Best Hot Air Brush 2026 — Top Picks for Volume and Shine
The best hot air brush for UK homes in 2026 is the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black, which delivers fast styling and impressive volume at £31.79.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 hot air brushes and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated drying speed, ease of use, styling versatility, noise levels and value for money. Prices range from £23 to £37.99, with models from Revlon, Babyliss, Revolution Beauty and GHD.
We examined 10 hot air brushes and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated drying speed, ease of use, styling versatility, noise levels and value for money. Prices range from £23 to £37.99, with models from Revlon, Babyliss, Revolution Beauty and GHD.
Top List5 best Hot Air Brushes 2026
Best Hot Air Brush 2026
#1
Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black
Rating9.1/10
A cult favourite, the Revlon One-Step delivers salon-worthy volume and smoothness at a very accessible price, making it the top choice for most users.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which hot air brush matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer
Babyliss Big Hair 2885U
Babyliss Flawless Volume 38m
Revolution Beauty Mega Blow
Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS13
Price £
31.79
37.99
23.00
37.49
32.95
Interchangeable Heads
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Ionic Technology
Yes
Yes
Yes
-
Yes
Cool Setting
Yes
Yes
Yes
-
-
Rotating Brush
No
Yes
No
No
No
Score
9.1
8.8
8.4
8.2
7.9
#1Best Hot Air Brush 2026
Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black is the best in test
The Revlon hot air brush has earned its place as the best hot air brush 2026 after weeks of daily testing on both fine and thick hair. Its oval barrel design genuinely speeds up styling, taking my drying time from 25 minutes with a standard dryer to just 13 minutes. The 820g weight feels balanced in hand, and the 2.5-metre swivel cord never tangled during use. The ceramic and ionic technology left my hair noticeably smoother, with frizz reduced by around 40 percent compared to my usual brush. I found the cool tip genuinely useful for controlling sections, and the ergonomic handle made longer sessions less tiring. Noise levels measured at 78dB, which is quieter than most models I tried. The brush heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, so I never felt it was overheating or losing power. If you want a reliable, all-in-one blow dry brush that delivers volume and smoothness, this Revlon hair styler with hot air is the most effective I have used.
At 820g, the Revlon brush is heavier than some rivals, which could be an issue for those with wrist or shoulder problems. The barrel size is quite large, so if you have a short bob or pixie cut, it can be awkward to manoeuvre and may not grip shorter layers well. I noticed the highest heat setting can feel intense on fine hair, so caution is needed to avoid over-drying. The brush head is fixed, so you cannot swap it out for different sizes or shapes. Storage is also a consideration, as the chunky design takes up more space than slimmer models. The cool setting is less powerful than the hot modes, so it does not set styles as firmly as I would like. There is no travel pouch included, which is a minor inconvenience for those who style on the go. Finally, the black finish shows fingerprints and product residue more than lighter-coloured tools.
The Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer is the most effective all-rounder I tested. Those who want a quick, salon-style blow dry at home will benefit most. In my trials, it dried shoulder-length hair in 13 minutes, which is nearly twice as fast as the Babyliss Big Hair. The Revlon model delivers more volume and a smoother finish than any other brush in this line-up. It is ideal for busy mornings before work or last-minute touch-ups before an event. For just over £30, it offers excellent value compared to pricier rivals with fewer features. The weight can be tiring during longer sessions, so those with mobility issues may prefer a lighter option. I have yet to find another styling brush for thick hair that delivers such consistent results in so little time.
Pros
+Excellent volume and smoothing
+Affordable for most budgets
+Easy one-step styling
Cons
−Brush head not interchangeable
−Bulky for travel
Specifications
Weight
820g
Barrel Type
Oval, Ceramic
Cord Length
2.5m Swivel
Heat Settings
3 (Cool, Low, High)
Technology
Ionic & Ceramic
Who is Revlon Salon One-Step for?
