Even if you’re obsessed with your curls and coils, every once in a while, you might be in the mood to switch up your style. And in most cases, this means you’re going to need a good hot tool. The best flat irons can effectively straighten your hair without creating a risk of heat damage.
But some people want a straightener that can also pull double-duty as a curling tool. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best hair straighteners for all hair types. Plus, we’re highlighting what you need to consider as you shop for the right tool to help you straighten your hair without increasing the risk for damage.
In this article:
- Our Picks for the Best Hair Straighteners
- What to Look for in the Best Hair Straightener for You?
- Hair Straightener FAQs
Best Hair Straighteners Overview
- Best Overall: ghd Max Styler – 2″ Wide Plate Flat Iron
- Best Splurge: Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener
- Best Budget: Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Flat Iron
- Best Cordless: ghd Unplugged Styler Cordless Flat Iron
- Best for Waves: L’Oreal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & Styler
- Best for Travel: T3 SinglePass Compact 0.8-Inch Travel Straightening & Styling Flat Iron
- Best for Fast Results: Bio Ionic 10x 1-Inch Pro Styling Iron
- Best for Damaged Hair: Revlon Double Straight Copper + Ceramic Dual Plate Flat Iron
- Best for Curls: Hot Tools Professional Black Gold 1-Inch Micro Shine Flat Iron
- Best for Beginners: Drybar The Tress Press Digital Styling Iron
- Best Lightweight: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron
- Best for Frizzy Hair: Nition Professional Salon Hair Straightener
- Best for Quick Heat-up Time: Chi Original 1-Inch Ceramic Hairstyling Iron
Our Picks for the Best Hair Straighteners
If you have never used a hair straightener and worry that it might damage your hair, worry no more. We have taken the time to pick out the best flat irons to help you achieve the best results.
Straightening your hair shouldn’t be a battle. You need a good hair straightener that maintains consistent heat, doesn’t tug at your hair, and infuses shine so that your hair doesn’t revert 20 minutes later. The GHD Max Styler is one of the best hair straighteners featuring two-inch ceramic plates designed specifically to tackle thick, curly hair.
Along with helping to infuse shine, this is a great starter straightener, as it’s preset at 365 degrees Fahrenheit. However, for people with coarser hair, the heat may not be enough to achieve a sleek style. But you’ll like that this straightener supports universal voltage, so it’s perfect for taking with you on your travels. Buy it at Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta, or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 365°F preset temperature
- Plate Width: 2 inches
- Plate Type: Ceramic
- Voltage: Universal voltage
- Hair Type: Thick, curly hair
If money is no object, then opting for a premium hair straightener from British appliance brand Dyson is a worthy investment. Designed to tackle all hair types, the Corrale is a great solution for transforming even the curliest of hair into pin-straight, sleek locks. Whether you’re a Type 2 or Type 4 head, the Coralle relies on flexing plates to ensure that every strand is gently straightened without the risk of breakage. Additionally, the premium technology ensures that you don’t have to use as much heat to achieve the same results.
And you’ll like that this is a convertible option with a removable cord, ensuring that you don’t get tangled in cords. Instead of relying on a built-in cord, you’ll get a charging base that can recharge your straightener in just 70 minutes. This straightener features three adjustable heat settings – 330, 365, and 410 degrees Fahrenheit – making it ideal for all hair types. Buy it at Sephora or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 3 heat settings – 330°F, 365°F, and 410°F
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Manganese copper
- Voltage: Universal voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Rechargeable cordless design
- Flexing plates to reduce breakage
- Designed to accommodate all hair types
- Cord-free styling for added maneuverability
- 30-minute run time
- 10-minute inactivity auto shut off
Cons
- May be too pricey for some
Just because you’re wallet-conscious doesn’t mean that you have to suffer from a subpar product. The Conair flat iron is one of the best hair straighteners if you’re shopping on a budget. The one-inch plates offer versatility, as you can easily straighten and curl your hair for a wider array of styling options.
You’ll get five heat settings up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for a wider range of hair types. The floating plates also ensure that your hair will experience less damage. Better still, you’ll get uniform heat output for more consistent results. The longer plates also mean that you can work through wider sections of hair. Additionally, 30-second heating, as well as a rotating cord, makes for a more functional appliance. Buy it on Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 5 heat settings up to 410°F
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Ceramic
- Voltage: Dual voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- 1-inch plates ideal for straightening or creating waves & curls
- 5 temperature settings accommodate all hair types
- Handle lock ideal for storage/travel
- 30-second heat-up
Cons
- Depending on products used, white finish may show dirt faster
- May have to use more pressure to force plates to close completely when in use
Going cord-free has its advantages – especially if you’re trying to use a straightener when you’re on the go. The GHD Unplugged Styler is a sleek pick designed to be as versatile as you. Available in both black and white, this is one of the best hair straighteners for travel, thanks to its compact approach. You’ll get up to 20 minutes of use on a full charge.
