Dyson Airwrap i.d. review: After six months of use, this is what I love (and what could be better)

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What is the Dyson Airwrap i.d.?
The Dyson Airwrap i.d., released in August 2024, is the latest version of Dyson's popular hair styling tool. Sitting at the higher end of the market, it introduces built-in Bluetooth – a first for Dyson's hair tools – which links the device to the MyDyson app. This allows users to set up a personal hair profile, and lets the Airwrap automate the curling process based on individual hair type, aiming for more consistent and longer-lasting results.
With its premium price and updated features, the Airwrap i.d. is positioned as a high-spec option for those interested in the latest technology. It comes in two models: 'straight and wavy' for those with straight or wavy hair and 'with diffuser' for those with curly or coily hair. The idea is that the £480 Dyson Airwrap i.d. is the only hair styler you need, allowing you to ditch your hair dryer and hot brushes.
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How we test hair stylers
I've been reviewing beauty technology for a decade and I've not only used every hair styler Dyson has introduced over the last 10 years, from the original Supersonic hair dryer to the Airstrait, but I have also used many competitor hair stylers, including Shark's FlexStyle and SmoothStyle Hot Brush, as well as GHD's hair stylers such as the latest GHD Wave.
When we test hair curlers, we predominantly use five testing metrics to score against: ease of use; curl performance and hold; comfort and safety (whether there is any scalp discomfort or risk of burns); suitability for different hair types and build quality and features. It isn't just about how a hair curler scores on a spreadsheet though, and the Airwrap is more than just a hair curler too so it requires extra testing and considerations.
As such, I have been using the Dyson Airwrap i.d. for six months so I now have a very good idea what I like about it and what could be better. I've used each of the straight and wavy model's six attachments on my own locks to create different hair styles during those months, but I have also tested the Airwrap i.d. on friends and family with various hair types, requesting images and feedback from each person afterwards to see how long styles lasted.
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Ease of use
Score: 9/10
Using the Dyson Airwrap i.d. is refreshingly straightforward, whether you're new to hair styling or have years of experience. I've found it easier than most curlers, and definitely simpler than earlier Airwrap models. To curl, you just section your hair and hold the end near the barrel; the device's airflow technology does the rest, automatically wrapping your hair around the attachment. There's no manual twisting required.
Setting up a hair profile in the MyDyson app is quick – about a minute – asking a few questions about your hair type, skill level and how well your hair holds a curl. Once set, activating 'i.d. curl' mode means the Airwrap automatically adjusts timing and technique for your hair type. You can tweak these settings in the app if needed.
Changing attachments is also hassle-free: they lock in with a click and release with a button push. While magnetic attachments would be a welcome upgrade, overall, the Airwrap i.d. is exceptionally easy to use.
Curl performance and hold
Score: 10/10
The Dyson Airwrap i.d. (Straight and Wavy) includes six attachments: two curling barrels, a round volumising brush, an anti-snag loop brush, a dryer and flyaway smoother, a fast dryer and a filter cleaning brush. I use the 40mm long barrel most for bouncy curls and waves, which takes me around 45 minutes and lasts for days, while the slimmer conical barrel creates tighter curls that work better on finer hair.
You can switch curl direction with a twist of the barrel top, which is much easier than swapping barrels as with earlier models. Both barrels use negative ions to reduce static and Coanda airflow, a technology that helps hair wrap around the barrel and creates a smooth finish.
The dryer and flyaway smoother tames frizz and is handy for rough drying, though I prefer the flyaway attachment from Dyson's Supersonic range. The round brush adds volume, which I particularly love for my fringe, and the fast dryer speeds up the process. For straight styles, the anti-snag brush is effective, though not as smooth as a hair straightener.
Comfort and safety
Score: 9/10
The Dyson Airwrap i.d. is not the smallest styler out there, but I've never found it heavy or uncomfortable to use, even during my 45-minute styling sessions. Its larger size brings a variety of styling options, which I consider a fair trade-off.
There are two heat settings plus a cold option. I find even the hottest setting comfortable on my scalp, including when using the narrower conical barrel that curls closer to the roots for tighter curls. For my fringe, I prefer the lower heat on the round brush to avoid discomfort.
The Airwrap i.d. uses intelligent heat control to keep temperatures below 150C, protecting hair from damage common with traditional ceramic curlers. Its high-speed motor spins fast to generate the Coanda airflow that wraps hair using air rather than extreme heat. The device also shuts off automatically if the filter needs cleaning and reduces airflow when a curl sequence finishes.
