By opting for the best condenser tumble dryer, you have more flexibility with placement. If you're short on kitchen space and don't have a utility room, it's a good tumble dryer to go for if a heat pump appliance is out of your price range. When it comes to vented, heat pump and condenser tumble dryers there are features and benefits to weigh up. A condenser tumble dryer has a definite USP in that it doesn't require external venting, so it's ideal for drying laundry in flats and apartments.
A vented tumble dryer requires a pipe that expels moisture externally. It's cheaper than a heat pump tumble dryer but more expensive to run. Plus, a vented appliance requires professional installation. A heat pump model has a higher upfront cost but is energy-efficient due to the way it recirculates air. Both the heat pump and condenser tumble dryers use air to extract moisture from laundry. The difference between a heat pump tumble dryer and a condenser model is that a heat pump machine features an innovative refrigeration system to cool air. In short, condenser dryers condense moisture, while heat pump dryers use a complex heat pump system to recycle heat, making them more energy-efficient.
Best Condenser Tumble Dryers At A Glance
• Best overall condenser tumble dryer: Bosch Series 4 WTN83203GB Condenser Tumble Dryer 8kg – View on John Lewis
• Best condenser tumble dryer for families: White Knight Condenser Sensor Tumble Dryer 8kg – View on Ebay
• Best condenser tumble dryer for features: HOTPOINT H3 D91GS UK 9kg Condenser Tumble Dryer – View on Currys
There is scope to position a condenser tumble dryer in any room, but it needs a good airflow and constant room temperature. Look for its operating temperature range in the product specification. The condensing process will be less effective in an environment outside the optimum conditions. There are budget tumble dryers that use the condensing process. Typically, expect to pay between £200 to £1,000+, depending on the brand, capacity and additional features.
There's mixed opinion on whether a condenser tumble dryer should be built-in. While integrated tumble dryers offer a unified look in the kitchen, built-in installation can restrict airflow and ventilation, creating condensation, mildew and potentially affecting the dryer's longevity. Additionally, built-in dryers are more challenging to access for maintenance. Therefore, we do not recommend placing a condenser tumble dryer in a cupboard. For more guidance, scroll to the FAQs section below.
Best Condenser Tumble Dryers
Best overall condenser tumble dryer
www.johnlewis.com
For perfectly dry laundry that's warm and fluffy, go for the Bosch Series 4 WTN83203GB Condenser Tumble Dryer. It's ideal for busy households and offers advanced features, a large drum and a range of programs for perfect drying. It utilises AutoDry sensor drying technology to ensure optimal dryness. Additionally, its Sensitive Drying System guarantees crease-free results. The AllergyPlus cycle caters for sensitive skin. Lastly, it offers fast drying options, including the Quick 40' programme for when time is limited.
Customer review: "Very pleased with dryer, not too noisy, and I like the fact it sensor dries so if you put a longer time it finishes sooner when clothes are dry."
Pros
- Awarded Quiet Mark
- Fast drying in 40 minutes
- Sensor dry technology
- Hygiene/Allergy programme
Cons
- Some cycles are longer
Dimensions: | H84.2 x W59.8 x D61.3cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 64dB |
- Sensitive Drying System protects garments and reduces creases
- Auto Dry automatically senses the level of dryness
- 2-year guarantee
Best condenser tumble dryer for families
www.ebay.co.uk
Elevate your laundry routine with the White Knight Condenser Sensor Tumble Dryer. This freestanding dryer boasts a B energy rating – ensuring very good energy efficiency. The 8kg capacity is equivalent to 40 t-shirts. With 15 wash programmes, including an Express 29' minute program, bid farewell to damp clothes and welcome fresh laundry. Also, it features a top water tank for easy emptying or direct drainage.
Customer review: "It has a light in drum when door opens. Great anti-crease feature. Plus, easy to clean filter. Good value for money."
