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Best High-End Washers

Updated March 2024
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Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Samsung 6.0 cu. ft. Total Capacity Smart Dial Washer with FlexWash and Super Speed Wash
Samsung
6.0 cu. ft. Total Capacity Smart Dial Washer with FlexWash and Super Speed Wash
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Stylish & Efficient
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An advanced washer with a unique design that features two separate washing compartments with AI technology.

Pros

Smart Dial remembers favorite washing features. Takes 28 minutes at max capacity. Connects to a smartphone via Wi-Fi for controls and status. Steam treats stains and PowerFoam offers a stronger clean. Vibrates less for quieter cycles.

Cons

On the high end of the price range.

Best Bang for the Buck
LG Large Capacity Smart Top Load Washer
LG
Large-Capacity, Smart, Top-Load Washer
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Versatile Power
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One of our expert's favorite picks thanks to its ability to wash large loads while treating heavy stains and grease without issues.

Pros

The large design can fit a ton of clothes, making it great for larger families. Utilizes steam clean technology to help eliminate hard-to-get-rid-of stains. Very quiet during use thanks to its vibration-reduction technology.

Cons

The bleach dispenser area has been known to rust.

Whirlpool 5.0 Cu. Ft. 35-Cycle High-Efficiency Front-Loading Washer with Steam
Whirlpool
5.0 Cu. Ft. 35-Cycle High-Efficiency Front-Loading Washer with Steam
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Feature-packed
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This feature-packed machine helps you reduce the overall time that needs to be dedicated to laundry.

Pros

This front-load washing machine offers 35 cycles, 5 temperature settings, and 5 spin speeds. Includes Load & Go XL dispenser, so there is no need to add detergent for every load.

Cons

Some customers noted the Geek Squad took a while to install.

Samsung Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Front Load Washer with AI OptiWash™ and Auto Dispense
Samsung
Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Front Load Washer with AI OptiWash™ and Auto Dispense
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Smart Technology
Bottom Line

A stackable, front-loading smart washer that cleans delicates and heavy-duty fabrics with equally impressive precision.

Pros

You can control this washer with the simple dial and track it on your phone with ease. The sleek design comes in black and metallic silver. Super Speed Wash tech cleans a full load in less than 30 minutes. It saves energy and space with a flexible, modern design. Self-cleaning.

Cons

Some may want more control options.

Samsung 5.0 cu. ft. Extra-Large Capacity Smart Dial Front Load Washer with OptiWash in Brushed Black
Samsung
5.0 cu. ft. Extra-Large Capacity Smart Dial Front Load Washer with OptiWash in Brushed Black
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Intuitive Dispenser
Bottom Line

An award-winning washer with technology that remembers favorite cycles and can be operated from a smartphone.

Pros

Stores detergent for 20 loads. Automatically adjusts detergent based on soil level. Takes 28 minutes to wash at max capacity. Works with a smartphone app to control and monitor cycles. Steam treats stains and CleanGuard maintains freshness.

Cons

Some reports of the unit failing to work after a couple of months.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

35
Models
Considered
165
Consumers
Consulted
8
Hours
Researched
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Buying guide for Best high-end washers

Washing machines can be just as complicated to use as your computer, especially the high-end models. So why buy one? They may clean best, use less water, spin faster, yet they’re gentler on fabrics thanks to the multiple settings and other packed-in features.

The least expensive washing machine is the traditional fuss-free top-loader with an agitator. High-end washers are typically front-loading machines, but there are also selections of luxury top-loading high-efficiency (HE) washers with and without agitators.

There is a large selection of high-end washing machines on the market, and all the varied features can be confusing. Choosing the right washer is a matter of knowing your specific wish list of features and which models include them. Our shopping guide can help you separate what features you might need versus what features you might want so that you don’t get soaked when making your purchase. Check out a few of our favorites, too.

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If you love the thought of a high-end washer but want to save a hundred dollars or so, opt for white instead of a more stylish designer color.

