long hair · men
Man Bun vs. Top Knot: What'sthe Difference?
Man bun vs. top knot explained, including where each sits on the head, the hair length you need, how to tie each one, and how to protect your hairline.
Hairover Team
A man bun gathers all your hair, usually at the crown or lower on the back of the head. A top knot ties only the top section, often sitting high, and is usually paired with short or faded sides. The man bun needs your hair to be long all over. The top knot lets you tie up long hair on top and keep a shorter, sharper outline.
Side by side
| Man bun | Top knot | |
|---|---|---|
| Hair gathered | All of it | Top section only |
| Sides | Long | Usually short or faded |
| Length needed | 6 to 8 inches all over | 6 to 8 inches on top |
| Time to grow | 1 to 2 years from short | Faster, since only the top grows |
| Looks when untied | Long hair | Long top, short sides |
| Barber visits | Few | Regular, for the sides |
Which one to choose
If you like wearing your hair down sometimes, go for the man bun, since you keep full length around your head. Choose the top knot if you want a sharp shape, because the short sides will look clean even when the top is messy. Top knots also suit hot weather and very thick hair. The undercut vs. fade comparison covers how to do the sides.
Growing it out is a common sticking point, so see long hairstyles for men for how to handle the awkward stages.
How to tie each one
Man bun: Gather your hair with your fingers at the crown. Wrap a soft tie around twice, pulling the hair through on the last turn, and leave a loop. Pull out a few sections for a loose look.
Top knot: Section only the top, from temple to temple. Tie it high, in a small loop. Keep it light so it doesn’t pull at your hairline.
Look after your hairline
Tight styles are one of the common causes of traction alopecia, which can become permanent. Tie your hair so that it does not pull at the temples. Use soft fabric ties, and let your hair down when you can. If you notice thinning at the hairline, loosen up, and speak to a dermatologist if it does not improve.
Face shape notes
High knots add height, which helps round faces, but they can make a long face look longer. A lower bun works better there. Square and oval faces can wear either one. Check your shape with our free face shape detector.
Decide before you grow it
Long hair takes a long time, so it helps to check whether it suits you first. Upload a clear photo to Hairover, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio.
FAQ
How long does hair need to be for a man bun?
Around six to eight inches is a practical minimum for a bun that holds. If you have less, a half-up bun or a small ponytail will work in the meantime.
Can a man bun cause hair loss?
Repeated tight tying can cause traction alopecia over time, usually along the hairline. Tie your hair loosely, use soft ties, and change the position often.
Do you need an undercut for a top knot?
No, but it is a common pairing. An undercut clears the sides and back, so the knot looks cleaner, and it removes a lot of bulk from thick hair.
