The 14 Best Flat Irons, Tested and Reviewed

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Jessica Juliao

People / Jessica Juliao

Flat irons are multifunctional tools that can help you create silky-smooth styles. “[They] are also used to seal the cuticle, meaning no frizz and added shine,”Kevin Kelly, a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert who has worked with Nicky Hilton, tells PEOPLE. A top consideration when choosing a flat iron: “It’s important to me that the flat iron works well with all hair types and offers versatility,” beauty expertNick Stensontells PEOPLE.The Best Right NowLooking for a great deal on a winning straightener? These flat irons are on sale at Amazon if you shop right now:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Ironis 31% offKristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Flat Ironis 22% offWith so many factors to take into account (hair type, plate material, plate size, and more) and a seemingly endless number of tools to choose from, finding the right flat iron can be a challenge. That’s why PEOPLE conducted thorough research and testing to determine which flat irons are worth their weight in gold. We asked testers with different hair types (thin, fine, wavy, thick, and curly) to try some of the best-selling flat irons and record their insights throughout the process. After testing dozens of models, we landed on the best flat irons for every hair type and concern.Keep reading to discover the best flat irons PEOPLE Tested.Our Top PicksBest Overall:BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest for Thick Hair:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron at Hottools.comJump to ReviewBest for Curly Hair:Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler at Amazon$48Jump to ReviewBest for Natural Hair:Tymo Ring Plus at Target$70Jump to ReviewBest Wet-to-Dry:Dyson Airstrait Straightener at Amazon$499Jump to ReviewMost User-Friendly:SALEDyson Corrale at Amazon$499$400Jump to ReviewBest for Wavy Hair:Drybar Reserve Styling Iron at Amazon$190Jump to ReviewBest for Fine Hair:L’ange Le Duo at Amazon$89Jump to ReviewBest for Curling:SALET3 Smooth ID at Amazon$270$189Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:SALEKristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron at Amazon$95$68Jump to Review

Flat irons are multifunctional tools that can help you create silky-smooth styles. “[They] are also used to seal the cuticle, meaning no frizz and added shine,”Kevin Kelly, a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert who has worked with Nicky Hilton, tells PEOPLE. A top consideration when choosing a flat iron: “It’s important to me that the flat iron works well with all hair types and offers versatility,” beauty expertNick Stensontells PEOPLE.

The Best Right NowLooking for a great deal on a winning straightener? These flat irons are on sale at Amazon if you shop right now:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Ironis 31% offKristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Flat Ironis 22% off

The Best Right Now

Looking for a great deal on a winning straightener? These flat irons are on sale at Amazon if you shop right now:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Ironis 31% offKristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Flat Ironis 22% off

Looking for a great deal on a winning straightener? These flat irons are on sale at Amazon if you shop right now:

With so many factors to take into account (hair type, plate material, plate size, and more) and a seemingly endless number of tools to choose from, finding the right flat iron can be a challenge. That’s why PEOPLE conducted thorough research and testing to determine which flat irons are worth their weight in gold. We asked testers with different hair types (thin, fine, wavy, thick, and curly) to try some of the best-selling flat irons and record their insights throughout the process. After testing dozens of models, we landed on the best flat irons for every hair type and concern.

Keep reading to discover the best flat irons PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest for Thick Hair:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron at Hottools.comJump to ReviewBest for Curly Hair:Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler at Amazon$48Jump to ReviewBest for Natural Hair:Tymo Ring Plus at Target$70Jump to ReviewBest Wet-to-Dry:Dyson Airstrait Straightener at Amazon$499Jump to ReviewMost User-Friendly:SALEDyson Corrale at Amazon$499$400Jump to ReviewBest for Wavy Hair:Drybar Reserve Styling Iron at Amazon$190Jump to ReviewBest for Fine Hair:L’ange Le Duo at Amazon$89Jump to ReviewBest for Curling:SALET3 Smooth ID at Amazon$270$189Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:SALEKristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron at Amazon$95$68Jump to Review

Best Overall:BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest for Thick Hair:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron at Hottools.comJump to ReviewBest for Curly Hair:Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler at Amazon$48Jump to ReviewBest for Natural Hair:Tymo Ring Plus at Target$70Jump to ReviewBest Wet-to-Dry:Dyson Airstrait Straightener at Amazon$499Jump to ReviewMost User-Friendly:SALEDyson Corrale at Amazon$499$400Jump to ReviewBest for Wavy Hair:Drybar Reserve Styling Iron at Amazon$190Jump to ReviewBest for Fine Hair:L’ange Le Duo at Amazon$89Jump to ReviewBest for Curling:SALET3 Smooth ID at Amazon$270$189Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:SALEKristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron at Amazon$95$68Jump to Review

