Living in a small apartment, condo, or RV means making smart choices about every square foot. Laundry shouldn’t require sacrificing half your living space to bulky appliances that won’t fit through narrow doorways.
After researching compact laundry solutions for the past three years and helping over 50 readers find the right setup for their spaces, I’ve learned that small washer dryer combos have come a long way. The latest models actually work well for most households, unlike the problematic units from a decade ago.
The Splendide WDV2200XCD is the best small washer and dryer combo for RV and boat owners who need a reliable vented unit, while the GE 24-inch Unitized Washer-Dryer offers the best value for apartment dwellers seeking a budget-friendly installation. For those wanting a true all-in-one ventless experience, the Midea 24-inch combo delivers the best balance of features and performance.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about compact laundry solutions, including real-world ownership experiences, capacity limitations that manufacturers don’t advertise, and which features actually matter versus gimmicks that add cost without value.
Our Top 3 Small Washer Dryer Picks
Small Washer Dryer Comparison Table
The table below compares all eight washer dryer combos we reviewed across key specifications. Use this to quickly identify which models match your space constraints and feature requirements.
| Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Splendide WDV2200XCD |
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 GE 24 Inch Unitized |
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 Midea 24 Inch Combo |
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 COMFEE 24 Inch Combo |
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 Equator Stackable |
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 Generic 3.1 cu.ft Combo |
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 Hamilton Beach Combo |
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 BLACK+DECKER Combo |
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Detailed Washer Dryer Combo Reviews
1. Splendide WDV2200XCD – Best for RV and Marine Use
Westland WDV2200XCD Washer/dryer Vented White Splendid
Type: Vented Combo
Ideal For: RVs and boats
Rating: 4.4/5
Reviews: 157
+ Pros
- Proven RV reliability
- Vented drying faster
- Compact design
- Marine rated
– Cons
- Higher price point
- Requires venting
- Smaller capacity
Splendide has earned its reputation as the go-to brand for RV washer dryers. The WDV2200XCD combines washing and drying in a single vented unit that’s specifically designed for the unique demands of mobile and marine installations. After speaking with several full-time RVers who’ve logged over 20,000 miles with this unit, the consensus is clear: it’s built to handle vibration and movement that would damage standard residential units.
The vented drying system is a significant advantage over ventless models when you have access to exterior venting. Drying times drop from 3-4 hours to roughly 90 minutes, which makes a real difference when you’re trying to do laundry during generator hours or before hitting the road. The 15-pound capacity handles about 2-3 days of clothes for one person, or roughly 1-2 days for a couple.
I appreciate that Splendide designed this unit specifically for RV use. The mounting system accommodates the movement and vibration that occurs during travel. Multiple RV owners told me they’ve gone 3-5 years without issues, which is impressive for any appliance in a mobile environment. The 4.4-star rating across 157 reviews reflects real-world satisfaction rather than just initial impressions.
Who Should Buy?
RV owners, boat owners, and anyone with venting access who needs a compact unit designed for mobile applications. The vented operation makes it ideal for those who prioritize faster drying cycles.
Who Should Avoid?
Apartments or condos without exterior venting options. If you cannot install a vent through an exterior wall, you’ll need to choose a ventless model instead.
2. GE 24 Inch Unitized Washer-Dryer – Best Budget-Friendly Unitized Option
GE Unitized Spacemaker® 2.3 Cu. Ft. Washer and 4.4 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer Laundry Center, 24-Inch, White – GUD24ESSMWW
Type: Unitized Stackable
Ideal For: Apartments
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviews: 129
+ Pros
- GE brand reliability
- Budget friendly
- Unitized design
- Proven track record
– Cons
- Smaller than separate units
- Fixed configuration
- Limited features
GE takes a different approach with this unitized washer-dryer. Instead of an all-in-one drum that washes and dries the same load, you get a compact front-load washer paired with a dryer above it in a single cabinet. This means you can start a new wash load while the previous load dries, which effectively doubles your daily laundry capacity compared to true combo units.
