
Our expert testers at BeautiLAB Studio rigorously evaluated Drybar’s Shot Collection (Double, Single, and Half Shot) for weeks. Using measured data on heat, noise, styling speed, and ergonomics, we’ve translated our hands-on testing into actionable recommendations to help you pick the ideal hot air brush.
✨ Quick Verdict: Best Match for Your Hair
- Double Shot: Maximum volume, best for medium-to-long hair.
- Single Shot: Versatile for curls, waves, and smoothing medium-length hair.
- Half Shot: Ideal for precision styling, short hairstyles, and tighter curls.
🌟 Drybar Double Shot: Best for Volume & Speed
Perfect for: Medium-to-long hair that needs maximum lift and fast styling.
Key Features:
- Oval barrel (2.4”) maximizes root lift and reduces tension.
- Powerful airflow (1170W) for quick drying.
- Best suited for thicker, longer hair.
👍 Pros:
- Fastest drying speed tested.
- Large oval barrel provides excellent volume.
- Quieter styling experience (91 dBA).
👎 Cons:
- Less curl definition compared to round barrels.
- Not ideal for shorter hairstyles.
👉 Read our Full Drybar The Double Shot Review
💎 Drybar Single Shot: Versatile & Powerful
Perfect for: Medium-length hair; versatile styling from waves to straight.
Key Features:
- Medium-sized round barrel (2”) for defined curls and smooth finishes.
- Balanced airflow at 1140W, strong grip bristles.
- Higher heat output (up to 225°F), ideal for thicker hair textures.
👍 Pros:
- Versatile for multiple hairstyles.
- Effective curl stretching and definition.
- Balanced weight (15 oz) for comfortable styling.
👎 Cons:
- Higher heat may be too intense for fragile hair.
- Less gentle compared to oval design.
✨ Drybar Half Shot: Precise Styling Control
Perfect for: Short hair, precision styling, and coily textures.
Key Features:
- Smallest round barrel (1.5”) delivers precise control and strong tension.
- Lightweight design (13 oz) minimizes arm fatigue.
- Highest-density bristles provide maximum control.
👍 Pros:
- Ideal for short hairstyles (pixies, bobs).
- Lightweight comfort during extended styling.
- Excellent for precision smoothing and tight curls.
👎 Cons:
- Less efficient for styling long hair.
- Loudest brush of the three (93 dBA).
📋 Quick Comparison Table
Feature | Double Shot | Single Shot | Half Shot |
---|---|---|---|
Price | $155 | $155 | |
Wattage | 1170W | 1140W | 1100W |
Barrel | Oval (2.4”) | Round (2”) | Round (1.5”) |
Weight | 15.4 oz | 15 oz | 13 oz |
Heat Range | 180–210°F | 200–225°F | 180–210°F |
Noise | Quiet (91 dBA) | Quiet (91 dBA) | Louder (93 dBA) |
Cord | 9 ft swivel | 9 ft swivel | 9 ft swivel |
Warranty | 2 Years | 2 Years | 2 Years |
🔥 Detailed Performance Breakdown
🌀 Barrel Shape & Styling Performance
- Oval Barrel (Double Shot, 2.4″): Provides less tension, gentler styling, and maximum volume. Best for fine-to-medium hair and blowouts with bounce.
- Round Barrel (Single Shot, 2″): Adds stronger tension, making it better for smoothing stubborn textures, polishing ends, and creating bouncy curls.
- Mini Round Barrel (Half Shot, 1.5″): The smallest option, designed for short hair, layered cuts, or precise curl definition.
Quick Tip:
- Oval barrels = gentler styling & volume.
- Round barrels = curl definition & tension for coarse strands.
Heat & Airflow
Double Shot (1170W):
- Heat Range: ~180°F (low) – ~210°F (high)
- Airflow: Strongest of the three, dries quickest with gentler max heat.
- Handle Temp: ~92°F after 30 minutes — warm but comfortable.
- Verdict: Best for fine-to-medium hair, smooth finishes without excessive heat.
Single Shot (1140W):
- Heat Range: ~200°F (low) – ~225°F (high)
- Airflow: Concentrated, with higher heat output.
- Handle Temp: ~94°F after 30 minutes — slightly warmer but still safe.
- Verdict: Suited for thick or coarse hair needing extra control and smoothing.
Half Shot (1100W):
- Heat Range: ~180°F (low) – ~210°F (high)
- Airflow: Balanced, precise for smaller sections.
- Handle Temp: ~91°F after 30 minutes — coolest of the three, ergonomic for longer sessions.
- Verdict: Ideal for short hair, layers, or textured strands needing root access.
Ionic Technology
All Drybar Shot models feature ionic technology, effectively reducing frizz, static, and enhancing hair shine.
🔨 Build Quality & Durability
Drybar consistently delivers high-end build quality, using premium materials that are durable for daily use. All three Shot models provide reliable, long-term performance.
🌍 Ergonomics & Ease of Use
Weight & Comfort
Double Shot:
- Weight: 15.4 oz — slightly heavier, but still comfortable to use.
- Tool Length: 13.75″ — provides extended reach for crown and back sections.
- Handle Width: 1.55″ — slim enough for most hands, offering stable grip.
- Verdict: A bit heavier, but well-balanced — comfortable for longer blowouts without strain.
Single Shot:
- Weight: 15 oz — moderate heft, easy to manage during styling.
- Tool Length: 13.75″ — standard size, suitable for shoulder-length and longer hair.
- Handle Width: 1.55″ — ergonomic and steady in hand.
- Verdict: Balanced in weight and grip — a solid middle ground for everyday comfort.
Half Shot:
- Weight: 13 oz — the lightest of the lineup, reduces arm fatigue.
- Tool Length: 13.75″ — compact enough for maneuverability near the scalp.
- Handle Width: 1.5″ — slightly slimmer, ideal for smaller hands.
- Verdict: Lightest and easiest to handle — best choice if comfort and fatigue reduction are priorities.
Noise Levels
- Double & Single Shots: Quietest tested at 91 dBA.
- Half Shot: Noticeably louder at 93 dBA—may impact sensitive users.
Cord Convenience
All models feature an extra-long 9 ft swivel cord, providing excellent flexibility and freedom of movement.
💰 Price & Value Considerations
All priced at $155, the Shot Collection offers premium performance and longevity. While not budget options, each delivers exceptional value based on specific styling needs.
📸 Real-World Testing Results
Our hands-on tests revealed:
- Double Shot: Excellent volume on medium-to-long hair; gentle tension minimized breakage risk.
- Single Shot: Highly versatile, effectively smoothing medium-length hair and adding bounce.
- Half Shot: Best control and precision for short styles and tighter curls.
🥇 Final Buying Recommendations
✅ Choose Double Shot if:
- Your main goal is volume and fast styling.
- You have medium-to-long hair and prefer gentler heat.
✅ Choose Single Shot if:
- You want versatile styling options.
- Your hair texture is medium-to-thick and you benefit from higher heat.
✅ Choose Half Shot if:
- Your priority is precision control for short hairstyles.
- You prefer the lightest, easiest-to-handle brush.
We tested both models to help you decide which one is best for your styling needs. For other options, check out our Best Hot Air Brushes.
Want to know how we test? Read our full methodology here.