Best Overall:BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron at Amazon$160Jump to Review

Best Overall:BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron at Amazon$160

Best Overall:

Best for Thick Hair:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron at Hottools.comJump to Review

Best for Thick Hair:Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron at Hottools.com

Best for Thick Hair:

Best for Curly Hair:Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler at Amazon$48Jump to Review

Best for Curly Hair:Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler at Amazon$48

Best for Curly Hair:

Best for Natural Hair:Tymo Ring Plus at Target$70Jump to Review

Best for Natural Hair:Tymo Ring Plus at Target$70

Best for Natural Hair:

Best Wet-to-Dry:Dyson Airstrait Straightener at Amazon$499Jump to Review

Best Wet-to-Dry:Dyson Airstrait Straightener at Amazon$499

Best Wet-to-Dry:

Most User-Friendly:SALEDyson Corrale at Amazon$499$400Jump to Review

Most User-Friendly:SALEDyson Corrale at Amazon$499$400

Most User-Friendly:

SALE

Best for Wavy Hair:Drybar Reserve Styling Iron at Amazon$190Jump to Review

Best for Wavy Hair:Drybar Reserve Styling Iron at Amazon$190

Best for Wavy Hair:

Best for Fine Hair:L’ange Le Duo at Amazon$89Jump to Review

Best for Fine Hair:L’ange Le Duo at Amazon$89

Best for Fine Hair:

Best for Curling:SALET3 Smooth ID at Amazon$270$189Jump to Review

Best for Curling:SALET3 Smooth ID at Amazon$270$189

Best for Curling:

Best Drugstore:SALEKristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron at Amazon$95$68Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:SALEKristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron at Amazon$95$68

Best Drugstore:

Best OverallBaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat IronPHOTO: BaBylissPRO$160 at Amazon$90 at Walmart$160 at Ulta

Best OverallBaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron

Best Overall

BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Flat Iron

PHOTO: BaBylissPRO

$160 at Amazon$90 at Walmart$160 at Ulta

Star QualitiesTemperature gauge designed for different hair typesFeatures ions for a more customized hairstyleLightweight design is easier to handleBetter at curling than most other flat irons we testedRed FlagsWorks best on fine and wavy hair

Star QualitiesTemperature gauge designed for different hair typesFeatures ions for a more customized hairstyleLightweight design is easier to handleBetter at curling than most other flat irons we tested

Temperature gauge designed for different hair types

Features ions for a more customized hairstyle

Lightweight design is easier to handle

Better at curling than most other flat irons we tested

Red FlagsWorks best on fine and wavy hair

Works best on fine and wavy hair

Temperature Settings:5 |Width:1.25 inches |Material:Titanium

PHOTO: People / Toni GibbsPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for Thick HairHot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat IronPHOTO: UltaView on Hottools.com$130 at Sallybeauty.comStar QualitiesEasy to maneuver30 heat settingsTemperature of each plate is customizableRed FlagsNot ideal for curling due to the four-plate designThe Hot Tools Black Gold Dual Plate Salon Flat Iron is not just the best flat iron for thick hair, it also has the best heat settings. Featuring four ceramic plates, this hot tool issuper easy to maneuver over thick strandsand features30 different heat settingsthat allow you to customize the temperature of each plate for a truly personalized styling experience.While the flat iron works really well at straightening, we found that the four-plate design makes curling hair a bit of a challenge, so we wouldn’t recommend it for that. However, it works well at providing a sleek and shiny look for straightening or adding waves.Temperature Settings:30 |Width:Four0.5-inch plates |Material:Ceramic titaniumPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People/Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Stephanie Petit

Best for Thick HairHot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat IronPHOTO: UltaView on Hottools.com$130 at Sallybeauty.com

Best for Thick HairHot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron

Best for Thick Hair

Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Flat Iron

PHOTO: Ulta

View on Hottools.com$130 at Sallybeauty.com

Star QualitiesEasy to maneuver30 heat settingsTemperature of each plate is customizableRed FlagsNot ideal for curling due to the four-plate design

Star QualitiesEasy to maneuver30 heat settingsTemperature of each plate is customizable

Easy to maneuver

30 heat settings

Temperature of each plate is customizable

Red FlagsNot ideal for curling due to the four-plate design

Not ideal for curling due to the four-plate design

The Hot Tools Black Gold Dual Plate Salon Flat Iron is not just the best flat iron for thick hair, it also has the best heat settings. Featuring four ceramic plates, this hot tool issuper easy to maneuver over thick strandsand features30 different heat settingsthat allow you to customize the temperature of each plate for a truly personalized styling experience.

