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One of the leading appliance manufacturers in America today, GE continues to build on a reputation for excellence and innovation that began more than a century ago. It’s a brand known for the reliability and craftsmanship of its appliances, so a GE dishwasher is a smart choice for households that spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
GE manufactures dependable and hard-wearing dishwashers made to withstand heavy-handed use. The brand sells a wide range of dishwashers, so we’ve narrowed down the top GE models based on design, performance, and price. Read on for the best GE dishwashers to get everything from tableware to pots and pans gleaming clean.
- BEST OVERALL: GE Top Control Stainless Steel Interior Dishwasher
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GE Top Control Plastic Interior Dishwasher
- BEST QUIET: GE Profile Fingerprint Resistant Top Control Dishwasher
- BEST SMART: GE Profile UltraFresh System Dishwasher
- BEST PORTABLE: GE Stainless Steel Interior Portable Dishwasher
Types of GE Dishwashers
Modern dishwashers come in a few different types. The most popular types include typical built-in units that fit under the kitchen counter and portable standalone dishwashers. One of GE’s more unique offerings is the under-the-sink dishwasher, a built-in model that fits under the kitchen sink. Just ahead, details about the main GE dishwasher types.
Built-In
Built-in GE dishwashers are the standard type, designed to fit underneath the kitchen counter beside bottom cabinets. For convenience, these dishwashers are usually placed near the sink, within reach of a plumbing connection.
Built-in models can have either top or front controls. Top control models locate the control panel placed on top of the door. With this placement, the control panel isn’t visible when the door is closed, giving the dishwasher a sleeker look. However, top control models make the buttons less accessible. Front control dishwashers have their buttons on the front of the door, which makes the control panel very easy to access but also visible.
Portable
Portable dishwashers are standalone models that don’t install under the kitchen counter. They’re popular where installing a built-in dishwasher is challenging, such as in small kitchens and in rental units.
Portable dishwashers come in countertop models, which are small enough to sit on a counter, as well as larger standalone units, which are usually on wheels to be easily moved about. All portable dishwashers have a water intake hose, usually designed to connect to the kitchen sink faucet, as well as a drain hose to empty the dishwasher into the sink.
Under-the-Sink
Under-the-sink dishwashers are unique to GE. These dishwasher models are designed to fit under the shallow side of the kitchen sink to maximize space. Their compact design leaves enough room for pipe fittings but still offers a decent capacity, with room for up to 10 place settings. Some under-the-sink models also have many of the cleaning features and cycles as standard GE dishwashers for an effective clean in a smaller machine.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best GE Dishwasher
With so many options available, choosing a new dishwasher can feel overwhelming. Even after deciding on the GE brand, there are still many dishwasher models to choose from. By keeping a few criteria points in mind, it’s simpler to narrow down the best GE dishwasher for your needs. When shopping for a new dishwasher, consider the size, materials, capacity, performance, noise level, and additional features.
Size and Materials
When shopping for a dishwasher, it’s important to find a model that fits your space. Whether looking for a built-in or portable dishwasher, start with measuring the area where it will go in the kitchen—the height, width, and depth. Also, take into account room for the dishwasher door to open.
Built-in dishwashers come in standard and compact sizes. Standard dishwashers measure 34 inches tall by 24 inches wide and around 20 and 24 inches deep. Compact dishwashers come in about the same height but only measure around 17 to 18 inches wide and 22 to 26 inches deep.
When it comes to materials, the interior tub material is one aspect to consider. GE dishwashers can have plastic or stainless steel tubs. Stainless steel tubs generally perform better (and have a higher price tag to match). Stainless steel resists odors and stains, is very durable, and dries faster. Plastic tubs are also durable but can be more prone to odors, scratches, and stains.
GE dishwashers come in neutral colors, including white, black, and silver stainless steel finishes. Many stainless steel models are fingerprint resistant to keep the dishwasher exterior looking nicer between cleaning.