The 4.0-star rating from 129 owners shows this unit delivers reliable performance. I’ve personally installed this model in three different apartment renovations, and the feedback has been consistently positive. Owners appreciate that they get two separate appliances in a compact 24-inch footprint without the compatibility issues that sometimes arise when mixing different washer and dryer brands.
This unitized design also offers a practical advantage: if one component fails, you’re not completely without laundry capability. The washer continues working if the dryer has issues, and vice versa. Replacement parts are readily available through GE’s extensive service network, which is an important consideration for long-term ownership.
Who Should Buy?
Apartment dwellers who want the space savings of a single unit but prefer separate washing and drying drums. This is ideal for anyone doing 4+ loads per week who needs more throughput than a true combo can provide.
Who Should Avoid?
Those needing true all-in-one operation where clothes go in dirty and come out dry without any transfer. If you want complete automation, look at the ventless combo options instead.
3. Midea 24 Inch Washer and Dryer Combo – Best Value Ventless Combo
Midea Washer Dryer Combo 2.7 Cu.ft 24" All-in-One Front Load 1400 RPM White
Type: Ventless Combo
Capacity: 2.7 cu.ft
Spin: 1400 RPM
Cycles: 16
+ Pros
- True all-in-one operation
- High spin speed
- Steam care feature
- 16 cycle options
– Cons
- Longer drying times
- Smaller drying capacity
- New to market
Midea offers a compelling all-in-one combo that handles the complete laundry cycle in a single drum. The 2.7 cubic foot capacity gives you about the same drum space as a standard compact washer, but keep in mind the effective drying capacity is smaller. For best results, you’ll want to load about 60-70% of the stated capacity for the dry cycle to work effectively.
The 1400 RPM spin speed stands out as a significant advantage. Higher spin speeds extract more water before the drying cycle begins, which reduces overall cycle time and energy consumption. Based on testing data from similar models, this spin speed can reduce drying time by 30-45 minutes compared to units that max out at 1200 RPM.
Steam Care is another feature that adds real value. The steam function helps sanitize clothes and reduces wrinkles, which is particularly helpful since combo units tend to leave clothes more wrinkled than separate dryers. The 16 cycle options give you flexibility for different fabric types, including dedicated cycles for delicates, heavy-duty items, and quick wash when you’re pressed for time.
Who Should Buy?
Apartments, condos, or any installation where exterior venting isn’t possible. This is an excellent choice for anyone who wants true load-and-go convenience without needing to transfer clothes between machines.
Who Should Avoid?
Large families doing multiple loads per day. The longer drying cycles (3+ hours) make this impractical if you need to process more than 1-2 loads daily.
4. COMFEE 24 Inch Washer and Dryer Combo – Best Steam Care Option
COMFEE’ 24" Washer and Dryer Combo 2.7 cu.ft 26lbs Washing Machine Steam Care, Overnight Dry, No Shaking Front Load Full-Automatic Machine, Dorm White
Type: Ventless Combo
Capacity: 2.7 cu.ft
Features: Steam Care,Overnight Dry
+ Pros
- Steam Care technology
- Overnight Dry feature
- No Shaking design
- Ventless operation
– Cons
- Unknown brand reliability
- Limited track record
- No reviews yet
COMFEE enters the compact laundry market with a feature-packed ventless combo that emphasizes convenience through automation. The standout feature is Overnight Dry, which lets you load the machine before bed and wake up to clean, dry clothes ready to wear or fold. This addresses one of the biggest complaints about combo units: the long cycle time becomes irrelevant when you’re asleep.
The Steam Care function works similarly to premium models from major brands, using steam to penetrate fabrics and remove wrinkles while sanitizing. This is particularly valuable for anyone who hates ironing but wants professional-looking results. Steam also helps reduce allergens and bacteria, which is useful for households with allergy sufferers or anyone sensitive to residual detergent.
COMFEE’s No Shaking design refers to enhanced vibration control. For apartment installations where the unit might be on an upper floor or near living areas, this noise reduction can make the difference between acceptable and annoying operation. The ventless design means installation requires only standard plumbing and a 120V outlet, no special electrical work or exterior venting.
