LG holds a wide lead across major appliance recommendations, earning consistent praise for overall reliability in refrigerators, clothes dryers, and laundry pairs. For dedicated washing machine questions, EElectrolux Group is the usual answer.
GE Profile Gap between platforms: ChatGPT Search now names GE Profile 18.3 points more often than Google AI Mode in Major Appliances and Care Products, a narrowed gap
Speed Queen Gaining: Speed Queen moved ahead of Maytag in Major Appliances and Care Products
Samsung Gap between platforms: The platform gap for Samsung in Major Appliances and Care Products widened to 20.3 points, ChatGPT Search ahead
Samsung Gaining: Samsung now ranks #5 in Major Appliances and Care Products, up from #7
Samsung Gaining: Samsung moved ahead of Speed Queen in Major Appliances and Care Products
25% of citations point at the ranked brands’ own sites. youtube.com, blog.yaleappliance.com, reddit.com are the most-cited sites outside the ranked brands’ own domains.
If you want a coordinated washer and dryer from the same manufacturer, I'd start with LG, Electrolux, Samsung, and Whirlpool. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize cleaning performance, reliability, price, or a matching modern look.
For most households, I'd put an LG front-load washer and dryer set at the top of the list. Consumer Reports' 2026 recommendations highlight several LG pairs for their cleaning performance, efficiency, and overall test results.
What are the best washer and dryer pairs known for being both energy-efficient and highly reliable?
I'm looking for a dependable washer and dryer set that is also energy-efficient. Which models should I consider?
Looking for a new washer and dryer set. Are the big sales on Black Friday actually the best deals?
September–October: Particularly interesting for laundry appliances because retailers may clear outgoing models as new ones arrive.
Memorial Day / July 4 / Labor Day: These can produce prices that rival Black Friday, especially when a manufacturer rebate or "buy more, save more" promotion stacks with the sale.
The important catch is that a huge advertised percentage off doesn't necessarily mean a historically low price. A better strategy is to pick 2–4 specific models, track their actual prices for a few weeks, and then buy when the price hits a genuinely attractive level. Price-tracking research also finds that November has a high share of record-low appliance prices, but not every model reaches its yearly low then.
What I'd do in your situation
Since it's September 2026, you're actually entering a very good shopping period. I wouldn't automatically wait until Black Friday. I'd start watching prices now through October, then compare those prices with the Black Friday offers in November.
And don't judge the deal solely by the washer/dryer sticker price. Check:
Free delivery
Installation
Old-unit haul-away
Manufacturer rebate
Retailer bundle discount
Credit-card/store-member discount
Warranty terms
Those extras can make a slightly higher-priced set cheaper overall.
For perspective, current listings already show substantial discounts—for example, an LG WM4000 washer is currently $949 at Home Depot versus a listed $1,199, while an LG washer/dryer pair is showing around $1,890 from another retailer.
If you tell me your budget, whether you want front-load or top-load, electric or gas dryer, and whether you need stackable, I can find the current best sets and tell you what price I'd consider a "buy now" price versus a "wait for Black Friday" price.
Yes, Black Friday generally lives up to the hype for washers and dryers . Consumer data tracking shows that major appliances see some of their steepest and most widespread discounts of the year during November, often hitting average savings around 30% or more, plus aggressive bundle perks (like free delivery, stackable store rebates, or discounted/free installation parts).[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfHlbYfzOdM&vl=en&t=21)
However, they aren't the only time to get a great deal. Depending on your timeline, other windows can match—or even beat—Black Friday pricing.
How the Sales Stack Up Through the Year
Labor Day (Early September): This is the direct rival to Black Friday . Retailers roll out massive end-of-summer and holiday clearance events, and it coincides right before the new appliance model years drop.
September & October (The Model Rollout Switch): Manufacturers typically release new washer and dryer models in the fall. Big-box and independent stores slash prices on previous-year models to clear floor space. Because laundry technology changes incrementally (usually minor aesthetic tweaks rather than functional revolutions), buying a "last year" model right as the new ones arrive is a stealthy way to get a top-tier machine cheap.[](https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/best-time-to-buy-appliances)
Memorial Day (Late May): Kicks off the summer holiday appliance sales. Discounts are solid (typically 15% to 25%), though total package savings usually aren't quite as deep as Labor Day or Black Friday.
