Choosing a dryer with programmable custom dry cycles can make laundry easier, especially when you dry mixed fabrics, bulky bedding, towels, delicates, and everyday clothes in the same week. The best option should match your home setup, laundry volume, venting needs, and the controls you will actually use. This guide compares two electric dryers that focus on large capacity, flexible cycles, steam features, and convenient drying options.
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Quick Answer
The BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer is the stronger pick if you want a large-capacity dryer with straightforward cycle options. The LG DLEX6700B is better if you want smart controls, steam refresh features, and more cycle customization for different fabric types.
Key Takeaways
- Pick a dryer by capacity, voltage, venting setup, cycle options, and how much control you want over drying time and fabric care.
- Programmable and sensor-based cycles help reduce guesswork, but you still need to sort laundry by fabric weight for the best results.
- Steam and smart features can be useful, but they matter most if you regularly refresh clothes, remove light wrinkles, or want phone-based control.
- Always confirm installation requirements before buying, especially for electric dryers that may need a compatible outlet, venting, and safe clearance.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer with Steam
- Best Smart Features: LG DLEX6700B 27 Inch Smart Electric Dryer
How to Choose the Right Dryer
When selecting the best dryer, start with the basics: capacity, installation requirements, drying cycles, controls, and any extra features you will use often. A large drum can help with bedding and family-size loads, while a smaller household may care more about simple controls, quiet operation, or a stackable design.
Custom dry cycles are most helpful when they pair with fabric-specific settings and moisture sensing. These features can help you avoid under-drying heavy loads or over-drying delicate items. They also make it easier to repeat the same settings for towels, bedding, activewear, casual clothes, and wrinkle-prone garments.
Warning: Before you buy any electric dryer, confirm the required outlet, venting style, room clearance, and installation needs. A dryer that does not match your laundry space can cost more to install or may not work safely.
Capacity
Capacity tells you how much laundry the drum can handle. Larger dryers are useful for families, bedding, towels, and fewer weekly loads. For best drying performance, avoid packing the drum too tightly. Clothes need room to tumble so warm air can move through the load.
Drying Cycles
Look for cycles that match your laundry habits. Common useful options include normal, heavy-duty, towels, bedding, delicates, timed dry, air dry, wrinkle care, and steam refresh. More cycles can be helpful, but only if the controls are clear enough for daily use.
Moisture Sensors and Custom Settings
Moisture sensors can adjust drying time based on how damp the load is. This can protect clothes from unnecessary heat and reduce wasted drying time. Programmable settings are useful when you often dry the same fabric types and want repeatable results without adjusting every setting from scratch.
Steam and Wrinkle Care
Steam features can refresh lightly worn clothes and help reduce wrinkles. They do not replace washing when clothes are dirty, but they can help with last-minute outfit refreshes, packed garments, or items that sat too long in the dryer.
Smart Features
Smart dryers can add app control, cycle notifications, remote start options, and maintenance reminders. These features are convenient if your laundry room is far from your living space. If you prefer simple controls, a non-smart dryer may feel easier to use.
Energy Use and Vent Maintenance
Energy-saving features work best when you also use the dryer correctly. Clean the lint filter before each load, avoid overloading the drum, and keep the vent path clear. Poor airflow can slow drying, increase heat buildup, and reduce dryer performance.
Pro Tip: If your clothes feel hot but still damp, the issue may be airflow rather than cycle length. Clean the lint screen and check the dryer vent before adding more drying time.
BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer with Steam
The BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer is designed to make laundry days easier and more efficient. Its white finish, front-load design, and modern LED display give it a clean look for many laundry rooms. The large 8 cu. ft. capacity makes it a practical choice if you wash bulky loads, towels, bedding, or family laundry.
This model also offers 12 customizable drying cycles, so you can choose a better setting for everyday clothing, towels, delicates, and heavier loads. That flexibility helps you avoid relying on one default cycle for every fabric type. If you want a reliable dryer that focuses on capacity and useful cycle control, this BLACK+DECKER model is worth considering.
