Which GHD straightener will deliver the best results for your hair type? We compare the top models
Mention hair straighteners, and the first brand to come to mind is likely GHD. While other electrical beauty products are available, GHD has become synonymous with heat styling, and straightening in particular (much like Hoover is with vacuum cleaners or Biro is with pens). Launched just over 20 years ago, GHD’s revolutionary ceramic plates made fast and heat-safe styling an achievable reality. Their straighteners quickly became the default choice for styling salons and backstage at fashion shows, and an equally popular choice for home styling.
Today, the brand’s original single straightener offering has expanded to around half-a-dozen different models of GHD straightener, suitable for a range of hair types. GHD has also extended into hair dryers and hot brushes, allowing the creation of a vast range of styles and looks, from super-sleek straight hair to fashionably beachy waves. Hair health remains a priority for GHD, with new models featuring intelligent heat sensors and protective technology that reduces damage to heat-treated hair.
We’ve tested the current lineup of models to help you choose the best GHD straightener for your hair type and the style you want to achieve. If you’re in the market for a premium straightener, read on for our rundown of the current choices below, followed by our buying guide to choosing the best GHD straightener for you
How we test GHD hair straighteners
At Expert Reviews, we know that hands-on testing delivers the most complete information about a product. With that in mind, we test all the GHD straighteners we review at home on clean, dry hair, having first applied a heat-protective spray. Where possible, we test on more than one hair type.
We start by confirming the specifications of each model of GHD straightener, including the material from which the hot plate is made, and the weight and dimensions of the tool. We record the time the tool takes to heat up once it’s switched on, and measure how long it takes to style a full head of hair (noting the hair length and texture on which we’re testing). We pay attention to how each GHD straightener feels in the hand and how easy it is to use. For cordless models, we check the stated battery life in use. We assess the softness, shine, and feel of the hair after styling, and how well styles last over the course of a typical day. Finally, we note any additional features, such as intelligent heat sensing and auto switch-off, plus any accessories included in the box.
READ NEXT: Best Hair Straightener
The best GHD hair straighteners you can buy 2024
1. GHD Platinum Plus Styler: Best for straightening curly hair
Price when reviewed: $289 | Check price at Amazon
Launched in 2018, the Platinum Plus is a considerable technology and design upgrade from the Original model (featured below). The hinge of the tool is a smoother “wishbone” style, which not only looks sleek and stylish, but it prevents the hair from becoming caught. The plates themselves are an elegant matte black. The tool heats up in just 30 seconds, and promises super-fast and super-safe styling.
Most importantly, the Platinum Plus uses GHD’s most advanced intelligent predictive heat technology, which measures and adjusts the temperature of the tool constantly as you style. The result is evenly distributed heat that won’t scorch the hair – and because the correct temperature is maintained, the plates won’t cool and you won’t have to run them through the same section of hair more than once.
Meeting its promise of a single pass to straighten each section of hair, we found that the Platinum Plus straightened our curly hair in a matter of minutes, leaving noticeably shinier, healthier strands. Available in classic black and white, there are also a range of limited edition colors including Rose Gold, Alluring Jade, Pink Peach, and Warm Pewter.
Read our full GHD Platinum Plus Styler review
Key specs – Plates: Floating ceramic; Maximum temperature: 365°F; Voltage: Universal; Cord length: 8.9ft; Automatic shut-off time: 30 minutes; Warranty: 3 years; Weight: 1.7lb
2. GHD Original: Best introduction to GHD straighteners
Price when reviewed: $209 | Check price at Amazon
GHD’s Original hair straightener was a game changer back in 2001, and continues to be a firm favorite with both home and salon stylists for being quick, effective, and straightforward to use.
The design and features of the Original have been periodically updated since the tool launched, and the current version features an improved ceramic coating that heats evenly across its entirety, ensuring a healthy temperature of 365ºF is maintained while styling. The new coating also has a glossier finish that helps the plates glide even more easily over hair, minimizing the number of strokes you need to achieve a smooth and straight finish.
The Original heats up in just 30 seconds, and with its swivel cord is easy to maneuver around the head; even the tricky spots round the back. The finish is sleek and glossy, even on hair that starts out curly or frizzy. Stylish and straightforward, the Original is a great way to start your GHD straightener journey.
Key specs – Plates: Floating ceramic; Maximum temperature: 365°F; Voltage: Universal; Cord length: 8.9ft; Automatic shut-off time: 30 minutes; Warranty: 2 years; Weight: 1.6lb
3. GHD Gold: Best for creating straightener curls
Price when reviewed: $249 | Check price at Amazon
GHD’s Gold model of straightener differs from its stablemates as a result of its lightweight, rounded barrel that makes it easy to maneuver the tool around the head. This barrel design is also particularly good for creating straightener curls and waves. Simply wrap your hair around the barrel where you’d like the curl to start, and allow your hair to roll around the barrel as you draw the tool through your hair. And there you have it – flowing straightener curls.
The Gold heats up in under 30 seconds, and uses two heat sensors to maintain an even temperature across each plate. Overall, this model is heavier than some of the other GHDs; however, the Gold is solidly built and glides through the hair easily for “one-stroke straightening” on most hair types. Straight and curled styles both stay in place well all day, and for safety there’s an automatic shut-off after 30 minutes.
Key specs – Plates: Floating ceramic; Maximum temperature: 365°F; Voltage: Universal; Cord length: 8.9ft; Automatic shut-off time: 30 minutes; Warranty: 2 years; Weight: 2.1lb
