we have a top loader with an impeller and I use the bulky setting with high soil level and everything comes out very clean, it's 8 years old so far (LG) and I'm happy with it, our previous set lasted 14 years, was a Kenmore with an agitator that ended up rusting beyond repair sadly.
my MIL meanwhile, is still using the Kenmore set she bought in the late 70s and it's working perfectly, she's had them repaired like twice.