Top or front-loader? Top-loaders with center-post agitators typically cost less and wash the fastest, but performance is often only so-so. High-efficiency top-loaders hold more laundry, use less water, and extract more of it at the end. That cuts drying time, saving energy and money. Front-loaders generally use the least water and spin the fastest, resulting in the most savings. But with front-loaders and HE top-loaders you may have to make a few changes in the way you do laundry.