Flash Sale! to get a free eCookbook with our top 25 recipes.

The 5 Best Direct Drive Washing Machine | Ultimate Buyers Guide

Are you looking for washing that saves both time and energy? Switch to the best direct drive washing machines for 2022 and get peace of mind.

Washer appliances like dishwashers and washing machines are convenient for their automated services. 

But in their drawbacks, a significant tolerance of noisy operation and high electricity consumption must be tolerated. But the advancement of technology has brought us a peaceful solution.

The direct drive washing machine operates with beltless motors and chains. The direct drive washing machines are highly efficient in energy and performance. Moreover, it’s much quieter compared to the standard washing machines.

5 Best Direct Drive Washing Machine

  1. LG WM3998HBA 4.5 Cu.ft. Front Load Washing Machine
  2. LG WM3488HW 24″ Washer/Dryer Combo Washing Machine
  3. Giantex Top Load Washing Machine
  4. Kenmore 28″ Top-Load Washing Machine
  5. Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine

What Is a Direct Drive Washing Machine?

Direct drive washing machines are inverter machines that do not use belts, chains, or gearboxes to operate the washer motor. Instead, the engine is directly attached to the lower drum.

A rotary motor attached directly to the washer drum allows a higher spinning speed and consumes less energy than the traditional belt-powered washing machines.

There is quite a range of washing machines available, and it’s pretty challenging to choose the right one that fits your needs.

This article has brought you the best direct drive washing machines in front and top load styles. We will discuss the features of each appliance based on its specialties.

Best Direct Drive Washing Machine Review 2023

LG WM3998HBA 4.5 Cu.ft. Front Load Washing MachineBest Front Load Washing Machine Dryer Combo

Dimensions41.75 x 31.5 x 29.5 inches
Capacity4.5 Cubic Feet
Max Spin Speed1300 RPM
Access LocationLoad
Voltage120V

LG states it pretty much in the name of their motto, Life’s Good. This ultimate washing machine is the best front load washer with a built-in dryer. The operation of this washing machine is super easy with one-touch operation and dial selection. You can select from different washing and drying modes.

Efficient Cleaning

The LG TurboWash brings out the maximum potential of a washer cleaner and presents clean clothes 30 minutes faster than a traditional washing machine. You can select the TurboWash mode by spinning the dial and selecting the appropriate option.

The TurboWash mode is preferable to maximize cleaning performance. The machine runs on six washing motions to remove any stubborn stains from clothes.

Wrinkle-free Clothes

The front-load washer has a spacious 4.5 cubic feet of washer space that can clean the clothes of a whole family in one go. The best part is that clothes come out wrinkle-free, so you won’t have to put much effort into the iron table after washing them.

Quiet Operation

The LowDecibel quiet operation of this washing machine makes it a super quiet appliance in your household. 

The direct-drive motor design reduces any humming or vibrating sound of belts. The noise levels stay below 60 decibels, which is reasonably acceptable to carry on a conversation while running the washer. 

This front load washing machine is a great option to cover your cleaning and drying needs. But the only thing that it lacks is the lint collector. 

After excessive use, the lint pastes around the door, which often seems dirty and requires wipe cleaning. Moreover, it’s a pretty expensive option.

best direct drive washing machine
Pros
  • Dries cloth wrinkle-free
  • Vibration less performance
  • Low-noise operation
  • Deep wash cycles
  • TurboWash mode for quick cleaning
Cons
  • Lacks lint collector
  • Clothes can get warm to a shrinking level

LG WM3488HW 24″ Washer/Dryer Combo Washing MachineBest Front Load Washing Machine with Stainless Steel WD

Dimensions‎25.5 x 24 x 33.5 inches
Capacity2.3 Cubic Feet
Max Spin Speed1400 RPM
Access LocationLoad
Voltage110V

LG promises to bring the most innovative technology to its home appliances. The front-load washing machines by LG ensure durability and efficiency in one compact unit. 

The dryer and washer work equally efficiently with this multi-purpose, easy-to-operate washing machine. Let us have a look at its performance and standout features.

Easy to Install

The installation process is a breeze with this washing machine. This washing machine has ‎25.5 x 24 x 33.5 inches, nearly equivalent to a gas burner oven. So, if you have a small apartment, you can seamlessly install this washing machine with the kitchen setup, and it won’t cause any mess either.

