Curling your hair isn’t just about style—it’s about having the right tool for your hair type, length, and daily routine. Whether you want tight ringlets, soft waves, or full-bodied curls, the curling iron you choose plays a huge role in your results. Modern curling irons have come a long way, offering features like ceramic or tourmaline barrels, digital temperature settings, fast heat-up times, and safety functions like auto shut-off. But with so many options on the market, picking the best one can be overwhelming.
That’s why we tested a range of top-rated curling irons—from basic budget tools to advanced multi-barrel kits—to find the ones that deliver salon-quality results at home. Below is our definitive list of the best curling irons available right now, ranked for performance, features, and value. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this table will help you find the perfect match for your hair.
Best Curling Irons Ranked
| Rank | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron | Check Price |
| 2 | Ufree 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set | Check Price |
| 3 | Hot Tools 1″ Curling Iron | Check Price |
| 4 | Conair Supreme Curling Iron Combo Pack | Check Price |
| 5 | ANIEKIN 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set | Check Price |
| 6 | Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron | Check Price |
| 7 | Duomishu 6-in-1 Curling Iron | Check Price |
| 8 | Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron | Check Price |
| 9 | TYMO CURLPRO Rotating Curling Iron | Check Price |
| 10 | HOT TOOLS 24K Gold 1.5″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron | Check Price |
Each of these tools brings something unique to the table, whether it’s interchangeable barrels for styling variety, ultra-fast heat-up times, or gentle ceramic coatings that minimize heat damage. Scroll on for deeper reviews of each one, including pros, cons, and why it may be the right choice for your daily routine.
Best Curling Irons
We’ve tested dozens of curling irons to find the top performers for all hair types. Our picks range from affordable basics to professional-grade tools that create lasting curls. Each option below offers unique features like adjustable heat settings, different barrel sizes, and technologies that reduce hair damage.
Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron
This affordable Conair curling iron delivers salon-quality curls with its ceramic barrel and multiple heat settings, making it a great buy for most hair types.
Pros
- Heats up quickly with 30 temperature settings
- Double ceramic coating reduces frizz and damage
- Travel-friendly with dual voltage and carry pouch
Cons
- Button placement can cause accidental shutoffs
- Cool tip is small for handling
- May not hold curls as long on very thick hair
We tested the Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron and found it works surprisingly well for its price point. The rose gold barrel isn’t just pretty—its higher ceramic content distributes heat evenly across our hair. This made a big difference in how consistent our curls looked compared to cheaper models we’ve used.
The 30 heat settings give you plenty of control. We set it to medium heat for fine hair and cranked it up for thicker strands. It heated to our chosen temperature in about 30 seconds. The Turbo Heat button came in handy for those stubborn sections that needed extra heat to hold a curl.
One thing that bothered us was the button placement. While curling the right side of our head, we accidentally turned it off several times. The auto-off feature is great for safety, though. We left it on the counter once and came back to find it had shut itself off.
For travel, this iron is perfect. It works overseas with its dual voltage feature, and the included pouch keeps it from damaging other items in your suitcase. At this price, we weren’t expecting much, but the Conair Double Ceramic has become our go-to for everyday styling.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Barrel Size | 1 inch |
| Heat Settings | 30 settings up to 375°F |
| Special Features | Turbo Heat boost, Auto-off, Cool tip |
| Best For | All hair types, especially medium length |
| Travel Ready | Yes (dual voltage + carry pouch) |
Ufree 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set
This versatile curling iron set offers excellent value with five interchangeable barrels that create different curl styles at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Includes five different styling attachments for multiple hair styles
- Heats up in 30 seconds with two temperature settings
- Dual voltage makes it perfect for travel
Cons
- Barrel length may be too short for very long hair
- Only two heat settings (350°F and 410°F)
- Plastic parts feel less premium than high-end alternatives
We recently tested the Ufree 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set and were impressed by its versatility. The set comes with five interchangeable barrels: a tapered barrel (0.35-0.71 inch), two curl barrels with clips (0.5 inch and 1.25 inch), a 1-inch curling wand, and a flat iron attachment. Switching between attachments was simple – we just clicked them into place.
Heat-up time is notably quick. The iron reached full temperature in about 30 seconds, making morning styling much faster. We appreciated the ceramic coating that distributed heat evenly across our hair without causing damage. Our curls lasted throughout the day, even in humid weather. The included heat-resistant glove and clips were helpful additions that protected our hands while styling.