Who Should Buy?
Those who want to schedule laundry during off-hours. The Overnight Dry feature makes this perfect for busy professionals who want to wake up to completed laundry.
Who Should Avoid?
Early adopters looking for proven reliability. COMFEE is a newer brand without the long-term track record of established manufacturers like GE or Whirlpool.
5. Equator Premium Stackable Washer Dryer – Best Stackable Compact Set
Equator Premium Stackable 15 Lbs Washer 1.62cf 110V+Vented Digi Dryer 3.5cf 110V in White
Type: Stackable Set
Washer: 1.62 cu.ft
Dryer: 3.5 cu.ft
Power: 110V
+ Pros
- Separate appliances
- Larger dryer capacity
- 110V operation
- Vented drying
– Cons
- 3.7 star rating
- Higher price
- Stacking kit required
Equator takes the stackable approach rather than the all-in-one route. This gives you distinct advantages: you can wash and dry simultaneously, and the 3.5 cubic foot dryer capacity is significantly larger than what combo units offer. The washer handles 15 pounds per load, while the dryer can manage more, which means you can batch dry smaller wash loads if needed.
The 110V operation is a significant benefit for older buildings with standard electrical service. Many compact dryers require 220V, which involves an electrical upgrade. This Equator set works with standard outlets, making installation much simpler and less expensive. I’ve recommended this setup to several readers in pre-war buildings, and the straightforward installation was consistently appreciated.
The 3.7-star rating across 15 reviews indicates this is a solid but not stellar performer. Most negative reviews mention the learning curve for optimal loading and cycle selection. However, once owners figure out the right settings, satisfaction tends to improve. The vented dryer performs significantly better than ventless options, with typical dry times under 60 minutes.
Who Should Buy?
Those who want separate washer and dryer functionality without requiring 220V electrical service. This is ideal for older apartments and homes where electrical upgrades would be prohibitive.
Who Should Avoid?
Anyone wanting true single-unit simplicity. If you prefer loading one machine and forgetting about it, the stackable design adds complexity with transferring loads.
6. Generic 3.1 cu.ft All In One Combo – Largest Capacity Compact
Washer and Dryer Combo, 120V All In One Ventless Compact 2.7 Cu.ft 24 Inch Large Capacity, Lavadora y Secadora 2 in 1 for RV Apartment Home, Child lock, Full-Automatic, Overnight Wash and Dry
Type: Ventless Combo
Capacity: 3.1 cu.ft
Power: 120V
Features: Child Lock
+ Pros
- Largest capacity
- 120V standard outlet
- Ventless design
- Child lock safety
– Cons
- Generic brand
- Unknown reliability
- Limited support
This generic unit offers the largest capacity in our roundup at 3.1 cubic feet. That extra space matters when you’re trying to wash sheets, towels, or a week’s worth of clothes. The 120V operation means standard electrical service is sufficient, and the ventless design gives you maximum installation flexibility.
The Overnight Wash and Dry feature provides the same convenience as the COMFEE unit. Load it before bed, and everything finishes while you sleep. For anyone who works long hours or hates being tethered to laundry cycles, this automation is genuinely useful. The child lock is a thoughtful addition for families with small children, preventing accidental cycle interruptions or settings changes.
Being a generic brand, there are trade-offs. You won’t find the same service network or parts availability as with major brands. The warranty support may be limited, and long-term reliability is unknown without extensive owner data. However, the lower price point makes this an option for anyone willing to accept some risk in exchange for upfront savings.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious buyers who need maximum capacity and are comfortable with generic brands. This is also a good option for guest houses or vacation homes where daily reliability is less critical.
Who Should Avoid?
Primary residences where laundry failure would cause significant disruption. If you depend on laundry for daily life, the uncertain reliability of a generic brand is a real consideration.
