9 Best High Efficiency Washers (November 2026)

The best high efficiency washers include the COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine for compact twin-tub laundry, the ROVSUN 17.8LBS Full Automatic Washing Machine for a compact washer-dryer set, and the Samsung Smart 4.7 Cu Ft Top Load for smart top-load laundry.

On this page (6 sections)

1. The best high efficiency washers for different laundry setups
2. How to choose the best high efficiency washer
3. Is a front-load or top-load high efficiency washer better?
4. What should you check before installing an HE washer?
5. How can you use a high efficiency washer well?
6. Which high efficiency washer should you choose?

The **best high efficiency washer for most full-size households is the BLACK+DECKER 4.5 Cu. Ft.

Front Load Washer**, with 12 cycles, 5 temperature choices and ENERGY STAR qualification. Choose Samsung for a smart top-load washer and dryer bundle, Kenmore for an agitator, or COSTWAY for compact portable laundry.

We compared high efficiency washers by capacity, loading style, cycle choices, installation needs and the type of household each model can serve. The list includes full-size machines, vertical laundry centers, washer-dryer sets and portable washers.

If HE terminology is new to you, start with What Makes a Washer High Efficiency? HE Basics Explained.

For a closer look at front-load water use, read this guide to front load washer water usage.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for compact twin-tub laundry

   COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a compact washer-dryer set

   ROVSUN 17.8LBS Full Automatic Washing Machine

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for smart top-load laundry

   Samsung Smart 4.7 Cu Ft Top Load

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   BLACK+DECKER 4.5 Cu. Ft. Front Load Washer

   Best for flexible full-size cycles
   Check it
5. 5

   Kenmore 4.4 cu. ft. Top Load Washer

   Best for fast top-load cycles
   Check it
6. 6

   Auertech 35 lbs Washing Machine

   Best for large portable loads
   Check it
7. 7

   GE Unitized Spacemaker® 2.3 Cu. Ft. Washer

   Best for vertical laundry centers
   Check it
8. 8

   Anypro Washing Machines 17.8LBS Full Automatic Clothes

   Best for simple apartment controls
   Check it
9. 9

   Nictemaw 2.8 Cu.ft. Portable Washer with Drain

   Best for quiet portable balance control
   Check it

The best high efficiency washers for different laundry setups

The best high efficiency washer depends on your space and load pattern. Full-size households should start with BLACK+DECKER, Samsung or Kenmore, while apartment and RV buyers may prefer a portable model or a vertical laundry center.

1

COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine: Best for compact twin-tub laundry

9.6/10Our score

• 12 lb washer and 8 lb spinner
• 15-minute wash timer
• 5-minute spin timer
• 330W wash power and 110W spin power

The twin-tub design separates washing and spinning, giving small-space buyers a compact way to move laundry through separate stages. Its knobs and short timers suit apartments, dorms and camping.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Compact freestanding design
• Separate washer and spinner
• Simple knob controls

Cons

• Smaller washer capacity than full-size models
• Requires a faucet adapter if the hose does not fit

COSTWAY is the highest-scoring compact choice because its twin-tub design separates washing from spinning. The washer holds 12 lb, while the spinner holds 8 lb, giving small-space users two separate stages in one freestanding unit.

Three knobs control the washing selector, washing timer and spin timer. The timer allows up to 15 minutes for washing and 5 minutes for spinning, so it suits buyers who prefer simple manual controls.

Its 14 x 25 x 28.5 in size fits the portable category better than the full-size machines below. The 29 lb weight also makes it easier to consider for dorms, apartments and camping, although you still need a suitable water connection and drain plan.

The ABS and polypropylene construction includes a plastic drum and a side filter. Use the included inlet hose kit and instructions during setup, and check whether a faucet adapter is needed for your connection.

Choose COSTWAY when compact size and separate wash and spin tubs matter most. A full-size automatic washer is a better fit for large loads that need fewer transfers between cycles.

