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TL;DR
Dyson’s Airwrap Multi-Styler is an impressive styling tool that can achieve a variety of styles—from bouncy blowouts to sleek, straight styles and beach waves. The only caveat is the larger price point. However, Shark’s FlexStyle came out on top due to its incredible attachment options and performance, all for a fraction of the price.
It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle are two of the most talked-about and innovative styling tools out there. The infamous brands are known for their inventive technologies that transform the way we view standard hair dryers. They offer numerous attachments that achieve salon-quality styles, allowing you to create everything from a sleek, straight blowout to big, bouncy curls from the comfort of your own home. While both multi-styling and drying systems may appear similar, there are significant differences between the two, including the price tag.
We tapped our Byrdie editors and testers to evaluate which product deserves the top spot. We put the devices to the test, assessing them on their attachments, settings, performance, and value to help you make the best purchase for your needs, texture, and budget. Below, find out how the two devices compare; the results may surprise you.
Credit: Sephora
Max Temp: 302 degrees | Features: 6 styling attachments, 3 speeds, 4 heat settings | Warranty: 2 years
The Dyson Airwrap is your secret weapon to achieving numerous salon-quality styles with ease. The multi-styler offers six styling attachments, including a dryer, a 1.2-inch barrel, a 1.6-inch barrel, a soft smoothing brush, a firm smoothing brush, and a round brush, along with three speed settings. It’s also available for two hair types (straight to wavy and curly to coily) to target specific heat and styling needs. The high-tech tool utilizes negative ions to help minimize frizz and provides three heat settings designed to prevent heat damage. The luxe design makes it easy to snap the attachments in place and curate your perfect hairdo. Plus, it comes housed in a chic box that helps organize your tools and protect them from damage. At almost $600, it’s an investment, but the styling options and the amount of money you’ll save on salon blowouts make this tool worth it for shoppers and editors alike.
Credit: Shark
Max Temp: 95 degrees | Features: 5 styling attachments, 3-speeds, 4 heat settings | Warranty: 2 years
The Shark FlexStyle is comparable to the Airwrap, as it’s a multi-styling and drying tool. However, there are a few differences, with price being one of them. One main difference between the Shark and the Dyson is that you can personalize your tool a bit more with the Shark. You have the option to choose between three different systems—all hair types, curly and coily, and straight and wavy. However, all of the attachments can be purchased separately. For $350, this multi-styling tool provides a tailored benefit that will transform your hair from limp to full-bodied and voluminous, or however you choose to style it.
What We Considered
Attachments
Winner: Shark FlexStyle
While the two stylers are similar in design and function, the Shark FlexStyle takes the lead in terms of attachments. Its customization options and targeted tools make it better suited to a wider range of hair types and styling needs. Unlike the Dyson, which comes with a fixed set of attachments, the FlexStyle allows users to choose their bundle, selecting tools that best match their texture and desired look.
For instance, those with straight or wavy hair might opt for the round brush or curling barrels, while individuals with curly or coily textures can choose the diffuser or styling brushes that enhance and define their natural curl pattern. There’s also a more general option available for versatile, everyday use. This thoughtful approach not only makes the tool more inclusive but also ensures more precise results. We found that this level of adaptability gave the Shark a clear advantage.
Settings
Winner: It’s a tie.
When it comes to settings, the Dyson and Shark are evenly matched. Both offer four heat options (including a cool shot to lock in your style) and three airflow speed settings. In terms of power and performance, there’s little that separates the two.
Performance
Winner: Shark FlexStyle
Both tools delivered gorgeous, voluminous, commercial-worthy results. However, the Shark FlexStyle pulled ahead thanks to its customizable attachments, frizz-reducing performance, impressive versatility, and a more accessible price point.
Why Trust Byrdie
Amanda Rosenthal is a writer who specializes in all things beauty. She has extensively tested dozens of styling tools. She prefers tools that add volume and body to her fine, straight hair. She tapped Byrdie editors who have used the devices to help inform her decisions for this review.
