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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsA traditional washing machine is a top-load washer with a central post agitator. In Consumer Reports’ 2026 comparison, the LG WT8405CW has the highest overall score among the listed agitator models, at 80. The right choice still depends on fit, capacity, fabric care, noise, efficiency and price—not score alone.
What counts as a traditional washing machine?
Here, “traditional” means a top-load washer with a central post agitator that moves clothing through the wash. It is a current product category, distinct from top-load impeller washers, which use a low-profile cone or disk, and front-load washers. ENERGY STAR’s washer guide describes these design differences.
How the listed agitator models compare
Consumer Reports’ 2026 Buying Guide lists the following models, scores, prices and dimensions. Scores are comparative results across factors including predicted reliability, owner satisfaction, washing performance, efficiency, gentleness, noise, vibration and cycle time; they do not establish which washer is best for every household.
| Model | Overall score | Listed price | Dimensions (H × W × D) |
|---|---|---|---|
| LG WT8405CW | 80 | $899 | 43 × 27 × 29 in. |
| LG WT7005CW | 78 | $648 | 45 × 27 × 29 in. |
| LG WT8205CW | 78 | $749 | 43 × 27 × 29 in. |
| LG WT7305CW | 77 | $1,045 | 45 × 27 × 29 in. |
| Samsung WA46CG3505AW | 69 | $649 | 46 × 27 × 29 in. |
| Samsung WA54CG7105AD | 68 | $799 | 44 × 27 × 29 in. |
| GE Profile PTW705BSTWS | 67 | $748 | 44 × 28 × 29 in. |
| Speed Queen TC5003WN | 62 | $1,399 | 43 × 26 × 28 in. |
| Amana NTW4519JW | 59 | $519 | 44 × 27 × 26 in. |
| Whirlpool WTW5015LW | 56 | $765 | 42 × 27 × 28 in. |
All figures in the table are the Consumer Reports 2026 Buying Guide listings; listed prices are snapshots and may change. Check the current guide and retailer listing before buying: Consumer Reports washing-machine buying guide.
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#1 Best Overall
- Tough Action for Tough Stains: Our top load clothes washer features a Triple Action Agitator to tackle your toughest loads in three powerful ways: Spraying Action to attack dirt from every angle with a concentrated detergent mix, Wash Basket Action to move the wash basket back and forth, and Agitator Action to move clothes in a circular pattern
- More Laundry, Less Time: Our high-efficiency top load washer features Express Wash to clean small loads in just 28 minutes (based on a 3-lb load, default cycle setting), and Accela Wash to clean full-size loads up to 14% faster (compared to a standard 8-lb load, normal cycle, warm wash temp, extra heavy soil setting) - so you spend less time doing laundry
- Tackle Laundry Day with Ease: The 4.1 cu. ft. washer handles up to 20 bath towels (towel size 44” x 24” ±1”, 0.83 lbs., using the DOE maximum load capacity of 18.7 lbs.) in one load - plenty of room for clothes, towels, and even bulky bedding. More space means fewer loads, saving you time and energy
- Wash Your Way: Features 10 wash cycles, 2 options, and 4 temperature settings to custom wash your loads including Heavy Duty, Whites, Soak, Delicates, and Express Cycles. Soft Close lid has tempered glass and won’t slam shut
- Easy to Operate: Use the intuitive light-touch controls to select the load and cycle options that match the fabric types in each load. Plus, the convenient LED lights provides time remaining and cycle status information
How to choose one for your home
Start with the wash action you want
A central agitator provides active, visible movement through the wash. That conventional action and simple top-loading format may suit people who prefer them. It is not, by itself, evidence that a particular washer cleans better or lasts longer; compare the individual model’s performance and reliability fields.
Check capacity and the installation path
Consumer Reports says at least 4.5 cubic feet of capacity is needed to handle a king-size comforter. Confirm the selected model’s capacity rather than inferring it from exterior dimensions. Measure the washer location, doorway and route into the room, and allow for lid opening and hookups. The listed height, width and depth help screen fit, but do not replace an installation measurement. Consumer Reports’ guidance on washers for king-size comforters.