Holiday Weekends Generally (Presidents' Day , 4th of July): Almost all major appliance retailers run a perpetual cycle of holiday promotions . If your current machine dies in March, waiting until November isn't realistic—and a Presidents' Day sale will get you a respectable discount anyway.
A Few Insider Shopping Tips
Bundle and Stack: Big-box stores like Lowe's and Home Depot often structure savings by volume—buying two or more appliances (like a washer and dryer pair) triggers an extra percentage-off or flat-rate discount that you can stack with holiday promotions.[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfHlbYfzOdM&vl=en&t=21)
Watch Out for Hidden Costs: A "cheap" machine on sale can sting if the retailer charges heavily for required components. Always check if the deal includes stainless steel braided hoses, power cords/gas lines, and haul-away of your old unit. Places like Costco often bake these extras and extended warranties right into the sticker price.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/homeowners/comments/1ge8jd6/should_i_wait_for_black_friday_to_buy_washerdryer/)
If you'd like to narrow things down, let me know:
Are you trying to buy right now, or can you comfortably wait?
Do you have a specific brand or style in mind (front-load vs. top-load)?
I can help you decide whether to pull the trigger today or hold out for the next big drop.
The LG WashTower (such as theLG WKE100HVA WashTower ) is the best overall recommendation for a reliable and energy-efficient laundry set , combining top-tier reliability marks, low resource consumption, and a space-saving vertical design.
Front-load systems and integrated vertical units consistently outperform traditional top-loaders in efficiency by using significantly less water and electricity per cycle.
Features a centralized control panel in the middle making it easy to reach, intelligent fabric sensors, and direct-drive mechanisms that reduce moving parts and mechanical failure.
Offers exceptional garment care with optimized water-detergent mixing systems. It handles large loads and king-size comforters while maintaining low energy footprints.
A strong alternative if you prefer smart connectivity via SmartHQ, adaptive fill systems, and antimicrobial treated components to prevent mold and odors.[1][2][3]
If you share your space constraints (side-by-side vs. stacked) and whether you prefer gas or electric , I can narrow down the exact configuration for your home.
If your priorities are reliability + low energy use, I’d focus on a separate front-load washer and heat-pump dryer rather than an all-in-one combo. Heat-pump dryers use substantially less electricity than conventional electric vented dryers, while keeping the washer and dryer separate avoids the throughput limitations of combo machines.
My top pick: LG front-load + heat-pump dryer
LG WM4000HWA Front-Load Washer - $949.00 (LG)
LG 7.8 cu. ft. Dual Inverter HeatPump Dryer - $1,249.00 (LG)
Why I'd choose this setup:
LG WM4000HWA washer: 4.5 cu. ft., front-load, high-efficiency design and ENERGY STAR certified.
LG heat-pump dryer: 7.8 cu. ft. and ventless, using LG's Dual Inverter HeatPump technology; LG says it can use up to 65% less energy for drying compared with conventional dryers.
Separate machines mean you can wash one load while another dries, unlike an all-in-one.
The heat-pump dryer is especially attractive if you do a lot of laundry or want to reduce long-term electricity consumption.
Current listed pricing is roughly $949 for the washer + $1,249 for the dryer, though appliance pricing fluctuates.
The Electrolux pair is worth considering if wash performance and fabric care are particularly important. The washer is 4.5 cu. ft. and ENERGY STAR certified, while the 8.0-cu.-ft. dryer has moisture sensing and multiple fabric-care features.
One important distinction: the Electrolux dryer shown here is a conventional electric dryer, so I'd favor the LG heat-pump setup if minimizing electricity consumption is a major goal.
If you want maximum energy efficiency
I'd specifically look for this combination:
Front-load ENERGY STAR washer + ventless heat-pump dryer.
That's the configuration I'd target rather than paying extra for lots of smart-home features. A heat-pump dryer is the component that can make the biggest difference in electricity consumption.
If you tell me your budget (e.g. under $1,500, $2,000, $2,500) and whether you need stackable or side-by-side, I can narrow this to the 2–3 best sets available right now and compare warranty, energy use, capacity, and current prices.
EElectrolux 27 in. W 8 cu. ft. Front Load Electric Dryer
The best clothes dryer for most people is usually a reliable, sensor-equipped electric or gas dryer with enough capacity for your washer, easy-to-clean lint filters, and a good warranty. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize drying performance, energy savings, reliability, or price.
