Flat irons are one of the most popular and versatile hair styling tools on the market. They can be used on any hair type and for many purposes — straightening, of course, but many people curl their hair with a flat iron rather than a curler. They’re typically quite affordable and are very user-friendly and safe to use.
If you are ready to purchase your first flat iron or you’re browsing for a replacement, there are a lot of things to keep in mind while you peruse the market. They will vary in price, temperature range, material, width of the plates, and presence of safety features such as an auto-shutoff and extras such as swivel cords and stands.
This comprehensive guide will investigate the best flat irons in Canada right now and outline the criteria you should consider while making your decision. Let’s dive right into our top five products.
The Best Flat Irons Right Now
- Top Pick: BaBylissPRO BNT3073C
- Travel Pick: Lovani Mini Flat Iron
- Budget Pick: Remington S5500 Flat Iron
- The 2-in-1 Alternative: L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler
- The Protective Alternative: Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener
Our Top Pick for The Best Flat Iron
BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron Review
What We Think of the BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron
This BaBylissPRo Flat Iron was named our top pick for a variety of reasons. Its performance for straightening hair is unparalleled: extra long plates make the task more efficient, it is effective enough to keep curly hair straight for days, and the wide temperature range guarantees that every user will be able to set this unit to the most ideal temperature for their hair type.
In order to help with that task, 50 preset temperatures can be used to streamline the process. The 9-foot swivel cord is salon quality and ensures users don’t have any trouble maneuvering, even in tight spaces. A four-year warranty package backs up the high-quality build and reliability of this flat iron.
This flat iron is missing an auto-shutoff feature, which is a bit disappointing; it won’t be a good fit for people who forget to manually turn their hair care tools off each time they use them. The placement of the power button is also in a bit of an awkward spot, so you may end up hitting it accidentally while you are straightening your hair.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron
Reviewers are consistently impressed with the BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron's ability to heat up quickly and evenly. They appreciate its sleek design and the precision it offers for styling. Many have mentioned that it's a game-changer for their hair routine, giving them salon-quality results at home. The nano-titanium technology is also a standout feature, ensuring minimal damage to the hair.
BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron Specifications
Weight: 1.22 lbs
Material: Nano-titanium and ceramic
Colour: Blue
Plate Width: 1.5”
Temperature Range: 450º F maximum
Automatic Shutoff: No
Warranty: 4 years
BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron Pros and Cons
Pros:
Extra long plates make straightening more efficient
50 temperature settings ensure everyone gets the best setup for their hair type
9-foot swivel cord allows for plenty of maneuverability
Long-lasting results, even for curly hair
Cons:
Power button placement makes it easy to accidentally switch off the flat iron
Minimal safety features
Our Final Thoughts on the BaBylissPRO BNT3073C Flat Iron
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Overall, this BaBylissPRO Flat Iron offers the best bang for your buck of all the flat irons on the market. Its top-tier performance, setting versatility, and professional style power cord ensure that newbies and flat iron pros alike can all get the most out of this product.
Our Travel Pick
Lovani Mini Flat Iron Review
What We Think of the Lovani Mini Flat Iron
Lovani’s Mini Flat Iron is the best of the best when it comes to travel-friendly straighteners. It is incredibly lightweight and compact, so it fits very well in luggage. A lock function allows you to lock the plates together when not in use for safety and more compact storage. A heat-resistant travelling case is included so you can pack it safely when it is still warm.
This unit is a dual-voltage model, and it will automatically switch voltages in other countries so you won’t need an adapter. With a short 30-second heat-up time, you will be able to get started with your styling right away. For most hair types, it will take a few passes to fully set the hair, as the maximum temperature is limited to 410 degrees and the plates are only 0.5 inches in width.
If you have really long or thick hair, you may find that the unit is not very effective and the results are not very long-lasting. Its travel-minded features and smaller size do limit its power, after all. This unit lacks an automatic shutoff feature as well, so you will need to remember to turn it off manually once you’ve finished styling. The affordability of this flat iron does help make up for its limitations, though.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Lovani Mini Flat Iron
Reviewers appreciate the compact size of the Lovani Mini Flat Iron, highlighting its convenience for travel. The inclusion of a case, especially with a designated spot for the cord, is a notable feature. While it's efficient for short and thin hair, those with longer, wavy hair might find it time-consuming. Overall, it's a reliable travel companion, but might not replace a user's primary flat iron.
