Sick of wrestling with your blow-dryer as you try to reach the back of your head? Tired of having to blow dry your entire head and then reach for the flat iron to get your strands perfectly smooth? Meet your new go-to multi-tasker: a straightening brush. When it comes to hair goals, we do not mess around—we are always on the lookout for the best hair tools that combat frizz, add volume, reduce heat damage, and create that professional salon touch.
Deald of the Day
- Drybar The Brush Crush Heated Straightening Brush is 20% off at Amazon
- Remington Pro 2-in-1 Heated Straightening Brush is 60% off at kohls.com
- L'ANGE HAIR Le Vite Hair Straightener Brush is 49% off at langehair.com
Who doesn’t love a salon-quality blowout at home that leaves your friends wondering who your stylist is? The name says it all: these ingenious hot tools are electric brushes that double as heaters, allowing you to get a sleek, smooth look in record time. These brushes are "ideal for those who are less coordinated in using round brushes while controlling the direction of the blow dryer for a smoother and more controlled finish," says pro hairstylist Devin Graciano. They also put a bit of space between the heating plate and your hair, meaning they’re less likely to cause damage, like breakage.
We spent hours researching, reviewing, and testing the best hair straightening brushes on the market, categorizing them by hair type, hair length, bristle, heat settings, design (ceramic reverse ionic, etc.), and more, because healthy hair is always in style. The ones that scored the highest made our list of the best straightening brushes below. We also spoke with a professional hairstylist to get their input on our choices. Get ready to ditch the flat iron once and for all.
Best Overall
Drybar Heated Straightening Brush
Works on fine, wavy, curly, and coily textures
Flat iron heats up to 450°F
Automatic safety shut-off feature
Heated paddles are gentle yet effective
Paddle may be heavier for some
Shorter cord length
This TikTok viral hair straightening brush is essentially like having an at-home Drybar appointment thanks to its flat iron heating up to 450°F and frizz-free finish. Whether your hair is fine and straight or thick and coily, a few passes with this brush will have you looking like you just left the salon. Beauty Editor Ashley Jimenez calls this brush “a lifesaver.” She has thick, curly hair that usually takes her an hour and a half to straighten, but she says this brush got her down to a maximum of 45 minutes. If you prefer a bouncier blowout, we found you can create volume with the bristle design of the brush or a pin-straight style on some days thanks to its flatiron heating technology.
Who It's For
If you are looking for a flat iron alternative, this ionic technology-enabled brush is a top pick because it seals the cuticle, resulting in less frizz and shine than with a traditional brush. It’s a great option for those with curly or long hair who want to save time straightening their hair.
Max Temp: 450 F | Features: Ionic technology, 60-minute auto shut-off, 9-foot cord | Wireless: No
Best Overall, Runner-Up
GHD Hot Brush
Reduced damage from heat
Long-lasting results
Can use it for adding volume and straightening
Comparatively expensive
Not great for super thick hair
Can be noisy
It was genuinely hard to pick between this smoothing brush and Drybar’s for best overall since they both perform so flawlessly. This one is just a tad more expensive, but it also works on all hair types, creates smooth, frizz-free hair quickly (thanks to the same ionizer technology), and shuts off automatically if it’s not in use for longer than 60 minutes. We appreciate that this brush only heats up to 365 degrees, meaning it’s less likely to damage your locks. That said, if you have thicker or super curly hair, this brush might not work as well for you since it’s on the smaller side.
Who It's For
This straightening brush will work well on all hair types, but may not do the best straightening job on those with thicker or curlier hair.
Max Temp: 365 F | Features: Ceramic technology with ionizer heats up in 25 seconds | Wireless: No
Read Full Review: Reviewed: Investing in This GHD Flat Iron Will Change Your Hairstyling Routine
Best Drugstore
Remington 2-in-1 Straightening Brush
Anti-static coating for a silk finish
Three different heat settings
Comes in various colors
Not ideal for short or finer hair
Bristles can break
This brush is a steal at its affordable price point with its built-in ceramic infusion technology which combines antioxidant-rich Argan oil and protein-rich Keratin for even, consistent heat performance and a smooth, radiant shine. You can get right down to the roots without worrying about your scalp or head getting too hot, thanks to the cool-tip bristles. There are three heat settings to choose from, and in true drugstore fashion, meaning you can get the style you want without adding too much heat.
Who It's For
Because of the included natural argan oil, this brush is ideal for those with medium-to-long hair or hair that has been chemically treated, including coloring. It may not be the best choice for someone with shorter or finer hair though since it’s a wider brush.