While the flat iron works really well at straightening, we found that the four-plate design makes curling hair a bit of a challenge, so we wouldn’t recommend it for that. However, it works well at providing a sleek and shiny look for straightening or adding waves.

Temperature Settings:30 |Width:Four0.5-inch plates |Material:Ceramic titanium

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People/Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Stephanie Petit

Best for Curly HairHot Tools Pro Signature SteamStylerPHOTO: Target$48$45 at Amazon

Best for Curly HairHot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler

Best for Curly Hair

Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler

PHOTO: Target

$48$45 at Amazon

Star QualitiesGlides through hair easilyLeaves hair looking super-shinyGood value for the priceWider plate means straightening is easierRed FlagsWe wish this had a longer shut-off time

Star QualitiesGlides through hair easilyLeaves hair looking super-shinyGood value for the priceWider plate means straightening is easier

Glides through hair easily

Leaves hair looking super-shiny

Good value for the price

Wider plate means straightening is easier

Red FlagsWe wish this had a longer shut-off time

We wish this had a longer shut-off time

If you have curly hair, we love the Hot Tools Pro Signature SteamStyler, which features three steam settings for a more efficient straightening effect. We found thatit left our hair super sleek and shiny after using it, and we didn’t experience any tugging or pulling when passing through.

Temperature Settings:3 |Width:1.5 inches |Material:Ceramic titanium

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Alyssa KinghamPHOTO: People / Alyssa Kingham

Best for Natural HairTymo Ring PlusPHOTO: Tymo$70 at TargetView on Tymobeauty.com$70 at Best BuyStar QualitiesInnovative design works for multiple hair typesCombing teeth on the plate help straighten and smooth hairOne of the least expensive options we triedRed FlagsFor straightening onlyFor straightening hair without any static, the TYMO Ring Plus can’t be beaten. Unlike typical flat-plate straighteners, the TYMO Ring’s plates have small ridges that comb through the hair while you pass it through so thatit both detangles and smoothes the hair at the same time. The teeth are coated with nano titanium, which helps to ensure even heat distribution and smoothness, and the brush-like design is especially useful in straightening curly and coily natural hair textures.This hot tool offers nine different heat settings that range from 250 to 410 degrees, making it more customizable than many of the others we tried in the same price range. We found that this tool is strictly for straightening — it didn’t do us any favors when we tried to use it for curling different types of hair. Plus, its comb-like teeth might tug on tangle-prone hair. To mitigate any potential pulling, we recommend combing through your hair with a standard brush or comb before going in with the hot tool.Temperature Settings:9 |Width:2.76 inches |Material:TitaniumPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for Natural HairTymo Ring PlusPHOTO: Tymo$70 at TargetView on Tymobeauty.com$70 at Best Buy

Best for Natural HairTymo Ring Plus

Best for Natural Hair

Tymo Ring Plus

PHOTO: Tymo

$70 at TargetView on Tymobeauty.com$70 at Best Buy

Star QualitiesInnovative design works for multiple hair typesCombing teeth on the plate help straighten and smooth hairOne of the least expensive options we triedRed FlagsFor straightening only

Star QualitiesInnovative design works for multiple hair typesCombing teeth on the plate help straighten and smooth hairOne of the least expensive options we tried

Innovative design works for multiple hair types

Combing teeth on the plate help straighten and smooth hair

One of the least expensive options we tried

Red FlagsFor straightening only

For straightening only

For straightening hair without any static, the TYMO Ring Plus can’t be beaten. Unlike typical flat-plate straighteners, the TYMO Ring’s plates have small ridges that comb through the hair while you pass it through so thatit both detangles and smoothes the hair at the same time. The teeth are coated with nano titanium, which helps to ensure even heat distribution and smoothness, and the brush-like design is especially useful in straightening curly and coily natural hair textures.

