Top 5 Best Curling Irons 2025

undefined By undefined | December 4, 2025

Curling irons are great tools for folks who enjoy making pretty curls. With different sizes and shapes, creating various curl types is a breeze. Whether aiming for tight spirals or relaxed waves, a curling iron gets you the style you want.

When shopping for the best curling iron, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of the barrel. A smaller barrel will create tighter curls, while a larger barrel will create looser waves. The material of the barrel is also important, as some materials distribute heat more evenly than others. Additionally, the temperature range of the curling iron should be considered, as this can affect the amount of time it takes to style your hair.

At our testing lab, we spent countless hours researching and testing various curling irons to identify the ones that make curling your hair easy and fast. We tested for factors such as heat distribution, ease of use, and durability. In this article, we will share our top picks for the best curling irons on the market.

So whether you’re looking to create a sleek and sophisticated look or want to add some bounce to your hair, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the best curling irons that will help you achieve the perfect curls every time.

Best Curling Irons

We have researched and tested various curling irons to bring you the best options available on Amazon. Whether you want loose waves or tight curls, we have got you covered. Our list includes curling irons that are easy to use, have multiple heat settings, and are suitable for different hair types. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best curling irons you can buy on Amazon.

Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron

Check Price on Amazon

We highly recommend the Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron for those looking to create beautiful, classic curls with ease.

Pros

Cons

This curling iron is designed to be easy to operate, with recessed buttons to prevent accidental shutoff and a cool tip for safe, easy handling. It also features an Auto Off feature for added safety. The double ceramic plates offer the best in heat and damage protection and anti-frizz control, making it a versatile tool for all hair types. Additionally, the curling iron is dual voltage for international travel.

In conclusion, the Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron is a high-quality styling tool that offers innovative features and excellent performance. Whether you’re looking to create beautiful, classic curls or sleek, modern styles, this curling iron is sure to deliver.

Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron

Check Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a high-quality curling iron that delivers defined, long-lasting curls, the Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron is a great choice.

Pros

Cons

This curling iron is a great choice for anyone who wants to create beautiful, defined curls that last all day. The 24K gold-plated barrel is a standout feature, as it ensures that every hair is perfectly curled and consistent. The iron heats up quickly and has multiple heat settings, making it suitable for all hair types. The 8ft. professional swivel cord provides free range of movement, making it easy to use.

One of the cons of this product is that it might be a bit expensive for some people. However, we believe that the quality of the product justifies the price. Another potential downside is that the curling iron might not be suitable for people who are not used to using high-heat styling tools. Finally, the curling iron might not work as well on very thick or coarse hair.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality curling iron that delivers defined, long-lasting curls, the Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron is definitely worth considering. It’s a great choice for people of all hair types, and the quality of the product is evident in its performance.

Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler Black 1.25 Inch

Check Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a high-quality curling iron that will give you the perfect curls, you should definitely check out the Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler.

Pros

Cons

We recently got our hands on the Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, and we were impressed with its performance. The ceramic material helped to protect our hair while providing a shiny finish, and the longer barrel made it easy to curl our longer locks. We also appreciated how quickly the curling iron heated up, so we didn’t have to wait long to start styling.

One thing to note is that this curling iron is a bit pricey, so it might not be the best option for those on a budget. Additionally, the curling iron is a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to use for extended periods of time. Finally, the power cord on this curling iron is on the shorter side, which can be inconvenient if you need to move around while styling your hair.

Overall, we think the Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler is a great investment for those looking for a high-quality curling iron that will provide great results.

Hot Tools Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron

Check Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a versatile curling iron that can create bouncy curls with ease, then the Hot Tools Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron might just be the one for you.

Pros

Cons

In our experience, we found that the Hot Tools Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron was easy to use and produced great results. The gold technology really did seem to promote long-lasting curls and the high heat reach made it suitable for all hair types. We also appreciated the soft-touch comfort grip, which made it easy to hold and maneuver the iron while styling.

However, we did find that the foldaway safety stand could be a bit flimsy and didn’t always stay in place, which could be a bit frustrating. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other curling irons on the market, which might be a consideration for some buyers. Finally, the on/off switch can be a bit difficult to operate, which could be a minor annoyance for some users.

Overall, we would recommend the Hot Tools Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable curling iron that can produce great results. While it does have a few minor drawbacks, we found that the pros definitely outweighed the cons and we were very happy with our experience using this product.

HOT TOOLS Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron/Wand | For Smooth, Shiny Hair (1-1/4” in)

Check Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a curling iron that makes styling your hair a breeze, the HOT TOOLS Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron/Wand might be the perfect fit for you. With advanced Nano Ceramic technology, this curling iron helps create sleek, glossy shine, and reduce frizz.