Suitability for different hair types
Score: 9/10
The Dyson Airwrap i.d. comes in two models tailored to different hair types, and I've tested it on my own very long, thick and naturally wavy hair that is hard to style. I've always found the Airwrap effective, but the i.d. model gives me longer-lasting curls, especially thanks to the i.d. curl mode, which sets each curl with a longer cool shot than I'd manage manually. The dryer and flyaway smoother attachment is also useful, as it means I don't need a separate Supersonic hair dryer just for taming frizz.
On friends with finer or shorter hair, the slimmer barrel produced curls that held for about a day, compared to several days on my hair. If your hair struggles to hold a curl, the i.d. curl sequence can help, but it may not work miracles. For very curly hair, I found the Airwrap i.d. worked best from wet. Overall, I think those with medium to thick, mid to long hair will see the best results.
Build quality and features
Score: 9/10
The Dyson Airwrap i.d. is offered in several colours, including jasper plum, but all versions have the same attachments and design. The build quality is excellent, with a smooth aluminium handle that feels cool in the hand and matte-finished plastic on the controls and attachments.
I would have liked to see magnetic attachments, like those on Dyson's Supersonic hair dryers, which snap on easily. RFID, or radio frequency identification, would also be useful here – a technology that allows the device to recognise which attachment is connected and automatically adjust settings, which would be handy since I often change heat and airflow for each tool.
The Airwrap i.d. can store only one hair profile, so if someone else wants to use it, they'll need to style manually. Setting curls without the i.d. curl mode takes a bit more effort than on older models, as you now have to adjust the temperature control rather than just sliding to the cold shot button. The controls are easy to reach and the 2.68m cord is practical.
Technical specifications
I've compared the Dyson Airwrap i.d. to the older Dyson Airwrap (Complete Long) to show the differences between the models and help you understand what the new model offers apart from Bluetooth connectivity.
Should you buy the Dyson Airwrap i.d.?
The Dyson Airwrap i.d. is a fantastic multi styler that has a premium build quality, some excellent attachments for multiple hair styles and uses Bluetooth connectivity to deliver personalised curling results that can last for days on certain hair types.
It is expensive and only being able to save one hair profile means it's not a hair styler you could easily share in a household, but if you're looking for bouncy, effortless curls with the option of a few other styles, it is the only hair styler you'll need in your life.
Yes, if:
You want bouncy curls with minimal effort
You want a hair styler that can deliver multiple styles
You want to protect your hair from extreme heat
No, if:
You have short hair that doesn't hold a curl
You are more interested in wearing your hair straight
You're on a budget
Dyson Airwrap i.d. FAQs
What is the Dyson Airwrap i.d.?
The Airwrap i.d. is the latest Airwrap hair styler from Dyson. It was announced in August 2024 and it offers a personalised curling sequence when you connect it to the MyDyson app and set up a hair profile.
How is it different from previous Airwrap models?
The biggest difference between the Dyson Airwrap i.d. and previous Airwrap models is the Airwrap i.d. works with a companion app – MyDyson – to allow you to create a hair profile to get a personalised curling sequence.
When in i.d curl mode, the Airwrap i.d. will use your profile to wrap, style and cool hair in a pre-defined sequence automatically, lowering air flow when the section is complete. The Airwrap i.d. also has three new attachment options and it's lighter.
Is the Dyson Airwrap i.d. worth it?
Yes, the Dyson Airwrap i.d. is worth every penny, if you have the right hair for it. Results do somewhat depend on your hair type despite the clever technology on board.
On my hair, it is superb and my favourite hair styler, but on some friends I tested it on, the results weren't as impressive or the curls held for less time. If your hair has never managed to hold a curl, there's a good chance the Airwrap i.d. won't be able to perform a miracle.
What does the 'i.d. curl' feature do, and how does it work?
After you connect the Dyson Airwrap i.d. to the MyDyson app, you can set up a hair profile. This involves answering six questions, which include your hair length, type, skill level and how well your hair holds a curl as well as what styles you're trying to achieve. The MyDyson app then creates a personalised styling sequence, called i.d. curl, with timings for wrapping, curling and setting your hair based on your profile.
When you push the power button all the way up, the i.d curl sequence will start. You hold a section of hair up to the Airwrap i.d. and it will wrap it automatically for a set number of seconds, style it for a further few seconds and set it with a cold shot at the end.
The Airwrap i.d. will then enter 'ultra low flow mode' when the sequence is finished, releasing the curl. You then start the sequence again with another section of hair and another push up of the power button.
Do I need the MyDyson app to use the Airwrap i.d.?
No, you can use the Airwrap i.d. without the MyDyson app but you won't get the most out of it. Each attachment can be used without any setup through the app, but to get the best curling results, I'd recommend using the i.d. curl feature, which you do need the MyDyson app for.
Are the new Dyson Airwrap i.d. attachments compatible with old Airwrap models?