Black Friday dryer deals flood your inbox promising massive savings, but which discounts actually deliver value versus which ones dump low-quality appliances at inflated “sale” prices? We dug into the Whirlpool WGD4850HW to answer exactly that question.
This dryer dropped from $799 to $499—a $300 discount. We analyzed 640 customer reviews, compared it to competing Black Friday deals (Maytag costs $77 less, Amana $135 less), and evaluated Consumer Reports data to determine if this represents genuine value or just clever marketing.
The Verdict: Is the Whirlpool WGD4850HW Black Friday Deal Worth It?
YES, IF: You want 12 cycles (most versatile at this price), moisture sensing precision, and don’t need smart features. At $499, this dryer delivers exceptional cycle variety where competitors offer 4-7 options.
NO, IF: You need the absolute cheapest option (Amana NGD4655EW costs $135 less at $364) or premium features like Wi-Fi and steam cycles (look at higher Whirlpool models).
The deal reality: $499 represents genuine value. This is a 37.5% discount off the $799 MSRP, positioning the dryer at 62% of the category average price. Consumer Reports ranks it #4 of 42 gas dryers tested, backed by 92% customer satisfaction from 640 reviews.
Reality check: While 29% of customers praise fast drying and 21% love quiet operation, 9% report slow drying times. This suggests quality control variance, where some defective units slip through. The vast majority experience excellent performance, but that 8.7% negative rate matters when evaluating risk.
Quick comparison at Black Friday prices:
- Whirlpool WGD4850HW: $499 with 12 cycles and moisture sensing.
- Maytag MGD4500MW: $422 ($77 less) with 7 cycles and temperature sensing.
- Amana NGD4655EW: $364 ($135 less) with 11 cycles and 6.5 cu ft capacity.
- GE GTD45GASJWS: $535 ($113 more) with 4 cycles, 7.2 cu ft, and exceptional venting.
Black Friday Deal Breakdown: What $499 Actually Gets You
The Whirlpool WGD4850HW (available at Masters Wholesale for $499) normally retails at $799, putting this $300 savings at 37.5% off. In a category where the average dryer costs $1,210, this positions the Whirlpool at exceptional value territory.
Here’s what that $499 delivers:
- 7.0 cu ft capacity handles king-size comforters and bulky loads.
- 12 drying cycles provide versatility for different fabric types (more on why this matters below).
- AutoDry moisture sensing prevents overdrying and saves energy.
- Wrinkle Shield prevents wrinkles for up to 90 minutes after the cycle ends.
- Energy Star certification delivers 20% lower operating costs compared to standard models.
- Simple 3-knob mechanical controls offer straightforward operation without complexity.
What you’re NOT getting at this price point:
- Wi-Fi connectivity or app control for remote operation.
- Steam refresh or sanitize cycles found on premium models.
- Digital touchscreen interface (this uses mechanical knobs only).
- Advanced sensors beyond basic moisture detection.
How This Compares to Other Black Friday Dryer Deals
The market offers four distinct value propositions this Black Friday:
Maytag MGD4500MW at $422 saves you $77 compared to the Whirlpool. The trade-off? You drop from 12 cycles to just 7, and Maytag uses temperature sensing instead of moisture sensing. The upside is a 10-year motor warranty and an interior drum light. Best for buyers who want basic reliability without needing cycle variety.
Amana NGD4655EW at $364 represents maximum savings at $135 less than the Whirlpool. You’re stepping down to a smaller 6.5 cu ft capacity and an entry-level brand, but Amana still offers 11 cycles with automatic dryness control. This is the cheapest path to adequate performance.
GE GTD45GASJWS at $535 costs $113 more but delivers larger 7.2 cu ft capacity and exceptional 120 ft venting capability for challenging installations. The LP conversion kit comes included. The catch? Only 4 cycles compared to Whirlpool’s 12.
What We’re Actually Reviewing: The Whirlpool WGD4850HW Specs
Core Specifications:
- Capacity: 7.0 cu ft (95% of category average)
- Dimensions: 29″W × 42.81″H × 28.38″D
- Weight: 113 lbs
- Fuel type: Natural gas (propane convertible with separate kit)
- Control type: Mechanical 3-knob design
- Door swing: Not reversible (plan your layout accordingly)
- Venting: Standard 4″ diameter required
Cycles and Features:
The Whirlpool WGD4850HW offers 12 drying cycles, the most versatile selection in this competitive set. The exact lineup includes Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicates, Timed Dry, Air Dry, and Quick Dry among others, giving you precise options for different fabric types and drying needs.
