We are a couple who, having raised a large family are not used to a small machine, but that being said,  we no longer have the need to do large loads. This machine does a fine job of cleaning and has all the features of larger machines. Drying is more of a challenge to select only similar items that will dry at the same time,  We have also noticed that fuller loads may need to be separated into smaller batches to thoroughly dry.  However, once used to its limitations it is a great machine.  It is very quiet and we've had no issues with balance.  We are happy to have it in a small space.