In-Depth Review of Panasonic's Premium Hair Dryer: The 60,000 Yen "Nanocare ULTIMATE"
The Panasonic Nanocare ULTIMATE hair dryer, released on September 1st, has garnered significant attention for its cutting-edge features and premium pricing. This review takes a closer look at the new model, comparing it with the previous EH-NA0J model, and delves into its performance, features, and whether it's worth the hefty price tag.
Design and Build
Visually, the Nanocare ULTIMATE doesn’t stray far from its predecessor. Both models are nearly identical in terms of size, with the ULTIMATE being just 2.5 cm wider and about 40g heavier. The slight weight increase isn’t particularly noticeable during use, but it adds to a sense of sturdiness in the hand. The design remains sleek and modern, with a strong emphasis on ergonomics, making it comfortable for extended use.
One of the most significant upgrades in the ULTIMATE model is the addition of an LCD display, which is not present in the earlier model. This display shows various settings and allows users to control the airflow, heat, and other functions with ease. The interface is intuitive and offers a user-friendly experience, a notable improvement over traditional button-operated models. This monitor feature sets it apart from many other hair dryers in the market, providing a more precise and customizable drying experience.
Another subtle yet impactful change is in the nozzle design. The nozzle has been completely redesigned to offer more efficient airflow. Panasonic has refined the shape to better direct the airflow, enhancing drying performance while maintaining a sleek look. Additionally, the dryer now has four ion generation electrodes, doubling the two that were in the EH-NA0J model. These electrodes help emit more negative ions, which is crucial for the hair’s moisture retention, making it feel softer and smoother after drying.
Performance and Functionality
When it comes to performance, the Nanocare ULTIMATE shines. The first noticeable difference is the sound. While still powerful, the ULTIMATE has a deeper, more refined sound compared to the previous model, giving it a more high-end feel during operation. This change in sound quality also makes the experience more pleasant, especially for those who use their dryer daily.
The ULTIMATE offers three airflow settings, allowing users to adjust the power based on their hair type or personal preference. Even at its lowest setting, the dryer delivers a respectable amount of airflow, which is impressive. The air volume output, a key specification in determining a dryer’s power, has changed from 1.6 cubic meters per minute in the older model to 0.8 cubic meters per minute in the ULTIMATE. While this might seem like a downgrade, it’s important to note that this only refers to the amount of air being expelled, not the drying power. In fact, the ULTIMATE’s air pressure is much stronger, meaning the air that does come out is more concentrated and effective at drying hair faster.
One of the biggest advantages of this model is its ability to dry the hair from the roots. Older models, and many other dryers on the market, often struggle to dry the scalp efficiently, leaving users to spend extra time aiming airflow directly at the roots. With the ULTIMATE, the strong airflow easily reaches the scalp, drastically reducing drying time, especially for those with long or thick hair. This is a significant improvement for users who previously had to manually lift sections of hair to ensure the roots were properly dried.
Moisture Retention and Ion Technology
Where the Nanocare ULTIMATE truly excels is in moisture retention. Panasonic’s focus on ion technology has been a hallmark of their high-end dryers, and the ULTIMATE takes it to the next level. With the new four-electrode design, the dryer generates 1.2 times more moisture retention compared to the previous model. After drying, hair feels incredibly smooth and hydrated—almost as if it hasn’t been dried yet. This level of moisture retention is a game-changer, especially for those with dry or brittle hair, as it helps maintain the hair’s natural shine and softness.
The dryer’s Nanoe technology is designed to infuse hair with moisture, and the difference is immediately noticeable. Even after extended use, the ULTIMATE continues to leave hair feeling silky smooth, making it a great tool for daily hair care routines. This extra boost of moisture is especially beneficial for those who regularly use heat styling tools, as it helps prevent the typical dryness and damage associated with frequent blow-drying.
Real-World Use and Downsides
While the Nanocare ULTIMATE offers many advantages, there are a few potential downsides. One issue is that the airflow can be too powerful, particularly for people with very fine or straight hair. This can cause hair to tangle, especially at the ends, which might be a problem for some users. To avoid this, it’s recommended to use the lower or medium airflow settings for gentler drying. This way, users can still benefit from the strong performance of the dryer without risking tangling or frizz.
Another point to consider is the price. At 60,000 yen, this dryer is significantly more expensive than most models on the market. However, when compared to Panasonic’s other high-end models, such as the 85,000 yen version, which comes with additional features like a smoothing mode and a volume-up brush, the ULTIMATE’s price may be more justifiable for those who prioritize both performance and affordability within the premium category.
Value for Money
While the price is high, the Nanocare ULTIMATE offers an excellent balance of performance, moisture retention, and advanced features. It’s clear that this model is aimed at those who take hair care seriously and are willing to invest in a product that delivers superior results. For individuals with long, thick, or dry hair, the ULTIMATE provides faster drying times, healthier moisture retention, and a noticeable difference in hair quality after each use.
Users who are looking for a more affordable option may find Panasonic’s older models, like the EH-NA0J, still provide excellent results at a lower price point. However, for those who want the latest in hair dryer technology, the Nanocare ULTIMATE is hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
The Panasonic Nanocare ULTIMATE is an impressive addition to the premium hair dryer market. Its combination of strong airflow, advanced ion technology, and moisture retention make it a top choice for anyone looking to improve their hair care routine. While the price may be steep, the benefits in performance and quality of results make it a worthwhile investment for users seeking the best in hair drying technology.
If you’re considering purchasing this model, many stores offer demo units, allowing you to experience the ULTIMATE's power and features firsthand. For those who value high-end grooming products, the Nanocare ULTIMATE may just be the perfect addition to your collection.
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