best travel flat iron for thick hair

The 10 Best Flat Irons for Thick Hair to Buy in 2024

Editor’s Note: Thick hair isn’t something that I’ve been gifted with in this life, but I have plenty of friends who know the struggle of trying to flat iron or curl their locks, only to be met with a lengthy process and lots of arm pain as they struggle to get the achieved look in their hair. Fortunately, there are several flat irons on the market today that are designed specifically for individuals who are struggling with keeping their thick hair styled. Just make sure that you’re using plenty of heat protectant on your locks once you finally choose the best thick hair flat iron for your needs!

People with thick hair who have a hard time taming their “mane”. It’s both a blessing and a curse. While thick hair can look great when well maintained, the opposite is also true. If you have thick hair, you need a great flat iron.

And this is where we come in. The bad news is that there isn’t a holy grail of flat irons. The good news is that there are ten for you to choose from! We have carefully selected ten of the best flat irons currently on the market, to help you in your quest to give your hair the perfect look no matter what the circumstance.

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First, let’s consider some criteria that is crucial in choosing the right flat iron for you. You won’t be able to get away from some of these technical specs, so we’ll try to be as succinct as possible and only provide you with what you really need to know.

Let’s go over the basics of flat irons:

• The ideal temperature range for thick hair is between 375 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit. (the best flat irons have at least 2 settings between these two temperatures)
• The recommended plate type is either titanium , or tourmaline-covered ceramic . The longer and thicker your hair, the wider the plates should be. Otherwise it will take you longer to straighten your hair with a small, 1” wide plated iron.

The technologies that are prone to deliver the best results are ionic (the release of negative ions to reduce frizz and static) and infrared heating.

As  technology keeps evolving, hair straighteners become better and better. Companies listen to what users have to say about past products and try to implement the best changes, so that consumers are happy, and the companies keep thriving. We compiled a list of the most advanced forms of hair straighteners on the market today, the ones that are worth your time and investment. This list of the 10 most popular flat irons on the market will surely make you think about how often you use the flat iron, in what transportation and usage circumstances, and how much you really want to save on trips to a professional salon.

1. BaBylissPRO Nano

2. xtava infrared, 4. croc classic, 5. hsi professional, 6. t3 singlepass x 1.5", 7. ghd platinum+, 8. sedu revolution, 9. hai convertable, 10. kipozi professional titanium, temperature, weight/size, how to use your flat iron, wrapping it up, top 10 best flat irons for thick hair 2024.

Editor’s Rating:

This is a lightweight flat iron that is preferred by users with a tiny bathroom or multiple roommates. Of course, its small dimensions and ease of usage are only an added bonus on top of its useful abilities and features. With its 50 heat settings for hair types of all shapes, styles, textures, and colors, it is one of the most versatile hair straighteners in the industry. The classic Nano works the best on short or medium-sized hair, as the smaller plates will glide through it easier, but it is also available in 1.5 and 2-inch plate models.

The BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Straightening Iron uses titanium plates, which conduct high levels of heat in a short amount of time. Each plate has built in Nanotechnology, which is an innovative technology that keeps frizziness and static away. Titanium also acts as a barrier from rusting, so your hair straightener will look just as new for years to come.

The BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Straightening Iron has a maximum temperature of 450° F, which is the recommended starting temperature for thick hair. You will need to try out different temperature settings (as they are not pre-set like the CHI G2) to find the fitting temperature for your hair. You can either keep it at 450 degrees for the whole session, but in order to prevent damaging your hair, we encourage you to decrease the temperature throughout. Some larger flat irons are good at maintaining the heat even at 370 degrees, but because the BaByliss Nano is a bit smaller, it needs to be kept at 400 degrees to maintain the heat.

This flat iron uses infrared heat technology to penetrate the hair follicles. Thanks to this technology, hair gets straightened gently from the outside in, causing less damage to the hair. Aside from the titanium plates in the BaByliss Pro Nano, it also features a unique ceramic heater inside the handle, enabling it to heat up faster.

The BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Straightening Iron is the lightest hair straightener. It weighs just over 1 pound, and measures 12 x 2 x 3.5 inches. If you are constantly on the go or travel often, this meets the criteria of your lifestyle perfectly, while delivering results that look great. It could even make a good “second straightener” if you want to leave your heavier and larger primary flat iron at home.

The features that make it one of the best on our list and on the market, basically pay for themselves, and this will become obvious after the very first time you use it. Not only is it a delight to use wherever you find yourself, but it delivers splendid results in a very short time. Its multiple temperature settings make it very versatile and you get to customize it to your individual needs, rather than buying a more limited hair straightener. The color is really cute too, and the ceramic heater inside the handle is great for when it comes to comfort and effectiveness.

• 50 heat settings
• Great for short / medium length hair
• Titanium plates
• Lightweight and ultra-thin design
• Good travelling companion
• Infrared heat technology
• No pre-set heat settings (although for some users, this is a good thing)
• The heating elements can become faulty after a while

The fine people at Xtava have designed a device that promises no damage to the hair. The Xtava Infrared will leave you with silky. shiny, straight, and most of all healthy strands of hair. Due to its extra wide ceramic tourmaline plates and a wide choice of temperature settings, you can expect to see the Xtava Infrared on a friend’s nightstand, as well as on a hair salon table.

The extra wide plates are made of tourmaline-coated ceramic, making it easier to cover more locks and reducing styling time. The floating plates move along with your hair, so there is a reduced risk of snagging, and the movements happen more smoothly. What makes this flat iron ideal for thick hair are the 2-inch wide plates.

The Xtava Infrared has 10 temperature settings which range from 265 to 445 degrees Fahrenheit. The chosen temperature setting is displayed on an easy to read LCD digital display. It also has built-in ceramic heaters which enable the flat iron to reach a maximum temperature within seconds. This turns thick frizzy hair straight in just minutes.

This hair straightener features Xtava’s unique infrared technology, meaning it has an advanced microprocessor controller that regulates heat. This type of technology heats hair strands from the inside out, which, as all good flat irons do, causes less damage to the hair. The negative ions will lock in moisture and leave the hair hydrated and shiny.

The Xtava Infrared measures 11.6 x 2.1 x 1.5 inches and weighs 2 pounds. Albeit a bit wider and heavier than other flat irons on the market, it comes with a 360 degree 8-foot swivel cord that makes it very easy to operate.

This is a very affordable and yet solid product. It also comes with a 2-year warranty.

• Extra wide tourmaline-coated plates
• Infrared technology
• 360 degrees swivel cord
• 2-year warranty
• A bit heavy
• Takes a few passes on each section of hair to straighten it
• Buttons are in the way of the handle

The CHI G2 is not only a favorite for home-users, but also for professionals. It delivers salon-quality results in the comfort of your own home, and in no time. While other CHI models come in different cool colors, the G2 keeps an elegant aspect, making your hair look and feel just as classy.

An interesting and rare combination, this flat iron features ceramic plates that are infused with high-grade titanium. Aside from the increased durability and longevity, the titanium also reduces snagging and makes the styling experience faster and overall smoother. Because titanium also resists rust well, the CHI G2 will keep its out-of-the-box aspect for many years.

When we say professional, we mean professional! This Ceramic and Titanium flat iron has a built in innovative, color-coded LED display that lets you comfortably scour through temperature settings. The settings correspond to certain temperature ranges designed especially for your specific hair type. Blue is ideal for fine, thinning, or fragile hair and ranges from 0 to 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Green is the choice for wavy or medium textured hair, ranging between 375 and 395 degrees F, while red is the perfect setting for coarse, high curl, and thick hair. This ranges between 400 and the maximum of 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

CHI’s G2 Ceramic and Titanium Flat Iron works on ionic technology. Some of the other CHI products of the same price range also include infrared technologies, so regardless of your decision, CHI makes the best choices in integrated technology.

The dimensions of the CHI G2 are 1 x 0.6 x 3 inches, but it only weighs 15.8 ounces. It is very lightweight, ergonomically practical, and easy to work with.

Of course, for a salon-level performance, a matching price has to justify its impeccable results. It  also comes with a 2-year warranty, in case anything goes wrong with it…which will most likely not be the case, but it’s reassuring nevertheless.

• Color-coded temperature settings
• 1-hour shutoff
• Ceramic and titanium plates
• Doesn’t heat up very quickly
• Watch out for fakes on the market (tip-off: two pronged plug as opposed to the three pronged plug in a ground fault circuit interrupter with a reset button)

No more worries about your hair straightening routine taking too much time to sustain. The Croc classic only requires one pass over each section of hair to get the beautiful results it promises to deliver. This is a great flat iron for thick hair types, because it has the perfect combination of plates and technology being used, and it never feels like it is frying or damaging your hair. You won’t have to go over the same piece of hair more than once, and that’s all it takes for the magic to happen.

Don’t get too frightened by the Croc Classic’s shape, which uncannily resembles a small crocodile’s snout. Ergonomically, it is designed to please. It has a thumb grip that makes it easy to hold and an extra long swivel cord to enable you to style your hair in any position. From the ability to do Keratin treatments at home to the ease of controlling the heat settings, this device comes with all the features that make a flat iron perfect.

1.5-inch wide titanium moving plates are used to make this flat iron the best it could be. It has a perfect combination of speed and durability. The negative ions and infrared rays balance the impact of the plates’ strength. The plates are smooth and clamp down tightly. You can effortlessly pass it through your hair without worrying about it snagging.

The Croc Classic features a wide temperature range with 17 heat settings that start at 270 degrees and goes up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only is the heat range a generous one for a flat iron, but its heat goes high enough to seal Keratin in, making it also ideal for Keratin treatments.

This flat iron provides an extra dose of protection by utilizing negative ions, which seal in natural moisture, close the cuticle layer of hair, and prevent static electricity from causing hair to frizz. Due to its effective ionic technology, the hair remains frizz-free even when exposed to high humidity levels.

Weighing in at one pound, the Croc Classic measures 12.4 x 4.4 x 2.7 inches. It is a lightweight flat iron that is designed to make your hair feel soft and shiny without having to make too much effort to maneuver it.

It’s not the cheapest flat iron out there, but imagine how many trips to the professional salon this will save you, let alone getting back your money’s worth.

• Heats quickly and stays hot
• Automatic shutoff feature
• Swivel cord
• Quite pricey

The HSI Professional is used by professionals as well as amateurs and is one of the most popular models on the market. It has a super-sleek design with a matte finish that makes it easy to grip.

This iron operates with tourmaline-coated ceramic plates. The plates transfer heat evenly onto the hair, while the tourmaline releases an army of negative ions to combat frizz. Moisture is also locked in the hair, so if you have afro-textured hair, it will suit you perfectly.

The temperature control ranges from 240 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It is suitable for all hair textures. One of the neatest features this flat iron has to offer is the 8 HeatBalance micro-sensors that regulate the temperature and distribute the heat evenly. The HSI Professional doesn’t need too many passes through your hair to make it silky and smooth.

The hybrid ionic/infrared technology this hair straightener uses will transform curly, frizzy locks into sleek and straight tresses in a very timely manner. The HSI Professional heats up very quickly with only a slight heat increase on the dial. It is a super affordable tourmaline ceramic flat iron and it comes with many goodies that enhance the styling experience.

The 8 HeatBalance micro-sensory technology makes it stand out from the rest, and provides thick hair with the nourishment it deserves. The wide heat range is very useful in finding your preferred temperature, especially because it heats up very fast at 450 degrees so you can decrease from there until it is just right.

While it isn’t the lightest of its kind at 1.7 pounds, it more than makes up for the minuscule strain the extra 0.7 pounds can cause your arm. It has worldwide dual voltage (110-220V) and a long 360 degrees swivel cord that will make its maneuvering seamless.

Not only does the HSI Professional only cost $40, but it is also sold with a selection of goodies to make your hair straightening experience more enjoyable. Included in the packaging are a small bottle of argan oil conditioner to keep your tresses healthy and moisturized, a heat-proof pouch and a heat glove. Basically it protects everything from your hands to the furniture you place it on, making it very safe to use.

• Ionic technology fights frizz
• High temperature of 450 degrees F
• Comes with goodies, including heat-proof glove and bag
• Slightly heavier than other models
• No shutoff feature

The T3 Micro Single Pass Flat Iron was specially designed to tame thick and coarse hair. It features an innovative system called SinglePass X that is sure to straighten even the thickest of hair. This is a high-end, luxurious hair straightener that looks like it was made for the royal family and delivers matching results.

You know a flat iron is top notch when it has three features – hence the name – that increase shine and hair health with each use. Two of these features are found in the plates. The plates in the T3 model are 1.5” wide and coated with tourmaline, which helps with smoothing curly, unruly, and even previously damaged hair. Beneath the tourmaline, the plates are made of ceramic that adds shine to enhance the overall look of straightened hair for a healthier gloss.

The maximum temperature the T3 can reach is 410° F. It also has an auto shutoff feature to prevent damage or overheating. In fact, the device will audibly let you know when it is time for it to rest, through visual cues and sound alerts. The shutoff feature kicks in after one hour of non-use.

The third feature that makes it a T3 rather than just a T2,  is its innovative SinglePass technology. This flat iron guarantees results with just one pass, unlike other hair straighteners that require multiple swipes. Consistent heat is maintained throughout the entire plate, making it capable of straightening all hair types with one glide. It operates on ionic technology, so the negative ions it emits reduce frizz and static.

It also has worldwide voltage of 100 volts to 240 volts. It has a custom blend ceramic barrel that eases the glides, and 5 heat settings for you to choose from. Its tourmaline coating and the SinglePass technology make this iron deliver the best results in half the time it takes other flat irons.

The T3 measures 10.3 x 1.8 x 2.2 inches and weighs just over a pound. Not only is this hair straightener not going to cause wrist strain, but it also comes with a 360 degree 9-foot swivel cord to ensure that your hands get a break when styling your hair.

Since this is one of the most high-end products on our list and on the market, it is not a surprise that it’s so expensive. The price is justified because it comes with a variety of bonus add-ons. It comes with 2 ultra-strong pro sectioning clips, a heat-resistant mat, and a 2-year warranty.

• Innovative SinglePass technology
• Audio and visual interfaces
• Lightweight design
• Tourmaline, ceramic, and ionic plates
• Comes with pro sectioning clips, heat-resistant mat, and 2-year warranty
• Only heats up to 410 degrees F, as opposed to others that go up to 450.
• The plastic is not of the best quality

If you’re looking to invest in the cream of the crop of flat irons, look no further. The GHD Platinum+ is and has been Sephora’s best hair straightener for a while, having won many beauty awards along the years. It is GHD’s first SMART styler, which means it recognizes certain features of your hair and adjusts to it.

The plates are made of ceramic and are 1” wide. The device is designed with a wishbone hinge in order for the plates to be perfectly aligned, giving you more control over how you style your hair. These floating plates have a high spec gloss finish and look as good as they perform.

The GHD Platinum+ maintains a constant temperature of 365 degrees Fahrenheit, which the research department at GHD claims is the ideal temperature to keep hair healthy. This is where the AI comes in: it reads the thickness of the sections you apply it on so it can adjust the amount of power it operates with. All the sections are kept evenly heated and straight without causing damage to the hair. It takes only 20 seconds to heat up, and then all you have to do is just glide through your hair.

The groundbreaking ultra-zone technology is what makes this flat iron the creme de la creme.  It predicts the fine zone for your hair, so the plates stay at that temperature until your hair feels soft and silky. It also has a 30-minute shutoff feature, in comparison to most others that turn off after twice as long.

This hair straightener measures 11 x 1.6 x 1.8 inches and weighs one pound. It comes with a 9-foot 360 degree swivel cord that makes the styling experience a smooth one throughout.

The advanced technology alone is worth what you invest in the GHD Platinum+. However, it’s the most expensive flat iron on our list. Nevertheless, you won’t need another one after you purchase this. It also comes with a heat resistant plate guard, and a whopping 3-year warranty to put your worries to rest.

• 30-minute auto shut off
• It can be used without heat protectant
• Automatic temperature heat control
• Includes heat resistant plate guard
• Very expensive

Thanks to its revolutionary technology, this is one of the bestselling styling tools used by professional stylists. Not only does it look elegant, but it also has a non-slip grip that ensures ease in usage.

The plates are 1 inch wide, 3.5 inches long, and are made of tourmaline-covered ceramic. With one smooth pass of these plates through your hair, you’ll get instantly smooth results in half the time it takes other flat irons to style.

The temperature range is between 180 degrees to the maximum heat of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Incorporated in the design is a color-coded light which lights red when it heats up, blue when it cools down, and blinks red or blue when it is ready to use.

The FreeStyle Guiding System that makes it such a good choice for thick hair prevents the hair from slipping out of the iron. In turn, you will have full control over the strands of hair that you straighten, because the anti-slip edges manage to capture all the strands within the plates.

It is not a large hair straightener but it does weigh more than one and a half pounds. Luckily, the 360 degree swivel cord makes it a breeze to hold and style your hair.

The Sedu Revolution is one of the more expensive items on the list. It comes with a 2-year warranty and a heat-proof pouch.

• Non-slip handle
• FreeStyle Guiding System
• 360-degree swivel cord
• Comes with 2 year warranty and heat-proof pouch
• No auto shutoff feature
• Pretty expensive
• Temperature settings buttons not strategically placed on handle

Due to its 1.25″-wide specially-coated ceramic plates and far infrared heat technology, this flat iron is perfect for thick hair. It is gentle and safe, providing you with a damage-free hair that is – as Adam Sandler’s character in Zohan would say – silky smooth. It is not only good for straightening, but you can also curl, flip, and make your hair wavy by using the HAI Convertable.

This hair straightener has specially-coated ceramic plates that are 1.25″ wide and 3.5″ long. All it takes is one pass through each strand of hair and you will see and feel the change you were aiming for. The plates have beveled edges, which makes it just as good for curling your hair as it is for straightening.

The range of this HAI Convertable is from 170 to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Once turned on, the iron automatically heats up to 170 degrees. Some may find a setback in the fact that the maximum temperature is a little lower than other powerful irons. It uses moisturizing heat elements to balance the lower temperature in comparison with other, more powerful flat irons.

It uses a hybrid of infrared heat and ionic technology. The technology is conceptualized to seal in moisture and shine, and to prevent static. You will enjoy a frizz-free head of hair, which will be much easier to manage. Due to its rapid heating capability, the consistent heat distribution in this flat iron is powerful enough to flatten even the most unruly strands of hair.

An easily manageable flat iron, it weighs one pound and measures 11 x 1.5 x 2.5 inches. The plates are an odd 1.25 inches wide, but the ergonomic design enables the iron to deliver the best results.

Luckily, this is another one of the few more affordable irons on our list. It isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t surpass the 3-digit threshold.

• Auto 60-minute shutoff feature
• Infrared head and ionic technology
• Good for both straightening and curling
• Maximum temperature is not very high
• The grip could be tighter

If you want to go for something similar to the Xtava Infrared in terms of build and price range, an  excellent choice would be the Kipozi Professional Titanium Straightener. The wideness of the plates is beneficial for thick hair in terms of speed. Design-wise, it comes in a standard black and gold color combination. The handle is a bit longer, so it is easier to hold the flat iron while doing your hair.

The Kipozi Professional has 1.75-inch floating nano-titanium plates. The dimensions and material of the plates help make every glide through the hair an effortless and smoother one. Titanium also helps distribute heat evenly and presses hair tightly for more effective use.

The heat settings on this device range from 170 degrees to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The adjustment can be done using the LCD digital display. 350°F are recommended for hair which has been colored or damaged, whereas 410°F is best for healthy hair.

Ionic technology is what the Kipozi professional bases its process on. Its handle is durable and sturdy enough to keep your hand away from heat.

The Kipozi professional is slightly heavier than most others on the list. It weighs 1.6 pounds, but the 8-foot long swivel cord makes it very easy to maneuver.

Its low price makes this hair straightener almost a steal. It includes a velvet pouch to use for traveling, and is suitable for worldwide usage due to its auto world voltage (110 – 240V).

• Great price
• Longer handle
• Wider plates
• Auto shut off feature.
• LCD digital screen.
• Long swivel cord
• Comes with accessories such as a travel pouch
• The wide plates may be harder for those with shorter hair to use.
• Not built to last for years on end

Buyer’s Guide

Let’s take a more in depth look of what features to look for when choosing your flat iron from the list above.

The heated plates a flat iron uses are different in how they iron out the kinks in individual strands of hair. However, some cheaper materials are worth avoiding altogether.

• Silicon/rubber
• Metal or glass

Metal or glass plates should be avoided as much as possible. The lower quality straighteners use them, and the unpleasant results shouldn’t be surprising, as these materials cause the plates to generate heat spikes or burnt hair, and they break easily. Teflon is better than the metal and glass types, but it flakes off easily. Plates that are covered with silicon and rubber are useful for sorting out hair when it is being pulled through iron, but none of the trustworthy brands use these materials, and for just a bit more, you can invest in something that is of much superior quality. After all, it is your hair that you are nurturing.

• Tourmaline-coated

Tourmaline-covered plates are made of a certain crystal that releases negative ions easily, which makes for quicker heating of the plates, and straightens the hair in a much smoother manner. It usually covers ceramic plates and prevents the hair from getting damaged or caught in the plates. Ceramic is not the same as “ ceramic-coated” . The “coated” part means they have metal underneath, rather than pure ceramic, which means they can heat up quickly but not stay as hot as a pure ceramic plate.

The most trustworthy types are ceramic and titanium . Titanium is an extremely strong but light type of metal. Out of all flat irons, titanium-plated ones heat up the fastest, so they are the best choices for thick hair.

Thick hair will require a flat iron that heats up to high temperatures . Due to the thickness of the hair, it takes more heat to be able to penetrate the hair follicles, and for the hair itself to start being “tamed” by the iron. According to AdoreBeauty , the ideal temperature for thick hair starts at a heat of 450 degrees Fahrenheit, then gradually turning it down to 370 degrees.

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The two types of technology used in flat irons are ionic and infrared . The infrared technology penetrates the hair at lower temperatures and dries it from the inside out. Ionic straighteners emit negative ions, which eliminate frizz and static and neutralize the hairs’ atoms. The ions interact with the water molecules in your hair and break them down while enabling the hair to retain moisture. This technology minimizes static and boosts the health and shininess of your hair. Titanium and ionic technologies are the perfect combination for thick hair.

The less the flat iron weighs, the less the chances of your arm hurting while ironing the hair. Because thick hair requires you to hold the device in your hand for a long time, you want it to be as light as possible. This minimizes fatigue and other potential issues.

If you will be using a flat iron for the first time after reading this, here is an instructional video on how to properly style thick hair on your own.

• Use a heat-protective spray on your hair before turning on your flat iron. Thick hair tends to go dry quickly, making it prone to heat damage. A good heat-protective spray (say, made with argan oil) removes the risk of heat-damage and makes it healthier.
• Segment your hair before straightening it. You can do this while your flat iron is heating up. Then you can style each segment at a time. You can also add extra volume by not getting the iron too close to the roots of your upper sections. A segment of hair is also good for testing out the temperature initially.
• Avoid combs once your hair is dry and ready to be styled. Because combs cause frizz, it can make the straightening process near impossible. Only use combs while the hair is still wet, otherwise revert to brushes.
• Choose the right hair care products . This means not using products like conditioners, shampoos, and any other hair-nurturing substances in excess.

Don’ts

• Don’t forget to clean your flat iron before and after every use. Use a damp cloth to wipe any hair remnants or other build up. Do so while the appliance is unplugged.
• Don’t disregard drying your hair It would be a shame to undergo permanent hair damage that can be caused by the iron’s heat combined with moisture.
• One of the main reasons for hair damage is holding the hair straightener in the same spot for too long. Make your passes in determined and steady movements. If the segment doesn’t feel straightened yet, wait for a bit, then take another pass on that segment.

This list is comprised of the current most dependable and capable flat irons on the market. Some may seem more suitable for your personal needs than others, and some may be easier to choose based on their price range. Regardless, all of these flat irons are fantastic for those with thick hair. Taming your thick hair will no longer seem like a daunting task, and if you treat your hair right throughout the process, get ready for jealousy and disbelief about how good it will look.

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9 Best Hair Straighteners and Flatirons, According to Our Testers

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The word flatiron alone may bring back memories of fried, damaged hair, snagged strands, and burned ears, but today’s best hair straighteners get the job done. In fact, they often go above and beyond—some operate on air alone, while others can double as a hair dryer or curling iron .

I've been straightening my very long, wavy hair with a flatiron for more years than I'd like to admit (more than 20!), and I've seen it all. From the wide-plated clamp that more closely resembled a clothing iron that I used in my teens to the ceramic smart options available today, there's no doubt in my mind the newest hair straighteners work better than ever.

To help you find a high-quality hair straightener that’ll deliver sleek, shiny strands, we tapped hair stylists to find out what matters when shopping for the hair tool. We also tapped our expert editorial team—a group with different hair types and concerns—to find out what flatirons they use and love. Then we put more than a dozen to the test on both long and short hair, evaluating each for ease of use, heat setting features, and overall performance.

The best hair straighteners, at a glance

• Best Overall : Amika The Confidante , $150
• Best Value : Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron , $20
• Best for Curly Hair : T3 SinglePass StyleMax Flat Iron , $150
• Best for Thick Hair : GHD Platinum+ Styler , $202
• Best for Fine Hair : Dyson Airstrait , $499
• Best for Frizzy Hair : CHI Original 1-Inch Ceramic Hairstyling Iron , $70
• Best for Coarse Hair : Hot Tools Pro Artist Flat Iron , $76
• Best for Curling Hair : Drybar The Tress Press Digital Styling Iron , $169
• Best Portable : BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Flat Iron Hair Straightener , $35

What type of hair straightener is best?

What temperature setting should you use in a flatiron, best overall : amika the confidante.

Amika The Confidante

• What we love: Easy-to-read digital display; high-temperature settings; curved edges allow for curling
• What could improve: Hair occasionally snags
• Plate material: Ceramic
• Size: 1 inch
• Temperature: Adjustable up to 450°F
• Auto-shutoff: 60 minutes
• Cord: 9 feet

This hair straightener has floating plates that adjust to tension, so hair—even the curliest types—glides exceptionally well through the styling tool. We also like the easy-to-read digital display, which allows you to see which temperature you’re working with, up to an impressive 450°F, which is ideal for coils.

“I’ve been using this hair straightener for years,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley , who was first attracted to it because of it’s dual-voltage when she was traveling. “I have very thick and wavy long hair, but I have no trouble with this straightening iron. In fact, most times, my hair goes pin-straight in a single pass.” She also notes that it also does a great job of curling hair, thanks to the rounded edges, making it highly versatile.

Best for Frizzy Hair: CHI Original 1-Inch Ceramic Hairstyling Iron

CHI Original 1-Inch Ceramic Hairstyling Iron

• What we love: Fast-heating; long cord, customizable temperature
• What could improve: Doesn’t get as hot as some others
• Plate size: 1 inch
• Temperature: 392°F
• Cord: 11 feet

The CHI Original 1-Inch Ceramic Hairstyling Iron is an enduring classic that retails for well under $100, making it one of the best overall values on our list. It’s a perennial bestseller because of how functional it is, too. The powerful hot tool heats up in just one minute, has an 11-foot charging cord (longer than many of its competitors), and has an adjustable temperature up to 392°F—hot enough for those with wavy or curly hair.

“My hair is so frizzy that even after a blowout, it tends to be unruly by day two,” says Macaela MacKenzie , a Glamour contributor who put this straightener to the test. “I used the Chi on second-day hair and was impressed—my hair was smoother without falling flat, and my ends felt silky and full.”