Best For
- Households that want a large 8 cu. ft. drum
- People who dry towels, bedding, and bulky loads often
- Buyers who want clear cycle choices without relying heavily on app controls
- Laundry rooms where quiet operation is a priority
What People Say
Users appreciate the large capacity and the variety of drying cycles, making laundry days more efficient. Many have noted how quiet it operates compared to older models, which is a big plus for those living in smaller spaces.
- I had been looking for years for a decent and affordable replacement for my 20+ year old Kenmore 120V dryer that came with my condo. I had just about given up until I took a chance on this Black & Decker stackable – based on all the positive reviews. It has significantly cut my drying time on all load sizes and runs much quieter than my old dryer. I also upgraded to a better indoor dryer vent kit to catch the outgoing air and lint, which works perfectly to reduce the amount of lint dust that escapes.
– CT Shopper
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity allows for bigger laundry loads
- Multiple drying cycles for different fabric types
- Quiet operation, making it suitable for apartments
- LED display helps make cycle selection easier
- Good option for households that want straightforward drying control
Cons:
- Requires proper installation before use
- Controls are located at the bottom, which can be hard to reach
- May not offer the same app-based convenience as smart dryers
Why You’ll Love It
- Large 8 cu. ft. capacity for bigger loads
- 12 cycle selections for versatile drying options
- Digital LED display for easy operation
- Useful fit for towels, bedding, and everyday laundry
Save Time and Money
Investing in this dryer means fewer trips to the laundromat and less time spent on laundry overall. Its large capacity can help you dry bigger loads at once, while the cycle options help you choose a better setting for each fabric type. Using the correct cycle and keeping the lint filter clean can also help the dryer work more efficiently.
Rating: 4.2 (Total: 2305+)
LG DLEX6700B 27 Inch Smart Electric Dryer
The LG DLEX6700B is built for a more connected laundry routine. With its 7.4 cu. ft. capacity and 23 customizable drying cycles, this dryer gives you more control over different fabric types, load sizes, and wrinkle-care needs. It is a strong choice if you want a dryer that combines large capacity with smart features.
The TurboSteam feature is designed to refresh garments quickly, which can help when you need to reduce light wrinkles or freshen an outfit before wearing it. The AI Fabric Sensor is also useful because it helps adjust drying based on the load. If you want a dryer with more advanced controls and phone-based convenience, the LG DLEX6700B is a better fit.
Best For
- Households that want smart app features and cycle notifications
- People who use steam refresh or wrinkle-care settings often
- Buyers who want more cycle choices for different fabric types
- Laundry rooms where a stackable 27-inch dryer makes sense
What People Say
Users rave about the efficiency and smart features of the LG DLEX6700B. Many appreciate how the AI sensor takes the hassle out of drying, helping clothes come out properly dried without constant checking. The TurboSteam function is also a favorite for those who want to keep garments looking fresh without running a full wash cycle.
- I’ve been using the LG DLEX6700B for a few months now, and I can’t believe how much time it saves me. The TurboSteam feature is fantastic for quickly refreshing clothes, and the AI sensor really does a great job of adjusting the drying time. I love that I can control it from my phone, which is super convenient.
– LaundryLover92
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity allows for fewer loads
- Smart technology for easy operation
- TurboSteam feature saves time on wrinkle removal
- 23 dryer cycles give you more fabric-specific options
- AI Fabric Sensor helps reduce drying guesswork
Cons:
- Initial setup may require some time to understand all features
- Wi-Fi connectivity may not be necessary for everyone
- More advanced controls can feel less simple than a basic dryer
Why You’ll Love It
- TurboSteam technology for quick wrinkle removal
- AI Fabric Sensor for optimal drying times
- Large capacity to handle bigger loads
- Smart controls for added convenience
Save Time and Money
Investing in the LG DLEX6700B means you’ll spend less time checking loads and more time enjoying your day. Its sensor-based drying and cycle options can help reduce unnecessary drying time, while the steam feature can refresh lightly worn garments without a full wash. Over time, choosing the right cycle for each load can also help reduce fabric wear.
