Heat Pump Dryer Comparison 2026: 6 Models on the New EU A–G Label

For most households, the best heat pump dryer of 2026 is the Bosch Series 8 WRB247C40: a 9 kg (20 lb) capacity, energy class A on the new EU label, 57 dB, condensation efficiency class A and a self-cleaning condenser. If you want to spend less, the Beko B7T88209 (8 kg/18 lb, class A) is the budget-friendly alternative that still reaches class A, and if you want a machine built to last for many years, the Miele TQ 1000 WP Nova Edition (9 kg/20 lb, class B, steam function) is the strongest choice.

This comparison draws on manufacturer spec sheets, the EU energy label and verified owner reviews. One key point before you buy: since July 1, 2025, dryers sold in the EU carry a new energy label on an A to G scale. Old ratings such as "A+++" can no longer be compared directly, which causes a lot of confusion in stores. US models don't carry this label; in the US, look for Energy Star certification instead. You'll also find every model in our smart washers and dryers section.

The new EU dryer energy label since July 2025

In the EU, washers and dishwashers moved to the A–G scale in 2021; dryers followed on July 1, 2025. The "plus" classes are gone, and the thresholds are so demanding that many dryers once sold as A+++ now land in class C. So a dryer rated B or C isn't a bad appliance; it's simply graded under stricter rules. Only a handful of heat pump dryers reach class A so far.

The new label shows much more than the class:

• Energy use in kWh per 100 cycles on the Eco program (a weighted average of full and half loads). This is the best figure for comparing two models.
• Rated capacity in kg and the Eco program duration at full load, often three to four and a half hours on a heat pump dryer.
• A condensation efficiency class (A to D): how much of the moisture ends up in the water tank rather than in the room.
• Noise in dB(A), with a noise class from A to D.
• A repairability class (A to E), showing how easy the appliance is to repair.
• A QR code linking to the product sheet in the EU's EPREL database.

Stricter EU ecodesign rules have also applied since July 2025. In practice, almost only heat pump models meet them, which is why conventional condenser dryers with a heating element are disappearing from the European market. Be careful with closeout and used models: they often still carry the old A+++ label, which can't be compared with the new one.

What really matters when you buy

Energy use in kWh, not just the class

Models in the same class still differ. The class A models in this comparison use about 79 kWh per 100 cycles (Bosch, Siemens, AEG, Samsung), versus 92 kWh for the class B Miele. At 100 to 200 loads a year, the difference between A and B is real but modest. The gap is far bigger compared with an old condenser dryer without a heat pump: Bosch claims energy savings of up to roughly three quarters for the WRB247C40 compared with conventional dryers.

Capacity

For one or two people, 7 to 8 kg (15 to 18 lb) is enough; for a family, 9 kg (20 lb) is the right size. A simple rule: the dryer should handle at least the same load as your washer, or you'll have to split loads. A large drum that usually runs half empty is less efficient.

Noise and condensation efficiency

Between 57 and 60 dB(A), a dryer counts as quiet. If it sits near a bedroom or in an open-concept kitchen, aim for noise class A. Condensation efficiency matters most if the dryer is in a bathroom or a small room without a window: class A means less moisture released into the air.

Self-cleaning condenser

The heat exchanger in a heat pump dryer loses efficiency as lint builds up on it. On Bosch and Siemens models, a self-cleaning condenser rinses it several times per cycle, keeping energy use steady over the years. Without this feature, you have to clean the filters or the condenser by hand on a regular basis.

Sensors, programs and steam

Moisture sensors stop the cycle as soon as the dryness level you picked is reached, which prevents overdrying. Wool, sportswear/outdoor and quick programs, plus a steam function that reduces wrinkles and makes ironing easier, are the most useful extras.

The app: handy, not essential

The app tells you when the cycle is done, reminds you to clean the filter and lets you schedule a start, for example when your solar panels are producing. Bosch and Siemens use Home Connect, Miele its own Miele app, Samsung SmartThings and AEG its own app over Wi-Fi. The Beko connects to HomeWhiz over Bluetooth, so it only works when you're near the machine.

The 6 heat pump dryers compared

1. Bosch Series 8 WRB247C40: best overall

The WRB247C40 is one of the few dryers rated A on the new label: 79 kWh per 100 cycles, 57 dB(A) in noise class A, condensation efficiency class A and, according to its spec sheet, repairability class A. Its self-cleaning condenser keeps the heat exchanger free of lint, and it uses R290, a natural refrigerant.

Pros: top marks in every category on the label, very quiet, almost no condenser maintenance, Home Connect with remote start and energy management.
Cons: the Eco program takes about four and a half hours at full load, according to the spec sheet; priced at the premium end.
Best for: families who do a lot of laundry and want a quiet, efficient, low-maintenance machine.

2. Siemens iQ700 WR47B2C40: the same technology under a different badge

Siemens and Bosch belong to the same group, and it shows on the spec sheet: the WR47B2C40 also reaches class A with 79 kWh per 100 cycles, 57 dB(A), condensation efficiency class A and a self-cleaning condenser. The differences are mainly in the design, the controls and the program names.

