Anyone who’s shopped for a hair dryer lately knows the premium options can run hundreds of dollars. But if you’ve wandered through Kmart lately, you might have noticed their Anko brand sitting on the shelf for a fraction of that price. The question is whether spending under $50 gets you something decent—or if you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. This article breaks down what real buyers are saying, how the specs compare, and which Anko models are actually worth your money.

4 related posts

Retailer: Kmart Australia · Popular brand: Anko · Key feature: Low prices · Types available: Travel and standard · Social buzz: Facebook and YouTube reviews

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact manufacturing locations for Anko products
  • Long-term durability differences between models
  • Real-world ionic technology effectiveness
3Timeline signal
  • Initial High Power Dryer released in 2024 at $59 (Reviews.org)
  • Lilac version launched with LED indicator and $10 price cut (Reviews.org)
  • Air Styler released as Airwrap dupe (Reviews.org)
4What’s next
  • More Anko iterations likely as demand grows
  • Potential warranty claim data emerging over time
  • Continued comparison against premium brands
Label Value
Main Retailer Kmart.com.au
Brand Anko
Product Types Dryers, appliances with stylers
User Hubs Facebook groups, YouTube

Are Anko hair dryers good?

The honest answer depends on what you’re comparing them to. Anko dryers won’t match a Dyson Supersonic Nural at $749, but for everyday home use, many buyers find them surprisingly capable. The brand occupies a different market segment entirely—budget-conscious shoppers who want functional performance without the premium price tag.

User reviews from SaySo and YouTube

Verified purchasers on Product Review Australia share mixed but often positive experiences. One reviewer describes the Anko 2000W RCY-106 as “very powerful and lightweight” with an “easy-to-clean rear filter,” noting it held its own against their Parlux in direct comparison. Another user praises the Travel RCY-82 as “perfect for travelers”—handy, compact, and “very cheap.” The common thread in positive reviews: solid performance at a price point where replacement feels painless.

The upshot

For occasional users or travelers, Anko travel models deliver 1600W power in a foldable frame for just $10. The math is simple: ten times cheaper than Dyson’s travel offering and roughly equivalent in basic functionality.

Facebook recommendations

Social media discussions reveal patterns in buyer satisfaction. Facebook groups show ongoing recommendations for Anko models with diffusers, particularly when competitors charge significantly more for similar attachments. The caveat? These recommendations come without formal testing data—buyer experiences vary based on hair type, usage frequency, and expectations.

Upsides

  • Travel models under $15 with foldable handles
  • High-power options (2000W+) available under $30
  • Smart Dryer includes 110,000 RPM motor
  • LED temperature indicators on newer models
  • 1-year manufacturer warranty on most models

Downsides

  • Limited attachment variety versus premium brands
  • No independent drying efficiency testing data
  • Design scores trail behind Big W competitors
  • Questionable long-term durability for daily use
  • Ionic technology effectiveness unverified

What is a good budget hair dryer?

A good budget hair dryer balances three factors: wattage for drying speed, temperature control for hair protection, and build quality for longevity. Kmart’s Anko lineup covers this spectrum, though results vary by model. Understanding what you actually need matters more than chasing specifications.

Kmart options under low prices

Two-thirds of Kmart and Target’s Anko range sits above the 2000W mark, according to Reviews.org—meaning most models deliver strong airflow despite their budget positioning. The Anko QL-5916AC priced at $27.00 and the Smart Dryer at $49 represent the current lineup. Both undercut comparable options from VS Sassoon and Remington by $20-50.

Why this matters

Consumer organization CHOICE evaluates dryers on drying rate (50%), temperature range (25%), airflow speed range (20%), and noise score (5%). For budget buyers, wattage and temperature control matter most—Anko’s 1600W Smart Dryer includes a 40-90°C range with smart-mode lock at 55°C, matching premium safety features at a fraction of the cost.

Best value picks

Based on verified specifications and user feedback, the Anko Travel RCY-82 delivers the strongest value proposition for casual users: $10, 1600W power, foldable handle, and universal voltage. For those wanting more features, the $27 Anko QL-5916AC adds ionic functionality without crossing the $30 threshold. The $49 Smart Dryer targets users prioritizing temperature safety over raw power.

Is there a difference between cheap and expensive hair dryers?

The gap between budget and premium exists, but its significance depends on your priorities. Price differences of $700+ between Anko and Dyson models reflect real engineering disparities—but whether those differences matter to you depends on hair type, usage patterns, and what you’re willing to trade.

Performance tests

Independent testing from CHOICE shows that drying rate accounts for 50% of their evaluation criteria. Premium dryers like the $749 Dyson Supersonic Nural maintain consistent temperatures across sessions, while budget models may show greater variance. However, Reviews.org notes that Big W hair dryers from VS Sassoon and Remington scored higher than Kmart and Target devices across the design front—suggesting competitors at similar price points sometimes outperform Anko.

