The Best Hot Tools You Can Buy For Perfectly Styled Hair

For some of us, styling our hair isn't quite as effortless as it is for others. The grass always seems greener on the other side, and many with straight locks long for waves, while curly-haired folks favor flat irons instead. Hot tools hold the key to achieving certain styles, from perfect beachy waves to fairytale curls. But even if you prefer to wear your natural hair texture, the right hot tool can make all the difference in your styling routine. For instance, a top-notch hair dryer can slash your drying time in half, and a luxury diffuser can define your curls while destroying frizz.

Hot tools have come a long way since our mothers and grandmothers used their clothing irons to smooth their strands. From budget buys to luxury tools, there are incredible options out there for every hair type. Still, no matter how much you're willing to spend, you want to ensure you're choosing the right device for the job. After all, there's nothing worse than battling with a blow-dryer that takes hours or a dud of a straightener. As such, Glam searched high and low for the best hot tools to transform every hair type, finding winners from the drugstore to the department store. So, let's leave the bad hair days in the past — these quick and easy tools will have you looking picture-perfect in no time.

We've all been there: The alarm clock betrays us after a long night, and the messy hair look seems like the only solution to save our morning. Styling our hair doesn't have to be a chore, however. There are hot tools that can fix just about any concern in mere moments, from high-powered, wet-to-dry straighteners and dryers to perfect curl diffusers. Some tools feature simple engineering improvements, like combination brush dryers. Others, like the Dyson Multi-Styler, incorporate state-of-the-art technology and materials to quickly style hair while preserving its integrity.

After choosing categories to reflect myriad hair types, we pored over thousands of reviews to bring you our picks of the best hot tools available today. Want to shorten the time you spend blow-drying your hair in the morning? No problem. Need a travel straightener for your baby bangs? We've got you. There are even tools to style synthetic hair and wigs, as well as unique options like crimpers and beach wavers. If there are any drawbacks or cons to consider, we've included them as well so that you'll never have to worry about purchasing a flop. Now, let's take a closer look at our list and get you on your way to your best hair ever.

Much has been said about the Shark FlexStyle Hair Blow Dryer & Multi-Styler, which draws comparisons to the cult-favorite Dyson Multi-Styler tool at roughly half its price. This futuristic-looking device took our top spot for two reasons: It's more versatile for those with curly or wavy hair types, and it's a better value than Dyson's. Plus, it's great at preventing heat damage. The FlexStyle performs almost identically to Dyson's product and is a significant step up from entry-level brush dryers and multi-stylers. 

"I have tried so many different products, but [the Shark FlexStyle] is by far the best. It's strong, and I am able to straighten and style my hair with no problem!" writes one reviewer. Moreover, you can customize your FlexStyle experience with different attachments to suit curly, coily, and straight hair types.

Purchase the Shark FlexStyle Hair Blow Dryer & Multi-Styler for All Hair Types at Sephora for $349.

If you find yourself cursing your dryer's existence each morning, it might be time to invest in the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Italian Performance Hair Dryer. This elegant tool uses brushless motor technology, is packed with 2000 watts of power, and boasts a stunning 4-year warranty. In case you're still not convinced you're ready for an upgrade, just take a look at some of its reviews. "This is by far the best hair dryer I've [owned] in my picky 56 years. It's solid, not too heavy, has all the control, and my hair loves it. If you are on the fence, get it," said one BaBylissPRO fan.

Purchase the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Italian Performance Hair Dryer on Amazon for $199.99.

Working with a tighter budget but still wanting a hair dryer that delivers professional results? Check out the Infinitipro SmoothWrap Hair Dryer by Conair. Don't let its reasonable price fool you — Conair's dryers are some of the most durable builds that we've ever used, and the Infinitipro is an excellent example of the brand's craftsmanship.

Unlike ordinary dryers, the Infinitipro uses Advanced Plasma and ceramic tech to smooth and moisturize strands. You can use the concentrator attachment for ultra-sleek blowouts or pop on the diffuser to build beautiful curls in an instant. "This dryer gets my hair fully dry on the lowest heat setting and blowing power in the same amount of time it takes my previous dryers to get my hair halfway done," said one Conair user.

‌Purchase the Infinitipro by Conair SmoothWrap Hair Dryer on Amazon for $59.99.

The Shark FlexStyle may have beaten the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler for the overall best hot tool, but it's fair to say this is our dream device for creating damage-free curls. Although high-heat curling tools can give you impressive definition and hold, it's worth investing in a protective styler like the Dyson Airwrap if you frequently curl your hair.

We think Dyson's low-heat curls are tighter and last slightly longer than the Shark FlexStyle's, and reviewers are inclined to agree. "I will never use a curling iron, flat iron, or standard blow dryer ever again...it is worth every penny, and I recommend the Airwrap Multi-styler to everyone!" one Dyson fan wrote. With that, it's worth pointing out that Dyson reviewers are divided on its straightening capabilities, with some complaining of stiff-textured strands.

