Consumer Reports, a leading U.S. consumer magazine, has selected LG Electronics and Samsung Electronics, among other Korean corporations, as the 'best large-capacity washing machines of the year.' Recently, Chinese appliance corporations, including Hisense, have been making aggressive moves in the premium market; however, this is interpreted as a significant gap in technology and quality.
According to Consumer Reports on the 26th, this year's best large-capacity washing machines were divided into three institutional sectors: front-loaders (drum washing machines), top-loaders (agitator washing machines), and impeller washing machines. Of the total nine selected, LG Electronics products accounted for eight, while Samsung Electronics had one.
In the drum washing machine sector, LG Electronics swept the top three spots. In particular, the LG Tromm washing machine, selected as number one, received the highest score (87 points) among a total of 114 models evaluated.
Consumer Reports noted, 'It has excellent washing performance and achieved the highest scores in energy and water efficiency tests.' LG Electronics was the only brand among drum washing machine sellers to earn a perfect five-point reliability rating.
The ultra-premium appliance 'LG Signature' washing machine, which ranked second, was also praised for its sophisticated design and outstanding performance. LG Electronics secured the top three spots in the top-loader washing machine sector as well. All three selected LG top-loader washing machines received 'Green Choice' certification. Consumer Reports grants this certification based on tests of water and energy efficiency, brand reliability, and the condition of laundry after washing.
In the impeller washing machine sector, LG Electronics took the first and second places, while Samsung Electronics claimed the third.
Conversely, the Chinese brands Hisense and Midea, which are challenging the North American market, have yet to gain significant recognition. Midea was the only Chinese brand selected for performance evaluation among impeller washing machines, and it scored a total of 58 points. While the condition of fabrics and vibrations were noted as advantages, it received no scores in brand reliability and customer satisfaction.
Consumer Reports purchases products sold in the market directly without receiving sample products from manufacturers, and experts evaluate them based on strict criteria. This evaluation includes not only product performance but also surveys of brand reliability and customer satisfaction among actual users, ensuring a high level of trust.
Consumer Reports emphasizes, 'Purchasing reliable brand products is the best way to slowly replace products,' and noted that it can help reduce expenses over time and lower electronic waste.
Meanwhile, according to the market research firm Traecline, Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics recorded market shares of 21% and 19%, respectively, based on sales revenue in the U.S. home appliance market in 2023.