Laifen Mini hair dryer: two-minute review

The Laifen Mini is a scaled-down, mini hair dryer that offers the kind of power and features you'd expect from a full-sized option. It has the same streamlined silhouette as the majority of the best hair dryers on the market these days – it has a minimalist barrel, with most of the weight in the handle – but the whole unit has been shrunk down to a more portable size. The fact it comes with a carry bag suggests Laifen has travel in mind here, but I'd happily consider it as a main hair dryer if I was short on space.

It's lightweight and comfortable to use, with the (new with this model) matte finish adding grip as well as bumping up this model's style credentials. In terms of modes, there's the standard temperature and windspeed options, but also a couple more advanced modes. One will cycle hot-to-cold every two seconds, and is designed to protect your scalp and also set your locks as you style, and the other is a child mode that uses lower pressure and is better for delicate hair.

Although neither were required for my own styling routine, they both work as advertised and offer a more specialized option for those who want them. In the auto-cycle mode, it took two and a half minutes to rough-dry my hair to 90 per cent dry – a little longer than my full-sized dryer, but still very acceptable and impressively efficient for a travel-sized option.

There are some potential downsides, though. The cord is short and the fact there's currently no compatible diffuser will frustrate curly haired customers. I also found the controls a point of irritation – you set the mode using a series of long or short button presses, and you'll need to memorize these because the only way to note the current mode is by watching the glowing ring on the dryer's barrel and remembering what each color sequence means. It certainly looks cool, but it isn't the most efficient way to convey information.

Those frustrations aside, this is a very strong addition to the Laifen lineup. It's also affordably priced for the features it brings, sitting in the mid-range bracket and delivering strong performance, versatility and a cool look for that price. That's the short version – read on for my full Laifen Mini hair dryer review.

Laifen Mini hair dryer review: price & availability

• List price: €129.99
• Available: Europe, UK (via EU site)
• Launched: September 2024

The Laifen Mini was unveiled at IFA in September 2024, and at time of writing is available to buy in the UK, other European territories, as well as South Africa. The UK situation is a little odd because it's only available to buy via the Laifen EU site and the price is listed in Euros, but Laifen has confirmed it's available for UK shoppers here, and you can specify that it come with a UK plug.

At time of writing, Laifen didn't have any information on if/when the Mini might be launched in the US or Australia – although when my teammate saw the dryer at IFA she was told the differences in voltage were a barrier to launching in the US.

At list price it costs €129.99 – roughly $135 / £107 / AU$213 – although it was reduced to €110.49 at the time of writing. This puts the Laifen Mini in the mid-range price bracket for hair dryers, and I think it's decent value for what it offers. It's a step up on basic in terms of features; it feels robust and good quality; and the design has a premium vibe.

• Value for money score: 4 out of 5

Laifen Mini hair dryer specs

Laifen Mini hair dryer review: design

• Stylish, small and lightweight build
• Comes with magnetic concentrator and carry bag
• Controlled via button and slider on handle; cord rather short

The Laifen Mini is a shrunk-down version of the brand's popular Laifen Swift hair dryer. Originally, that was part of a wave of new dryers with designs heavily inspired by the then-hot-new-thing, the Dyson Supersonic.

The new addition still has that streamlined shape with the weight in the handle and a minimal barrel. However, it now looks less like a knock-off and more of its own thing, and I'm a big fan of Laifen's styling. It's the first Laifen dryer to add a matte coating – this brings the double benefit of improving grip while also avoiding that cheap-looking shiny plastic look. It's available in four muted, pastel colors (arguably more on-trend than the tropical tones still favored by Dyson).

My review model is Glacier Blue (a grey-blue), but it's also available in Jungle Green (an olive-toned color), Coral Pink (really more baby pink) and Arctic White. It arrives with one styling attachment – a concentrator that snaps on and off magnetically. Other Laifen dryers have a compatible diffuser that can be purchased separately, but that isn't an option here.

To help with portability it comes bundled with a carry bag in either grey or brown (color chosen at random). It's just big enough for the dryer, cable and attachment to nestle inside, and is magnetic all the way along the top, making it super easy to open and close.

At 5.9ft / 1.8m, the cable is on the short side. That might be annoying if you're planning to use this as your main dryer, but it does make sense as a travel option. There's a rubbery cable tidy for when you want to pack the dryer in its bag.

For reference, most full-sized dryers have a cable that's around 8.5-10ft (2.5-3m) long. However, it's worth flagging that Laifen in general is stingy with its cables – the full-sized Swift has the same length cord as this Mini version.

Controls & modes

Controls are via two switches on the handle. There's a slider to turn the dryer on and move between the two different windspeed options, indicated by icons (0, I, II). The second button is used to set the mode.

Here's where things become a little confusing, because different modes require different press types:

• Long press: temperature cycling mode
• Two short presses: child mode
• Single short press: shift between low, medium and high temperature

A ring around the barrel will glow different colors to indicate temperature; but other than that, there's no way to determine which mode you're in.

When the dryer arrived, Laifen had added a wrapper to the handle with instructions printed on it, and I was grateful that I took a photo at the time for reference – because once it's gone, you'll need to rely on your memory to know what's going on.

The temperature control is described as "smart", but that just means there's a sensor inside to prevent overheating, which I'd hope wouldn't happen anyway. Like most modern dryers, bar the ultra-budget models, it releases ions as it dries, to discourage frizz.

• Design score: 4 out of 5

Laifen Mini hair dryer review: performance

• Good amount of power for a travel-sized dryer
• Controls are fiddly and require memorizing
• Lightweight and comfortable to hold and use

The Laifen Mini is comfortable to hold, with a well-balanced design and good grip thanks to the matte coating. It's lightweight enough for use over long periods, and packs a decent amount of power for a travel-sized dryer. I tested it out on my armpit-length, naturally wavy hair, and my drying times were slightly longer than when using my Dyson Supersonic Nural, but not unreasonably so.

While the dinky size and helpful carry bag make it perfect for taking on trips, I think this would also work as a main hair dryer for someone who's especially short on storage space. The power and functionality are similar to what you'd get with a full-sized dryer; the main compromise you're making is the length of the cord (bear this in mind if your power outlets aren't helpfully placed close to your mirrors).

In terms of attachments, the provided concentrator snaps on and off easily and feels secure in use. It's just a shame there's no compatible diffuser for curly haired customers.

Modes in use

Let's take a closer look at the operation. There are two windspeeds; most modern dryers offer three, although I think two will be fine for most people's needs.

You're also slightly more limited than usual on temperature options. Most dryers these days will come with three temperature options plus a separate cold shot button. Here, you just have a medium, hot or cold temperature mode. The band around the barrel will glow yellow, red or blue respectively in these modes.

I was fine with having to cycle through temperature setting to access the cold mode, although others may prefer the more usual approach of a separate, dedicated button. Laifen's approach is easier for prolonged cold setting use, because it doesn't require a button to be held down.

If you're styling your hair or are particularly concerned about scalp health, you can opt for a temperature cycling mode, in which the Mini will switch from hot to cold every two seconds. At the same time, the band will gradually transition from pink to red to purple to blue. The aim of this mode is to prevent your scalp from becoming too hot, and to set your style as you're drying.

It took around two and half minutes to get my hair to 90 per cent dry in this mode. In comparison, with the Dyson Supersonic Nural's "auto" mode it takes around two minutes. I didn't find the automatic temperature cycling that useful for my styling needs or routine, but I appreciate the option is there if you want it.

A new addition with the Laifen Mini is the child mode. This isn't a child lock, but rather a mode designed for drying children's hair.

Laifen states that in this mode the dryer "maintains the same airspeed as regular modes, but the wind pressure is reduced, making the air feel gentler on the skin". Activate child mode and the dryer will stay at either 38ºC at low speed, or 48ºC in high speed, and the ring will pulse yellow.