Key considerations

When shopping for a high-end washing machine, there are a few important considerations: top- or front-load model, capacity, drum depth, cleaning efficiency, noise, and what length of warranty is offered.

Top- or front-loading

Whether you buy a top- or front-loading washer is a decision based on your preference. Do you want to bend down (front-loading) or bend over (top-loading) to handle laundry? If space is a factor and you want to stack your washer and dryer, you’ll naturally need a front-loader. Take note that it’s easier to stuff a large comforter into a front-loading machine.

Capacity

Do you have a large household? Do you (or does someone in your family) work at a job in which your clothes get particularly messy, such as construction? Do you have an infant or toddler? Maybe you’re hoping to wash all your super-thick bath towels at once? If you’re in any of these or similar situations, you might consider one of the more generous washers (4.5 to 6.0 cubic feet) to handle the dirty work.

Expert tip
Always pick your washing machine according to the size that makes sense for your washing needs and habits. If you like to wash as many items as possible at once, then a washer with a larger capacity will work best for you.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert

Size

Take note that some high-capacity washers are also wider and deeper than smaller-capacity models. You’ll want to make sure you can fit a large-capacity washer in your space. You’ll find large-capacity washers that measure between 27 and 29 inches wide. You’ll find larger front-loading washers with drums that are 30 inches deep and top-loading washers with drums deeper than 32 inches, for example. (A traditional top-loading washer has a drum that’s about 27 inches.)

Efficiency

High-end washers are best known for their ability to clean better than less-expensive washers. That’s because luxury high-efficiency (HE) washers keep clothing in constant motion for longer cycles and in less sudsy water than traditional washers, which allows clothing to freely move around more. More tumbling motion results in better cleaning.

Noise reduction

Vibrating washers on a wood or tile floor can cause havoc. A noisy machine can sound like a tornado coming through the house when it’s filling, agitating/tumbling, spinning, or draining. High-end washers have technology to minimize vibration and keep the decibels low.

Warranty

High-end washers may cost more, but they’re less likely to break down (so it’s okay to decline the extended warranty). Manufacturer warranties are likely to span from three to ten years on parts and labor, but always read the fine print for specifics.

High-end washer features

Here’s where it can become confusing when comparing high-end washers. Each brand has its buzzwords and trademarked names for features that are really describing the same thing on numerous pricey models. You’ll have to read between the lines to figure out if you really need or want a particular feature.

Controls

Are the controls intuitive or do you need a degree in engineering to learn how to turn on your new washer? You may be more comfortable with knobs or with digital or electronic pad controls. There are plenty of high-end washers with a combination of digital and knob controls.

Cycles

You may prefer a couple of cycles or the dozen cycles included on higher-end washers. Some of the more useful include a hand-wash cycle, active-wear cycle, sanitize and allergen cycle, accelerated fast-wash cycle, and starch cycle, just to name a few.

Double washer

Certain high-end washers have an additional smaller chamber, typically 1.0 cubic foot), that allows you to wash a mini-load so you don’t need to use the larger chamber.

Drum material

A high-end top-loading washer likely has a stainless steel tub (as opposed to the plastic or ceramic tubs in lower-priced models). Stainless tubs can withstand the higher spin speeds that expel more water, which cuts down on drying time.

Expert tip
Keeping your user manual on hand is so important with high-end washers. The many features and options of these machines can sometimes be hard to navigate, so educate yourself on how to use your machine's features in order to get the biggest bang for your buck.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert

Finish

High-end washers come in luxury finishes, such as black stainless steel, platinum, and elegant designer whites.

Pedestal washer

Another version of a double washer is the pedestal washer. Pedestals were once only used to boost the height of a front-loading machine. Now, that unused space is put to good use as a small-capacity washer for tiny loads. The only disadvantage is you have to bend down to use it.

Self-cleaning

The self-cleaning cycle is an important one to have, especially in a front-loading model. The cycle removes bacteria and reduces the growth of mold and mildew.