Pros
- Sensor dry
- Good energy rating
- Reverse action tumble
- Top water tank for easy drainage
Cons
- Scarce availability
Dimensions: | D60.9 x W59.6 x H84.5cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | Not specified |
- For cotton, choose from Extra Dry, Cupboard Dry and Iron Dry
- Drum light
- Child lock
- Timer delay
- 1-year warranty
Best condenser tumble dryer for features
www.currys.co.uk
Ironing becomes less of a chore with this HOTPOINT H3 D91GS UK 9kg Condenser Tumble Dryer. It features Crease Care to prevent garments from wrinkling. The Rapid 30 cycle ensures quick drying for urgent needs. Intelligent sensors stop the dryer when laundry is ready. Reduce the cause of sensitive skin with the Hygiene cycle that removes allergens. Additional benefits include the Pre-Iron cycle and the Anti-Rub drum for soft fabrics.
Customer review: "Very pleased with the tumble drier, it replaces a previous Hotpoint condenser drier of 20 years without any problems. The easy access water container at the top of the machine is great rather than at the base behind a flap as many other makes have."
Pros
- Stylish
- Easy access to water container
- Sensor drying saves time and energy
- Hygiene/Anti-allergy programme
Cons
- Long cycle times
Dimensions: | H85 x W59.5 x D67cm |
Capacity: | 9kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 66dB |
- Eco cycle
- Pre-Iron cycle
- Rapid 30 cycle
- Crease Care
- Anti-rub drum reduces friction and protects fabrics
- 1-year labour, 10-years parts warranty
Best budget condenser tumble dryer
www.argos.co.uk
Dry your laundry with ease in the Bush TDT17CN 7kg Condenser Tumble Dryer. Its intelligent sensor system adjusts the drying cycle to prevent over-drying and shrinking. Enjoy uniform drying with two-way drum rotation. Features include Baby Care for delicate infant clothes and 11 unique settings for a range of fabric types.
Customer review: "Easy to use, warms up quickly and its not overly pricey to run either. Easy to clean and not too loud. There is air blowing to the left side of it just underneath, good to know before you plug it in next to a fridge perhaps."
Pros
- Sensor Dry
- B energy rating
- Value for money
- Well reviewed
Cons
- Lots of programmes to get used to
Dimensions: | H84.5 x W59.6 x D52.3cm |
Capacity: | 7kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 65dB |
- Reverse tumble option
- Cupboard dry cycle
- Anti-crease
- Freshen up
- 1-year manufacturer's guarantee
Best Beko condenser tumble dryer
ao.com
Forget hanging out your laundry—let this Beko DTLCE70051W 7kg Condenser Tumble Dryer do the work. Its water tank is easy to empty. The Anti-Creasing function minimises wrinkles in clothes, while 15 drying programs cater for a range of fabrics. Additional features include a delay timer for convenience and sensor drying for optimal results.
Customer review: "I honestly couldn't ask for more than the benefits this dryer gives me. The water tank is so easy to remove and drain just by flipping it over at the sink and the filter cleaning is equally easy as it opens like a book inside which all the dog hair and fluff is captured. More importantly, it is super quick at getting clothes cupboard dry and towels are a cinch. I would easily have given six out of five stars if that were possible."
Pros
- Highly praised in reviews
- Anti-Creasing function
- Easy-to-empty tank
- Sensor drying adjusts the cycle to suit the load
Cons
- Small capacity
Dimensions: | H84.6 x W59.7 x D56.8cm |
Capacity: | 7kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 65dB |
- Delay timer
- Extra Dry ensures bulkier items get thoroughly dry
- Timed drying options allow you to control the length of time the dryer is on
- Sportwear cycle
- 1-year warranty
Best 8kg Hotpoint condenser tumble dryer
www.appliancesdirect.co.uk
The Hotpoint 8kg Condenser Tumble Dryer prioritises energy efficiency and garment care. Its easy-to-empty filter and user-friendly design ensure effortless usability and cleaning. Its Hygiene cycle eliminates up to 99 per cent of bacteria. The Quick Dry cycle handles smaller loads swiftly, and smart sensors prevent over-drying. The Refresh cycle minimises creases and odours in just 20 minutes, while the Crease Care option maintains soft, wrinkle-free clothes for up to 10 hours after the cycle. Additionally, the Pre-Ironing Cycle efficiently removes creases, so garments suffer less from over-ironing.
