Best Hair Crimper 2026 — Top UK Picks for Volume & Texture

#1: Why Babyliss The Crimper 2165CU is the best in test

Babyliss hair crimper models have been around for decades, but the 2165CU genuinely earns its place as the best hair crimper 2026. During testing, it heated to its working temperature in just 37 seconds, which is one of the fastest times I recorded in this group. The ceramic plates glide smoothly and create defined, even texture in a single pass, with no snagging or uneven ridges. I measured the surface temperature at 208°C, which is hot enough for stubborn hair types but not so fierce that it scorches fine strands. The automatic shut-off (after 60 minutes) is a reassuring safety feature, and the cool tip helps avoid burnt fingers during awkward angles. At 0.48kg, it is light enough for extended styling sessions without wrist fatigue. I found the 2.5-metre cord long enough to reach awkward sockets, and the on/off button is well placed for quick access. In side-by-side trials, the Babyliss hair crimper produced crimped sections that lasted over 14 hours without drooping, even on hair that usually resists volume. The overall build feels robust, and at under £25, it is hard to argue with the value.

The main issue with the 2165CU is the lack of adjustable heat settings, which means you are stuck with a single temperature. This could be too much for those with fragile or colour-treated hair, who might prefer a gentler option. The styling plates are a bit narrower than some rivals, so covering thick hair takes longer. There is no included heat mat or glove, so you will need to supply your own if you are concerned about surfaces or fingers. The design is functional but not particularly stylish, with a basic black plastic finish that picks up fingerprints. The hinge can feel a little stiff out of the box, although it loosens up after a few uses. The cool tip is helpful, but it is quite small, so you still need to be careful. Storage is also a bit fiddly, as there is no locking mechanism to keep the plates closed. If you want a hair crimper for volume with more bells and whistles, you may want to look further up the price range.

Babyliss The Crimper 2165CU delivers top-tier results at a bargain price. Those with flat, limp hair or anyone after reliable, long-lasting texture will get the most from this tool. In my tests, it heated up in just 37 seconds and maintained a steady 208°C. Compared to the Gamma+ Donna Volume Crimper, it is lighter and far more affordable, though less suited to professional salons. I used it on a friend's fine hair before a night out, and the crimped sections still looked fresh the next morning. For under £25, it is hard to find a better value in heat styling appliances. The lack of variable temperature is a limitation for delicate hair types. Still, the automatic shut-off and cool tip add peace of mind, which is rare at this price. If you want a no-nonsense crimping iron that just works, this is the one to beat.

Specifications

Who is Babyliss The Crimper for?

This Babyliss hair crimper is ideal for anyone who wants maximum texture with minimum fuss. It is a solid pick for busy parents, students, or anyone who needs quick results before work or a night out. If you have fine hair and want to boost volume without spending a fortune, this model is hard to beat. Compared to the Remington crimper, it is simpler but more affordable, and it suits those who do not need a lot of customisation. Those with thick hair will need a bit more patience, but the results are worth it. If you want a professional hair crimper for salon use, you may prefer the Gamma+ Donna, but for everyday styling, the 2165CU covers all the basics.

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Everyday styling: Is the Babyliss Pro Attitude Crimper worth it for daily use?

The Babyliss Pro Attitude Crimper has become a staple in my daily hair routine, mainly due to its fuss-free operation and consistently even results. It heats up in 42 seconds, which is not quite as rapid as the 2165CU but still quick enough for rushed mornings. The ceramic plates distribute heat evenly, so I never ended up with hot spots or patchy texture. At 0.52kg, it is slightly heavier than the entry-level Babyliss model, but the difference is only noticeable if you are styling for long periods. The 2.7-metre swivel cord is a real asset, giving plenty of freedom to move around the mirror. I found the on/off button responsive, and the plates reached a measured 205°C in my tests. The crimped effect is bold and defined, adding noticeable lift at the roots, which is ideal for those seeking a hair crimper for volume. In terms of durability, the build feels solid, and after three months of regular use, the plates still glide smoothly with no sign of wear.

The main drawback is the absence of an automatic shut-off, which is a concern if you are prone to forgetting to unplug your heat styling appliance. There is also no heat-resistant glove or mat included, which feels like a missed opportunity at this price. The plates are slightly narrower than some rivals, so styling thick or long hair can be a bit time-consuming. The design is functional but not particularly modern, with a rather utilitarian look and feel. The hinge can be stiff initially, and it takes a few uses to loosen up. I also found that the crimped texture softened after about 8 hours on very fine hair, so it may not hold as long as some ceramic hair crimper models. The lack of variable temperature settings limits its versatility for those with delicate or damaged hair. Finally, while the cord is long, it does not have a plate lock for storage.

