Racold vs. AO Smith — whether you’re looking for a top-of-the-line storage geyser with smart features or the cream-of-the-crop regarding energy efficiency and durability, the Racold vs. AO Smith lineup represents a collection of extremely reliable water heaters.
Higher efficiency, but also higher durability, is one of these impressive geysers the one for you?
Read the full comparison below to find out.
Both of these brands are big names in the water heater market. But from the outside, it’s a bit like comparing apples and oranges. This guide is designed to help break down the similarities and differences of Racold vs. AO Smith. We’re going to kick-off with some head-to-head comparisons.
Racold vs. AO Smith: Storage Geyser Comparisons
Right out of the gate, let’s take a look at the storage geyser comparison between the Racold army and AO Smith’s collection. Racold certainly has more models, but AO Smith is built at a higher price point…so does that translate to better features, power, or performance?
Decide for yourself in the comparison below of Racold vs. AO Smith storage geysers.
Racold vs. AO Smith 15L Vertical
So head to head—Racold Eterno Pro vs. AO Smith SDS-Green-015, which is better?
In short, I would have to give it to the AO Smith lineup here. AO Smith makes a fantastic geyser, there’s no doubt about that, but it is possible that smart features are simply outside of the AO Smith wheelhouse.
The AO Smith SDS-Green-015 excelled in the important part that makes it a geyser—notably great heating efficiency. The efficiency is so good, in fact, that it achieves a 5-star BEE rating while maintaining superior tank protection.
But the struggles come with pricing.
What’s great about a STORAGE geyser…
…is that it heats exceptionally well and is also energy efficient. The AO Smith SDS-Green-015 or SGS-GREEN-025 can tackle both of these jobs, making it an excellent pick for a top-dollar storage geyser.
If Racold improves the tank coating technology and matches the 5-star efficiency ratings, it is possible that it could become a real contender against AO Smith someday.
Racold vs. AO Smith Horizontal Geysers
Now just because AO Smith excels with their tank technology, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a competitive Racold geyser out there which can rival the AO Smith name.
Racold has their horizontal geyser line, called the Omnis series. This series includes space-saving horizontal geysers, that also double as perfect solutions for false ceiling installations.
Although this started as a vertical vs. vertical comparison, it would feel almost wrong to not include some of the best horizontal work in this comparison as well.
The table below outlines a full comparison between Racold vs. AO Smith horizontal storage geysers.
Racold vs. AO Smith 25L Storage
The AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025 is a premium storage geyser that offers a 16-minute heating time, doubles as the fastest heating 25L geyser, and offers exceptional durability as you heat. It has a 3000W heating element (50% more powerful than standard 2kW heaters) and weighs 13 kg.
Regarding heating performance, it captured exceptional efficiency ratings with 5-star BEE certification, delivering 2-3 buckets of hot water within 7 minutes and maintaining heat for over 24 hours.
In the table below, we’ve done a quick comparison of the Racold Buono Pro NXG vs. AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025, specifically looking at heating performance:
To heat, it uses a glass-coated heating element that is scale-resistant with titanium steel formulation. It also comes with thermal cutoff, ELCB protection, multi-function valve, and a customized alloy anode rod.
For heating performance, AO Smith is likely going to be your best bet, especially the SGS-GREEN-025 which heats 50% faster, but for budget-conscious buyers, the Racold Buono Pro NXG has a real advantage. The lower price point allows the Buono Pro to offer 5-star efficiency at a more accessible cost.
That said, if you do have temperature control needs and opt for the Racold lineup, you’ll want to go with the Eterno Pro model. This one comes equipped with adjustable thermostat control, which will yield better customization for your bathing needs.
Racold vs. AO Smith Smart Features
Considering Racold vs. AO Smith smart features?
The Racold Eterno Pro is a few years newer, but for features, it still does a fantastic job. Again, this is no basic geyser.
It’s got Smart Bath Logic and it offers energy savings up to 40%, but the amount of technology that this geyser packs at its price point certainly makes it a contender when hunting for the best value geyser for your home.
In the table below, we’ve done a quick comparison of the Racold Eterno Pro vs. AO Smith standard models, specifically looking at smart features:
Like the other Racold models, it also uses titanium enamel coating and comes with the following safety features: thermostat control, cutout protection, safety valve, and magnesium anode with Smart Guard technology.