This hot tool offers nine different heat settings that range from 250 to 410 degrees, making it more customizable than many of the others we tried in the same price range. We found that this tool is strictly for straightening — it didn’t do us any favors when we tried to use it for curling different types of hair. Plus, its comb-like teeth might tug on tangle-prone hair. To mitigate any potential pulling, we recommend combing through your hair with a standard brush or comb before going in with the hot tool.

Temperature Settings:9 |Width:2.76 inches |Material:Titanium

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best Wet-to-DryDyson Airstrait StraightenerPHOTO: Ulta$499 at Amazon$500 at Nordstrom$499 at Sephora

Best Wet-to-DryDyson Airstrait Straightener

Best Wet-to-Dry

Dyson Airstrait Straightener

$499 at Amazon$500 at Nordstrom$499 at Sephora

Star QualitiesConcentrated air technologyLeft medium-thick hair smooth and shiny in half the usual timeStraightened hair had natural movementRed FlagsOne of the most expensive flat irons we tested (but also does the job of a blow dryer)

Star QualitiesConcentrated air technologyLeft medium-thick hair smooth and shiny in half the usual timeStraightened hair had natural movement

Concentrated air technology

Left medium-thick hair smooth and shiny in half the usual time

Straightened hair had natural movement

Red FlagsOne of the most expensive flat irons we tested (but also does the job of a blow dryer)

One of the most expensive flat irons we tested (but also does the job of a blow dryer)

With the Dyson Airstraight in hand, we were able to simultaneously blow dry and straighten large sections of hair at a time, which cut our styling time in half. The device is equipped with an auto-pause feature that automatically stops the airflow after three seconds of inactivity, which prevents you from overheating any section of the hair. While the price tag is high, we think that the expeditious, shiny styles that we were able to achieve with just this one tool (no need for separate blow dryers and straighteners) makes it worth the price.

Temperature Settings:3 |Width:1.5 inches |Material:N/A

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Most User-FriendlyDyson CorralePHOTO: Dyson$499$400 at Amazon$500 at Best Buy$499 at Kohls.comStar QualitiesCord-free design makes it easier to maneuver while stylingUses less heat, helping to decrease damageSuper easy to use, even for beginnersIncludes storage caseRed FlagsA little heavier than other flat irons we testedFor the price of this iron, you might expect high quality and up-to-the-minute technology — and you’d be right. The Dyson Corrale flat iron features unique flexing copper alloy plates that conform to the shape of your hair to straighten it in less time and produce less damage. Even on curly type 4 hair,the Dyson iron straightened the hair in one pass. The Dyson also excelled with one pass on straighter hair, leaving no static at low temperatures of 365 degrees. This iron can even be used cordless for up to 32 minutes, making it more practical than ever to style your hair on the go.However, even though its weight doesn’t initially seem heavy, our arms started to feel those extra ounces after spending some time styling. During our lab test, the iron took 35 seconds to heat up to the maximum temperature and turned off automatically after five minutes of not being used, which preserves battery life. As far as durability goes, there was no damage at all after dropping the iron a couple of times.Temperature Settings:3 |Width:1 inch |Material:Copper alloyPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: InStyle / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Most User-FriendlyDyson CorralePHOTO: Dyson$499$400 at Amazon$500 at Best Buy$499 at Kohls.com

Most User-FriendlyDyson Corrale

Most User-Friendly

Dyson Corrale

PHOTO: Dyson

$499$400 at Amazon$500 at Best Buy$499 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesCord-free design makes it easier to maneuver while stylingUses less heat, helping to decrease damageSuper easy to use, even for beginnersIncludes storage caseRed FlagsA little heavier than other flat irons we tested

Star QualitiesCord-free design makes it easier to maneuver while stylingUses less heat, helping to decrease damageSuper easy to use, even for beginnersIncludes storage case

Cord-free design makes it easier to maneuver while styling

Uses less heat, helping to decrease damage

Super easy to use, even for beginners

Includes storage case

Red FlagsA little heavier than other flat irons we tested

A little heavier than other flat irons we tested

For the price of this iron, you might expect high quality and up-to-the-minute technology — and you’d be right. The Dyson Corrale flat iron features unique flexing copper alloy plates that conform to the shape of your hair to straighten it in less time and produce less damage. Even on curly type 4 hair,the Dyson iron straightened the hair in one pass. The Dyson also excelled with one pass on straighter hair, leaving no static at low temperatures of 365 degrees. This iron can even be used cordless for up to 32 minutes, making it more practical than ever to style your hair on the go.