Max Temp: 450 F | Features: Thermaluxe Advanced Thermal Technology, anti-static coating, ion generator, 3 heat settings, LED indicators, cool tip bristles, tangle-free swivel cord, heat-protective pouch | Wireless: No
Best for Thick Hair
Revlon Hair Straightening Brush
Large surface area
Works on all hair types
Volumizes as well as straightens
Cannot be used on wet hair
Heavier than some users prefer
Byrdie Senior Editor Hallie Gould is a fan of this option, which boasts an especially large surface area that makes it great for reaching more hair with every pass, a major win for those with thicker textures. It’s lightweight, ergonomically designed to be comfortable to hold, has 10 different heat settings, and the detangling bristles glide through even ultra-coarse strands. And let’s not forget to mention the comparatively affordable price tag for what you’re getting. We don’t recommend you use this brush on wet hair as it could cause damage.
Who It's For
People with thick hair will love the wide brush since it means you’ll get done straightening in record time. However, if you already have a ton of volume, you may not want to use it since it’ll add more.
Max Temp: 430 F | Features: Ceramic plates, duo detangling bristles, 10 heat settings, automatic worldwide dual voltage, 60-minute auto shut-off, ion generator | Wireless: No
Best for Damaged Hair
L’ange Straightening Brush
Decreases frizz
Works on all hair types
Far-infrared heat to protect hair
Cannot be used on wet hair
If your strands are a little beat up it’s a good idea to minimize any and all hot tool styling since high temps can do more damage. That’s where these two-in-one brushes come in handy, particularly this one. The ceramic bristles deliver a far-infrared heat (heats from the inside to be gentle but still powerful) to straighten hair quickly (this brush works in half the time of a straightener), as well as preserve natural moisture, a major boon for damaged tresses. Plus, they also have a cool tip to ensure your scalp never gets burned.
Who It's For
Those with colored, bleached, or otherwise damaged hair, but still want to straighten it every once in a while will appreciate this far-infrared brush. It works well on most hair types and lengths.
Max Temp: 450 F | Features: Cool-tipped ceramic bristles, heats up quickly, negative ion technology, infrared heat technology, LCD display, soft-touch rubber finish, swivel cord, 30-minute auto shut-off, dual-voltage | Wireless: No
Best for Curly Hair
Amika Polished Perfection Straightening Brush 2.0
Decreases frizz
Adds shine
Faster, safer straightening
Cannot be used on wet hair
Some say it’s not great on thicker hair
At the risk of pulling a Captain Obvious, straightening curly hair requires way more elbow grease, making this brush, another of Gould’s favorites, especially choice. Double negative ion technology (the strongest type of ionic technology) amps up shine and fights frizz in a major way—the negative ions boost shine by sealing the hair cuticles. Meanwhile, the far-infrared heats the cuticle from the inside out meaning more effective, less damaging heat. Translation? Hair heat ups—and gets smoothed out—in half the time.
Who It's For
Curly-headed people will find this brush makes the process of straightening a ton easier, thanks to the double negative ion technology. However, your hair will need to be dry before using, which may be tough for those with corkscrew curls.
Max Temp: 450 F | Features: iRed Beam Technology, ion generator, digital temperature control, temperature lock, 60-minute auto shut-off, 9-foot swivel cord, cool-tip ceramic bristles | Wireless: No
Best Detangling
CNXUS Hair Straightening Brush
Helps detangle
Relatively affordable
Quick heat-up time
Doesn't work on all hair types
As a general rule of thumb, you want to make sure hair is pretty much snarl-free before using a straightening brush. But, if you’re prone to lots of tangles, this pick is perfect for you. The slightly curved design of the brush head helps keep hair smooth by following the natural curve of hair. It also heats up in just one minute, which is faster than other brushes we’ve tried. Other noteworthy features include a 360-degree swivel cord (which will help keep the cord from getting tangled) and a 30-minute automatic shut-off (so you don’t accidentally burn down your house).
Who It's For
Tangle-prone folks who want straight hair should snap this one up. It’s also great for anyone in a rush to smooth out their locks since it heats up in one minute.
