If it has to be vented and cheap, go with the cheapest timer based model with reverse action. Reason being that the reversing on these is verry consistent cause its timed, and frequent predictable reversing is a godsent with beddings.
Sensor drying only gets good more up the line. And durability wise, there really isn't much to go wrong.
This for example is a verry basic, well known Indesit model.
However if sensor based drying is wished upon, which I'd totally understand, Hotpoint has the widest range of sensor dry dryness degrees and a good price. Though, durability wise, today, you can't expect much from anything.
Alternativley, if the Whirlpool cooperation isn't for your likes, AO has a pretty well specked Candy dryer on offer which should have decent sensor drying as well.
If you have a gas hook up, I would get a White Knight gas dryer. Gas dryers would be more economical to use, and with a gas dryer you can dry 3-4 loads with gas. I don't know how much they cost over there, but if it is possible, I would get a gas dryer.
At least here in USA they have been required on even BOL dryers for yonks now. Even compact/portable 120v dryers have sensors. IIRC federal government mandated the things as part of energy savings measures.
Case in point my vintage Whirlpool portable/compact dryer (in Harvest Gold, which gives an indication of age), has only timed dry. Newer models sold today have sensors.
What with all the carry on with tumble dryer safety recalls, I personally wouldn't trust Indesit to build a fireguard. And I certainly wouldn't touch them with a bargepole.
My mum has a Zanussi condenser model (younger than mine), from about 2009. Her model has the same basic design as the vented square door model shown above in Reply #1. It seems to be a reliable machine, and quiet and smooth in operation.
Since there should be even fewer components in a vented model, I would suggest that Zanussi is perhaps the brand to set your sights upon.
What about the White Knight compact dryer? Im only after a dryer for towels and sheets, socks and underwear for when i dont have heat on or cant kine dry. September far too early and not cold enough to have log burner or central heating so clothes drying is difficult this time of year. Both Hotpoint and Indesit made in Britain so im assuming build quality is good know and fire risk not a problem. I dobt want to spend no more than £200.
The Zanussi looks good but is out of stock on John Lewis and Currys
Affordable Vented Dryer wold be a Natural Heated Gas Dryer
Just like virtually every dryer in Europe used in laundromats hotels and other places where they are serious about getting clothing dried fast and at the lowest cost.
Other than a clothes line there is no more economical or environmentally sound way to dry clothing.
The problem with the AEG that 'Nickuk' mentioned, is that it has, once again, moisture sensors. As revealed by the programme dial, below.
The most basic Zanussi equivalent, has timed drying.
Some manufacturers state 'Sensor Drying' meaning 'moisture/dampness sensors'. They're the ones that seem to cause folk grief.
Other manufacturers jump on the band-wagon and state 'Sensor Drying' meaning 'bog-standard thermostatically controlled heating' i.e. when drum gets too hot, the heat is switched off.
Absolutely the AEG has moisture sensors and absolutely these cause problems.
However the basic timed dry Zanussi is computer controlled as opposed to a mechanical timer so also has potential for problems. Furthermore it has no progress indicator / doesn't count down which isn't ideal either.
Venting positions - absolutely - as far as I know it's only E'lux group or Miele (a snip at £700) which have the common sense to offer left, rear or right venting.
This alone is enough to place E'lux vented dryers at the top of the list for me. The timed Zanussi would surely be a good buy. The AEG looks to be a good alternative too at a sensible price (v little more than the Zanussi) with a slightly higher class look and intuitive fascia - in my opinion.