Best washer dryer combos 2024: all-in-one solutions for your laundry needs

Best washer dryer combos 2024: Jump Menu

Woman’s hand loading dirty blue bed sheets in a white washing machine.

(Image credit: Getty; Anne Boonkerdthinthai)

1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall: GE GFQ14ESSNWW
3. Best big budget: LG Signature LUWM101HWA
4. Best for large loads: LG WM399HBA
5. Best for space: Magic Chef MCSCWD27W5
6. Best for speed: Koolmore WAD-3CF-W
7. Best warranty: LG WM3488HW
8. Best capacity: Whirlpool WFC682CLW
9. Best budget pick: Magic Chef MCSFLW27W
10. Best ventless: LG WM3555HWA
11. How we choose
12. Buying advice
13. FAQs

If you have limited space at home and want to save time while doing laundry, the best washer-dryer combo can be a great option for you. This machine can both wash and dry your clothes, so you don't have to switch between different machines, which saves you time and effort. 

In the past, washer-dryer combos were not as good as the best washing machines and best dryers on their own, but the newer models provide high-quality performance for both tasks. With a washer-dryer combo, you can wash even the toughest stains and get perfectly dry and wrinkle-free clothes from a single machine. However, if you have enough space and prefer separate machines, you can also consider buying a separate washing machine and dryer. 

Before buying a washer-dryer combo, consider the size of your household and your laundry needs. Larger models with a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet are ideal for families, while smaller and more efficient models are perfect for single users or small households. You can also look for special features like steam cleaning, sanitizing, anti-static, and wrinkle-reduction options. 

It's also essential to make sure that the washer-dryer combo you choose does not require ventilation if you don't have access to it, but, overall, the best washer-dryer combo can be a great investment, allowing you to save space, time, and effort while doing laundry at home.

Headshot of Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards

Luke has been writing about all things tech for over two decades now and, as a father of two, knows his way around a washer dryer combo. As such, every detail has been taken into account here, from testing for individuals to families and from working on stains to creating wrinkle free shirts.

The quick list

If you want a quick view of all the best washer-dryer combos right now, then you can check out our quick list below. You can also jump to more detailed reviews or use our price comparison chart for an at-a-glance overview of the best deals.

The best washer dyer combos we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Looking for a machine that can do it all? We've rounded up the best washer dryer combos to help you save time with your laundry. We're currently in the process of reviewing all the products in this guide, but for the moment we've included a summary of user reviews for any that we haven't personally reviewed to help you choose the right appliance for you and your family. 

The best washer dryer combo overall

1. GE GFQ14ESSNWW

This is the best washer dryer combo overall

Specifications

Capacity: 2.4 cu. ft.
Wash cycles: 14
Dry cycles: 5
Warranty: 1 Year

Reasons to buy

+
Steam and sanitize settings
+
Add-garment function for convenience
+
Super reasonable price

Reasons to avoid

-
Smaller than some competitors
Buy it if

✅ You want pure performance: this does everything without breaking the bank.

✅ You need to steam sanitize: while some models offer sanitize modes, not all offer steam.

✅ Features are a must: you'll find 14 wash programs.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a really large capacity: this offers capacity, perhaps a little small for a family.

❌ Warranty is a must: at one year, this isn't the best warranty out there.

❌ You want speedy drying: if you're all about speed, it might not suit your needs.

The bottom line

🔎 GE GFQ14ESSNWW does a far above-average job of packing in features, giving a top washing performance, and keeping pricing down. Get steam sanitizing, add garment features, and lots of cycles, but don't expect the longest warranty. ★★★★★

The GE GFQ14ESSNWW washer-dryer combo is one appliance doing the work of two and an excellent option if you're on a budget.

We were blown away by the performance of this combo for the price, especially given it features effective steam and sanitizer setting, plus 14 wash programs and five water temperatures to suit a myriad of different garments.

Features: This model is crammed with useful features, as mentioned above. Also worth noting is the add-garment function, which allows you to pop in those inevitable loose socks even if the cycle has already started.

