Explore This Year’s Best Washers And Dryers

Emma Tomsich

5 - Minute Read

UPDATED: Nov 9, 2022

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Finding the right washer and dryer shouldn't feel like a chore. Even if you’re already satisfied with your current washer and dryer set, remember that all household items eventually need to be replaced.

Lucky for you, there are plenty of washers and dryers for you to pick from. With so many options out there, it’s important that you find the best washer and dryer to meet your needs. Factors like energy efficiency, smart capabilities, capacity, design, pricing and customer satisfaction helped to determine our top picks for the best washer and dryer in 2021. Choosing the right appliance is an investment, so we rounded up the top contenders. Now you have one less item on your laundry list.

Best Washer And Dryer Brands

According to the 2021 U.S. Appliance Satisfaction Study, J.D. Power listed Samsung as the top-rated washing machine and dryer brand followed closely by LG Electronics, Maytag, GE Appliances and Whirlpool.

Consumer Reports also listed several LG Electronics front load and top load washing machines as highly rated in their September 2021 report. Overall, Samsung and LG Electronics washers and dryers are among the highest-rated brands by customers and experts.

Both LG Electronics and Samsung appliances are high quality and provide an exceptional washing and drying experience. LG Electronics is known for having the latest technology and incorporating new, innovative features, while Samsung is recognized for having creative designs and updated technologies. Reliability is key when choosing an appliance, so it's best to opt for a trusted brand over other less notable selections. Here’s our favorite washers and dryers of 2021.

Best Overall Washer And Dryer

When comparing 2021’s best washers and dryers, we looked at many factors to determine the best of the best. The best overall washer and dryer are eco-friendly, easy to use, smartphone enabled, reliable, top performing and highly rated among homeowners.

Best Overall Washing Machine

First up, we’ve got LG Electronic’s Ultra Large Capacity Front Load Washer with TurboWash 360 Steam as this year’s best overall washing machine. This appliance has a number of cutting-edge features, including AI technology, mobile app compatibility and TurboWash 360. TurboWash 360° simplifies your at-home laundry experience by cleaning larger loads fast, so you get more done while enjoying the same great washing performance. Smart Pairing in the ThinQ app gives you control over your laundry, and even lets your washer program the dryer to select a compatible drying cycle. Finally, say goodbye to allergens, because the washer’s steam setting reduces common household allergens in fabrics by more than 95%.

  • Size: 27 inches x 39 inches
  • Capacity:5 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: white, black steel
  • Features: adjustable legs, advanced vibration control, control lock, control sounds on/off, door window, end-of-cycle signal, Wi-Fi enabled
  • Price: $1,049

Best Overall Dryer

LG Electronic’s Ultra Large Capacity Electric Dryer with Sensor Dry, Turbo Steam is just as impressive as its washing machine. Like the washer, TurboSteam technology reduces wrinkles and odors to refresh clothes in between washes. Its high efficiency sensor drying and low-heat settings save energy and money by using about 20% less energy than conventional models. This appliance also features a FlowSense duct clogging indicator and can tumble dry clothes for up to 3 hours after the cycle is done to prevent wrinkles until you’re able to empty the load. While you’re away, control your dryer with one click of your smartphone, and let AI technology take it away from there.

  • Size: 27 inches x 39 inches
  • Capacity:4 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: white, black steel
  • Features: door window, sensor dry, Wi-Fi enabled
  • Price: $1,049

Best Energy-Efficient Washer And Dryer

As a homeowner, energy-efficient appliances are one of the best investments you can make. Not only do energy-efficient appliances help the environment, but they also lower electric bills, offer innovative features and have a number of other benefits. Learn more about our favorite energy-efficient washer and dryer.

Best Energy-Efficient Washing Machine

Electrolux’s Front Load Washer with SmartBoost Technology Steam was rated ENERGY STAR’s most efficient washing machine. With 9 wash cycles, including a 15-minute fast wash, you can wash a load of laundry in the blink of an eye. This appliance’s SmartBoost technology provides the most effective stain removal, maximizing the cleaning power of your detergent. The washer features the industry’s first adaptive dispenser which accepts detergent packs to give you the flexibility to clean with all detergent types for a thorough wash, saving you time, money and energy. 

  • Size: 27 inches x 38 inches
  • Capacity:4 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: titanium, white
  • Features: cycle status indicator, delay start, door window, end-of-cycle signal, front control, high-efficiency detergent required, interior light
  • Price: $1,124

Best Energy-Efficient Dryer

Just like the washer, Electrolux’s Electric Dryer with Steam, Predictive Dry is ENERGY STAR Certified and equipped with a handful of innovative features. Not only does this dryer have a 15-minute fast dry, but its also knows after 90 seconds what your precise dry time will be so you don’t have to keep checking in on your load. Busy homeowners love the extended tumble option, which keeps clothes tangle-free after the cycle ends until they’re able to unload it. This energy-efficient option has everything you need to maximize your laundry experience.

