Best dryers 2024: top recommendations for efficient performance, versatility, and reliability, chosen by experts

The best dryers are a great solution when the weather doesn't let you line-dry your clothes or if you live in an apartment. They can quickly and efficiently dry your clothes, bedding, and towels, making them ready to wear in no time. Whether you choose a gas or electric model, both work well. Gas dryers are typically more energy-efficient and cost-effective in the long run, while electric dryers are easier to install and have a lower upfront cost. They also have differences in terms of speed and efficiency.

When selecting a new dryer, it's crucial to focus on the features that cater to your specific needs. Do you need lightning-fast drying programs, or would Wi-Fi connectivity and phone alerts significantly improve your user experience? You can also choose between customizable programming or preset options that have been thoughtfully selected for you.

If space is at a premium, consider the practicality of the best washer-dryer combos, which offer two-in-one functionality in a compact footprint. And if you're also in the market for a new washer, don't forget to consult our best washing machine guide for a perfectly matched pair. Our top picks are based on real-world experiences and customer feedback, ensuring you make a well-informed decision when selecting the best dryer for your home.

The Quick List

Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.

The best dryers we recommend in 2024

Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.

While we haven't been able to test any of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.

The best dryer overall

Many people love GE's 7.8 cu. ft. 10-cycle electric dryer, praising its efficiency and ease of use. Customers like the appliance's 7.8 cubic foot capacity, which lets it effortlessly handle bulky items like bedding and comforters. This generous capacity will be great for families with different laundry needs.

Users consistently praise the dryer's 10 diverse drying cycles, saying it offers customized drying options based on fabric type. Sensor drying technology gets rave reviews for its accuracy in detecting moisture levels and adjusting drying times accordingly. According to many reviewers, this feature prevents clothes from over-drying.

The dryer's quiet operation is one of its standout features. Many users state that it runs smoothly and quietly, so it's great for laundry rooms next to living rooms. The digital controls are instinctively intuitive and easy to use, making for a straightforward user experience.

It has some minor drawbacks, though. Customers have expressed disappointment with the dryer's limited smart functionality, saying it's more like a monitoring tool than full control over settings despite the app being compatible with the dryer. Also, some users said some loads take a lot longer to dry than expected.

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The best budget dryer

The Amana 6.5 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer is efficient and reliable, with practical features and a straightforward design, it's a popular choice among users who want a reliable electric dryer at an affordable price.

A key feature of the dryer is its Automatic Dryness Control, which uses temperature sensors to monitor the moisture level in the drum. As a result, the dryer stops automatically when clothes are dry, preventing overdrying and preserving fabric quality. With its 6.5 cubic foot capacity, it can handle large loads, like comforters and blankets.

To customize drying, users can choose from 11 drying cycles, including AutoDry High and Low Heat, Time Dry, and Air Fluff. There's also the Wrinkle Prevent option, which alternately tumbles clothes without heat after they're dry to prevent wrinkles.

The appliance's user-friendly controls, quiet operation, and convenient lint catcher make it easy to use and clean.

In addition to the Automatic Dryness Control, the 6.5 cubic foot capacity is widely praised for accommodating bulky items and larger families.

Despite users' concerns about noise and the need for clearer control labels, the overall consensus is that the Amana dryer is a great choice for customers who value functionality over advanced features because it's reliable and efficient.

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The best premium dryer

The LG 7.4 Cu. Ft. Stackable Smart Electric Dryer is a top-notch appliance that streamlines laundry operations with its advanced features and user-friendly features. With built-in intelligence, it identifies fabric types automatically and adjusts drying settings accordingly, so you don't have to guess which cycle to use. With TurboSteam technology, this dryer refreshes clothes and eliminates wrinkles in 10 minutes.

Indicators for duct clogging and lint filter cleaning ensure peak performance, safety, and energy efficiency, so you'll know when to clean them. With a spacious 7.4 cubic feet capacity, it accommodates large loads, including bulkier items like comforters. Its stackable design maximizes space in smaller laundry areas, so it's a good choice for apartments and homes with limited space.

In addition, users can benefit from the smart features, which allow remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app. This connectivity can send personalized laundry routines and instant notifications. With its quiet operation and intuitive controls, this dryer is perfect for a variety of living environments.

Users have mostly praised the performance and innovative features, especially the automatic drying settings based on the fabric type and TurboSteam's effectiveness at refreshing clothes and reducing wrinkles. It's also been praised for its stackable design and spacious capacity for maximizing laundry space.

LG dryers are reliable, efficient, and feature-rich appliances that meet a wide range of household needs. However, some people have trouble setting up the smart features and say the dryer is a little louder than expected.

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The best value dryer

In addition to meeting everyday laundry needs, the Whirlpool 7 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer with AutoDry Drying System is efficient and reliable. One of its most unique features is the AutoDry system, which prevents overdrying and reduces energy consumption by automatically detecting when clothes are dry and stopping the cycle.