For most households, I'd compare a few leading models rather than choose based on brand name alone. In particular, a traditional vented dryer is often the best value, while a heat-pump dryer can be a better fit if you want to reduce energy use and don't mind paying more upfront.
My top clothes dryer picks for 2026
1. Best overall: GE Profile 7.8 cu. ft. Vented Gas Dryer
Best for fast, thorough drying
Good Housekeeping's top pick for 2026. It performed well on large loads, towels and bedding, with useful steam and smart features. Requires a gas hookup and exterior vent.
Approx. $1,000–$1,660, depending on retailer and model.
2. Best premium electric: Electrolux 27 in. W 8 cu. ft. Front Load Electric Dryer with…
Best for everyday electric drying
Large 8-cu.-ft. capacity, moisture-sensing technology and a steam-refresh option. A strong choice if you want good fabric care without moving to a heat-pump dryer.
Straightforward controls, automatic drying cycles and a large lint filter. A sensible option if you don't need Wi-Fi, steam or fancy settings.
About $500 in the cited review.
4. Best energy-saving option: LG 7.8 cu. ft. Mega Capacity ventless Smart Front Load Dryer…
Best for efficiency and ventless installation
Uses heat-pump technology to recycle heat rather than venting it outside, potentially cutting energy use substantially. It's a good fit for homes where exterior venting is difficult, though drying cycles and upfront costs differ from conventional dryers.
My advice is to prioritize reliability, drying performance and repair costs over smart features. Consumer Reports' 2026 research also highlights LG among the stronger options for dryer reliability, though performance varies by model.
To narrow it down to the best dryer for your home, I have one question:
The "best" clothes dryer depends heavily on your budget, laundry volume, and whether you value raw longevity or high-tech fabric care . Based on recent expert testing and reliability tracking from major testing outlets like Wirecutter and Reviewed , the top options fall into a few clear categories:
To help narrow down the ideal choice for your home, tell me:
Can you recommend a clothes dryer designed for heavy, daily use that prioritizes long-term reliability over fancy features?
For heavy, daily use that completely bypasses fragile digital boards and delicate specialty cycles, look at commercial-grade residential units . These machines are built with heavy-gauge metal cabinets, robust mechanical components, and simple user interfaces designed to run multiple times a day for over a decade.[1][2]
Top recommendations prioritizing raw reliability over extra features include:
Speed Queen DR3 Series (or Commercial-Grade Line)
Why it fits: Speed Queen appliances are legendary for using real commercial metal internal parts, heavy-duty motors, and straightforward mechanical dials. The DR series focuses heavily on core drying performance without packing in unnecessary computerized displays or smart connectivity.
Key strength: Engineered for a 25-year life span in normal residential settings with industry-leading multi-year warranties.[](https://speedqueen.com/dryer/)
Why it fits: This model bridges the gap between commercial laundromat hardware and home utility rooms. It features a tough galvanized steel cabinet, a heavy-duty motor, and robust knobs instead of a touchscreen matrix.
If you do laundry every day, I’d prioritize a dryer that’s built for frequent use, has a good track record for reliability, and is relatively easy to repair when something eventually wears out. I’d focus on the brand’s specific dryer design, not just its feature list or warranty.
One important distinction: a dryer that lasts a long time isn't necessarily the one with the most features. For a high-volume household, a straightforward model with proven components, accessible replacement parts, and good local repair support can be a better long-term investment than a sophisticated model with lots of electronics.
The dryer brands and models I’d shortlist
The latest reliability research gives us a useful starting point. Consumer Reports bases its predictions on owner surveys, while J.D. Power measures reported problems. Their results differ somewhat, so I wouldn’t treat any single brand as a guaranteed winner.
If you want a top-load washer for everyday household laundry, I’d focus on modern high-efficiency (HE) models with either an impeller or a low-profile agitator. They use substantially less water than old-fashioned deep-fill top-loaders while retaining the convenience of loading from the top. Consumer Reports specifically describes HE top-loaders as a good compromise when you want efficiency, capacity, and the familiar top-load design.
This is the one I'd choose for a typical family doing daily laundry, towels, bedding and mixed loads. It has a 5.3-cu.-ft. capacity, TurboWash3D cleaning and smart controls. More importantly, Consumer Reports' 2026 buying data gives this model an 80 overall score, the highest among the top-load agitator models listed in its guide.
