Samsung Washer Dryer Combo Review: Worth Your Money?

Samsung washer dryer combos promise to change your laundry routine completely. These all in one units wash and dry your clothes in the same drum without you lifting a finger between cycles.

But do these machines really work as promised? Can one appliance truly replace two separate machines?

This review will tell you everything you need to know about Samsung washer dryer combos. We will explore real world performance, examine the latest features, discuss common problems, and help you decide if this space saving solution fits your home.

Key Takeaways

• Space Saving Design: These units combine a 5.3 cubic foot washer and dryer into one cabinet. You only need space for one appliance instead of two. Perfect for apartments, condos, small laundry rooms, or closet installations. The footprint measures just 27 inches wide.
• AI Powered Technology: Samsung’s Bespoke AI system automatically detects fabric type, soil level, and load size. The machine adjusts water temperature, wash time, detergent amount, and drying cycle without manual input. This smart feature takes the guesswork out of laundry.
• Two Main Options: Samsung offers ventless heat pump models and vented models. Ventless units work anywhere without external venting, making installation easier. Vented models dry faster but require a vent to outside. Choose based on your home setup.
• Super Speed Performance: The Super Speed cycle completes a full wash and dry in approximately 98 minutes for normal loads. Regular cycles take 3 to 5 hours depending on load size and fabric type. This is the tradeoff for convenience.
• Premium Price Point: These combos cost between $1,700 to $2,500 depending on model and features. That’s more expensive than buying a basic washer and dryer separately. You pay extra for the convenience and advanced technology.
• Smart Home Integration: All models connect to WiFi and work with the SmartThings app. You can start, stop, and monitor cycles from your phone. Get notifications when laundry finishes. Some models even integrate with Spotify and security cameras.

What Is a Washer Dryer Combo and How Does It Work?

A washer dryer combo is a single appliance that washes and dries clothes in the same drum. You load dirty clothes once, select your cycle, and the machine handles everything. First it washes the clothes using water and detergent. Then without any action from you, it automatically switches to drying mode. The same drum that washed your clothes now tumbles them dry using heat.

This differs completely from traditional laundry setups. In a standard setup, you use two separate machines. The washer cleans clothes with water. Then you manually transfer the wet load to a different dryer. The dryer uses heat and airflow to remove moisture. With a combo unit, both functions happen in one place.

Samsung’s washer dryer combos use front loading drum design. The drum rotates horizontally, which is gentler on fabrics than top loading agitators. During the wash cycle, the drum fills with water, spins to agitate clothes, rinses away soap, and spins at high speed to remove excess water. The spin speed reaches 1400 RPM, which extracts more water than typical washers.

For drying, Samsung offers two technologies. Heat pump dryers recirculate air in a closed loop, removing moisture without venting outside. These ventless models work anywhere but take longer to dry. Vented dryers blow hot air through clothes and exhaust moisture outside through a vent. Vented models dry faster, with some loads finishing in 70 minutes.

The AI technology monitors everything during operation. Sensors detect how dirty the clothes are. Weight sensors measure load size. Moisture sensors determine when clothes are dry. The machine adjusts water levels, detergent dispensing, wash time, and drying temperature automatically. This ensures optimal cleaning and fabric care without you adjusting settings manually.

Samsung Bespoke AI Washer Dryer Combo: The Flagship Model

The Samsung Bespoke AI Washer Dryer Combo represents Samsung’s most advanced laundry technology. This model combines cutting edge features with premium design. The 5.3 cubic foot capacity handles large loads that would fill a traditional washer completely. You can wash a king size comforter, multiple towels, or a week’s worth of clothes in one cycle.

The Bespoke AI system is the star feature. This technology uses multiple sensors and machine learning algorithms to optimize every cycle. When you load clothes, the AI analyzes the load. It determines fabric types, how soiled items are, and optimal settings. The machine then adjusts wash temperature, agitation speed, rinse cycles, and spin speed automatically.

The AI Opti Wash and Dry feature takes this further. The system knows exactly how much detergent your load needs. If you use the Auto Dispense system, the machine adds the perfect amount from its reservoir. The reservoir holds enough detergent and softener for up to 32 loads. You refill it once per month instead of adding detergent every wash.

