Of all the appliances we regularly use, hair dryers are without a doubt some of the loudest ones. I’d even place some of them in the same noise category as vacuum cleaners! That’s why I decided to dedicate this article to finding the best quiet hair dryers on the market.
It’s honestly just a little bit insane, knowing that humans frequently put machines that produce over 80 decibels of noise right next to their ears. Even worse, many people work surrounded by them in hair salons. So to spare all of our ears, some manufacturers have started making hair dryers that produce half or even a quarter of that amount of noise.
Although it may seem obvious to some of us, many people don’t even think about the consequences of exposing themselves to 80 dB of noise. People who have long or thick hair, in particular, tend to spend hours blasting their ears not even caring about the long-term effects of noise pollution. So to begin with, let’s talk about why you might need a hair dryer in the first place.
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Do You Need a Quiet Hair Dryer?
Since blow dryers are some of the biggest noise culprits we allow into our homes, they have to be one of the first loud appliances to go. Now, if you have really short hair, you might as well just towel dry it. It’s definitely better than subjecting yourself to an 80 dB air blast. However, you should get a quiet hair dryer if:
- You frequently wash and dry your hair. If this is the case, you should also probably get a heat protectant spray.
- You have really long or thick hair. It’s a blessing and a curse, I suppose. On the one hand, your luscious locks make all of your friends envious. On the other, you spend a good chunk of the week just drying your hair section by section.
- You work with or around hair dryers for a living. Being surrounded by continuous noise throughout the day is never advisable. However, it’s simply a part of some people’s lives. Still, you might as well make it a bit easier to bear by using quieter hair dryers.
And when it comes right down to it, there’s no reason not to get a quiet hair dryer either. After all, they cost the same and are just as effective as ordinary blow dryers. So even if you’re just mildly irritated with your current dryer, I recommend that you try out one of the ones I’ll review.
But before we get into the reviews, let’s talk about some of the most important features of quiet hair dryers.
What to Look for in Quiet Hair Dryers
As always, before I do product reviews, I’d like to take a moment to focus on finding out what makes a product quiet. This will also allow you to understand the criteria I’ve used when picking out the products in my reviews. So let’s get into it.
Noise Volume
While many quiet hair dryers are listed as such, you may have to learn to discern their loudness based on other factors as well. For example, speed settings are usually a good indicator, since lower speeds tend to be less noisy. Additionally, some brands have managed to bring the noise level down to about 60 decibels by tinkering with the internal fans.
Unfortunately, you’ll mostly have to rely on the description the manufacturer has provided. I’d say that’s better than nothing. It certainly beats having to put up with 80–90 decibels blowing right next to your ears for anywhere between half an hour to two hours.
Heat and Speed Settings
Whenever you’re shopping for hair dryers of any kind, you need to know what kind of heat settings you’ll be working with. Your hair is a fairly fragile thing, so you do need to consider what kind of damage you’re willing to put up with.
Some of the most standard products have hot and cold wind settings, although you may see some that have adjustable temperatures as well. Lately, more and more hair dryers also have “ionic technology” or “negative ion” features. These essentially convert the positive ions found in humid areas into negative ones in order to leave your hair sleek and shiny after you dry it.
Also, fan speed is an important factor to consider as well. As I’ve said, you’ll want to have at least a few options. While the quiet fans on my list should be significantly less noisy than regular ones even at top speeds, having a low-speed setting can help keep the noise down even more.
Power
This is another factor I tend to consider when picking out the best of these quiet products. Having a hair dryer that uses a higher wattage will definitely get your hair dry more quickly. However, you should also be aware that more power usually means more noise.
As you’ll see, I have selected dryers with various wattage levels for my reviews. Still, you shouldn’t automatically go for the lowest wattage. Sure, we’re looking for the quietest dryer, but there are other features to consider as well.
Design
When I say that the design is a key component of picking out a hair dryer, I don’t only mean the general look of the device. While you could consider that part of it to be important, you should also be concerned with more practical aspects of the design.