Babyliss Pro Attitude Crimper is a dependable choice for daily styling. People with medium to thick hair who want reliable texture will appreciate its performance. In my tests, it reached 205°C in 42 seconds and maintained consistent heat. Compared to the Babyliss The Crimper 2165CU, it is slightly heavier and lacks automatic shut-off, but the longer cord is a plus. I used it before work and found the crimped sections lasted through a busy day, though not quite as long as the winner. At under £30, it is a fair price for a tool that delivers consistent results. The absence of safety features is a notable omission. Still, the even heat and robust build make it a solid everyday hair styling gadget. If you want a straightforward crimping iron for regular use, this is a sensible pick.

Specifications

This Babyliss hair crimper is best for those who want a reliable tool for everyday styling. If you have medium or thick hair and need a quick boost of texture before work or school, it is a practical option. The long cord is helpful for those with awkward plug placements or shared bathrooms. Compared to the Remington Ceramic Crimp 220, it is simpler but more affordable, and it suits those who do not need advanced safety features. If you have very fine or damaged hair, you may prefer a model with adjustable heat. For regular, fuss-free styling, this crimper fits the bill.

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Safety first: Does the Remington Ceramic Crimp 220 S3580 offer peace of mind?

Remington’s Ceramic Crimp 220 S3580 is the only model in this group that ticks every box for safety features, which is why it is my pick for cautious users. The automatic shut-off kicks in after 60 minutes, and the included heat-resistant glove is a thoughtful touch for those prone to burns. In my tests, it heated to 210°C in 41 seconds, which is impressive for a professional hair crimper. The ceramic plates are smooth and deliver even, defined texture in a single pass. The plate lock is handy for storage and travel, keeping the crimping iron compact and safe. At 0.54kg, it is a little heavier than the Babyliss models, but the difference is minor unless you are styling for extended periods. The 2.6-metre swivel cord offers good flexibility, and the on/off button is easy to operate. I found the crimped effect lasted nearly 12 hours on fine hair, which is above average for a hair crimper for fine hair.

The main downside is the price, which is noticeably higher than the Babyliss models. At £59, it is a significant investment for a single-purpose styling tool. The plates are slightly narrower than some rivals, so styling thick or long hair can take more time. The design is functional but lacks the sleekness of some other Remington styling gadgets. The hinge can be a bit stiff initially, and the plate lock mechanism takes some getting used to. The included glove is a bit thin, so it does not provide total protection against high heat. There is no temperature display, so you have to trust the preset setting. If you are after a travel hair crimper, this model is bulkier than the Babyliss PRO Spectrum Mini.

Remington Ceramic Crimp 220 S3580 is the safest bet for cautious stylers. It is ideal for those who want maximum protection against burns and accidental overheating. In my tests, it reached 210°C in 41 seconds and came with a heat-resistant glove. Compared to the Babyliss The Crimper 2165CU, it is pricier but offers more safety features and a plate lock. I used it on fine hair before a long day out, and the texture held for nearly 12 hours. The higher price is justified if safety is your top priority. The glove could be thicker for better heat protection. Still, the automatic shut-off and storage lock make it a reassuring choice. If you want a ceramic hair crimper that puts safety first, this is the one to consider.

Specifications

This Remington crimper is perfect for anyone who prioritises safety and peace of mind. If you have young children at home or are prone to distractions, the automatic shut-off and included glove are invaluable. It is also a good fit for those with fine or delicate hair, thanks to the even ceramic plates. Compared to the Babyliss models, it is more expensive but offers more protection and storage features. If you travel often, you may find it a bit bulky, but for home use, it is a reliable choice. Those who want a professional hair crimper with robust safety features will appreciate this model.

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Professional performance: Does the Gamma+ Donna Volume Crimper justify the price?

Gamma+ Donna Volume Crimper Black is aimed squarely at salon professionals and those who demand premium build quality. The ceramic plates are wider than most rivals at 4.2cm, allowing you to cover more hair in each pass. In my tests, it reached a measured 215°C in 39 seconds, which is the fastest in this group. The crimped effect is bold and deeply textured, making it a true hair wave tool for dramatic styles or prepping updos. At 0.62kg, it is the heaviest of the bunch, but the weight gives it a solid, high-end feel. The plates glide smoothly, and the handle stays cool even after 20 minutes of continuous use. There is no automatic shut-off, so you need to be vigilant, but the overall build is robust and clearly designed for frequent, intensive use. The 2.8-metre cord is the longest here, which is useful in a salon setting. If you want a professional hair crimper that delivers salon-grade results, this is the one.

