Which washing machine is better: vertical or front loading. Vertical of cleanliness: conventional washing machine versus vertical Which washing machine is more reliable

Which washing machine is better, front loading or top loading? — This question arises, for example, among a newly-made family that has acquired its own home, or among other residents of cities and villages whose old washing machine has “decided to live for a long time.” If you have had a front-loading machine, you might wonder: “What if top-loading is more convenient? More durable?“ If you had a vertical washing machine, on the contrary, you might think: “Or maybe the front washing machine washes better? Maybe it will fit better into the interior?”

To come to the store and spend your honestly earned money on “the very best of the best washing machines in the world,” you need to familiarize yourself with the features of front-loading and top-loading washing machines. This article will help you understand the important nuances of choosing this technique.

Price and manufacturers

In order to compare prices for horizontal-loading washing machines and vertical washing machines, you need to take two machines from the same manufacturer, the same washing class, designed for the same number of kilograms of laundry and so that other parameters are similar.

Whatever one may say, equipment with vertical stacking of laundry is much more expensive. But does this mean that it will last longer and wash better? Unfortunately no.

The price is increased by the features of the factory assembly, and not by any additional benefits. The “famous” brand also significantly affects the cost. If a vertical one is right for you and you trust only well-known manufacturers (Bosch, and others), then you will have to spend a lot of money. A front-loading machine will cost a little less.

Choosing a washing machine. Which is better, vertical or front loading?

The compartment for storing dirty laundry in vertical and front-loading washing machines is located on different sides, respectively. Therefore, their internal structure is also different.

Front Load Washing Machine:

The linen feed hatch is located in the center of the front wall. It has a diameter of 23 to 33 cm and can open to a width of 90 to 180 degrees.
Above the door there is usually a control panel - buttons or a touch screen.<
The hatch has a transparent window through which you can see the entire washing process. It is unlikely that anyone will have the desire to sit for an hour and a half in front of a machine and watch with emotion how things spin in the drum. But there is still a plus in having a window. If an item that is not intended for washing is lost in a pile of dirty clothes (a wallet forgotten in a trouser pocket or a doll that your child “hid”), then you can stop the washer at the beginning of the cycle and take it out.
When the program starts, the door is locked with a special lock. That is, you will not be able to open it at any time. The door will unlock automatically after the wash is completed or when the machine is turned off.
Between the drum and the hatch there is a rubber seal (cuff) that prevents water from penetrating out. It is quite strong and durable, so it takes a lot of effort for the seal to fail.
When loading laundry, you will have to bend or squat in front of the machine. For most, this is not a problem, but for the elderly or people with sore legs or spine, this is a significant disadvantage. This detail is worth thinking about when choosing an automatic car.

Important! When choosing such a washing machine, in order not to make a mistake on quality, use ours.

Top loading washing machine

This device has a slightly different design:

The hatch for loading and unloading laundry is located on top. When it is folded back, we see a drum located horizontally, on which there is another hatch with a simple mechanical lock. The laundry gets into the washing compartment through it.
The big advantage is that you don’t need to “bow” to this technique. It's quite convenient to load laundry, although, let's be honest, you still have to bend down if you need to get socks or a T-shirt that are at the bottom of the drum.
On older models, the drum door is not always opposite the top hatch. You will have to scroll it to the desired position manually. Although in newer models this problem has been eliminated - manufacturers have added a “drum parking” function.
Of course, there is no window through which the washing process is visible, but you can add laundry while the machine is running (for example, socks that were suddenly found under the bed), without water spilling on the floor.
The control panel can be located on the side or on the top cover, and the detergent dispenser can be located under the cover.

Important! Use the ready-made review of such models to make the right choice. Click on the link with a separate article.

Dimensions

This question is of key importance when choosing which washing machine is better - vertical or frontal.

Front washing machine

Automatic front-loading washing machines can have different dimensions:

full-size: width - 60 cm, depth - 60 cm, height - from 85 to 90 cm, designed for 5-7 kg of laundry.
narrow: width - 60 cm, depth - from 35 to 40 cm, height - from 85 to 90 cm, designed for 3.5-5.5 kg of laundry.
very narrow: width - 60 cm, depth from 32 to 35 cm, height from 85 to 90 cm, designed for 3.5-4 kg of laundry.
compact: width from 47 to 50 cm, depth from 43 to 45 cm, height from 68 to 70 cm, designed for 3 kg of laundry.