2

ROVSUN 17.8LBS Full Automatic Washing Machine: Best for a compact washer-dryer set

9.5/10Our score

• 17.8 lb automatic washer
• 1.5 cu ft washer and dryer set
• 8 wash cycles
• Stainless steel inner tub

ROVSUN combines a compact washer with a separate dryer for buyers who need a complete laundry setup in a small home. The washer has 8 cycles and a stainless steel inner tub.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Washer and dryer included
• Compact 2-piece setup
• Child lock

Cons

• Dryer quick-dry load is limited to 5.5 lb
• Smaller washer capacity than full-size units

ROVSUN suits buyers who want a washer and dryer together without choosing a full-size laundry center. The set includes a 17.8 lb fully automatic washer and a 1.5 cu ft portable clothes dryer.

The front-load washer has 8 washing cycles and a stainless steel inner tub. The dryer has 3 drying cycles, and quick drying is limited to no more than 5.5 lb at a time, so large wash loads may need more than one drying batch.

The 18.6 x 20.1 x 34.1 in dimensions make this a compact setup for an apartment, dorm, home or RV. Adjustable feet are included in the design, and the dryer can be wall-mounted with the included kit.

ROVSUN lists a 110-volt system and a 400-watt specification. The set also includes a child lock and a single-compartment washer dispenser for detergent and fabric softener.

Pick ROVSUN if same-day washing and drying in a compact footprint is more important than a large drum. For a single vertical unit, compare it with GE's smaller washer and dryer center.

3

Samsung Smart 4.7 Cu Ft Top Load: Best for smart top-load laundry

9.5/10Our score

• 4.7 cu ft top-load washer
• SmartThings app control
• Active WaterJet
• Vibration reduction and Self Clean

This Samsung bundle suits buyers replacing laundry appliances together and wanting remote control through SmartThings. The washer adds a built-in WaterJet and vibration reduction.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Large washer capacity
• Washer and dryer bundle
• Remote app control

Cons

• Top-load design needs overhead lid clearance
• Bundle includes a single washer cycle option in the specs

Samsung is the strongest smart top-load option for buyers replacing both appliances at once. The bundle pairs a 4.7 cu ft top-load washer with a 7.4 cu ft electric dryer and includes washer hoses, 3-prong and 4-prong dryer cords, an 8 ft vent duct and a 1-year CPS protection plan.

That bundled approach helps when an older washer and dryer are being replaced together. You do not need to guess which cord fits the outlet or find a vent duct separately.

The washer includes Active WaterJet for pretreating stains in the tub, vibration reduction and Self Clean. Those features suit households that treat stains before washing or want a cleaner routine without scrubbing the tub by hand.

SmartThings app control lets you control and monitor the washer and dryer remotely. That can help when laundry is started before leaving a room or when you want cycle updates without standing in front of the machines.

The top-load design gives you a large drum, but it needs clearance for the lid to open. The black washer has a stainless steel drum and a single-compartment detergent dispenser.

Measure above the washer before choosing it, especially under shelves or cabinets. Also check the vent path for the dryer, because a long or blocked route can affect drying.

Choose Samsung if smart control, large capacity and a complete bundle fit your laundry room plan. Check the available height, outlet setup and vent path before choosing a top-load set.

4

BLACK+DECKER 4.5 Cu. Ft. Front Load Washer: Best for flexible full-size cycles

9.5/10Our score

• 4.5 cu ft capacity
• 12 wash cycles
• 5 temperature choices
• ENERGY STAR qualified and 1300 RPM maximum spin

BLACK+DECKER gives full-size households a broad cycle and temperature range in a front-load washer. Its 4.5 cu ft drum and 1300 RPM maximum spin suit regular family laundry.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 12 cycles
• ENERGY STAR qualified
• Delay start up to 24 hours

Cons

• Heavy 216.1 lb unit
• Needs hot and cold water connections

BLACK+DECKER is the best general full-size choice because it combines a 4.5 cu ft front-load drum with 12 wash cycles, 5 temperature choices and 5 spin options. It is ENERGY STAR qualified and reaches a maximum spin speed of 1300 RPM.

The cycles include Normal/Colors, Bulky/Sheets, Heavy Duty, Whites, Towels, Sanitize, Quick Wash, Delicates, Baby Care, Sportswear, Tub Clean and Rinse & Spin. That range helps separate everyday clothes, towels, bulky items and care-sensitive loads.

