Haier vs Smeg Washing Machines

Haier keeps its range between £379 and £479, from the 8kg HW80-B14939S8 I-Pro through the 9kg HW90B14939S8UK to the 10kg HW100B14959S8U1U at £429. Smeg is priced at £499 to £599, with the 8kg WNP84SECUK at £499 and two 9kg models at £599: the WNP96SLAAUK with steam and Autodose, and the WNP96SLAAUK1 with a 1600rpm spin. The gap between the cheapest Haier at £379 and the cheapest Smeg at £499 is £120.

Haier's differences come from direct-drive running, Smart Dual Spray, Vapour Refresh and Automatic Weight Detection on the 8kg model. Smeg's features centre on Autodose, which stores detergent in a tank and doses it for each wash, and steam programmes that help refresh garments between washes. The WNP96SLAAUK1 spins at 1600rpm, which shortens drying time. Smeg's 8kg model is rated A for noise at 72dB, while the 9kg steam model is rated C at 78dB. Both the Haier 8kg I-Pro and the 8kg WNP84SECUK offer 15 programmes. Haier's 9kg HW90B14939S8UK adds a 24H time delay, while Smeg's steam programmes aim to reduce ironing.

Haier suits buyers who want the lowest-cost route into a 9kg or 10kg machine with smart options. Smeg suits design-minded households already using Smeg kitchen appliances, especially those who want hands-free detergent dosing and steam. Because the 9kg steam model has the higher 78dB rating, buyers with open-plan living areas may find the 8kg WNP84SECUK more suitable for everyday use. Smeg's Autodose tank suits households that dislike measuring liquid detergent, while Haier's models suit buyers who prefer a lower up-front cost.

Bottom line: choose Haier if you want a 10kg drum with WiFi for £429, and choose Smeg if Autodose and steam, or a 1600rpm spin at £599, justify the higher price.