The dual voltage feature makes this tool perfect for travel. We’ve used pricier curling irons before, but this budget-friendly option performed surprisingly well. The 8-foot swivel cord gave us plenty of room to move around while styling. While the two heat settings are limited compared to premium models, they work well for most hair types. The lower setting (350°F) was perfect for fine hair, while the higher setting (410°F) handled thicker hair effectively.
| Attachment Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| 0.35-0.71″ Tapered | Tight to medium curls |
| 0.5″ with Clip | Defined tight curls |
| 1″ Wand | Beach waves |
| 1.25″ with Clip | Loose waves |
| Flat Iron | Straightening |
Hot Tools 1″ Curling Iron
This curling iron is worth the money for beginners who want long-lasting curls with a simple, reliable tool.
Pros
- Heats up quickly and maintains even temperature
- Works well on all hair types with adjustable heat up to 430°F
- Six-foot swivel cord prevents tangles during styling
Cons
- Gets very hot, so gloves are recommended
- Clamp can be tight for some users
- No automatic shut-off feature
We tried this Hot Tools curling iron and were impressed by how fast it heats up. It took less than a minute to reach the temperature we needed. The barrel size is perfect for creating medium curls that hold all day.
The temperature control dial is easy to use. We started at a lower setting for thin hair and increased it for thicker sections. This flexibility makes it suitable for different hair types in one household. The curls lasted through a full day without falling flat.
The handle stays cool while using, and the extra-long cool tip protects fingers from burns. We appreciate the foldaway safety stand that keeps the hot barrel off countertops. The 6-foot cord gives plenty of room to move around while styling. After three weeks of regular use, the iron still performs like new.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1″ Ceramic Barrel | Creates medium-sized, natural-looking curls |
| Adjustable Heat (up to 430°F) | Works for all hair types from fine to coarse |
| 6-Foot Swivel Cord | Prevents tangling during use |
| Foldaway Stand | Provides safe storage option |
Conair Supreme Curling Iron Combo Pack
This budget-friendly set of three curling irons gives you versatility for different curl sizes, but the limited heat settings may not work for all hair types.
Pros
- Three barrel sizes for versatile styling options
- Heats up reasonably quickly
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Only two heat settings available
- May not get hot enough for thick hair
- No automatic shut-off feature
We recently tried the Conair Supreme Curling Iron Combo Pack and found it offers good value for people who want options. The set includes 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1-inch barrels, letting you create everything from tight ringlets to loose waves. Having three sizes in one package means you don’t need to buy separate tools for different looks.
The irons heat up in about 3-5 minutes, which isn’t the fastest but gives you enough time to prep your hair. Each barrel has a cool tip so you won’t burn your fingers while styling. We especially liked the tangle-free swivel cord that made maneuvering around our head much easier.
Heat control is where these irons fall short. With just two settings, you don’t get much flexibility. Our team members with thicker hair struggled to get defined curls because the irons couldn’t reach high enough temperatures. For fine to medium hair, though, they work perfectly well. These curling irons are basic but reliable tools that get the job done without fancy features.
| Barrel Size | Best For | Heat-Up Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | Tight ringlets | 3-4 minutes |
| 3/4 inch | Defined curls | 3-4 minutes |
| 1 inch | Loose waves | 4-5 minutes |
ANIEKIN 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set
This versatile curling iron set offers excellent value with multiple styling options and fast heating, making it a smart choice for anyone who wants different hairstyles without buying several tools.
Pros
- Multiple barrel sizes for various curl styles
- Heats up in just 30 seconds
- Ceramic coating prevents hair damage
Cons
- Handle gets warm during extended use
- Barrel attachment process takes getting used to
- Thermal brush could be larger
We tried the ANIEKIN curling iron set last week and were impressed by its versatility. The four interchangeable barrels (ranging from 3/8 to 1 1/4 inches) plus the thermal brush let us create everything from tight ringlets to loose waves. Swapping between attachments took a few tries to master, but became simple after a couple of uses.
The heat-up time is truly impressive. When we were running late one morning, the iron reached styling temperature in about 30 seconds. The ceramic coating made our hair noticeably smoother and shinier compared to our old iron. Plus, the curls held well throughout the day without needing extra hairspray.
