The best washing machines (and their matching dryers) for under $1,500 will boost your laundry game without breaking your budget.
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Shopping for not just one, but two major appliances can be a daunting task. The good news is that when it comes to a washer and dryer, these dynamic duos like to stick together. Once you decide on a washer, you can pick its dryer mate rather quickly. But with so many options and a budget of $1,500 or less, where should you start?
When choosing and buying washer and dryer bundles under $1,500, the main points to consider are budget, front- or top-load design, capacity, brand reliability, warranty and energy efficiency. From there, you can focus on any advanced settings and features that fit your needs. If you’re shopping for a wallet-friendly washer and dryer set, chances are you want to balance value with performance without sacrificing features.
The good news is that you don’t have to, as there are plenty of affordable washer/dryer combos out there that check boxes on value and dependability, priced below $1,500. Read on for a list of the best affordable appliance duos from trusted major brands, including Whirlpool, Maytag and LG.
Best Overall Washer and Dryer Bundle Under $1,500
Whirlpool Top-Load Washer/Dryer
Pros:
- Built to last
- Various settings
- Low vibration
- Dryer available in electric and gas
- Warranty options up to 10 years
Cons:
- Not as gentle on laundry
This top-load washer/dryer set from Whirlpool is ideal for small spaces, yet has enough space for bulky items, thanks to a 3.8 cubic feet washer and 7 cubic feet dryer capacity. The washer includes a spiral agitator with a fabric softener dispenser, and has an auto-sensing feature that automatically adjusts the water level based on the size of the load. This washer has a wide selection of cycles options to customize each load, like quick wash, delicates and bulky items. There’s even an add-a-garment option that lets you add clothing before the spin cycle starts.
The matching electric dryer continually monitors the temperature and moisture in the drum to prevent over-drying and conserve electricity. The dryer allows you to save your favorite settings for future use, and it offers a wrinkle-care system that tumbles clothes without heat to reduce creasing.
Roberto Severino, owner of Suwanee Appliance, recommends the Whirlpool brand, as it’s been very reliable for his customers. “Whirlpool washer/dryers are one of the most requested appliances people buy from our store. Even when their products do have issues, they are very easy for us to fix and find replacement parts, and generally last for a very long time,” says Severino.
On Sale
Best Stackable Washer and Dryer Bundle Under $1,500
LG Stackable Front-Load Washer and Dryer
Pros:
- Stackable or side-by-side configuration
- Smooth, quiet operation
- High-capacity set, yet compact
- Wide selection of cycles and wash options
- Backed by a 10-year warranty
Cons:
- Doesn't have some advanced features, like a steam cycle
This LG washer and dryer set is, hands down, the best budget stackable duo for small spaces. Thanks to both machines’ spacious stainless steel drums (4.5 cubic feet for the washer and 7.4 cubic feet for the dryer), this set can handle large loads of laundry, which isn’t always the case with stackable options. Even with this extra capacity, this set doesn’t take up extra space, due to its 30-inch depth that fills in smaller spaces. Rather have a side-by-side setup? This washer and dryer bundle under $1,500 can go in that configuration, too.
This washer offers eight cycles and six wash options, which is enough to meet most households’ needs. Additionally, the washer’s SmartDiagnosis function allows you to troubleshoot issues, just like you can with LG’s more expensive units. The doors are positioned to open opposite each other, so you can easily move wet clothes to the dryer. The standout feature of the dryer is Sensor Dry, which measures moisture to auto-adjust drying time. All in all, this set is sure to impress with its large capacity, yet compact footprint.
Best Front-Load Washer and Dryer Bundle Under $1,500
Maytag Side-by-Side Front-Load Washer/Dryer
Pros:
- Self cleans after every 30 washes
- 12-hour fresh spin cycle to guard against wrinkles
- Quick Wash and Quick Dry cycles
- Energy Star certified
- 10-year limited parts warranty
Cons:
- May be on the louder side
This particular model from Maytag is a top choice, thanks to its compact, counter-depth size and 10 cycle options to make your laundry care truly hassle-free. For starters, the 12-hour fresh spin setting protects your clothes against wrinkles in case you can’t immediately move them to the dryer. Where it really shines is its heavy-duty cycle, which has a cleaning performance of 82%—above the industry average of 77%.
