Whether your hair is straight, curly or wavy, it can be damaged by too much heat, which makes a great hair dryer an essential beauty tool. Luckily, you don’t have to blow your entire budget to find one of the best ones around. As the tech takeover continues in the beauty industry (and the pink tax looms), high-tech tools are becoming cheaper and more accessible.

The most affordable dryers, like this one from CHI, deliver salon-like blowouts and are simple to use. The company’s model also has a few unique features, including an attachment designed to smooth curls and a diffuser for a fuller ‘do.

This pretty mint-green dryer is a favorite of celebrity hairstylists who work with Gisele Bundchen, Rose Byrne and more—and it’s just as light and easy to use as the most expensive models on this list. It’s also super durable, so you won’t have to worry about a broken cord.

If you have textured hair, this model is a lifesaver. Designed by actress and creator Tracee Ellis Ross, Pattern’s line is tailored to curly, coily or kinky strands—and the lightweight, versatile dryer has four attachments to help create a wide range of styles. The ionic feature tames frizz, and the terracotta design looks chic in any bathroom. best hair dryer 2023