For example, ask yourself how the hair dryer will handle. Would it fit nicely into your hand? Is its cord long enough for you to reach the outlet from wherever you usually dry your hair? What about the weight of the device?
If you have thick hair and spend a long time with your hair dryer, and especially if you work with hair dryers, having a lightweight but powerful dryer is really important. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time with the device. So you’ll want to pay attention to these features while you shop.
Extra Features
Finally, you’ll also need to consider the extra features you want your quiet hair dryer to have. I’m mostly referring to the types of attachments you want. Some dryers come with concentrators (which are the flat attachments you probably know of), diffusers (the attachments that allow air to circulate through your hair), or combs.
Each of these different attachments can improve your blow drying routine, and some may be really useful, depending on your hair type. However, if you find a hair dryer you like, you shouldn’t necessarily pass on it because it doesn’t have the attachments you wanted. Many of them can be bought separately according to the width of the hair dryer.
Top 12 Best Quiet Hair Dryers in 2023
Now that I’ve presented the features to be on the lookout for when shopping for quiet hair dryers, there’s nothing left to do but present the products.
1. InfinitiPro by Conair 3Q Quiet Hair Dryer With a Brushless Motor
Conair is a trustworthy appliance manufacturer with a decent grip on the beauty and personal care share of the market. As such, the company has several hair dryers that operate fairly quietly — according to most users. However, for this review, I’ve chosen to feature the mid-size InfinitiPro 3Q device.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice that the handle of the hair dryer is close to the middle of the device. That makes the product feel incredibly well-balanced even when you’re using it with the diffuser or concentrator attachments that are included in the package.
Interestingly, the speed and temperature settings are on the left side of the handle, allowing you to access them with your thumb. The cold shot button is in its usual place, near the top at the front of the handle. So you’ll still be able to press it with your index finger. While the cold air solidifies your style, the ionic ceramic technology will keep frizz to a minimum.
This particular hair dryer claims to use up to 70% more air pressure than other Conair products to achieve a faster drying time. Additionally, the device uses patented noise reduction technology that makes it 40% quieter than it would have been without that feature. And thanks to its brushless motor, it should be significantly quieter than its competitors too.
Main Features:
- 1875W brushless AC motor
- HeatProtect technology dries hair uniformly
- 2 speeds and 3 temperatures
- A concentrator and a diffuser
- 7-foot cord
2. Wavytalk Professional Light and Quiet Ionic Hair Dryer
This pretty pink hair dryer from Wavytalk is ideal for those whole enjoy all things girly. The professional-grade device uses ionic technology to create a protective film on the surface of each hair. That way, it adds shine and protects from heat damage.
In my experience, an 1875 Watt motor can dry your hair in just five minutes, depending on the length, of course. At the same time, it ensures a quiet and safe experience for your hearing.
What makes this model so interesting is the ceramic and blue-ray technology. Blue rays are anti-inflammatory and help control the pH balance of your scalp. That way, they prevent dandruff and oily scalp and strengthen roots to minimize hair loss.
The device will also shut off if the temperature becomes too high. Another safety feature I find very useful is the low magnetic wave building technology that reduces electromagnetic field emissions by more than half. That’s why this model is safe for children and pregnant women.
The hair dryer comes with two common attachments: a diffuser and a concentrator. It also sports a removable back filter cover. Likewise, it has three heat settings and two speed settings on the handle’s front side. You’ll also find a negative ion switch and a cool shot button there.
Main Features:
- 1875W motor
- Three heat settings and two speed settings
- A diffuser and a concentrator
- Ionic and blue-rays technology
- Removable back filter cover
3. MHU Professional Salon Grade Low Noise Hair Dryer
The MHU hair dryer is a self-proclaimed low-noise dryer — so let’s see what that entails. Well, just like the previous entries on this list, this product runs on a 1875W AC motor. Its design is more classic than what we’ve seen, it takes us back to the solid black color.
In addition to using the far infrared heat, this hair dryer also uses the negative ion technology we’ve seen in the other devices. On top of that, it too comes with the same nozzles, which include a concentrator and a diffuser.
