IF you want salon-worthy hair then investing in the right hair tools is essential.
Enter some of the best ghd straighteners on the market, which boast state-of-the-art technology and innovation to make wash day or everyday hair styling a breeze.
Browse the full ghd straighteners range
The ghd range is extensive whether you have long Cher-inspired flowing locks, a shorter style, sharp bob cuts or bouncy curls.
The versatile hair tools are suitable for all hair types and lengths and have garnered a loyal following of fans and industry insiders who swear by the results.
When it comes to taming your mane, regardless of your hair type, we really can’t fault the OG classic ghd original straighteners.
For those with thick or longer locks, the wider plates on the Max hair straightener may be preferred, while shorter, cropped hairstyles work better with the ghd mini design.
The brand continues to push the envelope, and some of its newest haircare innovations include a wet-to-dry Hot Air Styler and portable Unplugged cordless hair straighteners that is ideal for travel.
But with so many hair straightening options to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
That’s why we have done all the hard work for you, road-testing the best ghd straighteners currently on the market. Read on to get the full lowdown…
Best ghd straighteners at a glance
- Best overall: GHD Platinum + Black Styler
- Best for frizzy hair: GHD Unplugged Cordless Styler
- Best value: GHD Original Styler
- Best for drying hair: GHD Duet
- Best for fast styling: GHD Chronos
GHD Duet
ghd Duet, £379
Pros: Straightens and dries at the same time, minimal effort, great for long hair
Cons: Expensive
When I tested the ghd Duet, its wet-to-dry function sounded too good to be true.
But, after a few months of testing, I’m happy to report it exceeded my expectations.
It’s the ultimately lazy girl tool, allowing me to simultaneously straighten and dry my hair at the same time.
I put it up against my long mane and, within 10 minutes, it was almost completely dry.
The ‘shine shot’ at the end of the process left my hair smoother and shinier with a lovely sleek feel to it.
Tested by Harriet Flook. Read our full ghd Duet review here.
Material: Ceramic; Size: 42.4L x 32.5W cm; Heat settings: wet-to-dry and straightening modes; Features: Shine Shot
mode, 45% less energy consumption, automatic sleep mode, smart styling plates; Maximum temperature setting: 185°C
GHD Unplugged Cordless Styler
ghd Unplugged Cordless Styler, £299
Pros: 20 minutes of unplugged use, lightweight, able to charge via car or laptop, sleep mode saves battery
Cons: Charging takes two hours for 20 minutes of use
Honestly, if you’re like me, then you probably think that a cordless ghd straightener sounds too good to be true.
I wasn’t buying it until I tried them.
Yes, when fully charged you can carry them around in your handbag for when you need to do a quick style on the go.
The only catch is that you have to charge them for two hours to only use them for 20 minutes because the technology is still relatively new.
But when you can use them, they’re light as a feather and perform superbly.
Whether you want to have a quick run over your unruly fringe or to smooth out some frizz in humidity.
Thanks to the trusty USB-C cable, I found it so useful that I could plug them into my laptop rather than a mains plug to charge them.
Another plus? The plates didn’t feel mega hot which makes sense because they heat up to 185 degrees which is supposed to be the optimum heat for styling.
Oh and the sleep mode that comes on after three minutes of no use is so great for saving the battery. Love them.
Tested by Harriet Flook. Read our full ghd Unplugged review here.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H32.5 x W13.2 x D11 cm; Programs/Settings: 4; Features: high-speed USB-C charging, 47% lighter and 30% smaller, hybrid co-lithium technology, battery life indicator; Maximum temperature setting: 185°C
READ MORE:
- GHD Unplugged review
- GHD Platinum Plus review
- GHD Unplugged Vs. Dyson Corrale
- GHD Helios Hair Dryer
- Best shampoos
GHD Chronos
ghd Chronos Hair Straightener, £289
Pros: Fast heat-up, lightweight, adaptive technology, speedy styling, smooths hair
Cons: Can’t take thick sections, pricey
Rating: 4/5
GHD’s Chronos straighteners set itself apart by being one of the lightest hair tools ever. Not to mention, it’s designed with innovative HD responsive technology that adapts its temperature to suit your hair type.
As someone with medium thick long hair, I was intrigued to see whether it worked on my hair as I often have to increase the temperature when I use hot tools to get the style I want.
It’s super easy to use, simply press a button and wait for the sound to indicate that it’s ready to go.