I appreciate that Laifen is offering up more than just your standard modes here. While they won't all be useful for everyone – and for my styling routine, I found myself mostly sticking to the high windspeed, high temperature option – I appreciate the options are there to cater to different customers' needs and priorities.

However, I do have a slight issue with the labelling – or lack thereof. I'm all for a minimalist design, but the only way to know which temperature mode you're in is to sit and watch the lights (and remember what they mean). Unless you have a great memory, switching modes will probably be a process of trial and error for some time.

• Performance score: 4 out of 5

Should you buy the Laifen Mini hair dryer?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Laifen Mini hair dryer review: alternatives to consider

How I tested the Laifen Mini hair dryer

I used the Laifen Mini as my main hair dryer for two weeks. For reference, I have armpit-length, naturally wavy hair. According to my hairdresser, the strands are fine but there are a lot of them. For this review, I tested all the different modes, recorded how long it took to rough-dry my hair from wet to 90 per cent dry in maximum windspeed and temperature mode, as well as in temperature cycling mode. I assessed how comfortable it was to use, and how straightforward the controls were. In all of these areas, I compared my experience with the Laifen Mini to other dryers including the Dyson Supersonic Nural (which I use as my everyday dryer) and more basic, cheaper models.

Read more about how we test

• First reviewed February 2025

L'Oreal AirLight Pro hair dryer: two-minute review

The L'Oreal Airlight Pro is a professional-only infrared hair dryer that offers precise control and comes with a companion app. Set to be the next big thing in haircare, infrared hair dryers promise all the power of the best hair dryers but with less damage to the hair and scalp. Instead of relying on hot air, infrared dryers combine targeted airflow with 'safe infrared light energy' to dry the water on the hair's surface. The process is similar to how the sun evaporates rainwater.

The technology was made famous by the likes of the Zuvi Halo; once dubbed the 'Tesla of hair dryers' and named one of TIME Magazine's Best Inventions. The Airlight Pro was designed in collaboration with Zuvi, and looks and works in an almost identical way, but with the bonus of the app controls.

At first glance, the AirLight Pro has a relatively simple and clean design. It's noticeably heavier than many other hair dryers I've reviewed, and own, and caused my wrist to ache after a while. It goes some way towards compensating for this with a more robust build and additional professional-grade features, such as an extra-long cord and 1875W power. Plus, despite this bulkier size and weight, the AirLight Pro is still compact enough to pack into a bag or similar.

In my testing, the AirLight Pro dried my shoulder-length, fine hair in under five minutes – that's similar to the speed of the Dyson Supersonic, but almost twice as long as my favorite hair dryer, the Revlon Pro. However, compared to both of these dryers as well as the Zuvi Halo, I found the condition, feel and look of my hair was noticeably better with the L'Oreal model – it added shine and softness while reducing frizz. Over time, my hair also seemed to get healthier while testing the AirLight Pro, too.

The dryer ships with two magnetic attachments: a diffuser and a concentrator nozzle. The dryer automatically detects which attachment is being used, and will adjust the temperature and airflow to the recommended settings for each. (The Dyson Supersonic Nural has similar capabilities, except that dryer remembers your last-used settings.)

There's a multitude of setting options – three heats (plus cool shot), three speed options, and three presets (Sleek, Curly and Coily). Alternatively, you can manually adjust the speed and temperature, in increments of 5% for airflow and 15-20F for heat, using the AirLight Pro app.

Granted, the everyday user may not need that kind of precision, or know how to truly get the best out of such a high level of control. The app doesn't have a huge number of features beyond these controls, either. However, the fact it even offers it at all puts the AirLight Pro ahead of other dryers in my opinion, because it demonstrates L'Oreal's commitment to providing choice and versatility to those who want it.

The biggest downside to all of these settings is that the dryer can be a little overwhelming at first, and isn't as intuitive to use as I would have liked. You can't tweak the settings without the airflow being on, which can make it all a bit noisy and fiddly, not to mention hot. However, I did appreciate the on-screen prompts, including things like filter cleaning alerts.

Ultimately, the AirLight Pro is designed for professionals – people who are serious about hair health, work with a range of hair types, and understand how different heat and airflow settings can impact style. That's not to say it won't have value for the everyday user, but you may not need, or get the full benefits of, all the bells and whistles.

As a result of this pro positioning, it's difficult to directly compare like-for-like with other dryers on the market, and it's difficult to recommend. What it does though, it does with a lot of flair, performance and style. Excuse the pun.

L'Oreal AirLight Pro hair dryer review: price & availability

• $475 / €450 for AirLight Pro + 2 attachments
• Free app

The L’Oreal AirLight Pro is currently only available in the US and France for $475 / €450 (around £385 / AU$756.26), with more regions set to be announced at a later date. In France, it's only available to professionals but in the US it's sold to consumers via Ulta.

For this price you get the AirLight Pro's two magnetic attachments – a diffuser, and concentrator nozzle – included with the dryer itself. The AirLight Pro app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

This price puts the AirLight Pro firmly in the premium price bracket in between the original, $399 Dyson Supersonic and the scalp-friendly, $499.99 Supersonic Nural. It costs $125 more than the Zuvi Halo, the dryer upon which the AirLight Pro has been based.

Out of the group, the Dyson Supersonic ends up being better value for money because it ships with five attachments by default. This includes versions of a concentrator and diffuser attachment (the two sold with the AirLight Pro), as well as a Wide-tooth Comb and Flyaway attachment. Interestingly, the Zuvi Halo ships with a Gentle Air attachment for improved scalp protection, which the AirLight Pro is missing.

• Value score: 3.5 out of 5

L'Oreal AirLight Pro hair dryer review: design

• 3 speeds; 3 heat settings; 3 preset modes + Cool shot and app controls
• Heavy and bulky design
• Easy-to-use attachments

There was a time when hair dryers with short, circular barrels and long handles were the exception. Thanks to the popularity of the Dyson Supersonic, they are now the norm and the L'Oreal AirLight Pro fits firmly into this camp.

As with the Zuvi Halo and these Dyson rivals, the AirLight Pro's shape is compact – measuring 10.4 x 3.9 x 3.3 in / 26.5 x 9.8 x 8.4 cm – with a slightly rounded barrel and well-proportioned handle. It's not as well-balanced, ergonomically speaking, as these other dryers, and feels top-heavy. At 710g (EU) and 1.8 lbs (US), it’s also noticeably heavier than many other dryers I’ve reviewed, including the Halo, which weighs 546g (1.2 lbs).

This extra weight does make the AirLight Pro feel like a luxurious, robust and premium purchase, but it did strain my wrist quite quickly during styling, and could be even more of an issue if you have long or thick hair.

The infrared technology is this dryer's standout feature, using low heat light to dry hair from the inside out, preserving moisture and leaving hair shinier and smoother. Depending on which regional L'Oreal site you look at, the brand claims the AirLight Pro dries either 14% faster than other premium dryers in the US, or 30% faster in the UK. It then either uses 11% less energy, or 28% less energy. L'Oreal told me this was because the devices are optimized for different regions, but it didn't go into more detail than that.

Let's take a look at the controls. On the front of the circular barrel is an air outlet surrounded by a pane of glass covering the infrared LEDs. Below this outlet, on the handle, you'll find the small digital display, the Mode/Speed selection button, and the Power switch. On the rear of the barrel is the filter inlet, and on the rear of the handle is the Heat selection button. Long-pressing this button enables the Cool Shot function.

The small display shows the selected airflow speed and heat setting using colored blocks, as well as any active presets you've selected. The button directly below this screen is used to adjust the airflow, toggling between Low, Medium and High.

You then need to use the button on the rear to adjust the temperature, which again moves between Low, Medium and High options. The main heat levels range from 86 F / 30 C to 285 F / 140 although you can further tweak these settings using the AirLight Pro app. From your phone or tablet, you can increase or decrease airflow speeds in 5% increments, and change the temperature by 15-20 F at a time.

