Is the Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x Worth the Upgrade? An In-Depth Review

Dyson’s latest innovation makes its iconic Airwrap twice as powerful—but is it really worth your dime? Here, Beauty Editor Red helps you weigh up your options.

Over the years, I’ve grown to become quite well-versed with Dyson’s repertoire of hair tools. For a start, I’m an avid user of the Supersonic r hairdryer. The Airwrap i.d. has also been a staple in my wash day routine for around a year now. And, of course, there was that one stretch of time when I made the Airstrait my entire personality. In other words, I have a pretty good point of reference when it comes to discerning whether any particular launch from the brand is worth the splurge or not.

All this is to say that when I caught wind that Dyson was set to launch an all-new Airwrap, I was a little sceptical. I mean, as far as I’m concerned, the one I already have works perfectly well—what could it improve on?

Well, on paper, the Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x is a cut above in every respect. As the name suggests, it offers twice the styling power in a lighter build, in addition to RFID-enabled attachments, intelligent heat control, and the same personalised i.d. curling sequence operated through the MyDyson app. Plus, there are a few new attachments to explore with the new build, including a straightening attachment and smaller barrel sizes on the curling and brush attachments. Needless to say, my interest was piqued.

I’ve been using the Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x for a full month now, and here’s the verdict: I think it was worth the upgrade for me, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for everyone. Below, find my thoughts on the new device:

Observation #1: The Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x sure knows how to make a good first impression

Part 1: The look and feel

As soon as I’d set my eyes on the device, I was obsessed. I got my Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x in Jasper Plum, which is, in my humble opinion, the most gorgeous purple colourway… ever. At least, in Dyson’s history so far.

Further, it’s really lightweight—it certainly feels more lightweight than my Airwrap i.d.—which makes for a more comfortable styling experience that’s even easier on the arms than its predecessors. I also noticed that each attachment that comes with the device is significantly smaller in diameter than the ones from my Airwrap i.d., which actually makes them more ideal for my styling preferences. Specifically, I prefer the tighter, bouncy curls the Airwrap Co-Anda 2x’s smaller curling barrels deliver over the loose, polished blowout my Airwrap i.d. offers. Both are gorgeous, of course, but the Co-Anda 2x just aligns with my preferences more.

Part 2: The performance

When it came to test-driving the tool, it’s safe to say I was blown away—literally. When this device says it delivers twice the Co-Anda effect, it means it. Seriously, thanks to the Hyperdymium™2 motor, the air pressure on this Airwrap is insanely impressive! I’ve generally found that it handles larger/thicker slices of hair really well because of how strong the air current is, which has helped cut down my styling time overall. And, just so I could have the stats to back it up, I timed the whole process.

On my first go-around with the Airwrap Co-Anda 2X, it took around 18 minutes to dry my hair and style it straight. On my second trial run, I managed to cut my time down to just 16 minutes and 27 seconds—and that time was inclusive of me curling my hair with the smaller 30mm barrel!

I did find that my curls from the Airwrap Co-Anda 2x did not stay as long as my curls from the Airwrap i.d., but I’m chalking it up to user error on my part. Fortunately, with a little hairspray (essential) and a set of hair rollers (optional), I can take the curls from lasting just a few hours to lasting for up to a few days!

Observation #2: Every new tool comes with a learning curve

Part 1: Pushing buttons

It has to be said: the change of controls on this new Airwrap model had me completely stumped at first. For a start, the on/off switch I have grown fond of has been replaced with a button, and I have to be honest—it’s an adjustment for sure. You see, the switch mechanism on the Airwrap i.d. made using the curling barrels really flexible. I’d preset the curling sequence on the MyDyson app, but depending on the section I took, I could choose to skip the wrap, heat, or cool stage at whim. With the button on the Co-Anda 2x, it only starts or stops the programme. This isn’t a major drawback, but it does mean that I have to be a little more meticulous with my sectioning.

Part 2: New attachments

This button is also what controls the Airsmooth 2x straightening attachment. This attachment was easy enough to get the hang of, but I will admit that having to press the button constantly instead of just manually clamping down as I do with the Airstrait does get a little tiring. That said, I’m pleased with the results—while the Airsmooth 2x’s finish isn’t quite as smooth as the Airstrait, the ability to curl my ends in puts it at the top.

Part 3: The MyDyson app to the rescue!

If it’s your first time using any kind of Airwrap, the controls on the Co-Anda 2x may confuse you, as they aren’t super intuitive. Thankfully, the app has tutorials that walk you through the whole process. Plus, it’s so simple to set up the i.d. curl function on the device—you only have to do it once and never again!

The addition of RFID sensors is also really cool. Essentially, they come preset with recommended airflow and heat settings, but can customise your preferences using the MyDyson ™ app. Again, you only have to set your preferences once, and the machine will remember them, adjusting heat and airflow automatically!

Part 4: On and on and on…

Another confusing thing that took me by surprise is that the on/off button only really works to turn the device on, and then more on—there is no off. I thought I was going crazy the first time I used it and ended up switching the device off at the plug point. However, it was eventually explained to me that the device turns off by itself eventually after it cools down. I’m sure I would have worked that out eventually… right?

Part 3: Is the Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x worth it?

Like I said, for me, yes, it is so worth it. For me, the Co-Anda 2x does it all, delivering exactly the results I want, whether that be tight ringlets, a blowout, or straight locks with a c-curled end. While there was a learning curve, it was easy enough to get around with time and practise.

That said, if you already love your current hair tool and you’re not wanting for any variation in your hairstyles, it might not be worth it for you. All in all, you’ll have to assess for yourself whether you’ll actually need the versatile attachments or not. All I can say is that it sure is convenient to have all your must-have hair tools condensed into one product!

The Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x is available in-store and online now, priced at RM2,999.

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