Dyson Airwrap vs Shark FlexStyle — Australia Comparison
Updated 2026-06-28
The Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle are the two most searched multi-styler tools in Australia. The Airwrap pioneered the category with its Coanda airflow technology, while the Shark FlexStyle arrived as a more affordable alternative with similar functionality. Both are available at Myer, David Jones, JB Hi-Fi, and Amazon Australia. For Australian women, humidity resistance is a major consideration — styling that holds through a Sydney summer day or Melbourne's unpredictable weather matters more than laboratory-perfect curls.
Dyson
Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long
See price on Amazon
Shark
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
See price on Amazon
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long | Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | Dyson V9 digital motor | High-velocity brushless motor |
| Heat Settings | 3 heat + 3 airflow speeds | 3 heat + 3 airflow speeds |
| Max Temperature | 150°C | Adjustable (similar range to Dyson) |
| Attachments | 6 (barrels, brush, dryer, smoothing) | 5 (auto-wrap curlers, paddle brush, oval brush, concentrator, diffuser) |
| Weight | 363g (body only) | 385g (body only) |
| Cord Length | 2.7m | 2.4m |
| Technology | Coanda airflow, intelligent heat control | Coanda-style airflow, no-heat-damage design |
| Warranty | 2 years (Australia) | 2 years (Australia) |
Pros & Cons
Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long
Pros
- Intelligent heat control measures temperature 40+ times per second — prevents heat damage to colour-treated hair
- Coanda effect wraps hair around the barrel without manual winding — easier for beginners
- Lighter at 363g reduces arm fatigue during longer styling sessions for thick or long hair
- Premium build quality and established Australian service network through Dyson stores
Cons
- A$849 is a significant investment — nearly double the Shark FlexStyle
- Learning curve to achieve optimal results — Coanda effect requires damp (not wet or dry) hair
- Curls can drop faster in high humidity compared to traditional heated tools
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
Pros
- Nearly half the price of the Dyson Airwrap at A$449 — substantial savings for similar functionality
- Auto-wrap curling barrels produce comparable curls to the Dyson with a shorter learning curve
- Locking mechanism for attachments feels more secure than the Dyson's magnetic connection
- Diffuser attachment included — useful for Australian women with curly or wavy natural hair
Cons
- Slightly heavier at 385g — marginal difference but noticeable over 20+ minute sessions
- Shorter cord at 2.4m can be limiting in Australian bathrooms with distant power points
- Shark has fewer Australian retail locations for in-person support compared to Dyson's owned stores
Our Verdict
The Dyson Airwrap is the superior tool in terms of engineering, weight, and styling precision — but the A$400 price gap is hard to ignore. The Shark FlexStyle delivers 85-90% of the Dyson experience at roughly half the cost. For Australian buyers, the practical recommendation is clear: if A$449 is your budget, the Shark FlexStyle is excellent value and you will not feel shortchanged. If you can comfortably afford A$849 and prioritise the lightest, most refined styling experience with Dyson's Australian service network, the Airwrap remains the benchmark.
Best for Budget
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
Best for Features
Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long
Editor's Note
Both tools work on Australian 230V power without adaptors. Dyson frequently runs gift-with-purchase promotions through Myer and David Jones during mid-year sales. The Shark FlexStyle is often discounted to A$399 during Amazon Australia sales events. For Australian humidity, apply a light-hold hairspray after styling with either tool — neither air styler produces curls as heat-set as traditional curling irons, so a finishing product helps styles last through humid Sydney or Brisbane days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shark FlexStyle as good as the Dyson Airwrap in Australia?
The Shark FlexStyle produces comparable results to the Dyson Airwrap for most hair types. The Dyson has a slight edge in airflow precision, lighter weight, and attachment variety. Most Australian users report that the real-world difference in styling results does not justify the A$400 price premium unless you specifically value Dyson's service network and build quality.
Which multi-styler holds curls better in Australian humidity?
Neither tool excels in high humidity compared to traditional heated styling tools. Both use airflow rather than extreme heat, which creates softer curls that relax faster. In humid conditions common in Sydney, Brisbane, and tropical Queensland, curls from both tools typically last 4-8 hours without hairspray. Using a setting spray extends hold to a full day.
Where can I buy the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle in Australia?
The Dyson Airwrap is available at Dyson stores, Myer, David Jones, JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, and Amazon Australia. The Shark FlexStyle is available at Amazon Australia, JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, and Myer. Dyson has dedicated stores in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth for in-person demos.
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