Strong washing performance and good economy from this washer, but the controls are awkward

The is a simple, entry-level front loader that offers up all the performance of a higher priced model, minus some of the fancy features.

High-end front loader that offers good cleaning performance and a range of wash cycles and features.

GE's GFWH2400LWW is a feature-packed washer found on sale for around $750. Still, cheaper washers do the basics just as well.

If you want a stackable front-loader that won't break the bank but will clean your stained clothes, the is a good choice. It's far from fancy, but it gets the job done for a lot less money than the competition.

The has solid performance where it counts -- on the Normal cycle -- and is packed with enough features for all but the most discriminating launderer. There are better washers out there than this Maytag, but most of them cost a lot more.

The Frigidaire Affinity FASE7073LA has some high-end features for a mid-range price, but our testing showed that sometimes you get what you pay for. Though the allergen and sanitary cycles disappointed, the washer was quick to get clothes clean and did a solid job on everyday cycles. You can find this washer online for around $600, which makes it a great value.

This front-loader is well priced at about $740, and offers strong cleaning performance. Washing does involve more wear and tear on clothes than other washers, though.

This high-end front load washer offers a very wide range of wash cycles and features, including a Sanitary mode. It is quick to wash clothes and had good, but not outstanding washing performance.

A washer with an LCD screen sounds like a gimmick drawn up in the marketing department, and the 's $1599 MSRP seems to support that theory. But behind the smoke, mirrors and steam, this washer actually does quite a good job removing stains.

The Bosch Axxis WAS24460US washer combines full-size washer performance in a compact package. A high price ($1100 on sale) and a small drum are about the only tradeoffs.

Asko's W6424 washer has a high-end look and a high-end price, but performance that's just about average.