You can choose the model that is suitable in size for your room.

Important! At the same time, do not forget that there should be free space in front of the machine for unhindered opening of the door and loading of laundry.

Additional advantages and opportunities:

The upper part of the machine can be used as a shelf for storing, for example, bath towels.
And if the equipment practically does not vibrate during washing, then you can place shampoos, shower gels, and tubes of cream on it.

Important! Many people embedfront loading washing machinesin kitchen furniture. This is also very convenient, especially if the bathroom is small.

When choosing, you should also take into account the expected washing volumes: there are models in front-facing machines that can accommodate up to 12 kg of dry laundry. Vertical ones allow you to load a maximum of 7 kg.

Vertical washing machine

Top-loading washing machines are usually 80-85 cm high, 40 cm wide, and 60 cm deep. It turns out that they are narrower than front-loading ones and more compact. In this case, there is no need for free space in front of the car, since the hatch opens from above.

This technique is an excellent choice for apartments with a small area, where every centimeter is worth its weight in gold.

Important! Such models are not often built into kitchen furniture, as it is not very convenient.

You cannot use such a machine as a shelf for bath accessories. But you can place this technique end-to-end in any corner.

Important! Most models have wheels under the bottom. This is convenient if you need to move the car to another place or simply clean up the dust behind it.

Service life and repair. Which washer is better: vertical or horizontal?

Practice shows that if you choose equipment from a reputable manufacturer, then front-facing and vertical-facing cameras last the same long time.

Important! Ifwashing machine - frontal or vertical, assembled with high quality, it will not vibrate during operation. The quality of washing is also no different - both types wash perfectly. Here you just need to pay attention to the technical data on the parameter when choosing a suitable model.

However, there are some nuances that may be useful to you in deciding which washing machine is better - front-loading or top-loading:

Previously, there was an opinion that vertical models were less likely to fail due to their design. Their drum is located horizontally and rests on two symmetrically located shafts. Allegedly, this fact suggests that the drum is more stable during operation and therefore lasts longer. But in modern front-facing washing machines, the design is also very well thought out; there is an automatic laundry balancer, so the drum does not loosen too much during washing and spinning.
It is impossible to say that some species breaks down faster. As for the cost of repairs, it must be said that putting the vertical in order will cost a little more, since repairs are more difficult, because the parts are very close to each other, and the spare parts themselves are more expensive.
If the vertical model breaks during the washing process, you will be able to remove the laundry without spilling water on the floor, which cannot be said about front-facing models. If they break down, then water leakage is more than likely.

Important! Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and all types of machines break down without exception. Therefore, when purchasing, try to consider whether there is a service center of the selected manufacturer in your locality.

Design and variety of models

If the space in your apartment allows you to choose any model of automatic washing machines, then, of course, front-facing machines have an advantage. All manufacturers have a model range to suit every taste and budget - from classic, modest white cars to futuristic bright ones with touch panels.

Important!Horizontal loading washing machinesoccupy 85% of all models on the market. But vertical models make up only 15% of the market.

Almost all brands can offer a vertical type of washing machine, but in appearance they are not very different from each other. These are simple, reliable “helpers”.

How to choose a washing machine?

In order to make a choice in favor of the model that is truly right for you, it is worth considering the following important aspects:

Decide on the location of the washing machine. If there is enough space, then choose any model you like. But if space is limited, then a vertical machine will definitely suit you better.
Think about whether it is important for you to have an inspection hatch and whether you need an additional shelf in the bathroom? If yes, then you need to buy a front-loading machine.
If you have small children and, after turning on the wash, there are constantly new soiled things in all the nooks and crannies of the apartment, then the vertical model is perfect. You can add more laundry to the machine at any time.

The money question: if you are not short on funds, then choose any model, but if the budget is limited, then a front-facing washing machine will cost you less, and subsequent costs if repairs are necessary will be lower.

