Best Curling Irons of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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Have you ever admired those perfect curls on celebrities and wondered how you can achieve the same look? Well, your secret weapon is a high-quality curling iron. With the right curling iron in your beauty arsenal, you can transform your straight locks into voluminous, bouncy curls, or add a little wave to your hair for that beachy, casual look. 

However, not all curling irons are created equal, and choosing the best one for your hair type and styling needs can be a daunting task. With a myriad of options available in the market – from ceramic to titanium barrels, clamp or clamp-less designs, and a wide range of heat settings – picking the right one can be quite overwhelming. That's why we've created this comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate the world of curling irons and choose the best one for your unique needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron Cover #TOP 1
Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron Cover #TOP 2
Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HOT TOOLS 24K Gold 1" Curling Iron Cover #TOP 3
HOT TOOLS 24K Gold 1" Curling Iron
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Curling Irons

Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron

CD701GNR
White/Rose Gold
1 inch
Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron Cover
Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron, 1-Inch Barrel Creates Classic Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Short, Medium, & Long Hair, White/Rose Gold

The Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron is designed to create classic curls with less frizz. It boasts 30 heat settings with instant heat up to 375°F, Turbo Heat boost for difficult spots and a cool tip for safe handling. The double ceramic curling iron offers heat and damage protection and anti-frizz control. Conair makes high-quality styling tools for all hair types.

What We Like
Fast heat-up time
Long-lasting curls
Lightweight for travel
Works well on fine hair
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Short cord length
Button placement takes adjusting
#TOP 2

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

CD703L
White/Rose Gold
1.5 Inch
Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron Cover
Conair Double Ceramic 1 ½-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves & Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium & Long Hair, White/Rose Gold

The Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron with a 1.5 inch barrel produces soft waves, perfect for medium and long hair. With 30 heat settings, instant heat up to 375°F, and Turbo Heat boost, it offers versatile function for all hair types. The ceramic material ensures even heat distribution and less frizz, while the cool tip and Auto Off feature make it easy and safe to use. Plus, it has a dual voltage for international travel.

What We Like
Fast heat-up
Long-lasting curls
Affordable price
Travel-friendly design
Works for fine or short hair
What We Don't Like
Cord could be sturdier
Button placement takes adjustment

HOT TOOLS 24K Gold 1" Curling Iron

HTIR8011G
Gold
1 inch
HOT TOOLS 24K Gold 1" Curling Iron Cover
HOT Tools 24K Gold Professional 1" Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Bouncy Curls - 24K Gold Technology for Long-Lasting Results & Longer Barrel for Easy Styling

The HOT TOOLS Curling Iron features an extended barrel design, making it easier for you to style longer hair and reach those tricky sections. With its 1-inch wand, you can create gorgeous bouncy curls that last. This curling iron heats up quickly, thanks to its 24K Gold Technology, ensuring consistent heat distribution for effective styling. It also minimizes hair damage by allowing you to wrap sections evenly, so each strand gets the heat it needs on the first try. Enjoy customizable styling with multiple temperature settings, reaching up to 450˚F, suitable for all hair types.

What We Like
Quick heat-up time
Even heat distribution
Long-lasting curls
Swivel cord prevents tangling
Adjustable temperature settings
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavy
No auto shut-off feature
#TOP 4

Conair Instant Heat 1-Inch Curling Iron

CD87GNR
Black
1-Inch
Conair Instant Heat 1-Inch Curling Iron Cover
Conair Instant Heat 1-Inch Curling Iron, 1-Inch Barrel Produces Classic Curls, Hair Curler for Short, Medium, and Long Hair, 25 Heat Setting Curling Iron, Black

The Conair 1-Inch Curling Iron is the perfect styling tool for all hair types. With its instant heat feature, you can achieve your desired style in no time. The Multilayer Barrel Technology ensures even heat distribution, resulting in beautiful curls every time. The 25 heat settings and Turbo Heat Button give you full control over your styling, while the Extra Long Cool Tip and 5ft power cord provide easy handling. Plus, the Dual Voltage makes it ideal for international travel. Whether you want classic curls, waves, or any other style, this curling iron has got you covered. Trust Conair, a brand that has been innovating in hair care since 1959, to deliver high-quality styling tools that meet all your hair needs.