In addition, you’ve got the similar two-switch and a cooling button system on the handle, which gives you a choice between 2 speeds and 3 heat settings.
However, unlike with the previous products, you do get a bit of an improvement in the cord length, as this device comes with a 9-foot cord. That’s pretty good for a 0.8-pound hair dryer. And of course, you’ll be able to take off the filter in the back and clean the interior.
Main Features:
- 1875W AC motor
- Far infrared heat and negative ion technology
- 2 speeds and 3 temperatures
- A concentrator and a diffuser
- 9-foot cord
4. JINRI Quiet Professional Salon Blow Dryer
This JINRI ionic hair dryer takes all of the features we’ve seen from the previous products on this list and adds something extra: a comb attachment. So other than the standard concentrator and diffuser nozzles, it also comes with a comb attachment to help with detangling.
Like the previous hair dryer I’ve reviewed, this one uses an AC motor that runs on 1875W. It uses far infrared heat which heats up the follicles from the inside out and dries your hair in half the time a traditional dryer would. In addition, this device leaves your hair smooth and shiny thanks to the negative ion emissions.
Like with the last couple of hair dryers, all of the settings are right on the handle. There are two switches that control the power/speed and the heat settings. And there’s also a cool button on the handle.
At only 1.65 pounds, this hair dryer is easy to handle. It even has an 8.6-foot cord which should be more than long enough for anyone. Although the previous few devices weren’t listed as quiet hair dryers, they’re very quiet indeed, at least according to user reviews.
Main Features:
- 1875W AC motor
- Far infrared and negative ion function
- 2 speeds and 3 temperatures
- A concentrator, a diffuser, and a comb nozzle
- 8.6-foot cord
5. Xpoliman Salon Low Noise Blow Dryer
Xpoliman is a well-known brand that uses cutting-edge technology to deliver amazing styling products, such as this Salon Hair Blow Dryer. You’ll notice right away the unique two-color design: the front of the device is white, while the back part is dark blue. The impression it gives away is both modern and elegant.
This hair dryer has a 2000 Watt motor for fast drying without damage. But that doesn’t mean it’s loud — according to reviews, it’s pretty quiet for such a powerful machine. It also includes advanced tourmaline and infrared technology. That means it reduces static and frizz, locking in moisture.
It holds three heat settings and two speed settings. The cooling button is above them in its usual place on the handle’s front side. I also find that this model has a practical ergonomic non-slip handle.
This hair dryer is so amazing because it includes a safety plug. The plug automatically activates if the leakage of electricity or a short circuit. That’s why I think it is a great choice for those who have had similar accidents in the past — it’ll give you peace of mind. There’s also a removable air filter you can easily clean.
Xpoliman went all in with this hair dryer. Not only do you get a good quality, safe device, but also four bonus attachments. Aside from the usual diffuser, concentrator, and comb attachments, there’s also a wide-tooth comb.
That said, you might want to know that this hair dryer is a bit on the heavy side — it weighs 2.2 pounds. The cord is also only 6.6 feet long, so I believe it is not so practical for salon use.
Main Features:
- 2000W motor
- Three heat settings and two speed settings
- Comes with four attachments
- Ionic Ceramic Technology
- Safety plug
6. Chic Republic Professional Ionic Hair Dryer
The sleek, matte black build makes this Chic Republic hair dryer look fairly unassuming. But upon second glance, you’ll see that most of the people who’ve used it have had positive experiences.
Like most of the dryers on this list, this one uses ceramic and ionic technology to dry hair quickly while protecting it from heat damage. However, the device can’t get too hot. Even so, it’ll let you know when you’re using the hot and cold settings by changing the color of the indicator light on the side.
Despite the 9-foot long cord, which adds some bulk to the product, the device weighs in at under 1.5 pounds. So it should be fairly easy to travel with and use. All of the controls are situated at the front of the handle. You’ll get to choose between two airflow speeds and four heat settings — and the cold shot button is right at the top.
