6 Best Dishwashers (March 2023 Guide)

Whether you have decided to gut-renovate your kitchen or you’re just replacing a single workhorse, looking for a dishwasher is a big investment in a major appliance you’ll be using regularly. Even if you consider yourself brand loyal, there are dozens of options to choose from online.

We at the This Old House Reviews Team have carefully combed the bestselling and top-performing built-in dishwashers across several major retailers, read hundreds of customer reviews, identified the standout features of each product, and arrived at the top dishwashers of 2023.

• Best Dishwasher Overall: Samsung DW80R9950US Top Control Dishwasher
• Strongest Brand Reputation: Bosch 300 Series SHEM63W55N Dishwasher
• Longest Warranty: LG LDF454HT 24-inch Dishwasher
• Best High-End Dishwasher: KitchenAid KDTM604KPS Dishwasher
• Best Basic Dishwasher: Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ Dishwasher
• Best Budget Dishwasher: Frigidaire FFID2426TS Dishwasher

Best Dishwasher Overall: Samsung DW80R9950US Top Control Dishwasher

• Our Score: 99/100
• Finishes: Fingerprint-resistant black stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, navy steel, and Tuscan steel
• 3rd Rack: Yes
• Energy Star Certified: Yes

Each cycle in this Samsung dishwasher is timed and the duration is displayed on the built-in LED screen, which streamlines the process of guessing when you can run another load. This dishwasher is also smart technology-enabled so that you can start your dishwasher from anywhere you have cellular reception.

Other standout features include its 39-dBA insulated noise reduction, the auto-release door, which automatically opens at the end of a cycle to speed up the drying process, and its large capacity, which can accommodate as many as 15 table settings.

If you need to troubleshoot or repair your appliance, Samsung’s extended warranty may have you covered.

Bottom line: A solid choice for a heavy-duty dishwasher with a large capacity and smart features.

Pros and Cons

✔ Offers deep-cleaning Linear Wash Technology
✔ Includes smart functionality and remote-app control
✔ Features an automatic-release door that opens at the end of the cycle

✘ Comes in at a high price point
✘ May be too large for small kitchens

What Customers Are Saying

Happy Samsung customers said that this dishwasher was remarkably quiet, effective at cleaning, and convenient to use with its mobile app. Dissatisfied reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the drying function and wash cycle length.

“This dishwasher is a great addition to any kitchen. It is very quiet while in operation, which is great for open-concept living spaces…. It also has a lot of space, which is great for larger loads or for those who like to entertain often. The added convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity is a nice touch, allowing you to control and monitor the dishwasher remotely using your smartphone.”
—MinamkyuQ via Samsung, 2023

“This dishwasher is…completely silent while running… If watching television on my Samsung TV, it seamlessly notifies me that my dishes have finished right on the TV!… The shelves adjust in many different ways to accommodate different loads of dishes. Everything comes out sparkling! I highly recommend this dishwasher.” —Blassallison via Samsung, 2019

“This is a newer more energy efficient dishwasher and it does not have a heating element in the tub, so the drying is not as good as with the older machines…. You need to choose extra hot and/or sanitize cycle for these, and then it will take 3 hours to wash.” —Eyal via Samsung, 2022

Strongest Brand Reputation: Bosch 300 Series SHEM63W55N Dishwasher

• Our Score: 90/100
• Finishes: Black and stainless steel
• 3rd Rack: Yes
• Energy Star Certified: Yes

This Bosch model is not only exceptionally quiet but offers options like the quick Speed60 setting to wash and dry a load in roughly one hour and flexible tines that can accommodate larger pots and pans. When you purchase a Bosch, your dishwasher is covered for up to a year under the company’s warranty.

Bottom line: A top-performing dishwasher with flexible loading options and a strong brand reputation.

Pros and Cons

✔ Operates at an ultra-quiet 44 dBA
✔ Accommodates up to 16 place settings per load
✔ Features easy-to-adjust front controls

✘ Price point is higher than many competing models
✘ Drying cycle somewhat inefficient

What Customers Are Saying

Satisfied reviewers enjoyed the Bosch’s adjustable racks and sparkling clean, with some even mentioning that they no longer rinse their dishes before placing them into the machine. More critical reviews indicated that the drying cycle was longer and less effective than expected.