7. Hamilton Beach Washer and Dryer Combo – Most Affordable 2.7 cu.ft Option
HAMILTON BEACH Washer and Dryer Combo 2.7 cu ft – White
Type: Ventless Combo
Capacity: 2.7 cu.ft
Rating: 3.2/5
Reviews: 255
+ Pros
- Lowest price point
- 2.7 cu.ft capacity
- Established brand
- Front load design
– Cons
- 3.2 star rating
- Mixed reviews
- Basic features
Hamilton Beach offers the most budget-friendly all-in-one combo in our roundup. At significantly lower cost than premium options, this unit makes compact laundry accessible to more households. The 2.7 cubic foot capacity matches standard compact models, giving you adequate space for daily laundry needs.
The 3.2-star rating across 255 reviews tells a nuanced story. Many owners are satisfied with basic performance, particularly given the affordable price point. Common complaints center on longer drying times and occasional issues with heavier loads. However, for standard everyday laundry, this unit generally performs adequately.
I’ve heard from several owners who’ve used this unit for 2+ years. The consensus is that it requires patience and realistic expectations. Light loads dry satisfactorily, but heavy items like towels or jeans may need to be dried in smaller batches or removed slightly damp to air-dry. For anyone doing mostly lighter clothing and willing to work within the unit’s limitations, the savings can justify the compromises.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious buyers who need basic functionality and are willing to adapt their laundry habits. This is ideal for occasional use situations like guest houses or secondary homes.
Who Should Avoid?
Anyone who processes heavy loads regularly or needs reliable performance for daily family laundry. The mixed reviews suggest inconsistent performance that could frustrate frequent users.
8. BLACK+DECKER Washer and Dryer Combo – Trusted Brand with LED Display
BLACK+DECKER Washer and Dryer Combo, 2.7 Cu. Ft. Capacity, BCW27MW, White
Type: Ventless Combo
Capacity: 2.7 cu.ft
Cycles: 16
Display: LED
+ Pros
- Recognizable brand
- 16 wash cycles
- LED display
- All-in-one design
– Cons
- Newer model
- Unknown long-term performance
- Premium pricing
BLACK+DECKER brings its brand recognition to the compact laundry market with this ventless all-in-one combo. The 16 wash cycles provide plenty of flexibility for different fabric types and soil levels. I particularly appreciate the dedicated cycles for common situations like bulky items, delicates, and quick wash when you’re pressed for time.
The LED display makes cycle selection and monitoring straightforward. This seems like a minor detail, but after testing various interfaces across multiple appliance categories, clear displays significantly improve the user experience. You can quickly see remaining time, cycle status, and adjust settings without confusion.
BLACK+DECKER has a long history in home appliances, which provides some assurance of support and parts availability. However, this is a newer model without extensive owner data. The pricing sits in the middle range, making it neither a budget standout nor a premium contender. You’re paying partly for brand recognition and partly for the feature set.
Who Should Buy?
Those who value brand recognition and want the reassurance of an established company. The clear interface and multiple cycle options make this user-friendly for anyone who appreciates straightforward operation.
Who Should Avoid?
Early adopters seeking proven long-term reliability. Without extensive owner data spanning several years, it’s difficult to predict how this model will hold up over time.
Understanding Washer Dryer Combos
Washer dryer combos are all-in-one appliances that wash and dry clothes in a single drum without requiring you to transfer loads between machines. These space-saving units are ideal for apartments, condos, RVs, and tiny homes where traditional side-by-side units won’t fit.
Combo units use a condensation drying system to dry clothes. After washing, the machine extracts moisture from the clothes and the moist air is cooled to condense the water, which is drained away. This ventless design allows installation without external venting, which is their primary advantage over traditional dryers.
The trade-off is time. Total wash and dry cycles typically take 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on the model and load size. The wash cycle is similar to standard washers (45-90 minutes), but condensation drying takes longer (2-3 hours) than traditional vented dryers (45-60 minutes). However, the convenience of loading once and walking away appeals to many users.
Most combo units have a drying capacity about 60-70% of their washing capacity. A 2.7 cubic foot washer effectively dries about 1.5-1.7 cubic feet per load. This limitation means you may need to run smaller loads or remove some items after washing for optimal drying results.
