Impeller vs. Agitator Washer: Which Is Right for You?

One thing’s for sure: Any washing machine is better than hauling your stuff to the laundromat or scrubbing your clothes by hand. But there are different types to choose from, and understanding the differences between impeller versus agitator washing machines can help ensure you purchase the right one for you and your wardrobe. Let’s take a look.

Impeller vs. Agitator Washer: Key Differences

Impeller washing machines feature a low-profile rotating disc, which creates a current in the water and rubs clothes against each other to loosen dirt. Agitator washers, on the other hand, feature a tall spindle or post with vanes or fins attached to it, which moves back and forth and creates its own mechanical friction against clothes. If you need help narrowing down your choices, a washing machine pro near you can help.

What Is an Impeller Washer?

Impeller washers use the basic force of moving water to get your clothes clean. As the impeller disc rotates, a strong water current rubs your clothes against each other and disperses detergent evenly through the laundry load.

Best for:

• People with larger loads of less-soiled laundry

• Those with delicate fabrics in their wardrobe

• Those with more money to invest upfront

Pros of Impeller Washers 

Impeller washing machines are favored by those with an eye toward keeping it green, because they use less water and energy than agitator washers do. And because they rely on nothing but the current of the water and your clothes rubbing against each other to lift out stains and dirt, they’re gentler on fabrics, too.

Furthermore, impeller washers don’t feature that big spindle in the middle of the basket—which means the entire internal space of the washer is available for your clothes. This can mean increased capacity and larger loads, which futhers their water and energy efficiency.

Cons of Impeller Washers

Although they’re more energy efficient and cheaper to operate over time, impeller washing machines do tend to have a higher upfront cost than agitator washers do. Also, it’s relatively easy for clothes or fabrics to become tangled in the middle of the basket, potentially throwing your washing machine off balance and stopping the cycle. However, this is a common washer and dryer issue that’s usually easy to resolve.

Although plenty of owners say their impeller washing machines get their clothes perfectly clean, it’s true that agitator washers apply more mechanical force and thus may be able to tackle heavier-duty stains and dirt than impeller washing machines can.

What Is an Agitator Washer?

Agitator washers are the type that feature a long spindle or post in the center of the washer basket. You’ll see fins or vanes raised up off this post, which serve to rub against clothes and loosen soil. 

Best for:

• People with serious dirt and stains to deal with (i.e., parents)

• People with less time to do laundry (i.e., parents)

• People on a tighter appliance budget

Pros of Agitator Washers

Agitator washers are all about getting the job done fast. Because the agitator puts mechanical force directly on the fabric, wash times tend to be shorter and clothes may come out cleaner, especially if they’re very soiled. (Parents who use reusable diapers, for example, may prefer an agitator washer.)

Agitator washers also tend to be more affordable upfront for people who are looking to buy or replace an appliance on a more modest budget.

Cons of Agitator Washers

That big spindle in the middle of the basket takes up room—which, of course, means less room for your clothes. Additionally, agitator washers are less energy efficient than impeller washers are, so along with using more water and electricity, they’ll also cost you more in utility bills to operate over time, too.

Finally, bear in mind that agitator washers are tough on stains—which means they’re not gentle on fabrics. If your wardrobe includes a lot of delicate items or you’re hoping to maximize the lifespan of your clothing, an agitator washer might not work in your favor.

Impeller vs. Agitator Washing Machines

So, which washing machine is right for you? Here’s a look at how these two options stack up against each other.

Price​: Agitator

While they may be more expensive to operate as far as electricity and water requirements, agitator washing machines do tend to be less expensive up-front to install—and a high-quality one can last 14 years or more when well maintained.

Efficiency in Cleaning: Agitator

Agitator washing machines also take the cake when it comes to getting fabric as clean as possible as quickly as possible. This can make them attractive to busy families who often do multiple loads of laundry not just every week, but every day.

Gentleness on Clothes: Impeller

While agitator washing machines may get the job done quicker, when it comes to being gentle on your clothes, impellers have the edge. That’s because they rely only on the friction your clothes generate on one another, rather than direct mechanical force between the machine and the fabric.

Eco-Friendliness/Sustainability​: Impeller

Impeller washing machines also win the game when it comes to eco-friendliness and sustainability. They use less water and energy than agitator washing machines, and since they’re gentler on your clothes, you’ll ultimately purchase (and throw away) less fabric, too.