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The Best Dishwashers

Which Brand of Dishwasher is the Best?

Most of us don't think too much about the details of our current dishwasher: we load dishes, they get clean, then we empty them. But maybe you've noticed that the dishes aren't coming out as clean as they should, or you have to rinse them more to get a better clean, or the dishwasher's tines' coating is chipping. If so, you might be thinking about replacing your dishwasher with one that not only holds up but has some nice features that you deserve.

Consider first what you need in your new dishwasher. It's essential to choose a dishwasher that effectively cleans and dries your dishes quietly. After that, look for additional features that suit your preferences, such a third rack, a quick-wash cycle, a delay-start option, food pulverizers, sanitizer settings, special jets for silverware, smart-home integration, or child lock.

Monday, February 10th

2025 Dishwasher Reviews

Miele Review 4.5 Star Rating

Miele

4.5 Star Rating
  • Priced from $1,299 to $3,699
  • Dishes get hygienically clean
  • Quick and intense cleaning in under 60 minutes
  • Can use only 6 liters of water
  • Optional feature to remove more than 99.9% of a virus
  • Water protection guarantee
  • All models uses proprietary detergent disks that last for up to 20 loads

Miele, a European appliance company founded in 1899, began with just eleven employees and basic equipment. The initial product was a cream separator, with only one engineer and one businessperson leading the effort. Within only four years, the Model A washing machine with a groundbreaking design was developed. Rather than invent an additional product, Miele spent time continuing to enhance this already impressive product. Although in 1912 they added motorcars to their repertoire, Miele continued to advance the washing machines. Miele, for over a century, has been at the forefront of high-quality appliance innovation.

What's not to love?

Even Miele's "lowest” model, the G 5006 SCU, which carries the price tag of $1,299, has luxurious features. You can get superior cleaning and drying in less than 60 minutes. You can also save up to 50% in energy costs if you connect the dishwasher directly to your hot water line. The door opens and closes easily - not heavy, clunky, or too fast - staying open in any position. This Miele is quiet at 44 decibels, has a cycle countdown indicator, a delayed start, and uses only 6 liters of water. Keep in mind that this price tag on their most economical model is what you may find on the most pricey model of most brands.

Pay more, get more

When you choose a middle-line Miele, such as the G 7366 SCVi XXL AudoDos at $2,149, you'll have an upper, third rack that has adjustable trays inside, and there's a child safety lock. The door will automatically open for you at the end of the program cycle. You'll have the convenience of using the Miele app, voice control, or you can integrate voice control into your existing smart-home device. If you want to save energy and water when you only have half a load, you can do that on this model. This model is also labeled as Energy Star Most Efficient.

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And if you want to go all out...

You can spend $3,699 on a Miele dishwasher to really treat yourself. You'll have interior LED lighting to find all your shiny glassware, even in the back of the tub. There's volume control for the cycle noises, you'll still have the smart features to use on your app or home assistant device, there's an eco-timer so the machine can select the cheapest electricity rate every time, you can get perfectly spotless glasses without a rinse aid, and it's also very quiet at 39 decibels. Want to really show off? Not only does Miele provide a straw cleaner, but you can also knock on the door and it will open for you. Want to show off your language skills, or at least attempted language skills? Select from almost 20 languages for your display.

Buy their power disks to clean

You won't use regular dishwasher detergent in your Miele. They'll give you a disk and coupons for more disks when you purchase your machine. Place the disk in the slot and the Miele appliance will determine how much powder to use. Each disk lasts up to 20 cycles, so you don't need to think about grabbing the detergent box with each load.

Insured against water damage

You may have heard of horror stories of dishwashers leaking and causing serious water damage to owners' floors and more. Miele gives you their Water Protection Guarantee, meaning that for twenty years - you heard it right, twenty years - any dishwasher damage is insured.

One-year or five-year warranty

A five-year warranty is unheard of - well, many amazing things are unheard of with Miele. With their priciest models, you'll receive the five-year warranty at no extra charge. With most models, however, you'll have the industry-standard one-year warranty.

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Highest satisfaction rating

When you look at customer satisfaction and reliability, Miele is above the rest. Miele makes a great product, no matter which appliance you choose. If you're willing and able to do so, consider a Miele dishwasher and put your mind to ease.

Fabulous yet pricey

Fancy comes with a price tag, especially with home appliances. Miele is an excellent product with high customer satisfaction and reliability. If you've got it, spend it on a Miele. For the rest of us, however, there isn't a Miele dishwasher model that fits the budget, and so, middle-America accessibility is our only complaint. Otherwise, everything about Miele deserves a 5-star rating as our favorite dishwasher brand.

Maytag Review 4.5 Star Rating

Maytag

4.5 Star Rating
  • Priced from $471 to $1,049
  • An American company since 1893
  • Few customer complaints
  • Few models which minimizes shopping overwhelm
  • Quiet operation

Maytag has been in business since 1893, created by Frederick Louis Maytag, an Iowa farm boy, and three other partners. By 1927, Maytag had produced more than a million clothes washers. Frederick Maytag passed the company's presidency role to his son, then it went to his grandson in 1940. In 1967, the "lonely repairman” appeared in advertising, letting the public know about Maytag's dedication to making appliances that don't break down. In 1986, after several appliance company mergers, Maytag was one of the remaining four, and Maytag controlled 80% of the industry. Maytag was acquired by Whirlpool in 2006, but Maytag kept its name.

Maytag has dishwashers, but not a collection of them

If you're looking for dishwashers, click on the link and select the features you'd like, and Maytag will help you choose the right one for your needs. Maytag only offers seven models, so you could easily look through the entire list of seven in no time at all and peruse the options each one has.

