Best dishwashers 2024: for superior cleaning, energy efficiency, and quiet operation, chosen by experts

The best dishwasher is a great investment when cleaning up after meals, but choosing the right one can be overwhelming because there are so many types. 

Families will love full-size portable or built-in dishwashers, while smaller households with limited space will love the best countertop dishwashers. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best dishwashers, including nine top-rated models with different specs. If you already have Samsung or LG appliances, some even come with smart features that can integrate with your connected home. 

While we haven't personally tested every model on our list, we narrowed down our selection based on the number of cycle settings, place settings, interior space, smart connectivity, and overall appearance each appliance has. Check out our shortlist and find the perfect dishwasher.

The quick list

Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.

The best dishwashers we recommend in 2024

Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.

While we haven't been able to test any of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.

The best dishwasher overall

As a top-quality dishwasher, the Samsung DW80R9950US excels in performance and design. With its near-silent operation and large capacity, it's a perfect addition to any home.

With its sleek built-in design, the dishwasher blends seamlessly with your kitchen cabinets and other appliances, saving you a lot of space. There are lots of colors to choose from, including stainless steel, black stainless steel, navy steel, and Tuscan steel.

In terms of features, the Samsung DW80R9950US stands out for its quiet operation. This makes it ideal for creating a noise-free environment, whether you're entertaining guests or just relaxing at home. When the wash cycle's done, SmartThings sends you notifications.

There's an adjustable third rack so you can fit more stuff when needed. A sliding arm spray bar effectively targets hard-to-reach areas and heavily soiled pans.

The AutoRelease door automatically opens at the end of the cycle, accelerating the drying process while improving air circulation to prevent unpleasant odors.

This model gets great reviews on BestBuy, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5. Users liked how quiet it was, with one user mentioning they couldn't hear it running unless they were right next to it. Cleaners also loved how easy it was to clean.

Despite its built-in design, the dishwasher's AutoRelease door gets mixed reviews, with some users saying it doesn't dry dishes quickly enough.

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The best cheap dishwasher

The Whirlpool WDF520PADM dishwasher promises great performance, especially considering its budget-friendly price. It's not the biggest dishwasher on the market, but it gets the job done, making it a good option for small families or couples.

In addition to its Energy Star certification, this appliance promises to save you money on utilities since it reduces water and energy use. Despite its affordability, the dishwasher comes with the AccuSense sensor, a clever feature that adapts the cycle based on how dirty your dishes are, potentially saving you money and time.

Despite lacking smart features and having only four cycles, the Whirlpool WDF520PADM dishwasher does a great job cleaning. The triple filtration system eliminates the need to pre-rinse, and you can choose between two drying modes.

The dishwasher has garnered a respectable score of 4.4 out of 5 from users on BestBuy, with many praising its 1-hour wash cycle for getting clean dishes in less time.

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The best premium dishwasher

Even though it's a bit of a splurge, the LG Signature dishwasher has high-end features that make it worth the investment.

With its Wi-Fi compatibility, you can program it remotely and track progress through Google Assistant and Alexa. You can run it overnight without worrying about noise since it operates at just 38 dBA. Its Energy Star certification and eco-friendly half-wash option save energy, water, and money.

With TrueSteam and QuadWash, you don't have to pre-rinse to get a pristine finish. Dual Zones make it great for deep cleaning, and the 15-place setting and third rack make it easy to fit a wide variety of loads.

Based on user reviews on LG's website, the LG Signature dishwasher gets an impressive 4.2 out of 5 stars. The TrueSteam cleaning feature is particularly popular, and customers love the quietness and style. However, there were some negative reviews about greasy dishes and touch sensor controls.

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The best dishwasher for small spaces

With its sophisticated technology for quiet operation, performance, and impressive flexibility, the Bosch SPE53C56UC 300 Series 18" Front Control Smart Built-In Dishwasher is a good choice for anyone with specific height requirements. In addition to a water softener, it has a third rack, which adds versatility and capacity.

Thanks to the 24-hour Delay Start Timer, it's convenient to use during off-peak times. The front control panel clearly shows cycle times and options. With 46 dBA and 18 sound-reducing technologies, this dishwasher will keep your kitchen quiet.

With a large interior that accommodates 10 place settings and a 3rd rack for additional space, the Bosch SPE53C56UC provides plenty of space. The wash cycles include Heavy, Auto, Normal, Rinse, and Favorite, and there are six options: Delay Start, Remote Start, Delicate, Sanitize, Extra Dry, and Machine Care.