Pros

Cons

We’ve tested the HOT TOOLS Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron/Wand and found that it’s a reliable tool that creates beautiful curls and waves. The rheostat temperature control dial with variable heat settings up to 450°F makes it easy to adjust the temperature to your hair type, and the powerful spring clamp holds hair in place without leaving any creases.

The extra-long cool tip and thumb grip make it easy to hold and maneuver the iron, and the power indicator light lets you know when it’s ready to use. The 8ft. professional swivel cord allows for free range of movement, and the foldaway stand makes it easy to store.

However, we’ve also found that the powerful spring clamp might not be suitable for those with thin hair, as it might leave creases or damage the hair. Additionally, the iron might take a bit longer to heat up compared to other curling irons, so you might need to wait a bit longer before you start styling your hair. Lastly, the glove that comes with the iron might not be heat resistant enough for some users, so you might want to invest in a better one if you plan on using it regularly.

Overall, we think that the HOT TOOLS Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron/Wand is a great investment for anyone who loves curls, coils and waves of all shapes, and wants a reliable tool that creates beautiful, shiny, frizz-free curls.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best curling iron, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of factors to keep in mind while shopping for your next curling iron.

Barrel Material

One of the most important factors to consider is the material of the barrel. The most common materials are ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium. Ceramic barrels provide even heat distribution and are ideal for those with fine or thin hair. Tourmaline barrels emit negative ions that smooth the hair and reduce frizz, making them a great choice for those with thick or curly hair. Titanium barrels are the most durable and heat up quickly, making them a good choice for those with coarse or thick hair.

Barrel Size

The size of the barrel determines the size of the curls you can create. A smaller barrel (around 1 inch) is best for creating tight curls or ringlets, while a larger barrel (around 2 inches) is better for loose waves or beachy curls. Consider your hair length and the type of curl you want to achieve when choosing the size of the barrel.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is important for achieving the desired curl without damaging your hair. Look for a curling iron with adjustable temperature settings, so you can choose the heat level that works best for your hair type. Fine or thin hair should be styled at a lower temperature, while thick or coarse hair may require higher heat.

Additional Features

Other features to consider include a swivel cord for easy maneuverability, a safety shut-off feature, and a cool tip to prevent burns. Some curling irons also come with additional attachments, such as interchangeable barrels or a built-in comb.

By considering these factors, you can choose a curling iron that is best suited for your hair type and styling needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a curling iron to minimize hair damage?

When looking for a curling iron that minimizes hair damage, it’s important to consider the material of the barrel. Ceramic and tourmaline are great options as they distribute heat evenly and reduce frizz. A curling iron with adjustable heat settings is also important as it allows you to control the temperature and avoid overheating your hair. Look for a curling iron with a cool tip to prevent burns on your fingers and a swivel cord to prevent tangling.

Which type of curling iron is best for creating beach waves?

For beach waves, a curling iron with a larger barrel size is ideal. A 1.25-inch or 1.5-inch barrel will give you loose, effortless waves. Look for a curling iron with a clamp-free design to avoid leaving creases in your hair. Ceramic or titanium barrels will also help maintain the health of your hair while creating beachy waves.

What are the top curling irons recommended for short hair styling?

For short hair, a curling iron with a smaller barrel size is recommended. A 0.5-inch or 0.75-inch barrel will allow you to create tight curls or defined waves. Look for a curling iron with a tapered barrel to create a variety of curl sizes. A curling iron with a high heat setting is also important to ensure your curls hold throughout the day.

How do I choose the right curling iron for fine hair to prevent breakage?

When choosing a curling iron for fine hair, it’s important to consider the material of the barrel. Ceramic or tourmaline barrels will help prevent breakage by distributing heat evenly and reducing frizz. Look for a curling iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid overheating your hair. A smaller barrel size, such as 0.75 inches, is also recommended for fine hair.

What are the best options for a beginner learning to curl their hair?

For beginners, a curling iron with a clamp is recommended as it provides more control when curling. Look for a curling iron with a 1-inch barrel size as it is versatile and can create a variety of curl sizes. A curling iron with adjustable heat settings is also important to avoid overheating your hair. Consider a curling iron with a safety shut-off feature for added peace of mind.

Is a gold or ceramic curling iron better for maintaining hair health?

Both gold and ceramic curling irons are great options for maintaining hair health. Ceramic curling irons distribute heat evenly and reduce frizz, while gold curling irons provide consistent heat and are ideal for thick or coarse hair. Ultimately, the best option depends on your hair type and styling needs. Consider the features of each type before making a decision.

We independently select all products and services. This article was written by a third-party company. If you click through links we provide, we may earn a commission.