Dyson Airwrap Vs Shark Flexstyle Is The Shark Just A Cheap Knockoff Or A Real Contender

The hair styling world has been turned upside down by the Dyson Airwrap since its 2018 debut. With its innovative Coanda airflow technology and sleek design, it quickly became a status symbol among beauty enthusiasts. But in recent years, a new challenger has entered the ring: the Shark FlexStyle. Priced at nearly half the cost of the Airwrap, the FlexStyle claims to deliver comparable results with similar versatility. So, is the Shark FlexStyle just a budget imitation—or does it stand as a legitimate alternative?

This isn’t just about price. It’s about performance, usability, long-term value, and whether you’re getting a fraction of the experience or something that genuinely competes. Let’s break down both systems across key categories to see where they shine—and where they fall short.

Technology and How They Work

At first glance, both tools use air to style hair without extreme heat, reducing damage compared to traditional hot irons. But their underlying technologies differ significantly.

The Dyson Airwrap relies on the Coanda effect—a fluid dynamics principle where air flows along a surface and pulls nearby objects toward it. This allows the tool to wrap hair around the barrel automatically, curling it without clamping. Dyson’s digital motor V9 powers this system, producing high-speed airflow while remaining relatively quiet and lightweight.

Shark FlexStyle, on the other hand, uses what Shark calls “AdaptiFlow” technology. While it mimics the idea of air-based styling, it doesn’t fully replicate the Coanda effect. Instead, it uses directional airflow combined with a rotating clamp mechanism on certain attachments. This means your hair doesn’t \"auto-wrap\"—you still need to manually guide it into position, though the airflow helps hold it in place during styling.

“While Shark has made impressive strides in affordable innovation, true Coanda airflow remains a proprietary advantage of Dyson.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Hair Technology Researcher, Institute of Cosmetic Science

The distinction matters. The Dyson Airwrap’s hands-free wrapping is one of its most praised features, especially for beginners or those styling thick or long hair. The Shark requires more manual control, which can be frustrating for users expecting a seamless experience.

Design, Build Quality, and Ergonomics

Dyson’s design philosophy centers on premium materials, precision engineering, and user comfort. The Airwrap feels solid in hand, with a matte finish, balanced weight distribution, and magnetic attachments that snap securely into place. Its cord is longer (nearly 9 feet), and the concentrator nozzles are finely tuned for targeted airflow.

Shark FlexStyle opts for a more utilitarian approach. It’s slightly heavier due to its internal components, and the plastic housing feels less refined. However, it includes a unique feature: a detachable handle that converts the device into a handheld dryer. This dual functionality adds practicality, especially for travel or small bathrooms.

Attachments on both units are interchangeable via magnetic connections, but Dyson’s magnets are stronger and more reliable. Some Shark users report occasional disconnection during vigorous styling, particularly when using the volumizer brush.

Tip: Always ensure the attachment is fully seated before turning on the device—especially with the Shark—to avoid accidental detachment mid-use.

Performance: Curling, Smoothing, and Drying

To assess real-world performance, we evaluated both tools across three core functions: drying, curling, and smoothing (blow-drying with a round brush).

Drying Efficiency: Both dry hair faster than standard blow dryers thanks to concentrated airflow. Dyson edges ahead with its higher wattage (1600W vs. Shark’s 1200W) and smarter heat control, preventing overheating. The Airwrap dries medium-length hair in about 15–18 minutes; the FlexStyle takes closer to 20–23 minutes.

Curling Results: Here, the difference becomes apparent. The Dyson Airwrap produces consistent, bouncy curls with minimal effort. Left alone, it wraps hair smoothly and releases easily. The Shark requires more attention—users must manually twist the hair into the barrel, and results vary depending on technique. Fine hair tends to hold curls better with the Shark, but thick or coarse textures often come out looser or uneven.

Smoothing & Volume: Both include smoothing brushes. Dyson’s 1.2-inch firm paddle brush gives salon-like smoothness with frizz control. Shark’s oval brush offers good tension and shine but lacks the same level of polish. For root lift, Dyson’s 1.2-inch soft roller creates natural volume; Shark’s equivalent works well but doesn’t last quite as long through humidity.

Real-World Example: A Busy Mom’s Morning Routine

Sarah, a 38-year-old teacher with shoulder-length wavy hair, tested both devices over two weeks. She needed quick, reliable styles before school drop-off.

With the Dyson Airwrap, she dried and curled her hair in 17 minutes, achieving defined waves that lasted all day. “It felt effortless,” she said. “I could multitask while the tool did most of the work.”

Using the Shark FlexStyle, the process took 25 minutes. She struggled to get consistent curl direction and had to re-curl several sections. “It worked, but I had to focus the whole time,” she noted. “If I’m rushing, that makes a big difference.”