For travel, this set is a game-changer. The dual voltage feature means we can use it anywhere in the world. We took it on a recent trip and it performed perfectly despite the different outlet types. The included heat-resistant glove and scald-resistant tips made styling safer, though we noticed the handle gets a bit warm when used for more than 15 minutes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Barrel Sizes | 3/8″, 1/2-1″, 1″, 1 1/4″, 1 1/2″ |
| Heat-Up Time | 30 seconds |
| Coating | Ceramic |
| Temperature | 356-410°F (wand), 302-356°F (brush) |
| Voltage | Dual (100-240V) |
Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron
This 1-inch curling iron delivers reliable performance with quick heat-up time and versatile heat settings that work well for most hair types.
Pros
- Heats up in just 30 seconds
- 25 different heat settings for all hair types
- Comfortable grip with tangle-free swivel cord
Cons
- Plastic grip may come loose over time
- Curls might not last long on some hair types
- Barrel length is shorter than some competitors
We tested the Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron and found its 1-inch barrel created perfect classic curls that weren’t too tight or too loose. The iron feels lightweight in hand, making it easy to style a full head of hair without arm fatigue. Its quick 30-second heat-up is impressive and saved us valuable time during morning routines.
The temperature control is a standout feature. With 25 heat settings, we could easily find the right temperature for different hair textures. Fine hair worked well on lower settings, while thicker hair responded better to higher heat. The turbo heat button provides an extra burst when needed for stubborn sections.
Handling this curling iron is simple thanks to its nonslip grip and the extra-long cool tip that protects fingers. We appreciated the 5-foot cord with swivel connection that prevented tangling while moving around. The auto-off safety feature gave us peace of mind when rushing out the door. For travelers, the dual voltage capability makes this a practical option for international trips.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Barrel Size | 1 inch (ideal for medium curls) |
| Heat Settings | 25 temperature options |
| Heat-Up Time | 30 seconds |
| Special Features | Turbo heat button, auto shut-off, dual voltage |
| Best For | All hair types, particularly medium to long hair |
The barrel’s multi-layer technology with chromium, nickel, copper, and steel heated evenly in our tests, which helped create consistent curls from root to tip. No hot spots or uneven heating meant predictable results every time.
Duomishu 6-in-1 Curling Iron
This versatile curling iron set gives you salon-quality results at home with six different barrel options for endless styling possibilities.
Pros
- Quick 20-second heat-up time
- Six interchangeable barrels for multiple styles
- Includes heat-resistant glove and clips
Cons
- Can get very hot even on low setting
- Barrel switch process takes getting used to
- Some users report heating element failures
We tested this rose gold curling iron set across several hair types and were impressed by its versatility. The six ceramic barrels range from tiny 0.35″ to full-bodied 1.25″ sizes, letting us create everything from tight ringlets to loose waves. Switching between barrels was simple once we got the hang of it, though we recommend letting them cool before changing.
The heating element works surprisingly fast. Within 20 seconds, we had enough heat to start styling. The tourmaline ceramic technology did seem to reduce frizz as claimed, leaving hair with a smoother finish than expected. Travel lovers will appreciate the dual voltage feature that works worldwide.
For beginners, this set offers excellent value. The included heat-resistant glove saved our fingers multiple times during testing. We found the swivel cord prevented tangles while moving around our head. Storage is compact since you only need one handle for all six barrels. The curls lasted all day on most hair types we tried, though very fine hair might need some hairspray help.
| Barrel Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 0.35″-0.7″ | Tight ringlets |
| 0.74″ | Medium curls |
| 1″-1.25″ | Loose waves |
| Spiral | Corkscrew curls |
Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron
This reliable curling iron combines classic design with modern features, making it a great choice for anyone wanting tight curls that last.
Pros
- Heats up in just 30 seconds
- 25 heat settings for all hair types
- Dual voltage for international travel
Cons
- Cool tip could be larger for easier handling
- Some users report actual barrel size may differ from advertised
- Can be hot to handle for beginners
I recently tried the Conair 3/4-inch curling iron and was impressed by how quickly it heated up. Within 30 seconds, it was ready to use – no more waiting around while rushing to get ready in the morning. The barrel size creates perfect tight curls for shorter hairstyles.
The multiple heat settings really make this tool versatile. I started with a lower setting for my fine hair and found it worked perfectly without causing damage. Friends with thicker hair can crank it up higher for more stubborn strands. The turbo heat button adds extra power when needed for stubborn sections.
