CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener, vs Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron,
Updated August 2026 — CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener, wins on performance and heat control, Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron, wins on versatility.
The CHI Lava Ceramic Flat Iron offers a more affordable option with effective heat management, while the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ provides customizable temperature settings for versatility.
Why CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener, is better
Price
CHI is $59.98 compared to Paul Mitchell's $130.00
Heat Management
CHI uses volcanic lava for lower heat styling
User Experience
CHI has a longer swivel cord for convenience
Why Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron, is better
Versatility
Paul Mitchell can wave and curl hair
Temperature Control
Paul Mitchell has adjustable heat settings
Brand Reputation
Paul Mitchell is known for professional tools
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener, | Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron, |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Volcanic Lava | CeraShine Ceramic |
| Heat Settings | Fixed | Adjustable |
| Ergonomics | Yes | Yes |
| Damage Control | Low | Medium |
| User Ratings | 4.5 | 4.2 |
Dimension comparison
Overview of CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron
The CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener is priced at $59.98, making it about 17% cheaper than the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron, which retails for $130.00. Both products are designed for styling hair but offer different features and technologies to cater to various hair types and styling needs.
Design and Build Quality
The CHI Lava Ceramic Flat Iron is built with volcanic lava and ceramic materials, which ensure a smooth glide while styling and reduce heat damage by allowing for lower temperature settings. It features an ergonomic design and a lightweight structure, contributing to ease of use. On the other hand, the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron is designed with curved edge plates that enhance versatility, allowing users to straighten, wave, or curl their hair. Both products offer a professional look and durability, but the materials used in the CHI unit may provide a slight edge in heat management.
Heat Technology
The CHI Lava Ceramic Flat Iron utilizes volcanic lava combined with ceramic for effective heat conduction, making it suitable for styling at lower temperatures. This technology helps minimize hair damage while providing a sleek finish. In contrast, the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ offers adjustable heat settings up to 410°F, allowing customization based on hair type and texture. While both products promise even heat distribution, the CHI model focuses on reducing heat damage, whereas the Paul Mitchell model offers flexibility in temperature control.
Performance and Results
The CHI Lava Ceramic Flat Iron is known for creating smooth and frizz-free hairstyles. Its design allows for effortless glide, which is particularly beneficial for coarse and unruly hair textures. The product's bestseller rank at 18,141 reflects its popularity among users seeking effective styling tools. Conversely, the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ is designed to deliver polished, sleek styles quickly, with its high-performance heaters providing consistent results. Although it ranks slightly lower at 28,721, it remains a trusted choice for professional and home use.
User Experience
Users of the CHI Lava Ceramic Flat Iron have noted its ability to produce shiny and silky styles with less effort, thanks to its smooth styling surface. The length of the swivel cord (11 feet) also adds convenience during use. On the other hand, the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ features a large digital display that simplifies temperature adjustments, accommodating various hair types. While both irons are user-friendly, those who prefer a straightforward approach might find the CHI model more appealing.
Price Comparison
At $59.98, the CHI Lava Ceramic Flat Iron is significantly more affordable than the Paul Mitchell Smooth+, which costs $130. This price difference of about 54% makes the CHI model a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers who still seek quality performance. The lower average price also positions the CHI flat iron as an accessible tool for a broader audience, especially those new to hair styling.
Brand Reputation
CHI is a well-established brand in the hair care industry, founded by Farouk Shami, a hairdresser dedicated to creating innovative products. The brand’s commitment to ethical manufacturing practices, including cruelty-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free products, adds to its appeal. Paul Mitchell, known for its commitment to quality and professional products, also has a strong reputation but emphasizes value-priced tools that support salons. Both brands are recognized for their quality, making them reliable choices for consumers.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the CHI Lava Ceramic 1″ Flat Iron Hair Straightener and the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ Ceramic Flat Iron ultimately depends on your specific styling needs and budget. If you are looking for a more affordable option that focuses on minimizing heat damage while delivering smooth results, the CHI Lava Ceramic model is the better choice. However, if you prefer customizable temperature settings and a versatile tool capable of straightening, waving, and curling, the Paul Mitchell Smooth+ is worth the investment. Consider your hair type, styling preferences, and budget when making your decision.

