Buying Guide: Comparing Different Types of Washers and Dryers

When it comes to keeping a household running, few appliances work harder than your washer and dryer. Whether it's washing your kid's favorite sports jersey for yet another wear, drying towels after a day at the pool or washing fresh linens, you want to know that your laundry system is reliable and effective. The right washer and dryer should be within budget, fit your space and have the capacity to hold all the items you need to wash and dry.

With so many options for washers and dryers, it can be tricky to find the right one for you. Here's a comparison of the most common types of washers and dryers, so you can find the right setup for your home.

There are three main types of washing machines: top-loading machines, front-loading machines and portable washing machines. Here's how they compare.

A top-loading washing machine is the most traditional and most affordable option. Typically, it costs $450 to $700 or more.¹ It's usually a box-shaped machine with an opening on the top where you load and unload your clothes. Within top-loading machines, there are two main subcategories:²

• Agitator washers use a post in the middle of the machine that twists back and forth, moving the clothes around during the wash cycle.
• Impeller washers use a low-profile cone that spins, rubbing clothes against each other to clean them.

Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of top-loading washers:³

Front-loading washers are more efficient and more effective at cleaning than top-loader washers. In fact, all front-loaders are high-efficiency (HE) machines.⁴ They use less water and leave clothes drier, which means your clothes will need less time in the dryer. Since the door is at the front of the machine, these are a great option if you'd like to add storage on top of your machine, or if you would like a stackable washer and dryer. In short, they're great for small spaces.

Front-loading washers are often the most expensive. They can cost $700 to $2,000 or more.¹ Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of front-loading washers:³

Portable washing machines are great for apartment living. These machines are top loaders that temporarily connect to your sink to draw water and drain. When they're not in use, you can store them in a closet or anywhere else out of the way. Portable washers are much cheaper than full-size washers, typically costing about $100 to $300.⁵

Here are the pros and cons of portable washers:⁶

There's a lot of variety when it comes to dryers. To find the right one for you, you'll need to consider:⁷

• Power source: Dryers are either electric or gas-powered. Check the power in your laundry space (or consider what you're willing to have installed) to know which is right for you.
• Vented or ventless: Some dryers need a vent to the outdoors to release steam. If you don't have a vented space, you'll need a more expensive ventless dryer.
• Size and capacity: If you have plenty of space, choose a dryer that fits everything you want to launder, including bulky items like bedding. If you don't have much space, opt for a compact or stackable dryer.
• Door orientation: All dryers are front-loading, and most have the door hinges on the left side. Some dryers allow the door to open down (like an oven) or allow the hinges to be installed on either the right or left. When shopping, consider what's best for your space and laundry process.

Looking for more details? Here are the pros and cons of different types of dryers:

Electric dryers are affordable and easy to install. They typically cost about $500 to $700, although some models with features like ventless drying and Wi-Fi controls can cost much more.⁸ Here are the pros and cons of electric dryers:⁹

Gas dryers run on natural gas or propane. Although they're often more efficient and cheaper to operate, they cost more up front. On average, you can expect to pay $900 for a new gas dryer, plus an additional $125 to $250 to have it installed by a professional who is capable of working with a gas line.¹⁰ Here are the pros and cons of a gas dryer:⁹

Portable dryers are smaller, movable versions of an electric dryer. They connect to a regular outlet and can be vented out a window. They're perfect for apartments and other small spaces that don't have a designated space for laundry or the 240-volt outlet, gas connection or vent needed to run a full-size dryer.¹¹ You can expect to pay about $200 to $350 for a portable dryer.¹² Here are the pros and cons of a portable dryer:¹¹

A new washer and dryer should last for about 10 years, so choosing one can feel like a big commitment.¹³ Here's what to consider when you think about which machine is right for you.

Laundry is always a chore, but with the right setup, it can feel a bit easier. Here's what to think about:

• Your space. Having the right machine for your space will make it more functional. If you want to put storage over your machines, opt for front loaders. For small spaces, stackable, compact or portable machines are a good choice.
• Your physical capabilities. Will you be able to reach a lost sock at the bottom of a top-loading washer? Or pull a portable dryer into position? Consider which machines will be easiest, physically, for you to use.
• Features. Some machines have features to make laundry a little easier, like Wi-Fi controls and wrinkle protection (for when you don't fold clothes promptly). These features usually cost more, so consider how often you'll use them before you spend the money.

Cleaning power is arguably one of the most important aspects of a washer. If you're generally tidy, you can probably get away with a portable washer that's good for cleaning lightly soiled loads. But if you play outdoor sports, have children or do any other messy hobbies, you'll likely appreciate the more powerful cleaning power of a full-size, front-loading washing machine.

Having an efficient machine isn't just important for environmental reasons; in addition, these machines are often cheaper to operate over time.⁴ Remember that these days, most washers and dryers are energy efficient—though some have a higher energy rating than others. Also, consider how the energy efficiency will impact the cycle time. Sometimes, machines that use less energy take a longer time to wash or dry clothes.

Staying within budget is a key consideration. But when you consider the price of a washer and dryer, remember that you're purchasing items you'll probably be using for more than a decade. Over that amount of time, the price difference for a machine that really works for you might seem smaller. In addition, you can save money by purchasing a washer and dryer set.

Getting a new, efficient washer and dryer can save you time and money in the long run. After all, trips to the laundromat are time-consuming and expensive! Whether you're splurging for a top-of-the-line machine or dealing with an unexpected washer and dryer replacement, the Synchrony HOME™ Credit Card can help with covering the cost of buying a new appliance that's just right for your home. Use the Synchrony HOME locator to find Synchrony HOME partner locations in your area that may offer special deals for cardholders.*

**Subject to credit approval.