Regarding features, the Racold Eterno Pro had superior smart capabilities to standard AO Smith models—Smart Bath Logic for energy savings, Smart Mix for 10% more hot water output, and reduced restart frequency.
For Racold vs. AO Smith, I would put the Racold Eterno Pro ahead in terms of smart features. These geysers are ideal for tech-savvy users or areas where energy savings are really a concern.
Want a smarter AO Smith?
If Wi-Fi connectivity is intriguing to you, you may want to check out the AO Smith HeatBot WiFi model. It’s got app control and remote monitoring, but comes at a significantly higher price point, similar to the Racold Omnis WiFi model.
Racold vs. AO Smith Durability
The AO Smith Blue Diamond technology is probably the standout feature that is the most superior in the AO Smith collection.
The Blue Diamond glass-lining is a patented coating technology. This coating uses the same principles found in premium tank protection. It has powerful corrosion resistance with the never-fading, never-degrading, protection.
There are many different models of AO Smith with Blue Diamond coating currently in production. The original glass-lining technology has since been enhanced to Blue Diamond (in recent years) and underwent major performance improvements.
For maximum tank protection, they also have titanium steel construction. This offers 2X corrosion resistance, better heat retention, and stronger durability, but it’s a far cry from being budget-friendly.
Racold Geysers Overview
Before the launch of smart features in Racold geysers, energy-efficient water heaters seemed like some kind of premium dream, something that is only available in high-end homes or in the homes of the wealthy. It seemed simply unrealistic for smart geysers to be in the homes of the middle-class.
- Smart Bath Logic, 2) titanium coating, 3) magnesium anode
The Racold name changed that mentality. Racold geysers can range in price from ₹ budget tier to all the way to the ₹₹ moderate price tier.
With the turn of a knob, Racold geysers can heat your water, automatically identifying optimal temperature, maintaining heat efficiently when needed, and then cutting off power when the set temperature is reached.
While they can’t match the Blue Diamond coating of AO Smith, the more advanced models that come out, continue to have more and more impressive smart features.
AO Smith Geysers Overview
AO Smith also offers premium storage geysers, but there’s multiple capacities—from 6L to 25L models. These models are high-end water heaters that offer many of the same efficiency ratings and safety features of the Racold line-up, but are quite a bit more expensive.
In addition to the standard storage models, AO Smith also offers an impressive collection of instant, solar, and heat pump models. Click here for a complete review of all AO Smith geyser reviews.
AO Smith is possibly most noted for their Blue Diamond glass-lining technology, the premium tank protection including models like the SGS-GREEN-025, SDS-Green-015, and HAS-X1-015.
The AO Smith HeatBot WiFi is the newest model to launch and does include a number of impressive features, but Wi-Fi connectivity and app control are not standard features, like what you’ll find with budget-friendly models like Racold.
AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025
• Dimensions: 44.4 × 44.4 × 38.3 cm
• Heating Time: ~16 minutes
• Maintenance: ~₹500 / year
• Weight: 13 kg
The AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025 is the top-of-the-line 25L model. It brings a litany of impressive features, but some of the most notable include:
• Express Heat technology
• Blue Diamond glass-lining
• 2X corrosion resistance
Design
The design of the SGS-GREEN-025 is not dissimilar to other AO Smith models. It has a classic cylindrical body with a premium aesthetic. Instead of a digital display, the SGS-GREEN-025 does have an adjustable temperature knob to make room for simple controls, a practical component for reliable operation in this model. Overall, the design is robust and very intuitive.
How it Heats
SGS-GREEN-025 heats with glass coated heating element, PUF insulation and titanium steel tank for durability. Unlike standard 2kW models, SGS-GREEN-025 heats water methodically and 33% faster with 3000W Express Heat technology.
Blue Diamond coating is replaced with patented glass lining technology. This prevents corrosion in harder water conditions and reduces tank failure.
In addition to durability, SGS-GREEN-025 also has better heat retention. It can maintain temperature for up to 24 hours without having to reheat frequently.
Titanium steel construction has a new feature called “2X corrosion resistance” which can handle tough water conditions and extend tank life.