Washer Dryer Combo

The LG front load washing machine is the best washer dryer combo. You get all the options to dry and spin the clothes with washer modes in a very compact size. The rotatory front dial makes it simple to choose the options you want with “Wash + Dry” and “Speed Wash” modes.

Automatic Cycle Switch

The intelligent sensors on the LG washing machines make your life easier. Smart sensor technology helps to automatically wash the clothes and recognise when they need the drying process. This convenience gives you peace of mind and saves time instead of manually setting the machine for each function.

LG offers hard water best washing machines with their ten years of limited warranty. These appliances are sturdy and reliable with a stainless-steel drum. But in comparison to LG vs. Samsung washer 2022, the LG front load washer vibrates a lot, so you may have to level the unit with anti-vibrant pads.

best direct drive washing machine
Pros
  • Completely dries and cleans clothes with an auto wash cycle
  • Durable stainless-steel drum
  • Delicate hand wash mode
  • Reasonably compact
  • Easy to mount and install
Cons
  • The dryer option is limited to a specific load
  • Vibrates and produces noise on spin mode

Giantex Top Load Washing MachineBest Budget Direct Drive Washing Machine

Dimensions‎23 x 14 x 27 inches
Load Capacity8 pounds
Max Spin Speed800 RPM
Access LocationTop Load
Voltage110V

The top load washing machine by Giantex is the ideal choice for small apartments, dorm rooms, and basements. With a highly portable and compact design, this washing machine brings you the all-in-one properties of a dryer and washer in one convenient design.

Easy to Use

This semi-automatic washing machine is easy to use with its dial operation control panel. Place on the cover plate (included in the package) for washer and dryer mode. The dryer and washer sections have integrated timer control settings with integrated compartments.

Compact Design

This Giantex conservative twin tub clothes washer is ideal for doing clothing in a minimal climate. Concerning a convenient clothes washer, this washer will be great for quarters, lofts, apartment suites, RVs, RVs, setting up camp, etc.

Powerful Motor

The machine runs off 110v power and will take up to 8lbs limit concerning washing and 5lbs limit for turning. Save such an excess of time that you don’t need to go to a clothing mat or wash things by hand in the tub.

The washing machine brings the convenience of washing with efficient results and automatic features. But one feature it lacks is the water filling capacity. 

If you turn on the water, you have to stay by the machine to check its level. Due to the gravity drain, it does not stop filling up automatically. Also, the gravity drain feature requires the washing machine to be elevated off the floor.

This is one of the best direct drive washing machine in the market
best direct drive washing machine
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Good washer capacity
  • Cleans quickly and efficiently
  • Integrated timers for washer and spinner
  • Compact design
Cons
  • Spinner mode requires more time to dry clothes
  • Not suitable for large blankets and comforters

Kenmore 28″ Top-Load Washing MachineBest Top Load Washing Machine with Triple Action Agitator

Dimensions27 x 27.5 x 43 inches
Capacity4.2 Cubic Feet
Max Spin Speed660 RPM
Access LocationTop Load
Voltage120V

This classic-looking top load washing machine can clean and do more laundry than you can expect in one go. It has a spacious capacity and compatible design factor for small spaces.

Advanced Cleaning Features

This washing features a triple-activity fomenter with a Direct Drive Motor that keeps garments moving during the wash cycle for an intensive cleaning that gets garments cleaner.

Easy to Use

The rotary dial control panel allows you to helpfully stack your garments, towels, delicates, and more from the top for simple admittance to the treated steel water bowl. Top load design

Customizable Cleaning Modes

You get 12 wash cycles for a custom clean in a compact and manageable design factor, including Express Wash for fast loads and Bulk clothes. Now get your bed materials and sheets new and clean at home.

This is one of the best mid-ranges direct-drive washing machines you can find. It provides all the necessary features and adequately manages the washer and dryer mode. But the water filling is lacking as people find it difficult to set the water levels.