The hair dryer does come with two attachments, but they’re both concentrator nozzles of varying widths. So if you like the idea of having an extra attachment or matching different brushes with different nozzles, this product is the one for you.
Main Features:
- 1875W AC motor
- Ionic ceramic hair dryer
- 2 speeds and 4 temperatures
- 2 concentrator nozzles
- 9-foot cord
7. Centrix Q-Zone Dryer
The Centrix Q-Zone hair dryer inches us a bit closer to the most unique hair dryer design on my list. Frankly, this thing looks a bit like an alien spaceship — in the best of ways, of course. Besides, even if the funky appearance bothers you, it’s more than worth the noise reducing technology packed inside the plastic shell. The noise this hair dryer produces is a lower frequency than the one you hear from your regular hair dryer.
The ceramic tourmaline heat will get your hair dry in a jiffy, and the ionic technology will keep it silky smooth. You’ve got switch settings in the back of the handle where you can choose from 2 speeds and 3 temperatures. The instant cold button is right where it should be, near the top of the handle in the front.
Unlike all of the other hair dryers I’ve reviewed, this one seems to run on a 1500W motor. So if a lower power signifies a quieter device, this is one of the quietest hair dryers on the market. But then, so are all of the other ones on this list. It’s also one of the most lightweight devices, at only 1.5 pounds.
Main Features:
- 1500W motor
- Ceramic tourmaline and ionic technology
- 2 speeds and 3 temperatures
- Comes with one concentrator
8. Revlon 1875w Infrared Heat Hair Dryer
If you needed proof that a brand name device can come at an affordable price point, this Revlon hair dryer is it! Not only is it the pinnacle of quiet performance, but it also comes with both a concentrator and a diffuser. What’s more, the hair dryer also comes with three hair sectioning clips, to help you achieve the perfect blowout.
This device has two speeds and two heat settings accessible through the switch buttons on the back of the handle. Since this is an infrared hair dryer, it’ll heat your hair evenly without damaging it. Moreover, the tool will release ions that reduce frizz and enhance shine. And as always, you’ll be able to set your style by using the cold shot button at the front of the handle.
Now, I’d like to spare a moment for the design of this model. It’s mostly white, with gray accents. The filter at the back has a unique shape, giving the hair dryer a futuristic appearance, which is further exemplified by the transparent attachments.
The only drawback of this device is the length of its cord, which is on the shorter side, at 6 feet long. Still, there are ways to work around that if you want to experience the benefits this product offers.
Main Features:
- 1875W motor
- Tourmaline ceramic hair dryer with ionic technology
- 2 speeds and 2 temperatures
- A concentrator, a diffuser, and three clips
- 6-foot cord
9. Rusk Engineering w8less Professional Hair Dryer
Next up, we have the Rusk Engineering w8less model. If you’re annoyed by the lesser power of 1875-Watt hair dryers, you may like this device. However, since it has a slightly stronger, 2000-Watt motor, it may be a tiny bit louder than the others we’ve seen. Still, it’s quiet enough to land on this list!
Of course, that’s not its main claim to fame. As the name of this product suggests, its weight is its crowning glory. Since this hair dryer weighs just under a pound, it’s perfect for professional stylists or anyone who takes their wash day seriously. Additionally, the 8-foot long cord is another feature that makes this device perfect for salon use.
Now, like many hair dryers on this list, this one is infused with ceramic and tourmaline. Essentially, it uses infrared waves to evenly distribute heat over the hair, thereby preventing uncomfortable or painful hot spots. Of course, you could also avoid that by lowering the temperature of the blast. The model has two speeds and three heat settings — in addition to the cold shot button.
In any case, infrared dryers tend to dry hair faster than traditional ones. So even if the sound of the dryer is annoying, you won’t have to put up with it for long.
Main Features:
- 2000W AC motor
- Tourmaline ceramic and ionic hair dryer
- 2 speeds and 3 temperatures
- One concentrator attachment
8-foot cord
10. Hot Tools Professional 2100 Superlite and Quiet Ionic Turbo Hair Dryer
Another device that deserves a spot on our list is the 2100 Superlite and Quiet Ionic Turbo Hair Dryer from Hot Tools Professional. With its 1875 Watt motor, it promises a quiet but powerful airflow. I recommend it to everyone looking for a quiet and lightweight hair dryer.
