Topic
Choosing straighteners
Premium straighteners differ in plate material, plate width, the temperature range and how quickly they heat up. These are the figures to compare.
- Typical maximum
- 230 °C (446 °F)
- Standard plates
- about 25 mm (1 in)
Start with the plates. Ceramic plates are the most common; titanium plates heat quickly and are often found on professional models; tourmaline is usually a coating over ceramic. Floating plates, mounted on springs, keep even contact with the hair.
Then compare the temperature. Some models have one fixed setting (ghd's is 185 °C, 365 °F), others are adjustable, typically up to 230 °C (446 °F). Listings from the US quote °F, so our converter gives you both.
Finally check the heat-up time, the auto shut-off after a set number of minutes, a swivel cable and its length, and whether a heat-resistant pouch is included.
Common mistakes
- Comparing a °F figure from a US listing with a °C figure from a UK one.
- Assuming every model can be set below its single fixed temperature.
Guides on this topic
- What makes a good hair straightener?What makes a good hair straightener: plate material and width, heat control and sensors, curved edges, floating plates, cord, safety features and guarantee.Guide
- Straighteners vs hot air brushStraighteners vs hot air brush: sleek, flat hair from plates or a smooth blow-dry with volume from a brush. Heat, speed, hair types and who suits which.Comparison
- Ionic hair straighteners explainedIonic hair straighteners explained: what ionic technology claims, what is established, how it compares with plate quality and heat control, and what to prioritise.Guide
- How to use ghd straightenersHow to use ghd straighteners step by step: prep, section size, one slow pass with tension, finishing the ends and the sleep mode, plus common mistakes to avoid.How-to
- How do hair straighteners work?How do hair straighteners work? Heaters, temperature sensors and plates explained, plus what infrared, ionic and steam straightener claims actually describe.Guide
- Ceramic vs titanium straightener platesCeramic vs titanium hair straightener plates: how each heats and glides, what tourmaline coatings do, which brands use which, and which suits your hair.Comparison
- Can you use straighteners on wet hair?Can you use straighteners on wet hair? Why most plates need fully dry hair, what wet-to-dry stylers do differently, and simple heat protection steps to follow.Guide
Buying guides on this topic
- Best hair straighteners under £250Premium straighteners from ghd, Cloud Nine, L'Oréal, Shark and Faszin compared on plates, temperature range, auto shut-off and listed weight.Buying guide
- Best hair straighteners in the UK: premium models comparedPremium hair straighteners from ghd, Cloud Nine, L'Oréal, Faszin and Dyson compared on plate type, maximum temperature, auto shut-off and weight.Buying guide
- Best straightener and hair dryer sets and 2-in-1 toolsA BaByliss straightener and dryer set plus 2-in-1 tools from Dyson, Shark and ghd compared on how they straighten, how they dry and wet hair use.Buying guide
- Best hair straightener gift setsStraightener gift sets from ghd and Cloud Nine compared on the main tool, what else is in the box, temperature and whether a bag is included.Buying guide