A stainless steel tub looks sleek, but it's also durable and long-lasting. The dishwasher's smart technology sets it apart, allowing you to monitor and control it remotely with the Home Connect app. A PrecisionWash system, intelligent sensors, and RackMatic system round out the package. 

Its 18" width makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or as a supplemental dishwasher for larger households.

The quietest dishwasher

With a noise level of 39 dBA, this KitchenAid Dishwasher is perfect for entertaining guests in open-concept kitchens or even during meals. As a result of sensors, the ProWash Cycle makes sure tough messes are effectively cleaned, even if the water temperature and time aren't right. You can also use the Heat Dry Option to make sure the dishes are dry and ready to go right away.

The third-level utensil rack holds a lot more silverware, serving utensils, and spatulas. The adjustable middle rack can also hold taller items, like a stand mixer bowl or bigger dishes. The interior looks sleek and resists streaks, stains, and odors, so it dries faster.

Some customers are worried about the drying performance, installation issues, and the length of the normal wash cycle.

The SatinGlide Rails in the third and middle racks make loading and unloading a breeze, making this dishwasher even more convenient. With the Express Wash Cycle, you'll always have clean dishes when you need them, especially when you're cooking meals.

The best dishwasher with hard food disposer

One of the best dishwashers on our list comes with a disposer for hard food, so cleaning up is easy. In addition to the Dry Boost technology, it promises to dry hard-to-dry items like plastics 3x faster than traditional heated drying.

Steam + Sani is also a time-saver because it loosens tough soils before the wash cycle starts, so you don't have to rinse or soak beforehand. With AutoSense Wash Cycle, you can clean thoroughly while saving energy. It detects soil level and dishes, so the wash settings are adjusted accordingly.

The upper rack easily holds dishes of different sizes, and the dishwasher has 14 places, which is great for after-party parties. In addition to looking pretty with its American Gray finish, the dishwasher's plastic interior is durable and long-lasting.

This dishwasher's Active Flood Protect feature is awesome from a practical standpoint. It keeps you safe by preventing overflows. It also has a water leak sensor that cancels the wash cycle before it gets bad. It's ENERGY STAR certified, so it saves energy without sacrificing features or functionality.

Some users have raised concerns about the drying performance, door quality, and potential leaks despite the dishwasher's overall performance.

The best portable dishwasher

The GE GPT225SSLSS 24" Portable Dishwasher has 12 place settings and three wash cycles, including an auto-sense cycle that adjusts the cycle time based on soil levels and water temperature. With its 3,600 rpm stainless steel blade that pulverizes food particles, the Piranha hard food disposer consistently gets things clean.

The sanitizer option, certified by NSF, reduces 999.999% of bacteria on dishes with a high-temperature rinse, giving you peace of mind.

One of the standout features of this dishwasher is its quiet operation, which is barely noticeable when it's running. It also has a 3-level wash system that ensures the dishes come out sparkling clean and ready to use. The appliance is easy to operate and maintain, too.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users are worried about the drying capabilities and the length of the water hose, which may not work for all installation setups. The compact size is great for portability but can be limited for larger items. Some users have also reported issues with the durability of the soap dispenser door.

The best dual-drawer dishwasher

If you're looking for a dishwasher that matches your style and offers customizable options, check out the Cafe Customizable Professional Collection. With this collection, you can get your dishwasher in matte black, matte white, or stainless steel finishes, along with six different handles and knobs.

You can make it your own by choosing from brushed bronze, brushed black, brushed copper, brushed stainless, brushed brass, or flat black hardware.

The dishwasher has two drawers to wash items separately, such as heirloom place settings or casserole dishes.

Besides its customizable appearance, this dishwasher has practical features like a small load setting, knock-to-pause, and water leak sensor, so you're not concerned about water leaks. The small load setting can be used for partial loads, and the eco-cycle saves water and energy.

This dishwasher has two removable silverware baskets and 14 place settings, perfect for large loads of dishes. It has six wash cycles, including fast drying, sanitizing, and ultra drying.

Also, with adjustable racks and a delay start function, you can set it to start when convenient. You can install it in a standard 24-inch cutout, and it's quiet at 46 dBA for a single drawer and 49 dBA for a double drawer, so your kitchen is quiet.