Best for Curly Hair : T3 SinglePass StyleMax Flat Iron

T3 SinglePass StyleMax Flat Iron

• What we love: Smart temperature selection; very smooth 1-inch plates; straightens in a single pass
• What could improve: Shorter power cord
• Temperature: Nine settings up to 410°F
• Cord: 7.9 feet

When you straighten your hair, you want the process to be as straightforward as possible and the result as sleek as possible. Of course, you also want to minimize any damage to your strands. T3’s Single Pass StyleMax delivers on all fronts, thanks to a unique technology that customizes the styling process for you—no fiddling with different temperatures. You simply select your hair texture and styling goals via buttons on the flatiron, then get to work—the iron will heat to one of nine temperatures selected for you.

“This is one of the better hair straighteners I’ve tried, and believe me, there have been dozens,” says Earley. “I had a little trouble with the settings at first, but never looked back once I figured it out. The plates glide so effortlessly over my hair, whether I’m straightening or using the tool to add loose curls. Best of all, it almost always gets the job done in one pass.”

Best Value : Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

• What we love: Budget-friendly; heats up to 410°F; lightweight
• What could improve: Short cord; no automatic shut-off
• Temperature: Five settings up to 410°F
• Auto-shutoff: No
• Cord: 5 feet

It’s hard to believe you can score a straightener for just $25, let alone a good one, but Conair proves it's possible with their double ceramic flat iron. It’s ultra-lightweight, has ceramic plates, and heats up to 410°F, so it’s suitable for all hair types. Heat settings aren’t quite as vast as some other more sophisticated models, but you can still select from five different options.

Our testers were impressed, especially given the price point. “I have thick, wavy hair, and this flat iron leaves my hair surprisingly smooth and frizz-free,” said one tester. “Sometimes I need more than one pass, but overall this tool offers one of the best values around. I just wish the cord was a bit longer and that it had an automatic shut-off feature.”

Best for Thick Hair: GHD Platinum+ Styler

GHD Platinum+ Styler

• What we love: Fast-heating; easy to use; predictive technology; faster auto-shutoff
• What could improve: Can’t adjust the temperature to your liking
• Temperature: One setting (365°F)
• Auto-shutoff: 30 minutes
• Cord: 8.8 feet

There’s a lot to love about this sleek styling tool, which won a Glamour Beauty Award. Glamour digital director Perrie Samotin raves about its ability to clamp sections of her thick, frizzy hair without getting any of it caught: “Plus, there’s no temperature to choose from,” she says, explaining that this helps eliminate any guesswork that could lead to heat damage and breakage if you go too hot. “It’s a ‘smart iron,’ meaning it uses predictive technology to recognize the thickness of your hair and the speed at which you’re styling and adjusts its power accordingly, with an optimum temperature of 365°F.”

In tests, we found GHD’s Platinum+ Styler heated quicker than others, plus offers a satisfying ping to alert you that it’s ready to use. We also appreciate the 30-minute auto-shutoff, which is half that of some other products we evaluated—a nice safety feature.

Best for Fine Hair: Dyson Airstrait

Dyson Airstrait Hair Straightener

• What we love: Less heat and hair damage; wide range of styling settings and modes (wet, dry, rough-dry, smoothing boost); LCD screen; intelligent airflow temperature control
• What could improve: Slower process than traditional flatirons
• Plate material: N/A
• Size: 1.6 inches
• Temperature: Three preset settings in wet mode (175°F, 230°F, 285°F); two preset temperatures in dry mode (250°F or 285°F)
• Auto-shutoff: Auto-pause after three seconds of inactivity; standby mode after 5 minutes
• Cord: 9.6 feet

The Glamour commerce team put the buzzy Dyson Airstrait to the test and were blown away (pun intended). The Aistrait can act as a flatiron and a dryer at the same time, and instead of pressing your hair between hot plates, it dries it with hot air (using the same technology as our favorite Dyson Airwrap )—way less damaging than your standard straightener.

And yes, our testers—even those with tight curls—say it really does work to deliver straight hair . “Since my curls are on the tighter side, it’s crucial that my roots dry first, so I was happy to learn about the rough-dry option, where I lock it in place and let the air do its thing,” says Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro . “After about 10 minutes, the first section of my hair was super straight, and I was shocked. I expected it to be straight, but not that straight."

Best for Coarse Hair: Hot Tools Pro Artist Flat Iron

Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Evolve Iconic Salon Flat Iron

• What we love: LED temperature display; travel lock; tone lets you know when device reaches desired temperature; high heat
• What could improve: May feel too hot for some
• Plate material: Ceramic and titanium
• Size: 1 inch; 1.25 inches
• Temperature: Adjustable up to 455°F

We like this moderately priced Hot Tools iron for how quickly it heats up and its easy-to-read LED display with adjustable temps up to a whopping 455°F. It’s a great pick for anyone who has hair that’s trickier to style, whether it’s super coarse or curly.

Earley likes this straightener for how smoothly it glides across her hair. “I have thick, wavy hair, but these ceramic and titanium plates don’t miss a beat,” she says. “I also love the slightly rounded edges, since I use my straightener to give my hair a long, loose curl. This helps keep things nice and smooth even as I twist my wrist."

Best for Curling Hair: Drybar The Tress Press Digital Styling Iron

Drybar the Tress Press Digital Styling Iron

• What we love: Heats quickly; frizz-reducing ionic and infrared tech; digital temperature control; good for creating curls and waves
• What could improve: Some users say it’s not as durable as some others; outside of tool can get hot
• Plate material: Titanium
• Plate size: 1 inch or 1.25 inches
• Auto shut-off: 60 minutes

If it’s a two-in-one straightener and curling iron hybrid you’re looking for, consider the top-selling Drybar styler—a favorite of more than one Glamour editor. “I’m mostly inept at curling hair, let alone at using a flatiron to do anything other than run it over my already flat-as-a-board hair,” Glamour contributor Lindsay Schallon says. “But Drybar’s iron makes it easy, since it has rounded edges that mimics a curling wand," she says. "It’s also super lightweight, which makes it easier to wield.” Glamour commerce director Brie Shwartz has owned this Drybar flatiron for two years and is a fan of how it gets her 3C curls straight. “My wand has stayed in great shape (still gets piping hot), and despite dropping it multiple times, hasn’t scratched or broken. The one thing to note is that after about a year, the outside started getting hotter to the touch, so I’ve had to to be careful about how I grip it. I also like that it makes it easy to make beach waves since it’s light enough to twist. Although I’m also not great with styling, this one’s super easy.”

We also like the digital temperature control that lets you know what temperature you’re operating the tool at, up to 450°F. It comes in two sizes too (1 inch or 1.25 inches), depending on how much hair you have and what style you want to achieve (particularly if you’re using the tool to curl).

Best Portable : BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Flat Iron Hair Straightener

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Flat Iron Hair Straightener

• What we love: Budget-friendly; great for touch-ups; very small and lightweight
• What could improve: Not suitable for allover styling, especially for long or coarse hair; no auto-shutoff
• Size: 0.5 inches
• Temperature: Up to 430°F
• Auto-shutoff: None
• Cord: 6 feet

If you’re someone who’s always on the move or who’s hunting for a straightener to throw in your bag, you’ll get a lot of mileage out of this mini titanium flatiron, which is teensy enough to fit in a purse—maybe even a clutch. It’s just half an inch in width and six inches in length, which is roughly the size of a toothbrush. It gets hot quickly and is super handy for smoothing stray hairs and refreshing your look at the end of a long day.

“I originally got mine to keep at my desk in case of beauty ‘emergencies’ but have come to love it so much that I now use it in place of my other straighteners at home,” says Danielle Sinay , Glamour ’s associate beauty editor. “I mainly use it for my bangs and tiny touch-ups, but for how compact it is, it works remarkably well, especially if your hair is on the thinner side (which mine is).”

For fine or relatively easy to straighten hair : Set your sights on a flatiron with ceramic plates, says Lacy Redway , Unilever stylist and celebrity hair artist. Raven Hurtado, a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, says, “Ceramic takes longer to heat and is lighter with passes, which makes it okay to use daily on normal to colored or fine hair.” What’s more, ceramic plates are often combined with tourmaline, “a mineral that helps smooth and adds shine while locking in moisture,” Hurtado explains. Think less static and frizz.

For coarse or curly hair : Consider a flatiron with titanium plates, which heat up faster and maintain a higher temperature. Redway explains that the quick heat-up time and temperature require fewer passes on the hair. Of course, the hotter your setting, the more likely it will damage your hair. Always apply a heat protectant before you start straightening. Redway likes the Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Heat Protectant , which she recommends applying to damp hair, and then, once it’s completely dry, “proceeding with the flatiron at a safe temperature for your hair type.”

Fine-to-medium hair: Experts recommend lower temperature ranges of 250°F to 300°F.

Curly-to-coarse hair: Experts recommend staying within the 350°F to 450°F range. But you’ll want to use a protective spray or serum beforehand and smoothing oils afterward to balance out the extreme heat.

Colored or damaged hair: Experts recommend using heat sparingly, as bleaching and highlighting dries out and damages hair—and if you do use heat, stick to the lower ranges of 250°F to 300°F.

What is the least damaging hair straightener?

Flatirons with ceramic plates are generally considered less damaging to hair, since they takes longer to heat up. They are also gentler on strands during use. Because of these factors, Redway says ceramic flatirons are generally safe to use daily on all hair types, including color-treated or fine hair.

These Are the Flat Irons Stylists Swear By for Extra-Thick Hair

One of the most common problems with having thick hair is how long it takes to straighten it. I speak from experience. As someone with super-thick, curly hair, it's definitely an ordeal to straighten my hair (hence, why I don't do it that often). It's a process that requires time, patience, the right hair products, and, most importantly, the right flat iron . Luckily, I can tap into an arsenal of hairstylists for advice on styling my super-thick strands and what products will work best for my hair type now that I'm a beauty editor. This time around, I tapped celebrity hairstylist David Lopez for some insight. He shared his all-time favorite flat iron for thick hair and the product he can't live without when heat-styling. Read on for everything he had to share.

How to Prep Your Hair for Straightening

First things first, you'll always want to use a good heat protectant to avoid excess damage to your hair. Your heat protectant should be made for your specific hair type. Many stylists generally love cream products over sprays because sprays require a lot more product to completely coat the hair.

Those with curls should take a few extra precautions since curly hair is drier and more prone to damage and breakage. You'll want to use a smoothing balm or hydrating cream with nourishing ingredients and invest in a flat iron with ceramic-coated plates to help minimize heat damage. Lopez chimes in with a little advice. "I'll always recommend a heat protectant, but specifically with a flat iron, I love to use an aerosol heat protectant with hold," he says. "Kenra's Heat Block Spray is great because not only does it protect the hair, but it also doubles as a hair spray!" Those with thick hair might want to go for a balm or cream to make sure all their hair gets coated, but once you do, you're in business. Keep scrolling for the best flat irons for thick hair.

The Best Flat Irons for Thick Hair

Best overall: babyliss nano titanium ionic straightener.

I was first introduced to this flat iron by a friend in college. I instantly fell in love because it managed to create such smooth, shiny, and ultra-straight results that I hadn't been able to achieve with other flat irons at the time. It's definitely a staple in my hot-tools kit now, and that won't be changing any time soon.

Pros: Titanium-coated plates smooth out hair, natural ions reduce frizz, ceramic heater produces instant heat, and the temperature can reach up to 450°F.

Cons: Plates get extremely hot.

Customer Review: "I tell everyone about this! It's my favorite. I'm about to buy my second. My last one lasted seven years and finally gave out. (It has fallen on the floor many times.) [It] heats up so fast every day during those seven years and makes my hair so pretty. I love love love this straightener, and I'm glad I can still purchase it."

T3 Lucea 1.5-Inch Straightening Iron

My only complaint is that it does take a few passes to straighten a section of hair, but overall, my hair looks great after using it. Lopez agrees that it's a great option for those with thicker hair. "The T3 Lucea 1.5-Inch is hands down my favorite iron out there for thick hair," he says. "It has all the tech of the original size (single pass, smooth plates, and nine heat settings), but in a 50% larger plate size to get through hair faster. The CeraGloss plates get me shiny, frizz-free results."

Pros: Ensures advanced heat precision, has nine heat settings, and has wider plates that work on larger amounts of hair.

Cons: Requires more passes to straighten coarse hair. I use and love the T3 Lucea, and my hair is coarse and extremely curly.

Customer Review:  "The best straightener I've ever used! And trust me, I've tried them all, from the most expensive all the way down and back around. This is amazing. Works so fast and does not damage my hair at all!"

Wavytalk 1.75-Inch Hair Straightener

Reaching a temperature of 450°F and boasting 1.75-inch-wide plates, this flat iron can definitely get the job done for coarse, wavy, or curly hair types. The price is also fantastic for a quality flat iron.

Pros: It has a 1.75-inch-wide barrel, large titanium plates heat up faster, and the temperature goes up to 450°F.

Cons: Wider plates don't work as well for shorter hair.

Customer Review: "This is the best straightener at a great price. It has digital temperature control and makes my naturally curly hair super straight and shiny. I love it. Totally recommend."

HSI Professional Glider Ionic Flat Iron

This HSI Professional Glider straightens, flips,  and  curls. It even has micro-sensors built into its ceramic plates that help regulate the temperature and prevent future hair damage. The temperature also goes up to 450°F and smooths out frizz as you straighten.

Pros: Heat-balance micro-sensors keep you from burning your hair, and tourmaline plates create silky results. This iron is designed to straighten, flip, and curl.

Cons: Flat iron is a bit heavy.

Customer Review: "I have owned a bunch of different brands of flat irons, including Paul Mitchell, Sultra, Andis, Remington, and who knows what else. And I must say, this is hands down the best one I have ever owned. It left my hair feeling very smooth and shiny. Unlike many others, it didn't pull my hair at all. I love that it comes with a little thermal glove to wear when using because I can't even count how many times I have burnt myself while flat ironing my hair. It also comes with a cute red bag for storage/traveling. I didn't receive the free argan oil as was stated on the box, which I was hoping to try, but that is such a minor thing. I love the length of the cord. I have owned others that would come unplugged while doing the back of my hair. This one has plenty of slack. It also comes with a one-year warranty from HSI, so don't forget to register your product… which I'm going to do right now. If you don't buy this flat iron, you're going to regret it!"

Bcway Professional Extra Large Titanium Hair Straightener

This iron is uniquely designed to avoid pulling or damaging the hair while styling with its 2.16-inch plates. The extra-wide design and five adjustable temperatures will help those with all kinds of thick hair, from curly to wavy. 

Pros: Budget-friendly, avoids pulling or damaging hair while styling, 2.16-inch and extra-wide titanium plates that provide faster straightening.

Customer Review:  "I really like this product. I'm looking forward to using it on a regular basis. I have very thick hair—the size is wonderful."

Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Titanium Flat Iron

I always trust celebrity stylist  Kristin Ess 's hair products, and her flat iron is no different. It allows you to create gorgeous S-waves, sleek and straight styles, and curls. Although the plates are a bit narrow on this one, don't worry. It's still a great option for thick hair because the temperature settings allow you to customize your style to your hair type and texture. It goes up to 440°F.

Pros: This is a straightener and curling iron in one. The quarter-inch titanium floating plates adjust to your hair texture and deliver heat fast.

Cons: This iron doesn't get quite as hot as other options.

Customer Review: "I absolutely  love this flat iron! I have never been competent at using a flat iron for curls, but this product is so easy to use. I can not throw away my curling iron and only travel with this flat iron. It is great for straightening hair as well. [There's a] nice texture on the device that feels good when I use it, and good heat settings for someone with thick, wavy hair. Highly recommend!"

GHD Platinum+ Styler 1-Inch Flat Iron

There's a reason hairstylists never stop talking about how great this GHD flat iron is. It's a "smart" straightener that predicts your hair's needs and adapts to ensure that the temperature is perfect at all times for drier hair types. It helps deliver more shine and reduces breakage.

Pros: Ultra-zone predictive technology monitors heat 250 times per second across the plates and recognizes the thickness of your hair to adjust power accordingly. Great option for those who color their hair.

Cons: This iron doesn't get as hot as other options.

Customer Review: "OMG, this is amazing! I have very hard-to-straighten hair and usually need to go over my hair several times for it to get straight, but this straightens in one stroke. It also makes it so soft and gives your hair a lot of shine. I've never experienced this with a straightener before. I didn't even need to use anything before straightening. It doesn't feel like it damages your hair like others. I also love that it's smart—it senses how much [heat] your hair needs."

Remington 2-Inch Shine Therapy Hair Straightener

This is another great moderately priced option that glides smoothly through the hair and goes up to 450°F. The ceramic plates are infused with argan oil and keratin-rich proteins that help prevent damage.

Pros: Advanced two-inch-wide ceramic plates provide more consistent heat and are infused with argan oil and keratin to condition, prevent damage, and add extra shine to the hair. Works on thick hair.

Cons: This iron does have auto shut-off and may turn off while straightening thick hair for a long time.

Customer Review: "I actually love this straightener. … For the first time in years, I've found a new straightener that works well on my super-thick hair! Usually, the heat isn't enough, or [they] don't straighten my hair to the level I like. But this one does! It leaves my hair silky smooth and with no frizz! It heats up to 450°F in 30 seconds, stays consistently hot, and the buttons are located perfectly so I don't accidentally turn it down while doing my hair! 10/10, absolutely LOVE it."

Hot Tools Pro Signature Ceramic Flat Iron 1.25-Inch

Hot Tools' Pro Signature Flat Iron contains pulse technology, which helps it maintain a consistent temperature so you see fast results. It's also a great option to travel with, as it has a universal dual-voltage swivel cord that is six feet long.

Pros: Wider plates allow for longer and thicker sections of hair to be styled faster, the temperature goes up to 450℉, and pulse technology helps it maintain a consistent temperature.

Cons: Tends to pull on the hair.

Customer Review: "I got this straightener to use on my daughter's hair that is super curly. We have to straighten it for dance competitions, and my Chi would take me multiple passes to get one section of hair straight. This is hands down my go-to now for her hair. One pass, and it straightens."

Revlon Ceramic Flat Iron

Revlon's extremely budget-friendly option has ceramic-coated plates to help reduce heat damage and reach a temperature of 400ºF. It's not  quite  as impressive as some of these other options, but I can't complain for $12, right?

Pros: Budget-friendly, ceramic coating helps reduce damage, and plates can get close to the root for ultra-straight and sleek styling.

Cons: Only reaches a temperature of 400ºF.

Customer Review: "This is the perfect size for my short hair and travel."

Chi Pro G2 Titanium Ceramic Straightening Iron

I'm a fan of Chi's Straightening Iron for its 11-foot cord, titanium-infused ceramic plates, and dual voltage setup. It comes in both a one-inch size and a 1.25-inch size, so you can pick the one that best suits your hair type.

Pros: Heats up in 40 seconds, dual voltage for travel, 11-foot cord, titanium-infused ceramic plates.

Cons: This iron doesn't get as hot as other options, and the one-hour shut-off time may not be ideal for long use.

Customer Review: "This replaced a 15-year-old Chi, so I'm a fan of the brand. Different heat settings are good for me and my tween to both get what we need out of it. ([I have] coarse hair. Her's is medium curly and more delicate.)"

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Shawna Hudson has worked in editorial for over six years, with experience covering entertainment, fashion, culture, celebrities, and her favorite topic of all, beauty. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie , Elite Daily, Mane Addicts, and more. She is currently an associate beauty editor at Who What Wear and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.

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14 best flat irons of 2024, according to hair experts

There are various tools that can help you create a salon-worthy blowout at home, including curling wands , hair dryers and, perhaps the most versatile of them all, flat irons. A flat iron can often have similar functions as a round brush or curling iron , which minimizes your need for extra hair tools, especially if you’re traveling.

To help you find the best flat iron for your hair type, I spoke to experts and hairstylists about how to shop for a flat iron and how to protect your hair from heat damage. I also gathered their recommendations for the best flat irons to shop, as well as NBC Select staff favorites.

SKIP AHEAD Best flat irons to shop | How do ceramic, tourmaline and titanium flat irons differ? | How to shop for a flat iron | Do flat irons damage hair? | Why trust NBC Select?

Selected. Our top picks

How I picked the best flat irons

Flat irons provide sleek, long-lasting looks that smooth the cuticle and lock in a specific style with minimal tension and less repetitive passes on the hair fibers, says Bridgette Hill , a certified trichologist and scalp expert. When shopping for one, our experts recommend looking at the following factors:

• Plate type: There are three main types of flat iron plates: ceramic (good for dry , damaged or fine hair and generally more affordable), tourmaline (good for all hair types) and titanium (the most durable and good for coarse thick, curly and coily hair).
• Plate size: Most flat iron plates are available in sizes between 1 inch and 2 inches (our experts recommend avoiding options larger than 2 inches). Smaller plates are best for those with short hair and offer more styling versatility, whereas larger plates are best for those with long hair. 
• Heat settings: Our experts recommend looking for models that have multiple temperature settings so you can tailor the amount of heat to your specific hair type. Some flat irons have a digital display that lets you know the exact temperature, too.
• Your hair type: The amount of heat your hair can tolerate depends on the type of hair you have. Fine, less dense hair doesn’t need much heat to straighten it, so consider setting your flat iron’s temperature around 250 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent damage, says Shawn Harvey , hairstylist and owner of ShawnCutMaster Inc in Pennsylvania. For medium-thick hair, consider using a temperature between 250-350 degrees Fahrenheit; thick and coarse hair will need slightly more heat to lay the hair’s cuticle flat, so you’ll want to use a temperature between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit, says Harvey.
• Price: Ceramic-plated flat irons are typically more affordable, while durable titanium flat irons will have a higher price tag (upwards of $150).

select Stop using heat on your hair without this crucial product.

Best flat irons of 2024.

Below, I rounded up experts’ recommendations for the best flat irons to shop, all with varying plate types, sizes and heat settings. I also included favorites from our NBC Select editors.

Best flat iron overall: Dyson Airstrait Hair Straightener

Dyson Airstrait Straightener

• Styles wet or dry hair
• Causes less heat damage
• Comes with non-slip heat mat
• Higher price point

Dyson is an NBC Select staff-favorite brand for hair tools, and the brand’s straighteners come recommended by Kyle DeToure , a Washington-based hairstylist and colorist. The Dyson Airstrait, the brand’s newest flat iron, uses hot air to dry and straighten your hair instead of hot plates (which helps cause less heat damage to your hair, according to the brand). In addition to using the tool on wet or damp hair, you can use it to refresh or touch-up dry hair. For efficiency, the tool senses when hair is closeby, and automatically drops to low airflow when it’s not, according to Dyson. It also has an LCD screen that displays airflow and temperature settings, plus an auto-pause feature after three seconds of inactivity.

If you're looking for a more traditional flat iron, consider the Dyson Corrale , which uses magnesium copper alloy plates instead of the traditional ceramic or titanium plates to help cause less heat damage to your hair, according to the brand.

Plate type: n/a | Plate size: n/a | Number of heat settings: 3 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 285 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: No; auto-pause after 3 seconds

Best hybrid flat iron: CHI Original 1-inch Digital Ceramic Iron

CHI Original 1-inch Digital Ceramic Iron

• Even heat distribution
• Heats up quickly
• Nothing to note at this time

This tourmaline-infused ceramic iron comes recommended by Harvey because it gives hair a smooth finish, she says. It takes 30 seconds to heat up to the maximum temperature of 425 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the brand. “Its sleek design also makes it easy to straighten, curl or wave [hair] effortlessly,” says Harvey.

Plate type: Ceramic and tourmaline | Plate size: 1 inch | Heat settings: 5 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 425 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 60 minutes

Best for heat damage prevention: T3 Micro Lucea Straightening and Styling Iron

T3 Micro Lucea Straightening and Styling Iron

• Smart heat control
• Available in two plate sizes

T3 is a quality hair tool brand, according to Tina Malhotra , hairstylist and owner of Hair By Tina M . This highly rated option has nine heat settings that you can adjust using the built-in digital display. The flat iron also includes a smart microchip that monitors heat fluctuations and maintains a consistent temperature while you use it, according to the brand. The flat iron is available in both a 1-inch and 1.5-inch version .

Plate type: Ceramic | Plate size: 1 inch | Heat settings: 9 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 410 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 60 minutes

Best splurge: ghd Platinum+ Styler 1-inch Flat Iron

ghd Platinum+ Styler 1-inch Flat Iron

• Rounded edges for beachy waves
• No digital display

David Jones-Muñoz, a stylist and owner of Salon Dumbo in Brooklyn, says he keeps this flat iron handy and loves that it has a small curve to help create a beachy wave. Although it does not have a digital display, it has smart technology that helps the straightener maintain a preset temperature as you style, according to Ghd.

Plate type: Ceramic | Plate size: 1 inch | Heat settings: 1 | Digital display: No | Max heat: 365 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 30 minutes

Best ergonomic flat iron: Drybar Reserve Dual-Plate Styling Iron

Drybar Reserve Dual-Plate Styling Iron

• High maximum temperature
• Ergonomic design
• Bulkier than other options

NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez recommends this flat iron from Drybar, which she uses to get pin straight hair as well as waves. The ergonomic hot tool, which reaches 450 degrees Fahrenheit, has four small plates that require fewer passes, creating less heat damage, according to the brand. “I have medium, dry hair and after using this flat iron, my hair looks way less frizzy because I’m able to get close to my roots and take it all the way down to my ends in one go,” says Alvarez.

Plate type: Titanium | Plate size: 0.5 inch | Heat settings: 5 | Digital display: No | Max heat: 450 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 60 minutes

Best for multi-styling: Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Titanium Flatiron

Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Titanium Flatiron

• Comes with travel cap

You can use this tool, which has a 4.6-star average rating from over 1,400 reviews on Amazon, to create straight, wavy or curly hair. Reviewers say it’s easy to use because it heats up quickly, glides without any snagging or pulling and has a long cord that doesn’t get in their way. It also comes with a heat-resistant travel cap to protect the surfaces you place your hot tool on.

Plate type: Titanium | Plate size: 1.25 inches | Heat settings: 4 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 440 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 30 minutes

Best budget pick: Infinitipro by Conair Rainbow Titanium Flat Iron

Infinitipro by Conair Rainbow Titanium Flat Iron

Digital display.

• High maximum heat
• Slim design

After owning this flat iron for years, it’s still my all-time favorite — it’s one of the only flat irons I’ve used that doesn’t pull at my hair and heats up fast. You can adjust the temperature on the digital display, which makes using it so much easier than using side buttons, and I love knowing the exact temperature that it’s at so I don’t fry my hair. Aside from its performance, its slim shape doesn’t take up too much space while I’m traveling. 

Plate type: Titanium | Plate size: 1 inch | Heat settings: 6 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 450 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: n/a

Best for precision: Paul Mitchell Express Smooth Ion & Ceramic Flat Iron

Paul Mitchell Express Smooth Ion & Ceramic Flat Iron

• Rounded edges for styling

This flat iron is easy to use and heats up and cools quickly, says Harvey. The slim design lets you be precise and get close to your roots as you straighten or curl your hair thanks to its rounded edges, she says. It’s available in two sizes: 1.25 inch plates and 1.5 inch plates , the latter of which is great for those with long, thick or coarse hair, according to the brand.

Plate type: Ceramic | Plate size: 1.25 inches | Heat settings: 8 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 410 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 60 minutes

Best for quick styling: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Ionic Hair Straightener

BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Ionic Hair Straightener

• Good for thick hair
• Elongated plates

This Babyliss flat iron has elongated plates to help you style your hair faster, according to the brand. This flat iron, which has a 4.6-average star rating from 7,700 reviews on Amazon, heats up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and can straighten or create waves, according to Babyliss. Reviewers say it works on all hair types, including fine and very coarse hair, and leaves hair frizz-free. This flat iron is also available in a larger size with 1.75 inch plates.

