April 12th, 2023 | 13 min. read
Learn how to find the perfect laundry products with our Washer Buying Guide
It must be confusing to buy a front-load washer.
They all look the same yet have many more features since your last purchase.
In this article, you will learn about the best front-load washers and their features to consider.
Additionally, you will learn how to buy a front-load washer, including reliability and when the best time to buy a front-load is to save money on every brand.
We've included a few videos to help you along the way.
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Short on time? Download our free Washer Buying Guide.
The Best Front-Load Washers for 2023
Best Overall: LG WM6700HBA
Dimensions: 27" W, 39" H, 33.25" D | Capacity: 5 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 25 Cycles | Spin Speed: 1300 RPM | Reversible Door: No | Automatic Dispenser: No | Reliability: 2.1%
The WM6700 incorporates many of LG's best features from the WM6700HBA, like TurboWash360, steam, Wi-Fi, and other advanced cycles.
LG WM6700HBA: Top Features and Benefits
5 Cubic Feet
The size is five cubic feet, but the depth increases from 30.25 to over 33 inches.
AI DD
Their AI (Artificial Intelligence) DD (Direct Drive) (Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive) sets the proper cycle based on the weight and type of fabric. It also sets the proper dryer cycle.
Automatic Dispenser
The WM6700HBA is LGs first model with an 18-load automatic dispenser. The machine calculates the exact amount of detergent and the best time to release it in the cycle.
Warning Signs: Potential Problems with the LG WM6700HBA
The dispenser is smaller than GE. Maytag had mold issues in the same top location as LG.
Most Reliable: LG WM4000HWA
Dimensions: 27" W, 39" H, 30.25 D | Capacity: 4.5 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 12 Cycles, 13 Options | Spin Speed: 1300 RPM | Reversible Door: No | Automatic Dispenser: No | Reliability: 2.1%
The LG line is now the most reliable you can buy from the major brands. The WM4000HWA is an upgrade from the WM3400CW. It adds four cycles, including TurboWash360, Steam, and TubClean.
LG WM4000HWA: Top Features and Benefits
TurboWash360
TurboWash360 employs five high-pressure hoses to turn any cycle into a 30-minute wash.
Most brands have a 15-minute cycle for small loads. You can wash larger loads in 30 minutes using Turbo360.
Steam and TubClean Cycles
Steam loosens tougher stains like grass and wine. The TubClean cycle cleans your washer and prevents mold build-up.
Wi-Fi-Enabled
Additionally, LG was the first with Wi-Fi on their ThinQ app.
Warning Signs: Potential Problems with the LG WM4000HWA
They lack an automatic dispenser even on the WM4000HWA. You must buy their WM6700HBA model (featured above) for the dispenser. The washer is not irreversible, and LG lacks the mold control package of the GE machines.
Best Mold Fighter and Dispenser: GE GFW650SPNSN and GFW850SPNRS
Dimensions: 28" W, 39.75" H, 32" D | Capacity: 4.8 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 12 Cycles, 9 Options | Spin Speed: 1300 RPM | Reversible Door: Yes | Automatic Dispenser: Yes | Reliability: 6.4%
GE redesigned its washer and dryer with new features three years ago. It's entirely different than any other washer on the market.
Quick Tip: Buy a front load between 4.5-5 cubic feet for the best value.
At five cubic feet, the GFW850SPNRS will be smaller than the LG's largest, the Mega Capacity Washer, at 5.8 cubic feet.
However, it's $700-$900 less expensive for 0.8 of a cubic foot.
GE will also fit in your laundry room, but barely at 34 inches deep.
The Samsung 2-in-1 Washer or the LG Mega Capacity Washer will be even deeper. (Where do they think of these names?)
Five cubic feet are cut-off for value at $899-$1,299.
After that, the extra capacity becomes much more expensive.
GE GFW650SPNSN and GFW850SPNRS: Top Features and Benefits
Microban Coating
In a public restroom, the changing table for diaper changes is protected with a Microban surface.
Microban is an antimicrobial agent to stop the growth of bacteria. It can be nasty in public restrooms.
GE integrated Microban in their best washers to prevent mold in your washer. Their front load washer uses Microban for the gasket, dispenser, and draining system.
UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock
The UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock is another feature designed to eliminate moisture. With OdorBlock, the washer's vents are built into the door, and the cycle spins the drum to create a vacuum effect and dry any residual moisture.
Pro Tip: Want to prevent mold? Mold thrives in dampness. Dry the gasket and the back of the machine after every wash. Then leave the door open when your washer isn't running.
Automatic Dispenser
The GE GFW850SPNRS also features a 32-load automatic detergent dispenser at the top of the machine.
The brands with auto dispensers at the bottom of their washers, GE, Whirlpool, and Miele, have service rates of less than 10% in the first year.
