Comparison
Automatic curler vs curling wand
Published
Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
In short
An automatic curler, such as the BaByliss Curl Secret, draws a section of hair into a heated chamber, holds it and beeps when the curl is done, so you do not need to wrap anything. A curling wand is a bare heated barrel that you wrap by hand. Automatic curlers are easier for beginners and give uniform curls; wands give more control over curl shape and size and work across more hair types and lengths.
Products for this job
Compare all 8 productsghd Chronos Curve Classic Tong: 26 mm, all hair lengths
Check price on AmazonAffiliate linkghd Chronos Curve Max Wand: 38 mm for loose waves
Check price on AmazonAffiliate linkghd Chronos Curve Wand: 28 to 23 mm cone with comb and bag
Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
Our verdict
Pick an automatic curler if you want even curls with minimal technique on medium to long hair. Pick a curling wand if you want control over curl shape, beachy waves or a tool that suits short and long hair alike.
Automatic curlers were designed for people who find wrapping a wand awkward, especially at the back of the head. You place a section in the opening, close the handles and the tool winds the hair around a rotating barrel inside a chamber. A wand gives you full control but needs practice and a heat glove. This guide compares the two approaches in general terms, so you can decide which fits your hair and how much effort you want to put into learning a technique.
How an automatic curler works
Most automatic curlers have a slot where you place a section of hair, a motor that turns a barrel to pull the section into a heated chamber, and a timer that beeps when it is time to release. Many offer a choice of direction, heat setting and timer, which change how tight and defined the curl is. Open the handles and the curl drops out ready formed.
Because the chamber surrounds the hair, your fingers stay away from the heated surface, which many people find reassuring. Our step by step guide on how to use an automatic curler covers the technique and how to avoid tangles.
How a curling wand works
A wand is a heated barrel without a clamp. You wrap a dry section around it, hold for a few seconds and slide it off. With a heat glove on the wrapping hand, you control how tightly you wrap, which direction you go, how much of the end you leave out and how long you hold. That is what lets a wand create anything from defined ringlets to loose, beachy waves.
Wands come in straight and tapered barrels and in sizes from about 13 mm to 38 mm or more. Our explainers on what size curling wand to get and tapered vs regular wands help you choose.
Side by side
The comparison below is general; models vary, so check each listing and manual.
| Point | Automatic curler | Curling wand |
|---|---|---|
| Learning curve | Short | Needs practice |
| Curl type | Uniform, defined curls | From tight curls to loose waves |
| Control over shape | Limited to settings | High |
| Finger safety | Heat enclosed in a chamber | Glove needed |
| Hair length | Best on shoulder length and longer | Most lengths with the right barrel |
| Tangle risk | Possible with large or uneven sections | Low |
Tangles and hair types
The main risk with automatic curlers is a tangle in the chamber, usually when the section is too thick, not brushed smooth or not placed correctly. Most models stop the motor or reverse if they detect a problem, but it is worth reading the manual first and starting with small, combed sections. Very long, very thick or very curly hair can be harder to feed through.
Wands suit almost any hair that is fully dry. Very short hair may be easier with small tongs, as covered in our guide on how to curl short hair. For long hair, a larger barrel helps curls hold their shape; see how to curl long hair.
Note:Both tools get hot. Never use either on damp hair, keep them away from children, rest them on a heat proof surface and unplug after use.
Which should you choose?
Choose an automatic curler if you want even, defined curls with little skill, struggle to wrap the back of your head or worry about touching a hot barrel. It suits medium to long hair best.
Choose a curling wand if you want control over curl size and shape, natural looking waves or a tool that works on most hair lengths. If you prefer air styling with an automatic wrap, the Dyson Airwrap is another route, compared in curling wand vs Dyson Airwrap. Premium wand options are in our best curling wands and tongs guide.
- Beginners who want quick, even curls: automatic curler.
- Beachy waves and varied looks: wand.
- Short hair: wand or small tongs.
- Want one tool for straight and curly days: straighteners, see the best straighteners for curling.
Frequently asked questions
Are automatic curlers better than curling wands? They are easier to learn, but wands offer more control and suit more hair types and lengths.
Do automatic curlers tangle hair? They can if sections are too big or not combed. Use small, smooth sections and follow the manual.
Can you get beach waves with an automatic curler? Some models have a wave or lower setting, but loose, undone waves are usually easier with a large or tapered wand.
Are automatic curlers safer? The heated barrel is enclosed, so fingers are less exposed, but the tool still gets hot and needs the usual care.
What you need
- Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
ghd Chronos Curve Classic Tong: 26 mm, short or long
- Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
ghd Platinum+: smart ultra-zone sensors, 185°C