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Beauty/Hair/Tools & Brushes

Top 10 Curling Irons

An Official Guide To The Best Curling Irons To Buy In 2024

Image credits: sephora

As we move further into the year, many of us are looking to update our hairstyles. One of the easiest ways to make a statement without committing to a permanent change is by curling your hair. However, finding the right curling iron can be challenging. Fortunately, there are numerous excellent devices available, and we're here to help you find the perfect curling iron to meet your specific needs.

Whether you prefer beachy waves or tight spirals, there's a curling iron designed to help you achieve your desired hairstyle. The key is selecting the right curling iron that suits both your hair type and your desired look. With the right tool, transforming your hair can be simple and enjoyable. Luckily for you, we've curated a list of top-quality curling irons known for their exceptional performance and high-quality designs. In the following below, you'll find everything you need to know about shopping for the best curling irons. Then, you can choose your favorite from our expert-recommended options.

What to Look for in the Best Curling Irons

When shopping for a curling iron, there are a few important things to consider. Below, we will discuss five key areas to look into if you want to ensure that the next curling iron you buy will be a long-term investment. 

1. Barrel Size

The barrel size of a curling iron is crucial because it determines the type of curl you'll achieve. Smaller barrels (around ¾ inch) create tight, defined curls, while larger barrels (1½ inches or more) produce loose, beachy waves.

2. Material

Curling irons come in various materials like ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium. Ceramic irons distribute heat evenly and are gentle on the hair. Tourmaline irons emit negative ions that reduce frizz, making them perfect for smooth, shiny curls. Titanium irons are lightweight and heat up quickly, ideal for thick or coarse hair.

3. Heat Settings

Adjustable heat settings are essential to avoid damaging your hair. Fine or damaged hair requires lower temperatures, while thick or coarse hair benefits from higher heat. Look for curling irons with a wide range of temperature settings to suit your hair type.

4. Features

Modern curling irons come with a variety of features. Automatic shut-off is a safety must-have, while dual voltage is great for travel. A swivel cord ensures easy maneuverability, and a cool tip can prevent burns during use.

5. Ease of Use

Ergonomic design and user-friendly controls can make a big difference in your styling routine. Look for a curling iron that's comfortable to hold and easy to operate.

How We Found the Best Curling Irons

At Rank & Style, we like to make sure you always have your research and know the facts when it comes to shopping. That's why our Top 10 Lists are created using a unique algorithm that takes into account information like timely trends, shopper favorites, and editor reviews. We compile all this data and share it with you so you can easily and quickly find exactly what you’re looking for. See what we mean when you shop our list of the best curling irons of 2024 and find your new go-to.

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June 26, 2024

Written By:Meredith Rimmer

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: sephora
Rank & Style Approved

sephora

Mane Handle With Curl 1.5" Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.3

10

Mane Handle With Curl 1.5" Curling Iron

4.9

80 User Reviews

2.5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Curling Iron For Beginners

WHAT IT DOES
Sometimes, all you need is a good classic. This curling iron is as straightforward as they come, but in the best way possible. It features a 1.5" barrel, a nine-foot-long swivel cord, and an auto-shutoff. Whether your hair is fine and thin or thick and coarse, this curling iron will produce voluminous curls every time.

ADDITONAL DETAILS
Though this is a newer-to-the-market curling iron, it has a 4.9 star rating on Sephora. Trust us, that's not something we always see. 


T3 Curl Id 1.25'' Smart Curling Iron With Touch Interface

Overall Score

4.4

09

T3 Curl Id 1.25'' Smart Curling Iron With Touch Interface

4.18

349 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Smart Curling Iron

WHAT IT DOES
Meet the curling iron that works smarter, not harder. Designed with an interactive touch interface that eliminates guesswork, the T3 Curl ID offers personalized heat with a smart touch interface and nine heat settings that adjust to specific hair needs. 

ADDITIONAL DETAILS
With a built-in ion generator, this curling iron eliminates frizz and boosts shine all while enhancing the natural curl of your hair.


Kristin Ess Titanium Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.45

08

Kristin Ess Titanium Curling Iron

4.33

485 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Curling Iron For Short Hair

WHAT IT DOES
Kristen Ess is a celebrity hairstylist who, over the past few years, launched her own line of hair care products and tools. So, it's no surprise to see this curling iron earn a spot on our Top 10 list. The smooth barrel has an ergonomic thumb grip and a heat-resistant tip to help minimize friction on the hair and eliminate creasing, making it effortless to obtain perfect curls.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Long locks? Short bob? Whatever length of hair you have, this curling iron is an ideal choice. 


