Front-Load Washers vs. Top-Load Washers: Is One Actually Better Than the Other?

Finding the best washing machine for your lifestyle can be a time-consuming process. If you’re deciding between a front-loading washer and a top-loading one, this guide will cover the pros and cons of each so you’re fully informed. Whether you’re concerned about saving energy or want a washing machine that can handle large loads, there’s a model out there that can do all the dirty work for you. We asked experts to weigh in on the different types of washing machines to help you find the best fit for you. 

Front-Loading Washers

Front-loading washers open in the front—surprise! They use a gentler, more thorough cleaning cycle than top-loading washers, and while they can take longer to wash than top loaders, they’re actually more energy efficient. “Front-load washers tend to be 25 percent to 50 percent more energy-efficient than their top-load counterparts,” says Myles Robinson, appliance expert and owner of Boiler Central. 

Features

The tumbling action that front-loading washers use to clean clothes is what makes them so effective. “Front-load washers often provide better cleaning performance due to their horizontal drum rotation, which allows clothes to tumble and agitate more effectively,” says Joelle Battista, head of culinary marketing at Designer Appliances.

Additionally, the tumbling wash mechanism uses less energy than the agitator washing method that top-loading machines use. Front-loading washers also use less water than top-load washers and require less detergent. They also spin faster than top-loaders, extracting more water from clothes, which reduces drying time. 

Front-loaders often come in stackable designs that work well in small homes and spaces. In addition, front-loading washers usually offer the most washing options and features. For example, some front-loading machines have smart features that can connect with WiFi and use apps, voice commands, and remote commands to monitor wash progress and start and stop remotely.

Top-Loading Washers

Top-loading washers have loading and unloading space at the top of the machine, and employ a twisting motion to clean clothes. They usually have a large load capacity due to having a wider drum than front-loading machines. Top-loaders are popular for their affordability and ease of use, and for people with back problems, they're often easier to use than front-loading machines since they do not require as much bending over.

Features

Top-loading washers use an agitator or an impeller for cleaning. The agitator is a central post with fins that twist back and forth to clean clothes, and impellers use a small cone or disc to clean. Agitators can work better on more heavily soiled clothes, while impellers are gentler for delicate fabrics. 

Top-loading washers wash more quickly than front-loading washers, so they work well for people in a time crunch. “They have shorter wash cycles (usually just 15 to 30 minutes), which can be beneficial if you are in a rush and need your clothes washed as soon as possible,” Robinson says.

Also, they can be easier to use than front-loaders as they require less bending to put clothes in or out. 

Pros and Cons

There are many pros and cons to each type of washing machine. Cost is often a significant factor when buying a machine. Front-loading machines cost more than top-loaders initially. However, the energy, water, and detergent that front-loaders save can reduce your costs in the long run. Here are the detailed pros and cons of each machine:

Front-Loaders
Pros	Cons
Energy-efficient; uses less water, energy, and detergent	Requires more bending over, which can be challenging for people with back problems.
Stackable and can work well in small spaces	Takes longer to wash loads than top-loading machines
Superior cleaning performance	More expensive to buy than top-loaders
Leaves clothes dryer after washing	Some models do not allow adding clothes once the wash cycle has begun
Saves money on utilities and detergent costs	Mold can build up in the front of the machine, requiring regular cleaning
More options for smart features and special wash options	Repairs cost more than top loaders

Top-Loaders
Pros	Cons
Lower up-front cost	Uses more energy than front loading machines
Repairs cost less	Can be harder on clothes, especially agitator models
Can handle large loads	Higher energy and detergent costs
Provides heavy-duty cleaning with agitator models	Noisier than front loading machines
Fast wash times	Have higher amounts of lint from the agitator action
Easier to use, requiring less bending than front loaders
You can easily add clothes once the wash cycle has begun

Energy Efficiency and Cost

Most washing machines cost between $500 and $1400. Front-loaders are on the higher end of the price spectrum, with smart devices costing the most. “Front-load washers tend to have a higher initial cost, while top-loading washers are more affordable,” says Culum Retallick, director at Specialised Cleaning Solutions. “In the long run though, front-load washers may be more cost-effective due to their energy efficiency.”

Key Factors to Consider

When you’re deciding what type of washing machine to get, consider these factors and ask yourself these questions:

• Cleaning Abilities: What types of laundry do you do, and how important is cleaning performance?
• Usability: Do you need a machine that allows you to add clothes once the wash cycle has started? Are you able to bend over easily to load or unload clothes?
• Size: What are your space requirements, and what size are your laundry loads?
• Cost: Can you pay more upfront, or are you looking for a budget-friendly purchase?
• Energy Efficiency: How important is energy efficiency to you? 
• Repairs and Maintenance: Can you afford repairs for the machine you get? Are you prepared to take preventative measures like cleaning mold and mildew on front loading machines?

The Verdict

A washing machine is a major investment, and choosing the right one is crucial. When shopping for appliances, check out reviews and features and consider your requirements. A front-loading machine is probably your best option if you’re more concerned about a high-quality wash and energy efficiency. However, a top-loader may be perfect for you if you want a lower up-front cost, shorter wash times, and the capacity for large loads. 

Also, keep in mind that within each category, different models will have varying features, energy demands, and space requirements. There are energy-efficient top-loading washers, for instance, and large-capacity front-loading machines. In general, front-load washers come out on top in terms of performance and energy efficiency. However, if initial cost is your biggest concern, a top-loading washing machine may be your best option.