July 3rd, 2025 | 17 min. read
Learn how to find the perfect laundry products with our Washer Buying Guide
Washer repairs take days. Sometimes more. Meanwhile, the laundry piles up.
We’ve logged over 33,000 service calls in the past year and seen firsthand what holds up and what doesn’t.
That’s why this list of the six best top-load washers for 2025 is based on real data, not guesses.
You’ll learn which brands are the most reliable, which features actually matter, and whether an agitator or impeller is better for how you do laundry.
If you want a washer that works - and keeps working— - you’re in the right place.
📽️Prefer to watch? This video walks you through the best top-load washers for 2025—what features matter, which models are most reliable, and how to choose the right one for your laundry needs.
Why You're Probably Here
You might be here because your front-load washer just failed. Maybe it’s unserviceable. The transmission went, or the parts are backordered. Or maybe you just can’t find anyone who still repairs them.
Or maybe you remember the old Maytag. I do. It was my favorite appliance of all time.
My mom had one when I was growing up. It was still running when we moved out 16 years later. That machine lasted somewhere between 17 and 19 years and only needed service once or twice. Solid. Reliable. You didn’t think about it. It just worked.
Maytag was sold in 2002. That machine and that kind of quality are gone. But there are still some top-load washers worth owning.
The next six stand out for their features, capacity, and most importantly, how well they hold up over time.
The 6 Best Top-Load Washers for 2025
| Model | Reliability (%) | Warranty | Cycles | Price Range | |
| LG | WT8405CB | 3.2% | 2 yr full, 3 yrs drum, 10 yrs motor | 8 cycles, 15 options | $799–$1,099 |
| GE Profile | PTW805BPWRS | 8.5% | 1 yr full | 12 cycles, downloadable extras | $799–$1249 |
| Maytag | MVW6230HW | N/A | 5 yr full | Multiple cycles incl. Quick Wash, Extra Power | $849–$1,049 |
| Speed Queen | TR7003WN | 3.6% | 7 yrs full, lifetime stainless tub | Electronic controls 8 cycles | $1,199–$1,499 |
| Speed Queen | TC5003WN | 3.6% | 5 yrs full, lifetime stainless tub | Classic manual 6 cycles | $1,149–$1,399 |
| GE Commerical | GTW525ACWWB | 7% | 5 yrs full, 10 yrs motor, lifetime tub | Deep Clean, Deep Rinse, basic manual | $1,028-$1,149 |
Most Reliable: LG WT8405CB
Review
The LG WT8405CB is one of the most reliable top-load washers you can buy.
We’ve tracked service data across thousands of machines, and LG consistently ranks at the top.
This model had a service rate of just 3.2% last year, the lowest among all brands we carry.
Compare that to over 9 percent for all appliances.
Editor’s note: LG laundry is the one place Consumer Reports and I agree.
Why It’s Reliable
LG builds many of its own components in-house, which gives it more control over quality.
That includes the inverter motor, which uses fewer moving parts.
Fewer parts mean less noise, better efficiency, and fewer things that can break.
Size and Capacity
This washer is one of the largest in its class at 5.3 cubic feet.
It measures 27 inches wide, 43 inches tall, and just over 28 inches deep.
The tub is deep to offer that capacity.
However, you may want to make sure you can reach the bottom if you are shorter.
Smart Features
The WT8405CB connects to LG’s ThinQ app, which lets you start the washer remotely, check cycle progress, and get alerts when your laundry is done.
I’m not a huge app user, but the signal at the end means you don’t go to the laundry room before the cycle ends.
It also has built-in AI that senses the type of fabric and size of the load, then automatically adjusts wash settings to protect your clothes while still getting them clean.
Wash Performance
You get a solid range of cycles, with 8 wash options, 14 rinse cycles, and 5 wash/rinse temperatures.
The TurboWash cycle uses high-pressure spray jets to clean faster and more evenly, cutting the wash time down to 37 minutes for a full load.
At the end of the cycle, LG’s Smart Rinse Jet technology uses high-powered jets to penetrate deep into the fabric, removing excess detergent and dirt.