Capacity: At 2.4 cubic feet, this isn't the largest capacity, but it will be enough for a single person or couple. Add a family or student house capacity, and you may need to look for a larger or plan to do more loads.

Efficiency: This model doesn't come with an Energy Star certification, but thanks to a wide range of modes, including temperature, spin speed, and soil level controls, you can decide how much power you need to use each wash.

Value for money: This is one of the best bang-for-buck options out there, as it manages to keep the price relatively low despite cramming in features and performance levels akin to some of the most expensive washer-dryer combos you can buy right now.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesAll the features you could need★★★★★
CapacityEnough for a couple★★★
EfficiencyManual controls allow for choice here★★★★
ValueSuperb value for money★★★★★

The best washer dryer combo for big budgets

2. LG Signature LUWM101HWA

This is the best washer dryer combo for those with a larger budget

Specifications

Capacity: 2.8 cu. ft.
Wash cycles: 17
Dry cycles: 6
Warranty: Lifetime on steel drum, 20 years on motor

Reasons to buy

+
Super-smart auto-dosing option
+
Impressive warranty
+
Large capacity

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
Buy it if

✅ Voice control matters: app controls make this a smart model that you can control with your voice or remotely.

✅ Auto-dosing can help: this setting lets your machine detect soil levels and auto-adjust.

You want capacity: this is a decent capacity washer-dryer combo making it ideal even for family homes.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want to save money: this is undeniably expensive and will cost you upfront and longer term with that larger capacity.

❌ You have limited space: the space this larger model takes up means you will need to plan to make sure it fits where you want it to live.

❌ You need more manual controls: this has a lot of app and voice controls, but if you're used to chunky controls, you may find this fiddly.

The bottom line

🔎 LG Signature LUWM101HWA is one of the best you can buy, and the high price reflects that. But with an array of smart features, including auto-dosing of detergent, voice, and app controls, plus a huge capacity and long warranty, it certainly justifies the price. ★★★★

If you've got the cash to splash (but you're tight on space), the LG Signature LUWM101HWA washer-dryer combo is a fantastic choice. Teeming with plenty of cycle options and useful smart technology, it's definitely one of the best washer-dryer combos around. 

Features: Featuring WiFi compatibility and a convenient app with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. You can even track and control your wash and drying cycle via the app, which is perfect if you want to start or stop your laundry if you're out and about. Our favorite smart feature is the auto-dosing function, designed to add detergent to your wash automatically. It does this by detecting soil levels and adjusting the detergent dosage so that you always use the perfect amount.

Capacity: At 2.8 cubic feet, this offers a lot of space for larger loads and could service a family, although it's likely more focused on couples. That makes it efficient to run.

Efficiency: This washer-dryer combo from LG comes with an impressive 16 wash cycles and a respectable six dry cycles (while this is significantly less than the wash options, it's still a far better offering than other washer-dryer combos). We're particularly pleased with the steam setting designed to target stains and reduce wrinkles. All of which can be varied to get optimal efficiency.

Value for money: One of the best aspects of this LG washer-dryer is its fantastic warranty. The entire machine gets a year of coverage, while there are 20 years on the motor and a lifetime warranty on the stainless steel drum – perfect for peace of mind when making such an expensive purchase. This is an expensive machine, but the warranty, specs, and features make a convincing argument for investing.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesRich features including auto-dosing★★★★★
CapacityLarge but not the biggest★★★★
EfficiencyLots of options to run well★★★★
VaueYou get a lot but the price is high★★★★

The best washer dryer combo for large loads

3. LG WM399HBA

This washer-dryer is capable of large wash loads and has excellent smart features.

Specifications

Capacity : 4.5 cu.ft.
Wash cycles: 14
Dry cycles: 6
Warranty: 10 years on motor, 3 years on the steel drum,1 year for the parts

Reasons to buy

+
Largest capacity available
+
Great warranty
+
Remote control from app

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricey
Buy it if

✅ Capacity is key: for simply the largest drum space you can get, this model delivers, packing in 4.5 cubic feet.

✅ Warranty is wanted: with a massive 10-year motor, 3-year drum, and one-year parts warranty.