The straighteners felt noticeably lighter than any other tools I’ve used in the past and were very comfortable to hold. But on my first go, it took me a while to figure out how to section my hair as the plates were smaller than my typical straighteners and couldn’t take as much hair.
After a couple of tries, I managed to section off the right amount and it became quite a speedy process – taking about 10 minutes to do my entire head. This was one of its best features and I never had to pass each section through the straighteners more than once.
It worked well on my hair type and it never failed to deliver shiny, smooth hair.
Although, at times I did notice I had to use my other hand to properly clamp down some sections when I curled my hair, as it was a bit too light to hold every section.
I particularly loved curling the ends of my hair to mimic a blow-out and was surprised at the amount of compliments I received from friends on how nice my hair looked. Plus, my curls lasted three days without using hairspray which was a bonus.
At nearly £300, it’s a very pricey investment but would be great for anyone looking to invest in a quality straightener they can use for years to come.
Tested by Natalie Chui. Read the full GHD Chronos review here.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H7 x W11.6 x D30 cm Programs/Settings: 1 Adaptive; Features: HD motion-responsive technology, 2.7m swivel cord, 85% more shine, Automatic sleep mode; Maximum temperature setting: 185°C
GHD Gold Hair Straightener
GHD Gold Hair Straightener, £189
Pros: Wider plates than original for quicker straightening, uses the same tech as Platinum Plus to alter the heat to suit your hair, available in several colours
Cons: None
When I received the ghd Gold Hair Straighteners, my mind was wondering what about them would be different from the Original.
However, once I used them, I realised how different they are.
The plates are bigger, they straighten your hair way quicker and because they use dual-zone technology like the Platinum Plus, they’re constantly monitoring the heat which makes sure that your hair is looked after at an optimum temperature of 185 degrees.
A quick once-over was all I needed. The wider plates work their magic.
Better still, if you shop the Alluring Jade colourway, you’ll receive a free ghd styling duo gift set worth £45.
Tested by Clara Wolsey.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H12.6 x W14.1 x D34.2m; Programs/Settings: 1; Features: Dual-zone tech, Automatic sleep mode, 360º cord; Maximum temperature setting: 185°C
GHD Platinum+ Black Styler
GHD Platinum+ Black Styler, £239
Pros: Alters the heat to suit your hair, easy to use, doesn’t dry hair out, heats in 15 seconds, curved edges prevent you from burning yourself, long-lasting results
Cons: None
Newer to the block than most of the others, ghd’s Platinum+ Black Styler took five years to develop as it features ground-breaking ‘smart’ predictive technology that alters the heat to suit your hair. Mind-blowing.
First impressions? They’re super sleek, in a matte black with a simple, neat button that is much easier to use than the OGs that ghd is more famous for.
It is hard to immediately tell that the sensors heat 250 times a second, but they leave your hair feeling so shiny and smooth rather than dry like some straighteners do.
Once I turned them on, I only had to wait a mere 15 seconds before they rang to say they were good to go. The frame feels sturdy to use, with curved edges that make you feel confident that you won’t burn yourself too.
I’m “blessed” with a curly mane which makes straightening a hefty process but, after ten minutes, my hair was dead straight. The kind of straight that would have all the noughties pop stars jealous.
The best part is how long-lasting the results are. My hair felt smooth and straight for two days after, which was so impressive, as though I’d been to the salon.
For long-lasting straight or wavy effects, this easy-to-use gadget is a must-have.
Tested by Sadie Victoria. Read our full GHD Platinum Plus review here.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H32 x W12 x D9 cm; Programs/Settings: 1; Features: Ultra-zone with predictive technology, Automatic sleep mode, Wishbone hinge, 360º cord; Maximum temperature setting: 185ºC
GHD Platinum+ Hair Straightener in Pink Peach
GHD Platinum+ Hair Straightener in Pink Peach, £239
Pros: Pretty in pink, matching heat-resistant bag, hair feels glossy
Cons: More expensive than the black version
Everything is better in pink, so I was excited to try out the rosy version of the Platinum+ Hair Straighteners.
Although they do the same thing as the original, they do it with a gorgeous marshmallow-coloured heat-resistant bag and a pretty pink outer shade to match.
Again, the wait time for them to heat up is unmatched in comparison to other straighteners on the market.