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 1500+)
Side-by-Side Comparison
Both dryers are large-capacity electric models, but they serve slightly different buyers. The BLACK+DECKER model focuses on a roomy drum, practical cycle choices, and simple daily use. The LG model adds more smart features, more drying cycles, and steam-focused convenience.
| BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer | LG DLEX6700B 27 Inch Smart Electric Dryer | |
|---|---|---|
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 |
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| Rating | 4.2/5 (2305 reviews) | 4.5/5 (14111 reviews) |
| Highlights | 12 Cycle Selections, ENERGY STAR, LED Display, Delay Start | 7.4 Cu. Ft. Capacity, 23 Dryer Cycles, TurboSteam Technology, AI Fabric Sensor |
| Pros | Large capacity, efficient drying, user-friendly controls | Smart technology, multiple drying cycles, energy-efficient |
| Cons | Requires professional installation, some users find controls confusing | Higher price point, may require Wi-Fi for full functionality |
| Buy Now | Buy Now |
Which Dryer Should You Choose?
Choose the BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer if your main priority is drum space, practical drying cycles, and a straightforward laundry routine. It makes sense for larger loads, towels, bedding, and households that do not need advanced app-based control.
Choose the LG DLEX6700B if you want smart features, more cycle choices, steam refresh, and sensor-based drying help. It is a better match if you like connected appliances and want more control over fabric-specific drying.
Note: Ratings and review totals can change over time on retailer pages. Check the product listing before buying if current customer feedback is a major part of your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a dryer with custom dry cycles?
When selecting a dryer with custom dry cycles, consider the capacity that fits your laundry needs, the installation requirements, and the cycle options you will use most. Look for features like moisture sensors that automatically adjust drying times, which can help prevent over-drying. Also check for programmable cycles made for delicate items, towels, bedding, heavy-duty loads, and wrinkle care. A user-friendly control panel matters too, because extra features only help when they are easy to use.
How do I use the custom dry cycles effectively?
To make the most of your dryer’s custom cycles, sort laundry by fabric type and weight. Use heavy-duty or towel settings for thick items, and choose delicate or low-heat settings for lighter fabrics. Always check clothing care labels before drying. If your dryer has a moisture sensor, use sensor drying for regular loads and timed dry for items that need a specific drying period. Clean the lint filter before each load to maintain airflow.
Are there any maintenance tips for my dryer with custom cycles?
Yes. Clean the lint filter after every load so air can move through the dryer properly. Check the venting system for blockages or lint buildup, because poor airflow can slow drying and create a safety risk. Periodically inspect the drum, door seal, and outside vent flap. If your dryer has a moisture sensor, wipe the sensor bars gently as needed so they can read dampness accurately. Regular maintenance helps your dryer perform better and last longer.
Do I need smart features on a dryer?
You do not need smart features to dry clothes well, but they can make laundry more convenient. Smart controls are helpful if you want phone alerts, remote monitoring, or extra cycle guidance. If you prefer simple controls and rarely use apps for appliances, focus more on capacity, sensor drying, venting, and cycle quality.
Is a steam dryer worth it?
A steam dryer can be worth it if you often refresh lightly worn clothing, reduce wrinkles, or handle garments that sit in the dryer after the cycle ends. It is less important if you mostly dry basic everyday laundry and do not care about wrinkle refresh features.
Wrapping Up
Investing in a dryer with programmable custom dry cycles can greatly improve your laundry routine. The BLACK+DECKER and LG models both stand out for large-capacity drying and flexible cycle options, but they fit different needs. The BLACK+DECKER dryer is a strong choice for practical capacity and straightforward use, while the LG DLEX6700B is better for smart features, steam refresh, and advanced cycle control.
Before you choose, confirm your laundry room setup, venting, electrical requirements, and available space. Then match the dryer to your real laundry habits. The right model should dry your clothes well, protect fabrics from unnecessary heat, and make laundry day feel easier from start to finish.