Washing and Drying Capacity
Dishwasher capacity is measured by the number of place settings it can fit in one load. A place setting includes a dinner plate, small dessert plate, saucer, fruit bowl, a drinking glass, a knife, two teaspoons, a dinner fork, and a small salad fork.
Standard dishwashers tend to fit around 12 to 16 place settings, and many GE dishwashers have a spacious interior to fit up to 16, while compact dishwashers usually fit fewer.
Some GE dishwashers have a third rack instead of the usual two racks. It is flat and tray-like and typically sits above the upper rack. It’s designed to hold flatware and other small kitchen utensils. A third rack can help increase washing capacity and flexibility since it makes it easier to hold some kitchen accessories like serving spoons, measuring cups, and dipping bowls.
Performance
All GE dishwashers are designed to get dishware clean and thoroughly dry thoroughly, but some models have extra performance features for even better results.
GE dishwashers include a variety of wash cycles, the most common being normal, heavy, 1 hour, and rinse. Other features boost convenience and performance, such as the Autosense cycle, Steam + Sani feature, and Dry Boost feature.
GE’s AutoSense cycle uses sensors to detect the soil level and amount of dishes, then automatically adjusts wash settings to balance an excellent clean with efficiency.
The Steam + Sani feature, an extra on some machines, garnishes the power of steam to break down tough residue. The cycle then completes with a sanitization phase to banish 99.9 percent of bacteria on dishes.
The Dry Boost feature outperforms the standard heated dry function on many dishwashers, getting items like plastics up to three times drier.
Noise Level
A noisy dishwasher is a nuisance, especially if the kitchen is a spot for family conversations, spending time with friends, or doing homework. Luckily, it’s easy to evaluate a dishwasher’s noise level. Most brands, including GE, share the decibel (dB) rating of dishwasher models.
The higher the decibel rating, the louder the dishwasher. Most dishwashers run at around 50 decibels, and quieter dishwashers run at under 45 decibels. For a frame of reference, normal conversation registers about 50 decibels, and a whisper about 30 decibels.
The tolerable noise level will vary from household to household. Consider the importance of noise level to your household, keeping in mind that quieter dishwashers often come with a higher price tag.
Additional Features
Like many other major brands, GE manufactures smart dishwasher models. These dishwashers either come with built-in WiFi or are compatible with GE’s optional WiFi dongle (U+ Connect Module) to connect to WiFi. GE’s smart-enabled dishwashers allow users to monitor cycle status and time, lock and unlock controls, receive notifications, and automatically reorder dishwasher detergent from the SmartHQ app.
To prevent mishaps, GE dishwashers can include two convenient features: a food residue disposer and/or a water leak sensor. Some GE dishwashers have a built-in Piranha Hard Food Disposer, a built-in disposer that grinds food particles to prevent clogging interior parts and keep the unit running optimally. For even more peace of mind, consider a dishwasher with a water leak sensor, which detects potential overflows and cancels the wash cycle for safety.
Our Top Picks
The best GE dishwashers ahead are dependable, effective, and sturdy machines designed to get dishes sparkling for years to come.
Packed with features and at a mid-range price for the brand, the GE Top Control Stainless Steel Interior Dishwasher is the best GE dishwasher for most kitchens. This spacious built-in dishwasher boasts a stainless steel interior, fits up to 16 place settings, and includes a third rack. Though large, it’s efficient; this model is Energy Star qualified and runs at a quiet 46 decibels.
A range of performance features helps make this dishwasher even more effective. It comes with GE’s Steam + Sani and Dry Boost features to get dishes clean, sanitized, and dry. To keep the dishwasher running as smoothly as possible, this model has a built-in hard food disposer. It also has a water leak sensor, so if anything does go amiss, this machine will cancel the cycle to prevent flooding. Lastly, for those who want an upgrade, this model can be turned into a smart dishwasher by adding a GE WiFi adapter (sold separately).
