Quick answer

The Compact Styler is the better travel brush if you need a protected, handbag-friendly tool for fine to medium hair. The Original is the better choice if you want a full-size brush for straight-to-wavy hair and don't mind it taking up more space. Both detangle wet or dry hair, but only the Compact Styler includes a click-on cover.

Size and portability: what fits in your bag

The Compact Styler is designed as a handbag must-have with a click-on cover that protects its teeth when you're on the move. The Original is a full-size brush with no cover, so it's better suited to a bathroom shelf or a larger tote. If you're packing light, the Compact Styler's smaller footprint and protective cover make it the more practical travel companion.

Hair type and detangling performance

The Original is ideal for straight-to-wavy hair types and uses patented two-tiered teeth: long teeth detangle while shorter teeth smooth the cuticle for shine and less tugging. The Compact Styler is ideal for fine to medium hair types and also uses two-tiered flexible teeth that glide through hair, adding smoothness. If your hair is thick or highly textured, neither is specifically designed for that, so consider a model built for your hair type.

Price and value

The Original has a catalog price of USD 11.10 (compare at USD 15.00), while the Compact Styler is USD 12.24 (compare at USD 17.00). The Original is slightly cheaper, but the Compact Styler's cover and portability may justify the small difference if you travel often.

Trade-offs to weigh

  • Portability vs. coverage: The Compact Styler's cover and smaller size make it easy to toss in a bag, but it offers less surface area than The Original. Choose the Compact Styler if you style on the go.
  • Hair type match: The Original targets straight-to-wavy hair, while the Compact Styler targets fine to medium hair. Neither is designed for very thick or coily hair. Match the brush to your hair type for the best results.
  • Price vs. features: The Original costs less, but the Compact Styler's cover adds protection and travel convenience. Decide if the cover is worth the small price difference for your routine.

Product facts

  • Compact Styler: Compact Styler: Ideal for fine to medium hair types; two-tiered flexible teeth protected by a click-on cover; gently glides through hair adding a smooth finish. The cover keeps teeth clean and protected in your bag, and the brush is sized for on-the-go styling.
  • The Original: The Original: Ideal for straight-to-wavy hair types; patented two-tiered teeth detangle wet and dry hair while shorter teeth smooth the cuticle; results in smooth, healthier-looking hair with increased shine and no tugging or pulling. Full-size performance for daily use at home, with proven detangling and smoothing.

Which should you pack?

Best for

  • Travelers who need a protected brush in a handbag or carry-on
  • Fine to medium hair types
  • Anyone who styles on the go and wants a cover

Not for

  • Those with very thick or highly textured hair
  • People who prefer a full-size brush at home
  • Users who don't need portability and want to save a little money