Design wise, the Bespoke line looks stunning. Samsung offers the combo in Dark Steel, Brushed Black, and other premium finishes. The large touchscreen display is intuitive and responsive. The control dial spins smoothly for selecting cycles. The tempered glass door opens wide for easy loading. Even the door hinge feels premium and well built.

The ventless heat pump version offers maximum flexibility. You can install it anywhere with a standard outlet and water connection. No external vent required. This makes it perfect for apartments, condos, or interior closets. The heat pump technology is also more energy efficient than traditional vented dryers, earning ENERGY STAR certification.

Super Speed Cycle: Fast Laundry That Actually Works

One of the biggest selling points is the Super Speed cycle. Samsung claims this cycle washes and dries clothes faster than any other combo on the market. The numbers are impressive. A 3 kg load (about 6 to 7 pounds) washes in 28 minutes and dries in 70 minutes for a vented model. That’s 98 minutes total from dirty to dry.

For ventless models, expect slightly longer times. The heat pump drying takes more time, usually 2 to 2.5 hours for a Super Speed cycle. Still, this beats the 4 to 6 hours that standard combo cycles require.

How does Super Speed work so fast? Samsung uses Speed Spray technology. This system sprays water and detergent directly onto clothes from multiple angles during the wash. The powerful spray penetration means shorter wash times while maintaining cleaning performance. Combined with the 1400 RPM spin speed, clothes come out much drier before the dry cycle even starts.

Real world performance matches Samsung’s claims for lightly soiled clothes. Users report that everyday clothing like t-shirts, jeans, and underwear come out perfectly clean and dry in under 2 hours. The AI sensor helps by adjusting the cycle if clothes need more time. However, heavily soiled items or thick fabrics like towels benefit from longer standard cycles.

The speed comes with one tradeoff. Energy consumption increases during Super Speed cycles compared to normal cycles. The machine uses more power to generate faster spins and higher heat. If energy efficiency is your priority, standard cycles use less electricity. But if time matters more, Super Speed delivers real convenience.

Top 3 Alternatives for Samsung Washer Dryer Combo

Installation and Space Requirements

Installing a Samsung washer dryer combo is simpler than installing separate machines. You only need one electrical outlet, one water supply connection, and one drain. The compact footprint fits spaces where two machines would not.

The standard dimensions are 27 inches wide, 34.5 inches deep, and 43.75 inches tall. Measure your space carefully before purchasing. You need a few extra inches on all sides for hoses, plugs, and ventilation. The door swings open, so account for clearance in front of the unit.

For ventless models, installation is straightforward. Plug into a standard 120V outlet for some models or 240V for higher powered units. Connect the cold water supply hose. Attach the drain hose to a standpipe or utility sink. Level the unit using the adjustable feet. You’re ready to go.

Vented models require one additional step. You must install a 4 inch vent duct from the back of the unit to outside. The vent carries hot, moist air outside during drying. Keep the vent run as short and straight as possible. Long or twisted vents reduce drying efficiency. Some people hire professionals for vent installation.

The machines are extremely heavy, weighing around 200 to 250 pounds. You’ll need help moving them into position. Most retailers offer delivery and installation services for an additional fee. Professional installation ensures proper connections and reduces the risk of leaks or electrical issues.

One crucial installation tip: use the anti vibration pads or keep the shipping bolts accessible for transport. These units spin fast during the spin cycle. Proper leveling prevents excessive vibration and noise. Some users report units “walking” across floors when not level.

Washing Performance: Does It Clean as Well as Traditional Washers?

Washing performance is excellent across Samsung washer dryer combos. The 5.3 cubic foot drum provides plenty of space for clothes to move freely. This movement is key to good cleaning. Clothes need room to tumble through water and detergent.

The AI Opti Wash feature adjusts water temperature and wash time based on soil sensors. Lightly soiled clothes get a quick, gentle wash. Heavily soiled items trigger longer cycles with warmer water. This automatic adjustment saves time and energy on everyday loads while providing deep cleaning when needed.

Samsung includes 12 to 14 wash cycle options depending on model. Common cycles include Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Quick Wash, Sanitize, and Allergen. The Sanitize cycle uses high heat to kill bacteria and allergens, perfect for baby clothes, towels, or bedding. The Steam cycle refreshes clothes and reduces wrinkles without a full wash.