Plate type: Titanium | Plate size: 1.25 inches | Heat settings: 5 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 450 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: n/a

Best for heating up quickly: Cloud Nine Original Flat Iron

Cloud Nine Original Flat Iron

• Doesn’t pull on hair
• Available in three plate sizes

The Cloud Nine flat iron, which comes recommended by London-based hair stylist Stefan Bertin , is available in three sizes: 0.5 inches , 1 inch and 1.5 inches . It has seven temperature settings, which is helpful for determining which one works best for your hair type, according to the brand. The ceramic plates are infused with minerals (including tourmaline), so you get a snag-free glide, says Bertin. The tool takes 20 seconds to reach its maximum temperature, according to the brand, and has a protective guard to keep your surfaces safe from heat damage.

Plate type: Ceramic and tourmaline | Plate size: 1 inch | Heat settings: 7 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 392 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 30 minutes

Best for travel: Ghd Original Styler 1” Flat Iron

Ghd Original Styler 1” Flat Iron

• Universal voltage for travel
• Only one pre-set temperature

If you want a flat iron that will last you a long time, consider this option, which comes recommended by NBC Select editor Lindsay Schneider . “I’ve been straightening my hair since I was 10 and have only ever used two straighteners, including this one that I’ve owned for five years now,” she says. Unlike most other flat irons on our list, which allow you to adjust the temperature, this one is pre-set to prevent extreme heat on your hair, according to the brand. It also has universal voltage, so you can take it overseas, according to Ghd. 

Best lightweight flat iron: Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth Titanium Flat Iron

Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth Titanium Flat Iron

Malhotra has used this Paul Mitchell flat iron at her salon for years. It has 1.25-inch plates (it also comes in a 1.5-inch version , which is best for thicker, more coarse hair) and has rounded edges that can make it easier to style your hair into waves, curls or flips, according to the brand. The flat iron heats up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit in 45 seconds, according to Paul Mitchell. It also lets you set a custom timer for when you want it to turn off automatically.

Plate type: Titanium | Plate size: 1.25 inches | Heat settings: 4 | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 450 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 120 minutes or sooner based on customization features

Best for dry hair: Amika The Confidante Moisture Maintenance Titanium Flat Iron

Amika The Confidante Moisture Maintenance Titanium Flat Iron

• Good for frizz-prone hair
• Automatic shut-off

This Amika hot tool uses infrared light beams in its titanium plates to maintain your hair’s moisture while you straighten, curl or create waves, according to the brand. Not only does it keep moisture locked in, but it also helps minimize frizz, which occurs frequently in overly dry hair, according to Amika. Reviewers say it makes their thick, frizz-prone hair look smooth, and it takes a shorter amount of time to style since it only requires one to two passes. The flat iron has a 4.5-star average rating from over 300 reviews on Amazon.  

Plate type: Titanium | Plate size: 1.25 inches | Heat settings: Unlimited between 170 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit  | Digital display: Yes | Max heat: 450 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: After 60 minutes

Best durable flat iron: Creative Professional SCW 1-inch Styling Iron

Creative Professional SCW 1-inch Styling Iron

• Doesn’t pull on hair 
• No digital display 

Jones-Muñoz calls this flat iron a “workhorse” and says he likes using it at his salon because of  its thick, durable plates. The adjustable temperature works well for his clients, and he prefers the brand’s ceramic plates over titanium because it offers a better “pull” on the hair, making it easier to style.

Plate type: Ceramic | Plate size: 1 inch | Heat settings: 5 | Digital display: No | Max heat: 450 degrees Fahrenheit | Automatic shut off: n/a

How do ceramic, tourmaline and titanium flat irons differ?

The three most common flat iron plates are ceramic, tourmaline and titanium. Each one will straighten hair, but different attributes make each more beneficial for certain hair textures, ranging from fine wavy hair to kinky coils.

Ceramic flat irons

Ceramic flat irons, which have ceramic-coated plates, are the most affordable option out of the three types of hair straighteners, says Bertin. They don’t get as hot as titanium and tourmaline, which makes them “ideal for those with dry, damaged or fine hair,” he says. However, ceramic-coated plates often need to be routinely checked since the coating can wear and chip away — in fact, when the metal beneath (usually aluminum) is exposed, it can cause damage to your hair, says Bertin.

Ceramic flat irons provide fairly even heat distribution, glide through the hair smoothly and leave behind a glossy sheen, says Courtney Foster , a licensed cosmetologist and owner of Courtney Foster Beauty. However, both Foster and Bertin agree that those with thick, coarse hair should pass on ceramic flat irons since they don’t typically reach high enough temperatures to straighten thicker hair.

Tourmaline flat irons

Tourmaline-coated plates are generally constructed from a tourmaline (a mineral) and ceramic blend that “offers an extra layer of protection and smoothness,” says Hill. Tourmaline irons are considered the best of the three types because their heat distribution means you’ll need fewer passes to get your desired straightening effect, says Bertin.

“Tourmaline plates are a step above the ceramic plates when hair type and texture are medium with loose waves and nominal frizz,” says Hill. Tourmaline provides a barrier to excessive heat and, as with most modern heating tools, you can adjust the temperature settings to fit the majority of hair types and textures.

Titanium flat irons

Titanium is a strong, durable metal best suited for professional salon use on coarse thick, curly and coily hair. These plates typically heat up the quickest and more evenly distribute heat compared to ceramic plates, which allows for fewer passes over the hair, a smoother finish and better results than a ceramic iron, says Foster. However, titanium can cause the most damage to your hair, so you should avoid these if you have fine or damaged hair, according to Hill.

“The heat transfer from titanium is intense, quick and, if used frequently or improperly, can create irreversible heat damage and breakage,” says Hill. She recommends leaving titanium to the professionals and touching up at home with a tourmaline or ceramic iron when needed.

How to shop for a flat iron

In addition to the plate materials, our experts recommend looking at features like size of the plates and a digital display to monitor the temperature.

Plate size and shape

“Smaller plates are better for short hair, whereas larger plates are better for longer hair,” says Bertin. However, the plate size won’t really affect the finished product, but it will affect the speed at which you get there, he says.

Once plates get to 2 inches wide or above, there’s less versatility and less chance that you’ll move the straightener quick enough without burning the hair, says Jones-Muñoz.

If you’re looking to use a flat iron for curls and beach waves, consider using flat irons with rounded edges that allow you to curl your hair onto the back of the straightener without much tug and pull, says Jones-Muñoz.

Flat irons vary in price based on multiple factors, including plate quality and material, size and brand recognition.

“If you’re using it for a quick touch-up or once a month, then you could go with something that’s a little less expensive,” says Jones-Muñoz. More durable straighteners (like those with titanium plates) are on the pricier side, but they will be less likely to wear and chip with frequent use.

Our experts agree that flat irons should have a button or knob that displays the temperature you’re using. Harvey recommends flat irons with a digital display, which indicates the exact temperature the iron reaches and any fluctuations.

Do flat irons damage hair?

Improper use, like using a temperature too high for your hair type, can cause damage, according to our experts. “Hair is a fabric and, like any material, heat can deteriorate and break down the hair structure,” says Hill. The cuticle — the outer layer of a hair strand — can very easily become damaged by heat over 356 degrees Fahrenheit, experts told us. Damaging that cuticle layer will make your hair more porous, which means it will struggle to hold on to moisture, causing dryness and breakage.

Determining the safest heat setting depends on your hair type and texture. “​​Thick hair can use a higher setting, while thin hair should use a lower heat setting,” says Foster. 

When using a flat iron, you should do so via quick passes on low or medium temperature and you should always use some kind of heat protectant when using any hot tool, according to our experts. Severe damage is likely irreparable and has to be grown out, says Bertin. Although hair straighteners are safe when used properly, you shouldn’t use them (or any hot tool) every day, our experts say.

“Even with the best heat protectants in the game, heat is not something you should be exposing your hair to every day,” says Bertin. “Those with afro-textured hair, for example, should consider flat ironing their hair at most once a week because our hair is naturally more fragile and dry, so flat ironing any more than that is a huge no-no,” says Bertin.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Bridgette Hill is a Palm Beach, Florida-based certified trichologist and former hairstylist. Her areas of expertise include scalp health , styling and cutting.
• Stefan Bertin is a London-based hairstylist, whose specialties include editorial styling, textured hair and more.
• Tina Malhotra is a New York City-based hairstylist and owner of Hair By Tina M . Malhotra’s areas of expertise include cutting, coloring, styling and treatments. 
• Courtney Foster is a certified trichologist and owner of Courtney Foster Beauty , a hair salon in New York City. Her specialties include cutting, coloring, styling and scalp health. 
• Kyle DeToure is a Washington-based hairstylist and hair colorist with expertise in balayage, editorial styling and French and British haircutting.
• Shawn Harvey is a Philadelphia-based hairstylist and owner of ShawnCutMaster Inc , a hair salon in Pennsylvania. Her areas of expertise include curly hair cutting, styling and coloring. 
• David Jones-Muñoz is a New York City-based stylist and owner of Salon Dumbo in Brooklyn, whose expertise includes cutting, styling and coloring all hair types.

Why trust NBC Select?

I am an updates editor at NBC Select who covers beauty and skin care, including the best tinted moisturizers , dry shampoos and dark circles treatments . For this article, I spoke to seven hair care experts about what to look for when shopping for a flat iron and rounded up their favorite ones to shop.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

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The 12 Best Hair Straighteners and Flat Irons for Travel [2023]

Erin Miller

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Table of Contents

Things to look for in hair straighteners, the 12 best hair straighteners for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Hair straighteners and flat irons can help to kick unruly hair back into shape when it just won’t behave. Whether you want to eliminate frizz or create a whole new look, many of us simply could not be without our flat irons on vacation. Compact yet powerful travel-size flat irons mean that you can say “no” to bad vacation hair and travel the world looking as gorgeous as ever.

Straighteners are uncomplicated — their main purpose is to change the appearance of your natural hair. Straighten, smooth, or, in some cases, curl as much as you want to, but be sure to consider the following before you commit to your next travel hair straightener or flat iron:

Most countries have different requirements when it comes to voltage, and most modern-day hair appliances come with a dual voltage . This means that your straighteners and flat irons will work just as well when you are away as they do at home.

Do double-check that this is the case if you are planning on taking your regular appliance with you, though. If the voltage is too low, your flat iron won’t work; too high, and it could be dangerous.

While most travel-sized items are generally smaller versions of full-sized items, the physical dimensions of your straighteners or flat iron may not be an issue. If you are packing your hair styling appliances in your checked baggage , your regular-size straighteners or flat irons should be just fine. They are not particularly heavy or bulky, and as long as they operate on a dual voltage, you should be able to use them anywhere in the world.

However, if you’re traveling with minimal luggage or are short on space, there are many travel-sized smaller hair straighteners on the market.

Hot Tip: If you are purchasing new appliances to take with you, remember that hot and humid conditions can make hair less than smooth and shiny, so look for an iron that offers wider plates to tame even the most unruly of hair on the go.

Temperature

Flat irons and straighteners work by heating the hair follicles to change their shape. In this case, the desired effect is soft, shiny, salon straight hair. The optimum temperature that doesn’t burn or damage the follicles is around 350°F (177°C) , so if you want gorgeous, healthy hair, never choose a flat iron that can’t handle these temperatures.

Plates these days are far more gentle on the hair than the old-fashioned metal ones used to be. Check before you buy that the plates are made from ceramic materials to ensure smoother results without damaging your hair.

1. Compact Hair Straightener for Use Both at Home and Away

Mhu professional travel size 0.5-inch mini flat iron tourmaline ceramic hair straightener.

This professional tourmaline hair straightener is fast to heat up and offers even heat distribution for a flawless finish. Easy to use, you only need to turn on the power switch and wait just a few seconds for the plates to heat up. Maintaining a heat of around 356°F, the non-adjustable heat setting is no big deal as this is the perfect temperature for damage-free smoothing.

Extremely lightweight and measuring a very compact 6 inches, this little beauty is ideal for use on the go. Pack in your suitcase or keep close in your handbag for emergency touch-ups anywhere in the world.

What We Like

• Compact and great for carry-on

What We Don’t Like

• The temperature is not adjustable

2. Tourmaline Plates for Beautiful Results

Mini portable tourmaline ceramic flat iron.

Featuring ceramic tourmaline plates that gently and evenly heat the hair, this travel-sized straightening iron is great for looking good on the go. With a dual voltage designed for worldwide travel, the 3D floating plates deliver beautiful results both at home and away.

Superfast to heat up, this flat iron uses negative ions to leave your hair looking and feeling healthy, while the unique round body shape will help you to create unique flips and curls. With a non-slip handle and its very own travel carry case, this makes a great tool to keep you looking your best wherever you may be.

• Comes with a heat-resistant case
• No swivel cord for easy maneuverability

3. Supercute Mini Straighteners From the Experts at BaByliss

Babylisspro nano titanium mini straightening iron.

The BaBylissPRO 1-inch Travel Iron comes complete with supercool nano titanium-ceramic plates that heat up quickly. Reaching temperatures of up to 430°F in just seconds, this little straightening iron is small enough to fit in your purse but powerful enough to leave your hair supersmooth and shiny.

The 1-inch plates are perfect for styling both long and short hair, and the dual voltage makes it an excellent choice for worldwide usage. The lightweight design and superior heat retention combine to make for exceptional smoothness and super-sexy, straight-looking hair.

• Heats up quickly
• No auto shut off

4. A Fixed Temperature Iron That Is Useful for Touch-Ups

Amovee mini flat iron smart ceramic tourmaline hair straightener.

Using smart ceramic technology, this fixed temperature flat iron can create supersmooth hairstyles or cascading curls with its ceramic tourmaline technology. The mini flat iron heats evenly to prevent hot spots, and its thin-plate size means that you can smooth and even style bangs and short hair.

The unique V-shape design of these straighteners prevents kinks at the end of the hair, and the straighteners are compact enough to fit in your purse or carry-on when you travel.

• The floating plates stop your hair from pulling
• The power cord could be longer

5. Straighten or Curl Your Way Around the World

Travel flat iron 2-in-1 mini hair straightener.

This 2-in-1 mini flat iron and curling iron combo is precisely what your hair needs , both at home and away. At 11 inches long, it is still slim enough to fit into your carry-on, and its dual voltage capacity means you can take it virtually anywhere in the world.

Heating up to 375°F in a matter of moments, this fixed-temperature flat iron will style your hair with minimal heat damage. Complete with its very own carry case, you can straighten and curl your hair quickly and easily with this travel-friendly flat iron.

• Comes with a heat-resistant carry case
• Doesn’t work as well on thick hair

6. Small but Perfectly Formed for Expert Styling

Phoebe mini hair flat iron 3/4-inch ceramic tourmaline hair straightener.

This mini flat iron is designed with traveling in mind. Small enough to fit into your purse, or pack into your carry-on , this tiny little purple flat iron will have you looking fabulous wherever you may be.

With an instant heat up and a maximum temperature of 430°F, you can get ready quickly with minimal damage to your hair. Compact and easy to use, this is a great little flat iron for your next vacation.

• Good for touch-ups
• No stand to protect surfaces from the heat

7. Mini Flat Iron That Delivers Professional Results

Conair travel smart mini hair straightener.

Using state-of-the-art ceramic technology, the Travel Smart mini hair straightener features ½-inch ceramic plates that glide across the hair , leaving it silky smooth and super straight. Designed to eliminate hot spots and minimize heat damage, the high heat setting will give you salon-worthy results wherever you may be.

With a 30-second instant heat-up, a compact design, and its own storage case , this is a useful mini flat iron to take away with you.

• Cools down quickly
• The handle can get quite hot

8. Quick and Easy Styling From the Experts at Revlon

Revlon essentials ceramic flat iron 1-inch.

If you are looking to achieve sleek locks on the go, the Revlon Essentials flat iron set has everything you need to keep the frizz at bay. With a 1-inch ceramic plate, this straightener is small enough to take on your domestic travels, so you can enjoy beautiful straight hair both at home and away.

Choose between low and high heat settings, depending on your hair type and style, with comfort and control with the silicone finger grips. The constant heat sensors monitor the temperature to ensure your hair remains frizz-free to give you supermodel style on a budget.

• Low and high temperature settings
• No swivel cord, so this can get tangled up

9. Salon Quality Styling at a Fraction of the Price

Croc baby flat iron travel size hair straightener.

This compact flat iron may be small enough to take anywhere, but it still offers salon-quality styling for a fraction of the price. Perfect for styling short hair, bangs, and taming flyaways, this is a useful little tool for keeping your hair on point.

With ceramic stationary plates that emit negative ions, a static temperature of 410°F, and dual voltage capability , you can achieve professional-looking hair wherever your vacation takes you. Complete with an additional heatproof case, this little flat iron is ready to go when you are.

• Comes in a variety of bright colors
• Only has 1 temperature setting

10. Increase Root Life and Volume With 1-Inch Plates

Conair infiniti pro 1-inch tourmaline ceramic flat iron.

Using tourmaline ceramic technology to help reduce frizz and flyaways, this flat iron is an excellent choice for anyone looking to retain shiny, poker-straight hair. The high-quality 1-inch plates get close to the roots to increase lift and volume, and the smooth gliding design protects hair from damage and adds shine.

The 455°F temperature setting heats up in just 15 seconds , and with 11 different digital heat settings, you can choose the right temperature for your hair type or desired style.

• Multiple heat settings
• Can be turned off easily by accident when using

11. Multi-Function Straightening and Curling in 1 Handy Iron

Jyfeel  2 in 1 hair straightener and curler.

Upgrade your look and cut down on your packing with this cleverly combined curling and straightening tool. Heating up to 430 ° F in just 30 seconds, you can choose from sleek straight locks or beautiful frizz-free curls at home or on vacation. The 360-degree swivel cord allows for easy styling , and when you’re done, just pop it back into its heat protective pouch.

Dual voltage capabilities make this particularly useful for adventures overseas, and the tourmaline ceramic-coated heating panel will ensure that your hair is soft and shiny no matter how often you style it.

• Saves packing a separate flat iron and curler
• Can sometimes pull your hair

12. A Salon Quality Appliance for Great Looking Hair

T3 – singlepass compact styling iron.

This top-of-the-range flat iron uses digital T3 SinglePass Technology for gorgeous glamour on the go. With an internal microchip that continuously measures and maintains an even temperature , your hair will never become burnt, dry, or damaged when styling.

The custom blend of ceramic and ionic technology will leave you with a smooth, glossy finish, and the smooth ceramic plates will straighten, curl, or shape easily and with precision.

The small-size plates make this little beauty perfect for taking with you, but with extremely powerful plates, you can also use this at home, too. Incredibly smart and designed to impress, this dual voltage straightening iron is worth every penny.

• Comes with a heat-resistant cap for storage
• Can be too hot for fine hair

If straightening or curling your hair is part of your daily beauty routine, it stands to reason that you would want your appliances to travel with you. Whether you are off on vacation or traveling the world, make sure you invest in a travel-size straighter or hair iron before you go.

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Byrdie Editors' Best Hair Straighteners: Crowned After 3 Years of Testing

We see sleek strands in your future.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look for

How We Tested Hair Straighteners

• Other Options We Tested
• Frequently Asked Questions

Meet Our Experts

Add to cart, why trust byrdie.

Byrdie / Shannon Stubbs / Shannon Bauer / Caitlyn Martyn

The best straightener overall is the Chi Lava 4D Hairstyling Iron . It heats up within seconds and gives the hair a sleek and healthy sheen with just one pass. If you’re looking for an option under $100, we recommend the Tymo Ring Plus . Its comb shape easily glides through the hair to provide straight (but voluminous) shape.

If you heat-style your hair (aka the majority of us), you’ll know that using the right straightener is vital for a sleek, flawless hairstyle. But, picking one can get confusing with so many options available. Are ceramic or titanium plates better? Will a more expensive option get my hair straighter and quicker? The key deciding factor should be that it can get your hair texture straight in one to two passes. “The right flat iron ensures you don’t need to pass your hair several times and further increase the likelihood of damage ,” says hairstylist Gina Rivera .

Straighteners are a huge market, so the Byrdie team has tested over 40 for the past three years. We’ve used these picks for weeks at home and in our NYC-based testing lab. We curated this list based on our years of testing insights and poring through hundreds of shopper ratings. We also consulted four hair experts for their recommendations.

Best Overall

Chi lava 4d hairstyling iron.

Works quickly to get hair completely straight

Adds shine and reduces static

Has a long cord and auto shutoff

Slightly bulky

Preset temperature settings

Plate Type: Ceramic | Max Temperature: 450 F | Plate Width: 1 inch

This iron gives us everything we want in a straightening tool: smooth, glossy hair in one pass that stays frizz-free all day. As the name suggests, this unique iron has volcanic lava minerals in the ceramic plates, making it easier for the hair to get straight at a lower temperature with fewer passes on each strand. During testing, we loved that it heated up within seconds and glided through the hair smoothly without getting caught in snags or knots. The tool has an 11-foot cord that made it easy to move around the entire head, and while it was somewhat bulky, it was comfortable to hold for an extended period. It also has a lock feature, which we found beneficial for easy storage and traveling, and it shuts off automatically after about an hour. While we didn’t love that it only has fixed temperature settings (370, 390, 410, 430, and 450 degrees), we’re still giving it top honors for the beautiful results we achieved.

The Chi Lava 4D Testers

Kayla Friedman , former commerce intern with 2b hair (pictured): “It only took one pass to get my wavy hair completely straight, and I was able to straighten it in 15 minutes. I was very happy with the results, as my hair was shiny and smooth, and I achieved a slight bend at the bottom.”

Mandy, tester with 1a hair: “The iron glided through my hair effortlessly, which made the process very easy. My hair looks beautifully straight, and I achieved my desired results with just one to two passes.”

Best Budget

Tymo ring plus.

Passes smoothly through tangle-prone hair

Lightweight and easy to hold

Not as easy to add curls compared to a standard flat iron

May take several passes for a sleek look

Plate Type: Ceramic | Max Temperature: 410 F | Plate Width: n/a

A straightener doesn’t have to break the bank. We’re big fans of the $70 Tymo Ring Plus, a comb-like straightening brush you’ve probably seen all over your TikTok feed for straightening all hair types easily and quickly. It has ionic ceramic plates that run smoothly through tangled hair to create a sleek but bouncy shape. We love that it comes with various accessories, including a separate detangling brush , a heat-protecting glove, clips, and a carrying bag so you have everything you need to style your hair. It’s very light and feels comfortable in the hands even when straightening for a long time, which is a must for thicker hair types. We think this is an impressive pick for those who find using a standard flat iron makes their strands look thin and lifeless, as this boosts the hair’s volume. You will need a separate styling tool if you like to add curls after straightening, but we still love that it’s so easy to use and gives excellent results.

The Tymo Ring Plus Testers

Caitlyn Martyn , associate commerce editor with 2b/2c hair (pictured): “I love that it’s a comb instead of a two-pronged flat iron that squishes and flattens my hair. It gave me flippy, voluminous ends with straight strands.”

Tina, tester with 2a hair: “My hair was as smooth as butter. Although I went over my hair more than usual, the sleekness of the iron made it less troublesome to continue straightening.”

Best for Damaged Hair

Drybar reserve styling iron.

Can customize temperature for top and bottom plates to minimize damage

Ergonomic with nonslip material

Makes the hair smooth and static-free

Only has a plus and minus button to adjust the heat, can’t see the specific temperature

Plate Type: Titanium | Max Temperature: 450 F | Plate Width: 0.5 inch

Those with damaged hair should stay away from heat entirely, but we recommend this one if you have to use a flat iron. Its shape may look strange initially, but the gap between the plates on either side minimizes heat exposure, leading to fewer damaged strands. You can also customize the temperature for the top and bottom plates if your hair is super sensitive to heat (or you’re just trying to be vigilant about damage ). While using it, we loved that it didn’t pull at our strands and added a nice, healthy shine to the hair. This is most likely due to the ionic technology, which can reduce static for a smooth style. It can effectively straighten all hair types with an ergonomic shape that’s easy to hold. Our one drawback is that it doesn’t display the temperature, but there are five heat settings up to 450 degrees.

The Drybar Reserve Dual-Plate Tester

Emily Cieslak , associate commerce editor with 1b hair: “I like the gap between the plates to reduce exposure to heat and damage. I mostly will use this iron for touch-ups here and there, so it offers the right amount of straightening power.”

Best Lightweight

Kristin ess 3-in-one flat iron.

Easy to hold for long periods of time

Stylish appearance

Digital temperature display

 Plates are somewhat clunky

Plate Type: Titanium | Max Temperature: 440 F | Plate Width: 1.25 inch

This flat iron has a lightweight construction that’s easy to hold and doesn’t cause sore arms or tiredness after hours of styling (and its white-and-gold colorway will look chic on your vanity). The iron also has multiple features that make the process easier and quicker, like a digital display that stops flashing once it reaches the desired temperature, a 30-minute automatic shutoff, and ionic plates that reduce static. The rounded floating plates are probably the best part, as you can quickly straighten, curl, and add waves to the hair with just this one tool. It can be tricky to reach the roots since the plates are slightly thick, but it becomes easier with continued use.

The Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Testers

Shannon Stubbs , commerce writer with 4b/c hair (pictured): “I love how lightweight the iron is and how smoothly it glided through my hair. It only took me one pass to get my hair completely straight, and it made my hair sleek and static-free.” 

Nasya, tester with 2a hair: “This flat iron was very easy to use and comfortable to hold for an extended period of time. My wavy hair looks beautifully straight after only using one to two passes per section, and I was pleased it heated up very fast.”

Best Technology

Dyson corrale.

Has numerous special features, such as cordless straightening and automatic heat adjustment

Charges fully in 70 minutes

Straightens quickly

Heavy, battery can pull at the hair slightly

Plate Type: Manganese copper alloy | Max Temperature: 410 F | Plate Width: 1.6 inch

If you don’t mind splurging and want to get the most out of your money, Dyson’s Corrale Straightener is the one for you. The iron has various features—it’s cordless and has automatic temperature adjustments, flexing plates to create more tension, auto shutoff, and even an airplane mode option for traveling. While it is a little heavy, its high-end technology efficiently straightens—and you get super-sleek results on all hair types. It heats up in seconds and gets the hair pin-straight in one to three passes (depending on hair type and temperature). We also love that you can rest the iron between each hair section on the included charging dock that charges fully in 30 minutes.

The Dyson Corrale Straightener Testers

Lauren Pardee , senior commerce editor with 1b/2a hair (pictured): “It took me only one pass to straighten a section of my hair—two for a really clean look. My hair was completed in record time because of it. Overall, I was really happy with the sleek, effortless results.”

Danielle, tester with 3b/c hair : “The high-quality construction, features, and technology make the Dyson well worth the splurge. The straightening capabilities are immaculate, and it never made my hair feel crispy or dry.”

Best for Thick Hair

Ion magnesium flat iron.

Super smooth plates that don’t get caught on knots

Has a good grip to create tension for smooth, straight hair

Heats up quickly

Can’t tell when it reaches the desired temperature

Thick hair types know that not every flat iron can get their hair pin-straight, especially if it’s curly or coarse . This pick from Ion has magnesium-ceramic plates to distribute the heat evenly throughout each strand, leaving the hair soft and perfectly sleek with one pass. It also reaches 450 degrees, the recommended temperature for straightening coarse hair types. While testing, we loved that the slightly wider plates created a lot of tension to make larger sections of hair smooth and straight. The outside of the iron has a matte, grippy texture, so it didn’t slip even after hours of use (and sweaty hands). The result was hair that looked super healthy without any frizz.  

