Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer Review
The Dyson Supersonic hair dryer is still worth considering if you want powerful airflow, precise heat settings, and styling attachments for different hair types. Its biggest advantage is control: you can dry, smooth, or diffuse your hair without relying on maximum heat throughout the process. However, its premium price is harder to justify when the newer Dyson Supersonic Nural costs about the same.
The original Supersonic launched in 2016, but its design remains relevant. Dyson positioned the motor inside the handle, added magnetic styling attachments, and introduced intelligent heat regulation. Independent testing supports its drying performance, although the dryer is not as quiet or effortless to handle as its marketing might suggest.
In this Dyson Supersonic review, we examine its features, airflow, attachments, limitations, and value. We also compare it with the Nural, Supersonic r, and Travel models to help you decide which dryer deserves your money.
Dyson Supersonic Review: Quick Verdict
Quick Answer: Should You Buy It?
Best for everyday styling: The original Dyson Supersonic delivers controlled airflow and versatile attachments for regular blow-drying.
Best smart alternative: The Supersonic Nural adds automatic scalp-aware heat adjustment, attachment memory, and pause detection.
Best for precision styling: The Supersonic r offers a slimmer design and intelligent attachments, but commands a premium price.
Best for international travel: The Supersonic Travel supports multiple voltage ranges, unlike the standard U.S. Supersonic.
Our recommendation: Buy the original at a worthwhile discount. Otherwise, compare its price directly with the Nural before ordering.
Dyson Supersonic Specs and Features
The original Dyson Supersonic combines a high-speed digital motor with adjustable airflow and temperature settings. Its controls let you switch between fast drying, regular drying, gentler diffusing, and a cold shot for finishing a style.
| Feature | Original Dyson Supersonic |
|---|---|
| Motor | Dyson Digital Motor V9 |
| Motor speed | Up to 110,000 rpm |
| Power | 1,600 watts for the standard U.S. model |
| Airflow settings | 3 |
| Temperature settings | 3 heated settings plus cold shot |
| Heat regulation | Air temperature measured more than 40 times per second |
| Attachments | Magnetic styling accessories; included set varies by edition |
| U.S. electrical compatibility | 110–120V; not universal voltage |
| Standard limited warranty | 2 years, subject to applicable terms |
The most useful specification is not motor speed alone. It is the combination of airflow control, temperature regulation, and attachment design. These features determine how comfortably the dryer works for your usual hairstyle.
The motor sits inside the handle rather than behind the drying head. That arrangement changes the balance compared with many conventional dryers. It also leaves the Supersonic’s distinctive open circular head, which directs a concentrated stream of air.
Dyson Supersonic Price: What Are You Paying For?
The Dyson Supersonic is a premium hair dryer, not a budget alternative to conventional models. You are paying for its motor design, temperature management, magnetic accessories, and the flexibility to handle several styling routines with one tool.
However, paying more does not guarantee noticeably better results for everyone. Someone who dries short hair occasionally may see little practical benefit from the additional features. A person with long, dense hair or a regular blowout routine has more opportunities to use them.
Compare the exact edition before buying. Retailer packages can differ in color, accessories, and promotional extras. A lower-priced Origin package with fewer attachments is not necessarily equivalent to a full Supersonic set.
You can explore the Dyson Supersonic product listing on Discompare for retailer comparisons and product information. Check the individual merchant offer carefully because some listings may contain different Supersonic generations.
Price-check tip: Compare the original Supersonic and Nural using the same condition, included accessories, warranty, and retailer type. A discount is only meaningful when the products and packages are genuinely comparable.
How Well Does the Dyson Supersonic Perform?
The Supersonic performs especially well when you need strong airflow with adjustable heat. Independent testing by the Good Housekeeping Institute supports its drying capabilities and temperature-control advantages. Still, results depend on hair length, density, texture, technique, and attachments.
Drying Speed and Airflow
The Digital Motor V9 spins at up to 110,000 rpm. Together with Dyson’s Air Multiplier technology, it produces a focused stream of high-velocity air.
This matters because effective drying depends on removing moisture, not simply making the air hotter. Strong, controlled airflow can help separate damp sections and move moisture away from the hair. The styling concentrator makes that airflow more targeted when you work with a brush.
For long or thick hair, divide your hair into manageable sections. Begin with a broader airflow to remove excess moisture. Then attach the concentrator for controlled styling. This approach usually makes more sense than directing maximum heat at one area for an extended period.
