BaByliss Big Hair vs BaByliss Power Smooth
We compare the BaByliss Big Hair and the BaByliss Power Smooth across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| BaByliss Big Hair | BaByliss Power Smooth | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 8.0/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Best for | Drying and styling in one step for a smooth, volumised finish | Fast, everyday drying with less frizz and heat damage |
| Not ideal for | Anyone wanting the absolute cheapest basic dryer, or salon-only power on a budget | Anyone wanting the absolute cheapest basic dryer, or salon-only power on a budget |
| Brand | BaByliss | BaByliss |
Power and Motor
BaByliss Big Hair
Power and Motor for this hair dryer matter because it is a hot-air rotating hair dryer brush. The rotating barrel works alongside the airflow to help dry hair while shaping it in one step, as indicated by the product title. Two speeds likely allow airflow to be matched to different hair thicknesses, while alternating rotation direction can help reduce tangling risk. Without specified wattage or motor performance details, the quality of the power delivery cannot be assessed, but the core requirement is consistent airflow paired with stable barrel rotation.
BaByliss Power Smooth
Power and Motor is where the hair dryer delivers everyday practicality, with a 2400W rating that influences how quickly it can move air and dry hair. In use, higher power typically helps reduce drying time, particularly when working through thicker or longer sections. The motor also contributes to an all-day feel, since the dryer is described as powerful and lightweight, which is relevant during longer sessions. Even with a strong airflow foundation, consistent results still depend on factors such as hair length, density and technique, which shape coverage and finish.
Heat and Speed Settings
BaByliss Big Hair
Heat and speed settings on the BaByliss are straightforward. It offers 2 speeds and uses hot-air styling to dry and shape hair in one step. Choose either the lower or higher speed, then move the rotating brush through the hair while heated airflow styles it. The lower speed is better suited to fine hair or when extra control is needed, while the higher speed can shorten styling time, particularly for thicker hair. The brush rotates with alternating directions to help spread tension evenly.
BaByliss Power Smooth
The BaByliss includes 3 heat settings and 2 speed settings, making it easier to match airflow output to different hair types and styling needs. Lower heat can be used for more delicate drying, while higher heat supports faster results on thicker hair. For speed, the lower setting allows more controlled styling, and the higher setting helps reduce total drying time. In use, the settings can be adjusted as the hair dries to avoid prolonged exposure to higher heat.
Ionic, Ceramic and Hair Care
BaByliss Big Hair
Ionic and ceramic-style features can affect how a rotating hair dryer brush feels and performs, particularly for frizz control and a smoother finish. The hair dryer is described as offering ionic, frizz-control styling designed to deliver a dry-and-style result in one step. As the 50mm barrel rotates with heat and airflow, ionic styling is intended to help reduce flyaway hair, while ceramic-style surfaces (if present) typically support more even heat distribution. The outcome can still vary by hair type and product buildup, so light finishing may be needed after drying.
BaByliss Power Smooth
Ionic drying is a practical feature for managing frizz, because the hair dryer is listed as an ionic hair dryer. Ionic airflow is typically used to help hair look smoother as it dries, but day-to-day performance can still depend on hair type, and it may not fully tame very thick, curly, or already-dry hair. The ceramic element is not confirmed in the available product title details, so ceramic-specific benefits cannot be stated. Heat and speed can be adjusted using the 3 heat and 2 speed options.
Attachments and Cool Shot
BaByliss Big Hair
Using the built-in rotating brush design, the BaByliss is intended to dry and style at the same time, so it relies on the main barrel rather than separate styling attachments. The product title specifies a 50mm barrel, which indicates a wider brushing surface for smoothing and shaping. It includes 2 speed settings and alternates directions, which supports control as the brush is worked through the hair, including near the roots. Ionic frizz-control may reduce flyaways during styling, but results depend on hair type and technique.
BaByliss Power Smooth
With its straightforward controls, the BaByliss Power Smooth 5736CU is built for use across different drying stages. The dryer includes attachments, but the specific types are not stated, so buyers should check what is in the box before expecting concentrator or diffuser options. The cool shot function is intended for finishing: it can be pressed at the end of drying to help set the style while reducing heat exposure. A typical approach is to select a heat and speed setting, dry thoroughly, then use the cool shot briefly on the final section. If the included attachments are limited, styling versatility may be reduced.
Weight and Handling
BaByliss Big Hair
Also the hair dryer is a hot-air dryer brush, so its real feel depends on how the barrel sits in the hand and how the rotating 50mm barrel is balanced during use. Grip shape and barrel balance affect comfort during longer strokes, particularly when the brush changes direction. A steadier hold helps keep the airflow aligned, which reduces the need to keep re-centering the brush. Two speed settings also matter, because higher airflow can encourage quicker arm movement. If the balance feels slightly forward, a slower pace and shorter sections can help maintain control.
BaByliss Power Smooth
However, a hair dryer's power matters, but weight and grip often determine how manageable it feels during routine use. The BaByliss is described as "Powerful and Lightweight", with a compact black design, so it is positioned for easier handling during longer sessions. In day-to-day styling, a lighter body can help reduce wrist strain when moving between heat and speed levels, including 3 heat and 2 speed settings. Comfort still depends on the user's hold. Solid control also supports more accurate use of the cool shot button.
Who Is This Hair Dryer For?
BaByliss Big Hair
Who the BaByliss Big Hair 2885U is most suitable for depends on how someone wants to dry and style at the same time. It is designed for users who prefer an all-in-one approach, combining an ionic hot-air dryer brush with a 50mm barrel to smooth hair while drying. With 2 speeds, it suits people who want control over airflow, and the alternating directions can help when changing how the brush moves through the hair. It may be a good fit for medium to long styles that benefit from more lift, but anyone after very precise, pin-point finishing may find the brush format restrictive.
BaByliss Power Smooth
After weighing weight and handling for everyday use, the next question is who the hair dryer is most likely to suit. It is designed for powerful, lightweight blow-drying, with ionic technology aimed at reducing frizz and static. With 2400W power and 3 heat plus 2 speed settings, it suits different hair types and styling needs, including thicker hair that typically benefits from higher heat and finer hair that can use lower settings. The cool shot button helps set hairstyles after drying. It is also straightforward enough for beginners, although very delicate hair may still benefit from using the lower heat settings.
BaByliss Big Hair: pros
- Ionic to reduce frizz and damage
- Dries and styles in one step
- Faster, kinder drying than a basic old dryer
Cons
- Premium models cost much more than a basic dryer
- Highest heat settings can still stress hair if overused
- Attachments included vary, so check what's in the box
BaByliss Power Smooth: pros
- 2400W of drying power
- Ionic to reduce frizz and damage
- 3 heat / 2 speed settings
- Cool shot to set your style
- Lightweight/compact to hold
Cons
- Premium models cost much more than a basic dryer
- Highest heat settings can still stress hair if overused
- Attachments included vary, so check what's in the box
Our verdict
Our pick is the BaByliss Power Smooth (our score 8.9/10) - A practical hair dryer (2400W, ionic) for quicker, kinder drying at home. The BaByliss Big Hair is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.