What We Like
Quick heat-up time
Affordable price
Long-lasting durability
Multiple barrel sizes
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Could be hotter
Grip may loosen over time
#TOP 5

Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron

CD81GNR
Black
3/4-Inch
Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron Cover
Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron, ¾-inch Barrel Produces Tight Curls, Hair Curler for Short to Medium Hair, 25 Heat Setting Hair Curling Iron, Black

The Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron features instant heat for perfect styling, 25 heat settings, Multilayer Barrel Technology for even heat distribution, and a Turbo Heat Button for added styling ease. It is ideal for creating all kinds of curls, waves, and styles, and has an Extra Long Cool Tip, 5ft power cord, and Auto Off for safety. Conair also offers a wide selection of innovative styling tools for all hair types, including hair dryers, brushes, and accessories.

What We Like
Heats up quickly
Good value for price
Multiple barrel sizes
Reliable performance
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Barrel grip could be tighter
Protective cover may break
#TOP 6

Conair Supreme Curling Iron Combo Pack, Set of 3

CB433W2N
Purple/Glitter
3 Piece Assortment
Conair Supreme Curling Iron Combo Pack, Set of 3 Cover
Conair Supreme Curling Iron Combo Pack, 1/2", 3/4", & 1", Set of 3

The Conair Curling Iron Combo Pack includes 3 different barrel sizes for versatile styling. The Style Dial technology with 10 variable heat settings, power indicator light, and ready indicator dot make it easy to pinpoint style your curls. The cool tip ensures safety while styling, and the built-in counter rest and tangle-free swivel cord provide convenience. This curling iron set is suitable for all hair types and can create a variety of curls, waves, and styles. Conair has been producing high-quality styling tools since 1959, making it a trustworthy brand for your hair care needs.

What We Like
Affordable price
Three barrel sizes
Quick heat-up
Easy to use
Good for fine hair
What We Don't Like
Single heat setting
May not get hot enough
#TOP 7

Conair Double Ceramic 1.5-Inch Curling Iron

CD710
White/Rose Gold
Conair Double Ceramic 1.5-Inch Curling Iron Cover
Conair Double Ceramic 1 ½-Inch Long Barrel Curling Iron, 1 ½-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves, Hair Waver for Use on Medium & Long Hair, White/Rose Gold

The Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron offers you a versatile styling tool that creates soft curls and waves with ease. Its double ceramic coating ensures even heat distribution, reducing frizz and helping your curls last longer. With 30 adjustable heat settings reaching up to 375°F, you can customize the temperature to suit your hair type, whether fine or coarse. The turbo heat feature helps you tackle stubborn sections quickly, saving time during styling. Safety is also a priority, with a cool tip for safe handling and an automatic shutoff to prevent accidents. This curling iron is designed to make your hair styling routine smooth and worry-free.

What We Like
Heats up quickly
Long-lasting curls
Travel-friendly & dual voltage
Affordable price
Reduces frizz
What We Don't Like
Cord could be sturdier
Button placement takes adjustment
#TOP 8

REVLON Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron

RV052CP
REVLON Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron Cover
Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Tight Curls (3/4 in)

The REVLON Ceramic Curling Iron is designed for effortless styling with its triple ceramic feature that evenly distributes heat, reducing damage from over-styling. With 30-second heat-up and high heat settings up to 400 F, you have complete styling flexibility and control. The new design includes a thumb rest, heat dial with resistance, and ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip. To turn on the iron, simply press and hold the ON/OFF button for 3 seconds. This curling iron is also travel-ready with automatic shut off, a built-in counter rest, and dual voltage so you can use it anywhere. Get silky smooth tight curls with the REVLON Ceramic Curling Iron.

What We Like
Heats up quickly
Adjustable temperature settings
Lightweight and travel-friendly
Good value for price
Rotating, tangle-free cord
What We Don't Like
Awkward button placement
Clip grip could be stronger
#TOP 9

Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron

RV050
Black
1-1/2 Inch barrel
Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron Cover
Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)

The Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron features a new design with a thumb rest, heat dial, and ergonomic handle. It turns on with a press and hold ONOFF button for 3 seconds. The triple ceramic technology helps reduce damage from over styling with even heat distribution for fast and easy styling. It is suitable for all hair types with 30-second heat-up and high heat settings up to 400 F. Additionally, it is travel-ready with automatic shut off, built-in counter rest, and dual voltage.

What We Like
Heats up quickly
Easy to use
Good value for price
Works well for fine hair
Lightweight design
What We Don't Like
Kickstand stability could improve
Power button placement minor issue
#TOP 10

Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron

RVIR1081CP3
Ceramic
1-1/4 in
Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron Cover
Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Tousled Curls (1-1/4 in)

The Revlon Ceramic Curling Iron is a versatile tool for creating silky smooth tousled curls. With its new design, including an ergonomic handle and heat dial with resistance, it is easy to use. The triple ceramic technology helps reduce damage from over styling and provides even heat distribution, allowing for fast and efficient styling. This curling iron is suitable for all hair types, with complete styling flexibility and control. The 30-second heat-up time and high heat settings up to 400 F make it a quick and efficient tool. Additionally, it is travel-ready with automatic shut-off, a built-in counter rest, and dual voltage capabilities.