As with some other GHD models, this straightener is preset to 365 degrees Fahrenheit and features sleek plates that support straightening and curling. The plates heat up quickly in just 45 seconds, and you can fully recharge this device in two hours via the included USB-C cord, thanks to the built-in lithium-ion battery. When not in use, store it in the included heat-resistant case. Buy it at Nordstrom or Sephora!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 365°F preset temperature
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Ceramic
- Voltage: Universal voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Compact, cordless design makes it ideal for travel
- 20-minute runtime
- USB-C rechargeable
- Quick 45-second heat-up time
- 1-inch plates perfect for straightening and curling
Cons
- May be pricey for some
- 365°F preset may be insufficient for very coarse hair types
When you’re shopping for a straightener that can also double as a curler, you’ve got to find the right design. The L’Oreal Professionnel Steampod is the best pick for this task. Along with one-inch floating aluminum plates, you’ll get a uniquely designed straightener with a curved exterior to help encourage waves and curls.
This pick relies on steam to further infuse shine and gently straighten your hair. Choose from one of three temperature settings, from 350 to 410 degrees Fahrenheit, making this perfect for all hair types and textures. And the built-in comb helps to hold hair taut so that you can effectively straighten or curl it without having to rely on the chase method. Also, the built-in water tank can hold enough water to support a full head hair straightening routine. Buy it at Sephora, Ulta, or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 3 heat settings – 350°F, 390°F, and 410°F
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Aluminum
- Voltage: 220
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Versatile hot styling tool can replace curling iron or wavers
- Dual straightening and curling support
- Built-in comb
- Relies on steam for frizz control
- Intelligent heat control checks twice per second
Cons
- Thicker/coarser hair types may still need to rely on chase method to straighten hair
When you’re traveling, maximizing space is a priority. The T3 compact styler is the perfect solution that can easily fit into your carry-on or weekender bag. This petite straightener comes with a heat-resistant cap so you can store it – even after just using it. With tiny 0.8-inch-wide plates, this pick is perfect even for people with ultra-short hair.
The floating custom blend ceramic plates are designed to boost shine while fighting frizz. And thanks to the beveled plates, you can easily create curls or flip ends just as quickly as you can straighten your hair. You’ll get a fixed 410 degrees Fahrenheit output, which makes this best for coarser hair types. And the dual voltage makes this a must-have solution for the passport-carrying beauty lover. Buy it at Nordstrom, Sephora, or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 410°F preset temperature
- Plate Width: 0.8 inch
- Plate Type: Ceramic & iconic
- Voltage: Dual voltage (100-240V)
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- 8’ 360-degree swivel cord
- Compact design is perfect for carry-on placement
- Beveled plates ideal for straightening and curling
- Comes with heat-resistant cap
- 1-hour automatic shut off
Cons
- Fixed 410°F temperature may be too hot for fine, straight hair types
The one-inch plate is a fan favorite for a reason – it’s versatile and will work with most hair lengths. The Bio Ionic flat iron features a precision LED and unique construction that’s designed to get you ready and out the door in no time. You’ll get vibrating plates that help to increase surface contact across every strand of hair for enhanced straightening and a polished finish.
With a maximum temperature output of 450 degrees Fahrenheit, this pick is perfect for all hair types and can achieve the consistent high heat required for specific straightening techniques like silk presses and Brazilian straightening. And thanks to the rounded barrel design, you can also create soft waves. Buy it at Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta, or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: Up to 450ºF
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Sonic vibrating
- Voltage: Dual voltage (120V-22V)
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Vibrating plates ensures more thorough straightening & styling
- Rounded barrel boosts styling versatility
- 1-hour automatic shut off
Cons
- 450ºF temperature may be too high for people with fine, straight hair
When you have damaged hair, you need to be careful about the hot tools you use. You want to minimize excessive heat exposure. And this means that when using a hair straightener, you want to ensure that it’s just hot enough to effectively straighten or style your hair with one pass to prevent heat damage.
