To choose a cheap flat iron, you will want to keep some important factors in mind to ensure that you do not end up with a styling tool that is too weak, or which will cause damage to your hair. The first place to begin is the plates; experts generally recommend choosing a flat iron with ceramic plates to prevent damage to the hair, and these are available on flat irons at all price points. The next thing to consider when choosing a cheap flat iron is the temperature adjustment; it should be able to adjust within a few hundred degrees at least in order to be used for different purposes.
Even though you may be looking for a cheap flat iron, you do not want to compromise on the plates used for straightening the hair. Ceramic plates are the best choice because they glide more smoothly over the hair and help the follicle to lie flat. Metal plates tend to grasp and pull the hair, and are also much more difficult to control the temperature of. This can cause damage to the hair, and lead to frizzing and breakage. Though the least expensive flat irons feature these metal plates, it is best to pass them by.
The ability to adjust the temperature of a cheap flat iron is important as well. High temperatures are needed for thick, frizzy hair with a natural curl or wave, while lower temperatures are needed for thinner hair. It is important to be able to use a lower temperature to try to mitigate the damage caused by heat styling. A cheap flat iron will probably not have the wide variety of adjustment that a more expensive model will, but it should still be able to adjust a few hundred degrees up and down.
In most cases, a cheap flat iron will not carry a very long manufacturer's warranty, but it doesn't hurt to check. Be sure to keep your receipts and packaging just in case. Other factors such as the width of the plates or the actual design of the flat iron are a matter of personal preference. As you are shopping around, it might be helpful to read reviews of specific models online, because customers can provide a bit more information about how the flat iron holds up with regular use, and may help steer you to a different model that lasts longer or works better. Remember that by exercising patience and carefully watching the sales, you may even be able to purchase an nicer model at a discount price.