There is no universal drying time that applies to every user. Claims that the Supersonic always dries hair in three or four minutes would be misleading. Your starting moisture level, hair density, and technique all influence the result.
Heat Regulation and Frizz Control
The Dyson Supersonic regulates air temperature repeatedly during use. Its sensor measures the temperature more than 40 times per second, allowing the dryer to adjust its heating element rather than relying on a fixed output.
Good Housekeeping’s laboratory assessment found lower operating heat than the average dryer in its comparison. That supports the benefit of temperature control, although it does not mean the Supersonic makes heat styling completely damage-free.
The dryer also offers several heat settings. Use higher heat when you need faster initial drying, then lower it for delicate sections or finishing. A lower-temperature setting is particularly useful when you want to avoid unnecessary heat exposure.
Frizz control depends on more than the dryer. Hair condition, humidity, styling tension, and products all influence the finish. The Flyaway attachment can help smooth the appearance of stray hairs on suitable styles, but it does not repair damaged hair.
Noise, Handling, and Comfort
The Supersonic is not silent. Despite its distinctive motor and acoustic design, Good Housekeeping found its noise broadly comparable to other dryers in laboratory and consumer evaluations.
Its handling also involves compromises. Moving the motor into the handle changes the balance, which some users may appreciate. However, the handle is not heavily contoured, and the relatively substantial power cord can feel cumbersome during storage.
Another practical drawback is button placement. The heat and airflow controls sit toward the back of the head. They may be less convenient to reach while styling than the controls on a conventional dryer handle.
If you frequently spend a long time styling the back of your head, comfort deserves extra attention. The newer Supersonic r may be easier to maneuver because of its redesigned body.
Results for Different Hair Types
Fine or fragile hair: Start with lower heat and the Gentle air attachment, if included. This creates a less aggressive airflow pattern. Keep the dryer moving instead of concentrating heat on one section.
Thick or dense hair: Strong airflow is particularly useful. Work in sections and use the concentrator with a suitable brush when you want a smooth finish.
Wavy or curly hair: A diffuser helps spread the airflow over a wider area. Use low airflow to reduce disruption to the curl pattern. The original Supersonic can be useful for curls; it should not be dismissed simply because someone has very curly hair.
Coily hair: The wide-tooth comb can help stretch and shape sections during drying, when used appropriately for your hair. Work gently and avoid pulling through tangles with excessive force.
Good preparation also matters. A towel that removes excess water without rough rubbing, appropriate detangling, and a heat-protection product suitable for your hair can help make styling more manageable. Browse Discompare’s styling products category for complementary products.
Dyson Supersonic Attachments Explained
The magnetic attachments are one of the strongest reasons to choose a Dyson Supersonic. They let the dryer serve different styling purposes without changing the entire appliance.
The exact bundle depends on the edition, so check the retailer’s included-accessory list before purchasing.
Styling Concentrator
The concentrator narrows the airflow for precise blowouts. It works well when you want to smooth one section while keeping nearby hair relatively undisturbed.
Use it with a round or paddle brush, depending on the finish you want. Keep the nozzle moving with the brush rather than holding it against one spot.
Diffuser
The diffuser distributes airflow more broadly, making it a practical attachment for waves, curls, and textured hair. It helps limit direct airflow that can disturb curl definition.
For more controlled results, begin at a lower airflow setting. Move between sections gently, allowing the diffuser to support the hair rather than aggressively moving it around.
The Nural’s newer Wave+Curl diffuser offers two modes. That is a useful distinction for shoppers who regularly style natural waves or curls.
Gentle Air Attachment
The Gentle air attachment spreads airflow for a softer drying experience. It is particularly relevant to finer hair or anyone who finds concentrated airflow uncomfortable.
It does not eliminate the need to choose an appropriate heat setting. Use the attachment alongside the temperature and airflow controls.
Wide-Tooth Comb
The wide-tooth comb is designed for curly and coily textures. It can help shape and lengthen sections while drying.
Start with properly detangled hair and work in manageable sections. The attachment is a styling tool, not a substitute for careful detangling.
Flyaway Attachment
The Flyaway attachment uses controlled airflow to help create a smoother-looking finish on dry, styled hair. It is most useful for sleek hairstyles where visible flyaways affect the final appearance.
It is less important if you prefer natural volume or textured styles. Also, it cannot permanently change the structure or condition of your hair.
Dyson Supersonic Pros and Cons
The original Supersonic remains competitive because of its airflow and styling flexibility. However, its price and everyday ergonomics prevent it from being the obvious choice for every shopper.