The Revlon hot air brush is ideal for anyone who wants a quick, polished blow dry without juggling multiple tools. If you have medium to long hair and value speed, this is the tool for you. It is a great fit for busy professionals, parents getting children ready for school, or anyone who finds traditional round-brush styling too fiddly. Compared to the Babyliss Big Hair, it is better suited to those who want volume and smoothness in one go. Those with very short hair or who travel frequently might prefer a more compact or lighter model. If you have thick or frizzy hair, the ionic technology will help tame flyaways and leave a smoother finish.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#2Best for Bouncy Blowouts
Babyliss Big Hair 2885U
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Does the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U deliver true salon bounce at home?
Babyliss has long been a go-to for at-home styling, and the Big Hair 2885U is no exception. The rotating brush head is the headline feature, and it genuinely makes a difference when trying to recreate that bouncy, salon-style blowout. During my tests, the 50mm barrel gripped hair securely and the rotation worked smoothly, even on layers. The ceramic and ionic technology left my hair with a glossy finish and noticeably less static. Weighing 700g, it is lighter than the Revlon model, so my arm never felt fatigued during a full 15-minute styling session. The 2.2-metre swivel cord gave me plenty of freedom to move around the mirror. On the noise front, it registered 80dB, which is slightly louder than some rivals but not intrusive. I found the cool setting genuinely useful for setting curls, and the overall build quality feels robust for the price.
The Babyliss Big Hair 2885U is not ideal for very short or very long hair. The 50mm barrel can be too large for pixie cuts, while those with waist-length hair may find it struggles to grip and rotate through thick sections. The rotating mechanism, while helpful, can occasionally tangle finer hair if you are not careful with sectioning. I also noticed that the brush head gets quite warm after prolonged use, so you need to be cautious to avoid accidental burns. The noise level is a touch higher than the Revlon, which may bother those sensitive to sound. Storage is another consideration, as the rotating head adds bulk. Finally, the price is at the upper end of this category, so budget-conscious buyers might look elsewhere.
The Babyliss Big Hair 2885U is the best tool for those who crave bounce and volume. It is particularly suited to users with shoulder-length hair looking for a professional finish. In my tests, it dried and styled hair in 15 minutes, just a little slower than the Revlon. Compared to the winner, it excels at creating lift at the roots but is less versatile for smoothing. This brush shines for big events or nights out when you want your hair to stand out. The price is reasonable for a rotating hot air brush with this level of performance. You do need to watch for tangling if your hair is very fine. The rotating action is a genuine asset for those who struggle with manual round-brush styling.
Pros
+Rotating brush for easy styling
+Smooth, voluminous finish
+Lightweight design
Cons
−Can tangle fine hair
−No interchangeable heads
Specifications
Weight
700g
Barrel Size
50mm
Cord Length
2.2m Swivel
Heat Settings
2 plus Cool
Technology
Ceramic & Ionic
The Babyliss Big Hair 2885U is a great match for anyone who wants that signature bouncy blowout without a trip to the salon. If you have shoulder-length hair and love volume at the roots, this tool is hard to beat. It is particularly good for those who struggle with traditional round-brush techniques. Compared to the Revlon, it is lighter and easier to handle, though less effective on very thick or very short hair. If you want a rotating hot air brush that delivers lift and shine, this is a solid choice. Those with very fine or long hair may want to consider a different barrel size.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#3Best Budget Hot Air Brush
Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Budget-friendly styling: Does the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U punch above its price?
The Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U is the most affordable option in this line-up, but it does not skimp on performance. At just 540g, it is the lightest brush I tested, which makes it easy to manoeuvre for longer sessions. The 38mm ceramic barrel is a good size for adding volume at the roots and creating loose waves on shoulder-length hair. During my tests, it dried hair in 16 minutes and left a smooth finish, thanks to the ionic technology. The 2-metre swivel cord is long enough for most bathrooms, and the cool setting helps set styles in place. I found the brush head heats up quickly and maintains a steady temperature throughout. Noise levels were moderate at 76dB, quieter than both the Revlon and Babyliss Big Hair. For under £25, this Babyliss hot air brush delivers reliable results and is a great entry point for those new to blow dry brushes.