If you are looking for the best direct drive washing machine then I advice you to go with this washing machine
best direct drive washing machine
Pros
  • The washer can fit a large load
  • Much better than belt powered washing machines
  • Highly efficient
  • Customizable controls
  • Works seamlessly in small spaces
Cons
  • Water soaks before spinning
  • Water levels are not easy to set

Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing MachineBest Washing Machine with Large Washer Capacity

Dimensions24.8 x 15 x 28.5 inches
Load Capacity17.6 pounds
Max Spin Speed1350 RPM
Access LocationTop Load
Voltage120V

This washing machine defines the element of heavy-duty laundry. The Giantex large-sized washing machine can accommodate your whole family’s clothes in its compact style design. The direct-drive technology enables this machine to run at higher spinning speeds for quick and efficient cleaning.

Large Capacity

The washing tub is used to place clothing in the washtub section, which has a capacity of 11 lbs. Run the flush cycle for the ideal minutes. A fast spinner dryer has 6.6 lbs. (a big part of the washing limit, you might turn two times).

Semi-Automatic Features

This clothes washer clock for 15 min and the twist clock for 5 minutes for each heap. You could pick an appropriate time while washing. It brings more opportunity and choices than standard clothes washers with prearranged settings.

Easy to Use

This washing machine is ideal for Home Use. It has a channel net on the washing barrel, which can undoubtedly channel while washing, and you could, without much of a stretch, force it off while cleaning the cylinder. 

It features a cover plate. When you utilize the twist tube, you can immediately place it over the materials and avoid the high-velocity discard. A simple gathering is expected with all equipment stuffed in the bundle.

The machine is compact plus heavy-duty for its features that go well with a two-in-one washing machine. But still, you have to keep it in your clothes for cleaning. It may clog if you happen to put crocs in the washing machine

You can choose the best-complicated water washing machines for 2022 equipped with heavy-duty parts.

best direct drive washing machine
Pros
  • Cleans clothes better than the laundromat
  • It runs quietly on washer mode
  • Spacious cleaning capacity
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • Great value for money
Cons
  • Do not wash and spin separately
  • It takes a long time to rinse

Is my washer a direct-drive washer? How to know?

If the package says inverter washing machine, it’s a direct-drive washing machine. The direct drive washing machine has the main difference in its motor as you won’t find belt operation between the motor and the washer.

Which is a better washing machine with a belt drive or direct drive?

Direct drive washing machines are better in terms of cleaning and energy saving. It gives more spinning speed and runs relatively quieter than the belt drive machine.

What does it mean to have a direct drive on a top loader washing machine? 

The motor is directly attached to the direct drive top loader washing machine with the washer tub. The design is the same as a belt-drive washing machine from the outside. But only differentiates in motor design.

Direct Drive Washer Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • More energy efficient
  • High RPM spinning speed
  • Low noise and vibration
  • Cleans clothes much better than traditional belt power washing machine
  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • The dryer works well with the washer combo

Cons:

  • Load capacity may lack on direct drive washing machines
  • Direct drive washing machines are relatively expensive 

Notable Mentions

SPEED QUEEN Home Style Mechanical Top Load Washer

SPEED QUEEN offers it the best if you’re more into traditional-looking washing machines at a budget-friendly price. This washing machine has a top load design with an easy-to-operate control panel. It can fit conveniently anywhere in your house and give you the best cleaning results in no time.

Portable Laundry Washing Machine by BLACK+DECKER

Are you looking to set up a portable washing machine for your RV? The Black and Decker home appliances can be your reliable partner on the road. This washing machine is compact in size and lightweight, making it easy to move around. It has all the necessary features for the washing cycle with pre-programmed settings.

FAQs

Is a direct drive washing machine better?

The direct drive washing machine is faster, quieter, and more energy-efficient than the belt-drive washing machine.

Are direct drive washers still made?

Modern-day technology supports inverter washing machines that work on direct drive motors. Various home appliances companies widely manufacture these washing machines.

Is direct drive washing machines quieter?

Due to the lack of belts and chains, direct drive washing machines are much quieter. They are directly mounted with the washer, which reduces low noise and vibration.

Conclusion

The new-age technology has worked with the challenges and brought convenient household solutions. Direct drive washing machines are the product of that technology.

Direct drive washing machines are better than traditional belt drive washing machines. Like upgrading your phone or car, upgrading to a direct drive washing machine for a better lifestyle is recommended.