A long press of the Speed selection button on the front of the handle will switch you between Standard and Pro modes, where you can then select from either the Sleek, Coily or Curly presets.

The default Standard setting for the dryer is Medium heat/High speed. The presets are then as follows:

• Sleek: Sleek mode pairs High heat with High airflow to achieve smooth, straight finishes
• Curly: Curly mode uses Medium heat with Medium speed to maintain curl shape and reduce frizz
• Coily: Sets both heat and airflow to their lowest settings

The attachments follow suit. When the concentrator (used to create sleek styles) is attached, the heat and airflow automatically switch to High. When the diffuser is attached to dry curls, the heat and airflow is automatically set to Low. The use of these attachments is intuitive and the magnetic connector is strong enough to keep them in place during styling, but easy to remove and replace.

The styler itself is not the most intuitive dryer I've used, though. I often changed the temperature with the speed button and vice versa. One of my favorite features on the Zuvi Halo is the clearly named modes – Fast, Care, Soft and so on – and while L'Oreal's options aren't a million miles away, they're not as easy-to-use at a glance.

The digital display on the AirLight Pro brings a level of intuitiveness back with on-screen prompts, as does the app. In fact, the app very easy to use and because it shows the settings on a larger phone display, I almost always defaulted to these controls when using the AirLight Pro.

I don't love the fact you can’t tweak the settings without the dryer – and thus the airflow – being on, which can make it noisy and fiddly, not to mention hot, during use. Although I do love that the styler's display and app shows cleaning alerts when your filter needs clearing and shows you how to switch between Modes if you get stuck.

The design of the AirLight Pro isn't perfect. For all the way it's functional and professional, it can also be frustrating. The heavier weight causes problems when drying your hair for long periods, and I don't want to have to commit time to learning controls when all I want to do is just dry my hair. That said, these are relatively minor complaints when you factor in just how well it performs.

• Design score: 3.5 out of 5

AirLight Pro specs

L'Oreal AirLight Pro hair dryer review: performance

• Fast drying times
• Great for curls
• Customized settings work best

To test the L'Oreal AirLight Pro, I experimented with different combinations of heat and speed and put each of the preset modes and attachments to the test on my long, fine, naturally curly hair.

Unsurprisingly, my hair dried the fastest with Sleek mode – High speed/High temperature – was selected. This mode took my hair from wet to dry in just under five minutes. That's is similar to the speed of the Dyson Supersonic, but almost twice as long as my go-to hair dryer, the Revlon Pro. The problem with such quick speeds is that hair was blasted into submission and it lacked volume and movement, even if it did look sleek.

I could shave almost 45 seconds off this time when I rough dried my hair on this setting with the concentrator nozzle attached. However, this didn't help the lack of volume. Plus, to get the most out of this nozzle, I needed to dedicate more time to blow-drying sections properly, which improved the finish but more than doubled the time.

The Curly preset worked much better. It dried my natural curls faster than any other dryer I've used – you usually have to sacrifice time for gentle drying – and it left the individual curls looking defined and surprisingly smooth. I tried the Coily hair preset to see how it compared, but as I don't have coily hair it was more for reference, and I didn't see a huge difference between time and finish compared to the Curly mode.

The best results, however, came when I ignored all of the default settings and presets and used the app. After a bit of tweaking, I got the best balance of speed versus finish with the temperature set to 55 C / 130 F and the airflow at 65%. Any hotter and the hair didn't feel as soft; any cooler and it took longer to style. The airflow was then strong enough to blow the hair effectively, but not so strong that it added frizz or knots.

Regardless of settings, however, the feel, condition and look of my hair was noticeably better with the L'Oreal AirLight Pro compared to all other dryers I've used and own. It added shine and softness while reducing frizz, which is no mean feat for blonde, naturally curly hair. Over time, my hair also seemed to get healthier while testing the AirLight Pro and I had less breakage and hair loss in the shower and from brushing.

In regards noise, L'Oreal claims the AirLight Pro is whisper-quiet, producing just 76dB. In my tests, the dryer never dropped lower than 85dB. That's quiet enough to have a conversation while drying, so it's still not loud, by any stretch, but it is quite a step up from what L'Oreal promises (as well as on the 78 decibels I recorded when using the Zuvi Halo).

In terms of noise, L'Oreal claims the AirLight Pro is whisper-quiet, producing just 76 decibels. In my tests, though, the dryer never dropped lower than 85 decibels. This was quite a step up – not just on what L'Oreal claims but on the o. That said, 85dB is quiet enough to have a conversation while drying so it's not loud, by any stretch. It's just louder than promised.

• Performance score: 4 out of 5

Should I buy the L'Oreal AirLight Pro hair dryer?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

First reviewed: January 2025

Dreame Gleam Hair Dryer two-minute review

The $99/£80/€79 Dreame Gleam hair dryer offers a decent blend of thoughtful design, user-friendliness, and performance – especially for such a relatively cheap dryer. It’s lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to hold and easy to use. Its slim design also makes it a good travel companion, as it fits neatly into bags without taking up too much space. All of this make it a strong contender amongst the best hair dryers on the market.

Aesthetically, the Gleam has a cylindrical design, curved edges, and a soft matte finish. The main temperature and mode controls are found on the back of the handle and while this placement isn’t great for making adjustments mid-style, it's intuitive enough once you get the hang of it. By contrast, the power and speed slider, conveniently and comfortably placed within reach of your thumb, is great for quick changes between the Low and High speed settings.

In addition to these speeds, the Gleam has four heat modes – Cool, 57C Constant, Hot, and a Hot/Cold Cycle. Its 65m/s airflow delivers fast, efficient drying, even on the lower heat settings and the built-in ion technology, which releases 200 million negative ions, breaks down water molecules quickly, helping to reduce frizz and leave hair smooth and shiny.

One of my favorite features is the Cool mode, which provides a true blast of cold air. It’s fantastic for setting styles, reducing frizz, and adding extra shine. My waves and curls held their shape noticeably longer after a quick blast of cool air. By comparison, while the 57C Constant mode is great for offering gentle heat for damaged hair, I found it to be my least favorite mode. It adds a substantial amount to the drying time without drastically improving the quality and finish of your hair.

The best results, in terms of speed vs finish was with the Hot/Cold Cycle on High speed. Using this mode, I was able to dry my long, thin hair in under five minutes, and the result was soft, glossy, and full of life. This shine and smooth finish was even better when paired with the magnetic concentrator nozzle. This nozzle is excellent for directing the airflow precisely where you need it, making it ideal for smoothing out sections of hair. It's quite narrow, which doesn't lend itself well to drying all of your hair with the nozzle, but if you're willing to put in the extra time, it's worth it. Sadly, the Gleam doesn’t include a diffuser and this is a shame for people with naturally curly hair.

In terms of noise, the Gleam operates quietly, with a sound level that’s comfortable for most situations. It’s easy to carry on a conversation while using it, even at higher speeds, making it less disruptive than other dryers I’ve tried. In my tests, the noise levels averaged 70dB and never exceeded 80dB, even on the High speed setting. This is quite a bit louder than Dreame's advertised 59dB, but is a minor gripe.

And speaking of gripes, the fan is positioned at the base of the handle, where it meets the 5.9ft (1.8m) cord. This design makes the barrel more compact and prevents hair from getting caught in the fan blades but I constantly kept blocking it with my hand and this soon become tedious.

Dreame Glory Hair Dryer review: price & availability

• List price: $99/£80/€79
• Available: US/UK/EU

The $99 / £80 / €79 Gleam hairdryer is Dreame's entry-level model, coming in at around half the price of its €159 Dreame Pocket, and €139 / A$299 Dreame Glory.

It's available in the US and Europe from the Dreame website, as well as Amazon, in a pastel pink color. You can also buy it from Amazon UK in grey. Across all regions, the dryer ships with a concentrator nozzle although it doesn't have a dedicated diffuser. You can use the diffuser that ships with the Dreame Glory, as it connects in the same way, but who realistically is going to own both dryers in order to make this swap?

