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Drybar Double Shot vs. Single Shot vs. Half Shot Comparison [2025]: Find Your Perfect Match

Drybar Double Shot vs. Single Shot vs. Half Shot Comparison featured
Every detail of Drybar The Shot Collection has been compared at BeautiLAB Studio. ©BeautiLAB

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.

👉 Read our Full Drybar The Single Shot Review


✨ 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).

👉 Read our Full Drybar The Half Shot Review


📋 Quick Comparison Table

FeatureDouble ShotSingle ShotHalf Shot
Price$155$155
Wattage1170W1140W1100W
BarrelOval (2.4”)Round (2”)Round (1.5”)
Weight15.4 oz15 oz13 oz
Heat Range180–210°F200–225°F180–210°F
NoiseQuiet (91 dBA)Quiet (91 dBA)Louder (93 dBA)
Cord9 ft swivel9 ft swivel9 ft swivel
Warranty2 Years2 Years2 Years
Drybar Double Shot vs. Single Shot vs. Half Shot barrels

🔥 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.
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-barrel-width
The Double Shot Barrel Width measured at 2.4″, oval-shaped and ideal for smoothing and boosting volume on long hair. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-barrel-width
The Single Shot Barrel Width measured at 2″, round shape offers more tension — great for bounce and smoothing curls. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-barrel-width
The Half Shot Barrel Width measured at 1.5″, smallest in the series — perfect for short hair and creating defined curls. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-brush-section-length
The Double Shot Brush Section Length measured at 3.9″, offering wide surface coverage for fast styling. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-brush-section-length
The Single Shot Brush Section Length measured at 3.9″, well-balanced for medium to long hair. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-section-length
The Half Shot Brush Section Length measured at 3.9″, compact yet long enough for controlled styling on short cuts. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-bristle-lengths
The Double Shot Bristle Lengths: 1 cm (tufted) and 2 cm (nylon pins) — ideal for gentle detangling and smoothing. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-bristle-length
The Single Shot Bristle Lengths: 1 cm (tufted) and 2.1 cm (nylon pins) — spaced wider for strong grip and curl definition. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-bristle-length
The Half Shot Bristle Lengths: 1.1 cm (tufted) and 2.2 cm (nylon pins) — great for gripping coarse or short strands with high tension. ©BeautiLAB

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.
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-high-heat-setting-temperature
The Double Shot High Heat Setting measured at ~210°F, ideal for smoothing fine to medium hair with less risk of damage. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-high-heat-setting-temperature
The Single Shot High Heat Setting measured at ~225°F, offering stronger heat output for taming thicker, coarser strands. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-high-heat-setting-temperature
The Half Shot High Heat Setting measured at ~210°F, balancing volume and smoothing power for short to medium hair. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-low-heat-setting-temperature
The Double Shot Low Heat Setting measured at ~180°F, a gentle option for fine or damaged hair. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-low-heat-setting-temperature
The Single Shot Low Heat Setting measured at ~200°F, warm enough for efficient styling on medium-density strands. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-low-heat-setting-temperature
The Half Shot Low Heat Setting measured at ~180°F, safe and effective for delicate textures or short layers. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-handle-temperature
The Handle Temperature of The Double Shot was Measured at 90°F after 30 minutes — comfortably warm for extended styling. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-handle-temperature
The Handle Temperature of The Single Shot was Measured at 90°F, remaining cool enough for long styling sessions without discomfort. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-handle-temperature
The Handle Temperature of The Half Shot was Measured at 100°F, noticeably warmer to the touch — may be a consideration for heat-sensitive users. ©BeautiLAB

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.
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-tool-length
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-tool-length
Tool Length measured at 13.75″ across all three models — long enough for crown reach without being bulky.
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-tool-length
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-weight
The Double Shot was Weighed at 15.4 oz, slightly heavier but still comfortable for most users. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-weight
The Single Shot was Weighed at 15 oz, offering moderate heft and balance for styling medium to long hair. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-weight
The Half Shot was Weighed at 13 oz, the lightest model in our lineup — great for minimizing fatigue during daily use. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-handle-width
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-handle-width
Handle Width measured at 1.55″ (Double/Single) and 1.5″ (Half Shot), offering slim, ergonomic grips for comfortable styling.
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-handle-width

Noise Levels

  • Double & Single Shots: Quietest tested at 91 dBA.
  • Half Shot: Noticeably louder at 93 dBA—may impact sensitive users.
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-maximum-noise-level
The Double Shot’s Maximum Noise Level was Measured at 91 dBA, offering a quieter experience than many competitors. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-maximum-noise-level
The Single Shot’s Maximum Noise Level was Measured at 91 dBA, matching The Double Shot for quieter styling sessions. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-maximum-noise-level
The Maximum Noise Level of The Half Shot was Measured at 93 dBA, making it the loudest among the three — noticeable in quiet environments. ©BeautiLAB

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.
Drybar-The-Double-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-tested-on-human-hair
The Double Shot was tested on real hair, delivering gentle glide and volume with minimal tension — best for fine to medium hair. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar The-Single-Shot-Round-Blow-Dryer-Brush-tested-on-human-hair
The Single Shot was tested on real hair, offering stronger grip and higher heat for smoothing thick or wavy strands with precision. ©BeautiLAB
Drybar-The-Half-Shot-Blow-Dryer-Brush-tested-on-human-hair
The Half Shot was tested on real hair, showing excellent grip on short styles — ideal for shaping bobs, pixies, and bangs with control. ©BeautiLAB

🥇 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.

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