Electrolux and LG are popular brands consumers turn to when shopping for a new washing machine—however, they’re more different than you might think. While Electrolux has been making appliances for over 50 years, LG is relatively new to the washing machine world, introducing its first model in the early 2000s. Their varied backgrounds and development history have shaped each brand’s washer designs differently, most notably with Electrolux machines relying on a stain-fighting foundation and LG washers focusing on smart technology.
Here, we examine and explain the differences between the two brands’ washer offerings so you can more clearly determine which is best for you and your home. In addition to a breakdown of each company’s current models, we’ll dive into features and wash programs specific to each brand.
What’s the difference between Electrolux and LG washers?
Electrolux and LG washers are popular mid-range appliances with various wash cycles and load capacities, but they differ in a few ways. According to Jay Sanders, owner of Castle Dream Construction, “LG is known for its advanced technology, including smartphone app control and AI-powered wash cycles while Electrolux tends to focus on user-friendly interfaces.” Electrolux washers are also primarily focused on stain-fighting ability. Although LG models are perfectly capable of handling soiled garments, they don’t have as many specific stain-fighting features as Electrolux machines.
Sanders adds that although the price of washers from these two brands vary widely, based on the model and features, “LG might have more budget-friendly options, but they also offer premium models with higher price tags,” he says.
All About Electrolux Washers
Electrolux currently offers five front-load washing machines and doesn’t manufacture any top-load models. These front-load washers range in price from around $750 to $1,200 and capacity from 2.4 to 4.5 cubic feet. Depending on the model, several stain-fighting features are available, like a pre-cycle stain-soak, a stain treatment that uses cold water to prevent setting, and a special Optic Whites cycle to keep those whites looking whiter for longer. All Electrolux models are also Energy Star certified.
An optional pedestal drawer provides extra height for those who don’t want to bend over, although Electrolux doesn’t have pedestal washers that wash clothes. Electrolux also has a series of stacked washer/dry units for those who want to conserve space in their laundry room. These “Laundry Towers” position each unit’s control panel in the center, so you won’t need to reach out to access the upper unit’s controls.
Electrolux will replace or refund damaged or defective items within 30 days of delivery. A 10-year warranty covers the motor but doesn’t include labor costs.
Our Favorite Electrolux Washer
With a generous mix of wash and rinse options, the Electrolux ELFW7537AT is a versatile machine with a user-friendly design. Its Pure Rinse feature is especially useful for those with sensitive skin or infants and removes any trace detergent fragrances or residues without using additional water. Even heavily soiled garments are no match for the Solid Soil feature, which powers through tough stains like caked-on mud and dirt.
Our favorite feature, though, is the 15-minute wash cycle. This won’t be practical to use all the time—the 15-minute time is based on a 3-pound load—but it’s a convenient option to have at your disposal when you’re in a rush. We also appreciate the convenience of the adaptive dispenser, which, unlike other washer brands, accepts pods and liquid detergent.
Pros
- Range of soil level settings
- Delicate cycle for activewear
- Automatically adjusts water level to size of load
- Interior tub lighting
Cons
- No top-load models
- Door latch is inconvenient for some users
All About LG Washers
LG offers both front- and top-load washers, with smart capabilities available in both types. LG’s front-load washers range in price from $700 to $2,000 and capacity from 2.4 to 5.8 cubic feet. Several of these front-load models have the option of attaching an LG pedestal washer—allowing you to run two loads simultaneously—but at $700, these are a significant expense. Pedestal storage drawers cost about half as much.
LG’s top-load models are available from around $550 to $1,250 and 4.1 to 5.5 cubic feet, with multiple selections of both agitator and impeller models. LG also features a popular WashTower option for those looking to save space with a vertically stacked washer/dryer setup. Unlike other brands that simply stack separate washers and dryers on top of each other, requiring you to reach up to control the upper unit, the LG WashTower is designed as a single unit, with controls for both machines positioned in the center.
LG accepts returns up to 15 days after delivery, but some issues must be officially reported within five days after delivery. A 10-year warranty covers the motor but not labor costs.
Our Favorite LG Washer
Combining a versatile 4.5 cubic feet capacity and various user-friendly features, the LG WM4000HWA is our favorite LG brand washer. Five high-powered water jets accelerate the cleaning process and maximize productivity, cleaning loads in under 30 minutes. By utilizing the deep-cleaning power of steam, this machine is also well-suited for households with lots of pet dander and dust. Plus, it’s packed with smart features and uses AI technology to select the optimal washing cycle for your specific load.
It also communicates with compatible dryers to do the same with the drying cycle. LG’s ThinQ app allows you to use your smartphone to operate controls remotely and receive notifications about current operations and maintenance reminders. Those who want even more smart features and don’t mind paying a little extra should consider the LG WM6700HBA front-load washer.
Pros
- Smart AI features determine the best cycle
- 12 washing programs to choose from
- Uses steam for added cleaning power
- ThinQ app for remote control and monitoring
Cons
- May be overwhelming for non tech-savvy users
FAQ
Which is the best washing machine: Electrolux or LG?
Both Electrolux and LG offer quality options, but the best washing machine for you depends on your specific design or cleaning needs. If your priority is user-friendly features like Wi-Fi connectivity and smart controls, the LG is probably a better choice. If your wash loads present a variety of stain and soil levels, and you’re less interested in smart features, an Electrolux would probably be a better option.
Keep pricing in mind, too. “The LG is more economical overall, as the LG has a wide variety of price options for any budget.” Sanders adds. “I would still choose a Whirlpool as they tend to last longer overall.”
What is the difference between washers from Electrolux vs. LG?
There are several differences between Electrolux and LG washers, most clearly their smart functionality capabilities. LG washers provide several smart features not found on Electrolux machines, with Wi-Fi connectivity to the ThinQ app to stop and start programs remotely, as well as receiving notifications and maintenance reminders. Electrolux machines provide more stain-specific features and modes than LG washers, which makes them more user-friendly for those with a variety of stains to deal with.
Another difference between these two brands is that LG offers a much wider variety of washer options. LG offers both front- and top-load washers and a stacked washer/dryer “WashTower” line, with a range of sizes and prices to choose from. Electrolux has a much more limited selection and zero top-load units available, although that could be a benefit for those who get easily overwhelmed with too many options.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that if you want a washer that provides smart washing features, like AI technology, that selects optimal cycles and settings and smartphone control, go with an LG washer. If you’re more interested in specific wash cycles for a more stain-fighting focus, an Electrolux would probably be a better choice.
Source:
- Jay Sanders, owner of Castle Dream Construction
