Balay 3SC386B Review | 78 Data compared

Technical Specifications of tumble dryer Balay 3SC386B

Overall score

6.0

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the dryer.

When it matters: When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Performance

4.8

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Brand name

What it is: The brand that manufactures the washing machine.

When it matters: When you want to rely on a trusted brand for quality, durability, and warranty options.

Importance: LOW

Balay

Drying technology

What it is: The method used by the dryer to remove moisture from clothes (e.g., heat pump, condenser, or vented).

When it matters: When you want to balance energy efficiency with drying performance. Heat pump dryers are most efficient but take longer, while vented dryers are faster but use more energy.

Importance: HIGH

Capacity

What it is: The maximum weight of dry laundry the dryer can handle per load.

When it matters: When you need to dry large amounts of laundry at once or regularly dry bulky items like bedding or winter coats.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >6 kg

Drum volume

What it is: The internal space available in the dryer drum, measured in liters.

When it matters: When you want clothes to tumble freely for even drying and fewer wrinkles. A larger drum allows better air circulation and prevents clothes from bunching up.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >115 L

Inverter motor

What it is: A type of motor that adjusts its speed based on the drying cycle, offering quieter operation and lower energy consumption.

When it matters: When you want a quieter, energy-efficient dryer that lasts longer and operates smoothly.

Importance: HIGH

Drying programs

6.8

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N. of drying programs

What it is: The total number of preset drying cycles available on the washing machine.

When it matters: When you want a versatile dryer capable of handling a variety of laundry types with optimal settings for each.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >14

N. of downloable programs

What it is: The number of additional drying programs you can download and add to the dryer using a compatible app or software.

When it matters: When you aim to enhance your dryer’s functionality or utilize programs suited to unique fabric needs.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >10

Temperature selection

What it is: The ability to choose different temperature levels for drying cycles.

When it matters: When you need precise temperature control for different fabric types, from delicate silks to sturdy cottons.

Importance: MEDIUM

Selectable drying times

What it is: The option to manually set the drying time for the cycle.

When it matters: When you want direct control over drying duration rather than relying on automatic sensors, especially useful for small loads or specific items.

Importance: MEDIUM

Selectable drying level

What it is: The ability to choose how dry you want your clothes to be (e.g., iron dry, cupboard dry, extra dry).

When it matters: When you have specific requirements for how dry your clothes should be, such as slightly damp for ironing or completely dry for immediate storage.

Importance: MEDIUM

Features

4.9

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N. of advanced features

What it is: The total number of distinct functionalities the dryer offers.

When it matters: When you want to compare the versatility and functionality between different models.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >9

Laundry detection system

What it is: A feature that adjusts drying time, energy usage, and temperature based on the load size.

When it matters: When you prefer a system that automatically adjusts to the load size, ensuring accurate and energy-efficient drying without manual input.

Importance: HIGH

Humidity sensors

What it is: Sensors that measure moisture levels in clothing to automatically stop drying when the desired level is reached.

When it matters: When you want to prevent over-drying, save energy, and protect clothes from heat damage, especially for fabrics like wool, linen, or outdoor gear.

Importance: HIGH

Delayed start option

What it is: The ability to schedule the dryer to start at a later time.

When it matters: When you wish to operate the dryer at times that align with off-peak electricity rates or your personal schedule.

Importance: LOW

Maximum delayed start

What it is: The longest time you can delay the start of the drying cycle.

When it matters: When you need flexibility in scheduling drying cycles far in advance.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >20 hours

Design

7.2

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Installation type

What it is: Specifies whether the dryer is a standalone unit or designed to be integrated into cabinetry.

When it matters: When you need to fit the dryer into a specific space in your home or want flexibility in placement options.

Importance: HIGH

self-standing

Loading type

What it is: Indicates whether the dryer loads from the front or top.

When it matters: When you have space constraints or specific accessibility needs that affect how you load and unload laundry.

Importance: HIGH

front-loading

Display

What it is: The type and functionality of the control panel display (e.g., LED, LCD, touch screen)

When it matters: When you want clear visibility of settings and cycle status, or need specific features like high contrast or touch controls.

Importance: MEDIUM

Child lock

What it is: A safety feature that prevents accidental changes to settings or starting/stopping the dryer.

When it matters: When you have young children in the home and need to prevent accidental operation or interruption of drying cycles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Antivibration design

What it is: Special construction features that reduce vibration and movement during operation.

When it matters: When you need to minimize noise and movement, especially if the dryer is installed on upper floors or near living spaces.

Importance: LOW

Balay 3SC386B vs the average dryer

Why is Balay 3SC386B better than the average dryer?