Usability
SGS-GREEN-025 can be adjusted via temperature knob. You can control the heat between 25-75°C via the adjustable thermostat or monitor status with indicator lights for power and heating.
Another feature that makes SGS-GREEN-025 very usable is it can handle 8 bar pressure. This is perfect for high rise buildings where water pressure is a challenge.
It delivers consistent hot water so you can maintain temperature and eliminate frequent reheat cycles.
Heating Performance
Overall, the heating performance of the SGS-GREEN-025 is excellent. With Express Heat technology, the performance is literally industry-leading, capturing 16-minute heating times during all of our analysis. On our efficiency tests, the performance continued to be exceptional with 5-star BEE rating.
It did show exceptional durability with the Blue Diamond coating, being that the glass-lining provides 2X protection and handles hard water conditions, but the performance was superior to any other competitive storage geyser. The SGS-GREEN-025 seems to excel in areas that storage geysers consistently need most.
Pros
• Includes Express Heat technology for 33% faster heating
• Blue Diamond glass-lining provides 2X corrosion resistance
• Superior heat retention maintains temperature for 24+ hours
Cons
• More expensive than other comparable geyser models
• Higher power consumption requires 16A socket
Racold Eterno Pro 15L
• Dimensions: 31 × 56.5 × 31 cm
• Heating Time: ~15-20 minutes
• Maintenance: ~₹400 / year
• Weight: 8 kg
The Racold Eterno Pro is the smart-featured model from Racold. It uses Smart Bath Logic technology that provides 30-40% energy savings while maintaining excellent performance.
Design
The design of the Racold Eterno Pro is a sleek body, similar to other Racold models and uses adjustable thermostat control to regulate temperature and optimize energy consumption. There is a temperature display dial as well as power and heat indicators for simple monitoring.
Additional settings and features can be accessed with the temperature control knob.
How it Heats
Racold Eterno Pro has a titanium enamel-coated heating element that heats efficiently with Smart Mix technology to give 10% more hot water and save up to 40% electricity.
Magnesium anode with Smart Guard technology provides superior protection with corrosion resistant materials. This protection extends tank life in harsh water conditions.
Usability
Smart Bath Logic is the star of the show, you can customize bathing modes as per your needs. This intelligent system reduces energy consumption by 30-40% through optimized heating cycles.
You can adjust temperature settings and also benefit from reduced restart frequency, a feature that saves energy and extends element life.
Heating Performance
While we can’t definitively match the Express Heat speeds of AO Smith, we can say that user reviews consistently praise this machine.
Reviews on most e-commerce sites point out energy savings, including Smart Bath Logic benefits and excellent temperature maintenance. On the upside, the smart features of this geyser are superb, providing tangible savings on electricity bills, but premium tank coating seems to be another area entirely.
Pros
• Smart Bath Logic saves 30-40% energy with customizable modes
• Smart Mix provides 10% more hot water output
• More affordable than comparable AO Smith models
Cons
• Reports of basic tank coating compared to Blue Diamond technology
• Reports of analog controls instead of digital display
• Lower BEE rating (4-star) compared to 5-star AO Smith models
Racold Buono Pro NXG 25L
• Dimensions: 36.7 × 57.5 × 36.7 cm
• Heating Time: ~30-40 minutes
• Maintenance: ~₹350 / year
• Weight: 10.5 kg
The Racold Buono Pro NXG is the budget-friendly option below premium models, but still within Racold’s efficient lineup. It has the same 5-star BEE rating, basic design, and reliable performance, but lacks some other features like temperature control and smart capabilities.
Of course, without these bonus features, that also puts the price tag significantly lower as well, which could be a deciding factor for you.
Design
The overall design of the Buono Pro NXG is basically simple compared to that of the Eterno Pro. It has a standard white body and basic control layout. It has no temperature adjustment capability and operates on a “plug and play” basis, perfect for users wanting simplicity.
How it Heats
The Buono Pro NXG also heats in a way that is very similar to other Racold models. It uses titanium enamel coating and magnesium anode to protect against corrosion and maintain tank integrity.
The 2000W heating element gives it standard heating times and adequate power for regular use. If your usage is primarily for small families, it is likely that you won’t notice the slower heating compared to 3000W models, but for large families, this could be a different story.
