--- title: "We Researched Dozens of Dishwashers. Our Top Pick Washes More Dishes in Less Time Than Competitors" description: "The best dishwasher can handle the toughest grease and grime while using less water and energy. See shopping tips and top picks here." date: "2014-09-11" modified: "2025-08-04" authors: - name: "Donna Boyle Schwartz" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/donna-boyle-schwartz/" - name: "Jen Karetnick" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/jen-karetnick/" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/articles/buyers-guide-best-dishwashers/" categories: - "Appliances" - "Appliances & Cookware" - "Interior" - "Kitchen & Dining" - "Reviews" tags: - "Commerce" - "MPR" --- # We Researched Dozens of Dishwashers. Our Top Pick Washes More Dishes in Less Time Than Competitors ![The Best Dishwashers Option]() *Photo: istockphoto.com* Hand-washing through a pile of pots, mixing bowls, and place settings can take *hours*—and an estimated 230 hours every year. On top of that, dishwashers use far less water than hand-washing, saving roughly 20 gallons per load. That may be enough time and water wasted to make you reconsider the best dishwasher for your needs, whether you're installing your first unit or upgrading an existing appliance. Our top pick, the [Whirlpool 24-Inch Top Control Built-In Dishwasher](), is spacious, excels at drying, and has a fingerprint-resistant finish, making it the best choice for many kitchens. There are multiple types of [appliances]() offered with ample wash cycles, racks, and special features, making dish cleaning hassle-free. We explore the important factors to consider when shopping for the best dishwasher and reviews some of the top-rated brands and models on the market to help people spend less time standing at the sink. 1. **BEST OVERALL:** [Whirlpool 24-Inch Top Control Built-In Dishwasher]() 2. **BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:** [Frigidaire 24-Inch Front Control Built-In Dishwasher]() 3. **BEST LARGE-CAPACITY:** [Samsung - Smart Bespoke Linear Wash 39dBA Dishwasher]() 4. **BEST PORTABLE:** [GE 24-Inch 54dBA Portable Dishwasher]() ![The Best Dishwasher Options]() *Photo: homedepot.com* | | **Type** | **Size** | **Wash cycles** | **Water usage** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Whirlpool 24-Inch Top Control Built-In Dishwasher]() | Built-in | 33.625 inches high by 23.875 inches wide by 26.75 inches deep | 5 | 3.25 to 6.75 gallons | | [Frigidaire 24-Inch Front Control Built-In Dishwasher]() | Built-in | 33.5 to 35 inches high by 24 inches wide by 25 inches deep | 3 | 6 gallons | | [Samsung - Smart Bespoke Linear Wash 39dBA Dishwasher]() | Built-in | 33.9 inches high by 23.9 inches wide by 25 inches deep | 7 | 3.2 gallons | | [GE 24-Inch 54dBA Portable Dishwasher]() | Portable | 36 inches high by 23.63 inches wide by 25.38 inches deep | 3 | 2.4 to 6.6 gallons | ## Our Top Picks Even with a checklist of ideal features in hand, finding a dishwasher that fits the bill in such a crowded market can be overwhelming. This list includes some of the best dishwashers available today to help simplify the search. These top picks consider the abovementioned factors in addition to overall quality, price, and Energy Star certification. This 24-inch built-in dishwasher from Whirlpool offers a host of bells and whistles to make washing dishes a breeze. A tall tub design and third-level rack provide up to 37 percent more space for large or odd-shaped items. An in-door silverware basket also frees up rack space, while folding tines can be used to secure dishes during the wash cycle or folded down to create space for larger items. The sensor cycle automatically selects the proper wash and dry settings for a load. The TotalCoverage spray arm cleans with more than 20 jets and an innovative sequence of spray patterns from multiple nozzles. The stainless steel construction features a fingerprint-resistant finish and controls that are situated on the top edge of the door, leaving an unencumbered front panel. This dishwasher also offers a 1-hour wash cycle to clean lightly soiled loads in half the time as well as a full range of heavy, normal, and light cycles. A Sani-rinse option sanitizes dishes by eliminating 99.99 percent of food and bacteria. **Get the Whirlpool dishwasher at [The Home Depot]() or [Best Buy]().** Individuals looking for upscale features at a budget-friendly price won’t go wrong with this Frigidaire built-in dishwasher. This standard 24-inch model can handle up to 14 place settings in one load. A removable top rack, adjustable rack heights, and removable silverware basket all accommodate large or odd-shaped pieces. The three separate spray arms make sure all of the dishes come out clean, and the heating element reduces drying time. The unit features a 4-hour-delay start timer and a self-cleaning filter to eliminate food particles. While this dishwasher is a bit noisier than more expensive models, at 60 decibels, it offers a great combination of features at an affordable price. **Get the Frigidaire dishwasher at [The Home Depot](), [Amazon](), or [Best Buy]().