Revlon SmoothStay Coconut Oil-Infused Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.5

07

Revlon SmoothStay Coconut Oil-Infused Curling Iron

4.38

1495 User Reviews

3.1

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Smoothing Curling Iron

WHAT IT DOES
Yes, you can buy an affordable curling iron and still get amazing results. This Revlon iron is proof. Made with ceramic infused with coconut oil, your curls will be visibly smoother and shinier. Plus, tourmaline ionic technology helps to reduce static and frizz, leaving you with a beautiful silky finish.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Worried about heat damage? No need to be. Heat-sensing technology ensures even distribution of heat throughout the styling process, allowing you to create your look faster and without any damage. 


GHD Curve Classic Curl Iron

Overall Score

4.55

06

GHD Curve Classic Curl Iron

4.36

774 User Reviews

3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Styling Curling Iron

WHO IT'S FOR
This is for those looking for the perfect classic curl—think Old Hollywood waves, but easier thanks to modern technology. The iron has three temperature zones to keep it at precisely 365 degrees, which is the ideal temp for creating this glam look. Oh, and the GHB iron works great on shorter hair as well.

ABOUT THE BRAND
An abbreviation for “Good Hair Day,” GHD is a British brand that got its start in 2001 making flat irons. Now, the brand has a variety of tools and treatments that help keep hair healthy and looking its best.


Hot Tools 24K Gold Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.65

05

Hot Tools 24K Gold Curling Iron

4.31

16509 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Curling Iron With Highest Heat

WHAT IT DOES
This curling iron has a patented pulse technology that heats up fast and keeps it super hot for the duration of your styling session. The professional swivel cord and stay cool tip mean you can style your hair easily and efficiently without having to fuss with the cord.

HELPFUL TIP
Hot curling irons are great for getting curls that last, but you should always use a heat protectant to keep your strands healthy—especially if you regularly use hot tools.


L'ange Le Duo 360° Airflow Titanium Styler

Overall Score

4.7

04

L'ange Le Duo 360° Airflow Titanium Styler

4.55

95070 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Straightening And Curling Iron

WHAT IT DOES
If this curling iron looks a bit out of the ordinary, that's because it is. It's designed with tiny air vents that cool on contact to lock in your style and an easy-to-use clip that makes creating different looks a breeze. 

HELPFUL TIP
Since this styling tool can do both curling and straightening, here's a few tips to help you understand how it works: To curl your hair, hold the tool with the base pointed either up or down and squeeze the clip to open the plates. Take a 1-inch section of hair near the roots (or mid-shaft for longer hair) and twist the tool while sliding it down your hair to create curls. If you want to straighten your hair, hold the tool parallel to the floor and squeeze the clip to open the plates. Insert a 1-2 inch section of hair at the roots and slide the tool from root to tip, using your free hand to hold the cool tip of the tool.

More Colors

More Colors


Bio Ionic Long Barrel Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.75

03

Bio Ionic Long Barrel Curling Iron

4.6

5516 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Long Barrel Curling Iron

WHO IT'S FOR
The Bio Ionic curling iron is two inches longer than the average curling iron, making it ideal for long or thick hair since you can curl more hair at once. The longer barrel also helps to reach the back of the head more easily for more consistent styling.  

RAVE REVIEW
"When I say I've tried so many other ways of curling my hair, I am not kidding. This is the first iron that I was able to easily learn how to curl AND looks fab! Beautiful loose curls. I love that it's long as well. Super smooth to work with. Will try to make tighter curls next time but this is a 10/10!"


Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.75

02

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

4.29

88099 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Affordable Curling Iron

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Pretty in pink, this classic curling iron from Conair creates a variety of styles and is especially good at long, loose waves.  

RAVE REVIEW
"I love this curling iron, especially for the price. It works perfectly on my hair. I have fine hair and the clip holds my hair tight so it doesn't slip out when I'm trying to roll it. The one I had previously always caught my hair and pulled pieces out when I tried to use it. This one is very smooth and I have no problems with it. I would definitely buy it again should I need another one."


BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron

Overall Score

4.95

01

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron

4.44

8637 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Curling Iron Overall

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Available in three different barrel sizes, this BaByliss is the industry standard when it comes to creating curls. It features ionic nanotechnology to keep the cuticle smooth, an easy swivel cord, and even a special turbo heat button for that stubborn piece that doesn’t want to curl. In other words, it's everything you need for a really great hair day.

ABOUT THE BRAND
For over 50 years, BaByliss Pro has been developing some of the most innovative and effective hair tools around. A favorite of haircare professionals, these tools are built to last.

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