The Revlon flat iron is the best pick for damaged hair because it relies on copper-infused ceramic plates to provide more consistent results and less frizz. Additionally, the increased number of plates supports faster styling while also limiting heat exposure. The first set of plates straightens your hair, while the second set helps to set your sleek style. And you’ll be able to reach up to 455 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to multiple heat settings. Buy it at Ulta or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 10 heat settings from 285ºF to 455ºF
- Plate Width: 4 x ½ inch
- Plate Type: Copper ceramic
- Voltage: Dual voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Safe for all hair types with 10 heat settings
- Supports one-pass heat styling
- Offers faster styling
- 1-hour shut off
Cons
- Dual plate design not ideal for curling
We can’t stress enough that if you’re trying to find a flat iron that can pull double duty as a curler, you need to focus on models with a one-inch-wide plate. The Hot Tools iron is the perfect tool for the job. Along with straightening, it’s optimized with a round barrel to support waves, curls, and even simple flipped ends.
With 27 heat settings up to 455 degrees Fahrenheit, this is a hot tool designed for all hair types. Additionally, you’ll get quick heating and consistent temperature output. And you never have to wonder if you have the right temperature, thanks to the LED temperature display. Plus, for added safety, a heat protective glove is included. Buy it at Ulta or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 27 heat settings up to 455ºF
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Gold & titanium
- Voltage: Universal dual voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- 9’ swivel cord
- LED temperature display
- Comes with heat protective glove
- Wide temperature range support is ideal for all hair types
- Rounded barrel makes this a versatile styling tool
- Audible confirmation that desired temperature has been reached
Cons
- Plates may snag hair
- May be too hot for fine hair textures
Whether you only straighten your hair occasionally or just want something fairly straightforward, Drybar’s Styling Iron is one of the best hair straighteners for beginners. You’ll get rounded edges, which allow you to use this straightener to curl and straighten your hair. Choose between one-inch or 1.25-inch titanium floating plates designed to help seal the cuticle to minimize frizz.
This pick can heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and is designed so you can easily straighten or curl hair in a single pass. You’ll also appreciate the dual voltage support, nine-foot rotating cord, and 60-minute automatic shut-off safety feature. Buy it at Sephora, Nordstrom, Ulta, or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: Up to 450ºF
- Plate Width: 1.25 inches
- Plate Type: Titanium
- Voltage: Dual voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- 9’ swivel cord
- 60-min auto shut off
- Simple interface makes this a goof-proof pick
- Wide temperature range ideal for all hair types
- Curved design supports straightening and curling
Cons
- May be pricey for some
If you’re familiar with hot tools, then you’ve heard of BaBylissPro. Their Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron is considered one of the best hair straighteners and a fan favorite for many reasons. Along with being a lightweight pick that’s fairly travel-friendly, you’ll like that it’s available in three plate widths – one, 1.5, and two inches.
You’ll get 50 heat settings with a maximum output of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The titanium-coated ceramic plates are designed for withstanding ultra-high heat, quick heat-up, and recovery throughout each styling session. And you’ll get full-floating five-inch plates for less pulling and resistance. In addition, the curved design ensures you can use this straightener to curl, straighten, or create waves. Buy it at Ulta or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 50 heat settings up to 450ºF
- Plate Width: 3 plate widths available – 1, 1.5, and 2 inches
- Plate Type: Titanium
- Voltage: Single voltage
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Range of plate widths ideal for all hair lengths
- 9’ 360-degree swivel cord
- Large setting controls perfect for customization
- Floating plates with fast heat support
Cons
- May be pricey for some
When you have frizzy hair, heat alone isn’t always enough to keep your hair sleek. The Nition flat iron relies on a tourmaline ceramic titanium plate that’s infused with argan oil and nano-silver to banish frizz. Available in two colors, this straightener can help lock in your hair’s natural moisture without pulling or snagging on your hair.
Choose from six precision temperatures from 265 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, making it safe for all hair types. The rounded design allows you to straighten and curl your hair. Additionally, this straightener comes with a heat-resistant glove, two alligator clips, and a salon comb. The dual voltage support makes this pick perfect for travel as well. Buy it on Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 6 temperature settings from 265ºF to 450ºF
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: ceramic-coated tourmaline titanium
- Voltage: Dual voltage (100V-240V)
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- 9’ 360-degree swivel cord
- 5-in-1 plates infused with argan oil & nano-silver to lock in moisture and smooth hair for less frizz
- Wide temperature range ideal for all hair types
- Includes clips, comb, and heat-resistant glove
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Adjusting temperature settings can be difficult
No one wants to spend minutes waiting for their hair straightener to reach the desired temperature. If time isn’t your friend, the Chi Original flat iron is a must-have solution. This fan-favorite is preset to 392 degrees Fahrenheit and quickly heats up so you can focus on styling your hair. The ergonomic design includes rounded edges, which are perfect for curling and flipping along with straightening your hair.
