BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Prima3000 Flat Iron vs CHI Lava 1-Inch Hairstyling Iron

The BaBylissPRO Prima3000 is the stronger pick for thick, coarse or resistant hair and for anyone who wants fast heat-up and a wide 1.25-inch plate. It runs hotter, heats faster and has a stainless steel body that holds plate alignment. The CHI Lava is the better choice for fine or unruly hair that does best at lower heat, and its 2-year warranty and 11-foot cord are real advantages. Owners of the CHI rate it well but note the outside of the tool gets hot; the BaBylissPRO is the more forgiving tool for daily salon-style use.

• Choose the BaBylissPRO Prima3000 if you have thick, coarse or hard-to-straighten hair, want a wider plate for faster passes, or need a hot iron that recovers heat quickly.
• Choose the CHI Lava if you prefer styling at lower temperatures, want a long cord and a 2-year warranty, or have fine hair that scorches at high heat.