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Adjustable temperature
Balay 3SC386B offers temperature selection, while the average dryer does not. 40.2% of dryers provide temperature selection.
Low temperature selection button only
What it is: The ability to choose different temperature levels for drying cycles.
When it matters: When you need precise temperature control for different fabric types, from delicate silks to sturdy cottons.
Importance: MEDIUM
Balay 3SC386B offers temperature selection, while the average dryer does not. 40.2% of dryers provide temperature selection.
Has a Hygiene program
Balay 3SC386B has a Hygiene program, while the average dryer does not. 33.5% of dryers have a Hygiene program.
What it is: A high-temperature drying cycle designed to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from fabrics through the combination of heat and extended drying time.
When it matters: When you need to ensure thorough sanitization of items like bed linens, towels, or children's clothing, particularly important for households with allergies, young children, or during cold and flu season.
Importance: LOW
Balay 3SC386B has a Hygiene program, while the average dryer does not. 33.5% of dryers have a Hygiene program.
Has an allergen program
Balay 3SC386B has an allergen program, the average dryer does not. 31.4% of dryers have this program.
What it is: A high-temperature cycle designed to eliminate common allergens.
When it matters: When you need to reduce allergens in bedding, towels, or clothes, especially beneficial for allergy sufferers.
Importance: LOW
Balay 3SC386B has an allergen program, the average dryer does not. 31.4% of dryers have this program.
1 dB quieter during operation
Balay 3SC386B is quieter during operation than the average dryer (64 dB vs 65 dB). The average dryer has a noise level of 65 dB.
What it is: The amount of sound produced by the dryer during operation, measured in decibels.
When it matters: When the dryer will be located near living spaces or bedrooms, or if you plan to run it during quiet hours.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <65 dB
Balay 3SC386B is quieter during operation than the average dryer (64 dB vs 65 dB). The average dryer has a noise level of 65 dB.64 dB vs 65 dB
39.5 min shorter ECO cycle duration
Balay 3SC386B has a shorter ECO cycle duration than the average dryer (150 min vs 189.5 min). The average dryer’s ECO cycle takes 189.5 min.
What it is: The time taken to complete an energy-efficient drying cycle.
When it matters: When you prioritize energy savings and want to know how long an eco-friendly cycle will take.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <200 min
Balay 3SC386B has a shorter ECO cycle duration than the average dryer (150 min vs 189.5 min). The average dryer’s ECO cycle takes 189.5 min.150 min vs 189.5 min
1 dB quieter during operation
Balay 3SC386B is quieter during operation than the average dryer (64 dB vs 65 dB). The average dryer has a noise level of 65 dB.
Adjustable temperature
Balay 3SC386B offers temperature selection, while the average dryer does not. 40.2% of dryers provide temperature selection.
Has a Hygiene program
Balay 3SC386B has a Hygiene program, while the average dryer does not. 33.5% of dryers have a Hygiene program.
Has an allergen program
Balay 3SC386B has an allergen program, the average dryer does not. 31.4% of dryers have this program.
39.5 min shorter ECO cycle duration
Balay 3SC386B has a shorter ECO cycle duration than the average dryer (150 min vs 189.5 min). The average dryer’s ECO cycle takes 189.5 min.

Total

Performance

Drying programs

Why is Balay 3SC386B worse than the average dryer?