The washer is Energy Star rated. Its sensors adjust how much water to use, but it also offers a Deep Fill option if you want to add extra water.
You can even add a garment after the wash has started.
What You Should Know Before You Buy LG or Any Other Brand
LG is incredibly reliable but also popular, so they may not have service support in your area. Check reviews and ask before you buy, rather than after.
Key Features
- 5.3 cubic foot capacity
- TurboWash 360 with smart sensing
- Smart Rinse technology
- Energy Star rated
- Deep Fill option
- Smart pairing with compatible LG dryers
- Wi-Fi enabled with LG ThinQ
- Direct drive inverter motor with fewer moving parts
Price
Expect to pay between $799 and $1,099, depending on finish and promotions.
Warranty
- One-year full warranty
- Three years on the drum
- Ten years on the motor
Pros
✔️Excellent reliability
✔️High capacity
✔️Smart features that actually save time
✔️TurboWash cuts wash time without sacrificing clean
✔️Gentle wash action helps protect clothes
Cons
❌Deep tub may be hard to reach for shorter users
❌Service availability can vary depending on your area
❌Higher price than entry-level models
❌No steam or Allergiene cycles
Best for Automatic Dispensing: GE Profile PTW905BPTRS
Review
GE Profile’s PTW605BRSWS stands out for its smart features and detergent flexibility.
Did you know one of the most common reasons for a washer service call is using too much detergent?
We naturally think adding more detergent will get clothes cleaner.
But that’s not necessarily true. What actually gets clothes clean is using the proper amount of detergent.
What Makes This Washer Unique?
GE’s Adaptive SmartDispense system is the best detergent dispensing setup in the industry.
It handles liquid detergent, fabric softener, and pods with ease, and can store enough for up to 32 loads.
That means fewer refills, less waste, and no overdosing. Excess suds often stay in the machine and lead to expensive service calls.
You can even customize your own cycle presets to match your favorite settings.
Does This Washer Prevent Mold and Odor?
Yes. GE coats the dispenser drawer, drain hose, and tub with Microban antimicrobial protection.
While top-loaders don’t trap moisture the way front-loaders do, Microban adds an extra layer of defense.
Editor’s note: Not sure how much is needed in a top-load washer.
How Big Is the GE PTW805BPWRS?
This washer is the same size as the LG 5.3 cubic foot model, making it a good choice for large loads.
The washer tub has a floating suspension and sensors that automatically detect an off-balance load during the spin cycle and adjust the drum to stabilize it.
A direct drive motor also helps reduce overall noise.
Smart Features and App Control
It’s Wi-Fi enabled and connects to GE’s SmartHQ app. You can start a load remotely, customize settings, and monitor detergent levels from your phone.
It also works with Alexa, so you can start a wash with your voice.
GE’s Smart Wash and Smart Rinse use sensors to measure soil levels and automatically adjust wash and rinse times.
It’s one of the few washers that truly tailors its performance to your laundry load.
What You Need to Know Before Buying the GE Profile Washer
GE has its own service network named Bodewell. While having service is good, it doesn’t guarantee good service.
Check local reviews and availability before buying.
Key Features
- 5.3 cubic foot capacity (Sapphire Blue)
- SmartDispense holds detergent for up to 32 loads
- Flex dispenser for pods
- Microban antimicrobial coating
- Smart Wash and Smart Rinse with soil sensors
- Wi-Fi and Alexa compatibility
- 12 cycles plus downloadable options like Oxi and Tangle Control
Price
Typically between $629 and $899, depending on finish and availability.
Warranty
- One year parts and labor
Pros
✔️Best detergent dispensing system available
✔️Voice assistant and remote control via app
✔️Advanced cycle customization
✔️Microban keeps the machine fresher over time
✔️Smart features
Cons
❌Slightly less reliable than LG
❌More expensive than basic models
❌May be overkill if you don’t use app features
Best for Tough Cycles: Maytag MVW6230HW
Smart Top Load Washer with Extra Power Button - 4.7 CU. FT.