Rank #2
- The WH43X30957 Agitator Assembly is a genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (Authentic OEM) part from General Electric that fits various models from the following brands of washers: GE, Hotpoint. Make sure to check below for your part number
- OEM Part WH43X30957 Agitator Assembly is a brand new part; quality tested as per GE standards. GE part WH43X30957 may differ in appearance, but is a functional equivalent to prior parts including: WH43X25304, WH43X26845
- The GE WH43X30957 Washer Agitator Assembly (Replaces: WH43X25304, WH43X26845) rotates back and forth to move the clothes inside the tub to clean the load
- This is an authorized, brand new, genuine GE part.
- It is recommended to either refer to your appliance service manual, contact your appliance manufacturer, or contact a service professional to validate the needed part number for your appliance prior to purchasing
Weigh efficiency against the traditional format
ENERGY STAR says certified front-load washers use about 50% less energy and water than top-load agitator washers. It also says full-sized ENERGY STAR certified washers use 14 gallons per load, compared with 20 gallons for a standard machine. Those figures describe the categories and certified full-size washers, not a water-use measurement for each model in the comparison. ENERGY STAR washer efficiency information.
Use fabric care and noise ratings for your situation
If you wash delicate items frequently, compare the guide’s gentleness results. For a laundry area near bedrooms or living space, look at noise and vibration as well as cycle time. Consumer Reports includes these fields, but the cited listing does not provide their individual results here; consult the model entries rather than assuming a brand-wide advantage.
Rank #3
- Tough Action for Tough Stains: Our top load clothes washer features a Triple Action Impeller to tackle your toughest loads in three powerful ways: Spraying Action to attack dirt from every angle with a concentrated detergent mix, Wash Basket Action to move the wash basket back and forth, and Impeller Action to move clothes in a circular pattern
- More Laundry, Less Time: Our high-efficiency top load washer features Express Wash to clean small loads in just 30 minutes (based on a 3-lb load, default cycle setting), and Accela Wash to clean full-size loads up to 51% faster (compared to a standard 8-lb load, normal cycle, warm wash temp, extra heavy soil setting) - so you spend less time doing laundry
- Wash Your Way: Features 10 wash cycles to custom wash your loads including Heavy Duty, Whites, Towels, Delicates, and Express Cycles. Select from 4 temperature options and rinse with Extra Rinse to help protect sensitive skin. Soft Close lid has tempered glass and won’t slam shut
- Easy to Operate: Use the intuitive light-touch controls to select the load and cycle options that match the fabric types in each load. Plus, the convenient LED lights provide time remaining and cycle status information
- Reduce and Save: Energy savings includes Cold Clean which cleans gently & completely while using up to 90% less energy (when compared to the normal cycle, default settings, 8-lb load)
Put price in context
The listed models range from $519 for the Amana NTW4519JW to $1,399 for the Speed Queen TC5003WN. The comparison includes several options from $648 to $899, but price alone does not show whether a washer meets your priorities. Use the score and detailed performance fields alongside your budget, capacity needs and installation constraints.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the scores can—and cannot—tell you
The LG WT8405CW leads this particular list, while the other models offer different price points, dimensions and brands. The overall score is useful for narrowing a shortlist, but it combines multiple criteria. A household focused on quiet operation, gentle treatment or a specific installation size should check those measures directly instead of treating the top overall score as a universal recommendation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- POWERFUL CLEAN: Agitators pack a punch in the washing machine. As your washer spins, the Agitators pound into the fabric, forcing soil and stains to the surface.
- STRONG AND REUSABLE: Made with 100% eco-friendly and durable silicone. Free of lead, BPA, and phthalates.
- INCLUDES: A total of 4 agitator balls, each ball weighing approximately 1.5oz and measuring 2.5 inches in diameter. Just what you need to get your laundry cleaner and drier.
- FASTER DRY: In the dryer, Agitators lift and separate the fabric allowing hot air to flow more efficiently, helping dry your laundry quickly. The bumps and spikes on the balls massage the fabric so it comes out softer and fluffier.
- USE: Toss all 4 Agitators into the washer with your cloth diapers or regular laundry. When the wash cycle is complete, transfer the Agitators (along with your laundry) into the dryer. Specially designed for the Esembly cloth diapers (sold separately), safe and effective on all of your household laundry.
Rank #4
- This is a genuine OEM replacement part
- The agitator facilitates the movement of clothes inside the washing machine tub by rotating back and forth. This motion assists in effectively cleaning the laundry by ensuring detergent distribution and loosening dirt and stains.
- Part Number 285565 replaces AP3094459, WP3951744, WP3946501, 3946501, 3951744, 3348117, 3352106, 470786, AH334557, EA334557, PS334557, W10110785.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
