BLACK+DECKER Portable Washer 1.7 vs 2.0 Cu Ft: Which Is Better? (November 2026)
Choose the BLACK+DECKER 2.0 cu ft washer for larger loads, or the 1.7 cu ft model if its smaller dimensions better fit your space. Both have 6 cycles, a stainless steel tub and a top-loading design.
On this page (6 sections)
Choose the BLACK+DECKER 2.0 cu ft portable washer for loads up to 15.4 lb, or the 1.7 cu ft model for loads up to 11 lb and a slightly smaller cabinet. Both offer 6 cycles, 3 water levels, temperature choices and a stainless steel tub.
The difference is most useful when you compare your usual laundry pile with the space available. The 2.0 cu ft model has 0.3 cu ft more capacity, while the 1.7 model is a little narrower, shallower and shorter.
If neither size fits your room or laundry routine, the BLACK+DECKER 2.0 cu ft washer review gives a closer look at that model. For a broader view of small-space options, see our best portable washers for small apartments.
BLACK+DECKER portable washer 1.7 vs 2.0: which should you choose?
Choose the 2.0 cu ft model if you want to wash more laundry per load; choose the 1.7 cu ft model if its slightly smaller dimensions work better. Their shared controls and cycle options make capacity and fit the main points to weigh.
The 1.7 model measures 21.3 x 21.7 x 36.6 in and weighs 70.5 lb. The 2.0 model measures 21.6 x 22.2 x 37.4 in and weighs 79.4 lb.
The 2.0 is 0.3 in wider, 0.5 in deeper and 0.8 in taller. These small differences can still matter beside cabinets or when moving the washer through a doorway.
What do the capacity numbers mean in daily use?
The 2.0 cu ft washer handles up to 15.4 lb per load, compared with up to 11 lb for the 1.7. That 4.4 lb difference can mean fewer cycles when your regular laundry loads are larger.
A capacity rating doesn't tell you exactly how many garments fit. Fabric thickness, item shape and how loosely you load the tub all affect what fits comfortably.
Make a rough estimate from a typical basket rather than choosing based on the cubic-foot figures alone. If you often wash bulky items, check the manual and use its load guidance.
Are their cycles and controls different?
Both models have 6 cycle selections: Normal, Heavy, Delicate, Quick, Bulky and Spin Only. Each also offers 3 water levels and hot, warm or cold temperature settings.
Both have a top-loading transparent lid, LED display, stainless steel tub and a delay start of up to 24 hours. They also include auto shutoff and child lock features.
The 1.7 model has a built-in lint filter that doesn't need replacement and should be cleaned about once a month. Follow the washer's manual for cleaning and care.
How much room does each washer need?
The 1.7 cu ft model is the smaller of these two, but measure the complete setup area before choosing either. Allow room to connect the hoses, open the lid and move around the washer.
Compare the stated cabinet dimensions with your available floor space:
| Model | Width | Depth | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu ft | 21.3 in | 21.7 in | 36.6 in |
| BLACK+DECKER 2.0 cu ft | 21.6 in | 22.2 in | 37.4 in |
The cabinet footprint is only one part of the fit. Consider the path from delivery to the washer's location, including doorway widths, turns and any steps.
Both models have rollers and side handles for moving them, but their weights are 70.5 lb and 79.4 lb. Plan for safe handling, especially if the route includes stairs or tight turns.
For more context on washer sizes and living-space tradeoffs, read our guide to large-capacity portable washers. A larger tub can reduce how often you run a load, but it still needs a suitable place to sit.
What sink and water setup should you check?
Check that your sink and faucet can connect to the washer before you buy. Both models include a quick-connect adapter, water supply hose and drain hose.
Confirm that the faucet connection matches the included adapter and that the hose reaches the intended washer location. The 0.9 cu ft model's instructions say its faucet must be within 4 ft of the back of the washer; don't assume that distance applies to the 1.7 or 2.0 models.
Use the installation instructions for the exact model to check connection requirements. A nearby sink doesn't guarantee a compatible faucet or a convenient place for the drain hose.
Portable washers also need a suitable indoor location and a stable floor. Follow the manual's setup and operating instructions, including any requirements for leveling and drainage.
Should you pick a third BLACK+DECKER size?
The 0.9 cu ft model suits very small loads, while the 1.7 and 2.0 cu ft models offer more room for regular laundry. Its rated load capacity is 6.6 lb, and its five cycles include Heavy, Gentle, Normal, Rapid and Soak.
This smaller model uses cold water only. It measures 17.7 x 31.1 x 17.3 in and weighs 48.4 lb, so compare its different cabinet shape with the available space rather than assuming it is smaller in every direction.
Its instructions describe loads such as 5 to 7 shirts, 2 pairs of jeans or twin bed sheets. They also say it's not designed for entire loads of laundry, so think of it as a small-load option.
Which model is easier to move?
The 1.7 cu ft model weighs less, while both larger washers have rollers and side handles. Weight and the route through your home matter more than the word “portable” on its own.
At 70.5 lb, the 1.7 model is 8.9 lb lighter than the 2.0 model. The smaller 0.9 model weighs 48.4 lb, though its width and depth differ from the other two.
Don't plan to carry a washer alone simply because it has wheels. Check the route, clear floor space and manual before moving it, and arrange help when the washer's weight or stairs make handling difficult.
Which washer is the better fit for your laundry?
Pick the 2.0 cu ft washer for larger loads, the 1.7 cu ft washer for a slightly smaller cabinet, or the 0.9 cu ft option for small batches. The right choice depends on both your laundry volume and your setup area.
Choose the 2.0 cu ft model if you expect to use its capacity of up to 15.4 lb per load. Choose the 1.7 cu ft model if up to 11 lb is enough and you prefer its slightly smaller dimensions and lower weight.
Consider the 0.9 cu ft model only if its 6.6 lb capacity and cold-water-only operation suit you. For a broader look at how portable washers fit into home laundry, see are portable washing machines any good?, then use the category guide to compare small washers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the BLACK+DECKER 1.7 and 2.0 portable washers?
The 2.0 cu ft model holds up to 15.4 lb per load, while the 1.7 cu ft model holds up to 11 lb. Both have 6 cycles, 3 water levels, hot, warm and cold settings, and a stainless steel tub.
The 2.0 is slightly larger and heavier.
Is the BLACK+DECKER 2.0 washer much bigger than the 1.7?
The 2.0 model measures 21.6 x 22.2 x 37.4 in, compared with 21.3 x 21.7 x 36.6 in for the 1.7 model. That's a modest difference, but measure the floor area and route into your home before choosing either washer.
Which BLACK+DECKER portable washer handles bigger loads?
The 2.0 cu ft model handles the bigger loads, up to 15.4 lb compared with up to 11 lb for the 1.7. Choose based on how much you want to wash per cycle and whether the slightly larger cabinet fits your space.
Is the 1.7 cu ft BLACK+DECKER washer fully automatic?
The 1.7 cu ft washer is described as automatic and offers 6 cycle selections, 3 water levels and hot, warm or cold settings. Check the setup instructions for your sink and faucet, and follow the manual for installation and operation.
