Radial Brush Sizes: KS16B vs KS17B for Salon Volume
By Kent Brushes | The World's Finest Hairbrushes & Combs | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Comparisons
Compare the 24mm KS16B and 30mm KS17B radial brushes. Learn which barrel size suits your hair length and volume goals for salon-quality blow-dries.
Quick answer
Choose the 24mm KS16B for tighter curls and shorter hair; pick the 30mm KS17B for larger waves and more volume on medium to long hair.
Barrel diameter determines curl tightness and lift
The barrel size directly affects the curl diameter and how much hair you can wrap in one section. A smaller barrel creates tighter curls and more defined bends, while a larger barrel produces looser waves and smoother volume. For root lift, a bigger barrel can grab more hair at the crown, giving you a fuller look without tight ringlets.
Both brushes use a mix of natural boar bristle and heat-proof nylon, so they grip and release hair evenly. The main difference is the barrel width: 24mm on the KS16B and 30mm on the KS17B.
Row count and bristle arrangement
The KS16B has 20 rows of bristles, while the KS17B has 22 rows. More rows mean more bristle contact per wrap, which can help smooth the cuticle and add shine. In practice, the extra rows on the 30mm barrel compensate for the larger surface area, keeping tension consistent as you dry.
Both models feature short-tuft bristle rows arranged with pinpoint accuracy for grip, and ultra-thin nylon rows that lift and release the hair. The difference in row count is small, so your choice should lean more on the barrel size than the bristle count.
How to choose your radial brush size
- Hair length: For hair above the shoulders, the 24mm KS16B wraps ends easily without folding. For hair past the collarbone, the 30mm KS17B holds more length and reduces blow-dry time.
- Desired curl or wave: Tighter curls and bouncy ringlets come from the 24mm barrel. Loose, voluminous waves and a smooth finish come from the 30mm barrel.
- Volume at the roots: The 30mm KS17B lifts more hair at the crown, giving a fuller look. The 24mm KS16B offers precise root lift for shorter layers. Test each brush on a dry section to see which barrel size matches your natural wave pattern.
Brush specs at a glance
- 20 Row Nylon/Black Bristle Radial - KS16B: 24mm barrel, 20 rows, 170mm handle length The compact barrel is ideal for short to medium hair and creating tight curls or defined bends at the ends.
20 Row Nylon/Black Bristle Radial - KS16B - 22 Row Nylon/Black Bristle Radial - KS17B: 30mm barrel, 22 rows, 170mm handle length The larger barrel wraps more hair per section, making it faster for adding volume and loose waves on longer hair.
22 Row Nylon/Black Bristle Radial - KS17B
Which brush fits your styling needs?
Best for
- Short to medium hair wanting tight curls or defined bends
- Fine hair that needs precise root lift without over-curling
Not ideal for
- Long, thick hair that requires a larger barrel for even heat distribution