A 24-hour delay start lets you schedule a load, while auto unbalance detection helps manage uneven loads. The LED display and touch controls make the selected settings visible during operation.

At 34 x 27 x 39 in and 216.1 lb, this is a full-size installation rather than a portable solution. It needs hot and cold water faucets, a grounded 120V outlet and a suitable drain.

Pick BLACK+DECKER if you want the widest cycle range among the full-size picks. Compare its front-opening door with your room layout, especially if a walkway or cabinet sits directly in front of the washer.

5

Kenmore 4.4 cu. ft. Top Load Washer: Best for fast top-load cycles

9.5/10Our score

• 4.4 cu ft capacity
• Triple Action Agitator
• 10 wash cycles
• Express Wash and Accela Wash

Kenmore suits buyers who want a large top-load washer with an agitator and short-cycle options. Express Wash is designed for a 3 lb load, while Accela Wash targets full-size loads.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Triple Action Agitator
• 10 cycles
• Soft-close tempered glass lid

Cons

• Needs overhead lid clearance
• Agitator takes space inside the drum

Kenmore suits buyers who want a large top-load washer with a traditional agitator. Its 4.4 cu ft capacity and Triple Action Agitator move laundry through spraying action, wash basket action and agitator action.

The washer has 10 cycles, including Heavy Duty, Whites, Towels, Delicates, Express, Cold Clean, Rinse & Spin and Clean Washer. Express Wash is designed for a 3 lb load, while Accela Wash is intended to shorten full-size loads compared with the stated standard load conditions.

Four temperature options and Extra Rinse give you more control over everyday fabric care. The soft-close tempered glass lid avoids a hard slam, and the LED shows time remaining and cycle status.

The 30 x 27 x 44 in cabinet is taller than the front-load BLACK+DECKER. Measure the lid's opening path before choosing it, especially beneath shelves or cabinets.

Choose Kenmore if you prefer an agitator and faster cycle choices. Choose a front-load model instead if the top opening would be difficult to use in your laundry room.

6

Auertech 35 lbs Washing Machine: Best for large portable loads

9.5/10Our score

• 35 lb capacity
• 12 wash cycles
• 8 water levels
• 420W motor and 1600 RPM spin speed

Auertech is the portable pick for households that need unusually large loads without a standard built-in washer. Its 12 cycles, 8 water levels and drain pump give it a wide use range.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Largest stated capacity here
• Built-in drain pump
• Tub self-cleaning cycle

Cons

• 66 lb portable unit still needs floor space
• 25 in depth and width require careful placement

Auertech is the portable pick for buyers who need the largest stated capacity in this group. Its 35 lb fully automatic design is intended for loads that can include outfits, towels, sheets, blankets and comforters.

The machine has 12 wash cycles and 8 water levels, including Normal, Bulky, Quick Wash, Soft, Baby Care and Tub Clean. Its 420W motor and 1600 RPM spin speed are aimed at strong wash action and lower moisture after spinning.

The 25 x 25 x 39 in cabinet is much larger than compact portable models, so measure the floor area carefully. A built-in 4.5 ft drain pump helps move water from the machine, while an included faucet adapter supports setup with many standard faucets.

The soft-close tempered glass lid lets you see the cycle, and the child lock protects the settings during operation. A 24-hour delay start helps schedule a load around your day.

Choose Auertech if portable placement matters but small loads are not enough. Its size makes it less suitable for a narrow closet than Anypro or COSTWAY.

7

GE Unitized Spacemaker® 2.3 Cu. Ft. Washer: Best for vertical laundry centers

9.2/10Our score

• 2.3 cu ft top-load washer
• 4.4 cu ft electric dryer
• 24 in wide unitized design
• Bulky, Delicates, Quick Wash, Rinse and Spin cycles

GE fits buyers who need a washer and electric dryer in one vertical appliance. The 24 in width helps in apartments, closets and other narrow laundry areas.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Washer and dryer in one unit
• 24 in wide design
• 15 wash options and cycles listed

Cons

• Smallest washer capacity in this roundup
• Vertical layout needs height clearance

GE is the best high efficiency washer choice for buyers who need a washer and electric dryer stacked in one narrow appliance. The Unitized Spacemaker is 24 in wide, with a 2.3 cu ft top-load washer and a 4.4 cu ft electric dryer.