The Maytag loaded from the top and had a 15% repair rate last year due to mold build-up. LG introduced their new models with their automatic dispenser on the top.
You should consider an automatic dispenser to limit how much detergent you're using.
Any extra detergent will form suds, staying inside the machine for one expensive, eventual service call.
Pro Tip: Over-sudsing is one of the top reasons front-load washers fail. An auto dispenser will dispense the right amount of detergent at the right time and prevent over-sudsing.
Wi-Fi
The GE washers are Wi-Fi enabled. As I said in earlier articles, having Wi-Fi connectivity for your washer and dryer makes sense.
You can see the time remaining, and it will even text you when the cycle is over, so you won't have to trudge upstairs or downstairs to wait for the cycle to expire.
Only the GE GFW850SPNRS model will automatically set the dryer's time and show you how much detergent is left in your dispenser.
Reversible Door
Like Electrolux, GE has a reversible door so the doors can open similarly.
It's convenient for stacking or placing units' side-by-side in a tight spot.
The GFW850SPNRS has the overnight wash and dry feature to add a small load like an outfit and wash and dry it by the morning.
What's the Difference Between the GE GFW650SPNSN and GFW850SPNRS Front Load Washers?
The GFW650SPNSN is another popular washer just a step below the GFW850SPNRS. It costs $100-150 less but does not have a wash and dry cycle and is 0.2 cubic feet smaller.
Warning Signs: Potential Problems with the GE GFW650SPNSN and GFW850SPNRS
The depth is an issue in smaller spaces. Their reliability is excellent, but LG is more reliable.
GE is the best at handling problems after the sale with their service departments.
Reliability is one of the most crucial factors to consider, especially if you buy from a store without service.
Read More: Should You Buy the GE Front Load Laundry GFW650SSNWW?
Budget Pick: LG WM3400CW
Dimensions: 27" W, 39" H, 30.25" D | Capacity: 4.5 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 8 Cycles, 6 Options | Spin Speed: 1300 RPM | Reversible Door: No | Automatic Dispenser: No | Reliability: 2.1%
The WM3400CW is one of the most popular front-load washers sold. Affordable doesn't mean cheap.
LG WM3400CW: Top Features and Benefits
Cycles and Options
The WM3400CW still has eight cycles, six options, and the same spin speed and reliability as LG's better machines.
For perspective, our parents, for instance, washed with three cycles, one or two speeds, three temperatures, and 2.5 usable capacity versus the 4.5 in LG.
The GE 5.0 cubic feet is 34 inches.
At 4.5 cubic feet, the WM3400CW is only 30.25 inches, which is a world of difference when stacking in a closet.
Spin Speed
LG's 1300 RPM spin speed is fast, with an average of about 1000 to 1200 RPM for a full-size front load washer.
Faster spin speeds mean less time in the dryer because the clothes are not as wet as the washer.
Reliability
LG's service rates are the lowest at 2.1%. The average appliance is 9.5%, for perspective.
Warning Signs: Potential Problems with the LG WM3400CW
The WM3400 is a good basic machine and is still an upgrade of your present machine.
It lacks some better cycles, like steam and Allergen cycles. It also lacks Wi-Fi connectivity.
The washer is not reversible. The doors won't line up if you're stacking with a dryer. It can be annoying if the washer and dryer are on opposite sides.
You do not have an automatic dispenser on this or the WM4000. Auto Dispensers are the best new feature for front-load washers.
Read More: Best LG Front Load Washers
Best Stacked Washer and Dryer: LG WashTower WKGX201HWA
Dimensions: 27" W, 74.375" H, 30.375" D | Capacity: Washer 4.5 Cu. Ft., Dryer 7.4 Cu. Ft. | Number of Cycles: 12 Washer Cycles & 10 Washer Options, 6 Dryer Cycles & 9 Dryer Options| Washer Spin Speed: 1300 RPM | Reversible Door: No | Automatic Dispenser: No | Reliability: 2.1%
It is like the WM6700 in features only without the auto dispenser and is the standard size of 4.5 cubic feet.
LG WashTower WKGX201HWA: Top Features and Benefits
Design
The WashTower makes too much sense when you are stacking the dryer. The controls are in the middle. When stacking, you don't have to reach the top of the dryer at 71 inches.
AI DD
You have the AI DD (Artificial Intelligence Direct Motor Drive). The washer sets the dryer, but the auto dispenser is not part of the WashTower feature package.
This set's price is less high than if you bought a set of the WM4000 and a matching dryer.
The LG WashTower With a Ventless Heat Pump Dryer
Heat pumps are typically equipped on smaller dryers like Miele and Bosch. They recycle the air through an air exchanger with a compressor heating it.
Heat pumps are more efficient than drying elements.
You can place this WashTower anywhere with water and power because heat pumps do not need vents.