Yale Appliance also names the WT8405 series its best overall top-loader, citing the combination of capacity, cleaning and reliability. Its 2026 service data puts LG at a 3.9% service rate, versus a 4.4% category average.
Current shopping price: roughly $899 in the product results I found, although retailer pricing changes frequently.
If your priority is specifically HE + impeller, I'd put GE Profile very high on the list.
Its advantages are convenience: automatic detergent dispensing, Wi-Fi, a large tub and Microban technology. GE Profile also had the lowest top-load service rate (3.4%) in Yale Appliance's 2026 service data.
Good Housekeeping's 2026 testing also found the GE Profile top-loader particularly impressive for speed: its normal cycle completed both 8- and 12-pound loads in about 42 minutes.
Best for: busy households where you want to throw clothes in, press start and have the machine handle much of the process.
At around $699 in the current LG listing, this is an attractive choice if you don't need all the bells and whistles. It gives you a 4.5-cu.-ft. capacity, impeller washing, TurboDrum and 6Motion technology.
For everyday clothes, towels and normal family loads, I'd rather spend ~$700 on this than ~$1,200+ on a washer loaded with features I wouldn't use.
The 4.7-cu.-ft. Maytag Pet Pro is worth considering if dog/cat hair is a major problem. Its Pet Pro filter is specifically designed to capture pet hair, while Extra Power adds more aggressive stain treatment.
It's currently showing around $729 in the shopping results.
🔧 Best for durability: Speed Queen TR7
Good Housekeeping names the Speed Queen TR7 its best overall top-loader after hands-on testing. It was particularly strong for consistent cleaning, fabric care and quiet operation, and comes with a seven-year warranty.
The catch is important: 3.2 cu. ft. is considerably smaller than the 5+ cu. ft. LG/GE machines, and the TR7 costs considerably more. So I wouldn't automatically recommend it for a large family.
Impeller vs. agitator
For your stated use case, I'd lean impeller/HE unless you specifically like traditional agitator washing.
Impeller
Better use of tub space
Excellent for large loads and bedding
Generally gentler
Lower water consumption
Clothes can sometimes need more careful loading to get the best cleaning
Agitator
Strong mechanical washing action
Very good for heavily soiled everyday clothes
Familiar traditional washing style
Can be rougher on fabrics
Takes up some tub space
Modern agitator machines can still be HE, so "agitator" doesn't automatically mean inefficient.
My ranking
For most households:
🥇 LG WT8405CW — best overall balance
🥈 GE Profile HE — best combination of efficiency + convenience
🥉 LG WT7000CW — best value
Maytag Pet Pro — best if you have pets
Speed Queen TR7 — best if durability/fabric care matters more than capacity
One particularly useful data point: Consumer Reports' 2026 guide rates the LG WT8405CW at 80 overall, compared with 69 for the Samsung WA46CG3505AW, 67 for the GE Profile PTW705BSTWS and 62 for the Speed Queen TC5003WN in its top-load agitator category.
Bottom line: For ordinary daily household laundry, I'd buy the LG WT8405CW. If you specifically want an impeller HE washer, I'd choose a GE Profile 5.0–5.4 cu. ft. model; if price matters most, the LG WT7000CW is the more sensible buy.
If you'd like, I can also narrow this down to the 3 best models under $700, $1,000, or $1,500, including current prices and warranty differences.
If you want one washing machine recommendation for most households, I’d look first at an LG front-loader. Current 2026 Consumer Reports testing finds front-loaders generally outperform top-loaders in cleaning, and LG ranks especially well for predicted reliability.
My shortlist
Best overall: LG WM4000HWA — 4.5 cu. ft. front-loader. CR reports it among its top-performing washers, with excellent cleaning, efficiency, and quietness.
Best large-capacity: LG WM8900HBA — 5.2 cu. ft.; particularly useful for large families or bulky bedding.
When choosing a washing machine, the right option depends on your space, laundry habits, and whether you prefer an energy-efficient front-loader or a heavy-duty top-loader.