Pros: the same efficiency and quiet operation as the Bosch, Home Connect.
Cons: an equally long Eco program; no technical advantage over the Bosch.
Best for: anyone who already owns a Siemens washer or finds a better deal on this model.

3. AEG 9000X TR9XW80890: for wool and delicates

AEG's 9000X line earns three A ratings: energy efficiency (79 kWh per 100 cycles), condensation efficiency (94%) and noise class, at 60 dB(A). Its 3D Scan technology measures moisture even inside bulky items such as down jackets and comforters, and SmartDry lets you prioritize either time or energy. The wool program is Woolmark certified.

Pros: very even drying of thick fabrics, excellent condensation, Wi-Fi app control, inverter motor.
Cons: slightly louder than the Bosch and Siemens; premium-priced, with features that pay off mainly for delicate laundry.
Best for: households that dry a lot of wool, down or technical outdoor clothing.

4. Samsung DV90F09F4SU2: convenience and a big screen

This 9 kg (20 lb) Samsung is rated A (about 0.79 kWh per cycle) at 60 dB(A) in noise class A. Its condensation efficiency is 88%, which puts it in class B. It stands out with a 7-inch color display; automatic fabric recognition adjusts the cycle, and the QuickDrive option shortens drying times. You control it through SmartThings, including by voice.

Pros: class A, plenty of convenience features, a mature app, a 10-year warranty on the inverter motor, according to the manufacturer.
Cons: condensation only class B; more features than most people will ever use.
Best for: smart home fans who already own Samsung devices.

5. Miele TQ 1000 WP Nova Edition: the long-term investment

This Miele T2 dryer is class B at 92 kWh per 100 cycles, but noise class A (60 dB(A)) and condensation efficiency class A. It offers the M Touch Pro color display, SteamCare to fight wrinkles, WoolDry for wool, the FragranceDos scent system and QuickPowerDry, which Miele says dries 4 kg (9 lb) of easy-care laundry in 49 minutes. Miele says it designs its appliances for 20 years of use.

Pros: premium build, gentle on laundry, steam and fragrance, Miele@home connectivity.
Cons: only class B; clearly more expensive than the other models.
Best for: buyers who would rather invest once and keep the appliance for a very long time.

6. Beko B7T88209: class A on a smaller budget

The Beko B7T88209 is a little smaller at 8 kg (18 lb) but also reaches energy class A and condensation efficiency class A. It adds SteamCure to fight wrinkles, an inverter motor, a large door opening and sanitizing programs. The HomeWhiz app connects over Bluetooth.

Pros: the top energy class among budget and midrange models, steam function.
Cons: only 8 kg (18 lb); app limited to Bluetooth range; a smaller service network than the German brands.
Best for: couples and small families who want efficient drying without a big budget.

Comparison table

Mistakes to avoid

• Comparing the old and new labels: a closeout "A+++" model isn't more efficient than a new class B model. Compare kWh per 100 cycles.
• Looking only at the class: capacity, noise and condensation efficiency often matter more day to day.
• Choosing a drum that's too small: match at least the capacity of your washer.
• Ignoring the spin speed: the drier your laundry comes out of the washer, the shorter and cheaper the drying cycle. 1,400 rpm is a good baseline.
• Forgetting the lint filter: a clogged filter makes the cycle longer and drives up energy use. Clean it after every load.
• Emptying the water tank instead of draining it: if there's a drain nearby, hooking up the drain hose saves you from emptying the tank after every cycle.

Installation, use and safety

A heat pump dryer is ventless: it needs no exhaust duct, so it can go in a laundry room, a bathroom or a basement. The room shouldn't be too cold, though, because the heat pump loses efficiency at low temperatures; the allowed room temperature range is listed in the manual. Leave some space around the machine so heat can escape.

To stack a washer and dryer, use the manufacturer's stacking kit so the dryer can't slide off from the vibration. Plug the dryer straight into a grounded wall outlet, never into a power strip or extension cord. Models sold in Europe are built for 230 V, so check that the version on your Amazon store is rated for US power: standard 120 V outlets, or the 240 V circuit many US dryers use. Many recent models, including the Bosch, Siemens and Miele dryers listed here, use the natural refrigerant R290 (propane). It's better for the climate but flammable: any work on the refrigerant circuit should be left to the manufacturer's service team or a qualified technician.

If you'd rather air-dry, a dehumidifier keeps indoor humidity under control; see our smart dehumidifier guide. To pick a matching washer, read our smart washer comparison.

The bottom line: which heat pump dryer should you buy?

The Bosch Series 8 WRB247C40 is the most well-rounded heat pump dryer of 2026: class A, very quiet, condensation class A and nearly maintenance-free thanks to its self-cleaning condenser. The Siemens iQ700 WR47B2C40, built on the same technology, is an equally good alternative. For wool and down, the AEG 9000X makes a strong case, and smart home fans should look at the Samsung DV90F09F4SU2. If longevity and laundry care come first, choose the Miele TQ 1000 WP Nova Edition; to buy smart on a budget, the Beko B7T88209 is the right call. Whatever you pick, compare models on the new label and check energy use in kWh per 100 cycles.