- Nozzles got a bit hot
- On/off button confused some
Score: 80/100
Here’s a hair dryer that adds plenty of volume. And not only did it bring a little extra oomph to most of our testers' roots, but the magnetic styling nozzle attachments also make it super easy to switch up your look.
It didn’t strip moisture from hair and left it looking healthier for most testers. The majority of our panellists with coloured tresses also said it didn’t dull their shade, and it helped eliminate frizz.
Key specifications
| Attachments | 2 x concentrator styling nozzles |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 3.00 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1600 |
| Weight (g) | 357 |
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Best for blow dry novices
DryBar Buttercup Blow Dryer
Pros
- Simple functionality for beginners
- Creates smooth results
Cons
- No diffuser for curly hair
- Got quite heavy after a while
Score: 79/100
If you’re looking for a simple hair dryer that works quickly, DryBar’s Buttercup Blow-Dryer is hard to beat. Our panel appreciated the lightweight body and ability to change between drying modes, finding it quick and easy to create silky-smooth results using the attachable nozzles. Not only that, but the majority of testers said that they were satisfied with its performance and would continue to use it post-trial.
It’s worth noting that there’s no diffuser attachment to tackle natural curls, but this can be purchased separately should you wish.
Key specifications
| Attachments | 2 x concentrator nozzles |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.74 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1600-1900 |
| Weight (g) | 510 |
Best hair dryer for design
ghd Helios Professional Hair Dryer
Pros
- Handy hanging loop
- Luxury look and feel
Cons
- Can feel heavy after a while
- Bulky for travel
Score: 79/100
If you’re always in a rush, this premium hair dryer has been developed to provide faster airflow and styling time. Described by our testers as “luxurious”, it boasts metallic accents and a handy silicone hanging loop.
It scored well performance-wise too, delivering on softness and shine. The panel agreed that the airflow was powerful for its compact size and all said their hair looked smooth after use. It’s also available in six different colours.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.86 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 2 |
| Number of heat settings | 2 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2000 |
| Weight (g) | 585 |
Best high-tech hair dryer
Zuvi Halo Hair Dryer
Pros
- Lightweight
- Quiet
Cons
- Slightly tech-y for beginners
- Expensive
Score: 75/100
Dubbed “the Tesla of hair dryers”, this tool uses infrared light and cool air tech to dry hair quickly without damage. Safe to say, we were intrigued.
The majority of our panel agreed it lived up to the hype, leaving hair shinier, smoother and healthier. The lightweight, quiet tool aced our lab test for keeping frizz at bay, and most said they were keen to continue using it.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle, diffuser, gentle air attachment |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 1.8 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 4 |
| Number of heat settings | 1 |
| Wattage (watts) | 680 |
| Weight (g) | 534 |
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Best hair dryer for fast drying
BaByliss Hydro-Fusion Air Dryer
Now 33% Off
Pros
- Speedy
- Diffuser attachment
Cons
- Slow to reach max temperature
- Not very luxury feel or look
Score: 75/100
Short on time? Reach for this remarkably efficient tool. Not only was it speedy — all our testers said it dried and styled their hair in a flash — but the results also lasted from morning until night. It was also comfortable to hold, making it easy to reach the back of the head and tackle specific sections.
Our lab test found it slightly slow to reach its maximum temperature and our panel wished it felt more luxe, but most were delighted by how soft and shiny it left their locks.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle and diffuser |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.42 |
| Hanging loop | No |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 2 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2100 |
| Weight (g) | 570 |
Best hair dryer for ease of use
Panasonic Nanoe Hair Dryer EH-NA67
Now 38% Off
Pros
- Easy to use
- Dries hair fast
Cons
- Not many settings
- Quite heavy
Score: 75/100
Overwhelmed by multiple settings? This tool simplifies things by offering just three, making it easy to achieve fuss-free results.
Fast-drying, yet gentle on fragile strands, both our panel and lab were impressed with the shiny, frizz-free results. It was easy to switch between heat and speed settings and many said the cool shot mode kept styles in place for longer.
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle, oscillating quick dry nozzle, diffuser |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.7 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 4 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2000 |
| Weight (g) | 600 |
Pros
- Slim design
- Fast-drying
Cons
- Bulky for travel
- Nozzle gets hot
Score: 75/100
Save your arm workout for the gym and invest in this lightweight tool instead. The sleek, slim design went down a treat with our panel, and the nozzle is the perfect size to dry close to the roots.
It works in a flash, with one tester commenting that it “took less than 10 minutes to dry my super-thick hair”. Impressive!
Key specifications
| Attachments | Concentrator nozzle, oscillating quick dry nozzle, diffuser |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 2.7 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 1800 |
| Weight (g) | 425 |
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Pros
- Magnetic attachments
- Works fast
Cons
- Runs a bit hot on high settings
- Some said diffuser was rough on scalp
Score: 73/100
This handy kit comes with everything you'd ever need for a sleek blow dry or voluminous curls. And the magnetic attachments mean it’s super easy to switch between heads.
Powerful yet compact, this tool delivered shiny, smooth results quickly, with testers appreciating its intuitive design and easy-to-use settings.
Key specifications
| Attachments | 2 x styling concentrator nozzle, diffuser |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 3 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | No |
| Number of speed settings | 3 |
| Number of heat settings | 3 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2000 |
| Weight (g) | 500 |
Best hair dryer for colour-treated hair
Revamp Progloss 3950 Featherlite Ultra X Shine Hair Dryer
Pros
- Didn't dull shades
Cons
- No diffuser attachment
- Quite loud
Score: 73/100
If you bleach your hair, you’ll know that applying heat to fragile strands can be troublesome. However, this game-changing dryer is infused with keratin, argan and coconut oil, to help protect locks.
But did it work? Those with colour-treated strands confirmed that it didn't dull their shade, leaving hair smooth, shiny and hydrated.
Key specifications
| Attachments | 2 x concentrator nozzle |
|---|---|
| Cool shot | Yes |
| Cord length (m) | 3 |
| Hanging loop | Yes |
| Ionic technology | Yes |
| Number of speed settings | 2 |
| Number of heat settings | 4 |
| Wattage (watts) | 2300 |
| Weight (g) | 490 |
Florence Reeves-White
Senior Beauty Writer
Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.
With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.
When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com, her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites
Madeleine Evans
Lifestyle Writer
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Tested byOrla Badger
Senior Beauty and Grooming Tester
Orla is our Senior Beauty and Grooming Tester and has extensive knowledge of skin and hair composition thanks to her first class bachelor's degree in cosmetic science from the Universy of the Arts London. She also spent time as a Formulation Chemist intern at Amelia Knight Cosmetics.