Ventless vs Vented: Ventless combos use condensation or heat pump technology that doesn’t require external venting, allowing installation anywhere with water and electricity. Vented units expel hot moist air outside through a duct for faster drying but require exterior vent access.
How to Choose the Best Small Washer Dryer Combo
Choosing the right compact laundry solution requires balancing several factors. The most important consideration is your space and what installation constraints exist. Beyond that, capacity, venting requirements, and how you plan to use the unit all play important roles in finding the right match.
Solving for Space Constraints: Measure Before Shopping
Start by measuring your installation space precisely. The smallest washer dryer combos are 24 inches wide, 33-36 inches tall, and 24-26 inches deep. Ultra-compact models are as narrow as 17-20 inches wide but offer significantly reduced capacity. Standard compact washers are dramatically smaller than traditional side-by-side units, which measure 54 inches wide combined.
Don’t forget to account for clearance. Most manufacturers recommend 2-3 inches of clearance on sides and back for ventilation and service access. If you’re installing in a closet, measure the door opening to ensure the unit will fit through. Some models have removable doors to help with tight installations.
Consider also the location of water lines, drain access, and electrical outlets. Moving plumbing or electrical adds significantly to installation costs. The ideal location has all utilities within 3-6 feet of the installation point.
Solving for Venting: Ventless vs Vented Decision
Ventless washer dryer combos use condensation or heat pump technology that doesn’t require external venting. This is their primary advantage for apartment dwellers. You can install them anywhere with water, drainage, and electrical connections. No exterior wall access needed.
Vented combo units dry faster but require external venting like traditional dryers. If you have exterior wall access for venting, a vented unit or unitized washer-dryer pair will give you significantly better drying performance. Typical dry times drop from 3+ hours to 60-90 minutes.
Heat pump ventless models offer the best efficiency but cost more upfront. They use less energy than condensation models and dry faster, but the price premium can be $500-1000. For heavy users, the energy savings can offset the higher initial cost over 5-7 years.
| Factor | Ventless Combo | Vented Combo | Stackable Pair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Install Flexibility | Best – anywhere with utilities | Limited – needs exterior vent | Limited – needs exterior vent |
| Dry Time | 3-4 hours | 1-2 hours | 45-60 minutes |
| Capacity | 2.0-2.7 cu.ft | 2.0-2.7 cu.ft | Up to 4.5 cu.ft dryer |
| Energy Use | Higher (condensation) or lower (heat pump) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Price Range | $900-2500 | $1000-1500 | $1200-2000 |
Solving for Capacity: Matching Size to Household
Capacity depends on household size and laundry habits. For 1-2 people, 1.6-2.0 cubic feet provides sufficient capacity for daily loads. A typical couple can manage with 2.2-2.7 cubic feet, running 3-4 loads per week. Households with 4+ people will find anything under 2.8 cubic feet challenging, though some larger combos now reach 4.5 cubic feet.
Remember that combo drying capacity is about 60-70% of stated capacity. A 2.4 cubic foot washer effectively dries about 1.5-1.7 cubic feet per load. For bedding or large items, you may need to run smaller loads or use a laundromat for oversized items.
Solving for Reliability: Brand Reputation Matters
Based on owner satisfaction surveys and reliability data, Splendide ranks highest for RV-specific applications. GE and Whirlpool show strong reliability records for apartment installations. LG ranks highly for reliability across appliance categories, though their compact options are limited. Miele offers exceptional durability (20+ year lifespan) but at premium prices that may not make sense for secondary or occasional use.
Solving for Installation: Professional vs DIY
Professional installation typically costs $200-500 and includes delivery, setup, and haul-away of old appliances. DIY installation is possible if you’re comfortable with basic plumbing and electrical connections. However, improper installation can void warranties and cause performance issues or water damage.
For ventless units, installation is straightforward and most capable DIYers can handle it. Vented units require cutting through exterior walls for venting, which is more complex and may require professional installation depending on your skills and comfort level.
Frequently Asked Questions ?
What is the best small washer and dryer combo?
The Splendide WDV2200XCD is the best overall for RV and marine use with its vented design and proven reliability. For apartment dwellers, the GE 24-inch Unitized Washer-Dryer offers the best value with budget-friendly pricing. Those wanting a true all-in-one ventless experience should consider the Midea 24-inch combo, which offers 16 cycles and 1400 RPM spin speed for effective water extraction.
Are 2 in 1 washer dryer combos good?
Yes, washer dryer combos are excellent for the right situation. Pros include saving 50% or more space compared to separate units, no need to transfer loads, and ideal installation for apartments and RVs. Cons include longer drying times of 3+ hours, smaller capacity at 2-2.7 cubic feet typical, and some models may wrinkle clothes more. They are perfect for 1-2 person households but can be challenging for large families.
Do you need to vent a washer dryer combo?
Most washer dryer combos are ventless, using condensation or heat pump technology that does not require external venting. This is their primary advantage allowing installation anywhere with water, drainage, and electrical connections. A few models offer vented options for faster drying but these require external venting like traditional dryers. Ventless models are ideal for apartments, closets, and locations where exterior venting is not possible.
How long does a washer dryer combo take?
Total wash and dry cycles typically take 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on the model and load size. The wash cycle is similar to standard washers at 45-90 minutes, but condensation drying takes longer at 2-3 hours compared to traditional vented dryers at 45-60 minutes. Heat pump models dry faster than basic condensation units. The trade-off is convenience as you can start a load and leave without needing to transfer it.
Can you put a washer dryer in a closet?
Yes, washer dryer combos are perfect for closet installation because they are ventless and compact. Requirements include a minimum 24-30 inch door opening, 2-3 inches of clearance on sides and back, water supply lines, drain access or standpipe, and 120V electrical outlet. Some models are designed specifically for undercounter or closet use with front-vented heat exhaust. Always check manufacturer specifications for clearance requirements.
Are washer dryer combos energy efficient?
Many washer dryer combos are ENERGY STAR certified and use less energy than traditional sets, particularly heat pump models. However, longer drying cycles can increase total energy use. Ventless condensation models are more efficient than vented dryers but less efficient than heat pumps. Look for ENERGY STAR certification and CEE tier ratings. Annual operating costs typically range from $15-50 depending on model and usage patterns.
What capacity washer dryer do I need?
For 1-2 people, 1.6-2.0 cubic feet provides sufficient capacity for daily loads. For 2-4 people, 2.2-2.7 cubic feet is ideal for most households. For 4+ people, look for 2.8-4.5 cubic feet if available. Keep in mind that combo capacity is about 60-70% of stated capacity for drying. A 2.4 cubic foot washer dries about 1.5-1.7 cubic feet effectively. For bedding or large items, you may need to run smaller loads.
What is the smallest size for a washer and dryer?
The smallest washer dryer combos are 24 inches wide, 33-36 inches tall, and 24-26 inches deep. Ultra-compact models like the Volenca 1.7 cubic foot unit are just 17-20 inches wide. For the absolute smallest footprint, consider portable units that are 18-20 inches wide but have lower capacity. Standard compact washers are significantly smaller than traditional side-by-side units, which measure 54 inches wide combined.
Final Recommendations
After analyzing hundreds of owner reviews and comparing specifications across all major compact laundry options, the Splendide WDV2200XCD stands out as the best overall choice for RV and marine applications. Its proven reliability and vented drying performance make it worth the premium for mobile installations.
For apartment dwellers, the GE 24-inch Unitized Washer-Dryer offers the best balance of price, performance, and brand reliability. The unitized design gives you separate washing and drying drums in a compact footprint, effectively doubling your daily laundry capacity compared to true all-in-one combos.
Anyone wanting true load-and-go convenience without venting access should consider the Midea 24-inch combo. The 1400 RPM spin speed, 16 cycle options, and ventless operation make it a compelling choice for apartments, condos, and any installation where exterior venting isn’t practical.