The price and power of the Gleam puts the dryer in the lower mid-range bracket, putting it on par with the likes of the $95 BaBylissPRO, and $90 Hot Tools Pro Artist Tourmaline dryer. The BaByliss Pro ships with a similar concentrator nozzle to the Gleam, yet the Hot Tools dryer is sold with two nozzles and a diffuser for a similar price.

The lack of color options and accessories make it difficult to recommend the Dreame Gleam when other, cheaper dryers offer more value and choice. That said, its power and features coupled with its focus on hair health help elevate its appeal and at least justify its price.

• Value for money score: 4 out of 5

Dreame Gleam Hair Dryer specs

Dreame Gleam Hair Dryer review: design

• Compact design
• 4 heat modes and 2 airflow speeds
• Concentrator attachment

If it wasn't for the pink color and soft-matte finish, it would be easy to mistake the Dreame Gleam for the Dreame Glory. The dryer’s body is cylindrical, with the same rounded edges. The two dryers are almost identical in size, shape and weight. Even down to the position of the fan at the base of the handle, and the matching power/speed and temperature controls on the side.

On the rear of the Gleam dryer, where the fan is usually found, is a flat, smooth panel. Beneath this panel, on the handle, is a sliding power switch that lets you toggle between the two speed settings – Low and High. This switch is perfectly located in just the right spot so that your thumb can easily reach it without having to re-adjust your grip mid-style and this is a small but welcome feature. Below this switch is a circular button surrounded by an LED ring which lets you switch between the Gleam's four temperature modes:

• Cold
• 57°C Constant
• Hot
• Hot/Cold Cycle

As you'd expect, the Cold mode blows cold air, and the Hot mode blows hot air. The Hot/Cold Cycle Mode cycles between hot and cold air as you style your hair and the 57C Constant mode offers a consistent temperature designed to prevent heat damage.

I first used the Hot/Cold cycle feature on the BaByliss Air Wand and more recently on the Dreame Pocket and Dreame Glory. I initially thought I wouldn't this mode that much because it increases the styling time slightly, however it is now my go-to because it makes a noticeable difference to the finish and feel of my hair.

To switch between these modes, you press the circular button found on the rear of the handle and its LED ring will change color, depending on the mode selected. Cold mode is represented by a blue LED ring; Hot mode has a red ring; Hot/Cold cycle's LED ring alternates between red and blue; and the ring on the 57C Constant mode is yellow. It's impossible to see these colors mid-style, due to the position of the button on the rear of the handle and this makes it difficult to select different modes without looking. The more you use the dryer, the more you get used to what the different modes sound and feel like but it's not massively intuitive.

At just 11.6oz / 330g, the Dreame Gleam is incredibly easy to lift and move around your head, and its dimensions – 3 × 3.2 inches (7.6 × 8.2 cm) for the barrel and a 10-inch (25.5 cm) handle – make it a compact and well balanced styler. The longer handle, which I initially thought might make the dryer top-heavy, is balanced and provides a confident grip while styling.

There is only one attachment for the Dreame Gleam – a smoothing concentrator nozzle that snaps onto the barrel using a satisfying magnetic mechanism. This mechanism is strong enough to keep the attachments in place during styling, but gives you the freedom to twist and turn the nozzle to different angles to reach different parts of your head and hair. The nozzle doesn't get too hot during styling either, which adds to this ease-of-use.

Being positioned at the base of the handle, where it meets the 5.9ft / 1.8m cord, means its easy to block the fan with your hand. This is preferable to the fan being on the rear of the dryer and sucking your hair in, as is the case with some other dryers, but I don't love this positioning. The air outlet at the front of the Dreame Gleam is then wide enough to provide the powerful 70 m/s airflow.

• Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Dreame Gleam Hair Dryer review: performance

• 1600-watt motor
• High-speed motor operates at 110,000RPM
• 76dB average noise

From my first use of the Dreame Gleam, I noticed how quickly it dried my hair, even on the lower speed and temperature settings. It handled my long, fine hair in minutes without the usual frizz or tangles and I love that you don't have to rely on intense heat to do the job. Instead, its high-speed airflow and 200 million negative ions help to break down water droplets faster, leaving my hair smooth and shiny in a short period of time.

The quickest results came from using the Hot mode, in which my hair went from wet to dry in four and a half minutes on High speed. The Hot/Cold Cycle on high speed added an extra minute to this, but my hair was noticeably softer and had more movement. This combination of warm and cool air also seemed to lock in the sleek finish for much longer. The slowest results came from using the Constant 57C setting. It took more than six minutes to dry my hair on this mode and there wasn't a huge improvement in the feel or look of my hair either. This will be a great addition for very fragile or damaged hair, but may feel a bit redundant for anyone else.

The Cool mode is a standout feature, though. Unlike some dryers where the cool setting just feels like slightly less warm air, the Gleam delivers a genuine blast of cold air almost immediately. After curling my hair, I used the Cool mode to lock in the waves and not only did the curls hold their shape for hours longer, they were noticeably more shiny. This mode is also great for smoothing flyaways or finishing a blowout with a polished look.

The concentrator nozzle deserves a mention too. It’s great for targeting specific sections, like when I want to smooth the hair around my face. It's not the largest of nozzles so if you use it to style the whole of your head, you'll probably need to add another three or four minutes to the overall styling time. Adjusting or removing it is easy though. It's a shame that the Gleam doesn't offer a diffuser. It is possible to add the Glory's diffuser onto the barrel of the Gleam due to their identical size, but not everyone will have access to both stylers (and nor should they have to.)

Another thing I appreciated about the Gleam is how quiet it is. I could still chat with my family while drying my hair and even on High speed, the dryer never exceeded 80dB. This makes it marginally quieter than the Dreame Glory. It should be noted that Dreame claims the Gleam operates around 59dB but even on the slowest, lowest setting, my app registered an average of 70dB.

It's not a perfect dryer but for the price and the power, it's a worthwhile choice.

• Performance score: 4.5 out of 5

Should you buy the Dreame Gleam Hair Dryer?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if….

How I tested the Dreame Gleam Hair Dryer

I used the Dreame Gleam as my daily hair dryer over the course of four weeks at home. I used it most mornings as a replacement for my go-to hair dryer – the Revlon One Step – to dry and style my long, thin hair.

To test the dryer, I experimented with the full range of speed and temperature combinations, and attachment. I paid close attention to the dryer’s features, how fast and effectively each of the modes worked, and how easy it was to use. I measured the decibel levels of the dryer on Low and High speeds throughout the testing period to achieve an average noise score.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed November 2024

Dreame Glory Hair Dryer two-minute review

The Dreame Glory hair dryer balances well-thought-out design, ease of use, and a strong performance. It's comfortable to hold and maneuver, thanks to its lightweight and streamlined build, and this also makes it easy to store and travel with.

In terms of design, the Glory looks modern, with the curved edges and white gloss finish making it look more expensive than it is. Its main controls are on the rear of the barrel, which can make it difficult to switch modes mid-style, but the power and speed settings are within easier reach on the handle. The fan is then positioned at the base of the handle, where it meets the 5.9ft / 1.8m cord. While this makes the barrel smaller and prevents hair getting caught in the blades, it's too easy to block this fan with your hand during styling.

There are four temperature modes (Cold, 57C Constant, Hot, and a Hot/Cold Cycle) plus two airflow speeds (Low and High). The high-speed 70 m/s airflow is impressive, allowing quick drying even when paired with one of the lower heat settings. The dryer then uses ion technology that releases millions of negative ions to help break down water molecules quickly, reduce static, and leave hair with a smooth, frizz-free finish. When I used the Hot/Cold Cycle on High speed, it took less than five minutes to dry my hair completely, leaving it looking healthy, soft, and shiny.

