Hair dryer test 2025: The 18 best hair dryers for every hair type and every budget - tested and rated by our editors
A hairdryer only dries your hair – you might think. Choosing the right hairdryer has a much bigger impact on our hair: this is what it takesa diffuser, straighter hair a concentrated nozzle. If the right choice is made, a good blow dryer can reduce damage, add shine and give curls new bounce.
You have the choice. Do you want a hairdryer that dries particularly hot and quickly? A gentle one, umto minimize? Or maybe a hairdryer that is lightweight and compact for travel?
We took a close look at the best hair dryers on the market and tested them ourselves.What you should pay attention to before buying, how to blow-dry your hair correctly and an overview of what hairdryer attachment is good for – you will find all of this in this article. We wish you happy hair drying and happy shopping!
The best hair dryers at a glance – our top picks
- Best blow dryer overall: “Brown HD4.3”
- Best Professional Blow Dryer: “ghd Helios”
- Best compact hair dryer: “T3 Fit Compact Dryer”
- Best hair dryer with powerful motor: “Air Power Pro” from BaByliss
How much should a hair dryer cost?
The price range for hair dryers is very wide, and there are models for every budget. You can find simple hair dryers that do the basic tasks for around 20 euros. On the other hand, there are high-end models like those from, which with advanced technologies and elegant design can cost several hundred euros.
Which hairdryer is right for you depends largely on your personal needs and preferences. If you are looking for a model that offers a good balance between performance, features and price, a budget between 50 and 150 euros is the right choice. In this price segment you will find hair dryers that offer sufficient power, useful functions such as ionic technology and reliable heat regulation - without putting too much strain on your wallet.
This is what you should pay attention to when buying a hair dryer
- Heat regulation:Good heat regulation is crucial to protecting hair from damage. Modern hair dryers offer multiple temperature settings that can be individually adjusted. A bonus: cold stage systems are great for fixing the styling.
- Ionic function: The ionic function is particularly useful for preventing frizz and giving hair a natural shine. This technology counteracts static electricity in the hair and ensures a smoother finish.
- Weight:A light hairdryer makes handling easier, especially for longer drying processes. A hairdryer that is too heavy can hurt your arms and make styling unnecessarily difficult.
- Cable length:The cable length is an often underestimated criterion. A long cable offers more flexibility and freedom of movement, you can move your arms easily and have room to move in front of the mirror.
- Accesories:Accessories such as diffusers, concentrator nozzles and comb attachments significantly expand the possible uses of the hair dryer. If you like trying out different hairstyles, you should look for a model with extensive accessories.
- Perfomance:The power of a hairdryer, measured in watts, determines how quickly the hair is dried - an important point, especially for the impatient among us. A power between 1800 and 2200 watts is ideal for drying the hair efficiently without overheating it.
- Volume:Do you live in a shared apartment or with your partner? Then the volume of a hair dryer can be a decisive factor.
Our selection of the best hair dryers in the big hair dryer test
Ready, set, dry!Our editors have started testing hair dryers and show which models are much more than just hot air.
1. Best hair dryer overall: “Braun HD4.3”
- Tested by:Leona Ullmann, Affiliate Beauty Editor
- Hair type:Wavy, colored
Leona Ullmann, Affiliate Beauty Editor, tests the “Braun HD4.3”
GLAMOR affiliate editorial teamWhy we love him:At first glance, this hairdryer looks simple. But its many small details show that a lot has been considered here.Leona Ullmannthinks: “Little things, like a notch so you can easily wind up the cable, a flexible cable joint and a smart light that shows when you need to clean the filter, convince me. In terms of handling, the 'Braun HD4.3' is super easy to use, even though it offers so many functions.”
- Wattage:2200 W
- Essays:3
- Speed levels: 2
- Heating levels: 3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
2. Bester compact hair dryer: “T3 Fit Compact Dryer”
- Tested by:Lilly Thumm, Intern Photo Editorial
- Hair type:Wavy, toned with highlights
Lilly Thumm, Intern Photo Editorial, tested the “T3 Kompakt”
GLAMOR affiliate editorial teamWhy we love him: Lilly Thummlikes to blow-dry her long, naturally wavy hair straight with a hairdryer: “With my thick and large hair, it is very important to me that a hairdryer has enough power to dry it quickly. The 'T3 Fit Compact Dryer' can do just that and fortunately it doesn't cause muscle soreness in the upper arms. It fits well in the hand and is easy to use. I particularly like the simple design and the practical attachment.”
