---
title: "Generator vs washing machine — size, weight and speed compared"
description: "Washing machine is somewhat greater than generator on weight — about 1.5×. Compared on 5 measured properties, with the full range and a source for each."
url: https://atoneplace.net/vs/generator-vs-washing-machine/
site: "At One Place"
---

# Generator vs Washing machine

**Generator vs washing machine: Washing machine is larger on weight**

Washing machine is somewhat greater than generator on weight — about 1.5×.

A generator and a washing machine can be compared on 5 measures. The figures below are typical adult or full-size values, with the larger of the two in bold.

## Side by side

*Larger value in bold. Ranges reflect genuine variation, not uncertainty.*

|  | Generator | Washing machine |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Weight | 18–180 kg | 55–115 kg |
| Typical cost | 250–3,500 $ | 400–1,800 $ |
| Loudness | 52–82 dB | 70 dB |
| Power draw | 1–12 kW | 250–2,200 W |
| Volume | 4–30 L | 80–170 L |

## What the numbers say

- Washing machine is somewhat greater than generator on weight — about 1.5×.
- Generator and washing machine are near enough identical on typical cost.
- Generator and washing machine are near enough identical on loudness.
- Generator is 10× washing machine on power draw.
- Washing machine is 8.7× generator on volume.

*Weight compared.*

- Washing machine: 55–115 kg
- Generator: 18–180 kg

## Generator

An engine driving an alternator to produce mains-voltage electricity away from the grid.

## Washing machine

A powered drum that washes clothes, loading either from the top or through a front door.

> This is a comparison of published measurements, nothing more. It describes how two things differ on measures that have been recorded; it does not predict how they would fare against each other in any situation.

## Common questions

### Which is bigger, generator or washing machine?

Washing machine is somewhat greater than generator on weight — about 1.5×. Both figures are typical values; the full range for each is in the table above.

### How do generators and washing machines compare on typical cost?

Generator: 250–3,500 $. Washing machine: 400–1,800 $. Generator and washing machine are near enough identical on typical cost.

### How do generators and washing machines compare on loudness?

Generator: 52–82 dB. Washing machine: 70 dB. Generator and washing machine are near enough identical on loudness.

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## Sources

- Typical range compiled from manufacturer specifications — At One Place (/about/)
- What Noises Cause Hearing Loss? — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hearing_loss/what_noises_cause_hearing_loss.html) [Public domain (US Government)]
- ENERGY STAR Product Specifications — US Environmental Protection Agency (https://www.energystar.gov/) [Public domain (US Government)]