Lovani Mini Flat Iron Specifications
Weight: 0.38 lbs
Material: Titanium
Colour: Black
Plate Width: 0.5”
Temperature Range: 410º F maximum
Automatic Shutoff: No
Warranty: 1 year
Lovani Mini Flat Iron Pros and Cons
Pros:
Comes with a heat-resistant travelling bag that has a handle and storage pocket for a power cord
Heats up in only 30 seconds
Has a lock function to keep the iron closed when not in use
Dual voltage for worldwide functionality
Cons:
Not very effective on longer or thicker hair; need to do multiple passes
Our Final Thoughts on the Lovani Mini Flat Iron
Performance: 3.5/5
Usability: 4/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
All in all, the Lovani Mini Flat Iron is the best choice for people who spend a lot of time away from home and still want to look their best. It doesn’t offer the same level of performance on long/thick hair, but its safety rating is high and it is packed with travel-minded features.
Our Budget Pick
Remington S5500 Flat Iron Review
What We Think of the Remington S5500 Flat Iron
Many budget-friendly flat irons don’t offer the same level of performance as higher-end models. This Remington model is an exception to that rule. With floating plates, it won’t snag or pull while the flat iron is moved over the hair. Anti-static technology also helps reduce fly-aways, and the respectable temperature range ensures it can be safely used on every hair type.
There are six temperature settings saved as presets, which makes it easier to reach the right temperature quickly. A one-hour shutoff is a bonus for people who are forgettable and may not always turn the unit off manually.
There are a few drawbacks to be aware of before committing to this product. The durability of the cord is not the greatest, so you’ll need to take good care of it if you want it to last. This unit also isn’t designed to protect your hair at all, so it is recommended that you use a protector spray to prevent damage. You also won’t have any warranty coverage unless you register the product on the Remington site.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Remington S5500 Flat Iron
Reviewers are consistently impressed with the Remington S5500 Flat Iron, especially given its affordable price point. Many highlight its rapid heating capability, with some noting it's ready to use in just 30-50 seconds. Users with different hair types, from fine to naturally curly, find it effective in straightening and styling their hair. The temperature control feature is a standout, allowing users to adjust according to their needs. Whether it's for occasional use or daily styling, this flat iron seems to deliver on its promises.
Remington S5500 Flat Iron Specifications
Weight: 0.75 lbs
Material: Ceramic
Colour: Black or purple
Plate Width: 1”
Temperature Range: 310º F to 410º F
Automatic Shutoff: 60 mins
Warranty: 3 years if registered on Remington site
Remington S5500 Flat Iron Pros and Cons
Pros:
Anti-static technology helps fight flyaways
Floating plates help hair glide smoothly
Six preset heat settings suit all hair types
Digital display is very user-friendly
Cons:
Needs to be used with a heat protector spray to prevent damage to hair
Cord durability isn’t the greatest
Warranty only applies if the product is registered
Our Final Thoughts on the Remington S5500 Flat Iron
Performance: 4/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 4.5/5
Overall, the Remington S5500 Flat Iron is the most ideal choice for people who need a combination of quality and maximum budget-friendliness. This product does have a few downsides, but none of them overshadow the overall quality of its performance.
Alternative Products to Consider
L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler Review
What We Think of the L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler
This Le Duo Styler is one of the most unique units on the market. It functions as both a flat iron and a curler and has a wide temperature range to suit every hair type. Five temperature presets ensure that the unit is incredibly user-friendly and intuitive to use. An automatic shutoff feature adds a layer of safety to ensure the unit cannot ever become a fire hazard.
The most notable feature of this styler is the cooling air vents; it allows you to shock your style with colder air to set it better and achieve a longer-lasting result. The power cord is just over eight feet in length and operates on a swivel to help you reach every strand with ease. The bright pink colour is a major draw for people that are tired of the standard muted colours on the market.
The Le Duo is a very well-rounded product overall, but there are a few things to make note of. Some users report that the power button is in a poor location, and it is not uncommon for people to turn the iron off accidentally during use. It also isn’t as effective on longer hair; these individuals would do better to choose the Le Duo Grande to take advantage of all the same benefits without the limitations.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow
Reviewers are singing praises for the L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler, especially those with thick hair who have always found styling a challenge. They appreciate its dual functionality, allowing them to switch between straightening and curling with ease. The quick heat-up and customizable temperature settings are a hit, ensuring a tailored experience for different hair types. A notable mention is its superiority in curling compared to other renowned brands.
