The Whirlpool WTW4107SW is the best affordable Whirlpool washer for most households because it combines a relatively low entry price with a flexible 2-in-1 removable agitator, useful everyday cycles and enough capacity for typical family laundry. If you specifically want a front loader, the Whirlpool WFW4720RW is the better choice thanks to its 4.5 cu. ft. drum, ENERGY STAR certification and Tumble Fresh option.
There is no single Whirlpool washer that is best for every home. Some buyers want the lowest purchase price, others need extra room for bulky bedding, and some would rather pay more for front-load efficiency or an agitator-free tub. We compared current U.S. Whirlpool washing machines by design, capacity, practical features, availability, buyer feedback and relative price rather than simply ranking whichever model happens to be on the deepest temporary discount.
For households upgrading several cleaning appliances at once, our robot vacuum cleaners for busy families guide covers another way to reduce routine cleaning work around the home.
Quick Answer: Best Affordable Whirlpool Washing Machines
Best Overall Affordable Pick: Whirlpool WTW4107SW — a flexible top loader with a removable agitator, PreSoak, Sanitize with Oxi and Cold Wash.
Best Affordable Top-Load Upgrade: Whirlpool WTW4307SW — similar removable-agitator versatility with a soft-close glass lid and upgraded everyday convenience.
Best for Pretreating and Agitator Fans: Whirlpool WTW5025SW — a 4.5 cu. ft. model with a traditional agitator and built-in water faucet.
Best Agitator-Free Capacity: Whirlpool WTW5020SW — a 4.6 cu. ft. impeller washer with an open tub and built-in faucet.
Best Affordable Front Loader: Whirlpool WFW4720RW — a 4.5 cu. ft. ENERGY STAR model with Tumble Fresh and a 25-minute Quick Wash cycle for qualifying loads.
How We Chose These Whirlpool Washers
We focused on current U.S. Whirlpool models that solve noticeably different buyer needs rather than padding the list with machines that differ only slightly. Selection factors included washer type, usable capacity, agitator or impeller design, cycle options, energy certification, current retail availability, owner-feedback patterns and relative price within Whirlpool’s range.
Manufacturer specifications were used for capacities and features. Retailer feedback was considered as supporting evidence for recurring ownership concerns such as noise, cycle length and ease of use, but customer reviews are not a substitute for controlled appliance testing. Discompare did not physically or laboratory-test these washers.
Prices for major appliances can change substantially around holiday and retailer promotions. Temporary discounts therefore do not determine our editorial ranking. Use the live comparison blocks in this guide to check current offers for the exact model before buying.
Whirlpool Washing Machines Compared
| Model | Best For | Load Type | Wash System | Capacity | Standout Feature | Price Position | Main Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WTW4107SW | Best Overall Affordable | Top load | 2-in-1 removable agitator | 4.2–4.3 cu. ft. | Removable agitator | Lowest-cost pick | Not ENERGY STAR certified |
| WTW4307SW | Top-Load Upgrade | Top load | 2-in-1 removable agitator | 4.2–4.3 cu. ft. | Soft-close glass lid | Budget upgrade | Not ENERGY STAR certified |
| WTW5025SW | Pretreating / Agitator Fans | Top load | Agitator | 4.5 cu. ft. | Built-in faucet | Mid-range value | Center agitator occupies tub space |
| WTW5020SW | Agitator-Free Capacity | Top load | Impeller | 4.6 cu. ft. | Open tub + faucet | Mid-range value | No traditional agitator |
| WFW4720RW | Affordable Front Loader | Front load | Tumbling drum | 4.5 cu. ft. | ENERGY STAR + Tumble Fresh | Highest-priced pick | Costs more than selected top loaders |
Compare Current Whirlpool Washing Machine Prices
Washing machine deals can move by hundreds of dollars around holiday weekends, bundle promotions and retailer-specific events. A model that is the cheapest today may not remain the cheapest next month, so compare the live offers rather than relying on an old advertised sale price.
Also check the exact model number. Whirlpool sells closely related washers with similar capacities and names, and differences such as a removable agitator, built-in faucet, glass lid or ENERGY STAR certification can justify paying slightly more.
1. Whirlpool WTW4107SW — Best Overall Affordable Pick
Best For: Shoppers who want one of Whirlpool’s lowest-cost current top loaders without giving up the flexibility to switch between an agitator and a more open wash basket.
The WTW4107SW is the most convincing starting point in Whirlpool’s affordable lineup because its 2-in-1 removable agitator makes it useful for more than one type of load. Leave the agitator installed when you prefer traditional agitator action, or remove it when bulky items benefit from additional uninterrupted tub space. Whirlpool lists the capacity as 4.2–4.3 cu. ft. depending on that configuration.
