Hair tools have evolved significantly since the early days of heated plates. In 2026, the best hair straighteners offer a range of technologies, from ceramic and titanium plates to ionic tech for frizz control and even air-flow styling that minimises heat damage. Choosing the right device depends on your hair type and condition, with adjustable temperature settings and plate size being key factors.
Beauty writer testing over a month evaluated leading brands including ghd, Dyson, BaByliss, Remington and Nicky Clarke. Each straightener was used on clean, dry hair with a heat protectant spray, except for wet-to-dry stylers like the ghd duet and Dyson airstrait. Criteria included weight, heat-up time, damage-minimising features and overall performance.
The ghd original styler remains a top pick, praised for its durability and consistent 185°C heat. It creates poker-straight hair or waves quickly, weighs 828g, and has a 30-minute auto shut-off. Suitable for all hair types, it is ideal for those who prefer simplicity without adjustable heat settings.
The Nicky Clarke frizz control straighteners offer five temperature settings up to 230°C and tourmaline-coated plates for sleek results. However, the lock feature was stiff and the temperature labels (1-5) lacked Celsius clarity. Despite these issues, they heat up quickly and straighten effectively at a relatively affordable price.
Other tested models include the Drybar half shot small round brush, which dries and styles simultaneously. The full list of top picks considers factors like weight, heat settings and ease of use, helping readers find the best straightener for their hair type.
