Frigidaire has a hybrid top load washer to compete with the industry leader, Whirlpool's hybrid top load washer.
In this article we'll go over the different types of washers, compare the machines, the companies and the technology so you can decide what is right for your home.
Top Load vs. Front Load vs. Hybrid Top Load Washers
- Traditional Top Load Washers has an agitator and are convenient to load, durable, but wastes tons of energy and water.
- Front Load Washers are larger, incredibly efficient, but are more difficult to load.
- Hybrid Top Load Washer is quite simply a top load machine without the agitator. It has the efficiency and size of the top load with the efficiency of a front load.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire is one of the largest American manufacturers of appliances. The company was started in 1916, introducing the first Electric refrigerator. They also introduced the first electric range, air conditioner and freezer.
The company has gone through several owners including General Motors and white consolidated industries. Frigidaire is now owned by AB Electrolux, the largest appliance company in the world.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool is the largest American appliance manufacturer based in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Their focus has always been laundry first and are still the biggest supplier of top loads in the world.
They pretty much invented the hybrid top loader over 5 years ago, and the Cabrio hybrid is one of their best selling machines.
Frigidaire vs. Whirlpool Cabrio Hybrid Washers
Frigidaire Affinity FAHE4045QW - $699
Features:
- 27" Top Load Washer with 3.2 cu. ft. Capacity
- 12 Wash Cycles
- Waterfall Wash Technology
- 5 Temperature Options
- Interior Drum Light
- Bleach/Fabric Softener Dispenser
- Maximum Spin Speed (RPM): 650
Whirlpool Cabrio WTW8000BW - $809
Features:
- 27" Top Load Washer with 5.3 Cu. Ft. Capacity
- 26 Wash Cycles
- Adaptive Wash Technology
- Low-Profile Impeller
- Intuitive Touch Controls With Memory
- ENERGY STAR Qualified
- Maximum Spin Speed (RPM): 850
Main Differences
There are two main differences to these units. First, Whirlpool uses a small impeller to move clothes around the cleaning zone whereas the Frigidaire moves the water through the clothes without any type of agitation.
Frigidaire is touting a waterfall technology, which allows you to add up to 20 gallons of wash. Whirlpool uses 14 gallons (probably for the EnergyStar logo).
Which is Better?
I really have a hard time with a top load washer without an agitator. I just cannot figure out how the clothes become clean without the very device that churns the clothes.
Frigidaire was smart for adding the waterfall technology, but in my opinion the whole design is flawed. I am not sure whether consumers really don't want to bend down and load clothes in the machine or manufacturers did not want to retool their factories to produce a better designed machine...but this seems like a bad solution.
I would still recommend a front load over either for better washability. So, I guess this is a tie.
Additional Resources
Read the Yale Washer Buying Guide with features, specs and insider tips on all front and top load washers. Well over 130,000 people have read 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.
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