Dimensions: 27 1/4" W x 57 1/4" H x 27 7/8" D | Capacity: 4.7 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 11 Cycles, 6 Options | Spin Speed: 750 RPM | Wi-Fi: Yes
Review
In full disclosure, we do not carry the Maytag brand, but their washer is worth a look.
If your laundry situation includes gym gear, muddy cleats, or kids who treat napkins like optional equipment, the Maytag MVW6230HW is built for you.
It’s a solid, heavy-duty washer that leans more into raw performance than tech.
Does This Washer Clean Well?
Yes, especially when it comes to stubborn stains.
The PowerWash agitator delivers one of the strongest wash actions in the category.
It also includes Maytag’s Extra Power button, which boosts stain removal by using hot and cold water together in the same cycle, starting with cold and gradually warming the water.
That’s helpful when you don’t want to separate lights and darks, which, let’s be honest, most of us in Boston haven’t done since college.
It also features a Deep Fill option and a 30-minute Quick Wash for small loads.
How Reliable Is It?
Maytag’s reliability sits between LG and GE in our previous service data.
It includes a five-year parts and labor warranty, which is one of the best in the industry for this price range.
Capacity and Size
At 4.7 cubic feet, it’s large enough for a family load without being difficult to reach into.
If you're in a Colonial with a second-floor laundry closet (pretty common in Needham or Andover), it’s also quieter than older agitator models.
What You Need to Know Before Buying Maytag
Maytag is owned by Whirlpool and has been for 20 years. Don’t expect old Maytag reliability with this new breed.
Plus, there is no automatic soap dispenser.
Key Features
- 4.7 cubic foot capacity
- 11 cycles, 6 wash options
- PowerWash agitator for tough soils
- Wi-Fi with Alexa and Google remote start capability
- Extra Power button for mixed loads
- Quick Wash cycle for small loads
- Deep Fill option
- Five-year full warranty
Price
- Typically $849 to $1,049
Warranty
- Five-year parts and labor
Pros
✔️Strong cleaning performance
✔️Longer warranty than most competitors
✔️Easy to use, no app needed
✔️Reliable for high-traffic laundry homes
Cons
❌Not Energy Star-rated
❌No internal heater
❌No automatic dispenser
❌Can be rough on delicate fabrics
Best for Dirty Clothes:Speed Queen TC5003WN
TC5 Top Load Washer with Speed Queen® Classic Clean™
Dimensions: 25 5/8" W x 42 3/4" H x 28 D | Capacity: 3.2 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 6 Cycles | Spin Speed: 710 RPM | Wi-Fi: No
Review
The Speed Queen TC5003WN is built like the washers you remember.
It’s solid, stable, and made to last.
If you want a commercial-grade washer for your home, this is it. No apps. No flashy screens. Just performance.
And yes, it’s still made in Wisconsin.
Why Is This Washer So Stable?
We filmed a side-by-side with this Speed Queen and a GE top-load washer on our TikTok. The GE shook and swayed when I moved the tub. The Speed Queen didn’t move.
That’s the kind of stability you can feel. Speed Queen won’t unbalance.
When washers shift and rattle, it puts stress on the internal components. That’s how other machines wear out faster.
The TC5003WN stays balanced, even with heavier loads, because the agitator is built into the transmission.
It’s also front-serviceable and is the number one selling washer on Nantucket.
Yes, Nantucket because it’s simple to fix, like the old Maytag.
How Well Does It Clean?
This washer is aggressive.
It combines a 210-degree agitator stroke at 60 strokes per minute with a deep-fill rinse that’s more effective than most high-efficiency washers.
It’s a workhorse. Great for gym clothes, work uniforms, or my kid’s grass-stained lacrosse gear from a weekend tournament.
Speaking from experience. (They came in second in the Battle of Boston.)
What You Need to Know Before You Buy Speed Queen
Aggressive is good with dirty jeans. Aggressive is bad with delicates and worse with partially torn fabrics.
So be careful how you use it.
They have a quieter, less aggressive washer in the TR series. You can compare both in this article: Speed Queen Top-Load Washer Review 2025.