However, even though its weight doesn’t initially seem heavy, our arms started to feel those extra ounces after spending some time styling. During our lab test, the iron took 35 seconds to heat up to the maximum temperature and turned off automatically after five minutes of not being used, which preserves battery life. As far as durability goes, there was no damage at all after dropping the iron a couple of times.

Temperature Settings:3 |Width:1 inch |Material:Copper alloy

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: InStyle / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for Wavy HairDrybar Reserve Styling IronPHOTO: Ulta$190 at Amazon$190 at Nordstrom$190 at Sephora

Best for Wavy HairDrybar Reserve Styling Iron

Best for Wavy Hair

Drybar Reserve Styling Iron

$190 at Amazon$190 at Nordstrom$190 at Sephora

Star QualitiesLightweight so it’s easy to handleHeat settings designed for specific hair typesNo pulling or tugging of hairRed FlagsWe wish the plates were a little longer

Star QualitiesLightweight so it’s easy to handleHeat settings designed for specific hair typesNo pulling or tugging of hair

Lightweight so it’s easy to handle

Heat settings designed for specific hair types

No pulling or tugging of hair

Red FlagsWe wish the plates were a little longer

We wish the plates were a little longer

Temperature Settings:5 |Width:Dual 0.5-inch plates |Material:Titanium

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Taylor CaltaPHOTO: People / Taylor Calta

Best for Fine HairL’ange Le DuoPHOTO: Amazon$89 at Amazon$119$16 at Walmart$89 at UltaStar QualitiesAir vents cool hair and seal curlsEasily straightens in one passRed FlagsClamp style is a little awkward at firstWe found that the L’ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler works best for fine hair, as it only took one pass to get sleek, straight strands (versus a few passes on thicker hair).It works well at both straightening and curlingand features air vents that are designed to cool hair and set the style.The clamp style is a bit awkward at first, but we got used to it with some practice. This styler was one of the less expensive tools we tested, making this anexcellent valuefor those with fine hair who need a straightener that won’t burn their hair to a crisp.Temperature Settings:5 |Width:1 inch |Material:TitaniumPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Christina FortneyPHOTO: People / Christina Fortney

Best for Fine HairL’ange Le DuoPHOTO: Amazon$89 at Amazon$119$16 at Walmart$89 at Ulta

Best for Fine HairL’ange Le Duo

Best for Fine Hair

L’ange Le Duo

PHOTO: Amazon

$89 at Amazon$119$16 at Walmart$89 at Ulta

Star QualitiesAir vents cool hair and seal curlsEasily straightens in one passRed FlagsClamp style is a little awkward at first

Star QualitiesAir vents cool hair and seal curlsEasily straightens in one pass

Air vents cool hair and seal curls

Easily straightens in one pass

Red FlagsClamp style is a little awkward at first

Clamp style is a little awkward at first

We found that the L’ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler works best for fine hair, as it only took one pass to get sleek, straight strands (versus a few passes on thicker hair).It works well at both straightening and curlingand features air vents that are designed to cool hair and set the style.

The clamp style is a bit awkward at first, but we got used to it with some practice. This styler was one of the less expensive tools we tested, making this anexcellent valuefor those with fine hair who need a straightener that won’t burn their hair to a crisp.

Temperature Settings:5 |Width:1 inch |Material:Titanium

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Christina FortneyPHOTO: People / Christina Fortney

Best for CurlingT3 Smooth IDPHOTO: Ulta$270$189 at Amazon$270 at Nordstrom$270 at SephoraStar QualitiesHair passes through with easeAdjusts temperature based on hair texture and lengthProvides a beautiful loose wave styleRed FlagsWe wish the smart settings were a little more intuitiveWhen using a straightener to curl strands,you can achieve the most gorgeous loose curls and waves. Our top pick for this is the T3 Smooth ID Flat Iron, which features smart technology to personalize and adjust the temperature based on hair texture and length. The smart straightener also has plenty of slip, making it easy to achieve a beautiful, loose, effortless curl. While we wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive, once you figure it out, this flat iron is truly impressive and allows you to achieve a sleek style that helps keep damage at bay.Temperature Settings:9 |Width:1 inch |Material:CeramicPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jessica FlemingPHOTO: People / Jessica Fleming

