I’ve spent weeks testing the Shark FlexStyle and SpeedStyle, two game-changers in hair styling. My mission? To help you decide which tool suits your hair needs by breaking down their features, performance, and quirks.
From curling wands to high-velocity drying, I’m sharing my firsthand experience with these devices, weighing their pros and cons to guide your choice. Whether you’re after sleek blowouts or bouncy curls, this article will steer you toward the perfect pick.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Shark FlexStyle | Shark SpeedStyle |
| Price | $499 (often $349 on sale) | $299 |
| Wattage | 1300W | 1700W |
| Weight | ~1.5 lbs | ~0.75 lbs |
| Attachments | Auto-wrap curlers, oval brush, paddle brush, concentrator, diffuser | RapidGloss Finisher, QuickSmooth Brush, Express Touchup Brush, Turbo Concentrator, Diffuser |
| Temperature Range | 55°C–95°C | Up to 110°C |
| Key Technology | Coanda effect, low-heat styling | Ionic technology, Scalp Shield (Pro Flex) |
| Best For | Versatile styling, curls, thin hair | Fast drying, thick/curly hair, straight styles |
| Foldable Design | Yes (rotating barrel) | Yes (Pro Flex model) |
My Journey With Shark’s Hair Tools
As someone with wavy, medium-length hair that’s prone to frizz, I’m always on the hunt for tools that make styling quick, effective, and gentle. When Shark launched the FlexStyle and SpeedStyle, I was intrigued.
The FlexStyle promised Dyson Airwrap-level versatility at a fraction of the cost, while the SpeedStyle boasted lightning-fast drying with a focus on hair health. I decided to put both to the test, styling my hair daily to see which one earned a permanent spot on my vanity.
Shark FlexStyle: The Versatile Multitasker
The Shark FlexStyle feels like a Swiss Army knife for hair. Its rotating barrel design transforms it from a hair dryer to a multi-styler with a quick twist.
At 1300 watts, it’s not the most powerful dryer, but its Coanda effect technology—where air wraps hair around attachments for effortless curls—makes it a standout. I was skeptical about this tech at first, but after a few tries, I was creating salon-worthy waves in minutes.
Key Features of The FlexStyle
- Auto-Wrap Curlers: These 1.25-inch barrels use the Coanda effect to curl hair without extreme heat. They’re labeled “left” and “right” for foolproof styling, though the barrels are shorter than Dyson’s, which can be tricky for longer hair.
- Oval and Paddle Brushes: The oval brush adds volume and smooths, while the paddle brush is ideal for sleek, straight looks. I loved the oval brush for blowout vibes.
- Concentrator and Diffuser: The concentrator focuses airflow for precise drying, and the diffuser is a curly-haired friend’s dream, with adjustable prongs for volume.
- Low-Heat Settings: With temperatures ranging from 55°C to 95°C, plus a cool shot, it’s designed to minimize damage. My fine hair appreciated this gentle approach.
- Customizable Bundles: You can choose attachments based on your hair type, making it tailored to your needs.
Pros of the FlexStyle
- Versatility: It’s a dryer, curler, volumizer, and straightener in one. I could switch from curls to a sleek blowout without grabbing another tool.
- Hair Health Focus: The low-heat settings and consistent temperature regulation (measured 1,000 times per second) kept my hair soft and undamaged.
- Affordable Dupe: At $499 (often discounted to $349), it’s a steal compared to the $599 Dyson Airwrap. I got similar results without the price tag.
- Travel-Friendly: The rotating barrel makes it compact for packing, though it’s a bit bulky with attachments.
- Ease of Use: Even as a styling novice, I found the attachments intuitive. The curling wands were a game-changer for quick waves.
Cons of the FlexStyle
- Loud Operation: It’s not deafening, but it’s louder than I’d like. I sometimes popped in earbuds to drown out the noise.
- Short Curling Barrels: If you have long hair, the barrels might not capture all your strands, leading to uneven curls.
- Learning Period: It took me a few sessions to master the Coanda effect. My first attempt left me with wonky waves.
- Lower Wattage: At 1300W, drying takes longer than with traditional dryers, especially for thick hair.
