Choosing a new washer is a big decision, especially if you haven't shopped for a washer in several years. There are many new washer designs to choose from that may be very different from what you might be accustomed to. There is also a larger selection of brands in addition to the old standards of Whirlpool, Maytag, and GE.
Have you heard about LG's JD Power awards or their good reputation over at Consumer Reports? Both LG and Whirlpool make reliable laundry equipment with great features. We'll compare two of the best front load washer models from tech powerhouse LG and tried-and-true standby Whirlpool, both pricing around $899-999, to help you decide which brand offers the best features for your needs.
The LG WM4000HWA - 4.5 cu ft - $999
The LG WM4000HWA is a well-designed front load washer with great features selling for $999. It has an extra-large 4.5 cubic foot capacity tub, allowing you to do more laundry in fewer loads. LG's 6Motion technology uses specialized washing motions to clean clothes gently and effectively. All in all, this washer has 12 wash programs and 13 cycle options.
With a 1,300 RPM max spin speed your clothes can spend less time in the dryer. The four-tray dispenser provides sections for prewash, main wash, bleach, and fabric softener. Connect with your washer through the LG Smart ThinQ app to start or stop the wash and get a notification when your laundry is done, or use voice commands with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. New AI technology helps the washing machine choose the best settings to clean your clothes, which can help them last longer. It can also communicate with a matching dryer so your clothes get the best care possible.
This washer has an inverter direct drive motor and comes with a variety of great new features. Steam technology helps gently release stains and soils, the FreshCare cycle helps keep clothes smelling fresh by periodically tumbling them after a cycle completes, and the Allergiene cycle uses high heat and steam to remove over 95% of common household allergens. For small loads, you might be interested in the optional SideKick Pedestal Washer base as well!
Newer washers available with steam cleaning technology are one way to get serious stain removal performance without beating up your clothes. LoDecibel Quiet Operation and the TrueBalance Anti-Vibration System keep this washer steady and quiet. This model has a great set of cycles and options!
Features:
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12 Cycles: Normal, Heavy Duty, Bedding, Sanitary, Allergiene, Tub Clean, Bright Whites, Perm. Press, Delicates, Towels, Speed Wash, Downloaded
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13 Options: TurboWash®, Steam, Fresh Care, Pre-wash, Remote Start, Delay Wash, Wi-Fi, Add Item, ColdWash, Extra Rinse, Rinse+Spin, Control Lock, Spin Only
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6Motion Technology mixes up the washing motions for thorough but gentle cleaning
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SmartThinQ® Technology
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Compatible with LG SideKick pedestal washer
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TubClean cycle uses water jets and heats up to 149 degrees Fahrenheit
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LoDecibel quiet operation
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Dispenser with prewash option
- AI Direct Drive Technology
The Whirlpool WFW5620HW - 4.5 cu ft - $899
The Whirlpool WFW5620HW is a 4.5 cubic foot front load washer with many desirable features selling for $899. It offers a Steam Clean wash option to help remove stains, odors and wrinkles. Its large capacity allows you to wash larger loads and bulky items. The Load & Go Dispenser allows you to "bulk load" detergent for several loads ahead of time, and the washer dispenses it automatically. There's also a single load dispenser if you want to wash a single load with a different detergent.
Whirlpool upgraded their front load washer lineup for 2019 with Intuitive Controls that simplify the process of starting a cycle. First select from the "What to Wash" options, then choose from the "How to Wash" menu. This is an interesting way of setting up washer controls - check it out in person and see if you like it!
The Smooth Wave stainless steel wash basket protects against snags and rust, and Adaptive Wash Technology senses and adapts the wash actions based on the cycle selection and other factors. This washer has a lot to offer at a great price! Whirlpool offers a one year warranty on this model. Check out this front load washer and see if the new control setup appeals to you!
Features:
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What to Wash: Regular, Delicates, Bulky Items, Whites, Colors, Towels
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How to Wash: Normal, Wrinkle Control, Heavy Duty, Sanitize with Oxi, Cold Wash, Quick
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6 Options: Clean Washer, Drain & Spin, Steam Clean, Extra Rinse, Pre Soak, Load & Go
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Load and Go bulk dispenser
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Whirlpool Intuitive Controls
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Features Comparison
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Cycles & Options: If you're comfortable with typical front load washer controls then you'll get a lot out of LG's numerous cycles and options. The Whirlpool model offers a different control setup while giving you a new way to customize your wash. You'll also prefer the Whirlpool model if you're looking for a steam cycle washer.
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Additional Features: The Whirlpool Load & Go system is a cool new convenience, and the steam option is nice as well. LG has the inverter direct drive motor, which is generally quieter and more reliable than traditional washer motors. The LG model also has a Prewash dispenser and wash option that can be helpful for handling heavily soiled fabrics. LG's AI technology may appeal to you if you want to extend the life of your clothes.
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Warranty: LG wins here with a 10-year warranty on the motor. Both models have a one-year parts and labor warranty as well, which is typical for the industry.
We hope you enjoyed this quick comparison of best front load washer models from LG and Whirlpool. Overall, the LG model has a lot to offer when it comes to fabric care, while the Whirlpool is more basic aside from the Load and Go system. Both are 4.5 cubic feet in capacity and are priced similarly. For more models to compare, check out our reviews of the best front load washers of the year! For XL front loaders, check out the largest front load washers of the year!
What do you think? Which one do you prefer? Please leave us a comment below. We'd love to hear from you!
Editor's Note: This blog was originally written in October of 2014 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy as of the publication date noted above.