Capacity and Controls
At 3.2 cubic feet, it’s smaller than LG or GE. But the size doesn’t tell the whole story.
The traditional full agitator, stainless tub, and mechanical controls make this machine easy to use and built to last.
If you don’t want smart features or app controls, this washer is refreshingly simple.
Key Features
- 210-degree agitator wash action
- Deep-fill rinse for better soil removal
- Soak cycle
- Commercial-grade stainless steel tub
- Mechanical control panel
- Built to stay balanced, even with uneven loads
Price
- Typically between $1,149 and $1,279
Warranty
- Five years full coverage
- Lifetime warranty on the stainless steel tub
Pros
✔️Stays balanced even under heavy loads
✔️Built for long-term use and daily wear
✔️Ideal for laundry-heavy homes and second properties
✔️No learning curve, just load and go
Cons
❌Smaller capacity than newer high-efficiency models
❌Not ideal for delicate fabrics
❌No smart features or app compatibility
Best Commercial-Style Washer Under $1,150: GE GTW525ACWWB
Review
If you like the idea of Speed Queen’s warranty but want something a little larger and more budget-friendly, GE’s GTW525ACWWB is worth considering.
It’s a simplified, heavy-use top-load washer with solid cleaning performance and a five-year warranty.
What Makes This Washer “Commercial”?
This is GE’s residential version of their commercial platform, often used in apartment buildings and multi-family units.
The controls are straightforward, with no touchscreens or Wi-Fi features to complicate things.
It’s not built exactly like a Speed Queen, but it offers a similar no-frills, high-water-wash experience for less money.
How Well Does It Clean?
The GTW525ACWWB uses GE’s Deep Clean and Deep Rinse cycles to add up to 26 gallons of water per load.
That extra water is ideal if you’re washing heavy bedding, sports uniforms, or work clothes.
It won’t hold back on water the way many high-efficiency washers do.
We’ve seen it used successfully in multi-unit homes in Greater Boston, where reliability and volume matter more than app control.
The dual-action agitator provides better rollover of clothes, delivering a deep clean while still being gentle.
What You Need to Know Before You Buy GE Commercial Laundry
This model performs well in most settings, but it can become unbalanced more easily than a Speed Queen.
In our TikTok comparison, you can see it shifting slightly during spin cycles.
That movement doesn’t always cause a problem in the short term, but over time, repeated unbalanced cycles can wear down internal components.
The GE Commercial is similar to a standard GE washer, just with a better warranty, easier controls, and deeper fill options.
Key Features
- 4.3 cubic foot capacity
- Deep Clean and Deep Rinse cycles
- Dual-action agitator
- Fabric softener and bleach dispensers
- Traditional mechanical dial controls
- Stainless steel tub
- Five-year full warranty
- Made in America
Price
- $1,028 to $1,149 depending on finish and availability
Warranty
- Five years full parts and labor
- Ten years on the motor
- Lifetime on the stainless tub
Pros
✔️More affordable than Speed Queen
✔️Deep water fills and dual-action agitator for better soil removal
✔️Simple controls with no touchscreen learning curve
✔️Solid warranty for the price
Cons
❌Can become unbalanced under heavy or uneven loads
❌Not built as sturdily as Speed Queen
❌Fewer features than comparably priced LG models
Should You Buy an Agitator or Impeller Washer?
Most top-load washers come in two styles.
One uses an agitator, and the other uses an impeller. Both have their strengths, but how they clean your clothes is very different.
What’s the Difference?
An agitator is the post in the center of the washer that moves back and forth to scrub clothes. It creates more friction, which helps remove dirt.
This design has been around forever because it works.
An impeller is a low-profile cone or disc at the bottom of the tub. It spins and pulses, moving water and clothes around the drum.
It’s quieter, gentler, and may give you more space inside the washer.
Is One Better Than the Other?
If you care about cleaning power, an agitator is usually better.
But only when the washer was designed for it.
Here’s the catch.
When manufacturers remove an agitator from a washer that was engineered around one, the performance usually drops.
The wash system depends on the friction and rollover that post creates.
Take it out, and you lose cleaning power.
That’s why some impeller washers feel underwhelming.
