Strand-Smoothing Straighteners You Don’t Have To Splurge On

If your trusty straightener has just died and you’re wondering which brand to look at next, never fear: we’ve got you covered. These actually affordable straighteners promise to not set your saving goals back. In fact, you’ll find nothing over $150 in this article! 

And while we’re currently solely focusing on fighting away frizz and straightening your strands, you can always find our thoughts on other affordable styling tools here…

Let’s clear one thing up before we start: budget doesn’t mean lack of quality. These affordable straighteners are built with the same heat-styling capabilities as the top of the line options. Delivering salon-quality strands (at a fraction of the price), pair these affordable straighteners with your fave supermarket conditioner for seriously silky strands. Now let’s see how you can save a few dollars and still come out with enviable tresses…

2024’s Top 3 Affordable Hair Straighteners

1. Remington Advanced Coconut Therapy Straightener, $71.96, Myer
2. Silver Bullet Envy Hair Straightener, $96.01, Look Fantastic 
3. Muk Style Stick, $89.95, Beautopia

Remington Advanced Coconut Therapy Straightener

From $71.96 (usually $89.96) at Myer

We say: If you usually avoid styling your strands because of the serious damage it can do, think again. This innovative straightener includes micro-infused ultra-nourishing coconut UV sensors. But what does all that mean? Well, the coconut factor ensures your strands stay frizz-free, smoothed and shiny (always a top straightening outcome). And the UV filters, in conjunction with clever integrated sensors, help your tresses stay completely protected by maintaining a consistent plate temperature. 

You say: “This straightener is a testament to Remington’s commitment to combining advanced technology with nourishing elements for a top-notch hair care experience. The infusion of coconut oil likely adds a touch of moisture and nourishment to the styling process, contributing to healthier-looking locks. The user-friendly design and heat settings likely enhance the overall styling experience, making it suitable for a variety of hair types. It stands as a valuable addition to the styling toolkit, providing users with the means to achieve their desired hairstyles with efficiency and care.” – Jemma128

Want to read more? Read Remington Advanced Coconut Therapy Straightener Reviews here…

Key features:

• Digital Display 
• Heats to 230 degrees 
• Automatic Safety shut-off 
• Plates infused with coconut 
• Ultra-slim 110mm plates

Available at:

• $71.96 (usually $89.96) from Myer
• $71.10 (usually $79) from Catch
• $89 from Big W

Silver Bullet Envy Hair Straightener

from $96.01 (usually $112.95) at Look Fantastic 

We say: If sleek straight hair and jet setting is your jam then this is the pick for you. With dual-voltage  capabilities, a heat-resistant pouch and styling clips included, it’s got everything you need to style your strands to perfection. Not only that, but the design of this curved straightener along with its advanced surround heating technology (be sure to mind your fingers) allows for super simple styling of flicks, waves and curls. 

Key features:

• Comes with storage pouch and styling clips 
• Able to maintain consistent high heat 
• Designed to easily create curls and flicks 
• Creates shiny strands 
• Dual Voltage capabilities for travel 

Available at:

• $96.01 (usually $112.95) from Look Fantastic 
• $90.36 (usually $112.95) from Oz Hair and Beauty
• $112 from JB HI-FI

Muk Style Stick Black

from $89.95 at Beautopia 

We say: If you’re someone that likes to move around while you style your strands or if your mirror is nowhere near your powerpoint, this MUK straightener with a three-metre long (swivel) cord will suit your styling needs. But long cords are not the only selling point of this styling stick. Tourmaline-infused ceramic plates make for a less damaging styling session, and makes this the perfect tool for fine hair (because we all know how fragile that can get). There’s no need to stress about your style falling either, with the infa-red heating technology that heats your strands from the inside out. Long-wearing and protective, a big yes from us! 

You say: “I love my muk hair straightener. It has lasted me three years of constant use and I have never had a problem with it. It heats up really fast and you can control the temperature it heats up to which I really appreciate. The sleek, smooth surface of the straightener also makes this straightener easy to curl hair with as your hair doesn’t pull on the more grippy surfaces of other straighteners such as the classic ghd model. This straightener is also cheaper than GHD and has the same if not better standard of quality.” – Grace2479

Want to read more? Read Muk Style Stick Reviews here…

Key features:

• Tourmaline ceramic plates
• Ion field locks in moisture
• 3 metre cord for ease of reach 

Available at:

• $89.95 from Beautopia 
• $69.97 (usually $109.95) from Oz Hair and Beauty
• $109.95 from AMR

VS Sassoon Nourishology Smooth Straightener

from $39.95 at Myer 

We say: Natural nourishment is a guarantee when it comes to this tress-taming straightener. Infused with not one but three naturally conditioning oils (argan, coconut and aloe vera), each pass of the plates will leave your strands sleeker, plus more hydrated and conditioned. And if that’s not enough, this straightener includes keratin ceramic ions that ensure that frizzy locks are a thing of the past. With a digital display, you’ll easily be able to choose between one of the five temperature controls with just a simple touch. We’ve officially found the secret to fast, fuss-free styling.

