Supposedly a front loader spins faster, by about an average of 200 rpms faster. However, the question is whether a teaspoon of water is significant enough to warrant the extra electrical usage or stress on the machine is the question. However, in the long run, front loaders use less water. When I was researching for my new washer, I cam across this article (from the UK) which helps put things in perspective a little bit more....
Another thing about front loader is they don't get out of balance and walk across the floor.