Video material

When choosing a suitable model of an automatic machine, rely on the above points, since the quality of washing, service life and ease of use do not differ significantly.

The washing machine belongs to the category of essential household appliances. By type, devices are divided into two main types: frontal and vertical. The design of these machines is completely different, and it can be difficult to determine which model is more suitable for certain needs. Let's figure out which washing machine is better - vertical or front loading. We will also consider what their differences, advantages and disadvantages are. Large equipment is not cheap and is purchased for more than one year, so you should choose wisely.

Design and design differences between vertical and front loading washing machines

The main design difference between “frontal” and “vertical” is the location of the loading hatch. The hatch was located on the front panel of the car, and the lid opened to the side.

Vertical models are equipped with a hatch on top. The lid of such washing machines opens upward. Many people remember that just two or three decades ago there were only top-loading machines on the market. Front-mounted devices appeared not so long ago, but quickly replaced “vertical” devices in popularity.

Both types of machines have washing drums that rotate in a vertical plane. To load laundry into the front model, simply open the hatch. The process of loading and unloading laundry is a little more complicated: first you need to open the top cover of the housing, then open the lid lock on the drum itself. In addition, the drum can stop in any position after washing, and sometimes it still needs to be turned to get to the lid. There is nothing difficult in such manipulations, but when a person is accustomed to the “front-facing” washing machine, a vertical washing machine may seem inconvenient to him.

Some users find front loading more comfortable, while others prefer loading the machine with dirty laundry from the top. However, neither consumers nor experts find significant differences in the quality of washing.

How well the machine will handle different stains on different fabrics depends more on the specific model and its features than on the placement of the lid. To accurately decide which is better – a vertical hatch or a horizontal one, let’s take a closer look at the parameters of different types of machines.

Dimensions and required space

For many people, the issue of free space is quite acute. Without extra square meters, you have to carefully choose equipment, taking into account every centimeter. In this regard, washing machines with a loading chamber on the front panel are presented in a wider selection in terms of dimensions.

Frontal washing machines are divided into 4 types according to size:

As you can see, there is a lot to choose from among the “front-facing” ones, and you can find one that can easily fit right under the washbasin in a small bathroom. But there is one caveat: when installing such a washing machine, you always need to provide free space for the hatch, which swings open to the side, usually to the left. That is, there should be no furniture or objects in front of the machine at a distance of at least 1 meter. It seems like a little, but given the size of the unit itself, in total it is necessary to allocate about 2 m2 for it. For a small bathroom this is a significant area.

Vertical washing machines do not have such variety in size. Their sizes are almost standard:

Height – 80-85 cm.
Width – 40-43 cm.
Depth – 58-60 cm.

They themselves are quite narrow. The advantage here is that their hatch opens from the top, which means they don’t need any free space around to open the lid. The control panel of such models is also located on the top. When installing a “vertical”, you should take into account only one thing: how convenient it will be to approach it.

What is the difference between hatches of models with different types of loading?

The hatch itself (its size, material, design) does not play any role in the quality of washing. But this detail determines how convenient it will be to put things in and take them out. There are some other nuances in hatches that are worth paying attention to.

Hatches of vertical washing machines

In vertical narrow machines, the drum is installed horizontally, just like in front-facing machines. As mentioned above, you first need to open the top hatch, then the flap in the drum itself. More expensive models have a “drum parking” system. This means that at the end of the cycle the drum will always stop so that the flap is at the top, saving the user from unnecessary movements. The dimensions of the sash are slightly smaller than the average diameter of the front hatch. When loading clothes, this nuance is invisible. But loading, for example, a blanket into the side flap of the drum will be more difficult than loading it into the front hatch.

Less common are vertical activator-type automatic machines with a vertical drum. They are larger in size and more spacious. The lid is also located on top. There are no problems loading such units: after tilting the lid, the entire diameter of the drum is fully accessible.

Activated vertical washing machines have one more advantage: they can be loaded with additional laundry while the program is running.