Pros
✅ Strong, focused airflow for efficient drying and styling.
✅ Intelligent heat regulation reduces exposure to uncontrolled high temperatures.
✅ Three airflow settings and multiple heat options.
✅ Magnetic attachments support different hair textures and styles.
✅ Distinctive design with the motor positioned in the handle.
✅ Useful selection of compatible replacement and optional accessories.
Cons
❌ Premium pricing is difficult to justify for occasional use.
❌ Not significantly quieter than other dryers in independent testing.
❌ Control placement can feel awkward.
❌ Bulky power cord makes storage less convenient.
❌ U.S. model lacks universal voltage compatibility.
❌ Newer Dyson models provide additional convenience and styling features.
Dyson Supersonic vs Nural vs r
The original Supersonic remains a capable dryer, but Dyson’s newer models make the buying decision more complicated. The Nural focuses on intelligent heat and convenience. The Supersonic r prioritizes styling precision and maneuverability.
| Feature | Original Supersonic | Supersonic Nural | Supersonic r |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Everyday drying and styling | Smart heat management | Precision styling |
| Design | Original ring-shaped head | Familiar circular design | Slim, curved body |
| Heat management | Intelligent heat control | Heat control plus Scalp protect mode | Responsive heater for precision airflow |
| Attachment memory | No | Yes | Yes |
| Pause detection | No | Yes | Not a featured function |
| Major advantage | Core Dyson features | Automatic adjustments | Maneuverability and precise styling |
| Main drawback | Fewer smart features | Added features may not suit every routine | Premium price |
Dyson Supersonic vs Nural: Which Is Better?
The Nural is the better choice when you want automatic adjustments during styling. Its Scalp protect mode uses a distance sensor to reduce heat as the dryer approaches your head. The attachment-learning feature also remembers your preferred settings.
Pause detection adds convenience when you put the dryer down to section your hair. The heating element switches off and airflow decreases automatically.
The original Supersonic does not provide these functions. However, it still offers adjustable heat, strong airflow, and magnetic attachments.
Our recommendation: Choose the Nural when the price difference is small and you will use its additional features. Choose the original when a genuine discount makes it substantially less expensive.
Before comparing offers, check the exact Dyson Supersonic Nural product configuration, including the diffuser and other included attachments.
Dyson Supersonic vs r: Which Is Better?
The Supersonic r is better suited to users who value precision, handling, and frequent styling. Its curved design is easier to maneuver around the head, while its intelligent attachments adjust heat and airflow to their intended uses.
Good Housekeeping’s evaluation also reported more comfortable handling and faster drying in its particular comparison with the original dryer. However, those findings should not be treated as a guaranteed performance improvement for every hair type.
The original Supersonic remains a reasonable option if you want everyday drying rather than highly controlled styling. Its simpler design already provides the central features that made the product popular.
Our recommendation: Consider the r if styling comfort matters enough to justify its higher price. Otherwise, the original or Nural may offer better value.
Review the Dyson Supersonic r configuration before purchasing because its attachments and design differ from the original.
What About the Dyson Supersonic Travel?
The Supersonic Travel solves a different problem. Dyson designed it as a smaller, lighter dryer with universal voltage compatibility across 100–240V electrical systems.
That distinction matters for international travelers. A standard U.S. Supersonic is engineered for approximately 110–120V. A simple plug adapter does not convert a higher-voltage power supply into a compatible one.
The Travel model also uses a more compact format and reduced airflow. It is worth considering if portability matters more than maintaining the exact performance and handling of a full-sized model.
Who Should Buy the Dyson Supersonic?
The original Dyson Supersonic makes the most sense for people who style their hair frequently and will use its range of airflow settings and attachments.
- Regular blow-dry users: You are more likely to benefit from controlled airflow and multiple styling accessories.
- People with thick or long hair: Strong airflow and section-by-section drying can make the routine more manageable.
- Curly or wavy hair users: A suitable diffuser provides more control over how air reaches the curls.
- Buyers who prefer adjustable heat: Multiple temperatures make it easier to tailor drying to the hair and styling task.
- Shoppers finding an attractive discount: The original becomes more compelling when its price is clearly below the newer generations.
If you already own suitable brushes and styling products, the Supersonic may fit easily into your routine. You can browse other essentials in Discompare’s personal care category.
Who Should Skip the Dyson Supersonic?
The Supersonic is not the best purchase when its additional capabilities will go largely unused. A simpler dryer can meet basic drying needs at a much lower price.
