Revlon’s One-Step Volumizers are cult favorites — but should you buy the updated PLUS 2.0 or stick with the Original 1.0?
At BeautiLAB Studio, we tested both side by side, measuring heat levels, noise output, ergonomics, and real-world styling results. This review cuts straight to the differences, helping you decide which brush fits your hair type and budget.
👉 For deeper dives, you can also check our dedicated reviews of the Revlon PLUS 2.0 and the Original 1.0.
✨ Quick Verdict: Best Match for Your Hair
- Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus (2.0): Best for fine to medium-density hair, or anyone wanting a lighter, more travel-friendly brush with gentler heat and added control.
- Revlon One-Step Volumizer Original (1.0): Better for thick, coarse, or long hair needing maximum heat and a wider barrel for bigger volume — but heavier and less refined.
🌟 Revlon One-Step Volumizer PLUS 2.0: Precision & Comfort
Best For: Short-to-medium hair, precise styling, and frizz control.
Standout Features:
- Slimmer 2.4” oval barrel for improved precision.
- Shorter bristles for gentler styling and better control.
- Four heat settings (185°F–225°F), safer heat levels for daily styling.
- Ionic Technology reduces frizz and enhances shine.
- Detachable barrel for easy cleaning and travel convenience.
👍 Pros:
- Lighter design (15 oz) for comfortable extended use.
- Reduced noise level (93 dBA) compared to Original.
- Ionic technology delivers smoother, shinier hair.
- Enhanced barrel materials (Ceramic, Titanium, Tourmaline).
👎 Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Short cord (6 ft).
👉 Read the full Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus Review
💎 Original Revlon One-Step Volumizer 1.0: Volume & Affordability
Best For: Long, thick hair types prioritizing volume.
Standout Features:
- Larger 2.8” oval barrel creates ample volume quickly.
- Longer bristles offer stronger grip on thick hair.
- Higher heat range (200°F–240°F) suitable for coarse hair.
- Budget-friendly price.
👍 Pros:
- Exceptional volume creation for thicker hair.
- Higher heat output suitable for stubborn textures.
- Very affordable.
👎 Cons:
- Louder operation (96 dBA).
- No ionic technology, resulting in more frizz.
- Slightly heavier (16 oz) may cause fatigue.
📋 Side-by-Side Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Revlon PLUS 2.0 | Original Revlon 1.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $42 | $31 |
| Barrel Size | 2.4” Oval | 2.8” Oval |
| Heat Settings | 185°F–225°F (4 settings) | 200°F–240°F (3 settings) |
| Weight | 15 oz (lighter) | 16 oz (heavier) |
| Ionic Technology | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Detachable Barrel | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Noise Level | 93 dBA (Quieter) | 96 dBA (Louder) |
| Cord Length | 6 ft | 6 ft |
| Warranty | 4 Years | 4 Years |
🔥 Detailed Performance Analysis
🔩 Barrel & Bristle Design
- PLUS 2.0: Smaller barrel and shorter bristles improve precision, styling speed, and comfort, especially for short-to-medium hairstyles.
- Original 1.0: Larger barrel and longer bristles provide more effective styling for thick, long hair but lack precision for shorter styles.
🌡️ Heat & Styling Safety
PLUS 2.0:
- Heat Range: ~185°F (low) to ~225°F (high) across 4 settings, offering more flexibility.
- Low Heat: ~185°F — gentle enough for fine or color-treated hair.
- Handle Temp: ~95°F after 30 minutes — warm but comfortable.
- Motor Power: 1100W — strong airflow with controlled heat delivery.
- Verdict: Safer for daily use, reduces risk of overexposure.
Original 1.0:
- Heat Range: ~200°F (low) to ~240°F (high) across 3 settings, runs hotter overall.
- Low Heat: ~200°F — still fairly hot, less ideal for fragile strands.
- Handle Temp: ~90°F after 30 minutes — slightly cooler than the PLUS.
- Motor Power: 1100W — fast drying power, but paired with higher heat output.
- Verdict: Better for thick/coarse textures, but potentially damaging for fine or delicate hair with frequent use.
💨 Ionic Technology & Frizz Management
- PLUS 2.0: Significantly reduces frizz and boosts shine via ionic technology.
- Original 1.0: No ionic technology; more prone to frizz.
🔨 Durability & Build Quality
- PLUS 2.0: Slightly more durable construction. Promises 40% longer lifespan than Original.
- Original 1.0: Solid construction but slightly less robust; known durability concerns reported by users.
Important: Both models emitted a slight burnt-plastic smell upon initial use, which dissipates after a few uses.
🌍 Ergonomics & User Comfort
🖐️ Weight & Ease of Use
PLUS 2.0:
- Weight: 15 oz — lighter, easier to maneuver, reduces arm fatigue.
- Tool Length: 13.75″ — slightly longer, offers better reach for crown and back sections.
- Handle Width: 1.55″ — slimmer grip, comfortable for most hand sizes.
- Verdict: Compact but ergonomic, especially suited for smaller hands or longer styling sessions.
Original 1.0:
- Weight: 16 oz — heavier, more noticeable during extended styling.
- Tool Length: 12.75″ — shorter overall, but slightly bulkier in feel.
- Handle Width: 1.5″ — average grip size, stable but less slim than the PLUS.
- Verdict: Solid for quick blowouts, but less ergonomic for precision or smaller hands.
🔊 Noise Considerations
- PLUS 2.0: Noticeably quieter at 93 dBA.
- Original 1.0: Louder at 96 dBA, potentially uncomfortable for prolonged use.
🎒 Storage & Portability
- PLUS 2.0: Detachable head makes cleaning simple, ideal for compact storage or travel.
- Original 1.0: Non-detachable; bulkier and less convenient.
💰 Price & Overall Value
- PLUS 2.0 ($70): Worthwhile upgrade due to improved features, comfort, and styling results.
- Original 1.0 ($40): Excellent value for volume-centric styling on a tighter budget.
📸 Real-World Testing Insights
Our hands-on testing showed:
- PLUS 2.0: Exceptional precision styling, effective on shorter and medium-length hair, visibly smoother and shinier results.
- Original 1.0: Superior at creating quick volume, particularly effective on long, dense hair.
🥇 Final Buying Recommendations
✅ Choose Revlon PLUS 2.0 if:
- You want precise styling, less heat damage, smoother results.
- You value lighter handling, quieter operation, and portability.
✅ Choose Original Revlon 1.0 if:
- You have longer, thicker hair requiring maximum volume.
- You prefer budget-friendly pricing and higher heat capabilities.
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.