The Cold setting is one of my favorites. It offers a true cool blast, perfect for setting styles in place and reducing frizz. I noticed my curls and waves held up significantly better throughout the day after being blasted with the Cold mode. I also found the 57C Constant setting to be a good balance, especially for fine or damaged hair, as it provides a moderate heat that dries efficiently without overexposure.

The included magnetic attachments – a concentrator nozzle and, in Europe, a diffuser – click securely into place and are easy to swap mid-style. The concentrator nozzle is relatively compact and great for directing the fast airflow, while the diffuser’s wider bowl design allows for even distribution, reducing frizz and boosting the definition of my curls. That said, I found the diffuser a bit large compared to the sleek barrel of the dryer, and I'm not a fan of the brown color. Plus, its large size makes it trickier to store and travel with.

On the noise front, the Dreame Glory operates at an average of 76 dB, making it reasonably quiet; it's possible to have a conversation during use and the app refers to it as the equivalent to being inside a car. At higher speeds, it does produce a bit more noise, approaching an average of 80dB, and this is noticeable in quieter environments. Even so, this is quieter than similarly priced models and remains comfortable to use.

In terms of value, the Dreame Glory offers great features for its price. Despite minor quirks, the dryer delivers quick, effective drying with a smooth finish. Its combination of high-speed airflow, heat control, and ergonomic design make it a worthwhile investment if you're looking for a dependable hair dryer.

Dreame Glory Hair Dryer review: price & availability

• List price: €139/AU$299
• Available: EU/AU

The €139 / A$299 Dreame Glory sits between the €79 Dreame Gleam and €159 Dreame Pocket.

It's predominantly sold in continental Europe and Asia-Pacific directly from the Dreame website and Amazon. In Europe, the dryer is known as the Dreame Glory Combo and ships with a concentrator nozzle and diffuser attachment. Outside of Europe, the dryer only ships with the nozzle. Depending on the region, the Glory dryer is then sold in white, and rose gold.

The dryer was previously sold in the UK at a list price of £119 but has since been discontinued, although you may still be able to buy it via third parties. Elsewhere, Dreame's PR told us that the Glory is only available offline in the US, and it's available from select sites in other regions, including Walmart Canada.

Its price and power puts the Glory dryer in the lower mid-range bracket, sandwiched between the likes of the €130 Parlux Alyon and €150 Parlux Advance dryer, and the €140 Babyliss 4Artist Steel FX dryer.

It should be noted that the Parlux, and Babyliss competitors only ship with concentrator nozzles, although the Parlux models are available in a wider range of colors than the Glory. With all of this in mind, the Dreame Glory is good value for money and versatile and, with its focus on hair health, it is a worthy investment.

• Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5

Dreame Glory Hair Dryer specs

Dreame Glory Hair Dryer review: design

• Compact design
• 4 heat modes and 2 airflow speeds
• Concentrator and Diffuser attachments

The Dreame Glory hair dryer strikes a decent balance between design and usability. Its light, 12.2oz / 345g weight, coupled with its compact design, is the first thing I noticed when picking up the dryer for the first time.

The relatively small 3 × 3.2 in / 7.6 × 8.2 cm barrel means you can get the Glory close to your head, making it great for precision drying and when styling your roots or bangs. Meanwhile, the long, slim 10in / 25.5cm handle gives a good level of control. I was worried that the seeming mismatch between the length of handle and barrel would make the dryer feel unbalanced but it was surprisingly ergonomic, without ever making my wrist feel strained, or feeling awkward as I moved the dryer around my head.

This compact size and weight also means the Glory is easy to store, and easy to travel with.

Onto attachments. Both the concentrator nozzle and diffuser click into place on the dryer with a satisfying magnetized system. These magnets are strong enough to keep the attachments in place during styling, but give you the freedom to twist and turn the nozzle – should you need to change the angle – while also making it easy to switch between attachments without fumbling.

I’ve had dryers in the past where the nozzles were so tight that I had to wrestle them off, but the Dreame Glory's attachments are much more smooth. The attachments don't get too hot during styling either, which adds to this ease-of-use.

The nozzle is relatively compact, although the diffuser is bigger than I'd like and looks bulky and large next to the shape and size of the Glory. This means you can style a lot of curls and hair at the same time but it's a shame. As is the brown color.

Visually, the Glory has a modern, minimalistic design that blended in well with the rest of my stylers. I tested the white model and this coloring, coupled with its glossy finish, makes the Glory dryer look and feel more expensive than it is.

The dryer’s body is cylindrical, with rounded edges. On the rear of the dryer, where the fan is usually found, is a flat panel with four icons on it, each one representing the four temperature modes:

• Cold: Blows cool air for to set your style
• 57°C Constant: A consistent temperature designed to prevent heat damage.
• Hot: Suitable for fast drying.
• Hot/Cold Cycle: Alternates between seven seconds of hot air and five seconds of cool air to reduce heat damage without sacrificing speed.

The Cold and Hot modes are relatively self-explanatory. The Hot/Cold Cycle Mode then cycles between hot and cold air as you style your hair. I first used this feature on the BaByliss Air Wand and more recently on the Dreame Pocket and while it increases the styling time slightly, it made a noticeable difference to the finish and feel of my hair.

To switch between these four modes, you have to press the circular button found on the rear of the handle until the icon for your chosen mode lights up. Due to the position of the panel on the rear of the dryer, it's difficult to select different modes mid-style without looking. The more you use the dryer, the more you get used to what the different modes sound and feel like but it's not massively intuitive.

Above this button is a sliding power switch that lets you toggle between the two speed settings – Low and High. In a world of increasing buttons and even touch-based controls on rival dryers, I really appreciated how easy this switch is to operate, even mid-drying. It’s located in just the right spot so that your thumb can easily reach it without having to re-adjust your grip, which is a small but welcome feature.

The fan is then positioned at the base of the handle, where it meets the 5.9ft / 1.8m cord. This is increasingly common as the shape and size of hair dryers barrels continue to shrink, but I don't love this design. I quite often cover the fan with my hand by mistake, or the fan grill – designed to be removed for easy cleaning – has a tendency to slip off. Both are minor points but do detract from an otherwise good design. One positive of this design is that your hair won't get caught in it, thought, which is always a problem for me when using traditional dryers.

The air outlet at the front of the Dreame Glory is then wide enough to provide the strong 70 m/s airflow, but doesn’t feel overly bulky and adds further to the precision of the dryer.

All things considered, the Dreame Hair Glory ticks a lot of boxes in terms of style and substance. It's lightweight, user-friendly and its shape and controls are largely well thought-out. There are a number of small flaws and things I'd change, but none of them are dealbreakers.

• Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Dreame Glory Hair Dryer review: performance

• 1600-watt motor
• High-speed motor operates at 110,000RPM
• 76dB average noise

When it comes to performance, the Dreame Glory offers almost everything you want in a dryer – it dries your hair quickly and efficiently, even at low speeds, without frying it or leaving it full of knots and frizz. My preferred mode was the Hot/Cold Cycle on High speed. This combination took my long, thin hair from wet to dry in just under five minutes, and left it looking and feeling soft and shiny. Something I credit to the millions of negative ions the dryer claims to produce. These ions help break down water droplets faster, reducing drying time while smoothing the hair cuticle for a sleeker finish.

It was possible to style my hair almost a minute faster on Hot mode but this left my hair looking dryer and less shiny, while using Low speed with the Hot/Cold Cycle pushed the styling time up to almost seven minutes; a noticeable difference. The 57C Constant mode is a good middle ground – not too hot, not too cold – which will suit damaged or curly hair. The different heat settings, paired with airflow options, does bring out the versatility of this dryer, though.

Elsewhere, the Cold mode worked like a dream. Cold shots tend to just drop the dryer's regular heat temperature slightly, which doesn't make much of a difference. On the Glory, however, the air actually felt cool almost instantly when using Cold mode. This was a game-changer – not just because it helped enhance the shine of my hair but because it meant my styles lasted much longer than they normally do. My hair is naturally curly so becomes frizzy easily, especially in humid environments. This rarely happened during the time I was reviewing the Dreame Glory. I could leave the house in the morning and my hair would look very similar by the time I got home.