Basic dishwasher options at a basic price

You won't find many reputable dishwashers cheaper than $471, so if you're looking for the dishwasher that does the job, this is it. On their most basic model, Maytag's upper rack moves up or down, it washes and dries, and can come in fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. It's not loud, either, at 52 decibels, only a bit louder than a quiet conversation.

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One model higher

Even the next Maytag model, for just under $600, comes with Dual Power Filtration, which chops up food particles into tinier pieces and disintegrates them. Their PowerBlast cycle combines hotter water, hot steam, and high-pressure jets for an even cleaner wash. These are nice features for a pretty basic model.

They get better quickly

And, on the next Maytag model up, for only $150 more, you'll add a third row rack and can make your heat cycle longer.

Don't spend the money on the most expensive model

The highest priced of the seven Maytag models only adds Long PowerDry in its list of key features. To pay an additional $300 for that feature alone doesn't seem to be worth the money. And it's no quieter than the model below it, either.

The TV commercial is right

Users seem to be happy with their Maytag dishwashers, making the old TV commercial true. They showed a Maytag repair person, calling him, "the loneliest guy in town” since he's not out repairing Maytags... because they work. And their other motto, "What's inside matters,” shows they care about how the appliance runs, not all the fancy features that don't affect the machine's function.

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Good for function

If you want a dishwasher that simply functions and doesn't break down, choose a Maytag. And if you don't care about fancy features and customization, choose Maytag.

Good, no-frills machines

Maytag should add a third slogan, "We use the KISS method.” Maytag does keep it simple by making a low-frills dishwasher that works. Maybe this is why their complaint rate is so low too. Some customers, though, are interested in customizing their dishwasher. Many want the third rack, even on lower-end models. Or they might want the higher-level they buy to show off a pretty handle or door front, or include smart features, or a cycle light that shines on the floor. If you want the nicer features, we do have dishwashers we highly recommend with those features included or as options. On the other hand, if your priority is to have a reliable dishwasher that works and that is an easy fit for your budget, Maytag is the brand to choose.

Thermador Review 4.5 Star Rating

Thermador

4.5 Star Rating
  • Emerald: $1,399
  • Sapphire: around $1,999
  • Star Sapphire: around $2,799
  • Third rack on all models
  • Blue LED beam shines on floor when appliance is in use
  • Smart features on all models
  • AquaStop to provide around-the-clock leak protection

In 1916, when fewer than half of the US homes even had electricity, Thermador produced the electric heater, demonstrating Thermador's futuristic innovations even at the company's inception. Next Thermador introduced the evaporation cooler, then the room cooler, and then the automotive air cooler. Fast forward to the 1950s when Thermador created the first 48” wide pro range. In 1962 Thermador introduced the first stainless steel dishwasher with a multi-filter system that ran more quietly. Thermador hasn't stopped innovating as you'll see in their dishwashers' features.

Amazing features on their "basic” level model

The combo of amazing features you might... and that's a might... get on the most expensive model of other brands, you'll get included on Thermador's lowest model. The Emerald includes smart capabilities, a blue light beam on the floor to indicate it's running, a chef's tool drawer, and a third rack. Thermador's Emerald fits 16 place settings and is as quiet as a soft conversation at 48 decibels. What should help you sleep better at night is knowing their AquaStop system helps to stop your dishwasher from leaking and causing damage to your home.

The Sapphire has even better cleaning and drying

Thermador's Sapphire has a zone-control spray arm to customize four cleaning zones in the lower rack, especially when you have delicate or oddly-shaped pieces. Get a complete dry, even in the most difficult-to-reach spaces with StarDry.

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The Star Sapphire shines... literally

Thermador's Star Sapphire model adds an interior light to find all your dishes, even in the back, so you can see that they're clean well before you reach for them. Impress your friends as you can change the light color to any shade on the color spectrum. The Thermador Star Sapphire is quieter than your conversation noise level, at 42 decibels.

2-year warranty

All of the Thermador dishwasher models have a two-year warranty on parts and labor. This is twice as long as the industry standard, and we highly approve.

Very reliable product

Thermador's reputation for reliability is as shiny as the jeweled names. Their dishwashers clean well, dry well, have quite nice features on any model you choose, have double the warranty of almost any other appliance company, and consumers are happy. If you can afford a Thermador, don't hesitate to purchase one. If Thermador doesn't fit in your budget, try another one that we highly recommend on our site.

Bosch Review 4 Star Rating

Bosch

4 Star Rating
  • 100 Series: $549 - $669
  • 100 Plus: $699 - $899
  • 300 Series: $850 - $1,050
  • 500 Series: $1,099 - $1,249
  • 800 Series: $1,249 - $1,349
  • Benchmark Series: $1,799
  • German-based company, since 1886
  • Quiet cycles, even on lowest models
  • 10-year warranty against rusting through
  • Adjustable third rack on two highest series
  • Most made in the USA

Robert Bosch from Germany founded the Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering in 1886, which was the beginning of today's appliance company, globally-recognized for product innovation and commitment to social justice and environmental actions, with the goal of improving the quality of life for humans as well as future generations. Robert Bosch declared he would rather lose money than people's trust. His final wish was to ensure the company's robust and meaningful development, emphasizing trust, openness, and fairness. Most Bosch dishwashers are made in North Carolina, but the Benchmark Series is made in Germany.

What's included at every level:

Even if you choose a lower model, you'll still get Bosch's signature features:

  • Home Connect. This Bosch app allows for additional wash cycles and delayed start.
  • 50 dBA or less. Your Bosch dishwasher will run as softly or more so than a quiet conversation or a quiet refrigerator.
  • PureDry. It's Bosch's energy-efficient drying system, and it allows even the thinnest plastics to dry safely and not burn on a heating element.
  • Energy Star certified. This government-backed certification indicates that the product meets energy-efficient standards which may be well above other similar-looking products.

