Question which is a better top loader clothes washer with or without agitator?

Hi, I am in HI and want to get a clothes washer. I like front loading but the cost is much more than the others. I am now considering top loaders. I see now there are HE models that do not have an agitator. A sales person at Sears said that they try not to sell these since they don't clean clothes well enough. I see good prices for ones with agitators and there is a Maytag on sale for $400 without an agitator. I want one that will wash clothes well and last a long time.