They weren’t redesigned from scratch, just the agitator was removed to make the interior larger.
That said, some impeller washers, like those from LG, are built around smart wash technology.
These machines can sense load size and fabric type and adjust water flow and cycle time.
It’s more about water movement than direct scrubbing.
Which One Is Right for You?
| Agitator | Impeller | |
| Cleaning Power | Stronger, scrubs clothesmore | Gentler, swirls clothes with water flow |
| Fabric wear | Higher (more friction) | Lower (less agitation) |
| Capacity | Lower (agitator takes space) | Genearlly quieter |
| Noise | Louder during agitation | Often longer |
| Wash Times | Often shorter | Often longer |
| Best for | Heavily-soiled laundry, work clothes | Delicates, large loads, energy savings |
Choose an agitator if you deal with dirty clothes, uniforms, towels, or kids' sports gear. It’s still the most effective design for heavy soils.
Choose an impeller if you want more room in the drum and wash mostly lightly worn clothing. It’s a good fit for families with less heavy-duty laundry (if they exist).
Top-Load Washer Reliability
Our team at Yale Appliance logged over 33,000 service calls in the last 12 months, and here’s what we found for top-load washer reliability:
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 50 products sold and a total sample of over 700 products within 12 months.
| Service Rates | |
| LG Electronics | 3.2% |
| Speed Queen | 3.6% |
| GE | 7.0% |
| GE Profile | 8.5% |
| Grand Total | 5.5% |
A lower percentage means fewer repairs and a better chance your washer just works.
What Does This Mean for You?
LG has been the most reliable top-load brand we’ve sold over the last five years.
Their design is solid, and they make many of their own components, which helps with quality control.
Speed Queen also ranks well, though with a smaller capacity and higher price.
It’s popular on the Cape and in places like Nantucket, where service access is limited and reliability matters most.
GE and GE Profile come in above average, but not quite at the top.
The tradeoff is they often include features like automatic detergent dispensing and customizable cycles, which can add complexity.
Are Top-Load Washers Reliable Overall?
Yes. On average, top-load washers are just as reliable as front-load models.
But you’ll still want to think about how easy it is to get service in your area and whether the brand has good parts availability.
Some national brands have long wait times for repairs, which is something you don’t want to discover after your washer stops mid-cycle.
Should You Buy a Top-Load or Front-Load Washer?
| Top-Load Washer | Front-Load Washer | |
| Cleaning Performance | Good with agitator, less impeller | Generally better, especially for stains |
| Water Usage | 20-40 gallons per load | 10-17 gallons per load |
| Capacity | Up to 5.3 cu. ft. | Up to 5.8 cu. ft. |
| Spin Speed | 700-950 RPM | Up to 1,300 RPM |
| Mold Risk | Low (No gasket) | Higher unless cleaned regularly |
| Stackable | No | Yes |
| Initial Cost | Lower | Higher (direct drive, electronics) |
| Repair Cost | Lower | Higher (direct drive, electronics) |
| Usability | Easy to load (unless short) | Bending required |
| Reliability | 5.5% | 4.5% |
Both top-load and front-load washers have their perks and quirks. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide which is best:
Top-Load Washers
Pros:
- Less expensive to buy: The GE GFW655 front load costs about $1,049, while the PTW605 top load is around $649.
- Less expensive to fix: The belt-driven GE models are easier and cheaper to repair than the direct-drive motors in front-load washers.
- Mold prevention: Top-load washers don't collect standing water in the gasket, reducing the risk of mold. GE's front-load washers combat this with Microban technology and built-in fans to dry out the water.
Cons:
- Higher water usage: Top-load washers can use more water, about 40 gallons per load depending on the model, compared to 11-17 gallons for front-load washers.
- Potential for rougher wash: The agitator in top-load washers can be harder on clothes.
If you're in a home with a dedicated laundry room and you value simplicity over features, a top-load washer might make more sense.
They're also easier to service, which helps in areas like the Cape or parts of Southern New Hampshire where tech access can be a challenge.