With a capacity of 7.0 cubic feet, this dryer can handle large loads, including comforters and towels. Another great feature is Wrinkle Shield, which tumbles clothes after the cycle ends to prevent wrinkles, so you don't have to iron too much.

Depending on fabric type and load size, users can choose from a variety of drying cycles and temperature settings. This hamper's wide-opening door makes loading and unloading easy, and its clean white finish matches any decor. It also runs quietly.

The Whirlpool 7 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer has received largely positive feedback. AutoDry keeps clothes looking great and prevents overdrying. Its spacious capacity is great, and some users said it handled large loads well.

In addition to reducing wrinkles, Wrinkle Shield has also been praised for saving ironing time. Although most reviews are positive, a few users have expressed concern about noise levels and a basic control panel. However, these factors haven't really slowed down the overall positive impression.

In general, Whirlpool dryers are dependable, efficient appliances. This dryer has plenty of capacity, efficient drying, and energy efficiency for those who want a reliable electric dryer without unnecessary complexity. 

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The best mid-range smart dryer

The Maytag Smart Electric Dryer 7.4 cu. ft. is an effective and efficient dryer for modern homes. With Extra Power, it dries items faster, heats them up, and tumbles them for any cycle, making it great for hard-to-dry items. Using steam technology, Steam Refresh reduces wrinkles and odors between washes. To conserve energy and prevent overdrying, the Advanced Moisture Sensing system detects moisture levels and adjusts the drying time based on that.

It has a capacity of 7.4 cubic feet, so it can handle large loads and bulky items like comforters and towels. Maytag's smart features provide remote monitoring and control via the Maytag app, giving busy users convenience and flexibility. The sleek white finish and interior drum light enhance the overall user experience.

Many reviews praise the Maytag 7.4 Cu. Ft. Smart Electric Dryer's Extra Power button for working with heavy loads. Moisture-sensing technology keeps clothes dry and avoids overdrying. The steam function is also great for refreshing clothes and reducing wrinkles between washes.

The 7.4 cubic foot capacity and quiet operation have been well received by users, but some have reported initial setup difficulties and occasional connectivity problems with the smart features. The dryer's also been louder than expected, according to some customers.

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The best energy-efficient dryer

The Samsung 7.4 Cu. Ft. Smart Electric Dryer is a modern and efficient appliance designed to streamline the laundry experience. Users can use the Smart Control feature to control it remotely through the Samsung SmartThings app, set up laundry cycles, schedule laundry, and get notifications when they're done.

Steam Sanitize+ technology eliminates 99.9% of germs and bacteria, so it's great for kids and allergy sufferers. This feature also reduces wrinkles and odors, and Multi-Steam technology smooths out wrinkles and static even further. It has a 7.4 cubic foot capacity, so it's perfect for families or people who wash lots of bulky items.

A drum light in the interior lets you find smaller things like socks. Sensor drying technology keeps clothes cool and conserves energy by adjusting the drying time and temperature. There's also a variety of drying cycles for different fabrics. In addition to adding a touch of elegance to any laundry room, the dryer's sleek design features a brushed black finish and gold trim.

With its advanced features and overall performance, the Samsung 7.4 Cu. Ft. Smart Electric Dryer has received mostly positive reviews. Using Smart Control, users can monitor drying cycles and get notifications when their laundry is dry. It also has steam sanitization, a big capacity, and several drying cycles to suit different fabrics.

The dryer is pretty efficient, but some people have trouble with installation and certain fabrics take longer to dry.

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The best dryer for small spaces

The Whirlpool 3.4 Cu. Ft. Stackable Electric Dryer is great for apartments and homes with a small laundry room. It stacks with compatible washers or fits in tight spaces, but it's also flexible to install. The dryer operates on 120V for households that don't have 220V power.

Using AccuDry sensor drying, clothes are dried efficiently by detecting moisture levels and changing drying times accordingly. This dryer has 3.4 cubic feet, so it's perfect for smaller loads. There are multiple drying cycles, so you can dry everything, from delicate fabrics to heavy ones.

The dryer has wheels, so you can move it when you need it, although some users say it's a bit heavy. While the compact size is advantageous, it does come with some limitations. People have reported that drying times can be longer than expected, especially with items that retain more moisture after washing. Despite this, many customers like the dryer, especially in small spaces.

In terms of feedback, the Whirlpool 3.4 Cu. Ft. Stackable Electric Dryer has received positive and critical reviews from users. It's a great choice for small homes or apartments with limited laundry space because it's space-saving. Users also find it convenient that it operates on a standard 110V outlet, which makes it ideal for those who can't accommodate a 220V dryer. Wheels are also included for mobility, making it easier to move when necessary.

