For many consumers, achieving a salon-style finish at home can feel out of reach due to the high cost of premium styling tools.
Now, one major retailer has introduced a new product that’s generating interest for its budget-friendly approach to home styling.
The product in question is a $59 hair tool that’s drawing attention for its similarities to a more expensive, well-known alternative.
Kmart, known for its affordable everyday items, has released the $59 Air Styler—a device some shoppers have compared to the $849 Dyson Airwrap, albeit with noticeable differences in features and build.
Lisa Davenport, a savvy Kmart shopper, recently took to social media to share her experience with the Air Styler, and her review has sparked a wave of excitement.
‘I was curious but a little sceptical at first,’ Lisa admits. ‘It’s hard not to be when you’re comparing a $59 styler to something that’s over $800!’
But after unboxing the tool and seeing its range of attachments and sleek design, her doubts began to fade. ‘It looked great and didn’t feel like a ‘cheap’ tool,’ she says.
A budget-friendly blowout
For those of us who remember the days of wrestling with round brushes and clunky hairdryers, the promise of a salon-style blowout at home—and on a budget—sounds almost too good to be true.
Lisa says the Kmart Air Styler delivers on that promise. ‘It’s a great pick and a must-have,’ she enthuses.
‘It’s not going to replace the Dyson for everyone, but for the price? It’s pretty impressive!
For anyone who’s always wanted the Dyson but couldn’t justify the splurge—this is such a good alternative and must-have!’
Lisa’s favourite feature? The speed. ‘I love how quick it is. I can go from wet hair to styled in under 20 minutes. It really does create that smooth, bouncy blow-dry look without much effort. And the fact that it mimics the Dyson style airflow for just $59—a win for anyone who wants the look without the luxury price tag.’
How does it stack up?
Of course, at a fraction of the price, there are bound to be some differences. Lisa is quick to point out that while the Kmart version doesn’t feel quite as luxe as the Dyson, it’s far from flimsy.
‘The attachments click in securely, the airflow is strong, and it handled my hair better than I expected. For under $60, it punches well above its weight!’
There are a few trade-offs, though. ‘It’s a little louder than the Dyson, and I noticed it gets quite hot on the highest setting—so you just have to be mindful of that when styling. It also doesn’t have the same level of tech or smoothing power as the Dyson, but that’s to be expected, I think, with the price point.’
What do the experts say?
It’s not just everyday shoppers who are impressed. One follower, a professional hairstylist, commented, ‘Have to say as a hairstylist that is pretty good!’
Others echoed the sentiment, with one saying, ‘I purchased mine, and I am getting fantastic results!’ and another declaring, ‘Best purchase in years.’
The Kmart effect
Kmart has a knack for democratising luxury, and this Air Styler is just the latest example. As one commenter put it, ‘If you need anything, just wait till Kmart brings its version of that.’
Another added, ‘Dyson is so ridiculously overpriced.’ It’s clear that for many, the Kmart dupe is more than just a budget buy—it’s a game-changer.
Whether you’re a long-time Dyson fan or exploring budget-friendly alternatives, it’s always helpful to hear how different products perform in everyday use.
What features matter most to you when choosing a styling tool? Have you tried the Kmart Air Styler or another budget beauty dupe? How did it stack up against the high-end original? Share your experiences in the comments below.
Also read: Kmart shoppers swear by this $12 gadget to beat cold office days
