Best Dyson Airwrap Alternatives for Curling, Smoothing & Drying

The top pick for most people is the Shark FlexStyle. It matches the Airwrap’s core trick—using air instead of extreme heat to curl, smooth, and dry—at roughly half the price, and it comes with a built-in diffuser that the Dyson lacks. If you want the closest performance-to-price ratio without sacrificing attachments, this is it.

What to Look For

Before comparing models, understand what actually separates a good Airwrap alternative from a gimmick:

• Airflow technology: The whole point is high-velocity air that styles hair while it dries. Look for a motor with at least 100,000 RPM (or equivalent airflow rating) and a Coanda effect—the phenomenon that wraps hair around the barrel without heat damage.
• Heat control: The best alternatives use intelligent heat sensors (measuring air temperature up to 1,000 times per second) to keep the heat below 150°C (300°F). Avoid cheap stylers that rely on hot plates.
• Attachment set: For curling, you need at least two barrel sizes (e.g., 1.2″ and 1.6″). For smoothing, a paddle or round brush. For drying, a concentrator nozzle. Some models include a diffuser for curly hair—a bonus if you need it.
• Weight and ergonomics: A heavy styler will tire your arm. Look for under 1.5 lbs (680 g) and a balanced handle design.
• Versatility: Does it work on wet hair (drying) and dry hair (styling)? Can you switch between left and right curl directions? These matter for everyday use.

Shark FlexStyle

Strengths: The FlexStyle is the closest direct competitor to the Airwrap. It uses the same Coanda air technology, has a pivoting head that bends like a hair dryer, and includes two curling barrels, a round brush, a paddle brush, and a concentrator. It also has a diffuser—something Dyson charges extra for. The motor is 100,000 RPM, and it has 3 heat and 3 speed settings plus a cool shot.

Trade-offs: It’s bulkier than the Airwrap and slightly louder. The curling barrels are not as long, so you’ll need to work in smaller sections. The attachments are not interchangeable with Dyson’s.

Who it suits: Anyone who wants Airwrap-like results without the premium price. Ideal for those with medium to thick hair who need a diffuser.

Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus

Strengths: This is a hot air brush, not a true Coanda styler, but it’s wildly popular for its ability to dry and smooth simultaneously. The oval brush with nylon and boar bristles grabs hair and adds volume while the 1100W motor dries quickly. It’s very affordable—often under $60.

Trade-offs: It uses a heated barrel (up to 120°C) which can cause damage if overused. It doesn’t curl—it only smooths and adds volume. Not suitable for very thick or coarse hair as it can take longer to dry.

Who it suits: Budget-conscious users with fine to medium hair who want a quick blowout look without learning curl techniques.

Dyson Supersonic (with curling attachments)

Strengths: If you already own a Dyson Supersonic hair dryer, you can buy the Airwrap’s curling barrels and smoothing brushes separately (they fit the Supersonic’s barrel). This gives you the exact same Airwrap performance for less than buying a whole new device. The Supersonic has intelligent heat control and a powerful digital motor.

Trade-offs: The attachments are still pricey (around $100-150). You won’t get the Airwrap’s wand-style handle, which some find easier to maneuver.

Who it suits: Existing Dyson Supersonic owners who want to expand their styling options without a second device.

Beachwaver B1 (or similar rotating curlers)

Strengths: These are not air stylers but automatic rotating curlers that clamp and spin hair around a ceramic barrel. They produce consistent, long-lasting curls with less skill required. They’re much cheaper than the Airwrap and come in multiple barrel sizes.

Trade-offs: They use direct heat (up to 200°C), so they can damage hair if used daily. They don’t dry hair—you must start with dry or mostly dry hair. No smoothing or volume function.

Who it suits: People who primarily want curls and don’t need a multi-styler. Good for special occasions.

Hot Tools Pro Signature 24K Gold Blowout Brush

Strengths: This is a high-quality hot air brush with a 1.5″ round barrel and a mix of nylon and tufted bristles. It dries and smooths in one pass, adds shine, and is known for durability. It has 2 heat settings and a cool shot, and the 24K gold coating distributes heat evenly.

Trade-offs: No curling barrels—only the round brush. It’s a single-purpose tool. The barrel gets hot (up to 150°C), so it’s not as gentle as air-only stylers.

Who it suits: Those who want a professional-quality blowout brush for smoothing and adding bounce, and don’t need curls.

How to Choose

Start with your budget. If you can spend $250-300, the Shark FlexStyle is the only true Airwrap alternative with the same technology. Below $100, you’re looking at hot air brushes like the Revlon One-Step, which are great for smoothing but not curling. If you already have a Dyson hair dryer, buying attachments is the smartest upgrade.

Next, consider your hair type and primary need. For fine hair that needs volume, a hot air brush is sufficient. For thick or curly hair that needs drying power and smoothness, you’ll want a high-RPM motor like the FlexStyle. If you curl your hair daily, invest in a Coanda-based tool to minimize heat damage.

Common trade-offs: Air stylers are gentler but take longer to set a curl (especially on humid days). Heat-based curlers are faster but risk damage. Multi-stylers are versatile but heavy. Single-purpose tools are lighter and cheaper but limited. Decide which compromise you can live with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any of these alternatives curl hair as well as the Dyson Airwrap?

The Shark FlexStyle comes closest because it uses the same Coanda effect. Hot air brushes cannot curl—they only smooth. Rotating curlers can curl but use heat plates.

Are these alternatives safe for color-treated hair?

Yes, if they have temperature control. The FlexStyle and Dyson Supersonic maintain lower temperatures. Hot air brushes and rotating curlers can be used on color-treated hair if you use a heat protectant and lower heat settings.

How long does a curl last with an air styler?

On most hair types, 2-4 hours with a light hold spray. For longer-lasting curls, use a mousse or setting spray before styling and cool shot after.

Do these tools work on very thick or coarse hair?

The FlexStyle and Dyson Supersonic are powerful enough. Hot air brushes may struggle—you’ll need to dry in sections. Rotating curlers can handle thick hair but take longer.

Can I use these on wet hair?

Air stylers like the FlexStyle and Dyson Supersonic can dry wet hair. Hot air brushes can also be used on damp hair. Rotating curlers require dry hair to avoid damage.

Are there any cheaper alternatives under $50?

Yes, but they are limited to hot air brushes. The Revlon One-Step is the best under $60. For curling, you’d need to look at basic curling irons, which are not direct alternatives.

Bottom Line

For most people, the Shark FlexStyle is the best Dyson Airwrap alternative because it replicates the air-wrapping technology at a lower price and includes a diffuser. If you’re on a tight budget, the Revlon One-Step Plus is a solid pick for smoothing and volume. If you already own a Dyson Supersonic, buy the Airwrap attachments instead. Avoid cheap knock-offs that claim Coanda effect—they don’t work. Always use a heat protectant, regardless of tool.

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