Usability
The usability of the Buono Pro NXG is extremely simple. With the plug-and-play operation, you just switch it on and wait for heating. No complex settings or adjustments needed.
Because of the fixed temperature setting, the Buono Pro NXG is also simpler to operate. PUF insulation allows the geyser to retain heat effectively. You are able to maintain hot water for extended periods which makes it easy to plan your bathing schedule.
Heating Performance
For a budget model, the heating performance was respectable.
During regular use, the Buono Pro NXG heats water in 30-40 minutes for full capacity. The difference in heating performance between premium and budget models is more noticeable in the heating time, where it takes nearly double the time of the SGS-GREEN-025.
Of course, I feel like the Buono Pro also needs the disclaimer that the slower heating is offset by the excellent 5-star energy efficiency rating. Even with basic features, the Buono Pro was able to achieve maximum BEE rating for excellent energy savings.
With sufficient capacity for 4 baths when fully heated, the Buono Pro NXG provides good value for budget-conscious families.
Pros
• Budget-friendly pricing with 5-star efficiency
• Simple plug-and-play operation
• Good capacity for family use
Cons
• No temperature control (fixed temperature only)
• Slower heating compared to 3000W models
• Lacks smart features and advanced controls
Racold Omnis Slim 15L Horizontal
• Dimensions: 59 × 31.6 cm
• Heating Time: ~15-20 minutes
• Maintenance: ~₹450 / year
• Weight: 10.8 kg
The Racold Omnis Slim is perfect for space conscious consumers looking for horizontal installation. At the crossroads of compact design, performance and features is the Omnis Slim. This is moderately priced and has some of the most desired features like Flexomix technology and LED indicators.
It’s a heating machine that will just keep performing in a space saving design until your bathroom needs are met. While the tank coating may not be Blue Diamond, there’s something about the Omnis Slim that’s just plain practical.
Design
The design is horizontal, perfect for false ceiling installations. The body is sleek with white or black color options.
Control wise, the design is user friendly. There’s an adjustable temperature knob to set desired temperature and an LED shower ready indicator when water reaches bathing temperature.
How it Heats
Like premium Racold models, the Omnis Slim uses titanium enamel coating with Titanium Plus technology for good corrosion resistance. It also uses Flexomix technology for consistent hot water output.
The main difference between standard heating and Flexomix is efficiency. Especially if you have varying water pressure in your household, the Flexomix technology tends to maintain consistency and provide better overall performance.
The 2500W heating element is faster than standard 2000W models while maintaining energy efficiency.
Usability
As for usability, the Omnis Slim is as good as any Racold. It has simple controls and the LED shower ready indicator eliminates the guesswork of water temperature.
A couple of advantages of the Omnis Slim in terms of usability are the Children Care function and space saving design.
What does that mean?
Children Care Function: Temperature regulation prevents skin burns, it’s safer for families with kids. Okay, this is a safety feature that prevents accidental burns but this could be a consideration if you’re looking for a family friendly model.
Space Saving Design: Horizontal orientation and slim profile is perfect for urban bathrooms with limited space. It fits perfectly above false ceilings. This is a practical solution for modern homes with limited vertical wall space.
Heating Performance
The heating performance of the Omnis Slim is pretty impressive considering its compact horizontal design. With 2500W power, the Omnis heats water in 15-20 minutes effectively. When maintaining temperature, the Flexomix technology ensures consistent output.
Comparing these features to vertical models, even standard 15L models, may lead you to think that horizontal compromises performance, and you’d be wrong.
This thing is efficiently designed and even though it sits horizontally, it will simply keep delivering hot water effectively, resulting in good performance for most household needs.
Although we didn’t test extreme conditions, the 8 bar pressure rating would handle high-rise buildings perfectly. This is just something you may want to keep in mind if you live in tall buildings.
Pros
• Space-saving horizontal design fits false ceilings perfectly
• Flexomix technology ensures consistent hot water
• Children Care function adds safety for families
Cons
• No digital display or smart features
• Slightly higher power consumption at 2500W
• Limited to 55°C maximum temperature
Racold Storage vs. AO Smith Premium
Considering the most popular Racold models vs. the AO Smith premium range, is there a winner?
In my book, I’d say yes.
Again, considering overall value and feature set, I think that Racold shows up time and time again, providing great value at accessible price points.