✅ Smart controls are needed: use your voice or smartphone app for rich controls from anywhere.

Don't buy it if:

❌ Budget is a concern: this is a serious budget buster when it comes to that high price point.

❌ You have smaller loads: the large drum on this means more water and electricity costs.

❌ You like simplicity: there are lots of features, which may be too complex for some.

The bottom line

🔎 LG WM3998HBA has one of the largest drum capacity options you can buy at a high price but with a long warranty. It also packs in smart features like anti-vibration quiet running, app and voice smart controls, superb steam sanitizing, and more. ★★★★

The average capacity of a washer-dryer combo is under three cubic feet, making the LG WM3998HBA such a standout model. With almost double the capacity, homes with less space and plenty of wash loads need to look no further for an answer to their laundry needs. It also has seriously impressive smart features so you can get notifications of your laundry’s progress straight to your phone. 

Features: Some fantastic features include the anti-vibration noise-tackling system that makes this as non-disruptive in your home as possible. The 5Motion tech intelligently adjusts the wash based on the cycle to ensure it's gentle on your clothes. There is smartphone and voice control via the app. Plus, the steam cycles eliminate dirt, odors, and wrinkles, while the sanitization Allergiene cycle is certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

Efficiency: This is a larger machine with a 4.5 cubic feet capacity, so expect it to use more water and energy than smaller options. However, this is LG, known for its energy-efficient machines, so even being larger, this is still more efficient than some cheaper options with smaller drums. 

Capacity: The 4.5 cubic feet capacity makes this large enough to tackle large loads making it ideal for families or anyone that likes to do less regular washes after the laundry has built up more.

Value for money: Yes, this is one of the more expensive models, but you get a whole load for that price. The warranty is one of the best out there, and with all the many features, it is still good value despite that high price tag.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesFull of smart features for most needs★★★★★
EfficiencyLarger so not the most efficient★★★★
CapacityHuge capacity, ideal for families★★★★★
ValueRow 3 - Cell 1 ★★★★

The best washer dryer combo for compact space

4. Magic Chef MCSCWD27W5

An affordable, compact washer dryer with a nice feature set for the price

Specifications

Capacity : 2.7 cu. ft.
Wash cycles: 14
Dry cycles: 2
Warranty : 1 year

Reasons to buy

+
One of the more affordable
+
Sanitize and de-wrinkle cycle

Reasons to avoid

-
No steam option
-
No smart features
Buy it if

✅ You want to save money: this affordable model still offers many decent features.

✅ You need to sanitize: one of the few options at this price to offer sanitization features. 

✅ You need to save space: as a more compact model, this fits into smaller spaces.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need to steam: despite offering sanitizing features, this model won't steam.

❌ You need large capacity: the 2.7 cubic feet capacity might not be enough for larger families.

❌ You like smart features: this is very much a manual setting machine.

The bottom line

🔎 Magic Chef MCSCWD27W5 is a simple model that saves on upfront costs and space, making it ideal for more compact areas. Useful features include sanitizing and anti-wrinkle cycles, but this lacks smart adaptive modes and won't offer the largest capacity. ★★★

The Magic Chef MCSCWD27W5 offers a small footprint in terms of space it takes up, as well as how much impact it will have on your budget.

That will mean more simplistic features and not the longest warranty period, but you still get more than enough for most needs and respectable capacity for the overall space this model takes up.

Features: The black dial to the right-hand side gives you a choice of 14 washing cycles (and 2 for drying), including a helpful tub clean cycle that helps with machine maintenance by removing residue to keep things squeaky clean inside.

Other helpful features include a child lock to give you peace of mind if the machine is near little ones.

Efficiency: This is efficient regarding the room it takes up, the load size it can handle, and the upfront cost. However, there isn't an Energy Star rating, so it may not be the most efficient for ongoing energy costs.

Capacity: The Magic Chef MCSCWD27W5 has a capacity of 2.7 cubic feet, which is by no means the largest washer-dryer combo in this roundup. The maximum load capacity differs depending on whether you're washing (26.4 lbs) or drying 17.6)

However, what it lacks in capacity, it makes up for in compactness.