“Works great! I’ve had it for about 6 months and I’ve yet to have something dirty after the cycle. So quiet you have to be right next to it to hear it.” —JeffF via Best Buy, 2023

“This dishwasher does a fine job and it is extremely quiet. Installation was very easy. The racks are designed efficiently to hold a lot of dishes. I like the third rack for silverware. The controls are recessed so there is no chance that brushing by them will inadvertently turn on the dishwasher.” —Wieg via Best Buy, 2017

“I’m very disappointed in the way it dries my dishes. Even when I use the extra dry button the dishes are still not completely dry.” —Paula via Best Buy, 2017

Longest Warranty: LG LDF454HT 24-inch Dishwasher

• Our Score: 90/100
• Finishes: Black, PrintProof™ black stainless steel, PrintProof™ stainless steel, stainless steel, and white
• 3rd Rack: Yes
• Energy Star Certified: Yes

LG’s standout feature is its 10-year limited warranty, which is longer than the industry standard’s one-year limited warranty. In addition to the lengthier warranty, this LG dishwasher has a soil sensor so it will work harder on your toughest dishes. You can also customize the distance between each of the prongs on Easy Rack Plus so you can maximize the number of dishes in a cycle.

Bottom line: A longstanding guarantee comes with this dishwasher that can clean tough dishes, silverware, and even fork tines.

Pros and Cons

✔ Comes with LG’s 10-year warranty
✔ Offered in a wide range of finishes
✔ Features a soil sensor to mitigate food residues and fight stains

✘ Energy usage is higher than some competing models
✘ At 50 dBA, operating volume is louder than many similar models

What Customers Are Saying

Positive reviews typically cited a high-quality stainless-steel rack and its cleaning power that tackles even the dirtiest of dishes. Negative reviews noted the machines somewhat loud noise level and issues when pulling the bottom rack out.

“We’ve had this dishwasher for a little over a month…and I have to say I am very pleased with its performance so far! The first thing I noticed was how quiet this dishwasher is. While it’s rated at 50 decibels, to me, it seems much quieter. This is great, as we have an open concept living area… More importantly, the dishes have been spotless.” —AngelaC via Best Buy, 2022

“I am so impressed with the dishwasher. Big inside, so quiet, looks nice and works great…. Installation was fast, on time and professional. He did a great job and make sure it was working perfectly before he left.” —Anonymous via Best Buy, 2023

“Overall was a little too loud for me in an open concept home. I found it difficult to pull the bottom tray in and out. I was met with some resistance. Also the pods would not fully dissolve at times.” —Joey via Best Buy, 2022

Best High-End Dishwasher: KitchenAid KDTM604KPS Dishwasher

• Our Score: 89/100
• Finishes: Black stainless steel and stainless steel
• 3rd Rack: Yes
• Energy Star Certified: Yes

KitchenAid’s top-control dishwasher stands out for its highly customizable interior, third rack, delay start, express wash setting, and unique bottle cleaning option. Additionally, the 24-inch unit includes a set of adjustable tines to accommodate a variety of dish sizes and a water soil sensor with heated dry for optimal sanitization.

Bottom line: This dishwasher comes with a suite of customizable features to clean and secure even the most delicate dishes and stemware.

Pros and Cons

✔ Operates at an ultra-quiet 44 dBA
✔ Includes adjustable rack tines
✔ Features a water soil sensor for sanitization and stain mitigation

✘ Does not come with Wi-Fi capabilities
✘ Price-point is higher than many competing models

What Customers Are Saying

Positive reviews praised the KitchenAid dishwasher for its near-silent operation, sturdy construction, and thorough cleaning. Conversely, some critical reviewers felt that the design of the racks was cumbersome and limiting.

“We have owned multiple dishwashers over the years and can honestly say that this KitchenAid puts them all to shame…. The pros so far: 1) so quiet you literally have to look to see if it’s on and our kitchen and living area are open; 2) seems very substantial in construction, e.g., door is much heavier than previous dishwashers; 3) really holds lots of dirty dishes, especially with the third rack; and 4) cleans the dishes really well.” —Flabob via Best Buy, 2021

“I can get 3 sauce pans, an Instapot, 2 mixing bowls, soup pot, 10 dinner plates, 6 glasses and 6 mugs, a bunch of leftover containers all in one load and it cleans so well!… The third rack…can hold 12 glasses and a bunch of silverware…. It may be on the expensive end of dishwashers but it is absolutely 100% worth it!” —Frosty via Best Buy, 2021

“It’s quiet. I like the basket for silverware. Hate the bottom rack & it’s strange arrangement for dishes. Middle rack is difficult to get cups, glasses to fit. The third shallow rack is not that helpful.” —TexasReviewer via Best Buy, 2022

Best Basic Dishwasher: Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ Dishwasher

• Our Score: 79/100
• Finishes: Black, stainless steel, and white
• 3rd Rack:  No
• Energy Star Certified: Yes

Unlike Bosch, Whirlpool tends to err on the side of caution when it comes to adding high-technology components or features to their products, so it’s not a manufacturer to seek out if you’re prioritizing a wide breadth of features or bells and whistles; this is reflected in the overall affordability of this model dishwasher.

The built-in sensor makes sure you have clean dishes while operating as efficiently as possible. If you’re in a rush, you can use the quick wash cycle to have dishes washed and dried in just 60 minutes. You can fit as many as 12 place settings per load with this model, and the hidden controls give your kitchen an overall sleek look.

