Dyson changed the haircare game when it released the original Airwrap. This innovative gadget used directed air, rather than scorching hot barrels, to shape hair into curls. The Airwrap was good news for hair health, but bad news for your wallet — even that original version was a pricey proposition.
It took a while for decent Airwrap alternatives to start to appear. The air-based curling, using a phenomenon called the 'Coanda' effect, was the thing other brands seemed to be struggling to replicate. However, now — almost a decade on — there are plenty of Coanda-equipped multi-stylers on the market to choose from. I tested a whole load of top multi-stylers in my previous role as Homes Editor, and I've collected together my favorite recommendations below. The main brands to look for are Shark and Dreame, both of which have their own established styling tool line.
The Shark FlexStyle is probably the key Airwrap competitor, and does a great job of mimicking Dyson's efforts. I called it "versatile" and "well designed" in my review, and praised the range of compatible attachments. I wasn't so enamored with the newer Shark Glam, which adds in hot plates to smooth things even further, but it could be a winner if you're a fan of the ultra-glossy look.
The Dreame AirStyle Pro is one of the best-looking options around, and the new Dazzle (US only) is especially hi-tech, with attachment recognition. I'll be honest, though, the Airwrap alternative I find myself reaching for most often is my Dynamic Radiance Pro (UK only) — a cheap option that does the job with minimal fuss, and comes with an especially great brush attachment.
Awesome Airwrap-alikes
Pros
- Premium look and feel
- Comfortable to use
- Well-positioned controls
- Auto-wrap curl barrels
Cons
- Not hot enough as a dryer
- Attachments don't clip on securely
- Styles lack staying power
Shark FlexStyle review: a versatile multi-styler to rival the Airwrap
Pros
- Good drying power
- Wide range of attachments
- Balanced, comfortable design
- Curl barrels work like an Airwrap
- Excellent paddle brush
- Well-built
Cons
- - Have to swap barrels to change curl direction
- Styles could lack staying power
- Still quite expensive
- Cord a little short, with power pack
Shark Glam review: an innovative multi-styler that slightly misses the mark
Pros
- Innovative air+hot plates styler
- Lots of compatible attachments
- Good airflow and heat range
- Streamlined design
- Effective auto-wrap curlers
Cons
- Confusing controls
- No way to turn off hot plates
- Bulky plug
Pros
- Auto-wrap barrels work well
- Oval bristle brush is great
- Can create a range of styles
- Low price for this kind of styler
- Long cable
Cons
- Easy to accidentally change settings
- Have to swap barrels to change direction of curl
- Retractable curl barrel pointless
- Limited compatible accessories
- Doesn't feel hugely premium
The real thing...
Considering buying the real thing? The model I'd recommend is the Airwrap i.d., which has a switch to launch an automated wrap > curl > cool shot sequence that takes all the skill and effort out of creating perfect coils. However, if you really want to push the boat out, the newest option is the Co-anda 2X, which has all the same tricks as the i.d. but in a lighter and more powerful package. At the other end of the price spectrum is the Airwrap Origin, which lacks the automation features but is much more wallet-friendly.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Far less heat than traditional stylers
- Creates healthy-looking curls
- Dries hair quickly
Cons
- Incredibly expensive
- Not for all hair types and lengths
- Not the best for travel
Pros
- Effortless curl creation
- Longer-lasting results
- Lots of compatible attachments
- Doubles as a hair dryer
- Left and right curls on same barrel
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Curls don't last as long as with tongs
- Results will vary by hair type