The Ion Magnesium Testers

Shannon Stubbs, 4b/c hair (pictured): “I loved that this iron had smooth plates that didn't snag in my hair whatsoever, which can happen frequently since my blow-dry usually isn't that straight. It has a wide shape that can grab a bigger section of hair at once as well.”

Mandy, tester with 1a hair: “My hair looks beautifully straight, and I achieved my desired results with just two passes per section. It tamed the frizz well, even in rainy weather. I also really like how my ends look after running this flat iron through it—they don’t appear damaged.”

Best for Quick Results

T3 singlepass stylemax 1" flat iron.

Gets the hair pin-straight in one to two passes

Very lightweight and comfortable to hold

Glides through the hair smoothly

Preset settings by hair type and texture

Can run hotter than normal

Plate Type: Ceramic | Max Temperature: 410 F | Plate Width: 1 inch

True to its name, this iron can give a variety of hair types completely straight hair with fewer passes than other straighteners. It comes with wide ceramic plates that glide smoothly through the strands, and it’s easy to straighten large sections of hair. While testing, we loved that it heated up quickly and was easy to maneuver and grab the hair from all angles. Even without brushing the hair all the way out, we still got the sleek results we desired. It comes with nine preset temperature settings, but you can also select your hair texture (fine, medium, or coarse), and it’ll select a specific temperature. Even if you’re accustomed to using a particular amount of heat, we recommend using this function as the iron can run quite hot—and we were able to straighten our hair with the selected setting (even though it was lower than what we usually use).

The T3 SinglePass Tester

Shannon Bauer , associate editorial director with 2b hair: “I did two passes on every section and then went over my head with big passes at the end for a final smooth. It went from wavy to pin-straight in that time. That seems like fewer passes to me than other irons I’ve used.”

Best for Curling

Hot tools evolve ionic salon hair flat iron.

Has a slim shape that makes straightening and adding curls easy

Innovative features

Added volume and shine

Difficult to style bigger sections of hair

Plate Type: Ceramic and titanium | Max Temperature: 455 F | Plate Width: 1 inch

If you like to add curls after straightening but don’t necessarily want to whip out a curling iron every time, you should try this straightener from Hot Tools. It has slim plates and rounded edges that easily straighten your strands and add curls or a bend at the ends. It’s also a great pick if you prefer a voluminous style over hair that’s pin-straight. Regarding features, it heats up to the maximum temperature in less than a minute (and dings so you know it’s ready). This flat iron also has an LED temperature display and combo ceramic-titanium plates that distribute the heat evenly throughout each section to reduce damage. Since it’s thinner than other options on this list, you might have to start with smaller sections of hair—but its shape makes it easier to get to your roots (a plus for thick or coarse hair types).

The Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Tester

Kayla Friedman, 2b hair: “I was very happy with the results because it created a really pretty bend and slight volume around my face-framing pieces. The rounded edges on this iron make it perfect for styling, especially if you do not prefer a stick-straight look.”

Best Smoothing

Ghd wide plate flat iron.

Adds shine and reduces static for a smooth, sleek look

Wide plates can grab bigger sections of hair at once

Heats up in 30 seconds

Doesn’t get hot enough for super coarse hair textures

Plate Type: Ceramic | Max Temperature: 365 F | Plate Width: 2 inches

Naturally frizzy hair types know that not all flat irons effectively reduce static, and some can even worsen it. For a completely frizz-free style , we recommend the GHD Max Styler. A lab test done by the brand showed that it could reduce twice the amount of frizz and add 80% more shine for hair that looks healthy and glossy. In our own test, we loved that it heated up in exactly 30 seconds, felt lightweight, and only took two passes to get the hair completely straight. The wide plates are great for flat ironing larger sections, and it has a 9-foot cord for easy styling. We only wish it had more temperature options since the only heat setting is 365 degrees.

The GHD Max Styler Tester

Alyssa Kaplan , associate commerce editor with 2a hair: “It glides through the hair really nicely without getting stuck. I wish it was a bit thinner so I could get closer to my roots, but it does glide and maneuver nicely.”

What to Look for in a Hair Straightener

• Plate Width: Most flat irons range from a width of 0.5 to 2 inches, and there are different benefits to the different sizes. “Wide plates can style more hair at once, while thinner plates are better for travel or creating curls,” says celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons . “In general, thinner plates are best for short to medium length hair and detailed styling, while wider plates are ideal for long hair.” During testing, we also found that straighteners with slimmer plates made it easier to reach and straighten the roots on thicker hair types, while irons with wider plates worked best for those who straighten their hair quickly in big sections. 
• Maneuverability: Depending on your hair type and texture, straightening your entire head can sometimes take an hour or more. Since it can be a strenuous task, you’ll want to ensure you have a tool that’s easy to maneuver. We chose picks that were lightweight and didn’t slip in our hands while going over each section, and many of our favorites had a somewhat grippy texture that made them easy to hold for long periods of time. You’ll also want to pay attention to features such as cord length, as a short cord can make it difficult to move the tool around your head comfortably. 
• Special Features: Many options come with all the bells and whistles a heat tool can have, but some features are more needed than others. Fitzsimons says that safety features are the most important, specifically automatic shutoff (usually after an hour) and easily adjustable heat settings. We also prefer ones that let you know once the iron has reached its desired temperature, whether that be through a flashing light or a sound. Ultimately, you’ll want to pick a flat iron with features that align with your specific hair goals. For example, if you mostly use one to straighten and add curls to your hair, you might want to pick one with straightening and curling settings. If you’re worried about heat damage, you should look for one with auto temperature adjustments based on your hair type. 
• Temperature Range: "A temperature dial that allows you to adjust the heat settings is essential," says hairstylist Rachel Redd . "It enables you to select the right temperature for your specific hair texture , preventing damage while ensuring effective styling." Some irons have a sliding scale of temperatures, while some only have three to four specific settings with no options in between. Before purchasing, make sure that your option is able to get to your preferred temperature(s) for straightening, curling, and even touching up.

Byrdie / Pearl Vaid

Whether in the lab or at home, The Byrdie team is continually testing products to provide the most accurate insights and recommendations to our readers.

• Straighteners Tested : 41
• Testing Period : Three years (and testing is still underway)
• Methodology: We’ve tested hair straighteners at home and in our NYC-based lab over the past couple of years, with testing conducted on various hair textures (from type 1 to type 4). While testing, we paid close attention to which irons made our hair straight and silky without frying our strands and which we felt we would reach for again and again. The ones that appear on this list impressed us the most. 
• Factors Considered: Plate type, plate width, weight, extra features (auto shutoff, temperature adjustments, etc.), cord length, ease of use, temperature settings, price, final results

Other Options We Tested 

• BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ionic Flat Iron : This flat iron is popular with both stylists and amateurs because it makes the hair sleek and static-free. During testing, however, we found the shape to be a bit clunky, which made it difficult to straighten our roots. We also found that it gets very hot on the hair, making us worried about damage—we think this pick is more suited for professionals.
• L'Oréal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & Styler : While we love that this iron utilizes steam to smooth the strands while limiting heat damage, we found that it didn’t give us the silky straight results we desired—we had more of a blowout look . We also found it a little too heavy while styling for those with a lot of hair. 
• GHD Unplugged Styler : This iron is compact and lightweight, and it's cordless for easy, comfortable styling. However, it takes about two hours to charge fully and would only last about 20 minutes before dying, which we found inconvenient.

The majority of flat irons have either ceramic or titanium plates. “Ceramic flat irons distribute heat evenly and are less harsh on hair, while titanium flat irons heat up rapidly and retain a higher temperature, offering a smoother finish and faster styling,” says Fitzsimons. He recommends ceramic irons for those with fine or damaged hair, as they can be gentler on your strands. Hairstylist Yene Damtew also recommends ceramic plates for those with textured hair who like to go back and forth between curly and straight styles, as it distributes the heat gently to not affect the natural curl pattern. Titanium irons are best for those with thick or coarse hair who are more experienced and want to style their hair quickly (as titanium options get much hotter and faster). If you have trouble deciding which is best for you, Fitzsimons recommends consulting with your stylist.

According to Fitzsimons, you shouldn’t use a flat iron more than two to three times a week, and a  heat protectant  should be applied with every use. “To use a flat iron while avoiding damage, use the lowest heat setting necessary for your hair type,” he says. “Fine or damaged hair requires lower temperatures around 300 degrees, and thicker hair can withstand higher heat up to 450 degrees.”

To compile this list, we consulted four hairstylists to find out what makes an excellent hair straightener that will give you the style you desire without damage.

• Andrew Fitzsimons is a celebrity hairstylist with clients that include Khloe Kardashian and Megan Fox. He is the founder of the haircare brand Andrew Fitzsimons Hair. 
• Gina Rivera is a Las Vegas-based hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites.
• Yene Damtew is a hairstylist and salon owner based in Virginia. She is known for being the hairstylist to the Obama family.
• Rachel Redd is a professional hairstylist who specializes in textured hair types. She is also an ambassador for haircare brands Redken and Mizani.

Before you check out, here are some other hair straightening products to get the silky-smooth hair of your dreams.

• Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Hair Oil : We love a multiuse product, and this hair oil can be used as a heat protectant and to tamp down static after heat styling. It’s made with the brand's patented bond-building technology, so it can also prevent damage while giving the hair a healthy sheen. 
• Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray Anti-Frizz Treatment : If you have naturally curly or thick hair, your straight style won't stand a chance against the elements—especially in the summer. Try this  anti-frizz spray from Color Wow  next time you heat-style. It forms an invisible “coat” over the hair to protect it from humidity . It also provides heat protection and adds shine that should last three to four shampoos. 
• Mason Pearson Detangling Comb : Detangling is an absolute must before using a straightener, as snags and knots can get caught in the iron and cause damage. We love this comb from Mason Pearson, which gently and effectively detangles the hair without snagging or pulling on your scalp.

Shannon Stubbs is a beauty writer and editor with six years of experience, and she has been a commerce writer on the Byrdie team since 2022. She has type 4 hair but has flat-ironed biweekly for the past decade, so she knows what makes a good flat iron for even the thickest hair types. To compile this list, she gathered insights from Byrdie editors, lab testers, and hairstylists to decide which were the best options for getting the hair straight without causing damage. She also paid attention to extra features, like how easy the straightener was to use on a daily basis and how well the style would last throughout the week.

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• Hair Products & Tools

The 14 Best Hair Straighteners For Pin-Straight, Frizz-Free Looks, Tested & Reviewed

We straightened, styled, and even curled our hair to find the best of the best.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Frequently asked questions, why shop with us.

InStyle / Jhett Thompson

In a time when heatless curls and moisturizing hair masks are all over TikTok, your old straightener from high school may be gathering dust. But while you may cringe at the core memory of your hair literally smoking as you used the hair straightener, the classic hair tool is far from a relic of the past. In fact, the best flat irons today have innovative features and use high-quality materials to better protect your hair from heat damage while giving you that sleek, frizz-free polish.

LA-based hair stylist Laurabeth Cabott says there are a few specific features to look for when shopping for a flat iron that will help preserve the health of your hair, most notably temperature and plate material. “Anything over 360 degrees can strip your hair color, so if you're not sure high you should go with heat, keeping it below that threshold will help prevent breakage over time," she says, especially if your hair is fine, dry, or colored. “Ceramic plates are going to be your best bet if you are looking to straighten without compromising the integrity of your hair."

With Cabott's help, along with two other celebrity stylists, we tested 25 of the most popular hair straighteners currently available in search of the very best. Here’s how each one performed.

Best Hair Straightener Overall

Kristin ess 3-in-one flat iron.

What We Love: With smooth titanium plates, a curved-edge design, and negative ion technology to reduce frizz, this versatile tool imparts shine and creates styles faster.

What We Don’t Love: The temperature settings are a little confusing.

An excellent flat iron can straighten hair quickly, but this one goes a couple of steps further by using negative ion technology to combat frizz and lightweight, non-slip dual-titanium plates to reduce the number of passes needed to get the straight look we wanted. We partially credit our healthier-looking hair to the lack of pressure we needed to use while moving the iron through our strands — each pass from root to end was smooth, which prevented crimping, and the wider plates meant that we could work in larger sections to straighten and curl our hair in just one pass, reducing the number of times our hair was exposed to heat.

Though the gorgeous white finish and gold accents give this tool an elevated, luxurious appearance, the design was uncomplicated and straightforward, especially for beginners. One button controls all four heat settings and a clear LED screen on the handle flashes when one is changed. You also won't have to worry about whether you left it on or not — it shuts off automatically after 30 minutes of inactivity.

Plate Width: 1.25-inch | Plate Material: Titanium | Heat Settings: 4 | Temperature: 280—440 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Kat Lewis
• PHOTO: InStyle / Tamara Staples
• PHOTO: InStyle / Jessica Christopher

Best Budget

Ion magnesium flat iron.

What We Love: The hair straightener glides through hair seamlessly and its silicone grip and swivel cord make it easy to maneuver and achieve any style.

What We Don’t Love: The clamp is a little loose.

When we wanted to exert the least amount of effort and see the highest payoff, the Ion Magnesium Flat Iron gave us the best results. At an affordable price point, its design included everything we wanted from a hassle-free hot tool: It automatically turned off after 45 minutes, beeped when it reached our desired temperature, and the heat setting buttons are easy to reach (but hard to accidentally bump — a true feat). The tool also felt comfortable in our hands, courtesy of a slim design and silicone-textured handle, to give us a firm grip and it prevented our hands from burning on the hot iron. 

For the most part, we were able to run it through our hair without tangling our strands, though we did notice minimal shedding when we used it on fine hair. However, across hair types 1C to 4B, the ceramic tourmaline plate evenly distributed heat. These features, along with a swivel cord, that enabled us to easily reach all the way around our head, were especially helpful when we used it to curl our hair, as the narrow, thin plates required us to work in small sections. A tighter clamp may have led us to see more defined curls on fine hair, but we were glad that it was loose enough to avoid clamp marks.

Plate Width: 1-inch | Plate Material: Ceramic tourmaline | Heat Settings: 4 | Temperature: 210—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Masego Manamela

Best Flat Iron for Fine Hair

T3 smooth id.

What We Love: With advanced heat technology and non-snagging ceramic plates, this iron protects fine hair as it straightens. 

What We Don’t Love: It takes time to learn how to curl hair using the flat iron’s extended rounded edges.

Overall, the pièce de résistance of this smart tool was the technology — after evaluating our specific hair type and texture (including whether we colored our hair or not), it selected and heated to the perfect temperature to style our fine hair for a totally customized experience. From there, we never needed to re-enter our information — the iron remembered our unique settings and automatically heated up to that temperature with every use. 

What's more, it harnesses an ion generator and patented CeraGloss-coated ceramic plates to boost shine and reduce frizz. (And unlike with other designs, we rarely saw our fine hair slip from the tool as we twisted and twirled it between the plates.) The arms’ edges were slightly longer than the hot plates themselves, meaning our fingers had a place to safely rest (versus burning our fingertips, like other options) while we straightened our hair. However, they did cause a few pain points when we tried to curl our hair — the arms were so long that sometimes our hair wasn’t sitting on the hot part of the iron. However when we did find ourselves wanting to adjust the temperature ourselves, it was simple to unlock the screen and go back to the manual mode, where we could choose one of the nine temperature settings.

Plate Width: 1-inch | Plate Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 9 | Temperature : 260—410 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Maria Rowella

Best Flat Iron for Thick Hair

Hot tools pro signature steamstyler.

What We Love: The steam function helps prevent heat damage, managing to straighten even the curliest hair without causing harm.

What We Don’t Love: The design is a little bulky. 

This Hot Tools flat iron gave us sleek, shiny tresses fast — and with less heat than many other options, courtesy of its steamer function. We were able to easily control and focus the steam (we chose the high setting when we were really in a rush and the low when we were more painstaking) to straighten our hair easily, gently, and without ever getting a fried, crunchy look. When we wanted to use it as a traditional iron, we just turned it off and used one of the six heat settings.

Though the slim rectangular water reservoir for the steam feature makes the design a bit bulky, it wasn't heavy to hold or cumbersome when styling. Its 1.5-inch plates provided ample space for us to place large sections of our hair between the clamps and move from root to tip quickly — we only needed to run the iron through one or two times to see smooth strands for an overall fast styling session. One thing we noted is that we spent a little more time styling finer hair, as it was more likely to slip through the plates.

Plate Width: 1.5-inch | Plate Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 6 | Temperature : 300—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Alyssa Kingham

Best for Curly Hair

Hot tools pro artist black gold flat iron.

What We Love: With four plates, a wide range of heat settings, and a curved design, this tool is a master at straightening curly hair.

What We Don’t Love: Using the dual-plated design requires a bit of a learning curve.

Since curly hair is more delicate than other hair types, we wanted to find a flat iron that was gentle, but still gave us the straight look we wanted. And we found it with this Hot Tools iron: The smooth plates and rounded surfaces prevented our hair from getting stuck or tugged like it so often does with traditional rectangular edges, and we liked being able to adjust the temperature settings on each individual plate to control how much heat we were using. We found the most success by setting one plate at a lower degree than the other, so that we could prime the hair with just a little heat before the hotter second plate sealed in the style. Whether you have fine, medium, or thick hair, there’s a heat setting, 30, to be exact, to guide you toward your desired look. This technique isn’t totally intuitive — occasionally the dual plates creased our hair when we left it on a strand for too long.

Plate Width: 0.5-inch | Plate Material: Gold plated | Heat Settings: 30 | Temperature : 300—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Kimberly Souza

Best Flat Iron for Natural Hair

Tymo ring plus.

What We Love: The flat iron gets hair straight in one pass without applying much heat. 

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t have any curling capabilities. 

The Tymo Ring Plus has a lot going for it: With an ergonomic design and cord that swiveled with our movements, we could get every one of our strands pin straight, even when we started on very wavy, curly hair. At first, we questioned whether this would be possible, since the highest heat setting (out of nine!) is 410 degrees (many irons go up to 450 degrees), but we got a sleek, straight finish without ever needing to crank it way up.

We loved that the interior of the clamp had comb-like teeth to mimic the effect of a hot brush . This feature allowed us to easily straighten and untangle our hair without catching strands. Although this design isn't conducive for curling hair — at most we saw a soft wave , similar to the results from heatless curlers — we loved the straight look it gave us that we didn't mind. Plus, it comes with hairpins, a glove, a travel bag, a detangling brush , and a straightening comb.

Plate Width: 1.25-inch | Plate Material: Titanium | Heat Settings: 9 | Temperature : 250—410 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

InStyle / Tamara Staples

Best for Curling Hair

Babylisspro nano titanium dual ionic flat iron.

What We Love: The design of this iron is easy to maneuver, so you can take as much time as you’d like to create an array of curly and wavy styles without your arm getting tired.

What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t shut off automatically.

A hair straightener usually isn’t our first choice for curling hair, but the lightweight BabylissPro made creating everything from beachy waves to tighter ringlets so easy that we considered ditching our other hot tools. The swivel cord was so flexible, we barely had to move a muscle as we worked from our bangs to the back of our heads, and we didn't experience any hair catching in the plates, especially impressive since curling required us to wrap and pull each section through.

Regardless whether we fancied straightening or curling our hair that day, we were blown away by how we didn’t have to crank the iron up to the highest heat setting to see results that lasted all day. Additionally, we believe the ion technology truly did give us softer, shinier strands . With our hair woes solved, our one wish is an automatic shut-off, but given all of its other great features we can let this con slide.

Plate Width: 1.25-inch | Plate Material: Titanium | Heat Settings: 5 | Temperature : 300—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: No

• PHOTO: InStyle / Jhett Thompson

Best Luxury

Dyson corrale.

What We Love: The flat iron gave us super straight hair in one swipe while its cordless design made for easier styling.

What We Don’t Love: The tool’s thick plates have small indentations along the sides to better control heat, but our hair sometimes got stuck.

In true Dyson form, this straightener comes with all the bells and whistles. Whether we were curling , straightening, or creating waves , the patented flexing plates seemed to mold around our strands so we could create a variety of styles in record time. The plates are made of flexible materials and when hair is clamped between them, it molds to your specific hair weight and automatically adjusts the temperature to a customized setting for your hair, giving you far more control with fewer passes needed. The straightener doesn’t travel solo either: It comes with a charging dock, a heat-resistant travel case, a beautiful storage box, and a magnetic charging cable. There’s even a safety lock, so you can stow it away when it's still warm.

We also feel that using this tool had a direct impact on the lack of static around our scalp — a good thing considering it helped us avoid frizzy curly hairs getting occasionally caught in the plates. The cordless design was a total game changer because we could style our hair faster without getting tangled, but we also loved the less flashy features as well, like the dinging sound it makes when it reaches the temperature we want and a five-minute automatic shut-off. 

Plate Width: 1.6-inch | Plate Material: Copper alloy | Heat Settings: 3 | Temperature : 330—410 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Leticia Almeida

Best for Frizz

Drybar reserve styling iron.

What We Love: The hair straightener taps ionic technology and negative ions to vanquish frizz and give us an ultra smooth, sleek look. 

What We Don’t Love: You have to work in small sections to ensure hair doesn’t slip out of the plates.

We blame frizz and flyaways on bad weather and high humidity, but sometimes it starts with what tool we’re using — and Drybar just came to the rescue with their new innovation. The titanium plates on its styling iron slid through our hair like butter and took no stragglers in the process. The results? Hair so soft and smooth we couldn’t stop touching it. We took advantage of its slightly curved edges to target the flyaways around our faces — a feat we weren’t able to accomplish with the bulky, rectangular designs of traditional flat irons. It also features Drybar's signature Ionic Technology, which releases negative ions to seal the cuticle to lock in the style and prevent frizz.

When we followed the brand’s suggested temperature settings for our hair type, we were able to style our hair quickly. We ran out of time, however, when we tried to rush the process and squish large sections of hair into the thin 0.5-inch plates. However, working in small sections prevented slippage and actually allowed us to create more defined curls and rewarded us with styles that lasted all day.

Plate Width: 0.5-inch |  Plate Material: Titanium | Heat Settings: 5 | Temperature : 250—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Alicia Dolieslager

Best for Short Hair

L'ange le duo.

What We Love: The short barrel fits in our hands nicely and is the perfect size for styling short hair. 

What We Don’t Love: It tugs at the hair if you try to iron large sections at a time.

Weighing under a pound and designed with smoothing plates and an overall adorable look, there’s a lot we love about this mini pink tool. We were particularly over the moon about its compact, rounded tip design, ideal for styling and curling short hair . Unlike traditional flat irons with an elongated shape, this one held our shoulder length strands in place, courtesy of the miniature size of the plates, and we never saw any dents from too much pressure.

The ceramic plates very rarely tugged at our strands. In fact, we really only noticed it when we clamped down too hard after we got greedy and tried to straighten too much hair at once with the 1-inch plate. Its uncomplicated design is a great introduction for beginners: It heated up fast, fit perfectly in our hands, and only had one button to cycle through the five heat settings. Plus, it has a cooling function that kicks on once the tool reaches the set temperature to set styles in place.

Plate Width: 1-inch | Plate Material: Titanium | Heat Settings: 5 | Temperature : 280—430 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• PHOTO: InStyle / Stephanie Lewis

Best for Damaged Hair

L'oreal professionnel steampod flat iron & styler.

What We Love: The steaming feature allows you to achieve your desired style with less heat to avoid further damage to already vulnerable hair. 

What We Don’t Love: The comb attachment tugs a little. 

It’s a daunting thought to consider applying more heat to already brittle, damaged hair, but the L’Oreal steam feature straightened our strands just as efficiently as traditional high heat options. Although the practice isn’t a totally new concept, styling tools use steam to boost moisture, condition hair, and cleanse scalps . Frankly put, our hair looked incredible after using the tool’s steaming feature. Think: Shinier, glossier, and healthier hair, and it wasn’t even a painstaking process to get these results.

As steam tools were new to some of us, we appreciated that there were downward facing arrows on the tool that we used to guide us through the straightening process and ensure we were holding it correctly. We also like that we only had to press one button to toggle between the three different temperatures as we straightened our hair. Plus, the flat iron came with a detachable comb that we used on days we craved big, beachy waves . It helped hold our hair in place as we styled, although, the comb prongs are a little close together, meaning we had to work through our hair slowly to avoid tugging. 

Plate Width: 1.25-inch | Plate Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 3 | Temperature : 350—410 F | Automatic Shut-Off: No

• PHOTO: InStyle / Rachel Marek

Best Ceramic

Chi lava 4d hairstyling iron.

What We Love: With smooth plates and an ergonomic design, this iron cut our styling time in half and created long-lasting looks. 

What We Don’t Love: Its lowest heat setting is still very hot. 

Chi has long been a leader in styling hot tools (and no stranger to TikTok fame ) for a good reason. Case in point: The Lava 4D Hairstyling Iron , which offers ceramic plates infused with a thick mineral lava coating that tamed our pesky flyaways and frizz with just one pass. It smoothly moved through our super coarse hair like it was nothing. Designed with long, curved arms, and 1-inch plates, the flat iron is a versatile option, and we were able to master all the styles we could dream of, flipping small sections into spiral waves or running the iron root to end for a blown-out look. Plus, it heated up faster than any of the other irons we tested (about 15 seconds!). 

However, we should note that we were initially concerned that this hot tool would be, ironically, too hot for us (especially on fine or damaged hair), as 370 degrees is the lowest heat setting available, which is far higher than your average straightener. Fortunately, we didn’t have to clamp down on our hair for more than a few seconds, so the heat isn’t applied for very long, and Chi also happens to make a top-notch heat protectant . It took about an hour before the iron automatically turned off, and as added security, we liked that there was a locking mechanism to prevent the hot plates from touching other items while it cooled off. 

Plate Width: 1-inch | Plate Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 5 | Temperature : 370—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

Best Hybrid Hair Straightener

Dyson airstrait straightener.

What We Love: The Air Strait glided over different hair types with ease and fluidity — no tugging whatsoever.

What We Don’t Love: The cord is big, bulky, and heavy, with the power center right in the middle.

The Air Strait isn’t a traditional hair straightener, per se, but it takes your hair from wet to dry by skipping the hot plates and using directed hair flow to dry and straighten simultaneously. Plus, it has everything you could imagine: A bright LED screen, pre-set temperatures for wet and dry styling, and zero wait time for the tool to heat up. One of the highlights for us was noticing the pre-set wet styling temperatures (175 degrees, 230 degrees, and 285 degrees) were significantly lower than the temps for dry styling (250 degrees, 285 degrees, and Boost —  which goes up to 320 degrees and is recommended only for touch-ups). We appreciated the preemptive defense against heat damage, and the settings were easy to adjust.

We loved how easily the Air Strait slid over our hair; without any hot plates, there was virtually no tugging or pulling, further reducing the risk of hair damage. Even when we used the clamps to press down on our hair, there was no chance of our hair getting stuck in the hair straightener. Thanks to that fluidity, we found it incredibly easy to successfully straighten hair (although thicker hair needed a few more passes). Like many Dyson products, we were less than impressed with the bulky cord that ultimately weighed down the Air Strait. It was heavy, and our editor with Type 3B/3C hair had to take a break to give her arms a rest mid-way through using. We also imagine the thicker cord will make it hard to store this in space-constrained areas.

Plate Width: 1.6-inch | Plate Material: Copper alloy | Heat Settings: 3 | Temperature : Up to 320 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

Best for Beginners

Fhi heat platform tourmaline flat iron.

What We Love: It’s a no-frills hair straightener that’s easy to use, thanks to its lightweight feel and simple features.

What We Don’t Love: The temperature can only be adjusted by dial, and it was often unclear what temperature we were on.