The 100 series

Even at the lowest Bosch models, you'll have a quiet machine with a noise level of 50 decibels (dB) or lower, which is the equivalent of a quiet conversation or the hum of a quiet refrigerator, and can be seen in many dishwasher brands. Bosch's PrecisionWash system uses sensors to monitor the wash water to make for a smarter clean. PureDry is an energy-efficient drying system, allowing even the thinnest plastics to be placed on any shelf during the dry cycle. Even the most "basic” of the Bosch models includes smart technology, intelligent sprayers, drying without the dreaded interior heating element, and a quiet cycle that won't attract attention.

The 100 Plus

These Bosch models include all of the above, adding an only-slightly quieter run at 48 dB vs. 50 dB. The $150 price increase isn't worth it for the little bit you get for it, in our opinion.

The 300 Series

This Bosch series adds an auto-program feature, runs at 48 dB, and there are six rather than four wash temperatures. This series is $300 more than the 100 series, but again, like the 100 Plus series, doesn't offer much for that additional investment. We find this series curious in that it only allows for 12 place settings, where the Bosch 100 Series handles 14 place settings.

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The 500 Series

This is the first Bosch series that includes the third rack, which is a popular feature with consumers; however, this model's third rack can only stay in position: you can't move it up or down to accommodate taller glasses. The Bosch 500 Series can hold 16 place settings, which is at least two more than the other series can. At this 500 level, there is a significantly lower decibel level, at 38 rather than the starter level of 50. 38 dB is officially considered a silent level for appliances, meaning that you shouldn't notice the appliance noise over your conversation. This is the first of Bosch's upper series that we feel is worth the price increase. Note: there's no child lock on this series.

The 800 Series

This popular Bosch series adds more functions such as Crystal Dry and three ZoneControl settings. These machines aren't quite as quiet as the Bosch 500 Series, but it's only a pretty subtle difference. The third rack offers nine height positions to best fit all your dishes, glasses, and utensils. Crystal Dry transforms moisture into heat up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit, giving all your dishes and glassware the ultimate drying experience.

The Benchmark Series

This is the only Bosch series made in Germany rather than the United States. The only "significant” difference in the Bosch Benchmark Series is they have a VarioDrawer Pro (the third rack has a few tines that go up or down) and they include an interior light so you can find any dishes you might have left behind in the back of the dishwasher. There's also a light that shines on the floor letting you know how many more minutes remain in the cycle since you may not actually hear your Bosch running, and that's a good thing.

Bosch is quiet

All you'll hear is quiet from Bosch dishwashers. There's no notable sound to distract you from your conversations or from the peace and quiet you deserve after a long day. The models range from 38 decibels (significantly quiet) to 50 decibels (as quiet as a normal conversation).

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You don't need to spend a lot of money for the higher models

You can get a great Bosch dishwasher at a reasonable price with the 100 Series: they're relatively quiet and include several good features except they don't include the third rack. If you're fine with almost doubling the price, the Bosch 500 Series is a good buy as it's 12 decibels quieter and includes a third rack, even though it doesn't move up or down for you. And if you want to impress the neighbors, go for the Benchmark Series as you'll get the floor light to show how much time is remaining and the interior light. For your convenience, the third rack is adjustable. And sometimes you just want to spend money on fancy. Bosch lets you feel fancy.

Limited warranty

The entire Bosch appliance, including parts and labor, is warrantied for one year. The microprocessor or printed circuit board are covered for parts only in the 2nd to 5th years. The racks' parts (not the components) are covered in the 2nd to 5th year as well. The inner tub liner is protected against rust for 10 years. Note that the warranty section on the website indicates lifetime rather than 10 years, so you'll want to ask your retailer which is correct when you purchase your Bosch.

Customers trust Bosch

The name Bosch is a favorite with consumers since the dishwashers clean even stubborn stains, dry completely, and all models include the app feature. Some complain, however, that they would like the additional features the app has but without having to use a separate device to access them. Customers also complain that the lower models used to include the adjustable third rack, but now you have to spend double the price to get it. Some are not happy with the quality of washing and the quality of drying. Even so, you'll see that Bosch's owner satisfaction rating is high.

We rate Bosch highly

Bosch cleans dishes, dries well, and even with the lower models, has great features, such as smart settings and quietness, that you might not find with other brands until you get to the highest series. Our only complaint is that Bosch used to offer adjustable third racks on all models; now you have to pay double the 100 Series price to get it.

LG Review 4 Star Rating

LG

4 Star Rating
  • LG Electronics: $499 - $1,149
  • LG Studio: $1,099
  • LG Signature: $1,699
  • South Korean company
  • Can wash and dry dishes within an hour
  • 1 year / 10 year warranties
  • Good value brand

LG, a major South Korean company, is famous for TVs, phones, and home appliances. Their dishwashers have innovative features, making them very attractive to buyers. LG started out in 1947 with Lucky Cream, their cosmetics product. Over the years, there were several company acquisitions and mergers, and in the 1960s they produced their first domestic refrigerator, TV set, room air conditioners, and washing machines.

A lower-end LG model is all you need

With the $499 LG dishwasher models, you'll have a quiet machine that washes and dries well. You'll have the added bonus of EasyRack Plus, which has adjustable racks to work with the varying heights of your glassware and dishware, and the racks have foldable tines. Raise the tines for supporting thin plates, or lower them for large or awkwardly-shaped bowls or cookware. You can also fit up to 15 place settings. These LG models are Energy Star Certified to help you save money and power, and they are pretty quiet at 52 decibels. Some of these models are smart dishwashers that you can control with an app. If you want the app, it's $250 more.