For lightly soiled clothes, opt for the Quick Wash cycle, which cleans small loads in just 15 minute and pairs well with the dryer’s Quick Dry cycle. A late-add feature offers the chance to add in a forgotten garment in the middle of a cycle. There’s also a steam cycle for stains that are best treated with steam cleaning. On top of all that, this washing machine’s 4.5-cubic-foot capacity and the matching electric dryer’s 7.3-cubic-foot capacity offer enough space for a small family. A range of added features, like the dryer’s moisture sensing to auto adjust drying time, and a reasonable price makes the Maytag front-load washer/dryer set a top choice for busy families.
Best Top-Load Washer and Dryer Bundle Under $1,500
Amana Top-Load Washer/Dryer
Pros:
- Includes advanced features
- Gentle on clothes
- Each unit priced under $500
- Senses the size of the load and adjusts the fill
- Dryer door is reversibile
Cons:
- Smaller capacities
This Amana Agitator top-loader washer/dryer set is easy on the wallet and gentle on fabric. The washer is available for under $500—considerably cheaper than many other leading models. Inside the washer, you’ll find a porcelain-coated tub, which is gentler on clothing than a metal interior. There are two agitators that work together to move clothes around the drum, so you can expect a better clean. Did you spot a stray sock after starting the cycle? That’s OK! The late lid lock allows you to add laundry to the wash before the spin cycle starts.
This Amana washer has a 3.5 cubic feet capacity, and the electric dryer has a 6.5 cubic feet drum, which makes it a solid choice for singles or two people. However, if you have a larger household, a larger drum capacity would be better. The water level automatically adjusts depending on how much laundry you place inside the drum. There’s also a deep water wash cycle for when you want a more thorough clean. If laundry residue after a wash is an issue, there’s an extra rinse cycle option for deep cleaning. Advanced features are included in the dryer, such as temperature sensors to prevent over-drying, wrinkle prevention and 11 dry cycle options for any household’s needs.
On Sale
Best All-in-One Washer and Dryer Bundle Under $1,500
GE All-in-One Washer/Dryer Combo
Pros:
- Washes and dries in the same machine
- Stainless drum won't rust or snag clothing
- Steam and sanitizing functions
- Only requires a standard 120-volt outlet
- Gentle on delicate clothing
Cons:
- Longer drying time
For energy savings and convenience in one laundry appliance, the GE All-in-One is the front-runner. This ventless washer-dryer combo saves energy (it uses as little as 40% of the energy of conventional units). It’s easier on your clothes since it generates far less heat than a conventional unit, so it’s less likely to damage delicate clothing. The GE can take your laundry from dirty to dry in a single cycle, with no need to switch a load. Add a forgotten item at the last minute, even after the wash cycle has started, by pressing “pause” to unlock the door.
Along with the compact size, the ventless design of this all-in-one washer/dryer makes it suitable for installation in a closet or under a counter. The fact that this machine washes and dries without you needing to lift a finger saves you time and hassle on laundry day. With its 2.4 cubic feet capacity, this combo unit is best suited for when space is limited, when laundry loads are light or when you need a compact unit for an apartment or RV.
What to Look for When Buying a Washer and Dryer Bundle Under $1,500
Consider each of these points in order to find the right bundle for your washing and drying needs.
- Loading type: When is comes to front-loading vs. top-loading, front-loading washers typically use less water and energy and can accommodate bulkier items. Top-loading washers generally require less maintenance than front-loaders and are at less risk of mold, but models with agitators may damage more delicate items.
