Gone are the days when dead-straight hair dominated; today's most coveted look is a perfectly bouncy blow dry. However, weekly salon visits or investing in a vintage 1950s hood dryer is both impractical and beyond most budgets. Moreover, if you lack the skill to achieve that look with a hair brush and dryer—such as the GHD Helios or Dyson Supersonic Travel—it can seem impossible.
Fortunately, we have reviewed the best hot brushes and multi-stylers, including Dyson Airwrap alternatives, to find at-home tools that truly deliver. While social media might suggest you need an arsenal of heat-styling tools and products to replicate the iconic 90s look made famous by Cindy Crawford, we know that with the right hot brush and volumising product, it can be just as easy.
For a hot brush to be effective, it must maintain a safe temperature, leave hair shiny, and keep it sleek all day. During testing, we considered design, weight, and price to compile the ultimate list of the best hot brushes on the market. From tools with multiple attachments to compact brushes for the gym, we have one for every need.
Best Hot Brush Quick List
- Best hot brush overall: Dyson Airwrap id Multi-styler
- Best ceramic hot brush: Shark Glam Waves and Curls Multi-Styler
- Best hot brush for short hair: ghd Duet Blowdry Hair Dryer
- Best hot brush for fine hair: Shark SpeedStyle Pro 5-in-1 Hair System
- Best hot brush for bouncy waves: Aeris multi-styler
- Best hot brush for thick hair: Revlon Salon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumiser
How We Test
We tested each hot brush on freshly washed, towel-dried hair. Every styler was used for rough-drying, smoothing, adding volume, and creating curls or waves where attachments allowed. We paid close attention to ease of use, speed, and whether results lasted after the first hour. Airflow, heat control, frizz reduction, and shine were carefully analysed alongside value for money, because great hair should feel effortless.
1. Best Hot Brush Overall: Dyson Airwrap id Multi-styler
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £479.99 from Dyson and Boots
The Dyson Airwrap quickly became one of the most hyped hair tools, and for good reason. It works perfectly on wet, dry, and even greasy hair, making hair look fantastic. All six tools are excellent, but we particularly love the flat brush and round barrels. The flat brush eliminates frizz and adds shine, while the barrel creates salon-quality curls that hold all day. The tools click securely onto the main handle and never fall off. Airflow is consistent and adjustable, giving complete control over heat for safe styling.
However, £479.99 is a significant investment. We recommend it only if it replaces salon visits and you commit to daily use. In terms of smoothness, shine, and frizz control, it is flawless.
2. Best Ceramic Hot Brush: Shark Glam Waves and Curls Multi-Styler
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £299.99 (from £339.99) at Boots
This tool is perfect for achieving slightly defined, gentle curls. It took less than 15 minutes to style an entire head of hair, and could be even quicker with practice. The airflow technology helps wrap hair around the barrel, limiting heat damage and adding shine. It works on wet or partially wet hair, performing best with some moisture. The two barrels curling in different directions are a unique and brilliant addition. The only downside is the noise, which might disturb others if styling late at night.
3. Best Hot Brush for Short Hair: ghd Duet Blowdry Hair Dryer
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £279 (from £379) at Boots
Despite its high price, the ghd Duet impressed with short hair. After initial practice, it produced a lovely, salon-style look that held shape all day. It works well on fringes, though maybe too bouncy for some. Styling takes about 10 minutes, with a single setting and a beep when ready. It uses relatively low heat to reduce damage. However, it is heavy and bulky, but replaces both dryer and styler, which is handy for travel. Often on offer, making it more enticing.
4. Best Hot Brush for Fine Hair: Shark SpeedStyle Pro 5-in-1 Hair System
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £219 from Shark and John Lewis
This system combines a hair dryer and hot brush in one. It dries hair quickly to a smooth, professional finish. Powerful at up to 100mph, it includes attachments that smooth locks and reduce frizz. It operates on four heat and three airflow settings, plus a Cool Shot and Scalp Shield Mode. Lightweight at 660g, it is easy to hold for longer sessions. An excellent choice for fine hair needing volume and bounce.
5. Best Hot Brush for Bouncy Waves: Aeris Multi-styler
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £220 from LookFantastic
This multi-styler feels high-tech with its brushless digital motor. It dries hair noticeably quicker than standard dryers without being overly loud. Advanced ionic technology smooths frizz and boosts shine. Attachments are easy to switch, but the magnetic design can cause twisting or loosening if not careful. It is well-balanced and comfortable to hold, with a super-long three-metre cable. Styles hold well through the day, and it remembers last settings for convenience. Reliable, salon-style results.
6. Best Hot Brush for Thick Hair: Revlon Salon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumiser
Rating: ★★★★★
Price: £49.99 at Boots, £40 at Argos
Arguably the blueprint for hot brushes, this Revlon tool is great value. The round brush is large with strong airflow, ideal for thick, long hair. Hair clings nicely and is easy to manipulate. Perfect for bouncy 90s blow dries, but other styles may be challenging. Two heat settings and one cold setting offer limited temperature control, so hair can get hot; a heat protectant is essential. Results are good, but hold may require setting sprays.
Verdict
Hot brushes are not a fad; they can deliver professional-looking blow dries with patience and practice. They are versatile, working on wet and dry hair, making them a worthwhile investment. Consider hair texture and type when choosing. The Dyson Airwrap is the best overall due to its customisable barrels. For savings, the Shark SpeedStyle Pro with hot brush attachment is a great alternative. For a true hot brush experience, the Revlon One-Step or ghd Duet are excellent choices.
Why Trust Us?
Navigating beauty tech can be overwhelming, but our expert testers have decades of experience testing the best and worst in beauty tech and lifestyle products. We test on various hair types to ensure suitability for most people. All reviews are honest and impartial.
Can I Use Hot Brushes on Wet Hair?
All products in this article can be used on wet hair except the GHD Glide, which uses classic heat styling and is for dry hair only.
Are Hot Brushes Easy for Beginners?
Hot brushes require some practice, but with a few YouTube tutorials, most are suitable for all skill levels.
Do Hot Brushes Reduce Frizz and Add Shine?
Most products on this list reduce frizz and add shine, especially with styling products. The Aeris multi-styler offers the best frizz-free, shiny results.
Do I Need Heat Protection?
Yes, always use heat protection with heated styling tools. Our favourites include Colour Wow Dream Coat, GHD Bodyguard, and Olaplex Volumising Blow Dry Mist.