Want to read more? Read VS Sassoon Nourishology Smooth Straightener Reviews here…

Key features:

• Micro Infused Conditioning 
• Ceramic Ions tame frizz
• Ultra-fast heat up (15 seconds)

Available at:

• $39.95 (usually $49.95) from Myer 
• $49 from The Good Guys
• $49 from JB HI-Fi

Cloud Nine The Retro Iron in ‘Soda Fountain Blue’

from $139 (usually $199) at The Shaver Shop

We say: Okay we know we said nothing over $150 and technically as of right now it isn’t. Cloud Nine is one of those high-end hair tool brands that we would love to get our hands on. So when such a funky-fun retro version comes on sale, you must believe we’ll be jumping on the deals (thanks Shaver Shop). With this retro throwback to days gone by (when we didn’t know quite how to straighten and protect our strands properly), this revival gives us all the technology we wish we had back then. Mineral-infused plates strengthen and smooth your strands, while spring-flex technology adjusts as you style your strands, cushioning the impacts of styling. 

Key features:

• Fun colourways 
• Powerful, long-lasting results 
• Fast heat-up (35 seconds)

Available at:

• $139 (usually $199) from The Shaver Shop

Bondi Boost Airburst Styler

From $54.99 (usually $109.99) at Catwalk

We say: We’re big fans of stylist-approved tools, especially when they come with a budget price-tag. The Bondi Boost Airburst Styler has unique tiny air vents (hence the name) which shoot out bursts of cool air. This cooling boost reduces the heat on your strands while working to seal your hair cuticle for long-lasting styling results. This shine-enhancing tool comes with five heat settings so you can make adjustments to suit your tresses. 

Key features:

• Cool shot feature to lock in style
• Features 5 temperature settings 
• 360 swivel tangle-free cord 
• Designed to be a multi-styling tool

Available at:

• $54.99 (usually $109.99) from Catwalk
• $82.46 (usually $109.95) from Oz Hair and Beauty
• $109.95 from Adore Beauty

Anko Wide Plate Straightener

From $27 at Kmart

We say: The Anko range has gone viral for so many of their products. And their line of straighteners is no different. Coming in at under $30, this certified bargain is rivalling even the most high-end of straighteners. Our pick? The wide plate straightener. The wide ceramic plates easily passover your strands making this the perfect thick-haired accessory. And with an easy-to-use LED touchscreen and heating capabilities of 230 degrees you’ll forget that this straightener is literally from Kmart. 

Key features:

• Wide plates 
• Ideal for thick hair 
• Floating plates 

Available at:

• $27 from Kmart

Curious Grace Titanium Hair Straightener in ‘Pink Punch’

From $119.95 at Hairhouse

We say: Just because we’re angling for ‘affordable’ options doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice style. And what’s better than a pretty pink styling accessory? It’s honestly only rivalled by the top-notch styling benefits it comes with. This straightener is suitable for all hair types. Curious Grace’s patented Metal Ceramic Heater Technology means this tool uses energy-efficient technology for single-pass speedy styling. Ionic technology closes your hair cuticle, ensuring that your strands will be left with a glossy hydration boost. 

Key features:

• Metal Ceramic Heater Technology (MCH) 
• Lightweight design 
• Titanium coated plates 
• Infrared heating technology

Available at:

• $119.95 from Hairhouse

Protecting your hair while using heat…

Now sure you’ve heard it before, but protecting your strands while heat styling is an absolute MUST. We’re not just talking here and there, or when you remember. We mean it, every single time. And sure we sound like your naggy mum, but believe us. Using a heat protectant will not only leave your tresses totally shimmering and soft, but it will also save them from scorching dryness. And no one wants that! So check out our picks of heat protectant sprays that are here to save your strands…

Looking to splurge? These are the high-end brands we’d recommend…

Sure, we’re all feeling the financial pinch. And the (oh-so-sadly) first thing to go is stocking up on the latest luxury beauty devices. But if you’ve saved up your pennies and would rather have one big splurge that you know will last you a lifetime (or at least we hope it will!), these are the brands we’d recommend… 

Firstly, Dyson. How can we beat it? We’d suggest keeping your eyes on any rare-but-necessary Dyson sales to save a few dollars. Next up is the ghd. Much like the multi-use masterminds at Dyson, ghd has come up with some incredible game-changing products. Top of our list? The ghd Duet Style! 

Related articles:

• Want to master the art of the hair straightener curl? Here’s a stylists guide…
• Now that you know which budget straightener you’re after, you need to pair it with a reliable heat protectant. Check out these affordable options…

Main Image Credit: Getty

Do you straighten your hair? Would you splurge on a straightener or opt for a more affordable option?