Have you ever found yourself torn between choosing a ghd or a Cloud 9 hair styling tool? Whether you’re a professional hairstylist or someone who loves to style their own hair at home, making an informed decision between these two can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this!
Introduction to ghd and Cloud 9
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to get acquainted with each brand. Both ghd and Cloud 9 have become household names in hair styling, thanks to their quality and performance.
ghd: A Brief Overview
ghd (Good Hair Day) has been a revolutionary brand in the hair industry since its inception in 2001. Known for its pioneering ceramic technology, ghd quickly rose to fame among hairstylists and beauty enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of hair stylers, from straighteners to curling irons, each promising salon-quality results.
Cloud 9: A Brief Overview
Founded by one of the original founders of ghd, Robert Powls, Cloud 9 launched in 2009. It came as a fresh competitor in the high-end hair styling market. Cloud 9 aims to offer innovative tools that go beyond traditional styling, featuring advanced temperature control and unique technology.
ghd vs. Cloud 9: Features Breakdown
Features can make or break your styling experience. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand how both brands stack up against each other.
Temperature Control
One of the most important factors when choosing a hair styling tool is temperature control. The right temperature can make a difference in achieving the perfect look while preserving hair health.
| Feature | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Settings | Fixed at 185°C | Variable (100°C – 200°C) |
| Heat Up Time | 25 seconds | 20 seconds |
| Heat Consistency | Even and reliable | Even and reliable |
Why This Matters: ghd maintains a fixed temperature of 185°C, which is considered optimal for styling without causing excessive damage. On the other hand, Cloud 9 offers variable temperature settings, giving you more control and flexibility.
Plate Technology
The quality of the plates significantly impacts the performance and durability of the styler.
| Feature | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Plate Material | Ceramic | Ceramic with mineral infusion |
| Plate Flexibility | Rigid | Flexible |
| Floating Plates | Yes | Yes |
Why This Matters: Both brands use high-quality ceramic plates, but Cloud 9 takes it up a notch with mineral infusion that promises smoother and shinier results. The flexibility of Cloud 9’s plates also allows for more versatility in styling.
Innovation and Technology
High-tech features can enhance your styling experience and make the process more efficient.
| Feature | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | Yes, after 30 minutes | Yes, after 30 minutes |
| Universal Voltage | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Settings | No | Yes, with the “Revive Mode” |
Why This Matters: Both brands come with essential features like sleep mode and universal voltage, making them travel-friendly. However, Cloud 9 introduces additional settings like the “Revive Mode”, which promises to refresh and style your hair at a lower temperature to reduce damage.
User Experience and Usability
How a tool feels in your hand and behaves during use can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
Design and Ergonomics
Comfort and ease of use are crucial for a pleasant styling session.
| Feature | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight |
| Handle Comfort | Ergonomic | Ergonomic |
| Swivel Cord | Yes, 360° | Yes, 360° |
Why This Matters: Both brands offer user-friendly designs that ensure a comfortable grip and maneuverability, making prolonged styling sessions less strenuous.
Performance and Results
Ultimately, what you’re looking for are the results. How effective are these stylers in delivering the desired look?
| Feature | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Straightening Results | Smooth, long-lasting | Smooth, shiny, long-lasting |
| Curling Results | Consistent, Defined | Consistent, Defined |
| Frizz Control | Excellent | Excellent |
Why This Matters: ghd is celebrated for its ability to produce consistently sleek and long-lasting styles. Cloud 9 also delivers excellent results but adds an additional layer of shine and smoothness due to its infused plates.
Price and Value for Money
Investing in a quality styler usually comes with a higher price tag, so it’s essential to consider the value you’re getting.
Cost Comparison
The initial cost can often be the deciding factor, but weighing it against the benefits can help you make a more informed decision.
| Model | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Styler | $150-$200 | $200-$250 |
| Advanced Model | $250-$300 | $250-$300 |
| Premium Model | $300+ | $300+ |
Why This Matters: While ghd offers more entry-level models at a slightly lower price, Cloud 9 focuses on premium features, which reflects in the higher price range. Consider your budget and the features you value most in a styler.
Durability and Warranty
You want your investment to last, so understanding the durability and the warranty offered by each brand can add peace of mind.
Warranty Terms
A good warranty can save you money and hassle in the long run.
| Feature | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Extended Warranty | Available for purchase | Available for purchase |
Why This Matters: Both ghd and Cloud 9 offer a standard 2-year warranty, ensuring that your investment is protected. Extended warranties can provide added security, should you choose to opt for them.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Real-world experiences often tell you more than any spec sheet can. What are users saying about each brand?
User Reviews
Here’s a snapshot of common feedback from users of each brand:
| Platform | ghd | Cloud 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Positive Comments |
-
Reliable
-
Quick Heat-up
-
Smooth Finish |
-
Adjustable Heat
-
Less Hair Damage
-
Added Shine | | Negative Comments |
-
Fixed Temperature
-
Pricey at High-End |
-
Higher Initial Cost
-
Limited Entry Models |
Why This Matters: Both brands enjoy high ratings and positive feedback, with Cloud 9 often receiving praise for its adjustable heat settings and shine-enhancing plates. ghd is favored for its reliability and smooth finish, though some users wish for adjustable heat settings.
Choosing the Right Tool for You
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal needs, hair type, and styling preferences.
Hair Type Considerations
Different hair types may benefit more from specific features.
- Fine Hair: Cloud 9’s adjustable temperature settings can be a boon for finer hair, allowing for lower heat styling.
- Thick Hair: ghd’s reliable, high-temperature setting provides the necessary heat to tackle thicker hair more efficiently.
- Curly Hair: Both brands offer excellent results, but the flexible plates of Cloud 9 might make the process a bit smoother.
Usage Needs
Consider how often and for what purposes you plan to use the styler.
- Daily Use: ghd’s consistent performance and quick heat-up time make it ideal for regular, quick styling sessions.
- Occasional Use: If you style your hair occasionally, Cloud 9’s advanced features and multiple settings provide versatility for various looks.
Budget Constraints
Your budget will also play a crucial role in your decision.
- Budget-Friendly: ghd offers a wider range of entry-level models that can be easier on the wallet while still delivering quality results.
- Feature-Rich Investment: If you’re looking for technology-driven, feature-rich tools, Cloud 9’s advanced models justify the higher price tag with their added benefits.
Conclusion
Both ghd and Cloud 9 bring their unique strengths to the table, making either a valuable addition to your hair styling toolkit. If you value advanced features and temperature control, Cloud 9 might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a tried-and-tested tool with consistent results, ghd won’t disappoint. Consider your hair type, styling needs, and budget to make the best decision for your specific situation. Have a fantastic hair day, whichever you choose!