The Cold mode also helped me set styles that weren't even created using the dryer. For example, after curling my hair with a curling wand, I used the Dreame Glory's Cold setting coupled with the diffuser to lock in the finish. The blast of cool air worked like a charm, setting the style without leaving any frizz. I found that using the Cold shot also extended the life of my curls by several hours compared to how long they usually last.

Speaking of the diffuser, I could really feel the difference in how evenly it distributed the airflow on the Dreame Glory – no random blasts of air that can leave curls looking more chaotic than defined. The diffuser’s wide, bowl-like design cupped my hair well, allowing me to dry it without losing any natural bounce or movement.

Similarly, the concentrator nozzle really shines – literally. It helped direct the airflow where I needed it and added to the precision that comes from the dryer's design. I found it particularly helpful when I wanted to smooth out sections of my hair, like those around my face.

In terms of noise, the Dreame Glory operates at an average 76dB on Low speed and 80dB on High speed. I could hold a conversation while using both speeds, although at High speed it was a little harder to hear my son from across the room. This noise level will be fine for most users, but if you're particularly sensitive to sound or often style your hair in a shared space, it could be a slight downside.

The Dreame Glory's powerful airflow, combined with its range of controls, left my hair looking shiny and feeling smooth. The Cold shot helped to lock in styles that lasted and it's a quiet machine. This performance is impressive anyway, let alone when you factor in the price.

• Performance score: 4.5 out of 5

Should you buy the Dreame Glory Hair Dryer?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if….

How I tested the Dreame Glory Hair Dryer

I used the Dreame Glory as my daily hair dryer over the course of four weeks at home and during a week-long cruise. I used it most mornings as a replacement for my usual hair dryer – the Revlon One Step – to dry and style my long, thin hair.

To thoroughly test the dryer, I experimented with the full range of speed and temperature combinations, and attachments. I paid close attention to the dryer’s features, how fast and effectively each of the modes and attachments worked, and how easy it was to use. I measured the decibel levels of the dryer on Low and High speeds throughout the testing period to achieve an average noise score.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December 2024

Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer two-minute review

The Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer is a petite styler that performs surprisingly well considering its small size. In my hunt for the best hair dryer, I've yet to come across a compact styler that truly delivers full power and perfect performance, but the Dreame Pocket comes tantalizingly close. 

Despite weighing just 10.5oz / 300g and measuring a tiny 1.97 x 5.71 x 7.91in /  5 x 14.5 x 20.1cm, it has all the power and versatility of a full-sized styler. Its high-speed motor operates at 110,000 RPM and generates a powerful airflow of 70 m/s, all while keeping noise levels below 80dB. It provides five modes to suit different hair types and needs, ranging from Cold, Warm and Hot to the Instant Cold Air cool shot, and Hot & Cold Cycling mode designed to reduce potential heat damage. It comes with two attachments: the Unfrizz nozzle for sleek, straight hair, and the Curling nozzle for creating curls or waves.

In my tests, it took 3 minutes and 45 seconds on average to rough dry my long, thin hair using the dryer's Warm mode, on Low speed. This dropped to just 2 minutes and 35 seconds on Warm mode at High speed. The drying time increased slightly to 4 minutes and 5 seconds, on average, when using the Cycling Mode on High speed but the improvement in hair quality was worth this small time sacrifice. 

And all this is before we even get to the fact the Dreame Pocker dryer is foldable. This not only only means it can be easily stored inside its Dreame-branded storage bag ready for travelling, but it also allows you to adjust how the dryer is used. For example, when the dryer is in the "7" shape, it can be used on its own, or with the Unfrizz nozzle attached. You can then extend the barrel up into a "1" shape before attaching the Curling nozzle and turning the dryer into a curling wand. This hinged design additionally allows you to change the angle of the barrel mid-style, to help you dry hard-to-reach areas and bring a high-level of precision and control. 

The dryer isn't perfect, though. The performance of the Curling nozzle lets it down, and the attachments themselves are so clunky that they detract from the effort that has been made to pack a whole load of power into such a compact shape. That doesn't mean the Dreame Pocket isn't a good investment. Whether you need a quick touch-up on the go, or a full styling session at home, this hair dryer delivers professional results in a compact package. Just don't expect miracles.

Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer review: price & availability

• List price: $159.99
• Available: US/EU

The $159.99 / €159 Dreame Pocket hair dryer is the latest launch in Dreame's growing hair care range, joining the $99 / €79 Dreame Gleam, and $129 / €129 Dreame Glory.

It's sold in the US as well as in a select number of countries in continental Europe from the Dreame website, and Amazon. The folding dryer is available in a Titanium Gold color and ships with two attachments – the Unfrizz Nozzle, and Curling Nozzle – as standard.

Its price and power puts the Pocket dryer in the mid-range bracket, sandwiched between the likes of the $129 T3 Featherweight and the $149.99 BaByliss Pro Portofino. Its folding design and compact, lightweight shape also position it in the travel dryer category, where its rivals include the $139 Drybar Baby Buttercup and the $199 GHD Flight+, while the attachments even draw comparisons with the Shark FlexStyle and even the Dyson Airwrap. 

As a result, the Dreame Pocket stands largely in a category of its own and this enhances its value for money and versatility. It's not cheap but these features go a long way towards justifying its price tag.

• Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5

Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer specs

Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer review: design

• 3-in-1 folding design
• 5 modes and 2 airflow speeds
• Curling and Unfrizz attachments
• Comes with storage bag

The first thing I noticed about the Dreame Pocket hair dryer, other than just how light and compact it is at 10oz / 300g, was its folding design. Other foldable dryers tend to mask or disguise the folding mechanism. Dreame instead makes a feature of it by not only designing the hinge in chrome, while the rest of the dryer is a brushed gold color, but also in showing almost the full hinge itself. 

The mechanism is incredibly smooth and the barrel locks securely into place, whether you're using it as a standard dryer, in the so-called "7" shape; extending the barrel upwards into a "1" shape with the Curling nozzle attached; or when you're folding it in half, into an "N" shape, ready to pack into a bag. The Pocket dryer measures 1.97 × 5.71 × 7.91in / 5 × 14 × 20.1cm. 

On the rear of the cylindrical barrel is a curved filter, and there are just two controls on the dryer's handle – the Airflow switch, and a Mode selection button. This buttons are used to control Pocket's two airflow speeds, Low and High, and its five temperature modes:

• Cold 
• Warm
• Hot
• Instant Cold Air Mode 
• Hot & Cold Cycling Mode

The Cold, Warm and Hot modes are relatively self-explanatory. The Instant Cold Air mode is effectively a Cool Shot that allows you to blast your hair with cold air instantly, without having to re-cycle through the modes to reach the dedicated Cold setting. As the name suggests, the Hot and Cold Cycling Mode then cycles between hot and cold air as you style your hair, in a bid to reduce potential heat damage. I first used this feature on the BaByliss Air Wand and while it increases the styling time slightly, it makes a noticeable difference to the finish and feel of your hair. 

It's easy to see at a glance which mode you're using on the Dreame Pocket, thanks to color-coded LEDs on the Mode selection button. A solid blue light represents Cold mode. Press the button again and you'll see a solid orange light which represents Warm mode. A solid red light represents Hot mode, and the lights will repeatedly flash between red and blue on the Cycling Mode. To enable the Instant Cold Air mode, just press and hold the button until the light turns blue. Note that once you stop pressing and holding the button, the dryer will return to whichever mode was previously selected. 

