ghd vs BaByliss straighteners

Two different philosophies

ghd's view is that 185 °C (365 °F) is hot enough to style most hair in one or two passes while avoiding the higher temperatures that can cause more damage. Its main models, the Gold, Platinum+, Chronos and Max, hold that single temperature using sensors in the plates. There is no dial to set, which many people like. ghd's range is explained in our ghd straighteners compared guide.

BaByliss gives you control. Most of its straighteners have several heat settings, often reaching well above 200 °C at the top. That flexibility helps if you have very fine hair and want to go lower, or very coarse hair and want more heat. It also means you need to choose sensibly, because the highest setting is not the right one for everybody.

How the brands compare

The table summarises widely known differences between the two brands' straightener ranges. Individual models vary, so treat it as a starting point rather than a specification sheet.

Plates, heat-up and results

ghd's current stylers use floating plates on springs, rounded outer edges for curling and sensors that adjust heat as you style. The Chronos adds what ghd calls motion-responsive heat, aiming to keep plates at temperature as you move. Results tend to be consistent because the tool does the temperature thinking for you.

BaByliss models range widely in plate size and coating. Premium BaByliss straighteners compete well on features such as fast heat-up, digital displays and wide plates. Budget BaByliss irons are fine for occasional use but may have less even heat across the plates. If you want to understand coatings, see ceramic vs titanium plates.

• Fine or damaged hair: either, as long as you can run below about 185 °C. BaByliss adjustable models go lower; ghd stays at 185 °C.
• Thick or coarse hair: a wide plate from either brand. ghd Max or an adjustable BaByliss with a higher setting.
• Curling with straighteners: ghd's rounded bodies are designed for it.

Cordless options

Both brands sell a cordless straightener. The ghd Unplugged runs at 185 °C with compact plates and charges by USB-C. The BaByliss 9000 cordless straightener also targets travel and quick touch-ups. Cordless models trade plate size and run time for freedom, as our explainer on how cordless straighteners work sets out. For travel picks, see the best straighteners for travel.

Note:Lithium battery stylers have airline and cruise rules. Carry them in hand luggage when flying and check the airline's current guidance before you travel.

Guarantees and support

ghd lists a two-year manufacturer's guarantee on its current stylers when bought from ghd or an authorised stockist, and it runs a repair service. Our ghd warranty explainer covers the details. BaByliss guarantees vary by product and range, so check the box or the BaByliss UK website. With either brand, buy from an authorised seller: fake ghds in particular circulate online, as our guide to spotting fakes explains.

Which brand should you choose?

Choose ghd if you want a premium styler that is simple to use, curls as well as it straightens and keeps a steady temperature without settings. The Gold is the usual starting point; the Platinum+ and Chronos add smarter heat control. Our best hair straighteners guide compares the premium options.

Choose BaByliss if temperature control matters to you, you want a particular feature such as steam or extra wide plates, or you want a wider choice of models. Look at the higher end of the range for the most even heat and the best build.

See the best hair straighteners →

Frequently asked questions

Are ghd straighteners better than BaByliss? Neither is better for everyone. ghd is simpler and consistent at 185 °C; BaByliss offers more choice and adjustable heat.

Do BaByliss straighteners get hotter than ghd? Many BaByliss models have top settings above 185 °C. Hotter is not automatically better, and higher heat raises the risk of damage.

Can you change the temperature on ghd straighteners? Most current ghd straighteners run at a fixed 185 °C. Check the manual for any model specific options.

Which brand is better for curling hair with straighteners? ghd's rounded barrels are designed for curling. Some BaByliss models curl well too; look for rounded outer edges.