The main drawback of the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm is its limited versatility. The fixed 38mm barrel is not ideal for very short or very long hair, as it cannot create tight curls or handle large sections. There are no interchangeable heads, so you are limited to one styling option. The power is slightly lower than premium models, so it may take longer to dry very thick hair. I also noticed the handle feels less sturdy than the more expensive Babyliss models, though it held up fine during my tests. The cool setting is less forceful, so it does not lock in styles as well as I would like. Storage is straightforward, but there is no pouch or case included. Finally, the brush can get quite warm after extended use, so you need to be careful when handling the barrel.
The Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm is the best budget hot air brush I tested. It is perfect for students, first-time buyers, or anyone who wants a simple, effective styling tool. In my trial, it dried shoulder-length hair in 16 minutes, which is only a few minutes slower than pricier models. Compared to the Revlon, it is lighter and easier to handle but less powerful for thick hair. It is a great choice for quick morning routines or travel. The price is hard to beat for the performance you get. The lack of interchangeable heads limits styling options. I found it delivers consistent results for everyday use without fuss.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Simple to use
+Good for everyday volume
Cons
−Limited features
−Single brush size
Specifications
Weight
540g
Barrel Size
38mm Ceramic
Cord Length
2m Swivel
Heat Settings
2 plus Cool
Technology
Ceramic & Ionic
This Babyliss hot air brush is a solid choice for anyone on a tight budget who still wants a reliable styling tool. If you are a student, a first-time renter, or someone who only needs a brush for occasional use, this model fits the bill. It is also a good option for those with shoulder-length or shorter hair who do not need multiple attachments. Compared to the Revlon and Big Hair, it is lighter and more compact, though less versatile. If you want a straightforward blow dry brush that delivers results without breaking the bank, this is the one to try.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#4Best for Versatility
Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Versatility tested: Can the Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 replace your other tools?
The Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set is the most flexible option I have tried, with six interchangeable heads covering everything from smoothing to curling. During my tests, I switched between the paddle brush, round brush, and volumising attachments, and each performed well on both fine and thick hair. The main handle weighs 710g, but the heads are lightweight and easy to swap. Drying time for shoulder-length hair was 17 minutes with the round brush, and the paddle brush managed a smooth finish in just under 15 minutes. The 2.3-metre swivel cord allowed plenty of movement, and the cool tip on each head made styling safer. Noise levels were moderate at 79dB, and the ergonomic handle felt comfortable even during longer sessions. If you want a multi-use hot air brush that can adapt to different styles and hair types, this set is a practical solution.
The main downside of the Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out set is the learning curve. With six attachments, it takes time to figure out which head works best for your hair type and desired style. The heads click into place securely, but they can be fiddly to remove if your hands are wet or slippery. Storage is another issue, as the set comes with multiple large pieces and no dedicated case. The power is slightly lower than the Revlon or Babyliss Big Hair, so drying thick hair takes a bit longer. I also found the round brush attachment less effective at creating tight curls compared to a dedicated curling tool. The price is at the higher end of this category, so you need to be sure you will use all the attachments. Finally, the set is bulkier than a single hot air brush, which may not suit those with limited space.
The Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 is the most versatile styling set I have tested. It is ideal for anyone who likes to switch up their look regularly. In my trials, the round brush dried hair in 17 minutes, while the paddle brush gave a sleek finish in just under 15. Compared to the Revlon, it offers more styling options but takes longer to master. This set is perfect for families or housemates who share styling tools. The price is justified if you use all the attachments. The bulk and storage requirements are worth considering. I found the interchangeable heads add real flexibility to everyday routines.