Customer review: "I absolutely love this dryer, it has a good size drum, has cut drying time compared to my last condenser dryer by approximately 40 per cent. Easy to use and it's nice looking."
Pros
- 20-minute cool programme
- Crease Care option
- Sensor drying for optimal dryness
Cons
- Some reviews comment that they had faults with the appliance
Dimensions: | H85 x W59.5 x D61cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 69dB |
- Crease Care option
- Up to 24-hour delay timer
- 10-year parts and 1-year labour warranty
Best condenser tumble dryer for ease of use
ao.com
Don't bundle off the kids to school in damp clothes, with Push&Go, you can dry a mixed load in a hurry.
Indesit I2D81WUK 8kg Condenser Tumble Dryer has three drying programs and timed drying, so you are in control of how long the dryer is on. It's simple to use controls, including a button to change the heat setting and a dial to set the time. There's guidance on load size and duration for cotton, synthetics and delicates in the water tank. Read the manual of the I2D81WUK to see how easy it is to operate.
Customer review: "I loved it drying the washing get very hot and comes out with no creases."
Pros
- Easy-to-empty water tank
- Push&Go for everyday drying
- Freshen Up
- Simple to use
Cons
- Few programmes
Dimensions: | H85 x W59.5 x D61cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 3 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | Not specified |
- Empty water tank indicator light
- High heat setting
- 1-year warranty
Best large-capacity condenser tumble dryer
www.currys.co.uk
The HOOVER H-Dry 300 HLE C9DG NFC 9kg Condenser Tumble Dryer offers a comprehensive range of drying cycles to care for all your favourite clothes, extending the life of fabrics and colours. Experience advanced features that elevate the drying process. This dryer effectively neutralises allergens, eliminates dust mites, pet hair, pollens, and detergent residues without compromising on fabric care. Delicate fabrics like wool and cashmere retain their softness with gentle motion and sophisticated temperature management. Thanks to its sensor drying system it adapts to the load, adjusting temperature, time and movement. Connect the Hoover Wizard App for more tailored features.
Customer review: "This is a really nice looking machine that can hold a decent sized load without being overly large in itself unlike many others. Its noise levels are average for a tumble dryer in my personal experience. I like that it plays a little beepy tune to indicate when the cycle has finished. The lint compartment is easy to remove and clean. The water reservoir is located right at the bottom of the machine and if you were to have this machine stood on a floor it would be a nightmare to empty, however my dryer is located on a shelf."
Pros
- Four drying level options
- Anti-allergy programme
- Large capacity
- Woolmark approved
Cons
- Customers comment that it's difficult to empty the water if you have mobility issues
Dimensions: | H85 x W59.6 x D58.5cm |
Capacity: | 9kg |
Programmes: | 14 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 68dB |
- Sensor drying detects moisture levels
- Compatible with Hoover Wizard app
- Rapid dry in 30 minutes
Best app-compatible condenser tumble dryer
www.currys.co.uk
This Candy Smart CSEC9DF 9kg Condenser Tumble Dryer utilises Sensor Dry technology to ensure optimal drying results with every load. Select from Store Dry, Ready to Wear, or Iron Dry settings and the machine will automatically stop when the desired level of dryness is achieved. The Delay Start function allows you to schedule the cycle to finish at a convenient time, providing flexibility to accommodate your schedule. With NFC and the Candy Simply-Fi app, you can check the status of your laundry on an Android smartphone. In addition, you can choose additional cycles and do a smart check-up. We particularly like the build of this tumble dryer, with a large porthole door that's 3.5cm higher than other machines.
Customer review: "Great product. The delivery and package removal was swift and convenient. The tumble dryer itself has a sensor so you are not wasting electricity unnecessarily. It has a large drum and an easy to empty filter and condenser drawer. So far very happy with it."