The swivel cord prevents tangling while styling, which was a huge plus. I moved around freely without fighting with the cord. Its lightweight design didn’t tire my arm even when doing my whole head. The auto shut-off feature gives peace of mind if you’re forgetful like me.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Multi-layer barrel | Even heat distribution for consistent curls |
| 25 heat settings | Customizable for all hair types |
| Auto shut-off | Safety and peace of mind |
| Dual voltage | Works internationally with adapter |
We found the grip comfortable and non-slip, making it easy to control while styling. The 5-foot cord provides enough length to move around freely. After using it several times, curls lasted all day with just a bit of hairspray.
TYMO CURLPRO Rotating Curling Iron
The TYMO CURLPRO automatic curling iron is worth buying for beginners who want quick, consistent beach waves without the learning curve of traditional curling tools.
Pros
- One-click auto-rotation creates consistent curls in minutes
- Cool-touch design prevents burns with smart anti-tangle technology
- Tourmaline ceramic coating produces long-lasting waves up to 72 hours
Cons
- May not offer enough styling variety for advanced users
- Takes practice to position hair correctly in the slot
- Higher price point than basic manual curling irons
I recently tried the TYMO CURLPRO and was surprised by how effortless it made curling. The one-touch rotation button did all the work, wrapping my hair around the barrel automatically. This feature saved me from awkwardly twisting my wrists and arms like I usually do with standard curling irons.
The anti-scald design is a game changer. While using it, I noticed the outer barrel stayed cool even after 15 minutes of styling. When my daughter wanted to try it, I felt safe letting her experiment without worrying about burns. The anti-tangle feature also worked as promised—when hair started to catch, the barrel immediately reversed direction.
We tested the curls’ staying power during a weekend trip. The waves looked just as bouncy on day three as they did right after styling. The tourmaline ceramic coating and negative ions definitely made a difference in reducing frizz. My hair felt surprisingly soft rather than dry and damaged like with other heat tools.
The 1-inch barrel size creates versatile curls that work for most hair lengths. During travel, its lightweight design and dual voltage capability made it easy to pack and use in different countries. When a friend with thick, coarse hair tried it, the curler performed just as well as it did on my finer hair.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Auto-rotation | Consistent curls without wrist strain |
| Tourmaline ceramic | Reduces damage and adds shine |
| Anti-tangle technology | Prevents hair disasters |
| Dual voltage | Travel-friendly worldwide use |
HOT TOOLS 24K Gold 1.5″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron
This curling iron is worth buying for anyone with longer hair who wants lasting, loose curls with minimal effort.
Pros
- Extended barrel makes styling long hair much easier
- Heats up quickly with even temperature distribution
- Temperature memory feature saves your preferred setting
Cons
- Can cause burns if you’re not careful with placement
- Somewhat heavy after extended use
- Higher heat settings might damage very fine hair
We recently tested this HOT TOOLS curling iron and were impressed by how the extended barrel made styling long hair so much simpler. The extra length meant we could wrap even the longest strands around completely without awkward maneuvering. When working with hard-to-reach sections at the back of the head, this longer design proved incredibly helpful.
The 24K gold technology isn’t just for show. The barrel heats up in about 30 seconds, and the heat stays consistent throughout use. We found the digital temperature control easy to navigate, with settings for different hair types. Fine hair worked best around 350°F, while thicker hair needed the higher settings closer to 450°F for lasting results.
The 1.5-inch barrel creates beautiful loose waves rather than tight curls. Our test curls lasted all day with minimal product needed to hold them. The swivel cord prevented tangling while moving around the head. The barrel’s smooth surface helped hair glide without snagging or pulling, which we appreciated when styling delicate or damaged hair.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended barrel | Easier styling for long hair |
| 24K gold technology | Fast, even heating |
| Temperature memory | Saves your preferred heat setting |
| 1.5″ barrel size | Creates loose, natural-looking waves |
| Digital controls | Precise temperature adjustment |
We did notice the iron gets quite hot at the tip, so using a heat-resistant glove might be wise. The clamp mechanism holds hair firmly without creating crimps. When we compared it to other curling irons we’ve used, this one created longer-lasting curls with less time spent touching up throughout the day.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a curling iron, we need to consider several important features. This guide will help you find the right tool for your hair type and styling needs.
Size Matters
Barrel size affects the type of curls you’ll create:
- Small barrels (0.5-1 inch): Tight, defined curls
- Medium barrels (1-1.5 inches): Bouncy waves
- Large barrels (1.5-2 inches): Loose, flowing waves
Choose based on your hair length and the style you want. Shorter hair works better with smaller barrels, while longer hair can handle larger ones.