Smart

Many high-end washers have app connectivity that allows you to link your washing machine to an app on your phone, or it may be WiFi compatible with Google Assistant or Alexa. You can operate your smart washer remotely, adding extra cycles, for example.

Spin speed

Revolutions per minute (rpm) refers to the spinning speed of the drum. Speeds range from 800 to 1,600 rpm. There are pros and cons to higher speeds, however. On the plus side, faster speeds clean clothes better and extract more water from the clothing, resulting in shorter drying times. On the downside, high-speed models are pricey, delicate items can become damaged or tangled, and higher speeds could cause your machine to vibrate or operate more noisily. Look for a machine with adjustable speeds. A slower speed can help to reduce creases in clothing.

Steam

A steam cycle is intended to loosen fibers enough to lift tough dirt and stains from the fabric.

High-end washer prices

$690 to $1,075

You’ll find front-loading washers with limited features, such as presoak and steam, and better-quality smart top-loading washers (more cycles and settings than traditional top-loaders). Many larger 4.5-cubic-foot models are plentiful in this price bracket. Speeds typically reach around 1,200 rpm.

$1,075 to $1,600

You’ll find the bulk of high-end washers with a variety of cycles and settings in this price range. Front-loading washers have larger drums and capacities, from 4.5 to 6.0 cubic feet. You’ll find stainless steel drums, more than adequate speeds averaging 1,300 rpm, and many with the prized steam setting.

$1,600 to $4,125

Here, you’ll find luxury brands offering front-loading machines. In this price range, you’re paying for the brand’s premium name as well as the fastest speeds, proprietary features, streamlined aesthetics, and longer warranties. One thing to think about if you’re considering buying one: be sure you can find qualified people to service these specialized appliances.

Tips

  • Clean a front-loading machine often. Front-loading washers are known for their mold and mildew issues. The reason this happens is because water pools in the door’s water gasket, dispensers, and drum, which causes the problem, plus creates odors. Front-loaders just need a bit more attention than top-loaders. Frequently clean the gasket and interior, and leave the door open so the drum can dry.

  • Remove pet hair from clothing. Excess pet hair on clothing can clog your washing machine’s hoses. Before washing, remove as much pet hair as possible by putting on a pair of rubber household gloves and wiping down the item with your hands. The rubber glove method picks up pet hair better than lint rollers and tape.

  • Save money with HE. A high-efficiency washing machine with multiple cycles costs more to buy, but investing in an HE washer can lower your water and energy bills in the long run.

  • Keep up with regular maintenance. High-end washers are designed to last a minimum of 10 to 15 years if they’re well maintained. That means manually cleaning buildup from dispenser drawers, using the washer’s cleaning cycle occasionally (if your model has one), and never overstuffing the machine with clothing or detergent. Paying a little more up front beats having to replace a lower-priced washing machine every five years.
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All HE washers are also Energy Star compliant, meaning they meet stringent energy guidelines because of the increased efficiency.

FAQ

Q. What size washing machine will hold a king-size comforter?

A. A 4.5-cubic-foot front-loading washer likely fits a king-size comforter with a little room to spare. These washers can hold about 20 pounds of laundry. A queen-size comforter fits into a 3.5-cubic-foot washer.

Expert tip
 Maintain your washer by wiping down inside the drum with a microfiber cloth.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert

Q. How do I measure my space to know what size washer I can fit?

A. Measure your space as you would for any piece of furniture. The only difference is that you should leave about six inches behind the washer to allow space for water hookups, vents, and outlets. The six-inch rule also applies if you’re going to stack your front-loading washer and dryer.

Q. What exactly is a high-efficiency washer?

A. A high-efficiency (HE) washer uses a different washing system than traditional and less costly washers. There are criteria a washer needs to meet in order to be considered a high-efficiency machine. It doesn’t have an agitator. It’s designed to use less water and low-sudsing HE detergent. It relies on sensors to adjust water levels to the load, which eliminates wasted water (and saves money because you’ll use less energy to heat water). HE washers have a faster spin cycle to extract more water from clothes and shorten energy-sucking drying time.