10 of the most popular top load washing machines in Australia 2025

*based on average rate of 35 cents per kWh

**Price Range according to RRP August 2025. Appliances Online sells products at below RRP when possible: click the link for each top load washer to see current price.

Before we look at each top loader in a bit more detail, here's an overview of the features and specs you’ll see in the 10 washing machines on this list.

Type: Every model on this list is a top loader washing machine. Front loaders do lead the market in terms of certain efficiencies and performance features, but the easy, no-bending required access means top loaders will always have plenty of fans. As such, many leading appliance manufacturers continue to innovate their top loader lineups, improving performance, efficiency, smart connectivity and more.

Capacity: The washers on this list range in size from 5.5kg to a large capacity 12kg. The smallest, an Esatto model (#2), is ideal for singles or couples, while the biggest, the Fisher & Paykel Series 7 (#7), is a true family-sized machine. The most common size is 6kg, but the most popular dryer on the list has an 8kg capacity.

Price: There’s a wide spread of prices on the list, with budget-friendly machines like the small Esatto 5.5kg through to higher-end models like the Fisher & Paykel Series 7 12kg. Larger-capacity and higher Energy Star and Water Star-rated washers will cost more, but remember that more efficient models will have lower long-term running costs (see below).

The dollar symbols indicate where each model sits on the price scale in relation to this list, from lower cost ($$$) of under $500, to medium cost ($$$) of between $500 and $1,200 and higher cost ($$$) of over $1,200. Most models sit somewhere in the middle.

NOTE: Prices shown are RRP. At Appliances Online, many top load washers are sold below RRP – click each model’s link to check our price.

Running cost: Annual energy costs have been calculated at 35 cents per kWh, based on one daily wash. Depending on the model, running costs range from about $76 to $185 per year for electricity, with water costs adding around 25 cents per cycle. Choosing a higher Energy Star rating will usually mean a cheaper machine to run in the long term. Electricity costs vary by your location and energy provider, so to get an accurate estimated running cost, you can enter your actual rate on the Energy Calculator on each washer’s page.

The wash cycle you use also affects running costs: a cold wash, for example, uses significantly less power as it’s not heating the water.

Remember to consider the capacity of the washer when looking at running costs: a larger washer may have higher annual running costs but actually be more cost effective than a lower capacity model, because it’s washing more clothes.

Energy and water efficiency: These machines have between 2 and 4.5 Energy Stars, and water ratings between 3 and 4 stars. Fisher & Paykel and Haier models in particular lead the way in energy ratings, while budget machines tend to use more power and water.

Colour: Every model here is finished in classic white with variations in lid and control panel trims – simple and versatile for most laundries. If you prefer darker finishes, some brands do offer black, grey or stainless steel top loaders. There are a handful of black, grey, graphite and stainless steel top load washing machines available if you want a darker design element in your laundry.

Warranty: Most brands include a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, though some have extended 10-year coverage on the motor. The Seiki model (#10) has a 1-year warranty.

Brands: Fisher & Paykel leads this list with three models. Westinghouse and Haier both have two top loaders featured, and Esatto, CHiQ and Seiki appear once each.

What customers say:

“I replaced my old washing machine with this one and have to say that it’s the best thing I ever did! It easy to use, cleans my clothes perfectly and they come out smelling fresh and soft. The UV light is a must have component in your washing machine.” - patdrive, July 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 8kg

• Energy Stars: 4.5

• Water Stars: 4

• Average annual running cost: $76.65

• Price: $$$ (RRP $1,099) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“Great smaller washing machine. Give a very good wash and spin dry. Clothes are extremely clean. Love the the quick wash, done in 15 minute. Very happy.” - Lynn, August 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 5.5kg

• Energy Stars: 2

• Water Stars: 3

• Average annual running cost: $149.10

• Price: $$$ (RRP $369) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“I'm Happy, Looks small, but fits a lot in. Major bonus, when its finished the load It switches itself off. Quiet enough to put a load on and go to bed.” - Gasman, May 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 7kg

• Energy Stars: 2.5

• Water Stars: 3.5

• Average annual running cost: $157.10

• Price: $$$ (RRP $999) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“Always had a top loader, first time purchasing a washing machine without an agitator. I am impressed as this machine is Very quiet and very efficient. I am very happy with this washing machine.” - Julia R, July 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 8kg

• Energy Stars: 4.5

• Water Stars: 4

• Average annual running cost: $77.00

• Price: $$$ (RRP $949) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“After having a F&P 8.5kg top loader with an agitator for many hears, I am enjoying the larger drum size of 10kg. I can now wash my sheets in one load instead of two. The mattress protectors also fit in easier and wash better. It runs quietly and without much vibration. Very easy to use and programme. For the first time ever in my long life, I have used the delay start, as it is so simple to set. So far so good.” - Lexine, July 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 10kg

• Energy Stars: 4.5

• Water Stars: 4

• Average annual running cost: $92.05

• Price: $$$ (RRP $1,499) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“Great for single person. Easy to use and I really like the soft closing glass lid. It's perfect for single person or elderly person. Good for smaller wash loads but can do numerous queen size sheets in one load too. Washes well and it was just what I needed.” - Adina, June 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 6.5kg

• Energy Stars: 2

• Water Stars: 3

• Average annual running cost: $185.50

• Price: $$$ (RRP $499) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“Despite constant cleaning our front loader was still a breeder for black mould. Back pain because it was on the floor for loading and unloading. The top loader is easier to use and to clean and in my opinion gentler on the clothes. We got the biggest F&P make (12kg) so we can wash our king+ sized blankets and doona, saves a fortune at the dry cleaners.” - Marc, July 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 12kg

• Energy Stars: 4.5

• Water Stars: 4

• Average annual running cost: $112.00

• Price: $$$ (RRP $1,899) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“Purchased to replace a 5.5 Simpson. Impressed by more modern design and technology . Lack of agitator works well and serves our needs. Good range of wash options. Much quieter than the Simpson. Looks like a smaller F and P. A well priced product .” - AliJ, June 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 6kg

• Energy Stars: 2.5

• Water Stars: 3

• Average annual running cost: $144.55

• Price: $$$ (RRP $639) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“We run a B&B and use the washing machine every day. Load it, run it, forget it, which is exactly what it should do…Let’s you know when the cycle is finished so you can crack on with the next load…Even incorporates a soft self close lid top. Should have bought it yonks ago!” - Bayviewbb, August 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 6kg

• Energy Stars: 2.5

• Water Stars: 3.5

• Average annual running cost: $157.10

• Price: $$$ (RRP $949) See Appliances Online price and full specs

What customers say:

“I bought this washing machine not only because of the excellent price ,the size was important to me as was the fact that it was a top loader. I’m an elderly lady washing for just two of us and our granny flat is not designed for large laundry so the size of this one is just perfect ….not too deep in the bowl and very manageable for me …… I’m very very happy with this purchase and fast delivery , thank you to all involved” - Anne, July 2025

• Type: Top loader

• Capacity: 6kg

• Energy Stars: 2

• Water Stars: 3.5

• Average annual running cost: $170.45

• Price: $$$ (RRP $399) See Appliances Online price and full specs

Need a dryer to go with your new washer? As well as top loaders we sell thousands of heat pump and vented dryers (and, of course, front load washing machines!). Save time researching new laundry appliances by seeing what thousands of other Aussies have been buying recently.

• 10 of the most popular clothes dryers in Australia 2025

• 10 of the most popular washer-dryer combos in Australia 2025

• 10 of the most popular front load washing machines in Australia 2025

Plus, if you’re looking to replace an old fridge or dishwasher, or it’s time to upgrade to a dream screen TV, check out these lists of our most popular kitchen and home appliances this year.