the_best_hair_dryers
|

10 Hair Dryers For Every Hair Type and Budget in 2026

Having a good hair dryer can make all the difference between a good hair day and a bad hair day. Whether you have short hair or long hair, I’m sure you have used a hair dryer at some point in your life.

Some of you use it to straighten your hair and some, to add more oomph. Either way, the hairdryer has to be a good one! Here I’ve put together the best hair dryers which include hairdryers for all hair types and all budgets in no particular order!

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon and other affiliate programs. This means on some purchases, I make a commission. It doesn’t mean you spend more, it simply allows me to keep this blog going!

1. BaByliss Travel 2000 W

BaByliss Travel 2000 W Hair Dryer

This hair dryer is one of the best travel options on the market. With 2000W, itโ€™s powerful yet lightweightโ€”rare for a travel model.

Ionic technology reduces frizz, and the foldable handle makes it easy to pack. The concentrator nozzle is perfect for precise styling.

It has two heat settings and a multi-voltage function, so you can adjust it anywhere in the world. No more relying on weak hotel dryersโ€”Babyliss Travel keeps you holiday-ready and glam.

Pros

  • It is light
  • The hairdryer is small which is perfect for travelling
  • It is multi-voltage so can be used anywhere
  • Concentrator nozzle
  • 2 heat settings
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • No removable hair filter
  • It is not cordless
  • No cold air button

Why you need this: It’s lightweight, powerful and works worldwide, it’s the best travel hair dryer around!


2. ghd Air Hair Dryer

ghd air hair dryer

We can’t talk about hair styling tools without mentioning ghd. They partly rule the styling world and their hairdryer will not let you down.

The air hairdryer has an AC motor with 2100W. The wattage combined with the advanced ionic technology that the hair dryer has gives very impressive results. Ionic technology helps you to reduce frizz and achieve soft, sleek hair in half the time.

You will find that your hair will take you a lot quicker to style with the ghd air hairdryer. While it’s a little on the heavier side, it is also a lot quieter.

Pros

  • 12-month guarantee included
  • You can buy additional nozzles or diffusers
  • There is a cool button
  • 3 heat settings
  • 3m power cable so you can reach it anywhere
  • It comes with a concentrator nozzle

Cons

  • The nozzles can be tricky to remove and change
  • Not powerful enough for very frizzy/afro hair

Why you need this: If your hair is long and thick, the ghd Air hair dryer has the power to dry it in a matter of minutes. It’s great for those in a rush!


3. Parlux Powerlight Hairdryer

Parlux Powerlight Hair Dryer

I may be a little biased in this review. Parlux has been my favourite hair dryer brand for the last 15 years or so. I have very difficult hair, and Parlux genuinely saved both me and my hair.

What do I love about the Parlux Powerful hairdryer? Honestly, everything.

Itโ€™s extremely powerful at 2150W, yet very lightweight and hardwearing. I also love how compact it is, which makes it easier to carry around and makes blow-drying much more comfortable. If you donโ€™t want your arm to ache while drying your hair, youโ€™ll love the Parlux Powerlight.

It comes with two nozzles, making it great for creating different styles. The Ionic and Ceramic technology also helps keep hair frizz-free and reduces static.

Pros

  • It comes in different colours
  • 2 nozzles included
  • It’s light and small
  • There is a cool button
  • It’s very powerful
  • Good value for money
  • 3-metre cable included
  • Removable hair filter

Cons

  • The only negative thing I could think of is that if you have very thin hair it may be too powerful

Why you need this: If you have thick and curly hair that is hard to blow dry you need the Parlux Powerlight Hair Dryer. With its combination of ionic and ceramic your hair will dry quickly and be frizz-free. It’s long-lasting and worth every penny!


4. TRESemme 2200W Power Dryer

TRESemme 2200W Power Dryer

Splashing out on an expensive hairdryer isnโ€™t for everyone, and thatโ€™s where the TRESemmรฉ Power Dryer comes in. Itโ€™s hard to believe this hairdryer is only ยฃ16 because it feels far more high-end than its price suggests.

The TRESemmรฉ Power Dryer is powerful at 2200W and includes ceramic and ionic technology to help reduce frizz. It comes with a concentrator nozzle, two heat settings, and a cool shot button.

The main drawback is that the heat and speed settings are combined, meaning you canโ€™t use the highest power on a medium heat. The strongest setting can run quite hot, which is its biggest flaw.

My recommendation is to use the middle setting. It may take slightly longer to dry your hair, but it helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of heat damage, which happens more often than people realise.

