Siemens iQ500 WQ45G200GB 9kg Heat Pump Dryer with Sensor Drying - White vs 9kg Heat Pump Condenser Tumble Dryer — Comparison

The Siemens iQ500 WQ45G200GB and the Siemens WQ45G209GB are both 9kg front-loading heat pump dryers with sensor drying and the same 842mm height, 598mm width and 613mm depth. The iQ500 costs £799 against £769 for the WQ45G209GB, a £30 difference.

The iQ500 has the stronger energy rating: A+++, with 193kWh a year against an A++ rating and 258kWh for the WQ45G209GB. It is also quieter at 61dB against 64dB, and offers 12 programmes against nine. Its full load cycle is 195 minutes, against 176 minutes for the cheaper model. The iQ500 features autoDry, a self-cleaning condenser, a speedPack and a drum light.

The iQ500 suits people who dry often and want lower energy use and quieter running, since its lower annual energy figure adds up over a year of frequent use. Its half load cycle takes 125 minutes against 121 minutes for the cheaper model, so smaller loads finish at much the same pace. The WQ45G209GB suits buyers who want a heat pump dryer for £30 less. Buyers of the WQ45G209GB praise fast drying, efficiency and low maintenance thanks to its self-cleaning condenser. For running costs, the annual kWh figures are the best guide, so compare them against how often you dry.

Bottom line: choose the Siemens iQ500 WQ45G200GB if lower energy use, quieter running and more programmes matter most, or choose the Siemens WQ45G209GB if you want the lower price and an A++ heat pump dryer.