If you’re new to using hair straighteners or other hot tools, you won’t be intimidated by the Fhi Heat Platform flat iron we tested. The simple, intuitive tool didn’t require us to watch hours of tutorials or practice on an old Barbie before we were able to straighten our hair with ease. It heated up in about 30 seconds and had five easily adjustable heat settings to choose from (140 degrees, 230 degrees, 300 degrees, 370 degrees, and 450 degrees). It slid through all hair types easily while straightening (although we felt a little tug while curling). The swivel cord was super long — up to 12 feet — and when purchasing this flat iron, you can select from a few different width options depending on your specific hair type and needs.

This hair straightener did fall short for us with the temperature adjusting. The Fhi flat iron uses a dial, and the designated markings are every 70 degrees. So, if you wanted to hit a 350-degree temperature, you’d have to make your best guess between 300 degrees and 370 degrees. If you’re comfortable with imprecise temps, this may not bother you as much.

Plate Width: 1.25-inch | Plate Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 5 | Temperature : 140—450 F | Automatic Shut-Off: Yes

• Hair Type:  “Fine hair is delicate and can be damaged easily, especially by heat, so using a lower heat between 250 and 300 degrees will help prevent breakage over time,” says celebrity hairstylist Annagjid Kee Taylor . If you have especially thick or heavy-bodied hair, celebrity hair artist Kieron Justin says you may need to bump it up to 450 degrees to get a pin-straight style, but going any higher will damage your natural curl pattern.
• Plate Material:  “Ceramic is the most commonly used option because it distributes heat evenly, reducing ‘hot spots,’ which leads to damage,” says Taylor, while Justin urges his clients to double check that their flat irons are fully ceramic, and not just ceramic plated. However, if you plan on using your iron every day or have fine or thin hair, tourmaline plates might be the best option as they are the most gentle, thanks to their semi-precious stone coating. “This layer emits negative ions once it heats up,” says Taylor, preventing static and frizz, while increasing shine. Titanium plates are durable and typically made from lightweight metal, which will "heat up very quickly and maintain a consistent temperature,” says Taylor. She recommends these features only for hair types that need extra oomph, like thick, coarse, and curly hair, but she adds that titanium flat irons are very powerful tools and if you aren't careful or familiar with this type, you could easily and quickly damage hair.
• Styling Goals: One of the best parts about flat irons is their incredible versatility. When we say the sky is the limit for how many styles you can create with an iron, we actually mean it. For example, by holding the hair straightener horizontally, you can build your hair’s body by adding waves. And with a little practice, you can take it to the next level to fully curl too — just twist small sections of your strands between the plates as you pull it down.

After applying a heat protectant and curl cream, Justin tells us to separate the hair into manageable sections, starting with the bottom layers of hair first, moving from the base of the head to the tip of the strand. To create the curl, “run the irons from the root to the end, twisting the iron at 180 or 360 degrees slowly away from the face with the iron vertical until you reach the tips of the hair,” says Justin. Repeat this method around your head, changing the direction of how you curl the hair to add depth and dimension. If you want a more natural look, Taylor suggests allowing the curls to cool before combing through with your fingers and  giving your hair a good tousle.

According to Taylor, ceramic plates are superior because they distribute heat evenly and use far-infrared heat to heat the hair from the inside out, meaning that "you’re reducing the amount of time you need to expose your hair to heat," she says. Ceramic material also slides through hair seamlessly without pulling on strands. Just be sure to watch how often you’re ironing the same section of hair, says Taylor, since these plates tend to heat up quickly and can disrupt your hair’s integrity when it lingers on hair or you’ve done one too many passes.

Without a regular weekly wipe down, build-up from heat protectants and other styling products can impact the amount of heat that is transferred from the plates to your hair, dulling the heat's strength. Even with a high temperature, you’ll need to do more passes to get the same result. Before cleaning, ensure the iron is turned off and has completely cooled down. Then dip a damp cloth into a bit of rubbing alcohol and carefully wipe down the plates to remove any debris. Taylor also likes to dip a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol to really get into the iron’s edges and crevices.

Alternatively, Cabott says a simple microfiber cloth works, as long as you don't see too much build-up. “And if you are consistently seeing a lot of gunk, you may need to rethink your shampoo, conditioner or other products you are using.”

Irene Richardson is a writer covering fashion and beauty trends. For this story, she compiled insights from our in-house testers, read dozens of online reviews, and rounded up our top picks. She also spoke with hair experts Annagjid Kee Taylor, Kieron Justin, and Laurabeth Cabott. 

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The 9 Very Best Flat Irons

Including the ones beyoncé and michelle obama depend on for sleek hair..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best for short hair
• Best for long hair
• Best for a range of hair types
• Best cordless
• Best for travel
• Best ergonomic

Flat irons seem pretty straightforward since they require just a few passes with a steady hand to do their job, but certain things can set a good one above the rest: a range of heat settings to adjust for style and hair texture , a lightweight body, and (if you’re feeling greedy) dual-voltage flexibility for traveling abroad. While I’ve covered hot tools on the Strategist extensively over the years (from curling irons to blow-dryer brushes ) and have tried out many on myself, I’ve spent most of my time and money trying to add volume to my straight hair. So to find the best flat irons for the job, I polled 14 hairstylists for the models they depend on to give their clients sleek sheets of hair minus the static and the heat damage, and tested out a few of their favorites to see if they could convert me to a flat-iron user.

Update on July 12, 2024:  Added note on Dyson Airstraight release; updated prices and checked stock for all products.

What we’re looking for

Temperature.

You’ll want to play close attention to a flat iron’s heat settings and make sure the ranges are compatible with your hair type. In general, fine or damaged hair types need flat irons that have lower temperature settings — 300 degrees and under — while very coarse or curly hair types will need a flat iron that can reach higher temperatures around 400 degrees to efficiently get hair straight (but if hair is both curly and damaged or fine, you may want to still go for a lower setting). And of course, no matter the temperature you set your iron at, applying a heat protectant before styling is a must.

Plate material

Kadeisha Placide , the manager and lead stylist at Classic Beauty Studio says that both titanium-plated flat iron and ceramic irons have their place. “Ceramic-plated irons help to eliminate frizz and make heating plates smoother, so they’re less likely to pull hair,” she explains, making it better for those with thinner hair, while a “titanium hair straightener delivers the fastest heat transfer for immediate and superior results,” if you have thick or curly hair.

Selecting the right plate size comes down to your hair length. Those with short styles should choose a flat iron with a one-inch plate, while those with mid-length or long hair should choose a flat iron between 1.25 and two inches.

Best flat iron overall

Temperature: 365 degrees | Plate material: Ceramic | Plate size: 1 inch

You can’t really talk about hot tools without hearing the rave reviews of GHD or Good Hair Day. They’re known for the intuitive heat settings, which max out at 365 degrees (supposedly the optimal temperature for avoiding heat damage) and spread heat evenly through the plates. Since my hair is naturally quite straight, I wasn’t sure how much I would appreciate the tool, but it is, after all, called a styler, and I found that it was just as useful for adding beach waves to my hair as it was for straightening it. I was also relieved to find that my hair didn’t feel fried afterward, since the iron is preset to 365 degrees, and that the straightener heated up incredibly quickly.

Five hairstylists recommended the Platinum+ styler. (The U.K. brand was a nearly unanimous favorite among stylists I also polled about the best curling iron .) Celebrity hairstylist Luca Blandi , whom I trust as someone who has worked closely with clients such as Anne Hathaway and Kate Bosworth, specifically loves the brand’s Platinum+ models because they are made from a lighter material, which is a godsend for hairdressers who use the tool all day. “It’s less strenuous on our body and hands.” Michelle Obama’s hairstylist, Yene Damtew , uses this flat iron on the former First Lady’s hair and loves it because it’s sleek and lightweight. She notes that all GHD irons are good for creating a multitude of hairstyles for every hair texture.

Best (less-expensive) flat iron

Temperature: 250° - 450°F | Plate material: Titanium | Plate size: 1”

Izunami is a Japanese brand known for its high-quality flat irons. This model has one-inch titanium plates and it has the ability to control the temperature. And while this brand might not be as well known as others on this list, it’s a workhorse iron with longevity (and an affordable price point). Jessica O’Keeffe , whose opinion I trust as a stylist at Hawthorne Studio and who has used the iron for years, swears by it and its long-lasting power. And she should know: She’s used the same one every day, multiple times a day, for over five years. Compared to the GHD above, it doesn’t feature the same intuitive heat settings and it maxes out at a sizzling 450 degrees, so I recommend being careful with it. I’m sharing two tips I picked up from the pros. One, always use a heat protectant spray. And two, always start out with a lower temperature and slowly work your way up to determine how much heat you actually need for your texture.

Best flat iron for short hair

Temperature: 240–450 degrees | Plate material: Titanium | Plate size: 1 inch

If your hair is shorter or you want something more precise, a mini-iron is a good option — specifically, this thin one-inch BaByliss Pro Nano. It’s super thin and lightweight but also hot enough — with 50 heat settings — to really smooth the hair. And the smaller size means you can really get the hair straight all the way from the root. The heat settings make it a great option for straightening naturally curly hair too. One of the stylists I spoke with specifically recommended it for a silk press, since the titanium-plated flat iron is a better option for curly, textured hair than a ceramic-plated one because the metal plates heat more evenly than the clay-based ones.

Best flat iron for long hair

Temperature: 235°F–450°F | Plate material: Ceramic | Plate size: 2”

Should you want longer, wider plates to cover more surface area and length faster, the BaByliss Pro has all the perks of the straightener above but is designed specifically for longer hair since it’s easy to maneuver. Plus, it has a heat index that makes it easy to transition for hair type and texture.

Best flat irons for a range of hair types

Temperature: 140–450 degrees | Plate material: Ceramic | Plate size: 1.25 inches

Maybe you’re a stylist who wants a flat iron that will work on a range of hairstyles, or you need something with higher heat settings that will iron out coarser natural hair. Tym Wallace , a celebrity hairstylist who is trusted by clients including Taraji P. Henson, Mary J. Blige, and Yara Shahidi, recommends the FHI Platform irons because of the temperature control settings that reach a scorching 450 degrees. “It straightens hair really well and gives the hair a bounty of shine and is versatile among hair types and styles,” he says. It’s also supposedly the flat iron Beyoncé uses.

Best cordless flat iron

Temperature: 330, 365, and 410 degrees | Plate material: Manganese copper plates | Plate size: 1 inch

If you’re straightening your hair often and willing to invest, Dyson’s hot tools are a categorical favorite. The cordless straightener has intelligent heat control and adjusts its temperature depending on the length, thickness, and texture of your hair. What also sets the Dyson apart from the other flat irons on this list is the use of flexible copper plates that shape and gather hair, allowing you to style with less heat and pressure on the hair strand, making it significantly less damaging compared to the other straighteners I’ve tested. I also found it to be extremely easy to use. However, it costs a pretty penny, so it’s best for those who straighten their hair regularly, which is why the GHD remains my top pick.

Note: Dyson recently released a brand-new flat iron, the Airstraight , which features the brand’s signature airflow technology designed to straighten the hair without hot plates to even further reduce heat damage. I will be calling in a sample of the Airstraight to test out and updating this story with my thoughts once I’ve taken it for a whirl myself.

Best flat iron for travel

Temperature: 170–450 degrees | Plate material: Ceramic | Plate size: 1.25 inches

If you want to take your iron with you overseas, you’ll want one that’s dual voltage like this Amika styler, which hair consultant and stylist Linh Nguyen (who has worked extensively with models for print and runway) recommends as a one-pass iron that smoothes hair without any flyaways or for creating a wavy, shiny look. It features ionic technology that really seals the hair’s cuticles to give a super-sleek, shiny look. And it has plenty of other bells and whistles, including a smart shutoff.

Best ergonomic flat iron

Temperature: 280–450 degrees | Plate material: Ceramic | Plate size: 1.5 inches

People who use a flat iron every day might want something more ergonomic for regular use. In that vein, Wonderland Beauty Parlor senior colorist and hairstylist Ryan Hill says this one is by far his favorite, and he has tried many over his nearly two decade career. It’s ergonomic enough to grip firmly without straining your hands and wrists, due to a thumb grip and contoured body. It also has digital temperature settings ranging from 280 to 450 degrees.

Best flat iron for wet-to-dry styling

Temperature: 248-365 degrees | Plate material: Ceramic | Plate material: 2.5 inch

Usually, taking a flat iron to a head of wet hair is a recipe for disaster. But GHD recently launched a wet-to-dry styler that is designed to dry and straighten wet hair with minimal heat damage. The Duet is basically a hair dryer and GHD Platinum+ styler combined into one tool. After towel-drying my hair, I flipped on the switch, which turns on the fans located in the plates and keeps them at a lower temperature. Starting at the root, I passed the iron over a two-inch section of hair (the brand cautions against trying to dry sections any larger than the plates themselves). I was impressed by how quiet it was. After a few passes and about 15 minutes, my hair was dry, sleek, and shiny. I should note that since my hair is naturally very straight and fine, someone with thicker or curlier hair will probably need to budget more time to get the job done. After my hair was totally dry, I then turned on the Shine Shot button, which turns off the fans and heats the plates up to exactly 365 degrees to turn the Duet into a traditional flat iron. While it is pricey, since it is effectively two tools in one, I think it’s absolutely worth the money, especially for someone who prefers to shower and style in the morning.

Some more hair-styling tools we’ve written about

Our experts

• Luca Blandi , celebrity hairstylist • Cassadi Currier , stylist and extension specialist at Pembley Joon • Yene Damtew , hairstylist • Mika English , stylist • Ryan Hill , Wonderland Beauty Parlor senior colorist and hairstylist • Hos Hounkpatin , celebrity stylist •Brooke Jordan, co-owner of Brooklyn-based salon the Bird House • Linh Nguyen , Project Runway All Stars hair consultant • Jessica O’Keeffe , stylist at Hawthorne Studio • Kadeisha Placide , the manager and lead stylist at Classic Beauty Studio • Felicia Rials , hairstylist at West Hollywood’s 901 Salon • Nunzio Saviano , hairstylist • Tym Wallace , celebrity hairstylist •Latanya Williams, a stylist with mobile hair salon Yeluch

Additional reporting by Lori Keong ,  Tembe Denton-Hurst , and  Jenna Milliner-Waddell .

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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10 of the Best Flat Irons for Thick Hair That'll Cut Your Styling Time in Half

Spend less time on your tresses and more time living life!

Raise your hand if A. Your hair is on the thicker side , B. You've styled it for hours only to have it wave up at the first sign of humidity, C. You've been personally victimized by your flat iron snagging and frying up your precious hair, or D. All of the above. 🙋‍♀️ Just because your locks are a little more luscious, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on trying out all those TikTok-worthy hairstyles you've saved or compromise chunks of time trying to achieve the sleek straight hairstyle of your dreams.

The best flat irons for thick hair tend to have higher temperature settings, automatic shut-off features (ya know, in case you're in a rush and totally forget to unplug), ceramic or titanium plates to ensure frizz-free strands, and larger plates to cut your styling time in half. We've scoured the web for top-rated flat irons that'll get the job done well and quickly so you can spend more time enjoying memories with your BFFs and less time getting ready for the outing.

So, get ready to spritz on some heat protectant , and go to town with one of these top-tier flat irons for thick hair.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Kristin ess 3-in-one titanium flat iron hair straightener, curler and waver.

Best High-End Flat Iron

Dyson airstrait™ straightener.

Best for First-Timers

Conair infinitipro tourmaline ceramic flat iron, 2-inch.

Celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess has spent more than two decades treating the tresses of your fave A-listers from Lauren Conrad to Lucy Hale. "Over the last 20+ years, I have tried all kinds of irons and could never find one that had everything I wanted," Ess says of her line's 3-in-One Titanuim Flat Iron. "This iron allows you to create four of my favorite styles: sleek straight, S-waves, flat iron waves, and polished curls."

This bb is stacked with four different heat settings that go up to 440°F, and its titanium plates help tame any frizz and enhance shine. Users rave about how easily this iron glides on even the thickest of hair, and for a little less than $100, you can't beat the benefits.

User review: "I have tried many flat irons claiming to be great for thick long hair. This is the first one that actually lives up to the claims," one reviewer says. "It does NOT pull my hair, it slides through larger sections with ease, straightening quickly without drying or burning the hair. It truly does make my hair appear to have a glossy, silky finish ."

Dyson revolutionized hair stylers with its bestselling Airwrap , and its latest drop is following in its footsteps. Similar to the Airwrap, the Airstrait uses heated air technology to style and dry hair at the same time. It was designed with multiple hair types in mind, and the best part is you can use it on wet or dry hair to make the most of your styling time. While the Airstrait has a higher price point, users say its worth every penny as they saw their tight curls and coils transform into a sleek style in less than an hour.

User review: "I have 4a curly hair. My hair usually takes 30 minutes or more to blowdry and then another 45 minutes to straighten. Then another 30 minutes to curl. The Airstrait dried my wet curly hair and made it bone straight in 15 minutes!!!!" a 5-star review reads. "This product just might single-handedly create a revolution! Who would ever think something so simple could change your life?"

If you're new to the hairstyling game in general, let us introduce you to Conair. The tried and true beauty brand has been around for decades and has continuously provided high-quality products for a lower cost. Larger 2" plates on this flat iron make it quick and easy to straighten more hair at once, and users can switch between five different heat settings depending on their preference and hair thickness. Oh, did we mention it's also on sale for less than $50?

User review: "This is the first time I invest in a flat iron. I don’t normally use them to keep my hair healthy. However, I have thick hair and my current medications are drying it more than usual. I purchased this to give my hair some TLC. It’s so easy to use and what a game changer!" a 5-star review reads. "Within 10 minutes I’m ready to go. My hair is straight (I have thick Latina hair semi wavy and dry) and looks shiny and healthy. I don’t know how I waited so long. My look is a hit with family and friends. Highly recommend. Super easy to use ."

HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron Hair Straightener

Need a flat iron that will straighten, flip, and curl? HSI Professional's Glider is the one you've been looking for. Its ceramic plates help fight frizz and are also built with microsensors that keep the high temps regulated to avoid hair damage. Plus, it comes with a snazzy sleeve for storage as well as a heat-protectant glove to use while styling.

User review: "The HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron has been a reliable hairstyling tool for me. It's easy to use and provides fast results, making my hairstyling routine a breeze. The adjustable temperature settings allow me to customize the heat according to my hair type, ensuring even heat distribution for both straightening and curling," one reviewer writes on Amazon . "The included hair treatment pouch and glove are thoughtful additions that enhance the overall experience. While it may not have all the bells and whistles, this flat iron gets the job done and I love the convenience it offers. "

ion Magnesium Flat Iron 1"

For a little less than $100, ion's Magnesium Flat Iron comes in clutch with a slim design and easy-to-use features. The tool's silicone-textured handle helps secure a firm grip and prevents hands from burning while you work. And, no one wants to put in all the work of straightening hair just to end up with a fried, crunchy look. Thankfully, the iron's ceramic plates evenly distribute heat, so you'll have sleek and soft tresses from root to tip.

User review: " My 3b/3c hair was left lightweight and blowing in the wind! It’s sleek and really gave me salon quality results!" a review at Sally Beauty reads. "It cut the time it takes me to do my hair in half! Love this tool!"

ghd Platinum+ 1" Styler

We live in a society with smartphones and AI devices, so naturally, there are smart hairstyling tools, too. The Platinum+ Styler from the celeb hairstylist-approved brand pretty much adjusts to your hair type and predicts what heat settings it may need for a long-lasting style with more shine and less breakage.

User review: "I've been looking for a newer version of the flatiron that I have. Upon suggestion from my hairstylist, I bought this ghd Platinum one. My daughter has curly hair and this is definitely the 'go to' for her to give her a simple way to straighten her hair, that doesn't dry," an Ulta reviewer writes. "For myself - I love it too! The wider wand allows for even heat to allow my hair to easily straighten. Most of all, that time it takes to heat up is seconds! Amazing."

Hot Tools Black Gold 1" Micro Shine Salon Flat Iron

Hot Tools has a catalog of amazing hairstyling tools, and the Micro Shine Salon Flat Iron is only one of them. This bad boy comes with a heat-protectant glove, rotating temperature dial, an LED screen, and 27 (!) heat settings. Its pulse technology keeps the tool at the same temperature during your styling session so your tresses get sleek faster.

User review: " It was time for a new hair straightener and OMG love this one! It heats up super quick! I have thick curly hair and I usually need to have high heat to get my hair straight BUT with this one I don't need the heat all the way up!" a reviewer on Ulta says. "I was so impressed because I am trying to reduce heat to prevent damage and breakage in the event that I do straighten my hair. I would definitely recommend!!!!"

Wavytalk 1.75" Titanium Flat Iron for Hair

Who says you need to drop big dollars for high-quality features? This Titanium Flat Iron from Wavytalk has an LED screen that displays the device's temperature, as well as a dual voltage for international travel (in case you're in your jet setter era 💅). Users note that the titanium plates help get their long hair straight in less than an hour, event at a lower temperature. This bb is currently on sale for 50% off, BTW.

User review: " To my pleasant surprise, I can use this iron on a setting of 380-400 and get rather straight hair in a few sweeps," one Amazon reviewer raves. "After about 20 - 30 min, I can actually get my whole head pretty straight without the awful burning smell of my old flat iron and in less time."

T3 Lucea 1 ½" Professional Straightening and Styling Iron

With large, smooth plates and nine heat settings, Lucea's Professional Straightening and Styling Iron is a fave among the average user and pro hairstylists alike. The plates are coated with Ceragloss, which helps strands stay shiny and frizz-free, even for those with thicker hair textures.

User review: " Easy to straighten coarse thick hair!!...I really love the extra thick plates for my thick long hair. It’s hot enough for my coarse thick hair, and I only need to do one pass when styling properly," one 5-star review from Sephora says. "I love this flat iron so much!! it’s so beautiful with a sleek design, and really works on my thick hair. it flattens better than many of my other tools and the style stays in my hair."

L'ange Le Duo 360 Airflow Styler

With nearly 8,500 reviews on Ulta alone, L'ange's Le Duo 360 Airflow Styler is a favorite among people with short hair because of how easy it is to grip and reach close to the roots. In addition to hot plates, the Airflow Styler uses air vents that cool hair down as you pass it through, and there's a clip that holds strands in place while you work.

User review: " It is basically a solid hair straightener with a cool blast feature. This feature 'sets' the curl or wave immediately, letting you pin it or leave it hanging without burning yourself or getting your neck all sweaty," one review on Ulta reads. "You can curl tighter or looser depending on your movement, bump or flip ends, and quickly tame cowlicks and bangs. Thats it. It's simple but works!"

Sam is an assistant news editor at Cosmo, covering all things pop culture, entertainment, and celebrity news. She previously covered those same topics along with health, lifestyle, and beauty at Seventeen. When she isn't draping her cheeks in blush, you can probably find her live-tweeting awards shows or making SwiftToks.  

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The 14 Best Flat Irons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our top pick is the BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron for its lightweight design and reasonable price point

Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based contributing shopping writer at PEOPLE with over 10 years of experience covering all things beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. At PEOPLE, she collaborates with the PEOPLE Tested team to share our top recommendations for everything from the best shapewear to the best dark spot correctors.

Cai Cramer is a shopping writer at PEOPLE.com with 2 years’ experience in journalism and digital media. She regularly tests the best and buzziest products in the beauty and lifestyle spaces and has researched and written about moisturizers, blow dryers, clothing, and luggage, among many other popular products.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Things to Consider

How We Tested

Why trust people, what is people tested.

People / Jessica Juliao

Flat irons are a multifunctional tool that can help you create silky smooth styles. “[They] are also used to seal the cuticle, meaning no frizz and added shine,” Kevin Kelly , a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert who has worked with Nicky Hilton, tells PEOPLE. But with so many factors to take into account (hair type, plate material, plate size, and more) and a seemingly endless number of tools to choose from, finding the right flat iron can be a challenge. 

That’s why PEOPLE conducted thorough research and testing to determine which flat irons are worth their weight in gold. We asked testers with different hair types (thin, fine, wavy, thick, and curly) to try some of the best-selling flat irons and record their insights throughout the process. Our testers took note of how smooth the glide felt, how many passes it took to get their hair straight, and how easy the iron was to use.

Along with our in-depth testing, we also spoke to hair stylists, including Kelly and beauty expert Nick Stenson , who’s smoothed the hair of countless celebrities and created picture-perfect styles for numerous runway shows. “It’s equally important to me that the flat iron works well with all hair types and offers versatility,” Stenson tells PEOPLE. 

We used a thermometer to test the maximum heat, a ruler to verify the cord lengths, and a stopwatch to time how long each iron took to heat up and shut off automatically. We also tested durability by dropping each iron twice at vanity level to see if it would break, chip, or scratch.

With so much styling potential, there are dozens upon dozens of flat irons to choose from and a lot to consider when shopping for the best one for your hair type — which is why we sent our PEOPLE Tested team on a mission to find the flat irons that can achieve the slickest and straightest finishes and most effortless waves and curls. After testing dozens of models, we landed on 14 flat irons for every hair type and concern.

Keep reading to discover the best flat irons, tested and reviewed by PEOPLE.

Best Overall

Babylisspro nano titanium dual ionic flat iron.

• Ease of Use 4.8 /5
• Glide Performance 4.9 /5
• Value 4.9 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.9 /5

The temperature gauge is specifically designed for different hair types.

It features ions for a more customized style for your hair type and needs.

It has a lightweight design that makes it easier to handle while styling.

It works better at curling than most other flat irons we tested.

It works best on fine and wavy hair versus thick or curly, so it’s not really ideal for all hair types.

Our top pick for the best flat iron is the BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron. Taking only 20 seconds to heat up, this hair straightener is designed with titanium plates and features ion technology that you can turn on and off, depending on your hair type and needs. Technically, this flat iron is designed for all hair types, especially those with thick and coarse hair; however, we found that it is better for fine and wavy hair since it was a bit tricky to use on thick strands during our testing.

Nonetheless, we were impressed overall by this mid-range straightener and appreciated that it was lightweight and easy to use. On top of that, it heats up quickly and features five different temperature settings designed for specific hair types, so you don’t have to worry about causing damage to strands. Our in-lab expert even said that this flat iron was one of the best for curling — so it's truly a multi-functional tool. 

Temperature Settings: 5 | Width: 1.25 inches | Material: Titanium

• PHOTO: People / Toni Gibbs
• PHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for Thick Hair

Hot tools pro artist black gold flat iron.

• Ease of Use 4.1 /5
• Glide Performance 4.1 /5
• Value 3.8 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.3 /5

Four ceramic-titanium plates make it easy to maneuver on thick hair.

The 30 different heat settings are easy to adjust.

You can customize the temperature of each plate, offering a personalized styling experience.

Because of the four-plate design, it’s not ideal for curling (just straightening and creating waves).

The Hot Tools Black Gold Dual Plate Salon Flat Iron is not just the best flat iron for thick hair, it also has the best heat settings. Featuring four ceramic plates, this hot tool is super easy to maneuver over thick strands and features 30 different heat settings that allow you to customize the temperature of each plate for a truly personalized styling experience.

While the flat iron works really well at straightening, we found that the four-plate design makes curling hair a bit of a challenge, so we wouldn’t recommend it for that. However, it works well at providing a sleek and shiny look for straightening or even when adding waves.

Temperature Settings: 30 | Width: Four 0.5-inch plates | Material: Ceramic titanium

• PHOTO: People / Jessica Juliao
• PHOTO: People/Tamara Staples
• PHOTO: People / Stephanie Petit

Best for Curly Hair

Hot tools pro signature steamstyler.

• Ease of Use 4.3 /5
• Glide Performance 4.8 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.7 /5

This straightener glides through hair easily without any pulling or tugging.

It not only straightens but also leaves hair looking super shiny after styling.

It's not too pricey for a professional-worthy straightener.

It features a wider plate, making it easier to straighten curly strands.

