Dishwashers made by Bosch, a leading appliance brand, have premium features such as an innovative drying system and half-load settings. Moreover, they’re also whisper quiet. All Bosch dishwashers are Energy Star certified, which means they’re efficient and cost less to run than nonrated models. However, many Bosch models are quite expensive.
Bosch dishwashers produce less than 50 decibels (dB) of sound, with the quietest models operating at just under 40dB, making its machines among the quietest dishwashers on the market. Many also have adjustable third racks to maximize the space, built-in timers, and hidden control panels to keep children’s little fingers away from the settings. We picked several of the best models to help consumers find the best Bosch dishwashers, and there are even some budget-friendly models included.
- BEST OVERALL: Bosch 500 Series SHPM65Z52N 24-Inch Dishwasher
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bosch 100 Series SHEM3AY52N 24-Inch Dishwasher
- UPGRADE PICK: Bosch Benchmark SHE89PW75N 24-Inch Dishwasher
- BEST DESIGN: Bosch 800 Series SHPM88Z75N 24-Inch Dishwasher
- BEST FOR FAMILIES: Bosch 800 Series SHP78CM5N 24-Inch Dishwasher
- BEST CUSTOM PANEL: Bosch 300 Series SHVM78Z53N Panel-Ready Dishwasher
- BEST FOR APARTMENTS: Bosch 800 Series SPX68B55UC 17⅝-Inch Dishwasher
- ALSO CONSIDER: Bosch 300 Series SHEM63W55N 24-Inch Dishwasher
How We Chose the Best Bosch Dishwashers
Appliances within a single brand often are quite similar to each other. To analyze the Bosch lineup, we looked at the design, such as a stainless steel tub versus a hybrid tub, the location and design of the control panel, and the wash and dry cycles. We also considered load efficiency by determining whether the dishwasher has a spacious third rack, how that rack functions, and how it adds to the dishwasher’s capacity and organization. Finally, we considered noise and noise-reduction technology. Bosch is known for quiet dishwashers, but there’s some variation among the models that we took into account. The entire Bosch lineup is Energy Star certified, so we didn’t have to consider that feature.
Our Top Picks
We researched Bosch’s dishwashers to choose the best models for different kitchen layouts and budgets. These picks stand out in the way in which they blend premium features with versatile washing options and prices.
Photo: bestbuy.com
The Bosch 500 Series falls between the less-expensive 300 Series and the premium 800 Series and has a good balance of features, quality, and price. It has a top control panel that creates a sleek, modern exterior. It runs at a quiet 44dB and has a light that shines on the floor to show that it’s running.
A third rack with extendable wings provides versatile loading options, as does the upper rack, which adjusts to any of nine positions. The upper and lower racks also have flip tines that fold down to make room for larger dirty dishes or pots and pans. The 500 Series has a half-load setting, so users can load a smaller amount of dishes into any quadrant to get them clean. This setting promotes energy efficiency and saves water. There’s also a sanitize feature that can be added to four of the standard wash cycles.
A few users have reported issues such as lights not turning on and the machine stopping in the middle of a cycle. However, these instances appear to be the exception.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 44dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Top
Pros
- Features a flexible third rack with fold-down sides to increase load capacity by 30 percent
- A very quiet dishwasher with a convenient floor light to indicate operation
- Versatile loading options with energy- and water-saving half-load setting
Cons
- Only available in 2 color options, which may not suit all shoppers’ preferences
Get the Bosch 500 Series dishwasher at Best Buy or The Home Depot.
Photo: homedepot.com
The Bosch 100 Series has the same high-quality build as other Bosch dishwashers but at a more affordable price. Rather than a third rack, the 100 Series has a small utility rack that holds odd-shaped utensils, freeing space in the lower two racks. A front control panel manages the six wash cycles, delayed timer, and sanitize setting.
