CHI Lava 1-Inch Hairstyling Iron vs Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth Flat Iron

Both are 1-inch-class irons with ceramic-based plates, digital heat and dual voltage, but they suit different hair. The CHI Lava runs on volcanic lava ceramic plates that glide through coarse, unruly hair at lower heat, and it has a 2-year warranty and an 11-foot cord. The Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth has wider 1.25-inch titanium plates, heats to 450F in about 45 seconds and has rounded edges for waves and flips. Owners of the CHI praise the smooth glide but note the barrel gets hot; the Neuro is the faster, more versatile tool for most hair types.

• Choose the CHI Lava if you have thick or coarse hair that fights straightening and you want long plates, a long cord and low-heat smoothing.
• Choose the Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth if you want fast heat, wider titanium plates and rounded edges for straightening and curling in one tool.