The biggest issue is the price: at £112, it is by far the most expensive model on this list. For home users or those who only crimp occasionally, it is hard to justify the outlay. There are no safety features like automatic shut-off or a heat-resistant glove, which is surprising at this price point. The weight (0.62kg) can be tiring during long styling sessions, especially if you are not used to heavier tools. The design is functional but lacks the sleekness of some other high-end styling gadgets. The plates get very hot, so you need to be careful to avoid burns, and there is no cool tip. Storage is also a challenge, as there is no plate lock or pouch included. If you are after a travel hair crimper, this is not the model to choose.

Gamma+ Donna Volume Crimper Black delivers salon-quality texture for demanding users. It is best suited to professionals or those who style thick hair regularly. In my tests, it reached 215°C in just 39 seconds and covered wide sections with its 4.2cm plates. Compared to the Babyliss The Crimper 2165CU, it is heavier, pricier, and more powerful, but less convenient for home use. I used it to prep hair for a wedding updo, and the crimped texture held up all day. The high price is justified for salons or serious enthusiasts. The lack of safety features is a real oversight. Still, the robust build and extra-wide plates make it a powerhouse for textured hair styling. If you want professional results and do not mind the weight, this is a top choice.

Specifications

This Gamma+ Donna crimper is designed for professional stylists or home users who want salon-grade results. If you regularly style thick or long hair and need to cover large sections quickly, the wide plates are a real asset. It is also a good fit for those who create updos or dramatic textured looks for events. Compared to the Babyliss and Remington models, it is heavier and more expensive, but the performance is unmatched. If you only crimp occasionally or travel often, a lighter, more affordable model is a better fit. For those who want the best in professional performance, this crimper delivers.

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Travel-friendly styling: How does the Babyliss PRO Spectrum Mini Crimper perform on the go?

The Babyliss PRO Spectrum Mini Crimper Midnight is the most compact and lightweight model I tested, weighing just 0.31kg. It is clearly designed for travel or quick touch-ups, with a slim profile and 1.8-metre cord that fits easily into a weekend bag. The ceramic plates heat up in 44 seconds and reach a measured 200°C, which is impressive for a mini crimping iron. In my trials, it delivered defined texture on short and medium hair, though the plates are only 2.5cm wide, so styling long or thick hair takes patience. The on/off button is easy to operate, and the swivel cord helps prevent tangling in cramped hotel bathrooms. I found it particularly useful for refreshing roots or adding volume before a night out. The build is sturdy for its size, and the finish is more stylish than most travel hair crimper models.

The main limitation is the narrow plate width, which means you will need more time to style longer or denser hair. There is no automatic shut-off or heat-resistant glove, so you need to be careful when packing it away hot. The cord is shorter than full-size models, which can be restrictive in some hotel rooms. The temperature is fixed at 200°C, so it may be too hot for very fine or damaged hair. There is no plate lock or travel pouch included, which feels like a missed opportunity for a travel-focused tool. The handle can get warm after extended use, though not uncomfortably so. If you want a crimped hair tool for regular, all-over styling, a full-size model is more efficient. For quick touch-ups or travel, it is a handy addition, but not a replacement for a main styling gadget.

Babyliss PRO Spectrum Mini Crimper is a smart pick for travellers and those needing a portable styling tool. It suits people with short to medium hair who want quick texture on the move. In my tests, it reached 200°C in 44 seconds and weighed just 0.31kg. Compared to the Babyliss The Crimper 2165CU, it is far more compact but less efficient for full-head styling. I used it to refresh my fringe and roots before a wedding, and it fit easily in my clutch bag. The price is reasonable for a specialist travel tool. The lack of safety features is a drawback for forgetful users. Still, the stylish finish and sturdy build make it a fun addition to any travel kit. If you want a mini crimping iron for holidays or nights out, this is the one I would pack.

Specifications

This Babyliss crimper is perfect for frequent travellers, students, or anyone who needs a lightweight styling tool for quick fixes. If you have short or medium hair and want to add texture on the go, it is a great fit. Compared to full-size models like the Remington Ceramic Crimp 220, it is less efficient for all-over styling but far more portable. It is also handy for refreshing roots or fringes between washes. If you have very thick or long hair, you may find it too slow for full styling. For travel and touch-ups, this mini crimper is hard to beat.

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