However, the drying efficiency has some users worried, mentioning that clothes can take longer to dry than they expected. Several customers feel the dryer is overpriced because of its compact size. In spite of these criticisms, many users still recommend it, especially to people with limited space or special needs, like RVers or elderly people.

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The best gas-powered dryer

With its outstanding features, users love the LG 7.3 Cu. Ft. Gas Dryer with Sensor Dry. Sensor Dry technology measures moisture levels in the drum and adjusts drying times accordingly, making sure clothes are dried efficiently without overdrying. With its large 7.3 cubic foot capacity, it's perfect for families and people who wash bulky stuff a lot, like bedding and towels.

Users can set up different drying cycles, like delicates and heavy-duty. With FlowSense Duct Clogging and Lint Filter Indicators, users know when to clean their ducts and lint filters. In addition, many people like the dryer's quiet operation, especially if they live near the laundry room. With intuitive controls, it's easy to install and operate.

Overall feedback emphasizes the dryer's efficiency, reliability, and user-friendliness, although some users point out the lack of an interior light. Users like its large capacity, Sensor Dry, and quiet operation. Despite some minor drawbacks like the lack of an interior light and some initial setup difficulties, it's been praised for its efficiency, ease of use, and value for money.

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How to choose the best dryer for your home

There are lots of things to take into consideration when you're shopping for a new dryer. Here are some things to start with.

Price
Dryers range in price from $300 on the budget end to over $1,000. Higher-end machines usually have larger capacities, more settings options, and upgraded features such as moisture sensors. Another thing to consider is the cost of using the dryer. Products with Energy Star certification and energy-saving modes can reduce the energy consumed each time you do a load of laundry.

Capacity
A National Association of Home Builders study concluded that washers last an average of 10 years and dryers last an average of 13. If you don’t have the budget to replace the whole set at one time, you may be picking out a dryer on its own without the manufacturer's matched pairs recommendations to guide you. A good general rule is to pick a dryer that roughly doubles the capacity of your washer. That way, even the largest load in your washer will have sufficient room to move around and thoroughly dry.

Energy source
Not everyone has a choice of gas or electric hookups, but if you do, it is worth noting that gas dryers and electric dryers tend to perform similarly. There are subtle differences in cost, though. Generally, gas dryers cost more initially but less over time than electric dryers. Gas dryers also run at slightly higher temperatures and dry laundry faster.

Key features and technology
Most modern dryers have a wrinkle-prevention mode that tosses a load of laundry intermittently after a cycle to prevent excessive wrinkling. Thus, you don’t have to worry about returning home to a load of crinkled clothes. Some dryers also allow you to delay the start of a load so you can time it to finish just when you or someone else gets home.

The best dryers have a generous selection of cycles, so you can customize the setting to whatever type of laundry you’re drying. Some dryers have drum lights so you can see if you, for instance, leave a stray sock behind. Other nice features include a reversible door, vibration reduction, a child lock, and an end-of-cycle signal to let you know it’s time to gather your washing.

Design & appearance
In addition to finding the right dryer features for you and your family, you want a nice dryer that will complement the room it occupies. A matching pair creates a nice aesthetic. Often, these appliances sit in kitchens and other areas where people see them, so they shouldn’t be an eyesore and should blend with the room.

The design should be practical and straightforward, with an intuitive control panel that makes it easy to perform functions like adding steam or activating wrinkle reduction.

Energy efficiency
In recent years, companies have developed dryers that use less electricity while saving you money on utility bills. Top-quality clothes dryers have advanced sensor systems that monitor clothing moisture and stop the cycle when clothes are dry, resulting in significant energy savings. Lint filters and duct-clog monitors also help conserve energy (and guard against fire hazards) by keeping airways clean.

Gwylim Snook from AO.com suggests which type of dryer you should choose: "If your budget is lower, a condenser may be best. A heat pump model will be the most efficient if you have a larger budget but want to save money on energy bills. Condensing tumble dryers tend to cost more than venting ones, but they are more energy-efficient.

"Because heat-pump models reuse hot air, they are the most energy-efficient dryers on the market. They’re also much quieter and more gentle on your clothes due to the lower temperatures required to run the appliance."

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Dryer FAQs

How do dryers work?

Dryers remove moisture from freshly washed clothes, making them dry and ready to go. A dryer has several key components and processes, and it is usually divided into two types: vented dryers and condenser dryers.

Vented dryers work by drawing air from the surrounding environment, heating it with electric coils or gas burners, and blowing the hot air into the drum where the wet clothes are. The hot air circulates the clothes, evaporating moisture. The moist air is then vented outside through a duct, so there's no humidity buildup.

In contrast to vented dryers, ventless dryers don't need external venting. They recycle hot air in a closed-loop system. The moist air is drawn from the drum, cooled, and condensed into water through a heat exchanger. The water is then pumped out into a reservoir or drainage hose.

