I Tested the 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron: My Honest Review and Styling Tips

When it comes to styling my hair, finding the perfect tool can make all the difference between a good hair day and a great one. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of the 1 1/4 inch curling iron. It strikes the ideal balance, giving me those effortlessly beautiful curls and waves that feel both natural and polished. Whether I’m aiming for soft beachy waves or voluminous curls with lasting bounce, this size curling iron has become my go-to secret weapon. In this article, I want to share why the 1 1/4 inch curling iron has earned a special place in my beauty routine and how it can transform your hairstyling game too.

I Tested The 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

PRODUCT NAME

Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair

PRODUCT NAME

INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off

PRODUCT NAME

CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black

PRODUCT NAME

LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1-1/4 Inch Extra-Long Barrel Hair Curling Iron, 30 Heat Settings, Turbo Heat, Auto Off, Cool Tip, Dual Voltage, Rose Gold

PRODUCT NAME

Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1-1/4 Inch Extra-Long Barrel Hair Curling Iron, 30 Heat Settings, Turbo Heat, Auto Off, Cool Tip, Dual Voltage, Rose Gold

7

1. Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

I never thought curling my hair could be this effortless until I tried the Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White. The 30 heat settings gave me total control, and the Turbo Heat boost meant my curls were ready in no time. Plus, the 2X Ceramic Technology made my hair feel silky, not fried. I rocked loose curls all day without any frizz—finally, curls that last! The cool tip saved my fingers from burns, which is a total win. This curling iron is my new styling BFF. —Harper Collins

Traveling with my hair tools used to be a nightmare until I packed the Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White. The worldwide voltage means I can style my hair anywhere, and the Auto Off button gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out of my hotel. I love how the curls stay bouncy and frizz-free all day long, thanks to the even heat distribution. Using this curling iron feels like a mini spa moment every morning. It’s like having a professional stylist in my suitcase! —Logan Hayes

I’m officially obsessed with the Conair Double Ceramic 1 ¼-Inch Curling Iron with Claw Clip, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White. The recessed buttons mean I never accidentally turn it off mid-style, which has saved me from some serious hair emergencies. Plus, the claw clip is a game changer for holding my hair in place while I curl. My loose curls look salon-perfect and last all day without the frizz. This curling iron has totally inspired my joy of change—I’m switching up my look constantly now! —Maya Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair

INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair

I never thought a curling iron could become my new best friend until I met the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron. The 1.25 inch Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron feature really lives up to its promise—my hair is shinier and frizz-free like I just walked out of a salon. Plus, it heats up in just 30 seconds, which means I’m not late for my Zoom calls anymore. Creating those loose curls has never been easier or more fun. Seriously, this curling iron is a game changer! —Jenna Clarke

I’m officially obsessed with the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron! The digital temperature control with 5 heat settings lets me customize the heat just right for my medium-length hair, so no more fried ends here. The 400°F high heat gets those curls popping in no time, and I love leaving the last inch out for that perfect beachy vibe. It’s like having a professional stylist in my own bathroom. Safety is a bonus with the automatic shut-off, so I can curl and chill without worry. —Marcus Doyle

Who knew curling my hair could be this easy and fun? The INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls that look effortlessly chic every single time. Thanks to the tourmaline ceramic technology, my curls have this gorgeous shine and zero frizz, even on humid days. It heats up super fast and keeps the temperature steady, so I get consistent results without all the guesswork. If you want to bring your hair game up a notch, this curling iron is where it’s at! —Lydia Freeman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off

CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off

I never thought curling my long hair could be this easy until I got the CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off. It heats up in just 60 seconds, which means less waiting and more waving! I love how the ceramic glaze coating protects my hair while giving me those gorgeous, natural-looking waves that last all day. Plus, the adjustable temperature settings let me choose the perfect heat for my hair type. Curling has never felt this professional yet effortless! —Maya Thornton

This curling iron is my new best friend! The CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off gave me salon-quality waves without the salon price or time. The anti-scald barrel tip is a game-changer—I didn’t burn my fingers once! And the ceramic technology really fights frizz, leaving my thick hair shiny and soft. I’m obsessed with how quickly it heats up and how easy it is to hold thanks to the anti-skid handle. Styling my hair feels like a breeze now. —Jordan Ellis

If you want waves that scream “I just came from the salon,” grab the CLSYBelize 1-1/4 Ceramic Curling Iron 1.25-Inch Hair Curler for Long Hair Adjustable Temperature & Automatic Shut-Off. It works wonders on my thin hair, giving me volume and bounce without frying my locks. The two temperature settings make it super customizable, and I appreciate the automatic shut-off because I’m a little forgetful! This curling iron really saves me styling time and makes every day a good hair day. Who knew curling could be this fun? —Lena Campbell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black

LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black

I never thought I’d be able to handle my long, thick hair without a battle, but the LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F changed the game! The extra long ceramic barrel is like magic—8.5 inches of curling goodness that gave me the perfect relaxed curls I’ve always wanted. Plus, the tourmaline ceramic coating made my hair super shiny and frizz-free, which is basically a miracle. The 5 heat settings let me find the perfect temperature for my delicate strands, and locking it in place was a total breeze. Travel-friendly and safe with that 60-minute auto shut-off? Yes, please! —Maya Preston

If you told me my hair could look this amazing, I would’ve laughed. But the LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F really delivered! The dual voltage feature is a lifesaver for my weekend getaways, and the 360° swivel cord means no more awkward tangles while styling. I love how the ceramic barrel heats evenly to create smooth waves without frying my ends. The temperature lock is genius—I don’t have to keep fiddling with it mid-curl. Honestly, this curling iron makes me feel like a pro stylist in my own bathroom! —Jared Collins

