11 Best Curling Irons for Creating and Holding Every Kind of Wave

• What we love: Heats quickly; automatic shut-off after 30 minutes; two ways to style
• What could improve: Only one heat setting
• Barrel size: 1.5 inches
• Material: Ceramic
• Heat settings: 1
• Hair types: Thick and medium hair types
• Best for styling: Waves and tight ringlets

Best for Fine Hair: The Beachwaver Co. S1 Dual Voltage

If our Beachwaver review is any indication, this rotating curling iron is just as good as social media claims it is. Its moving barrel makes it another great pick for beginners, since you don’t need salon-level expertise to get started—just clamp in a section of hair, push the button, and let the iron work its magic.

“It’s really the only traditional curling iron I can actually use, because it’s as easy as 1-2-3,” says Danielle Sinay, Glamour associate beauty editor. “One, clamp a section of dry hair at the end; two, press the arrow button facing away from the face; and three, allow your hair to wrap as it revolves.” Et voilà: Your hair is perfectly curled and bouncy, says Sinay, who tells Glamour her Beachwaver-styled curls stay put for days.

• What we love: Easy to use; curls hair quickly; curls last a long time
• What could improve: Doesn’t feel as durable as some others we tested
• Barrel size: 1.75 inches
• Material: Ceramic
• Heat settings: 290°F–410°F
• Hair types: Most hair types
• Best for styling: Beachy waves or controlled curls

Best for Long Hair: Chi Spin ’N Curl

If you’re even somewhat interested in hair care, there’s a good chance Chi’s rotating curling iron has come across your TikTok For You page. The thing may look intimidating, but once you get the hang of it, it couldn’t be easier to use. The tool automatically draws hair into a rotating chamber, timing each section for consistency. “It’s a little heavy and clunky-looking, but the design is great if you’re someone who always burns yourself, since the outside chamber stays cool,” says Glamour contributor Halie LeSavage. “The lasting results were what really sold me, though,” she says. “I purposefully tested the iron right before bed to see how the curls would match up against a night of sleep. The next morning, my hair still had modern, thick waves.”

There’s more to love than the do-it-for-you design of this curling iron, though. Testers appreciated the auto-off feature, which turns the device off after an hour, and said the 11-foot cord offers plenty of length for any home user.

• What we love: Great for beginners; adjustable temperature; works quickly
• What could improve: The curling iron has a tendency to jam with thicker hair
• Barrel size: 1 inch
• Material: Ceramic
• Heat settings: 3
• Hair types: Most hair types
• Best for styling: Loose, beachy waves or bouncy curls

Best Value: Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron

Would you believe us if we told you it’s not necessary to shell out more than $20 for a curling iron that can get the job done? This classic may not have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive options, but we found it delivered pretty envious curls, making it a great pick for newbies or those who don’t regularly reach for a curling iron but like the option.