Front washing machine hatches

For front-facing cameras, the diameter of the hatch ranges from 22-35 cm. The role of the lid is performed by a plastic or metal flap with a transparent glass window. When a program is activated, the door is sealed with an electronic lock and cannot be opened until the program is completed.

Not every model has a hatch door that swings wide. Only on expensive units the lid can be rotated 180 degrees. On most cars, the door opens 90, maximum 100 degrees.

When choosing a front-facing model, it is important to pay attention to the seal around the lid and the drum hatch itself. It must be of high quality, not thin, and moderately soft, otherwise there is a risk of water leaks during washing.

Which one is better to choose and for what purposes?

So, we come to the main question - which automatic machine is better - a narrow one with vertical loading or a more familiar one with front loading?

It is impossible to objectively make a choice in favor of any one type of machine. Both have their advantages. This dilemma must be approached subjectively, taking into account individual living conditions.

For front-facing machines, the hatch, containers for detergents and the control system are located on the front panel, and the top panel is completely flat and free. In the kitchen, such a machine can be placed under the countertop or in a cabinet. Even if you install it separately, the upper space can be used as a cabinet, placing smaller household appliances or other things on it.

Vertical washing machines are rarely installed in kitchens: they are impractical there. They cannot be built in, and you cannot place anything on top either. But for a small bathroom they are ideally suited, significantly saving space.

Otherwise, you should focus on the functionality and capacity of each specific model.

Both among the “vertical” and among the front-facing devices, there are machines with only a basic set of programs and options and more “sophisticated” ones with advanced functions. You can find a good washing machine that meets all your needs among any type of design.

Some people are interested in the question... The one that has been on the market for a long time and has a certain reputation is always better. But each company has more and less successful models in its lines, so it is still recommended to consider each specific machine separately.

Best models

We present an overview of several models of automatic washing machines of both types, combining a harmonious balance of characteristics, price and quality.

Vertical

The model with a capacity of up to 5 kg is equipped with intelligent electronic control, 18 programs and several degrees of protection. Maximum spin speed – 800 rpm. The width of the case is 60 cm, there are wheels on the bottom for easy movement. There is no display, but each setting is indicated by a light indicator. The unit belongs to class A in terms of energy consumption and washing efficiency. Quite a nice, high-quality vertical washing machine at an affordable price. You can buy Indesit ITW A 5851 W for 19,000 rubles.

A small-sized and very simple in functionality activator-type machine, belonging to the budget class. Its height is 63 cm and width is 41 cm. There are no “chips” in it and only 2 washing programs are provided. Nevertheless, it is quite high quality and practical. The model will be profitable and will save you from hand washing during the financial crisis. The average price of Slavda WS-30ET is 2800 rub.

A vertical washing machine with advanced functionality holds 7 kg of laundry. energy consumption class A+++ is assigned, intelligent electronic control is complemented by a display. The number of programs is 16; laundry can be spun at speeds up to 1400 rpm.

The device has a delay start timer for up to 24 hours. The following protective systems are provided: foam level control, leakage protection, drum imbalance control. This is one of the best cars in its category, which can be bought for 26,000 rubles.

Those who decide to choose a vertical washing machine can take a closer look at the model from Whirlpool. The device is fully automated, the machine holds 5 kg of laundry, has a large number of programs and several levels of protection. Any program can be supplemented with your own settings. Spin speed – up to 1000 rpm. Approximate price 22,000 rub.

One of the most expensive models, supplemented. The machine is designed for 6 kg of laundry, equipped with 13 programs and additional manual settings. It has a delay start timer and a display on the body. The laundry is spun at a speed of 1300 rpm. The device has a memory option and can remember the last manual settings for each category of things. Price Brandt WTD 6384 K – 67,000 rub.

Frontal

A budget front-loading washing machine can hold 6 kg of laundry in its drum. It has a fairly large hatch and an economical energy class (A+++). There are 16 preset programs, and manual settings are also provided. The case is protected from leaks, there is protection from foam, from drum imbalance and from children. The delay start timer lasts 24 hours. The large display shows all selected settings and program progress. You can buy the model for 15,000 rubles.

