Front loading prevents damages to undergarments & elastic parts of clothings. However, you have to use low suds detergent.
I wouldn't recommend the 2-in-1 washer/dryer as the washing & drying time is prolonged. In a stand-alone dryer, the drying time is about less than an hour while the 2-in-1 will take up to 3 hours. Get the 2-in-1 only if your short on space.