Agitator vs impeller is a key consideration when shopping for a new washing machine. While front load washers clean clothes by lifting and dropping them into the water as the drum rotates, many top load washers use a different method.
Instead of mimicking this movement, they rely on the friction between clothes for cleaning. In top load washers, an agitator—a tall vertical spindle in the center of the drum—helps by vigorously stirring the clothes in the detergent water to achieve a thorough clean.
Curious about the best top load washers with agitators? Continue reading to explore our top 6 picks.
Find the Best Top Load Washers with Agitators
Elevate your laundry game with a top load washer featuring a powerful agitator. Visit Spencer's TV & Appliance and transform your laundry routine!
Shop Top Load Washers with AgitatorsWhat is an Agitator?
An agitator is a built-in feature of some top load washers. It takes over the spinning motion of traditional front load washing machines, moving clothes around to allow for water and detergent to soak in better.
While an agitator is not necessary for a washing machine, agitators do facilitate a better, deeper clean in top load models. We don’t have to tell you cleaner clothes are a great benefit and a compelling reason to choose a washer with an agitator — safeguarding your and your family’s hygiene is of the utmost importance.
Pros & Cons of Agitator Washers
Pros
Powerful Cleaning
Great for tough stains and heavy-duty loads.
Faster Cycles
Typically quicker than impeller or front load models.
Simple & Reliable
Time-tested design that's easy to use and repair.
Budget-Friendly
Often more affordable upfront.
Cons
Tough on Fabrics
May cause more wear on delicates.
Less Efficient
Uses more water and energy than other types.
Reduced Capacity
Agitator takes up drum space.
Fewer Features
Lacks some high-end tech and cycle options.
The Best Top Load Washers: Our Top 6 Picks
There are dozens of top load washers with an agitator that follow this model to choose from — we’ve narrowed it down to our top 6 picks.
1. Best Overall: GE 4.6 Cu. Ft. Diamond Gray Top Load Washer
Shop GE 4.6 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer
Our pick for the best washer with an agitator is this GE model. This dark gray model has a modern, sleek look that will look amazing in any space. The control panel features several options that can be easily activated to customize the wash cycle to the load of laundry.
Another great feature of this washer is the Tide PODS™ dispenser, which allows laundry pods to be placed in a designated tray and be automatically dispensed at the proper time. Meanwhile, a dedicated water jet pierces the pod and activates the detergent for increased cleaning power. You will also find a dual-action agitator, a deep fill cycle, and multiple rinse options.
Capacity: 4.5 cu. ft.
Features:
- Tide PODS™ Dispense
- QuietWash
- Dual-action agitator
- Stain removal guide
- Deep Fill
- 10-year warranty
- Sanitize with Oxi
⭐Featured GE GTW725BPNDG Review:
"Got this installed earlier today and can't stop doing laundry, what a smooth running machine with a deep fill it fits our families needs, we will definitely be GE customers for life!"
2. Best Budget: Samsung 4.0 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
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Our best budget pick goes to this Samsung top load washer, which includes the ActiveWave™ agitator that is specially designed to reduce noise, vibration, and tangling. In short, this Samsung top load washer with agitator maintains the powerful cleaning power of a traditional agitator.
Plus, eight preset wash cycles on this machine are pre-programmed, including an extra-high water fill level for large loads. The soft-close lid makes closing the top door safer, gentler, and quieter, and the interior drum is also gentler on clothes, outfitted with smaller water holes to prevent snags, effectively extending the lifetime of fabrics without sacrificing cleaning power.
Capacity: 4.0 cu. ft.
Features:
- ActiveWave™ agitator
- Soft-close lid
- 8 preset washing cycles
- Diamond drum interior
- Self-Clean cycle
⭐Featured Samsung WA40A3005AW Review:
"This is the washer I purchased for me and my 9 year old son's first house ❤️ my son is autistic and loud noises bother him so to our surprise and delight it doesn't make a loud alarm sound when finished instead play's little music."
3. Best Splurge: LG 5.7 Cu. Ft. Graphite Steel Top Load Washer
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Our splurge-worthy pick goes to this graphite steel LG washing machine. It’s not hard to see why — its ultra-large drum enables the largest load possible, shortening the time it takes to do all your laundry. For reference, this washer can accommodate a king-sized comforter and bedding set in a single load.
In terms of cleaning power, a powerful, high-pressure nozzle saves up to 30 minutes per load, further cutting down laundry time but without losing cleaning power. Even your largest loads will experience the optimal clean in a shortened cycle. And if that’s not enough, steam technology gently but powerfully penetrates fabrics to virtually eliminate dirt, odors, and wrinkles.