The tie-dye shade is pretty too. Our favourite feature about them? They’re printed with the words “take control now”, which is also written across the bag too.
These aren’t just straighteners, they’re a reminder to feel empowered and “love yourself” as GHD says.
They also give you straightened locks that feel glossy for an extended period, whether you are giving yourself a wavy look or want a mane that is straighter-than-straight.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H32 x W12 x D9 cm; Programs/Settings: 1; Features: Ultra-zone with predictive technology, Automatic sleep mode, Wishbone hinge, 360º cord; Maximum temperature setting: 185ºC
GHD Original Styler
GHD Original Styler, £139
Pros: Update on the original classic, lightweight, perfect medium width, hair looked sleek and glossy, quick results, heats in 20 seconds
Cons: Not as suited to short hair due to the size of plates
The OG ghd Original Styler barely needs an introduction because of how much of a classic it is.
However, it’s a new version of the Original Styler, with a slight update that makes the difference.
First of all, I noticed how weightless they are — ideal for taking on holiday as we all know how much hassle keeping in the weight of your suitcase requirements can be.
Between super thick and super thin plates at the perfect medium width, they work a treat on wavy hair so can imagine they’re great on both curly and straight too.
Some strands of hair did fall out of the plates when I tried to curl my shorter hair, but that’s unavoidable for any regular-sized tools and not prohibitive.
Because of the upgraded technology, I was left with glossy locks that looked sleek and styled in no time at all, which was a bonus for a quick refresh the next morning before rushing out of the door for work.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, and the ghd Originals certainly aren’t broken, although the upgraded design with an on/off button, the ability to heat up in around 20 seconds and a round barrel for soft waves are a welcome improvement on the well-loved archetypes.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H7 x W13 x D32 cm; Programs/Settings: 1, Features: Single-zone tech, Updated ghd interface, 30-second heat up time; Maximum temperature setting: 185ºC
GHD Max Straightener
GHD Max Straightener, £209
Pros: Extra thick plates cover a lot of hair, ideal for thick or super curly hair, wavy hair was straight within a few minutes, easy to use
Cons: Can’t curl your hair with these (but you can create flicks)
Another OG GHD that has had people hooked for decades, the Max Straightener is good for covering a lot of hair because of the extra thick plates.
70 percent larger, they are 1.65 inches in width, ideal for extra thick or super curly hair.
Once you start using these, it’s pretty hard to return to the thinner designs because it’s just so much quicker. I found that I could tame my wavy mane within just a few minutes, which is ideal as I’m someone who hates taking ages to get ready.
Even if you don’t have thick hair, they’re just generally a lot speedier and less finicky to use.
The only downside is that you can’t curl your hair with these, although you can create a flick at the end and give yourself some volume all the same.
Tested by Harriet Flook. Read our full GHD Max review here.
Material: Ceramic; Size: H31 x W9.3 x D9.1 cm; Programs/Settings: 1; Features: Dual-zone technology, 30-second heat-up time, ghd’s widest plates, Automatic sleep mode; Maximum temperature setting: 185ºC
Where to buy GHD straighteners?
You will find that most of your favourite beauty stores sell Ghds because they’re a household name in the hair department.
We’ve rounded up some of the best places to pick yours up from, below.
Which ghd hair straightener is the best?
Really and truly, the best ghd straightener depends on your hair.
For wild-maned girls blessed with curls or those with longer lengths, the larger plates on the ghd Max straighteners will work better.
In contrast, the smaller ghd mini hair straightener is ideal for shorter styles and finer hair types.
I personally love the Original Styler which works whether I have styled my hair when it was shorter, mid-length or at its longest.
I have had my Original Styler for over 20 years and it’s still going strong, so can attest to its longevity and value for money.
However, I can also personally recommend the Platinum Plus model which is the brand’s smart styler that adapts according to your hair type.
Is the ghd Platinum+ Styler better than the original?
In short, the original ghd straightener ticks all of my boxes for everyday styling, but of course, the real benefit of the Platinum+ design is that it looks after your hair and is a little more high tech.
The Platinum+ Styler has been designed to style your hair without damaging it.
This creation has been fitted with built-in sensors that detects your hair type and condition, and then automatically adjusts its settings to provide optimal styling.
The Platinum+ claims to leave the hair “70% stronger hair” and with “75% more shine”, and if you have coloured hair it will also offer greater protection against damage.
