Budget Clothes Dryers

Basic dryers are a good value

If you don't need electronic controls and other high-end features, reviews say there are plenty of less expensive options. The GE Profile DPSE810EGWT (*Est. $600), for example, lacks the styling found in GE's Harmony series and does not have as many high-end features, such as electronic controls, but this is anything but a no-frills option. There's a moisture sensor, removable drying rack, drum light and end-of-cycle signal. There is even a stainless-steel drum, although experts say this feature isn't as important in dryers as it is in washers. The GE dryer has a large 7.0-cubic-foot capacity and 20 drying cycles, with specialty cycles for cottons, knits/sweaters, damp dry and wrinkle reduction. In professional tests, the dryer fares well, but it's not the quietest model available. User feedback is good at most retail sites, but we also saw some mixed results as well. Those who are unhappy complain that their clothes are still damp at the end of its cycle, and a few say the lint filter is difficult to clean. The GE Profile DPSE810GGWT (*Est. $680) is the gas version of this dryer.

Admiral is a budget appliance brand that is manufactured by Whirlpool and sold mainly at Home Depot. The Admiral AED4475TQ (*Est. $300) is among the most inexpensive dryers available, and it receives mostly good owner reviews at HomeDepot.com. The majority of owners report that the dryer works well and dries quickly, though there are a few complaints about reliability. It has basic features, including a moisture sensor, five cycles and three temperature settings, but its 6.5-cubic-foot capacity is a bit larger than most other sub-$400 dryers. The Admiral AGD4475TQ (*Est. $380) is the gas version of this dryer.

Most budget dryers sacrifice styling and sophistication. However, the Frigidaire GLEQ2152ES (*Est. $640) is more stylish than most. Capacity is smaller than most at 5.8 cubic feet; however, as Consumer Guide points out, that's really not much smaller than traditional dryers of not too long ago. Unlike most budget choices, this dryer can be stacked with its companion washer, and features electronic controls just like more expensive dryers. A moisture sensor is part of the feature lineup, and reports say it is effective in shutting down the dryer at the appropriate time. There are seven drying programs and five temperature settings, and an Auto Press Saver feature tumbles the clothes without heat at the end of the drying cycle to reduce wrinkles. A drum light and reversible door are included. The gas version is the Frigidaire GLGQ2152ES (*Est. $730). Black and white versions of both dryers are available.