Best Compact Washer and Dryer Combo 2026: 12 Models Tested

After living in a 500-square-foot apartment for three years, I learned that finding the right compact washer and dryer combo can save you $150 monthly in laundromat costs.

The Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub Washer is the best compact washer and dryer combo for most apartments, offering 18 lbs wash capacity and powerful 1300 RPM spin at just $179.99.

Our team tested 12 compact models ranging from $83.99 portable twin tubs to $1,589 smart all-in-one units over 90 days.

You’ll discover which models actually fit through 24-inch doorways, which ones work with standard 110V outlets, and why some $1,000+ combos leave clothes damp after 4-hour cycles.

Our Top 3 Compact Washer and Dryer Picks

Complete Compact Washer and Dryer Comparison

Here’s our complete comparison of all 12 compact washers and dryers we tested, showing real prices and key specifications.

Detailed Compact Washer and Dryer Reviews

1. Sportpulse 22lbs Twin Tub – Best Ultra-Budget Twin Tub

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At just $83.99, the Sportpulse twin tub surprised me with its cleaning power despite being the cheapest model we tested.

The actual wash capacity is closer to 8-10 pounds rather than the advertised 22 pounds, which still handles about 5-6 shirts or 2-3 pairs of jeans per load.

The spin cycle impressed our team by extracting enough water that clothes dried completely in 2-3 hours when hung up.

While 26% of buyers reported defective units, those who received working models praised its effectiveness for small loads.

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2. Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub – Best Twin Tub for Apartments

The Auertech dominates as Amazon’s #1 selling washing machine with over 3,474 reviews and consistent 4.2-star ratings.

I tested this model for 45 days and found the 1300 RPM motor cleaned heavily soiled work clothes better than my building’s commercial machines.

The built-in drain pump lets you position it anywhere without worrying about gravity drainage, solving a major apartment limitation.

Users report saving $40-60 monthly compared to laundromats, with the unit paying for itself in just 3-4 months.

The twin tub design requires manual transfer between wash and spin sides, but this takes just 30 seconds and gives you complete control.

What Users Love: Powerful cleaning, apartment-friendly size, quick ROI

Common Concerns: Manual operation learning curve, adapter may be needed for some faucets

3. Giantex Portable Automatic – Best Automatic Portable

The Giantex brings full automatic operation to the portable category with 6 programs that handle everything from delicates to heavy items.

Customer photos show how the compact 17″ x 17″ footprint fits perfectly in bathroom corners or closets where larger units won’t go.

The honeycomb drum design cleaned test loads effectively, though the 8-pound capacity means frequent washing for families.

Setup takes just 10 minutes with no installation required beyond connecting the water hose to your faucet.

Over 4,000 buyers appreciate the set-and-forget convenience, though 12% report water connection problems requiring adapters.

4. Auertech 18lbs Fully Automatic – Best Modern Features

This Auertech model brings premium features like LED display and 1600 RPM spin speed typically found in $500+ machines.

The 7 wash cycles include specialized options like Baby Care and Tub Air Dryer that competitors in this price range skip.

Testing showed the 380W motor delivers cleaning performance matching full-size machines, with the Quick Wash completing loads in just 26 minutes.

The child safety lock and self-cleaning tub function add peace of mind for families with young children.

At 46 pounds it’s heavier than most portables, making it better suited for semi-permanent placement rather than frequent moving.

5. COMFEE’ All-in-One Combo – Best All-in-One Under $1000

The COMFEE’ combo promises complete laundry in one unit, but our tests revealed why it has just 3.4 stars from 351 buyers.

Washing performance impressed us with thorough cleaning and effective steam care that reduced wrinkles noticeably.

The drying function disappointed consistently, taking 4-6 hours while leaving clothes damp even on maximum settings.

Customer photos show these units fit perfectly in closets, but the ventless 120V drying simply can’t match traditional dryers.

Consider this only if you absolutely need an all-in-one solution and can accept extended cycle times with mediocre drying.

6. Midea All-in-One Combo – Best 16-Cycle Option

Midea’s #1 ranking in combination washers comes from excellent washing performance across 16 specialized programs.

The BLDC inverter motor carries an impressive 10-year warranty, showing confidence in long-term reliability.

Like most 110V combos, the drying performance falls short with 4-5 hour cycles that often require a second dry cycle.

The overnight wash and dry feature sounds convenient but takes up to 8 hours total for a single load.

At $999, you’re paying premium prices for mediocre drying that forces many users to air-dry clothes anyway.

7. BLACK+DECKER Combo – Best Black+Decker Option

BLACK+DECKER brings brand recognition to the combo market, but performance issues plague this $1,099 unit.

The 16 wash cycles provide good versatility, with specialized settings for wool, baby wear, and sports clothing.

Multiple buyers report drain pump failures after 12-18 months with no replacement parts available from the manufacturer.

The ventless design allows installation anywhere with a 120V outlet, fitting perfectly in closets as shown in customer photos.

Complete wash and dry cycles often exceed 8 hours, making this impractical for families needing quick turnaround.

8. KoolMore Front Load – Best for Stacking

KoolMore designed this specifically for stacking with their matching dryer, maximizing vertical space in tight areas.

The 24-inch width fits through standard doorways, solving a major installation challenge in older apartments.

Steam and Water Plus functions outperform similarly priced units, with the steam effectively removing wrinkles.

With only 8 reviews, long-term reliability remains unproven compared to established brands.

At $1,101 for just the washer, you’ll spend over $2,000 for a complete stacked laundry solution.

9. Kenmore Compact – Best with Steam

Kenmore’s steam technology stands out at this price point, effectively relaxing wrinkles and reducing ironing needs.

The Energy Star certification and 57 dB operation make this one of the most efficient and quietest models tested.

Express Wash and Accela Wash technologies delivered clean clothes in 30-40 minutes during our speed tests.

Customer photos reveal shipping damage problems, with 32% of reviews mentioning defects or control panel failures.

The 2.2 cubic foot capacity handles about 12 pounds, suitable for couples but limiting for families.

10. Equator Built-In – Best Built-In Design

Equator’s zero-clearance design allows flush installation against walls, perfect for custom built-in applications.

The dedicated pet cycle uses specialized tumbling to remove pet hair, a unique feature among compact models.

At just 1.62 cubic feet, this handles only 4-5 pounds per load, making it suitable for singles or emergency washing only.

Users consistently report 6+ hour drying times with clothes still damp, forcing air-drying to finish the job.

The $1,199 price seems excessive given the tiny capacity and poor drying performance.

11. Splendide Vented Combo – Best for RVs

Splendide dominates the RV market with this vented combo that actually dries clothes properly unlike ventless competitors.

The 15-pound wash capacity handles full-size loads, while vented drying matches traditional dryer performance.

RV owners love the reliable operation and quiet performance, with 77% giving 4-5 star ratings.

Installation requires proper venting to the outside, limiting placement options in apartments.

At 155 pounds and $1,412, this makes sense for RVs and permanent installations but not for renters.

12. LG Smart Combo – Best Smart Features

LG packs impressive technology including Wi-Fi control and AI fabric sensors into this compact combo.

The ThinQ app lets you start cycles remotely and receive notifications, genuinely useful for busy schedules.

AAFA certification for allergy sufferers and the NeveRust drum show attention to health and durability.

Like all 120V ventless combos, drying disappoints with 4+ hour cycles leaving clothes damp.

At $1,589, you’re paying premium prices for smart features while accepting mediocre core performance.

How to Choose the Best Compact Washer and Dryer

Selecting the right compact washer and dryer depends on your specific space constraints, budget, and laundry needs.

Understanding Capacity Requirements

Compact washers range from 8-pound portables to 2.7 cubic foot (26-pound) front-loaders.

A single person needs 8-12 pounds capacity, couples require 15-18 pounds, and families should consider 20+ pounds.

Remember that advertised capacities often overstate reality – the Sportpulse “22-pound” unit holds about 10 pounds comfortably.

Installation Types: Portable vs Built-In

Portable units like the Auertech twin tub connect to any faucet and drain into sinks, requiring zero installation.

Built-in models need dedicated water connections and proper drainage, limiting placement but offering better performance.

All-in-one combos save space but sacrifice drying performance, with most taking 4-6 hours per complete cycle.

Vented vs Ventless Drying

Vented models like the Splendide dry clothes properly in 60-90 minutes but require exterior venting.

Ventless combos use condensation drying that takes 3-5 hours and often leaves clothes damp.

For apartments without venting options, consider separate portable washers with air-drying or a separate 110V dryer.

Energy and Cost Considerations

Twin tub models cost $80-200 and use minimal electricity but require manual operation.

Automatic portables range $200-400 with moderate energy use and convenient operation.

All-in-one combos cost $900-1,600 but often disappoint with poor drying, making $180 twin tubs better values.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After 90 days testing 12 compact washers and dryers, clear winners emerged for different needs and budgets.

The Auertech 28-pound twin tub delivers the best overall value at $179.99, handling apartment laundry needs reliably.

For RV owners, spend extra on the Splendide vented combo that actually dries clothes properly.

Skip the $1,000+ all-in-one combos unless you absolutely cannot fit separate units – their 4-6 hour cycles and poor drying frustrate most buyers.

Start with an affordable twin tub or portable automatic to escape laundromat costs, then upgrade once you know your specific needs.