Its feature list is also stronger than its basic appearance suggests. PreSoak can combine a 30-minute soak with the wash cycle, Sanitize with Oxi is available for qualifying loads, and the Cold Wash cycle adjusts the wash process for cold water. A 30-minute Quick Wash is available for a small 3-lb load.
The important efficiency caveat is that Whirlpool explicitly states this model does not meet current ENERGY STAR requirements. Using cold water can still reduce the energy associated with heating water, but shoppers prioritizing certified efficiency should look at the WFW4720RW instead.
Another distinction is availability. Whirlpool may occasionally show the washer unavailable for direct purchase while major retailers continue to stock it, so manufacturer-direct stock should not be confused with the model being discontinued.
Pros
✅ Removable agitator adds useful load flexibility
✅ PreSoak and Sanitize with Oxi add practical cycle choices
✅ Cold Wash option can reduce hot-water energy use
✅ Strong value for shoppers prioritizing purchase price
Cons
❌ Does not meet current ENERGY STAR requirements
❌ More basic lid and presentation than WTW4307SW
❌ Direct-from-Whirlpool stock may be inconsistent
Who should skip it: Choose another model if ENERGY STAR certification is a priority or if you strongly prefer front-load operation.
Alternative: WTW4307SW keeps the removable-agitator concept while adding a soft-close glass lid and a slightly more polished top-load experience.
Upgrade laundry day with the Whirlpool WTW4107SW 4.2–4.3 cu. ft. Top-Load Washer — powerful cleaning with a convenient 2-in-1 removable agitator that adapts to bulky loads or delicates. Its roomy capacity and classic white finish make laundry faster and easier for any household. Shop now and simplify your routine — add the Whirlpool Top-Load Washer with Removable Agitator to your cart today!
2. Whirlpool WTW4307SW — Best Affordable Top-Load Upgrade
Best For: Buyers who like the flexibility of the WTW4107SW but are willing to spend a little more for a glass lid and upgraded everyday usability.
The WTW4307SW uses the same basic 2-in-1 removable-agitator idea: keep the agitator installed when you want it, then remove it to open the basket for bulky items. Its advertised flexible capacity is also 4.2–4.3 cu. ft.
The most obvious upgrade is the soft-close glass lid, which lets you see inside the washer without lifting the lid and closes more gently than a conventional solid top. Whirlpool also includes PreSoak, Sanitize with Oxi, Cold Wash, a small-load Quick Wash cycle and a dedicated dispenser drawer for detergent and fabric softener.
Current retailer feedback is generally positive about the removable-agitator design, usability and perceived noise level, although some owners mention longer cycles and wish for more detailed cycle-time information. Those reports are useful ownership signals, but they should not be interpreted as controlled noise or wash-performance testing.
Like the WTW4107SW, Whirlpool states that the WTW4307SW does not meet current ENERGY STAR requirements. Its case is therefore about convenience and flexibility, not certified energy efficiency.
Pros
✅ Removable agitator accommodates different load types
✅ Soft-close glass lid is a meaningful usability upgrade
✅ PreSoak and Sanitize with Oxi broaden cycle choices
✅ Retailer feedback frequently praises ease of use
Cons
❌ Costs more than WTW4107SW for similar core flexibility
❌ Does not meet current ENERGY STAR requirements
❌ Some owners would prefer clearer cycle-time information
Who should skip it: If your only priority is buying the least expensive worthwhile Whirlpool top loader, WTW4107SW is the more economical choice.
Alternative: WTW4107SW for lower upfront cost, or WFW4720RW if certified efficiency and front-load operation matter more.
3. Whirlpool WTW5025SW — Best for Pretreating and Agitator Fans
Best For: Households that prefer a conventional center agitator and regularly pretreat visible dirt or stains before starting the main wash.
The WTW5025SW moves away from the removable-agitator approach and uses Whirlpool’s 360 Wash Agitator in a 4.5 cu. ft. basket. Its strongest differentiator is the built-in water faucet. Instead of carrying a stained garment to a utility sink, you can rinse or prewash it directly over the washer basket before beginning the cycle.
Whirlpool also includes a Presoak option that can transition from a 30-minute soak into washing automatically. The Deep Water Wash option adds more water when additional soaking is useful, while the soft-close glass lid makes it easier to check the load.
The tradeoff is inherent to the design: a fixed center agitator occupies basket space. Buyers who frequently wash comforters, bulky bedding or awkward items may prefer the open 4.6 cu. ft. basket of WTW5020SW. The WTW5025SW makes more sense when traditional agitator operation and the built-in faucet are higher priorities.
