Home>Furniture>Top Load vs Front Load Washer: Which Is Better?
Furniture
Top Load vs Front Load Washer: Which Is Better?
Modified: December 6, 2023
Wondering which is the best type of washer for your home? Find out how to choose between a top load vs a front load washer. Click here.
(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)
Laundry is one of those necessary evils in life — no one wants to do it, but it has to be done anyways. This is why investing in equipment that can help you save time and energy is beneficial. However, with so many types of washing machines on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. This includes whether you’d go for a top load or front load washer. Here’s a quick and detailed look at the top load vs front load washer debate to help you decide.
What is a Top Load Washer?
Top load washers are the traditional style of washing machines. They consist of a large tub on top that clothes are loaded into and washed. They are also portable and can be moved around easily. The main benefit of top loaders is that they are cheaper than front loaders. They also use less water and energy, making them more environmentally friendly. However, top loaders tend to be noisier than front loaders and can be difficult to stack or fit into small spaces.
Furthermore, top load washers often don’t have as many features and settings as front load washers. This means that top loaders are generally less versatile. They also don’t clean clothes as thoroughly as front loaders, which can be a downside if you’re looking for a machine that will get your clothes really clean. Finally, while a few top load washer models are now leaning more on automatic washing, most still require more effort, especially in washing, rinsing, and spinning the clothes.
Read more: How To Load Top Load Washer Without Agitator
Who is a Top Load Washer For?
A top load washer is perfect for those who want a machine that is easy to use and can wash large loads of laundry at once. This portable washing machine is also a good choice for people with limited space in their homes, as they are typically smaller and more compact than front load washers.
A top load washer is an excellent option if you have a large family or do a lot of laundry. These machines usually handle larger loads without increasing your energy and water bills. Additionally, top load washers typically have shorter wash cycles than front load washers, so your laundry will be done in no time! They are also typically less expensive than front loaders, making them a more budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- No need to bend to load the washer
- Shorter wash cycle
- Energy and water efficient
Cons
- Rough on certain fabrics
- Limited washing modes
- Not ideal for heavier or thicker clothing
- Not stackable
What is a Front Load Washer?
Front load washers are the newer style of washing machines. As the name suggests, these washers feature a horizontal tub with a door on the front where clothes are loaded into. They are also stackable, giving you more room to decorate the space using various laundry room ideas.
Moreover, these washers are usually automatic. Meaning you can just load the laundry, set the cycle, and let it run. You can go about your day and come home to fresh, clean, dry clothes. This is an excellent feature for people who have busy schedules or simply don’t have the time to stand around and monitor their clothes while they’re being washed. Additionally, front load washers tend to be more gentle on clothes thanks to their tumbling action, which means that your clothes will last longer. Furthermore, since they use lesser water and energy, front loaders are more cost-effective than top load washers.
Front load washers also often have more features and settings than top load washers. This gives you more control over the washing process and allows you to customize it according to your needs. The downside to front load washers is that they can be more expensive than top loaders. They may also require specific detergent pods that can be costly in the long run.
Who is a Front Load Washer For?
A front load washer is an excellent option for those with limited laundry room space. If you have children or have a lot of delicate and bulky items, this is the best choice as they tend to be more gentle on clothes. This is because front load washers have a more customizable washing setting, giving you more control over the washing process. Additionally, top load washers usually have a faster wash cycle than front load washers, saving you more time on your laundry day.
Pros
- Can wash larger loads
- More gentle on clothes
- Customizable settings
- Automatic
- Energy and water efficient
- Stackable and space-efficient
- Reduced drying time
- Self-cleaning machine
Cons
- Expensive
- Special detergent pods required
- The tub can be difficult to reach into
Top Load vs Front Load Washer: In Comparison
Metrix of Comparison | Front Load Washer | Top Load Washer |
---|---|---|
Appearance | Thick glass front door. Sleek and smooth. | Thick plastic top door. Sleek and smooth. |
Capacity | More capacity | Lesser capacity |
Efficiency | More water and energy efficient | Water and energy efficient |
Cleaning performance | Better at removing dirt, grime, and stains | Removes dirt and grime |
Washing time | 2 to 3 hours | 30 to 45 minutes |
Noise | Silent | Noisy |
Mold issue | May develop mold issues | No mold issues |
Fabric care | Gentle | Less gentle |
Price | More expensive | More affordable |
Read more: Which Brand Of Top Load Washer Is Best?
