The best-value hair dryers for every budget
Hair dryers are a non-negotiable for anyone with hair. Even if we don't use them often, there's always a point we're reaching for them. Whether it's just for drying your hair off before work or creating a salon-worthy blowout ahead of the weekend, we guarantee you use yours at least once or twice a week.
A good hair dryer can last for years at a time, but a lot of the best ones can be very costly, especially with some of the drying technology that's applied to them today. However, a hair dryer doesn't have to be expensive to be good, and there are some top-tier options for mid-tier prices.
These are our top picks for hair dryers for every type of budget, so take a look to see which one best suits your needs.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
High-end hair dryers
Dyson Supersonic
Known for its ultra-light design and ultra-quiet motor, the Dyson Supersonic is beloved by many. Used in salons the world over, it's another one of Dyson's best-loved hair products. Checking its own temperature 40 times a second, it's the best dryer option to protect your hair from heat damage. Currently on sale at The Good Guys, you can save $150 off the regular retail price.
ghd Helios Hair Dryer
ghd is praised widely for its effective hot tools, and the Helios Hair Dryer has quickly garnered a cult following. With a contoured nozzle that allows airflow to travel at 120km/h, the Helios can style your hair faster, leading to less heat damage. It also makes use of ghd's Aeroprecis technology, which brings a smooth and shiny finish to your hair.
"I didn't need to use a straightener after using this with the nozzle!" one Adore Beauty reviewer commented. "The quality of the tool meant my hair dried faster and evenly, and feels so soft afterwards."
Parlux Power Light 385 Ionic & Ceramic Hair Dryer
Dyson's greatest rival when it comes to drying technology, Parlux dryers are the go-to for hairdressers. If you like the way your hair looks after a salon blow dry, you can achieve the same results with a Parlux dryer at home. Weighing just 465 grams, you can also forgo any strain on your arms or shoulders when perfecting your hair with the Power Light 385. Now 24 per cent off at Amazon, you can get yours for $239.20.
Cloud Nine 'The Airshot' Hair Dryer
Cloud Nine have exploded onto the market in the last few years with their high-tech heated hair tools, and the 'Airshot' is no exception when it comes to quality. A 2000w hairdryer designed for all hair types, it has anti-frizz technology, ceramic heating for efficiency, and a 2.7-metre swivel cord to allow you room to move. With reviews raving about how quick it is, this one is a great time-saver.
Mid-tier hair dryers
Mermade Hair Dryer
Australian brand Mermade Hair is loved by many influencers for its wave wand and hot air brush products, and their hair dryer is no different. Compact and travel-savvy, it has two speed settings, two attachments, and three heat settings – 96, 106, and 116 degrees Celsius. The gentle heat means you can avoid harming your locks, while the lower speed allows frizzy-haired folks to keep on top of their strands.
Silver Bullet Black Velvet Dryer
Much more affordable than some similar options, the Black Velvet Dryer from Silver Bullet is a great everyday option. If your dryer needs are mostly just drying off your wet hair in the morning or before bed, this has just enough power and range to get the job done. It has three heat and airflow settings, so you'll be able to choose one that suits your hair type, and a long-lasting 2000-watt motor.
PHILIPS 5000 Series Hair Dryer
Made using Philips ThermoShield technology, which protects the hair from heat damage, this dryer promises speedy results. Featuring a built-in overheat detection sensor, the dryer optimises and controls air temperature, rather than allowing the hair to overheat. With an airspeed of 110km/h (only slightly slower than the ghd Helios), you can expect easy drying and styling with this affordable dryer.
Most affordable hair dryers
Remington Advanced Coconut Therapy Hair Dryer
Described as being excellent for frizzy hair, this Remington dryer has a number of features that leave your hair smooth. Its advanced conditioning ring has micro-conditioners that are infused with coconut and UV filters, which are released into the airflow for extra nourishment of your strands. It also has an integrated heat sensor that works continuously to regulate the heat of the dryer, avoiding overheating and ultimately, heat damage. While some users have said it's a little heavier than what they'd prefer, the advanced technology and reasonable pricing make this one a must-have.
Remington Proluxe Salon Hair Dryer
Coming with both a styling concentrator and a diffuser, this dryer is ideal for a number of different hair types. Boasting intelligent pro-heat technology for optimum heat styling, you can expect professional results from this dryer. It has a style shot mechanism to set your styling efforts with a blast of cool air, while the 2400-watt motor means it dries hair ultra-fast.
One Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer
A bonus option, given it's not a hair dryer, this drying brush is amazing value for money. With effective heat and drying technology, it allows you to brush through your hair while applying heat. Creating a blowout effect without the need to manage a dryer and a rounded brush, you'll have your hair styled in half the time. Best of all, this is the most affordable option on our list, costing just $29.99 on Amazon.
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