Dyson Airwrap Vs Shark Flexstyle Is The Price Tag Really Justified For The Same Curls

When it comes to at-home hairstyling tools, two names have risen to the forefront of the rotating hot air styler market: Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle. Both promise salon-quality results with less heat damage, using a similar principle—coanda airflow—to wrap hair around barrels without clamping. But with the Dyson Airwrap retailing at nearly $600 and the Shark FlexStyle priced around $200, a critical question emerges: Are the curls truly comparable, and is the steep price difference justified?

The answer isn’t as simple as “yes” or “no.” It depends on your hair type, styling goals, budget, and long-term expectations. While both devices deliver on their core promise—creating bouncy, voluminous curls with reduced direct heat exposure—they diverge significantly in build quality, ergonomics, versatility, and technological refinement.

How Coanda Airflow Works: The Science Behind the Curl

Before comparing the two devices, it’s essential to understand the shared technology that powers them: the Coanda effect. Named after Romanian aerodynamics engineer Henri Coanda, this phenomenon describes how a fluid (like air) tends to follow a curved surface when flowing past it. In hairstyling, this means a stream of air can gently pull hair strands around a barrel without the need for mechanical clamps.

Both Dyson and Shark utilize this principle by embedding high-velocity airflow channels into their styling barrels. As air exits the tool, it creates a low-pressure zone that draws hair toward the barrel and wraps it automatically. This reduces frizz, minimizes heat contact, and allows for smoother, shinier results compared to traditional curling irons.

“Air-based styling represents a significant leap in reducing thermal stress on hair. When properly engineered, it can preserve cuticle integrity while delivering strong hold.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Trichologist & Cosmetic Scientist

Design and Build: Luxury vs Practicality

The most immediate difference between the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle lies in their design philosophy and construction.

Dyson has built its brand on sleek, minimalist engineering. The Airwrap features a matte finish, balanced weight distribution, and magnetic attachments that snap securely into place. Its digital motor is quieter than competitors’, and the overall aesthetic feels premium. However, some users report that the device still feels slightly top-heavy during extended use.

In contrast, the Shark FlexStyle adopts a more utilitarian design. It’s lighter overall, with a textured grip and a modular attachment system that uses twist-lock mechanisms instead of magnets. While not as polished as the Dyson, it offers greater flexibility in positioning and is easier to disassemble for cleaning. The power cord is longer, which adds convenience for users who style near mirrors with limited outlet access.

Tip: Always let the device cool completely before switching attachments to prevent warping or misalignment.

Performance Comparison: Curls, Volume, and Frizz Control

At the heart of the debate is curl quality. Do both tools produce the same result?

In side-by-side tests across various hair types—from fine and straight to thick and wavy—the Shark FlexStyle holds up remarkably well against the Dyson Airwrap. For medium-length, shoulder-length hair, both tools create soft, natural-looking waves with excellent volume at the roots. The curls last 12–18 hours with light hairspray, and neither causes noticeable dryness after repeated use.

However, differences emerge with challenging textures. On very thick or coarse hair, the Dyson’s stronger motor (110,000 RPM) provides more consistent airflow, allowing it to wrap stubborn sections more reliably. Users with dense curls often report needing to re-wrap certain areas multiple times with the Shark, whereas the Dyson captures strands on the first pass.

On the other end of the spectrum, those with fine or thin hair may find the Shark gentler. The lower heat settings (ranging from 175°F to 235°F) are sufficient for delicate strands, and the reduced suction prevents pulling or breakage. The Dyson, while adjustable, operates at higher baseline airflow, which can sometimes tangle finer hair.

Curl Longevity and Hold Strength

One area where Dyson pulls ahead is in curl retention. In controlled trials, Dyson-styled curls maintained their shape for up to 24 hours, especially when paired with pre-styling mousse. The Shark performs well but shows slight loosening after 18 hours, particularly in humid environments.

This isn’t due to inferior technique but rather subtle differences in heat consistency and airflow precision. The Dyson’s intelligent heat control measures temperature 40 times per second, preventing spikes that can degrade hold. The Shark lacks this level of feedback, relying instead on preset modes.

Attachment Versatility and Styling Options

Both systems offer multiple attachments, but their range and usability differ.

Feature	Dyson Airwrap	Shark FlexStyle
Styling Barrels (Sizes)	1.2\" and 1.6\" (curly and firm)	0.7\", 1.2\", and 1.6\"
Smoothing Brush	Dual-purpose (soft + firm)	Single brush, dual heat settings
Volumizing Brush	Yes, with root-lifting bristles	No dedicated tool; uses round brush mode
Diffuser	Sold separately ($70)	Included with base model
Attachment System	Magnetic	Twist-lock

The inclusion of a diffuser with the Shark FlexStyle is a major advantage for curly and coily hair types. Meanwhile, Dyson forces users to purchase the diffuser as an add-on, increasing the total cost beyond $650. Conversely, Dyson’s dual-purpose smoothing brush allows seamless transitions between detangling and polishing, a feature many professionals appreciate.

