Dyson Airwrap vs Airstrait

How each one works

The Airwrap uses the Coanda effect. Air leaving slots in a barrel follows its curved surface and pulls a section of hair round with it. Once the hair is wrapped, warm air shapes it and a cold shot sets the curl. Brush attachments use airflow to smooth and add lift, much like a round-brush blow-dry. Read how the Airwrap works for more.

The Airstrait looks like a straightener but has no heated plates. Instead, air is pushed down through the two arms, so as you glide it from root to tip the airflow both dries and straightens the hair. Dyson designed it for use on wet hair, cutting out the separate blow-dry and straightening steps.

Key differences at a glance

Model details change between generations, so check Dyson's specifications for the exact version you are looking at.

Compare Dyson Airwrap models →

Straightening: can the Airwrap do it?

Airwraps can smooth hair with their brushes and smoothing dryer, giving a sleek but soft blow-dry. The newest Co-anda 2x model also adds an air straightener attachment that Dyson says straightens from wet to dry. Older Airwraps do not have that attachment.

If straight hair is your everyday style and you do not want curls, the Airstrait is the more direct tool. If you want straight days and curly days, a recent Airwrap with an air straightener covers both. Our comparison of the Airwrap i.d. and Co-anda 2x explains what changed.

Who should choose which

If you want an air styler but not a Dyson, our guides to Airwrap-style multi-stylers and Dyson Airwrap alternatives cover the options.

• Airwrap: you want curls, waves or bouncy volume, have shoulder-length or longer hair, and enjoy varying your style.
• Airstrait: you straighten most days, want to go from wet to styled in one pass and prefer a simple tool.
• Curly or coily hair: both can stretch and smooth curls; the Airstrait suits a straight look, the Airwrap a softer blow-dry or defined curls.
• Short hair: the Airstrait's arms work on most lengths; Airwrap barrels need enough length to wrap.

Care and safety

Both tools draw air through a filter that collects lint and dust. Clean it regularly, or the tool may overheat and switch itself off. For the Airwrap, see cleaning the Airwrap filter; for the Airstrait, follow the cleaning steps in Dyson's manual.

Using a mains appliance on wet hair is what these tools are designed for, but water and electricity still need care. Do not style while standing in a bathroom with a filled bath or running shower, and keep the plug and socket dry.

Note:Use these tools with dry hands, keep cables away from basins and baths, and unplug before cleaning. If a tool smells of burning or the cable is damaged, stop using it and contact Dyson.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Airstrait better than the Airwrap for straightening? For straight results from wet, yes; it is designed for that one job. The Airwrap's brushes give a softer, smoother finish.

Can the Airwrap replace straighteners? For a smooth blow-dry, often yes. For poker-straight results, the Airstrait or straighteners do more.

Can I use the Airstrait on dry hair? Dyson says it works on wet or dry hair, with wet hair being its main use. Check the manual for settings.

Should I buy both? Only if you regularly want both curls and very straight styles. Many people find one covers their usual look.