Top Rated Dryers 2026 | The Models That Won Both Major Tests

Buying a dryer means choosing between electric and gas, and the two leading review organizations don’t always crown the same winner. Consumer Reports puts LG at the top of both categories, while Wirecutter’s 2026 testing favors GE for electric models and Maytag for budget shoppers. The good news: whichever camp you side with, the consensus points to a handful of genuinely excellent machines.

Here’s what the data actually shows, what each top pick does best, and the safety check you need to run before you hand over any money.

Consumer Reports’ 2026 Dryer Winners

Consumer Reports’ rankings evaluate nearly 150 dryers on performance, reliability, noise, and convenience. The organization’s 2026 top electric pick is the LG DLE3400W, which scored highest for predicted reliability and quiet operation. It’s positioned as a low-cost Green Choice model but still includes moisture sensors, custom programming, and extended tumble cycles.

For gas, LG dominates even harder. That’s a remarkable concentration and a strong signal about the brand’s consistency.

Wirecutter’s 2026 Dryer Picks

Wirecutter’s 2026 testing reaches a different conclusion for electric dryers. Its top pick is the GE GTD58EBSVWS, a model that landed at roughly $700 during testing. Wirecutter’s team favored it for its combination of drying performance, ease of use, and sensible feature set without the premium price tag.

For shoppers on a tighter budget, Wirecutter names the Maytag MED4500 as its top value pick. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense electric dryer that covers the basics well at a lower price point.

Gas vs. Electric: What The Ratings Reveal

Consumer Reports’ data shows a meaningful split between the two fuel types. Gas dryers generally heat faster and cost less to run, which explains their strong showing.

That advantage only matters if your home can support a gas dryer in the first place. Before buying, confirm you have the proper utility hookup and a clear venting path for the type you choose. The rankings above mix electric, gas, compact ventless, and heat-pump categories, so comparing a model from one column directly against another isn’t an apples-to-apples exercise.

If your budget sits below $500, our tested roundup of the best dryers under 500 covers the models that deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.

How To Choose Between The Top Picks

Start with your utility hookup — that narrows the field immediately. If you have a gas connection, LG’s lineup is the safest bet by a wide margin. If you’re electric-only, the choice comes down to priority. The LG DLE3400W wins on long-term reliability and quietness. The GE GTD58EBSVWS wins on overall user experience. The Maytag MED4500 wins on price.

Consider the features you actually use daily. Moisture sensors matter — they stop the cycle when clothes are dry, protecting fabric and saving energy. Extended tumble settings help when you can’t unload immediately. Custom programming is nice but rarely essential for most households.

FAQs

Do gas dryers actually cost less to run?

Yes, generally. Natural gas prices per unit of heat are typically lower than electricity rates, which is a major reason 87% of gas dryers earned excellent or very good scores in Consumer Reports’ 2026 ratings. The monthly savings can add up significantly over the dryer’s lifespan.

How long should a good dryer last?

Consumer Reports’ reliability data shows LG scoring particularly well on predicted reliability, which factors into its top ranking. Regular lint filter cleaning is the single best way to protect that lifespan.

Are ventless dryers worth considering?

Ventless models make sense when you can’t run a vent to the outside — typically in apartments or homes where exterior venting is impossible. They’re included in the rankings above but aren’t directly comparable to standard vented units. Expect slower drying times and higher energy use, but far more flexible installation.