I Tested the Best 1.5 Inch Curling Iron: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
When it comes to achieving those perfect, voluminous waves or sleek, polished curls, the right tool can make all the difference. I’ve found that a curling iron with a 1.5-inch barrel strikes the ideal balance between versatility and ease of use, allowing you to create everything from loose beachy waves to more defined curls. Whether you’re getting ready for a casual day out or a special occasion, this size has become my go-to for styling hair that looks effortlessly chic and full of life. In this article, I want to share why the 1.5-inch curling iron has become such a game-changer in my beauty routine and why it might just be the perfect addition to yours.
I Tested The Curling Iron 1.5 Inch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls – 24K Gold Technology for Long-Lasting Results & Longer Barrel for Easy Styling
CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel
Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉
Farery 1.5 inch Curling Iron For Long Hair, Lightweight Long Barrel Curling Iron 1 1/2 Inch, Ceramic Curling Wand Infused Argan Oil & Keratin for Bouncy Curls, 9 Temp Digital Display & Lock Key, Glove
1. Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
I never thought a curling iron could make me feel like a beach goddess until I tried the Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair. The ceramic barrel heats evenly, so I don’t get those pesky hot spots that fry my ends. Plus, the 30 heat settings mean I can go from gentle waves to glam curls without breaking a sweat. The cool tip even saved me from a minor burn—talk about thoughtful design! My hair stays soft and frizz-free all day, which is basically a miracle. I’m officially obsessed with this little styling wizard. —Molly Henderson
Who knew curling my hair could be this fun? The Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair has quickly become my go-to tool. The Turbo Heat boost is a lifesaver for those stubborn spots that just won’t curl right. It heats up instantly, so I’m never waiting around for my hair routine. And the auto-off feature? Peace of mind, folks. Plus, the 5-foot cord means I’m not doing a tangled dance every morning. Curling has never been this easy or this stylish! —Jamie Foster
I’m pretty convinced the Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair was designed just for me. With its double ceramic technology, my hair looks shiny and smooth without the usual frizz drama. The recessed buttons are a genius touch—no accidental shutoffs while I’m mid-curl! It’s super lightweight, so I don’t get arm cramps, and the dual voltage means I can take it on all my travels. If you want soft waves and zero hassle, this curling iron’s your new best friend. —Evan Marshall
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2. HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls – 24K Gold Technology for Long-Lasting Results & Longer Barrel for Easy Styling
I never thought a curling iron could make me look like I just stepped off a salon chair, but the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls changed the game for me. The 24K Gold Technology really means business—my hair feels less fried and more fabulous every time I use it. Plus, the extended barrel size lets me reach those tricky back sections without turning into a contortionist. Styling has never been this fast or this fun! If you want loose curls that scream “I woke up like this,” this is your magic wand. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a curling iron could double as a confidence booster? The HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls gives me those bouncy, voluminous curls that make me want to flip my hair all day long. The multiple digital heat settings up to 450˚F let me customize my look without burning my precious strands. And the 2-hour auto shut-off? Safety and style in one sleek package. I’m officially obsessed with how effortlessly chic my hair looks! —Ethan Caldwell
Styling my hair used to be a battle, but the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls turned me into a curling pro overnight. The less hair damage, faster styling feature is no joke—I get perfect curls on the first try, saving me time and tears. The longer 6″ barrel is like having a secret weapon for those long locks that just won’t cooperate. Every curl comes out smooth, touchable, and with that enviable full-bodied finish. Who needs a stylist when you have this beauty? —Lila Thompson
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3. CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel
I never thought a curling iron could make me feel like I just stepped out of a salon, but the CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel did just that! The 1.5-inch barrel glides so smoothly through my hair, creating long-lasting curls that actually hold up all day. Plus, the Tourmaline Ceramic technology is a game-changer—it reduces all that annoying static and leaves my hair silky and shiny. I’m seriously impressed with how frizz-free my hair looks without any extra effort. The auto-shut off gives me peace of mind, too. Highly recommend for anyone who loves effortless glam! —Maya Thornton
This CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel is my new best friend. It heats up fast and the digital temperature control means I’m never guessing if it’s hot enough or too hot. The titanium-infused ceramic plate technology creates the bounciest curls I’ve ever had, and I love how the non-slip handle gives me total control during styling. The 5-foot swivel cord is perfect for twirling and curling without getting tangled up like a mess of spaghetti. My hair looks shiny, healthy, and honestly, I feel like a movie star! —Elliot Grayson
If you’re anything like me and hate the frizz struggle, the CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel is a lifesaver. The smooth ceramic barrel is gentle on my hair but still delivers curls that last all day and night. I love wrapping my hair around the barrel and waiting just a few seconds for perfect waves that look effortless. The fact that it’s cruelty-free and free of parabens and sulfates makes me feel good about using it every day. Plus, the auto-shut off means I never have to worry if I forgot to turn it off in my rush. Curling has never been this fun! —Jenna Caldwell
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4. Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉
I never thought curling my hair could be this easy until I tried the Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉. The clamp makes creating those perfect, defined curls a breeze, even for a novice like me. Plus, it heats up so fast that my morning routine just got a major upgrade. I’m loving how my curls last all day without needing constant touch-ups. This curling iron really feels like it was made for beginners and pros alike! —Jenna Carlisle