Value for money: This manages to keep the price low while still offering lots of useful and powerful features, making it a very decent value-for-money option.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLots covered but not smart★★★★
EfficiencyDecent but not standout★★★★
CapacityEnough for a couple or small family★★★★
ValueVery good value for money★★★★★

The best washer dryer combo for speed

5. Koolmore WAD-3CF-W

With a handy 20-minute quick wash cycle, this washer dryer is an efficient choice

Specifications

Capacity : 2.7 Cu. Ft. (wash), 3 Cu. Ft. (dry)
Wash cycles: 16
Dry cycles: 4
Warranty: 1 year

Reasons to buy

+
20 minute wash cycle
+
Steam clean options

Reasons to avoid

-
No smart features
-
Not the prettiest design
Buy it if

✅ Speed is important: this model offers a handy 20-minute wash mode.

✅ Steaming is needed: Despite the price point, this still offers useful features like a steaming option.

✅ You need space: this model is a great option for smaller spaces.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want even capacity: this model has a different wash capacity to drying.

❌ Looks are important: this is definitely not the best-looking washer-dryer combo.

❌ You like silence: This can jump about a bit in more powerful cycles, so that rubber feet might be needed as an extra.

The bottom line

🔎 Koolmore WAD-3CF-W might not be the best looking model nor have the most features, yet it does offer plenty of cycles, does a good wash and dry job, and manages to keep the space it occupies to a minimum for the capacity offered here. ★★★

The Koolmore WAD-3CF-W is a smart two-in-one washer dryer designed for areas in the home with limited space. It's not a great-looking model, so if you want it tucked away somewhere, it can serve you well. The price isn't high despite covering most of the feature needs you could have both for washing and drying.

Features: The 20-minute wash cycle is a great addition when you're in a rush or want to freshen up your clothes. It's common for combination machines to have more washing than drying options, and the Koolmore has 16 custom wash cycles and 4 dry cycles – covering all the bases from activewear to baby wear to wool and delicates. 

Once a wash has started, it's possible to pause it to add a garment – very handy if you've dropped a sock or two on the way – and you can delay the start time if you're going out or want to set the machine to run overnight. It's a convenient machine, especially if space is limited.

Efficiency: The washer-dryer combo has a simple, slightly utilitarian design, but it does the job. Like the Magic Chef MCSCWD27W5 above and most other washer dryers, the drum is made from stainless steel to resist rust. Just don't expect Energy Star rating efficiency here.

Capacity: The washer capacity is slightly less at 2.7 cubic feet compared to the dryer capacity of 3 cubic feet, which isn't unheard of for combination models, but something to be aware of.

Value for money: You get a decent amount for your money here, but with those poor looks and average warranty, it's not a stand-out value pick.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLots of useful features★★★★
EfficiencySmall for efficiency★★★★
CapacityDecent for a couple★★★★
ValueAverage for the price★★★

The best washer dryer combo for warranty

6. LG WM3488HW

This washer dryer combo has the best warranty we've seen

Specifications

Capacity: 2.3 cu. ft
Wash cycles: 14
Dry cycles: 4
Warranty: Lifetime on steel drum, 20 years on motor

Reasons to buy

+
Superior warranty coverage means you can invest with confidence.

Reasons to avoid

-
This is larger than most, so it might not fit in your allotted space.
Buy it if

✅ Warranty matter: with a massive 20-year motor warranty.

✅ Quiet is important: the anti-vibration system means this runs a lot more quietly.

✅ You need space: it uses a compact design.

Don't buy it if:

❌ Capacity is key: this has a smaller-than-average capacity.

❌ Steam is needed: this won't give you a steam function.

❌ Design is key: this isn't bad looking, but it's not the best either.

The bottom line

🔎LG WM3488HW is a washer-dryer combo that offers a long warranty and a small form factor. You get sanitizing and quiet running but there's no steam and the capacity is small. ★★★★

If you’re looking for a mid-price washer dryer combo, the LG WM3488HW has a great range of features and a lifetime warranty on its stainless-steel drum. It has a smaller capacity than many of the best washer dryer combos, but it’s still a great choice for those looking for a compact and durable washer dryer combo.