- No Ionic Technology: Unlike the SpeedStyle, it lacks ionic tech to combat frizz, which was noticeable on humid days.
Shark SpeedStyle: The Speedy Powerhouse
The SpeedStyle, particularly the Pro Flex model, is all about efficiency. At 1700 watts, it’s a beast for drying hair fast, and its lightweight design (just 0.75 lbs) makes it a joy to hold.
I was blown away by how quickly it took my hair from sopping wet to styled, especially with its ionic technology smoothing out frizz.
The Pro Flex’s foldable design is a nod to the FlexStyle, but it’s clearly built for those who prioritize drying over intricate styling.
Key Features of The SpeedStyle
- High-Velocity Drying: With 1700W and a concentrated 3cm airflow outlet, it dries hair in record time. My wavy hair was dry in under five minutes.
- Ionic Technology: This reduces frizz and adds shine, which was a lifesaver for my coarse strands.
- Scalp Shield Technology (Pro Flex): By holding the heat button, you activate a lower temperature to protect your scalp. I didn’t notice a huge difference, but it’s a nice touch.
- Attachments: The RapidGloss Finisher tames flyaways, the QuickSmooth and Express Touchup Brushes create smooth blowouts, the Turbo Concentrator focuses airflow, and the Diffuser enhances curls.
- Custom Configurations: Choose between 3-in-1 or 5-in-1 kits based on your hair type (curly/coily or straight/wavy).
Pros of the SpeedStyle
- Lightning-Fast Drying: The 1700W motor and high-velocity airflow cut my drying time in half compared to the FlexStyle.
- Lightweight: At under a pound, it’s one of the lightest dryers I’ve used. My arms never tired, even during long styling sessions.
- Frizz Control: The ionic technology made my hair noticeably shinier and smoother, especially on humid days.
- Budget-Friendly: At $299 (or $199 for the 3-in-1), it’s a great value for a high-end dryer with styling attachments.
- Travel-Ready (Pro Flex): The foldable design makes it ultra-portable, though it lacks a storage bag.
Cons of the SpeedStyle
- Limited Styling Options: No curling wands mean it’s less versatile than the FlexStyle. I missed the ability to create waves.
- Narrow Airflow: The 3cm outlet is great for precision but less effective for rough-drying long hair. I had to use the diffuser for even drying.
- Noisy: Like the FlexStyle, it’s loud. I wouldn’t use it early in the morning to avoid waking the house.
- Fewer Attachments: Compared to the FlexStyle’s extensive options, the SpeedStyle’s attachments feel basic for creative styling.
- Higher Heat: The 110°C max temperature is safe but hotter than the FlexStyle, which might concern those with damaged hair.
Head-to-Head Comparison of FlexStyle And SpeedStyle
- Performance on Different Hair Types
My wavy, medium-length hair responded differently to each tool.
The FlexStyle was my go-to for styling days when I wanted curls or a voluminous blowout.
The auto-wrap curlers created soft waves that lasted all day, especially when I pinned them up with a spritz of hairspray.
The diffuser was excellent for enhancing my natural texture, though drying took about 10 minutes due to the lower wattage.
The SpeedStyle, on the other hand, was a time-saver for wash-and-go days. Its powerful motor dried my hair in under five minutes, and the ionic technology left it glossy. The QuickSmooth Brush gave me a sleek, straight look, but I couldn’t achieve the same curl variety as with the FlexStyle.
For friends with thick, curly hair, the SpeedStyle’s higher heat and diffuser were a hit, while those with fine, straight hair preferred the FlexStyle’s gentler settings.
- Ease of Use
Both tools are beginner-friendly, but they cater to different skill levels. The FlexStyle’s Coanda effect took a few tries to master—I initially struggled with getting my hair to wrap smoothly. Once I got the hang of it, styling was a breeze.
The SpeedStyle felt more intuitive, especially for drying and smoothing. Switching attachments on both is a snap, but the SpeedStyle’s automatic heat adjustment for each attachment was a thoughtful touch.
- Design and Portability
The FlexStyle’s rotating barrel is clever but makes it slightly bulkier than the SpeedStyle Pro Flex, which folds in half. Both are lightweight, but the SpeedStyle wins for ergonomics. I loved the SpeedStyle’s champagne-trimmed, cream-colored aesthetic—it felt luxurious.
