Best Dryer

November 15, 2011
Dryers are an undeniable part of our laundry activities. We use them weekly, whether we come into contact with them or not. They are as integral to the process as a washer, for without them, we would be left to hang our clothes on a line and hope for sunny days. There are two main dryers that most people need to consider, those options are electric and gas. Before you begin the process of weighing through these handpicked selections, it is incredibly important to understand which model is right for you. Gas dryers are often more energy efficient, while electric dryers have a cheaper initial price. The best way to tell is to check the outlet your dryer uses. If it is large,... Read More heavy duty, and unlike the other outlets in your house, you have electric. If there is an exhaust tube that leads out of your model, while it has a simple wall plug in, you own a gas. Get to know this before the process begins, as it will allow you to fully be able to purchase when the time comes.

LG Steam DryerWrite down your measurements as well, as these things are pivotal in being able to make an excellent selection that works with your home. Talk to your salesman about your specific needs, and allow him to help you narrow down your selections. The following group of lists contain the best possible dryers in different categories. Each one has been selected by me, based off my years in the appliance business. Whatever your needs may be, there will be a model to satisfy it. I have designed it that way. So kick back, relax, and explore the world of possibilities when it comes to dryers. Research, study and find user reviews. Most of all, enjoy these lists because they have been made for you. Happy Shopping.

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Best Dryer Overall:

Though most shoppers tend to simply pick the cheapest dryer they can find, doing so would be a big mistake. This appliance is tasked with caring for your clothes - not something you want to leave to the lowest bidder. Also, consider that a dryer will last for years, giving you up to two decades to contemplate your buyer's remorse. Though the feature set of modern dryers may appear gimmicky, there are certain ones such as sensor drying that are true convenience features. There are two types of dryers - gas and electric. Both work well, but gas dryers tend to be more energy efficient while electric ones cost less to buy. What you want to look for in a good dryer is drying performance, capacity, build quality, and extra features that make your life easier.

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

One of the best models available, it has become so by being affordable and capable. It has a simple design, simple operation, and much to offer for the average consumer. Read Full Review »

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

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Samsung DV5451AEW White Electric Dryer

For the high end features such as quiet operation and steam, while still maintaining a low price, look at the well designed Samsung DV5451AEW. Its high user reviews and positive feedback will make it a mainstay for the next few years. Read Full Review »

Samsung DV5451AEW White Electric Dryer

LG DLEX5101W 27 7.3 cu. Ft. Electric Steam Dryer

The LG DLEX5101 is a comprehensive package, combining efficient sensor-based drying with steam clean technology to help dry and sanitize clothes and other items effectively. The design is sleek and the features are unbeatable. Read Full Review »

LG DLEX5101W 27 7.3 cu. Ft. Electric Steam Dryer

LG DLGX3886 SteamDryer Front-Load Gas Dryer

Although it's expensive, the LG DLGX3886 is one of the best gas dryers around thanks to its performance and features. The large capacity, moisture sensor, and steam drying/cleaning options make this dryer stand out from the rest. Read Full Review »

LG DLGX3886 SteamDryer Front-Load Gas Dryer

GE GTDP200EMWW 27 Electric Dryer 7.0 cu. ft. Capacity

Selected because of its very low buy in price, this model is one of the best of the cheapest. Consider it for simplicity and budget consciousness. Read Full Review »

GE GTDP200EMWW 27 Electric Dryer 7.0 cu. ft. Capacity

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Best Steam Dryer:

Steam dryers use steam to do two important jobs better than traditional dryers: remove wrinkles and disinfect and de-odorize clothes without a trip to the dry cleaners or a run through the wash cycle. Steam dryers are more expensive than others, but most people who have steam dryers agree that their versatility makes the added expense well worth it.

The best steam dryers dry small and large loads quickly, dry clothes to wrinkle-free perfection and provide all the extra little bells and whistles to take the drudgery out of laundry with handy gadgets and flexible control for big and small jobs alike. Here are five of the best steam dryers on the market.