Features: The one feature we're glad LG decided to include is the TrueBalance anti-vibration system, designed to balance the drum and prevent loud vibration during use. There are also 14 wash settings and four dry cycles, plus you get a companion app ideal for fixing issues should they arise.

Efficiency: LG makes efficient machines, which are also small, to help save on water and electricity use. Plus, the long warranty should mean the cost is spread over its many years of use.

Capacity: At 2.3 cubic foot capacity, the LG WM3488HW washer dryer combo has a smaller-than-average load size. This means you could find yourself running more loads to tackle your laundry, but that’s generally a trade-off you’ll make when you opt for a washer dryer combo, as they’re designed to fit under counters and into closets and therefore come smaller than washers and dryers as standard. 

Value for money: With that 10-year drum motor warranty and one-year parts and labor cover, the upfront cost of this model is even more appealing. Expect to see this crop up often in sales, so you can get much for your money with this feature-rich model.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLots including silencing and warranty★★★★
EfficiencyGreat small size efficiency★★★★
CapacityVery small indeed★★
ValueGreat value long term★★★★

A great looking machine with a family-size capacity

7. Whirlpool WFC682CLW

A great looking machine with a family-size capacity

Specifications

Capacity : 4.5 Cu. Ft.
Wash cycles: 41
Dry cycles: 1
Warranty : One year

Reasons to buy

+
Best-in-class capacity
+
Accessible design and controls

Reasons to avoid

-
Short warranty
Buy it if

✅ Capacity is key: this has a huge capacity drum to fit massive loads.

✅ Cycles are needed: this has a massive 41 different wash cycle options.

Don't buy it if:

❌ Manual controls are a must: physical dials and buttons aren't plentiful here.

❌ You need drying options: this only offers one dry cycle.

The bottom line

🔎 Whirlpool WFC682CLW is a massive capacity machine that offers a wealth of wash cycles, great design, and a reliable brand name. But it's not ideal if you want more dry cycles or a longer warranty. ★★★

The Whirlpool WFC682CLW all-in-one washer and dryer is one of the biggest in its class, with a 4.5 cubic foot capacity to make light work of large loads.

This appliance has an accessible design as specified by the Americans with Disabilities Act, so it’s incredibly easy to use – even for teenagers who you've been tasked with doing the laundry.

Features: Being ventless, you can install this washer dryer combo almost anywhere in your home (as long as there's a water hookup), and it's even compatible with a laundry pedestal so that you can raise it higher for easy access when you're loading and emptying.

With a whopping 41 wash cycles, intuitive controls, and steam clean and sanitize options to get deep into fabrics, this capacious washer dryer combo delivers pretty much everything a busy family could need.

Efficiency: In terms of handling, the main control is split up into two lines, which are labeled "what to wash" and "how to wash" (pretty simple), while the top right panel is broken down into temperature, spin level, and soil level, which allows you to fully customize your dry, wash, or both, for the best results. 

Capacity: At 4.5 cubic foot capacity, this is one of the biggest capacity washer dryer combos you can buy right now, making it perfect for families.

Value for money: A one-year warranty isn't the best, and the price isn't the lowest, but this performs well and does offer great looks and features.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
Features41 wash cycles and more★★★★
EfficiencyLarge so not the best★★★★
CapacityThe biggest out there★★★★★
ValueDecent but not amazing★★★★

The best washer dryer combo for low-cost

8. Magic Chef MCSFLW27W

This is the best low-cost washer dryer combo on the market

Specifications

Capacity: 2.7 cu. ft.
Wash cycles: 16
Dry cycles: 4
Warranty: 1 Year

Reasons to buy

+
Low cost
+
Delay wash option
+
Good capacity

Reasons to avoid

-
None of the extra features you'll find on more expensive models
Buy it if

✅ You want affordable: this is one of the most affordable options out there.

✅ Decent capacity matters: this offers an above-average capacity.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want lots of dry options: this tops out at four drying cycles.

❌ You want steam: you can sanitize with this but no steaming.

