The verdict in 10 seconds
Best ghd
ghd HeliosA seriously fast, smooth-finish dryer that keeps things simpleSuits you if
- You have thick or long hair and want it dry fast
- You like simple controls without a lot of settings to fiddle with
- You want a smooth, low-frizz finish at home without salon-level fuss
Best Shark
Shark SpeedStyleA fast, gentle all-in-one dryer that takes some practiceSuits you if
- You want one tool for drying, smoothing and volume
- You travel and want a compact dryer
- You worry about heat damage and like the dryer to manage the temperature
Which brand wins?
Shark is the stronger brand for hair dryers right now. The best single model of the two is the Shark SpeedStyle, which suits you if you want one tool for drying, smoothing and volume.
We researched 13 expert reviews, analyzed 7,171 owner ratings and comments across 13 sources for every ghd and Shark model we cover, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.
Show me the receipts
Brand scoreboardAverage score 75 vs 85 · reliability 89 vs 92
| ghd | Shark | |
|---|---|---|
| Product Review score | 75 | 85 |
| Experts | 78 | 84 |
| Owners | 65 | 82 |
| Reliability | 89 | 92 |
| Models scored | 1 | 2 |
| Most reliable model | ghd Helios | Shark SpeedStyle |
Averages across scored models. ● marks the better number on each row.
Questions people actually ask
Which is better, ghd or Shark?
Shark, on balance. Its models do better overall.
Based on: Average Product Review score 75 for ghd vs 85 for Shark.Which brand is more reliable, ghd or Shark?
Neither stands out. Their models have a similar record.
Based on: Average reliability 89 vs 92.What is the best ghd hair dryer?
The ghd Helios. It suits you if you have thick or long hair and want it dry fast.
Based on: Highest Product Review score among ghd models (75).What is the best Shark hair dryer?
The Shark SpeedStyle. It suits you if you want one tool for drying, smoothing and volume.
Based on: Highest Product Review score among Shark models (87).