Purchase the Airwrap Multi-Styler at Dyson for $599.99.

There are those of us who can maneuver curling irons in our sleep, and then there are those who prefer curling wands instead. By using a curling wand, you can style gorgeous ringlets or waves without having to toy with unwieldy clamps. The Hot Tools Professional Nano Ceramic Flipperless Tapered Curling Wand is an excellent choice if you can't be bothered with traditional curling irons. Its thermal glove protects your hand, and reviewers can't get over how easy it is to use. "My hair has a hard time holding curls, [and the Hot Tools Tapered Curling Wand] works perfectly! My hair looks great as the day goes on," said one.

‌Purchase Hot Tools Professional Nano Ceramic 1-1/4" Flipperless Tapered Curling Wand at Ulta for $64.99.

For a touch of vintage class, why not add hot rollers to your haircare routine? This Hollywood-approved hot tool might not be as commonplace as irons or wands these days, but fans of the Remington Pro Hair Setter are positively singing its praises.

"[The Remington Pro Hair Setter] has, by far, the best rollers. They're not too hot to the touch, and the heat on my hair is just right," one reviewer wrote. As a precaution, however, we suggest using a heat-resistant glove while handling them. Some benefits of using hot rollers include longer-lasting curls, the ability to style wet or dry hair, and, of course, feeling more glamorous during your grooming routine.

‌Purchase the Remington Pro Hair Setter with Thermaluxe Advanced Thermal Technology on Amazon for $48.50.

After comparing boatloads of beach wave curling irons, only one hot tool emerged victorious. The Hairitage Catch the Wave Curling & Crimping Iron is the undefeated champion of soft, summery styles, as evidenced by endless positive reviews and social media demonstrations. It works wonderfully on a variety of hair types and textures, and the beachy waves it creates can last for ages. "This crimping iron is one of the best hot tools that I have purchased in recent years," wrote one Hairitage enthusiast. "Now, it's my go to hot tool."

Purchase the Hairitage Catch the Wave Curling & Crimping Iron at Walmart for $33.94.

Whether you're a child of the '80s or not, everyone should have a crimper iron in their haircare basket. Even if you have no desire to start your own new-wave band anytime soon, a crimper is your secret weapon when elevating your look in a snap. 

Our choice? The Gold N Hot Professional Ceramic Hair Crimper Iron — the striking texture provided by this crimper is the perfect way to break out of a style rut, and there's no better hot tool for building volume at your roots. "It gets very hot so be careful not to hold it on your hair too long. Just a quick crimp will give you what you're looking for," wrote one user. Once you add the Gold N Hot Crimper to your regular styling regimen, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Purchase the Gold N Hot Professional Ceramic Hair Crimper Iron on Amazon for $2‌6.

We've never seen another curly hair styling hot tool quite like the Curlsmith Hair Defrizzion Dryer & XXL Diffuser. If you have naturally curly or coily hair, you'll definitely want to give this one a try. While other diffusers can take eons to dry and define curls, the Curlsmith covers more hair than you could possibly imagine. Its "XXL" name is no joke, and because its diffuser is so large, it can dry even the densest curls in record time. However, our favorite feature (aside from its genius built-in stand) is how soft it leaves your curls once it's done. "This is hands down the best blow dryer I have ever used," a Curlsmith reviewer raved. "I couldn't believe how [the Curlsmith] brought my curls back to life."

Purchase the Curlsmith Hair Defrizzion Dryer & XXL Diffuser at Sephora for $189.

Looking for the best affordable diffuser for curly hair? Your holy grail hot tool is the Bed Head Curls-in-Check Hair Diffuser Dryer. It's hard to believe this diffuser rings up for less than $30, especially when you factor in its outstanding reviews from curly-haired users. "It works so well, is comfortable to use, and makes my curls look great. No more struggling with the diffuser attachment for a regular blow dryer!" said one Bed Head customer. In addition to its exceptional performance, the Curls-in-Check Diffuser definitely gets our vote for the cutest hot tool on our list, courtesy of Bed Head's colorful design.

‌Purchase the Bed Head Curls-in-Check Hair Diffuser Dryer on Amazon for $24.49.

‌A hot comb is always useful to have on hand for straightening purposes, whether styling your own hair or arranging wigs and other hair pieces. To us, few tools in this category come close to the Andis 38300 Professional Ceramic Press Comb, which can reach temperatures of up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Nonetheless, you don't need to use its maximum temp. to tame unruly tresses, as it features multiple heat settings for you to choose from. "This is what I use on my wigs and it gets the job done. Flat as flat can be," noted one Andis aficionado.

Purchase Andis 38300 Professional Ceramic Press Comb on Amazon for $14.99.

It's not your typical hot comb device, but the L'ange Smooth-It 2-in-1 Digital Straightening Comb is turning heads for all the right reasons. This innovative release combines the power of a hot comb with the ergonomically friendly feel of your favorite hairbrush. The result? Glossier, softer, and straighter hair in a single pass. "I've had a lot of hot brushes over the years. Smooth-It is the best by far. My hair has never felt so smooth and silky!" wrote one Smooth-It user. Plus, if blush pink doesn't fit your aesthetic, L'ange's Digital Straightening Comb is also available in classic black.

