Weft vs Tape-In Extensions: Which Should You Choose?

Have you decided to commit to permanent extensions and want hair that's longer, fuller, and more natural-looking? Well, in that case, you'll have a few decisions to make. Still, you might understandably feel overwhelmed trying to choose between weft extensions and tape-in extensions.

Both these types of professional extensions can add beautiful length and volume. It's also true, though, that these methods vary in the specific hair types, lifestyles, and styling preferences that they suit.

Since 2007, Cliphair has helped thousands of customers decide on the right extension method for them and their hair.

Our experts don't believe in simply saying, "it depends", or declaring one option to always be "better" than the other. So, instead, we've put together this clear and balanced comparison, to help you determine which method best matches your needs.

Weft vs Tape-In Extensions: The Quick Answer

What each method actually is

Weft extensions are long strips of hair that are sewn, glued, or secured with rings into small sections of your natural hair. If you're new to this method, you'll find more detail on the different types in our guide answering the question, "what are weft hair extensions?"

Tape-in hair extensions, meanwhile, are pre-taped panels of hair that are sandwiched onto sections of your natural hair, using adhesive.

A crucial thing to appreciate is that these are both professional and semi-permanent hair extension methods fitted, maintained, and removed by a qualified hair extension specialist. In other words, neither of them are "DIY" options.

At-a-glance comparison table

Explore our full range of weft extensions and our tape-in hair extensions to compare the available collections in detail before you book your fitting.

Install Method Compared

How weft extensions go in

There are several ways in which you can choose to have wefts professionally attached to your hair. These include sewing the strip into braided or sectioned natural hair, gluing, or securing with rings or clamps.

The most popular modern method, though, is the LA or Celebrity Weave. This approach combines silicone-lined rings with sewing to ensure a secure yet comfortable hold.

A full head of weft extensions can usually be fitted in under two hours, depending on how much hair you're adding.

Whatever technique is chosen for applying weft extensions, this task must always be carried out by a qualified hair extension specialist. To reiterate: the fitting of weft extensions is not a "DIY" or "at-home" process.

How tape-in extensions go in

Tape-in extensions use what is commonly known as the "sandwich method". This involves your natural hair being placed between two adhesive-backed wefts that bond together. The outcome is a secure panel that lies flat and close to the scalp.

As with weft extensions, a full-head application of tape-in hair pieces generally takes under two hours. Maintenance appointments are often slightly quicker than this.

Again, it is critical to emphasise that tape-in extensions must only be put in or removed by a suitably qualified professional. This isn't an "at-home" job.

For more information on the advantages as well as the limitations of this method, read our article setting out tape-in hair extensions pros and cons.

Which is quicker for touch-ups

Both methods require maintenance (again, carried out by a specialist) roughly every six to eight weeks.

However, the exact work that will need to be undertaken differs:

• If you have wefts, your extensionist will reposition or "push up" the rows as your natural hair grows.
• If you have tape-ins, the old adhesive tabs will be removed and replaced with fresh ones before the extensions are reapplied.

Both methods require an appointment with a professional for touch-ups; neither offer a same-day DIY "refresh".

Thickness and Volume

How wefts add thickness

As wefts are dense strips, they deliver the most noticeable volume and body. This is particularly the case at the back and crown.

This extension method suits average to thick hair best. Wefts are not recommended for very fine or thin hair, because of the weight and potential visibility at the root.

Here at Cliphair, we make available two Remy Royale options for wefts: the Remy Royale Classic Weft and the Remy Royale Flat Track Weft. These are both AAAAA grade and double drawn (the latter term meaning the shorter hairs have largely been removed, leaving hair that's consistently thick from top to bottom for a fuller appearance).

Eager to learn more? We've written on the topic of everything you need to know about the flat weft.

How tape-ins add thickness

Tape-ins lie flatter against the head than wefts. This makes them an attractive option for adding length and subtle volume without bulk.

The scope for individual pieces to be sized and positioned precisely makes tape-in extensions suitable for every hair thickness, from very thin to thick.

Included within Cliphair's range of tape-ins are Classic Tape-Ins (AAA grade and single drawn), as well as Remy Royale Tape-Ins and Remy Royale Invisible Tape-Ins (which are both AAAAA grade and double drawn).

The term "single drawn" refers to hair that contains a natural mix of longer and shorter strands. It closely resembles untreated natural hair.