** At only 39 decibels, this smart dishwasher is one of the quietest available. Thanks to Whisper Quiet Cleaning performance and insulated sides, owners can’t hear the Linear Wash Technology, which uses a sliding spray bar with Aqua Blast Jets to clean thoroughly from end to end and top to bottom. But they sure can see the results. Available in navy blue or Tuscan steel to match the brand’s refrigerators, this dishwasher is perfect for those who love to entertain. The bottom left corner is a special high-intensity zone for pots and pans, although they still benefit from a rinse before they are put in if they are to turn out spotless. An express wash cycle—only 60 minutes—allows owners to unload and reload multiple times throughout an evening. And thanks to its AutoRelease technology, the door opens automatically after a wash cycle so that condensation doesn’t build up, turning steam to water. However, some customers complain that the pop-open feature malfunctions. This built-in dishwasher is also a smart dishwasher, so dirty dishes can wait until the house is empty to be washed. The smartphone feature also alerts owners when a cycle is finished. **Get the Samsung dishwasher at [The Home Depot]() or [Best Buy]().** Built on wheels so it can be moved from place to place, this high-performance portable dishwasher has as many features as a built-in dishwasher. An Autosense Cycle checks the level of soiling and ascertains how much water pressure, temperature, and time is required, adjusting accordingly. The Piranha Hard Food Disposer minces food waste and disposes of it. A National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)-certified Sanitize Option eliminates 99.999 percent of the bacteria lingering on used dishware. On the downside, all those upgrades come with a cost, making this a heavy machine to move. Cleaning cycles are as long as a built-in, as well. Customers have complained about assembly being difficult and, while hooking it up is easy for those who have standard faucets, it’s much more difficult for those with anything old-fashioned or out of the ordinary. It’s also a bit on the noisy side. Still, this portable dishwasher is so modern it can even be Wi-Fi enabled. **Get the GE dishwasher at [The Home Depot]() or [Best Buy]().** ## [Jump to Our Top Picks](<#recap>) ## How We Chose the Best Dishwashers When choosing the best dishwashers, we explored several features: how many wash cycles they offered; the washing, sanitizing, and drying technology with which they were equipped; whether they had adjustable racks and tines; how easy they were to install; and how much they cost in comparison to similar styles in other dishwasher brands. We also looked at their energy-saving qualities and their customer service reputations. This curated list was developed from extensive product research. We considered all the major dishwasher brands as well as several boutique ones. ## What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dishwasher Even for those who already own a dishwasher, there is a lot to gain by purchasing a new model. Besides conserving water, there’s a compelling financial reason to upgrade: An Energy Star-certified dishwasher could save owners more than $40 per year. The market features abundant options, from basic budget-friendly to fully programmable smart models. Those who are not sure where their needs fall in the spectrum should keep these key shopping factors in mind. ### Size and Capacity Dishwashers usually come in two sizes. Standard built-in dimensions are 34 inches high (34 inches being the height of most countertops and base cabinetry) by 24 inches wide. Compact models are 34 inches high by 18 inches wide, though some are designed for shorter 32-inch countertops found in handicapped-accessible kitchens. Portable units typically measure 34 to 38 inches high by 20 to 25 inches wide by 27 to 30 inches deep. Standard and portable washers are usually fitted with two or three racks, while a compact unit holds one or two racks. A dishwasher’s capacity is generally measured by the number of place settings it can hold in one [load](). Standard dishwashers typically accommodate from eight to 12 place settings, with some handling up to 16 settings. Compact dishwashers typically accommodate six to 10 place settings per load. In any case, adjustable upper racks and removable baskets earn bonus points, as either feature provides extra space for awkwardly shaped or larger items. Dishwashers in custom sizes are available by special order, but be prepared to pay more. ### Wash Settings The number and types of cycle selections vary from dishwasher to dishwasher, and finding the ideal combination for individual needs will often be the deciding factor in a purchase. A typical dishwasher usually features three settings: a normal wash cycle that runs from 90 to 135 minutes, a heavy cycle for pots and pans, and