Best Top Load vs Front Load Washer of 2022
Looking for an easy and practical way to do your laundry? Look no further than the Auertech Portable Washing Machine Top Loader. This powerful and user-friendly machine is perfect for anyone who wants to get their laundry done quickly and efficiently. With a large capacity twin tub design, this top load washer can easily handle even the biggest loads of laundry. It also features separate time control so you can choose how long your clothes need to be washed, and a lint filter to ensure that your clothes come out clean.
Key Features
- Large washing capacity
- Large spinning capacity
- Separate timer for washing and spinning
- Dual water inlet
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 27 inches x 16 inches x 32 inches
- Item weight: 28 pounds
- Wash capacity: 18 pounds
- Spin capacity: 10 pounds
- Automatic: Semi-automatic
Pros
- Detergent-pod compatible
- Gravity drain
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Noisy
- Doesn’t completely dry clothes
- Water inlet isn’t compatible with some faucets
Complete laundry day in a snap with the Nictemaw Top Loader Full-Automatic Washer. This top-loading, full-automatic washer is packed with features to make your laundry days a breeze. The multi-function control panel lets you customize each load to ensure your clothes come out clean and look great. Its compact design is also perfect for smaller laundry rooms or apartments. But don’t let its size fool you — this washer can easily handle large loads. Plus, the automatic imbalance adjustment and adjustable foot ensure that your washer stays level and stable, no matter where you place it.
Key Features
- LED touch control
- Powerful motor
- Energy saving
- Built-in drain pump
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 21.26 inches x 21.26 inches x 35.43 inches
- Item weight: 17.6 pounds
- Voltage: 110 volts
- Automatic: Full-automatic
Pros
- Quiet machine
- Has multiple washing programs
- High-quality long hose
- Adjustable feet
Cons
- Doesn’t drain on the kitchen sink
- Weak spin cycle
Give your laundry routine a much-needed upgrade with the Giantex Full Automatic Top Load Washer. This washing machine is equipped with intelligent full-automatic technology and highly-efficient 360° tumbling washing to make laundry time a breeze. Complete with eight programs and 10 water levels to choose from, you can customize each load of laundry to get the perfect wash every time.
What’s more, the large 1.5 cubic foot capacity can handle up to 11 pounds of laundry, making it perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to save time on laundry day. Plus, the top load lid and lock feature keep your little ones safe and sound while the washer is in use.
Key Features
- Convenient side handles
- Vibration-prevention feet
- Folding lid
- Child-lock
- LED screen
- Water level indication
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 19 inches x 19 inches x 33 inches
- Item weight: 11 pounds
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Automatic: Full-automatic
Pros
- Designated detergent box
- Low-noise
- Safety-guarantee
- Smart operation
Cons
- Only one inlet connection
- No heating element
Looking for a washer that can handle large loads? Look no further than the Frigidaire FFTW4120SW Top Load Washer. This quick wash cycle is perfect for those times when you need to get your clothes clean fast. Complete with five soil levels to choose from, you can tailor the wash cycle to your specific needs. Plus, the stainless steel drum with an agitator offers durability with long-lasting performance.
Key Features
- Quick wash cycle
- Stainless steel drum
- 5 soil levels
- Lock feature
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 28.13 inches x 27 inches x 43.31 inches
- Item weight: 109.2 pounds
- Voltage: 220 volts
- Automatic: Full-automatic
Pros
- Energy-efficient
- Huge tub
- Full agitator
- Easy to use
Cons
- Heavy
Looking for a top load washer that can handle large loads? Look no further than the Kenmore Top-Load Washer w/ Stainless Steel Basket. With its 3.8 cubic foot capacity, this top load washer can handle up to 25 pounds of laundry, making it perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to save time on laundry day.
Aside from that, the triple action agitator cleans in every direction for superior cleaning performance. You’ll also appreciate the Deep Fill option, which lets you increase the water level on select cycles when needed. The durable stainless steel basket won’t snag or pull fabrics to secure your clothes.