Capacity: 5.7 cu. ft.
Features:
- Quick cycle time cuts up to 30 minutes off
- More room to clean with 5.7 cu. ft. of space
- Steam Cleaning
- Energy Star® Most Efficient 2015
⭐Featured LG WT7700HVA Review:
"Great washer for high capacity, we can wash three loads in one without sacrificing cleanliness. Also sterilizes for hypoallergenic needs wonderfully."
4. Best Large Capacity: LG 5.3 Cu. Ft. Alpine White Top Load Washer
Shop LG 5.3 Cu. Ft. Alpine White Top Load Washer
A large interior capacity is a game changer when it comes to laundry: Fewer loads can get the job done in significantly less time. Our pick for the best large capacity top load washer is this 5.3-cubic-foot LG model, wherein every load will come out extremely clean and well cared for.
Smart features allow this washing machine to be started remotely from anywhere inside or outside of the house, also enabling automatic re-ordering of detergent when it’s running low, ensuring it never runs out.
Features:
- 5.3 cu. ft. Mega Capacity
- TurboWash3D™ Technology
- 6Motion™ Technology
- ThinQ® Technology
- Water Plus
- ColdWash™ Technology
⭐Featured LG WT7405CW Review:
"Works great. Doesn't vibrate. Gets cloths clean with option for second rinse for those sensitive to chemicals. Has large capacity. Easy figuring out how to use it."
5. Staff Pick #1: Maytag 4.7 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Shop Maytag 4.7 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer
This 4.2-cubic-foot capacity Maytag top load washer with an agitator is built for the most powerful cleaning in its class with the PowerWash® cycle that tackles stubborn stains and dried-on messes.
The central spindle provides concentrated cleaning and robust wash action, aiding PowerWash® in removing tough stains. A deep rinse option helps eliminate detergent residue and excess fabric softener, ensuring an ultimate clean every time. Best of all, auto-sensing intuitively adjusts water levels for each wash, saving water and energy in the end.
Capacity: 4.7 cu. ft.
Features:
- Extra-large 4.7 cu. ft. capacity
- PowerWash® agitator deep cleans using a unique agitating action
- Deep Water Wash option adds additional water to accommodate extra-large loads
- Auto Sensing option intuitively adjusts water levels for each wash
- Deep Rinse option sheds leftover detergent and fabric softener for the purest results
- Stainless-steel drum for efficient moisture-wicking and durability
- Proudly made in the USA
⭐Featured Maytag MVW6230HW Review:
"I bought this a month ago and used it for the first time this past weekend and it worked EXCELLENT!!!! I love the app features where you can control the washer and dryer from anywhere!"
6. Staff Pick #2: Whirlpool 4.7 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Shop Whirlpool 4.7 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Our second staff pick is this Whirlpool top load washer with an agitator that comes with a built-in faucet and a pretreating brush, conveniently bringing you commonly used tools to the site. Two-way wash action is enabled by the agitator to provide a powerful clean. Lastly, a convenient Quick Wash cycle allows for speedy washing of small or lightly soiled loads.
Capacity: 4.7 cu. ft.
Features:
- Pretreat station
- Single load dispenser drawer
- Automatic presoak option
- Intuitive controls
- Adaptive wash technology with Active Bloom™
- Deep water wash option
⭐Featured Whirlpool WTW5057LW Review:
"I bought this a month ago and I am happy with it, however I would have liked to have had a place to put the fabric softener. Overall, it is a great washer."
Top Load Washer with Agitator: Quick Comparison Guide
Looking for the best top load washer with an agitator? Here’s how our top 6 picks compare across key features like capacity, cleaning tech, and price point — so you can find the one that fits your laundry needs.
