Looking Beyond the TABU 18lbs Portable Washing Machine? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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You might be looking for tabu 18lbs portable washing machine alternatives if the current model does not fit your specific space or laundry habits. The TABU washer offers a 2.4 cu. ft. stainless steel tub and automatic balance adjustment to reduce vibration. These specs make it a strong choice for small apartments where stability matters. However, you may need a different capacity, a twin-tub design, or a more compact footprint.
The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original unit. Each option provides distinct features like higher capacity, semi-automatic control, or built-in drain pumps. You can compare sizes, tub materials, and operation types to find a better match. This guide focuses on practical differences in specs rather than subjective opinions. Review the details below to see which machine aligns with your daily laundry needs.
Our top pick: TABU 18lbs Portable Washer, 2.4 Cu.Ft.
How each alternative compares
Auertech 20lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer
The Auertech 20lbs model uses a twin tub design, separating wash and spin cycles. This allows simultaneous operation, which the TABU does not offer. It includes a drain pump for flexible placement, similar to the TABU’s convenience but with a semi-automatic workflow. The footprint is wider at 24.4 inches compared to the TABU’s 18.7 inches. You gain capacity flexibility but lose the automatic balance adjustment feature. This option suits users who prefer manual control and do not mind managing two tubs for faster laundry turnover.
ROVSUN 30LBS Portable Washer
The ROVSUN 30lbs washer significantly increases capacity to 30lbs, handling larger loads than the TABU’s 18lbs limit. It features a stainless steel drum and a built-in drain pump, matching the TABU’s durability and drainage ease. However, it is much larger, measuring 24.9 inches wide and 39 inches tall. You trade compactness for high-volume capability. This machine is better for busy households needing to wash more clothes at once, provided you have the floor space and ceiling height to accommodate its substantial size.
COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer
The COSTWAY 26lbs model offers a twin tub design for simultaneous wash and spin cycles, a feature absent in the TABU. It includes a drain pump and timer controls for manual operation. The unit is wider at 27.5 inches but shorter at 32 inches tall than the TABU. You gain efficiency through parallel processing but lose the automatic balance adjustment. This choice fits users who prioritize speed and manual timer control over the TABU’s automated vibration management and single-tub simplicity.
Giantex 8 lb Full Automatic Washer
The Giantex 8lb washer is significantly smaller, measuring 17 inches square, making it ideal for tight spaces like dorms or RVs. It includes a drain pump for easy water removal, similar to the TABU. However, the 8lbs capacity is much lower than the TABU’s 18lbs. You sacrifice load size for extreme portability. This model suits users with minimal laundry volume who need a fully automatic, compact solution that fits where the larger TABU cannot.
Anypro 17.8 lbs White Portable Washer
The Anypro 17.8 lbs washer closely matches the TABU’s 18lbs capacity and fully automatic operation. It offers 10 wash programs, comparable to the TABU’s 10 programs. The dimensions are slightly larger at 19.7 inches wide and 33.7 inches tall. It lacks the specific automatic balance adjustment feature mentioned for the TABU. You get a similar capacity and program variety but with a different footprint. This is a practical alternative for those who need automatic cleaning but prefer a slightly different size or brand preference.
COSTWAY 8 lb Portable Washer
The COSTWAY 8 lb washer is a compact, fully automatic option with an LED display for clear status viewing. It includes 6 wash cycles, fewer than the TABU’s 10. The footprint is 17 inches square, smaller than the TABU’s width. It includes a drain pump for convenience. You trade capacity and program variety for a smaller, display-focused design. This model fits users who need full automation in very tight spaces and do not require the larger load handling or extensive cycle options of the TABU.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
TABU 18lbs Portable Washer, 2.4 Cu.Ft
Best for: small apartments needing vibration control
- Capacity
- 2.4 cu. ft., 18 lbs
- Operation Type
- fully automatic
- Wash Programs
- 10
- Water Levels
- 8
- Drain Pump
- drain pump
- Tub Material
- stainless steel
View on Amazon: TABU 18lbs Portable Washer, 2.4 Cu.Ft Affiliate link
The TABU 18lbs Portable Washing Machine offers 2.4 cubic feet of capacity in a compact 18.7 by 18.3 by 32.3 inch frame. It features a stainless steel tub, 10 wash programs, and 8 water levels. Automatic balance adjustment helps reduce vibration during spin cycles. This unit suits small spaces like apartments or dorms where you need full automatic washing and spinning capabilities.