It takes us a while to straighten our hair, so we wish this had a longer shut-off time.

If you have curly hair, we love the Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler, which features three steam settings for a more efficient straightening effect. We found that it left our hair super sleek and shiny after using it , and we didn't experience any tugging or pulling when passing through.

Since this flat iron uses 30 percent less heat, it helps prevent damage caused by heat, and the wider 1.5-inch ceramic-titanium plates make it easier to straighten more hair at once. While this might not be a concern for all, it did take us a while to straighten our strands, which makes us wish that the flat iron’s shut-off time was a little longer. Overall, though, we found this was an amazing flat iron for well under $100.

Temperature Settings: 3 | Width: 1.5 inches | Material: Ceramic titanium

• PHOTO: People / Alyssa Kingham

Best for Natural Hair

Tymo ring plus.

• Ease of Use 4.9 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.6 /5

It's one of the least expensive options we tried, but it feels high quality with an innovative design that's great for multiple hair types.

The combing teeth on the plate help to straighten and smooth curly and coily textures.

Curling hair with this flat iron was more of a challenge (however, curling is not its intended use).

For straightening hair without any static, the TYMO Ring Plus can't be beaten. Unlike typical flat-plate straighteners, the TYMO Ring's plates have small ridges that comb through the hair while you pass it through so that it both detangles and smoothes the hair at the same time . The teeth are coated with nano titanium which helps to ensure even heat distribution and use ions to further seal in the smoothness. The combing teeth are especially useful in straightening curly and coily natural hair textures. Because of the comb-like teeth, though, those with tangle-prone hair might find that it tugs uncomfortably. To mitigate any potential pulling, we recommend coming through your hair with a standard brush or comb before going in with the hot tool.

This hot tool offers nine different heat settings that range from 250 to 410 degrees, making it more customizable than many of the other tools we tried in the same price range. We found that this tool is strictly for straightening — it didn't do us any favors when we tried to use it for curling different types of hair. However, it's not marketed as a tool for curling, so we only recommend if you're needing something to just straighten your hair. Overall, this is a fantastic option for straight and sleek styles that are a bit more affordable than others we tested.

Temperature Settings: 9 | Width: 2.76 inches | Material: Titanium

Best Wet-to-Dry

Dyson airstrait straightener.

• Glide Performance 5 /5
• Value 2.8 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.4 /5

The concentrated air technology dries and straightens hair in one pass.

It left our medium-thick hair smooth and shiny in half the time it would usually take to blow dry and straighten.

It gave us a straight style that wasn’t flat, with a bit of natural movement.

It's one of the most expensive straighteners we’ve seen (but also does the job of a blow dryer and straightener in one).

Remember when we used to fry our strands by passing traditional straighteners over damp hair? Luckily, those days are long behind us and that hair damage is staying in the early 2000s where it belongs — because the Dyson Airstraight gave us a sleek style from wet to dry in 15 minutes without damaging our hair . The two-in-one device uses concentrated air to dry and smooth down hair, which means no need for damaging hot plates. Our medium-thick, wavy hair was left smooth, straight, and glossy after using the Dyson Airstrait.

With the Dyson Airstraight in hand, we were able to simultaneously blow dry and straighten large sections of hair at a time, which cut our styling time in half. The device is equipped with an auto-pause feature that automatically stops the airflow after three seconds of inactivity, which prevents you from overheating any section of the hair. 

While the price tag might have initially inspired a dose of sticker shock, we think that the expeditious, shiny style that we were able to achieve with just this one tool (no need for a blow dryer and separate straightener) makes it worth the price if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality, truly innovative flat iron. 

Plate Width: 1.5 inches | Plate Type: Plateless concentrated air technology with smoothing negative ions | Voltage: 120V | Cord Length: 9.6 feet

• PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Most User-Friendly

Dyson corrale.

• Glide Performance 4.4 /5
• Value 3.9 /5

The cord-free design makes it easier to maneuver while styling.

It uses far less heat compared to traditional straighteners, helping to decrease damage.

It's super easy to curl and straighten hair, even for beginners.

It comes with a gorgeous storage case, which is especially helpful when traveling.

It’s a little heavier compared to other flat irons we tested.

For the price of this iron, you might expect high quality and up-to-the-minute technology — and you'd be right. The Dyson Corrale flat iron features unique flexing copper alloy plates that conform to the shape of your hair to straighten it in less time and produce less damage. Even on curly type 4 hair, the Dyson iron straightened the hair in one pass . For straighter hair, the Dyson also excelled with one pass, leaving no static at low temperatures of 365 degrees. Speaking of benefits, this iron can be used cordless for up to 32 minutes (we tested it until the battery ran out), making it more practical than ever to style your hair on the go.

Despite its portability, the tool is pretty heavy. Though its weight (1.32 lbs., to be exact) doesn't initially seem heavy, after some time with your arms up straightening your hair, you start to feel those extra ounces. During our lab tests, the iron took 35 seconds to heat up to the maximum temperature and turned off automatically after five minutes of not being used — which is especially great because it preserves battery life. As far as durability goes, there was no damage at all after dropping the iron a couple of times.

Overall, this fast-heating flat iron offers salon-quality styling for all hair types , so if you're looking to invest in a durable and smart hair tool, we think that the Dyson lives up to (and surpasses) all of its hype.

Temperature Settings: 3 | Width: 1 inch | Material: Copper alloy

• PHOTO: InStyle / Tamara Staples

Best for Wavy Hair

Drybar reserve styling iron.

• Value 4.5 /5

This straightener is lightweight, making it easier to use when styling.

The heat settings are designed for specific hair types.

It glides easily through the hair without pulling or tugging.

We wish the plates were a little longer, which would make curling hair easier.

For wavy hair, we recommend Drybar Reserve Dual-Plat Styling Iron, which is designed with two half-inch plates and ionic technology that helps reduce frizz. After testing this straightener, we were super impressed by its lightweight design, which makes styling a lot easier and more comfortable.

We also love that the heat settings are designed for specific hair types , so you can rest assured knowing that you won’t cause too much damage to your strands by overheating. While we liked the overall curling effect, we would love to see this straightener with slightly longer plates to make curling a little bit easier; however, this issue wasn’t a deal-breaker for us, and we still think it's a high-quality tool for the price.

Temperature Settings: 5 | Width: Two 0.5-inch plates | Material: Titanium

• PHOTO: People / Taylor Calta

Best for Fine Hair

L'ange le duo.

• Ease of Use 4.6 /5
• Glide Performance 3.5 /5
• Value 4.4 /5
• Straightening Ability 3.7 /5

This straightener features air vents that cool hair and seal curls.

It's less expensive than most flat irons we tested.

You can easily straighten fine strands with one pass.

The clamp style is a little awkward at first, but you get used to it after some practice.

If you have fine hair, we found that the L'ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler works best for this hair type. We love this flat iron because it works well at both straightening and curling and features air vents that are designed to cool hair to set the style and seal in curls.

While it takes a few passes to straighten thicker hair, the straightener works with one pass on fine hair, making it super efficient for this hair type. The clamp style is also a bit awkward at first, but you get used to it with some practice. This styler was one of the less expensive tools we tested, making this an excellent value for those with fine hair who need a straightener that won't burn their hair to a crisp.

Temperature Settings: 5 | Width: 1 inch | Material: Titanium

• PHOTO: People / Christina Fortney

Best for Curling

T3 smooth id.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.5 /5

Hair passes through the flat iron with ease for a more efficient curl.

It features heat personalization and adjusts temperature based on your hair texture and length.

It provides a beautiful loose curled style.

We wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive.

When using a straightener to curl strands, you can achieve the most gorgeous loose curls and waves . Our top pick for this is none other than the T3 Smooth ID Flat Iron, which features smart technology that uses an algorithm to personalize and adjust the temperature based on hair texture and length. The smart straightener also has plenty of slip, making it easy to achieve a beautiful loose and effortless curl. While we wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive, once you figure it out, this flat iron is truly impressive and allows you to achieve a sleek style that helps keep damage at bay. 

Temperature Settings: 9 | Width: 1 inch | Material: Ceramic

• PHOTO: People / Jessica Fleming

Best Drugstore

Kristin ess 3-in-1 flatiron.

• Glide Performance 4.6 /5
• Straightening Ability 5 /5

It's designed for easy straightening, waving, and curling.

It features good tension without tugging and pulling.

It's easy to straighten and curl all four types of hair we tested it on.

It has a slight chemical smell at first, but that goes away after a while.

You don’t have to purchase a straightener from a beauty supply store to get a high-quality hot tool. For the best drugstore flat iron, we recommend the Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Titanium Flatiron, which is designed for straightening, waving, and curling and does an excellent job at achieving each style.

During our test trial, we were most impressed by how quickly it warms up and how well it clamps onto strands without tugging and pulling , making for an effective style in just one pass. We also found this works on all hair types — it was easy to both straighten and curl the strands of the four different hair types we tested on. Instead of a locking mechanism like many other flat irons we tested, this flat iron includes a plastic ventilated sleeve to store the iron in after use.

Temperature Settings: 4 | Width: 1.25 inches | Material: Titaniumtage

• PHOTO: People / Courtney Kassel

Best for Beginners

Ion magnesium flat iron.

• Glide Performance 4.5 /5

This simple straightener is easy to use and effective at styling.

The 30-minute auto shut-off is helpful for those who are new to styling and may forget to unplug the tool.

It moves easily through hair when straightening and curling.

It's a little pricey for a beginner straightener.

The ion Magnesium Flat Iron is the best flat iron for beginners because it features a simple yet high-quality design that is easy to use and effective for both straightening and curling. We love this straightener because it not only features a design that doesn’t overwhelm beginners, but it also has a 30-minute auto shut-off , which is quicker than a lot of other options and helps ensure safety in case you leave it on by mistake.

From a styling perspective, we found that this straightener was not only easy to maneuver due to its lightweight design, but it also glides easily through hair for a quick style. While we think it's a bit pricey for some beginners, it is one of the cheaper ones relative to those on this list, meaning it's a high-quality tool that's designed to last.

Temperature Settings: Up to 450 degrees | Width: 1 inch | Material: Ceramic tourmaline

Best Lightweight

Fhi heat platform tourmaline flat iron.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Value 3.4 /5
• Straightening Ability 4.1 /5

It features a slim design that makes it ideal for travel.

The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver when styling.

It's effective at smoothing strands for a more slick look.

It works best on fine hair, so it’s not ideal for all hair types.

Hot tools can get a little heavy, making it a challenge to not only style but also travel with. After testing several straighteners, we were most impressed by the FHI Heat Platform Tourmaline Ceramic Professional Styling Flat Iron which features a half-inch straightening plate and weighs only 1 lb. , making it super easy to hold and style hair without causing fatigue. In addition to its weight, this straightener is designed with negative ions to prevent moisture loss while heat styling and has a temperature range of 140 to 450 degrees, so you can customize your heat settings depending on your hair type and needs. 

Temperature Settings: 140-450°F | Width: 0.5-inch | Material: Ceramic

Best for Damaged Hair

Chi lava 4d hairstyling iron.

• Straightening Ability 4.8 /5

It took us only 10 minutes to straighten our hair with this flat iron.

It reduces frizz for a more sleek and smooth hairstyle.

It's designed with Chi Lava minerals and ceramic to reduce damage.

We wish it had a little more slip for curling purposes.

It’s no secret that hot tools can cause damage to strands, so if you’re worried about damage or already have damaged strands and want something that is gentler on hair, we recommend the Chi Lava 4D Hairstyling Iron. Designed with Chi Lava minerals and ceramic plates to lower the chances of hair damage, the hair straightener glides easily through strands and effectively styles hair in just 10 minutes .

After testing this flat iron, we were most impressed by how quickly it straightens strands but also how well it targets frizz for a smooth and sleek hairstyle. Although we wish it had a little more slip when curling, we found that it still worked well for straightening and adding waves to hair.

Temperature Settings: 5 | Width: 1 inch | Material: Chi Lava minerals, ceramic

Best with Steamer

L'oreal professionnel steampod flat iron & styler.

• Glide Performance 4 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

It features steam technology that makes it easier to straighten strands.

It includes a built-in comb for easy styling and helps reduce frizz.

It provides hair with a slick and straight style.

It's a little bulkier compared to others we tested.

It doesn't curl or style beyond straightening, like some others we tested.

Flat irons aren’t just used for straightening hair; however, if you want one that gives you that amazing slick and straight look, we recommend the L’Oreal Professional Steampod Flat Iron & Styler. This salon-worthy hot tool features a wide design that, albeit a little bulky, works really well at straightening strands without any kinks or flipped ends. The straightener does so thanks to the steam technology that makes it easier to achieve a more slick look, as well as a built-in comb for easier styling.

Temperature Settings: 3 | Width: 3.5 inches | Material: Aluminum

Things to Consider When Buying a Flat Iron

When shopping for a flat iron, Joseph Maine , a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with Katie Holmes, Ashley Benson, Ariel Winter, and Priyanka Chopra, says to consider the materials as this can not only tell you its overall quality level but also determine how damaging a hot tool — including a straightener — is on the strands. “Ceramic, titanium, and tourmaline are popular choices for flat iron plates, each with its own set of advantages,” he explains.

For consistent and even heat distribution, consider ceramic, which also minimizes the risk of damaging hotspots. Titanium, on the other hand, is best for thicker hair as it heats up quickly and holds high heat well. “Tourmaline is a crystal that is ground into a fine powder and infused into the plates, which can help reduce frizz by generating negative ions,” Maine adds.

Temperature Control 

Temperature control is also important to consider as this ensures you can adjust the heat to your preferences. “Lower heat settings are suitable for fine or damaged hair, while higher settings are needed for thick or coarse hair,” notes Maine. Some hair straighteners (including a majority on our list) have pre-set heat settings, while others such as the FHI HEAT Platform Tourmaline Ceramic Professional Styling Flat Iron feature a heat range that allows you to select your preferred heat setting.

It’s also worth considering the plate size, which can vary depending on the length of your strands and your styling needs. “I typically recommend 1-inch plates as it is plenty of surface to straighten any hair type while being small enough to curl or wave the hair,” says Maine. 

Most straighteners on our list feature a 1-inch plate width, however, if you want something a little wider, the Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Titanium Flatiron and BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron are 1.25 inches wide. We also recommend the TYMO Ring Plus , which is 2.76 inches wide.

People / Tamara Staples

After conducting extensive research on flat irons, reading product reviews, and interviewing experts, the PEOPLE Tested team tried dozens of popular flat irons on various hair types and lengths.

We took note of how smooth the glide felt and how many passes it took to get their hair straight. We also utilized a meat thermometer to test the maximum heat and used a stopwatch to time how long each iron took to heat up and shut off automatically. Durability was evaluated by dropping each iron twice at vanity level to see if it would break, chip, or scratch.

Throughout the testing period, we reviewed everything from ease-of-use to safety features to heat settings and heat range. We also considered how each hot tool styled hair, including how easy it was to use the straighteners to curl and wave our strands.

After the testing period, we compiled our notes and rigorously compared each experience to determine which hot tools are the best of the best. Each flat iron was judged on a 1 to 5 scale (5 being the best) against the following attributes: ease of use, glide performance, straightening ability, and value. The tools that received the highest average scores earned our PEOPLE Tested seal of approval and are on this list.

Frequently Asked Questions

After testing several flat irons, we found that the BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron is the best straightener overall because it features ion technology that allows you to customize your heat styling, a lightweight design that is easy to maneuver, and heat settings designed for different hair types so you can easily choose the best temperature for you.

According to Maine, ceramic and titanium are both worth considering in a hair straightener, and the choice between the two depends on hair type and needs. “Ceramic irons heat evenly and are less likely to cause damage, making them a good choice for fine or damaged hair,” he explains. “Titanium irons heat up faster and can reach higher temperatures, making them suitable for thick, coarse, or difficult-to-style hair; however, they can potentially cause more damage if not used carefully.” 

No matter which type of flat iron you use, it’s always a good idea to use a heat protectant to add a layer of protection between the hot tool and strands. Heat protectants can also provide nourishment and hydration which can help combat some of the negative effects of heat styling.

Flat irons can damage your hair if not used carefully. The surface or cuticle of the hair shaft becomes damaged at temperatures above 300 degrees. While there are ways to minimize the potential damage such as using thermal protectors and sticking to one pass per section, some risk is associated with using any high-heat styling tool, especially on clip-in extensions that can't revitalize themselves.

According to Stenson, it’s important to use a heat-protectant cream or spray when using any hot tool. “Another damage-reducing practice is to work in small sections so that the heat can penetrate evenly throughout,” Stenson advises. “Last, keep your flat iron moving as you straighten the hair and avoid allowing the iron to sit in the hair for any prolonged period of time.”

Both of these are tools to straighten the hair. But just like succulents and cacti, not all straighteners are flat irons but all flat irons are straighteners. Straighteners are a general category of tools and flat irons are just one type. Other types include hot combs, hot air brushes , and hair dryers . Flat irons use two plates to iron the hair straight.

Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best flat irons, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s real-world testing insights for a better idea of each experience, how they compared, and which ones were the most noteworthy. She also reached out to hair experts for their insights on what to look for in a flat iron and answered some of our most pressing questions about flat irons, including what to look for when shopping for the best straightening hot tools.  Cai Cramer is a commerce staff writer for PEOPLE who updated this article with her own insights after test-driving the Dyson Airstrait straightener.

Meet Our Experts

• Joseph Maine is a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with Katie Holmes, Ashley Benson, Ariel Winter, and Priyanka Chopra.
• Kevin Kelly is a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert who has worked with Nicky Hilton.
• Nick Stenson is a beauty expert who has smoothed the hair of countless celebrities and created picture-perfect styles for numerous runway shows.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

Related Articles

What’s the Best Travel Hair Straightener? A Dual Voltage Flat Iron

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Having the right voltage is crucial when you use electronics internationally, including your hair tools. Find out why the best travel hair straightener is a dual voltage flat iron, and check out our top picks!  

Dual Voltage Flat Iron

Table of contents.

A well-groomed mane adds the perfect touch to your carefully planned travel outfit . But when you’re on-the-go, your hair styling tools shouldn’t take up too much space in your luggage.

For ultra-sleek straight hair or soft waves, a dual voltage hair straightener will make all your vacation pics Insta-worthy.

Your styling tool shouldn’t force you to give up space in your suitcase. These travel flat irons and travel straighteners are perfect for when you’re ready to pack up your bag and head on your trip!

In this article, we’ll explain what a dual voltage flat iron is, why they’re beneficial for travel, and we’ll also recommend some of the best travel flat irons for your next trip!

What is the best travel straightener?

All of the 10 best travel straightener options listed in this post are compatible with international voltages to make it easier to take them anywhere in the world.

Dual Voltage Flat Iron Recommendations

L’ANGE Hair Straightener

Most Durable Travel Straightener

For a durable travel straightener that works with fine to coarse hair, the L’ANGE Hair Flat Iron is a step up. The advanced infrared heat technology has an adjustable temperature from 140°F to 400°F to work with all hair types. This dual voltage flat iron also comes with a 1-inch plate that’s wide enough for any hair length.

At 14 inches, it’s not the smallest  travel flat iron dual voltage, but it’s a more compact option for heavy duty manes.

AmoVee Mini Iron

Best Travel Straightener for Short Hair

If you’re on the hunt for a smart style, the AmoVee Mini Flat Iron gives you salon quality results while you’re on vacation. For polished curls or a sleek straight hair, this dual voltage straightening iron is recommended for women with short hair.

If you’re looking for the best travel curling iron, read this post !

T3 Singlepass Travel Straightener 

Most Luxurious Straightener

I’m not sure if we could call the T3 the best travel straightener, but it’s definitely the most luxurious option in our round-up and at the top of our wishlist, too! On the plus side, this travel flat iron heats up super quick, but on the down side, you can’t adjust the temperature setting. However, the high heat can help style your hair quickly and efficiently, which is a plus when you’re on the go! Also available in Nordstrom !

Try these three simple travel hair styles for long hair!

T3 Lucea 1-inch Professional Straightening & Styling Flat Iron

Best All-in-1 Flat Iron

If you can’t decide between a travel flat iro n and regular straightener, the Lucea flat iron straightens hair beautifully and smoothly, plus its a styling iron powered by Rapid HeatIQ Technology. Besides straightening, it also curls and waves hair too, which gives you multi-looks to play with. 

Up to 9 adjustable heat settings, ideal for coarse and natural hair types. The auto shut off function comes in handy if you tend to be forgetful with your styling tools! Also available in Nordstrom !

Use my free packing checklist so you don’t forget anything when you pack!

Conair MiniPRO Iron

Best Mini Travel Straightener

Since most hair straighteners are large and heavy, the Conair MiniPRO is ideal for keeping your luggage at a minimum. The ceramic technology protects each hair strand without pulling and frying your hair. For short to medium hair, the 1/2-inch plates get close to the roots for a quick, effortless style, making it a great travel flat iron.

Learn to Pack Light Stylishly with my e-book!

Vanessa Pro Flat Iron for Hair

Most Stylish Flat Iron

Who says your travel flat iron can’t be cute? The  Vanessa Pro flat iron in black with its Titanium plate is one of the best dual voltage flat irons to take traveling around Europe or anywhere else you may be headed. The adjustable temperature allows you to create styles quickly if you’re running late — guilty — and it even has an automatic shut-off system just in case!

Need to find ways to dry your hair quickly? Try these tips !

Lovani Mini Portable Flat Iron

Most Portable Travel Straightener

For a quick and easy hair style, the ultra-portable Lovani flat iron is incredibly versatile and can be carried around in your purse with its heat-proof carrying case! The 7.1-inch travel flat iron offers a 2.76-inch ceramic plate to prevent your hair from excessive heat damage.

Looking for some cute summer hair ideas? Check these out!

Herstyler Straightening Flat Iron

Best Lightweight Travel Straightener

A lightweight travel straightener, the Herstyler Forever Travel Flat Iron  has an ultra-fast warm up to 460°F with an adjustable temperature allowing you to manage your hair with ease. The compact 1.25-inch can be carried in your carry-on for easy traveling! This is one of the best dual voltage flat irons for international travel.

Find out which beauty products to pack or leave at home!

BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron

Best Ultra-compact Straightening Iron

For an ultra-compact travel flat iron that smoothes out frizz and fly-aways, the BaBylissPRO travel straightener includes a ceramic plate to prevent frying your hair. This dual voltage flat iron is about half the size of a regular straightener and only has one heat temperature to make your hair styling a breeze.

Read our ultimate guide to maintaining your hair while traveling!

AmoVee 2in1 Mini Straightener Curling Iron

Best 2-in-1 Flat Iron

If you’re looking for an easy-to-carry, 2-in-1 travel flat iron, the AmoVee 2in1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron includes a curling iron and a flat iron in one! The 365℉ to 420℉ temperature heats up in just a few seconds. The 1-inch tourmaline plate will give your locks a glossy, healthy look. It includes a sleek leopard print insulated carrying case.

We’d definitely agree that the best dual voltage flat iron is one that can multi-task, so this one gets two thumbs up! A ccording to our readers is the best 2-for-1 straightener set.

Read about the best travel diffusers here !

Travel Straightener vs Travel Flat Iron

The terms “hair straightener,” “straightener,” and “flat iron” all mean the same thing — they are just words used by different countries. For example, in the US, we may use flat iron or hair straightener, but in the UK, they only use hair straightener. The terms all refer to a hair tool that is used to flatten or straighten hair with heat.

What Does Dual Voltage Mean?

Some electronics are designed so they can be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as “dual voltage.” Dual voltage electronics have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.

Some electronics, such as newer Macbooks and iPhones have dual voltage that automatically adjust in their destination. However, you may need to adjust the voltage manually by moving an external switch in certain items such as hair tools.

If your device isn’t dual voltage, you’re better off leaving it at home. However, most modern devices such as phones and laptops already have a dual voltage capability built in.

Dual voltage flat irons (or dual voltage straighteners), like the ones we have featured here, have two voltage options: 110-120V and 220-240V.  They are ideal for travel, because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.

Read our guide that explains how voltage converters and travel adapters work!

Why Do I Need a Dual Voltage Flat Iron for International Travel?

Voltage refers to electricity; different countries have different types of electricity. This means that your electronics are the same voltage as the country in which you bought them, so if you take them to another country, they may not work.

For example, in the US, we use 110-120V; whereas in Europe, they use 220-240V. If we plug our electronics into each other’s outlets, they can blow a fuse and stop working. In some cases, they can even fry your hair.

Visit this website for a full list of voltage by country.

Compass Rose International Travel Adapter

Your travel straightener needs to have two things in order to work in other countries:

• The correct voltage
• A travel adapter

Hair tools such as blow dryers, wands, curling irons, and your travel flat iron use a large amount of electricity, so it’s particularly important that they are used with the correct voltage.

Some travel flat iron options are designed so they can be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as a “dual voltage flat iron.”

Travel adapter for travel straightener tools and other electronics:

Even if your hair tools are dual voltage, you still will need a travel adapter. A travel adapter enables you to plug your electronics, such as a travel flat iron, into international outlets. Not all countries use the same type of plug, so I recommend you buy an international adapter like this . Read more about the best travel adapter here .

Visit this power outlet guide for travelers to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country.

Best Travel Straightener to Use in the USA

If you’re from the US and traveling within the US, then you don’t need to have a dual voltage flat iron or travel straightener. However, you might want to save space by choosing a travel flat iron instead or one of the smaller options featured in the article.

If you’re traveling to the US from outside of the US, then you should use a dual voltage flat iron and make sure to switch to the 110V/120V before using it.

How to Choose a Travel Straightener for Europe

If you’re from the US and traveling to Europe, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific, including Australia and New Zealand, then a dual voltage flat iron is absolutely essential. If the one you use at home has the dual voltage feature, then you can also use it on your travels, too.

Remember to switch your travel flat iron to 220V/240V when you arrive to your destination !

Where to Buy a Travel Straightener and Dual Voltage Flat Iron

You can buy a travel straightener or dual voltage flat iron in local beauty supplies or general stores such as Target . For premium options, Sephora and Nordstrom offer quality brands.

Personally, I love the convenience of Amazon since I have Prime , which includes free 1-2 day shipping, and free returns, too. They have a wide selection of travel flat irons for all budgets. You can click on any of the product names above to shop directly on Amazon.

Warning: a dual voltage flat iron will generally work in most countries, but travel blow dryers are a bit more complicated. Read this for more information.

What’s your favorite dual voltage flat iron or travel straightener? Please share in the comments below!

For more tips on travel hairstyles, please read these posts:

• Best Travel Hair Dryers
• How to Make Your Blowout Hairstyle Last for Days
• What’s the Best Travel Hat?
• Best Hair Products for Travelers with High Maintenance Manes

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We hope you learned which dual voltage flat iron is best for you. Please share this article with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

21 comments.

I have short-medium length thin hair. I have been looking unsuccessfully for a travel flat iron that has 1/2” wide or greater plates, is ceramic, ionic, dual voltage with adjustable temperature or maximum temperature of 375. Do you know of a travel flat iron that has all of the characteristics I am looking for? Thanks for your help.

Hi Linda, thank you for reaching out. The HSI straightener and the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron have many of the features you are looking for including the adjustable temperature up to 410f, and ceramic plates. For more feedback about travel flat irons, I would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and suggestions to share. Hope this helps. Have an amazing time on your travels! ?

is there a dual voltage straightener that is wider than 1″? my daughter’s hair is very thick and very long, she’ll be gone for 2 months and thinks she needs something a bit bigger. thanks,

Hi there, thank you for reaching out! The HSI Straightener featured on the article is great for heavy duty manes. For more suggestions, I would highly recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best packing advice and recommendations to share. Sorry I could not have been of more help. Hope your daughter has an amazing time on her travels! ?

Can someone tell me the weight of the HSI flat iron? I have a dual voltage Chi with a one inch wide plate that weighs 13 3/4 ounces and is 10 1/4 inches at the longest point. I took it to Paris last March and it worked great with an adapter. I have short, thick hair. I’d love to find something more compact and lightweight if that’s possible, but will keep using the Chi if it’s not. Anyone have suggestions?

Hi Barbara, thank you for reaching out. Many of our readers rave about the products from BaByliss and the BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron weighs 9.6 ounces, the HSI flat iron appears to be heavier at 1.4 pounds. The MHD Mini Straightener is lighter weighing about 6.4 ounces. Hope this helps. Happy travels! ?

Do you have a suggestion for a dual voltage hot air brush?

Hi Nancy, several of our readers recommend CONAIR 2-1 Hot Air Brush: https://amzn.to/2Sdpcnj or the PHOEBE Hot Curler Hot Brush: https://amzn.to/2LQSnf0 I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question about dual voltage hot air brush: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. I hope this helps. Happy travels!

Best I have ever used is the Karmin

Hi Marcela, thank you for your sharing your recommendation! 🙂

Several of these that are listed as dual voltage actually are NOT dual voltage.

I bought the AmoVee straightener. Love it: lightweight, compact, comes with a heat-resistant pouch & glove.

Hi Robin, thank you so much for your comment! 🙂

This is an awesome resource. I have to have a straightener or else I fro out. Thanks for the tips!

Your dialogue says that there is switch on flat irons for changing the voltage. I just bought a dual voltage Hot Tools Titanium flat iron, but there is no switch. Is that something new?

Hi Sue, sorry for the confusion. Some dual voltage products will have a switch. If they don’t, then it might be already be something that happens automatically such as with a Macbook.

How do I find out if my Ultra Chi flat iron is dual voltage? How do I find out the wattage? It is at least 12 years old. I could not find customer service number of Ultra Chi.

Hi Vikki, thank you for reaching. You could search for your flat iron brand online and look for the specific details for your appliance, or look at the flat iron itself and check that it is marked with a 100-240 volt notation. It might tell you on the tiny fine print on the plug end. If it says it’s 110-220 volts, then it is dual voltage. If it only says 110 volts or 220 volts (depending on the country you’re in), then it’s not dual voltage. Hope this helps answer your question! ?

Loved the suggestions-will definitely bring a flat iron instead of the curling iron on my next drip!

Glad you liked the suggestions Gloria!

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Home » Grooming » Straighteners for Thick Hair

The 7 Best Hair Straighteners for Thick Hair

Updated July 11, 2023

I f you’ve got a head full of thick hair and want a hair straightener or iron that makes it a breeze, we’ve got you covered. We tested seven popular brands of hair straighteners to find the best-designed flat iron that makes styling thick hair an easy and fast experience.

We like the BaBylissPro – Nano Titanium because the extra-long titanium plates heat up very quickly and produce smooth, frizz-free strands. The ghd – Max is also a great choice to get silky strands of hair in under 13 minutes with its extra wide, 2-inch ceramic plates. For those who want an option under $100, we recommend the Kristin Ess – 3-in-1 straightener for its easy digital screen, auto-shutoff, and under 15-minute straightening time.

Our Top Choices

Best overall

BaBylissPro

Nano Titanium

Luxury pick

Best under $100

Kristin Ess

The 7 hair straighteners we tested

Why trust us.

Our tester has been styling their hair since kindergarten – blame it on mom for not being too handy in styling, but we learned how to do various hairstyles with and without heating tools for almost 30 years (which means we’re well-versed in testing clips for thick hair  and curling irons for thick hair ). Our tester has particularly thick, coarse, 2A wavy hair that often needs taming in the mornings. We’ve used multiple brands and types of hair straighteners and understand the features required for styling thicker and coarser hair types.

Important features to consider

Design & features.

Straightening iron design can vary in many ways, even though they look similar. Most straighteners will have a V-shape with a hinge on one end and plates on the ends. Different straighteners have varied plate widths (if you have more hair, you may think about wider or longer plates to accommodate more hair).

Try to find straighteners with floating plates to help reduce excess pressure on your strands of hair with each pass-through. Floating plates have springs behind them to make more even contact with hair–allowing for less pulling and better straightening. Also, keep in mind the handles. Some handles are flatter, and others are rounded to help with ergonomics. While we prefer rounded handles for an easier grip, it may also be more challenging for the straightener to stand on its own on the counter.

Heat plate materials

There are so many buzzwords for straightening plate materials today. From ceramic to tourmaline to titanium, there are many different types available. Ceramic is often an affordable option compared to tourmaline ceramic or titanium and still offers benefits like even heating and smooth passes.

Titanium heats up in seconds and helps smooth out the thickest and coarsest hair, but be wary about using a hot tool of this material too much because it can damage your hair if you use it too often. Tourmaline works with many hair types and also heats up fast. It’s often ADDED to other materials like ceramic or titanium and helps to smooth out frizz and keep hair healthy.

Heat settings

While most straighteners have multiple heat settings, some are changing the game. For example, ghd only has one heat setting at 365 ℉, which might be a deal breaker for people with thicker or coarse hair. Most brands recommend using heat settings at 400 ℉ or above for thicker hair because it takes a higher heat setting to smooth out.

Straightening irons come in so many price points. You can find flat irons from $40 to $500. The great thing about straightening irons is that the price point doesn’t dictate quality. I’ve used inexpensive irons for years, but it may cost you if you want more features or tech-focused devices.

Additional features

Other features to consider can also impact your user experience. While not necessary, we enjoyed using a digital screen to know the temperature and when the device was correctly heated. If you worry about turning off your straightener (anxiety we’ve all had at one point), then an auto-shutoff feature will be your best friend.

If you travel often, try finding a straightener with universal or dual voltage so you can bring this styling tool on your next trip without a converter. A minor feature we also liked was a velcro strap to help wrap and organize the cord–this was a small but helpful feature.

How we selected

We selected nine straightening irons of varying materials and designs from $40 to $500. We’ve previously tested some of these straightening irons on other hair types but wanted to see if they held up for thicker and coarser hair. In addition, many of these straightening irons are popular in the beauty industry, and we wanted to see if they were worth their price.

How we tested

For several weeks, we tested each straightening iron and reviewed several tests.

During testing, we took notes on how long each straightener took to heat up properly, ranging from 20 seconds to over two minutes. The shorter the heat-up time, the higher it ranked out of 10. We also tested auto-shutoff features, and while most had this feature, the straighteners that turned off automatically within 30 minutes scored a 10/10. For some irons that took an hour to turn off, we ranked them at a five because we found that too long.

We noted each of the straighteners’ heat settings and ranked those with more custom or higher heat settings higher out of 10 points because the better heat optimization for thick hair, the better. Lastly, all our straighteners feature ionization to promote better hair health.

Build quality

We tested the build quality by researching and reviewing the materials used on the plates each straightener. Many used common materials like ceramic and titanium; both have their own ways of smoothing out and heating the plates quickly to straighten hair. We rated the durability of these materials based on if they were plated (less durable because they can eventually chip), coated with tourmaline on top (to add extra shine), or pure materials (the most durable at 10). We also analyzed the plates and rated them out of 10 if they touched easily without applying too much pressure.

Temperatures

Many of the straighteners we used, boasted high temperatures and we wanted to see how accurate each of these temperatures was during styling. Using a thermocouple probe thermometer, we measured the highest heat of each straightener by placing a thermometer in the center of each plate and pressing the plates together for 15 seconds. We found most brands came close to reaching (or even surpassing) their advertised heat.

Ease of use

While using each straightener, we ranked four categories out of 10: how easy it was to use in terms of ergonomics (how comfortable it is to hold with one hand), if there was a cord swivel, how much it weighed, and if the plates pulled or tugged on our hair with each pass (smoother passes were better).

Hair results

Lastly, we analyzed the hair results with two categories based on hair damage and whether the strands were straight and frizz-free. The less damage, silkier, and smoother the outcome, the higher the score out of 10.

BaBylissPro - Nano Titanium

See Price at Amazon

We’ve previously tested a digital version of the BaBylissPro for our best flat irons review that gave us frizz-free results, and this thinner model did not disappoint. The BaBylissPro – Nano Titanium is our favorite straightener for thick hair because it heats up very quickly and offers a fast straightening experience at 13 minutes and 41 seconds; this is the second fastest straightening time overall.

Don’t be fooled by the thinner-sized plates of the BaBylissPro – Nano Titanium, their extra long length (4.75 inches) helps to straighten bigger sections of thick hair quicker than some of the wider plated brands we tested, like Hot Tools Pro – Signature Ceramic straightener. The thinner and longer plates allow you to curl hair or create beachy waves. The average length of the plates was 3.5 inches. Read more…

Titanium plates not only helped heat up the straightener quickly, which reduced styling time, but they also promoted ionization, reduced the amount of frizz, and produced sleek and smooth hair. While this tool heats up very fast because of the titanium material, it’s essential to be careful not to burn your fingers when styling.

This styling tool gets extremely hot with a max temperature of 450 ℉, and towards the end of styling, the area on the tops of the plates would get too hot to touch. Luckily there are so many heat settings, so you always have the choice to lower the setting for a more comfortable experience.

The only feature that is missing with the BaBylissPro is an auto-shutoff. Since the tool gets super hot, having auto-shutoff would give me more peace of mind that it won’t burn the house or our cat when we leave for the day, and we can’t remember if we turned off the device.

This straightener retails for $159.99 and is by no means low priced, but if you have thick hair and want a powerful straightener that will give you smooth and frizz-free hair quickly, it’s worth the price. Its 4-year warranty also gives you peace of mind if the durable titanium plates eventually chip or the machine breaks.

The ghd – Max hair straightener is an upgrade pick for people with thick hair. With two-inch ceramic plates, this styling tool is quick to heat up and easily smooths thick pieces of hair quickly. The ghd – Max only took 12 minutes and 24 seconds to straighten all of our thick and coarse, wavy hair; this is over a minute faster than the BaByLissPro – Nano Titanium that took 13 minutes and 41 seconds.

Using the ghd – Max was easy, and we didn’t experience hair-pulling. The handles were comfortable to hold. The floating plates are well designed, and we didn’t need to apply too much pressure to smooth out our hair with each pass–this is something we experienced with other brands because the plates had gaps in between and didn’t properly smooth out the hair. Also, since the ceramic plates are wider than other brands, we were able to use bigger sections of hair at one time to speed up the straightening process. Read more…

We like the sound settings of this styling tool because you know when it’s on, when it’s ready to use, and when it’s about to turn off. However, compared to the other brands we tested, they had little to no indication if the tool was correctly heated – even when we abided by the instructions on heating times, this wasn’t always truthful.

The one drawback of the ghd – Max is the singular heat setting. At 365 ℉, this worked well for our thick and wavy hair; however, if you have extra curly and thick hair, you may need to do multiple swipes or pass through slower to get smoother hair. After running temperature tests, we found that this straightener actually heats up to 375 ℉ and was very consistent at this heat. While some might like this no-fuss and simpler setting, some might want more customization based on their hair type.

Despite this drawback, this tool is still helpful for thick hair because of its wide and well-designed plates, ergonomic handles, helpful sound notifications, and auto-shutoff. This straightener retails for $219, so it’s our luxury pick for those with a little more budget to splurge.

Kristin Ess - 3-in-1

The Kristin Ess – 3-in-1 straightening iron is another great styling tool for taming thick hair because its titanium plates heat up quickly and give you a frizz-free mane in under 15 minutes. It has specific heat settings, a digital screen, and an auto-shutoff feature. You also don’t need to worry about taking this straightener traveling because it has universal dual voltage.

Similar to the ghd and Dyson irons, there are a limited number of heat settings. This device has four heat settings (280 ℉, 365 ℉, 400 ℉, 440 ℉), and the instructions recommend styling up to 400 ℉ for thick hair (and only go up to 440 ℉ if you are a professional to prevent user error and damaging your hair). Read more…

We tested the machine at 400 ℉ and found the temperature perfectly fine for our thick and wavy hair. Immediately after using the product, we noticed our hair was smooth and silky. Since the Kristin Ess also uses titanium plates like the BaByliss Pro, the tops of the plates also get extremely hot after a while, and it may be difficult to apply pressure while straightening.

However, the longer-tipped design of the Kristin Ess iron allows you to apply extra pressure on the unheated edges without burning your hands. And while we only tested the straightening power of this iron, Kristin Ess also named this product 3-in-1 because it can straighten, wave, and curl your hair due to the thinner and well-heated titanium plates.

Other features that make using the Kristin Ess straightener are the digital interface, auto-shutoff, and even a velcro organizer. In addition, the digital screen makes using the device so easy; you don’t have to second guess when it’s on, what temperature setting it’s currently heating up, or when it’s ready to use.

The auto-shutoff feature turns the device off around 25 minutes of no usage and gives you more peace of mind after using the device. When you’re ready to put the straightener away, the velcro strap to wrap the cord up and the plastic plate cover are small design features that amplify the overall user experience–even for messy people like ourselves. Reviewers mentioned that the white coating on this straightener might stain over time if that’s important to you.

Conair - InfinitiPro

The Conair – InfinitiPro straightening iron is the most affordable at $30 and is one of the most long-standing beauty brands in the industry. This straightener has 1-inch wide, coated tourmaline ceramic plates and 30 heat settings with the highest heat of 455℉.

After testing the Conair straightener, we noticed slight pulling on the hair while styling, but it wasn’t as painful as using the Dyson – Corrale. We abided by Conair’s instructions for heat settings and used level 23 for thick hair. The heat suggestions were a bit confusing because they didn’t tell you what each number’s temperature meant. Within five passes of the straightener, we raised the number to 30 because our hair wasn’t straightening correctly. During temperature tests, we noted that the Conair heats up to 470 ℉. This is actually almost 15 ℉ above the advertised temperature and you should probably style your hair carefully to prevent potential heat damage. Read more…

While our hair felt silky at the end of styling, we noticed a lot of frizzy ends and wavy hair toward our scalp. In the future, we would need to go through more than one pass per section to get straighter and smoother hair. Also, the auto-shutoff would turn off the tool for one hour, which is too long to wait in case of accidents.

The Conair – InfinitiPro is one of the lowest-priced straighteners we tested, and it also came with some basic features like multiple heat settings and tourmaline ceramic plates. It’s a no-fuss, single-voltage styling tool that is also lightweight. If you’re on a budget and have more time to do multiple passes for smooth hair, the Conair – InfinitiPro is a great choice.

Hot Tools - Pro Signature Ceramic

The Hot Tools – Pro Signature Ceramic straightener has floating 1.25-inch ceramic coated plates with a rubberized body and an easy-to-read digital display. The digital display is a great feature because you know when the device is on, can easily change the heat settings, and know when it’s ready to use. Unfortunately, we didn’t like the position of the buttons on the edge because you can easily change settings when you pick the straightener up from the counter.

The wider plates are supposed to allow you to use thicker sections of hair with every pass. However, we experienced some issues. Strands of hair would often slip through the sides of the plates, and we would need to pass through them again–lengthening the time spent straightening our hair. The Hot Tools straightener took the longest time to straighten our hair at 17 minutes. Read more…

When we used thinner hair sections, we still had frizzy ends and a poofy texture. The handles also became increasingly hot as we used the straightener, making it harder to maneuver without burning our fingers.

One feature we’re worried about is the rubberized grip. I’ve owned Hot Tools devices with the same coating and ended up with the rubber melting off and becoming sticky over time. We haven’t owned the Hot Tools straightener too long, but this is something we’ll keep track of for future post updates.

At just over $40, this is a reasonably affordable hair straightener and may do better with someone with finer or medium-sized hair. However, it didn’t thoroughly smooth out and straighten our 2A thick and wavy hair.

Dyson - Corrale

Dyson hair tools are on many people’s lists, and we were excited to test their hair straighteners after loving the Dyson SuperSonic and Dyson AirWrap Styler . The Dyson – Corrale was introduced in 2020 and features wireless capabilities and flex plates made from manganese copper alloy.

However, when we first opened the box, we were surprised by how heavy the straightener was–even without a cord attached. It weighs 1.25 lb, and you really feel it once you start styling. The other straighteners averaged around .68 lb and the second heaviest straightener (Kristin Ess – 3-in-1) weighed .81 lb. Dyson states they’ve made a well-balanced device, but we experienced a bulkier straightener that made our hands tired after a while. Read more…

The Dyson – Corrale also boasts a new design that allows the plates to flex and mold to your hair as the hair passes through the tool. Flex plates allow more hair strands to touch the plates in one swoop. While we could use bigger sections of hair per pass, we also experienced a lot of hair pulling with each pass and flyaways that didn’t smooth out. We also noticed some of our ends didn’t flatten and poofed up. Our hair felt smooth, but there was slight damage – as is accustomed to any heating tool. We wish it allowed for more than three heat settings.

It takes about 70 minutes to charge the Dyson – Corrale fully, giving you about 30 minutes of run time. You will need to bring the charging cord if you want to travel for the weekend and use it multiple times. In the end, it took about the same amount of time to straighten our entire head of hair as other brands that were half the price of the Dyson. So we don’t think it’s worth $500 for anyone with thick or coarse hair to use this product.

HSI - Professional Glider

The HSI – Profession Glider comes with a lot of extra like a heat-proof glove, argan oil, a velcro strap to wrap the cord, and even a velvet-lined bag for travel (it makes sense for its dual voltage capabilities, making it easy to bring on trips across the world). However, we don’t think this was a robust enough device to tame our thick and wavy hair.

The ceramic and tourmaline-coated plates had difficulty smoothing out our hair, even with smaller sections. As a result, we often found ourselves going through multiple passes of the straightener to get semi-straight sections; This made straightening take longer at over 17 minutes, and at the end of styling, we still had wavy and frizzy sections of hair. Read more…

When first using the device, we didn’t notice the light indicator was upside down and waited over two minutes for an adequate heating time. After every pass of hair, we also saw the tool needed to be reheated via indicator color (red for reheating and green when it’s ready). Even at the highest heat setting of 450 ℉, our hair was still frizzy after each pass. After running temperature tests with a digital thermometer, we found that the HSI straightener only reached around 404 ℉ — almost 50 ℉ less than advertised.  The shape of the device was bulky to maneuver and made it harder to straighten the hair too.

While the HSI – Professional Glider is more affordable at $40, we wouldn’t recommend this for someone with thick hair because you’ll spend excessive time straightening your hair only to get frizzy ends.

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11 Best Hair Straighteners That Make Styling Thick, Frizzy Hair a Breeze

Get sleek strands in seconds. We have the photos to prove it.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

The blessings of thick hair: lots of body, movement, and volume. The frustration: taming can require Herculean effort (especially when the weather shifts). “Styling thick hair can take a long time because it's dense,” says celebrity hairstylist and Prose spokesperson Camille Friend, who styled Halle Bailey's locks for The Little Mermaid . But a great hair straightener can make a huge impact, cutting down styling time, reducing frizz, and shaping hair into a sleek, straight style or soft waves.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Ghd chronos styler 1-inch flat iron.

Best Titanium Straightener

Babylisspro nano titanium prima 3000.

Best Straightener for Long Hair

T3 lucea 1.5", what to consider when choosing a hair straightener.

"If you have thick hair, you'll want a flat iron that can handle it effectively. Look for one that has adjustable heat settings so you can fit the temperature with your hair type," says Gabriel Samra, celebrity hairstylist and Sutra global ambassador. "Typically, thicker hair requires higher-heat usage." Wide paddles can also make a difference by speeding up styling time. Also, pay attention to the type of plates. “In my experience, titanium hair straighteners work best on thick hair because they heat up in seconds. Ceramic plates tend to provide lower heat options,” says hairstylist Cindy Romo . If you have frizzy hair, Friend also recommends a straightener with ionic technology. “It will reduce frizz and promote smoother results,” she says. Both stylists agree that it’s essential to apply a heat protectant before using a hot tool to shield your hair from heat damage.

Read on to find out which hair straighteners, from budget buys to pro go-tos, work best on thick and coarse hair.

The experts:

• Camille Friend , a celebrity hairstylist
• Cindy Romo , a professional hairstylist based in Chicago
• Gabriel Samra , a celebrity hairstylist

Why We Love It

What to consider.

This iron isn't just about results. It's about treating your hair with care during the process. GHD's newest iteration, Chronos, features improved heat monitoring technology that maintains the iron at an ideal temperature to create sleek results with minimal damage. It's three times faster at styling than previous GHD flat irons and offers up to 85 percent more shine due to the floating ceramic plates that have a gloss coating.

Oprah Daily beauty director Kate Sandoval Box uses the GHD Chronos Styler. It's one of her all-time favorite tools for straightening her wavy, thick hair.

"This is my personal favorite," says Romo. "The plates heat up super quick with heat settings up to 465 degrees. Not only is it a great flat iron, but it can also be used to add waves or curls thanks to its curved edges." If you often switch from curly to straight, this is the tool for you.

T3 Lucea 1.5"

The wider plates make this ideal for straightening long, thick hair because you can work on larger sections simultaneously to speed up the process. Friend advises that "higher heat may be necessary for thicker strands," but with nine available heat settings, there's an option for you. "I have a lot of hair, so straightening my hair is a tedious process, but the wider plates really do make a difference," says Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas. "It took me, no joke, 20 minutes to do my entire head."

Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas says the T3 Lucea hair straightener sped up styling time on her long, thick hair.

Dyson Corrale Straightener

"Convenient and portable, the Dyson Corrale provides cordless styling without compromising performance," says Friend. The charge holds for 30 minutes, and the plates flex to help gather the hair and apply heat and tension evenly. The added functionality of corded or cord-free gives you extra control over where and how you style.

Drybar Vibrating Flat Iron

If you find that flat irons tend to tug on your hair too much, consider this tool's vibrating feature, which helps to balance the tension. Other bonuses are that it's comfortable to hold in your hand and its plates are infused with ionic technology to eliminate frizz.

Oprah Daily contributing editor Holly Carter tests the Drybar Vibrating Flat Iron on her thick, curly hair.

L'Oréal Professionnel L'Oréal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & Styler

Rather than ironing your hair, try steaming it. Fill this straightener's built-in water tank with the included bottle, choose your preferred heat setting, and run it through your hair. The steam won't make your hair wet; instead, it leaves you with smooth strands and less frizz.

CHI Original Ceramic Hair Straightener

The OG of hair straighteners, this one has racked up many accolades over the years for its versatility and quick-heating capabilities. It doesn't have added frills like a fancy digital display, but scores of fans forgo those for the reliable salon-quality results they get. "The most impressive thing about the Chi straightener is the ceramic plates that never caught on to or pulled my hair," says Oprah Daily fashion editor Sara Klausing. "Plus, if you're in a crunch, it heats up in a matter of seconds."

Oprah Daily fashion editor Sara Klausing's before and after using the CHI Ceramic Hair Straightener.

amika The Confidante Moisture Maintenance Styler

This sleek flat iron gives you professional-looking results as quickly as in one pass. Additionally, it has infrared light beam technology that helps maintain moisture and prevent frizz. It also features an ion projector, which means it streams millions of cuticle-sealing negative ions to promote a shiny and healthy-looking finish.

Harry Josh Pro Tools Cordless Ceramic 1-Inch Styling Iron

Aside from the signature mint green color we've come to associate with the celebrity hairstylist's namesake brand, we love that Josh thought of all the details when creating his cordless iron. It comes with interchangeable batteries so you never run out of power ( we've tested it ), a digital temperature control that's easy to manipulate, and heat protectant nano silver tourmaline plates.

Revlon Extra-Long Ceramic Flat Iron

The 1.5-inch plate width makes this iron ideal for taming thick, long hair. The plates are also especially long, so they can cover a lot of surface area with fewer passes, and they're ceramic with ionic tourmaline technology to cut frizz while protecting the hair from heat damage.

Sutra IR2 Infrared Flat Iron

"Infrared technology emits gentle infrared wavelengths that penetrate the hair shaft more deeply, resulting in efficient straightening while minimizing damage," explains Samra. The titanium-infused plates offer a smooth glide with minimal tugging and glossy results. Whether you have curly or straight hair, it's a great choice.

How We Chose the Best Flat Irons

The Oprah Daily beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best products. We spoke with professional hairstylists to learn about what to look for in a flat iron and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new options that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.

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Create waves, spirals, and everything in between, all while you're on the go.

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Good hair days matter just as much on vacation as they do on a workday, yet hair styling tools can be the first beauty item to get eliminated when packing for a trip. We get it — every inch of your weekend bag counts. You don’t want to sacrifice precious suitcase space on bulky flat irons. 

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In order to find the best mini travel flat irons, we sought the advice of seven experienced hair experts, and personally road tested highly rated options. Ahead, the top 15 mini irons and travel hair straighteners you should consider snagging before your next trip. 

Sign up for  WWD Shop’s newsletter  to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.

The Top Travel Hair Straighteners of 2023

• Most Recommended: BaByliss PRO Nano Titanium Prima 3000  
• Best Dual-Voltage: Chi Ceramic Mini Hairstyling Iron  
• Best for Short Hair: Eva NYC Mini Healthy Heat Styling Iron and Bag  
• Best for Edges: Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron
• Best for Long Hair: T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron  
• Best with Automatic Shut Off: GHD Unplugged 1-Inch Cordless Flat Iron  
• Best Compact: Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener
• Best Multitasking: Dyson Airstrait Straightener  
• Best for Damaged Hair: Pritech Mini Flat Iron Portable Hair Straightener  
• Best Temperature Control: HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron  
• Best Affordable: Conair Unbound Petite Flat Iron  
• Best for Color Treated Hair: Gama G Evo Silk Chrome Titanium ⅘-Inch Flat Iron
• Best For Beginners: Remington Pro Travel Compact 1-Inch Flat Iron
• Best Cordless: Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic 1-Inch Styling Iron  
• Most Versatile: 6th Sense 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron 

Gama G Evo Silk Chrome Titanium ⅘-Inch Flat Iron

Best Travel Hair Straightener for Color-Treated Hair

• Size: 16.42 inches
• Plate width: .8 inch
• Plate material: Titanium 
• Weight: 2.2 lbs. 
• Heat settings: 9 heat settings from 338°F to 482°F
• Warranty: 1 to 2 year limited warranty
• Amazon top-quality store badge on Google: 4.5 stars

Though this Gama G Evo flat iron isn’t technically designed to be a travel iron, Pipino insists he cannot leave home without it. At around 16.5 inches, it isn’t a mini per se, but Pipino insists it is worth it to pack. “It heats up super fast if you need to straighten your hair quickly and works well on all hair types in all climates, even if traveling to humid summer locations,” he says.

He isn’t the only one who lauds the tool. Gama is one of the oldest and best Italian hair tool brands and has earned a reputation for flattening the kinkiest strands in a single pass. This tool in particular boasts oxygen infused plates that are designed for color-treated hair. Instead of pulling color from your hair, this tool extends its life and turns up the brightness. 

What reviewers say:  “This definitely does work even when in a big hurry. I tried it when I only had a few minutes before I had to leave and it made a noticeable difference. It really flattens hair to the core. My daughter has very thick 4c hair so this was safe on her hair. It will give you the best silk press of your life!”

Gama G Evo Silk Chrome Titanium ⅘ Inch Flat Iron $100 Buy Now At Amazon

Chi Ceramic Mini Hairstyling Iron

Best Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 10 inches 
• Plate width: .75 inch
• Plate material: Ceramic 
• Weight:  3.2 oz. 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting at 383°F
• Warranty : 2 years 

Chi is known for their affordable yet high-quality styling products. This mini tool does the work of a full-sized iron without skipping a beat. The inner plates get nice and steamy, but don’t worry, the outer material remains cool to the touch. The on and off button is tucked on the inside of the tool, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking it while styling. 

This travel straightener’s dual voltage design means it can work overseas without a converter, which means less of your suitcase and designer handbag devoted to hair tools and more devoted to souvenirs. 

What reviewers say:  “It’s been thrown, dropped (100 times), the plates fell out so I used gorilla glue to put them in. It still works! It is the longest she’s ever used any hair tool.” 

Chi Ceramic Mini Hairstyling Iron $60   $55 Buy Now At Amazon

Ghd Unplugged 1-Inch Cordless Flat Iron

Best Travel Hair Straightener with Automatic Shut Off

• Plate width: 1 inch
• Weight: 2 lbs. 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting, 365°F
• Warranty: 2 years
• Sephora top-quality store badge on Google: 4.8 stars

Ghd remains a favorite hair tool for the pros. Celebrity hair stylist, Laurabeth Cabott being chief among them. “Ghd has been around for over 20 years and is always improving their technology and tools performance.” Nast echoes her praise and adds some of her own. She loves the Ghd Unplugged’s cordless design for styling here, there, and everywhere. Even without the cord, it can still tackle thick and curly manes. It is designed to deliver 20 minutes of cord free styling time and heat up in under a minute.

Though there’s only one heat setting, celebrity extensionist Priscilla Valles sees that as an advantage rather than a drawback. “We are all guilty of taking our straighteners and using them at the highest heat possible,” she says. With a max of 365 degrees, Ghd takes away the temptation. 

Our favorite part? The tool is designed to shut off after three minutes of non-use, so no stressing about burning down your AirBnb while sunning on the beach. 

What reviewers say:  “I bought it for a trip abroad and was so happy not to have to worry about electrical outlets and adaptors (except to recharge). It works like a charm on my straight bob that has developed some weird waves in recent years. The charge lasts long enough for me to use twice.”

Ghd Unplugged 1 Inch Cordless Flat Iron $299 Buy Now At Amazon

Ghd Unplugged 1 Inch Cordless Flat Iron $299 Buy Now At sephora

HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron

Best Mini Flat Iron With Temperature Control

• Size: 10.5 inches 
• Plate material: Ceramic tourmaline
• Weight: 10 oz 
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings from 140°F to 450°F
• Warranty: 1 year 

This mini flat iron from HSI Professional is a great budget-friendly option for travelers. Korab ranks it among her favorites and over 55,000 five-star Amazon reviews tend to agree. Each plate is made from a ceramic tourmaline blend which helps your strands absorb moisture rather than pull it out. It also boasts eight sensors to ensure even heat distribution across the plates, so you can achieve your desired look in just one or two passes. 

What reviewers say: “I just received my second HSI Professional Straightener about a week ago and one thing I absolutely LOVE about this straightener is that there is no chemical smell, even on the very first use.” 

HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron $49 Buy Now At Amazon

BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Prima 3000 

Most Recommended Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 12 inches
• Plate width: 1 inch or 1.25 inches
• Weight: 1 lb. 
• Heat settings: 5 settings up to 465 degrees 
• Warranty: 4 years 
• Ulta top-quality store badge on Google: 4.8 stars

The majority of our experts agree: BaByliss tools are a must for your hair styling arsenal. For Ric Pipino , a celebrity stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon , BaByliss tools are a staple tool in his kit. “I’ve used a lot of their different appliances and tools over the years and they’re very reliable,” he says. “They last forever.”

What this tiny tool lacks in size, it makes up for in performance. “It features titanium plates that heat up quickly and provide smooth straightening results,” says Jennifer Korab , celebrity hairstylist and owner of the Renaissance Salon and Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey, which means it will zap kinks fast. As for its travel capabilities, its small size, compact design, and dual voltage technology make it the perfect carry on companion. 

What reviewers say: “I purchased this curling iron in 2014 and it just stopped working for me today in 2023. I am on my way to purchase my second one right now. Everyone always asks me to use this straightener because of how shiny and sleek it makes their hair. It straightens your hair so fast. It also heats up in 3 seconds. I highly recommend this iron!”

BaByliss PRO Nano Titanium Prima 3000  $190 Buy Now At Ulta

Eva NYC Mini Healthy Heat Styling Iron and Bag

Best Mini Flat Iron for Short Hair

• Size: 8.25 inches  
• Plate width: .5 inch 
• Plate material: Ceramic  
• Weight: 3.21 oz.  
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting 400 degrees 

With plates just a half-inch thick, this mini of all minis (it is one of the smallest on the list) is best used for shorter styles like bobs or modern mullets. With only one heat setting, this simple tool is designed to smooth waves, style bangs, and keep flyaways at bay. The mini travel hair straightener has ceramic plates that evenly heat each strand, and the palm-sized iron stows nicely in a duffel or shoulder bag . At just $30, this is the perfect addition to any straightforward styling routine. 

Also nice: It comes with a stylish travel case for easy transport. 

What reviewers say:  “The Coastal Carolina humidity is murder on any style and I am outside in all conditions in my job showing homes. Bringing back some order and taming the frizz is possible with this portable quick heating little styling iron.”

Eva NYC Mini Healthy Heat Styling Iron and Bag $30 Buy Now At Ulta

Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron

Best Mini Flat Iron for Edges

• Size: 3.25 in. 
• Plate width: .75 in. 
• Plate material: Gold Titanium 
• Weight: 1.19 lb. 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting 380°F
• Warranty: 2 years 

Thanks to its smaller plate size (.75 of an inch to be exact), this Kristin Ess tool can navigate baby hairs with the best of them. Nast recommends giving this tool a try if you need to tame flyaways or iron out thick strands. “This is a mini that does it all,” she says. 

Its rounded edges allow you to get close to the root without singeing your scalp or tugging on strands. Plus, it is equipped with a 30 minute shut-off feature, so you can leave your hotel with peace of mind. 

What reviewers say:  “I’ve been looking for a smaller iron, but bigger than the typical tiny ones which are always disappointing. I have a short bob and standard irons are awkward to use at the nape and on the bangs. Also didn’t want to have too much weight for a long trip I’m taking, so I thought I’d try this, totally expecting to have to return it. But it’s awesome. It only goes to 380 degrees, but it works better than the full size I have that goes to 425. Also, the flips and waves I’ve made with this iron stay all day where they go flat in minutes with my standard iron.”

Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron $60 Buy Now At Ulta

T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron 

Best Travel Hair Straightener for Long Hair

• Size: 8.25 in. 
• Plate width: .80 in. 
• Weight: 5.92 oz 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting 410 degrees 

Don’t let the miniature size fool you. This tiny T3 tool may be small, but it is mighty. Outside of the BaByliss, this tool earned the most expert recommendations. Celebrity hair stylist Ashley Gomila is partial to the auto world voltage feature. “It will naturally adjust to voltage changes which is great for international travel,” she says. 

Korab calls out the ceramic plating which helps deliver even heat across the iron. “Single pass technology ensures even heat distribution throughout the plates, providing consistent results with each pass,” she explains, “This minimizes time spent styling, which can be beneficial when you’re on the go.”

What reviewers say:  “The compact size fits well in my carry-on luggage, and the heat-resistant cover means I can stow and go in a hurry. It’s also been an “edge saver” for me, allowing me to extend my relaxers by a couple weeks before having to chemically treat my hair.”

T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron $89 Buy Now At Amazon

T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron $89 Buy Now At Sephora

Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener

Best Compact Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 10.43 inches 
• Plate width: .94 inch
• Weight: .54 lbs. 
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings up to 392°F

Like others on this list, the Balmain Hair Couture iron is about half the size of a full-sized tool. However, its smaller structure doesn’t skimp on results. For Gomila, this one ranks among the top. “It comes with all international and US converters which is awesome for any jet setters on the go,” she says. Beyond that, the cordless design eliminates any fussy wires. 

The small-but-sturdy tool can take on a lustrous mane. With three heat settings, you can pick the temp that works best for your hair texture and type. “The advanced titanium floating plate technology delivers the ultimate styling results for a smooth, polished, and healthy finish,” explains Ilham Mestour , celebrity hair stylist and artistic director of Balmain Hair Couture. 

What reviewers say:  “These are a great little gadget. I was fed up of going to the gym in the mornings and not being able to blow dry my hair so well and having bad hair days. These straighteners heat up quickly and create enough heat to style effectively. The battery lasts well. No more hair worries for me. It’d be ideal for taking camping or traveling as well. It has 3 adapter plugs, so can be charged easily abroad, too.”

Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener $439 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener $439 Buy Now At neiman marcus

Dyson AirStrait Straightener 

Best Multitasking Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 13 inches 
• Plate width: 1.5 inches
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings: 175°F, 230°F, and 285°F 

We get it: this tool isn’t exactly mini, but its multitasking capabilities make it a must-have investment for travel. Dyson is known for their technology, innovation, and celebrity hairstylist-endorsed hair tools. The Airstrait is Dyson’s latest launch , and it’s no exception. Unlike other straighteners out there, the Airstrait can take your strands from wet to straight and dry without using heat and without damaging your hair, so you can leave your bulky hair dryer at home. The catch? Outside of the cost, there isn’t one. 

Each Airstrait is equipped with tension bars instead of heated plates. These perform similarly, smoothing strands without heat and without excess pressure. Yes, the tool requires some investment upfront, but for the end result, it feels well worth it.  

What reviewers say:  “I have 4a curly hair. My hair usually takes 30 minutes or more to blow dry and then another 45 minutes to straighten. Then another 30 minutes to curl. The Airstrait dried my wet curly hair and made it bone straight in 15 minutes!”

Editor testing and review notes : “The Dyson Airstrait is a tool that always gets precious real estate in my packing cubes and carry-on luggage. It takes my thick, naturally curly hair to straight and polished in 10 minutes flat. I love the feature that allows you to lock the arms and use the tool as a standard hair dryer to target roots, too.”

Dyson AirStrait Straightener  $499 Buy Now At Sephora

Dyson AirStrait Straightener  $499 Buy Now At Dyson

Related: Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Review 2023: Two Beauty Editors Put the Hair Tool to the Test. Dyson Supersonic Editor Testing Review The Best Hair Dryer Brushes

Pritech Mini Flat Iron Portable Hair Straightener

Best Travel Hair Straightener for Damaged Hair

• Size: 8 inches 
• Weight: 10.88 oz. 
• Heat settings: 13 heat settings from 210°F to 450°F
• Warranty : 30 day guarantee 

If your hair is damaged, limiting heat styling is the advice for reviving your strands. However, if you need to use a hot tool, make sure it has a variety of temperature settings. See, heat doesn’t start damaging your hair until somewhere over 300 degrees. Nast loves that this mini straightener boasts over 13 temperature options. “This will help to ensure that you are not damaging your hair,” she says, “Keeping the tool on a lower setting cuts down on the damage.” Its inexpensive price point is a bonus.

What reviewers say:  “I went to Italy and only took this hair tool. It’s a little heavy but it worked great and I’m so glad I had it. The temperature control is what sold me. I don’t like to burn my hair at 400 degrees like some of the other travel irons without temp control.”

Pritech Mini Flat Iron Portable Hair Straightener $18 Buy Now At Amazon

Conair Unbound Petite Flat Iron

Best Affordable Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 11.25 inches 
• Plate width: .75 inch 
• Weight: 11 oz 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting, 400°F

Celebrity hairstylist Laura Polko is always traveling with her clients for red carpets and events. This mini straightener from Conair remains her go-to. “It is great for quick touch-ups because it is cordless, and holds a charge for a long time,” she raves. She also highlights the ceramic-coated plates which help smooth the hair and glide easily over the strands without tugging or snagging. 

At under $30, this easy to use tool won’t make a big dent in your wallet or travel bag. 

What reviewers say: “I have taken this on two trips, one international, and it worked very well. It is slightly heavier than I would like and I had to charge it right before I used it and it didn’t stay hot very long but it did get me the curls I needed on my mid-length hair.”

Conair Unbound Petite Flat Iron $28 Buy Now At Amazon

Remington Pro Travel Compact 1-Inch Flat Iron

Best Travel Hair Straightener For Beginners

• Size: 11 inches
• Heat settings: Multiple heat settings up to 410°F

Try as we might, hair styling isn’t a natural gift for everyone. Priced at just $36, this simple but effective tool is a great place to start. Free of bells and whistles, this tool focuses on the basics, aka zapping unwanted texture from your hair. 

It has just about every advantage of a full sized tool without going overboard. Korab recommends this tool for its worldwide voltage, compact size, ceramic plates, and adjustable heat settings. “This flexibility helps prevent excessive heat exposure and reduces the risk of hair damage,” she says. 

What reviewers say: “My daughter and I have very thick hair and it works amazing. I was skeptical because its so small. But it straightens our hair very well.”

Remington Pro Travel Compact 1” Flat Iron $36 Buy Now At Kohl’s

Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic 1 Inch Styling Iron

Best Cordles s Mini Flat Iron

• Size: 13 inches
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings up to 425 degrees 

Valles trusts Harry Josh for all things hair tools. For her, the brand is synonymous with high quality. Their latest cordless launch is a must for travel. The iconic mint green plates are just as powerful cord-free, and they hold a charge for a whopping 40 minutes of styling. The silky ceramic plates glide over your strands without snagging, so you can straighten or use to create Farrah Fawcett level waves.  

Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic 1 Inch Styling Iron $350 Buy Now At Goop

6th Sense 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron

Most Versatile Travel Hair Straightener

• Plate material: Titanium
• Weight: .61 lbs.  
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting at 374°F
• Warranty: 1-year full warranty and 4-year limited warranty

Pipino dubs this tool one of his go-tos for travel and touch ups. “It’s a dual process,”  he says, “You can switch the blades for either a straightener or a curling iron.” This of course saves room in your travel bag or designer work bag and allows for multiple styles. Thanks to the titanium blades, this tool heats up quickly and can straighten hair quickly which is one of Pipino’s biggest priorities as a stylist. Bonus: though its full price is $40, the tool frequently goes on sale for $25. 

What Reviewers Say: One reviewer credits this tool for “saving space, time, and sanity.” Though it was originally purchased to use on vacation this user was so impressed with the results, they started using every day. Another raves about how the iron didn’t catch on their fine hair. 

6th Sense 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron $40   $25 Buy Now At 6th Sense

What to Look for in the Best Mini Flat Irons

• Plate width: For flat irons, the standard plate size is one-inch thick. However, for mini flat irons, it tends to be a little less. The width of your straightener plate is dependent on personal preference. Smaller sizes like .8 or .5 inch are better for shorter stylers and touch ups, as they can get close to the scalp without burning it. If you have tighter, more unruly hair, Gomila recommends a smaller thinner plate. “You will already have to work in smaller sections to smooth the hair effectively and properly,” she says. If you have a looser curl pattern and longer hair, she suggests going with wider plates. That will require less passes and less heat to smooth the hair effectively. 
• Plate material: According to Valles, the plates are the most important feature in a straightener. She suggests looking for an option that offers floating plates, as these allow the tool to freely move and flex. Not all plate materials are created equal. Nowadays, most straighteners are made out of ceramic or titanium. Hairstylists debate about which one is better, and the answer depends on what you are looking for. Ceramic irons use infrared technology to smooth the cuticle from the inside out. Titanium, on the other hand, heats up in a flash, but can be more intense on finer hair textures. 
• Temperature settings: Most flat irons come with a range of heat settings, but smaller straighteners or those designed for travel usually come with less. Cabott highly recommends paying attention to the heat settings. She warns against using an iron on the top temperature, especially if that is well over 400 degrees. The temperature choice at which you use the tool, however, is entirely up to you. Those with thicker or coarser strands may require high temps for easy styling. Just know, the higher the temperature the harder it is on your hair. To minimize damage, almost all of our experts recommended applying protectant before straightening. Regular hair masks can help restore moisture, too.
• Voltage: When in the market for a travel tool, finding a dual-voltage option is a must (otherwise, you’ll need a travel adapter for your hair straightener). The US electrical system runs on a 110 volt system. Other countries do not. For example, Europe runs on a 220 volt system. Dual voltage devices can operate on both electrical systems while others won’t work, or worse, break.  
• Safety features: For an added layer of peace of mind, look for an iron with safety features like automatic shut-off, a device lock, and a temperature regulated cap that prevents it from singeing surrounding items. 
• Cord : A cord-free device saves even more space in your suitcase, however, even the most advanced models require regular charging. If your device has a cord, pay attention to the length. You want something at least four feet and that has a 360 degree swivel for easy styling. 

How We Chose the Best Travel Hair Straighteners

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.

In order to find the best travel hair straighteners, our team combed the market for options from top brands. We read through ratings, examined features, and personally tested different models to see if they lived up to their claims. We considered top factors for travel friendly flat irons like size, voltage, temperature settings and plate material. On top of that, we spoke to professional hair stylists for their expert opinion. We also considered the best retailers to shop when selecting the best travel hair straighteners, reading customer reviews and cross-checking with  Google’s new top-quality store badge  (a rating that indicates retailers with quick shipping, clear return policies, and positive shopper reviews). Learn more about WWD here .

Meet The Experts

• Jennifer Nast is a stylist at Sharon Dorram at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York City. With over ten years of experience creating tailor made hair cuts for her clients, she is well versed in all things styling tools.  
• Ric Pipino is a celebrity stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York City. Before moving to the US, Pipino began his legendary career in his home city of Sydney Australia. He quickly established himself in New York City and became the go-to stylist for names like Heidi Klum, Lady Gaga, Zoe Kravtiz, Christina Aguilera and more. 
• Jennifer Korab is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of the Renaissance Salon and Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey. She also works as an educator of Pureology and regularly primps and preps models backstage at New York Fashion Week. 
• Ashley Gomila is a Los Angeles based professional hair and makeup artist. This double threat works on both models and major stars like Natalie Zea. Her work can be found in professional campaigns for Balmain and About Face.  
• Laura Polko is a celebrity hair stylist in Los Angeles, CA. Her client list includes names like Gigi Hadid, Maren Morris, Hailee Steinfeld, Alix Earle and many more. When she isn’t styling the hottest stars on your social feeds, she is making easy tutorial videos on Instagram for you to try at home. 
• Priscilla Valles is a celebrity extensionist in Los Angeles, CA. She works on Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kylie Kardashian, Megan Fox, Hailey Bieber, Kate Hudson, Chrissy Tiegen, and Katy Perry – just to name a few. She even has her own extension line with Glam Seamless if you want to check out try her looks at home. 
• Laurabeth Cabott is a celebrity hair stylist who splits her time between Los Angeles and Kansas City. She’s worked with clients like Cara Delavigne, Brittany Mahomes, Paige Lorenze, and more. She also owns and operates Artistry by LB Salon in Kansas City.  

Meet the Author

Anneke Knot is a freelance writer in the fashion and beauty space based in San Francisco, California. With over seven years of experience in beauty product testing and writing, she has extensive knowledge of hair tools and beyond. Aside from WWD, her editorial work can be found in publications like InStyle, The Strategist, Byrdie, Forbes, and more. 

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8 Best Mini Flat Irons and Travel Straighteners for All Hair Types

Touch up short hair and unruly bangs on the go.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Chi ceramic dual voltage mini flat iron.

Conair MiniPRO Ceramic Flat Iron

Best for Travel

Sam villa pro results cordless flat iron.

If we're honest, packing "light" usually exempts beauty essentials. Rest assured, you can leave your everyday hair straightener behind and still match those pin-straight results strand for strand with a mini flat iron. S maller and more compact , mini flat irons can equal the heat packed in regular versions without the extra baggage. Don't let a lack of travel plans stop you, either — maneuver around short hair and bangs with ease or stash them in a gym bag for on-the-go touchups.

The following picks are based on a combination of top performers by our Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab pros and brands we love from other expert testing by our beauty editors. Here are the best mini flat irons for all hair types , including ones for curly hair and thin hair , that'll make it easier to part from your full-sized straightener.

Read exactly how we tested and picked mini flat irons ahead — plus, advice on what to look for when shopping. You can pair these pint-sized hot tools with a travel hair dryer worth slimming down for.

Dual voltage : Yes | Plate width : 0.75 in | Plate material : Ceramic | Automatic shut-off : Yes

Every one of our consumer testers agreed the CHI straightened their hair to perfection , and a majority gave it a top score for reaching the right temperature to straighten effectively. Many even praised its "smooth iron," "lightweight" feel and quick heating. A majority of mini models we tested felt too hot to the touch, while this was the only one to keep cool on the surface.

Our pros also love that its dual voltage makes it a good option for overseas travel. Keep in mind that its on/off switch is located on the inside of its handles. Since this iron was one of the longest among the mini flat irons we tested, the switch is not as close to the hinge of the handles, making it easier to reach.

Dual voltage : Yes | Plate width : 0.5 in | Plate material : Ceramic | Automatic shut-off : Yes

For under $25, Conair's MiniPro may not pull out all the bells and whistles, but it certainly gets the job done. A t eight inches, it's small and compact for easy traveling .

Those with bangs may appreciate this more as some online reviews say it gives a "blown out" effect rather than totally sleek. Others attested to its quick heating, with a red light that blinks off once it reaches the temperature setting.

Dual voltage : Adapter needed for charger | Plate width : 0.5 in | Plate material : Tourmaline | Automatic shut-off : Yes

Travel light with the Sam Villa cordless flat iron that weighs only half a pound . Hair straightening is made easy thanks to its simple instructions and easy-to-use power button. GH testers even rated it for not pulling or snagging hair. It may take longer to run through long hair types with its plate size, but we love it for its convenience; stash the cordless rechargeable flat iron in its included travel case.

"It's small enough to not take up much room in a carry-on suitcase and even has a lock button to keep it closed," said a tester. "I can also see myself dropping it in my purse for quick touch-ups, which is especially great for my frizzy hair."

BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron

Dual voltage : Yes | Plate width : 0.5 in | Plate material : Titanium | Automatic shut-off : No

Its big sister iron is our Beauty Lab's standard for some anti-frizz studies. The curved edge makes it easier to smooth frizz from top to bottom . "One of my top recommendations is the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron," says Leo Izquierdo , the co-founder of IGK Hair Care . It features titanium plates that provide even heat distribution and can reach high temperatures quickly, making it effective for smooth and sleek results"

"Not only did this save me from a bad hair day, but it also worked wonders on my hair!" said one Ulta reviewer. "This made my frizzy bangs bone straight." Plus, it comes with a heat-resistant pouch that you can rest it on when not in use.

ghd Unplugged Cordless Styler

Dual voltage : Adapter needed for charger | Plate width : 0.8 in | Plate material : Ceramic | Automatic shut-off : No

Nearly identical to the brand's full-sized straightener we tried, this mini cordless version aims to impress with its ceramic plates that ensure smooth flattening whenever curling or straightening hair. The brand claims it keeps a full 20-minute charge, plus a consistent temperature of 365º for even styling . When getting ready in a hurry, it's said to heat up in 45 seconds and cool down in 15 minutes.

Several hairstylists we tapped recommend GHD for its flat iron models that R+Co Vice President Adam Federico says "prioritize performance while being compact and travel-friendly." Shoppers at Sephora were equally amazed, appreciating that it "heats fast and leaves my hair sleek and shiny. Perfect for travel!"

KISS Red Pencil Ceramic Tourmaline Flat Iron

Dual voltage: Not listed as a feature | Plate width : 0.3 in | Plate material: Ceramic and tourmaline | Automatic shut-off : No

Pixie cuts, rejoice! The pencil-sized ceramic plate on this iron works great for even the shortest of hairdos. "I like it for creating small waves or curls," says Sophia Emmanuel, a certified trichologist at Mane Advocates salon and a V&Co. Beauty ambassador. You can even nab coarse hair along the hairline.

Reviewers online seem to like it, too. With it, some shoppers tackled baby hairs, while others styled their bobs. " I can make super tight kinky curls ," wrote one . "And it warms up lightning fast." Just note that it doesn't heat up as much as other flat irons, according to Emmanuel.

T3 SinglePass Compact Travel Styling Flat Iron

Dual voltage : Yes | Plate width : 0.8 in | Plate Material : Ceramic | Automatic shut-off : No

Run this T3 through hair sections to reveal silky smooth ends on the other side, then slip its heat-resistant cap on for quick and easy storage. "I absolutely love this compact iron!" said a Sephora shopper. "It's perfect for travel and touch-ups. Heats up quickly and leaves my hair smooth and shiny."

In Lab tests, we discovered that its plate temperatures measured up to its packaging claims. What's more, its curved ceramic plates resemble the ones of the full-sized T3 that testers reported made fine hair noticeably shiny without creases or tugs.

Eva Nyc Mini Healthy Heat Ceramic Styling Iron

Dual voltage : Yes | Plate width : 0.5 in | Plate Material : Ceramic | Automatic shut-off : No

A teeny-tiny flat iron may be exactly what you need to tame flyaways or to fix bangs on-the-go. We appreciate that this Eva NYC straightener offers dual voltage with adjustable temperature settings .

Beauty lovers rave about Eva NYC for its cutely packaged yet reliable hair care products — this one's no different thanks to its unique hand ridges that make it harder for the iron to slip out of your hand.

How we tested the best mini flat irons

Our Beauty Lab experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test hot tools, from curling irons to hair dryer brushes . When we tested mini flat irons, we evaluated 10 models against five full-sized Lab-tested straighteners.

The Lab scientists honed in on safety and effectiveness by assessing temperatures of surfaces that can touch skin and handling of the controls. We measured the inner plate and surface temperature heating profiles of the flat irons and compared them to the temperature of the full-sized straighteners we previously tested and recommended. We also tried the hair tools on 15 consumer testers who gave satisfaction ratings based on how well it straightened, its surface heat and straightening temperature, then commented on what they liked and disliked about it.

What to consider when shopping for a mini flat iron

✔️ "Look for plates made from ceramic, tourmaline, titanium or a combination ," says Federico. "Ceramic plates distribute heat evenly. Tourmaline reduces frizz by emitting negative ions. Titanium heats up quickly and evenly."

✔️ Dual voltage is always a good idea as it's one less worry when traveling internationally. Still, we recommend finding an appropriate travel adapter for plugging into outlets as some voltages may vary depending on where you are.

✔️ Most mini flat irons feature a 0.5-inch wide plate. For consumers with long, thick or curly hair, it may take more time or effort to do their regular styling with a travel iron, so consider this before you ditch your regular one on your next trip. " Narrow plates are good for short hair or precise styling , while wider plates are better for longer hair or thicker textures," per Federico.

✔️ For travel irons that are relatively short in length and compact in size, the controls may be too close to the hot plates or the hinge. The user can then face burning their fingers or have difficulty adjusting settings including turning it on and off. Federico suggests that they look for simple controls , like one with auto on/off and easy-to-reach settings. Also, consider the weight and ergonomics of the flat iron.

✔️ Federico recommends opting for a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings . "Different hair types require different heat levels; fine or damaged hair needs lower temperatures (around 250-300°F), while thicker or coarser hair can handle higher temperatures (up to 400°F)," he says.

Meet the experts

• Leo Izquierdo , the co-founder of IGK Hair Care, started styling hair in Paris at 14 years old. At 25, he and his brother, Franck, opened a salon that caters to celebrity clientele in Miami's Design District.
• R+Co Vice President Adam Federico has years of experience in the hair industry, with titles like Master Educator, Creative Director and Stylist under his belt.
• Sophia Emmanual , a certified trichologist, consults within the Mane Advocates Salon based in New York City. She has two decades of experience as a cosmetologist, specializing in hair and scalp.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Commerce Editor Jacqueline Saguin wrote this story based on research and tests sourced from the GH Beauty Lab. She also added comprehensive shopping advice based on hairstylists' expertise and tips.

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute . Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

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