9 Best Inexpensive Curling Irons With Salon-Quality Curls
Get salon-like curls with these durable and affordable choices in curling irons.
Image: Shutterstock
When it comes to choosing curling irons, there are many out there that are worth the hype. Unfortunately, some of the best drugstore curling irons out there don’t get their due credit. We often assume that to get gorgeous-looking, bouncy curls, we have to step into a salon, but it is not necessarily so. An ideal budget-friendly curling iron has the right heat and thermostat settings, a swivel function, decent cord length, and a good-quality clamp. You can also consider the material with which the curling iron is made — whether it is ceramic, tourmaline, or titanium.
In this article, we will help you find some inexpensive curling irons that are worth investing in. With so many options out there, it might seem a daunting task to pick one. So, we have narrowed down the list of the best drugstore curling irons for you after carefully analyzing their reviews on various e-commerce platforms. Scroll down!
In This Article
9 Best Inexpensive Curling Irons
1. Best Non-Slip Grip Handle:Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron
Are you looking to change your appearance for the day? A curling iron can do that for you in a matter of minutes. With a curling iron like this one, you can achieve different types of curls – tight, classic, soft, or loose waves. This excellent styling tool comes with a 1-inch wand, which is ideal for creating classic curls. Itsmulti-layer barreltechnology provides an even and consistent distribution of heat while the turbo heat button releases a burst of heat for styling ease and finishing touches. Made with a patented design, it features 25 heat settings and heats up in 30 seconds. It also comes with a non-slip grip handle and an extra-long tip for safe handling. It also switches off automatically when not in use. Check this video detailing a reviewer’s experience of using this product.
Shape: Barrel | Color: Black | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 11.5 x 3 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.74 lb
Pros
- Multilayer barrel technology for even heat distribution
- Turbo heat button
- 30-second heat-up
- Automatic shut-off
- 25 heat settings
- Non-slip handle
Cons
- Takes some time for the curls to set
Pro Tip2. Best Quick-Heating Option:Revlon Salon Curling Ball Wand
No products found.
Whether you have fine, frizzy, coarse, straight, or already curly hair, this unique ball-shaped wand will help you create loose and natural-looking curls. This salon-grade curling wand is coated with tourmaline and ceramic and works its magic by helping you achieve long-lasting curls. It heats up in half a minute and reaches up to 420°F in seconds. If you want to curl your hair straight from the root to the tip, you can do so with this wand. It comes with a cool tip allowing you to use it close to the scalp as well. Also, reviewers on Amazon have highly praised this iron for its long-lasting results. To find out more about this product check this video review detailing a tester’s experience with it.
Shape: Ball Wand | Color: Pink and Black | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 2 x 6.13 x 16 inches | Weight: 0.9 lb
Pros
- Ball-shaped curling iron
- Creates two types of curls
- Quick heat-up
- The wand is coated with tourmaline and ceramic
- Comes with a heat-resistant glove
Cons
- May cause hair some heat damage
3. Best Ease Of Use:CkeyIN Slim Mini Hair Curler
No products found.
Achieve salon-quality results from the comfort of your bedroom with this 9mm slim curling iron wand. The ceramic barrel heats up quickly to deliver curls that last all day without damaging your hair. It comes with 6 adjustable temperature settings for different types of hair. Along with an anti-slip handle, the wand also comes with a clamp to secure the curls in place. When you are not using it, you can use the support stand to place it on the table. As the wand is extremely slim, it can be used on extremely short hair as well. The 360° rotating cord makes it an easy tool to use.
Shape: Wand | Color: Purple | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 7.87 x 1.57 x 1.57 inches | Weight: 0.66 lb
Pros
- Sleek design 9 mm ceramic barrel
- 6 heat settings
- Comes with a clamp
- 360° swivel cord
- Comes with a heat-protectant glove
Cons
- Takes some time for the curls to set
"This is what you need for tight and long-staying curls. It has a temperature control setting so you can customize the curling according to your needs. It is particularly good for those with shorter hair. It comes with protective gloves so you can get the perfect curls without any burns."
Quick Tip4. Best For All Hair Types:Gold N Hot Professional Spring Curling Iron
One of the best curling irons for all hair types available in the market, it is quite popular among professional hairstylists. The 24K gold-plated barrel is an exceptional conductor of heat and also provides consistent heat flow. The temperature goes from 200°F-500°F, and the multi-temperature regulator allows you to switch between heat levels. So, if you have fine hair, it is recommended that you use the curling iron on low heat. This wand also comes with a cool tip for ease of use, and the golden clamp on the wand secures hair in place. Along with these qualities, it also comes with a safety stand and an 8-ft long swivel cord.