Real user reviews consistently praise wash quality. Clothes come out fresh, clean, and free of detergent residue. The front loading design is gentler on fabrics than top loading agitators. This means less wear on your clothes over time. Even delicate items like sweaters and lingerie handle well on appropriate cycles.

Stain removal performance is good but not exceptional. The Super Speed cycle handles everyday dirt and sweat effectively. Stubborn stains benefit from pretreatment or longer cycles. Some users note that traditional washers with longer agitation times perform slightly better on tough stains. However, for 95% of laundry loads, the Samsung combo delivers satisfying results.

The 1400 RPM spin speed extracts significant water. Clothes come out much drier than from standard washers. This head start makes the drying cycle much faster and more efficient. Less moisture means less energy needed for drying.

Drying Performance: The Biggest Challenge for Combo Units

Drying performance separates great combo units from mediocre ones. This is where combo units traditionally struggle compared to standalone dryers. Samsung has made significant improvements, but drying remains the longest part of the cycle.

Ventless heat pump models take the longest to dry. Expect 2 to 4 hours for normal loads and up to 5 hours for heavy items like towels or comforters. The heat pump technology recirculates air in a closed loop. It’s energy efficient but slower than vented drying. Users report clothes come out completely dry with proper cycle selection, though some thick items need extra time.

Vented models perform much better on speed. Drying times drop to 70 to 90 minutes for typical loads. The vented system exhausts hot, moist air outside, allowing continuous airflow. This dramatically improves drying efficiency. If your home can accommodate venting, this option provides an experience closer to traditional dryers.

The AI Opti Dry system monitors moisture levels continuously. Sensors detect when clothes reach the selected dryness level. The machine adjusts heat and tumbling time automatically. This prevents over drying, which damages fabrics and wastes energy. Users appreciate that the machine doesn’t run longer than necessary.

Some users report mixed results with large or thick loads. Full capacity loads of towels or jeans sometimes require extra dry time. The combo format means less air circulation than a standalone dryer with a larger drum. Samsung recommends not overloading the dryer function. Load sizes of 75% to 80% capacity produce the best drying results.

One significant advantage: wrinkles reduce compared to leaving clothes sitting wet between machines. Since washing transitions immediately to drying, fabrics don’t sit compressed while wet. Many users note they need less ironing than with traditional washers and dryers.

Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

Samsung washer dryer combos earn ENERGY STAR certification, meaning they meet strict efficiency standards. The ventless heat pump models are particularly efficient, using about 50% less energy than traditional vented dryers.

Energy consumption varies by cycle and model. Ventless heat pump drying uses less electricity per load but runs longer. Vented drying uses more power per hour but finishes faster. Over time, these differences often balance out. Your total energy cost depends on how many loads you do and which cycles you select.

Water usage is lower than many traditional washers. The front loading design uses less water than top loaders. The AI system adds only the water needed for each specific load. An average load uses 15 to 25 gallons of water. Compare this to 30 to 40 gallons for many top loading washers.

The Auto Dispense system reduces detergent waste. The machine adds the precise amount needed, preventing the over use that happens when pouring manually. This feature saves money on detergent costs over time. Samsung claims the system optimizes detergent use and can reduce detergent expenses by up to 30%.

Operating costs include electricity, water, and detergent. Based on average utility rates in the United States, expect $0.40 to $1.00 per cycle for ventless models and $0.50 to $1.20 for vented models. Families doing 5 loads per week might spend $100 to $250 per year on laundry utilities. This is comparable to running separate efficient washer and dryer units.

The long term savings come from space, not utility bills. Buying one appliance costs less than two. You also avoid the energy waste of transferring wet clothes between machines, where they sit and potentially need re washing.

Smart Features and App Connectivity

Modern Samsung washer dryer combos are truly smart appliances. Every model connects to WiFi and integrates with the SmartThings app. This connectivity adds real convenience to your laundry routine.

The SmartThings app lets you start, pause, and stop cycles remotely. Imagine starting a load on your lunch break so clothes finish right when you get home. The app sends push notifications when cycles complete. No more wondering if the laundry is done or finding mildewed clothes you forgot in the drum.