This hair dryer comes in black color, and its design is pretty much what you usually see in similar devices. But the reason I placed this model further down the list is the handle position. As you can see, the handle is placed more to the right compared to being more to the middle. That means your hand could easily tire after longer use.
There are three heat options and two speeds. The settings are placed on the front part of the handle, meaning you can easily reach them with your index finger. Of course, the cold shot button is on the top to help you set your hairstyle.
This hair dryer weighs 1.9 pounds, which is light enough to use for a prolonged time. The cord is 8 feet long, giving you enough room to maneuver.
If you decide to buy it, you will also get a concentrator and a comb, making it perfect for smoothing out frizzy hair. Also, the ionic technology will help you get that shiny finish. However, there’s no diffuser. So, if you need one, you might want to skip this model.
Main Features:
- 1875W motor
- Ionic technology
- Two speeds and three temperatures
- Comes with a concentrator and a comb
- 8 feet cord
11. Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer
Finally, we’ve reached the most innovative design out of the lot. The Dyson Supersonic hair dryer has already inspired copycat products. However, if you find the brand name familiar, you may also know them as the manufacturers behind some of the best quiet air purifiers, fans, and even vacuum cleaners. They seem to have figured out the exact formula they need for soundless airflow.
Dyson is also pretty famous for the specific design they use across their different product lines. All of their fans and hair dryers utilize the same Air Multiplier technology which leaves the head of the devices empty in the middle — sort of donut-shaped. The air comes in through the open head, although the device itself is powered by the strong but silent Dyson V9 digital motor inside the handle.
The Dyson Supersonic hair dryer also comes with several magnetic attachments, including two concentration nozzles and one diffuser. It also lets you choose between 3 speed settings and 4 heat settings (82, 140, 176, and 212°F). There’s even a cold shot button in the front.
Unlike many of the previous devices I’ve talked about, this one is also available in two color choices — white and silver, and iron and fuchsia. And you can even get it with a matching storage bag.
Main Features:
- Dyson V9 digital motor
- Air Multiplier technology
- 3 speeds and 4 temperatures
- 2 magnetic concentration nozzles and 1 diffuser
12. Andis 30975 Quiet Turbo Wall-Mounted Hair Dryer With Night Light
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to highlight a different kind of hair dryer by reviewing the Andis 30975 wall-mounted unit. Having already reviewed this company’s quiet hair clipper, I suspected that this hair dryer was going to be a winner. Luckily, I was right!
Despite its complicated appearance, this hair dryer is one of the most basic units on this list. It has only two temperature settings — hot and cool — and no cold shot button in sight. Notably, it doesn’t even have any attachments. Still, if you’re looking for quiet performance, the 1600-Watt motor in this device should have you covered.
However, it can also double as your bathroom night light, as it has a bright LED build into the wall mount. Thankfully, the light is long-lasting and energy-efficient so it shouldn’t rack up your bills. Since the hair dryer will be plugged into the nearest outlet all the time, the manufacturer also incorporated shock protection that should keep you safe in the event of an electric surge.
Main Features:
- 1600W AC motor
- Wall-mounted hair dryer with built-in shock protection
- Doubles as a night light
- 2 temperature settings
- Spiral cord allows movement
Final Thoughts on Quiet Hair Dryers
As you can see, there are plenty of hair dryers that are quieter than the one you may be using at home. Some of them are marketed as such, while others are word-of-mouth recommendations between users or hair stylists and their clients. At this point, though, you could probably find quiet hair dryers on your own. So why not do it right now?
After all, investing in quiet devices is the best way to keep your home distraction-free. You deserve a bit of peace of quiet. And you’d be surprised how many appliances don’t need to be as loud as they are.
Even kitchen blenders can be quieter if brands start trying to make them so. And if you want to know about some other quiet products, you can check out some of my other reviews.
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