- Wattage:1600 W
- Essays:1
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
3. Best hair dryer with a powerful motor: “Air Power Pro” from BaByliss
- Tested by:Franziska Fuchs, Trainee Fashion Editorial
- Hair type:Fine and smooth
Franziska Fuchs, Trainee Fashion Editorial, tests the “BaByliss Air Power Pro”
GLAMOR affiliate editorial team“BaByliss Air Power Pro”
Hairdryer with high-speed motor, ionic technology and two attachments
Why we love him:According to the manufacturer, this hair dryer is the fastest on the market with its speed of 244 km/h. The reason for this is a high-speed digital motor that ensures an aerodynamic airflow. The special thing about it: Despite this, you can hardly hear it.Franziska Fuchsnoted: “I was totally surprised at how light and quiet the hairdryer was. The second surprise was how much power can come from such a small thing, so my hair dried in no time.”
- Wattage:1700 W
- Essays:3
- Speed levels:3
- Heating levels:4
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
4. Best hair dryer according to GLAMOR Beauty & Wellness Power List Award: “Dyson Supersonic Nural”
- Tested by:Anna Bader, Senior Beauty Editor
- Hair structure:Wavy to curly, blonde
Anna Bader, Senior Beauty Editor, tested the “Dyson Supersonic Nural”
Anna Bader“Dyson Supersonic Nural™ Haartrockner”
Winner of the GLAMOR Beauty & Wellness Power List Award
Why we love him:The “Dyson Supersonic Nural” is the continuation of the “Dyson Supersonic” (which took first place at Stiftung Warentest) and is known as one of the most popular hair dryers. With a power of 1600 watts, it dries the hair quickly and as gently as possible. Precise temperature control prevents overheating by continually measuring and adjusting the air temperature, and the lightweight and well-balanced design ensures comfortable handling. ()
Senior Beauty Editor Anna Badertested the device with all attachments and said: “As a beauty editor, I know how important it is to protect your hair preventively. Once the hair is broken, it is difficult to repair it and often only scissors help. That's why I think it's really brilliant that Dyson is constantly researching how to really dry and style the hair as gently as possible. Even though the 'Dyson Supersonic Nural' obviously has its price, I am definitely convinced.”
- Wattage:1600 W
- Essays:5
- Speed levels:3
- Heating levels:4
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
5. Best hairdryer according to Stiftung Warentest – 2nd place: “Panasonic EH-NA63CN825”
Why we love him:As the second best hairdryer according to Stiftung Warentest, this model from Panasonic in the mid-price segment should not be underestimated. It scores first in terms of durability, safety and harmful substances and has the so-called Nanoe technology, which creates the finest nano-sized water particles to minimize hair damage over time, store moisture and reduce frizz.
- Wattage:2000 W
- Essays:1 (diffuser)
- Speed levels:3
- Heating levels:4
- Ion technology:Nanoe technology based on water particles
- Cold setting:And
6. Best hairdryer according to Stiftung Warentest – 3rd place: “Philips 5000 Series”
“Philips 5000 Series Hair Dryer”
Why we love him:Strictly speaking, this hairdryer model from Philipps is on par with that from Panasonic in the Stiftung Warentest ranking. It also received an overall grade of 1.8 and performed very well in terms of durability and safety. For this price-performance ratio we give it a 10/10!
- Wattage:2300 W
- Essays:3
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
7. Best hair dryer for fine hair: “SilkyAir Pro” from Silk'n
“SilkyAir Pro” von Silk’n
Why we love him:The Silk'n hairdryer is particularly suitable for fine hair because it is equipped with ionic technology that reduces frizz and makes hair shinier by retaining moisture. Its brushless motor ensures even and gentle air distribution, minimizing heat damage. The adjustable heat levels allow for a lower temperature to protect sensitive hair, while the lightweight and ergonomic design offers easy handling.
