I spent 3 months with the Dyson Supersonic r

After three months of daily use, travel tests and real-world styling, the Dyson Supersonic r sits somewhere between engineering curiosity and practical tool. This review looks beyond the specs to assess drying performance, heat management, battery behaviour and whether its premium price is matched by meaningful benefits for different hair types.

Design and ergonomics: lightweight, considered, expensive

At first glance the Supersonic r continues Dyson’s well-known design language — a compact motor, a hollow barrel and magnetic attachments that click into place. It feels both familiar and refined. Crucially for everyday use, Dyson has worked to reduce weight and shift balance, and that pays dividends across extended styling sessions. The handle is comfortable, buttons are tactile and the magnetic nozzles make swapping between styling tasks effortless.

That said, the materials and finish underline the price point: the unit looks and feels premium, but minor scuffing on the paintwork after three months signals that high-end styling tools still face normal wear-and-tear.

Performance: drying speed, heat control and styling results

Dyson’s claims about fast drying are supported in most scenarios. The Supersonic r uses concentrated airflow and calibrated heat to move moisture quickly while protecting hair from excessive temperatures. In practise, I observed consistently quicker drying times compared with my household mid-range dryer when working with mid-length to long hair.

However, results vary by hair type. For very fine or chemically treated hair, lower heat settings and the cooler finish are indispensable; for thick, coarse hair the concentrated airflow accelerates the process but requires patience to avoid frizz if you rely solely on speed.

• Test 1 — Wet-to-dry timing: Mid-length, medium-density hair dried roughly 20–30% faster than my reference dryer on the same heat setting.
• Test 2 — Styling with a round brush: The magnetic concentrator kept hot air focused and reduced the need for multiple passes, improving smoothness and shine.
• Test 3 — Diffusing curls: The diffuser attachment delivered definition but needed careful positioning to avoid lifting frizz on very porous hair.

Battery, heat management and noise

One of the notable engineering feats is Dyson’s approach to heat regulation. Internal sensors respond to temperature changes to limit damage from high heat, and this reactive system is audible in the dryer’s operation but not intrusive. Noise levels are comparable to other high-velocity motor dryers — perceptible but not uncomfortable.

Because the Supersonic r is corded (not a battery-powered device), battery life isn’t applicable here; instead, the focus turns to thermal efficiency and motor longevity. After prolonged use across three months, there were no visible signs of overheating or decline in motor strength. Maintenance is straightforward: clean the filter periodically and avoid blocking airflow at the inlet.

Who should consider the Supersonic r?

Deciding whether this is the right dryer comes down to priorities. If you value cutting drying time, prefer a compact, well-balanced tool and expect consistent styling performance, the Supersonic r delivers. It’s particularly well suited to:

• Busy professionals who style daily and want speed with controlled heat.
• Those with mid-length to long hair seeking reduced drying times and smoother finishes.
• Users who invest in premium tools and expect refined ergonomics and durable design.

Conversely, if price sensitivity is high or if you rarely blow-dry, a reputable mid-range dryer still offers solid results and better value for occasional use.

Practical care and troubleshooting tips

After extended testing I recommend these simple steps to keep the Supersonic r performing well:

• Clean the filter every two weeks if used daily — a buildup of lint reduces airflow and increases strain on the motor.
• Use lower heat settings for finer hair and finish with a cool blast to lock shine and shape.
• Store the magnetic attachments flat to avoid bending pins or losing magnetic force.
• When travelling, pack the dryer in a padded compartment; the finish can mark against metal zips over time.

Key Takeaways

• The Supersonic r offers noticeable drying speed improvements for most hair types, especially mid-length to long hair.
• Heat regulation technology reduces the risk of excessive damage while delivering consistent styling results.
• Build quality and ergonomics are premium, but show normal signs of wear after regular use.
• Not the best value for very occasional users or those primarily concerned with budget.
• Regular filter cleaning and mindful storage preserve performance and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Supersonic r worth the price?
For users who dry and style daily, the combination of speed, heat control and ergonomics can justify the premium. For infrequent users, mid-range alternatives are more cost-effective.

Will it reduce heat damage?
Its temperature sensors and controlled heat help limit exposure to excessive temperatures. However, damage prevention still depends on correct settings and protective products.

How does it handle curly hair?
The diffuser is effective for curl definition but requires technique to avoid frizz. For very textured or porous hair, lower heat and airflow settings with a controlled drying ritual work best.

Is it quieter than other professional dryers?
Noise levels are similar to other high-performance motor dryers; it’s not silent, but it’s tolerable for daily use.

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