| Model | Capacity | Agitator Type | Special Features | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE GTW725BPNDG | 4.6 cu. ft. | Dual-action | Tide PODS™ Dispenser, Deep Fill, QuietWash, Stain Guide | Well-rounded everyday use | $$ |
| Samsung WA40A3005AW | 4.0 cu. ft. | ActiveWave™ | Quiet operation, Soft-Close Lid, Diamond Drum | Budget-friendly performance | $ |
| LG WT7700HVA | 5.7 cu. ft. | Traditional | Steam Clean, TurboWash, SmartThinQ® | Large loads & advanced cleaning | $$$ |
| LG WT7405CW | 5.3 cu. ft. | TurboWash3D™ | 6Motion™, ThinQ®, ColdWash™, Water Plus | Tech-forward, high-capacity | $$ |
| Maytag MVW6230HW | 4.7 cu. ft. | PowerWash® | Deep Water Wash, Auto Sensing, Deep Rinse | Heavy-duty cleaning power | $$ |
| Whirlpool WTW5057LW | 4.7 cu. ft. | 2-Way Wash | Pretreat Station, Adaptive Wash, Quick Wash | Convenience & everyday tasks | $$ |
How to Select the Best Top Load Washer with Agitator: A Buyer’s Guide
When you're in the market for a top load washer with an agitator, there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the best model for your needs. Here’s a buying guide to help you navigate through the choices:
1. Capacity
The capacity of the washer is crucial, especially if you have a large family or frequently wash bulky items. Capacities can range from about 3.5 cubic feet for smaller models to 5.5 cubic feet or more for larger ones. Consider your laundry habits and choose a size that will handle your typical load comfortably.
2. Wash Settings
Look for washers that offer a variety of settings to suit different types of fabrics and soil levels. Common settings include heavy duty, delicate, bedding, and quick wash. Advanced models may also offer customizable options to further tailor your washing experience.
3. Energy Efficiency
While top load washers with agitators are not always as energy-efficient as their impeller counterparts, many newer models come with improved energy ratings. Check for Energy Star certification, which indicates the washer meets or exceeds federal guidelines for energy efficiency.
4. Water Level Options
Some washers with agitators offer adjustable water levels, which can be beneficial for saving water. This feature allows you to select how much water to use based on the size of the laundry load, preventing waste.
5. Speed and Noise Level
Consider the spin speed and noise level of the washer. A higher spin speed can reduce drying time but might be noisier. Some washers are equipped with special technology to minimize noise, which is a plus if your laundry area is close to living spaces.
6. Durability and Warranty
Check the construction materials of both the exterior and the wash drum. Stainless steel drums are durable and help to prevent stains and odors. Also, look at the warranty offered by the manufacturer—longer warranties can provide peace of mind and indicate a commitment to product quality.
7. Price
Set a budget before you shop. Top load washers with agitators can vary significantly in price based on their features and brand. Decide which features are must-haves and which you can live without to balance cost with functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
An agitator is a central post inside the washer drum that moves back and forth during the wash cycle to create motion and friction. This action helps loosen dirt and stains for a thorough clean, especially effective for tough loads.
It depends on your laundry needs. Agitator washers are known for their deep cleaning power, making them great for heavy-duty loads. Impeller washers, on the other hand, are gentler on fabrics and often more water-efficient. If stain removal and performance are your priorities, agitators may be the better fit.
For big households, the LG 5.7 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer stands out. Its ultra-large capacity handles massive loads, saving time and energy. It also includes advanced features like steam cleaning and TurboWash to keep up with busy laundry routines.
The Samsung 4.0 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer with ActiveWave™ agitator is engineered for quiet operation, thanks to built-in vibration and noise-reduction technology. It’s ideal for homes with open floor plans or laundry areas near living spaces.
Yes! The GE GTW725BPNDG includes a Deep Fill option that lets you add extra water for larger or more heavily soiled loads. It’s one of the best washers for those who prefer maximum water levels with an agitator-style clean.
The Samsung WA40A3005AW offers strong cleaning performance at a wallet-friendly price. It includes eight preset cycles, a soft-close lid, and a gentler drum design to protect fabrics — a perfect mix of value and performance.
The Maytag MVW6230HW is a top pick for heavy-duty cleaning and removing stubborn messes like pet hair or workwear grime. Its PowerWash® agitator and deep rinse options help break up debris and thoroughly flush it away.
Top load washers with agitators offer strong mechanical cleaning, especially for tough loads. However, front load washers typically clean more efficiently with less water and are gentler on clothes. The right choice depends on your cleaning needs and fabric care preferences.
While they’ve come a long way, agitator washers typically use more water than impeller or front load models. That said, many modern units are ENERGY STAR® certified, offering better efficiency than older versions.
Regularly clean the drum and agitator using washer cleaner, check hoses for leaks, and run a Self-Clean cycle if your model includes it. This helps prevent odors, buildup, and keeps your washer running efficiently.
Why Trust Spencer’s TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencer’s TV & Appliance has grown to 10 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Top Load Washers with Agitators at Spencer’s
At Spencer’s TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop washers online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the perfect top load washer with an agitator for your laundry needs. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!