The washer includes Bulky, Delicates, Quick Wash, Rinse and Spin options. The laundry center also lists 15 option cycles and cycles, while the dryer has 4 drying cycles with auto dry and timed dry options.

The vertical format saves floor width, but it needs enough room above the unit and a clear path for the top-load washer. Its stainless steel washer basket adds a durable drum material to the compact design.

Choose GE if your laundry room is narrow and you need both appliances. The 2.3 cu ft washer capacity is smaller than every other full-size washer in this roundup, so it suits smaller loads better.

8

Anypro Washing Machines 17.8LBS Full Automatic Clothes: Best for simple apartment controls

8.2/10Our score

• 17.8 lb capacity
• 10 wash programs
• 8 water levels
• Fuzzy control and child lock

Anypro gives apartment, dorm and RV buyers a compact automatic washer with many programs and water levels. Its stainless steel drum and time-remaining display keep the controls straightforward.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Compact footprint
• 10 programs and 8 water levels
• 40 dB noise specification

Cons

• Smaller capacity than full-size washers
• Included components list only the washer and user manual

Anypro fits buyers who want a compact automatic washer with more program choices than a basic portable machine. It holds 17.8 lb, offers 10 wash programs and has 8 water levels.

Programs include Drain, Normal, Prewash, Quick Wash and Spin. Fuzzy control adjusts settings automatically, while the child lock helps prevent accidental changes during operation.

At 19.9 x 19.7 x 33.7 in and 43.3 lb, Anypro uses less floor space than the full-size picks. Its stainless steel drum and time-remaining display make it a practical fit for apartments, dorms, RVs and other small laundry spaces.

Anypro lists a 40 dB noise specification. The included components are the washing machine and user manual, so confirm your water and drain setup before placing it.

Pick Anypro if you want an automatic portable washer with many water levels. COSTWAY is better if you prefer a twin-tub design, while Nictemaw gives you a larger 2.8 cu ft drum.

9

Nictemaw 2.8 Cu.ft. Portable Washer with Drain: Best for quiet portable balance control

8.1/10Our score

• 2.8 cu ft capacity
• 10 wash programs
• 8 water levels
• Automatic Unbalance Detection and built-in drain pump

Nictemaw is a portable choice for buyers who want a larger drum than compact apartment washers and automatic balance control. Its drain pump supports flexible placement.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 10 programs and 8 water levels
• Built-in drain pump
• Automatic Unbalance Detection

Cons

• Portable capacity remains below the largest full-size picks
• 55 dB noise specification is higher than Anypro's listed figure

Nictemaw is a balanced portable option with a 2.8 cu ft stainless steel honeycomb drum and a stated 20 lb capacity. It gives buyers more room than compact 17.8 lb models while keeping a portable top-load format.

Ten wash programs and 8 water levels cover soak, wash, rinse and spin tasks. The LED display shows the selected cycle and remaining time, while Automatic Unbalance Detection works with adjustable leveling feet to reduce vibration from uneven loads.

A built-in drain pump and extended hose support drainage from different heights. The 20.07 x 20.07 x 33.86 in cabinet fits apartments, homes, dorms, RVs and camping setups when the floor and water connection are suitable.

Nictemaw also includes a child safety lock and a 24-hour delay start. Its listed noise level is 55 dB, so buyers who care about sound should compare that figure with Anypro's 40 dB specification.

Choose Nictemaw if you want portable capacity, automatic balance control and flexible drainage. Pick Auertech for the largest stated load capacity, or Anypro for a smaller footprint.

How to choose the best high efficiency washer

The right high efficiency washer starts with capacity and room measurements, not the number of cycles. Measure the doorway, available width, depth, height and the space needed to open a front door or top lid.

