Affordable Vs. High Quality Blow Dryer Comparison (Shocking Results)

When it comes to blow dryers, the options can be overwhelming. From affordable models to high-end dryers, it’s easy to wonder if the extra cost is actually worth it or not. After all, you want your hair to look great without breaking the bank. But does spending more really make a difference? In this post, I’m comparing two blow dryers with a massive price gap. A Conair blow dryer at $40, and the Dyson at $430. Let’s dive in and see if a pricier dryer lives up to the hype!

This comparison was actually very eye-opening for me as a hairstylist. I’ve always believed that a dryer under $50 would never be able to compare to a high-quality blow dryer like the Dyson. But I was pretty surprised with the results.

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Does the price of a blow dryer matter?

You’ve likely seen all sorts of dryers ranging from $20 to $500. And it’s natural to ask what actually makes one better than the other. The truth is, there are several factors that contribute to the cost of a blow dryer.

High-end dryers often boast cutting-edge technology, faster drying times, and features like temperature regulation and advanced materials to protect your hair from heat damage. They also come with longer cords, and will likely last longer than a lower-cost blow dryer will.

On the other hand, budget-friendly dryers may lack some of these advanced features, but can still get the job done effectively. It really depends on what your needs are for a blow dryer.

Are cheap blow dryers good?

A cheap blow dryer can certainly still do its job — dry your hair. Many people use affordable blow dryers daily without any issue. However, the trade-off often comes in drying time, heat control, heat damage, and how long the dryer will last. And it’s important to note that not all cheap dryers are created equally either.

A cheaper blow dryer may take longer to dry your hair, and is likely made with cheaper materials that can cause damage to your hair. You also might not have as many options as far as settings go, like with a cool-shot for example.

I’ve found that while cheaper dryers do still get the job done, I frankly got sick of having to replace the dryer every 6 months. That being said, not everyone blow drys their hair as much as I do. So you’ll need to weigh out your priorities before ultimately making your decision.

If you are interested in a cheaper dryer, the Conair Blow Dryer I used in my video below proved to be a great choice as far as dry time, settings, and fighting frizz goes.

Does a more expensive blow dryer make a difference?

The Dyson Supersonic is one of the most talked-about blow dryers in the industry today. It’s known for its advanced technology and premium price tag.

It features intelligent heat control to prevent extreme heat damage, a high-velocity airflow, and a design that reduces hair frizz. It’s marketed as a blow dryer that works faster and better, leaving your hair smoother and shinier.

But does all this technology make a real difference in your daily routine?

For some people, the extra investment is worth it. If you have thick or long hair that takes a while to dry, a high-quality dryer could save you time on your routine. However, for those with fine or shorter hair, the difference between a $40 blow dryer and a $500 dryer might not be as significant.

Personally, the Dyson was worth it for me as a professional, but I can’t say that the hefty price tag is worth it for an average consumer.

Consider a mid-grade option

To play it safe, I usually recommend a mid-grade option to my clients. I never want to recommend a low-quality dryer that has the potential to damage their hair, but I also don’t want them to overspend where they don’t need to.

• The Shark Blow Dryer is a great option for those who like the idea of the Dyson, but not the price. I’ve heard great things about this dryer from my clients.
• The FHI Platform Blow Dryer is another great option. This looks more like a traditional blow dryer, but it’s made by a reputable professional brand. I used this dryer behind the chair for many years.
• Handleless FHI Platform is a non-traditional-looking dryer that is easier for those who struggle with a dryer and round brush. This dryer is shaped differently for a more ergonomically fit in your hands.

Conair Vs. Dyson Blow Dryer Comparison

In the video below, I compared the Dyson with the Conair. And I have to say I was shocked by the results!

The Dyson did dry the hair a bit faster, but it was not less frizzy than the $40 blow dryer. If anything it was worse! I think this is due to the speed of the air and the extra heat that got the hair to dry faster. In reality, the speed can create more frizz.

The Dyson also has a much longer cord than the Conair, and I did struggle with the cord being too short. You would definitely need to use an extension cord with the Conair.

I do believe that the Dyson would last longer before needing to be replaced, but this could be subjective. From this experiment, I can’t say for sure that the Dyson would have a longer life than the Conair. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked.

Conclusion

Both the Conair and Dyson blow dryers get the job done, but there are some key differences. If you’re looking for an affordable option that will give you a decent blowout, the Conair is a solid choice. It may take a little longer and won’t be as fancy, but it gets your hair dry and styled without breaking the bank.

On the other hand, if you’re after faster drying times, tool longevity, and quality brand names; the Dyson could be worth the investment.

At the end of the day, it comes down to your priorities. If budget is a concern, the Conair is definitely the way to go. But if you’re willing to invest in a blow dryer that can cut down styling time, reduce heat damage, and deliver smooth results consistently, the Dyson might be worth it.

If you’re interested in my full guide on heat tools, see this post here. And make sure to subscribe below if you want to make everyday a good hair day!