For Sarah, the Dyson saved time and reduced stress—critical factors in her daily routine.

Price, Value, and Long-Term Use

This is where the Shark FlexStyle shines. The base model starts at $299, while the full-kit version is $349. In contrast, the Dyson Airwrap Complete costs $599—a staggering $250+ more.

But higher price doesn’t always mean better value. Let’s examine what you’re actually paying for:

Feature	Dyson Airwrap	Shark FlexStyle
Base Price (Complete Kit)	$599	$349
Motor Power	1600W (V9 Digital Motor)	1200W
Auto-Wrap Technology	Yes (Coanda Effect)	No (Manual Wrap Required)
Attachments Included	4 Styling + 1 Drying	5 Styling + 2 Drying (including convertible handle)
Heat Settings	3 (with intelligent heat control)	3 (manual adjustment)
Weight	1.5 lbs	1.8 lbs
Lifespan Estimate (Manufacturer)	7+ years	5 years
Warranty	2 years	1 year

The Shark delivers more attachments and a convertible design at a lower price point. However, Dyson’s superior motor, heat regulation, and auto-wrapping justify part of the premium. If you prioritize convenience and consistency, Dyson may offer better long-term value despite the upfront cost.

Tip: Consider how often you style your hair. Daily users may benefit more from Dyson’s efficiency, while occasional stylers might find Shark sufficient.

Who Should Choose Which Tool?

Choosing between these two isn’t just about budget—it’s about lifestyle, hair type, and expectations.

Choose the Dyson Airwrap if you:

• Style your hair daily or have thick, long, or hard-to-manage hair
• Value ease of use and consistent results with minimal effort
• Want the most advanced technology and longest durability
• Are willing to invest in a premium product for long-term savings

Choose the Shark FlexStyle if you:

• Have fine to medium hair that’s easier to style
• Prefer a multi-functional tool (dryer + styler in one)
• Are on a tighter budget but still want modern features
• Don’t mind spending extra time perfecting your look

“The Shark FlexStyle isn’t a knockoff—it’s a smart reinterpretation of high-end tech for the mass market.” — Marissa Chen, Beauty Tech Editor at *Luxe Living Magazine*

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Shark FlexStyle a copy of the Dyson Airwrap?

No, it’s not a direct copy. While inspired by Dyson’s concept, Shark developed its own AdaptiFlow system and added unique features like the detachable handle. It’s a competitive alternative, not a counterfeit.

Can the Shark FlexStyle create tight curls like the Airwrap?

It can, but with limitations. The Shark’s ¾-inch curler produces tighter waves, but because it lacks auto-wrapping, achieving uniform tight curls requires more skill and patience. Results vary more than with the Dyson.

Do both tools reduce heat damage?

Yes. Both use controlled heat and rely primarily on airflow rather than extreme temperatures. Dyson includes intelligent heat sensors that measure temperature 40 times per second, offering slightly better protection against overheating.

Step-by-Step Guide: Getting the Best Results from Either Tool

1. Start with damp, not soaking wet, hair. Towel-dry thoroughly or use a regular blow dryer to remove excess moisture.
2. Apply a heat protectant. Even with low-heat tools, protection is essential for long-term hair health.
3. Section your hair. Clip top layers away and work from the bottom up for even styling.
4. Use the right attachment for your goal: smoothing brush for straightening, volumizer for roots, curler for waves.
5. Follow the direction arrows. Both tools indicate rotation direction—follow them for consistent curl patterns.
6. Hold each section for 10–20 seconds. Don’t rush; allow airflow to set the shape.
7. Let curls cool before touching. Run fingers through only after they’ve cooled to lock in the style.
8. Finish with light serum or texturizing spray. Enhances shine and longevity without weighing hair down.

Final Verdict: Knockoff or Contender?

The Shark FlexStyle is not a cheap knockoff. It’s a serious contender designed to bring air-styling technology to a broader audience. It sacrifices some automation and refinement but compensates with affordability, versatility, and solid performance for many hair types.

The Dyson Airwrap remains the gold standard. Its seamless operation, cutting-edge engineering, and consistent results justify its price for frequent users or those seeking maximum ease. But for budget-conscious consumers or those who enjoy a more hands-on styling process, the Shark FlexStyle offers remarkable value.

In the end, the “better” tool depends on your priorities. If you value time, consistency, and innovation, Dyson wins. If you want capable performance at half the price and don’t mind a steeper learning curve, Shark proves it belongs in the conversation.

🚀 Ready to upgrade your styling routine? Whether you choose Dyson or Shark, understanding your needs is the first step. Try both if possible—many department stores offer demos. Then share your experience: Which tool fits your life better?