I tried B&M’s new 5‑in‑1 hair styler — is it a £455 dupe?

The high-street retailer B&M surprised the beauty world when its 3‑in‑1 hair styler went viral; this Christmas the shop introduced an updated 5‑in‑1 model. A recent consumer test claimed the budget tool is £455 cheaper than a popular high‑end alternative — so we looked at what that actually means for everyday styling, performance and value for money.

What the 5‑in‑1 device promises

Budget multi‑stylers typically combine drying, smoothing and volumising heads into a single unit. The new B&M model builds on the original three‑function format by adding two extra attachments, giving shoppers more styling options without owning multiple hot tools. For readers weighing cost against convenience, the headline figure — "£455 cheaper" — points to a growing trend: high‑street dupes of premium devices that aim to deliver similar results at a fraction of the price.

How it performs in real use

Independent reviews of budget stylers often focus on a few practical measures: heat control, motor power, ease of switching attachments, and the finish on different hair types. When trialled by a consumer journalist, the B&M 5‑in‑1 reportedly delivered fast styling for simple blow‑out looks and smoothed frizz on medium‑fine hair. Key observations to consider:

• The device handled basic blow‑drying and quick styling well, making it attractive for morning routines when time is short.
• Attachments can be convenient, but quality varies — some heads suit certain textures better than others, so expect differing results on thick, coarse or very curly hair.
• Finish and longevity of style may not match high‑end tools that use more advanced heat technologies or specialised ceramic coatings.
• Heat settings and motor strength are good indicators of how the styler will perform across hair types; check these before assuming parity with premium brands.

When a budget styler makes sense — and when it doesn’t

Choosing a multi‑function device comes down to lifestyle, hair type and expectations. The B&M option appears geared towards shoppers who prioritise value and convenience:

• Good choice if you want one tool for quick smoothing or volumising without investing in a suite of appliances.
• Smart for short‑to‑mid length hair or for anyone who principally needs an easier morning routine rather than salon‑grade finishes.
• Less suitable if you demand precision finishes, extended wear or have very thick, coarse or highly textured hair that benefits from specialist heat technologies.

Practical tips if you try a budget styler:

• Always use a heat protectant spray or serum to reduce the risk of damage regardless of price point.
• Start on the lowest effective heat setting and work in sections, especially with longer or denser hair.
• Test different attachments to establish which works best for your hair type before assuming one‑size‑fits‑all performance.

Cost vs performance: the bigger picture

The £455 saving headline is compelling but partial. Premium stylers often justify higher prices with stronger motors, longer warranties, patented heating systems or specific finishes (such as ionic or infrared technologies) designed to reduce frizz and lock shape. Conversely, the growing popularity of high‑street alternatives is a reminder that many users prioritise accessibility and usability over incremental improvements in finish.

For shoppers on a budget or those who rarely need a salon‑lasting blowout, a well‑designed multi‑styler from a retailer like B&M can be a perfectly reasonable option. If you’re a daily user seeking consistently salon‑level results, investing in a recognised professional tool may still be worth it.

Takeaway

The upgraded B&M 5‑in‑1 styler shows how mainstream retailers are closing the gap between basic home appliances and pricier branded devices. It represents solid value for those after convenience and cost savings, especially for routine styling. However, expect compromise in longevity of style and nuanced finish compared with top‑tier salon tools. Ultimately, match the tool to your hair type and styling expectations — and protect strands with proper heat defence regardless of the price tag.