If you've already done some research in choosing the best washer dryer combo, two brands have likely appeared on multiple lists and guides as you've journeyed across the web – LG and Samsung.
Both are household names in the laundry, and wider home appliance industry. Both have washer dryers that cater to a wide range of needs, from large-capacity models for families to compact designs for smaller spaces.
Their advanced tech and focus on design and energy efficiency have made them favorites among homeowners who want reliability and performance and they've become synonymous for their respective innovations and smart features. What's more, their appliances are largely similar in price and function, so it can be difficult to choose between the two.
To bring more clarity, and help you make a more informed buying decision, we've spoken to Justin Cornforth, the owner of Ace Home Co, and Tanya Weller, Director of Marketing Digital Appliances at Samsung UK. They explain what you need to know about must-have features, what pitfalls to avoid, and how to get the best value based on your needs and priorities. Whether you’re upgrading your laundry setup or buying your first combo unit.
LG vs Samsung washer dryer combo: Price and value
As a rule, regardless of which brand you choose – LG, Samsung, or any other – washer dryer combos don't come cheap. This is because they're effectively two appliances in one. They're often cheaper than buying a separate washer, and dryer (although this isn't always the case!) but that doesn't mean they will be suitable for all budgets.
This is especially the case with LG and Samsung washer dryer combos because of their smart features, app controls and durability.
For example, you'll struggle to find LG washer dryer combos for less than $1500, unless you get one on sale. The closest is the LG WM3488HW Compact All-In-One Washer/Dryer ($1,599) and the $1,799 LG WM3555HWA. In both instances, you sacrifice capacity – 2.3 Cu. Ft. and 2.4 Cu. Ft. respectively – for the lower price. This is fine if you're washing for one or two people, but families may feel limited by these models. For larger LG washer dryers, you'll looking at paying closer to $3,000. The LG 5.0 Cu. Ft. HE Smart Mega Washer Dryer Combo is $2,999, for example, and the LG Signature Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Washer/Dryer Combo tops out at $3,200.
One positive to these high prices is that smart features are widely included by default. On cheaper models, this is limited to smart diagnosis features via built-in NFC tags, but on the premium models you can manage cycle times, monitor energy use and remotely control different settings from the LG ThinQ app on a smartphone or tablet.
Samsung washer dryer combos cater to a slighter wider range of budgets but availability varies. The Samsung Series 5 ecobubble WD80TA046BX Washer Dryer, for instance, only costs £529 in the UK. Pay a bit more and you can get Wi-Fi models, like the £829 Samsung Series 5 AI Energy WD11DG5B15BBU1 Washer Dryer and £999 Samsung Series 7 AI Energy. The former comes in 5kg / 3.1 Cu. Ft. and 8kg / 4.2 Cu. Ft. models, while the latter has an 11kg / 4.5 Cu. Ft. drum.
In the US, however, the choice appears limited, and more expensive. In fact, the Samsung website only lists one model, the Samsung Bespoke AI Laundry Combo All-in-One 5.3 Cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Washer and Ventless Heat Pump with the RRP shown as $3,324.
Outside of the initial outlay, both brands offer comparable warranties; typically one year for parts and labor, plus options for extended coverage on specific components. LG and Samsung machines maintain similar pricing for repairs, too, due to their shared use of common parts and technologies, so ongoing costs are likely to be similar.
If this is a little too confusing, though, Cornforth says a general rule is that: "Budget models typically offer you basic programs, small capacity, and can be a bit loud. Mid-range ones tend to have smart features and sensor drying, and the top-of-the-top models go even further with advanced tech (you can control from your phone), steam cleaning and super quiet operation." This can help you narrow down where to start.
Justin Cornforth is the CEO and owner of Ace Home Co, a family-owned plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning company founded in 2017.
LG vs Samsung washer dryer combo: Features and functions
In terms of features and functions, both brands use a host of impressive technologies, but the approaches differ slightly.
LG tends to focus more on technologies like moisture sensors to prevent over-drying, and self-cleaning features and steam options for wrinkle reduction. These can save time and effort on ironing.
Samsung models offer similar features, but has a strong focus on customization and efficiency, within its SmartThings network of appliances. As Weller tells us: "Samsung's AI technology learns patterns of behaviour to reduce energy costs and to make your life easier by personalising and optimising usage."
Key Samsung features to look out for when shopping for a washer dryer combo include:
- SmartThings: Most Samsung washer dryer combos are WiFi-enabled. This connects them to the Samsung SmartThings app – as well as smart speakers – and lets you remotely control cycles, monitor energy use and diagnose errors.
- AI Wash: AI Wash technology uses sensors inside the drum to detect the weight of your laundry and even how dirty it is to choose the best setting.
- Auto Dose: Samsung's Auto Dose technology makes sure the combo only uses the amount of detergent for the job in question.
- AI Energy Mode: This mode automatically optimises energy-saving technology to make sure you never use more energy than you need. Especially during the drying phase.
- Auto Open Door: On more expensive Samsung washer dryer combos, the door automatically opens at the end of the drying cycle to circulate air and evaporate any leftover moisture.
- Self Clean+: On the Samsung Bespoke model, its SelfClean+ feature cleans the inside of the combo washer and will remind you every 40 wash cycles when it is time to clean.
- SpaceMax: On some models, including the Samsung Series 7, there is a feature called SpaceMax. This increases the size of the drum to handle more washing, without increasing the overall dimensions of the washer dryer.
