KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER - Strong Hair Paste vs Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener
Updated August 2026 — KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER - Strong Hair Paste wins on ease of use, Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener wins on price and travel.
The KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER offers an economical and straightforward styling option, while the Kristin Ess tool provides versatility for various hair types. Choose based on your styling needs.
Why KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER - Strong Hair Paste is better
Price
KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER is significantly cheaper at $14.00.
Simplicity
Easier to use with no special tools required.
Eco-friendly
Sulphate and paraben-free formulation.
Why Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener is better
Versatility
Kristin Ess can straighten, wave, and curl hair.
Heat Control
Features digital display and temperature settings.
Travel Friendly
Dual voltage and heat-resistant travel cap.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER - Strong Hair Paste | Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | KEVIN.MURPHY | Kristin Ess |
| Type | Hair Paste | Straightener/Curling Iron |
| Heat Max | N/A | 440°F |
| Size | 30g | 1.25 inch |
| Automatic Shut-off | No | Yes |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
When it comes to pricing, the KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER is significantly cheaper than the Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener and Curler. The KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER is priced at $14.00, while the Kristin Ess tool retails for $62.50. This means that the hair paste is about 78% less expensive than the straightener and curler combo. If you're looking for an economical hair styling option, the KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER offers an excellent value for those who prioritize budget-friendly choices in hair care.
Product Functionality
The KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER serves a specific purpose as a strong hair paste, designed for all hair types, while the Kristin Ess tool is a versatile 3-in-1 styling device that can straighten, wave, and curl hair. The NIGHT.RIDER provides a strong hold and a matte finish, enhancing texture and separation for short or choppy styles. In contrast, the Kristin Ess straightener and curler combo excels in providing multiple styling options, making it ideal for those who want to switch between sleek looks and beachy waves. Depending on your styling needs, you may find one product more suitable than the other.
Target Hair Types
The KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER is marketed as suitable for all hair types, providing a matte texture and strong hold, which is particularly beneficial for short hair or textured styles. On the other hand, the Kristin Ess multi-use styler is specifically designed for curly, frizzy, thick, and wavy hair. Its negative ion gold titanium plates and high heat capability (up to 440 degrees) work to eliminate frizz and maintain lasting curls and waves. If you have thicker or curlier hair, the Kristin Ess tool may be the better choice for achieving your desired look.
Ease of Use
In terms of ease of use, the KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER is straightforward; simply apply the paste to achieve a textured style. The product does not require any special tools or skills, making it accessible for anyone. Conversely, the Kristin Ess hair tool features a digital display and four temperature pre-set settings, allowing for customization based on hair type. Additionally, its rounded edges facilitate the creation of various styles from curls to waves. While both products are user-friendly, the Kristin Ess tool provides more flexibility for those interested in experimenting with different hairstyles.
Travel Convenience
The Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener and Curler has been designed with travel in mind, featuring a dual voltage capability and a heat-resistant travel cap, making it easy to pack and use internationally. This is a significant advantage for frequent travelers or those who want to style their hair on-the-go. In contrast, the KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER, being a paste, is also travel-friendly due to its compact size, but lacks the versatility of styling options provided by the Kristin Ess tool. If you travel often and need a flexible styling option, the Kristin Ess is likely the better choice.
Safety Features
The Kristin Ess tool includes a 30-minute automatic shut-off feature, which adds a layer of safety for users who may forget to turn off their styling tools. This is especially useful for those who are often in a hurry or preoccupied while getting ready. The KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER does not have any specific safety features highlighted, as it is a simple hair paste. While both products are safe to use, the added safety features of the Kristin Ess tool provide peace of mind, especially in busy households.
Brand Reputation
Both KEVIN.MURPHY and Kristin Ess have established themselves in the hair care industry, but they cater to slightly different markets. KEVIN.MURPHY products are often associated with high-fashion and salon-quality results, focusing on eco-friendly formulations that are sulphate and paraben-free. In contrast, Kristin Ess emphasizes affordable, professional-grade tools suitable for everyday use. With a bestseller rank of 9574 for the NIGHT.RIDER and a slightly better rank of 9278 for the Kristin Ess tool, both brands have their loyal customer bases. Ultimately, the choice may come down to personal preference as to which brand aligns more closely with your values.
Which should you buy?
Deciding between the KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER and the Kristin Ess 3-in-One Titanium Hair Straightener and Curler largely depends on your specific styling needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable hair paste that offers a strong hold and a matte finish, the KEVIN.MURPHY NIGHT.RIDER is a fantastic option at just $14.00. However, if you desire versatility in styling and are willing to invest more for a 3-in-1 tool that accommodates various hair types and styles, the Kristin Ess tool at $62.50 may be the better choice. Both products have their unique strengths, making them suited for different users.

