LG vs Samsung Washing Machine: Which Should You Buy?
LG and Samsung are the two biggest washing machine brands in Australia, dominating superstore shelves and online sales. Both offer front loaders and top loaders across a wide price range. But which brand is actually better? Here's an honest comparison.
Price Range
LG washing machines range from $700 (basic top loader) to $2,500+ (large front loader with steam and AI). Their most popular models — the 8–10kg F series front loaders — typically cost $1,100–$1,500 new.
Samsung washing machines start from $600 and go up to $2,000+. Their AddWash and EcoBubble front loaders in the $900–$1,400 range are very popular.
Both brands offer very similar pricing across comparable models.
Washing Performance
Both brands perform well in independent testing. LG's TurboWash360 technology uses multiple spray jets to saturate clothes faster, reducing cycle times without compromising cleaning quality. It's genuinely impressive.
Samsung's EcoBubble technology dissolves detergent into bubbles before they reach the drum, allowing effective cleaning at lower water temperatures. This saves energy and is gentler on fabrics.
CHOICE Australia tests rate both brands highly for cleaning performance on cotton and synthetic cycles.
Verdict: LG has a slight edge for speed; Samsung has an edge for gentle fabric care.
Reliability
This is where the brands diverge more significantly. LG has an excellent reliability reputation in Australia. Their motors come with a 10-year warranty, reflecting genuine confidence in their durability. Many LG washing machines last 12–15+ years.
Samsung has had more mixed reliability reports, particularly with their digital inverter motor and control board failures in some models from the 2018–2021 period. Their newer models appear more reliable, but LG's reputation is stronger overall.
Verdict: LG wins on reliability. This is the most important factor for a washing machine purchase.
Noise and Vibration
Both brands use inverter motor technology that reduces noise and vibration compared to older washing machines. LG's direct drive motor (the drum is attached directly to the motor without a belt) is particularly smooth and quiet.
Verdict: LG has a slight edge on vibration due to direct drive technology.
Smart Features
Both brands offer Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. LG ThinQ and Samsung SmartThings are both functional apps. LG's AI DD (artificial intelligence direct drive) technology can detect fabric type and adjust wash settings automatically — a genuinely useful innovation.
Verdict: LG has more innovative smart features. Samsung's app integration with SmartThings is broader (works with more home devices) but washing-specific features are weaker.
Who Should Buy LG?
- People prioritising long-term reliability
- Buyers who want quiet operation
- Those who want quick wash cycles (TurboWash)
- Anyone happy to pay a small premium for peace of mind
Who Should Buy Samsung?
- Buyers who want good value at a slightly lower price point
- Those who want gentle fabric care (EcoBubble)
- Renters or short-term buyers for whom longevity is less critical
- Samsung ecosystem users who want SmartThings integration
What About Second-Hand?
Both LG and Samsung washing machines hold up well second-hand, especially LG given its reliability record. Oceania Appliances regularly stocks quality used LG and Samsung washing machines, all tested and carrying a 3–6 month warranty. Prices from $200.
Call us on 0481 243 211 or browse our washing machine range online. Free delivery across Sydney.