When Dyson launched the Airwrap in 2018, it revolutionised home hair styling with its ability to dry and style simultaneously. However, its premium price tag—around £500—has led many to seek more affordable alternatives. Shark, another vacuum brand, entered the market with the Flexstyle, a multi-styler that promises similar versatility at nearly half the cost. We tested both the Dyson Airwrap i.d and the Shark Flexstyle 5-in-1 to determine which delivers the best results.
Key Differences at a Glance
The Dyson Airwrap i.d costs between £480 and £579, depending on the retailer, while the Shark Flexstyle is priced at £299. Dyson offers six attachments and app connectivity via Bluetooth, while Shark provides six attachments but no app integration. Shark’s tool can transform into a traditional hair dryer by rotating the nozzle, a feature Dyson lacks. Both use Coanda technology to wrap hair around barrels with air, reducing heat damage.
Dyson Airwrap i.d: Features and Performance
The Dyson Airwrap i.d, launched in 2024, includes an AI function that works with the MyDyson app to create a personalised styling sequence. Users input their hair profile and skill level, and the app calculates optimal times for wrapping, styling, and setting. The tool automatically keeps heat below 150°C to prevent damage. Attachments include two barrel sizes for curls, a rounded brush for waves, a flat brush for sleek styles, and a Coanda smoothing dryer for flyaways. The drying attachment is effective but not as powerful as a dedicated hair dryer. Curls created with the Airwrap last up to two days, though tight curls may drop out faster than with traditional curlers.
Shark Flexstyle 5-in-1: Features and Performance
The Shark Flexstyle 5-in-1, updated in 2025, comes with two curling barrels, a rounded bristle brush, a flat smoothing brush, a diffuser, and a styling concentrator. Its standout feature is the ability to switch into a powerful hair dryer, which outperforms the Dyson’s drying attachment. The diffuser is adjustable for different hair lengths. Shark’s barrels create more undone, natural-looking curls, but these tend to fall out quicker than Dyson’s curls. The straightening attachment is a bonus, allowing wet-to-dry styling. The rounded brush offers better grip than Dyson’s large brush, but the flat paddle brush may cause frizz for some hair types.
Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For drying power, the Shark Flexstyle is the clear winner, functioning as a full-fledged hair dryer with a diffuser and concentrator. However, the Dyson Airwrap i.d excels in smoothing frizz and creating long-lasting curls, thanks to its app-guided sequences and superior brush attachments. The Dyson leaves hair sleeker and more polished, while Shark’s results are more casual and natural. Given the nearly £200 price difference, the Shark Flexstyle offers excellent value, especially for those who prioritise drying speed and versatility. If you can afford the premium, the Dyson Airwrap i.d remains the top choice for salon-quality styling at home.
