# Hair waver vs crimper: what is the difference?

Source: https://plateandcurl.co.uk/blog/hair-waver-vs-crimper
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Plate and Curl

**In short:** A hair waver uses two or three heated barrels that clamp hair into soft, S-shaped waves, often called mermaid or beach waves. A crimper uses flat plates with sharp ridges that press hair into small, tight zigzags. They look quite different, so choose a waver for loose, glossy waves and a crimper for tight texture and volume.

Wavers and crimpers are both clamp tools that press a shape into hair rather than wrapping it, and some shops list them under the same heading. The result is very different. A waver gives large, rounded waves that look like a deliberate wave pattern. A crimper gives fine, angular ridges that read as texture. This guide explains how each one works, what they suit and how to use either safely, with links to our step by step guides.

## How a waver works

A waver has a heated top half with one or two barrels and a heated bottom half with the matching shape, so when it closes, hair is pressed into an S-curve. Three barrel models, sometimes called triple barrel wavers, make two curves at once. You clamp near the root, hold for a few seconds, then move down so the next clamp continues the wave pattern. The waves are large, usually 2 to 3 cm apart, and look smooth and glossy.

Wavers are quick on long hair because each clamp covers a wide section. Our guide on [how to use a hair waver](https://plateandcurl.co.uk/blog/how-to-use-a-hair-waver) walks through the technique step by step.

## How a crimper works

A crimper has two flat plates with a row of small zigzag ridges. Close it on a section for a few seconds and the hair takes on the ridge pattern. The crimps are small, usually a few millimetres apart, and they stand hair away from its neighbours, so crimping adds a lot of volume. Some people crimp only the hidden underneath layers to boost volume at the root without visible texture.

Crimping was a big trend in the 1980s and returns regularly as a statement look. It suits fine and straight hair that needs grip and lift. On very thick hair it can look bulky.

## Side by side

The table compares the two tool types in general terms. Plate and barrel sizes vary by model, so check each listing.

| Point | Hair waver | Crimper |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Heated surface | Two or three rounded barrels | Flat plates with small ridges |
| Look | Large, soft S-waves | Tight, angular zigzags |
| Volume | Moderate | High |
| Best hair length | Shoulder length and longer | Any length, including short |
| Speed on long hair | Fast | Slower, smaller sections |
| Typical use | Beach and mermaid waves | Texture, root volume, statement looks |

Hair waver and crimper compared

## Which suits your hair?

Choose a waver if you have medium to long hair and want soft waves without learning to wrap a wand. It is one of the easiest ways to get even waves from root to tip. Very short hair is harder because there is less length for the pattern to repeat; a small barrel waver or a wand can work better.

Choose a crimper if you want texture and volume, especially on fine, straight hair, or if you want to crimp the underneath layers as a volume trick. If your goal is natural looking beach waves rather than a defined pattern, a large or tapered wand is another option: see our guide to the [best curling wands and tongs](https://plateandcurl.co.uk/best/best-curling-wands) and our explainer on [what size curling wand to get](https://plateandcurl.co.uk/blog/what-size-curling-wand).

- Long hair, soft waves, quick results: waver.
- Fine, flat hair that needs volume: crimper.
- Natural, undone waves: large or tapered wand.
- Want one tool for straight and wavy days: straighteners that curl, as covered in the [best straighteners for curling](https://plateandcurl.co.uk/best/best-straighteners-for-curling).

## Using either tool safely

Both tools press hot surfaces against the hair for several seconds, so heat protection matters. Apply a heat protectant to dry hair, use the lowest setting that holds the shape and avoid clamping the same section repeatedly. Work away from the scalp and ears, and keep the tool on its stand between sections. Our explainer on [heat protection spray](https://plateandcurl.co.uk/blog/do-you-need-heat-protection-spray) covers the basics.

Note: Wavers and crimpers get hot enough to burn skin. Keep them away from the face and neck, rest them on a heat proof surface, keep them away from children and unplug after use.

## Frequently asked questions

**Is a hair waver a crimper?** No. A waver makes large rounded waves with barrels; a crimper makes small zigzags with ridged plates. Some products are sold as both, so check the picture of the heated surface.

**Which is better for short hair?** A crimper works on short hair because its ridges are small. A waver needs more length to show its pattern.

**Do wavers damage hair more than curling wands?** The risk depends on temperature and how long you hold. Use heat protection and a sensible setting with either.

**How long do waves from a waver last?** It depends on hair type and product. Letting the waves cool fully before touching them helps them last longer.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://plateandcurl.co.uk/best/best-curling-wands
- https://plateandcurl.co.uk/best/best-straighteners-for-curling