- Wattage:1600 W
- Essays:2 bis 3
- Speed levels:3
- Heating levels:6
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
8. Bestseller hair dryer on Amazon: “Remington Ionic Dry 2200”
“Remington Ionic Dry 2200”
Why we love him:With over 80,000 reviews - a full 71 percent of which have the best rating of five stars - this hair dryer istheFavorite on Amazon. Customers praise the performance, the ion technology, the easy operation and the good price-performance ratio.
- Wattage:2200 W
- Essays:2
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
9. Best Stylish Blow Dryer: “Laifen Mini High Speed Hair Dryer”
“Laifen Mini High Speed Hair Dryer”
Why we love him:Fans of aesthetic designs and travel lovers will get their money’s worth here. The design of the “Laifen Mini” is not only so compact and light that the device can fit into anyfits, but also looks great. It comes in four different colors: rich green, delicate pink, light blue and classic white. You can even choose whether you need a European or UK connection.
- Wattage:1100 W
- Essays:1
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
10. Best hair dryer under €30: “ProfiCare hair dryer”
Why we love him:The “ProfiCare Hair Dryer” offers a powerful ionization function that reduces static and ensures shiny hair. The diffuser is also ideal for supporting bouncy curls. With three power levels and two blower levels, blow-drying can be individually adjusted, and the cool air level perfects the finish.
- Wattage:2200 W
- Essays:2
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:2
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
11. Best hair dryer kit: “Air Hair Drying Kit” by ghd
“Air Hair Drying Kit” von ghd
Why we love him:Here you have everything at hand in one practical set - the “ghd Air Hair Drying Kit” offers everything you need for a professional blow-dry result. The hairdryer ensures silky-smooth hair with a powerful motor and ionic technology. The diffuser shapes curls and adds volume, while the ceramic round brush creates additional volume. The clips help section hair easily, and everything comes in a handy bag. The set includes the hairdryer, a diffuser, a round brush, clips and a fabric bag for storage.
- Wattage:2100 W
- Essays:2
- Speed levels:3
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
12. Best travel hair dryer: Lebenlang hair dryer
Why we love him:Whether in your suitcase, in your travel bag or even in your handbag - this hair dryer is guaranteed to have space. You can simply fold the Lebenlang hairdryer and store it in the travel bag provided. Despite its compact size, it offers stable performance with 2100 watts as well as two fan and heating levels.
- Wattage:2100 W
- Essays:1
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:2
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
13. Best hair dryer for a glossy finish: “Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer HD333DE”
“Shark SpeedStyle hair dryer HD333DE”
Why we love him:The “Shark SpeedStyle” is a good choice for you if you love shiny styling. Depending on the styling attachment, it intelligently adjusts temperature and airflow settings. The “Gloss Finishing Attachment” ensures extra shine and a soft finish, with which you can gently smooth the hair and calm flyaway hair.
- Wattage:1700 W
- Essays:3
- Speed levels:3
- Heating levels:None, but automatic temperature regulation
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
14. Best blow dryer for dry hair: “DryCare Prestige” from Philips
“DryCare Prestige MoistureProtect hair dryer” from Philips
Why we love him:The Philips DryCare Prestige hair dryer is perfect for dry hair as its MoistureProtect technology automatically regulates the drying temperature to retain moisture and prevent heat damage. This helps protect the hair from further drying out. In addition, the ionic technology ensures that frizz is reduced and the hair remains supple and shiny.
- Wattage:2300 W
- Essays:2
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
15. The lightest hair dryer: Webeauty hairdryer
Why we love him:No more tired arms: The Webeauty hair dryer offers a super lightweight design for comfortable handling and dries hair quickly with high-speed technology. Millions of negative ions ensure gentle, shiny drying, while the even heat distribution protects the hair structure. A bonus: It is energy efficient, which results in lower energy costs.
- Wattage:1400 W
- Essays:3
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
16. Best vintage hair dryer: “Valera Steel Master”
Why we love him:Sure, the Valera hairdryer has a lot to offer – with 2100 watts, it offers quick drying thanks to high performance. Various temperature settings and a cool air level ensure precise results. But we especially love it for its cool vintage design!