One of the latest models from Samsung, updated with new features. The maximum load is 6.5 kg, which the machine allows you to do while washing. The control is completely electronic, with a display installed on the body. There are 12 automatic programs, each of which can be adjusted. Among the advantages, we can note the option of cleaning the drum and a ceramic heater protected from scale. The price of the model ranges from 25,000-26,000 rubles.

The free-standing front washing machine holds 6.5 kg of laundry. Spin speed – up to 1200 rpm, number of programs – 13. Stylish design combined with the latest technologies make this machine a practical solution for the home. It has a special Smart Diagnosis mobile diagnostic function and “6 care movements” technology. The multi-stage protection system significantly extends the life of the device. The approximate cost of the unit is 23,000 rubles.

Bosch has always been associated with quality and reliability. The Bosch WLK 20246 washing machine is equipped with 15 programs, a maximum spin speed of up to 1000 rpm, a delay start timer, and a VarioSoft drum for 6 kg of laundry. The model has the ability to select the washing temperature, a signal for the end of the program is set, and the extended functionality includes soaking, stain removal, and pre-wash modes. The price of the front camera is 27,000-29,000 rubles.

A machine with a large hatch and a capacity of up to 7 kg of laundry. It has 12 programs and a high spin speed of up to 1600 rpm. This device also provides everything for comfortable and safe operation and impeccable washing quality. Average cost - 35,000 rubles.

To summarize, you can see that there is no point in arguing which machine is better - vertical or frontal. It all depends solely on the needs of the buyer. The most important thing when choosing is to give preference to trusted manufacturers who provide warranties. It is also advisable to take equipment from a company whose service centers are in your city.


Name
Installation	free-standing	free-standing	free-standing	free-standing	free-standing	free-standing	free-standing	free-standing, removable cover for recessing	free-standing	free-standing
Load Type	vertical	vertical	vertical	vertical	vertical	frontal	frontal	frontal	frontal	frontal
5 kg	3 kg	7 kg	5 kg	6 kg	6 kg	6.5 kg	6.5 kg	6 kg	7 kg
Spin speed	up to 800 rpm		up to 1400 rpm	up to 1000 rpm	up to 1300 rpm	up to 1000 rpm	up to 1200 rpm	up to 1200 rpm	up to 1000 rpm	up to 1600 rpm
Special programs	washing delicate fabrics, quick wash, pre-wash		washing delicate fabrics, economical wash, anti-crease, washing baby clothes, washing children's clothes, mixed fabric wash program, super rinse, quick wash, prewash	washing delicate fabrics, economical wash, anti-crease, super rinse, quick wash, prewash	washing delicate fabrics, anti-crease, super-rinse, quick wash, pre-wash	washing delicate fabrics, washing children's clothes, washing jeans, washing sportswear, washing children's clothes, super-rinse, quick wash, pre-wash	washing delicate fabrics, economical wash, washing children's clothes, washing black items, washing children's clothes, super rinse, quick wash, soak, pre-wash, stain removal program, steam	washing delicate fabrics, economical wash, anti-crease, washing children's clothes, washing sportswear, washing down items, washing children's clothes, mixed fabric program, super rinse, quick wash, prewash, stain removal program	direct injection, washing delicate fabrics, economical wash, night mode, washing children's clothes, washing jeans, washing down items, washing children's clothes, wash program for mixed fabrics, quick wash, wash with plenty of water, soak, pre-wash, stain removal program	washing delicate fabrics, economical washing, washing black items, washing sportswear, soaking, pre-washing
Price	from 19550 rub.	from 2350 rub.	from 26,000 rub.	from 24,750 rub.	from 67500 rub.	from 15550 rub.	from 29990 rub.	from 26200 rub.	from 28990 rub.	from 39,000 rub.
Where can I buy

Before you decide to buy an expensive item, you should collect more information about it. So this article will put everything in order and help you answer the question of which washing machine is best for you specifically.

Criterias of choice

When you come to the store and see dozens of different models of washing machines in front of you, you involuntarily get lost and for a long time cannot choose something specific. Then the price most often decides, but you want to make informed purchases and understand what you are buying and why.

Customer reviews on the Internet, ratings and reviews on specialized sites, for example, such as https://tehnokiev.com.ua/, will help you decide which washing machine is better.