A washer that fits the room will be easier to use every week. A model that is too deep, too tall or too wide can turn laundry day into a struggle before the first load even starts.

Full-size households should compare the 4.4 cu ft Kenmore, 4.5 cu ft BLACK+DECKER and 4.7 cu ft Samsung. These machines give more room for regular household laundry than the 2.3 cu ft GE or compact portable models.

Capacity matters most when towels, bedding, work clothes and everyday outfits pile up between wash days. A larger drum can reduce the number of loads, while a smaller drum may need more frequent cycles.

Portable buyers should compare more than the stated pound capacity. COSTWAY uses separate wash and spin tubs, while Anypro and Nictemaw are automatic top-load models.

That difference changes daily use in a practical way. A twin-tub machine asks you to move clothes from one tub to another, while an automatic model runs more stages without that transfer.

Auertech offers the largest stated capacity but also needs a 25 x 25 in floor area. That footprint can work in a home laundry area, yet it may be too large for a narrow closet.

Think about where each machine will live after delivery. A portable washer still needs a stable floor, a water connection and a place for water to drain.

Also think about who will use the washer most often. Top-load models suit people who prefer loading from above, while front-load models suit people who want a door at waist height.

Compare the loading style with your room layout before comparing extra features. A top lid needs overhead clearance, and a front door needs clear space to swing open.

Finally, match the washer to your normal load size rather than your largest possible load. A machine that handles your usual laundry well will serve you better than one chosen for rare bulky items.

Is a front-load or top-load high efficiency washer better?

A front-load high efficiency washer is usually the better fit when you want a large drum with a front-opening door and many cycle settings. BLACK+DECKER offers 12 cycles, while ROVSUN combines an 8-cycle washer with a separate compact dryer.

Front loading can make it easier to add or remove laundry without reaching over a high cabinet. It also lets the washer sit under a counter in some layouts, although the door still needs room to open fully.

A top-load washer suits buyers who prefer loading from above. Samsung adds Active WaterJet and app control, while Kenmore uses a Triple Action Agitator and Express Wash.

That style can feel simpler for people who sort laundry while standing. You can see the load, adjust items and close the lid without bending to a front door.

Top-load machines need space above the cabinet for the lid. Front-load machines need space in front for the door and enough room to move laundry in and out.

Clearance is easy to forget during shopping because showroom photos rarely show nearby cabinets or walls. Measure the open lid height and the front door swing before ordering either style.

Front-load models in this roundup include BLACK+DECKER and the ROVSUN washer. Both suit buyers who want a compact or full-size drum with a front opening.

Top-load models include Samsung, Kenmore, COSTWAY, Auertech, GE, Anypro and Nictemaw. That wider range makes top loading easier to match with different rooms and load sizes.

Choose front load when the door swing and waist-height loading fit your space. Choose top load when overhead clearance is available and loading from above feels more natural.

Also consider how you move laundry after washing. A front-load washer may need a basket placed in front of the door, while a top-load washer lets you lift clothes straight up and out.

What should you check before installing an HE washer?

Check the water connections, drain path, electrical outlet and floor before delivery. BLACK+DECKER requires hot and cold faucets, a grounded 120V outlet and a drain that can handle the washer stated requirements.

Those requirements are part of the machine, not optional extras. A washer cannot fill, wash or drain properly if the connections do not match its design.

Portable washers need their own water and drain plan. COSTWAY may need a faucet adapter, Auertech includes a drain hose and faucet adapter, and Nictemaw includes a drain hose with a built-in drain pump.

That plan matters more with portable models because they may move between rooms. Test the hose length and drain location before the first wash, not after the tub is full.

Remove shipping materials as directed by the instructions. Level the washer before running a load, keep the drain hose secure and avoid overloading the drum.

Leveling helps the washer spin without walking across the floor. A secure drain hose also prevents water from spilling where it should not go.

For a full-size washer, confirm that the floor is solid enough for a heavy machine. BLACK+DECKER is listed at 216.1 lb, so placement and leveling deserve extra care.

For a bundle such as Samsung, check both the washer hoses and the dryer vent path. The included cords and duct help, but the outlet and vent route still need to fit your room.