You’ll like that this pick incorporates far infrared technology that penetrates the hair. The ceramic plates release negative ions that help to add moisture and boost shine. You’ll also get less frizz and static. Buy it at Ulta or Amazon!
Key Features:
- Temperature: 392°F preset temperature
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Ceramic
- Voltage: 110V-240V AC
- Hair Type: All
Pros
- Ceramic plates emit ions to boost moisture and shine
- Works to reduce static and frizz
- Fast heating technology
- Swivel cord
Cons
- 392°F preset may be too high for fine textures
What to Look for in the Best Hair Straightener for You?
Finding the right hair straightener for your hair is a personal process. Along with ensuring that it’s functional and effective at its core goal – straightening – you also want a hot tool that’s fairly easy to use with a minimal, preferably non-existent learning curve.
Consider the Plate Material
You’ll notice from our roundup that most hair straighteners highlight the plate material. This is important because you should match the plates to your hair type or hair goals.
- The most basic option is usually ceramic. Ceramic is great in that it provides even heat distribution and usually takes longer to reach the desired temperature. This is a plus if you have fine or damaged hair, but not if you have thick or coarse hair.
- In contrast, titanium is the go-to material of choice for anyone with hair that’s defined as thick or tougher to style. It tends to heat up faster and is better at achieving a sleek, straight look. But also note that you can find combinations such as ceramic-titanium or titanium-tourmaline.
- There are benefits to opting for a blended plate material. For example, tourmaline is usually ideal because you can straighten hair with less heat – meaning you’re helping to minimize heat exposure and the risk of heat damage.
Plate Size
Equally as important as the plate material is the plate size. While this usually refers to the width, you’ll note in our guide that some of our top picks also feature extended-length plates, which can also help you work through your hair faster. Usually, plates are measured in inches.
The most popular option is the one-inch plate. This is a fairly universal option that will be ideal for most hair lengths. Additionally, with a one-inch plate, you’ll usually get more versatility. This means that you have a hair straightener that can double as a hot tool that can curl or create waves.
However, if you’re solely focused on straightening your hair – or have very long hair – you might prefer a wider plate. Typically, people with very long, thick, or curly hair are encouraged to use a hair straightener with a two-inch plate. Conversely, if you have ultra-short hair, you may find that a one-inch plate is too large. In this case, opting for a shorter width such as a half-inch plate is a better option.
Floating Plates
These days, floating plates are a fairly standard feature for hair straighteners – but they’re not always included. Floating plates usually mean that a straightener is less likely to snag or pull at your hair as you use it. But along with floating plates, you’ll want a hair straightener with smooth or glossy plates, ensuring less catching.
Versatility
Think about whether you want a hair straightener solely to get your hair pin-straight or whether you also want to add curls or waves to your hair. If you’re focusing on a multifunctional beauty tool, then you’ll want to prioritize straighteners that have beveled plate edges or a rounded barrel design. Note that this is also why picking the right plate width is important, as wider plates are more difficult to manipulate when trying to achieve texture.
Temperature Control
You’ll find that temperature ranges can vary widely across flat irons. And depending on your hair type or the type of style you’re attempting, this is going to be an important factor. Not all hair types will respond well to every temperature setting. And most hot tools (including straighteners) will usually support a temperature ranging from 350 to 410 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some tools offer lower (as low as 270 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher settings (up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit). But for most people, a range of 350 to 410 degrees Fahrenheit is sufficient for at-home use. Similarly, some brands also offer hair straighteners that are preset to only reach one temperature. This can be good if you know your hair type and the ideal straightening temperature for your hair.
Thinner or damaged tresses should avoid going beyond 365 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, if you’re attempting styles that require consistent high heat (such as silk presses or Brazilian straightening treatments), you’ll want a hair straightener that can reach 450 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve the silky smooth results you’re craving.
Regardless of the temperature, pick a flat iron that can maintain a consistent temperature. Additionally, look for models that can reach your desired setting quickly. Depending on your goals, you might prefer a straightener that allows for more individualized controls rather than a model that has a handful of presets. Whichever you choose, be sure to pick a temperature where you can easily straighten or style your hair with a single pass to avoid excess heat exposure, which can cause damage.