Pros

  • 3-year guarantee included
  • Good value for money
  • Removable filter
  • 2.4-metre cable
  • It’s very lightweight
  • It has a cool button

Cons

  • Power and heat do not have separate switches

Why you need this: This is the perfect hair dryer for thin hair that doesn’t need too much styling. It will dry your hair quickly and is great value for money.


5. Panasonic EH-NA65 Hair Dryer

Panasonic EH-NA65 Pink Hair Dryer

The Panasonic EH-NA65 hair dryer features Nanoe technology, designed to add moisture back into the hair and scalp to help keep it soft, smooth and shiny without drying it out. A pretty great feature, Iโ€™d say.

It has three heat and speed settings along with a cold shot button. At 1875W itโ€™s not the most powerful hairdryer on the market, but it still performs well for everyday use.

The dryer comes with a concentrator nozzle and a diffuser for styling. Thereโ€™s also a general drying nozzle, which I personally find unnecessary as I prefer drying without one when I want speed.

As an ionic hairdryer, it helps reduce frizz and prevents the hair from feeling dry. Itโ€™s available in pink and black or rose gold and black.

Pros

  • 12-month guarantee included
  • It is very quiet
  • 3 different heat settings and speed setting
  • There is a cool button
  • Available in 2 colours
  • Affordable
  • 2.7m cable

Cons

  • The concentrator nozzle is not narrow enough
  • A little on the heavy side

Why this is for you: This Panasonic hair dryer is ideal for you if your hair tends to dry out a lot from styling. With the unique Nanoe technology that will be a problem of the past.


6. Deogra Children’s Hair Dryer

Deogra Childrens Hair Dryer

This is one of the cutest, most functional and safest hair dryers on the market for kids. The design is delightful and it even comes with an adorable egg pouch.

The Deogra Childrenโ€™s Hair Dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator nozzle, two speed settings, a hanging hook for convenience, and a foldable design that makes it great for travel.

At 1000W, itโ€™s gentle enough for children to use without the risk of overheating or burning. It also has dual voltage, making it ideal for holidays as well as everyday use at home.

The cord is 1.85m, which is slightly shorter than standard, but that actually adds an extra level of safety for kids. Overall, itโ€™s a great choice for children and a practical option parents will appreciate too.

Pros

  • It is very lightweight
  • Safe for children
  • Perfect for travelling
  • 12-month guarantee
  • It comes in 2 colours, blue and pink

Cons

  • Your child may not want to share with you!

Why this is for you: This is perfect for children, it’s safe, it works well, it’s cute and it’s affordable!


7. Dyson Supersonic

dyson supersonic hair dryer

Some call it the hairdryer of the future, and if you’re after something stylish and modern, this is definitely one to consider.

The Dyson Supersonic hair dryer looks ultra-modern and comes in three colours: white and iron, silver and fuchsia, or black and nickel. Like most Dyson products, the technology is impressive, although it does come with a high price tag.

What makes it stand out is the balance between power and heat control. It dries hair much faster than traditional dryers while preventing excessive heat, so thereโ€™s less risk of damage. Itโ€™s also lightweight and comfortable to use.

There are three speed settings and four heat settings, including a cold shot. In the box, you get two nozzles, a diffuser, a non-slip heat mat and a storage hanger.

The Dyson Supersonic is a real game-changer. Itโ€™s faster, quieter and easier to use than most hairdryers, and if it were cheaper, Iโ€™m sure everyone would own one.

Pros

  • It dries the hair really quickly
  • Lightweight
  • Looks modern and stylish
  • Heat control prevents breakages
  • Quiet to use
  • Magnetic nozzles for easy use
  • 2-year guarantee

Cons

  • Expensive

Why this is for you: If you are looking for the next level in hair dryers the Dyson won’t disappoint you. It’s truly the future of hair dryers in both technology and design!


8. BaByliss 3Q Hair Dryer

BaByliss 3Q Hair Dryer

The Babyliss 3Q is a mid-range hair dryer with a standout feature: a 10-year motor guarantee!

This 2200W ionic dryer delivers sleek, frizz-free hair without burning your strandsโ€”or your neck. The cold button stays on without holding it down, and unlike many dryers, itโ€™s actually cold!

It comes with a narrow nozzle for precise styling, three heat settings, two speeds, and a 3m cord. Thanks to its superionic technology, it dries hair nearly twice as fast as most dryersโ€”perfect if speed and styling precision are priorities.

Pros

  • Very lightweight
  • Quiet
  • 10-year guarantee
  • 3 heat settings and 2-speed settings
  • 3m cord length
  • The cold button is cold
  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • The handle has a different shape from most hair dryers and it may take time to get used to it

Why this is for you: If you’re prone to breaking things this is the hairdryer you need. With the quality of this BaByliss and the 10-year guarantee, it has you covered!