The FlexStyle’s stone colorway was chic but less glamorous. Neither comes with a storage bag as standard, which was a bummer for keeping attachments organized.
- Price and Value
Price is where these tools diverge. The FlexStyle’s $499 retail price is steep, but frequent sales drop it to $349, making it a compelling Airwrap alternative. The SpeedStyle’s $299 (or $199 for the 3-in-1) is easier on the wallet, especially for those who don’t need curling wands.
Both offer excellent value compared to Dyson, but the FlexStyle’s versatility justifies its higher cost if you love experimenting with styles.
- Hair Health
Both tools prioritize hair health, but they approach it differently. The FlexStyle’s lower heat settings (55°C–95°C) and consistent temperature regulation were ideal for my fine hair, preventing dryness.
The SpeedStyle’s ionic technology tackled frizz better, but its 110°C max temperature felt riskier for damaged hair. The Pro Flex’s Scalp Shield is a nice addition, though I didn’t notice significant benefits during my testing.
My Real-World Testing Experience
To give you a clear picture, I used both tools for two weeks each, styling my hair daily.
With the FlexStyle, I spent about 15 minutes on a full style (drying plus curling), and the results lasted through a windy commute.
The curls dropped slightly by evening but held better with hairspray.
The diffuser gave my waves definition, but the drying time frustrated me on busy mornings.
The SpeedStyle was a morning lifesaver. I could dry and smooth my hair in under 10 minutes, and the RapidGloss Finisher banished flyaways. However, when I wanted curls, I had to reach for a separate curling iron, which defeated the all-in-one appeal.
On a humid day, the SpeedStyle’s ionic tech outperformed the FlexStyle, keeping my hair sleek.
- Who Should Choose the FlexStyle?
The FlexStyle is your match if you love experimenting with styles—curls, waves, blowouts, or sleek looks. It’s perfect for fine or thin hair that needs gentle heat and for those who want a Dyson Airwrap dupe without the $599 price tag.
If you’re a styling enthusiast who enjoys switching up your look, the FlexStyle’s versatility will keep you happy.
- Who Should Choose the SpeedStyle?
The SpeedStyle is for those who prioritize speed and simplicity. If you have thick, curly, or coarse hair that takes forever to dry, its 1700W motor and ionic technology will save you time and tame frizz.
It’s also ideal for straight or voluminous blowouts and for budget-conscious buyers who don’t need curling wands.
Which One Wins?
After weeks of testing, I’m torn. The FlexStyle won my heart for its versatility and ability to create curls that turned heads. It’s my pick for days when I have time to play with styles. But the SpeedStyle’s speed and frizz-fighting power made it my go-to for rushed mornings.
If I had to choose one, I’d lean toward the FlexStyle for its all-in-one appeal, but the SpeedStyle is a close second for its efficiency.
Your choice depends on your hair type and styling goals. If you want a do-it-all tool and don’t mind a slightly longer drying time, grab the FlexStyle (especially on sale). If fast drying and sleek results are your priority, the SpeedStyle is a no-brainer.
Either way, Shark’s tools deliver high-end performance without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The FlexStyle is a multi-styler with curling wands, brushes, and a diffuser, ideal for versatile styling and thin hair. The SpeedStyle is a high-velocity dryer with attachments for fast drying and smoothing, best for thick or curly hair.
Yes, if you need a fast, lightweight dryer with frizz control. At $299, it’s a great value for quick blowouts, though it lacks curling options.
No, the attachments are not interchangeable due to different base designs and connection mechanisms.
Absolutely, if you want a versatile tool for curling, smoothing, and drying. Its $349 sale price makes it a stellar Dyson Airwrap alternative.
Conclusion: Your Hair, Your Choice
You can’t go wrong with either the Shark FlexStyle or SpeedStyle—they’re both fantastic tools that deliver salon-quality results at home. I’ve shared my experience to help you pick the one that fits your hair and lifestyle.
Whether you’re chasing bouncy curls with the FlexStyle or sleek, speedy blowouts with the SpeedStyle, you’re investing in healthier, happier hair. So, which one’s calling your name? Let me know what you choose!