Which washing machine is better: with a direct drive or a belt?

One of the most important choices you’ll have to make when selecting a washing machine is between a belt-driven and direct drive model. You can choose the best option for your house by being aware of the advantages that each type offers.

Direct drive washing machines promise quieter operation and possibly fewer maintenance problems by connecting the motor directly to the drum. Conversely, belt-driven models are well-established and come with a number of advantages, one of which is that they are frequently less expensive.

We’ll examine the variations between these two kinds of washers in this post to assist you in choosing the one that best meets your requirements.

Let"s compare two types of machines

We’ll explain the differences between a belt and a direct drive for anyone who is still unclear. The primary distinction is in the way the machine’s drum rotates, or the energy transfer mechanism from the motor. Directly from the electric motor or through a drive belt are the two options. We’ll give a quick overview of each.

A direct drive is when the rotor and drum axis are connected directly. Instead of a belt system, a unique clutch is offered. The motor surface is devoid of brushes because they are not necessary. Since the inverter motor rotates the tank directly and the control board uses electromagnetic waves to set the speed, this technology is known as "Direct Drive." Furthermore, the engine "reads" the weight of the items loaded beneath the hatch and automatically modifies power accordingly.

In the second scenario, the drum rotates and stops because the drive belt is what connects the motor to the tank pulley. The connecting rubber element’s elasticity allows for smooth rotation, and the motor type determines how the speed is regulated. A tachogenerator, which regulates the rotation force and incorporates special brushes to reduce friction and limit current transmission, is an essential installation for a collector device.

An asynchronous motor is a low-cost motor with a stationary stator and a rotating rotor that automatically repeats three phases at a specific number of revolutions. It lacks these extras and is found in only 20% of household appliances.

It is hard to pinpoint precisely which washing machine offers longer repair free life and better washing results. One thing is certain: advertisements have pros and cons of their own, so you shouldn’t believe them at face value. Later on, we will delve deeper into each of the "pros" and "cons."

Why direct drive is promoted?

It is pointless to argue when well-known companies fervently defend their inverter protégés in advertisements by contrasting the many benefits of contemporary technology with the drawbacks of a conventional drive. The manufacturer is attempting to promote a more expensive product and outperform rivals, which is the straightforward explanation for the praise. However, the perception that sophisticated models are superior to traditional ones is not totally accurate, as they have flaws of their own and are prone to malfunctions.

To begin the analysis, let’s look at the "pros" of drive belt-equipped machines:

• affordable price;
• average trouble-free service life is up to 15 years;
• the entire load falls on the belt, the replacement of which is inexpensive and quick (about 20 minutes);
• with uneven distribution of laundry in the tank, the belt can act as shock absorbers.

The most important factor is that these models have been tested for decades and have primarily operated without issue. Let’s talk about the drawbacks now. These include a smaller tank capacity because the belt system must fit inside the machine, as well as an elevated noise level and frequent replacement of the belt and electric brushes that wear out quickly.

Pros of machines with a new drive

Verified customer reviews of the direct drive in action are hard to come by. The majority of comments restate marketing slogans. The following are the benefits of direct drive machines when you take into account all the information you find.

1. Compactness with a larger capacity. Quite likely, since the missing belt, brushes and pulley allow the drum to be expanded while reducing the body.
2. Ten-year warranty on the engine. This is debatable, since in addition to the motor, other elements of the machine can also break.
3. Reduced noise and vibration levels. True, very insignificantly, since the rustle of a constantly running belt is replaced by an overly noisy intake and drain of water.
4. Washing efficiency. They say that the advanced capabilities of the inverter motor with abrupt stops and reverse rotations clean the laundry better and fight the most stubborn stains. It is difficult to compare, since there were few complaints about traditional machines.
5. Accelerated washing. The previously mentioned abrupt operation of the inverter motor allows you to scroll through the cycle faster, which saves a little time.
6. Energy saving. Due to the exclusion of some elements from the rotation chain and the ability to automatically control the required power by “reading” the weight of the loaded laundry.
7. Malfunction diagnostics. The "Direct Drive" system is capable of signaling an excess of laundry in the drum by displaying a corresponding error, refusing to start the cycle or randomly flashing indicators on the control panel.

Everything works differently in traditional machines; a burnt or torn belt from an excessive load will cause the wash to begin and end.

There are a lot of "pluses," but it’s important to realize that the majority of the benefits are relative and independent of drive type. Therefore, even a belt machine will wash well and silently with excellent factory assembly, correct operation, perfect installation, and the right detergent selection. As a result, we won’t compare particular models quickly.

Direct drive washing machines are typically quieter, more durable, and perform more efficiently than belt-driven models because the motor is connected directly to the drum, which minimizes wear and energy loss. However, belt-driven models are frequently less expensive and simpler to maintain, which makes them a good choice for customers on a tight budget. Whether you value upfront savings and simpler maintenance or long-term dependability and energy efficiency, your priorities will determine which option is best.

Disadvantages of "new" machines

The shortcomings of direct-drive machines will also be a point of contention when selecting what to purchase from the assortment that is being offered. They are real and ought to be considered.

1. High cost. This applies to both the machine itself, as well as its components and repair work.
2. Dependence on uninterruptible electricity. The inverter motor is controlled by electronics, which are extremely vulnerable to power surges in the network. It is better to play it safe and connect a stabilizer to the device.
3. Oil seal leakage. With direct transmission, the motor is located directly under the tank, and if the oil seal is not replaced in a timely manner, leaks often occur. Water getting on the engine provokes a breakdown up to complete burnout. The warranty does not cover such a malfunction, and you will have to pay for expensive repairs out of your own pocket.
4. Rapid wear of bearings. Without a belt and pulley, the entire load from the rotating drum is transferred to closely located bearings. This increases their wear and requires regular replacement.

The aforementioned issues might be short-term effects of a hasty and ill-considered switch from a belt to a direct drive. It’s very likely that manufacturers will remove all of the flaws in the future. In the interim, inverter devices are prohibitively costly and incredibly unreliable, as a minor leak could result in significant costs.

Your unique needs and preferences will determine whether you choose a belt-driven or direct-drive washing machine. Models with direct drives typically require less maintenance because they are typically quieter, more efficient, and have fewer moving parts. But the cost of them could be higher.

Conversely, belt-driven devices are frequently more reasonably priced and have a long history of use, attesting to their dependability. Even though they need to replace the belt more frequently and produce more noise, they still work well for routine laundry duties.

What matters most to you will ultimately determine the choice, be it affordability, quiet operation, or long-term durability. To determine which type is best for your home, carefully consider these factors as each has advantages of its own.

Video on the topic

TOP-10 reliable washing machines / The best washing machines of 2024

About washing machines. LG and Samsung.

Very briefly about the LG washing machine with direct drive