It should be noted, all models on this list are obtainable as both electric and gas models. They are listed based off which ... Read More model has more information available on it, and not which choice is the better selection. Stick to your built in home connections if you don't know which power is right for you. Minimize

LG DLEX5101W 27 7.3 cu. Ft. Electric Steam Dryer

7.3 cu. ft. and 14 wash cycles set the base of operation for the LG DLEX5101W. Fantastic customer reviews, and the fact that its companion washer is one of the highest ranked period are both compelling reasons to make this LG your first pick. Read Full Review »

LG DLEX5101W 27 7.3 cu. Ft. Electric Steam Dryer

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Samsung DV431AEP Stainless Platinum Electric Dryer

This sleek, very well designed Samsung is spacious and durable enough to fulfill whatever your needs may be. It is higher on the price side, however if what it offers is worth it, consider picking it up. Read Full Review »

Samsung DV431AEP Stainless Platinum Electric Dryer

Electrolux EWMED70JMB 27 8 cu. Ft. Front-Load Electric Dryer

With enough features to keep anyone happy for this appliance's life, Electrolux keeps up their great reputation for making nearly perfect models. If price is not as important to you as quality and features, this model is ideal for you. Read Full Review »

Electrolux EWMED70JMB 27 8 cu. Ft. Front-Load Electric Dryer

GE Profile PFDS455ELMG 27" Electric Steam Dryer

GE Profile is the one exception to my rule about GE. With fantastic quality, great build, attention to detail, and features that are intuitive and well designed, this GE Profile is another great contender for the top spot. Read Full Review »

GE Profile PFDS455ELMG 27 Electric Steam Dryer

Maytag Performance Series MEDE500WR Electric Dryer

Maytag rarely makes the top of my lists, but when they do, it's because of a well reviewed, classy product. This model is no exception, and I think you'll find it's an excellent budget selection that still maintains high quality and durability. Read Full Review »

Maytag Performance Series MEDE500WR Electric Dryer

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Best Electric Dryer:

For the mass majority of Americans, there is no choice for electric or gas when it comes to dryers. You either have gas hookup or you have a giant electrical plug in the back of your laundry area. For the record, the plug is very large, 3 or 4 pronged, and always know if you have gas or electric before you go to purchase. Nothing is more frustrating to us as appliance experts than those who don't know before they purchase.

For those building a home, we always recommend gas, as it's cheaper to operate in the long run and more energy efficient. However, there are those of who you have no choice in the matter, and simply must go with what your house was built for. For you, this list is important. Electric dryers can be more finicky than gas, and rely on good manufacturers using ... Read More solid building techniques. The following electric dryers are rated on how well their built, how much energy they use, load capacity and dry time. All of this is then weighted against their price to bring you the best electric dryers currently for sale. Minimize

LG DLE5001W White Electric Dryer

Combining style, durability, 12 drying cycles and an excellent stainless steel 7.3 cu. ft. drum, this LG proves once again why they continue to make the top of my lists. They are well built with quality for the future and excellent online reviews. Read Full Review »

LG DLE5001W White Electric Dryer

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Samsung DV210AEW 7.3 cu. ft. Capacity 7 Cycle Electric Dryer

7.3cu. ft., sensor drying, and Samsung quality are just a few reasons to purchase this lower end model. It lacks a few of the new and interesting features, such as steam and special settings, however it is built well, quiet, spacious, and conservative. For the budget shopper or someone looking for basic drying, you can't do much better. Read Full Review »

Samsung DV210AEW 7.3 cu. ft. Capacity 7 Cycle Electric Dryer

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

If you find you are more comfortable with the LG brand as opposed to the Samsung, you will find with model more than agreeable enough with you. A decent 7.1 cu. ft. capacity and stripped down design deliver energy efficient savings and very good LG durability. Read Full Review »

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

An average model, this Samsung can be found at practically any appliance retailer you can find. It contains great reviews, cool features, and a mid line price that is sure to meet the budget of most consumers. Read Full Review »

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

Maytag MEDC200XW White Electric Dryer

Perhaps not the most energy efficient or feature rich, this Maytag is built well, has glowing reviews, and comes with a very low initial price. For the extreme budget shoppers, or perhaps those who are looking for a revamping of the styles of old, this is the best. Read Full Review »

Maytag MEDC200XW White Electric Dryer

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Best Gas Dryer:

Gas Dryers are, in all honesty, better than electric dryers. They cost more initially (around $80 more) but they always end up performing better in clinical tests and use less energy year after year, saving you increasing amounts of money. They give you more precise control over drying, allowing much better treatment of delicates and specialty clothing. They are more likely to be eligible for rebates as they are more energy star compliant. Basically, the reasons for not going gas are somewhat hard to justify. Therefore, the following list is the best of the best. The standards I used to determine the following list were price, longevity, features and capacity.