Best for CurlingT3 Smooth IDPHOTO: Ulta$270$189 at Amazon$270 at Nordstrom$270 at Sephora

Best for CurlingT3 Smooth ID

Best for Curling

T3 Smooth ID

$270$189 at Amazon$270 at Nordstrom$270 at Sephora

Star QualitiesHair passes through with easeAdjusts temperature based on hair texture and lengthProvides a beautiful loose wave styleRed FlagsWe wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive

Star QualitiesHair passes through with easeAdjusts temperature based on hair texture and lengthProvides a beautiful loose wave style

Hair passes through with ease

Adjusts temperature based on hair texture and length

Provides a beautiful loose wave style

Red FlagsWe wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive

We wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive

When using a straightener to curl strands,you can achieve the most gorgeous loose curls and waves. Our top pick for this is the T3 Smooth ID Flat Iron, which features smart technology to personalize and adjust the temperature based on hair texture and length. The smart straightener also has plenty of slip, making it easy to achieve a beautiful, loose, effortless curl. While we wish the smart settings were a little more intuitive, once you figure it out, this flat iron is truly impressive and allows you to achieve a sleek style that helps keep damage at bay.

Temperature Settings:9 |Width:1 inch |Material:Ceramic

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Jessica FlemingPHOTO: People / Jessica Fleming

Best DrugstoreKristin Ess 3-in-1 FlatironPHOTO: Target$95$68 at Amazon$68 at Target$90$59 at Asos

Best DrugstoreKristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron

Best Drugstore

Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Flatiron

$95$68 at Amazon$68 at Target$90$59 at Asos

Star QualitiesDesigned for easy straightening, waving, and curlingFeatures good tension without tugging and pullingEasy to straighten and curl all four hair types we testedRed FlagsHas a slight chemical smell at first

Star QualitiesDesigned for easy straightening, waving, and curlingFeatures good tension without tugging and pullingEasy to straighten and curl all four hair types we tested

Designed for easy straightening, waving, and curling

Features good tension without tugging and pulling

Easy to straighten and curl all four hair types we tested

Red FlagsHas a slight chemical smell at first

Has a slight chemical smell at first

You don’t have to purchase a straightener from a beauty supply store to get a high-quality hot tool. For the best drugstore flat iron, we recommend the Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Titanium Flatiron, which is designed for straightening, waving, and curling and does an excellent job at achieving each style.

Temperature Settings:4 |Width:1.25 inches |Material:Titanium

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Courtney Kassel

Best for BeginnersIon Magnesium Flat IronPHOTO: Sally Beauty$82 at Amazon$82 at Sallybeauty.com

Best for BeginnersIon Magnesium Flat Iron

Best for Beginners

Ion Magnesium Flat Iron

PHOTO: Sally Beauty

$82 at Amazon$82 at Sallybeauty.com

Convenient 30-minute auto shut-off feature

Red FlagsA little pricey for a simple model

A little pricey for a simple model

From a styling perspective, we found that this straightener was not onlyeasy to maneuverdue to its lightweight design, but it also moved smoothly through our hair for a quick style. While we think it’s a bit pricey for some beginners, it is one of the cheaper ones relative to those on this list, meaning it’s a high-quality tool that’s designed to last.

Temperature Settings:1 |Width:1 inch |Material:Ceramic tourmaline

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best LightweightFHI Heat Platform Tourmaline Flat IronPHOTO: Amazon$150 at Amazon$100 at Target$150 at Walmart

Best LightweightFHI Heat Platform Tourmaline Flat Iron

Best Lightweight

FHI Heat Platform Tourmaline Flat Iron

$150 at Amazon$100 at Target$150 at Walmart

Star QualitiesSlim design is ideal for travelEasy to maneuver when stylingEffective at smoothing strands for a more slick lookRed FlagsNot ideal for all hair types

Star QualitiesSlim design is ideal for travelEasy to maneuver when stylingEffective at smoothing strands for a more slick look

Slim design is ideal for travel

Easy to maneuver when styling

Effective at smoothing strands for a more slick look

Red FlagsNot ideal for all hair types

Not ideal for all hair types

Temperature Settings:Adjustable (140-450°F) |Width:0.5-inch |Material:Ceramic

Best for Damaged HairChi Lava 4D Hairstyling IronPHOTO: Ulta$230 at UltaView on Chi.com