Three temperature settings (High, Medium, Low) provide proper fabric care control. The AutoDry moisture sensing system detects when clothes reach the right dryness level and stops the cycle, preventing overdrying damage and saving energy.
Convenience Details:
- Wrinkle Shield: Tumbles periodically for up to 90 minutes to prevent wrinkles if you can’t remove clothes immediately
- Damp Alert: Notifies when clothes are partially dry (perfect for items you want to air-dry the rest of the way)
- Hamper door design: Makes loading easier and helps prevent lost socks
- Top-mounted lint trap: Convenient location but has a design quirk we’ll address in the concerns section
Stackable: Yes, with a separate stacking kit (not included). The non-reversible door means you need to plan your laundry room layout before installation.
Real-World Performance: What 640 Customers Say
Across 640 customer reviews, the Whirlpool WGD4850HW earns a 4.6 out of 5-star rating with 92% satisfaction. The rating breakdown shows strong confidence: 74% gave five stars, 18.2% gave four stars, and only 8.2% rated it three stars or lower.
Those numbers look solid, but the real story lives in what customers actually experience day to day.
The Good: What Customers Love (Top 3 Selling Points)
Fast Drying (29.2% mention): Nearly one-third of reviewers specifically praise how quickly this dryer works. Comments like “cuts drying time in half compared to our old dryer” and “everything done in 30-40 minutes” appear frequently. Customers upgrading from 15-20 year old dryers especially notice the efficiency improvement.
Simple 3-Knob Design (27.6% mention): The mechanical controls win fans. Customers tell us they “love the simple controls, just 3 knobs” and appreciate “no complicated digital display to break.” This isn’t just preference—it’s about reliability. Fewer electronic components mean fewer potential failure points over the dryer’s lifespan.
Quiet Operation (20.8% mention): Reviews consistently describe this as “much quieter than our 20-year-old Whirlpool” and “barely hear it running.” For families with laundry rooms near living spaces, this matters. The noise reduction represents a meaningful quality-of-life improvement over older models.
The Reality Check: Addressing Customer Concerns
Slow drying complaints (8.7%): Here’s where data reveals a problem. While 29% praise fast drying, nearly 9% complain about slow performance. They report issues like “takes 2-3 cycles to dry one load.”
This contradiction points to two possible causes. First, defective units may slip through quality control. Second, improper installation with kinked vents or inadequate gas pressure causes problems.
If you receive a unit that dries slowly, don’t accept it as normal. Check your vent hose for kinks. Verify proper gas line pressure. Clean the exterior vent. Contact warranty service if problems persist. The majority experience fast drying, so a slow unit likely indicates a fixable problem.
Lint trap scatters lint (5.9%): The top-mounted lint trap creates a minor frustration. When you pull it straight up to remove it, some lint can scatter down into the dryer or onto the floor. It’s not a dealbreaker, but customers wish the trap was door-mounted like older models. Pull slowly and straight up to minimize this issue.
Noise issues (3.7%): A small percentage report excessive noise, including “loud banging” or constant squeaking. This contradicts the 20.8% praising quiet operation and suggests quality control variance. Some units perform as designed while others have assembly or component issues.
Brand Loyalty Context: High Longevity Expectations
Nearly 15% of reviewers mention they’re replacing a Whirlpool dryer that lasted 15-35 years. These customers bought this model specifically because their previous Whirlpool delivered decades of service.
The reality check: modern dryers have more features and better efficiency, but expecting 35-year lifespan sets unrealistic expectations. With proper maintenance, a realistic target is 10-15 years. Modern moisture sensors, wrinkle prevention, and multiple cycles add complexity that older models didn’t have.
Professional Assessment: Consumer Reports & Testing Data
Consumer Reports ranks the Whirlpool WGD4850HW at #4 out of 42 gas dryers tested. It earned a score of 51 out of 100. That ranking places it in the top 10% of gas dryers evaluated.
