What barrel size should I get for beachy waves vs. tight curls?

Across the reviewers we read, 1" (25mm) barrels are the most versatile and tend to produce defined curls that loosen into waves, while 1.25"–1.5" barrels are favored by reviewers with longer or thicker hair who want looser, lived-in waves. Tapered wands (1/2" to 1") are recommended for mixed curl sizes and natural-looking texture.