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LG narrowly defeated Fisher & Paykel for this year's top front load washing machine award. It received high scores across the board and the best score for value for money.
You have two options to choose from when buying a washing machine: top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines. The obvious difference between the two is where you load and unload clothes into the machine, but each type of machine also uses a different washing style.
While front-loaders use a spinning drum to tumble the clothes around, top-load washing machines feature either a pole or a device much like a propellor inside the drum to wash the clothes. This simple design means that top-loaders are efficient at removing dirt, but also take up more floor space than front-loading washing machines.
If cost-effectiveness is the number one factor you consider when buying a washing machine, a front-loader is the best choice. These models generally use less power and water than top-loaders, so they're cheaper to run.
However, if you're a renter and you regularly move house, the top-loader's lighter weight is a big bonus. Also, if you have a bad back or mobility issues, you may find that a top-loader offers easier access than a front-loader.
For more information on how to compare top-load and front-load washing machines, check out the table below.
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
| Top-loader |
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| Front-loader |
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There are two different types of top-loading washing machines to choose from:
Make sure you consider the following factors before deciding on the best top-load washer for your needs.
Washing machine capacity is measured in kilograms, with machines generally ranging from 5kg to 16kg capacity. While a 5-5.5kg machine may be sufficient for 1-2 people, larger families will probably require a 7.5kg or higher capacity machine.
Make sure the washing machine you buy fits in your laundry with sufficient room above the machine to open the lid and add clothes. Top loaders obviously aren't suitable to be installed under a benchtop, or to have clothes dryers or other items stacked on top of them.
Top-loading washing machine prices vary based on the machine capacity and the level of advanced features you need. Entry-level 6kg models can be purchased for as little as $350, while high-capacity models with all the bells and whistles can cost $2,000 or more.
Under Australia's Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards scheme (WELS), new washing machines feature a label that lists their water efficiency. This includes a rating out of 6 stars (the higher the better) and a figure detailing the machine's rate of water consumption.
A range of wash settings can give you greater control over how you wash your items, but more programs usually come at a higher price. Consider any specific settings you might need such as for one for washing baby clothes.
Some machines can sense the size and nature of your load and choose a water level and program type accordingly.
The Energy Rating Label rates a washing machine's energy efficiency on a scale of 0 to 6 stars – the more stars, the less power the machine consumes. The label also lists the amount of energy that the washing machine uses each year (in kilowatt-hours).
If you're shopping in store, take the machine for a test drive to get a better idea of how it will perform in the real world. Can you open the lid and load clothes easily? Are the controls clearly labelled and within reach?
Check the fine print to find out the length of the manufacturer's warranty and what it covers.
The faster the spin speed (measured in RPM), the drier your clothes will be at the end of a wash. The maximum speed you can expect from a top-load washing machine is around 1,100RPM – front-loaders can go substantially faster.
There are several other features that you may want to look for in a top-loading washing machine, such as:
Want to buy a clothes dryer as well? Check out our clothes dryer buying guide.
If you're looking for a washing machine and dryer all in one, check out our washer-dryer combo buying guide.
| Total Score | Overall rating | Value for Money | Features & functions | Quietness | Washing performance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG | 8.25 | 4.52 | 4.46 | 4.44 | 4.22 | 4.46 |
| Fisher & Paykel | 8.22 | 4.46 | 4.38 | 4.5 | 4.26 | 4.52 |
| Samsung | 8 | 4.38 | 4.14 | 4.4 | 4.14 | 4.22 |
| Simpson | 7.66 | 4.2 | 4.16 | 4.16 | 3.8 | 4.26 |
| Esatto | 7.58 | 3.9 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.1 |
| Haier | 7.15 | 3.91 | 3.94 | 3.94 | 3.88 | 3.85 |
| Panasonic | 7.08 | 3.82 | 3.82 | 3.76 | 3.76 | 3.76 |
| Other | 6.8 | 3.71 | 3.88 | 3.75 | 3.54 | 3.67 |
We’ve scoured hundreds of customer reviews to find the best top-loader washing machines you can buy right now.
