I bought a bottom mounted pump 3000psi/2.7gpm TroyBilt from Lowes about 8 years ago. I didn't expect it to last, but I got it for about $200 after the sale price and a $50 moving coupon. It's actually surprised me, does everything I've needed it to do, power washed a 16x48 deck every year, and about 3000 sq ft of concrete. Wash the cars, loan it to the neighbors, it just keeps on kicking. I thought the pump was out a couple of years ago, that cheap pump is about $75 on EbAy, turned out there was dirt in the carb, cleaned it, put an inline filter on it, and no more issues.
So for me the cheap washer has been a win, I think most of the dead ones you see are from folks that don't know how to use, and take care of a PW or small engine. Mine is running when I am using it, when I am not I turn it off instead of letting it run in bypass mode. When I am done using it I disconnect the hoses and drain them, and I tilt the washer forward and drain the water out.
So for me the cheap washer has been a win, I think most of the dead ones you see are from folks that don't know how to use, and take care of a PW or small engine. Mine is running when I am using it, when I am not I turn it off instead of letting it run in bypass mode. When I am done using it I disconnect the hoses and drain them, and I tilt the washer forward and drain the water out.