What are the main differences between top-load and front-load washing machines?
Obviously, the main difference between these two types of washing machines is the location of the door. For top-load washers, you put in the laundry from the top, whereas front loaders are opened from the front of the machine.
For example, this is a front-load vs a top-load washing machine model of Electrolux Vietnam:
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- SensorWash helps remove up to 53 stains.*
- IntelliQuick selects best load based programme.
- Refresh clothes with vapour, without washing.
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- StainCare removes 40 different visible stains*.
- UltraMix prevents visible detergent residue*.
- PowerJet ensures perfect washing and cleaning.
But which model is better? Should I buy a top-load or a front-load washing machine? It depends on your family’s needs and budget. To help you make the right decision, take a look at this list of differences between top loaders and front loaders.
Front loader uses less water while top loader uses less electricity
Front-load washing machines consume less water than top loaders thanks to their design. The reason is that during the wash cycle, front loaders are only partially filled with water, just enough to fully cover the clothes. To be more specific, they use one-third the amount of water that top loaders use.
However, top loaders consume less electricity since the washing time is shorter.
Front loader has higher capacity
In term of washing capacity, front-load machines outperform top loaders, since this type of washing machine does not have an agitator, which is a part of top loaders. This leaves more space for clothes, which means you need to do laundry much less often with front loaders.
Front loader is better at cleaning performance
Generally speaking, front-load washers tend to be better at removing stains than their top-load counterparts. The reason is that a front loader’s tumbling washing motions are more effective than a top loaders’ twisting wash motions. With top-load washers, clothing tends to clump together during circular wash motions, making it ineffective when washing larger items such as winter coats and pillows.
Top loader has shorter cycle time
If you want to get your laundry done fast, front loaders are definitely not the best option. That’s because front-load washing machines have more complex wash cycles, with a barrel that spins the clothes around and water entering and draining out of the drum during the cycle. Top loaders have a shorter cycle time since they are filled with water just once during the wash.
Front loader is less noisy and can spin faster
- Spin speed: Front-load machines have a higher spin speed, around 1500 RPM (revolutions per minute), so they can extract more water from the clothes and save time on line drying. In contrast, top-loading machines produce only around 600 RPM.
- Noise: Front loaders are quieter and cause less vibration when washing.
Space consumption, convenience, and cost
- Space consumption: Top-load washers are narrower, meaning that you can place the machine in smaller space.
- Convenience: Top-load washers are more convenient since you can freely add or remove clothes to and from the washer. Moreover, if you have back or knee problems, you will find it more difficult to unload your clothes from a front loader. In addition, kids may get inside your front-load washer since the door is lower.
- Cost: in Vietnam washing machine market, you will find top loaders cheaper than front loaders.
Pros and Cons of the top loader and front loader
To summarize all advantages and disadvantages of these two types of washing machines, we have a table for you to compare:
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Front loaders |
Top loaders |
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Cons |
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Our top picked washing machines in Vietnam
Choosing the right washing machine can be time-consuming. Electrolux is a well-known brand in Vietnam for our high-quality and durable washing machines.
To streamline your search for the best washers, check out our Electrolux washing machines available in Vietnam and also learn the best way to choose the right washing machine.
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- Added hygiene and gentle care.
- Efficient full-load washing in only 45 mins.
- Sanitise removes 99.99% common bacteria & viruses.*
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- Added hygiene and gentle care.
- Efficient full-load washing in only 45 mins.
- Sanitise removes 99.99% common bacteria & viruses.*
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- IntelliDose delivers precise detergent dosage.
- IntelliQuick selects best load based programme.
- SensorWash helps remove up to 53 stains.*
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- Prevents visible detergent residue with UltraMix.*
- Efficient full-load washing in only 45 mins.
- Sanitise removes 99.99% common bacteria & viruses.*