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LG Studio

The LG Studio dishwashers allow you to complete the wash and dry cycles in an hour, which is quite helpful if you're in a hurry or need to clean those dishes before you entertain. With the LG Studio models, you can use TrueSteam to help get rid of water spots, there are four spray arms rather than two, and your dishes will dry faster and more completely with the Dynamic Heat Dry technology.

LG Signature

This is LG's quietest dishwasher, at 38 decibels, which is described as half-way between a whisper and a quiet conversation. This is also the only model where you can get a height-adjustable third rack. None of LG's dishwashers offer a high-end feature like an interior LED light so you can find your clean dishes way in the back.

1-year and 10-year warranties

You'll get a standard one-year warranty on the parts and service of your LG dishwasher starting at the date of delivery. You'll also get a 10-year warranty on the LG Direct Drive Motor.

Check for huge discounts on the extended warranty

As with any appliance, there are a lot of mechanisms and electronics that could possibly break down. LG has been known to offer the 2-year additional protection plan for only $1, and the 3-year additional protection for $35.99. Get LG's extended warranty and put your worries to rest.

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Customers are happy

Customers have few complaints about LG dishwashers. Unlike other popular brands, LG doesn't have many complaints about water leaking all over the floor. We do find that people complain loudly about LG's customer service department. Either you're on hold forever or they don't communicate clearly, or they charge you money for someone to come out (could the warranty have expired?). Our suggestion is to get LG's extended warranty for either $1 or $35, which should hopefully ease the customer-service headache.

Great choice for a dishwasher

LG offers three collections of dishwashers, and we find the lower-end models to be the best bang for the buck. You get a quiet dishwasher that does what it should. The middle and upper models have more and better features, but are they worth double the price? We find it disappointing that only the highest model, 3x the price of the lowest model, comes with a third rack. Whichever style you choose, however, the LG dishwashers tend to function well and can have an extended warranty at a fantastic price just to keep your mind at ease.

Samsung Review 3.5 Star Rating

Samsung

3.5 Star Rating
  • Priced from $399 to $799
  • Personalized wash time depending on what's in the load
  • Fast drying time
  • Stainless steel wash tubs
  • 60-minute cycles
  • ADA Compliant options

Did you know that "Samsung” in Korean means three stars? Three represents plenty and strong, and the word star is used because it's bright, and shines eternally. The company began in 1969, and gained global recognition less than 10 years later with their black and white TVs and semiconductors. The 1980s were filled with Samsung's research in global technology. Fast forward to the digital age: their innovative products and cutting-edge technology led to competitive products, and continue to do so today. Samsung's dishwashers will include technology that you probably won't find anywhere else, and that's a huge draw with consumers.

Lickety split from start to finish, even on their most economical model

If you don't want to spend a lot of money but want a good dishwasher that finishes a load lightning fast, try the $399 Samsung. You can finish the wash and dry cycles in an hour, so if you're having guests over or need to wash/dry/unload quickly for the next load that's waiting, Samsung can help. The top rack has an adjustable height for larger cookware below. Even this model is Energy Star Certified and it has smart capabilities. This dishwasher is nice and quiet, almost as low as a quiet conversation.

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Spend $100 more and add nice features

Spend only $100 more and you'll move up in features. Your Samsung dishwasher will be a bit more quiet, you'll get the third rack on top, and you'll have an auto-release door that opens when the cycle is done, giving you 20% better drying performance.

Samsung won't break your budget

Even if you get the highest-cost Samsung model, it's nowhere near the price of the most expensive dishwashers with other brands. You can get a top-of-the-line Samsung dishwasher for $799, where other brands may only start that low. What you'll get here, in addition to the features on other models, is a 42-decibel noise level, which is softer than a conversation and Samsung's StormWash, which cleans at every angle, covering 150% more space. And you can also get your Samsung dishwasher in stainless, black, white glass, or blue. (Wow!)

ADA Compliant

There are two Samsung dishwasher models that are ADA compliant, allowing all members of your household access to doing dishes with a Samsung in the home.

1-year warranty

You'll receive the industry standard of a one-year warranty on your Samsung dishwasher.

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Customers are happy, or so they say

Those who have bought Samsung dishwashers are quite happy with them, honoring them with an overall 4.6 out of 5 stars across major retailers. However, a third-party company that tests appliances rates Samsung below that of any other brand that we have reviewed; they have predicted it low in reliability and their customer satisfaction research has a low score. The consumer reviewers who have complained have often said that they've gotten a lemon, indicating that the unit leaked or that the components didn't feel sturdy.

We like Samsung price and features, but aren't convinced about reliability

Samsung offers dishwashers at an economical price. Although third-party testers have rated Samsung's reliability as low, it seems that with customers, either you get a lemon or you don't, and most seem not to. Samsung's dishwashers are reasonably priced, even at the upper end, and each includes good features for the price point. All of that combines to earn Samsung a respectable score among dishwasher brands.

GE Review 3.5 Star Rating

GE

3.5 Star Rating
  • GE collection: $414 - $809
  • Profile collection: $744 - $1,549
  • Café collection: $844 - $1,709
  • Monogram Statement collection: $2,000 - $2,400
  • Made in the USA
  • Optional ADA Compliant styles
  • Steel-bladed food disposer in every dishwasher
  • Sanitizing wash options at every level

In 1953, GE Appliances sent out its first appliance, a dryer, from Louisville, KY. And so, for the past 70 years, Louisville has been the biggest manufacturing site, research center, and innovation hub that still influences American family life at home. There are now nine plants with nationwide distribution networks. GE brags that one can find a GE appliance in half of American homes, as they've manufactured more than 240 million appliances. GE invented the self-clean oven and launched the washer/dryer combination. They continue to create and modify their products to meet the consumers' needs.