  • Size: 27 inches x 38 inches
  • Capacity:0 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: titanium, white
  • Features: adjustable end-of-cycle signal, automatic temperature control, digital cycle countdown, door window, four-way venting, interior light, lint filter, moisture sensor, timed dry
  • Price: $1,249

Best Washer And Dryer Set

Look no further than this dynamic duo. The Whirlpool Smart Top Load Washing Machine with Load and Go, Built-in Water Faucet and Stain Brush and Smart Electric Vented Dryer with AccuDry System have everything you need to do hassle-free laundry. This set boasts an impressive list of features, including a built-in faucet and large cycle selection to take your laundry room to the next level. Load as many articles as you like from comforters, gym clothes and more with 4.8 cubic feet of capacity. The dryer has even more space, at 7.4 cubic feet of capacity. Already hooked? Read more about this affordable, highly rated washer and dryer set.

About The Washing Machine

  • Size:25 inches x 41.19 inches
  • Capacity:8 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: chrome shadow, white
  • Features: add garment (pause), adjustable legs, advanced vibration control, control lock, cycle status indicator, delay start, door window, end-of-cycle signal, rear control, spin speed option, Wi-Fi enabled
  • Price: $778

About The Dryer

  • Size: 27 inches x 40.88 inches
  • Capacity:4 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: chrome shadow, white
  • Features: adjustable end-of-cycle signal, automatic temperature control, delay start, door window, four-way venting, lint filter, timed dry
  • Price: $778

Best Smart Washer And Dryer

If you’re looking for a washer and dryer that are way cooler than anything you’ve ever seen, start shopping around for smart washers and dryers. Smart appliances differ from traditional home appliances because they are known to be more convenient, better performing, safer and you can control them from your smartphone! Intrigued by these features? Learn more about the advantages of having smart appliances in your home.

Best Smart Washing Machine

Samsung’s High-Efficiency Black Stainless Steel Front Load Washing Machine with Super Speed and Steam will make you want to replace all your traditional household appliances with newer, technology-enabled options. This washer is known for its accessibility and ease, allowing users to conduct a thorough wash in just 30 minutes. The washer has 12 preset washing cycles, 10 additional washing options and five temperature levels to choose from. Its ENERGY STAR Certified eco-friendly and energy-efficient, and ADA compliant, making it easy to use for everyone. Control this washing machine from your smartphone with Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling you to receive end of cycle alerts, remotely start or stop your cycle, schedule laundry on your time and more.

  • Size: 27 inches x 38.75 inches
  • Capacity:0 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: black stainless steel
  • Features: adjustable legs, advanced vibration control, control lock, control sounds on/off, cycle status indicator, door window, end-of-cycle signal, front control, interior light, water heater, Wi-Fi enabled
  • Price: $1,119

Best Smart Dryer

We said it once and we’ll say it again, Samsung’s Front Load Electric Dryer with Steam Sanitize+ has everything you need to do hassle-free laundry. Like the washer, the dryer is ENERGY STAR certified and has numerous drying options and cycles to choose from. Tech-savvy consumers love the Bixby-enabled feature, which notifies users via smartphone once their load is complete. The dryer’s steam sanitize option eliminates 99.9% of bacteria and germs, and the sensor dry option helps prevent over-drying for optimal fabric care. Worried that you might not have enough space in your laundry room or area? The reversible dryer door lets you choose the direction your dryer opens to better suit your homes layout. What more could you want as a homeowner?

  • Size: 27 inches x 38.75 inches
  • Capacity:5 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: black stainless steel
  • Features: adjustable end-of-cycle signal, automatic temperature control, control lock, control sounds on/off, damp alert, digital cycle countdown, door window, four-way venting, front control, interior light, lint filter, moisture sensor, rack, remote diagnostics, sensor dry, timed dry, Wi-Fi enabled
  • Price: $1,119

Best Large Capacity Washer And Dryer

Depending on the number of people in your household, your washer and dryer units might see a lot of action in a week. If your current washer and dryer aren’t meeting the needs of you and your family, consider upgrading to a bigger, large capacity washer and dryer.

Best Large Capacity Washing Machine

In terms of size, nothing beats the 5.2 cu. ft. HE Mega Capacity Front Load Washing Machine with Steam and TurboWash by LG Electronics. Known as the industry’s largest capacity washer, LG prides itself on the washer’s time-saving technology and steam cleaning features that remove dirt, wrinkles and odors. The washer features 14 different wash cycles and can wash a king size comforter and a full set of bedding in a single load 20 minutes faster than the average washer. How’s that for impressive? Even better, this washer has a number of other top-notch features.

