Front Load vs. Top Load Washing Machines

Although you might have experience with both front load and top load washing machines, it can still be challenging to determine which type is right for your home. Newer models of front and top load washers have improved features and capabilities to increase efficiency and convenience, while ensuring the best care for your clothes.

When shopping for a new washing machine, it’s a good idea to consider the features of top vs. front load washers, including design, convenience, capacity, water levels and efficiency. Our guide will help you get started by comparing these features and more.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TOP LOADING VS. FRONT LOADING WASHERS

Compare the differences of front load vs. top load to help you decide which one’s right for you.

	TOP LOAD WASHER	FRONT LOAD WASHER
1. Design	Top Load Washer Top load washers open from the top. Wash action is driven by an impeller or an agitator. Matching dryers still open from the front.	Front Load Washer On front load washers, the door swings open from the front. Washer and dryer pairs are stackable for small or vertical spaces.
2. Comfort & Convenience	Top Load Washer With top load washers, it might be harder to reach the bottom of the washer depending on your height or the height of the washer.	Front Load Washer Front load washers may require a bit of bending or reaching. A simple solution: laundry pedestals. Pedestals bring your appliances to a more convenient height and some offer storage for detergent and fabric softener.
3. Controls	Top Load Washer On top load washers, the controls are located on top, toward the back.	Front Load Washer On front load washers, the controls are on the front, toward the top.
4. Capacity	Top Load Washer Top load models have a wide range of capacities based on price points but usually offer the largest capacities available. See the largest capacity agitator washer available at 6.0 cu. ft.¹ from Maytag.	Front Load Washer Front load washers are also available in larger capacities. Since there is no agitator in the middle, front load washers have more space for clothes compared to similar sized top load models with agitators.
5. Efficiency & Water Levels	Top Load Washer Many top load washers use lower water levels to meet efficiency standards and deliver more optimal cleaning results with a higher concentration of detergent. However, there are models that let you add more water to select cycles — like the Deep Fill option from Maytag.	Front Load Washer Front load models that use HE (high-efficiency) detergent use lower water levels and concentrated cleaning. This means you probably don’t need to use as much detergent as you might be used to.

Front load washers have led the way in high-efficiency cleaning. Similar to top load impeller washers, they use specialized wash actions that help fabrics rub against each other to work out stains. Though using less water means longer wash times, the fast spinning drum helps extract water. This means shorter drying times, which is good news on laundry day.

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TOP LOAD WASHERS: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

If you choose a top load washer, you’ll need to decide between an agitator or impeller. Learn more about the differences between agitator and impeller washers or start browsing all Maytag® top load washers.

AGITATOR WASHERS

These models clean clothes by moving them against the agitator — the central post in the wash basket — and some give you the option to add more water on select cycles.

BROWSE AGITATOR WASHERS

IMPELLER WASHERS

These models use a specialized disc that creates friction between clothes for dirt and stain fighting. This type of wash action requires less water, which also helps meet today’s energy standards.

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