The top washing machines on the market excel in performance, reliability, and fabric care:
Key strength: Backed by extended parts warranties on major components like the motor and drum, and built to take heavy physical loads (like thick denim and bedding) daily.[1][2]
Whirlpool Commercial-Style / Heavy-Duty Dryers (e.g., CGM2795JQ Gas or Electric equivalents)
Why it fits: Built with a porcelain top, a heavy-gauge galvanized cabinet, and a four-roller suspension system rather than simple glide bearings, reducing friction and long-term wear under high cycle counts.
Key strength: Designed for easy front-panel service access so that if a routine part does wear out years down the line, a technician can fix it in minutes rather than replacing the whole appliance.
Would you prefer an electric or gas setup, and do you need a matching heavy-duty washer recommendation?
For a clothes dryer that will handle heavy, daily use for years, I'd prioritize a basic, full-size electric or gas dryer with proven mechanical components, readily available replacement parts, and straightforward controls over smart features, steam cycles, or elaborate touchscreens.
The key is repairability and a good service record, not just a premium price tag. For a busy household, I'd focus on established laundry manufacturers and models with a conventional vented design rather than paying extra for features that don't make clothes dry better.
My top 3 recommendations
1. Speed Queen DR5004WE
(Best for longevity)
Approx. $1,300–$1,500
My pick if minimizing repairs and prioritizing long-term ownership matter most. It has a straightforward design, traditional controls, and a strong durability-focused reputation. Consumer Reports' 2026 buying guide gives Speed Queen's dryer lineup good predicted-reliability results for some models, although drying performance and price are trade-offs.
Best for: buyers willing to pay more upfront.
2. Maytag MED4005SW
Approx. $550–$700
A sensible budget workhorse with a 7.0-cu.-ft. drum and basic cycle controls. I'd consider it for frequent family laundry when you want a conventional dryer without paying a premium for commercial-grade branding.
Best for: value, simplicity, and everyday heavy loads.
A practical alternative with a 7.3-cu.-ft. capacity, sensor drying, and a relatively simple control layout. LG is worth considering if you want good capacity and value without moving to a specialty durability-focused brand. J.D. Power's 2025 study ranked GE first and Whirlpool second in dryer reliability, so LG is not my first choice based on that particular study.
Best for: large loads and a more affordable mainstream option.
The most useful reality check is J.D. Power's 2025 appliance reliability study. Lower numbers mean fewer reported problems per 100 appliances.
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That makes GE and Whirlpool worth considering alongside Speed Queen. Speed Queen's reputation for durability is attractive, but I wouldn't assume that every model from a premium or commercial-oriented brand will outlast every mainstream dryer.
What I'd look for before buying
Conventional vented dryer: A good default if your home has the appropriate vent and connections.
Simple controls: Physical knobs and ordinary buttons are preferable if you want to minimize unnecessary electronics.
Parts and local service: Check that a nearby technician services the brand and can source common replacement parts.
Capacity: Around 7.0–7.5 cu. ft. is a useful range for a busy household.
Maintenance: Clean the lint filter regularly and have the exhaust duct inspected and cleaned as needed. Poor airflow can cause long drying times and overheating.
My final recommendation
I'd start with the Speed Queen DR5004WE if your budget allows and long-term durability is the overriding goal. If you want a more affordable purchase, I'd compare basic GE and Whirlpool models before settling on a Maytag.
One question that would help me narrow this down to the best specific model: Do you need an electric dryer or a gas dryer?
LG is a strong first brand to consider. Consumer Reports identifies LG electric dryers among the more reliable options, and this model offers sensor drying without requiring you to buy a premium smart dryer.
Best for: frequent household laundry and a practical balance of capacity and features.
GE deserves serious consideration: J.D. Power ranked it first in clothes-dryer reliability in its 2025 U.S. Appliance Reliability & Service Study, ahead of Whirlpool. This model has automatic drying and a roomy drum.
Best for: people who want a full-size dryer from a brand with strong independent reliability results.
A simpler, more budget-conscious alternative. It has automatic sensing and a conventional vented design. Whirlpool ranked second in J.D. Power's 2025 dryer reliability study.
Best for: buyers who prefer a straightforward machine without paying extra for steam or advanced connectivity.
Speed Queen markets this model as commercially built and rates it for 10,400 cycles. It's worth investigating if you want to prioritize long-term use over a low purchase price. That cycle rating is a manufacturer claim, not proof that every unit will last 25 years.
Best for: buyers willing to pay more upfront for a durability-focused machine.
