The primary difference between a front load and top load washing machine is the positioning or location of the washing machine door. In terms of design, washing machines with top load have the door placed on the top of the machine. To put clothes into a top load washing machine, you simply lift a lid, and drop the clothes in. Front load washing machines, on the other hand, have the door fitted on the front panel of the washing machine. To put your clothes in, you open the washing machine at the front face like you would open a door.
Your search for the ideal front load machine or best top washer starts with zeroing in on the machine brand you prefer. While both types of washers may seem attractive, they offer different benefits. For instance, top load washers are easier to use and cheaper too. The front load washing machines provide energy savings and are gentle on the clothes. Look at this guide to evaluate top load vs front load washing machines based on their features and benefits.
Things to consider while selecting a top load or front load washing machine
To make a decision, it is important that you have a fair idea of the parameters to look for while choosing a front load or a top load washing machine. Thereafter, you can streamline your selection further. Compare Haier washing machines, LG washing machines, Lloyd washing machines, and models by other top Indian and international brands such as IFB, Bosch, and Samsung.
So, take a quick look at the following aspects that you should evaluate before picking up the best washing machine for your home.
Washing capacity
The general washing machine capacity in India ranges from 5 kg to 10 kg. Machines with a capacity of around 6 kg are enough for individuals and couples. Families with more than 6 members can opt for a washing machine that supports around 10 kg of laundry. Likewise, smaller families can pick a capacity that is between 6 kg and 10 kg. While you may be able to find both top and front load washing machines of the desired capacity, front load machines tend to have an advantage. They do not have an agitator, which is part of a top load washing machine and lowers the machine’s capacity. Thus, front load variants offer more space.
Energy efficiency
In terms of efficiency, front load washing machines are outright winners. It is because front load washers consume around 50% less power and close to 40% less water as compared to the best top load washers. On the whole, front load washers consume around 30% of the power, detergent, and water that a top load washing machine consumes. This makes it the better of the two options.
Clothes lifespan
A front load washing machine is gentler on your clothes. With less damage per wash, most front load washers promise greater longevity for your clothes. This is because the vanes positioned in the drum move the clothes around with minimal wear and tear. Also, unlike a top load washing machine, a front load one does not have a central agitator. The fins on such an agitator can be rough on your clothes during the wash cycle, reducing their lifespan.
User comfort
Top load washing machines are easier to operate. It is convenient to put clothes into a top load washer as the door is fitted on the uppermost face. There is a need to bend in the case with a front load washing machine. The top load washing machines are best suited for the elderly as they are convenient to use.
Reliability
The washing machine drum spins to dislodge dirt. In the case of front load washing machines, the force of gravity is used to tumble your linen around. On the other hand, top load washing machines rely heavily on an agitator to move your clothes. While front load washers are more natural in their operation, the top load machines have demanding hardware needs. Top load washers are more susceptible to breakage and hence are less reliable since they have more parts.
Differences between top load and front load washing machines
If you are wondering who the winner in the top load vs front load washing machine war is, here are the key takeaways. However, remember to analyse the features and differences based on your unique needs before you make a decision.
Parameter |
Winner |
Washing capacity |
Front load |
Energy efficiency |
Front load |
Clothes lifespan |
Front load |
User comfort |
Top load |
Reliability |
Front load |
EMI price |
Top load |
As you can see, on the whole, buying a front load washing machine makes for a better choice.
Why should you buy a top load washing machine?
Top load washing machines are less expensive and easier to use. So, if you foresee short-term use or are furnishing your apartment before you give it on rent, a top load washing machine gets the job done. Moreover, if ergonomic design is a priority, a top load washing machine is definitely the ideal pick. Experts also recommend top load washers for areas that receive erratic power supply. Finally, top load washers allow you to add clothes during the wash cycle, which is something that you cannot do when you have a front load washing machine.
Why should you buy a front load washing machine?
Front load washing machines offer several benefits that justify the increase in price. To begin with, they are energy and water-efficient and so they help you save electricity and reduce water wastage. They are gentler on your clothes and therefore increase their lifespan as well. Moreover, these washers are said to be less noisy and offer features like self-cleaning and steam. Finally, they are easy to place within compact homes as the door does not open upwards.
Best top load washing machines in India [2023]
To get the best top load washing machine, consider your budget, capacity requirements, and space constraints. Then, look at these top LG, Samsung, Haier, and Lloyd washing machines to make a selection:
- LG 8 kg fully automatic top load washing machine (T9077NEDL1)
- LG 7 kg fully automatic top load washing machine (T8081NEDLJ)
- Samsung 7 kg fully automatic top load washing machine (WA70M4400HV/ TL)
- Haier 7.5 kg fully automatic top load washing machine (HWM75-707NZP)
- Lloyd 8 kg fully automatic top load washing machine (LWMT80TS)
Best front load washing machines in India [2023]
To identify the best front load washing machine for you, decide your budget and then assess the machine’s capacity and additional features. To streamline your search for the best front load washer, consider these models from top brands:
- LG 8 kg fully automatic front load washing machine (FH2G6TDNL42)
- IFB 8 kg fully automatic front load washing machine (Senator Aqua SX)
- Samsung 8 kg fully automatic front load washing machine (WW80J4243MW/TL)
- Lloyd 7.5 kg fully automatic front load washing machine (LWMF 75S)
- Haier 6.5 kg fully automatic front load washing machine (HW65-10829TNZP)
Now that you know which washing machine serves your needs best, purchase the appliance of your choice on Bajaj Mall. Use the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card to make your shopping pocket friendly. Check your pre-approved offer when you apply to enjoy customised financing and instant approval.
Top load vs front load washers - EMI cost
Top load washing machines tend to be cheaper, however, you can buy the appliance of your choice by purchasing it on No Cost EMIs on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network. Simply use your Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card online or offline, or avail in-store financing at a partner store and bring home the washing machine of your choice, affordably. With financing of up to Rs. 2 lakh, repayable over a convenient tenure of 1 to 60 months. Shop using the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card and do not settle for second best washing machine.