Key Features
- Triple action agitator
- Deep fill option
- Variety of cycles
- Durable stainless steel basket
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 27 inches x 27.5 inches x 44 inches
- Item weight: 115 pounds
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Automatic: Full-automatic
Pros
- Resists odors
- Color safe
- Large capacity
- Sleek design
Cons
- Heavy
- Noisy
Make your laundry days hassle-free with the Samsung Compact Front Load Washer. This gem provides a powerful yet gentle stain removal for your clothes without having to pretreat them. With its super speed, washing feature, you can clean a full load in half the time of a normal wash cycle — without sacrificing cleaning performance. Thanks to its innovative vibration reduction technology, this washing machine runs quietly, so you can do your laundry without disturbing anyone.
Key Features
- Steam wash
- Super speed
- Vibration reduction technology
- Smart care
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 26.63 inches x 23.63 inches x 33.5 inches
- Item weight: 157 pounds
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Capacity: 2.2 cubic feet
- Automatic: Full-automatic
Pros
- Compact design
- Reduces noise
- Easy troubleshooting
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Heavy
Don’t underestimate the power of this compact pair washer. The Electrolux White Compact Front Load Laundry Pair with Washer and Electric Dryer is the perfect solution for small spaces, such as apartments or RVs. The washer has a capacity of 2.4 cubic feet and features the Perfect Steam system that gently removes stains and protects your clothes’ fibers.
With IQ-Touch controls, you can customize each cycle to suit your needs perfectly. For example, the Fast Wash option is perfect when you’re in a hurry, and the Sanitized cycle keeps your delicates looking and smelling great.
Key Features
- ExpertCare Wash
- IQ-Touch Controls
- Fast Wash
- Automatic Water Adjustment
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 24 inches x 25 inches x 34 inches
- Item weight: 365 pounds
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Capacity: 3 cubic feet
- Automatic: Full automatic
Pros
- Reversible door
- Has interior lighting
- Fast dry
- Quiet
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
Clean your clothes quickly and easily with the LG WM3998HBA Front Load Washer & Dryer Combo! This item has a large machine that can handle even the largest laundry loads. Complete with LG’s TurboWash technology, you can save up to 30 minutes on your wash time. It also includes six different wash motions to maximize performance. In addition, with LG WM3998HBA, you don’t need to worry about the noise while doing the laundry because its low decibel feature allows quiet operation.
Key Features
- Fast washing and drying
- Multiple wash motion
- Low decibel
- TuroboWash technology
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 31.5 inches x 41.75 inches x 29.5 inches
- Item weight: 214 pounds
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet
- Automatic: Full-automatic
Pros
- Quiet
- Easy to install
- Efficient
- Sleek design
Cons
- Bulky
- Expensive
Top Load vs Front Load Washer: What To Look For Before Buying?
If you are in the market for a top load washer, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind:
-
- Consider the size of your laundry room. You will need to make sure that the washer you choose will fit comfortably in the space.
-
- Think about how often you do laundry. If you have a large family or do a lot of laundry, you may want to opt for a top load washer with a larger capacity.
-
- Consider any special features you may want, such as an automatic detergent dispenser or a built-in water softener.
- Consider your budget. Top load washers can range in price from around $500 to $1,500.
The same goes when choosing a front load washer. First, understand that front load washers tend to be more expensive than top load washers. However, they also offer several advantages, such as ease of installation, multiple settings, and a gentler washing process. Second, consider the size of where you want to install it. Finally, you must ensure that you have ample space to load and unload your laundry. Of course, the larger the washer, the more space it will need.
Top Load vs Front Load Washer: Which Is Better?
When it comes to top load vs front load washers, there are a few key differences to consider. First, top load washers are typically more affordable than front load washers. They’re also easier to use since you don’t have to bend down to load and unload the laundry. However, top load washers aren’t as efficient as front load washers since they use more water and energy.
Front load washers, on the other hand, are more expensive than top load washers, but they’re much more efficient. They use less water and energy than their top load counterparts, saving you money over time. Front load washers are also better at cleaning clothes since they use a tumbling motion instead of an agitator.
So, which is better? Top load or front load washers? The answer depends on your needs and preferences. A top load washer is a good option if you’re looking for an affordable washing machine. However, a front load washer is a way to go if you’re concerned about efficiency and want the best cleaning performance. Whichever type of washing machine you choose, do your research to find the best model for your home.
Was this page helpful?
At Storables.com, we guarantee accurate and reliable information. Our content, validated by Expert Board Contributors, is crafted following stringent Editorial Policies. We're committed to providing you with well-researched, expert-backed insights for all your informational needs.
0 thoughts on “Top Load vs Front Load Washer: Which Is Better?”