Internal sensors monitor the dishes during the cycle to adjust wash cycles as needed. The hybrid stainless steel tub and brushless motor keep the noise level down to 48 to 50dB. This unit holds 14 place settings compared to the 800 Series’ 16-place-setting capacity. Some users have reported that the tine angles make it somewhat difficult to load dishes.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 50dB
- Third rack: No; there is a small utility rack
- Control panel: Front
Pros
- All the quality expected of Bosch with a more budget-friendly price tag
- Holds up to 14 place settings and includes a utility rack for odd-shaped utensils
- Energy Star certified, with start delay to take advantage of off-peak electricity
Cons
- Capacity is less than that of most dishwashers, and drying can be inconsistent
Get the Bosch 100 Series dishwasher at Best Buy or Appliances Connection.
Photo: bestbuy.com
This Bosch Benchmark model is a high-end dishwasher that seeks to provide owners with every convenience and runs at a truly whisper-quiet 38dB. The front control panel and clear display provide easy access to the various program options. PrecisionWash technology uses intelligent sensors to automatically adjust cycles for optimal cleaning. The
PureDry system is safe for plastics.
The upper-rack arrangement in the Bosch Benchmark is called Rackmatic; it provides nine different positions that allow for large pots and pans to be accommodated. The third rack also offers flexibility, with expandable wings for bulky items. Capacity is rated at 15 place settings.
Owners rate this top-of-the-line Bosch Benchmark model as almost flawless, and complaints are extremely rare. However, it does come with a high price tag, and installation costs will add to the investment required.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 38dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Top
Pros
- PrecisionWash sensors automatically adjust for best clean, and the PureDry system is safe for plastics
- The quietest Bosch dishwasher, it operates at barely more than a whisper
- Multi-adjustable racking with third rack that has expandable wings for bulky or tall items
Cons
- This top-of-the-line model carries a high price tag
Get the Bosch Benchmark SHE89PW75N dishwasher at Appliances Connection.
Photo: ajmadison.com
Thoughtful design is a key element with this Bosch 800 Series. The top control panel in this model stays hidden, preserving the sleek exterior when the door is closed. It is very quiet, so a subtle light shines on the floor so users know it is operating.
Design innovation extends to the racking. The third rack can hold more than silverware by adjusting to hold bowls and other items, which frees up space for larger dishes on the other two racks. The upper rack adjusts to nine additional positions. Flip tines on two of the racks add to adjustability.
The Bosch 800 Series has CrystalDry technology, which transforms moisture into heat to more effectively dry dishes without using extra energy. A half-load setting enhances its overall efficiency. It also has the Speed 60 setting, which washes a full load of slightly soiled dishes in 60 minutes. Internal sensors keep tabs on the load to track each cycle.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 40dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Top
Pros
- Clever design exhibited in both the sleek exterior and the flexible interior
- Internal sensors to monitor each load, plus better drying with CrystalDry technology
- Easy-to-use programming and delayed start allow users to maximize energy efficiency
Cons
- Design upgrades come at premium price
Get the Bosch 800 Series 24-inch dishwasher at Best Buy.
Photo: appliances connection.com
Families with busy schedules will find a lot to like with this versatile and easy-to-use Bosch model. Not only is it capable of holding up to 16 place settings at a time, but it also has eight different washing cycles, a cutlery tray, and a quiet operating volume of 42 decibels. This quiet volume means the dishwasher can run overnight without disturbing babies or light sleepers.
This Bosch 800 Series dishwasher also has a flexible third rack for small items like baby bottles, sippy cups, ramekins, plasticware, and kitchen cutlery. For those who prefer the highest degree of clean available, this dishwasher comes with sanitizing functionality. It also has PrecisionWash with PowerControl for deep cleaning, and CrystalDry drying power removes moisture to give dishes the ultimate dry.
