Dyson Supersonic vs Supersonic r

Spec table: Supersonic Origin vs Supersonic r

These rows come straight from the Amazon listings. Dyson does not print weights or wattage in either listing's features, so those are left out rather than estimated.

The angled pro body versus the classic shape

The classic Supersonic has its motor in the handle and a ring-shaped head on top. It sits in the hand like most dryers, so there is nothing to relearn.

Dyson describes the Supersonic r as a new ergonomic format that lets you dry and style where it is normally hard to reach, for control and comfort. Its angled body changes how your wrist sits when you work at the back of the head or point airflow down the hair shaft. Stylists and people who do long, detailed blowouts tend to care most about this. If you mostly rough dry and go, the shape matters less.

Try to hold both in a store if you can. Comfort is personal, and the right shape is the one that keeps your arm and wrist relaxed.

Heat control and drying speed

Both models use intelligent heat control. The Origin listing says it measures air temperature over 40 times a second. The r listing describes a streamlined flow heater engineered to heat airflow more evenly, with intelligent heat control that measures airflow over 20 times a second. The listings measure different things in different ways, so do not read the numbers as one being better than the other.

Dyson calls the r its fastest drying model with smoother hair and reduced frizz. The Origin is described as fast drying with a high-pressure, high-velocity jet. For what drying speed depends on beyond the motor, read high-speed hair dryers explained.

Attachments and day-to-day use

The Origin comes with a magnetic Styling concentrator that adjusts quickly and stays cool on its surface. It is a good all-rounder for smoothing.

The r uses intelligent attachments that come with temperature and airflow preset by experts, and they remember your own preferences after that. This is similar in spirit to attachment learning on the Supersonic Nural. Note that attachments for the r are designed for that body, so check fit before buying extras for either model. Our hair dryer attachments explained page covers what a concentrator, diffuser and comb each do.

The r also has what Dyson calls a re-engineered depth-loaded filter to protect the motor. Clean any dryer filter regularly; see how to clean a hair dryer filter.

• Classic shape: familiar grip, lower price, simple concentrator.
• Supersonic r: angled format, preset intelligent attachments, more expensive.

Who each model suits

Choose the Supersonic Origin if you want Dyson drying performance at a lower price, you are used to a traditional dryer grip, and you mostly use a single concentrator.

Choose the Supersonic r if you style for long stretches, work on other people's hair, or find a straight handle tiring at awkward angles. The preset attachments also help if you want good results without dialing in settings.

For non-Dyson alternatives at similar or lower prices, see our best high-speed hair dryers and best professional hair dryers.

See high-speed dryers →

Frequently asked questions

Is the Supersonic r a professional dryer? Dyson markets it as the precision hair dryer for superior styling with a format built for hard-to-reach angles. Anyone can use it, but the shape is aimed at people who style in detail.

Is the Supersonic r lighter than the classic Supersonic? Dyson's listing describes the r as smaller and lighter. The listings do not give weights, so check Dyson's spec page for exact figures.

Do classic Supersonic attachments fit the Supersonic r? The r has a different body and its own intelligent attachments. Do not assume classic attachments fit; confirm compatibility with Dyson before buying.

Which is better value? The Origin, at the listed prices. It costs about $68 less and covers fast, heat-controlled drying. The r is worth it mainly for its shape and preset attachments.