Make a note of any model# they offer as deals and post it here before buying. I'm wary of anything called deal
Any preference for one brand over the other?
There is one that does not have touch panels and has functions that I consider helpful. See post
#603 and more at post
#527 &
#547 for an alternative called Senator
It's called Serena WX. That WX is important. You do not want the Serena ZSS. Confusing.
If you can see it in a shop all the better but that might be harder since it's an older model. I found the IFB lineup confusing to figure out compared to the Koreans.
Keep in mind with IFB there is no automatic load sensing like with Samsung or LG. So you have to select a shorter time when doing lighter loads. The Samsung & LG will automatically select time depending on load. Usually between 1h30 for light loads and going as long as 2h30+ for full loads with the cottons cycle.
I suppose you can get used to this. The water level will surprise you though. The newer ones use even less water.
User Manual (pdf)
I think having the features you need easily accessible without needing wifi is the easiest
The funny thing I notice with the new Samsungs is they have to be 'calibrated' every six months. There is a key press combo you need to activate to get it to run this self-test program.
My understanding with LG is they have spare parts for their appliances for ten years.