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Best affordable washing machines
A great washing machine doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. We've rounded up the best affordable models that prove you can get reliable performance, handy features and impressive results without stretching your budget.
These days, paying less doesn’t mean settling for less. From family-friendly drums and energy-saving programmes to smart controls and quick wash settings, there’re plenty of affordable washing machines packed with features that make life easier. We've chosen out our top picks to help you find the right fit
Best all rounder
Who says you need to spend big to get great results? The Hisense 3S Series has features you'd expect further up the price ladder, including smart app controls, Steam technology and handy Quick Wash programmes. And with an A energy rating that keeps running costs in check, it's proof that a budget-friendly washing machine can still pull its weight when laundry day rolls around.
Click below to bag our expert's top pick the Hisense 3S Series WF3S8043BT3
Best budget washing machine for families
Keeping up with a family's washing pile can feel like a full-time job. That’s where the Beko EnergySpin™ comes in. The roomy 9kg drum gives you space for everything from school uniforms to bedding, so you can get through more in fewer loads. And when time’s tight, the QuickWash programme can freshen up a full load in just 28 minutes. Add an A energy rating and EnergySpin™ tech into the mix, and you've got a machine that works hard without pushing up the bills.
Experts pick: Beko EnergySpin™ BM3WT3941W
Best budget premium washing machine
Fancy a washing machine that does some of the thinking for you? The Haier X5 Plus uses Smart AI to automatically adjust each cycle based on what's in the drum, taking care of the guesswork. The hOn app lets you stay connected from your phone too, while the spacious 10kg drum is ready for everything from weekly washes to laundry mountains.
Experts pick: Haier X5 Plus HW100BP14357AEUK
Best budget washing machines for small households
For 1 or 2 people, bigger isn't always better. The Hotpoint Anti-Stain has an 8kg capacity that's a great fit for smaller homes. It’s also got an Anti-Stain programme that takes care of everyday marks, and the A energy rating helps keep running costs in check too. At under £300, it's proof that you don’t need to spend big for a top-tier machine.
Experts pick: Hotpoint Anti-Stain NSWM 846 GG UK
Best budget energy efficient washing machine
Saving energy doesn't have to mean investing upfront. The Beko EnergySpin™ is designed to get more from everyday washes, since it makes better use of energy while still giving sparkling results. Its 8kg drum is a handy size for most homes, and with an A energy rating on board, it’s a great choice for keeping running costs under control.
Experts pick: Beko EnergySpin™ BM3WT3841W
Best budget smart washing machine
Go pop your feet up and let the Hoover Pro Wash Series 3 take care of the hard work. It has a handy Smart Wash app that puts loads of features at your fingertips, letting you stay on top of cycles from your phone. There's also a generous 10kg drum for tackling bigger loads too, while the A energy rating helps keep running costs down.
Experts pick: Hoover Pro Wash Series 3 HBR 410BL8-80
Brand spotlight
- What is considered a budget washing machine?
A budget washing machine is all about getting the essentials right without spending a fortune. You can still expect reliable cleaning performance, practical programmes, and plenty of handy features you'll use every week.
- What features should I look for in a budget washing machine?
- One of the first things to look out for is a drum size that suits your laundry habits. Then you can check if it has the programmes you use most often, as well as a decent spin speed and an A energy rating. They can all make a big difference.
- What drum size is best for a budget washing machine?
Drum size comes down to how many people are filling up the laundry basket. For 1 or 2 of you, 7kg to 8kg is usually plenty. Bigger households
- Is it worth buying an energy-efficient budget washing machine?
Energy-efficient models are designed to make the most of water and electricity, meaning there’s less waste and you end up with lower bills. Getting a budget appliance can double-up on those savings and help you keep hold of more of your money.
- Can I get smart features on a budget washing machine?
Plenty of budget models these days come with apps that let you keep an eye on things through your mobile. That makes it easier to check on a cycle or even download new programmes, so you can stay on top of the laundry without stepping into premium price territory.
- Are budget washing machines reliable?
A lot of budget models come from trusted brands and are designed to handle the demands of everyday laundry. That includes more affordable machines, so you can be sure it’ll last.
- How long should a washing machine last?
A well-looked-after washing machine can often keep going for around 10 years or more. Regular cleaning, sensible load sizes and following the manufacturer's guidance can all help it stay in good working order for longer.