9. Philips MoistureProtect Hair Dryer

Philips MoistureProtect Hair Dryer

If you love pretty things, this hair dryer is a dream. White with rose gold and a clear nozzle, itโ€™s so elegant youโ€™ll want to leave it on your dressing table.

Itโ€™s a powerful 2300W ionic dryer with six heat and speed settings, plus a concentrator nozzle and diffuser. The standout feature is its infrared technology, which monitors moisture and adjusts temperature, protecting your hair from burns and split ends.

Pros

  • It is pretty
  • The motor is very powerful at 2300W
  • 6 speed and heat setting
  • Infrared technology reduces heat when necessary
  • 12-month guarantee
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • There is no cool button

Why this is for you: The Philips MoistureProtect hair dryer is perfect for you if you are looking for a hair dryer that won’t burn your hair, with its infrared technology you are guaranteed it will look after your hair. Of course, it’s really pretty too:)


10. BaByliss Diamond Hair Dryer

BaByliss Diamond Hair Dryer

The BaByliss Diamond Hairdryer comes with an AC motor and 2200W. It is very powerful, but it uses ionic technology, so it reduces the risk of burning your hair, and it adds shine to your hair.

It has 3 heat settings and 2-speed settings. The cord length is 3m which is nice and generous.

The hair dryer comes with one concentrated nozzle, many hair dryers come with more, but for the price that this hairdryer sells it is worth it. I love this hair dryer and I’m sure you will too, the price is amazing for the quality!

Pros

  • 5-year guarantee
  • Removable filter
  • It has a cold button
  • Amazing value for money
  • It is lightweight

Cons

  • On the loud side
  • Buttons easily move accidentally when using the hairdryer

Why this is for you: This BaByliss hairdryer is perfect for you if you are looking for an affordable, yet professional hair dryer.


Buying guide for hair dryers- What to look out for?

How to choose the one for you?

Consider the features and your styling needs. Brush size matters: bigger brushes add volume, smaller ones create straighter ends.

Hair dryers come in three main types: DC dryers have standard motors and are lightweight; AC dryers are professional, powerful, and long-lasting; travel dryers are compact, foldable, and easy to pack without adding weight to your luggage.

What to look out for?

  • Power: Aim for at least 1700W. Higher wattage dries hair faster, saving time.
  • Attachments: Wide, thin nozzles focus heat for styling. A diffuser is essential for curlsโ€”check if itโ€™s included or buy separately.
  • Weight: Consider how often youโ€™ll use it. Heavier dryers can tire your arm, but weight is often proportional to power and quality.
  • Heat Settings: Multiple settings protect hair from damage. Medium heat is safest for wet hair; use high heat only from a distance. A cool button helps seal ends and reduce frizz.
  • Safety & Noise: Hair dryers with air filters reduce dust buildup and risk of overheating. Quieter models are better if you share space.
  • Technology: Ceramic dryers distribute heat evenly, ideal for straightening. Ionic dryers break down water, drying hair faster with less heat, reducing breakage and boosting shine. Use ceramic for styling, ionic for quick drying or diffusing.

My Thoughts

Choosing a hair dryer can be confusing with so many options out there. Hereโ€™s a quick guide to help you pick the best one for you.

The Dyson Supersonic is the top pick but also the priciest. For a mid-range option, the Parlux hair dryer is reliable, durable, and wonโ€™t break the bank.

Safety tip: if your hair dryer starts to smell like itโ€™s burning, turn it off and replace itโ€”donโ€™t risk a fire!

All the hair dryers listed here are functional and good value. Each has pros and cons, so the key is finding the one that fits your needs.

Hollie xx

cropped-cropped-favicon.png

About Hollie

Hi, I’m Hollie, and I’m passionate about everything beauty. Over the last decade and a half, I’ve tested thousands of products to bring you the best of the best! I also love bringing you fun and creative beauty looks. Learn more.

Beauty profile – 35, dry, aging skin, focused on aging well with a healthy glow and natural makeup look โœจ



Anastasia Beverly Hills bareMinerals Benefit Cosmetics Bobbi Brown CeraVe Chantecaille Charlotte Tilbury Clarins ColourPop Dermalogica Dior Dyson e.l.f. Cosmetics ELEMIS Estรฉe Lauder Eucerin Fenty Beauty Fresh Giorgio Armani Hourglass IT Cosmetics L'Oreal Lancome Laura Mercier LORAC MAC Makeup Revolution Maybelline Molton Brown Morphe Nars Natasha Denona Neutrogena NYX Origins Peter Thomas Roth PรœR Cosmetics Revlon Sigma Beauty Smashbox Stila The Ordinary Too Faced Urban Decay YSL


16 Comments

  1. Hello Hollie;

    Thanks for writing out this lovely article and I must say its a must for everyone to read and digest. I have experience BaByliss Travel 2000 W Hair Dryer and ghd Air Hair Dryer before now and I must tell you they are just too perfect. I appreciate the fact that you listed out the pros and cons. This will help new buyers to make a reasonable decision.