Pros
- 18 lbs capacity with 2.4 cubic feet volume
- Stainless steel inner tub for durability
- 10 wash programs and 8 water levels
- Automatic balance adjustment to reduce vibration
- Delay start function for scheduling washes
Cons
- 18 lbs capacity is smaller than 20 to 30 lbs competitors
- No smart app or remote control connectivity
- Twin tub spin function may require manual transfer
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for small spaces
- You want automatic balance adjustment for stability
- You prefer stainless steel tubs over plastic
Skip if
- You need capacity larger than 18 lbs
- You require smart home integration or app control
- You prefer twin tub models with separate wash and spin
Verdict: TABU 18lbs Portable Washer, 2.4 Cu.Ft fits users in small spaces who need automatic balance adjustment and a stainless steel tub. It is a solid choice for apartments where vibration control matters more than maximum capacity.
Auertech 20lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer
Best for: Small spaces requiring drain pump flexibility
- Capacity
- 20 lbs (12 lbs washer, 8 lbs spinner)
- Operation Type
- semi-automatic
- Drain Pump
- drainage pump
- Design
- Twin Tub
- Ideal For
- Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room
- Features
- Drain Pump
View on Amazon: Auertech 20lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer Affiliate link
The Auertech 20lbs portable washer uses a semi-automatic twin tub design with a 12lbs wash capacity and 8lbs spin capacity. It features a 1300 rpm motor and a built-in drain pump for flexible water removal. The compact 24.4 x 15.5 x 28.3 inch footprint fits tight spaces like dorms or RVs. You get independent time controls for wash and spin cycles, making it a practical option for small loads.
Pros
- Built-in drain pump allows water to be pumped upward or away easily
- Separate 12lbs wash tub and 8lbs spin tub enable simultaneous washing and drying
- 1300 rpm motor provides efficient cleaning for small loads
- Transparent window lets you monitor the wash and spin cycles
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation requires manual transfer of clothes between tubs
- Limited to 12lbs wash capacity per load
- Shortest cycle time is 15 minutes for washing and 5 minutes for spinning
Good fit if
- You need a drain pump to remove water from higher locations
- You want to wash and spin clothes simultaneously to save time
- You have limited space in an apartment, dorm, or RV
Skip if
- You prefer fully automatic machines that handle wash, rinse, and spin without manual intervention
- You regularly wash loads larger than 12lbs
- You need a machine with a shorter wash cycle than 15 minutes
Verdict: Auertech 20lbs Semi-Automatic Twin Tub Washer is a solid choice for users who need a drain pump and simultaneous wash-spin cycles in a compact footprint. It suits small households or travelers who do not mind managing two separate tubs.
ROVSUN 30LBS Portable Washer
Best for: high-capacity laundry in apartments
- Capacity
- 3.0 cu. ft. (30 lbs)
- Operation Type
- Full-automatic
- Loading Type
- Top load
- Wash Programs
- 8
- Water Levels
- 8
- Drain Pump
- Built-in drain pump
View on Amazon: ROVSUN 30LBS Portable Washer Affiliate link
The ROVSUN 30lbs Portable Washer offers a 3.0 cu. ft. capacity with full-automatic operation. It features a stainless steel drum and a built-in drain pump for easy water removal. You get eight wash programs and eight water levels to match fabric needs. The unit measures 24.9 by 24.9 by 39 inches. It suits large families needing high-volume laundry in compact spaces.