A popular choice among users looking for a stylish and practical dishwasher, customers rave about its quiet operation and visually appealing design.

The best countertop dishwasher

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The HAVA countertop dishwasher offers a compact design and ease of use, even if its limited capacity and relatively high price may not be affordable for everyone. You can monitor how the machine is doing with a transparent front panel and touch-screen control panel. It's about 17 inches tall, so it won't fit under wall cabinets, and it weighs 33 pounds and is hard to move.

In addition to inlet and drain hoses, the dishwasher has a storage rack, cutlery basket, fruit basket, water pitcher, and informational materials. It has five wash cycles, and a dry mode setting dries dishes in 60 minutes. The speed mode is great since it only takes 29 minutes to wash dishes. However, the baby care function takes longer because of the higher temperature.

Despite being relatively easy to set up, it may take two people to lift the dishwasher onto the countertop. While the dishwasher runs quietly at 50dB, it's recommended that solid food be rinsed off before loading it.

Following the loading diagram resulted in dishes being placed too close together, resulting in a less effective wash. During the 29-minute speed mode, dishes were effectively cleaned. A fruit mode washed hard fruit and vegetables in cold water for 19 minutes, but hand washing might be faster.

Overall, customers love the dishwasher's quality, value, and performance. It has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, with customers praising its effectiveness and size. However, some users have reported leaks.

Read more: HAVA Countertop Dishwasher review

The best panel-ready dishwasher

It's easy to customize the Frigidaire 24" Top Control Built-in Panel Ready Dishwasher to match your cabinets with a separately sold custom panel. With the BladeSpray Arm, this dishwasher ensures complete water coverage, so dishes, pans, and utensils are cleaned from all angles. With three levels, loading and unloading is easy, and EvenDry guarantees dry dishes the first time.

With the panel-ready design, you can install a custom front panel and handle to integrate seamlessly with your kitchen cabinetry. Unlike traditional spray arms, BladeSpray's rotating mechanism ensures thorough cleaning by reaching every nook and cranny. A third-level rack maximizes space, and you can also store silverware, cooking utensils, and tools.

Using fan-assisted technology, EvenDry circulates air evenly and removes moisture, leaving dishes spotless. DishSense's sensor technology eliminates pre-rinsing by adjusting cleaning performance based on the dishes' dirtiness. In addition, the NSF-certified sanitizer option eliminates 99.9% of common household bacteria.

The adjustable upper-level rack further enhances the dishwasher's versatility, cleaning even the biggest dishes and bakeware while maximizing the bottom rack's space. With a low 49 dBA, this dishwasher keeps the house quiet even during operation, so it's perfect for any time.

Additionally, this dishwasher is ENERGY STAR certified so that you can save energy and money.

How to choose the best dishwasher for you

When deciding how to choose a dishwasher for your home, there are several key elements to consider.

Dimensions and capacity: Measure the width, depth, and height of the area where you want to install the dishwasher before you look for it. Standard under-counter dishwashers are typically 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 36 inches tall. You can find compact dishwashers or custom models if you need them. Standard dishwashers can fit up to 14 place settings, good for three people, while compact models fit six to eight.

Energy usage: Look for an EnergyGuide label on the best dishwasher. Modern dishwashers are much more water—and energy-efficient than their predecessors. You can compare the dishwasher with similar models by looking at this label. Running an Energy Star dishwasher costs around $35, saving around 2870 gallons of water annually. Investing in a more efficient dishwasher may cost more, but it's worth it.

Sound level: Dishwashers can make noise while they're running. The average noise level of a dishwasher's cycle can be measured in decibels (dB). You might want to look for a quieter model in a small house with thin walls. Dishwashers typically run 45-59 decibels, with very quiet ones going 39-45 decibels. Ensure your dishwasher has a maximum sound level of 50 dB or less to avoid disturbing your family.

Rack number and design: A dishwasher's size determines its number of racks. Smaller ones may only have one rack, but most have two or three. There's usually a cutlery drawer and wine glass supports; some have removable racks.

Your dishwasher's racks and placement affect what can fit in it. If you cook in large pans or pots, ensure they fit and check how much effort it takes to fit them. The point of a dishwasher is to minimize or eliminate doing the dishes, so make sure everything fits.

Dishwashers come in different sizes, shapes, designs, colors, and finishes. If you'd like to integrate your dishwasher into your cabinets, you can get a matching false cabinet door. When looking for the right dishwasher, consider your vision for its placement and design preferences.

Cycles: Dishwashers offer a variety of cycles, including gentle, intense drying, draining, and rinsing. Some models have unique cycles, like Eco or auto sensors that adjust according to the dirty dishes. When choosing a dishwasher, consider the number of cycles, the duration of each cycle, and the delay function. Pick a dishwasher for your home based on your specific needs.

Additional features: Various unique features can be found in modern dishwashers. The specific features depend on the brand and model, but here are some examples:

• Anti-fingerprint coating on the outside
• Delay start cycle
• Internal dirtiness sensors
• Leak detection system
• Filtration system
• RinseAid function
• WiFi connection or app
• Gentle close door
• Multi-level wash system
• Multiple dry cycle options

Consider carefully what you need from a dishwasher and see if the model you prefer has any useful features that could help.

Price: The average dishwasher costs about $500, with many people choosing models between $300 and $500. Under-counter dishwashers can go for $200 to $2000. If you find one you like that's priced higher, wait for a sale or use a coupon to get a better deal. We recommend deciding on your budget beforehand and looking for a dishwasher within your price range.

Generally, dishwashers give you what you pay for, but do your research to ensure they're as good as the brand claims. Since a dishwasher's main function is cleaning, its performance should be the top priority.

Lucy Baxter

Lucy Baxter is the Bosch Group Marketing Manager at BSH Home Appliances. The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services, and its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology.

"A place setting includes all the utensils needed for one person in a typical three-course meal: one dinner plate, one dessert plate, one soup bowl, one glass, one teacup, and saucer, and cutlery," Lucy Baxter, Bosch Group Marketing Manager, told us.

"For families and those who frequently entertain, a full-sized 60cm model is ideal. On the other hand, smaller households or those with compact kitchens will find the slimmer 45cm width more suitable," she advised, highlighting the benefits of different sizes for specific user groups. 

"Freestanding dishwashers are easier to remove for repairs and can be taken with you if you move," Baxter continued. "On the other hand, integrated options are concealed behind a door panel to match the kitchen cabinetry, creating a sleek and streamlined look perfect for contemporary and modern kitchens."

"Dishwashers with brushless motors are a boon for those who value a peaceful home, as they are generally quieter than those with other motors," she said.

Gino Grossi

Gino Grossi is the Head of Brand and Category Marketing at Samsung Electronics. Samsung Electronics strives to deliver innovative products and experiences that maximize user convenience and improve consumer lives. 

Gino Grossi, Head of Brand and Category Marketing at Samsung, explained the distinction between freestanding and built-in dishwashers to Top Ten Reviews.

He said, "Freestanding models are straightforward to install, requiring only a water inlet, waste, and electricity to be connected. On the other hand, Built-in models are a bit more complex, as they necessitate a door to be attached to the front of the dishwasher, and there are two different hinge types, fixed or sliding."

"The energy labels also provide information on the energy consumption of the eco-program per 100 cycles in kilowatt hours (kWh), water consumption per cycle on the eco-program in liters, and the duration of the eco cycle in hours and minutes.

"Higher-end dishwashers can use as little as eight liters in comparison to lower-end models and even hand-washing that use significantly more," added Grossi, highlighting the environmental benefits of investing in a quality dishwasher.

"WiFi can also help look after your dishwasher and appliances through remote engineer assistance and prolong the life of your appliance with notifications and over-the-air updates," Grossi continued. "This ensures you're optimizing its performance and keeping it up to date."

"There are many options available for dishwashers on the market, and depending on your needs, narrowing down your options could prove challenging. In general, some key features in a high-quality dishwasher are energy efficiency, noise level, the number of programs, WiFi connectivity, and water usage." 

Dishwasher FAQs

How do dishwashers work?

Dishwashers make cleaning dishes, pots, pans, and utensils easy. The process starts with loading dishes into the dishwasher's racks, usually arranged to maximize space and make water accessible. The dishwasher combines water, detergent, and mechanical action to achieve optimal cleanliness. When you close the door and select the cleaning cycle, the dishwasher fills up with water.

The fill valve lets water flow into the basin, and detergent from a compartment mixes. When the water is filled, the dishwasher's heating element warms it to the right temperature, usually between 130°F and 170°F, so the detergent works better. After activating the spray arms, hot, soapy water spreads across the dishes thanks to their multiple nozzles.