    1. Thanks for stopping by.

  2. Dave Sweney says:

    Your post on hair dryers was so informative! I learned more in this post than I ever thought possible, and I am the better for it. I really had not thought too much about what to buy, or the attachments, or even the power I might need. I picked up a lot of this right here, and I am ready to get one that fits with my needs now.

    It really can make a difference in so many ways when you know what you need and can shop intelligently for one. Now that I do know, you can bet that I will be looking a lot harder at the options that are out there and also their reputation once I do have the models I need.

    The first dryer you reviewed is likely the one I will go with, as the BaByliss Travel 2000 W as I do travel. This one is compact yet is powerful enough and light enough to bring it with me as I move from place to place. I like that it has ionic technology as I do tend to have frizzy hair.

    I appreciate the work you put into this post. It has helped me immensely in making my choice for the next hair dryer I will buy. Thanks a lot… 

    1. I’m sure you will love it!

  3. Thanks for the useful tips you handed out about hairdryers. I never thought to wonder why my arm was getting so tired when blow drying my hair, but now realize that my dryer is just way too heavy. I will definitely look for a lighter one next time around.

    I like the 1st Babybliss hairdryer, as the dryer looks small and light and is easy to travel with. The price is also good,  but pity it has no pouch included. I luckily don’t use a hairdryer each time I wash, so this one should do me fine.

    My next choice would be the Tresemme as it looks powerful and long-lasting, but again maybe a little on the heavy side.

    1. If you’re looking for lightweight then the Babyliss travel hairdryer is the one for you. You can add a pouch for a little extra and you’ll still be getting great value for money.

  4. Very detailed article, I didn’t know there was soo many factors when choosing a hairdryer!  

    I have the TRESemme 2200W Power Dryer. I usually just use the middle setting which is the first heat setting. It’s pretty cheap and it can dry my hair pretty quickly since I have thin hair. It has a comfortable grip too. I’ve had it for over 3 years and it’s still working perfectly fine. I have tried some less powerful children’s hairdryers when i was travelling and it took me ages to dry my hair. Thanks again for the article!

    1. The TRESemme 2200W is a really good hair dryer! It made it to the top 10. With thin hair, you probably don’t need a more professional one.

      Thanks for stopping by:)

  5. Hi Hollie, you are absolutely right about using a hair dryer, in fact, I am a regular user of hair dryer preferably the handheld type. Wow, I have never really given power a thought when purchasing a hairdryer, but from your explanation it is very vital that one does so. What I usually put into consideration is the weight because I practically have zero tolerance for heavy objects. Your article is very informative, thanks for sharing this post.

    1. Everyone has different features that they look out for. For you its the weight and for me its the power! I hope you have found one that works for you. x

  6. Achievers says:

    I got on this site and am happy to know about different hair dryers. I think everyone should get this especially the hair stylist. After reading the pros and cons of the list of dryers, I think I can go for either the Babylis 3Q dryers or the Panasonic dryer. You did a great job by sending this at is timely. 

  7. That is just so cool. I had no idea there was such a thing as an “ionic hair dryer!” I’m old, you see, with naturally curly hair, and I gave up on hair dryers decades ago because they just made my hair frizz up and poof out like an ’80s rock star. It’s wonderful what I can learn when I stumble onto a great website like yours and read an article! You have inspired me to try hairdryers again. 

    1. Yes, you must give hairdryers another chance! I’m sure you will be in for a good surprise:)

  8. I have been looking for very good and durable hair dryer. My experience with the ones have used have not been good at all. Most of the time when I need to quickly dry my hair because I’m running late for my appointment, the hair dryer got burnt, guess the fuse blew or something, I ended up going out with wet hair. Wouldn’t mind going for a Panasonic, looks durable. Thanks.

    1. A good hair dryer is something that often gets overlooked. Good luck!

  9. Tracy cole says:

    Thank you so much to the author who has written down this kind of such a beneficial article.  This article opened my mind to the fact that we still have best hair dryers. i love the powerful tip you shared on how to choose a good hair dryer which is an eye opener for me. I have tried BaByliss Travel 2000 W Hair Dryer before now and I can attest to the fact that Its is highly durable and not too expensive

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *