Thomson 8.5 kg Top Load Washing Machine Review: Large Capacity, Smart Features 

The Thomson 8.5 kg Fully Automatic Top Load Washing Machine (model TTL8500R) positions itself as a versatile and affordable choice for medium to large households. With a 5-star energy rating, a robust 840 RPM motor, and features like Aqua Restore and Tub Clean, this machine promises both functionality and sustainability. However, the main question is whether the washing machine delivers on these claims. Well, we have been using it for quite some time now, so let’s find out in our detailed review:

Thomson 8.5 kg Fully Automatic Top Load Washing Machine

Rs 13,499
7.8

Cleaning performance

7.5/10

Water and energy efficiency

8.0/10

Noise

8.5/10

Build/design

7.0/10

Spinning

7.5/10

Value for money

8.0/10

Service and support

7.5/10

Installation

8.0/10

Ease of use

8.0/10

What Is Good?

  • Large capacity (8.5 kg)
  • Maximum spin speed of 840 RPM
  • User-friendly operation
  • Eco-friendly Aqua Restore feature

What Is Bad?

  • No wash tray
  • Limited wash programs available

Build Quality and Design

The Thomson TTL8500R boasts a modern design with a toughened glass top that enhances durability while adding a sleek touch to your laundry space. The glass lid allows users to monitor the washing process without disruption.

Dimensions and Weight

  • Width: 535 cm
  • Height: 928 cm
  • Depth: 520 cm
  • Weight: 22 kg

Like its counterparts in the segment, the machine is made of plastic. However, it was lighter than competitors like the Samsung 7 kg Diamond Drum Top Loader, which made us wonder about its long-term durability.

Installation and Getting Started

Installation is straightforward. An authorised service engineer will set up the machine and provide a comprehensive demonstration of its features. The package includes essential components such as a water inlet pipe with a tap adaptor, drain hose pipe, and user manual. However, you can also get the installation done by a local plumber, which is what we had opted for with this review machine.

Note: Installation experiences vary widely from person to person and location to location. Positive or negative reviews from others may not be indicative of your own experience.

Modes and Operation

This machine comes equipped with:

  • Fuzzy Logic: Automatically adjusts settings based on the load.
  • Pre-wash Soak: Targets tough stains.
  • Spin & Rinse: Simplifies post-wash drying.

Navigating the settings requires familiarisation, especially when selecting preset programmes. The Damp Mode impressed us, leaving clothes marginally less damp, even in humid conditions.

Features

Toughened Glass Top

This durable and stylish feature enhances the machine’s aesthetic appeal and provides practical advantages. The transparent glass lid allows users to monitor the washing process without lifting the cover, and its robust construction ensures longevity even with frequent use. We have been using this machine for almost a month now and have to appreciate how the lid resisted scratches and stayed clean with minimal effort, making maintenance hassle-free.

840 RPM Motor

The high spin speed of 840 RPM ensures faster water extraction from clothes, significantly reducing drying time. During our testing, this feature proved especially helpful for heavier fabrics like jeans and towels, which were drier than similar models. However, the machine’s vibrations during high-speed spins were slightly more noticeable than expected.

Aqua Restore

The Aqua Restore feature stands out for its eco-conscious approach. It allows users to reuse water from previous cycles, reducing overall consumption. During our use, we found this feature particularly useful for less-soiled loads, offering a balance between performance and water conservation. However, there was no yardstick to measure whether it indeed consumed less water than the usual mode.

Tub Clean

Maintaining a washing machine is often neglected, but the Tub Clean cycle simplifies this process. It removes detergent residue, lint, and odours, keeping the drum hygienic and enhancing the machine’s efficiency. Most washing machines now come with this feature and at the time of installation, the service engineer recommends running it once a month. We used this after running 40 cycles and found the drum spotless, which also helped maintain washing quality.

Quick Wash

The Quick Wash mode accommodates busy lifestyles, delivering clean clothes in a fraction of the time. While it’s not suitable for heavily soiled garments, it performs decently with smaller loads of everyday wear, leaving them fresh and ready to wear in just under 20 minutes.

Child Lock and Shockproof Features

Safety is another strong point. The child lock prevents accidental changes to settings during operation, while the shock-proof design ensures safer handling. These features provide peace of mind for families with children or households with frequent use.

Washing Performance

In terms of washing performance, the machine operates at a maximum spin speed of 840 RPM. While it effectively handles regular laundry loads, users noted that cleaning quality was average when using both detergent and liquid soap. For delicate items like embroidered fabrics, the gentle wash mode proved effective without damaging threads.

The quick wash feature is beneficial for those pressed for time. The damp mode was particularly useful during rainy weather in Delhi, as it yielded marginally less damp clothes than standard settings.

However, the absence of a wash tray necessitates the direct application of detergent into the wash cycle, which, if not managed properly, may lead to uneven distribution. We were expecting the clothes to come with detergent patches as in most top-loading machines but were genuinely surprised when this machine from Thomson was able to negate that on all counts.

Energy Efficiency

With a 5-star energy rating, the Thomson washing machine is designed to be energy-efficient. In the testing period, we found that a regular wash cycle of about 40 to 50 minutes consumed 0.69kWh to 0.99kWh units of electricity. This was measured using a smart plug from Qubo.

Warranty

  • Product Warranty: 2 years comprehensive
  • Motor Warranty: 5 years

Manufacturing defects are covered, while physical damage is excluded. Warranty services are provided via technician visits.

Value for Money

Priced competitively against models like the Samsung 7 kg Diamond Drum Washer (Rs 16,590), this Thomson machine offers a larger capacity and additional features. However, its limited preset programmes and lack of a detergent tray may deter some buyers.

Final Verdict

The Thomson 8.5 kg Fully Automatic Top Load Washing Machine is an excellent choice for households needing a high-capacity washer with essential features. Its robust motor, modern design, and eco-friendly Aqua Restore feature stand out. That said, areas like build quality and programme versatility leave room for improvement. Overall, it offers commendable performance for its price point.