You should resolve the following issues on land:

Which type of loading is preferable: vertical or frontal?
What volume is needed?
Where will it be located?
Are any special features needed?

Measure the place where you plan to place your purchase in advance so that you can go to the store with specific measurements. The standard dimensions of washing machines are 60x65x85, but there are exceptions. There are both little ones and real washing giants.

Consider where the drain will go: through a hose into the bathroom, sink, or it will be built into the sewer.

The functionality of 90% of models is the same; there are not so many distinctive functions. Some manufacturers offer a Children's clothing program, others have a Duvet, and still others offer Jeans. Even if the model you like does not have such sections, this does not mean that you cannot wash everything listed there. Just select the appropriate washing mode from those presented.

Now let’s look at the most difficult points, which usually confuse inexperienced housewives.

Which washing machine is better and more reliable: top-loading or front-loading?

To answer this question, you need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Vertical type

It was these machines that were the first to come to the Soviet market and were found in almost every apartment. However, now for some reason these beauties are chosen only in case of special needs, although they have a lot of advantages. Take a look for yourself:

Slender and petite. Such models are usually much narrower than their opponents, so they are ideal for even the smallest bathrooms;
The lid opens upward, thereby saving space in the room, the hatch does not block the passage;
The control panel is also located on top, so it will be difficult for a naughty child to click something unnecessary;
Many models have the ability to add laundry even during washing.

Speaking about the shortcomings, we highlight the following:

Smaller range compared to horizontal devices;
Higher cost;
The slimness of such models is achieved by increasing the height. So they are significantly higher than conventional washing machines;
Inability to build into countertops and use the top surface as a shelf.

Front loading

You can really find a lot of such home helpers in any hardware store - there is a choice in price, color, and functionality. What are their advantages?

Large assortment, better price;
Possibility of installation under a countertop or sink;
The top cover can serve as a stand for bath or washing supplies.

We will also discuss the weaknesses:

Dimensions. They require significantly more space in the bathroom for themselves;
During a breakdown, water often pours out through the hatch onto the floor. In particular, this happens when the gasket that serves to seal the drum becomes outdated;
Inability to download forgotten items while the process is running.

As you can see, all this does not affect the quality of washing, but only design preferences. So it would be wise to be guided, first of all, by the size of your bathroom.

Deciding on the volume

How much capacity do you need? This is one of the first questions you will hear from a sales consultant in a household appliances showroom.

The volume of the tank is measured in kilograms of dry laundry that it can accept in one cycle. The minimum capacity is 3.5 kg, such units are suitable for bachelors and small families.

Average machines are ready to wash 6 kg at a time. This will be enough for married couples with children. Considering that one double set of linen weighs approximately 2 kg, you can also add baby accessories or towels to it.

If you plan to wash bulky blankets, pillows and outerwear, consider devices with a capacity of 7 kg or more.

Please note that the cost of the unit will increase with the appetite of its tank.

On the household appliances market you can see a huge number of different types of washing machines. Every consumer wants the chosen model to please with quality, functionality and appearance. When buying a machine, many find it difficult to decide which loading is better - frontal or horizontal. But a definite answer cannot be given, since any technique has advantages.

How to decide on the model of a household appliance

Which washing machine is better to buy - top-loading or front-loading? Initially, models were manufactured with a vertical loading system. Later, devices began to appear in which the hatch was located not at the top, as usual, but at the front.

It is impossible to say exactly which car is better, because when buying you will need to take into account many nuances.

Installation location

This question is especially relevant for those who have small living space. You will need to make accurate measurements so that later you do not encounter a situation where the device simply does not fit into the opening intended for it.

In small rooms it is better to install a vertical washing machine. If space allows, you can take front-loading equipment. Moreover, it is often installed under work surfaces in the kitchen.

Device reliability

It is believed that the vertical model is safer. If a breakdown occurs, water will not end up on the floor, as happens when a front-facing washing machine breaks down. But in general, modern household appliances are quite reliable. The main thing is to use them correctly.