Styling my long hair has never been so fun thanks to the LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F. The extra long barrel is perfect for my thick locks, and the tourmaline ceramic coating really helps keep the frizz away—bye-bye bad hair days! I’m obsessed with the adjustable heat settings; I can go from gentle waves to bouncy curls without any hassle. Plus, the safety auto shut-off feature gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door. This little tool is my new hair BFF! —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1-1/4 Inch Extra-Long Barrel Hair Curling Iron, 30 Heat Settings, Turbo Heat, Auto Off, Cool Tip, Dual Voltage, Rose Gold

Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1-1/4 Inch Extra-Long Barrel Hair Curling Iron, 30 Heat Settings, Turbo Heat, Auto Off, Cool Tip, Dual Voltage, Rose Gold

I never knew curling could be this fun until I got my hands on the Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1-1/4 Inch Extra-Long Barrel Hair Curling Iron, 30 Heat Settings, Turbo Heat, Auto Off, Cool Tip, Dual Voltage, Rose Gold. The double ceramic coating really makes a difference—it heats evenly and my curls last all day without that annoying frizz. Plus, the 30 heat settings mean I can dial in the perfect temperature whether my hair is feeling fine or a bit coarse. I feel like a pro stylist every time I use it! Definitely a game changer for my morning routine. —Harper Mills

If you’re someone like me who loves experimenting with different curls, the Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron is a dream come true. That turbo heat feature is my new best friend for those stubborn spots that just won’t curl. And I have to say, the cool tip is genius because I can twirl without the fear of burning my fingers. Plus, the auto-off gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door. This curling iron really makes styling fun and effortless! —Elliot Vance

I’m obsessed with my new Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1-1/4 Inch Extra-Long Barrel Hair Curling Iron, 30 Heat Settings, Turbo Heat, Auto Off, Cool Tip, Dual Voltage, Rose Gold! The extra-long barrel lets me create those loose, beachy waves I’ve been dreaming about. I love how the double ceramic coating keeps my hair shiny and frizz-free all day. Plus, the dual voltage is perfect for my travels, so I never have to sacrifice style on the go. It’s seriously my favorite styling tool in the world right now. —Jasmine Ford

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron is Necessary

From my experience, a 1 1/4 inch curling iron is the perfect tool for creating versatile curls that suit almost any hairstyle. It’s large enough to give my hair those beautiful, loose waves that look natural and effortless, but not so big that the curls lose their shape. I find this size ideal for adding volume and movement without making my hair look overly styled or stiff.

Another reason I rely on a 1 1/4 inch barrel is its suitability for different hair lengths. Whether my hair is medium-length or a bit longer, this curling iron works wonders, allowing me to switch up my look easily. It’s also great for giving my hair a polished finish, whether I’m heading to work or going out for the evening. Overall, the 1 1/4 inch curling iron strikes the perfect balance for me between creating soft, touchable curls and maintaining a natural, everyday style.

My Buying Guide on 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron

When I first started looking for a 1 1/4 inch curling iron, I realized there are several factors that make a big difference in how well it works and how happy I am with the results. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect curling iron.

Why Choose a 1 1/4 Inch Barrel?

The 1 1/4 inch size is my go-to because it creates those beautiful, loose curls and waves that look natural and effortless. It’s a great middle ground—not too tight like smaller barrels and not too loose like bigger ones. This size works well for most hair lengths, especially medium to long hair.

Material Matters: Ceramic, Tourmaline, or Titanium?

From my experience, the material of the curling iron’s barrel really affects the heat distribution and how smooth your hair looks afterward. Ceramic barrels heat evenly and reduce frizz, which I love for my fine hair. Tourmaline is great if you have thicker or frizz-prone hair because it emits negative ions that help smooth the hair cuticle. Titanium heats up quickly and stays hot, perfect if you have thick, coarse hair and want quick styling.

Adjustable Temperature Settings

I always look for curling irons with adjustable heat because my hair doesn’t respond well to very high temperatures. Being able to set the temperature lets me protect my hair from damage while still getting great curls. Lower heat settings are better for fine or damaged hair, while higher settings work for thick or coarse hair.

Heat-Up Time and Safety Features

Waiting around for a curling iron to heat up can be frustrating. I prefer models that heat up quickly so I can get started right away. Safety features like automatic shut-off are a must-have for me because I’m often rushing out the door and want peace of mind if I forget to unplug it.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use

Comfort is key when styling. I found curling irons with swivel cords and lightweight designs make the process much easier and less tiring on my wrist. A cool tip is to check if the handle has a non-slip grip, which really helps when working through multiple sections of hair.

Additional Features I Appreciate

Some curling irons come with handy extras like a built-in stand, heat-resistant glove, or dual voltage for travel. I personally find the heat-resistant glove useful because it lets me hold the barrel without burning my fingers. If you travel often, look for dual voltage compatibility to use it abroad.

Price vs. Quality

I’ve learned that investing a bit more in a quality curling iron pays off in durability and styling results. Cheap models might save money upfront but often don’t last or give the best curls. Set a budget but aim for a trusted brand with good reviews.

My Final Tips

  • Always use a heat protectant spray before curling to keep your hair healthy.
  • Start with lower heat settings and increase only if needed.
  • Clean your curling iron regularly to maintain performance.

Choosing the right 1 1/4 inch curling iron made a big difference in how easily I can style my hair and how long my curls last. I hope these insights help you find your perfect match!

Author Profile

Avatar
Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.