Cycle monitoring shows real time progress. The app displays how much time remains, which stage the cycle is in, and estimated completion time. If you need to delay starting a cycle, remote scheduling lets you set the machine to begin at a specific time.

AI Cycle recommendation is genuinely useful. Based on your washing habits and load types, the app suggests optimal cycles. New users find this particularly helpful for learning which settings work best for different fabrics.

Some models include entertaining extras. You can play Spotify music through speakers built into the unit. The ring camera integration lets you monitor your laundry room remotely. These features feel gimmicky at first, but users report actually enjoying music during laundry tasks or checking that kids did their chores.

Voice control works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Tell your voice assistant to start the washer, check cycle status, or pause operation. This hands free control is convenient when your hands are full of laundry.

The app also provides maintenance alerts. It reminds you to clean the door seal, run tub clean cycles, and refill detergent in the Auto Dispense reservoir. These reminders help maintain optimal performance and extend appliance lifespan.

Common Problems and Reliability Concerns

No appliance is perfect. Samsung washer dryer combos have several reported issues you should know about.

Long cycle times top the complaint list. Even with Super Speed, full wash and dry cycles take 2 to 5 hours. Traditional separate machines finish in about 1.5 to 2 hours total. This time difference frustrates users with multiple daily loads. If you need to do several loads in a day, the combo’s convenience becomes a bottleneck.

Drying performance inconsistency frustrates some users. While many loads dry perfectly, others need extra drying time. Thick items like blankets or full capacity loads may come out damp. Some users run additional dry only cycles to finish the job. This defeats the convenience purpose.

Door locking issues appear in user forums. Some units won’t unlock after cycles complete, trapping clothes inside. Others fail to lock properly, preventing cycle start. These problems often require service calls. Regular maintenance of the door seal and latch reduces occurrences.

Moisture buildup affects ventless models particularly. The closed loop system can leave condensation inside the drum or door seal. This moisture creates conditions for mold and mildew growth. Users must leave the door open after cycles and run tub clean cycles monthly. Proper ventilation in the laundry area helps significantly.

Reliability concerns shadow Samsung appliances generally. Online forums and consumer reports document various issues with Samsung washers and dryers. Some users experience trouble free operation for years. Others face multiple service calls for electronic failures, sensor errors, or mechanical problems.

The warranty provides some protection. Samsung offers a 1 year limited warranty on parts and labor. The drum and motor carry extended warranties of 3 years for parts only. Some retailers offer extended warranty purchases. Given repair costs, extended coverage merits consideration.

Repair costs can be substantial. Service calls for combo units average $200 to $400 depending on the issue. Parts for advanced AI systems cost more than basic components. Some users report long wait times for service appointments and replacement parts.

Maintenance Tips for Long Term Performance

Proper maintenance extends your combo’s lifespan and maintains performance. Following these tips prevents most common problems.

Clean the door gasket after every use. Wipe the rubber seal around the door with a dry cloth. This removes moisture, detergent residue, and lint. Built up gunk causes odors and can prevent proper door sealing. Spend 30 seconds after each load for this simple task.

Leave the door open between uses. This allows air circulation inside the drum. Moisture evaporates instead of creating a damp environment where mold thrives. If you have pets or children, consider leaving the door slightly ajar rather than fully open.

Run tub clean cycles monthly. Samsung includes a Self Clean or Tub Clean cycle. This cycle uses hot water and special cleaning action to remove detergent buildup, mold, and bacteria from hidden areas. Run this cycle when the machine sits unused or shows odor signs. Use a washing machine cleaner tablet for enhanced results.

Clean the drain pump filter quarterly. This filter catches lint, coins, and debris. A clogged filter reduces drainage efficiency. Most Samsung combos have an access panel at the bottom front. Open it, unscrew the filter, remove debris, rinse it, and reinstall. Place towels underneath because water drains out during this process.

Check and clean the detergent dispenser. The Auto Dispense reservoir can develop residue buildup. Remove the drawer or reservoir (check your manual for instructions) and rinse thoroughly with warm water. This prevents clogs and ensures proper detergent dispensing.

Maintain proper load sizes. Overloading stresses the motor and reduces cleaning effectiveness. Fill the drum 75% to 80% full for best results. Clothes need space to move freely. For drying, reduce load size further if clothes come out damp consistently.

Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent only. Regular detergent creates too many suds in front loading washers. Excess suds reduce cleaning performance and leave residue. HE detergent costs slightly more but you use less per load.

Level the machine properly. Use a bubble level and adjust the feet until perfectly level. This prevents vibration, noise, and unit movement during high speed spins. Check leveling every few months, as vibration can cause the unit to settle.

Comparison: Ventless vs Vented Models

Samsung offers both ventless and vented washer dryer combos. Choosing between them significantly impacts performance and installation.

Ventless heat pump models offer maximum installation flexibility. You can place them anywhere with water and electricity. No external vent required. This makes them perfect for apartments, condos, and interior closets without exterior wall access. The heat pump technology is energy efficient and gentle on fabrics.

The downsides are longer drying times (2 to 4 hours typical) and higher upfront cost (about $200 to $300 more than vented). The closed loop system sometimes leaves slight moisture in fabrics. Some users run extra dry time for complete drying.

Vented models dramatically improve drying speed. Cycles complete in 70 to 90 minutes for normal loads. Performance approaches traditional standalone dryers. The vented system costs less upfront and uses less sophisticated technology, potentially improving long term reliability.

The requirement for external venting limits installation locations. You need an exterior wall or existing vent path. Vent installation adds complexity and potential cost. Improper venting reduces performance and creates moisture problems. Some apartments or condos prohibit vent installation.

Energy efficiency favors ventless models in most calculations. However, shorter vented drying times mean less total energy use per load in some situations. The difference is small enough that installation feasibility should drive your decision more than energy costs.

Real world recommendation: Choose ventless if installation flexibility matters most and you can accept longer drying times. Choose vented if you have access to venting and prioritize faster cycle times closer to traditional dryer performance.

Who Should Buy a Samsung Washer Dryer Combo?

Samsung washer dryer combos suit specific households and situations perfectly. They’re not ideal for everyone.

Perfect for these buyers:

Apartment and condo dwellers with limited space benefit most. One appliance in a closet or small laundry area beats no laundry at all or frequent laundromat trips. The ventless option works where venting is impossible.

Small households (1 to 3 people) doing 1 to 2 loads daily find the capacity and cycle times acceptable. You can run a load in the morning and another in the evening without feeling rushed.

Busy professionals who value convenience over speed appreciate set it and forget it operation. Load clothes before work, return to dry clothes without mid day attention.

People who hate transferring laundry between machines find genuine value in eliminating that step. The convenience factor alone justifies the purchase for this group.

Tech enthusiasts who enjoy smart home integration and AI features get satisfaction from the advanced technology and app control.

Not ideal for these buyers:

Large families doing multiple loads daily struggle with long cycle times. You can’t start the next load until the previous one fully completes washing and drying. Traditional separate machines allow overlapping wash and dry cycles for much faster throughput.

Budget shoppers find better value in basic separate washer and dryer sets. Entry level pairs cost $800 to $1,200 versus $1,700 plus for combos. The space savings don’t justify the price premium if you have room for two machines.

People with frequent heavy duty laundry like sports uniforms, work clothes, or cloth diapers need robust performance and quick turnaround. Traditional heavy duty washers and high capacity dryers handle these demands better.

Those prioritizing speed find the long cycle times frustrating. Even Super Speed modes take longer than traditional washers and dryers used sequentially.

Price and Value Analysis

Samsung washer dryer combos sit in the premium appliance category. Let’s examine what you get for your money.

Pricing ranges from $1,700 to $2,500 depending on model and retailer. The ventless Bespoke AI models typically cost $1,999 to $2,299. Vented models run $1,799 to $2,099. Sales and promotions can reduce prices by $200 to $400.

Compare this to buying separate machines. A quality front loading washer costs $700 to $1,200. A matching dryer runs $600 to $1,000. You could buy both for $1,300 to $2,200, similar to or less than a combo unit.

The value proposition depends on your priorities. If space is limited, the combo’s value increases significantly. Saving an entire appliance footprint is worth money in small homes. Installation is simpler and cheaper with one unit versus two.

If you have space for two machines, the value case weakens. Separate machines offer better drying performance, faster total laundry time, and ability to wash and dry simultaneously. Reliability history favors simpler separate appliances.