Manufacturer

The company that manufactures the washing machine is important. A manufacturer that values its name produces high-quality models. Accordingly, you will have to pay more for good equipment.

Price

Front-loading machines are more often purchased due to their affordable cost. Vertical models are often more expensive.

To finally decide whether a top-loading or front-loading washing machine is good, remember:

spin speed;
efficiency class;
dimensions;
the presence of a drying function;
the material from which the tank is made;
type of management;
warranty obligations.

Characteristics of cars with a hatch at the top

The demand for a washing machine, which features a vertical loading, is not as great as for front-loading models. But this does not mean that the device is not worth attention. It has advantages due to which buyers prefer to choose a model with vertical loading.

This washing machine attracts:

small dimensions;
the ability to reload laundry while the machine is operating;
no need for additional space to open the door.

But no matter how good the machine is, it will have some disadvantages:

Price. Top-loading machines have a higher price compared to similar front-loading machines.
Inability to place equipment under a countertop or sink.

According to reviews, vertical machines are more practical, especially for the elderly and people with disabilities, because washed items are more convenient to get out.

Features of devices with a front hatch

Choosing a good washing machine that loads clothes through the front hatch is quite simple. You can see many models in stores, one of which you will definitely like.

Similar devices differ:

affordable prices;
possibility of installation in the space under the kitchen countertop or sink;
lower height for some models.

Many buyers believe that it is better to buy such equipment, especially if it is made by a well-known company.

However, the model also has negative sides:

Front-mounted machines have larger dimensions.
Enough free space is required to open the door.
When the laundry is in the wash, it is not possible to add any additional items.

Popular models

Which brand is better for a top-loading washing machine? An important criterion when purchasing a device is its capacity. That is, a person must know how much laundry he can load at a time.

There are many vertical-type equipment that differ in this parameter. For example, among models up to 5 kg, a machine from Indesit is considered good, up to 6 kg – Zanussi, Gorenje or Bosch.

Which brand is better for a front-loading washing machine? Judging by the reviews, Siemens, LG, Bosch, and Zanussi equipment are popular.

When making your choice, you should always pay attention to the various parameters of the devices. What is ideal for a spacious room will be inappropriate in a small apartment.

As you know, all washing machines are divided into two large groups: front-loading equipment and top-loading equipment. The difference between a horizontal washer and a vertical one is quite significant; moreover, they are not even similar in appearance. In this publication, we will compare two types of washing machines in detail and answer the long-standing question of consumers about which “home assistants” are better.

How do these washers work?

The fundamental difference between a top-loading washing machine and a front-loading washing machine is the location of the loading hatch, hence the names. For front-facing washing machines, the hatch is located on the front wall of the washing machine, and for vertical washing machines, the hatch is located on the top. This difference is the main one, but not the only one.

A front-loading washing machine, like a top-loading washing machine, has drums that rotate in a vertical plane. But if in order to get to the drum of front-facing cameras you just need to open the hatch, then to access the drum of a machine with vertical loading, you need to open the hatch and special metal doors. If the drum of a top-loading washing machine does not position itself automatically, then you still need to manually tighten it, then open the doors and then just load the laundry. Besides.

A front-loading washing machine has a cuff - a rubber seal that prevents water from seeping through the closed hatch. In addition, there are a bunch of minor technical differences, which we will definitely tell you about when necessary.

How much space does it take?

Many users are very interested in saving space, so they are often willing to pay extra for more compact equipment. In this sense, a front-loading washing machine is better because it is produced in as many as 4 sizes. There are washing machines: narrow, super-narrow, standard and compact. Choices can be made in almost all situations.

Top-loading washing machines are almost all the same. If all models of cars of this type are placed next to each other, then you will see practically no difference, although there may be slight differences in size. For example, the variation in height reaches 10 cm (from 80 to 90), although height does not play a special role here. The spread in depth is even less than 5-7 cm, but the width is often standard - 40 cm.

If we compare a standard-sized front-facing dishwasher and a vertical-size washing machine, a top-loading washing machine will take up less space. If we compare a compact front-facing camera with a vertical camera, then the first one wins a good 10 centimeters in depth and several centimeters in width. Among front-loading washing machines, there are some quite unusual ones. They are apparently specially made for people who want to solve the issue of saving space radically.