LG DLGX5102V 27 7.3 cu. Ft. Gas Steam Dryer

Affordable, stylish, well-built and feature-rich, the LG is right at the top of a very competitive list. I have sold many, and I've never had a return or complaint. This dryer deserves its spot. Read Full Review »

LG DLGX5102V 27 7.3 cu. Ft. Gas Steam Dryer

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Electrolux EIED55HIW 27 Electric Dryer

With outstanding quality, an immensely large 8.0 cu. ft. capacity, and the name Electrolux behind it, this model will set you back less than $1,000. This is the best money can buy at a price money can afford. Read Full Review »

Electrolux EIED55HIW 27 Electric Dryer

Samsung DV220AGW 7.3 cu. Ft. Gas Dryer

For the price, you get a well built, very basic machine. The word basic implies negatively, but truth be told, you may not need all that many features. You may want to just do laundry, plain and simple, for a good price. With the low investment and good energy saving possibilities, this Samsung is an excellent budget option. Read Full Review »

Samsung DV220AGW 7.3 cu. Ft. Gas Dryer

LG Electronics DLG2102W Gas Dryer - White

As far as all around front loaders go, this LG packs a punch. It carries a few more features than the Samsung above and only raises the price by a smidgen. Energy efficient, quiet and very well built, it's an excellent middle ground. Regardless of somewhat normal looking appearances, you will get a machine that functions beyond its price class. Read Full Review »

LG Electronics DLG2102W Gas Dryer - White

GE GTDP200EMWW 27 Electric Dryer 7.0 cu. ft. Capacity

Well-built and incredibly budget conscious, this GE is the best of the lower end. A perfect model for those on a very tight budget, or for those who are just use to the bare bones type of operation this model delivers. Nothing fancy, but it does its job for a very low price. Read Full Review »

GE GTDP200EMWW 27 Electric Dryer 7.0 cu. ft. Capacity

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Best Budget Dryer:

Dryers do not need to cost a fortune to accomplish the simple task of drying. It is true that higher end models will offer more options to ensure you get the level of dryness that you're after. Wrinkle care, and energy saving options are the main separations between budget offerings and higher end prices. None of those matter however, if your bottom line is that you would like something that does its job for less. Budget dryers will still offer many features found on higher end models, and their overall cost to run takes years to offset the cost of energy efficient higher end models. With that knowledge, it's easy to see why a dryer that costs less upfront can be just as worthy as a more expensive alternative. The following dryers are judged based off their user reviews, durability, ... Read More reliability and capacity. These are the best of the lowest priced. Minimize

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

Fantastic user reviews alone are enough to let you know how fantastic this model is. The solid build, extra features, 7 cu. ft. capacity and reliable LG name seal the deal for the LG DLE2140W which is the best budget model you can currently find. Read Full Review »

LG DLE2140W 7.1 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

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Samsung DV210AEW 7.3 cu. ft. Capacity 7 Cycle Electric Dryer

With 7.3 cu. ft. of capacity and 11 dry cycles, this Samsung is suited for the average needs of most Americans. Look for it for reasonable price and quality. Read Full Review »

Samsung DV210AEW 7.3 cu. ft. Capacity 7 Cycle Electric Dryer

LG DLE5001W White Electric Dryer

A perfect companion to one of the best washers, the LG DLE5001W is a great blend of classic looks with modern conveniences. It has a spacious 7.3 cu. ft. drum, and a build quality that truly reflects what LG is capable of. Read Full Review »

LG DLE5001W White Electric Dryer

Maytag MEDC200XW White Electric Dryer

Perfect for those looking at a classic dryer design, the Maytag MEDC200XW offers the most basic of features, allowing you to ease your mind on the price. As one of the best dryers currently on the market budget wise, you will be very happy with this purchase. Read Full Review »

Maytag MEDC200XW White Electric Dryer

General Electric GTDP300EMWS White Electric Dryer

The GE equivalent of the Maytag model above, the GE GTDP300EMWS carries many of the same great features. Low price tag, great durability and 7 cu. ft. capacity. The choice rests on the consumer over which brand they prefer. Read Full Review »

General Electric GTDP300EMWS White Electric Dryer

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