  • Size: 29 inches x 40.75 inches
  • Capacity:2 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: graphite steel
  • Features: add garment (pause), advanced vibration control, control lock, cycle status indicator, delay start, door window, end-of-cycle signal, high-efficiency detergent required, interior light, water heater
  • Price: $1,599

Best Large Capacity Dryer

With a capacity of 9.0 cu. ft., no other dryer compares to the Mega Capacity Stackable Front Load Gas Dryer w/ TrueSteam, SteamFresh & Pedestal Compatible by LG Electronics. This dryer has the same features as its paired washer, including 14 different drying cycles and the capacity to dry a king-sized comforter and full set of bedding in a single load. This dryer can remove stains with its spot cleaning cycle, and its TrueSteam technology eliminates the need for ironing after garments are cleaned. With this appliance, you’ll never waste time doing laundry ever again!

  • Size: 29 inches x 40.8 inches
  • Capacity:0 cu. ft
  • Available finishes: graphite steel
  • Features: adjustable end-of-cycle signal, automatic temperature control, damp alert, delay start, digital cycle countdown, door window, interior light, lint filter, moisture sensor, rack, sensor dry, timed dry
  • Price: $1,599

Best Stackable Washer And Dryer

If your laundry room or area has limited space, a stackable washer and dryer will save the day. And with this option, you don’t need to sacrifice performance for size. Here’s our favorite stackable washer and dryer.

Best Stackable Washing Machine

Hands down, the LG Electronics WashTower Laundry Center is the best stackable washing machine and dryer in the game. With the dryer on the top of the tower and the washer on the bottom, you’d be surprised to find that both appliances are perfectly positioned at just the right height so you won’t need to stand on your toes or crouch down to do your laundry. This appliance is designed for quiet operation, which reduces the washer’s noise and vibration when in use. The washer comes with an AAFA certified Allergiene Cycle feature which uses the power of steam to remove over 95% of pet dandruff and dust. In addition, the washer has built-in AI technology that lets the washer auto select a compatible drying cycle. Now, let’s check out the features of the dryer.

  • Size: 27 inches x 74.38 inches
  • Capacity:5 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: black steel, white
  • Features: advanced vibration control, control lock, door window, end-of-cycle signal, interior light
  • Price: $2,499 for both the washer and dryer

Best Stackable Dryer

By now, I’m sure you already know how best-in-class this appliance is. Not only is it enabled by AI technology, but the dryer also has ultra large capacity, meaning you have more room to do laundry in fewer loads. Speaking of room, this vertical laundry solution allows you to operate with full-size capacity in only half the space, making your laundry room much more efficient. Finally, the dryer’s FlowSense Duct Clogging and Clean Filter Indicators will remind you to clean the appliance’s ducts and lint filters which will lower your utility bill and minimize service calls down the line. Purchase the WashTower Laundry Center and stack up success in your laundry room.

  • Size: 27 inches x 74.38 inches
  • Capacity:4 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: black steel, white
  • Features: adjustable end-of-cycle signal, control lock, interior light, Wi-Fi enabled
  • Price: $2,499 for both the washer and dryer

Best Budget Washer And Dryer

Even homeowners on a tight budget can find quality, up-to-date washers and dryers for their homes. Here’s our top pick for most affordable washer and dryer that will keep you and your wallet satisfied.

Best Budget Washing Machine

Maytag’s High-Efficiency Top Load Washing Machine with Deep Fill Option includes top-of-the-line features for a fraction of the price. Its 3.8-cubic-foot capacity can handle large loads without a sweat. This appliance features a POWERWASH agitator that fights even the toughest stains, providing reliably clean results. The machine’s POWERWASH cycle boosts cleaning action with heated water to drive the most powerful cleaning in its class. Not bad for a budget-friendly washing machine!

  • Size:5 inches x 42 inches
  • Capacity:8 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: white
  • Features: automatic temperature control, cycle status indicator, rear control
  • Price: $674

Best Budget Dryer

Pair your budget-friendly washing machine with the Maytag Electric Vented Dryer with Wrinkle Control. Not only is this dryer affordable, but it also offers top features including the Wrinkle Control option-the no-heat way to help prevent wrinkles from setting in. This option uses 40 minutes of extra tumbling after the cycle has ended to keep clothes ready to wear. The dryer also has a heavy-duty motor and moisture sensing capabilities. With these features in mind, remember that you don't have to worry about sacrificing too much when it comes to this budget-friendly option.

  • Size: 29 inches x 43 inches
  • Capacity:0 cu. ft.
  • Available finishes: white
  • Features: adjustable end-of-cycle signal, interior light, lint filter, moisture sensor, timed dry
  • Price: $674

The Bottom Line

There are many aspects to consider when choosing the best washer and dryer for your home. Picking between a front load or top load washer is all dependent on your personal preference and style. There's no question when it comes to reliability. The best washer and dryer selections come from trusted brands like Samsung and LG Electronics. But even the best washers and dryers need to be properly operated. Take a brief look at the instruction manuals for your washer and dryer, and learn more about the expected lifespan of their washer and dryer.

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Emma Tomsich

Emma Tomsich is a student at Marquette University studying Corporate Communications, Marketing and Public Relations. She has a passion for writing, and hopes to one day own her own business. In her free time, Emma likes to travel, shop, run and drink coffee.