Pros
✅ Built-in faucet is convenient for pretreating items
✅ Traditional agitator suits shoppers who prefer that wash style
✅ 4.5 cu. ft. capacity handles typical family laundry
✅ Deep Water Wash and Presoak add useful flexibility
Cons
❌ Fixed agitator occupies space in the center of the tub
❌ Less flexible for bulky items than a removable-agitator model
❌ Not the best choice if certified efficiency is your main priority
Who should skip it: Buyers wanting maximum uninterrupted basket space should choose WTW5020SW instead.
Alternative: WTW5020SW delivers a slightly larger 4.6 cu. ft. basket with an impeller instead of a center agitator.
Upgrade your laundry routine with the Whirlpool 4.5 Cu. Ft. 360 Agitator Washer — powerful agitator action and a roomy 4.5 cu. ft. capacity handle large family loads, comforters, and heavy bedding with ease. Enjoy modern convenience features and reliable Whirlpool performance designed to make laundry faster and easier. Ready to simplify laundry day? Add it to your cart and refresh your wash routine today.
4. Whirlpool WTW5020SW — Best Agitator-Free Capacity
Best For: Shoppers who want an affordable Whirlpool top loader with an open basket for bulky laundry rather than a permanent center agitator.
The WTW5020SW offers 4.6 cu. ft. of advertised capacity and uses an impeller at the bottom of the basket. That leaves the center of the tub unobstructed, which can make loading comforters, blankets and awkward items easier than with WTW5025SW.
It keeps many of the features that make the agitator model attractive. Whirlpool includes the same general built-in faucet concept for prewashing directly in the basket, a Presoak option and Deep Water Wash when additional water is useful for loosening soils.
The choice between WTW5020SW and WTW5025SW is therefore less about one machine being universally better and more about how you load laundry. Choose WTW5025SW if you specifically want a traditional center agitator. Choose WTW5020SW if an open basket and slightly higher advertised capacity better match your loads.
Some retailer reviews report concerns involving long cycles, water-level expectations or balancing on particular loads. These are worth knowing before purchase, but individual owner experiences can vary with load size, installation, detergent use and cycle selection.
Pros
✅ 4.6 cu. ft. basket is the largest among our selected top loaders
✅ No center agitator blocking bulky items
✅ Built-in faucet makes pretreating convenient
✅ Presoak and Deep Water Wash provide extra load options
Cons
❌ Impeller design will not appeal to buyers who prefer an agitator
❌ Some owner feedback raises cycle-time and load-balancing concerns
❌ Costs more than Whirlpool’s entry removable-agitator models
Who should skip it: Choose WTW5025SW if traditional agitator action matters more to you than an unobstructed basket.
Alternative: WTW5025SW is the closest counterpart, with a fixed agitator and slightly smaller advertised capacity.
Experience a deeper, more convenient clean with the Whirlpool 4.6 Cu. Ft. Top-Load Washer — a roomy 4.6 cu. ft. tub and compact 27" footprint handle bulky bedding and heavy family loads with ease.
Order yours today and make laundry faster and easier — shop now.
5. Whirlpool WFW4720RW — Best Affordable Front-Load Washer
Best For: Buyers willing to spend more for an ENERGY STAR-certified front loader, stackable installation options and features aimed at keeping finished laundry fresher if it cannot be moved immediately.
The WFW4720RW is our front-load choice because it covers the important fundamentals without requiring shoppers to move into Whirlpool’s more expensive feature-heavy front-load models. Its 4.5 cu. ft. drum is sized for normal family loads, and Whirlpool lists it as ENERGY STAR certified.
Tumble Fresh is particularly useful for busy households. Once the wash finishes, the machine can periodically tumble clean clothing for up to 12 hours, giving you more time before moving the load to the dryer. Whirlpool also offers a 25-minute Quick Wash cycle for a 10-lb load and a Cold Wash cycle designed to adjust time and wash action for cold-water cleaning.
The main disadvantage is price. Front loaders generally require a larger upfront budget than the top-load picks in this guide, so there is little reason to pay the premium if you do not value the format, efficiency certification or stacking potential.
If you’re planning a broader kitchen or appliance refresh rather than only replacing the washer, our best LG refrigerators for modern kitchens guide applies the same use-case-first approach to refrigerator shopping.