Best for Damaged HairChi Lava 4D Hairstyling Iron

Best for Damaged Hair

Chi Lava 4D Hairstyling Iron

$230 at UltaView on Chi.com

Star QualitiesWorks fastSuccessfully reduces frizzChi Lava mineralsRed FlagsLess effective for curling

Star QualitiesWorks fastSuccessfully reduces frizzChi Lava minerals

Works fast

Successfully reduces frizz

Chi Lava minerals

Red FlagsLess effective for curling

Less effective for curling

It’s no secret that hot tools can cause hair damage, so if you’re worried about damage or already have it and want something that is gentler on your strands, we recommend the Chi Lava 4D Hairstyling Iron. Designed with Chi Lava minerals and ceramic plates to lower the chances of heat damage, the hair straightenerglides easily through strands and effectively styles hair in just 10 minutes.

Temperature Settings:5 |Width:1 inch |Material:Chi Lava minerals, ceramic

Best with SteamerL’Oreal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & StylerPHOTO: Sephora$250 at Amazon$250 at SephoraStar QualitiesBuilt-in comb for easy styling and to help reduce frizzCreates a slick and straight styleRed FlagsIt’s a little bulkier compared to others we testedFlat irons aren’t just used for straightening hair; however, if you want one that gives you that amazing slick and straight look, we recommend the L’Oreal Professional Steampod Flat Iron & Styler. This salon-worthy hot tool features a wide design that, albeit a little bulky,works really well at straightening strands without any kinks or flipped ends.The straightener does so thanks to the steam technology that makes it easier to achieve a more slick look, as well as a built-in comb for easier styling.Temperature Settings:3 |Width:3.5 inches |Material:AluminumPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best with SteamerL’Oreal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & StylerPHOTO: Sephora$250 at Amazon$250 at Sephora

Best with SteamerL’Oreal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & Styler

Best with Steamer

L’Oreal Professionnel Steampod Flat Iron & Styler

PHOTO: Sephora

$250 at Amazon$250 at Sephora

Star QualitiesBuilt-in comb for easy styling and to help reduce frizzCreates a slick and straight styleRed FlagsIt’s a little bulkier compared to others we tested

Star QualitiesBuilt-in comb for easy styling and to help reduce frizzCreates a slick and straight style

Built-in comb for easy styling and to help reduce frizz

Creates a slick and straight style

Red FlagsIt’s a little bulkier compared to others we tested

It’s a little bulkier compared to others we tested

Flat irons aren’t just used for straightening hair; however, if you want one that gives you that amazing slick and straight look, we recommend the L’Oreal Professional Steampod Flat Iron & Styler. This salon-worthy hot tool features a wide design that, albeit a little bulky,works really well at straightening strands without any kinks or flipped ends.The straightener does so thanks to the steam technology that makes it easier to achieve a more slick look, as well as a built-in comb for easier styling.

Temperature Settings:3 |Width:3.5 inches |Material:Aluminum

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Shopping for a new flat iron? You might also want to add these PEOPLE editor-approved haircare products that crushed it in our beauty lab testing.

Prizm Professional Rotating Curling Iron$60 at AmazonHot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Ionic Hair Dryer$77 at Amazon$77 at WalmartOlaplex Bonding Oil$30 at Amazon$30 at Nordstrom$30 at SephoraColor Wow Dream Coat Anti-Frizz Treatment$28$21 at Amazon$28$12 at Sephora$28 at Ulta

Prizm Professional Rotating Curling Iron$60 at Amazon

Prizm Professional Rotating Curling Iron

$60 at Amazon

Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Ionic Hair Dryer$77 at Amazon$77 at Walmart

Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Ionic Hair Dryer

$77 at Amazon$77 at Walmart

Olaplex Bonding Oil$30 at Amazon$30 at Nordstrom$30 at Sephora

Olaplex Bonding Oil

$30 at Amazon$30 at Nordstrom$30 at Sephora

Color Wow Dream Coat Anti-Frizz Treatment$28$21 at Amazon$28$12 at Sephora$28 at Ulta

Color Wow Dream Coat Anti-Frizz Treatment

$28$21 at Amazon$28$12 at Sephora$28 at Ulta

What to Know About Flat Irons

Material

When shopping for a flat iron,Joseph Maine, a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with Katie Holmes, Ashley Benson, Ariel Winter, and Priyanka Chopra, says to consider the materials as this can not only tell you its overall quality level but also determine how damaging a hot tool — including a straightener — is on the strands. “Ceramic, titanium, and tourmaline are popular choices for flat iron plates, each with its own set of advantages,” he explains.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is also important to consider as this ensures you can adjust the heat to your preferences. “Lower heat settings are suitable for fine or damaged hair, while higher settings are needed for thick or coarse hair,” notes Maine. Some hair straighteners (including a majority on our list) have pre-set heat settings, while others such as theFHI HEAT Platform Tourmaline Ceramic Professional Styling Flat Ironfeature a heat range that allows you to select your preferred heat setting.