The hair dryer comes with two attachments, designed to create and set a range of straight, wavy and curly styles, and which both lock in to place on the Pocket's barrel using magnets. The Curling Nozzle looks almost identical to the curling wand attachment on the Shark FlexStyle, and it uses the same coanda effect found on both the FlexStyle and Dyson Airwrap to pull the hair and wrap it around the barrel. This dries the hair and sets it into a curl or wave, depending on how tight you wrap the hair, and how long you hold it in place. 

Dreame's Unfrizz Nozzle reminds me of the Flyaway attachment found on the Dyson Supersonic. It uses the Coanda effect to draw the hair towards the attachment, before using the so-called Bernoulli effect to reduce frizz and flyaways. The Bernoulli effect means that the faster the air, the lower the pressure. When used on the Pocket dryer, this effect helps calm flyaway hairs, causing them to lie flat. 

Both attachments are large compared to the compact dryer, and look almost out of place when attached. The Curling nozzle alone is the same height as the entire dryer and this detracts slightly from the travel-friendly nature of the whole setup. To put this into perspective, the dryer ships with a small Dreame-branded, waterproof storage bag which is only just big enough to store the dryer and its 5ft / 1.5m cord. You need to do some clever packing in order to get the zip to do up with the attachments inside, and even then, it's tight.

To truly appeal to all hair types, I would have liked to see the Dreame Pocket ship with a diffuser, but this is a minor point. Also, the Pocket is not dual voltage, unlike the GHD Flight+, which may limit its usability in regions with different electrical standards.

• Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer review: performance

• 1000-watt motor
• High-speed motor operates at 110,000RPM 
• 79dB average noise

There is very often a trade-off in power and performance when you buy a travel hair dryer, or even a compact dryer for that fact. This is not the case with the Dreame Pocket. I was amazed – and I don't use that word lightly – with how well this dryer performed on my longer, fine hair. 

The airflow speed, even on Low, does a fantastic job of drying the hair quickly without blasting it into submission. Despite the small barrel and grille, the hair dryer manages to cover a large amount of hair as it dries, and being able to grip the handle completely provides a high level of precision and control, as does the fact you can subtly alter the angle of the barrel to direct the airflow. I had worried that the location of the buttons would cause me to knock them mid-style by accident, but this wasn't the case. They're perfectly positioned to be able to apply enough pressure to change the mode, without ever getting in the way. 

In my tests, it took 3 minutes and 45 seconds on average to rough dry my hair using the Warm mode, on Low speed. This dropped to just 2 minutes and 35 seconds on Warm mode at High speed. The drying time increased slightly to 4 minutes and 5 seconds, on average, when using the Cycling Mode on High speed. 

I experimented with all of the various combinations of airflow speeds versus modes and the best results I achieved were using the Pocket Dryer on Cycling mode at High speed. The smooth and sleek finish it creates is worth the slightly longer drying times, plus after four weeks of use, my hair felt and looked healthier. Adding the Unfrizz nozzle to the mix then further enhanced just how smooth and healthy my hair looked. This nozzle takes a little getting used to as you run it along the shaft of the hair but it makes a noticeable difference. It also helps bring second-day and even bed-hair under control. 

I had less success with the Curling nozzle, however. I've never rated the Airwrap all that highly because I find its curling wands to be poor, and I had the same issue with the Pocket dryer. To get the best results, your hair can't be too dry or too wet and getting this balance right is an art in itself. The Pocket's Curling nozzle does a better job, in my opinion, of pulling the hair into place than the Dyson, but it's still too unwieldy and temperamental for my liking. I get much quicker, better, long-lasting results with my curling tong. I also found the weight distribution to be a little unbalanced when using the Pocket in the "1" shape and this added to my frustrations. This is a major flaw in an otherwise fantastic dryer. 

On the plus side, the magnets do a great job of keeping the attachments locked in place when you need them to, while allowing you to swap the nozzles in and out easily and safely while styling. And the final positive feature of note on the Pocket dryer is how quiet it is. There is little difference, noise-wise, between the Low and High speed settings with both averaging just 79dB during my review period. It is easy to have a conversation, or hear your music or TV while using this dryer.  

• Performance score: 4.5 out of 5

Should you buy the Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if….

How I tested the Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer

I used the Dreame Pocket as my go-to styler over the course of four weeks at home and during a weekend trip away. I used it most mornings as a replacement for my usual hair dryer – the Revlon One Step – to dry and style my long, thin hair. For travel testing, I packed the dryer in its storage bag and included it in my carry-on luggage for a weekend trip. 

To thoroughly test the dryer, I experimented with the full range of speed and temperature combinations, and nozzles. I paid close attention to the dryer’s features, how fast and effectively each of the modes and attachments worked, and how easy it was to use. I measured the decibel levels of the dryer on Low and High speeds throughout the testing period to achieve an average noise score. 

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2024

RevAir hair dryer two-minute review

The RevAir hair dryer is designed around the knowledge that curly folks — particularly those with especially curly type four hair like mine — spend more time and energy blow-drying and straightening their hair.

In response, RevAir developed a first-of-its-kind reverse-air dryer that’s extremely easy to use. Instead of the pistol-shaped body or wand form factors we’re used to seeing in some of the best hair dryers and best Dyson Airwrap dupes, the RevAir hair dryer opts for a unique design that looks far more like one of the best vacuum cleaners.

Somewhat similar to the Dyson Airwrap, the RevAir draws air into its wand, using reverse-air suction to gently tug on the hair to dry, stretch and reduce shrinkage. It offers seven tension settings to accommodate a variety of hair types, and uses internal sensors to maintain an even temperature and reduce heat damage.

It’s far from perfect, with its bulky design and loud components, but this vacuum-style dryer is worth the space it takes up, especially when dealing with children’s hair.

Those with braids or who simply want more manageability built into their styling routine may also like how this hair dryer—especially when used briefly—can save you from a literal headache.

• RevAir hair dryer for $399.99 at Best Buy

RevAir hair dryer review: price & availability

• Price: $399
• Availability: US only

With an MSRP of $399 the RevAir appears costly at face value, but if you consider how few and far between devices with such versatility are, and that everyone in the family can use it, then the cost is somewhat justified.

Also, when I purchased mine, I took advantage of a coupon that brought down the cost. It is available on the RevAir site, as well as at Bloomingdale’s and Best Buy.

Unfortunately, it’s not sold in the UK or Australia, but it can be imported from the US. It needs a hefty transformer setup to get it working though, and it’s not recommended.

• Value for money score: 4 out of 5

RevAir hair dryer specs

RevAir hair dryer review: design

• Bulky and heavy
• Long hose
• Seven power settings

The RevAir looks not unlike an old-school vacuum cleaner with a long hose attached to a box (the base). You may have stumbled upon something like it in your grandmother's attic.

Just like those old vacuums, and with all the extra parts, this blow dryer is heavier than average. It weighs 8lbs / 3.6kg, but luckily, you’re not necessarily holding all that weight since the 5.5ft / 1.68m hose is long and lightweight. Probably 80% of the weight is in the base which would sit on a surface like your counter or bed, depending where you’re using it. Altogether, the product is pretty bulky at 7.94 x 7.25 x 7.68in / 20.17 x 18.44 x 19.51cm.

The wand, which is also larger than most, feels like holding a regular blow dryer. There are seven tension settings, which control the intensity of the suction via a dial on the side of the device. The RevAir also has three heat settings that can be controlled using a switch on the handle: 158F / 70C for low, 220F / 104C for high, and then a cool shot. Two other convenient features are the rack attachment for storing the wand, and the mesh filter basket, which is included in the accessory-laden “total package” bundle from RevAir.

• Design score: 3 out of 5

RevAir hair dryer review: performance

• Easy to use
• Sucks instead of blowing
• Dries fast and reduces heat damage

What stood out to me most when testing the RevAir was the ease of use and the time I saved. I still had to detangle my hair by hand after washing, but I felt like the RevAir helped with relaxing the coils so that each section became more manageable. That’s probably the reverse-air technology keeping my hair from getting overly frizzy.

