Introduction
When it comes to modern men’s hairstyles, the taper fade stands out as a classic that never goes out of fashion. It’s clean, versatile, and works for almost every occasion—whether you’re heading to a corporate meeting or a casual night out. But within the taper fade family, two variations often spark debates: the mid taper fade and the low taper fade.
So, which one is right for you? Don’t worry—we’re about to break down the details in a way that’s easy to understand and fun to read.
What is a Taper Fade?
The Basics of a Taper Fade
A taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually decreases in length from the top of the head down to the neckline. The fade is seamless and creates a polished look. Unlike other fades that might be extreme, the taper fade is usually more subtle, making it a go-to choice for men who want a sharp but not overly bold hairstyle.
How Taper Differs from Other Fades
The biggest difference between a taper fade and a skin fade or bald fade is that a taper fade doesn’t cut all the way down to the skin (unless you request it). Instead, it blends smoothly into shorter hair near the ears and neckline. Think of it as the middle ground between casual and professional.
Understanding the Mid Taper Fade
Definition and Placement
A mid taper fade begins right around the middle of your head, typically at or just above the ears. The fade transitions smoothly from longer hair on top to shorter sides, creating a noticeable but balanced contrast.
Who Suits the Mid Taper Fade Best
This style works well if you want something modern yet versatile. It suits guys with round or oval faces because the fade adds sharpness to the sides. If you love experimenting with volume, textures, or even curls on top, the mid taper fade gives you enough room to style creatively.
Popular Variations of Mid Taper Fade
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Mid Taper with Curly Top – Perfect for highlighting natural curls.
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Mid Taper with Pompadour – Adds height and drama.
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Mid Taper with Waves – A favorite for men with textured hair.
Breaking Down the Low Taper Fade
Definition and Placement
A low taper fade starts much lower, just above the ears, and tapers gradually into the neckline. The effect is subtle and neat, making it one of the most polished fade options.
Who Suits the Low Taper Fade Best
If you’re someone who wants a professional, understated look, the low taper fade is your best bet. It’s ideal for guys working in corporate environments or those who prefer a minimalistic style. It also looks fantastic on men with square or rectangular face shapes, as it complements sharp jawlines.
Popular Variations of Low Taper Fade
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Low Taper with Side Part – A business-friendly style.
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Low Taper with Quiff – Keeps it classy yet modern.
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Low Taper with Beard – A smooth blend between hair and facial hair.
Mid Taper Fade vs Low Taper Fade – Key Differences
Placement of the Fade
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Mid Taper Fade: Starts around the midpoint of your head.
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Low Taper Fade: Starts lower, closer to the ears.
Style Versatility
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Mid tapers are bold and trendy, great for creative styling.
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Low tapers are subtle and professional, perfect for formal settings.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Both need regular trims, but mid tapers may need more touch-ups since the contrast is more visible.
Professional vs Casual Look
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Mid taper: Leans casual but can be styled for formal events.
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Low taper: Leans professional but still stylish for casual wear.
Styling Mid Taper Fade
Styling Products to Use
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Pomade or wax for pompadours.
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Curl cream for textured or curly tops.
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Sea salt spray for messy, casual vibes.
Hairstyles That Pair Well with Mid Taper
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Pompadour
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Textured quiff
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Curly fringe
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Spiky top
Styling Low Taper Fade
Styling Products to Use
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Matte clay for a natural, office-ready look.
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Gel for a sleek side part.
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Beard oil if you’re pairing it with facial hair.
Hairstyles That Pair Well with Low Taper
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Side part
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Slick back
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Quiff
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Crew cut
Pros and Cons of Mid Taper Fade
Advantages
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Offers a balanced look between bold and subtle.
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Great for trendy hairstyles.
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Works well with different hair textures.
Disadvantages
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Requires frequent trims.
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Might look less formal depending on how it’s styled.
Pros and Cons of Low Taper Fade
Advantages
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Subtle and professional.
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Easy to maintain.
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Pairs well with beards for a cohesive look.
Disadvantages
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Less bold compared to mid taper.
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Limited options for experimental styling.
Which Fade is Easier to Maintain?
Generally, the low taper fade is easier to maintain because the fade is subtle and grows out neatly. Mid tapers, while stylish, show regrowth faster and may require more frequent barber visits—about every 2-3 weeks to keep it sharp.
Face Shapes and Fade Choices
Best Face Shapes for Mid Taper
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Round faces (adds angles)
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Oval faces (balanced look)
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Heart-shaped faces (balances forehead width)
Best Face Shapes for Low Taper
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Square faces (accentuates jawline)
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Rectangular faces (adds neatness)
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Diamond faces (keeps sharpness under control)
Celebrities and Trendsetters Rocking These Styles
Mid Taper Fade Examples
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Zayn Malik often rocks variations of a mid taper with textured tops.
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Odell Beckham Jr. highlights curls with a mid taper fade.
Low Taper Fade Examples
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Ryan Reynolds favors subtle fades close to the ears.
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Drake is known for pairing a low taper with waves.
Choosing Between Mid and Low Taper Fade
When making the final choice, consider:
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Lifestyle: Office job? Go for low taper. Creative or casual? Try mid taper.
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Personal Style: Like experimenting? Mid taper gives more room. Want neatness? Low taper is king.
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Face Shape: Match your fade to complement your natural features.
At the end of the day, both styles are winners—it all depends on how you want to present yourself.
Conclusion
The debate between mid taper fade vs low taper fade boils down to personal style, face shape, and lifestyle. The mid taper fade is for guys who like bold, trendy looks and don’t mind extra maintenance. Meanwhile, the low taper fade is for men who prefer subtle, professional styles that still look fresh and stylish.
Whichever you choose, remember: confidence is the best accessory you can wear with your haircut.
FAQs
Is a mid taper fade good for curly hair?
Yes! A mid taper fade highlights natural curls and gives them a stylish frame.
How long does a low taper fade last?
Usually about 3–4 weeks before it starts losing its sharpness.
Can I switch from a low taper to a mid taper easily?
Yes, but you’ll need to let your hair grow out slightly before reshaping it.
Which fade is more professional?
The low taper fade is generally more professional because it’s subtle and polished.
Do taper fades work with beards?
Absolutely! Both mid and low tapers blend beautifully into beards for a seamless look.