The assessment draws from testing that evaluates drying performance, convenience features, and noise levels. Consumer Reports also surveyed 14,823 gas dryer owners from 2014 through 2024.
Energy Star certification confirms this dryer uses 20% less energy than standard models. Gas dryers already cost less to operate than electric models, so combining gas fuel with Energy Star efficiency delivers notable long-term savings. We estimate approximately $20-30 per year in reduced utility costs compared to non-certified models.
What Professional Testing Reveals
Reviewed.com tested a similar model (the electric WED4950HW) and found 100% drying completeness, meaning clothes come out completely dry. The Normal cycle averaged 72 minutes at 166°F, which is typical for entry-level dryers. Gas models generally dry slightly faster due to higher heat output.
Strengths identified across professional testing:
- Reliable drying performance that achieves complete dryness
- Energy Star efficiency reduces operating costs
- Large 7.0 cu ft capacity handles bulky items
- AutoDry moisture sensing prevents overdrying damage
- Good reliability based on Whirlpool’s brand reputation
Limitations noted:
- Runs hot on Normal cycle (common for entry-level models, not unique to this one)
- Longer drying times than premium models with advanced sensors
- Limited features compared to higher-end dryers
- Basic mechanical controls lack the convenience of digital options
The professional verdict essentially mirrors customer feedback: “Basic, affordable dryer that works very well.” It’s not trying to compete with $1,500 premium models, and evaluated within its price range, it performs solidly.
Feature Deep Dive: Do the 12 Cycles Actually Matter?
The Whirlpool WGD4850HW offers 12 cycles compared to competitors offering far fewer: Maytag has 7, GE has just 4, and Amana has 11. But cycle count only matters if you’ll actually use them.
The core cycles most families use regularly:
- Normal serves as your everyday workhorse for cotton and mixed fabrics.
- Heavy Duty tackles thick towels, jeans, and work clothes.
- Delicates provides gentle care for lingerie and lightweight fabrics.
- Timed Dry gives manual time control when you want to bypass sensors.
- Air Dry tumbles without heat for items that can’t handle high temperatures.
- Quick Dry handles smaller loads that need fast turnaround.
Having 12 options means you can fine-tune drying for particular situations. Workout clothes, permanent press items, and bulky bedding each get optimized treatment. The alternative is forcing everything through a limited set of cycles that may not suit every fabric type.
The AutoDry moisture sensing system works across these cycles. It detects moisture levels and stops when clothes reach the target dryness. Customer feedback shows mixed results. Most appreciate preventing overdrying. However, some mention the sensor stops too early, leaving clothes slightly damp. This varies by cycle selection and load type.
Wrinkle Shield tumbles clothes periodically for up to 90 minutes after the cycle ends. This prevents wrinkles from setting if you can’t immediately remove clothes. Customers mention this feature positively, though it’s not a standout selling point.
Three temperature settings (High, Medium, Low) work across the cycles to provide appropriate heat for different fabrics. High heat tackles heavy cotton towels, medium handles everyday mixed loads, and low protects delicates.
What You’re Missing (vs Premium Models)
At $499, you’re not getting premium features:
No Wi-Fi connectivity or app control. You can’t start cycles remotely or receive notifications when drying completes. This might matter if you’re building a connected smart home, but 28% of customers specifically praise the simple mechanical controls. If smart features are important to you, check out our guide to the best smart washers and dryers or explore 5 AI washers and dryers that can make your life easier.
No steam refresh or sanitize cycles. Premium dryers offer steam to refresh clothes without washing or high-heat sanitize cycles. The Whirlpool WGD4850HW lacks both.
No advanced sensors beyond moisture detection. Higher models use multiple sensors to optimize drying patterns throughout the cycle. This model uses straightforward moisture sensing.
Mechanical knobs instead of digital touchscreen. Some buyers see this as a limitation. Others (nearly 28% based on reviews) see it as a reliability advantage since digital displays can fail.
Installation & Practical Considerations
Dimensions: 29″W × 42.81″H × 28.38″D fits standard front-load spaces. With the door open 90 degrees, depth extends to 41.69″. Measure your laundry room carefully, especially if installing in a closet. If you’re working with limited space, our guide to compact washers and dryers for small spaces can help you explore all your options.