Entry-level dishwashers: GE collection

Even in this basic collection, you get multiple cycle options, a sanitizing wash where steam releases hard debris, and a steel-blade hard-food disposer. It holds up to 14 place settings, which isn't always seen on the lower models. And the hard-food disposer is a fantastic, yet rare, feature on any model, let alone a basic model.

Mid-tier: GE Profile collection

In GE's Profile collection, you'll have all of the features above, plus a third rack with a removable silverware caddy, four bottle wash jets, powerful jets aimed at silverware, sensors to improve your wash and dry cycles, antimicrobial technology, and SmartHQ, where you can use the app to control and monitor your customized cycles. You'll also have room for 16 place settings, rather than the 14 the GE collection offers. The notification bar displays different colors to inform you of the status of the various cycles. These GE dishwashers are also Energy Star Certified and run at 44 decibels, six decibels under that of a quiet conversation.

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Higher-end: Cafe collection

GE's Cafe collection has a distinct, elegant handle, which noticeably sets it apart from an "ordinary” dishwasher appliance or brand, and this handle has customizable hardware. The Cafe's third rack has a removable basket to keep certain utensils together and apart from others. The middle rack is adjustable in height, so you can coordinate the heights of the top and middle together to best fit your glasses, stemware, and also the deeper ramekins or utensils on the top. The middle and bottom racks have fold-down tines to support thinner plates or to handle larger bowls or cookware. GE lets you save your favorite wash and dry settings. There's a presoak setting to loosen hard debris, and they're GE's quietest dishwashers at 42 decibels, softer than a quiet conversation.

Top-tier series: Monogram Statement collection

You'll get a touch of elegance on the exterior of this GE dishwasher with the polished stainless steel and hand-finished edges of the door. Add another upscale touch with an interior light. Not only is it a step above the rest, this light lets you see at a glance if you missed a dish or confirm that the back glassware is clean and sparkly.

Microban technology

The Microban feature reduces microbial growth, and third-party labs have indicated it works as it says.

ADA Compliant

The GE collection and Profile collection have options for ADA Compliant dishwashers. Many brands don't carry ADA Compliant dishwashers, so it's worth the while to look at GE's selection.

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Actual dishwasher drawers

There's a style of dishwasher that GE offers that uses the drawer concept rather than the one door that pulls down to reveal two or three pull-out racks. You can choose to run a cycle in one drawer or run both at the same time if you have more dishes.

One-year warranty

The industry standard of a one-year warranty on parts and labor is included with all GE dishwashers.

They're beautiful, but reliability should be better

Customers love the GE door design as well as the interior, but if an appliance doesn't work, it's a pretty expensive home decor piece. Customers find problems with the water line, that the plastic tub can have mold, and GE dishwashers seem to require repair either during the first year, in the next couple of years after that, or both. About half of GE customers are quite pleased with their dishwashers, while the other half are tired of having an appliance that doesn't wash their dishes. Even repairs under warranty can be quite costly, as well (and we're not sure why that is).

Good features but we wish they worked better

We love that each GE collection can come with a sanitizer and a food disposer, and the loudest models aren't really that loud. We are thrilled that GE offers ADA compliant models, plural, and that there are GE models with drawers rather than the single door with racks, and for these reasons our rating is boosted. But when there are this many complaints that the product breaks down, especially relatively soon after the warranty expires, we can't rank GE dishwashers more highly.

KitchenAid Review 3 Star Rating

KitchenAid

3 Star Rating
  • Priced from $739 to $1,934
  • 100+ years of KitchenAid appliances
  • Can remove small particles during the wash and rinse cycles
  • Only a few models, keeping it simple
  • Spend less and get the quietest model
  • No smart features

In 1919, the famous KitchenAid stand mixer was revealed, with its attachments to do almost any kitchen task. Thirty years later came the in-home dishwasher, the first to offer a pressurized water system, and they came in pink and white. KitchenAid's first refrigerator rolled off the conveyor belt in 1986, and seven years later, more small appliances appeared on the market, including blenders, hand mixers, and food processors, allowing the home chefs to challenge themselves and impress others. On KitchenAid's 100th birthday, in 2019, they celebrated by offering their Passion Red Collection.

No groupings of dishwasher styles

KitchenAid's dishwashers aren't grouped into series or collections; they just sell different models. The easiest way to navigate the site is to select the features you like and appropriate models will appear for you to peruse. Below, we'll help you navigate through some KitchenAid models and features.

The least expensive model

Even the least-expensive KitchenAid dishwasher model includes quite nice features. It's called the 39 dBA Dishwasher in PrintShield Finish with Third Level Utensil Rack, model number KDTE204KPS. At 39 decibels, the sound you'll hear while your KitchenAid is running is in between a quiet office and a quiet conversation. You'll get a third-level utensil rack and adjustable middle rack, along with a ProWash Cycle and PrintShield Finish on the door's exterior. Your color choices are white, black, and stainless with PrintShield.

Best Dishwashers

The most expensive model

The $1,934 model is KitchenAid's 44dBA Dishwasher with FreeFlex Third Rack and LED Interior Lighting, model number KDPM804KBS. And, well, that's exactly what it has: an adjustable third rack and interior LED lighting so you can not only easily find any dishware in the back, but you can see from a distance if they're impeccably clean. This KitchenAid also has the Advanced Clean Water Wash System, even though it's not mentioned in the model's name; this KitchenAid system continuously removes particles during the wash and rinse cycles. The fan-enabled ProDry System uses a fan as well as a heater to dry dishes more efficiently. The interior LED light is very nice, but the lower model at 39 decibels is a bit more quiet than this 44 decibel model. That said, 44 decibels is still pretty quiet.

