With the Dyson Airwrap, you have the ability to wrap your hair in two different directions using a single barrel attachment with a simple rotation at the end. This design makes it incredibly convenient for users to change between clockwise and anticlockwise curls without having to swap anything out. It’s a small detail, but it significantly streamlines the styling process and adds to the overall user experience. The Shark FlexStyle, on the other hand, uses two separate attachments to achieve curls in different directions – this is how the Airwrap was designed for its initial launch which has since been optimised. While this means a bit more juggling during your styling routine, it’s a minor inconvenience considering the FlexStyle’s overall performance and price point.

Furthermore, the Shark FlexStyle really shines in its inclusion of a diffuser attachment. This addition makes it a more inclusive tool for those with curly or textured hair. The diffuser is designed to enhance and define natural curls, providing gentle, even heat distribution to reduce frizz and promote curl formation. This makes the FlexStyle a fantastic option for those who often find traditional styling tools lacking in support for a curly hair type. Plus, I found that the oval boar bristle attachment of the FlexStyle to be more superior as I have longer hair and a preference for loose waves.

However, the Dyson Airwrap includes a round brush, smoothing tool and different barrel sizes for creating various curl shapes. These attachments are designed to cater to a wide range of styling needs, making the Airwrap a versatile tool for those who love to switch up their look frequently. Plus, the Airwrap includes a simple paddle brush attachment that may be better suited for shorter hair lengths. With this being said, the Shark SpeedStyle RapidGloss Finisher & High-Velocity Dryer is $350 and has a rotating round brush amongst its attachments if the blowdry effect is solely what you’re after.

One major thing to note is that when you purchase the Dyson Airwrap, you’re able to curate your very own comprehensive system tailored to meet your specific hair needs. One of the standout features of the Airwrap is the wide range of attachments available, allowing for unparalleled customisation. This means you can handpick the perfect combination of barrels, brushes and other accessories to suit your unique hair type and styling preferences. This level of customisation might actually be more cost effective despite the higher price tag. Instead of purchasing a bundle of attachments, some of which might go untouched, the Dyson Airwrap allows you to select only the attachments that you'll actually use. This not only ensures that you're getting the most value out of your purchase but also keeps your styling routine efficient and clutter-free.

On the other hand, if your interest lies primarily in barrel attachments, the Shark FlexStyle offers a great alternative at a much lower price. This budget-friendly option comes with a variety of attachments that you can experiment with. The FlexStyle’s user-friendly design and effective performance make it a strong competitor in the hair styling market.