Pros
- 3.0 cu. ft. capacity handles large loads
- Built-in drain pump simplifies water removal
- Stainless steel drum reduces clothing wear
- Eight wash programs and water levels
- Full-automatic operation requires minimal input
Cons
- Tall 39-inch height may not fit low cabinets
- Top-load design requires overhead clearance
- No smart features or remote control listed
Good fit if
- You need to wash large volumes of laundry
- You want a machine with a built-in drain pump
- You have space for a 39-inch tall unit
Skip if
- You require a front-load washing machine
- You need smart connectivity or app control
- You have limited vertical space for tall appliances
Verdict: ROVSUN 30lbs Portable Washer delivers high capacity and convenient drainage for busy households. It fits buyers who prioritize load size and manual control over smart features.
COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer
Best for: Simultaneous wash and spin cycles
- Capacity
- 18 lbs
- Operation Type
- Twin tub
- Drain Pump
- Built-in drain pump
- Ideal For
- Apartments, Dorms, Laundry Room
- Features
- Drain Pump, Timer
- Size
- 18Lbs
View on Amazon: COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer Affiliate link
The COSTWAY twin tub washer splits capacity into an 18-pound wash tub and an 8-pound spin tub. This 26-pound total setup lets you wash and spin simultaneously. It includes a built-in drain pump and manual timers for both cycles. The unit measures 27.5 by 16 by 32 inches and weighs 33.5 pounds. It suits apartments and dorms where space is tight but you need separate wash and spin stages.
Pros
- 26 lbs total capacity with 18 lbs wash and 8 lbs spin tubs
- Built-in drain pump for easy water removal
- Manual timers allow 0-15 minutes wash and 0-5 minutes spin
- Dual tubs enable simultaneous washing and spinning
Cons
- Only dries clothes to 90%, requiring sun drying
- Twin tub design requires manual transfer between tubs
- Heavier at 33.5 pounds than single-tub competitors
Good fit if
- You want to wash and spin clothes at the same time
- You prefer manual control over wash and spin durations
- You need a built-in drain pump for easy water disposal
Skip if
- You need fully automatic one-touch operation
- You require clothes to be dry after the spin cycle
- You prefer a lighter, single-tub compact unit
Verdict: COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer offers simultaneous wash and spin cycles for efficient laundry handling. It fits buyers who value manual timer control and a built-in drain pump in a compact footprint.
Giantex 8 lb Full Automatic Washer
Best for: Small loads in dorms or RVs
- Capacity
- 8 LBS
- Operation Type
- Full Automatic
- Wash Programs
- 6
- Water Levels
- 3
- Drain Pump
- Built-in pump
- Ideal For
- Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room
View on Amazon: Giantex 8 lb Full Automatic Washer Affiliate link
The Giantex 8lb portable washer offers full automatic operation for small spaces. It includes six wash programs and three water levels to match load needs. A built-in drain pump simplifies water removal without manual lifting. Its compact 17x17x29.5 inch footprint fits apartments or dorms. This model suits those needing lightweight, automated laundry care with minimal setup.
Pros
- Full automatic operation with 6 distinct wash programs
- Built-in drain pump for easy water removal
- Three adjustable water levels (16L, 23L, 30L)
- Compact 17x17x29.5 inch dimensions for small spaces
- Lightweight 37.4 pound design for easy moving
Cons
- Small 8lb capacity limits large loads
- Manual dial controls lack digital display
- No spin-only cycle without washing
Good fit if
- You live in a dorm or apartment with limited space
- You need a lightweight machine for frequent relocation
- You prefer full automatic cycles over manual twin-tub operation
Skip if
- You regularly wash bulky items like comforters
- You require a large capacity for family-sized loads
- You need a machine with a digital control panel
Verdict: Giantex 8lb Full Automatic Portable Washer fits small households needing automated cleaning in tight spaces. Its built-in pump and compact size make it ideal for dorms or RVs where manual draining is inconvenient.