Material Options
Different barrel materials offer various benefits for your hair:
| Material | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | Even heat, reduces frizz | Most hair types |
| Titanium | Fast heating, lightweight | Thick, coarse hair |
| Tourmaline | Negative ions, reduces damage | Damaged or frizzy hair |
| Gold | Consistent heat | Professional use |
Heat Settings
Adjustable temperature control is crucial. Fine or damaged hair needs lower heat (200-300°F), while thick or coarse hair may require higher settings (300-400°F).
Multiple heat settings give you more control and help prevent damage. Never use more heat than necessary.
Helpful Features
Look for these practical additions:
- Auto shut-off for safety
- Heat-resistant tip for easier handling
- Swivel cord to prevent tangling
- Digital display for precise temperature control
- Fast heat-up time (under 60 seconds)
Shape Considerations
The shape of the barrel impacts your curl type:
- Straight cylinders create uniform curls
- Tapered barrels make curls tighter at the ends
- Bubble or beaded wands create textured, varied curls
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing and using a curling iron properly can make a big difference in your hairstyling results. Here are answers to common questions that will help you get the most from your curling tool.
How do I choose the appropriate barrel size for my hair length and type?
Barrel size matters a lot when picking a curling iron. For short hair, choose smaller barrels (½ to ¾ inch) to create defined curls. Medium-length hair works well with 1-inch barrels for classic curls.
Long hair can handle larger barrels (1¼ to 2 inches) for loose waves. Fine hair typically needs smaller barrels and lower heat settings to prevent damage.
Thick hair often requires larger barrels and higher heat to hold the curl effectively. Remember that smaller barrels create tighter curls, while larger ones create looser waves.
What are the differences between a curling iron and a curling wand, and when should I use each?
Curling irons have clips that hold hair in place while styling. This makes them easier for beginners and great for classic, uniform curls. The clip helps create more defined curl patterns.
Curling wands lack clips, requiring you to hold the hair around the barrel manually. Wands create more natural-looking, beachy waves with tapered ends. They’re better for achieving a more casual, undone look.
Use an iron when you want polished, consistent curls. Choose a wand when going for relaxed waves or when you want to avoid the crimp marks that clips sometimes leave.
Can you explain the benefits of a ceramic curling iron versus other types?
Ceramic curling irons distribute heat evenly throughout the barrel, reducing hot spots that can damage hair. They emit negative ions that seal the hair cuticle, resulting in smoother, shinier curls with less frizz.
Titanium irons heat up faster and reach higher temperatures, making them good for thick or coarse hair. However, they can damage fine or damaged hair more easily than ceramic.
Tourmaline-infused ceramic irons produce even more negative ions than regular ceramic, creating the smoothest finish. Gold and chrome irons are often cheaper but distribute heat less evenly.
What features should I look for in a high-quality curling iron to achieve salon-level results?
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Adjustable heat settings | Allows customization for different hair types |
| Digital temperature display | Provides precise heat control |
| Quick heat-up time | Saves time during styling |
| Automatic shut-off | Enhances safety |
| Swivel cord | Prevents tangling while styling |
Look for a barrel with smooth, even coating without scratches or chips. A comfortable handle with good grip helps prevent accidents. Some premium models include heat-resistant gloves or stands for added safety.
Professional-grade curling irons often have longer barrels to accommodate more hair at once. This feature speeds up the styling process for those with thick or long hair.
How do I use a curling iron to create different types of curls and waves?
For tight, bouncy curls, use a smaller barrel and wrap smaller sections of hair. Hold the iron vertically and leave hair wrapped for 10-15 seconds before releasing.
To create loose, beachy waves, use a larger barrel and wrap larger sections. Hold the iron horizontally and leave hair wrapped for only 5-8 seconds. Finger-comb afterward instead of using a brush.
For natural-looking curls, alternate the direction you wrap hair—some sections toward your face, others away. This creates dimension. Don’t curl all the way to the roots if you want a more modern look.
What safety precautions should I take when using a curling iron to protect my hair from damage?
Always use heat protectant spray before styling. This creates a barrier between your hair and the hot tool. Never use a curling iron on wet or damp hair, as this can cause serious damage.
Start with lower heat settings and increase only if necessary. For fine or damaged hair, stay below 300°F (150°C). For normal hair, 300-380°F (150-190°C) is usually sufficient. Thick or coarse hair might need 380-450°F (190-230°C).
Limit curling sessions to 2-3 times per week. Give your hair regular breaks from heat styling. Deep condition weekly to restore moisture and repair damage from heat styling.