Model note: These are specific models worth investigating, not a verified ranking of the four individual models' failure rates. Brand-level reliability data cannot guarantee the reliability of every model in a lineup.
What matters most when you do laundry every day
Choose a full-size 7.0–7.5 cu. ft. dryer for most family households. If you routinely dry bulky bedding or very large loads, compare drum capacity and cycle time.
Favor a conventional vented dryer if you have a suitable vent and your main goal is straightforward operation and repairability. Heat-pump models can save substantial energy, but repairs may require more specialized service.
Check local repair support before buying. A reliable machine is much less useful if parts or qualified technicians are difficult to find.
Keep the vent and lint system clean. Restricted airflow is a common drying problem and can create a fire hazard. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions.
Don't pay extra for features you won't use. A steam cycle or Wi-Fi connection isn't evidence of better longevity.
For context, Consumer Reports found that 90% of dryers purchased new between 2015 and 2025 were still in use when surveyed. Dryers can last well over a decade, but no brand can promise that yours will be trouble-free.
Let’s narrow this to the best fit for you
The most useful next step is to match the recommendations to your setup.
Speed Queen (specifically the DR7 or DR3 series) and traditional mechanical-control dryers built by Whirlpool are widely regarded by repair technicians as the most reliable, long-lasting options available for heavy daily use.[1][2]
When you do multiple loads every day, complex electronics, touchscreens, and delicate sensors become points of failure. The most dependable models rely on heavy-duty commercial parts, simple mechanical dials, and high-repairability designs.
For an inside look at why basic, non-electronic mechanical dryers outlast expensive high-tech models, watch this breakdown:
Speed Queen DR7 / DR3 Series: Built with commercial-grade cabinet components, heavy-duty motors, and galvanized or stainless steel drums. They are explicitly engineered to withstand thousands of cycles without a breakdown and feature an industry-leading warranty.[1][2][3]
Whirlpool / Amana / Maytag Standard Vented Dryers (Top Lint Filter Models): The classic, budget-friendly mechanical-timer dryers (identifiable by the lint filter on the top-right of the machine top panel) have used the same core time-tested design for decades. They lack complicated digital control boards, meaning when a part like a thermal fuse or belt eventually wears out, it is inexpensive and straightforward to fix.
Miele T1 Series: If you prefer a compact European condenser/heat-pump option, Miele units are heavily awarded and praised by long-term service data for robust internal build quality and exceptional longevity under high-frequency family use.
Key Design Factors for Longevity
Mechanical Controls over Touchpads: Dials and physical knobs suffer far less from power surges, moisture exposure, and thermal wear than digital LCD panels.
Easy Access Lint Traps: Top-accessible lint filters keep airflow optimal, protecting the heating element and thermal fuses from overheating.
Commercial Pedigree: Brands that test their moving components (rollers, idler pulleys, and blower fans) to commercial standards handle continuous daily stacking of heavy loads much better than standard residential units.
If you can share whether you prefer an electric or gas hookup, or if you have a preference for top-accessible lint filters vs. front door lint filters , I can narrow down the specific model recommendation.
Large 4.5-cu.-ft. tub without paying for a premium feature set
Maytag Pet Pro
🐕 Pet owners
Built-in pet-hair filtration plus Extra Power
Speed Queen TR7
🔧 Long-term durability
Outstanding fabric care, simple controls and 7-year warranty, but smaller and expensive
Best top-loader: LG WT8600CB — 5.5 cu. ft. HE top-loader; strong cleaning, water efficiency, and vibration performance.
Best if you want a traditional agitator: LG WT8405CW — 5.3 cu. ft. and highly rated in CR's 2026 testing.
Best alternative to LG: Electrolux ELFW7437AW — 4.5 cu. ft. front-loader with a fast-wash cycle and steam.
LG WT8405CW - $929.00 (The Home Depot)
Electrolux ELFW7437AW - $899.00 (The Home Depot)
LG WM3420CW - $769.00 (The Home Depot)
GE GFW655SPVDS - $929.00 (The Home Depot)
One caveat: front-loaders can develop odor/mildew if the door and gasket aren't allowed to dry between loads; CR reports this is more common with front-load machines.
If you tell me your budget (e.g. under $700, $1,000, or $1,500) and whether you want top-load or front-load, I can narrow it down to the specific model I'd buy.