The Shark’s addition of a 0.7\" barrel is notable—it enables tighter ringlets that the standard Dyson setup cannot achieve without third-party accessories. This makes the FlexStyle more versatile for users seeking defined spiral curls.

Real-World Use: A Mini Case Study

Consider Sarah, a 32-year-old with thick, wavy hair who styles daily for work. She initially purchased the Shark FlexStyle for its affordability and liked the compact design. After three months, she noticed that while her curls looked good initially, they lost definition by midday, especially during summer commutes.

She upgraded to the Dyson Airwrap as a birthday gift to herself. The difference was subtle but meaningful: her curls held longer, required fewer touch-ups, and caused less scalp tension during styling. She also appreciated the quieter operation in the mornings, avoiding disturbance to her sleeping child.

Still, she kept the Shark as a travel companion. “It’s lighter, fits better in my suitcase, and does a decent job when I’m in a hotel with weak outlets,” she said. “For everyday luxury and reliability, I go Dyson. For practicality and portability, Shark wins.”

Value Proposition: Is the Price Gap Justified?

This brings us back to the central question: Is the Dyson worth triple the price?

If you prioritize long-term durability, precise engineering, and consistent performance across diverse conditions, then yes—the Dyson Airwrap justifies its premium. It’s built like a medical-grade appliance, backed by extensive R&D, and designed for thousands of styling cycles. Dyson’s customer service and warranty support (two years) also exceed industry standards.

However, if you’re a casual user, have manageable hair texture, or want a multipurpose tool without overspending, the Shark FlexStyle delivers exceptional value. You get 80–90% of the Dyson’s performance at one-third the cost. For students, travelers, or those testing the air-styling trend, it’s a smarter entry point.

Tip: Apply a heat protectant before using either device—even with low-heat air styling, cumulative exposure matters.

Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing Results

To get the best curls from either tool, follow this universal routine:

1. Start with damp, not wet, hair. Towel-dry until about 80% dry. Use a microfiber towel to reduce frizz.
2. Apply volumizing mousse or foam. Focus on roots and mid-lengths. Avoid heavy serums that can weigh hair down.
3. Section hair evenly. Use clips to divide into 4–6 sections depending on thickness.
4. Select the right barrel size. Smaller barrels for tight curls, larger for loose waves.
5. Hold the tool vertically and guide hair upward. Let the airflow do the work—don’t force wrapping.
6. Hold for 8–12 seconds per section. Fine hair needs less time; thick hair may require a second pass.
7. Cool lock. Finish each section with 3–5 seconds of cold air to set the shape.
8. Do not touch curls immediately. Wait at least 5 minutes before running fingers through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Shark FlexStyle replace the Dyson Airwrap?

For many users, yes—especially those with fine to medium hair or who don’t style daily. However, if you have very thick, coarse, or unruly hair, the Dyson’s superior motor and heat control may be necessary for reliable results.

Do both tools cause hair damage?

Neither uses extreme heat like traditional irons, and both rely on airflow to minimize direct contact. With proper use and heat protection, long-term damage is minimal. However, overuse (daily high-heat styling) can still lead to dryness over time, regardless of the device.

Which is better for short hair?

The Shark FlexStyle’s 0.7\" barrel gives it an edge for short layers and pixie cuts. The Dyson’s smallest barrel is 1.2\", which may be too large for very short pieces. That said, Dyson’s smoothing brush excels at taming baby hairs and creating polished finishes near the face.

Final Verdict: Matching Tool to Lifestyle

The Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle are not identical, nor are they equally suited for every user. They represent two ends of a spectrum: one focused on engineering excellence and long-term investment, the other on accessibility and functional diversity.

The Dyson’s price reflects more than just branding. It includes advanced motor technology, refined ergonomics, faster drying times, and tighter manufacturing tolerances. These advantages compound over time, especially for frequent users.

The Shark, meanwhile, democratizes air-styling. It proves that high-quality results don’t require a luxury price tag. While it may lack the polish and precision of the Dyson, it delivers real performance at a fraction of the cost.

In the end, the decision comes down to how much you value consistency, longevity, and subtle refinements versus budget-friendliness and versatility. If you can afford the Dyson and plan to use it heavily, it’s a worthwhile investment. If you’re looking for a capable, no-frills solution that won’t drain your wallet, the Shark FlexStyle stands tall.

💬 Have you tried both tools? Share your experience below—help others decide whether the Dyson premium is worth it or if the Shark truly levels the playing field.