‌Purchase the Smooth-It 2-in-1 Digital Straightening Comb at L'ange for $89.

Given the demand for travel-friendly styling tools, we thought that finding the perfect mini dryer would be a relatively easy task — yet it took some time to track down the Panasonic Nanoe Compact Hair Dryer, our pick for the best travel hair dryer you can buy. Stylish, ergonomically friendly, and powerful enough to contend with dryers twice its size, the Nanoe can satisfy the needs of any globetrotting beauty lover. But don't just take our word for it: Reviewers are clearly head over heels for this unique hot tool, too. "I have to say this is the best hair dryer I've ever owned. This little gem is compact and folds to a convenient size for travel or storage," one wrote.

‌Purchase the Panasonic Nanoe Compact Hair Dryer on Amazon for $74.56.

There's nothing more stressful than packing for a short getaway only to realize you're carrying a cumbersome amount of luggage. Luckily, Kristin Ess offers an adorable, travel-friendly hot tool that's easy to stash in a backpack or purse. And though the Kristin Ess Defining & Detailing Titanium Mini Travel Flat Iron is ideal for shorter styles and bangs, it works just as well on longer locks. Designed with ¾" floating titanium plates and a bright, easy-to-see power button, this compact flat iron is sure to keep your hair looking sleek and polished wherever you go.

‌Purchase the Kristin Ess Defining & Detailing Titanium Mini Travel Flat Iron at Target for $51.

Some of us are old enough to recall Remington's electric razor commercials of the 1980s, while others grew up with its wet-to-dry straighteners popularized in the 2000s. Now, the brand makes another affordable flat iron: The Remington Pearl Pro Ceramic Flat Iron Hair Straightener touts floating ceramic plates that are infused with real pearls. Quick heating with accessible controls and a clear digital display, this versatile piece is perfect for those seeking a daily driver at an attractive price point.

Thanks to its pearly finish, Remington's iron smooths frizz and flyaways gently and effectively. "I'm a hairstylist, and I love the way it curls...it leaves the hair silky and shiny," wrote one Remington reviewer.

Purchase the Remington Pearl Pro Ceramic Flat Iron Hair Straightener on Amazon for $34.99.

Many of us have dared to use lesser flat irons on freshly showered hair in the past, but this wet-to-dry straightener is in a class all its own. The Dyson Airstrait Straightener incorporates a host of impressive technological elements, from intuitive airflow sensors to a high-definition color display screen. Rather than sizzling one's tresses like hotcakes on a griddle, the Dyson Airstrait delicately smooths the hair with its intelligent temperature controls. It's no wonder why this chic straightener has garnered hundreds of five-star reviews from loyal fans. "The Airstrait dried my wet curly hair and made it bone straight in 15 minutes!" said one Airstrait owner.

‌Purchase the Airstrait Straightener at Dyson for $499.99.

There are dozens of vented hair straighteners on the market today, but the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Vented Straightening Iron takes the cake as far as we're concerned. Just like BaBylissPRO's Nano Hair Dryer, this elegant hot tool comes with a respectable four-year warranty — not to mention scores of glowing reviews.

Wondering why you should use a vented hair straightener? According to BaBylissPRO, vents can help "eliminate excess heat," sparing your hair from unnecessary damage. Beyond that, the vented straightener sports patented Nano Titanium plates, providing incredible shine and softness with each pass. "I have waist-length thick hair that has a slight wave and tends to frizz, and I can have my whole head pin straight within ten minutes," said one user.

‌Purchase the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Vented Straightening Iron at Ulta for $159.99.

The Conair Knot Dr. Paddle Dryer Brush is winning just about everyone's heart these days, including those who aren't big on paddle brush designs. The Conair Knot Dr.'s soft bristles and adjustable heat settings make this hot pink tool gentle enough for even the most tender scalps. "[It's] not too heavy, fits in my hand perfectly, and the best part [is the] way it massages my scalp. I had to remind myself to stop making passes because it felt so good!" one Knot Dr. fan wrote. Yet there's just one issue: You might have to fight for ownership of this bad boy if you live with other long-haired folks.

Purchase the Conair Knot Dr. Paddle Dryer Brush at Target for $31.99.

If you struggle to replicate your stylist's touch at home, Drybar's Single Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush could be just the thing for you. This buttercup-colored, 2.25" dryer brush is perfect for curling bangs, adding waves, or simply giving one's hair a dose of body and shine. "What a game-changer! I have a lot of fine hair, and the hottest setting isn't too hot to burn my scalp or hair," wrote one reviewer. Many Single Shot users note how Drybar's brush outperforms other dryer brushes on the market, providing salon-worthy blowouts without ever leaving home.

Purchase The Single Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush at Drybar for $155.