LG's standout features then include:
- LG ThinQ AI: LG washing dryer combos are WiFi compatible, so you can connect them to the LG ThinQ AI app and control them remotely. The app can also troubleshoot errors. LG ThinQ AI is then compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, too.
- AI DD: The washing machine component of LG combos often feature AI Direct Drives. These use sensors to detect the weight of your laundry and set the cycle time and setting to suit. This protects your clothes, and can save you money on bills as the combo isn't running for longer than it needs to.
- ezDispense: LG's ezDispense technology again analyses the weight and needs of your laundry to determine how much detergent you need. It then dispenses this amount automatically.
Tanya Weller is Director of Marketing, Digital Appliances at Samsung UK. She was previously responsible for Samsung's global flagship space in Kings Cross, London – a 20,000 sq. ft brand showcase dedicated to Samsung appliances and innovations.
LG vs Samsung washer dryer combo: Performance
Across the board, both LG and Samsung washer dryer combos receive overwhelmingly favorable ratings across their own websites, and third-party retailers like Best Buy and Walmart. Models from both brands typically range between 4.4-4.5 stars out of 5 and the majority say that you get what you pay for.
There are some other common threads. The majority of online reviews praise both brands for the respective space-saving designs of their washer dryer combos, and love not having to switch between two appliances to complete a laundry cycle. However, Samsung models tend to have more comments on support forums about why their washer dryers are not drying their clothes, as well as complaints about overall drying times.
Elsewhere, LG models tend to be praised more for their build quality and reliability, and in-wash features, whereas Samsung washer dryer combos are more commonly lauded for their designs, smart technologies and the convenience these technologies bring. Happy users particularly like being able to keep track of the energy efficiency of Samsung models, and their quick wash cycles. On the flip side, Samsung machines can require more regular maintenance, particularly for the heat pump dryer.
LG vs Samsung washer dryer combo: Which is best?
Both brands have their strengths so you need to consider your laundry needs, available space, and budget to ultimately decide which brand is best for you.
If you value good cleaning power, and features like steam cleaning with the added bonus of smart connectivity, LG is an excellent choice. Its washer dryer combos are ideal for people who want quiet, durable machines.
If energy efficiency, customizable cycles, and fast wash options are more important to you, Samsung is your best bet. Its range is smaller in the US and prices can be excessive but its washer dryer combos offer the most advanced features on the market. This means you're effectively paying for future-proofed tech as much as you are for cleaning and drying prowess.
Cornforth recommends the LG Signature for "big families or anyone juggling delicates with heavier loads. Plus, it's super quiet!" And from Samsung, "definitely AI Ecobubble. It cleans at lower temperatures, saves energy, and its AI tech learns your habits."
If you're still on the fence, or you're not even sure if you need a combo, read our how to choose a washer dryer combo, and our washer dryer combo vs separate guides.
LG vs Samsung washer dryer combo: What the Experts Say
When choosing a washer dryer combo, Cornforth says the most important things to look for are features that prevent over-drying – like moisture sensors in the drum – and capacity.
Moisture sensors protect your clothes and save energy by adjusting drying time accordingly, while "the drying capacity needs to match at least 75% of the washing capacity. "
Elsewhere he suggests getting a washer dryer combo with "with a stainless steel drum, direct-drive motor and noise insulation for quiet operation, and energy efficiency."
Looking forward, Weller believes AI is going to become even more important and ubiquitous when looking for a washer dryer combo, too. “As AI develops, and is integrated into more domestic appliances, we’re going to see increased personalisation for consumers as the technology learns from the growing data points available around our homes. These more frequent and more personalised insights will then in turn help customers make more informed decisions about their homes, and ultimately make their lives easier.”
LG vs Samsung washer dryer combo: FAQs
Which brand is more energy-efficient?
Both LG and Samsung models are made with energy saving in mind, although Samsung has a slight edge with its Ecobubble function. This is specifically designed to reduce energy use without sacrificing on cleaning quality.
It does this by mixing water, detergent, and air to create a foam that penetrates deeper into the fabrics, allowing the machine to clean better at lower temperatures. Its AI features additionally track your cleaning habits to maximise energy use too.
That's not to say LG machines aren't energy efficient. Their AI-driven cycles optimize water and energy use based on load size, and the app controls help enhance this efficiency further. It ultimately comes down to how much capacity you need, how often you use the washing and drying features.
Although, as Cornforth explains: "Don’t pay 100% of your attention on energy labels, because A+++ doesn’t always mean savings. High energy rating indeed indicates a better build quality, but to make sure you won't overspend on bills, check annual kWh and water consumption."
He says that a good washer dryer should use around 200–300 kWh per year and around 13–15 liters per cycle for a full wash-and-dry program.
Washer dryer combos vs standalone appliances: Which is best?
In the battle between washer dryer combos vs separate, your decision will ultimately come down to space, convenience, and performance. Washer dryer combos give an all-in-one solution, eliminating the need for two machines. This means they come with one price and warranty, and one installation. They're great for small spaces, and typically have greater efficiency and simplify laundry.
However, their drying capacity is often smaller than their washing capacity. This means larger loads may need to be dried in batches. They fit more components in a single appliance, which can lead to more complex maintenance needs. And by combining two jobs they have been described as a Jack of all trades, master of none.
Separate machines take up more space and usually cost more. But on the flip side, they deliver better results overall, higher energy efficiency, and faster cycles.
