The Dyson Airwrap has become more than just a hair tool—it’s a cultural moment. From viral TikTok tutorials to salon-worthy results at home, the HS01 and HS05 models have redefined what we expect from at-home styling. But with new model numbers like HS01 vs HS05, confusion runs high: is the HS05 just a rebranded version of the original, or does it bring real upgrades worth the extra $100? If you’re trying to decide whether to buy, upgrade, or stick with what you have, you’re not alone. The jump from $550 to $650 isn’t small, and you want to know if you’re paying for innovation—or just a slick app.
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This isn’t just about technical specs. It’s about how each model performs in your bathroom, with your hair type, on busy mornings. The Dyson Airwrap HS01 built the foundation with its revolutionary Coanda airflow and intelligent heat control. The HS05 (Airwrap i.d.) enters as the “smart” evolution, promising automated curls, personalized settings, and a smoother learning curve. But does it deliver on that promise? We’ll break down everything from design and attachments to real-world performance and long-term value, so you can decide which model—HS01 or HS05—actually fits your routine, budget, and styling goals.
Why This Comparison Matters Right Now
The Dyson Airwrap isn’t just another hair tool—it’s a cult favorite that’s changed how millions style their hair. But as Dyson rolls out new versions under different model numbers like HS01 and HS05, clarity is in short supply. Are these just regional SKUs, or is there a meaningful difference? The answer matters, especially when we’re talking about a $100 price jump. The HS01 represents the original Airwrap experience—the one that started the trend. The HS05, marketed as the Airwrap i.d., is Dyson’s first “connected” styling tool, packed with app-driven features and a redesigned conical barrel. But does smarter tech actually translate to better hair days?
This comparison cuts through the marketing noise. We’re not just listing specs—we’re asking whether the HS05’s innovations solve real problems the HS01 left behind. For example: if you’ve ever struggled with inconsistent curls, frizz at the roots, or a steep learning curve, the HS05 might be worth the investment. But if you already own an HS01 and love it, or you’re not into app-dependent devices, the upgrade might feel unnecessary. The HS01 still delivers professional results—it just asks more from you in return. So as Dyson pushes the Airwrap into the smart-device era, we’re here to answer the real question: Is the HS05 a meaningful upgrade, or just the same tool with a Bluetooth chip?
Does the HS05 Deliver Smarter, More Consistent Styling?
When it comes to actual styling performance, the difference between the HS01 and HS05 isn’t about power—it’s about precision. Both models use the same powerful Dyson Digital Motor V9, generate identical airflow (13.5 L/s), and cap heat at 302°F to protect hair. But where they diverge is in how they apply that power. The HS01 relies on your technique. You manually select heat, airflow, and timing, then hold each section for 8–12 seconds before releasing. It works beautifully—if you’ve practiced. But for beginners, it can lead to uneven curls, flat waves, or over-styled ends.
The HS05 changes that with i.d. curl™ technology. Once paired with the MyDyson app, it creates a personalized styling profile based on your hair length, thickness, and styling goal. When you press the power button, it runs an automated sequence: wrap, style, cold shot, and release—all timed precisely for your hair type. No guessing. No over-curling. Users report tighter, more uniform curls, especially near the roots, where the HS01 often falls short. This is largely thanks to the conical barrel, which tapers to grip shorter sections and create volume at the scalp.
Real-World Performance: Who Actually Benefits?
- Beginners: The HS05 is a clear winner. The app guides you step-by-step, reducing frustration and failed styling sessions. If you’ve ever watched a YouTube tutorial and still ended up with limp curls, the HS05’s automation removes the guesswork.
- Experienced users: Some prefer the manual control of the HS01. They’ve mastered their timing and tension, and don’t want to rely on a phone. For them, the HS05 offers convenience but not a dramatic performance leap.
- Curly or coily hair: Both models work best on damp, not soaking wet hair. But the HS05’s conical barrel and app guidance help define curls with less frizz. The anti-snag loop brush (included in some HS05 kits) also improves comfort on textured hair.
- Fine vs. thick hair: The HS01 handles both well with the right attachments. But the HS05’s adaptive feedback via the app helps fine-haired users avoid over-styling, while thick-haired users benefit from consistent timing.
🏆 Section Winner: HS05 – It doesn’t style hotter or faster, but it styles smarter. If you’ve ever struggled with inconsistent results on the HS01, the HS05’s automation and conical barrel are worth the upgrade.
Check the latest price of [Dyson Airwrap HS05] on Amazon [link]
Same Core Tech, Subtle but Meaningful Design Shifts
At their core, the HS01 and HS05 share the same DNA. Both use the Dyson Digital Motor V9, spinning at 110,000 RPM to generate 13.5 L/s of airflow. They feature intelligent heat control (40 readings per second), the Coanda effect for airflow-based styling, and a built-in ionizer to reduce static. The power draw (1300W), cord length (8.5 ft), and weight (~1.4 lbs) are identical. In hand, they feel the same—same matte finish, same button layout, same solid build quality.