A HomeConnect feature for remote activation and monitoring via smartphone is also included.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 42dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Top
Pros
- Holds up to 16 place settings at a time; 3 racks integrated into the design
- Flexible third rack for cutlery, plasticware, baby bottles, ramekins, and more
- 8 different washing cycles included as well as a powerful drying feature
- HomeConnect feature included for remote starting and monitoring
Cons
- No interior light integrated; may be hard to see inside
- No child-lock feature integrated
Get the Bosch 800 Series 24-inch dishwasher at Appliances Connection or AJ Madison.
Photo: ajmadison.com
This Bosch 300 Series model has a custom panel to add a uniform look to individual kitchens. The customer provides the panel and handle to assure that the dishwasher matches kitchen cabinetry. Then, depending on location, the panel and handle are installed either before or after delivery. The 300 Series comes with Bosch’s PureDry system, which is free of heating elements, so plastics won’t melt.
This Bosch dishwasher has a third rack and an adjustable upper rack that adjusts to nine positions. Foldable tines let users customize the interior to fit the configuration of each load. As with all of Bosch’s top-panel models, it has a light to let users know when it’s in the middle of a cycle.
Custom-panel models cost more than a standard Bosch of a similar series. However, when combined with the more affordable price of the 300 Series, this dishwasher allows users to enjoy a uniform kitchen appearance at a less expensive price. However, some users find that the PureDry system doesn’t dry dishes as thoroughly as they’d like.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 44dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Top
Pros
- Consumers can fit their own choice of front panel and handle for a more integrated kitchen appearance
- Top controls are hidden so that the dishwasher blends in with cabinetry
- Versatile third-rack design and flexible upper rack adjusts to multiple positions
Cons
- Some feel that the PureDry system doesn’t thoroughly dry dishes
Get the Bosch 300 Series panel-ready dishwasher at Appliances Connection or AJ Madison.
Photo: homedepot.com
This Bosch 800 Series dishwasher has many of the same features as a full-size 800 Series machine, but on a smaller scale. For example, it features a third rack and comes with an adjustable upper rack. The third rack is removable, but it allows for fuller loads when needed. The 17⅝-inch model also has six wash cycles and six dry-cycle options. Users can program it for a delayed start or connect it to Wi-Fi for smart controls, which is found only on specific 800 Series models.
Internal sensors scan the dishes during the wash cycles to adjust times precisely as needed. The 800 Series has a delayed time feature that allows the dishwasher to start at any time within a 24-hour period. Although a little louder than the 24-inch 800 Series model, at only 44dB this machine is still very quiet. For apartment dwellers, that means a more pleasant environment for them and their neighbors.
Another feature is AquaStop sensors that help prevent potential leaks. However, the PureDry system may not completely dry dishes, so users may need to employ one of the additional drying settings, such as “sanitize” or “extra dry.”
Product Specs
- Decibels: 44dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Top
Pros
- Shares the advanced features of the standard 800 Series but fits more compact spaces
- Flexible rack options allow owners to make best use of the smaller interior
- Smart Wi-Fi control and delayed timer offer convenience for those with busy lifestyles
Cons
- The price is higher than that of many other full-size Bosch Series dishwashers
Get the Bosch 800 Series 17⅝-inch dishwasher at The Home Depot, Best Buy, or Appliances Connection.
Photo: homedepot.com
The Bosch 300 Series has many of the same conveniences as the brand’s more expensive models, but at a more affordable price. It has three racks, with extra space for dishes and pans. The upper rack moves to one of three positions, providing space for large pans or odd-shaped dishes. Foldable tines on the upper and lower racks allow for different load configurations.
The 300 Series has five wash cycles and a sanitize setting. It can also perform a half-load cycle, saving water and energy. The front control panel is recessed into a pocket handle for easy access, which reduces the cost of this dishwasher.
Product Specs
- Decibels: 44dB
- Third rack: Yes
- Control panel: Front
Pros
- One of the more affordable Bosch dishwashers with an easy-to-use recessed front control panel
- Clever adjustable third rack maximizes usable space for up to 16 place settings; comes with foldable tines on the upper and lower racks
- Half-load and Speed60 (1-hour wash) cycles help minimize water use and energy consumption
Cons
- There are a few reports of leaks, and some users complained about poor drying
Get the Bosch 300 Series 24-inch dishwasher at The Home Depot or Best Buy.
What to Consider When Choosing a Bosch Dishwasher
Bosch takes many of the same features that appear on other dishwasher brands but upgrades them to the company’s high standards. Bosch models often beat out many other brands with quiet operation and convenient premium features. When shopping for a Bosch dishwasher, consider the wash settings and control panel design, as well as budget.
Series
All Bosch dishwashers have a reputation for reliability and very quiet operation, but the different Series numbers can be confusing. Here’s a quick overview.
- Benchmark: This is Bosch’s premium dishwasher range, and no expense has been spared in providing every possible user-friendly feature. Standouts include dimming interior lighting and the flexible MyWay third rack. It has smart-home capability and is the quietest model at just 38dB.
- 800 Series: By just about any standard, the 800 Series is a luxury model. It has top-mounted controls that leave a sleek exterior appearance. It also shares the Benchmark’s MyWay third rack. The CrystalDry system is considered by many the best dish dryer in the Bosch range. It comes in both a standard 24-inch size and an 18-inch-wide version, which is suitable for smaller spaces. At 40dB it is still very quiet, though the 18-inch model is 44dB.
- 500 Series: Sitting squarely in the midrange, the 500 Series is probably Bosch’s best-selling dishwasher. The pocket-handle door is a popular feature, as are the EasyGlide racks and AutoAir drying feature that removes excess moisture to prevent odor buildup. There is no Wi-Fi option, however, and sound goes up to 44dB.
- 300 Series: The 300 Series is more affordable, and while build quality is of the same high standard as the other machines, there are a few sacrifices. Customers will find adjustable racking and a proper third rack, but no EasyGlide, Wi-Fi, or water softener. Operating volume for the standard 24-inch model is 44dB, and the 18-inch model is 46dB.
- 100 Series: While this is the lowest price range of Bosch dishwashers, that shouldn’t detract from performance, which is a match for any dishwasher. However, not all models have a third rack, and there’s no built-in water softener. Internally, the sides are stainless steel, but the bottom is plastic. Although it can hardly be called loud, the 100 Series runs at 50dB.
- Ascenta: Ascenta was Bosch’s budget range before the introduction of the 100 Series. Only one model of Ascenta is still manufactured, the SHE3AR75UC, and it is likely to be phased out eventually. The 100 Series SHEM3AY55N is almost identical, and as a current model, it is probably the better option.
Size and Number of Racks
Bosch makes compact 18-inch and standard 24-inch dishwashers. Most homes have a built-in dishwasher nook that fits a 24-inch dishwasher, though it’s vital to carefully check space requirements for each model. Compact 18-in dishwashers are ideal for small homes or apartments. Bosch doesn’t cut features when manufacturing these smaller dishwashers; they may have a third rack with many of the same wash cycles and dry cycles as full-size models.
In many of its models, Bosch adds a flexible third rack to hold silverware. “Flexible” means that the third rack is optional since it can be removed. Even models that don’t have a third rack usually have an additional utility rack for increased capacity. A flexible third rack often has an upper rack that adjusts from three to nine positions, allowing users to adjust the configuration based on the load.
Control Panel
Dishwasher control panels are either on the front or the top. Front control panels usually are above the handle, while on others, they’re within the recess of a recessed handle. Front control panels are easy to access and have digital displays for visibility with just a quick glance. To prevent pets and kids from accidentally hitting the controls on models with front control, Bosch added a child lock. Front control panel options cost less than those with top control panels.
Top control panels are hidden on the top of the dishwasher door; the door looks sleek on the exterior and has no visible lights. Bosch models are so quiet that they feature a light that shines on the floor to indicate that the dishwasher is running. With a top control panel, children and pets can’t accidentally bump the controls midway through the dishwasher’s cycle; however, dishwashers that have top control panels are the more expensive option.