Styling freedom: updos and ponytails

Wefts hide their attachment points well and generally cope better with high ponytails and updos. Tape-ins, on the other hand, perform best with hair-down or loose, low styles. High ponytails are not their strongest suit.

If your mind is set on pulling off sleek, scraped-back updos with maximum discreetness, it's worth noting that professionally fitted nano rings or keratin bonds may be a better fit than either wefts or tape-ins.

Longevity and Maintenance

How long each one lasts

On any given day, we might have someone ask us: "how long do tape-in extensions last?" Then, the next day, someone may approach us with the similarly common query, "how long do weft extensions last?"

Well, if you're curious about the answer to either of those frequently asked questions, it's your lucky day. Here's a "snapshot" of how Cliphair's ranges compare for longevity, presuming they're properly maintained:

In summary, then, the Remy Royale Flat Track Weft is the longest-lasting weft option that we offer here at Cliphair. However, the premium Remy Royale tape collections can also last for as much as a year if they're cared for correctly.

Click through to read our detailed guide in response to the question, "how long do tape-in hair extensions last?"

Day-to-day care differences

Both wefts and tape-ins require sulphate-free shampoo that is free from drying alcohols, and extension-friendly brushes to be used on them.

Here are a few more things to bear in mind:

• Tape-ins benefit from the wearer avoiding chlorine or salt water where possible, given that these can affect the adhesive over time. Alternatively, you could just cover your hair before you put yourself in contact with either of them.
• Wefts are less sensitive to swimming, but it still makes sense to do everything you can to protect them.

Whichever extension method you eventually settle on, you should always arrange for a specialist to carry out any repositioning, reapplication, or removal that may be needed. Such processes should never be done at home.

Cost Compared

What affects the price

The price that you can expect to pay for either type of hair extension will depend on both the hair itself and the fitting.

Again, we'll set out the situation as it applies specifically to Cliphair's offerings.

Our weft extensions are available only in the Remy Royale range (AAAAA grade, double drawn), which means they sit at the premium end from the start. There's no "budget" option among our wefts, so you should plan accordingly.

As for our tape-in extensions, these span both grades:

• Classic Tape-Ins (AAA) for a more accessible entry point.
• Remy Royale Tape-Ins and Remy Royale Invisible Tape-Ins (both AAAAA grade, double drawn) provide the premium finish, with greater fullness and longevity.

It's worth acknowledging that pack sizes differ, too. Our Classic Tape-Ins come in 100g packs, whereas our Remy Royale Tape-Ins are 50g packs. So, more Remy Royale packs are typically needed to provide the same coverage.

Another important point from a quality and value-for-money perspective: every Cliphair extension is 100% real human hair. We do not sell synthetic hair or blends.

Why not take some time now to explore our double drawn Remy Royale range and Remy Royale Invisible Tape-Ins

Fitting costs to factor in

Both these extension methods require specialist appointments for fitting and ongoing maintenance. This is a recurring cost that neither option avoids.

Whichever extension type you have your eye on, make sure you always get a quote from your extensionist for the service, alongside the cost of the hair itself.

Which One Suits Your Hair?

Recommendation by hair type

• Very thin or fine hair: tape-ins, because they're lightweight, flat, and cause low tension to delicate strands.
• Thin hair: tape-ins for discreetness. Wefts are generally not recommended at this thickness.
• Average hair: either option works well. Tape-ins provide subtlety, while wefts make sense if you're seeking extra volume.
• Thick or very thick hair: wefts if you're prioritising maximum volume and body. Tape-ins are still suitable if you prefer a flatter finish.

Tape-ins are the more versatile of the two, because the individual pieces can be tailored to suit everything from delicate hair through to thick hair.

Wefts, meanwhile, excel when you're most interested in creating substantial body and fullness.

Recommendation by lifestyle

If you:

• Want low daily maintenance and don't mind sew-in appointments, choose wefts.
• Want quicker, more flexible fittings and reusable hair with fresh tabs at every appointment, go for tape-ins.
• Intend frequent updos or high ponytails, you're likely to lean towards wefts. However, in this situation, nano rings or bonds may also be worth exploring as an option.
• Swim or train often, you're again especially likely to consider wefts. However, tape-ins are still workable if the hair is covered or otherwise protected.