Max Temp: 450 F | Features: MCH heating, LED screen, heats up quickly, ionic technology, swivel cord, 30-minute auto shut-off, dual voltage | Wireless: No
Best Splurge
Dyson Airwrap
Can be used on wet hair
Provides lots of styling options
Decreases frizz
Pricier than other options
Read Full Review: The Dyson Airwrap Is On Sale—Is It Really Worth The Price? I Tried It, See My Results
Yes, this tool is pricey, but for someone who likes to mix up their style—with minimal effort—this is well worth the investment. It’s also one of the few straightening brushes we’ve found that you can use on wet hair. You’re essentially getting six tools in one, with different attachments that can create different styles. As far as straightening goes there are two options, both firm and soft smoothing brushes, which you can play around with depending on just how sleek you want to go (soft brushes tend to make hair sleeker). Also noteworthy is the inclusion of a pre-styling dryer which helps ensure your hair isn’t soaking wet when you straighten it (though this tool can be used on damp strands).
Who It's For
We love a multi-functional tool, and this straightening brush is that times six. You can also use it on wet hair so perfect if you’re in a rush.
Max Temp: 302 F | Features: Coadana effect wraps hair for you, 8 one-click attachments, cool-touch tips, quick-release button, storage case, filter cleaning brush, non-slip mat | Wireless: No
Best for Travel
InStyler Straight Up Straightening Brush
Comes in various colors
Travel-friendly
Can reach your roots
Reviewers note the bristles break easily
Whether you’re looking for something to travel with or just need a small brush to touch up your bangs or face-framing layers, this mini fits the bill. Tiny but mighty, it still packs a powerful punch. It heats up to 450 degrees (optimal for quick straightening) and has a built-in heat recovery feature to help you get that same level of heat with every pass, ensuring consistent results every time. We love that it also has an automatic shut off when not in use, in case you’re too busy jet setting to remember to unplug it
Who It’s For
Frequent fliers will love this little guy because its just as powerful as other straightening brushes on this list without being too big to pack in your carry-on. That said, reviewers have noted its bristles can break easily, so be sure to pack it carefully.
Max Temp: 450 F | Features: Ceramic heated plates, cool-tip ionic bristles, auto shut-off, swivel cord, 7 heat settings, digital temperature display | Wireless: No
Where We Stand
All of the straightening brushes that made our list are worth a try, but Drybar's Brush Crush Heated Straightening Brush stole our hearts. It works on all hair types, straightens in record time, and leaves our hair feeling silky smooth. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that's also great for medium to long hair, you can't go wrong with the Remington Pro 2-in-1 Heated Straightening Brush. It's infused with argan oil and keratin to tame any frizz and flyaways you've got.
How We Researched
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, evaluating their key features—like functionality, ease of use, cost, or design—in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. Our team also incorporated their own personal experiences testing products in their own lives.
What to Look For in a Straightening Brush
- Ceramic Plating: When shopping for a straightening brush, celebrity hairstylist Ryan Trygstad suggests looking for a device with ceramic plating technology. “Ceramic glides through the hair more easily without pulling or catching,” he says. Heat styling can already be damaging to the hair, so by reducing the potential for pulling and catching, you’re helping to further prevent breakage.
- Heat Settings at or Below 375 Degrees: Trygstad doesn’t recommend using a product that exceeds 375 degrees. “Too hot of tools can damage your hair’s keratin protein,” he says. (Keratin protein is the outer layer of the hair). “Finer hair types can suffer keratin degradation at 390 degrees while coarser hair will start to become damaged at 410 degrees.” With that in mind, it’s best to stay on the safer side when it comes to the temperature of your tool. He also recommends looking for a tool that can maintain even, consistent heat. This will prevent you from having to pass the device through your hair multiple times, thus reducing the chance of damage.
- The Right Size Brush for Your Hair Type: Trygstad says the size of the brush is another factor to take into consideration. “I suggest a larger brush for refreshing the style of thicker, denser hair, or a smaller brush to spot treat sections such as the hairline or nape,” he says. Those with finer or less dense hair can get away with using smaller tools since they have less hair that needs to be styled.
Why Trust Byrdie
Ashley Jimenez and Melanie Rud both have extensive experience writing about and testing beauty products. Melanie is a contributing writer for Byrdie where she covers all things skincare—from buzzy ingredients to acne advice. She has over 10 years of experience writing beauty content. Ashley is a beauty editor on the transactional team. She has over six years of experience in multicultural beauty and wellness editorial. Before joining Dotdash Meredith, she was a global editorial manager at NYX Professional Makeup, beauty director at HOLA USA, and beauty editor at Latina Magazine.
- Devin Graciano is a professional hair stylist and founder of Use Me Hair Products