But the HS05 isn’t just a rebrand. It introduces meaningful refinements that improve usability:
- Conical Airwrap Barrel (HS05 only): This is a game-changer. The tapered tip allows you to style closer to the scalp, creating root volume and tighter curls. The HS01 uses straight 1.2″ and 1.6″ barrels, which can struggle with short sections near the crown.
- 2-in-1 Dryer + Flyaway Smoother (HS05): Replaces the older Coanda smoothing dryer. It dries hair quickly and can be used on finished styles to tame flyaways—making it more versatile than the HS01’s version.
- App Integration (HS05 only): Bluetooth® connects to the MyDyson app for tutorials, maintenance alerts, and real-time feedback during styling. The app shows your current heat and airflow settings, helping you stay consistent.
- Presentation Case (HS05): More premium than the HS01’s travel case, with a magnetic closure and better internal organization. It feels more like a luxury beauty tool than a hair dryer.
The HS05 isn’t a redesign—it’s a refinement. The core technology is unchanged, but the conical barrel and smarter dryer offer real functional upgrades, not just aesthetic tweaks.
🏆 Section Winner: HS05 – While the motor and airflow are identical, the conical barrel and 2-in-1 dryer give the HS05 a clear edge in versatility and styling precision.
Features That Actually Matter: App vs. Autonomy
The biggest difference between the HS01 and HS05 isn’t in the hardware—it’s in the software. The HS05 is Dyson’s first “connected” Airwrap, and that connectivity unlocks features that solve real pain points.
HS05: The First “Connected” Airwrap
- i.d. Curl™ Technology: After inputting your hair type and goal into the MyDyson app, the device runs a personalized curling sequence. Push one button, and it guides you through wrap, style, cool-down, and release. No more guessing how long to hold each section.
- Maintenance Alerts: Get notified when it’s time to clean the filter—critical for maintaining airflow and performance.
- Styling Library: Step-by-step video guides for mermaid waves, 90s blowouts, sleek bobs, and more.
- Live Settings Display: See heat and airflow levels on your phone screen in real time—useful for consistency.
But there’s a catch: the smart features require the app. No Bluetooth? No automation. The HS05 reverts to manual mode, just like the HS01.
HS01: All Manual, All the Time
No app. No notifications. No setup. You plug it in, attach the tool, and go. Some users prefer this simplicity—no pairing, no updates, no dependency on your phone. If you’ve already mastered your routine, the HS01 offers total autonomy.
Practical Value: Who Needs the App?
- Yes, get HS05 if: You’re new to the Airwrap, have curly or fine hair that’s hard to style, or want consistent results without trial and error.
- Stick with HS01 if: You already know your settings, don’t want to rely on your phone, or are on a tighter budget.
The app isn’t a gimmick—it solves real problems like inconsistent curls and over-styling. But it’s only valuable if you’ll use it.
🏆 Section Winner: HS05 – The app adds real value for beginners and tech-friendly users. But if you hate app dependency, the HS01’s simplicity wins.
See current deals on [Dyson Airwrap HS01] here [link]
What’s in the Box? HS05 Offers More, But HS01 Kits Can Match Up
What you get in the box depends on the specific kit, not just the model number. Let’s break it down.
Dyson Airwrap HS05 (i.d. Multi-Styler, Straight+Wavy) Includes:
- Conical Airwrap Barrel
- 1.6″ Airwrap Long Barrel
- Dryer + Flyaway Smoother
- Fast Dryer
- Large Round Volumizing Brush
- Soft Smoothing Brush
- Filter Cleaning Brush
- Presentation Case
Dyson Airwrap HS01 (Complete Long Kit) Includes:
- 1.6″ and 1.2″ Airwrap Barrels (x2 each, bi-directional)
- Firm and Soft Smoothing Brushes
- Round Volumizing Brush
- Coanda Smoothing Dryer
- Fast Dryer
- Filter Cleaning Brush
- Travel Case
Key Differences:
- HS05 has the conical barrel and smarter dryer, but no 1.2″ barrel—a favorite for tight curls.
- HS01 includes both barrel sizes, making it better for mixed curl patterns or users who want more styling options.
- HS05 lacks a firm brush in some kits—only includes the soft smoothing brush, which may not be enough for thick or coarse hair.
- HS01 kits often include more attachments, especially in “Complete Long” bundles.
Good to Know: The HS05’s conical barrel can create tighter curls than the 1.2″, but some users miss the precision of the smaller barrel. Also, all attachments are cross-compatible, so you can mix and match.