For portable models, check whether the faucet adapter fits your sink or tap. COSTWAY notes that a faucet adapter may be needed when the hose does not fit.

Keep the instructions nearby during setup and follow the order they give. Careful setup protects the machine and makes the first wash calmer and cleaner.

How can you use a high efficiency washer well?

Use the detergent type and amount required by the washer instructions, sort loads by fabric and soil level, and choose a cycle that matches the load. Do not use a short cycle for a full heavy load simply to save time.

A matched cycle gives fabric the movement, water and spin it needs. A shortcut can leave soil behind and may tempt you to wash the same load again.

Keep bulky items balanced around the drum rather than placing one heavy item alone. Clean the tub on the schedule in the instructions, leave the washer ready for airflow after use and check hoses for leaks.

Balance matters in both top-load and front-load drums. A single heavy item can shift during spin and make the cycle noisier and less smooth.

Clean the tub as directed and let the interior dry with airflow where the design allows it. That routine helps keep the drum fresh between loads.

Check hoses regularly for cracks, loose fittings or slow drips. A small leak found early is easier to fix than water damage found later.

For more water-use context, read How Much Water Does a Front Load Washer Use?. If energy use is your main concern, compare these picks with our guide to the best energy efficient washing machine.

Which high efficiency washer should you choose?

Choose the COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine for the best compact twin-tub setup, or the ROVSUN set when a small washer and dryer matter more than a large drum. For a full-size home, choose BLACK+DECKER for cycle flexibility, Samsung for smart bundle features or Kenmore for an agitator.

Each pick suits a different room and routine. The right choice depends on load size, loading style, available space and how the machines will be installed.

Pick Auertech when portable capacity is the priority, GE when a 24 in laundry center is the right shape, Anypro for compact automatic controls and Nictemaw for portable balance control. Those four options cover large portable loads, narrow vertical space, simple apartment controls and flexible drainage.

Match the machine to your room, load size and installation limits before ordering. Measure the space, check the water and drain plan, and confirm that the lid or door can open fully.

If you wash for a full-size household most days, start with BLACK+DECKER, Samsung or Kenmore. If space is tight, compare COSTWAY, ROVSUN, GE, Anypro and Nictemaw more closely.

The best high efficiency washer is the one you can place, connect and use without fighting your room. A careful match will make laundry day simpler from the first load onward.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for compact twin-tub laundry

   COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a compact washer-dryer set

   ROVSUN 17.8LBS Full Automatic Washing Machine

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for smart top-load laundry

   Samsung Smart 4.7 Cu Ft Top Load

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best high efficiency washer for most homes?

The BLACK+DECKER 4.5 Cu. Ft.

Front Load Washer is the strongest general choice here for households that need full-size capacity, 12 cycles, 5 temperature choices and ENERGY STAR qualification.

Choose Samsung if you want a top-load washer and dryer bundle with app control, or Kenmore if you prefer an agitator.

Are high efficiency washers only front load?

No. High efficiency washers can be front load or top load.

This roundup includes front-load models from BLACK+DECKER and ROVSUN, plus top-load options from Samsung, Kenmore, COSTWAY, Auertech, GE, Anypro and Nictemaw.

Compare the required detergent, water use, capacity and loading height before choosing.

What size high efficiency washer should you buy?

A 4.4 to 4.7 cu ft washer fits many full-size household loads, while 2.3 to 2.8 cu ft models suit smaller homes and portable setups. A 12 lb or 17.8 lb portable washer may fit apartments, dorms or RVs.

Measure the room, doorways and clearance above a top-load lid before ordering.

Do high efficiency washers use less water?

High efficiency washers are designed to clean with less water than older conventional machines, but the exact amount depends on the model, cycle, load and settings.

Learn why HE washers use so little water and when to check before assuming a small water level means a problem.

Should you choose a front-load or top-load HE washer?

Choose a front-load HE washer when you want a low-opening design and broad cycle control, or a top-load model when you prefer loading from above. Front-load units need door space, while top-load units need lid clearance.

Also compare the drum capacity, installation needs and the way you normally sort laundry.