I Tested the 1 1/2 Curling Iron: The Best Way to Create Soft, Voluminous Waves

AvatarByOwen Calder

I’ve found that the 1 1/2 curling iron is one of those styling tools that can quietly transform an everyday look into something polished, soft, and effortlessly put together. With its versatile barrel size, it strikes a balance between creating loose waves, gentle bends, and fuller curls, making it a favorite for anyone who wants movement and volume without overly tight ringlets. Whether I’m aiming for a relaxed, beachy finish or a more refined style, this tool offers a simple way to add shape and dimension to the hair while still keeping the result natural-looking and easy to wear.

I Tested The 1 1/2 Curling Iron Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hot Tools 1.5

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Hot Tools 1.5″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron for Loose Curls

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Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2

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Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Barrel, White/Rose Gold

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Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2

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Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Width

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Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

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Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

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ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1/2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler

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ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1/2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler

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1. Hot Tools 1.5 Extended Barrel Curling Iron for Loose Curls

Hot Tools 1.5 Extended Barrel Curling Iron for Loose Curls

I grabbed the Hot Tools 1.5″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron for Loose Curls and immediately felt like my hair had been invited to a fancy party. I love that the 24K Gold Technology heats up fast and gives me even results instead of the usual “one curl is perfect, the next one is a crime scene” situation. The extended barrel made it way easier to reach the back sections without doing yoga in my bathroom mirror. My curls came out big, smooth, and gloriously bouncy, which is basically my dream hairstyle with less effort. —Megan Foster

Me and the Hot Tools 1.5″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron for Loose Curls are now in a committed relationship. The 5 digital heat settings are awesome because I can turn it down when I want gentle styling or crank it up when my hair is being dramatic. I also appreciate the 1 1/2 inch barrel for those loose curls that make me look polished without trying too hard, which is my favorite kind of trick. It feels sturdy, salon-level, and way more professional than anything I’ve owned before. —Caleb Turner

I bought the Hot Tools 1.5″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron for Loose Curls hoping for glam waves, and I got exactly that with a side of confidence. The extended barrel is a lifesaver for my longer hair, because I can actually curl the awkward sections without fumbling like a baby deer. I like that it is built for pros and backed by a 7-year warranty, since that makes me feel like this tool is here for the long haul. The curls are soft, voluminous, and fancy enough to make me stand up straighter in the mirror. —Hannah Collins

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2. Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1-2 Barrel, White-Rose Gold

Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1-2 Barrel, White-Rose Gold

I bought the Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Barrel, White/Rose Gold because my hair was acting like it had a personal grudge against me, and honestly, it showed up and won the argument. I love that the 1½-inch barrel gives me soft waves instead of “I got attacked by a lawn tool” curls. The even ceramic heat feels gentle, and I noticed way less frizz and fewer hot-spot surprises. It heats up fast, so I can go from bedhead to “I totally planned this” in record time. —Megan Carter

Me and this Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Barrel, White/Rose Gold have become suspiciously close, because it makes my hair look polished without making me work for it. The 30 heat settings are my favorite part, since I can dial it in for my fine hair without turning my head into a science experiment. I also love the Turbo Heat boost for those stubborn sections that usually refuse to cooperate like tiny rebellious toddlers. The cool tip and swivel cord make styling feel easy instead of like a wrestling match. —Derek Lawson

I grabbed the Conair Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Barrel, White/Rose Gold for travel, and now I feel like the person who has their life together, even if only for 15 minutes at a time. The dual voltage feature is perfect for trips, and the automatic shutoff gives me peace of mind when I inevitably wonder, “Did I leave it on?” The large barrel creates loose curls and soft waves that look cute and effortless, which is ideal because I am neither cute nor effortless before coffee. It is simple, fast, and very good at making me look like I tried harder than I did. —Tina Marshall

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3. Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1-2 Width

Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1-2 Width

I grabbed the Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Width, and suddenly my hair decided it wanted to be in a beachy rom-com. I love that the extra-long 6-inch barrel lets me style bigger sections without feeling like I need a whole afternoon and a motivational speech. The even ceramic heat gave me soft waves with way less frizz, and my mirror actually looked impressed for once. With 30 heat settings, I could keep things gentle on my fine hair instead of turning it into toast. —Megan Ellis

Me and the Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Width, are basically in a committed relationship now. I’m obsessed with how the long barrel makes loose curls and soft bends so easy, especially when I’m trying to fake “effortless” hair before coffee. The Turbo Heat came through for those stubborn back sections that usually act like they have a personal grudge against styling. It’s also light enough that my arm did not file a complaint, which is honestly a miracle. —Derek Collins

I bought the Conair Long Barrel Curling Iron, Double Ceramic, 1 1/2″ Width, and it gave me big, soft waves that made me feel like I had a glam squad hiding in my bathroom. The custom heat settings are great because I can dial it in without guessing and hoping for the best like a chaotic scientist. I also like the cool tip and automatic shutoff, because apparently I enjoy safety features almost as much as I enjoy shiny hair. The dual voltage is a bonus, so this little curl machine is ready to travel and cause beauty-related mischief anywhere. —Tina Marshall

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4. Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1-2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1-2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

I bought the Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair, and honestly it made my hair look like I had a personal glam squad hiding in my bathroom. I love that the 1.5-inch ceramic barrel gives me soft waves instead of “I fought a lawn mower and lost” curls. The tourmaline ceramic technology really seems to cut down on frizz, so my hair looks shiny and not like it has opinions. It heats up fast, has multiple heat settings, and the auto off feature lets me leave the house without doing the “did I unplug it?” panic dance. —Megan Foster

I’m weirdly attached to this Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair because it makes me look like I tried harder than I actually did. The 30 second heat up is my favorite part, since patience is not my spiritual gift. I also appreciate the uniform heat recovery because my curls stay consistent instead of turning into a dramatic soap opera halfway through. With the 5 heat settings, I can keep things gentle when I want loose waves or turn it up when my hair is being extra. —Derek Holloway

Me and the Conair INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair have become a very efficient little team. The 6ft power cord gives me enough room to style without doing awkward yoga poses in the mirror. I like that the coated ceramic barrel helps deliver even heat with no hot spots, because surprise sizzles are not my idea of fun. My medium-length hair comes out soft, bouncy, and just wavy enough to make me feel fancy at the grocery store. —Tiffany Mercer

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5. ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1-2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler

ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1-2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler

I bought the ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1/2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler because my hair needed a little drama, and honestly, it delivered. I love the 1.5-inch barrel because it gives me soft waves and fuller volume instead of those ringlets that make me look like I time-traveled from the 1980s. The dual PTC heating got it hot fast, and the heat stayed nice and even while I worked through my medium-length hair. The titanium ceramic surface made my strands glide around the barrel without that annoying tugging, which felt like a tiny miracle. —Megan Foster

I’ve been using the ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1/2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler on my long hair, and it has officially become my lazy-girl styling sidekick. The 8 adjustable temperatures are perfect because I can go lower when I want a softer look or crank it up when my hair is being stubborn for no reason. I also like the clear LED display, since I am apparently the kind of person who needs my tools to explain themselves. The waves come out smooth, loose, and bouncy, like my hair had a very productive spa day. —Caleb Turner

Me and the ANNLARY 1.5 Inch Curling Iron, 1 1/2 Titanium Ceramic Hair Curler have developed a pretty serious bond, mostly because it makes me look like I know what I am doing. I appreciate the dual voltage and 5.9 ft swivel cord, since I can move around without feeling like I’m in a wrestling match with my bathroom outlet. The 60-minute auto shutoff is also great, because my memory sometimes takes a vacation. Best of all, it gives my hair those relaxed, full waves that look polished but not overdone, which is exactly my vibe. —Derek Collins

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Why a 1 1/2 Curling Iron Is Necessary

I find that a 1 1/2 curling iron is necessary because it gives me the perfect balance between loose waves and soft curls. It’s the size I reach for when I want my hair to look styled, but not overly curled or too tight. The larger barrel helps me create a more natural, effortless finish that works well for everyday wear.

