The Dyson Supersonic R: A Game-Changer in Salon-Quality Hair Drying

Explore the features, innovations, and real-world performance of Dyson’s latest Supersonic R hair dryer—redesigning speed, weight, and control for all hair types.

By Medha deb
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Dyson Supersonic R Review: The Next Evolution in Hair Drying

The Dyson Supersonic R arrives as the brand’s lightest, fastest, and most compact hair tool, setting a new benchmark in professional and at-home hair styling. Developed with advanced engineering, intuitive smart features, and magnetic attachments, the Supersonic R aims to deliver salon-level results while minimizing hair damage and styling fatigue. This article breaks down its innovations, usability, attachment offerings, and real-world performance, addressing whether it’s worth the premium investment for all hair types.

Key Specifications of the Dyson Supersonic R

  • Weight: 0.7 lbs (Dyson’s lightest dryer)
  • Airflow settings: 3 (customizable power levels)
  • Heat settings: 4 (includes cool shot for locking shine)
  • Attachments: 5 magnetic, RFID-enabled (diffuser, pro concentrator, wide tooth comb, powerful air nozzle, flyaway attachment)
  • Price: $569 USD (£459.99 UK)

Fitted with Dyson’s most powerful hair motor to date, the Supersonic R is engineered for fast drying, precise control, and easy handling. Its built-in heat protection helps prevent damage and frizz, making it suitable for frequent styling.

First Impressions and Setup Experience

Handling & Assembly: Ultra-Lightweight, Effortless Use

The defining feature upon first pick-up is its remarkable lightness: holding the Supersonic R feels akin to a can of hairspray—easy, balanced, and mobile—even during prolonged use. Assembly is straightforward: magnetic attachments snap seamlessly into place and can be swiftly interchanged for different styling needs. Users appreciate the range provided, which supports both curly and straight styles as well as frizz control and volume boosting.

  • Magnetic mechanism simplifies switching between attachments.
  • No awkward twisting or alignment struggles, as seen in older models.

Attachment Options: Tailored for All Hair Types

Dyson’s commitment to personalization shines through with two distinct Supersonic R bundles, made to optimally serve different hair textures:

BundleIncluded AttachmentsBest For
Straight-WavyPowerful air nozzle, pro concentrator, gentle air attachment, flyaway attachment, smoothing nozzleStraight to wavy hair, precision styling
Curly-CoilyPowerful air nozzle, pro concentrator, diffuser, wide-tooth comb, flyaway attachmentCurly, coily, thick hair, defining curls

This separation ensures each hair type receives optimal airflow and heat settings for less damage, more shine, and better manageability. The attachments are preset to ideal temperature and airflow for their specific purpose, and the smart RFID technology remembers your last-used settings.

Dyson Supersonic R vs. Original Supersonic: What’s Changed?

  • Weight: Supersonic R is more than twice as light—just 0.7 lbs compared to the original’s heft.
  • Compactness: The R is 30% smaller and 20% lighter, improving maneuverability, comfort, and travel-friendliness.
  • Motor Power: The R hosts Dyson’s most advanced, high-speed motor, offering noticeably faster drying and stronger airflow.
  • Ergonomics: A new curved design simplifies handling and styling, reducing wrist fatigue.
  • Smart Tech: Attachments and settings are RFID-enabled, auto-customizing preferences per session.
  • Price: The original Supersonic is $80–£100 cheaper, but lacks the R’s latest innovations.

In performance, the Supersonic R surpasses its predecessor in speed, handling, damage protection, and versatility, while keeping all the core benefits of Dyson engineering.

Comparative Table: Dyson Supersonic R vs. Dyson Supersonic Original

FeatureSupersonic RSupersonic Original
Weight0.7 lbsMore than 1.5 lbs
Size30% smallerLarger, bulkier
Motor SpeedMost powerful Dyson motorPrevious gen motor
Attachments5 magnetic, RFID smartFewer, standard
ErgonomicsCurved, balancedTraditional shape
Price$569~$489

Usability: Navigating Controls and Achieving Results

  • Power & Heat Control: Three airflow settings and four heat settings, including a cool shot for locking in shine, adapt to every hair type and style.
  • Quick Setup: Attachments magnetize on/off for fast changes as needed during a blowout.
  • Speed: Drying time reduces noticeably—especially on thick and curly hair—delivering efficiency for even daily use.
  • Volume & Shine: With the right attachment, salon-level volume, smoothness and reduction in flyaways is achievable even for users without advanced styling skills.
  • Protection: Internal sensors prevent excessive heat, reducing dryness, split ends, and frizz.