Bottom line: A reliable dishwasher with minimal added frills and a moderate price point.

Pros and Cons

✔ Offers a sleek and user-friendly design
✔ Includes a space-saving silverware basket inside the door
✔ Fits up to 12 place settings per load

✘ Does not include a third rack
✘ Does not offer a delay start option

What Customers Are Saying

Positive reviews often noted easy-to-use controls and programming, the space-saving silverware holder on the door, and a pleasingly sleek visual design. Common cons noted in reviews touched on frustration with the rack design and disliked that it did not offer a delay start setting.

“Easy install, worked great the first time. Flush design means we can finally open our corner drawer without hitting the handle!”—ErikC via Best Buy, 2023

“Great dishwasher. Reasonably quiet with lots of controls. The shelves slide really easily.”
—Sanka via Best Buy, 2023

“[This dishwasher] has limited settings. It does not have a delayed start option or a china/crystal setting.” —TheQueen via Best Buy, 2023

Best Budget Dishwasher: Frigidaire FFID2426TS Dishwasher

• Our Score: 70/100
• Finishes: Black, black stainless steel, stainless steel, and white
• 3rd Rack: No
• Energy Star Certified: Yes

This Frigidaire dishwasher uses DishSense™ technology, which times each cycle to meet the specific needs of each load, and the OrbitClean® Spray Arm Wash system with two spray arms ensures an even clean every time.

Compared to pricier models, Frigidaire’s lack of smart features and basic four cycles: heavy, normal, rinse only, and upper rack, may seem limited, but its high internal temperature, heated and vented dry design, sensor clean, and unobtrusive control pad make it a worthy addition to any budget-conscious kitchen.

Bottom line: A low-price dishwasher that still has high functionality and several great features.

Pros and Cons

✔ Comes in at a low price point
✔ Features a built-in disposer that limits odors
✔ Offers high temperature setting for thorough drying

✘ Cycle options are limited compared to other models
✘ Interior components are nylon

What Customers Are Saying

Satisfied Frigidaire customers typically referenced this dishwasher’s efficiency, low price point, and capacity. Dissatisfied reviewers often mentioned the model’s shorter top rack, which cannot fit some glass sizes.

“Great price. It runs smoothly and efficiently. It is aesthetically appealing… All of my dishes come out sparkling clean.” —Vanessa via Best Buy, 2022

“[This dishwasher] works perfectly and we’re very pleased. For the price range it seems to be a great value. If you don’t require a lot of fancy options or giant capacity this one will be just right for you too.” —SamRam via Best Buy, 2021

“I was a bit disappointed in the lack of space in the overall appliance. That was not explained well in the description.” —happyme via Best Buy, 2017

Before you zero in on the dishwasher that fits your household’s needs, it’s important to do your research. When you’re informed about the average price range, most reliable brands, different types of dishwashers, and the industry standards for quietness, you’ll be less overwhelmed with the shopping process.

Average Price Range

Dishwashers can range from as low as $250 to as much as $2,000 depending on the features you’re looking for. Basic-model dishwashers may require you to spend more time pre-rinsing your dishes to get the maximum effect, while a high-end dishwashers may provide smart features such as using your phone as a remote control, increased place setting capacity, and more variety in available finishes.

It’s also important to factor in the cost of installation, which is typically about $200 when budgeting for a new dishwasher.

Types of Dishwashers

In general, dishwashers can be broken down into two main categories: built-in dishwashers and portable dishwashers, such as countertop dishwashers. In recent years, the drawer dishwasher has taken on popularity for its sleek appearance, compact nature, and efficiency. The drawer dishwasher is installed beneath your countertop and it’s ideal for small spaces and households with minimal dishwashing needs.

For this article, we’ve focused our top picks on built-in dishwashers, some of which are smart dishwashers with app integration. Smart dishwashers pair with your smartphone, which can allow you to monitor the progress of a wash cycle, troubleshoot, and control the appliance remotely.

Finishes

Kitchen appliances typically come in black, white, and stainless steel finishes. In recent years, black stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, and novelty colors have increased in popularity.

Additional Features

The basic function of your dishwasher is to wash and dry dishes and glassware so that you can spend less time hunched over the sink and more time doing the things you love. In addition to that basic process, many dishwashers offer additional features during the wash cycle to customize their performance. Some of these features include:

• Adjustable rack, top rack, or third rack
• Child locks
• Delay start
• Energy Star certification for energy-efficient savings
• Food pulverizers
• Heated dry
• Quick wash
• Sanitizer settings
• Self-cleaning filters
• Smart-home integration and remote control
• Soil sensor
• Stainless-steel internal components for longevity

Noise

Many modern dishwashers are rated in decibels (dBA) to communicate the noise level of a dishwasher’s cycle. Generally, a dishwasher with an average rating of 38 dBA can be considered especially quiet but any appliance rated lower than 44 dBA will be among the quietest dishwashers available. The average dishwasher is about 52 dBA, according to industry standards.