Anypro 17.8 lbs White Portable Washer
Best for: small spaces and automatic cleaning needs
- Capacity
- 17.8 lbs
- Operation Type
- Full automatic washer and spinner combo
- Wash Programs
- 10
- Water Levels
- 8
- Tub Material
- Stainless steel
- Ideal For
- Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room
View on Amazon: Anypro 17.8 lbs White Portable Washer Affiliate link
The Anypro 17.8 lbs washer offers full automatic operation with a stainless steel drum. It includes 10 wash programs and 8 water levels for tailored cleaning. Fuzzy control technology adjusts settings automatically. This unit measures 19.7 by 19.9 by 33.7 inches and weighs 43.3 pounds. It suits apartments, dorms, and RVs where space is limited but capacity matters.
Pros
- 17.8 lbs load capacity handles everyday laundry
- 10 distinct wash programs for various fabrics
- Stainless steel drum for durability
- Fuzzy control adjusts settings automatically
- 8 water levels for precise filling
Cons
- 17.8 lbs capacity is smaller than many competitors
- Spinner function may require manual intervention
- No smart connectivity or app control listed
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for small spaces
- You want automatic wash programs without manual tweaking
- You prefer a stainless steel drum for longevity
Skip if
- You require a twin-tub design for separate washing and spinning
- You need a capacity larger than 17.8 lbs
- You want a fully integrated washer-dryer combo
Verdict: Anypro 17.8 lbs Full Automatic Washer fits renters and students who need reliable, automatic cleaning in a compact footprint. It is a practical option for those prioritizing drum durability and program variety over maximum load size.
COSTWAY 8 lb Portable Washer
Best for: Small spaces and RV laundry needs
- Capacity
- 8 lbs
- Operation Type
- Full-automatic
- Wash Programs
- 6
- Water Levels
- 3
- Drain Pump
- Built-in drain pump
- Tub Material
- Stainless steel
View on Amazon: COSTWAY 8 lb Portable Washer Affiliate link
The COSTWAY 8 lbs portable washer is a full-automatic unit designed for small spaces. It features a stainless steel tub, six wash programs, and three water levels. The built-in drain pump simplifies water removal, while an imbalance adjustment system reduces vibration during spin cycles. This compact machine suits renters and RV users who need a lightweight, easy-to-move laundry solution.
Pros
- Full-automatic operation with six wash programs
- Built-in drain pump for easy water removal
- Stainless steel inner tub with honeycomb design
- Automatic imbalance detection and adjustment
- Compact dimensions of 17 x 17 x 29.5 inches
Cons
- Smaller 8 lbs capacity compared to 18+ lbs competitors
- Heavier at 37 pounds due to full-automatic components
- Requires a faucet adapter for direct water connection
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for an RV or dorm
- You prefer full-automatic convenience over manual twin-tub models
- You want automatic imbalance correction to prevent shaking
Skip if
- You require a capacity larger than 8 lbs
- You need direct faucet connection without an adapter
- You prefer lighter, twin-tub designs for easy transport
Verdict: COSTWAY 8 lbs Full-Automatic Portable Washer offers full-automatic convenience in a compact footprint. It fits small households or travelers who prioritize ease of use over high capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TABU 18lbs Portable Washer, 2.4 Cu.Ft | Auertech 20lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer | ROVSUN 30LBS Portable Washer | COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer | Giantex 8 lb Full Automatic Washer | Anypro 17.8 lbs White Portable Washer | COSTWAY 8 lb Portable Washer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 2.4 cu. ft., 18 lbs | 20 lbs (12 lbs washer, 8 lbs spinner) | 3.0 cu. ft. (30 lbs) | 18 lbs | 8 LBS | 17.8 lbs | 8 lbs |
| Operation Type | fully automatic | semi-automatic | Full-automatic | Twin tub | Full Automatic | Full automatic washer and spinner combo | Full-automatic |
