indian Railways has been rolling out newer coach options to make travel both affordable and comfortable. One such innovation is the 3E coach (AC 3-Tier Economy)—a budget-friendly alternative to the traditional 3AC (AC 3-Tier). But which one gives you better value? Here are 7 crucial comparisons to help you decide before you book your ticket.
1. Price Advantage – 3E Is Lighter on the Pocket
The most striking difference is the fare. 3E tickets are 10–15% cheaper than 3AC. For instance, if a 3AC ticket costs ₹800–₹1000, the same journey in 3E will cost around ₹700–₹900. For frequent travelers and families, this difference adds up significantly.
2. More Berths, More Capacity
A 3AC coach usually has 72 berths, but the 3E coach squeezes in 83 berths, thanks to the additional side berths. This makes 3E more spacious and accessible for more passengers, though it does mean a little less personal space per traveler.
3. Curtains vs Open Layout
In 3AC, berths come with separate curtains to give you privacy. In 3E, there are no curtains, making the layout more open and less private. While this helps in accommodating more people, it may not suit those who value personal space.
4. Comfort Level – Narrower Berths in 3E
To fit the additional berths, 3E berths are narrower compared to 3AC. Passengers looking for extra comfort might still prefer 3AC, while budget-conscious travelers may find 3E perfectly acceptable.
5. Modern Features in 3E
Despite being cheaper, 3E comes with impressive features:
Individual AC ducts for every seat.
Personal reading lights so passengers don’t disturb each other.
Charging ports are available for electronic devices.
Complete bedding kits with sheets, pillows, and blankets.
6. Shared vs Dedicated Charging Points
In 3AC, charging points are relatively more dedicated. In 3E, however, they are shared among passengers, which could be inconvenient during rush hours. A small trade-off for the lower ticket cost.
7. Availability – Easier to Book 3E
Since 3E has a higher capacity and is still being introduced on more routes, availability is generally better compared to 3AC. This makes it a solid option for last-minute bookings.
🚆 Final Word:
Choose 3E if you’re looking for affordable, modern, and practical travel with essential comforts.
Stick to 3AC if you prefer more privacy, slightly wider berths, and fewer co-passengers in your compartment.
Either way, indian Railways has ensured that passengers now get more choices tailored to both comfort and budget.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel