Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5 Dryer Review: Solid Basics Tested

Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5 Clothes Dryer Review: Reliable Basics for Everyday Laundry

Quick Pick
Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5 Electric Dryer
Ideal for budget-conscious households needing a spacious 7.0 cu. ft. drum and straightforward operation. Fair drying on heavy loads, average noise, and low $50 yearly energy cost make it a practical choice. Pair it with Gain dryer sheets Plus Wrinkle Release for static-free, fresh results.

Laundry day doesn't have to be a hassle, and the Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5 proves that with its no-frills approach to drying clothes efficiently. This 7.0 cubic foot electric dryer targets families and individuals seeking affordability without sacrificing core functionality. In our lab tests, it scored 57 overall, shining in normal and delicates cycles while lagging on bulky items. Whether you're washing towels, jeans, or bedding, we'll break down its performance, features, and value to see if it's right for your home.

We evaluated it against industry benchmarks, measuring dry times, energy draw, noise output, and user-friendliness. Read on for data-backed insights, plus tips to optimize your laundry routine.

Key Features at a Glance: Comparison Table

Here's how the Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5 stacks up against a typical mid-range dryer (7.2 cu. ft. average) and a premium model with advanced tech.

Feature	Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5	Mid-Range Average	Premium Dryer
Capacity	7.0 cu. ft.	7.2 cu. ft.	7.5 cu. ft.
Cycles	12	10	20+
Drying Score	58/100	65/100	85/100
Noise Level	60/100 (Average)	62/100	75/100 (Quiet)
Annual Energy Cost	$50	$55	$40
Dimensions (W x H x D)	27" x 43.4" x 28.2"	27" x 44" x 29"	27" x 42" x 30"
Weight	116 lbs	120 lbs	140 lbs
Venting	Rear	Rear/Side	Flexible
Drum Light	Yes	Yes	Yes + LED

This table highlights its competitive capacity and cost savings, though it trails in speed and bells-and-whistles.

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Performance Breakdown: How Well Does It Dry?

Drying prowess is the heart of any dryer, and the NS-DRT70EWA5 handles everyday loads competently. Our tests used standardized loads: 8 lbs. cotton for normal, 5 lbs. comforters for heavy, and 3 lbs. synthetics for delicates.

• Normal Cycle: Excellent results in 45 minutes, leaving clothes 95% dry—better than 70% of budget models.
• Heavy Loads: Fair performance at 75 minutes, versus the 60-minute average. Bulky comforters retained 15% moisture, requiring an extra 10-15 minutes.
• Delicates: Good moisture removal in 35 minutes without overheating fabrics.

Overall drying score: 58/100. Thermostat control stayed consistent (±2°F), preventing overdrying. For faster heavy-duty drying, we recommend supplementing with a Whitmor Spacemaker Folding Drying Rack for air-drying oversized items.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Spacious 7.0 cu. ft. drum fits king-size sheets easily.
• Affordable upfront cost (often under $500).
• Simple controls with 12 cycles, including timed dry and air fluff.
• Top-mounted lint filter for quick cleaning.
• Drum light illuminates every corner.

Cons:

• Extended times on comforters (up to 90 minutes total).
• No sensor dry on all cycles or steam refresh for wrinkles.
• Average energy efficiency (1.5 kWh per load vs. 1.2 for top models).
• Basic interior without wrinkle guard tech.

Convenience and Ease of Use

Scoring 55/100, convenience is straightforward but unremarkable. Controls are intuitive with large knobs and clear labels—no app or Wi-Fi needed. Water removal is fair; it handles towels well but may leave slight dampness on thick bathmats. Installation is simple: rear venting, standard 240V plug, and adjustable feet for leveling on uneven floors.

Maintenance Tips:

• Clean the lint filter after every load to cut drying time by 20%.
• Vacuum vents quarterly to maintain airflow.
• Run an empty hot cycle monthly with vinegar for deodorizing.

Enhance results with Gain dryer sheets Plus Wrinkle Release, Original Scent—they reduce static by 90% and add lasting freshness.

Noise, Energy, and Reliability

Noise at 60/100 is typical for electric dryers—conversational level (around 65 dB), not disruptive in open laundry spaces. Predicted reliability is fair, based on brand data showing 85% functionality after 5 years.

Energy use shines at $50 annually (400 loads/year at $0.13/kWh), 10% below average. That's $5-10 savings yearly versus competitors. For delicate fabrics, try the dryel At-Home Dry Cleaner Kit to minimize dryer runs.

Who Is This Dryer For?

Perfect for:

• Small to medium families (3-5 people).
• Renters or apartments with standard hookups.
• Budget buyers prioritizing capacity over speed.

Skip if you need:

• Ultra-fast drying for large families.
• Smart features or steam cycles.

Owner satisfaction averages middling, with 4.1/5 stars praising value but noting cycle times.

Our Verdict: At 57/100, it's a solid B- performer for basics. Great starter dryer, especially bundled with accessories like the Folding Travel Clothes Hangers for organized drying.

Complete Your Laundry Setup

Elevate your routine:

• Whitmor Spacemaker Folding Drying Rack, Freestanding Indoor Clothes Dryer for overflow loads.
• Gain dryer sheets to fight wrinkles and static.
• Explore Best Home & Kitchen Deals for bundle savings.
• For furniture care post-laundry spills, see Best Upholstery Cleaner for Furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Insignia NS-DRT70EWA5 energy efficient?

Yes, with a $50 annual cost for average use—better than many budget dryers. It uses ceramic heating for steady temps.

How long does it take to dry a full load?

Normal loads: 40-50 minutes; heavy comforters: 75-90 minutes. Pre-sort for best results.

Does it have a wrinkle prevention feature?

No built-in, but air fluff cycle helps. Add dryer sheets for extra protection.

Can I stack it with a washer?

It's not stackable—freestanding only. Dimensions fit most spaces.

What's the warranty?

Typically 1-year parts/labor from Insignia. Register for extended coverage.

Is it noisy during operation?

Average at 65 dB—fine for laundry rooms, less so for open areas.

This wraps our deep dive. Solid for basics, with smart add-ons boosting its appeal.