The bottom line

🔎 Magic Chef MCSFLW27W A great budget option that doesn't scrimp on features but won't get you everything the top-end offers. Yet this will likely provide more than enough for most needs. ★★★

In addition to being the most affordable washer dryer combo we reviewed, the Magic Chef MCSFLW27W washer dryer combo has a nice feature set that includes all the essentials plus extras such as a self-cleaning cycle.

Features: This includes a delayed-start feature you can set up to 24 hours in advance. As such, you can set it to start a load of clothes when you are away so it finishes close to when you get home. That way, clothes don’t sit in the drum long enough to wrinkle, although it also includes a de-wrinkle cycle. 

Efficiency: The Magic Chef MCSFLW27W washer dryer combo has a standard capacity of 2.7 cubic feet and holds about 10 pounds of clothing. The tub clean cycle removes residue inside the machine to keep it fresh and reduce maintenance. The machine’s settings dial is marked and easy to read. Using its LCD screen, you fine-tune the settings by adjusting the temperature or soil level. 

Capacity: The Magic Chef MCSFLW27W washer dryer combo has a standard capacity of 2.7 cubic feet and holds about 10 pounds of clothing.

Value for money: Overall, the Magic Chef MCSFLW27W is a great deal for the money, and it has most of the features people look for in a washer dryer combo machine.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLots but not everything★★★★
EfficiencyDecent number of level controls★★★★
CapacityOne of the larger models★★★★
ValueSuperb value for money★★★★★

The best washer dryer combo for ventless use

9. LG WM3555HWA

An ideal choice if you don’t have access to an external vent

Specifications

Capacity : 2.4 Cu. Ft.
Wash cycles: 13
Dry cycles: 8
Warranty : 10-year limited warranty

Reasons to buy

+
Lots of cycle options
+
No vent needed

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricey
-
Long warranty 
Buy it if

✅ You need ventless: this won't need external venting, making it ideal for flats.

✅ Cycles options help: this packs in lots of cycle options..

Don't buy it if:

❌ Dry speed matters: this isn't the fastest at drying, so if you need speed, it might not help.

❌ Capacity matters: it's not the biggest and might be small for a family.

The bottom line

🔎 LG WM3555HWA is not cheap, but for that price, you get some really great features, including lots of wash cycles and a great warranty. Just don't expect a large capacity or the fastest drying performance. ★★★★

The LG WM3555HWA is a front load washer and electric dryer in one, with an impressive 13 different wash cycles and the added benefit of a steam cycle to reduce allergens such as pollen, pet hair, and dust.

Features: With smart technology built-in, users can operate the machine using LG's ThinQ app, which notifies you about your usage and maintenance and lets you start the laundry while you're out and about. Certain features also work with Alexa and Google Assistant, so if you've got a smart home linked up, you can control the machine from wherever you are in the house.

Efficiency: Labeled as a high-efficiency product, when it comes to drying, the WM3555HWA uses built-in sensors to work out how much moisture is left in garments, shutting off when the right level is reached to save you energy.

Capacity: This model offers a pretty basic 2.4 cubic feet capacity making it fine for a couple but on the small side for a larger family that wants to do big loads.

Value for money: For the price, it's not a machine you'd want to buy twice in a hurry, but as it's backed by a 10-year limited warranty from LG, you shouldn't need to worry about it giving you a durable performance for many years.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesRich and plentiful★★★★★
EfficiencyGreat long-term★★★★★
CapacityLow, for small loads★★★
ValueDecent despite high price★★★★

Woman’s hand loading dirty blue bed sheets in a white washing machine.

(Image credit: Getty; Anne Boonkerdthinthai)

How we choose the best washer dryer combos

We researched for more than 120 hours to find and compare the best washer dryer combos. We looked at specs pages to compare features and determine which are most important for consumers.

We consider a range of features and needs when testing these models. That means not only price and warranty period to ensure you're getting the most for your money but also features and performance.

This means looking at how long cycles take and how many are available across washing and drying. Then there is noise, something to consider, especially if you're living in a smaller space or with neighbors nearby.