Shape: Barrel | Color: Black and Gold-plated | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 14 x 2.5 x 5.25 inches | Weight: 0.75 lb
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- 24k gold-plated barrel
- Cool tip feature
- Comes with a clamp in the wand
- 8-ft tangle-free cord
Cons
- Does not come with an automatic shut-off
"This is no doubt why this curler is so popular. It clings to the hair and makes it very easy to curl. It heats up quickly so there is no need to wait around. It is more convenient for those with long hair. If you like long and beautiful locks, this is the one!"
5. Best Damage Protection:Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron
If you want to look your best by having some classic tight curls, your search ends here. The Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron with a 1-Inch barrel gives you long-lasting curls with no frizz. With 30 heat settings, the iron boosts up to 400°F to help you achieve the desired hairstyle instantly for any hair texture or type. The cool tip of the iron and the auto-shut-off feature ensures safe handling, causing no heat damage. In addition, the dual-voltage quality of this iron makes it your perfect travel buddy.
Shape: Barrel | Color: White and Brown | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 3.9 x 1.69 x 13.5 inches | Weight: 0.14 lb
Pros
- Double ceramic coated
- Eliminates frizz
- Dual voltage
- 30 heat settings
- Auto shut-off feature
- Cool tip
Cons
- Gets very hot
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 66,662 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
6. Best Smooth Finish:Modvica 3 Barrel Curling Iron
Let the power of 3 barrels give you flowy and shiny curls. This curling iron comes with 2 different heat settings, so you can adjust the temperature according to your hair type or the style you want to experiment with. The barrels are coated with ceramic glaze, which provides uniform heat and protects the hair from heat damage. The wand also uses negative ion technology to fight frizz and retain the natural moisture of hair. With the 1-inch barrels in this iron, you can create long-lasting loose waves or looser curls effortlessly. To use the wand, preheat it for a minute, and let the hair stay in between the barrels for 10 seconds.
Shape: Triple Barrel | Color: Pink | Material: Aluminum alloy | Dimensions: 13.78 x 3.74 x 0.98 inches | Weight: 1.61 lb
Pros
- Works on all hair types
- 2 temperature settings
- Ceramic glaze coating
- Insulated scald-proof tip
Cons
- Some may think that using this wand to curl hair is a time-consuming process
"If you want long-lasting curls, this curling iron will not disappoint you. It is perfect for hard-to-style hair. It is easy to use, and the curls are very natural-looking. It heats up quickly so you can get the job done without waiting."
7. Best Ergonomic Design: T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Curling Iron
The T3 SinglePass Professional Curling Iron allows you to achieve salon-like hair styling at home. The iron has tourmaline and ceramic technology, which generates a large number of negative ions. It helps seal the hair cuticle, smooth frizz, and enhance shine for a silky smooth finish. It has 1-inch plates that are designed to glide through hair smoothly and ensure even heat distribution while preventing hair damage. It has 5 adjustable temperature control and a microchip-enabled heating system that keeps the temperature consistent throughout styling. With each use, the iron is designed to deliver quick yet precise styling. According to a test with 163 participants who have used this iron, 76% of users have noticed that their curls have lasted longer than a day.
Shape: Barrel | Color: White | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 13.25 x 1.6 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 1.5 lb
Pros
- Ensures smooth curls
- Smart-twist dial
- Long-lasting curls
- Prevents heat damage
- Light and ergonomic design
Cons
- Not a smooth grip
8. Best Frizz Control:Bestope Ceramic Curling Wand Set
Reveal different sides of your personality with a variety of curls with the help of this 5-in-1 ceramic frizz-control curling wand set. These easily interchangeable 100% ceramic tourmaline barrels come in different sizes and are specifically designed for curl retention and for different styles of curls like beachy waves, soft curls, and classic tighter curls. It’s easy to use too! Choose the barrel shape you want, insert it into the base, press it down, turn it clockwise, and you’re good to go. The non-skid handle allows for a solid grip, and the curler comes with a heat protectant glove.
Shape: Barrel, Wand, and Bubble Barrel | Color: Pink and Black | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 11 x 10 x 2 inches | Weight: 1.79 lb
Pros
- 5-in-1 interchangeable curling wand
- Comfortable handle
- 100% tourmaline ceramic barrels
- Dual voltage
- Comes with a heat resistant glove
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a clamp
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 909 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
9. Best In Travel-Friendly:Allure Three Barrel Curling Iron Wand
One of the best curling irons for finer hair, this pink beauty will not disappoint you. Crimp your hair away to glory with this ceramic iron, which is also perfect for creating naturally bouncy, long-lasting polished curls. Whether you have longer or shorter hair, thin or thick, this iron will work on all hair types and textures. The ceramic barrels produce negative ions to fight frizz, leaving it soft and shiny. As a bonus, it also comes with insulated barrel tips. It can also act as a great travel companion as it is a dual voltage curling iron.