While the AO Smith models have fantastic durability, durability alone, cannot be the only thing driving the purchase of a product.
The Racold lineup allows for variable price points and models with or without certain features to help users find a model that fits their budget and their needs in a water heater.
AO Smith HAS-X1-015 Horizontal
• Dimensions: 50.9 × 33.8 × 33.8 cm
• Heating Time: ~15-20 minutes
• Maintenance: ~₹500 / year
• Weight: 11.6 kg
The AO Smith HAS-X1-015 horizontal geyser is AO Smith’s space-saving model to date. It features the same Blue Diamond coating and professional build quality of vertical models.
Design
The design is obviously quite different than any of the vertical models, but I believe is still worth mentioning.
Like the vertical models, there is one simple temperature knob to control heating. In the case of the HAS-X1-015, this knob allows adjustment between 25-75°C.
This is a great way to customize water temperature so you don’t waste energy heating beyond your needs.
How it Heats
The HAS-X1-015 uses a glass-coated Incoloy heating element at the base and Blue Diamond coating that provides exceptional corrosion resistance. The thermal cutout prevents overheating and ensures safe operation.
The HAS-X1-015 has a water flow rate of 240 L/hr, providing consistent hot water supply for regular use.
Usability
Considering usability, it is suitable for low ceilings and loft installations, but what it’s really got going for itself here is the fact that it maintains AO Smith quality. It handles 8 bar pressure easily, and navigates tough water conditions with the protection of Blue Diamond coating.
Heating Performance
The heating performance of the HAS-X1-015 is reliable across all conditions, heating water in 15-20 minutes during regular use. Unlike budget models, the Blue Diamond coating ensures long-term performance consistency.
Pros
• Blue Diamond coating provides 2X corrosion resistance
• Suitable for low ceiling and loft installations
• ELCB included for electrical safety
Cons
• Higher price point than Racold horizontal models
• No smart features or advanced controls
• Heavier than comparable Racold models
AO Smith SDS-Green-015
• Dimensions: 37.3 × 37.3 × 34.8 cm
• Heating Time: ~15-20 minutes
• Maintenance: ~₹500 / year
• Weight: 9.8 kg
The AO Smith SDS-Green-015 model is the 5-star efficient 15L vertical geyser. It has exceptional energy efficiency with premium tank protection.
Design
Compact and stylish. Vertical geyser. Saves space. 15L capacity. Adjustable temperature control. Clear indicator lights.
How it Heats
Glass coated Incoloy element with scale resistance. Efficient heating. No sediment buildup.
Usability
Good for small to medium families. Simple and easy to use. No smart features like Racold but 5 star efficiency and Blue Diamond coating gives you reliability and savings.
Heating Performance
Good heating performance. 260 L/hr flow rate. Ample hot water supply. 5 star BEE rating. 15-20 minute heating.
Pros
• 5-star BEE rating for maximum efficiency
• Blue Diamond coating for superior durability
• Compact design suitable for small spaces
Cons
• No smart features or energy-saving modes
• Premium pricing compared to Racold alternatives
Racold Smart Features vs. AO Smith Durability
The Racold Eterno Pro with Smart Bath Logic is one above the base models. Smart Bath Logic has 30-40% energy savings and is cheaper than premium AO Smith models.
Design
Again, design has smart indicators—temperature display dial, power indicator, and heat indicator for full monitoring.
How it Heats
Eterno Pro heating process has Smart Mix technology which gives 10% more hot water and saves electricity.
Usability
Smart features make it more usable. One can argue that Racold smart models are more usable than AO Smith because they auto optimize energy but for durability, Blue Diamond coating may make a difference.
Heating Performance
Racold smart models were energy optimized. While heating time is similar (15-20 minutes), smart features reduce overall electricity consumption by 30-40% through intelligent heating cycles.
While these smart savings are big and can easily offset the price difference, I thought durability was still worth noting for long term value.
Pros
• Smart Bath Logic provides 30-40% energy savings
• Multiple bathing modes for customization
• Smart Mix delivers 10% more hot water
Cons
• Tank coating not as durable as Blue Diamond technology
• 4-star rating vs. 5-star for some AO Smith models
• May require more frequent maintenance
Which is Best? Racold or AO Smith?
