Egyptian cotton and Pima cotton are two of the most common choices when you are buying towels, and they suit different priorities. Here is how they compare across the things that actually matter.
Egyptian cotton vs Pima cotton at a glance
| Attribute | Egyptian cotton | Pima cotton |
|---|---|---|
| Absorbency | ||
| Softness | ||
| Drying speed | ||
| Durability | ||
| Eco profile | ||
| Typical price | £££ | £££ |
What are Egyptian cotton towels?
Long-staple cotton that is exceptionally soft and durable when genuine, though the label is often misused. They are best for a soft, plush, long-lasting luxury towel.
What are Pima cotton towels?
An extra-long-staple cotton (supima is the trademarked us version) that is soft, strong and resists pilling. They are best for a durable, very soft premium towel.
How they differ
For most bathrooms the deciding factors are how absorbent and soft the towel feels against how quickly it dries and how long it lasts.
Which should you choose?
Choose Egyptian cotton if you want a soft, plush, long-lasting luxury towel. Choose Pima cotton if you want a durable, very soft premium towel. If you are unsure, our Towel Finder weighs these trade-offs for you, and our GSM guide explains how towel weight changes the feel of either material.
The bottom line
Neither material is simply "better"; they are optimised for different things. Egyptian cotton wins on value for its price, while Pima cotton wins on value for its price. Match the material to how you will actually use the towel.