L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler Specifications
Weight: 0.8 lbs
Material: Titanium
Colour: Pink
Plate Width: 1”
Temperature Range: 280º F to 430º F
Automatic Shutoff: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler Pros and Cons
Pros:
Functions as a curling wand and flat iron
Cooling air vents help lock in style
8.2 foot swivel cord guarantees ease of use
Five temperature presets make styling every hair type a breeze
Cons:
Not ideal for extra-long hair
Power button is in a tricky spot for some users
Our Final Thoughts on the L'Ange Hair Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
All in all, the L’Ange Hair Le Duo is the best 2-in-1 hair styler on the market. It offers some unique functionality and guarantees long-lasting results. If you can learn how to use it without hitting the power button, you won’t have any issues with this model.
Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener Review
What We Think of the Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener
This Remington Straightener has some really exciting and unique features to offer users. It heats up in only 15 seconds, which is half of the average time for comparable flat irons; you won’t have to wait long to get your styling done. A heat-proof case comes with your purchase, and an adapter is also included to help expand the functionality of this unit to other countries.
The biggest benefit of using this Remington S8540 unit comes from the composition of the plates. The ceramic coating is infused with keratin and almond oil to protect your hair from damage and promote growth and health. A gentle styling mode complements this coating in order to ensure fine, delicate hair is styled safely and with care.
This Keratin Protect straightener only comes with one major limitation, and it relates to the quality of the build. While the overall performance of this unit is great, the longevity of the unit is just not up to par. Considering the more expensive price tag, this is a deterrent for many users. A one-year warranty does offer some protection here, though.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener
Reviewers are genuinely impressed with the Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener. They appreciate its ability to deliver perfectly straightened hair, highlighting its ease of use and quick heating capabilities. The adjustable temperature settings, displayed on the LCD screen, offer users a tailored experience, ensuring minimal damage to their hair. Overall, the straightener's combination of haircare and styling has won over many, even though a bit more patience might be required during the heating process.
Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener Specifications
Weight: 1 lb
Material: Titanium and ceramic
Colour: Black and beige
Temperature Range: 300º F to 450º F
Automatic Shutoff: 60 minutes
Warranty: 1 year
Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener Pros and Cons
Pros:
Heats up in only 15 seconds
Ceramic coating is infused with almond oil and keratin to protect hair during use
Comes with a heat-proof case and adapter for worldwide use
Has a gentle styling mode for delicate hair
Cons:
Longevity is subpar
Our Final Thoughts on the Remington S8540 Keratin Protect Straightener
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 4/5
Overall, the Remington S8540 Flat Iron is an exceptional choice for people who want to prioritize the health and quality of their hair. The longevity isn’t great considering the price, but the overall value of this straightener makes it a desirable choice for many individuals.
How to Properly Choose Your Flat Iron
Price
Flat irons vary in price from less than $50 to several hundred dollars, so it is important to set a budget and decide on your must-have features before you begin shopping. Higher price tags will typically be associated with larger plates, more features, and better styling performance.
Temperature Range
The temperature range of a flat iron will dictate its compatibility with different hair types and how well it is able to set hair in different styles.
Weight
The weight of a flat iron is more important than many people think, so it is definitely something that deserves consideration. Heavier flat irons can quickly fatigue your shoulder, arm, and wrist if you spend a longer time styling your hair; in general, a lighter iron is always better as long as it doesn’t compromise performance.
Plate Width
Flat irons come in three main plate sizes, categorized by their width. The plates can be either 0.5 inches, 1 inch, or 1.5 inches. Some brands will extend their sizing to include 2 inch plates. Wider plates will be more effective at straightening hair since the hair is exposed to the heat for a longer period of time, but they are also more likely to cause heat damage. You’ll need to find the ideal balance for your hair type and expertise level.
Auto Shut-Off
Automatic shut-offs are an important addition for flat irons, as some users have a tendency to forget to turn the unit off manually. This feature won’t be found on every model, but when it is present, the shutoff usually kicks in after an hour of inactivity.
Material
The material of a flat iron, especially the plates, will affect its performance and longevity. On average, plates that include titanium (or are made purely from titanium) will be better in both categories.
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.