Pros
✅ ENERGY STAR certified
✅ Tumble Fresh can periodically move clean clothes for up to 12 hours
✅ 25-minute Quick Wash available for qualifying 10-lb loads
✅ 4.5 cu. ft. front-load capacity suits many family households
Cons
❌ Highest upfront price among our five selections
❌ Front-load design is unnecessary if you prefer simple top loading
❌ Requires more attention to door-gasket and interior drying habits than a basic top loader
Who should skip it: Buyers primarily trying to minimize purchase price should start with WTW4107SW or WTW4307SW.
Alternative: WTW4307SW if you prefer top loading and a removable agitator while keeping the budget lower.
Other Whirlpool Washers We Considered
Whirlpool WTW4300SW: This 4.3 cu. ft. impeller washer remains a legitimate budget option, but its value proposition is difficult when WTW4307SW is available near the same price. The 4307 adds removable-agitator flexibility instead of locking the buyer into an impeller-only setup.
Whirlpool WTW4100SW: This simpler 4.1 cu. ft. model can make sense when heavily discounted, but current pricing has not consistently made it cheaper than stronger options such as WTW4107SW. We would not choose a smaller, less flexible washer merely because its model number appears more entry-level.
Whirlpool WFW5720 family: This is a more feature-rich front-load direction and has stronger independent performance evidence, including recent Good Housekeeping testing of Whirlpool’s FreshFlow front loader. It also moves beyond the price position we want for a guide specifically focused on Whirlpool’s most affordable worthwhile choices.
Whirlpool WTW6157 series: The additional capacity can appeal to large households, but its higher position in Whirlpool’s lineup makes it better suited to a high-capacity washer guide rather than this value-focused shortlist.
How to Choose Among Whirlpool Washing Machines
Top Load vs Front Load Washer
A top loader is usually the simpler way to keep the purchase price down. You load from above, do not need to bend as far, and models such as WTW4107SW provide useful flexibility without moving into premium pricing.
A front loader becomes more attractive when ENERGY STAR certification, stackability or the front-load washing format matters enough to justify a higher initial price. Among these picks, WFW4720RW is the clear choice for that buyer.
Do not choose solely by washer type. Measure your space first, check door or lid clearance, and think about whether you will actually use stacking, a removable agitator or a built-in faucet.
Removable Agitator vs Fixed Agitator vs Impeller
A removable agitator is the most flexible compromise. WTW4107SW and WTW4307SW let you keep a center agitator for some loads and remove it when you need additional uninterrupted space.
A fixed agitator such as the one in WTW5025SW suits shoppers who specifically prefer a traditional center-post design. The tradeoff is that the agitator always occupies part of the basket.
An impeller such as WTW5020SW uses a low-profile mechanism at the bottom of the tub. This creates a more open basket for bulky items, although buyers accustomed to a center agitator may prefer the familiar loading and wash action of WTW5025SW.
What Washer Capacity Does a Family Need?
Capacity only matters when it matches the way your household actually washes. The selected Whirlpool models range from approximately 4.2 to 4.6 cu. ft., which covers a useful middle ground for normal household laundry.
If bedding and bulky loads are frequent, prioritize usable basket shape as well as the cubic-foot number. A slightly smaller removable-agitator washer may become more accommodating when the agitator is removed, while WTW5020SW provides an unobstructed 4.6 cu. ft. impeller basket all the time.
Energy Efficiency and Cold-Water Washing
Do not assume every washer marketed around efficient washing meets ENERGY STAR requirements. Whirlpool explicitly notes that WTW4107SW and WTW4307SW do not meet current ENERGY STAR requirements, while WFW4720RW is ENERGY STAR certified.
Cold-water cycles can still reduce the amount of energy devoted to heating wash water. If lower utility use is an important part of the purchase decision, compare the model’s EnergyGuide information rather than relying only on feature names.
Noise, Cycle Time and Laundry-Room Placement
Owner feedback can help identify recurring annoyances, but it should be interpreted carefully. Installation, floor level, load balance, cycle choice and the room itself can influence perceived sound and vibration.
If your washer will sit near a bedroom, office or living area, check current owner reviews for the exact model and make sure installation includes proper leveling. A basement laundry room can tolerate characteristics that may be annoying in a second-floor closet.
When a Built-In Faucet Is Worth Paying For
The faucets on WTW5025SW and WTW5020SW are useful when you frequently deal with muddy clothing, food spills or other items that benefit from a quick rinse or pretreatment before washing. They are less important if you already have a utility sink beside the washer or rarely pretreat clothing.
That distinction matters because features should justify their cost through actual use. Paying more for a faucet that never gets used is worse value than choosing the simpler WTW4107SW.
How to Compare Whirlpool Washing Machine Deals
Start with the exact model you want, then compare the final delivered price rather than only the headline appliance price. Installation, old-appliance haul-away, hoses, stacking hardware and regional delivery charges can change the real cost.
