December 20th, 2024 | 16 min. read
Learn how to find the perfect laundry products with our Washer Buying Guide
The three most popular front-load washer brands, GE, Miele, and LG, have the best features and overall reliability.
We’ve narrowed down the multitude of options to the nine best front-load washers, including regular, compact, combo washers and dryers, as well as stacked models.
As always, every brand and model comes with its own set of pros and cons.
This article is designed to help you find the best washer for your space and the way you wash your clothes.
At the end of the article, you’ll also learn tips for buying a front-load washer.
Let’s get started.
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The 9 Best Front-Load Washers for 2025
Budget Pick: LG WM3400CW
The WM3400CW is one of the most popular and affordable front-load washers sold.
Affordability doesn't equate to cheapness, and that's precisely why it's worth considering.
LG WM3400CW: Top Features and Benefits
Cycles and Options
The WM3400CW 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 cu. ft. of usable capacity versus the 4.5 cu. ft. in LG. The GE front load washer with 5.0 cu. ft. of capacity 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, compared to 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 3.2%. The average appliance service rate is 9%, for perspective.
Potential Problems with the LG WM3400CW
The WM3400 is a reliable basic machine. That said, it's probably still an upgrade from your current washing machine.
However, it lacks advanced features such as steam and allergen cycles, which help remove pet dander and other irritants.
Additionally, it does not include LG's patented AI wash technology.
The washer is not reversible on any LG washers.
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.
This washer, as well as the next one on our list, the LG WM4000, does not have an automatic dispenser. Auto dispensers are the best new feature for front-load washers.
LG recently started their own service department, so be sure to check its availability in your area before making a purchase.
Pros & Cons of the LG LG WM3400CW
Pros: Affordable, high 1300 RPM spin speed, compact size for smaller spaces, good basic features.
Cons: Lacks advanced cycles like steam and allergen, non-reversible door, no automatic dispenser.
Ideal for: If you want a reliable, compact option without advanced features.
Most Reliable: LG WM4000HWA
The LG line is the most reliable washer brand you can buy from the major manufacturers.
The WM4000HWA is an upgrade from the WM3400CW. It adds three cycles, including the TurboWash 360, Steam, and Allergen cycles.
LG WM4000HWA: Top Features and Benefits
TurboWash 360
TurboWash 360 employs five high-pressure nozzles to turn any cycle into a 30-minute wash.
Most brands offer a 15-minute cycle for small loads, while the TurboWash 360 cycle can handle larger loads in just 30 minutes.
AI Wash automatically determines the best time, temperature, and washing method for your clothes.
Steam Cycle
Steam loosens tougher stains like grass and wine. My seven-year-old always has dirt caked on the knees of her pants. Steam is great for that type of tough stain.
Wi-Fi-Enabled
Additionally, this model adds Wi-Fi, which will even send a push notification when it's done.
Potential Problems with the LG WM4000HWA
They lack an automatic dispenser even on the WM4000HWA. You must buy their WM6700HBA model (featured below) for the dispenser.
Pros & Cons of the LG WM4000HWA
Pros: TurboWash360 for fast washing, steam feature for tough stains, WiFi-enabled, and has great reliability. AI Wash increases wash performance and efficiency.
Plus, this washer is the most compact or shallow among full-size models, with a depth of just 30.5 inches.
Cons: No automatic dispenser, non-reversible door.
Ideal for: If you need quick washing capabilities and efficient cleaning, especially for tough stains.
Best Overall: LG WM6700HBA
The WM6700 incorporates many of LG's best features from the WM6700HBA, like TurboWash 360, steam, Wi-Fi, AI, and other advanced cycles.
LG WM6700HBA: Top Features and Benefits
5 Cubic Feet
The size is five cubic feet or a half cubic foot bigger than the other two models, but the exterior depth increases from 30.25 inches to over 33 inches.
AI DD
Like the WM4000 AI (Artificial Intelligence), AI Direct Drive (AI DD) adjusts the cycle based on the weight and type of fabric.
It also selects the appropriate dryer cycle.
Automatic Dispenser
The WM6700HBA is LG's 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.
Auto dispensers also save you from potentially expensive service calls.
Many people use too much detergent, and the excess suds stay in the machine for an expensive future service call.
Potential Problems with the LG WM6700HBA
The dispenser is smaller than GE. Maytag had mold issues in the same top location as LG.
Speaking of mold, let's look at the next brand that virtually eliminates the problem.
Pros & Cons the LG WM6700HBA
- Pros: Large capacity, AI Direct Drive technology, 18-load automatic dispenser, excellent feature set.
- Cons: Larger sizes may not fit all spaces, and there may be potential mold issues with the top dispenser.
Ideal for: If you're looking for an advanced washer with a large capacity.
Best Mold Fighter: GE GFW655SSVWW
GE redesigned their washers and dryers with new features three years ago. They're entirely different from any other washers on the market.
GE GFW655SSVWW: Top Features and Benefits
Microban Coating
The changing table for diaper changes in a public restroom is protected with a Microban surface.
My daughter is eight now, but I’ll never forget those days.