Size

The larger your dishwasher is, the more dishes you’ll be able to clean at once. Built-in dishwashers, particularly those with a third rack, give you the most space on average. Countertop and drawer dishwashers are typically smaller and are a better fit for households with less space.

Water Temperature

Dishwashers should run at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the dishes are being fully cleaned, but not more than 150 degrees Fahrenheit, as that could risk heat damage. Most dishwashers operate between 130-140 degrees. It’s also important to ensure when setting up a dishwasher that it is connected to your hot water line instead of your cold-water line.

While many different brands make dishwashers, some are more trusted than others.

Brands such as Bosch, Frigidaire, GE, KitchenAid, LG, Maytag, Miele, Samsung, and Whirlpool are known for making high-quality dishwashers. Buying a dishwasher from a different brand doesn’t necessarily mean it will be of poor quality, but you should take extra time to research the product to ensure it’s the right fit for your home.

Since most major appliances are investments, many homeowners opt for an extended appliance warranty or additional appliance insurance from a third-party provider. Both appliance insurance and extended warranty programs may cover incidents and time periods not covered by the manufacturer warranty.

Installing a dishwasher can be challenging if you haven’t done it before, but it is an achievable task for the determined DIYer. Here are some basic step-by-step instructions on how to install a dishwasher. 

1. The first thing you’ll need to do is remove the old dishwasher you have in your home. Be sure to turn off the electricity for the dishwasher at the circuit breaker and remove the front access control panel, wiring connections, drain hose, and old water supply line. From there, remove the screws from the brackets that anchor the dishwasher and pull the dishwasher out.
   
2. Next, you’ll need to disconnect the old supply line from the shut-off valve, route the new supply line through the hole between the sink cabinet and where you’re installing the dishwasher, and attach the new water supply line to the shut-off valve.
3. The next step is to slide the dishwasher into the space and connect the lines to the dishwasher.
4. Next, connect the water supply line with pliers and turn it on to check for leaks. Connect the drain hose and complete any remaining electrical connections based on the product instructions.
5. From there, turn on the circuit breaker and ensure the dishwasher is operating correctly before securing it.
6. Once you’ve checked all the necessary parts, secure the dishwasher in place and replace the front access panel. 

For more detailed instructions on how to install a dishwasher, check out the video below. 

When it comes to electrical and plumbing work, This Old House always recommends hiring trained professionals. Hiring the right pros helps mitigate extreme safety risks, prevent potential fire and water damage from faulty installation, and can save you from expensive reinstallation or repair services later on.

Typically, the labor cost to replace an old dishwasher with a new one is between $100 and $500, depending on the size of the dishwasher and how difficult the installation is.

Installing a brand-new dishwasher where there is not an existing hookup typically costs between $500 to more than $1,000, since preparing your kitchen all-new dishwasher hookups requires a professional electrician and plumber.

We have carefully evaluated each dishwasher in this review according to This Old House‘s stringent review standards. Those standards take into account factors like the number of features offered, whether or not the product offers smart technology, the average verified buyer rating, and other important aspects.

Accordingly, we recommend the Samsung 24 in. Top Control Dishwasher for its smart technology and whisper-quiet operating volume, the Bosch 300 Series 24 in. Dishwasher for its large capacity and suite of features, and the Whirlpool 24 inch Dishwasher for its relative affordability and brand reputation.

The This Old House Reviews Team is committed to providing thoroughly researched recommendations and insight into the categories we cover. We seek to earn and keep your trust by practicing ongoing transparency about the process of our reviews and the factors we take into account.

Our 100-point rating system accounts for six key factors. We scored the dishwashers featured in this article in the following way:

• Features (up to 40 total points): This category accounts for the most commonly sought-after dishwasher features, such as a third rack, stainless steel internal components, quick wash cycles, Energy Star certification, and more.
• Finishes (up to 1 point): Products that came in more than one finish were rated higher than products with only one finish option.
• Average customer rating (up to 15 points): Each product received a score from zero to 15 depending on its average customer rating. We rounded up decimal ratings to the nearest whole number.
• Smart technology (up to 5 points): If a product included app integration or Wi-Fi compatibility, it received five points.
• Manufacturer’s warranty (up to 25 points): We researched each product’s manufacturer’s warranty and awarded each product 25 points if it came with any kind of warranty or guarantee.
• Customer service (up to 14 points): We researched the customer service options available to homeowners after they’ve purchased their item. Each product received points if its manufacturer offered phone, chat/text, or access to replacement parts.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.