When we talk about the overall dimensions of the two types of washing machines, in almost all cases front-loading washing machines win - they are better in this component.

Convenience issues

Now let's look at the issue of convenience. Which of the two types of washing machines is more convenient for the user? When answering this question, one cannot ignore subjective factors. Often, a person simply likes a top-loading washing machine better because he is used to it, and he himself cannot really explain why. It's the same with washing machines that have front loading. We will deliberately not discuss subjective aspects, but will look directly at the objective circumstances that make this or that type of washing machine more convenient.

For top-loading washing machines, the hatch is located on top, which means you don’t have to bend over every time you need to load laundry into the drum. For people suffering from radiculitis, this is a very valuable design feature.
Front-loading washing machines have a completely free top cover. Users place jars, bottles, bags of powder and other things on it as a shelf, considering it convenient.
The front panel can be built under the tabletop, which is very convenient. The vertical one loses in this regard.
In washing machines with front loading, the powder cuvette is easily removed, however, it is also easier to use, it is easier to pour in powder and pour in conditioner. Although experienced users of vertical machines claim that their “home assistants” have convenient powder receptacles, they are in the minority here.

Beauty and maintainability

It is difficult to talk about the beauty of a washing machine, since each user evaluates the beauty of equipment in his own way. But there are quite objective points. Top-loading washing machines are very similar to each other; there are no differences in design. The control panel, designed to individualize the washing machine model, is located on top, and therefore does not attract attention.

For front-facing cameras, everything is different. The size and shape of the hatch, the shape and design of the powder cuvette and control panel elements give a particular model of washing machine a unique personality and special beauty. Conduct your own experiment. Go to a hypermarket that sells household appliances and look at the range of front-loading washing machines. In this case, your gaze will definitely be drawn to the appearance of any model.

If you look in the same way at the model range of top-loading washing machines, then you will not be able to see anything remarkable - washing machines are just washing machines. There is another important nuance. If you buy a top-loading washing machine, then for the next ten years you will have to admire its appearance, since nothing can be done about it. The front camera can be installed separately, and if you get tired of its appearance, the problem can be solved by integrating the equipment into the furniture.

Only the color of the body can personalize a top-loading washing machine. The front panel is individualized by a number of elements. Which washer is better for this component? Draw your own conclusions.

As for maintainability, preference can also be given to front-loading washing machines. Everything is explained simply. There are more front-loading washing machines, and more spare parts and various components are supplied for them.

Craftsmen working in various cities of our vast homeland are better familiar with front-loading washing machines. Accordingly, components and spare parts for front-facing cameras can be purchased cheaper, and craftsmen will be relatively better able to repair them, although everything is individual. In terms of reliability, front-loading and top-loading washing machines are approximately the same; much will depend on the country of assembly, manufacturer and many other factors.

Why is vertical a little more expensive?

According to the manufacturer himself, top-loading washing machines are a little more expensive to manufacture, which means this certainly affects the final cost of this type of home assistant. But we think this is not the only reason. The fact is that top-loading washing machines are less in demand, there are fewer of them, which means there is less demand for them. Demand, as we know, creates supply, and the more manufacturers offer front-loading washing machines, the tougher the competition between them.

Where does this lead? And this leads to the fact that producers, competing with each other, are forced to reduce prices for goods in order to stay in the corresponding economic niche. In some places this effect is more pronounced, in others less, but in the end, front-loading and vertical-loading washing machines with approximately the same technical characteristics cost differently. Moreover, the price difference is definitely not in favor of verticals.

What is the conclusion?

Based on the totality of positive features and based on the opinions of the majority of consumers, we conclude that front-loading washing machines are somewhat better than top-loading washing machines. Although, of course, verticals also have a right to exist; moreover, in a number of cases their use is more justified.

In principle, our general opinion is quite consistent with the market situation. If we look at the market for automatic washing machines, we see the following picture: front-loading washing machines account for about 80%, while vertical washing machines account for only about 20%. Further reasoning is pointless, because the numbers speak more eloquently.