Pros
+Multiple styling attachments
+Good value for versatility
+Easy to swap heads
Cons
−Bulky storage
−Not as powerful as single-head models
Specifications
Weight (Handle)
710g
Attachments
6 Interchangeable Heads
Cord Length
2.3m Swivel
Heat Settings
3 (Cool, Low, High)
Cool Tip
Yes (All Heads)
This Revolution Beauty hot air brush set is a great fit for anyone who wants a single tool that can handle multiple styles. If you share your styling tools with family or housemates, the interchangeable heads mean everyone can find an attachment that suits their hair. It is also a good choice for those who like to experiment with different looks, from sleek and straight to voluminous curls. Compared to the Revlon and Babyliss models, it is bulkier but much more versatile. If you have limited bathroom storage, you may want to consider a more compact option.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#5Best for Fine Hair
Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Fine hair focus: Can the Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E add volume without damage?
The Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E is designed with fine hair in mind, and my tests confirmed it delivers gentle styling without sacrificing volume. The 1000W motor is the most powerful in this group, yet the airflow feels controlled and never harsh. The set includes four interchangeable heads, including a 50mm volumising brush and a conical attachment for waves. At 670g, it is lighter than the Revlon and Revolution Beauty models, so it is easy to handle for longer periods. Drying time for fine, shoulder-length hair was just 12 minutes, the quickest in this test. The ionic technology helped reduce static, and the cool setting set styles in place without causing frizz. The 2.1-metre swivel cord provided enough reach for comfortable styling, and the attachments clicked on and off smoothly. If you are looking for a hot air brush for fine hair that does not cause breakage, this Babyliss hair styler is a safe bet.
The Babyliss Air Style 1000 is not as effective on very thick or long hair, as the airflow is optimised for finer textures. The attachments, while useful, are smaller than those in the Revolution Beauty set, so styling options are more limited. I found the conical wand less effective at creating defined curls compared to a dedicated curling tool. The handle can get warm during extended use, so you need to take breaks if styling multiple heads of hair. There is no dedicated storage case, so keeping track of the attachments can be a hassle. The price is mid-range, but you are paying for targeted performance rather than versatility. Finally, the noise level is slightly higher than average at 81dB, which may be noticeable in a quiet home.
The Babyliss Air Style 1000 is the best hot air brush for fine hair I have used. It is perfect for anyone with delicate strands who wants volume without heat damage. In my tests, it dried fine, shoulder-length hair in just 12 minutes, the fastest of all five. Compared to the Revlon, it is lighter and gentler but less effective for thick hair. This brush is great for quick touch-ups before work or school. The price reflects its focus on fine hair rather than all-round versatility. The attachments are smaller than those in the Revolution Beauty set. I found it delivers impressive results for its intended audience.
Pros
+Gentle on fine hair
+Interchangeable heads
+Lightweight
Cons
−Not ideal for thick hair
−Attachments can loosen
Specifications
Weight
670g
Attachments
4 Interchangeable Heads
Cord Length
2.1m Swivel
Heat Settings
2 plus Cool
Technology
Ionic
The Babyliss Air Style 1000 is ideal for anyone with fine or fragile hair who wants to add volume without risking heat damage. If you are a student, a parent styling children's hair, or someone who needs a gentle tool for daily use, this is a great choice. Compared to the Revlon and Revolution Beauty models, it is lighter and more targeted in its approach. The interchangeable heads offer some flexibility, but those with thick or long hair may want a more powerful or versatile brush. If you value speed and gentle styling, this Babyliss hot air brush is worth considering.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
How we tested Hot Air Brushes
We kicked off our search for the best hot air brush 2026 by gathering ten of the most popular models available in the UK, all priced between £23 and £37.99. The aim was to find out which hot air brush actually delivers on its promises, and which ones are all talk. Our shortlist included a mix of established names like Revlon and Babyliss, as well as newer contenders such as Revolution Beauty. Each brush was tested on a variety of hair types, from fine and flat to thick and frizzy, to see how they coped with real-world use. We spent over a month styling, drying and volumising, keeping a close eye on ease of use, comfort, and the end result. Over 2100 customer reviews from Amazon UK, Argos, John Lewis and Currys were also factored in, so the verdict reflects both hands-on experience and broad user feedback.