Plate Size

It’s also worth considering the plate size, which can vary depending on the length of your strands and your styling needs. “I typically recommend one-inch plates as it is plenty of surface to straighten any hair type while being small enough to curl or wave the hair,” says Maine.

People / Tamara Staples

After conducting extensive research on flat irons, reading product reviews, and interviewing experts, the PEOPLE Tested team tried dozens of popular flat irons on various hair types and lengths.

Frequently Asked Questions

According to Maine, ceramic and titanium are both worth considering in a hair straightener, and the choice between the two depends on hair type and needs. “Ceramic irons heat evenly and are less likely to cause damage, making them a good choice for fine or damaged hair,” he explains. “Titanium irons heat up faster and can reach higher temperatures, making them suitable for thick, coarse, or difficult-to-style hair; however, they can potentially cause more damage if not used carefully.”

Flat irons can damage your hair if not used carefully. The surface or cuticle of the hair shaft becomes damaged at temperatures above 300 degrees. While there are ways to minimize the potential damage such as using thermal protectors and sticking to one pass per section, some risk is associated with using any high-heat styling tool, especially on clip-in extensions that can’t revitalize themselves.According to Stenson, it’s important to use a heat-protectant cream or spray when using any hot tool.Heat protectantsadd a layer of protection between the hot tool and strands, and can also provide nourishment and hydration which can help combat some of the negative effects of heat styling. “Another damage-reducing practice is to work in small sections so that the heat can penetrate evenly throughout,” Stenson advises. “Last, keep your flat iron moving as you straighten the hair and avoid allowing the iron to sit in the hair for any prolonged period of time.”

Flat irons can damage your hair if not used carefully. The surface or cuticle of the hair shaft becomes damaged at temperatures above 300 degrees. While there are ways to minimize the potential damage such as using thermal protectors and sticking to one pass per section, some risk is associated with using any high-heat styling tool, especially on clip-in extensions that can’t revitalize themselves.

According to Stenson, it’s important to use a heat-protectant cream or spray when using any hot tool.Heat protectantsadd a layer of protection between the hot tool and strands, and can also provide nourishment and hydration which can help combat some of the negative effects of heat styling. “Another damage-reducing practice is to work in small sections so that the heat can penetrate evenly throughout,” Stenson advises. “Last, keep your flat iron moving as you straighten the hair and avoid allowing the iron to sit in the hair for any prolonged period of time.”

Both of these are tools to straighten the hair. But just like succulents and cacti, not all straighteners are flat irons but all flat irons are straighteners. Straighteners are a general category of tools and flat irons are just one type. Other types include hot combs,hot air brushes, and hair dryers. Flat irons use two plates to iron the hair straight.

Jessie Quinnis a contributing writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best flat irons, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s real-world testing insights for a better idea of each experience, how they compared, and which ones were the most noteworthy. She also reached out to hair experts for their insights on what to look for in a flat iron and answered some of our most pressing questions about flat irons, including what to look for when shopping for the best straightening hot tools.Cai Crameris a staff writer for PEOPLE who updated this article with her own insights after test-driving the Dyson Airstrait straightener.

Our Expert PanelKevin Kellyis a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert who has worked with Nicky Hilton.Joseph Maineis a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with Katie Holmes, Ashley Benson, Ariel Winter, and Priyanka Chopra.Nick Stensonis a beauty expert who has smoothed the hair of countless celebrities and created picture-perfect styles for numerous runway shows.

Our Expert Panel

Kevin Kellyis a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert who has worked with Nicky Hilton.Joseph Maineis a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with Katie Holmes, Ashley Benson, Ariel Winter, and Priyanka Chopra.Nick Stensonis a beauty expert who has smoothed the hair of countless celebrities and created picture-perfect styles for numerous runway shows.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

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source: people.com