The 8 Best Front Load Washers of 2020

Best Overall: GE GFW650SPNSN 4.8 cu. ft. Satin Nickel Front Load Washing Machine

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When it comes to a front-loading washer, you can't go wrong with this model. It boasts a 4.8 cubic foot drum, which is a bit larger than average, and can fit in a variety of laundry rooms thanks to a reversible door and stackable design. Most notably, though, is this model's settings which make it our best overall pick.

The GE GFW650SPNSN has 12 wash cycles designed to treat your dirty items exactly how they need to be treated. There are specialty settings for activewear, removing allergens, and bulky items, in addition to whites—which can take on a gray or yellow hue over time without the proper care. A household that typically deals with stains can make use of the pre-wash cycle and sanitize function that eliminates bacteria using an internal water heater. Do you typically need an item cleaned fast? The Speed Wash setting can clean lightly soiled clothes in a total of 20 minutes, while the Time Saving one can do so in 37 minutes.

Aside from this large selection of useful settings, this GE appliance is equipped with amenities that make life easier: smart dispensers, built-in WiFi that allows you to get real-time updates to your phone, and balancing technology that can even out loads to ensure a thorough clean. It may be a little noisy at times, but really can't be beat otherwise.

Best Budget: Samsung WF42H5000AW 4.2 cu. ft. High-Efficiency Front Load Washer

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A front load washer doesn’t need to be a budget buster, and an affordable and efficient model like the Samsung WF42H5000AW proves it. This high-efficiency washer offers the convenience of front-loading design and has 4.2 cubic feet of space inside. It’s also stackable, which gives you more options when arranging your laundry room. 

At a low price, this model doesn't skimp out on variety. There are eight different wash programs to choose from, and additional options for temperature, soil level, and spin speed which you can access via the keypad. While this budget-friendly front load washer omits some popular features, like a steam cycle or alerts to an app on your phone when the cycle finishes, it still is a capable machine that'll get the laundry job done.

Best Splurge: GE GFW850SPNDG 5.0 cu. ft. Capacity Smart Front Load Steam Washer

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For the ultimate front load washer on the market now, it’s hard to beat this well-equipped and innovative model from GE. The GE GFW850SPNDG features a unique UltraFresh Vent System that's designed to greatly reduce the chances of mold and unpleasant odors. If you didn't already know, many front load washing machines require you to thoroughly dry the door gasket and leave the door to the drum open. This minor annoyance can turn into a major gripe over time.

However, this model from GE includes an in-door vent system that helps to dry the machine in between washes. Key parts that retain moisture and are subject to mold—like the gasket, detergent dispenser, and drain—have also been made with antimicrobial materials. On top of beating bad odors, this washer also does an impressive job cleaning your clothes, and includes user-friendly features that make laundry more intuitive and convenient. For example, its WiFi-enabled and can easily sync with its matching dryer to automatically transfer cycle settings.

For small loads of 2 pounds or less, you have the speedy option to leave the load in the washer and use an internal fan to tumble the clothes dry, too. All in all, the range of amenities of the GE GFW850SPNDG make it an expensive option, but a big upgrade for your laundry room.

Best Stackable: Maytag MHW6630HW 4.8 cu. ft. Stackable White Front Load Washing Machine with Steam

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All stackable washers and dryers are front loaders, but not all front loaders are stackable. So, if you’re looking to save space in your laundry area, pick a piece like the Maytag MHW6630HW. It not only can be paired with a matching dryer, but also has a combination of features and cycles that meet the mark. 

Functionality is at the forefront of its design that includes a roomy 4.8 cubic foot drum, 11 wash cycles, and a self-cleaning option to do away with any odors. An "Extra Power" button increases the power applied to any load, and a control pad gives you additional options for the spin speed, temperature selections, and soil level. You can also enable the Fresh Hold mode, which keeps fresh clothes from becoming musty for up to 16 hours after the wash cycle has completed.

Best High Capacity: LG SIGNATURE WM9500HKA 5.8 cu. ft. HE Mega Capacity Smart Front Load Washer

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Supersize your laundry routine with the LG SIGNATURE WM9500HKA. This high-capacity front load washer offers nearly 6.0 cubic feet of drum space and boasts the ability to wash a king-size comforter and sheets in one single load. Smart design features—like a door that is 15 percent larger than competitors' and an angled drum—make it easier to load and unload the model. To say the least, this washer is a go-to option for anyone that wants the convenience of a front load washer, but the ability to do regular, extra-large loads. 

The LG WM9500HKA is a great option for families and includes features that streamline the never-ending laundry routine. The machine has a TurboWash setting that shortens cycles up to 30 minutes without sacrificing the quality of clean. Use the compatible LG app to keep tabs on the progress of a cycle, as well as start or stop any cycle remotely.

Best Smart: Samsung WF50R8500AV 5.0 cu. ft. High-Efficiency Front Load Washing Machine

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This smart washing machine from Samsung gives you the latest in laundry tech, combined with the convenience of a high-efficiency washer. The WF50R8500AV uses the brand’s Bixby assistant to deliver cycle notifications and keep you in the loop on laundry day. In addition, you can use the Samsung app to schedule cycle start times, start a load remotely, and receive diagnostic help if you're having any trouble with your machine. 

While this smart front-loading washer is popular for its tech specs, the drum is a notable feature, too, and generously-sized at 5.0 cubic feet. There are 12 unique wash cycles, and you can customize each cycle's water temperature, soil level, and spin speed. This machine is also equipped with a steam setting, and quick wash option for whenever you're in a rush.

Best Compact: Bosch WAT28400UC 300 Series Compact Washer

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The Bosch WAT28400UC manages to pack a ton of cleaning power into a small, front-loading washer. Measuring 23.5 inches wide, it can slip into the smallest of laundry rooms or designated cleaning closets with ease, and still provide a long list of amenities. Despite its petite proportions, this washer has a 2.2 cubic foot drum and 15 different wash cycles, including ones for allergens, delicates, and items that should be hand-washed.

In addition, this model comes with dispensers for fabric softener, liquid detergent, and pre-wash detergent, so you can start a cycle and not come back until it's all done. Now, it's important to note, this appliance will take longer to complete a full cycle. Although that's standard for compact and portable machines, it may be an inconvenience for anyone looking to get a laundry job done quickly. Make use of the Speed Wash setting if you find yourself in this predicament. Also, for a quick and easy experience, be sure to read over the washer installation requirements before installing this piece. It requires a European outlet, with 240V capabilities. According to the installation instructions, a NEMA 6-15 or 6-20 will do.