Better then microfiber but very bulky [SEP] I dont like the feel of microfiber so that is why I choose these, but they are very bulky and really thick I have a bunch of old turbie twists that I was hoping to replace with these but I have only used one and avoid using it at all cost because its basically like just using a regular size towel on my head- so for the review questions- yes it absorbs, yes it has drying power yes its soft but I wish I tried it sooner and returned them