I switched from top-load to front-load about a year ago. We got a Samsung high capacity something-or-other set for about $2000 in total, and I have been very satisfied. The clothes come out cleaner, less detergent is necessary, and the amount of water used is quite a bit less.
Keep in mind, I was going from a 9-year-old set that was the cheapest option when we moved into our new house and fund were tighter. And the drier nearly caught fire, which necessitated the new one. So the new Samsung set was a massive upgrade over what we had. But definitely no regrets after about 14 months.
One other thing that I have observed about front-loaders vs. top-loaders : the clothes seem less wet when they come out of the front-load machine. I'm not sure if the spinning is just better/faster, or because my old washer was crap, but the clothes are definitely drier. This results in faster drying times, which also saves you energy and time.
|