Shape: Triple Barrel | Color: Pink and Black | Material: Ceramic | Dimensions: 13 x 3 x 3 inches | Weight: 1 lb
Pros
- Negative ion technology fights frizz
- Ideal for all hair types
- Comes with 3 barrels in 1 stand
- Tangle-free swivel cord
- Easy-grip handle
- Dual voltage
Cons
- Slightly heavy
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 4,402 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
It can be quite confusing while purchasing the ideal curling iron for creating hairstyles. We are providing a detailed buying guide to help you in choosing the best curling iron for your fast styling needs!
Things To Look Out For In Drugstore Curling Irons Before Buying
- Material
Most of the curling irons are made of ceramic because it helps in proper heat distribution. For thin hair that requires controlled heat, ceramic technology works best! Other alternative materials are titanium, tourmaline, and gold plating. Titanium curling irons made with titanium or titanium-iron plates are lightweight and heat-resistant. Hair curlers made of gold plating are good for coarse hair and can withstand high heat. Tourmaline curling irons can seal in moisture by blocking the negative ions. You can choose the material according to your choice and requirements in curling irons.
- Barrel Size
There are many barrel sizes available to choose from. A 1-inch barrel size is an all-arounder, while a 3/4-inch barrel is for compact ringlets. People with long hair can choose a barrel size of 1.5 inches. For a style that highlights looser curls, a two-inch diameter iron is perfect, whereas tighter curls and smaller ringlets require an iron with a thickness of up to an inch only.
- Heat Settings
Considering multiple heat settings is also an important factor as it ensures curl hold and protects your tresses against damage. A curling iron with lower heat settings may work wonders if you have fine or damaged tresses. On the other hand, coarse or thicker hair requires a higher heat setting. Apply a heat protectant before using any hair tool. Additionally, a curling iron with manual heat control is advised.
Infographic: Different Hairstyles To Create With A Curling Iron
The curling iron is a versatile tool that can transform your hair. From effortless beach waves to classic curls and retro glam curls, you can achieve them all with this device. Check out the infographic below to learn how to use the tool the right way to create different hairstyles effortlessly.
Some thing wrong with infographic shortcode. please verify shortcode syntaxThe Bottom Line
Good curling irons can help in solving many of your hair issues. These irons can offer you stunning hairdos while making sure that your hair is well-moisturized and rejuvenated. Most of the drugstore curling irons available come with adjustable heat settings and an automatic shut-off button. The Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron offers even distribution of heat and versatile hairstyles, while the Gold N Hot Professional Spring Curling Iron features a 24k gold-plated barrel for apt heat flow to hold hairstyles in place The Bestope Ceramic Curling Wand Set provides maximum curl retention and allows ease of operation with its supportive parts. These curling irons also boast non-slip grip handles that help in curating the perfect curls. Choose professional-grade curling irons that are coated with ceramic and tourmaline technology to achieve long-lasting curls. However, avoid drugstore curling irons that can cause heat damage due to no customizing settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what temperature should I use my curling iron?
Keep your iron’s temperature set at or below 200°F if you have fine or thin hair. Your hair may burn if you go any higher. Set your curling iron between 200°F and 300°F if you have thicker or coarser hair type.
What size curling iron should you use?
For tight curls, use barrel sizes of 1″ to 1.25″; for huge, bouncy curls, use 0.75″ to 1.5″; for big curls, use 1.25″ to 1.5″; and for loose curls, use 1.25″ to 2″.
Should I use rollers or curling iron?
If you use curling irons, you will have more control over your appearance. Curls created with a decent curling iron can hold their shape until your next shower, unlike curls created with hair rollers, which may become loose and flat after a few hours. However, if you use rollers, you do not risk any heat damage to your hair.
When should you clean a curling iron and how?
If you use a lot of hair products before curling your hair, wipe the rod after every use. However, if you don’t use too many products or use the curling iron too often, you may clean it every two to three weeks.
Here’s how you can clean it safely and neatly:
• Warm up your curling iron for a brief period of time and unplug it. When they’re mildly heated, curling irons are so much simpler to clean!
• Dip a soft cloth or a thick paper towel in rubbing alcohol and fold it several times. Now use it to wipe your wand or curling iron plates.
• Use an old toothbrush to clean particularly tough build-up areas.
• Once the gunky filth has been removed, warm it up one more time and wipe it with rubbing alcohol.
• To avoid any potential rust stains, wipe your curling iron off with a clean, damp cloth at the end.
• Then, dry it completely with a clean towel.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Medha Deb, is a skin and hair care enthusiast who loves using different makeup products and gadgets. Before curating this list for her readers, she has considered customer reviews of budget-friendly curling irons online. These drugstore curling irons have the best heat and thermostat settings, good cord length, and swivel function. Sneha’s article features curling irons for frizzy, coarse, and straight hair types.
Read full bio of Laura Dale
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.