Very quiet

Even the least expensive of the KitchenAid models is super quiet, at 39 decibels. 50 decibels is the sound level of a quiet conversation, and 30 decibels is that of a whisper or a quiet office. Your 39-decibel KitchenAid dishwasher should be pretty quiet.

No smart features

If you'd like to control and monitor your dishwasher remotely via an app, you won't find that option with KitchenAid. None of their models offer it, even the one that costs almost $2,000. If you don't need smart features, well, you won't get them with KitchenAid, but at least you won't be paying for features you won't use.

One-year, limited warranty

KitchenAid dishwashers are warrantied for one year from the date of delivery, and parts and labor are covered.

Best Dishwashers

Third-party researchers rate them highly, customers are fairly happy

The product research indicates that KitchenAid dishwashers have great features and are rated highly. But, some customers have found issues with a burning smell, water leaks, and more. Although there are more happy customers than disappointed ones, the disappointed ones are most unhappy with the customer service department. KitchenAid's customer service department is slow to reply and slow to get someone to come out. Quite a few said it seemed that KitchenAid didn't seem to go above and beyond, and in some cases, even care.

Keep it simple works here

There are only a few models of KitchenAid dishwashers, which we liked for simplicity. Don't spend a lot and you can get the quietest dishwasher that even includes a third rack. Spend double that amount and you can get a few more features including the interior LED light, but your appliance will run a bit louder. And you won't get the smart feature, but that's fewer electronic doodads that could go wrong with a product. In the end, for what it offers, our KitchenAid fave is the cheapest model. We have other highly-recommended brands that offer many more advanced features for about the same price point of KitchenAid's higher, lesser-equipped models.

We like their models, customer service concerns us

There are KitchenAid models that wash and dry well and are also quiet, and these are the middle-level machines. However, unhappy customers are less than pleased with KitchenAid's customer service department which can add salt to the wound. KitchenAid's dishwashers come in with a "just okay” rating.

Frigidaire Review 3 Star Rating

Frigidaire

3 Star Rating
  • Frigidaire: $328 -$899
  • Gallery: $498- $698
  • Professional: $898
  • A household name for over 100 years
  • Dry without heat for energy savings
  • Optional third rack
  • 1-year warranty on parts and labor

In 1918, W.C. Durant purchased the company that made the first self-contained refrigerator, calling it Frigidaire, and the company at the time was General Motors. Eleven years later they created the chest-style freezer that they named the Ice Cream Cabinet. Soon after was the room air conditioner, and later added more appliances to their repertoire. From 1919 to 1979, Frigidaire was owned by General Motors, and then in 1986 it was purchased by its European parent company, Electrolux.

The Frigidaire Collection

The company's basic series of dishwasher models are simply referred to as Frigidaire. They use a 5-level washing system which features an upper, middle, and lower spray arm. You can fit up to 12 place settings, which isn't the largest capacity out there. You can use the Energy Saver Dry Option, which can dry without using heat. This Frigidaire series isn't Energy Star Certified, so you may end up using more energy than you want unless you choose the no-heat drying option. This Frigidaire series' sound level can also be up to 62 decibels, which is louder than a quiet conversation, and has a greater sound level than the average dishwasher at 52 decibels. The higher you go within this Frigidaire series, you can get a sanitizing option, advanced drying system, an Energy Star Certification, and a filtration system. There are eleven models to choose from in this series, which may be overwhelming. This collection isn't our favorite.

The Gallery Collection

There are only five Frigidaire models to choose from here, which makes it more manageable. The Gallery dishwasher series offers features intended to make dishwashing even faster and more convenient. The higher Frigidaire models in this series offer the DishSense Sensor which adjusts the washing cycles based on the current soil level while the OrbitClean system makes heavy loads come clean; after washing, the MaxBoost Dry offers superior drying.

Best Dishwashers

The Professional

There's one dishwasher in the Frigidaire Professional line, and it has a sleek design. There are foldable racks for oddly-shaped and oversized dishes to fit in easily. The third rack allows for more utensils. This Frigidaire model is Energy Star Certified and can save both water and energy as it uses 15% less water in each wash load. It's also quieter at 47 decibels, which is about the sound level of a quiet conversation, so they offer a light that shines on the floor to let you know if the dishwasher is running. This is our favorite in the Frigidaire line.

All models can save energy

The Energy Saver Dry Option on your Frigidaire dishwasher allows you to dry your dishes without using heat, thus saving some money on your power bill.

Some models offer a third rack

Frigidaire's third rack option is nice for oddly-shaped or long-handled utensils, dainty shrimp forks or sugar spoons, and other sleek items that might get lost or not fit well on other racks.

No fingerprint worries

If you choose the stainless steel front on your new Frigidaire dishwasher, they come with finger-print resistant stainless, so you don't have to worry about continuously wiping it down or worrying about it if company stops over.

Best Dishwashers

Short warranty

There's a one-year warranty on parts and labor. This applies to all Frigidaire dishwashers, regardless of the series.

Customers like them, for the most part

Many love how well their Frigidaire dishwasher cleans their dishes, some mentioning that they appreciate the large capacity. The drying cycle is their complaint, saying they end up hand drying some of the dishes because they remain pretty wet. There are a few complaints about the racks, saying they're either weak, have oddly-placed tines, or they can't fit their dishes the way they'd like. Frigidaire's reply to wet dishes is that due to Energy Star standards, you need to make sure your water is at least 120 degrees, try the Hi-Temp Wash, and you should use a rinse aid, especially if the dishwasher seems to underperform. Other complaints were across the board, from having to do a complete trouble-shooting on their own, having racks and doors that rust quickly, and many cases where the dishwasher breaks down. Of course, many of Frigidaire's issues happen right after the first year when the warranty is done, so repairs can cost half the price of a new machine out of pocket.