Microban is an antimicrobial agent designed to stop the growth of bacteria.
Public restrooms can be pretty nasty, but Microban helps prevent the spread of those organisms kids seem to catch so easily.
GE has integrated Microban into their best washers to prevent mold. Their front-load washer features Microban protection in 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 GFW655SSVWW features a 32-load automatic detergent dispenser at the top of the machine, making it easy to load.
Wi-Fi
Like LG, GE washers are Wi-Fi enabled.
You can check the remaining time, receive notifications, and monitor detergent levels in your dispenser.
Reversible Door
GE has a reversible door that can open conveniently in any installation. You would think every brand would have a reversible washer door.
You would think every brand would have a reversible washer door.Good Stacking Option
If you’re 5'5" or shorter, you can control the dryer directly from the washer, eliminating the need to reach the controls on top.
This feature is available on GE's high-end washers.
Potential Problems with the GE GFW655SSVWW
The depth is an issue in smaller spaces, like any larger front load at 32 inches versus 30.25 for the smaller LGs. That said, the depth is less for a larger front-load washer.
Their reliability is excellent, but LG is more reliable.
GE is the best at handling problems after the sale with their service departments, now called Bodewell.
This is one of the most crucial factors to consider, especially if you buy from a store without service.
Pros & Cons of the GE GFW655SSVWW
- Pros: Large capacity, Microban antimicrobial agent, OdorBlock technology, reversible door, large automatic dispenser
- Cons: Larger size may not fit smaller spaces, slightly less reliable than LG models.
Ideal for: If you're concerned about mold and odors, or if you need a large capacity washer with innovative features.
Most Cycles: Samsung WF53BB8700AT
The high-end GE and LG washers have tons of features and smart functionality.
However, Samsung takes it to the extreme with 24 cycles and 14 wash options.
You can even customize one of your own with the AI Smart dial.
Samsung WF53BB8700AT: Top Features and Benefits
Capacity
The Samsung WF53BB8700AT has an extra-large capacity at 5.3 cu. ft.
Spin Speed
This washer offers seven spin speed options, with a maximum speed of 1200 RPM.
Speed Cycle
Samsung's Speed Cycle takes 28 minutes, slightly shorter than LG's TurboWash 360, which takes 30 minutes.
Interestingly, Samsung uses only one high-pressure nozzle, while LG uses five.
Warranty
Samsung offers a 20-year warranty on the drum and a two-year warranty on parts and labor.
Problems with the Samsung WF53BB8700
That all sounds great. Samsung is, after all, a technology company.
But how does their Speed Cycle work faster than LG's with just one high-pressure nozzle compared to LG's five?
The 20-year warranty also sounds impressive - until you actually need it.
Samsung doesn’t offer much in the way of service or support, so finding someone to service that drum after year five could be a challenge.
And if you do find someone, be prepared for an incredibly high labor charge.
With Samsung, always check for reliable repair services in your area before purchasing any appliance.
Pros & Cons of the Samsung WF53BB8700
- Pros: This washer offers extensive cycle options, high customization, a 28-minute speed cycle, large capacity, and a long drum warranty.
- Cons: Samsung's drawbacks include potential service issues, questions about the Speed Cycle's effectiveness, a 1200 RPM spin speed, and a depth of 34.5 inches.
Ideal for: Those who prioritize technological advancements and a wide range of cycle options.
Best Single Unit, Stacked Washer and Dryer: LG WashTower WKHC202HBA
There are now five WashTowers models to choose from. You can buy the WashTower with features similar to the WM3400, WM400, or WM6700.
LG WashTower WKHC202HBA: Top Features and Benefits
Design
The controls are in the middle. When stacking, you don't have to reach for the controls at the top of the dryer at almost 6 feet up.
GE, Samsung, and LG now have washers controlling the dryer. However, the dryer on the WashTower is shorter on the dryer for less reach.
AI DD
The LG WashTower utilizes AI DD technology, allowing the washer to determine the best cycle for the dryer.
The LG WashTower With a Ventless Heat Pump Dryer
The WashTower, unlike LG's regular dryers, comes with a heat pump dryer option.
Heat pumps recycle the air with a compressor heating the air through an air exchanger.
They are more efficient than the traditional dryer with elements and are much gentler on your clothes.
You can place this WashTower anywhere with water and power because heat pumps do not need vents.
Potential Problems with the LG WashTower WKHC202HBA
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.
More parts than a regular dryer could mean more expensive repairs as well.
Pros & Cons of the LG WashTower
- Pros: Integrated washer-dryer stack, AI technology, central control, heat pump option for ventless drying. Plus, it has great dimensions at 27w x 32 ¾ deep by 74 3/8 tall with 5.0 cubic feet interior.
- Cons: Limited to the features of the integrated models.
Ideal for: Those with limited space for their washer and dryer.
Best Compact Washer: Miele WXR 860 WCS
Miele manufactures some of the most sophisticated laundry appliances in the world.
Since 2017-2018, they have exclusively produced heat pump dryers.