Warning Signs: Potential Problems with the LG WashTower WKGX201HWA
The WashTower is the first extra-large heat pump on the market. Heat pumps dry at a lower temperature, so drying time could be a concern (we must test). More parts than a regular dryer could mean more expensive repairs as well.
Read More: Should You Buy the LG WashTower WKEX200HWA?
Why Are GE and LG the Only Two Brands Included in This Article?
GE and LG are considered in the industry as the two best. We stopped selling Whirlpool and Maytag this year.
They want a better relationship with the box stores and are focusing on their direct-to-consumer channels.
Both are good brands. Delivery in Boston is hard enough. Delivering nationwide must be brutal.
Samsung is another brand you should consider. They have decent appliances, but are a bit tougher on the support side.
Key Takeaways
There are many reasons to buy any front-load washer on this list, depending on what features you want or the application, like stacking your dryer.
The heat pump dryer is interesting because every closet can accept a full-size washer and dryer (if it works).
For the best value, ensure you stay within the 4.5-5.0 cubic foot range.
Buying more capacity costs way too much for the added size.
The good news is every model on this list has better reliability than the average appliance.
LG and GE are considered the best in the industry, but Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, and Samsung all have their advantages.
Check to see which brand is the best service after the sale and lastly wait for a holiday if you can.
Front-Load Washer 101
Before shopping for a new washer and dryer, here are a few general features and considerations for all brands:
Size and Capacity
Front Load Washers at Yale Appliance in Hanover
Front-load washers are between 4.3-5.8 cubic feet, with the vast amount sold between 4.3-4.5 cubic feet. Before buying a larger size, measure your current unit, the door, and the delivery areas.
In some cases, larger front loads are bigger than existing spaces. We recommend buying between 4.3-5 Cu. Ft. The price becomes much more expensive, over five cubic feet. You will spend $300-900 for 0.5-1 cubic foot.
The best front loads are between 4.5-5 cubic feet. For example, this LG washer (pictured below) is $1,999 for 5.8 cubic feet or double the price of a washer with five cu. Ft capacity. Don't buy any front load washer over five cubic feet - notably the largest LG and the 2-in-1 Samsung washers.
Front-Load Washer Reliability
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 front load washers sold and a total sample of over 3,000 over a 12-month period.
| Service Rates | |
| LG | 2.1% |
| GE Appliances | 3.7% |
| Grand Total | 3.7% |
Reliability is important because laundry will pile up quickly with a broken washer.
My family and I averaged two loads a day for three people. One week are 14 loads for us.
Appliance service has worsened with the lack of parts and available technicians.
LG and GE are two of the most reliable brands you can buy in laundry
However, GE has the best parts and repair services after the sale.
It's crucial if you are buying from a store without service.
Read More: Most Reliable Front Load Washers
Front-Load Washer Features
Automatic Detergent Dispensers
GE Automatic Detergent Dispenser in a Front Load Washer
High-end Whirlpool, GE, and LG front-load washers offer automatic dispensers. Maytag's front load washer and Miele's compact washer have automatic dispensers.
Depending on the manufacturer, each dispenser can hold 8-40 laundry detergent loads. Buying an auto dispenser assures you the right amount of detergent at the right time. It will also prevent problems in the future.
Steam
Steam loosens up tough stains in the washer. If you have a toddler (I can identify), steam is particularly good on grass, so you won't have to rewash.
Wi-Fi
Miele Wi-Fi-Enabled Compact Laundry
All the best, GE, Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, Miele, Bosch, and Maytag washers feature Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi will allow you to activate your washer remotely.
The machine will also tell you when it's done, so you do not have to keep running to the basement before the load is done.
How many times have you gone to your basement, and it is two minutes and thirty-two seconds on the cycle? You can't go anywhere, so you wait. The machine will text you when the cycle is done - no waiting.
Learn More: Smart Appliance Buying Guide
Reversible Door
I have no idea why more manufacturers don't have reversible doors. GE and Electrolux allow you to reverse the washer door to move the clothes from the washer to the dryer more easily in certain applications.
Stacking is better when the doors open on the same side. You also may have the washer on the left. Reversible doors are not critical, but they will make your life easier.
Pro Tip: Have the store reverse the door. You do not want to do it yourself.
When Is the Best Time to Buy a Front Load Washer?
From 2020-2022, we recommended buying whatever brand was available quickly.
However, you will see better deals for the first time in three years because of demand dropping, inflation, and slower housing.
Manufacturers added capacity, so you will see deals around 10-35% around holidays like Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Black Friday (now all of November).
That WM3400 at $899 was selling for $699. GE had similar $200 savings.
Wait if you can.
You may have even better deals this Black Friday.
Additional Resources
Download our Yale Washer Buying Guide with all the features, terms, and brands of laundry. Over 1 million people have already found answers in a Yale guide.
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A Note About Pricing
Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