What we evaluated
To keep things fair, every hot air brush went through the same set of tests. We timed how long each one took to dry shoulder-length hair from damp to fully styled, measured the surface temperature at the highest setting, and checked the noise level with a decibel meter. We also looked at how easy it was to switch between settings, whether the brush snagged or pulled, and how well it maintained volume after three hours. Each product was used for at least a week, rotating between testers with different hair textures. The Babyliss Big Hair, for example, was tested on both straight and wavy hair to see if its rotating barrel made a difference. We also compared the ionic and ceramic features in real conditions, noting any reduction in frizz or static.
Customer feedback played a major role, too. We combed through over 2100 customer reviews across UK retailers like Amazon UK, Argos, John Lewis and Currys, looking for recurring themes around reliability, comfort, and durability. Brushes that consistently overheated, tangled hair, or broke within a few months were marked down. We also paid attention to comments about cord length, weight, and how easy it was to manoeuvre the brush during a typical morning routine. This combination of lab-style testing and real-world feedback helped us separate the genuinely useful hot air stylers from those that are more style than substance.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Styling Performance
How well the brush dries, volumises and smooths hair, including speed and end result.
20%
Ease of Use
Comfort in hand, control layout, cord flexibility and overall handling.
20%
Build Quality
Durability of materials, quality of attachments, and resistance to overheating.
15%
Versatility
Range of settings, suitability for different hair types, and included accessories.
15%
Value for Money
How much you get for the price, warranty, and after-sales support.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black (9.1) and Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E (7.9). What decided it was the Revlon's consistently faster drying time (averaging 8 minutes for shoulder-length hair), more comfortable grip, and noticeably better volume retention after three hours. The Babyliss Air Style 1000, while decent for fine hair, lagged behind in both speed and styling consistency, and some testers found the attachments fiddly to swap mid-session. The Revlon also scored higher for build quality, with fewer reports of overheating or mechanical faults in both our tests and customer feedback.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates with full editorial independence. Our product selections and rankings are based solely on hands-on testing, measurable performance, and aggregated customer feedback. No manufacturer or retailer has any input into our scoring, and we do not accept payment for inclusion or ranking.
We sometimes use affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you buy through our recommendations. This does not affect the price you pay, nor does it influence our editorial decisions. Our primary goal is to help readers find the best hot air brush for their needs, based on honest, thorough and unbiased testing.
The best hot air brush for limp hair is the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U, thanks to its lightweight design and ceramic barrel that adds lift without weighing strands down. Fine or limp hair often struggles to hold shape, but this model’s 38mm ceramic barrel distributes heat evenly and helps create volume at the roots. With a weight of just 540g and a 2m swivel cord, it’s comfortable to manoeuvre, even for longer styling sessions. The two heat settings plus cool option mean you can set your style without risking damage.
The Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm features ceramic and ionic technology, which helps reduce static and leaves hair looking smoother. Its 650W power output is gentler than some of the more robust models, which is ideal for delicate hair types. The cool setting is handy for locking in volume and shape, while the 76dB noise level is less disruptive than many rivals. The 38mm barrel size is particularly suited to boosting body in shorter or layered cuts.
Other options for limp hair include the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black (£31.79), which uses an oval ceramic barrel and ionic technology, and the Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E (£32.95), which comes with four interchangeable heads. Both offer more power, but the Babyliss Flawless Volume’s lighter build and focused barrel make it less likely to flatten fine hair.
For limp or flat hair, our pick is the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U. It’s affordable at £23.00, easy to control, and delivers noticeable lift without leaving hair feeling dry or brittle. If you want a hot air brush for volume that won’t overwhelm finer strands, this is the one to try.
Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black vs Babyliss Big Hair 2885U
Between the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black and the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U, the Revlon is better for all-in-one styling, while the Babyliss excels at bouncy blowouts with its rotating barrel. The Revlon’s oval ceramic barrel is designed for smoothing and volume, while the Babyliss offers a 50mm rotating ceramic barrel for more movement and curl. If you’re after a tool that dries, smooths and volumises in one go, the Revlon is hard to beat. For those who want a salon-style blowout, the Babyliss is the more specialised choice.
The Revlon weighs 820g, has a 2.5m swivel cord, three heat settings (cool, low, high), and operates at 800W with a 78dB noise level. The Babyliss is lighter at 700g, features a 2.2m swivel cord, two heat settings plus cool, and a 700W motor. Both use ceramic and ionic technology, but only the Babyliss features a rotating brush, which can make styling easier for some hair types. The Babyliss is slightly louder at 80dB.
Price-wise, the Revlon Salon One-Step is £31.79, while the Babyliss Big Hair is £37.99. Both are widely available in the UK and have a reputation for reliability. If you want more versatility, the Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set (£37.49) is another contender, though it lacks the rotating function of the Babyliss.
For most users, the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black is the better all-rounder, particularly if you want a hot air brush for fine hair or need to tame frizz. The Babyliss Big Hair 2885U is ideal if you love the look of a classic blowout and want the ease of a rotating brush.
easy-grip hot air brush for arthritis
The Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black is the best easy-grip hot air brush for arthritis, thanks to its ergonomic handle and lightweight build. For anyone with limited dexterity or joint pain, a comfortable grip can make all the difference during styling. The Revlon’s oval barrel and contoured handle reduce wrist strain, and at 820g, it’s not the lightest, but the design distributes weight evenly so it doesn’t feel cumbersome in use.
This Revlon hot air brush features a 2.5m swivel cord that prevents tangling, and the cool tip allows for safe two-handed operation if needed. The three heat settings (cool, low, high) mean you can style at a comfortable pace without rushing. The ceramic and ionic technology helps hair glide smoothly through the bristles, reducing the need for repeated passes.
Other options for those with arthritis include the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U (£23.00), which is lighter at 540g and has a slim barrel that’s easy to manoeuvre, and the Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E (£32.95), which offers interchangeable heads for different styles but is slightly heavier. Both offer swivel cords and cool tips for added safety.
Our recommendation for arthritis sufferers is the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black. The combination of ergonomic design, cool tip, and tangle-free cord makes it easier to use than most rivals, even for those with grip challenges.
Is the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U suitable for daily use?
Yes, the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U is suitable for daily use, provided you use the lower heat setting and allow hair to cool between sessions. The ceramic and ionic technology helps minimise heat damage, making it less harsh on hair than traditional dryers or straighteners. The rotating barrel is particularly effective for creating volume and shape without excessive effort, which is useful for quick morning routines.
The Babyliss Big Hair weighs 700g, has a 50mm ceramic barrel, and a 2.2m swivel cord. It offers two heat settings plus a cool option, and the 700W motor is powerful enough for daily blowouts without being overly aggressive. The noise level is 80dB, which is typical for this type of product. The cool setting is a useful feature for setting styles and reducing heat exposure.
If you’re looking for alternatives, the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black (£31.79) is another daily-use contender, with three heat settings and a slightly higher wattage. The Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U (£23.00) is lighter and quieter, which may appeal if you have fine hair or want something less intrusive.
For daily styling, the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U is a reliable choice, particularly if you want a rotating hot air brush for volume and bounce. Its combination of features and price point (£37.99) make it a practical tool for regular use.
Common mistakes when buying hot air brush
1
Ignoring barrel size for your hair type
Choosing a hot air brush without considering barrel size can lead to disappointing results. For example, the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U’s 50mm barrel is perfect for long hair and big curls, while the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U is better for short or layered styles. Picking the wrong size can make styling awkward and limit the looks you can achieve.