Too risky

We like the optional DishSense sensor, the OrbitClean system, the MaxBoost Dry, and the air-dry features. However, Frigidaire's lower models aren't Energy Star Certified, and even the quietest, Professional model, isn't softer than a quiet conversation. The biggest issue for us is our lack of confidence in the Frigidaire dishwasher to work well without breaking down, especially in the second year when customers still consider their machine to be newer. Customer satisfaction keeps our rating lower for Frigidaire's dishwashers.

Whirlpool Review 2 Star Rating

Whirlpool

2 Star Rating
  • Priced from $399 to $1,061
  • US-based company for more than 100 years
  • Lesser-priced options, ideal for a rental unit
  • Optional 1-hour wash cycle
  • Optional high-heat setting

In 1908, Lou Upton got the patent for a ringer washer and decided to figure out how to electrify it, and he did. In 1916, Upton joined Sears for a century-long partnership. Whirlpool created the first space kitchen in the 1960s. In 1986, 29,000 Whirlpools were sold every day. The 1990s were dedicated to worldwide expansion and in 2003, they were the first company to create a global greenhouse gas reductions target. When Whirlpool combined with Maytag in 2006, Whirlpool became the largest global appliance maker in the world. Recently, Whirlpool committed to net-zero energy emissions by 2030.

With the lower-end model, you get what you pay for

If you're looking for a budget dishwasher, Whirlpool's $399 Quiet Dishwasher with Boost Cycle is your choice. It's still pretty loud at 57 decibels, meaning that your dishwasher's run cycle may compete with your nearby conversation. We haven't seen a dishwasher this noisy in a while. This Whirlpool model has your basic cycles and a quick wash, and can even come in a creamy, biscuit color if you're trying to match older appliances.

It's worth it to spend more money

A middle-priced Whirlpool dishwasher is the Heavy-Duty Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash Cycle for $849. You'll get advanced features like a 1-hour wash cycle, a soil sensor to give you a personalized wash, and there's a high-temperature wash option to deep clean with hotter water.

The highest-priced model has the best features

When you spend over $1,000, you'll have a Whirlpool model with a third rack containing a silverware tray, an adjustable second rack, and a triple wash spray for more washing coverage.

Best Dishwashers

Shopping is a little confusing

Oftentimes, dishwasher brands will have collections or series to group models with similar features, making shopping easier. If they don't have collections, there are usually only a few models to choose from, so collections aren't necessary. Whirlpool has 22 models to choose from and no collections to organize them, which we find overwhelming to the average appliance shopper. When you shop for Whirlpools online, it's best to click on a feature you like and go from there.

Customers aren't happy

Customers who complain say their Whirlpool dishwasher feels cheap with wobbly racks coming off track and filters that are challenging to replace correctly. Whirlpool is one of the few brands that still has a heating coil at the bottom of the tub that can burn fallen plastics. Trustpilot gives the Whirlpool Corporation 1 out of 5 stars for their quantity of breakdowns and poor customer service.

Whirlpool doesn't cut it for us

The lack of organization and grouping dishwasher models is overwhelming when shopping. The cheapest model is just that - cheap - and you can find inexpensive models with better features in other brands. You'll have to spend more than a grand on your Whirlpool to get the third rack/adjustable second rack/triple wash spray, and yet there are still more features we'd like included if we're going to throw down that much money; how about an adjustable third rack and smart options, to name only two. Despite its longevity in the appliance industry, Whirlpool doesn't make dishwashers that compete with the other brands on our list.

Compare the Best Reviews

Continued from above...

Now that you're shopping around, did you know there are four styles of dishwashers? There are built-in, countertop, portable, and drawer models. Drawers literally pop out as a drawer and you load the dishes in a single rack, then slide the drawer back in. Countertop models sit on your counter like a small appliance - they don't hold many dishes, and are common in Europe.

Portable dishwashers are just that: they're on wheels and you can move them out of the way when not in use. Built-ins, installed under the kitchen counter, are the most common. Since most kitchens are designed for built-ins, our research centered around this type of model.

Here are several criteria to keep in mind as you shop for your new dishwasher:

  • Average price range. You can spend anywhere from $300 to $2,000, depending on the brand and the features you desire. The less expensive models may require more rinsing on your part and they may also be on the noisy side. Higher-end models often clean better, have smart capabilities, and have an interior LED light so you can find any dishes or glasses left at the back of your appliance's rack.
  • Installation. Be sure to ask if there's an installation fee, which can be around $200 depending on the retailer. Usually, your new dishwasher will require new hoses, and that can cost around $50, so be sure to inquire and order them so you have all your parts when your new dishwasher arrives.
  • Removal. If you already have a dishwasher, check to see if your retailer will remove the old dishwasher and at what cost.
  • Finishes, handles, and control panel visibility. Dishwashers, like most major home appliances, will be offered in white, black, stainless, and fingerprint-free stainless. Most brands will offer a plain front panel option so you can add your own cabinetry panel - your dishwasher appliance will now blend in with your kitchen. Decide if you want a pocket handle for a flat-front look, or get a bar handle which might coordinate well with your other appliances.
  • Noise. Most of us don't want the running dishwasher's noise to compete with nearby conversations, distract us from our reading, or hinder our attention to our devices. At the "loudest,” you should find most dishwashers at about 50 decibels, which is equivalent to a quiet conversation. 44 decibels is considered whisper soft, and most brands will offer this quieter, whisper option on their higher-priced models.
  • Folding tines. If you have large serving dishes or pots and pans, consider folding tines. These tines can fold to be up or flat. Flat allows for large serveware, and raised up they will support thinner-material dishware that you don't want to fall and break.
  • Third rack. The upper, third rack is becoming quite popular. You can remove your regular silverware basket and only use the 3rd rack, if you like, to create more room in your lower basket. You can also place long serving or cooking utensils on the 3rd rack if they're too tall for the bottom rack. Have you ever lost a tiny appetizer fork or spoon in the basket? Place it on the third rack and not only will you see it, it won't slip out.
  • Detergent. It's something you might not think about, but the right detergent can be important. Even the best brands can have poor performance if you don't give it the right detergent, due to no fault of the appliance. One brand on the market requires its own detergent pods and the dishwasher will determine load by load how much is needed and disperse the correct amount.
  • Rinse aid. If you've avoided rinse aids in the past, you should reconsider. If your new dishwasher ends up not drying well or leaving spots, no matter if you have soft water, it may be due to not using a rinse aid. If you complain to the manufacturer about your appliance not drying well, the first thing they'll ask is if you're using a rinse aid, and to call them back once you do. Dishwashers nowadays are designed to perform well with rinse aids as a standard practice.
  • Available space. Be sure to measure your space. Standard dishwashers are 24” wide, while narrow, apartment-sized dishwashers are 18”.

To help you with your dishwasher purchasing decision, Top Consumer Reviews has reviewed the top dishwasher brands available today. If you're tired of pre-washing your dishes, continually rearranging them due to poor rack and tine design, dealing with insufficient drying, or having to rewash dishes because of stuck-on leftover food, it might be time for a new dishwasher. Upgrading the features can save you time from doing the extra prep and hand-drying work, allowing you to relax and enjoy your favorite activities while your new, quiet dishwasher does all the work.

The Best Dishwashers Compare Dishwashers Compare Dishwasher Reviews What are the best Dishwashers Best Dishwasher Reviews

Dishwasher FAQ

Most homes have the space for a 24” dishwasher. Dishwashers come in 18”, a shorter below-counter model, or a countertop model, but they are quite rare in the US. The most standard color front panel these days is still stainless steel. Stainless looks nice and can blend nicely with other stainless appliances, regardless if your dishwasher is a different brand than your other appliances. Another common door is fingerprint-resistant stainless. It can be a slightly different sheen than traditional stainless, but is much easier to keep clean.
Dishwashers can run from $250 to $2,000. Your cost will vary, based on the brand, size, and features you select. Installation is another factor to consider with dishwashers. With big box stores, the install fee seems to be between $150 and $300, and includes the parts for the installation kit. It's wise to get a professional plumber's help with water hookup as you could pay dearly in flooring costs if there were a leak due to human error.
Entry-level machines may have an outdated front panel, may run loudly which could compete with the noise level of your conversations, have a limited number of tines to hold dishes in place, and a plastic tub which can rust more easily and radiate the noise from the sprayers. The higher-end dishwashers may offer interior lighting to see way back in the machine so you don't miss unloading any dishes, a smart feature so you can monitor and control the appliance from a distance or order detergent on a regular basis. They can feature more than 100 spray jets, jets that focus on specific glassware or specific pots and pans for a super clean load. They can feature grinding of leftover food so as not to clog your drain, soft water for a spotless finish even on plastic containers, and sprayers that change direction to get to every nook and cranny. These models may cost more, but the options may seem endless, and can have quite good user reviews.
Some brands have had complaints that their model can break within months. On the other hand, some can last more than ten years. Check the warranty of the brand you think you'll purchase. Most offer a one-year limited warranty with an extended warranty on some of the parts, up to usually five years. It's possible that your appliance has a ten-year warranty on some of the parts, so be sure to read our reviews for those details and also check for even more details from the manufacturer.
Most dishwashers will fit 14 place settings, which includes dishes, glasses, and silverware. Some dishwashers can hold 15 or 16 place settings, which is great for a large family or for parties so you're not waiting for one load to finish before you wash the rest of the place settings. Having a third rack and eliminating the silverware basket will add room to the bottom rack for more dishes or cookware.
The newer feature that's becoming more standard in dishwashers is the third rack. It's a shallow, top rack that fits silverware so you don't have to use the silverware basket. Or, keep your silverware basket and use the 3rd rack for long utensils like tongs, small plastic lids that might otherwise fit between the tines, small appetizer utensils that are hard to dig out of the silverware basket, or steak knives that might otherwise poke your hands if you wash them pointy-end up. Also, adjustable racks throughout the dishwasher make it easy to accommodate stemware, cooking pots, water bottles and more.
Some dishwashers can be barely audible, at below 40 decibels. These dishwashers usually include a smart feature so you can monitor and control the cycles from your smart device since you may not even hear the appliance at all. If your dishwasher has a 44 decibel rating or lower, it is considered by the industry to be a quiet dishwasher, so check for that. But, other dishwashers can be noisy and compete for your attention whether you're in a conversation, trying to watch your movie at a reasonable volume, or reading. The more inexpensive models may be at 50 decibels or higher, and we suggest avoiding those if you have an open-concept house where you for sure could hear the wash and rinse cycles.
Depending on the store you choose, delivery fees will vary. Our research finds that if you live within a reasonable distance from the store, the delivery could be free if the dishwasher costs $400 or higher. Since a majority of the dishwashers cost above $400, you can hope for free delivery. If your dishwasher is less than $400, you could pay $100 for delivery, so rather than spend your money on delivery, add the $100 or so to the price of the dishwasher to get more and better features plus free delivery.
The Best Reviews of Dishwashers