Dyson Airwrap Vs Shark Flexstyle Is Dyson Still Worth The Splurge

For years, the Dyson Airwrap has reigned as the gold standard in at-home hairstyling tools. With its innovative use of Coanda airflow, celebrity endorsements, and viral social media presence, it became a must-have for anyone seeking salon-quality curls, smooth blowouts, and frizz control without extreme heat. But with the arrival of the Shark FlexStyle, priced at less than half, consumers are asking: Is the Dyson still worth the splurge?

This isn’t just a question of price. It’s about performance, ease of use, durability, and whether the premium cost translates into a noticeably better experience. After testing both systems extensively across multiple hair types—from fine and straight to thick, curly, and coily—we’ve broken down every factor that matters.

Performance: How Do They Actually Style Hair?

The core promise of both devices is multi-functional styling: drying, smoothing, curling, and volumizing—all in one system. But their technologies differ significantly.

The Dyson Airwrap uses Dyson’s patented Coanda effect—airflow that wraps hair around the barrel automatically. This means minimal manual winding is required. The device comes with four attachments: pre-styling dryer, smoothing brush, firm and soft styling barrels (for different curl sizes), and a round volumizing brush. On medium-thick, wavy hair, the Airwrap consistently delivers bouncy, defined curls with low frizz and impressive longevity.

The Shark FlexStyle, while inspired by Dyson’s design, relies more on traditional heat and airflow mechanics. It includes similar attachments: a concentrator, soft and firm curling barrels, a smoothing brush, and a round brush. However, it lacks true Coanda technology. Instead, it uses a “Wrap & Go” magnetic tip that helps guide hair, but users must manually wrap their hair around the barrel. For beginners, this can be trickier and less consistent.

In direct comparison:

• Curl Hold: Dyson produces tighter, longer-lasting curls due to even heat distribution and automatic wrapping.
• Smoothness: The Dyson smoothing brush glides better and reduces frizz more effectively, especially on coarse or curly textures.
• Drying Speed: Both dry hair quickly, but the Dyson’s higher wattage motor (1600W vs. Shark’s 1200W) gives it a slight edge on thicker hair.

“While Shark has closed the gap in design and function, Dyson still leads in engineering precision. The difference is most apparent in consistency and user effort.” — Lena Torres, Professional Stylist and Salon Educator

Tip: Always apply a heat protectant before using either tool. Even ‘low-heat’ styling can cause cumulative damage over time.

Price and Value: Can Shark Deliver 80% of the Performance for 40% of the Cost?

The Dyson Airwrap retails for $549–$599 depending on the kit. The Shark FlexStyle starts at $279—a full $270 less. That’s a significant difference, especially for a non-essential beauty appliance.

But value isn’t just about upfront cost. It’s about long-term performance, durability, and how often you actually use it.

In a survey of 300 owners conducted by *Beauty Tech Review*, 68% of Dyson Airwrap users reported using it at least 3 times per week, citing reliability and consistent results. Only 47% of Shark FlexStyle users reported the same frequency, with many noting frustration with inconsistent curl formation and slower learning curves.

However, Shark offers features Dyson doesn’t:

• Interchangeable barrels that cool instantly for safer handling.
• A detachable hose design that reduces arm fatigue during extended styling.
• Lower surface temperature on barrels, which may reduce heat stress on fine hair.

If you have fine, straight, or easy-to-style hair, the Shark may deliver nearly equivalent results at half the price. But for thick, curly, or frizz-prone hair, the Dyson’s advanced airflow and consistency justify the premium for many.

Design and Usability: Ergonomics Matter More Than You Think

Styling your hair shouldn’t feel like a workout. Both brands have made strides in ergonomics, but they take different approaches.

The Dyson Airwrap integrates the motor into the handle, making it heavier but more balanced. Some users report wrist strain after 20+ minutes of continuous use, particularly when curling all sections. The Shark FlexStyle separates the motor from the wand via a flexible hose, distributing weight more evenly. This reduces hand fatigue and makes maneuvering easier, especially when styling the back sections.

Another key difference: noise. The Dyson is notably louder—comparable to a high-speed blender—while the Shark operates at a lower decibel level, closer to a standard hairdryer. If you share a bathroom or live with light sleepers, this could be a deciding factor.

Feature	Dyson Airwrap	Shark FlexStyle
Weight Distribution	Motor in handle (heavier)	Hose system (lighter wand)
Noise Level	High (~85 dB)	Moderate (~75 dB)
Heat-Up Time	2 seconds	3 seconds
Cool Shot Button	Yes	Yes
Cord Length	9.8 ft	9.2 ft
Auto-Shutoff	No	Yes (after 60 mins)

The Shark’s auto-shutoff is a small but meaningful safety feature, especially for forgetful users. Meanwhile, Dyson’s faster heat-up and stronger airflow give it an edge in efficiency.

Real-World Test: A Week with Both Devices

To assess real-life usability, we followed the routine of Maya, a 34-year-old with thick, shoulder-length 3B/3C curly hair who typically spends 45 minutes styling in the morning.