Gas line required: This runs on natural gas with a 1/2″ minimum gas line. Propane conversion is possible with a separately purchased kit (not included). Gas installation requires a licensed professional in most jurisdictions.
Venting: Standard 4″ diameter vent hose connects to your exterior vent. The dryer doesn’t have exceptional venting capability like the GE model’s 120 ft rating, so plan for typical vent run lengths.
Stackable: Yes, using a separately purchased stacking kit. The 113 lb weight means two people should handle installation. If you’re planning a complete laundry room upgrade, read our 5 transformative laundry room renovation tips for inspiration.
Door swing: Not reversible. The door opens from the right side and cannot be switched. Plan your washer/dryer orientation before purchasing.
Common Installation Issues to Avoid
Slow drying often traces back to installation problems rather than dryer defects:
- Kinked vent hose: Check that the vent hose behind the dryer has smooth bends without kinks
- Long vent runs: Excessive vent length reduces airflow; follow manufacturer specs
- Clogged exterior vent: Clean the exterior vent opening regularly
- Undersized gas line: Ensure 1/2″ minimum gas line with proper pressure
The Whirlpool WGD4850HW doesn’t have a lint filter indicator light. You need to manually check and clean the lint trap after every load. This simple maintenance step prevents fire hazards and maintains drying efficiency. If you’re pairing this with a front-load washer, be sure to read our guide on how to keep your front load washer clean for proper maintenance tips.
Who Should Buy This Black Friday Deal
Perfect for: Families wanting a versatile 12-cycle dryer with moisture sensing who don’t need smart features and value the $300 Black Friday savings. If you run multiple loads weekly with different fabric types, those 12 cycles provide real utility.
Also great for: Buyers replacing 15-35 year old dryers who want reliable performance that “just works.” The simple mechanical controls appeal to customers who experienced decades of service from basic designs and don’t want complicated digital interfaces that might fail.
Common buyer profile: Family of 3-5 doing multiple loads weekly, replacing a reliable old Whirlpool, wanting something that delivers consistent performance without learning curves or app requirements.
Value proposition: This offers the most cycle variety at the mid-range Black Friday price point. At $499 (62% of category average), you’re getting features that typically command higher prices.
The 92% customer satisfaction rate backed by Consumer Reports #4 ranking demonstrates this dryer delivers on its promises for the vast majority of buyers.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Choose Maytag MGD4500MW instead if: Budget is the priority ($422 vs $499 saves you $77), you only need 7 basic cycles, and you value the 10-year motor warranty. The Maytag uses temperature sensing rather than moisture sensing, which is less precise but adequate for straightforward loads.
Choose Amana NGD4655EW instead if: Maximum savings is critical ($364 vs $499 saves you $135), the smaller 6.5 cu ft capacity meets your needs, and basic reliability is acceptable. Amana is the entry-level brand in the Whirlpool family, so you’re trading brand prestige for significant savings.
Choose GE GTD45GASJWS instead if: Your installation needs long venting runs (this handles up to 120 ft), you want the larger 7.2 cu ft capacity, or you need the included LP conversion kit. At $535, you’re paying $113 more, but getting solutions to specific installation challenges.
Skip the Whirlpool if: You want the cheapest possible option (Amana wins), you need smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity (look at higher Whirlpool models like WGD6120HW), or you want a premium brand (Bosch, Miele operate at different price tiers).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Whirlpool WGD4850HW reliable long-term?
The 92% satisfaction rate from 640 reviews suggests strong reliability. Consumer Reports ranks it #4 of 42 based on survey data from 14,823 owners spanning 2014-2024. The simple mechanical controls create fewer failure points compared to complex digital interfaces.
Set realistic expectations: modern dryers typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance, not the 35 years some older models delivered. More features and sensors add complexity that can reduce lifespan compared to 1980s-1990s designs.
Why do some reviews say fast drying while others say slow?
This is the data paradox: 29.2% praise fast drying (“cuts time in half”) while 8.7% complain about slow drying (“takes 2-3 cycles”). The most likely explanation is quality control variance, where some defective units slip through manufacturing checks.
Other causes include improper venting, kinked hoses, inadequate gas pressure, or clogged exterior vents. If your unit dries slowly, verify installation first, then contact warranty service. The majority experience excellent fast drying, so a slow unit likely has a fixable issue.