Retailer reference prices should not automatically be treated as manufacturer MSRP. Focus on what the washer costs today, what is included in that price and whether an apparently cheaper listing is actually the same model.
Important: Major-appliance promotions change frequently. A temporary sale should help you decide when to buy a washer you already want; it should not turn the wrong washer into the right one.
For homes where reducing cleaning workload is part of the same upgrade, our Roomba vs Roborock comparison covers two very different approaches to automated floor cleaning. You can also use our upcoming guide to air purifiers for allergy sufferers when indoor-air cleaning is another priority.
Best Whirlpool Washer by Household Need
| Household Need | Best Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest-cost all-round choice | WTW4107SW | Removable agitator and practical cycles at the entry end of the shortlist |
| Better top-load convenience | WTW4307SW | Flexible agitator plus soft-close glass lid |
| Frequent pretreating | WTW5025SW | Built-in faucet plus traditional agitator |
| Bulky items without center agitator | WTW5020SW | 4.6 cu. ft. open impeller basket |
| Front-load efficiency | WFW4720RW | ENERGY STAR certification and Tumble Fresh |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable Whirlpool washing machine worth buying?
WTW4107SW is our best affordable Whirlpool washer for most buyers because it combines a relatively low price position with a removable agitator, PreSoak, Sanitize with Oxi and Cold Wash. Check current retailer offers because appliance pricing changes frequently.
Which Whirlpool washer is best for a family?
WTW4107SW is a good default for many families, while WTW5020SW is better when an open 4.6 cu. ft. basket is useful for bulkier loads. WFW4720RW is the stronger option when the household specifically wants a front loader.
Are Whirlpool top-load or front-load washers better?
Neither design is universally better. Whirlpool top loaders in this guide generally cost less and provide convenient top access, while WFW4720RW provides front-load operation and ENERGY STAR certification. Choose according to budget, space and the way you prefer to load laundry.
What is the difference between an agitator and an impeller?
An agitator is a center post that moves with the load, while an impeller is a low-profile mechanism at the bottom of the basket. An impeller leaves more uninterrupted tub space. Whirlpool also offers removable-agitator models that let you switch between the two loading configurations.
Which affordable Whirlpool washer is ENERGY STAR certified?
Among the five washers selected here, WFW4720RW is ENERGY STAR certified. Whirlpool states that WTW4107SW and WTW4307SW do not meet current ENERGY STAR requirements.
How long is the Whirlpool washer warranty?
Warranty terms should always be checked for the exact model and purchase location. Current retailer specifications for these mainstream models commonly identify a one-year limited manufacturer warranty, but the warranty document supplied with the exact washer is the controlling source.
Should I buy a Whirlpool washer during a sale or wait?
A strong promotion is useful when it applies to a model that already fits your needs. Compare the total delivered cost, installation terms and current offers from several retailers rather than buying a less suitable washer only because its percentage discount looks larger.
Final Verdict: Which Whirlpool Washer Should You Buy?
WTW4107SW is the best affordable Whirlpool washing machine for most buyers. Its removable agitator solves a real problem by letting one washer handle traditional agitator loads and bulkier items without a permanent center post. It also provides useful cycles without pushing the price into Whirlpool’s more premium territory.
Choose WTW4307SW if you want the same basic flexibility with a soft-close glass lid and upgraded convenience. Pick WTW5025SW when a traditional agitator and built-in faucet are more important, or WTW5020SW when you prefer an unobstructed 4.6 cu. ft. basket.
The WFW4720RW is the right step up for buyers who specifically want front loading and ENERGY STAR certification. It costs more, but Tumble Fresh, the 4.5 cu. ft. drum and certified efficiency give it a clearly different role rather than simply making it a more expensive version of the top-load machines.
Bottom line: Buy WTW4107SW for the best overall affordable value, WTW4307SW for a nicer flexible top loader, WTW5025SW for agitator washing and pretreating, WTW5020SW for an open impeller basket, or WFW4720RW when front-load efficiency is worth paying more for.
Sources
- Whirlpool — Top Load Washing Machine Buying Guide
- Best Buy — Whirlpool WTW4107SW product and customer review data
- Whirlpool — Top Load Washer Comparison and ENERGY STAR information
- Whirlpool — WFW4720RW Front Load ENERGY STAR Washer
- Good Housekeeping — 6 Best Affordable Washing Machines, According to Appliance Experts
Product Groups: WTW4107SW, WTW4307SW, WTW5025SW, WTW5020SW, WFW4720RW