Extra features like streaming, sanitizing, wrinkle reduction maintenance, scheduling, app controls, and more are all taken into account – not only as useful features but also to see if they are something you will use or just the company putting a new name on something standard, or not that necessary.

How to choose the best washer dryer combo

We researched for more than 120 hours to find and compare the best washer dryer combos. We looked at specs pages to compare features and determine which are most important for consumers. In our reviews, we highlight the washer dryer’s strengths and weaknesses.

Functionality

In general, washer dryer combos have capacities of around 2.5 cubic feet. That’s enough space to wash and dry about 10 pounds of laundry. We looked for machines with bigger drums since they allow you to wash fewer loads and use less energy over time.

As you compare machines, look for one with multiple water temperature, soil level, wash cycle, and dry cycle setting options. 

Washer & Dryer Cycles

The best washer dryer combos have many cycle settings and clean your clothes without damaging them. For example, they have settings for delicate fabrics and for washing colors that run.

Machines should also fully dry items of all kinds, including jeans and bulky towels. Some washer dryer combos only have one or two dryer settings, while others let you set the temperature, which is useful when you need to dry delicate fabrics.

Additional Features

All the washer dryer combos we compared have automatic dispensers that release detergent at the right time during the wash cycle. Most also include a lock that protects your children and the machine during a cycle. In addition, they usually have a digital display that shows what is happening during a cycle.

Features like an automatic load sensor, which fills the drum with the right amount of water based on load size, are less common.

Best washer dryer combo: An image of a washer dryer with clean, colorful laundry hanging out

(Image credit: Getty)

Washer dryer combo FAQs

How does a washer dryer combo work?

Although washer dryer combos may look like regular washers or dryers, these machines work rather differently. First, washer dryer combos do not need a dryer vent because they use condensation drying. This means that, instead of expelling heat through a vent, they use heat to filter through the load before it passes through a heat exchanger that helps to cool the air and collects any vapor in a tank. 

Unlike regular washers and dryers, the combo units use the standard 110-volt power, so you don’t need to plug them into a special outlet. Washer dryer combos are typically much smaller than regular washers and dryers, are relatively lightweight, and often have wheels to push them around your home. 

This portability is one of the reasons these combo units are so popular in apartments and other small living spaces. Although they often take longer to complete the washing-and-drying process, they’re great for people with limited space.

The washer dryer combo doesn’t overcomplicate things. Once you’ve whacked on a load and added detergent, the washer dryer will send your dirty laundry through the same cycle you’d get with a traditional washer. The difference is that rather than needing to move wet clothes into a separate dryer, the dryer cycle commences straight afterward, saving you the labor.

Unlike a regular dryer, which channels hot air into your laundry before pumping it into the room, this design’s drying system is typically sealed. This means it extracts moisture from your garments before cooling things down with a heat exchanger so that you won’t need to fret over air vents.

Are washer dryer combos worth it?

If you’re wondering whether a washer dryer combo is an appliance for you, you’ll want to consider your space and the size of your typical loads. If you live in an apartment in a big city, the washer dryer combo may be a good pick, as it’s far easier to squeeze into a tight space than two separate appliances. 

One of the biggest downsides to the washer dryer combo is that it gets tricky to process back-to-back loads. As you might expect, finishing one load can take up to a few hours, as the washer dryer combo sends your clothes through both cycles. Therefore, if you’re a big household wanting to get several loads out of the way in one day, you may be disappointed, or you’ll at least miss out on a lie-in to get an early start on laundry day.

Another qualm users have about investing in a washer dryer combo is their potential to be pretty noisy. However, you’ll find that most modern models are fairly quiet, as they often have built-in anti-vibration systems. Plus, with other extra features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, you’ll be well-sorted to track your laundry directly from your phone. 

Luke Edwards

Luke is a veteran tech journalist with decades of experience covering everything from TVs, power tools, science and health tech to VPNs, space, gaming and cars. You may recognize him from appearances on plenty of news channels or have read his words which have been published in most tech titles over the years. In his spare time (of which he has little as a father of two) Luke likes yoga, surfing, meditation, DIY and consuming all the books, comics and movies he can find.

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