At a Glance
GE and Samsung front-load laundry is an interesting comparison.
Like most front load washers, they look the same and have many of the same advanced features. But there are differences.
In this article, you will learn about mold control, AI (Artificial Intelligence) programming for cycles, and how automatic dispenser's work.
Both companies have innovated how you use your washing machine. However, there are key differences you should know before buying that will make a world of difference. You don’t want to learn these differences when it’s too late.
Brand Profiles
You know Samsung from their smart TVs to their Galaxy cell phones. Samsung is a giant Korean multinational. GE Appliances is now a subsidiary of the giant Chinese appliance company, Haier.
Samsung may be larger overall, but Haier is an appliance-only company and more focused on this industry.
GE has improved more in the last few years than they did for the previous 20 combined. Most of GE's manufacturing, though not this washer, is still in the US, whereas the bulk of Samsung's is in Korea.
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GE GFW850SSNWW vs. Samsung WF50A8600AE Smart Front Load Washers
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GE GFW850SSNWW Front Load Washer ($1,199) | Samsung WF50A8600AE Front Load Washer ($1,399)
What GE and Samsung Front Load Washers Have in Common
Both are technologically advanced. You will not be lacking features in either one. Both machines have more similarities than differences. As a review, the following are the best features shared by both.
Cycles
GE lists 12 cycles and ten different options. Samsung lists 23 and 13. Yet other than a soak setting, they have similar features. Samsung's 23 cycles include AI. You will learn more later in the article. You also have five wash/rinse combinations for every type of fabric versus two on my mom's old Maytag.
Steam
Steam loosens tough stains in a washer-like grass or wine. Again, most upgraded washers have steam.
Capacity
Both are a bit larger than the average at 5 cubic feet versus 4.5 cubic feet for many popular front load washers. Do not be tempted to buy the largest 5.5-6 cubic sizes. You will pay $700 more for just one cubic foot.
Wi-Fi
Although Wi-Fi is a convenience and not a necessity in appliances, it makes sense for laundry. You can do the basics like turn the machine on or off remotely and check the detergent in the dispenser.
However, you can see the time remaining on your phone and get a text when the cycle is complete. You do not go to your basement for 3 minutes and 12 seconds to stare at the machine. In the GE, the washer sets the drying cycle as well.
Sanitize and Allergen Cycles
Like every upgraded machine, you have cycles designed to kill 99% of allergens and small dust mite colonies.
Speed Cycles
You can wash small loads in under 60 minutes for both Samsung and GE. LG has their TurboWash wash cycle employing five high-pressure hoses to turn any cycle and load to 30 minutes.
Where GE and Samsung Front Load Washers Differ
Mold Control
GE Smart Front Load Washer With Antimicrobial Microban Coating (In Blue)
Mold is a by-product of standing water. In a front load, residual water can pool in the gasket, dispenser, or back of the machine and create mold and its cousin mildew. GE was the first with a comprehensive mold package a few years ago.
Samsung copied some of it with CleanGuard antimicrobial surfaces in the gasket and dispenser. GE has the more well-known Microban antimicrobial surfaces on their gasket and dispenser.
GE also adds their "OdorBlock" fan to dry any residual moisture left in the machine after the cycle is completed. Although both address the problem, GE is a bit better.
Pro Tip: Leave the washer door open, so air can circulate between washes.
AI MultiControl
Samsung WF50A8600AE Front Load Washer Controls
Somehow when you hear the term AI, you almost think robots are coming to get us. However, AI is just predictive analytics. Samsung employs AI to recommend your favorite cycles and customize your control panel. It makes suggestions based on your habits.
Samsung’s MultiControl allows you to operate the dryer from the washer. It is useful when you stack and cannot reach the controls.
LG has had AI in their WashTower for three years, if this sounds futuristic. Their AI works with hundreds of sensors inside the machine. The controls are also in the middle, so you operate the dryer easily.
GE does not have any AI programming as of this writing.
Learn More: Smart Appliance Buying Guide
Auto Detergent Dispenser
GE Front Load Washer Automatic Detergent Dispenser
The biggest service problem with washers is overloading the dispenser. The excess suds stay in the machine and, over time, will cause a problem. You only need a capful detergent in a front-load, not the quarter cup used years ago.
Auto dispensers prevent this problem by releasing the right amount of detergent at the right time. GE's dispensers are the second largest after Whirlpool at 32 loads. Not loading every time is another side benefit.
Reversible Door
It seems like an easy feature to execute, but only GE and Electrolux offer a reversible door. In certain situations, like stacking or with the washer on the left, reversing makes loading and unloading clothes more convenient.
Overnight Wash and Dry Cycles
You can wash and dry an outfit in the GE overnight. It is hard to know if only some manufacturers offer this cycle. The clothes are washed normally and then spun in the dryer for an extended period. The cycle could be useful to dry an outfit, your kids' school clothes, or gym wear.
GE and Samsung Front Load Washer Service
Currently, Samsung is offering a three-year warranty for $1.00. Interestingly, they do not employ a single technician to support it. They manufacture good-looking, reliable appliances.
However, the knock against Samsung is their problems became your issues. Their support network of customer service, technical service, and technicians needs to be enhanced to keep pace with their massive growth.
GE, on the other hand, always had a service department. Haier bought the company for the name, manufacturing, and service. You might not get a free warranty, but you will at least have a technician at your home when problems do occur.
GE and Samsung Front Load Washer Availability
Both machines are good with similar features. You may want to choose a model based on a few features, past experiences, or brand reputation.
However, you may want to buy one brand over the other based on availability with stock shortages. Find the store you like, then pick the available brand.
Key Takeaways
Both are good brands with feature-heavy front load washers. Some of these features you may not need or will never use.
GE has better mold protection and an automatic dispenser. Samsung has AI-powered cycles. With service and repair in mind, the dispenser is more valuable, especially for repair.
However, if you need a washer now, look at service and availability. You want to make sure wherever you can be fixed in your area. In a comparison to this close, the available washer may be your best choice.
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.