Should I buy Whirlpool WGD4850HW or Maytag MGD4500MW?
Whirlpool WGD4850HW at $499 offers 12 cycles with moisture sensing. Better for versatility and precision.
Maytag MGD4500MW at $422 offers 7 cycles with temperature sensing plus a 10-year motor warranty and interior light. Better for budget and simplicity.
The $77 price difference buys you 5 extra cycles and more precise moisture sensing. Whether that matters depends on how much cycle variety you’ll actually use. If you mostly run Normal and Heavy Duty cycles, the Maytag delivers everything you need for less money.
Is this Black Friday deal actually good or just marketing?
Real discount: $799 MSRP down to $499 equals $300 savings at 37.5% off. This isn’t an inflated MSRP scheme. At $499, the dryer costs 62% of the category average price ($1,210), which represents genuine value territory.
Competitive check: Similar features at competitors cost similar prices or more (except budget models with trade-offs). The GE with fewer cycles costs $535, confirming the Whirlpool pricing is market-appropriate.
Verdict: This is genuine value, not marketing manipulation. The $300 discount represents a smart buying opportunity for the right customer.
What’s the top lint trap issue customers mention?
About 5.9% of reviewers mention that the top-mounted lint trap scatters lint when removed. The trap sits on top of the dryer, and when you pull it straight up, some lint can fall down into the machine or onto the floor.
This is a design trade-off: top mounting offers convenience (easy to reach without bending), but creates the scatter problem. Door-mounted traps on older models avoided this issue.
The tip: Pull the trap straight up slowly to minimize scatter. It’s not a dealbreaker, just a minor annoyance worth knowing before purchase.
Does the Whirlpool WGD4850HW have Wi-Fi or smart features?
No. This is a basic mechanical control dryer with three physical knobs. There’s no Wi-Fi, no app control, no voice assistant compatibility, and no remote start capability.
The upside: 28% of reviewers specifically praise the simple design. Fewer electronic components mean fewer things that can fail over the dryer’s lifespan.
If smart features matter to you, look at higher Whirlpool models (WGD6120HW and above) that offer Wi-Fi connectivity and app control.
Is the WGD4850HW Energy Star certified?
Yes. Energy Star certification means this dryer uses 20% less energy than standard models. Since gas dryers already cost less to operate than electric models, combining gas fuel with Energy Star efficiency delivers meaningful long-term savings.
We estimate approximately $20-30 per year in reduced utility bills compared to non-certified models. Over a 10-year lifespan, that’s $200-300 in savings plus environmental benefits from reduced energy consumption.
Final Verdict: Our Black Friday Recommendation
At $499 (37.5% off the $799 MSRP), the Whirlpool WGD4850HW (available at Masters Wholesale) delivers excellent value if you prioritize cycle variety and moisture sensing precision over smart features or absolute lowest price.
What makes it worth buying:
- Most versatile cycle selection (12 options) at mid-range price
- 92% customer satisfaction backed by Consumer Reports #4 ranking
- Energy Star efficiency for 20% lower operating costs
- AutoDry moisture sensing prevents overdrying damage
- Simple mechanical design with fewer failure points
- Genuine $300 Black Friday discount on solid mid-range dryer
What holds it back:
- Quality control variance exists (8.7% report slow drying vs 29% praising speed)
- No smart features (Wi-Fi, app control, voice compatibility)
- Top-mounted lint trap scatters lint when removed
- Not the absolute cheapest option (Amana costs $135 less)
Our recommendation: Buy if you’re replacing an old dryer, want a reliable workhorse with versatility, and value the $300 Black Friday savings. This dryer sits in the sweet spot for families who need multiple cycle options but don’t want to pay for premium smart features they won’t use.
Consider alternatives if: You need the absolute cheapest option (Amana NGD4655EW at $364), want smart features (look at higher Whirlpool models), or specifically want a 10-year motor warranty (Maytag MGD4500MW).
The Black Friday urgency is real: this represents a genuine $300 discount on a solid mid-range dryer. Competitive pricing from Maytag ($422), GE ($535), and Amana ($364) confirms the Whirlpool value proposition. For buyers wanting cycle versatility with moisture sensing at a moderate price, this deal deserves serious consideration.
