Types of Hair Clips: A Visual Guide to 12 Styles
Updated November 1, 2026
As an Amazon Associate, EZClips earns from qualifying purchases. We have not tested the products we link to; these guides explain how to compare clip types.
Names vary between shops and countries, so here's what each one is and what it's good for.
Clip types compared
| Type | What it looks like | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Claw clip | Two toothed jaws on a spring | Twists, buns, half-up |
| Alligator / duckbill | Long flat jaws that close on a hinge | Sectioning while styling, holding curls |
| Snap clip | Bendable metal that clicks shut | Small sections, kids, bangs |
| French barrette | Flat decorative top with a clasp | Half-up and low ponytails |
| Bobby pin | Thin folded wire with ridges | Securing buns and loose ends |
| U-shaped hair pin | Open U shape | Buns and updos with thick hair |
| Banana clip | Long curved comb clip | Vertical 'mohawk' ponytails, thick hair |
| Butterfly clip | Small clip with butterfly shape | Decorative, Y2K looks |
| Flat claw clip | Claw clip with a flat back | Lying down or leaning against a seat |
| Creaseless clip | Smooth flat clip with no teeth | Holding hair without leaving dents |
| Hair stick | Single stick through a bun | Buns |
| Slide / bobby slide | Decorative long pin | Side sweeps |
Shop by type
- Claw clips
The everyday workhorse. - Alligator clips
For sectioning and salon-style work. - Snap clips
Small and quick. - Creaseless clips
No dents for makeup or photos.
We link to Amazon search results so you can compare current listings, prices and reviews yourself. We have not tested these products.
Hair health
Clips that pull hard on the same spot every day can stress hair. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that hairstyles that pull on the hair can lead to a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Change where you clip, loosen styles that hurt, and give your hair breaks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a claw clip and a jaw clip?
They are the same thing; 'jaw clip' and 'claw clip' are used interchangeably.
What are duckbill clips used for?
Duckbill or alligator clips are mainly used to section hair while cutting, blow-drying or setting curls.
Sources
Related guides
- Claw Clip Hairstyles: 9 Easy Looks for Any Hair Length
- How to Use a Claw Clip (So It Actually Stays Put)
- Hair Clips for Thick Hair: What Actually Holds
- Hair Clips for Thin or Fine Hair That Won't Slip
- Creaseless Hair Clips: How They Work and When to Use Them
- Flat Claw Clips: Comfortable Clips You Can Lean Back In
- Do Hair Clips Damage Hair? What Dermatologists Say