Miele WXR 860 WCS: Top Features and Benefits
Honeycomb Drum
The washer features a perforated Honeycomb drum, allowing clothes to wash on a sheet of water without touching the drum's sides.
This makes it gentle enough to wash delicate fabrics like silk.
RPM Spin
For compact washers, Miele, along with Bosch, offers the fastest spin speed at 1600 RPM, reducing drying time by extracting more water from clothes.
Caplet Dispenser
Miele lets you wash with your favorite detergent caplets and even produces their own specialized caplets for different types of fabrics and applications.
Quick, Intense Wash (Found in Higher-End Models)
With two pumps adding water from both the top and bottom, clothes are saturated more quickly, resulting in shorter wash times and better cleaning results.
TwinDos
Miele features two automatic dispensers—one for detergent and one for color-safe bleach.
These dispensers extend the wash cycle, allowing the detergent enzymes to work longer for a deeper clean.
Pros & Cons of the Miele Miele WXR 860 WCS
Pros: Miele appliances are sophisticated, reliable, and packed with advanced features. They are the best washers for delicate fabrics. The specialized caplets include options for waterproofing ski jackets and washing wool sweaters.
Cons: Miele washers have a smaller capacity of about 2.5 cubic feet and are significantly more expensive, starting at $1,449 for the washer and $2,899 for the pair.
Honorable Mentions
GE Profile PFW955SPWDS
The GE Profile washer offers a 5.3 cubic foot capacity and several advanced features.
The best feature is the overnight cycle, which lets you wash and dry a single outfit by morning - perfect for quick turnarounds but not ideal for larger loads.
The washer is highly customizable, allowing you to download additional cycles, create your own, and save them under "My Settings."
The adaptive detergent dispenser is another smart feature, enabling you to scan your detergent and let the machine dispense the precise amount needed.
Additionally, the combination of Microban and the UltraFresh Vent Plus system works to remove moisture from the drum automatically, preventing mold and mildew.
Pros & Cons of the GE Profile PFW955SPWDS
- Pros: This washer offers a large capacity and innovative features such as the 1-Step Wash and Dry, Adaptive Detergent Dispenser, UltraFresh Vent Plus, and Microban.
- Cons: It may be more expensive, and some features could be more than the average user needs.
Ideal for: Those who want customizable cycles, advanced features, and a large capacity washer.
GE Profile UltraFast PFQ97HSPVDS
You may have seen some videos on the GE Profile UltraFast Combo Washer & Dryer.
It's a washer and dryer all in one, meaning you put your clothes in dirty, and they come out clean and dry.
The UltraFast is ventless and runs on 120 volts, so you can put it anywhere.
I’ve warned about combo washers and dryers before because they can’t remove lint, which can lead to an expensive service call.
But the UltraFast has a large double-sided filter in the front, making it much more reliable.
The GE Profile UltraFast combo had a 9.5% service rate in the last 12 months, with most service calls caused by items left in the pump, such as golf tees and coins.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave anything in your pockets, especially when using a combo washer and dryer.
Pros & Cons of the GE UltraFast Combo Washer and Dryer
- Pros: It offers all-in-one washer and dryer functionality, is ventless with easy installation, has an energy-efficient heat pump system, effectively removes lint, has innovative features like Microban coating and smart functionality, and has a large 4.8 cubic feet capacity.
- Cons: Higher price, longer drying times due to heat pump technology, takes more total time to complete a cycle. It takes about twice as long to complete a load as a separate washer and dryer.
Ideal for: Those seeking the convenience of a combined washer and dryer in limited space, energy-conscious consumers, and those interested in cutting-edge laundry technology.
Are Front Load Washers Reliable?
Front-Load Washer Reliability for 2025
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% |
For the first time in at least five years, LG is not the most reliable washer.
However, the difference between LG and GE Profile is just 0.4%, which isn’t statistically significant.
LG has recently started its own service department, while GE’s service department has been rebranded as Bodewell.
Samsung, on the other hand, continues to rely on independent service providers, which are becoming harder to find.
At Yale, we service everything we sell, so the brands’ service practices won’t affect you directly.
Read More: The Most Reliable Washers for 2025
Which Front-Load Washer Should You Buy?
Depending on the features you need or specific applications, like stacking your dryer, there are plenty of reasons to consider any front-load washer on this list.
The LG WashTower with a heat pump dryer is particularly interesting because it allows a full-size washer and dryer to fit in almost any closet - assuming it works properly.
For the best value, stick to washers in the 4.5-5.3 cubic foot range. Opting for more capacity often comes with a significantly higher price tag that isn’t worth the added size.
The good news is that every model on this list is more reliable than the average appliance.
LG and GE are widely regarded as the best in the industry, but each brand has its own strengths.
Lastly, always check which brand offers the best service after the sale.
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 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 Features
Automatic Detergent Dispensers
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.
Looking for more information on how to choose the perfect washer? Check out our comprehensive How to Buy a Front Load Washer: The Definitive Guide for a complete walkthrough of the buying process.
Additional Resources
Download our Yale Washer & 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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Looking for answers about Washers?
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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.