- Occasional users: If you dry your hair infrequently, the premium is difficult to justify.
- Strict-budget shoppers: A less expensive dryer with adjustable heat and a suitable attachment may be sufficient.
- Frequent international travelers: The standard U.S. Supersonic is not a universal-voltage appliance.
- Buyers wanting the newest smart features: Nural adds functions absent from the original.
- Users prioritizing styling maneuverability: The redesigned Supersonic r deserves consideration.
If your primary goal is curling, shaping, and creating multiple hairstyles rather than simply drying, the Dyson Airwrap review explains another approach. The Airwrap is a multi-styler, not a direct replacement for every drying routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer really worth the money?
It can be worth the money if you dry and style your hair regularly and want strong airflow, adjustable heat, and versatile attachments. However, its value depends on the price. When the Nural costs about the same, its extra features may make it the better purchase.
Does the Dyson Supersonic prevent heat damage?
Its intelligent temperature control helps prevent excessive heat exposure, but no heated styling tool can guarantee damage-free results. Use appropriate temperatures, keep the dryer moving, and avoid unnecessary repeated exposure to the same section.
Is the Dyson Supersonic good for curly hair?
Yes. The diffuser can help distribute airflow more gently around waves and curls. For curly or coily hair, begin with low airflow and choose suitable attachments. The Nural also offers a Wave+Curl diffuser with two styling modes.
Can I use a U.S. Dyson Supersonic in Europe?
The standard U.S. Supersonic is designed for 110–120V electrical systems, while many European countries use 220–240V. A plug adapter alone does not solve this difference. The dedicated Supersonic Travel offers universal-voltage support. Always check the electrical rating and manual for your particular model.
Are Dyson Supersonic attachments interchangeable?
Many newer standard Supersonic attachments work with older compatible Supersonic models. However, compatibility is not universal across every generation and attachment. Older attachments may also lack the Nural’s attachment-learning functionality. Check individual accessory compatibility before purchasing.
How often should I clean the Dyson Supersonic filter?
Dyson recommends cleaning the original Supersonic filter approximately once a month, or when the indicator lights signal a blockage. Unplug the dryer and let it cool. Then remove the filter cage and clean the mesh with a soft, dry brush according to Dyson’s instructions. Do not use water or chemicals on the filter mesh.
How long is the Dyson Supersonic warranty?
The standard U.S. consumer Supersonic generally includes a two-year limited warranty. Coverage depends on the warranty terms, product condition, and intended use. Check the seller’s return policy and the warranty for the exact model, particularly when purchasing refurbished or from a marketplace seller.
Final Verdict: Is the Dyson Supersonic Worth It?
The Dyson Supersonic remains a strong premium hair dryer. It combines fast, controlled airflow with adjustable heat and useful styling attachments. Independent evaluations support its performance, although it is neither silent nor free from ergonomic compromises.
Its biggest weakness is no longer the drying technology. It is the competition within Dyson’s own lineup. The Nural adds practical smart functions, while the Supersonic r offers a different approach to precision styling and comfort.
For an existing Supersonic owner, upgrading is not automatically necessary. The original still handles everyday drying and styling effectively. A newer model makes more sense when a specific feature would improve your routine.
For a first-time buyer, compare the exact packages and prices. If the original costs significantly less, it remains a worthwhile option. If the Nural is similarly priced, we would generally favor the newer model for its additional convenience.
Bottom line: Buy the original Dyson Supersonic for its proven drying performance and useful attachments, preferably at a meaningful discount. Choose the Nural for smarter everyday operation or the r for precision-focused styling. The right purchase is the model whose features you will actually use.
Sources
- Dyson — Dyson Supersonic vs. Supersonic Nural: Which One Is Right for You
- Good Housekeeping — Why Dyson’s Supersonic Hair Dryer Is the Only One I’ll Use
- TechRadar — Dyson Supersonic Nural vs Dyson Supersonic r: Which Ultra-Premium Dryer Is Better?
- Dyson — Supersonic Travel Hair Dryer: Official Product Information
- Dyson — Supersonic Hair Dryer Support and Filter Maintenance
Research and affiliate transparency: This review draws on Dyson’s published specifications, product documentation, and independent editorial testing. Discompare did not conduct its own hands-on or laboratory testing for this article. Product features, bundles, availability, and retailer prices may change. Discompare may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through retailer or price-comparison links, without additional cost to the shopper.
Product Groups: Supersonic™ Hair Dryer
