Who is Midea?
Anyone who has looked into air conditioning systems in recent years has likely come across Midea. The PortaSplit air conditioner, in particular, has become a real bestseller in Germany and is regularly among the most popular portable air conditioners of the summer.
Midea is much more than just an air conditioner manufacturer. Founded in 1968, the company is now one of the world's largest home appliance manufacturers, producing not only air conditioners but also refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines for its own brand, as well as for major OEMs.
Midea V5: Delivery and setup
The Midea V5, in the 8-kilogram version, was ordered via Amazon, which also offers various additional services. Besides delivery, there's an unpacking service, and even complete installation including removal of the old appliance for just 19 euros.
The washing machine was delivered for the test only. All sensitive components were adequately protected, and there was no transport damage. The scope of delivery is standard and includes the inlet hose, instruction manual, and the necessary mounting hardware.
Assembly is straightforward. After removing the transport locks, you simply need to connect the water supply, drain, and power supply. Anyone who has installed a washing machine before will encounter no surprises.
The relatively shallow installation depth of only 48 centimeters is a definite plus. This makes the Midea V5 suitable even for smaller utility rooms or apartments where every centimeter counts.
Midea V5: Design and workmanship
Visually, Midea opts for a modern yet understated look. The combination of a white front, black door, and black control panel creates a pleasing contrast and makes the washing machine appear somewhat more premium than many classic white models with a transparent porthole.
The overall build quality makes a good impression. The casing is sturdy, the door opens and closes smoothly, and the detergent dispenser fits precisely in its guide. However, upon closer inspection, slightly uneven gaps become apparent, which is why Midea doesn't quite reach the build quality of well-known premium manufacturers.
The detergent drawer can be easily removed for cleaning. In addition to detergent and fabric softener, pre-wash programs can also be used here. The program selection dial is located in the center and clicks securely into place without any play.
The most important washing programs are directly accessible and clearly named. Only the "Download" program seems a bit confusing at first, as it contains additional programs that can be downloaded via the app.
On the right is the touchscreen control panel, which clearly displays all important information. However, the touchscreen naturally lacks any haptic feedback. Traditional buttons would be more comfortable, especially with damp hands.
Midea V5: Smart Home and App Control
Unlike many inexpensive washing machines, the Midea V5 has a Wi-Fi connection and can be controlled via the MSmartHome app.
The app is available free of charge for Android and iOS. Setup takes only a few minutes. After registering a user account, the washing machine is connected via Wi-Fi and is then immediately ready for use.
The user interface is clearly laid out and allows access to all programs as well as numerous additional functions. Temperature, spin speed, steam function, turbo mode or additional rinse cycles can be set both via the app and directly on the device.
In addition, the app offers several other programs that are not directly selectable on the device itself. Users can save their own program profiles and reuse them at any time.
The notifications after the program has finished are particularly practical in everyday life. For example, if you operate the washing machine in the basement, you will receive a notification directly on your smartphone and know immediately when the laundry is finished.
However, the software is not entirely flawless. During testing, some translation errors were noticed, and the Wi-Fi connection was occasionally unstable, requiring the app to be reconnected to the washing machine several times.
Midea V5: Practical test
Washing
In our tests, we regularly washed cotton and polyester, as well as towels, bed linens, and laundry that needed to be boiled. The maximum load is 8 kilograms, making the machine suitable for singles, couples, and families alike. The same model is also available in a larger version with a 10-kilogram capacity.
The Midea V5 effectively removed normal soiling, and even stubborn stains usually disappeared after just one wash. Even at low washing temperatures of 30 degrees, the detergent was completely rinsed out. No residue was left on the clothes, unlike what can sometimes occur with some washing machines.
There are 17 washing programs available, such as cotton, mixed fabrics, Eco 40-60, quick wash 15 minutes, short wash 45 minutes, baby clothes, bed linen, outdoor, allergy care, health guard or pet hair.
The wide variety of special programs sounds appealing, but rarely offers significant added value in everyday use. The standard mixed load program, which runs for about 90 minutes, is almost always the best option. However, pet owners should give the pet hair program a try. In our tests, the additional rinse cycle removed cat hair from clothing somewhat better than the standard programs.
In addition to the classic washing programs, the Midea V5 offers Turbo Wash, a way to shorten the runtime of many programs by up to 48%.
For enhanced hygiene, the Midea V5 also offers Steam Wash Hygiene. This function uses steam that penetrates deep into the fabrics, helping to reduce bacteria and allergens. This is complemented by a drum cleaning cycle at up to 90°C and an antibacterial-coated door seal. Such features are a welcome extra, especially for households with allergy sufferers, pets, or small children.
Spin cycle and volume
During the washing process, the washing machine is barely noticeable, and even during the spin cycle, the noise level remains at a pleasant level.
At a maximum of 72 dB, it's not among the quietest models, but it's not far off either. Vibrations were practically nonexistent during the test. However, the machine was standing on a rubber mat, which further reduced vibrations.
The maximum spin speed is 1.400 rpm. This puts the Midea V5 on par with many current front-loading washing machines, and it pre-spins the laundry accordingly well. In our test, the laundry came out of the drum reasonably dry.
Consumption
The Midea V5 achieves the top energy efficiency rating of A-30%. Its energy consumption averages 0,331 kWh per wash cycle and its water consumption is 48 liters per cycle.
Maintenance and cleaning
Maintenance is minimal. The lint filter is located behind a service flap on the lower right side and can be removed in just a few steps.
The door seal requires some attention. Pet hair and lint can accumulate here and should be removed regularly. However, this is the case with most washing machines. There is a separate drum cleaning program that operates at temperatures up to 90 degrees Celsius.
