Dyson has long been synonymous with luxury haircare, with devices typically priced between £300 and £600. However, the brand's latest launch, the Dyson Supersonic travel hair dryer, comes in at a more accessible £249.99 — nearly £100 cheaper than the original Supersonic. After extensive testing at home and on the go, I believe this travel-friendly model might just outshine its pricier counterparts for everyday use.
Design and Features
The travel dryer is remarkably lightweight, weighing just over 300g — less than a can of Coke. Its compact size makes it ideal for packing, and the dual-voltage design (100–240V) means it can be used worldwide, a first for Dyson hair tools. Previous models like the Airwrap and Airstrait are single-voltage, limiting their international usability.
You get one attachment: a concentrator nozzle, which effectively smooths flyaways and static. While diffuser enthusiasts may feel shortchanged, the focus here is portability and ease of travel.
Performance
Despite its smaller size, the travel dryer boasts a motor that matches the power of many premium full-size dryers from other brands. In my tests, it dried my hair from wet to dry in around 15 minutes using the highest heat and speed settings. The airflow is strong enough to reach the roots, and the controlled air direction helps smooth hair without requiring additional straightening.
One minor drawback: I would have appreciated a higher heat setting for creating curls with a round brush. Nevertheless, I achieved subtle face-framing waves, and my hair was left smooth, soft, and sleek.
Heat Control
The dryer monitors air temperature 100 times a second to prevent extreme heat damage, a feature particularly beneficial for those with fragile or colour-treated hair. It offers three heat settings (including a cool shot) and two speed settings.
Comparison with Full-Size Dyson Dryers
While the travel dryer doesn't outperform Dyson's top-tier models like the Supersonic Nural (which auto-adjusts temperature for scalp health) or the Supersonic R (the brand's most powerful motor), it comes remarkably close where it counts. For everyday styling, it offers the signature Dyson speed and finish without the bulk or high price tag.
The full-size Nural costs £399.99, and the Supersonic R is £449.99. The travel dryer, at £249.99, represents a significant saving while still delivering fast drying and smooth results.
Travel Suitability
As a travel companion, the dryer excels. It barely adds weight to your bag — my ghd curling wand weighs about 50g more. The dual-voltage feature is a game-changer for international travellers, eliminating the need for a voltage converter. I used it in a cramped hotel bathroom with no issues.
Who Should Buy It?
This dryer is ideal for anyone seeking a high-performance, portable hair tool at a more accessible price point. It's particularly suited for those with fine to medium hair; those with very thick locks may need a more powerful model. However, for most users, it delivers excellent drying and smoothing performance without compromise.
Key Specifications
- Heat settings: Three (including cool shot)
- Speed settings: Two
- Weight: 331g
- Cord length: 2m
- Voltage: Dual-voltage (100–240V)
Testing Methodology
I tested the Dyson Supersonic travel hair dryer at home and in a hotel for one week, using it as my primary dryer. I evaluated drying speed, styling performance, heat control, weight, travel suitability, and final hair finish. My hair type is medium-length, fine, and prone to breakage from previous heat styling.
Verdict
The Dyson Supersonic travel hair dryer is a smart investment for those who want luxury performance without the luxury price tag. It balances price, portability, and performance admirably, making it a strong contender for both travel and everyday use.