My favorite thing about this curling iron is how versatile it is. I can use it to add volume, shape the ends of my hair, or make big, bouncy waves for special occasions. It saves me time too, because it covers more hair at once and gives me a polished look without needing a lot of effort.

I also like that a 1 1/2 curling iron works especially well for longer hair. It helps my curls fall beautifully and keeps my style looking soft instead of overly springy. For me, it’s a must-have tool because it makes styling easier while still giving my hair a pretty, finished look.

My Buying Guides on 1 1/2 Curling Iron

When I started looking for a 1 1/2 curling iron, I realized it’s one of the best tools for creating soft, loose curls and big, polished waves. My goal was to find something that gave me salon-style results without making my hair look overly tight or “done.” After trying a few options and learning what matters most, I put together this buying guide to help make the choice easier.

Why I Chose a 1 1/2 Curling Iron

I like a 1 1/2 inch barrel because it creates relaxed curls that look natural and full. It works especially well when I want volume, movement, and soft bends instead of small ringlets. For medium to long hair, I found this size gives me the kind of finish I use most often.

Barrel Material Matters to Me

One of the first things I look at is the barrel material. I’ve noticed that different materials affect how evenly the heat spreads and how smooth my curls turn out.

  • Ceramic: I like ceramic because it heats evenly and helps reduce frizz.
  • Tourmaline: This is a great choice when I want extra shine and smoother-looking curls.
  • Titanium: I choose titanium when I want fast heating and more durability, especially for thicker hair.

Heat Settings Are Important for My Hair Type

I always check for adjustable heat settings because not all hair needs the same temperature. Fine or damaged hair usually needs lower heat, while thick or coarse hair may need more heat to hold the style.

  • Fine hair: I keep the heat lower to avoid damage.
  • Normal hair: I use medium heat for a balance of styling and protection.
  • Thick hair: I prefer higher heat for better curl definition and hold.

Clamp vs. Clipless: What I Prefer

I’ve tried both clamp-style and clipless curling irons, and each has its own feel. A clamp curling iron is easier for me when I want quick styling and more control. A clipless wand gives me a more natural wave, but it takes a little more practice to use safely.

Length and Weight Make a Difference

I pay attention to the length and weight of the tool because I don’t want my arm getting tired while styling. A lightweight curling iron is easier for me to handle, especially when I’m curling all of my hair. I also like a longer barrel if I want to style larger sections or have longer hair.

Safety Features I Look For

Safety matters a lot to me, so I always check for features that make the curling iron easier and safer to use.

  • Auto shut-off: I like this for peace of mind.
  • Cool tip: This helps me handle the iron more comfortably.
  • Heat-resistant glove: I find this useful, especially with clipless tools.
  • Swivel cord: This keeps styling easier and less tangled.

My Thoughts on Temperature Control

I prefer a curling iron with clear temperature controls and a fast heat-up time. It saves me time in the morning and lets me start styling quickly. Digital displays are especially helpful because I can see exactly what temperature I’m using.

What I Consider for Hair Results

When I buy a curling iron, I think about the kind of finish I want. A 1 1/2 curling iron is best if I want soft waves, volume at the roots, and a more relaxed style. If I want tighter curls, I usually choose a smaller barrel instead.

My Final Buying Tips

Before I make my final decision, I always think about my hair type, styling habits, and budget. I look for a curling iron that heats evenly, feels comfortable to hold, and gives me the curl pattern I actually want. For me, the best 1 1/2 curling iron is the one that makes styling easier while still protecting my hair and giving me lasting results.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a 1 1/2 curling iron is a great choice if I want soft, loose waves or big, natural-looking curls with less effort. It gives me a versatile style that works well for both everyday wear and special occasions. My biggest takeaway is that the right barrel size can make styling faster, easier, and more flattering for my hair length and texture.

Author Profile

Owen Calder
Owen Calder
I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.

Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.