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2.44x higher energy consumption for full loads
Balay 3SC386B consumes more energy per full load than the average dryer (4.7 kWh vs 1.93 kWh). The average dryer consumes 1.93 kWh per full load.
Less advanced drying technology
Balay 3SC386B uses a less advanced drying technology than the average dryer (condenser vs heat pump ). The average dryer uses heat pump drying technology.
Worse energy efficiency class
Balay 3SC386B has a worse energy efficiency class than the average dryer (B vs A+++ ). The average dryer has an energy efficiency class of A+++ .
2.33x higher energy consumption for partial loads
Balay 3SC386B consumes more energy per partial load than the average dryer (2.6 kWh vs 1.1 kWh). The average dryer consumes 1.1 kWh per partial load.
5.1% smaller drum volume
Balay 3SC386B has a smaller drum volume than the average dryer (112 L vs 118 L). The average dryer has a drum volume of 118 L.
2.38x higher annual energy consumption
Balay 3SC386B has a higher annual energy consumption than the average dryer (560 kWh/year vs 235 kWh/year). The average dryer consumes 235 kWh/year annually.
2.38x higher annual energy cost
Balay 3SC386B has a higher annual energy cost than the average dryer (168 £/year vs 70.5 £/year). The average annual energy cost for dryers is 70.5 £/year.
Lacks bidirectional motion for even drying
Balay 3SC386B does not ensure even drying with bidirectional drum motion, while the average dryer does. 63.9% of dryers use this technology.
3 fewer drying programs
Balay 3SC386B offers fewer drying programs than the average dryer (11 vs 14). The average dryer has 14 drying programs.
Cotton, Synthetics, Wool Finish, Anti-allergies/Allergen, 15-minute Shirts, Lingerie, Mixed Load, Outdoor Wear, Super Quick 40, Hot, Cold
Does not have a Jeans program
Balay 3SC386B does not have a Jeans program, the average dryer does. 50.5% of dryers have this program.
Does not have a Refresh program
Balay 3SC386B does not offer a Refresh program, while the average dryer does. 79.9% of dryers include a Refresh program.
2 fewer advanced features
Balay 3SC386B has fewer features than the average dryer (7 vs 9). The average dryer has 9 features.
Humidity sensors, Delayed start option, Pause & Add option, Selectable drying times, Selectable drying level, Gentle drying, Post-drying drum movement
Does not have a special drum design
Balay 3SC386B does not have a special drum design, while the average dryer does. 54.1% of dryers feature a special drum design.
No transparent door
Balay 3SC386B does not have a transparent door, the average dryer does. 85.1% of dryers have this feature.
2.44x higher energy consumption for full loads
Balay 3SC386B consumes more energy per full load than the average dryer (4.7 kWh vs 1.93 kWh). The average dryer consumes 1.93 kWh per full load.
What it is: The amount of electricity used to dry a full load of laundry.
When it matters: When you regularly dry full loads and want to estimate operating costs. Lower consumption means lower energy bills.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <1.8 kWh
Balay 3SC386B consumes more energy per full load than the average dryer (4.7 kWh vs 1.93 kWh). The average dryer consumes 1.93 kWh per full load.4.71 kWh vs 1.93 kWh
Less advanced drying technology
Balay 3SC386B uses a less advanced drying technology than the average dryer (condenser vs heat pump ). The average dryer uses heat pump drying technology.
What it is: The method used by the dryer to remove moisture from clothes (e.g., heat pump, condenser, or vented).
When it matters: When you want to balance energy efficiency with drying performance. Heat pump dryers are most efficient but take longer, while vented dryers are faster but use more energy.
Importance: HIGH
Balay 3SC386B uses a less advanced drying technology than the average dryer (condenser vs heat pump ). The average dryer uses heat pump drying technology.condenser vs heat pump
Worse energy efficiency class
Balay 3SC386B has a worse energy efficiency class than the average dryer (B vs A+++ ). The average dryer has an energy efficiency class of A+++ .
What it is: The official rating (from A+++ to D) indicating how efficiently the dryer uses energy compared to other models.
When it matters: When you want to reduce electricity costs and minimize your environmental impact.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: A+++, A++
Balay 3SC386B has a worse energy efficiency class than the average dryer (B vs A+++ ). The average dryer has an energy efficiency class of A+++ .B vs A+++
Does not have a special drum design
Balay 3SC386B does not have a special drum design, while the average dryer does. 54.1% of dryers feature a special drum design.
What it is: A drum that may feature characteristics like optimizing airflow, preventing clothes from tangling, providing gentler fabric care, or ensuring uniform drying. The exact features depend on the specific dryer model. However, information about the drum type is often not readily available. If the manufacturer does not explicitly mention these features, we set this to "no" by default.
When it matters: When you want improved fabric protection, better drying performance, or fewer wrinkles in your clothes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Balay 3SC386B does not have a special drum design, while the average dryer does. 54.1% of dryers feature a special drum design.
2 fewer advanced features
Balay 3SC386B has fewer features than the average dryer (7 vs 9). The average dryer has 9 features.
Humidity sensors, Delayed start option, Pause & Add option, Selectable drying times, Selectable drying level, Gentle drying, Post-drying drum movement
What it is: The total number of distinct functionalities the dryer offers.
When it matters: When you want to compare the versatility and functionality between different models.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >9
Balay 3SC386B has fewer features than the average dryer (7 vs 9). The average dryer has 9 features.7 vs 9
Lacks bidirectional motion for even drying
Balay 3SC386B does not ensure even drying with bidirectional drum motion, while the average dryer does. 63.9% of dryers use this technology.
What it is: The drum's ability to rotate in both directions during drying.
When it matters: When you want to minimize tangling and ensure more even drying of clothes, especially for larger items.
Importance: MEDIUM
Balay 3SC386B does not ensure even drying with bidirectional drum motion, while the average dryer does. 63.9% of dryers use this technology.
3 fewer drying programs
Balay 3SC386B offers fewer drying programs than the average dryer (11 vs 14). The average dryer has 14 drying programs.
Cotton, Synthetics, Wool Finish, Anti-allergies/Allergen, 15-minute Shirts, Lingerie, Mixed Load, Outdoor Wear, Super Quick 40, Hot, Cold
What it is: The total number of preset drying cycles available on the washing machine.
When it matters: When you want a versatile dryer capable of handling a variety of laundry types with optimal settings for each.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >14
Balay 3SC386B offers fewer drying programs than the average dryer (11 vs 14). The average dryer has 14 drying programs.11 vs 14
No transparent door
Balay 3SC386B does not have a transparent door, the average dryer does. 85.1% of dryers have this feature.
What it is: A door with a clear window that lets you see inside the drum during operation.
When it matters: When you want to monitor drying progress without interrupting the cycle.
Importance: LOW
Balay 3SC386B does not have a transparent door, the average dryer does. 85.1% of dryers have this feature.