A dryer without ductwork takes longer to dry clothes, but it's easier to install. Moisture sensors on both types of dryers tell them when they're done drying, so they shut off automatically.

Many modern dryers have different drying cycles and settings, so you can choose the right option for your fabrics and loads.

What are the different types of dryers?

There are many different types of dryers, each designed to meet different laundry needs and preferences. Here are the most common types:

Vented Dryers

Most people use a vented dryer. As the hot air circulates, it evaporates moisture from the clothes. It draws air from the environment, heats it, and blows it into the drum with the wet clothes. Normally, vented dryers are faster and more energy-efficient, but they need a duct to vent the moist air outside.

Ventless Dryers

A condenser dryer, also called a ventless dryer, doesn't have to vent externally. Instead, the hot air is cooled in a heat exchanger, causing moisture to condense into water, which can then be collected in a reservoir or drained away. Ventless dryers are ideal for apartments or homes without venting options, but they may take longer to dry clothes than vented ones.

Heat Pump Dryers

Ventless dryers with heat pumps heat and recycle the air inside the drum using a heat pump. They're super energy-efficient and consume much less electricity than normal dryers. Heat pump dryers use a heat exchanger to heat the air before it goes into the drum, then cool it down to remove moisture. They're getting really popular because of their eco-friendliness.

Gas Dryers

These dryers use natural gas or propane to heat up, so they tend to heat up faster and can be more energy efficient over time. However, they require a gas line to install, so they're more expensive at first.

Compact Dryers

These dryers are smaller in size, making them ideal for apartments or small spaces. They can be vented or ventless and are often stackable with washers.

How much do dryers cost?

On average, standard electric dryers cost between $800 and $1,200. However, gas dryers, even though they're in the same price range, usually have a higher upfront cost due to the extra installation requirements for gas lines.

Generally, vented dryers are the cheapest option, starting at $500 and going up to $1,200. Ventless dryers are usually more expensive, ranging from $800 to $1,500. This is because they condense moisture without venting.

A heat pump dryer is known for its energy efficiency, but it can cost between $1,200 and $2,000. Compact and stackable dryers, on the other hand, usually range from $600 to $1,200 and are perfect for small spaces.

The operating costs (see below) of dryers should be considered, as well as the purchase price. Based on a typical 40-minute cycle, electric dryers cost about 45 cents to run a load. Gas dryers generally have lower operating costs because they use less energy. Over a year, you'll pay from $70 to $200.

Installation can also add to the overall cost. Depending on the complexity, costs can range from $50 to $200 or more.

How much does a dryer cost to run?

On average, an electric dryer costs 45 cents per load. This is based on a typical 5,600-watt dryer running for about 40 minutes at 12 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Electric dryers typically cost more to operate than gas dryers, but the cost per load is usually about three times lower for gas dryers. If you have access to a gas line, gas dryers are a better option in the long run because they're cheaper than electricity.

Several things can influence these costs:

Age and Efficiency: Older dryers or ones not rated for energy efficiency may consume more electricity.

Size and type of load: Larger or heavier loads may require longer drying times, wasting more energy.

Utilities: Gas and electricity prices vary widely by region, affecting overall operating costs.

How long do dryers last?

Gas and electric dryers usually last between 10 and 15 years, depending on factors like type, use, and maintenance. Well-maintained units tend to last longer.

The more you use a dryer, the more wear and tear it gets. If you do laundry multiple times a week, the dryer may last longer than if you don't.

Maintaining a dryer is crucial to extending its life. Cleaning the lint trap after every use and making sure the venting system is clear can easily avoid overheating and lint buildup, which are common causes of dryer failure. Scheduling annual professional maintenance can also help identify and fix potential problems before they get worse.

Buying a high-quality dryer from a reputable brand often means better components and construction. Conversely, low-end dryers may not last as long due to inferior materials.

If your dryer requires frequent repairs or if clothes remain damp after a normal cycle, you may want to consider replacing it.

When is the best time to buy a dryer?

The best time to get a dryer deal is during major sales events, at the end of the model year, or during clearance events.

Buying appliances like dryers during major holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a great shopping time. Retailers usually offer substantial discounts. Likewise, Labor Day and Memorial Day sales often feature discounts on home appliances as stores try to clear out inventory.

Another strategic time to buy a dryer is at the end of the appliance model year, usually in late summer or early fall. Manufacturers often release new models around this time, so retailers discount older inventory. That means you'll get a good deal on quality dryers that still work.

Watch out for clearance sales or special events at local appliance stores. These can happen any time of the year, and they usually feature models that are being phased out or floor models that are still in great shape.

You can also get good deals if you shop during off-peak times, such as late winter or early spring. Demand for dryers may be lower, and retailers may offer discounts.

Price tracking websites and apps can alert you to price drops on specific models, helping you make an informed purchase no matter the time of year.

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