- Drum capacity: Capacity is usually measured in cubic feet, which is how much laundry the machine can hold, not the size of the machine. In general, you’ll need 2.4 to 3.5 cubic feet for a small household (one to two people), 3.6 to 5.0 cubic feet for a medium household (three to four people) and a capacity of 5.0 cubic feet or larger for a large household (five or more people).
- Type: If you have a spacious laundry room, a side-by-side would be best while a stacked set and all-in-ones are space savers, ideal for apartments and RVs.
- Space available: Measure the width, depth and height of the space to be sure your new set will fit. Allow 1 inch on each side for proper airflow and add at least 6 inches to the depth for the vent and water hook-up.
- Drum material: Stainless steel drums are smooth and durable, and often found in higher-end washing machines. Porcelain-enameled steel drums cost less and are gentler on laundry, but over time the finish can chip, snagging clothes.
- Vented or ventless: Vented dryer exhaust systems force hot, humid air outside. Ventless dryers push air through a condenser loop, which cools the air, pulling the water out of the air and into a collection tank or drain line. If you don’t have a dryer vent line and can’t install one, you’ll need a ventless dryer.
- Customer reviews: Look at customer reviews and ratings for washing machine brands and models. Ask friends and family for their experiences with different washer brands and models.
- Brand reputation: Some brands are known for their reliability and build quality. Companies like Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, GE, Bosch and Speed Queen, among others, have traditionally been well-regarded.
- Energy efficiency: Look for washing machines that are Energy Star certified, as they tend to be more efficient and may have fewer issues in the long run. According to Josh Mitchell, owner of Plumbing Lab, “A water-efficient washer will not only conserve vital resources, but also lead to substantial monthly water bill savings, especially in areas prone to droughts or water shortages. This efficiency is not just about cost—it’s about responsibility.”
- Warranty and customer service: Good customer service and a robust manufacturer warranty can save you headaches down the road, recommends Alex Hill from Appliance Depot. “Manufacturers now often offer warranties that cover two years of labor and 10 years of replacement parts, allowing for peace of mind,” says Hill.
Why You Should Trust Us
I have extensive experience writing about consumer products, like home appliances. And with a busy family, there’s a lot of laundry to do, so researching and recommending reliable, easy-to-service and high-quality machines is important to me. The Family Handyman has had high standards for product recommendations for decades now.
How We Found the Best Washer and Dryer Bundles Under $1,500
When rounding up the best washer and dryers, I leaned on my personal experiences. My Whirlpool set has lasted for 10 years with no issues. I also consulted with appliance, repair and plumbing experts, like The Plumbing Lab and Suwanee Appliance, on the top-selling sets out there. I continued by scouring the most popular retailers and studying customer reviews. Brands and models can change, so researching the latest information was essential to settle on the five best washer and dryer bundles under $1,500.
FAQ
Is it cheaper to buy washer and dryer together or separate?
Manufacturers often offer discounts or bundle deals for buying a set, which can result in cost savings. There are also certain times of the year to get great prices, like during Memorial Day, Labor Day and Black Friday sales. You’ll also see low prices in September and October, when manufacturers roll out new models, which makes older models a good deal.
What brand of washer has the least problems?
According to JD Power & Associates, Whirlpool was ranked one of the highest, scoring above 880 for many of its models. When you’re spending so much on a washer and dryer, there’s no doubt you want long-lasting, reliable models. Depending on how many loads you run per week, a quality set can last seven to 12 years.
Some brands known for their reliability and performance, and are considered the least problematic include Whirlpool (offering up to 10-year warranties), Maytag (known for its reliable appliances) and Speed Queen (built to last). These brands have long warranties, along with the best manufacturing practices, and are stable, reliable companies you can trust. While brand reputation is a good starting point, additional factors impact a machine’s lifespan, like proper installation, regular maintenance and usage.
Sources:
- Roberto Severino, owner of Suwanee Appliance
- Josh Mitchell, owner of The Plumbing Lab
- Alex Hill from The Appliance Depot
- JD Power and Associates