The premium features add value for some buyers. The AI technology, smart connectivity, and Auto Dispense system provide convenience worth paying for if you use them. If you’d never use smart features, you’re paying for unused functionality.

Long term costs include energy, water, maintenance, and potential repairs. Combos use similar utilities as separate efficient machines. Repair costs may be higher due to complex AI systems. However, having one appliance means one service call instead of two when problems arise.

Resale value holds reasonably well for premium appliances. Samsung Bespoke models retain value better than budget brands. However, appliances depreciate quickly. Don’t expect to recoup much if you sell within a few years.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Samsung Washer Dryer Combo?

Samsung washer dryer combos deliver genuine convenience for the right households. The all in one design eliminates the chore of moving wet clothes between machines. The AI technology and smart features provide a premium laundry experience. Washing performance matches excellent traditional washers. The space savings make in unit laundry possible where it couldn’t exist before.

The compromises are real though. Longer cycle times test patience, especially for families with multiple daily loads. Drying performance varies from excellent to acceptable depending on load type. The premium price requires careful budget consideration. Reliability concerns about Samsung appliances create uncertainty about long term ownership.

The best candidates for these combos are singles, couples, and small families in space limited homes who value convenience over speed. If you do 1 to 2 loads daily, rarely have urgent laundry needs, and want the latest smart features, a Samsung combo makes sense.

Think twice if you have space for separate machines, do heavy duty laundry regularly, need multiple loads completed quickly, or operate on a tight budget. Traditional washers and dryers better serve these needs.

For most buyers considering a combo, the Samsung Bespoke AI models represent the category’s best option. They offer the largest capacity, fastest performance, and most advanced features. Choose vented if possible for better drying speed. Go ventless if installation requires it.

The Samsung washer dryer combo isn’t perfect, but it successfully solves real problems for specific households. If its strengths align with your needs and its weaknesses don’t bother you, this appliance can genuinely improve your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to wash and dry clothes in a Samsung combo?

The Super Speed cycle completes in approximately 98 minutes for vented models and 2 to 2.5 hours for ventless models. Standard cycles take 3 to 5 hours total depending on load size and fabric type. Heavy items like towels or comforters may require 5 to 6 hours for complete washing and drying.

Can you use a Samsung washer dryer combo for just washing or just drying?

Yes, you can run wash only cycles or dry only cycles independently. Select wash cycles without enabling the dry function to use it as a regular washer. Use the dry only setting if you have clothes that just need drying. This flexibility lets you use the machine according to specific needs.

Do Samsung combo units require special electrical outlets?

Most ventless models use a standard 120V household outlet. Some high powered models, especially vented versions, require 240V outlets similar to traditional electric dryers. Check your specific model’s electrical requirements before installation. Upgrading to 240V requires professional electrical work.

How much laundry can you fit in a Samsung washer dryer combo?

The 5.3 cubic foot capacity handles large loads up to approximately 18 to 20 pounds for washing. For optimal drying performance, limit loads to 14 to 16 pounds or about 75% to 80% of capacity. This allows proper tumbling and air circulation for complete drying.

Are Samsung washer dryer combos reliable long term?

Reliability varies based on user reports and reviews. Some owners experience years of trouble free operation. Others report issues with sensors, door locks, and electronic systems. Samsung offers a 1 year limited warranty plus extended coverage on key components. Consider purchasing additional warranty protection for expensive repairs.

How do you prevent mold in a ventless washer dryer combo?

Leave the door open between uses to allow moisture evaporation. Wipe the door gasket dry after each cycle. Run tub clean cycles monthly with washing machine cleaner. Ensure proper room ventilation. These steps prevent moisture buildup that causes mold and mildew growth in ventless systems.

Can Samsung combos handle large items like comforters?

The 5.3 cubic foot capacity fits king size comforters for washing. Drying large, thick items takes significantly longer than clothing. You may need to run additional dry time or use multiple shorter dry cycles. Some users prefer taking very large items to commercial dryers for faster results.

What’s the difference between Samsung Bespoke models?

Bespoke models vary in drying type (ventless heat pump versus vented), finish options (Dark Steel, Brushed Black), and available capacity sizes. All Bespoke models include AI technology and smart features. The main performance difference is vented models dry faster while ventless models install anywhere.

Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API