The Short Version
Best Gas: LG DLGX6501V — Best Electric: Samsung DV25BB6900H — Best Value: Whirlpool WED5000DW — Best Heat Pump: LG DLHC1455V
Tested 9 models. Last updated October 2024.
| # | Model | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LG DLGX6501V (Gas) Editor's Choice Gas | ~$1,149 | 8.9 |
| 2 | Samsung DV25BB6900H (Electric) Best Electric | ~$1,149 | 8.5 |
| 3 | LG DLHC1455V (Heat Pump) Best Heat Pump | ~$1,299 | 8.7 |
| 4 | Whirlpool WED5000DW Best Value | ~$649 | 7.8 |
| 5 | Speed Queen DR7000WG (Gas) Best Reliability | ~$1,049 | 8.4 |
TurboSteam + sensor dry + 7.3 cu. ft. drum. The best gas dryer available under $1,200. Gas dries faster than electric at equivalent BTU cost. If you have a gas hookup, this is the one.
Score: 8.9/10 — Read the Full Review →
AI Dry sensor, MultiSteam, SmartThings integration — the best electric dryer app experience of any machine tested. 7.5 cu. ft. drum. Pairs perfectly with the Samsung Bespoke washer.
Score: 8.5/10 — Read the Full Review →
Heat pump dryers use 30–50% less energy than conventional electric dryers by recirculating hot air instead of venting it. Slower cycle times (90–120 min vs. 45–60 min), but annual operating cost savings of $50–80 at current electricity rates. The LG DLHC1455V is the best heat pump dryer tested — quieter, gentler on fabrics, and the savings compound over a 15-year lifespan.
Gas vs. Electric vs. Heat Pump
Gas dries fastest and is cheapest to operate if you have a hookup. Electric is the default if no gas line exists. Heat pump is the energy-efficient choice — higher upfront cost, 30–50% lower operating cost, and gentler on fabrics due to lower heat. If you're in a new home build or major renovation, roughing in a gas line pays off. For everyone else, heat pump is the long-term smart play if you can absorb the extra upfront cost.
Sensor Dry — Non-Negotiable Feature
Never buy a dryer without sensor dry. Timer-based drying over-dries clothes, wearing out fibers prematurely. Every major brand offers sensor dry above a certain price point — don't go below it. Clothes dried with sensor dry consistently last longer.