In Indian Railways, whenever we book tickets for long distance travel, the option of '3A' (Third AC) as well as '3E' (3rd AC Economy) appears in the AC class on the IRCTC app or website. Many travelers get confused considering these two categories to be the same. Although, both the coaches are air conditioned and both have the facility of sleeper berth, but there is a huge difference between the two in terms of interior design, number of seats, fare and travel comfort. If you are also going to book tickets for your next journey, then know what are the major differences between 3AC and 3E and which coach will be better according to your budget and needs. 1. Number of Seats and Coach Layout (72 Berths vs 83 Berths) The most basic and technical difference between the two coaches is the total seating capacity. 3AC Coach: A conventional 3AC coach (LHB) has a total of 72 berths. In this, each compartment has 6 seats in the main part (2 lower, 2 middle, 2 upper) and 2 seats on the sides (1 side lower, 1 side upper). 3E (Third AC Economy) Coach: The 3E coach has been re-designed to accommodate more passengers. A total of 83 berths have been installed in it, that is, 11 more seats than the normal 3AC. 2. Difference in legroom, headspace and seat width The biggest measure of travel comfort is the space available inside the coach. More space in 3AC: In normal 3AC, the seats are wider and there is good legroom between two facing seats. While getting up and sitting, the feet do not hit the front passenger and there is no fear of head collision due to adequate headroom between the two berths. Slightly compact space in 3E: The width of the seats (about 573 mm) has been reduced to add 11 additional seats in the 3E coach. Apart from this, the vertical gap and legroom between the berths is also less, due to which tall passengers or elderly people may feel a bit compact while sitting and lying down. 3. 10 to 15 percent difference in fare: Fare plays the most important role in the selection of these two categories. 3E coach fare is cheaper: 3E i.e. 'Economy' class was introduced by Indian Railways for those passengers who want to upgrade from sleeper class and travel in AC in low budget. Compared to normal 3AC, the base fare of 3E is approximately 8 to 15 percent less. 3AC fares are relatively higher: 3AC tickets are costlier than 3E due to more comfortable space and less crowd. 4. Modern Facilities: In terms of features and modern technology, the new 3E coaches are designed to be more advanced than 3AC in many ways. Personal AC Vent and Light: Each berth of 3E coach is provided with a separately adjustable AC Vent, personal reading lamp and USB port for mobile/laptop charging. Folding Snack Table: The 3E has a foldable snack table for food and separate water bottle holders near each seat. Bedroll facility: In both classes (3AC and 3E), passengers are provided with pillow, sheet and blanket. Which coach is best for you? Choose 3E coach if: You're traveling alone, you're on a budget, or you want the luxury of an AC experience at a fraction of the cost of a sleeper. Apart from this, the chances of getting a confirmed ticket in 3E are also higher due to more seats. Choose 3AC coach if: You are traveling with family or elders, you are tall, or you have excess luggage and want to travel in an open and comfortable environment at a slightly higher fare.