Wash Settings
Overall, Bosch dishwashers do well at general cleaning and stain removal. (For best results, rinse dishes thoroughly before placing them in the dishwasher and don’t overfill the machine.) Plus, they include some handy settings—but not all models have every setting.
A half-load setting is useful for those who wish to run a wash before the machine is full. This setting lets users wash half a load without wasting the water required for a full load. There’s also a sanitize cycle for baby bottles and general sanitation.
Depending on the setting, cycle times range from 60 to 130 minutes. At around 130 minutes, auto modes typically run the longest, with normal wash/dry lasting about 2 hours. The speed cycle takes only about 60 minutes, but it’s only intended for dishes that are well rinsed or lightly soiled.
Bosch doesn’t use heating elements in any of its dishwashers. This design is energy efficient and makes it safe to put plastic anywhere in the tub without worrying about it melting. However, some users report that dishes remain wet after the dry cycle.
Bosch offers three drying cycles—PureAir, AutoAir, and CrystalDry (not all models have every drying mode), along with “auto,” “sanitize,” and “extra dry.” PureAir is the standard drying setting. In AutoAir, the door pops open to allow fresh air to circulate over the dishes. CrystalDry, available on premium models, uses moisture to create extra heat for more effective drying.
Noise Level
Bosch dishwashers have an excellent reputation for quiet operation, which is a feature that sets the company apart from many of its competitors. The quietest models run at or around 40dB, which is like the gentle hum of a refrigerator in the background. The loudest model runs at or around 50dB. Since the average conversation occurs at 60dB, most Bosch dishwashers won’t interrupt a conversation.
Extra Features
- Tub design: Bosch dishwashers have either a stainless steel or a hybrid tub made of stainless walls with a plastic bottom. Stainless steel offers the best durability and noise reduction, but a hybrid saves several hundred dollars with no change in the cleaning ability, although these models are a bit louder.
- Panel-ready design: Bosch offers “panel-ready” (also called “custom” panel) designs that allow for a custom door panel that matches the kitchen cabinetry. These panel-ready units have top control panels and the same interior as standard Bosch dishwashers.
- Energy Star ratings: All Bosch dishwashers are Energy Star certified, which signifies that they require less water, energy, and drying time as well as fewer filters.
FAQs
A dishwasher is a major household appliance that gets used almost daily. The importance of this purchase may leave you with a few additional questions. We’ve answered some of the more common queries concerning Bosch dishwashers to help you determine if one of these models is right for you.
Q. Does Bosch make the best dishwasher?
Bosch dishwashers are among the best models on the market. However, they’re not for everyone. For example, if noise reduction isn’t high on your priority list, and you don’t think you’d use all of Bosch’s premium settings, a different brand might be a better choice for you.
Q. How long do Bosch dishwashers last?
Bosch dishwashers have a good track record for durability; they can be expected to last from 10 to 15 years.
Q. How do I read my Bosch model number?
The model number is typically printed on the inside top of the door or on the right side of the door.
Q. Are Bosch dishwashers reliable?
Bosch dishwashers are some of the most reliable models on the market. However, like all appliances, they need regular cleaning and maintenance. Check the owner’s manual to learn how to check and change the filters.
Q. Are Bosch dishwashers worth the money?
For those who want premium settings and quiet operation, Bosch dishwashers are worth the money. However, if noise reduction and multiple wash and dry settings aren’t that important, decent dishwashers are available for less.
Q. How do you clean a Bosch dishwasher?
If you have hard water, Bosch recommends using a Bosch descaler several times a year to prevent buildup. The filter, which is at the bottom of the tub, should be cleaned every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage. If the spray arms get clogged, Bosch recommends using a toothpick to remove debris.
Q. Are Bosch dishwashers expensive to repair?
Repairs typically fall between $100 and $300. However, the cost depends on the issues the machine is experiencing, your location, and how far the repair person must travel.
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