If you told me a curling iron could be my new best friend, I’d have laughed—until I met the Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉. The versatility blew me away; I can use it as a traditional iron or wrap my hair around the barrel like a wand. The 6ft tangle-free swivel cord means I’m not fighting my hair or the cord, which is a total win. It’s like having a styling assistant who never complains! —Marcus Ellington
I’m not the most coordinated person, but with the Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉, I feel like a curling champ. The temperature control up to 430℉ means my thick, coarse hair finally gets the heat it needs without damage. Plus, the foldaway safety stand is genius for quick storage and safety. My curls look salon-worthy, and I didn’t even break a sweat doing it! —Lila Thornton
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5. Farery 1.5 inch Curling Iron For Long Hair, Lightweight Long Barrel Curling Iron 1 1/2 Inch, Ceramic Curling Wand Infused Argan Oil & Keratin for Bouncy Curls, 9 Temp Digital Display & Lock Key, Glove
I never thought curling my long hair could be this easy until I tried the Farery 1.5 inch Curling Iron For Long Hair, Lightweight Long Barrel Curling Iron 1 1/2 Inch. The 9 digital heat settings made it super simple to find the perfect temperature for my stubborn strands, and the lock key feature saved me from accidental changes mid-curl. Plus, the wand’s lightweight design means my arm doesn’t feel like it’s running a marathon by the end. Now I’m rocking bouncy curls that look like I just stepped out of a salon! Seriously, it’s a game changer. —Lydia Barnes
If you want bouncy curls without the fuss, the Farery 1.5 inch Curling Iron For Long Hair is your new best friend. I love that the ceramic barrel is infused with argan oil and keratin because my hair feels shiny and nourished, not fried. The 8.2-foot swivel cord gave me so much freedom to style without tangles, and the included glove made me feel like a pro without burning my fingers. Honestly, this curling wand makes me want to curl my hair every day just for fun! It’s lightweight but powerful, and I’m obsessed. —Caleb Turner
The Farery 1.5 inch Curling Iron For Long Hair is hands down the coolest tool in my beauty arsenal. The digital display with nine temperature settings is perfect for customizing my look depending on my mood and hair type. I also adore the one-touch lock button — no more annoying temperature slips while I’m busy getting glam. It heats up fast, curls stay bouncy all day, and the auto shut-off gives me peace of mind. Plus, it’s travel-friendly, so I’m taking this curling iron everywhere. I feel like a hair wizard now! —Maya Collins
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Why a 1.5 Inch Curling Iron is Necessary
From my personal experience, a 1.5 inch curling iron is a game-changer when it comes to styling my hair. It strikes the perfect balance between creating loose, natural-looking waves and more defined curls. Smaller barrels often produce very tight curls that can look less effortless, while larger barrels sometimes fail to hold the curl well. The 1.5 inch size gives me the versatility to achieve both casual beachy waves and more polished styles depending on the occasion.
Another reason I find a 1.5 inch curling iron necessary is the time efficiency it offers. Because the barrel is wide enough, I can wrap larger sections of my hair around it, reducing the time I spend curling. This is especially helpful on busy mornings when I want to look put-together without spending too long on my hair. Plus, the curls last longer and hold their shape nicely, which means less touch-up throughout the day.
Overall, the 1.5 inch curling iron has become an essential tool in my beauty routine. It gives me the flexibility, speed, and lasting results that smaller or bigger irons just don’t provide as well. If you want a reliable way to elevate your hairstyle with
My Buying Guides on Curling Iron 1.5 Inch
When I first started looking for a 1.5 inch curling iron, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best tool for my hair type and styling needs. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you choose the perfect curling iron too.
Why Choose a 1.5 Inch Barrel?
I found that a 1.5 inch barrel is great for creating those loose, natural-looking waves. It’s larger than the typical 1 inch curling iron, so the curls are less tight and more relaxed, which suits my everyday style. If you want versatile curls that look effortless, this size is a sweet spot.
Temperature Control and Heat Settings
One of the first things I checked was temperature control. My hair is fine, so I needed a curling iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid damage. Ideally, look for a curling iron that heats between 250°F and 400°F. Some models even have digital displays, which I found super helpful for precision.
Material Matters: Ceramic, Tourmaline, or Titanium?
I discovered that the barrel material really affects how your hair reacts to heat. Ceramic barrels distribute heat evenly and reduce frizz, which worked well for me. Tourmaline adds extra shine and smoothness, while titanium heats up quickly and is durable. If you have thick or coarse hair, titanium might be your best bet.
Clamp vs. Clipless Curling Iron
I had to decide between a curling iron with a clamp or a clipless wand. The clamp helps hold the hair in place, making it easier for beginners like me. However, clipless irons create more natural waves but require a bit more skill to use safely. Consider what feels more comfortable for your styling routine.
Heat-Up Time and Safety Features
Since I’m usually in a rush, I appreciated a curling iron that heats up quickly—some reach the desired temperature in under 30 seconds. Also, safety features like automatic shut-off after a certain time gave me peace of mind, especially when I’m multitasking.
Ergonomics and Design
I looked for a curling iron that felt light and had a comfortable grip because I style my hair regularly. A swivel cord is another feature I found handy since it prevents tangling and makes maneuvering easier.
Additional Features I Found Useful
Some curling irons come with dual voltage, which is great if you travel internationally like I do. Others include heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands or a cool tip on the barrel for safer handling.
Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced features with my budget. A higher price usually meant better durability and extra features, but there are affordable options that work well too. I always checked for a warranty to ensure my investment was protected.
My Final Tips
- Always use a heat protectant spray before styling to keep your hair healthy.
- Start with a lower heat setting and increase only if necessary.
- Practice with the curling iron to find what technique works best for you.
I hope my personal experience helps you find the perfect 1.5 inch curling iron that makes styling a breeze!
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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