Many testers found they could replicate professional blowouts at home, citing considerably less arm fatigue and improved shine, regardless of hair type.

Before and After: Real-World Performance

Reviewers from Cosmopolitan tested the Supersonic R on straight, wavy, and curly hair across various lengths:

  • Wavy hair users appreciated attachments for bouncing between smooth blowouts and defined curls.
  • Curly and coily hair testers cited faster dry times and better curl definition without excess heat.
  • Pin-straight styles found the styling attachments turned a basic blow dry into a polished, voluminous look.

Each user found that the device’s intuitive control, lightweight build, and damage reduction benefits led to noticeable improvements after styling.

Is the Dyson Supersonic R Worth the Investment?

At $569, the Supersonic R is undeniably a high-end purchase. However, for those prioritizing results, speed, and hair health—or seeking a major upgrade from older, heavier dryers—the advantages become clear.

  • Recommended for:
    • Loyal Dyson fans needing an upgrade
    • Anyone serious about hair care and style control
    • Individuals with thick, long, or hard-to-style hair
    • Anyone accustomed to regular blowouts, seeking salon finish at home
  • Potential Downsides:
    • High price point limits accessibility for budget-conscious buyers
    • Speed differences may be less dramatic on short, thin hair
    • If you rarely style or already have low-maintenance hair, benefits may be less pronounced

For those who value less damage, maximum shine, faster drying, and the latest technological advances, the investment often pays off in daily convenience and overall hair health.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

ProsCons
  • Five versatile attachments for all hair types
  • Magnetic, RFID-enabled setup; remembers user preferences
  • Fastest and lightest Dyson dryer
  • Minimizes damage, maximizes volume and shine
  • Ergonomic, travel-friendly design
  • High cost
  • Marginal gains for short, fine hair

Expert Testing and Insider Insights

Cosmopolitan’s beauty editors devoted weeks to hands-on evaluation, assessing performance, usability, and styling results as compared to other top-tier tools. Their verdict: Supersonic R is the lightest and easiest professional-quality dryer tested to date, excelling in speed and multi-texture effectiveness. The RFID tech and quick-swap magnetic attachments were standout features, making it particularly user-friendly and consistent.

Beauty writers from Cosmo UK add that the device, though expensive, brings unprecedented personalization and control for both home users and salon professionals. The 30% size reduction and 20% lighter build make a tangible difference in everyday maneuvering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does the Supersonic R protect hair from damage?

A: Integrated heat sensors regulate temperature throughout the drying session, adjusting power and heat to prevent overexposure and minimize split ends and dryness.

Q: Which attachments work best for my hair type?

  • Straight/Wavy hair: Use the pro concentrator and gentle air attachments for straightening and smoothness.
  • Curly/Coily hair: Choose the diffuser and wide-tooth comb for definition and frizz control.

Q: How does the RFID technology benefit users?

A: RFID-enabled attachments automatically remember and preset preferred airflow and temperature settings based on your last usage, creating a personalized drying experience.

Q: Is it easy to travel with?

A: Yes. The compact, ultra-lightweight design is ideal for frequent travelers or for bringing to the gym/salon, storing easily in bags or luggage.

Q: Is a cheaper dryer sufficient for basic styling?

A: If you have short, fine, or low-maintenance hair and infrequently style, a basic dryer may suffice. However, those who want faster results, gentler styling, and salon-grade finishes will appreciate the investment.

Final Thoughts

In sum, the Dyson Supersonic R stands as a breakthrough in hair drying technology, blending speed, control, and care in a package that redefines professional standards for home styling. Whether your concern is time, health, or versatility, few tools offer the ergonomic ease, intelligent attachments, and personalized usability the Supersonic R promises. For those willing to invest in their hair health, it’s not just an upgrade—it’s a transformation.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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