So Racold vs. AO Smith— which is better?
Honestly, there is no right answer here.
Both of these brands design exceptional geysers, however they tend to serve some consumers better than others.
For the best premium durability, AO Smith beats Racold every time. But if you’re open to smart features and value pricing, it really comes down to your usage patterns, budget, and preferences regarding technology.
So how do you choose between Racold vs. AO Smith?
The best way to make the decision is to decide which features are most important to you. Ask yourself a series of questions about what you expect from the geyser and the answer will likely come to you:
What type of water conditions and usage do you have?
Do you have hard water problems? Need maximum durability?
If you have hard water conditions…
AO Smith is an excellent choice.
Both the SGS-GREEN-025 and SDS-Green-015 had Blue Diamond coating providing 2X corrosion resistance. Also, the glass-lining presents superior protection against scale formation.
If you have normal water conditions…
Racold tends to have the better value required for regular household use.
The Racold Eterno Pro and Omnis Slim both captured excellent user satisfaction ratings with titanium coating providing adequate protection.
While the AO Smith models aren’t overkill by any stretch, the one area where they command premium is the Blue Diamond technology. If you aren’t dealing with extremely hard water, it is likely that the Racold lineup may still have the durability you need.
If you want maximum efficiency…
If you’re looking for a geyser that’s highly efficient and saves electricity, smart features definitely make a difference.
Your best options are going to be the Racold Eterno Pro with Smart Bath Logic or AO Smith’s 5-star rated models.
The Racold Eterno Pro can save 30-40% energy through smart modes, includes Smart Mix technology, and provides intelligent heating cycles that optimize electricity consumption.
AO Smith 5-star models achieve efficiency through superior insulation and heat retention (image source: AOSmith.in).
If you prefer the simplicity (and not having to deal with settings) of fixed operation, then AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025 and the SDS-Green-015 are both solid options. We go super in-depth in AO Smith’s efficiency metrics in our AO Smith geyser review series.
What’s more important—quick heating or smart savings?
As mentioned above, storage geysers have different strengths. While both will provide hot water, their approach to efficiency is quite different.
If you’re looking for quick heating…
I would recommend the AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025.
Simply turn the knob, wait 16 minutes, and enjoy hot water. The Express Heat technology heats 33% faster than standard models.
The Blue Diamond coating ensures durability for years of service. When you’re done bathing, the superior insulation maintains temperature for 24+ hours, so it’s ready for the next use.
If you’re looking for smart energy savings…
I would recommend the Racold Eterno Pro.
While it may not have Express Heat speeds, the best part is that Smart Bath Logic optimizes consumption. Set your preferred mode and save electricity automatically. Most Racold smart models allow for customized settings, meaning less wastage for you.
Of course, models with Blue Diamond coating (AO Smith premium series) do have a durability advantage over standard models. These models come with 2X corrosion resistance and are less likely to need tank replacement.
If you want good value, but don’t want premium features, I would recommend the Racold Buono Pro NXG next. The Buono Pro has 5-star efficiency that helps achieve energy savings comparable to premium models.
Basic models without smart features simply take a “heat and maintain” approach, heating to preset temperature, maintaining heat—definitely effective although likely not the intelligent efficiency you envisioned from modern technology.
What’s your budget?
Budget can also be a big factor when selecting your perfect geyser. Both Racold and AO Smith are quality brands, compared to unbranded models on the market. But that being said, it doesn’t mean you can’t find value here or there.
For geysers within the ₹ low price tier, check out the:
• Racold Buono Pro NXG
• Racold basic models
For geysers within the ₹₹ moderate price tier, check out the:
• Racold Eterno Pro
• Racold Omnis Slim
• AO Smith HAS-X1-015 (select variants)
For geysers within the ₹₹₹ high price tier, check out the:
• AO Smith SGS-GREEN-025
• AO Smith SDS-Green-015
• Racold Omnis DG (digital models)
For geysers within the ₹₹₹₹ ultra price tier, check out the:
• AO Smith HeatBot WiFi
• Racold Omnis WiFi models
For more information on specific models and how to choose check out our Racold geyser reviews and or AO Smith geyser reviews.
Still can’t decide? Send us an email here. We’re happy to personally help you.
