If you’re in the market for a new hair dryer, the Dyson Airwrap has likely been on your radar. But with its high price tag, many people are wondering if it’s worth the investment or if its more affordable dupe, the Shark Flexstyle, can deliver similar results without hurting your bank account. Understanding the features, performance, and limitations of each can help you determine which hair tool is truly worth your hard-earned money! Let’s break down these two popular options to see which one comes out on top!
The Dyson Airwrap Specs and Price
The Dyson Airwrap multi-styler is known for its advanced technology and premium price tag of $599.99 (USD). In the box, it comes with a range of attachments, including 1.2” and 1.6” barrels, two smoothing brushes, a volumizing brush, and a Coanda smoothing dryer. Powered by the Dyson Digital Motor V9, it uses enhanced Coanda airflow to style hair without extreme heat, minimizing damage.
The Airwrap is engineered for various hair types, with features like intelligent heat control and negative ions to reduce frizz. Its high-quality design combined with a luxurious storage case justifies the steep price for some but is it worth it for you?
The Shark Flexstyle Specs and Price
The Shark FlexStyle offers a comparable styling experience at a much lower price of $299 (USD). It also includes various attachments, including two 1.25-inch auto-wrap curlers, an oval brush, a paddle brush, and a styling concentrator.
Like the Dyson, it uses Coanda airflow technology, which helps to curl and style hair with minimal heat damage. While it has fewer attachments than the Airwrap, it offers more flexibility with its rotating base, allowing users to switch between a traditional blow dryer and styling tool. Additionally, the Shark FlexStyle’s lightweight design and versatile settings make it a very appealing option at a fraction of the cost.
Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance, both the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle excel in their ability to dry and style hair quickly with minimal heat damage. That said, some report that the Dyson has a slight edge in terms of speed and consistency, drying hair a couple of minutes faster. Some also report that it offers more precision in styling with its re-engineered attachments and intelligent heat control.
The Shark FlexStyle, however, matches the Airwrap in overall styling capabilities and performs admirably with its Coanda effect technology. Both tools provide voluminous curls, smooth finishes, and the ability to style while drying.
Ease of Use Comparison
In terms of ease of use, the Dyson Airwrap’s design is sleek and intuitive, with its range of attachments that click easily into place. Its Coanda smoothing dryer is user-friendly, allowing for both drying and styling in one step.
However, the Shark FlexStyle also offers ease of use, especially with its rotating base, which transforms it from a blow dryer to a multi-styler with ease. The Shark’s twist mechanism allows users to dry and style simultaneously, offering more versatility for those on the go. Both tools are lightweight and ergonomic but the Dyson’s slightly quieter operation and faster drying time may be more worth it for some.
Can Both Devices Handle Different Hair Types and Styles?
Both the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle are designed to handle various hair types, from fine and straight to curly and coily. The Dyson includes attachments specifically for different hair textures, including a curly hair version that swaps one of the smoothing brushes for a wide-tooth comb.
The Shark FlexStyle is equally versatile, with multiple heat and airflow settings that cater to all hair types, and a diffuser attachment for those with curly hair. While the Dyson Airwrap offers a bit more customization with additional attachment options, the Shark FlexStyle covers a wide range of styles with fewer attachments, making it a solid choice for most hair types.
While both the Shark and Dyson come with a variety of attachments, both brands offer additional attachments you can buy. For example, the Shark Flexstyle offers an additional (smaller) round brush, FrizzFighter finishing tool, wet or dry Fusion brush, wide tooth comb, and more. Dyson offers similar tools from a diffuser and wide tooth comb to a new soft smoothing brush, and more.
Durability and Longevity: Which One is Built to Last?
In terms of durability, the Dyson Airwrap is known for its premium build quality. The motor is powerful, and the attachments are robust and designed for long-term use. The storage case included helps protect the device when not in use.
The Shark FlexStyle, while less expensive, also offers impressive durability, with a lightweight design and strong attachments. Its twisting base mechanism is especially noteworthy for its ability to withstand frequent use. While the materials of the Dyson Airwrap (such as its high-quality exterior and sleek finish!) suggest a slightly more premium longevity, both tools are built to last.
Price vs. Value: Is the Dyson Airwrap Really Worth the Investment?
When considering price versus value, the Dyson Airwrap is undoubtedly an investment. At $599.99, this luxury hair tool offers advanced features, faster styling, and a luxurious design. However, the Shark FlexStyle provides nearly identical performance for just $299, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
The Airwrap’s premium price tag may be justified for those who prioritize speed and advanced technology. However, the FlexStyle offers similar functionality at half the price. For many, the Shark FlexStyle provides the best balance of cost and performance, offering substantial value without the hefty price tag. So, which one is right for you? That’s for you to decide!