Because of its size, initially I was concerned whether the unit would be at least as effective as my previous washer, which was another brand and mediocre to tell the truth. After several weeks regular use, we are very pleased with this Bosch washer. Less detergent, cleaner clothes. Have used all cycles from towel wash to hand wash, and they are all effective.

For those used to larger washers, beware not to overload it. You'll know when you do -- some clothes may not even be wet. However, the timed wash is a useful feature allowing you to run more loads when timing is a problem.

Of course you won't find a silent high-RPM HE washer, but the noise is a bit more than I expected. However, operation is smooth and vibration free (after we removed the shipping bolts that the delivery staff left in when they set it up!).