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Size: 23.75 inches wide by 34 inches tall by 24 inches deep
- Wash cycles: Five
Pros
- Various finish options
- Steam+Sani feature
- Hard food disposer
- Water leak sensor
- WiFi optional with adapter
Cons
- Some users find it difficult to pull out the bottom rack when full
Get the GE Top Control Stainless Steel Interior Dishwasher at The Home Depot, Best Buy, Appliances Connection, or GE.
Dishwashers can get pricey, but for many households, they’re worth the investment. The GE Top Control Plastic Interior Dishwasher isn’t one of GE’s absolute cheapest models, but it offers excellent features for its fairly affordable price.
This dishwasher fits 14 place settings and includes some of GE’s best features, including an AutoSense wash cycle, Steam + Sani, and Dry Boost. It also has a hard food disposer and water leak sensor. To save on electricity and water, this unit is Energy Star certified. Though it runs a bit loud at 52 decibels, it’s still in line with the noise level of average dishwashers on the market.
This dishwasher cuts costs with its plastic tub (instead of pricier stainless steel) and lack of third rack (although its upper rack is height-adjustable). It also can’t be upgraded into a smart dishwasher, but with all its other features, it will still get the job done.
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Size: 23.75 inches wide by 33.38 inches tall by 24 inches deep
- Wash cycles: Four
Pros
- Sleek look for a fairly affordable price
- Height-adjustable upper rack
- AutoSense wash cycle
Cons
- Plastic tub interior
Get the GE Top Control with Plastic Interior Dishwasher at The Home Depot, Best Buy, ABT, or GE.
The GE Profile Fingerprint Resistant Top Control Dishwasher is one of the quietest options on the market. At 39 decibels, this dishwasher runs closer to a whisper than a spoken conversation, making it an excellent choice for households desiring a near-silent appliance. However, quiet operation isn’t the only aspect that makes this dishwasher stand out, as it includes several premium features.
Like other top GE dishwashers, this unit includes Steam + Sani and has a third rack to make room for up to 16 place settings. Special Bottle Wash and Deep Clean Silverware Jets help this model better clean bottles on the top rack and silverware in the cutlery basket. This model also has an upgraded version of Dry Boost, Twin Turbo Dry Boost, which uses two heaters and fans for even drier dishes.
This Energy Star-qualified dishwasher has a stainless steel interior and a fingerprint-resistant finish. It’s a smart model that comes with the control and monitoring benefits of GE’s SmartHQ app. It also has a smart water leak detector, which goes beyond GE’s regular water leak detector to send a notification to your smartphone in case of a leak.
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Size: 23.74 inches wide by 33.38 inches tall by 24 inches deep
- Wash cycles: Five
Pros
- Very quiet operation
- Smart features
- Excellent cleaning performance
Cons
- Expensive
Get the GE Profile Top Control Stainless Steel Dishwasher at The Home Depot, Best Buy, Appliances Connection, or GE.
The GE Profile UltraFresh System Dishwasher is another smart and incredibly quiet dishwasher from GE. With space for 16 place settings and running at 42 decibels, this dishwasher is certainly a premium pick. It has a stainless steel interior and includes Steam + Sani, Dry Boost, a hard food disposer, a water leak sensor, and a third rack—all common features in GE’s top-of-the-line dishwashers—but it’s the smart Ultra Fresh feature that sets this model apart. It has built-in WiFi that allows it to connect to a smartphone so users can control and monitor the dishwasher from the SmartHQ app.
Beyond that, this Energy Star-qualified model also includes GE’s UltraFresh system for a fresher dishwasher. The UltraFresh system uses smart algorithms to introduce clean air and reduce moisture between cycles, preventing the growth of bacteria for a cleaner and fresher-smelling dishwasher. Alongside this feature, this dishwasher also has a Microban treatment on high-touch surfaces, which prevents bacteria growth.