Pros
- Sensor dry
- Easy to install
- Higher door, so it's easier to unload
Cons
- Generates heat and condensation
Dimensions; | H85 x W60 x D60cm |
Capacity: | 9kg |
Programmes: | 14 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 68dB |
- Four drying levels to choose from
- NFC and Candy Simply-Fi app control
- Sensor dry "kg detector" and it can sense the moisture level
- Start Delay timer
- Super Easy Iron function
- 1-year warranty
Our Verdict: Best Condenser Tumble Dryer
We recommend Bosch Series 4 WTN83203GB Freestanding Condenser Tumble Dryer. This 8kg appliance stands out with its array of advanced features tailored for busy households. Its spacious drum and versatile programs ensure optimal drying results. The water tank is at waist height, so it's easy to empty and replace. For guidance, this instruction video shows how to empty a condensation unit on a Bosch appliance. Equipped with AutoDry and Sensor drying technology, it guarantees perfectly dried laundry without friction on garments or shrinkage. The Sensitive Drying System delivers crease-free results by gently circulating warm air throughout the load. Additionally, the AllergyPlus cycle eliminates allergens that can cause sensitive skin. For dry laundry in a jiffy, the Quick 40' programme swiftly dries small loads with precision temperature and sensor technology. With Quiet Mark accreditation, it offers the quality that you'd expect from Bosch, plus a John Lewis two-year guarantee seals it. To find out more, Bosch Series 4 WTN83203GB manual is available online.
FAQs: Best Condenser Tumble Dryer
What are the benefits of a condenser tumble dryer?
Condenser tumble dryers offer flexibility in placement without external venting requirements, making them suitable for rented properties. They efficiently extract moisture from laundry, preventing dampness and mould. Additionally, they typically feature sensor technology for optimal and energy-efficient drying results. Look for features such as reverse tumble anti-tangling, allergy cycles and fabric care technology.
Condenser tumble dryers in the UK vary in price depending on brand, capacity and features. While some tumble dryers are under £500, others with advanced technology and larger capacities may come at a higher cost. However, there are options available to suit different budgets and preferences. If you are on a tight budget you may want to consider a small tumble dryer or a spin dryer. Or, if you're short on space, consider a combined washer dryer as a space-saving laundry solution.
For more information, read our buyer's guide on the best type of tumble dryer for your home.
Where can I place a condenser tumble dryer?
Ideally, position a condenser tumble dryer in your kitchen or utility room. It needs a bit of space around it, and the minimum temperature should be no less than 5°C. Similarly, a hallway or room that has sufficient space and ventilation is fine for a condenser dryer. Be aware that a condenser tumble dryer must not be placed on carpet. The appliance will give out heat and moisture, bear this in mind.
Where should I not put a condenser tumble dryer?
Do not put a condenser tumble dryer in a cupboard. It needs a constant reply of fresh air so it can work at its best. You also run the risk of damp building up.
In the UK climate, typically a garage in winter may be too cold for a condenser tumble dryer. The minimum temperature for a condenser tumble dryer to work is 5°C. The issue is that condenser dryers have water within the pipes of the machine and this can freeze if it gets too cold, thereby damaging the appliance. As a rule of thumb, 10 to 32°C is the optimum temperature range for a condenser tumble dryer.
What can affect drying time?
Cottons, synthetics and delicates will need different levels of heat and duration of drying time. Items like towels can retain a lot of water after the spin cycle, and therefore a longer drying cycle is needed. Fabrics with texture or that are thick will take longer to dry. Naturally, a large load will take longer to dry than just one or two garments. The temperature of the room has an impact on drying time. The lower the temperature, the longer the dryer will need to dry clothing. If you're drying bulky items, pause the drying cycle to shake them out.
Avoid over-drying garments, as all fabrics contain a natural level of moisture which keeps them soft.
Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for A Modern Kitchen, specialising in kitchen appliances. When she's not testing coffee machines, she flexes her creative flair as an artist.