a light (also known as delicate) cycle for stemware. Pricier models offer additional options, including a programmable or “smart” mode, prerinse option, “quick-wash” function, “[rinse]()-and-hold” cycle, a delicate china cycle, and a heavy-duty sanitizing cycle. Some dishwashers also offer a selection of drying cycles, including heated drying, quick drying, and “eco” mode. Many units feature a programmable delayed-start option, allowing owners to run the dishwasher after guests are gone and the family is in bed or after leaving for work in the morning. ### Water Usage and Energy Efficiency According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “Replacing existing dishwashers with Energy Star–labeled models reduces water use by up to 65 percent and reduces energy use by more than 10 percent. A new Energy Star-certified dishwasher will save, on average, 3,870 gallons of water over its lifetime.” Some upscale dishwashers even include an “eco” cycle that utilizes less water, while others have a sensor that determines how dirty the dishes are and adjusts the water usage and cycles automatically. Dishwashers on the market today are required by law to carry an “Energy Guide” label that estimates the annual power consumption and yearly operation cost based on national-average natural gas and electricity prices. Look for the Energy Star logo, which indicates that the unit meets or exceeds the federal minimum standards for efficiency and quality. Using an Energy Star-certified model also helps reduce the use of fossil fuels, which reduces air pollution and protects the climate. ### Noise Level The last thing anyone wants to do while relaxing after dinner is to shout over the noise of the dishwasher. Dishwasher noise is rated in decibels: the louder the noise, the higher the decibel level. Newer models boast thicker insulation, resulting in noise levels around 45 decibels. For reference, 50 decibels is roughly equivalent to the volume of a conversation. Most dishwashers have a noise level between 46 and 50 decibels during normal operation. For a quieter dishwasher, look for a model at or below 45 decibels. Some whisper-quiet dishwashers clock in at 30 decibels, which means owners most likely won’t hear them even in the kitchen, but they can expect to pay a premium for this peace and quiet. ### Additional Features Dishwasher technologies have come a long way in recent years. Here are a few features we love that are included by some dishwasher brands: - **A third rack** is typically a narrow rack that sits above the top rack and may have a separate wash arm. - **Adjustable-height racks** usually have foldable tines and innovative spray arms to move wash water more efficiently, as well as stemware clips, spray nozzles, special cutlery racks, programmable controls, and child locks. - **Adjustable-rack designs** include specialized “zones” to improve cleaning performance on some of the toughest grease and grime. - **Integrated and multistage water filtration** removes food particles from the wash water and utilizes fan-assisted or heated drying. - **Soil-sensor technology** determines how dirty the dishes are and automatically adjusts the cycle to optimize cleaning performance while minimizing water and energy use. - **Smart-home technology and Wi-Fi connectivity** are programmable via a computer or smartphone. - **Insert panels** are included with some models to match and blend in with cabinetry. - **Stainless steel, mirrored finishes, and colored finishes** integrate into an existing kitchen seamlessly (depending upon current fixtures) providing a sleek, elevated look. - **Fingerprint-resistant finishes** are also popular to help keep the exterior as sparkling clean as the dishes inside. ### Installation Installation first depends on what type of dishwasher is being installed: standard or compact. Buyers might choose to locate the dishwasher under the sink or in a kitchen island. Regardless, they will need plumbing and electrical outlets to connect it. [Installation of a dishwasher]() can take from 90 minutes to 2 hours for someone who is handy and good at reading instruction manuals. However, given the complex nature of hooking up plumbing hoses and electrical connections, calling in a professional might be preferred. ### Brand In addition to the dishwasher features listed above, you may also want to consider narrowing your search by brand. Many of the best dishwasher brands carry features like energy efficiency, adjustable rack heights, and even wifi and smart capabilities. Here are the brands we trust and recommend: - [**Bosch**]()**:** Bosch is a German appliance and electronics company best known for sleek, functional designs that never sacrifice quality for eye-catching features. - [**GE**]()**:** The high level of durability in GE appliances has made this company a household name throughout America and increased its popularity worldwide. - [**LG**]()**:** LG Electronics is considered a high-end electronics brand, so it’s no surprise that its