9 Best Cheap Washing Machines That Make Laundry Day a Breeze

9 Best Cheap Washing Machines That Make Laundry Day a Breeze

There are a huge number of washing machines available today, but most of them cost somewhere between $700 and $1,500—not exactly affordable if you’re shopping on a budget. However, if you know where to look, you can find cheap washing machines that cost less and work just as well—and many even offer a lot of the same features as more expensive models.

Whether you’re looking for a full-size washing machine, a portable model for a small apartment, or a manual option to take camping, there are several options under $600 that will suit your needs. They come in all different shapes and sizes, and some even have advanced features like fabric-specific wash cycles and high-efficiency operation.

What to Consider

When shopping for a cheap washing machine, you’ll need to decide whether you want a full-size, portable, or manual model. Most of the full-size options you’ll find under $600 are top-loading, and they offer a large capacity, as well as more settings and cycles.

For those with limited space, portable washing machines have a more compact footprint and can easily be stored in a closet. However, these machines typically require a faucet connection for operation and don’t always wring out your clothes, making them trickier to dry.

Finally, manual washing machines are the most affordable, but they require a bit of elbow grease for operation. You usually have to crank or agitate the machine by hand, but these models don’t require electricity, making them ideal for camping or off-the-grid living.

How We Evaluated

To offer a selection of cheap washing machines that will work for every home and budget, we looked for the top products in each of the categories outlined above—full-size, portable, and manual—and only included highly rated models that cost less than $600. All the products have a rating of 4 stars or higher from an average of several hundred customers, and we prioritized washing machines from well-regarded brands with good customer service and warranties.