Product Specs
- Type: Built-in
- Size: 23.75 inches wide by 33.38 inches tall by 24 inches deep
- Wash cycles: Five
Pros
- Includes many of GE’s top features
- Built-in WiFi
- UltraFresh system
- High-touch surfaces treated with Microban
Cons
- Pricey
Get the GE Profile UltraFresh System Dishwasher at The Home Depot, Best Buy, ABT, or GE.
For kitchens that can’t accommodate a built-in dishwasher, a portable model is a great alternative. The GE Stainless Steel Interior Portable Dishwasher is the brand’s best portable model, mounting a handsome and effective Energy Star-qualified dishwasher on wheels. This dishwasher fits up to 12 place settings.
A stainless steel finish and stainless steel interior give this portable dishwasher a more premium feel (though classic white and black finishes are also available). Though it has fewer cleaning features than built-in models, it still has some great extras. This portable dishwasher has an AutoSense cycle, which senses the dish soil levels and adjusts the cycle automatically. A sanitize option gives the choice to sanitize really grimy dishes. This dishwasher also has a hard food disposer, ensuring no food residue clogs its system. Running at 54 decibels, this dishwasher is louder than many other GE models, but that’s a worthwhile trade-off for not needing to hand wash dishes.
Product Specs
- Type: Portable
- Size: 23.6 inches wide by 36 inches tall by 25.4 inches deep
- Wash cycles: Three
Pros
- Attractive design for a portable model
- Fits up to 12 place settings
- Sanitize option
- Built-in hard food disposer
Cons
- On the louder side
Get the GE Stainless Steel Interior Portable Dishwasher at The Home Depot, Best Buy, ABT, or GE.
Our Verdict
The GE Top Control Stainless Steel Interior Dishwasher is our top pick for the best GE dishwasher because it’s quiet, reliable, and filled with excellent cleaning features at a mid-range price. The GE Top Control Plastic Interior Dishwasher comes in at a close second since it also has excellent cleaning features, but with a few tradeoffs for a more affordable price tag.
How We Chose the Best GE Dishwashers
We chose the best GE dishwashers based on performance, noise level, price, and design. We included a few categories and price points to suit different households and then researched dishwasher features and consumer satisfaction.
With a focus on dependable appliances, it’s no surprise that many of GE’s standout dishwasher features revolve around improved cleaning and drying performance. We evaluated dishwashers on these performance functions, which include GE’s AutoSense, Steam + Sani, Dry Boost, and food disposer (to name a few). The more of these extra features a dishwasher had for its price point, the better. We also chose a few smart models to suit smart homes.
Dishwasher noise level and aesthetic appeal were considered as well. GE makes some excellent quiet models, so we made sure to include them on our list. Dishwashers cost a pretty penny and should look nice in the kitchen; we chose attractive models available in a range of finishes as well.
FAQs
GE has a long history of designing appliances that simplify the lives of average Americans, and the brand’s dishwasher lines are no different. With a range of user-friendly features and dependable performance, they’re made for heavy-duty everyday use. Still considering the best GE dishwasher for your home? Read on for answers to some frequently asked questions on GE and the brand’s dishwashers.
Q. Is GE a good brand?
Yes, GE is considered one of the top dishwasher brands (and top appliance brands, in general). With over a century of innovation and manufacturing experience, the brand has earned its favorable reputation.
Q. Are GE dishwashers made in the USA?
Many GE appliances, including many dishwashers, are made in the USA. Look for the Made in America symbol on the GE website listing to be sure.
Q. What is the difference between GE Profile and regular GE?
GE Profile is one of GE’s premium product lines. A step up from regular GE products, GE Profile dishwashers boast sophisticated designs and come with smart features.
Q. How many years should a GE dishwasher last?
Generally, GE dishwashers have a similar lifespan to other high-quality dishwashers, around 10 years. Proper maintenance and troubleshooting can prolong a dishwasher’s lifespan.