Day 1–3: Using the Dyson Airwrap
Maya found the initial learning curve moderate—about 20 minutes to master the automatic wrapping technique. By day two, she was achieving smooth roots and defined curls in under 30 minutes. Her curls held well through humidity and lasted until bedtime. She appreciated the reduced frizz and volume control, though noted the noise disrupted her partner’s morning routine.

Day 4–7: Using the Shark FlexStyle
The Shark took longer to learn. Without automatic wrapping, Maya had to carefully wind each section, leading to uneven curls on the first two days. By day six, she improved, but still spent 35–40 minutes styling. The lighter wand felt more comfortable, and she liked the cooler barrel tips. However, her curls lost definition faster, especially near the crown, and frizz appeared sooner in humid conditions.

Verdict: Maya preferred the Dyson for results but admitted the Shark was “good enough” for casual days or touch-ups.

Tip: Section hair evenly and start with damp (not wet) hair for best results on either device. Towel-dry thoroughly before styling.

Step-by-Step Guide: Maximizing Results on Any Multi-Styler

Whether you choose Dyson or Shark, technique plays a huge role in outcomes. Follow these steps for professional-level results:

1. Prep Clean, Damp Hair: Wash and towel-dry until hair is about 70–80% dry. Apply a heat protectant and lightweight leave-in conditioner.
2. Section Strategically: Divide hair into 4–6 sections using clips. Start at the bottom and work upward.
3. Dry Each Section First: Use the pre-styling dryer attachment (Dyson) or concentrator (Shark) to fully dry one section before curling or smoothing.
4. Curl with Tension: For curls, pull each strand taut before wrapping. Hold for 8–10 seconds. For Dyson, let airflow do the work. For Shark, ensure full contact with the heated barrel.
5. Smooth Roots and Ends: Use the smoothing brush on roots for volume and on ends for polish.
6. Lock It In: Finish with a cool shot to set the style. Avoid touching curls until completely cooled.

Consistency improves with practice. Most users report mastering the technique within 5–7 uses.

Expert Insight: What Stylists Really Think

We spoke with three professional stylists who use both tools in client consultations and personal routines.

“The Dyson is a game-changer for clients with frizz or volume issues. It styles while protecting the cuticle. The Shark is a solid alternative, but I wouldn’t use it on high-maintenance textures in a salon setting.” — Jamal Reed, Master Stylist, NYC

“Clients love the Shark because it’s affordable and does ‘most’ of what the Dyson does. But if you’re investing in a tool you’ll use daily for years, Dyson’s build quality and performance are unmatched.” — Priya Mehta, Beauty Tech Consultant

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Shark FlexStyle replace the Dyson Airwrap?

For fine to medium hair types and occasional styling, yes—the Shark can deliver comparable results at a lower cost. However, for thick, curly, or frizz-prone hair, the Dyson’s superior airflow, consistency, and ease of use make it the better long-term investment.

Do both tools cause heat damage?

All heated styling tools carry some risk of damage. However, both the Dyson and Shark use intelligent heat control (Dyson with glass bead sensors, Shark with 3-zone regulation) to prevent extreme temperatures. When used with heat protectant and not on soaking-wet hair, damage risk is minimized.

Is the Dyson Airwrap worth it if I already have a good flat iron and blow dryer?

It depends on your goals. If you want faster, healthier styling with less manual effort and better frizz control, the Dyson consolidates multiple tools into one efficient system. But if you’re satisfied with your current routine, the upgrade may not be essential.

Checklist: Choosing Between Dyson and Shark

Still unsure which tool fits your needs? Use this checklist to decide:

• ✅ Do you have thick, curly, or frizz-prone hair? → Lean toward Dyson.
• ✅ Is budget a primary concern? → Shark offers strong value.
• ✅ Do you style daily and want speed and consistency? → Dyson excels here.
• ✅ Do you struggle with arm fatigue or prefer a lighter wand? → Shark’s hose design wins.
• ✅ Are you sensitive to noise? → Shark is quieter.
• ✅ Do you want the most advanced technology available? → Dyson remains the innovator.

Conclusion: Is the Dyson Still Worth the Splurge?

The answer depends on your hair type, styling habits, and expectations.

The Shark FlexStyle is an impressive achievement—an 80% solution at 40% of the price. It brings high-end styling within reach of more consumers and performs admirably on easy-to-manage hair. For students, occasional stylers, or those testing the multi-tool waters, it’s a smart entry point.

But the Dyson Airwrap still sets the benchmark. Its combination of Coanda airflow, precise heat control, and salon-caliber results justifies the premium for serious users. If you style daily, battle frizz, or demand flawless curls and smoothness, the Dyson delivers a noticeably better experience. It’s not just a tool—it’s a refinement of the entire styling process.

Innovation rarely comes cheap. Dyson invested over a decade and hundreds of millions into perfecting this technology. The Shark team studied it, adapted it, and delivered a compelling alternative. But in the battle of performance versus price, the original still holds its ground.

🚀 Ready to upgrade your routine? Decide based on your hair, not the hype. Try both if possible—or start with Shark and graduate to Dyson when you’re ready for perfection.