| Loading Type | not stated | not stated | Top load | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Wash Programs | 10 | not stated | 8 | not stated | 6 | 10 | 6 |
| Water Levels | 8 | not stated | 8 | not stated | 3 | 8 | 3 |
| Drain Pump | drain pump | drainage pump | Built-in drain pump | Built-in drain pump | Built-in pump | not stated | Built-in drain pump |
| Tub Material | stainless steel | not stated | Stainless steel | not stated | not stated | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Operation | Fully Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Fully Automatic | not stated | Fully Automatic | Fully Automatic | Fully Automatic |
| Design | not stated | Twin Tub | not stated | Twin Tub | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Ideal For | Apartments, RVs, Laundry Room | Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room | Apartments, Laundry Room | Apartments, Dorms, Laundry Room | Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room | Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room | Apartments, Dorms, RVs, Laundry Room |
| Features | Drain Pump, Stainless Steel Drum | Drain Pump | Drain Pump, Stainless Steel Drum | Drain Pump, Timer | Drain Pump | not stated | LED Display |
| Color | White | White | White | Grey+White | White | White | White |
| Size | 18Lbs | 20lbs Capacity | 30Lbs | 18Lbs | 17"x17"x29.5 | 17.8 LBS | not stated |
| Power Source | not stated | not stated | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 18.3 × 18.7 × 32.3 inches | 15.5 × 24.4 × 28.3 inches | 24.9 × 24.9 × 39 inches | 16 × 27.5 × 32 inches | 17 × 17 × 29.5 inches | 19.9 × 19.7 × 33.7 inches | 17 × 17 × 29.5 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | not stated | 33.5 pounds | 37.4 pounds | 43.3 pounds | 37 pounds |
| Model | not stated | 7595-Auertech | not stated | Portable Washing Machine | EP22761 | XQB201A-WHITE6 | not stated |
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Frequently asked questions
Which portable washer has the largest capacity?
The ROVSUN 30lbs model offers the highest capacity on this list. It is designed for busy households that need to process large loads at once. This unit features a stainless steel drum and a built-in drain pump. Its dimensions are 24.9 inches wide, 24.9 inches long, and 39 inches tall. It is fully automatic for hands-off operation.
Are there twin tub options for simultaneous washing and spinning?
Yes, the Auertech 20lbs and COSTWAY 26lbs models use a twin tub design. These machines separate the wash and spin cycles into two distinct drums. This allows you to wash one load while spinning another. Both include drain pumps for flexible placement. The Auertech is semi-automatic, while the COSTWAY offers timer control.
Which model is best for small dorms or RVs?
The Giantex 8lb and COSTWAY 8lb models are ideal for tight spaces like dorms or RVs. The Giantex measures 17 inches by 17 inches with a height of 29.5 inches. It is fully automatic and includes a drain pump. The COSTWAY 8lb is similarly compact and features an LED display for easy cycle selection.
Does the Anypro washer offer multiple wash programs?
Yes, the Anypro 17.8 lbs model includes 10 wash programs. This variety allows you to select settings tailored to different fabric types and soil levels. It is fully automatic and features a white finish. The unit measures 19.7 inches wide, 19.9 inches long, and 33.7 inches tall, making it suitable for apartments.
Which portable washer includes an LED display?
The COSTWAY 8 lb model is the only one listed with an LED display. This screen provides clear visual feedback for the selected cycle. It offers 6 wash cycles and operates fully automatically. The unit is white and measures 17 inches by 17 inches with a height of 29.5 inches. It is designed for ease of use.
What are the dimensions of the Auertech twin tub washer?
The Auertech 20lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer measures 24.4 inches in width, 15.5 inches in length, and 28.3 inches in height. It is a compact unit designed for small spaces. The model number is 7595-Auertech. It is white in color and includes a drain pump for convenient water removal without manual lifting.