The Platinum+ straighteners also have a stronger curved edge, which makes it easier to curl your hair than the Original Styler.
That being said, the original is cheaper, so if you are on a budget it’s probably best to opt for that.
I have used the Original Styler for years and been able to straighten, curl and create wavy hairstyles within seconds.
Do gHD straighteners turn themselves off?
Yes, luckily they do. No matter which ghd styling tool you choose to buy, it’ll have its own signature auto-shut-down feature.
This safety feature has been a key element in ghd’s designs ever since it launched the Original Styler in 2001, and has remained ever since.
Though each tool heats up to 185 degrees in anywhere between 15-30 seconds, when they are inactive for 30 minutes or more they will automatically go into sleep mode.
What I love about this feature is it saves energy and offers extra peace of mind if you leave home and can’t remember if you fully turned them off.
No button is needed to activate this feature, it works automatically.
Prior to switching off, the ghd straighteners typically beep in a slower pace and with a slightly different sound than when it alerts you it’s switched on.
After the alert, if you do not continue using them, the straighteners will switch off.
Is the ghd Original worth it?
Absolutely. I have relied on the Original Styler for over 20 years, and it is still going strong.
It heats up in seconds and glides through my long and frizzy hair seamlessly to straighten it in one sweep.
It was my first heated hair tool, and it remains one of my beloved tools to this day and I take everywhere.
The Original Styler is ideal for straightening your hair, adding waves, or creating curly ringlets, which is achieved by simply by turning the barrel in certain directions to give you the desired look.
The Original Styler is very easy to use, with just one on/off button to fire up it up.
It’s a great first purchase for those who are new to hair tools or who have a simple hair routine.
The Original Styler heats up to 185 degrees, which is not adjustable.
Does ghd go on sale for Black Friday?
Black Friday falls on the day after Thanksgiving, which falls on 29th November this year.
Some retailers do launch early Black Friday deals ahead of the official date, so it is worth bookmarking retailers and products ahead of the sale to track prices.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a prime time to shop for bargains, especially high-priced items like hair straighteners.
Last year the ghd Black Friday sale featured 25% off some of the brand’s most popular straighteners, with prices of the ghd Original starting from £111.
It’s likely the brand will launch deals on its website, however, we will have to wait until closer to the event to find out exactly how much savings will be on offer.
Since ghd is also stocked at many retailers, including ASOS, John Lewis, Selfridges and Lookfantastic, it is worth comparing deals on offer during the sale to ensure you get the cheapest possible price.
Currently, new ghd shoppers can score 15% off their first purchase by signing up for the brand’s newsletter.
Which ghd is best for frizzy hair
Straightening hair is a lot easier than it may seem when you have a ghd straightener, as it can instantly tame frizz and flyaways.
The best ghd straighteners for frizzy hair depends on your hair length.
The mini straighteners have the thinnest plates, which make it easy to get to the roots and close to the scalp to tame those pesky strays.
The mini version can be used on all types, though it may take those with longer hair a while to straighten their hair from root to ends.
The Original Styler and Platinum+ are the most versatile straighteners suitable for frizzy hair of all lengths.
The brand also recommends the ghd Gold Straighteners, which although suitable for all hair types, are especially good for styling frizzy locks.
The Gold Straighteners are fitted with dual zone technology to glide through the hair smoothly, without snagging any frizzy strands.
All of ghd’s hair straighteners feature ceramic plates that reach up to 185 degrees for a sleek finish.
It’s best to section your hair when styling using the hair tool, to avoid missing any areas and for an all round sleek finish.
Straighten from root to tip and continue until every segment has been styled.
After you’ve completed all of your hair, sweep a pea-size amount of the brand’s finishing serum through your locks for extra shine.
What is the best dupe for Ghd straighteners?
There are plenty of alternative hair straighteners that are considered great dupes for ghd versions available to shop online or in-store.
Babyliss, Drybar, Remington, CloudNine and Beauty Works are some of the popular ghd straightener dupes that are readily available to buy.
Some of these ‘alternatives’ dupes’ are ideal if you are looking for a cheaper alternative to ghd straighteners.
Babyliss, Beauty Works and Remington are better suited for those on a budget, as they retail for under £100.
The Drybar straighteners are sleek and narrow, and remind me of the Original Styler.
I would also strongly recommend CloudNine for a high end pair of straighteners that offer the same level of technology as a ghd.
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