- Wattage:2100 W
- Essays:1
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:3
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
17. Best Low Noise Hair Dryer: “Carer Spark Ionic Hair Dryer”
“Carer Spark Ionic Hair Dryer”
Why we love him:The “Carer Spark” hairdryer impresses with its high performance without being too loud. This is a great feature, especially for shared apartments or partners. Thanks to the high-speed brushless technology, it dries the hair quickly and gently, significantly reducing drying time while minimizing hair damage.
- Wattage:110 Pikowatt
- Essays:1
- Speed levels:infinitely adjustable
- Heating levels:infinitely adjustable
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
18. Best Hair Dryer for Smooth Hair: “GRT Pro Light & Graceful”
“GRT Pro Light & Graceful”
Why we love him:The “GRT Pro” hair dryer combines powerful drying with precise styling. With its different heat and speed levels, you can adapt your hair care to your needs. The best? Ionic technology ensures a smooth, frizz-free result, while the cold function sets the look and delivers long-lasting results. Smooth hair in no time!
- Wattage:2200 W
- Essays:2
- Speed levels:2
- Heating levels:2
- Ion technology:And
- Cold setting:And
Which hairdryer do hairdressers use?
Hairdressers rely on professional hair dryers that are characterized by durability, high performance and special functions. Brands like Parlux, ghd and Dyson are particularly popular in many salons - but of course this varies from salon to salon.
What these hairdryers have in common, however, is an output of 2000 to 2400 watts, which enables quick and effective drying. Many hairdressers also value precise heat regulation to protect the hair from damage.
What exactly is the ionic function of a hair dryer?
Attention, a little chemistry tutoring: The ionic function is based on the generation of negatively charged ions that surround the hair and dry it faster without removing the natural moisture.
Normally wet hair tends to be positively charged, which leads toand static electricity. The ionic function releases negatively charged ions that neutralize these positive charges. This helps smooth the hair surface, reduce frizz and give the hair a natural shine.
Additionally, the ionic function can help shorten drying time as the ions break down the water molecules in the hair, causing them to evaporate more quickly. This technology is particularly beneficial for people with frizzy or dry hair as it makes hair smoother and easier to comb.
The hair dryer attachments easily explained
Are you overwhelmed by the countless attachments that often come with hair dryers? No problem, here is a quick overview:
- Nozzle:The nozzle concentrates the air flow and is ideal for targeted styling and straightening of sections of hair.
- Diffuser:The diffuser is ideal for curly or wavy hair as it distributes airflow to support the natural structure of the curls.
- Comb attachment:The comb attachment is perfect for drying and detangling hair at the same time. It is particularly suitable for shorter hair and Afro hair.
- Trockenhaube:A drying hood is mostly used in hairdressing salons and is ideal for complex hairstyles that need to be dried under consistent heat over a long period of time.
This is how you blow dry your hair properly
Straighten hair with a hairdryer
When blow-drying your hair, the right technique is crucial to keeping it healthy and shiny - especially so as not to put unnecessary strain on the hair. Just follow these steps:
- After washing, carefully squeeze out excess water with a towel without rubbing.
- Distribute heat protection spray evenly throughout damp hair.
- Set the hairdryer to medium heat and hold it about 15 to 20 centimeters away from the hair.
- First blow-dry the roots, keeping the hairdryer constantly moving.
- Work slowly towards the ends and always hold the hairdryer in the direction of growth to smooth the cuticles.
- Finally, use a blast of cold air to set the style and close the cuticles.
And done! You have shiny, dry hair.
Dry hair with a diffuser
And what does that look like with curly hair? Steps 1 to 3 remain the same. Then you do the following:
- Place the diffuser attachment on the hairdryer and set it to medium heat.
- Divide hair into individual sections so that you can work specifically.
- Place the diffuser at the hair roots and gently place the hair into the bowl without moving it.
- Slowly move the diffuser over the scalp in circular motions to create volume.
- Finally, dry the tips gently, always repositioning the diffuser.
- Finish with a blast of cold air to set the style and reduce frizz.
Are you looking for more electric styling devices and hair care products? Check out our guides for hot devices, such as die , and. We can also help you choose help, theand the best.