What We Like
Affordable price
Heats up quickly
Triple ceramic protection
Smooth, brushable curls
Automatic shut-off feature
What We Don't Like
On/off button placement
Heat dial easily bumped
Best Curling Irons Feature Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Curling Irons

Heat Settings

Look for curling irons that offer adjustable heat settings. Different hair types require different heat levels to achieve optimal results. Fine or damaged hair may need lower heat settings, while thick or coarse hair may require higher temperatures. Having the flexibility to adjust the heat ensures you can customize your styling experience.

Barrel Size

Consider the barrel size of the curling iron. Smaller barrels, around ½ inch to 1 inch, are ideal for creating tight curls or defined waves. Larger barrels, around 1 ¼ inch to 2 inches, are suitable for loose curls or voluminous waves. Choose a barrel size that aligns with the type of curls you desire.

Material

Pay attention to the material of the curling iron barrel. Ceramic and tourmaline barrels provide even heat distribution and reduce frizz, making them suitable for most hair types. Titanium barrels heat up quickly and are great for coarse or thick hair. However, be cautious when using titanium barrels on fine or damaged hair as they can reach high temperatures.

Safety Features

Ensure the curling iron has safety features such as an automatic shut-off function, a cool tip, and a heat-resistant glove. These features help prevent accidents, protect your hair from excessive heat, and provide a safer styling experience.

Brand Reputation

Consider the brand's reputation for producing high-quality curling irons. Look for brands known for their durability, performance, and innovative features. Research customer feedback and professional recommendations to get an insight into the reliability and overall satisfaction of the brand's curling irons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know what curling iron to use?

To determine the appropriate curling iron size, consider your desired curl type. For tight curls, opt for an iron that is 3/4" or smaller. For full, loose curls, choose a 1" or 1-1/4" iron. If you want big waves and extra volume, go for a 1-1/2" or 2" iron.

2. What is the difference between a ceramic curling iron and a regular curling iron?

Ceramic curling irons provide consistent, even heat distribution, which is gentler on the hair and helps prevent damage. Regular curling irons may not offer the same level of heat distribution. Titanium irons heat up quickly and can reach higher temperatures, making them suitable for thick or coarse hair but potentially less gentle on fine or thin hair.

3. Which curling iron is least damaging to hair?

Ceramic curling irons are known to cause the least amount of damage to hair. They distribute heat evenly and leave the hair looking shiny and textured.

4. Why is a curling wand better than a curling iron?

Curling wands are preferred for creating beachy waves or touching up curls. They are suitable for medium-length hair or longer and work well for various hair textures. Unlike curling irons, wands do not have a clip that could potentially damage the hair.

5. Do I need a 1 or 1.25 curling iron?

If you have hair between chin length and collarbones, a 1" curling iron is recommended for tighter curls. A 1.25" iron is a good second choice for achieving slightly looser curls.

6. Is ceramic or titanium better for your hair?

Ceramic curling irons are slightly more expensive but offer better hair health and longer-lasting styling results. They provide smoother and shinier results compared to titanium irons. Ceramic plates that are mineral infused can give you ultimate glossy and frizz-free styles.

Editor's Notes

During our curling iron research, we found 48 curling iron products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,489,195 customer reviews through our big data system to write the curling irons list. We found that most customers choose curling irons with an average price of $26.29.

The curling irons are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of curling irons, including Conair, HOT TOOLS, REVLON. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Curling Irons Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Conair Conair HOT TOOLS Conair Conair Conair Conair REVLON REVLON REVLON
Shape Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel Barrel
Material Ceramic Ceramic Metal Barrel combines the elements of chromium, nickel, copper and steel for beautiful, long-lasting results Plastic accessory Ceramic Ceramic Ceramic Ceramic
Product Benefits Curling Curling, Hair Styling 2-Hr. Auto Shut-Off, Automatic Dual Voltage, Extra-Long Cool Tip, Temperature Control Button for more precision + control, Temperature Memory Recall Curling, Hair Styling Curling Curling, Hair Styling Curling, Hair Styling - Curling Curling
Color White/Rose Gold White/Rose Gold Gold Black Black Purple/Glitter White/Rose Gold - Black Ceramic
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy