What Are the Best Washer and Dryer Brands to Buy Used? 7 Brands Worth Considering
Whirlpool, Maytag, GE, Speed Queen, LG, Samsung and Amana compared for reliability, repairs and value.
Quick answer
- On a budget: start with standard Whirlpool, Maytag, GE and Amana models. They're common, simple and easy to find parts for.
- Durability first, bigger budget: consider Speed Queen.
- Efficiency and features: look at specific LG and Samsung models, and check the model number for recalls.
- No brand is immune to wear. The machine's condition matters more than the name on it.
If you're shopping for a used washer and dryer, you've probably wondered which brands are the most reliable. Should you buy Whirlpool or Maytag? Are older GE washers dependable? Is Speed Queen worth the extra money? And what about LG and Samsung?
These questions matter because buying used isn't the same as buying new. New appliances come with a manufacturer's warranty and let you choose an exact model. A used machine has already seen some wear.
At Just Washers & Dryers, we believe the best used appliance isn't the most expensive one or the one with the most features. It's the machine with the best mix of mechanical condition, reliability, ease of repair, parts availability and price.
For many budget-minded households, we prefer a standard washer and dryer with simple controls and common service parts. That doesn't mean every traditional machine is good or every high-tech one is bad. Here are seven major brands and what to know before buying them used.
1. Whirlpool: one of our favorite brands to buy used
Whirlpool is one of the first brands we look at for standard used laundry machines. It has made many washer and dryer designs over the decades, including traditional top-load washers and standard electric dryers.
A big reason many Whirlpool models do well on the used market is service support. Popular models usually have easy-to-find parts, repair guides and technicians who know them well.
Why we like certain Whirlpool washers
Some older Whirlpool top-load washers use fairly simple drive systems that are affordable to repair. Depending on the model, common service parts include:
- Water inlet valves
- Drain pumps
- Lid switches or lid locks
- Motor couplings
- Drive belts
- Agitator parts
- Clutches and other drive parts
Not every Whirlpool washer uses all of these, and different generations are built very differently. For example, many older direct-drive Whirlpool washers use a motor coupling instead of a drive belt, while newer models may use electronic controls, shift actuators and other drive designs. That's why knowing the model matters.
What about Whirlpool dryers?
Many standard Whirlpool-family electric dryers make good used buys because common parts are everywhere: heating elements, thermal fuses, thermostats, drum belts, rollers and idler pulleys, depending on the design. Repairs must be done correctly, though, and a dryer that keeps blowing thermal fuses has an underlying problem (often a blocked vent) that needs to be found.
What to watch for
On washers: heavy vibration, drain problems, unusual drive noises and electronic faults. On dryers: weak heat, drum problems, odd sounds and signs of overheating.
Our take: many standard Whirlpool washers and dryers combine low prices with easy service, which makes them strong picks for budget-minded buyers.
2. Maytag: a trusted name with some excellent used models
Maytag has a long history in laundry, and many buyers associate it with durable, traditional machines. It's worth knowing that Maytag is part of Whirlpool Corporation, and many modern Maytag machines share designs and parts with other Whirlpool-family products. A Maytag badge doesn't automatically mean a different or tougher machine.
Why Maytag is worth a look
Some older Maytag machines earned strong reputations for long life and easy service, and many standard Maytag dryers use familiar parts that can be repaired without replacing the whole machine. For buyers who want basic laundry equipment, many Maytag models are a good fit.
Are older Maytag washers better than newer ones?
Not automatically. Older machines may have simpler controls, but they may also have worn bearings, aging seals, rust or discontinued parts. Newer machines may be more efficient but harder to repair. The condition of the specific washer matters more than the year it was made.
What to check
- Unusual bearing or transmission noise
- Heavy vibration
- Worn suspension parts
- Drain problems
- Lid-lock issues
- Error codes
- Leaks
Our take: Maytag is worth considering, but we wouldn't pay much extra just for the Maytag name.
3. GE: a practical choice for affordable used appliances
GE washers and dryers are in a huge number of American homes, and many standard GE models appeal to people who want familiar controls and basic laundry functions. (GE Appliances has been owned by Haier since 2016, and still sells machines under the GE name.)
Why GE can be a good used buy
Many popular GE models have accessible service manuals and replacement parts, and many standard designs skip costly premium features. If you just want a washer that cleans and a dryer that dries, a working GE set can be a practical choice.
Common issues to check
Depending on the model, used GE washers can have problems with:
- Suspension rods
- Drain pumps
- Lid locks
- Water inlet valves
- Drive parts
- Electronic controls
- Bearings
Used GE dryers can have worn drum-support parts, heating problems or airflow restrictions. None of these are unique to GE. What matters is whether the specific machine has been tested and whether any needed repair is worth it.
What about older GE washers?
Some older GE washers have fairly simple mechanics, but older doesn't always mean better. Heavy use, poor maintenance or past water damage can shorten a machine's remaining life.
Our take: GE is a strong brand to consider for an affordable standard washer or dryer, especially when you can see the machine run.
4. Speed Queen: a premium option for durability
Speed Queen is known for durable, commercial-style laundry equipment. It makes both home and commercial machines, though its home models aren't identical to its commercial ones. Many Speed Queen washers use heavy-duty mechanical designs aimed at buyers who want long-term ownership.
Why buyers like Speed Queen
Depending on the model:
- Durable construction
- Simple controls
- Established service support
- Replacement parts available
- Built for heavy laundry use
These traits vary by model and generation.
The biggest drawback: price
Used Speed Queen washers often cost much more than ordinary used top-loaders, which shrinks the savings of buying used. For example, our refurbished washers are $259 delivered and installed. A used Speed Queen at $600 would cost $341 more, before delivery.
That extra cost can be worth it if the machine has plenty of life left and fits your needs, but paying more doesn't guarantee it will last longer.
What to check
Listen for bearing noise, watch the drive system work, look for leaks and ask about maintenance history. Commercial-style construction doesn't make a machine immune to wear.
Our take: Speed Queen deserves a serious look if durability is your top priority and you're comfortable paying more. It isn't the best value for every budget.
5. LG: worth considering for high-efficiency laundry
LG makes a wide range of front-load and top-load washers, including models with advanced controls, large capacities and high-efficiency wash systems. Some LG models have done well in independent testing and owner reliability surveys, but reliability varies by model, and the condition of a used machine is still what counts.
What we like about many LG washers
Depending on the model:
- Large-capacity drums
- Efficient water use
- Many wash cycles
- Advanced fabric-care settings
- Quiet operation
- Direct-drive motors
These features are valuable for households that do a lot of laundry.
What used buyers should watch for
Some front-load repairs are expensive. Watch for drum bearing, door gasket, drain pump, sensor and control problems. A washer that roars during the spin or has a lot of drum play needs a careful look.
Are LG dryers worth buying used?
They can be. As with any brand, check heat, drum rotation, controls and airflow, and make sure parts are available for the model.
Our take: a well-kept LG washer or dryer can be a good buy, especially if you want efficiency and modern features. Look up the exact model and likely repair costs first.
6. Samsung: research the exact model before buying
Samsung makes modern washers and dryers with lots of features, attractive designs and electronic controls. Many buyers like their large capacities and special cycles. We recommend a little extra research before buying one used.
Why model research matters
Certain Samsung washers have had model-specific reliability and safety issues. For example, in 2016 millions of Samsung top-load washers were recalled because the top could detach during use. That doesn't mean every Samsung washer is unsafe or unreliable. It means you should check the exact model number for recalls and known issues.
What to check
- Open safety recalls
- Known model-specific problems
- Drum and bearing condition
- Suspension
- Error codes
- Draining
- Parts availability
- Likely repair costs
What about Samsung dryers?
Judge each one on its own. Check that the drum turns smoothly, the dryer heats properly, and there are no signs of overheating or unusual wear.
Our take: we wouldn't rule out every Samsung, but we'd be especially careful about model-specific issues and major repair costs.
7. Amana: a budget-friendly brand worth considering
Amana deserves attention, especially if you want basic laundry equipment. Like Maytag, Amana is part of Whirlpool Corporation, and many Amana machines share parts and designs with other Whirlpool-family products.
Why we like many Amana models
Many Amana washers and dryers focus on the basics instead of costly premium features. Depending on the model:
- Simple controls
- Standard laundry cycles
- Common service parts
- Familiar mechanical designs
- Low used prices
Is Amana built as well as Whirlpool?
It depends on the models you compare. Because they often share parts and designs, the difference is usually smaller than buyers expect. A working Amana can be a better value than a pricier machine with mechanical problems.
What to check
On washers: the drive system, drain pump, suspension, fill and controls. On dryers: heat, drum rotation and safe operation.
Our take: basic Amana washers and dryers are practical choices if you want low prices and simple operation.
Which used brand would we choose?
For a standard used set on a limited budget, we'd start with suitable Whirlpool, Maytag, GE and Amana models. That's a buying preference based on how easy many standard models are to service and find parts for, not a claim that these brands are always more reliable than every competitor.
If durability and a bigger budget were the priority, we'd add Speed Queen. If efficiency, large capacity or advanced features mattered most, we'd look at specific LG and Samsung models. In the end, the best choice depends on the exact machines available.
| Brand | Why consider it used | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool | Many easy-to-service standard models | Drive system, suspension, controls |
| Maytag | Established laundry designs | Bearings, vibration, model-specific repairs |
| GE | Practical standard models | Pumps, suspension, controls |
| Speed Queen | Built for durability | Price, age, wear |
| LG | Efficiency and features | Bearings, electronics, repair costs |
| Samsung | Modern features and capacity | Recalls, model-specific problems |
| Amana | Basic, budget-friendly models | Condition, parts availability |
Remember: no brand is immune to mechanical failure.
Can you choose a brand when you order from us?
Our stock changes as machines come through our shop, so we can't promise a specific brand. Every machine we sell, whatever the brand, is cleaned, inspected and run through full cycles, with worn parts replaced, and comes with a 90-day parts and labor warranty. If you have a preference, put it in the order notes and we'll match what's in stock.
Are older washers and dryers better than newer ones?
This is one of the most debated questions in the appliance world. Many people prefer older washers because they remember machines that lasted for years with few repairs, and there's some truth to it: many older washers have simpler mechanics and fewer electronics.
But older machines can also have a lot of built-up wear, and newer washers can be much better on water use, energy use and cleaning features.
Our view: for budget-minded customers, we often favor standard models that are proven to run and have easy-to-find parts. But we'd never recommend a machine just because it's old. Condition, ease of service and price matter more.
Do the washer and dryer have to be the same brand?
No. Side-by-side machines run independently, so they don't need to come from the same company. A Whirlpool washer works fine next to a GE dryer, and a Maytag washer pairs well with an Amana dryer. What matters is that each machine fits your space and your hookups.
Stacking is different: stacked machines generally need compatible models and the manufacturer's stacking kit. For tight spaces, a one-piece stackable unit is often easier.
Should you pay extra for a matching set?
That's personal preference. Matching machines make a laundry room look uniform, but matching colors and control panels don't wash or dry any better. On a budget, we'd put condition ahead of looks. With our sets, we match brand and color when we can, and otherwise pair machines of the same size and style. For more on this, see set vs. separate pricing in our price guide.
Which used brands are easiest to repair?
Repairability depends more on the model's design than the brand. Many standard Whirlpool-family dryers use common heating and drum-support parts, and many older top-load washers have familiar mechanics with lots of repair documentation. But major bearing, transmission, tub and control-board repairs can be expensive no matter who made the machine.
Before you buy, ask whether common parts are still available and whether local technicians know the model. A machine with easy-to-find parts and simple service can be a better long-term buy than a rare or specialized one.
How much should you pay for a reliable used washer and dryer?
Price depends on brand, age, condition and whether the machines were refurbished. These general ranges can help you budget:
| Appliance | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Standard used top-load washer | $150–$300 |
| Standard used electric dryer | $125–$275 |
| Used set | $300–$600 |
| Refurbished set | $450–$750 |
| Premium used set | $600–$1,000+ |
General shopping estimates, not a live survey of Metro Atlanta prices.
A higher price can be justified by better condition, more thorough testing or a real warranty. A familiar brand name alone doesn't justify paying much more. For comparison, our refurbished sets are $485 and single machines $259, delivered with hookup, haul-away and a 90-day parts and labor warranty. For the full breakdown, read How Much Should You Pay for a Used Washer and Dryer?
What to inspect on any used washer or dryer
Whatever the brand, check the machine's condition.
Washer
- Fills with water properly.
- Washes or agitates correctly.
- Drains completely.
- Reaches normal spin speed.
- Runs without heavy shaking.
- Doesn't leak.
- Controls and safety features work.
Dryer
- Starts normally.
- Turns the drum.
- Heats when heat is selected.
- Runs without grinding or squealing.
- Controls work.
- Shows no signs of overheating or electrical damage.
A machine that powers on isn't necessarily working correctly. For the full walkthrough, use our 15-point used washer checklist.
Are there washer and dryer brands to avoid?
We don't recommend ruling out a whole brand without looking at the specific model. But some machines deserve extra caution:
- Washers with known bearing or tub problems for that model
- Models with an open safety recall that hasn't been fixed
- Machines that need a control board or major part that's discontinued or very expensive
- Rare or specialized models that local technicians don't service
- Any machine that can't be tested before you buy
The problem is usually the specific model and its condition, not the brand on the front. Read more in Used Washer and Dryer Brands to Avoid: 7 Warning Signs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most reliable used washer brand?
No single brand is always the most reliable. For budget buyers, standard Whirlpool, Maytag, GE and Amana models are good places to start because they're common and easy to repair. Speed Queen is known for durability but costs more. The machine's condition matters most.
Are Maytag and Whirlpool the same company?
Yes. Maytag and Amana are both part of Whirlpool Corporation, and many of their machines share designs and parts. Compare the specific models rather than paying extra for the name.
Is a used Speed Queen worth the extra cost?
It can be if durability is your top priority and the machine is in good condition. But used Speed Queens often cost much more than standard used washers, and a higher price doesn't guarantee a longer life.
Should I buy a used Samsung washer?
It can be a good buy, but check the exact model number for safety recalls and known problems first, and make sure parts are available.
Which used dryer brand is easiest to repair?
Many standard Whirlpool-family dryers, including Whirlpool, Maytag and Amana, use common parts like belts, rollers, heating elements and thermal fuses that are easy to find. Repairability still depends on the model.
Can I pick the brand when I order from Just Washers & Dryers?
Our stock changes, so we can't promise a specific brand, but you can note your preference on the order form and we'll match what's in stock. Every machine is cleaned, tested and covered by a 90-day parts and labor warranty.
Final thoughts
The best used washer and dryer isn't about the logo. It's the machine that runs well, uses parts you can still buy, and is priced fairly for its age and condition. Start with common, easy-to-service brands, check the exact model, and always see the machine run or buy from a seller who tests it and puts the warranty in writing.