The RevAir works using the opposite technique of a typical blow dryer. It actually sucks the excess water from your hair and that, in turn, helps to seal your cuticle since it’s pulling the hair in its natural direction.

Before using, you may be a little anxious about your hair getting stuck. My 4c hair tends to tangle very easily, but after a few passes, I had no concerns about it getting stuck anywhere in the RevAir. There is nothing in the blow dryer for your hair to get caught on but if you were concerned, you could just turn off the suction.

I initially didn’t think about using the RevAir for drying braids. I don’t wear braids often, as I’m a swimmer—triathlete, to be exact— and excessive water can weigh down locks, braids, and twists and leave your shirt soaked for hours. However, inserting a braid or plait into the wand is just as easy as it would be to grab a small section. Thus, the RevAir can give you more freedom with hairstyles without sacrificing washes (chlorine is damaging after all).

One downside is that, unlike other modern dryers, the RevAir won’t work for a blowout at home. You can’t “bump” with a brush or the wand like a standard dryer or Dyson Airwrap. Nonetheless, and much like those other tools, you’d have to follow up with a flatiron or a different styling tool anyway for curlier hair types, so that doesn’t take much from the product.

• Performance score: 4.5 out of 5

Should you buy the RevAir hair dryer?

Buy it if...

Don’t buy it if...

How I tested the RevAir hair dryer

• I used the RevAir for about 30 minutes once a month for about six months
• I started on freshly cleaned and detangled hair after removing excess water
• I sprayed heat protectant spray on each section, which I separated with hair clips

I’ve been testing the RevAir for several months on my thin, medium-length 4c hair, comparing it against my go-to dryer and using my normal daily haircare routine for a fair comparison.

That involves cleaning and detangling my hair, using a cotton t-shirt to soak up excess water and then spraying my sectioned hair with heat protectant.

I’ve been writing about health, wellness and beauty for years, and over that time I’ve identified the most important aspects of value, design and performance that make great products great. This, and my personal hands-on testing, have informed my opinions.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024

Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler two-minute review

The Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Hair Multi-styler is a Dyson Airwrap dupe that’s easy to use and doesn’t weigh heavy on your arm. This will be welcome news to those whose hair features kinks or coils; when your hair is dense, the quicker the blow-dry, the better.

The styler has a sleek look and a thin wand – a popular form factor right now among the best hair dryers – but at a fraction of the price of some of its competitors (the Sharper Image costs $269 vs the Dyson Airwrap’s $499). It has six attachments, including brushes and a detangler for drying, smoothing, and adding body. While barrel brushes aren’t ideal for blowing out coarser hair, the paddle-style brush is perfect for blow-drying and smoothing textured hair. For anyone who’s broken a comb, the detangler is quite sturdy and ready to go on a journey with you. As for the curling attachments, someone with Type 4 hair can volumize fine locks or even give yourself a “bump,” no matter the length - and that’s no easy feat for a more affordable Dyson Airwrap dupe. 

Using a vortex or “Coanda technology” to wrap and circulate the air through your hair, the Sharper Image Revel dries hair at a pretty quiet 73.8dB. My husband could not hear me using it from downstairs.

All of the attachments are easy to use, and you simply twist the top of the detangler to extend the comb. Note that those with curly hair may still need a separate blow dryer for diffusing, since this styler doesn’t come with one. However, on a low heat setting, you may be able to stretch out your curls somewhat.

In fact, if you’re looking to stretch hair or do a silk press at home with less heat damage, the 6-in-1 styler is a solid choice without the hefty price tag.

Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler specs

Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler review: price & availability

• Price: $269.99
• Availability: US only

The Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 can be purchased at Sharper Image stores, and on sites such as Amazon, Walmart, and QVC at an MSRP $269.99. 

Value-wise, the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 comes in at almost half the price of the Dyson Airwrap – the gold standard for multi-stylers – while still offering great performance across a variety of hair types. Also if you shop around you may well be able to get it even cheaper; at the time of writing it's available for just $198 at Amazon and also at Walmart.

• Value for money score: 4 out of 5

Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler review: design

• Comfortable to hold
• Three heat and power settings
• Surprisingly long

Overall, the Sharper Image Revel styler looks like a curling iron in receipt of a makeover to bring it up to date. An all-rubberized cylinder means you can hold it wherever it’s most comfortable for you. It offers three adjustable heat and power settings, as well as a cold shot. Much like the original Dyson Airwrap, the airflow curlers have a left and right-side option; you have to switch the barrel to change the direction of your curls.

The Revel arrives with six attachments: an airflow curler, hair dryer and detangler, volumizing brush, smoothing brush, and styling brush. Overall, even with the largest attachment, the styler weighs only 1.6lbs – which is wonderfully lightweight and less than the blow dryer that I typically use to diffuse and stretch my hair every so often.

At 17.9 inches, the Sharper Image Revel is quite long, but this also makes it well suited to longer hair. Adding the attachments is simple: twist in place, and remove by pushing the button on the back. At the top, you’ll find the on/off and cold shot buttons. At the end of the handle you’ll find an easy-to-read heat symbol and fan symbol to control speed and temperature.

The power cord is extremely long, which is pretty convenient for styling but awkward for storing the tool away.

• Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler review: performance

• Reasonably fast drying
• Practice required for best results

I tested the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler on my medium-length, fine Type 4c hair. Before I got started, I divided my hair into four sections and applied a heat protectant. Once I completed styling, I applied a finishing spray. I wasn’t trying to achieve a silk press look, but if I were, I’d need a hair spray that would provide shine and frizziness. Also, it would likely take some practice with the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 to achieve hair that looks like you’ve just stepped out of a blow-dry bar.

I was able to dry my entire head in about 25 minutes, which may seem quite lengthy; but when you consider that it usually takes over an hour to dry and flat-iron my hair, the Sharper Image Revel made good time. Note, though, that my 4c hair is fine, which means it could take someone with more dense, thicker hair longer. Also, my hair did become poofy the second I walked out into the humidity, but on a positive note, the next time I washed and dried my hair, I didn’t notice any heat damage.

The benefit of using a blow dryer and styling system together is that your hair doesn’t have to be 100% dry for you to start to style it. Blow dry it enough to smooth it, then you can allow your hair to dry into a cute spiral or wave. However, I’d advise being gentle with hair to avoid causing damage to your natural curls. I say that as someone who tried to drag the detangler tool through hair without starting with a wide-tooth comb.

Inevitably, I had to take a step back and take my time working my way from the end up to the roots to prepare it for drying. Ultimately I used the detangler attachment as my last step, instead of my first step for detangling, and I will note that it was refreshing that the teeth of the detangler didn’t break like the teeth of many blow dryers and combs I’ve tried in the past.

The success you have with the Sharper Image Revel’s two curling barrels will depend on how straight you’ve managed to get your hair; otherwise, you risk getting them becoming stuck in your hair!

Overall, the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 is a quality product that can save you much time. Styling Type 4 hair of any length can take hours, so any tools that can at least cut down drying time will help. As far as achieving a “straight” look with the Sharper Image Revel, depending on your hair type, one may have to slightly lower their expectations in terms of owning just a single tool that can do it all.

• Performance score: 4 out of 5

Should you buy the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler?

Buy it if...

Don’t buy it if...

How I tested the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 Multi-Styler

• I used the Revel for several months on medium-length, fine Type 4c hair
• I started on freshly washed, detangled hair and removed excess water
• I separated hair into sections and used a heat protectant spray

I tested the Sharper Image Revel 6-in-1 on my medium-length, fine Type 4c hair for several months, stretching and blow drying hair as I normally would

Having washed and detangled hair, I used a cotton t-shirt to remove excess moisture before sectioning hair and spraying it with heat protectant spray before drying and styling. I used my old faithful blow dryer as a reference point for comparing drying speed and performance.

I’ve been writing about health, wellness and beauty for years, and during that time I’ve tried a variety of products that help to inform my assessment of the performance, design and value of different devices.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.