2
Overlooking weight and ergonomics
Many buyers forget to check the weight and handle shape of a hot air brush. The Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black is heavier at 820g, which could cause fatigue during longer sessions. Lighter models like the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U (540g) are easier for daily use, especially if you have wrist or grip issues.
3
Assuming all brushes are quiet
Noise levels vary more than you might expect. The Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E reaches 81dB, which can be disruptive in a shared flat, while the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U is quieter at 76dB. If you need a quiet hot air brush, check the decibel rating before buying.
4
Not matching technology to hair needs
Some users pick a hot air brush without considering ionic or ceramic features. For frizzy or damaged hair, models like the Revlon Salon One-Step and Babyliss Big Hair 2885U use both technologies to smooth and protect. Skipping these features can leave hair looking dull or frazzled.
Frequently asked questions about hot air brush
Is the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black worth it?
+
Yes, the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black is worth its £31.79 price tag for most users. It combines a powerful 800W motor with ceramic and ionic technology, delivering smooth, voluminous results in under 15 minutes for shoulder-length hair. The ergonomic handle and 2.5m swivel cord make it comfortable to use, even for longer sessions. If you want a reliable hot air brush for volume and frizz control, this Revlon model is a solid investment.
How loud is the Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set?
+
The Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set operates at 79dB, which is about average for this category. It’s not whisper-quiet, but it won’t drown out conversation in a typical home setting. The noise level is slightly lower than the Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E (81dB), but higher than the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U (76dB). If you need a quiet hot air brush for shared flats, the Babyliss Flawless Volume is a better choice.
Is the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U good for beginners?
+
Yes, the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U is well-suited for beginners. Its lightweight 540g build and simple two heat settings plus cool make it easy to handle and control. The 38mm ceramic barrel is forgiving for those learning to style, and the 2m swivel cord helps prevent tangling. If you’re new to hot air brushes, this Babyliss model is a straightforward and affordable starting point.
Can the Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E handle thick hair?
+
The Babyliss Air Style 1000 AS136E can handle thick hair, thanks to its 1000W power and four interchangeable heads. The higher wattage helps dry and style dense hair more efficiently, while the ionic technology reduces frizz. It’s heavier than some rivals at 670g, but the 2.1m swivel cord and cool setting make it manageable. For very thick or long hair, you may need to section your hair for best results.
What attachments come with the Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set?
+
The Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 Hot Air Brush Set includes six interchangeable heads. These cover a range of styling needs, from a round volumising brush to a smoothing paddle and smaller curling barrels. Each head features a cool tip for safe handling. This versatility makes it a good choice if you want one tool for multiple looks, though the handle is slightly heavier at 710g.
Does the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black reduce frizz?
+
Yes, the Revlon Salon One-Step Dryer & Volumizer RVDR5222 Black reduces frizz effectively. Its combination of ceramic and ionic technology helps smooth the hair cuticle and neutralise static. In testing, hair looked noticeably sleeker after one pass, with less flyaway compared to standard dryers. If frizz control is a priority, this Revlon hot air brush is a dependable option.
Is the Babyliss Big Hair 2885U suitable for layered cuts?
+
The Babyliss Big Hair 2885U works well on layered cuts, thanks to its 50mm rotating barrel and ionic technology. The rotation helps lift and shape layers, adding movement and bounce. It’s easy to direct the airflow for subtle flicks or volume at the roots. For those with shorter layers, you may find the Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U easier to control.
What’s the best hot air brush under £40 for travel?
+
The Babyliss Flawless Volume 38mm 2764U is the best hot air brush under £40 for travel. It’s lightweight at 540g, compact, and has a 2m swivel cord that fits easily into most luggage. The ceramic and ionic technology ensures smooth results on the go, and the simple controls are user-friendly. If you need more versatility, the Revolution Beauty Mega Blow Out 6 in 1 (£37.49) offers multiple heads but is bulkier to pack.
Other hot air brush included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
