YONKERS, N.Y. -- Consumer Reports' latest tests of washers reveal improvements in performance compared to the models tested last year -- some of which underperformed due to the struggle by manufacturers to meet new energy standards.

CR's ratings of washers, featured in the February issue, include some budget-friendly options, including a top-loader by Estate (ETW4400T[Q]), $400, that cleaned nearly as well as the LG Tromm SteamWasher WM2688H [WM], $1,500, CR's toprated front-loader.

Despite improvements and declining price tags, top-loaders continue to use more energy and water than front-loaders.

If this is a concern for consumers and they are on a budget, CR found that more front-loaders are hitting the market under the $1,000 mark as manufacturers widen their product lines.

Frigidaire's Gallery GLTF2940F[S], $650, a CR Best Buy, is an efficient and gentle-on-the-clothes front-loader.

Consumers who can spend a little more on a front-loader should consider the LG WM0642H[W], $900, which rated "Excellent" in many categories including energy and water efficiency, capacity, and gentleness.

Front-loader models from Whirlpool, Miele, Samsung and Kenmore also rated well, and are available from $800 to $1,900.

If cost is a priority, top-loaders are the most affordable type on average and with improvements in midwash soaking and more aggressive agitation, they are a fine alternative to a front-loader.

The best high-efficiency top-loaders with excellent capacity include Maytag's Bravos MTW6600T[Q], $950, and Whirlpool's Cabrio HE WTW6600S[W], $1,000.

Although the Maytag Bravos performed well in CR's latest tests of washers, there are more reliable brands to choose from.

The GE WJRE5500G[WW], $480, a CR Best Buy and the Estate ETW4400T[Q], $400 are available for hundreds less than the top rated models and were very good at washing and are reasonably efficient. Although CR lacks repair-history for Estate, it is made by Whirlpool, a reliable brand.