When comparing across the budget-to-premium spectrum, the performance landscape becomes clearer. VS Sassoon and Remington models at $60-70 reach 2400W, outpacing Anko’s 1600-2000W range in raw power. The Dyson Supersonic Nural matches Anko’s wattage at 1600W but delivers that power through a sensor-controlled system that adjusts output in real-time, something budget models cannot replicate without comparable technology.

The trade-off

Anko High Power Dryer Lilac at 1600W matches the Dyson Supersonic Nural’s wattage—but the $700 price difference reflects motor consistency, attachment quality, and brand longevity. For daily users with thick or damaged hair, premium temperature control may justify the jump. For occasional use, the savings rarely translate to meaningful performance loss.

Damage comparison

Heat damage risk connects directly to temperature consistency. The Kmart Smart Dryer’s smart mode maintains 55°C—below the threshold where protein damage accelerates. Dyson’s approach integrates sensors that adjust output in real-time. Budget models without such systems rely on user judgment to avoid sustained high-heat exposure. The Smart Dryer’s $49 price point makes this protection accessible to budget buyers.

Across the Anko range, temperature control varies significantly. Higher-wattage models like the 2000W RCY-106 deliver more heat faster but lack the smart-mode regulation found in the Smart Dryer. For buyers with color-treated or damaged hair, the Smart Dryer’s consistent 55°C output provides meaningful protection that simple wattage specs cannot convey.

Brand/Model Price Wattage Key Feature
Kmart Anko Travel RCY-82 $10 1600W Foldable, universal voltage
Kmart Anko QL-5916AC $27 2000W+ Ionic function
Kmart Smart Dryer $49 1600W Smart mode (55°C)
Kmart Anko High Power Lilac $49 1600W LED indicator, magnetic
Dyson Supersonic Nural $749 1600W Sensor-controlled heat
VS Sassoon Turbo Quietone $70+ 2400W High-speed airflow
Remington Pro Air Turbo $60+ 2400W Pro motor technology
Bottom line: What this means: Budget shoppers who prioritize temperature safety over raw power will find the Smart Dryer at $49 the most defensible choice within Anko’s lineup, while those who need maximum drying speed may need to look beyond Anko entirely.

How do I pick a good hair dryer?

Choosing the right hair dryer requires matching specifications to your specific needs. What works for fine, color-treated hair differs from thick, coarse textures. Five factors determine whether a model suits your situation.

Key features to check

  • Wattage: 1600W+ handles most hair types effectively. Higher wattage accelerates drying but increases heat exposure.
  • Temperature range: Look for adjustable settings spanning 40-90°C. Smart modes that lock at lower temperatures protect damaged or processed hair.
  • Speed settings: Multiple speed options allow customization for different styling needs. Travel models often limit this to two settings.
  • Attachments: Diffusers matter for curly or wavy textures. Concentrator nozzles suit straight styling. Magnetic attachment systems add convenience but aren’t essential.
  • Weight and size: Foldable handles transform full-size dryers into travel-ready options. Smart Dryer measures 29cm × 13.9cm × 7.1cm—compact enough for most bathroom storage.
What to watch

Warranty coverage differs between models. The Anko Travel RCY-82 includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty, while the Smart Dryer’s coverage depends on current Kmart policy. For daily users, warranty terms may influence decision-making more than initial price.

What to look for

Buyer reviews consistently highlight rear filter accessibility as a durability factor. The Anko 2000W RCY-106 receives praise for its easy-to-clean filter—a feature often overlooked until maintenance becomes necessary. Magnetic attachments, present on both Anko High Power and Dyson models, add premium feel but aren’t reliability indicators.

What is the best hair dryer at Kmart?

Determining the “best” Kmart hair dryer requires context. The Anko lineup serves different purposes across its range, and no single model dominates across all use cases. Matching your priorities to available options yields better results than chasing a universal champion.

Top picks from Kmart range

For performance-first buyers: the Anko Smart Dryer at $49 delivers 1600W power with 110,000 RPM motor, multi-temperature control (40-90°C), and a smart mode that locks at 55°C. Its magnetic concentrator and cool shot function round out features typically found in models three times the price.

For value-focused shoppers: the Anko QL-5916AC at $27.00 offers ionic functionality at the lowest price point with verified performance data. CHOICE includes this model in their evaluation criteria, suggesting it meets baseline quality standards.

Mini and travel options

The Anko Travel RCY-82 represents Kmart’s strongest travel proposition: $10 RRP, 1600W power, foldable handle, universal voltage, and dimensions of 78 × 189 × 249 mm. It includes two speed settings and a concentrator nozzle. The price-to-portability ratio is difficult to match at any retailer.

The verdict

For Australian buyers, Kmart Anko models fill a genuine gap: functional performance at prices that make replacement feel reasonable. The Smart Dryer targets users willing to spend slightly more for temperature safety; the Travel RCY-82 serves anyone needing portability without sacrifice. Neither will satisfy those craving premium build quality—but that’s not what you’re paying for.