Travel-Friendly
If you plan on taking your hot tools when you hit the road, picks that can travel well are important. At a minimum, you’ll want a straightener that supports dual voltage. Using an appliance that isn’t dual voltage compatible means that you run the risk of shorting the internal wiring and permanently damaging it.
Additionally, many hair straighteners come with accessories that cover the plates, protecting you and your other items from heat damage. Or, you might find features like built-in velcro closure tabs helpful to keep long power cords organized.
Accessories
Although this isn’t a requirement, some flat irons come with accessories that make using the appliance significantly easier. For example, if you’re trying to straighten your hair, a hot tool that comes with alligator clips to help you section your hair is a nice touch. Similarly, heat-resistant gloves make handling freshly straightened hair significantly easier.
Durability
Beauty tools are an investment – whether for your face, body, or hair. You’ll want to be sure that you’re buying a quality hot tool that won’t fall apart or stop working a few months after you purchase it. But, keep in mind that this is one product category where price doesn’t always equal quality. It is possible to find budget-priced hair straighteners that can last for years and expensive luxury versions that don’t last one year. So, when in doubt, always read customer reviews.
Hair Straightener FAQs
To help you make the most out of your new flat iron, below, we answer some of the most common questions relating to hair straighteners.
First, it’s important to start with clean, dry hair. Using a flat iron on wet hair can encourage permanent heat damage. Similarly, always make sure that your hair is properly detangled before you begin. Depending on your starting texture, you may need to use the chase method to achieve a smooth, straight finish.
The chase method is when you use a brush or comb to hold the hair taut and “chase” the brush or comb with your flat iron from your roots to your tips. In most cases, if you have curly or coily hair (type 3 or 4), you’re going to need to use the chase method to avoid excessive heat exposure from repeated passes.
Before you begin straightening your hair, always start with a heat protectant. Whether it’s a serum or a spray, this ensures that your hair isn’t being damaged by heat exposure. However, for best results, be sure to use a heat setting that’s just enough so that you can successfully straighten, flip, or curl your hair without having to rely on repeated passes.
Start with two-inch-wide sections that aren’t too thick, and work methodically through your hair. If necessary, section your hair using clips. Try to avoid dragging the iron over the hair so that it catches, as this will cause crimps and can also pull at your hair.
Product build-up on a flat iron is inevitable. But you should clean your styling tool after every use. First, unplug it and let it cool down before wiping it down with a damp cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol. Once finished, follow up with a dry paper towel or cotton pad to remove any remaining moisture.
The short answer is, it depends. If you have fine or damaged hair, a ceramic straightener can be better since it heats up more slowly – meaning that your hair is exposed to less damage. Meanwhile, people with thicker or coarse hair may benefit more from a titanium straightener, which not only heats up faster but can also effectively straighten hair with less heat required.
The quick answer is – please don’t do this. Traditional flat irons are not intended for use on wet hair. You’ll be exposing your hair to direct contact with heat, which can lead to permanent damage.
However, there’s a long answer as well. While there are wet-dry hair straighteners designed to simultaneously dry and straighten your hair, most hair experts warn against using them. Although steam can be effective at boosting a hair straightener’s performance, excessive exposure is similar to using heat that’s too high.
In most scenarios, wet-dry hair straighteners aren’t intended for use on dripping wet hair. The hair is still meant to be damp or just slightly wet. This is because, unlike a blow dryer, a hair straightener applies direct contact heat to your hair. It causes water to evaporate – but that also means your hair can lose critical moisture. And it’s important to note that hair is in its most fragile state when it’s wet. With repeated use, this can ultimately damage your hair and lead to permanent frizziness.
The single most important thing you can do is not rely on your hot tools for daily styling. While convenient, sustained exposure to high temperatures can lead to permanent damage. At a minimum, this can translate to frizz. But for curly or coily textures, heat damage can manifest as patches of hair that don’t return to their original texture when washed.
Along with being sparing with your heat tool use, also invest in a good heat protectant. This will help to minimize heat exposure. Additionally, be sure that you’re not using too high a heat. Even if you have a hair straightener that can achieve 450 degrees Fahrenheit, most hair care routines don’t call for heat that high.
If you’re just starting to use heat tools, you might need to engage in a bit of trial and error to find the optimal temperature that allows you to effectively straighten or curl your hair with a single pass.
Photos via Nordstrom, Sephora, Instagram