As the cycle continues, the dishwasher drains the soiled water through a filter, catching food particles and debris to prevent clogs. The spray arms rotate and spray water under pressure, covering all surfaces of the items inside. Rinse is next, so clean water sprays to remove any detergent and residue left.

The dishwasher repeats this process several times, depending on your chosen wash cycle. Finally, it drains the rinse water and starts drying. When the cycle is finished, the dishwasher signals that it's done, and users can safely unload their clean, sanitized dishes. This may involve a heated drying system or a fan circulating air to evaporate moisture.

How much does it cost to install a dishwasher?

The cost of installing a dishwasher depends on several factors, such as the type, the complexity of the installation, and where you live. Professional installation usually costs between $100 and $500, not including the dishwasher. If you're buying a standard built-in dishwasher, you'll spend between $150 and $300 on installation.

This price range usually covers labor costs for a licensed plumber or appliance technician who handles the plumbing, electrical, and drainage connections. However, if you need to modify your existing plumbing or electrical system to fit the new appliance, you'll have to pay more for advanced models, like portables or high-end dishwashers.

A portable dishwasher that connects to your kitchen faucet may be cheaper to install, often $100 to $200, but you'll need additional accessories like hoses or adapters. Also, homeowners might have to pay extra for upgrades or modifications if there's no proper plumbing or electrical connection at the installation site.

Disposal fees can also add to the cost, typically $25 to $50. You should also consider the cost of the dishwasher itself, which can range from around $300 for basic models to over $1,500 for premium models with advanced features. If you're budgeting for installation, you should include the appliance cost and the labor, which usually ranges between $400 and $2,000, depending on your options.

Get quotes from multiple professionals to ensure you get a fair price.

How much does it cost to run a dishwasher?

Depending on the model and local electricity rates, a dishwasher costs between $0.14 and $0.30 per cycle.

If you run it four to five times a week, you'll spend about $3 to $6 on electricity each month. Modern dishwashers consume 11 to 13 liters (about 3 to 3.5 gallons) of water per cycle, so you'll spend about $35 to $72. Hand washing can take up to 40 gallons for the same amount of dishes.

This significant difference saves water and reduces the energy required to heat that water, making dishwashers a more sustainable choice. The dishwasher usually consumes 1 to 2 kWh per cycle. For example, if your dishwasher uses 1.5 kWh and your electricity rate is $0.12 per kWh, running each cycle will cost about $0.18.

It's also important to consider other dishwasher costs, like detergent and maintenance. Additionally, a cycle can last 1 to 4 hours, with the heating element consuming the most power.

How long do dishwashers last?

Dishwashers last 7 to 12 years, with an average lifespan of about 9.5 years across different brands and models. A dishwasher's life depends on many things, including its brand, model, frequency, and maintenance.

Brand and Model: Many brands are known for their durability and reliability. High-end models often have better materials and advanced features that make them last longer. Brands like Bosch and Miele are often praised for their longevity.

Maintenance: A dishwasher's life depends on regular maintenance. Cleaning the filter, running a vinegar cleaning cycle, and ensuring the spray arms are debris-free are simple ways to improve performance and longevity. You don't want food particles and mineral deposits to build up over time, which can cause wear and tear.

Usage: A dishwasher's lifespan is also affected by how often it's used. If you use it every day, it might wear out faster than if you only use it once or twice a week. In addition, the way dishes are loaded, and the stuff you wash can affect how efficient and durable it is.

A dishwasher generally lasts about 10 years but can last even longer with proper care and maintenance. If you want this kitchen appliance to last, keep it clean and use it wisely.

When is the best time to buy a dishwasher?

The best time to get a dishwasher deal is during holiday sales, the end of the season, right after a new model comes out, or during off-peak shopping periods.

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day all offer great deals on appliances, including dishwashers. It's ideal to find a good deal because retailers tend to offer them during these high-traffic shopping periods.

The end of the year for appliance retailers is also a great time to buy a dishwasher, usually in the spring or summer. The retailer may need to clear out their inventory so new models can be sold, so existing stock is on sale. This period can yield substantial savings, especially on last year's models, which are still highly functional but may lack the latest features. 

As manufacturers release their latest models, previous models go on sale. New models usually come out in the fall. If you shop right after new models are released, you can save a lot on older models that still work great.

Taking advantage of off-peak times, like early spring or winter, when fewer people buy large appliances, can also be a good idea. Retailers run promotions to encourage sales in these slower times so you can find a good deal.