Front-loading washers are a very hot commodity. If you're in the market for one of these popular, new laundry machines, you will be interested in the highlights of our most recently reviewed models. Selected for capacity, value, energy efficiency and versatility, these models are just a few of the front-loading washers that you will find crowding the floor of your local appliance dealer. Spend a little or spend a lot, but be ready to spend in excess of $700 for any product in this expanding category.


Whirlpool Duet HT WFW9400S

The Duet HT WFW9400S is Whirlpool's premier machine and is one of the biggest sellers in the front-loading category -- and for good reason. It has one of the largest capacities on the market, is loaded with convenience features, offers incredible water and energy efficiency, and makes an attractive -- if hulking -- statement in the laundry room. Available in four varying, neutral colors, the Duet HT WFW9400S is versatile enough to be used in a number of installations. Place this washer side-by-side with a dryer, on a pedestal for easy loading, or stacked with a dryer. Yet another option is to combine this washer and its dryer with a matching Whirlpool storage tower or workspace. As you might expect, each of these accessories adds plenty to the cost of the washer/dryer pair. Select this top-of-the-line equipment and you can expect to pay in excess of $2000 for a completely outfitted laundry room. Just don't plan on using these big machines under the counter -- they're way too big for that. And to prevent mold build-up, remember to follow the manufacturer's directions and keep the door ajar when this washer is not in use.

Whirlpool Duet HT Washer, WFW9400
Whirlpool Duet HT Washer, WFW9400

Whirlpool Duet Sport WFW8500S

Look to the Whirlpool Duet Sport model for upstairs installations or other areas that lack a solid concrete pad under the floor. The WFW8500S is referred to as the Sport model because like a sport vehicle, it offers an improved suspension system over the Duet HT models. The one and only reason that Whirlpool offers the Sport is because the original HT models vibrate like crazy when they spin at top speed. This Sport model won't give your home a bad case of the shakey-shakes if you install it in a less than stable location. With slightly less features than the top-of-the-line model, the Duet Sport will save you a few dollars over the HT models. Just don't make the mistake of foregoing suspension for features, if you plan to use this washer upstairs. Plan on spending about $899 for this washer without its matching dryer.


Maytag Neptune MAH6500A

The re-designed Maytag Neptune MAH6500A is a particularly good buy. Once haunted by electronic failures and mold build-up, Neptune washers have been re-engineered and are emerging from a lawsuit and a damaged reputation. For just these reasons, the price is particularly attractive. Once running as high as $1000, a Neptune washer, like the NAH6500A, can now be purchased for less than $799. Not in a position to take any chances, Maytag, under its new parent company Whirlpool, is again putting out machines that you will soon be hearing referred to as "old reliable." The Neptune MAH6500A stands out from the crowd for more than just its price. The features, efficiency and especially the capacity are quite impressive. In terms of design, this model is usually a good fit if you're replacing a traditionally styled washer. Larger, commercial looking models can be too large to use in some installations without making expensive alterations to your laundry area. While it fits in most existing spaces, the Neptune MAH6500A isn't the answer if you wish to stack or build-in your washer/dryer pair.


Amana NAH6800AWWW

Sister machine to Maytag's Neptune washers, Amana's NAH6800AWWW is built on nine similar chassis and in the same plants. Shop this model against the Maytag unit and buy the one offered at the best price. Like other front-loading models, this one has excellent energy efficiency, low water usage and a voluminous capacity. The features are impressive; the soak and quick wash cycles are busy-family convenient. We've cautiously watched these models for years and finally think they're ready for the masses. Prices have come down considerably. Look for the NAH6800AWWW to be priced less than $799.

Bosch Nexxt 500 Series, WFMC3301UC
Bosch Nexxt 500 Series, WFMC3301UC

Bosch Nexxt 500 series Front-loader WFMC3301UC

Of the Euro-styled Bosch models, the WFMC3301UC is far and away our favorite. It's versatile enough to use anywhere, including under a counter. It has an excellent capacity, is extremely energy efficient and has very conservative water usage. The high spin-speed (1100 rpm) removes water effectively and saves time and energy in the dryer. As quiet as the most expensive Bosch model, this washer is jam-packed with features you will really use, including an onboard heater. Plan on spending right around $1000 for this Nexxt 500 series model.