dishwashers are known for Wi-Fi and smart-home compatibility. - [**Whirlpool**]()**:** Whirlpool excels in creating reliable designs that focus on energy efficiency and durability. It has a history in appliance manufacturing, as well as several important acquisitions over the years. - [**KitchenAid**]()**:** KitchenAid takes a different approach to kitchen appliances, preferring to diversify its product offerings instead of focusing on a specific niche, which gives users a range of versatile options. - [**HomeLabs**]()**:** HomeLabs specializes in countertop dishwashers, ideal for apartments and small kitchens. It’s also renowned for other home appliances such as air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners. - [**Maytag**]()**:** Big families and overzealous chefs appreciate the spacious dish racks and powerful wash cycles standard in Maytag’s dishwashers. - [**Samsung**]()**:** Samsung is one of the best-known electronics companies in the world thanks to its popular line of smartphones, and Samsung appliances are made with the same market-leading innovation. - [**Fisher & Paykel**]()**:** Though Fisher & Paykel isn’t one of the first brand names to come to mind, it is the leading manufacturer of drawer-style dishwashers, capitalizing on this niche design. - [**Amana**]()**:** Amana designs and manufactures affordable kitchen appliances, like dishwashers, refrigerators, and ovens, to help budget-conscious families upgrade their kitchen without emptying their wallets. - [**Café**]()**:** GE created this brand in 2018, and it has grown quickly in popularity with products specifically made to appeal to individuals interested in a distinct, high-end aesthetic appearance. ## Types of Dishwashers Today, dishwasher users can choose from a variety of models, including conventional built-in units and compact or countertop models that are suitable for apartments or tiny houses. There are even portable options to take “on the road” in an RV or camper, along with conventional built-in units designed to fit under a standard countertop. ### Built-In Today’s conventional dishwashers are built-in models designed to go underneath a countertop. They usually are situated near the kitchen sink, due to the necessity of a plumbing connection, but some dishwashers are built into a center island. Built-in models come in two sizes: standard and compact. A standard-size dishwasher measures 34 inches high by 24 inches wide and between 24 and 28 inches deep. These models typically handle between 8 and 12 place settings per load, though some can accommodate up to 16 settings. Compact built-in dishwashers are also known as “18-inch dishwashers”; a typical compact unit measures 17 to 18 inches wide and 22 to 26 inches deep. The height varies from 32 to 34 inches, with the lower height accommodating the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for lower kitchen countertops. These units typically handle 6 to 10 place settings per load. ### Portable [Portable dishwashers]() are fairly similar to the original vintage models but are much more efficient and far less messy. They are popular among renters or people with smaller kitchens. These units are usually on wheels and easily stowed in a closet when not in use. Some of the taller portable models feature an integrated countertop to provide extra kitchen prep space while in use. But even these smaller, more maneuverable units can be pretty handy to have around and don’t require installation. Most portable dishwashers accommodate between eight and 12 place settings. ### Countertop Countertop dishwashers are similar to portable dishwashers in that they are smaller and easy to stow away when not in use. As the name implies, countertop dishwashers are designed to sit on a counter. The water intake hose connects to the [kitchen sink]() faucet (or bar sink faucet, if the dishwasher is an entertaining accessory), and a drain hose releases the dirty water into the sink. A nearby electrical outlet is also needed to provide power. Countertop dishwashers have a smaller “footprint” than most built-ins, taking up roughly twice the size of a microwave oven. Typical countertop units hold from six to eight place settings. One advantage of countertop models is that they are very water and energy efficient. ## FAQs Dishwashers have become a standard accessory in modern kitchens, but even with nearly ubiquitous use, there are still some tips that help users gain the most benefit from this handy kitchen helper. Here are several of the most frequently asked questions about these convenient appliances. ## Author Donna Boyle Schwartz is an avid writer with years of experience covering the home and garden beat in addition to out-of-home topics such as sports and local events. These days, she researches and writes editorial and advertising features on a vast range of home-related topics, including housewares, furniture, home fashions, flooring, remodeling, construction, antiques, art, garden, collectibles, and color/design trends.