🏆 Section Winner: HS01 (Complete Long Kit) – It includes more attachments, especially the 1.2″ barrel and firm brush, giving you greater styling flexibility out of the box.
How They Feel to Use Every Day: Learning Curve vs. Automation
HS01: A Skill to Master
- Setup: Plug in, attach tool, choose settings. Simple.
- Learning Curve: Steep. First-time users often report curls that fall flat or look uneven. It can take 15–30 minutes of practice to get the hang of tension and timing.
- Daily Use: Once mastered, many achieve full styles in 10–15 minutes.
- Controls: Physical buttons only. Full control, but unforgiving if you mis-time curls.
HS05: Guided, But Phone-Dependent
- Setup: Pair with app, create hair profile, sync device. Takes 5–10 minutes the first time.
- Learning Curve: Flattened. The app walks you through each step, reducing frustration.
- Daily Use: Slightly slower due to app interaction, but more consistent results.
- Controls: Same physical buttons, but now synced to automated sequences.
Real Talk: The HS05 doesn’t eliminate effort—it shifts it from technique to setup. You trade muscle memory for app onboarding. If you’re willing to invest in the initial setup, the payoff is more consistent styling.
🏆 Section Winner: HS05 – It’s better for daily consistency, especially if you’re not a styling pro.
Keeping It Clean: Maintenance Is Nearly Identical
Both models require:
– Monthly filter cleaning (brush included)
– Wiping attachments with a dry cloth
– Avoiding water exposure to the motor
– Storing in a dry, cool place
The only difference? The HS05 adds app reminders for filter cleaning and firmware updates. These are helpful but not essential.
Firmware updates via the app are rare, and the motor and build quality are similar. Both carry a 2-year warranty, and long-term durability is comparable. Some users report motor issues after 1–2 years, but this affects both models.
Verdict: Maintenance is nearly identical. The HS05’s app reminders are nice, but not a deciding factor.
Side-by-Side Specs: HS01 vs HS05
| Feature | Dyson Airwrap HS01 (Original) | Dyson Airwrap HS05 (i.d.) |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | Airwrap Complete Long / Origin | Airwrap i.d. Multi-Styler |
| Price (New) | $549.99–$620 | $649.99 |
| Model Number | HS01 (inferred) | HS05 |
| Motor | Dyson Digital Motor V9 | Dyson Digital Motor V9 |
| Airflow | 13.5 L/s | 13.5 L/s |
| Heat Settings | 3 (max 302°F) | 3 (max 302°F) |
| Fan Speeds | 3 | 3 |
| Cord Length | 8.5 ft | 8.5 ft |
| Weight | ~1.4 lbs | ~1.4 lbs |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No | Yes |
| MyDyson App Integration | No | Yes |
| Automated Curling | No | Yes (via app) |
| Conical Barrel | No | Yes |
| 1.2″ Barrel | Yes (in Complete kits) | No |
| 1.6″ Barrel | Yes | Yes |
| Smoothing Dryer | Coanda Smoothing Dryer | Dryer + Flyaway Smoother (2-in-1) |
| Brushes Included | Firm, Soft, Round Volumizing | Soft, Large Round Volumizing (varies) |
| Case | Travel Case | Premium Presentation Case |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Refurbished Option | Yes (~$330) | Limited |
Verdict: So, Which One Should You Actually Buy?
Winner: Dyson Airwrap HS05 (i.d.) – But Only If You’ll Use the App
The HS05 isn’t a revolution—it’s a thoughtful evolution. It fixes the biggest complaint about the HS01: inconsistency. If you’ve ever struggled with uneven curls or given up after a frustrating first try, the HS05’s automated sequences and app guidance are worth the $100 premium.
But if you:
– Already own an HS01 and love it,
– Prefer full manual control,
– Don’t want to rely on your phone,
– Or are on a tighter budget,
…then the HS01 (or even a refurbished HS05) is still an excellent choice. The core technology is identical, and with practice, it delivers the same beautiful results.
Who Should Buy Which?
| Buyer Type | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner or frustrated HS01 user | HS05 | Automation removes guesswork |
| Tech-savvy, app-friendly user | HS05 | Personalized feedback = better results |
| Experienced Airwrap user | HS01 (or keep what you have) | No need to upgrade for minor gains |
| Budget-conscious shopper | HS01 (refurbished HS05 ~$330) | Same motor, half the price |
| Curly or fine-haired user | HS05 | Conical barrel + app = better definition |
| User who wants all barrel sizes | HS01 | Includes 1.2″ and 1.6″ barrels |
Final Thought:
The Dyson Airwrap HS05 isn’t for everyone—but if you’ve ever wished your Airwrap could just figure it out for you, this is the closest thing to magic yet.
View [Dyson Airwrap HS05] on Amazon [link]