Front-Load Washers
Pros:
- Energy efficient: Front-load washers use less water and electricity. An average front-load washer uses 11-17 gallons of water per load, significantly less than top-loader washers.
- Better capacity: A 4.5 cubic foot front-load washer offers more usable space than a top-load washer of the same size because there is no agitator.
- Gentler on clothes: No agitator means less wear and tear on your fabrics.
- Stackable: Most front-load washers can be stacked with a dryer, saving space in your laundry room.
- Higher spin speeds: LG and GE models can spin at 1300 RPM, removing more water from clothes and reducing drying time.
Cons:
- Higher initial cost: Front-load washers generally cost more upfront.
- More complex repairs: When something goes wrong, repairs can be more complicated and expensive.
Front-load washers are popular in Boston condos, multi-family homes, and second-floor laundry closets where space is tight.
They’re also ideal for households that want faster drying and more fabric care.
Top-Load vs. Front-Load Washer Reliability
Despite what you may have heard, both washer types are about the same when it comes to reliability.
Here’s how front-load brands stack up based on our most recent service data:
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 products sold and a total sample of over 3,000 products within 12 months.
| Service Rates | |
| GE Profile | 3.2% |
| Samsung | 3.4% |
| LG | 3.6% |
| GE Appliances | 6.9% |
| Grand Total | 4.5% |
So yes, front-load washers are reliable, but they need to be installed and maintained correctly to avoid odor and service issues.
🔍Read More: Front-Load vs. Top-Load Washers
Should You Buy an Extended Warranty for Your Washer?
This is one of the most common questions we get.
And after 38 years in this business, my answer has changed.
We didn’t sell extended warranties at Yale for the first two decades.
Back then, most washers - especially the old Maytags - didn’t need them. They were simple, mechanical, and incredibly reliable.
That’s not the case anymore.
Today’s washers are more complex.
They have sensors, touch controls, and smart features that make them harder and more expensive to repair.
When Does a Warranty Make Sense?
If you’re buying a professional range or high-end refrigerator, yes.
For laundry, it depends.
Washers from LG, Speed Queen, and GE Commercial are generally reliable, but repairs do happen.
But here’s the real key:
Only buy a warranty from someone who actually services it.
This is where most retailers get it wrong.
They sell you the warranty, then hand you off to a third party.
If something breaks, you’re stuck in a loop of phone calls, delays, and unreturned emails.
If you're going to buy a warranty, make sure the store you buy it from actually services the product.
Ask who does the work, how fast they can get to you, and whether they use in-house techs or third parties.
Because the warranty itself isn’t the problem. It’s who stands behind it.
Top-load washers may seem simple, but your options in 2025 are anything but.
You now have machines that can handle massive loads, sense fabric types, dispense detergent automatically, and even connect to your phone.
And you still have traditional, commercial-style models built like the ones we grew up with.
Key Takeaways
If reliability is your top concern, LG’s WT8405CB leads the field with the lowest service rate we’ve seen, just 3.2 percent.
It also offers smart features, quiet operation, and enough capacity to handle laundry for a family of five.
GE Profile’s PTW905BPTRS offers SmartDispense, soil sensors, Microban antimicrobial protection, and voice control.
It’s ideal for anyone who wants to automate laundry and get consistent results.
For tough loads and stain-heavy laundry, Maytag’s MVW6230HW brings power and simplicity.
It doesn’t have the bells and whistles, but it’s strong, easy to use, and backed by a five-year warranty.
If you prefer old-school construction, Speed Queen’s TC5003WN is as close as you’ll get to the legendary Maytags of the past.
It’s not fancy, but it’s quiet, balanced, and built to last, especially for homes in areas like Nantucket where service access is limited.
GE’s GTW525ACWWB offers a commercial platform at a lower price.
It doesn’t have the same build quality as Speed Queen, but it gives you a full five-year warranty backed by a service company, which is more than most washers in this price range can say.
No washer does it all. But each of these six models offers a combination of features, capacity, and reliability that make them worth considering.
The right choice depends on your space, your laundry habits, and your budget.
Additional Resources
Download our Yale Washer and Dryer 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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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.