Model Price Wattage Speed Settings Temperature Range Special Features Dimensions
Anko Travel RCY-82 $10 1600W 2 N/A Foldable, universal voltage 78 × 189 × 249 mm
Anko QL-5916AC $27 2000W+ Multiple N/A Ionic function N/A
Smart Dryer $49 1600W 2 40-90°C 110,000 RPM, smart mode, magnetic 29 × 13.9 × 7.1 cm
High Power Lilac $49 1600W 3 N/A LED indicator, magnetic N/A
2000W RCY-106 $25 2000W N/A N/A Easy-clean filter N/A

Steps: How to choose your Anko hair dryer

  1. Identify your primary use case. Travel needs favor the RCY-82’s foldable design and universal voltage. Home daily use benefits from the Smart Dryer’s temperature control.
  2. Assess your hair type. Fine or processed hair benefits most from smart mode at 55°C. Thick, coarse textures may need higher wattage (2000W+) regardless of brand.
  3. Compare your must-have features. List non-negotiables: ionic function, specific attachments, warranty length. Filter available models against these criteria.
  4. Check current prices. Kmart runs periodic sales. The Travel RCY-82 at $10 represents consistent value; higher-priced models may fluctuate more significantly.
  5. Read recent buyer reviews. Product Review Australia provides verified purchaser feedback for most Anko models. Look for patterns in durability mentions after months of use.

Buyers who work through these steps methodically will find their decision narrows quickly to one or two models that match their specific situation—rather than getting lost in spec sheets for products they don’t actually need.

Bottom line: Kmart Anko hair dryers deliver functional performance at budget prices. The $10 Travel RCY-82 suits occasional users and travelers perfectly; the $49 Smart Dryer protects heat-sensitive hair without premium costs. Daily users with thick or damaged hair should weigh whether premium temperature consistency justifies stepping beyond Anko’s range—those who skip this calculation may end up replacing their budget dryer more often than they’d like.

Related reading: Walking Pad Kmart

Additional sources

youtube.com, productreview.com.au, youtube.com, choice.com.au, reviews.org

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Frequently asked questions

What hair dryers does Kmart sell?

Kmart sells Anko-branded hair dryers ranging from $10 travel models to $49 smart dryers with temperature control. The range includes travel dryers, high-power dryers, ionic models, and an Air Styler styling tool.

Does Kmart Anko hair dryer come with diffuser?

Most Anko dryers include a concentrator nozzle rather than a diffuser. Some Facebook recommendations mention Anko models with diffusers at similar price points, but availability varies by model. Check current Kmart listings for specific attachment inclusions.

Where to buy Kmart hair dryer mini?

Kmart hair dryer minis and travel models are available at Kmart Australia stores and online at kmart.com.au. The Anko Travel RCY-82 at $10 represents the most portable option with a foldable handle.

How much do Kmart hair dryers cost?

Kmart hair dryers range from $10 (Anko Travel RCY-82) to $49 (Smart Dryer, High Power Lilac). Mid-range ionic models like the QL-5916AC retail at $27.00.

Are Kmart hair dryers ionic?

Some Anko models include ionic functionality, such as the QL-5916AC at $27.00. However, independent verification of ionic technology effectiveness in these budget models is limited. Buyer expectations should account for this uncertainty.

Can Kmart hair dryers handle thick hair?

Higher-wattage Anko models (2000W+) can handle thick hair, but may require more drying time than premium alternatives. The 2000W RCY-106 and QL-5916AC offer sufficient power for most thick hair types, though daily heavy use may reveal durability differences over time.

What is the warranty on Anko hair dryers?

The Anko Travel RCY-82 includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Warranty coverage for other Anko models varies—check current Kmart return policy or product listings for specific warranty terms before purchase.

How do Anko hair dryers compare to others?

Anko dryers compete favorably on price but trail behind competitors like VS Sassoon and Remington in design quality scores, according to Reviews.org analysis. Premium brands like Dyson offer superior temperature consistency and motor longevity at significantly higher price points. For casual or travel use, Anko provides reasonable value; daily heavy use may favor stepping up to mid-range competitors.

A great hair dryer. Easy to clean rear filter. Very powerful and lots of heat. We have a Parlux and in comparison it fares very well plus it’s lightweight.

— A verified purchaser on Product Review Australia

This is a perfect hair dryer for travelers. Handy and it doesn’t take much space. More important it’s very cheap.

— Another verified buyer, Product Review Australia

For Australian buyers weighing budget against performance, the Anko lineup presents a genuine decision point. Spending $10 to $50 on a Kmart dryer won’t deliver Dyson’s engineering sophistication—but it also won’t trigger the same regret when repair or replacement becomes necessary. The question isn’t whether Anko beats premium brands; it’s whether the trade-offs make sense for how you actually use a hair dryer. Those prioritizing temperature safety and smart mode features should look at the $49 Smart Dryer. Travelers and occasional users will find the $10 Travel RCY-82 hard to beat on value. Heavy daily users with thick or damaged hair may still want to factor in whether budget pricing eventually costs more through earlier replacement.