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ghd Helios
A seriously fast, smooth-finish dryer that keeps things simple
Loupe's take: Experts and owners agree on this one. Who's Loupe?
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Updated October 27, 2026
Our research found strong agreement on speed: both hands-on reviewers rated it among the fastest dryers they've used, and 11 of 98 owner comments praise quick drying, versus 2 citing slow drying. Value is the biggest owner sore point, raised in 13 of 98 comments, which helps explain the gap between the expert score (78) and the owner score (65). Reliability looks good, with failures mentioned in only 4% of owner comments and no recalls on record. The evidence is thin, though: only 3 expert sources (2 hands-on) and 45 first-hand owner accounts, so overall confidence is low.
What each expert concluded
The Helios delivers near-identical results to the Dyson Supersonic at a much lower price and slightly faster drying, though the Supersonic edges it overall for comfort, softness and features.
Hands-on review · open the review ↗~8/10The Helios is the fastest dryer the publication has tested, leaving hair smooth and frizz-free, but it has basic controls and a dated design, making it best for people wanting simple, speedy drying.
Hands-on review · open the review ↗The ghd Helios is presented as a lightweight ionic dryer that dries long, thick hair quickly without damage and is easy for people to handle on their own, though it comes with just one nozzle.
Roundup · open the review ↗Verdicts paraphrased; open a card to read the original. How we score
The verdict in 10 seconds
You'll love it if
- You have thick or long hair and want it dry fast
- You like simple controls without a lot of settings to fiddle with
- You want a smooth, low-frizz finish at home without salon-level fuss
Skip it if
- You want lots of heat and speed settings or smart features
- You rely on a diffuser and don't want to pay extra for one
- You're looking for strong value for the money
What owners rave and rant about
What they rave about
What they rant about
Share of 98 owner reviews and comments that mention each topic.
The no-fluff verdict
The ghd Helios is a quick, no-fuss dryer that feels balanced in the hand and leaves hair smooth and shiny with little frizz. Speed is its standout strength, and it's a natural fit for thick or long hair. The catch is the high price for a basic set of controls, and the diffuser costs extra.
This verdict draws on 7 independent sources: 3 expert tests,
1,197 ratings and reports from retailers, owner communities and video reviews, and official safety records,
analyzed and cross-checked into one verdict, so you don't have to.
Ratings across the web
AmazonGoogle ShoppingRedditYouTubeShop ratings lean positive (happy buyers, brand-moderated stores); forums lean critical (people post problems). Our owners score weighs both equally.
Questions people actually ask
Is the ghd Helios bad for your hair?
No, not for most people. It tends to leave hair smooth, shiny and low on frizz rather than dry or damaged.
Based on: Both hands-on reviewers praised its smooth, frizz-free finish; few owners complained.Is drying your hair with the ghd Helios too hot or harsh?
Rarely. Complaints about it running too hot are uncommon, and its fast drying means less time under heat.
Based on: 2 of 98 owner comments mention excess heat; two hands-on tests found it fastest.How do you use a diffuser with the ghd Helios?
You'll need to buy one first. It comes with a single concentrator nozzle, and the matching diffuser is sold separately.
Based on: Two of three expert sources note the diffuser is a separate purchase.Does the ghd Helios break often and need fixing?
Not usually. Breakdowns are uncommon, though some people found customer support frustrating when something did go wrong.
Based on: Failures appear in 4% of owner comments; 4 of 98 criticize customer support.Is a blow dryer like the ghd Helios good for thick hair?
Yes. Thick and long hair is where its speed shines, cutting drying time noticeably.
Based on: All three expert sources single out thick or long hair as a strength.How much does the ghd Helios cost?
Usually $247 in the US. Prices move with sales, so check the current price.
Based on: Prices quoted in expert reviews and at Amazon.com.What does the ghd Helios cost to run?
Mostly replacement parts and supplies
- Compatible diffuser sold separately (price not stated)
Has the ghd Helios been recalled?
No. We found no U.S. safety recalls for this model.
Based on: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall records.As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. It never changes a score.
