Dishwashers have become indispensable appliances in modern kitchens, saving time, water, and effort compared to hand-washing. In 2025, the market offers a variety of models catering to different budgets, kitchen sizes, and feature preferences. From budget-friendly options under $500 to premium machines exceeding $1,000, there’s a dishwasher for every household. This article compiles detailed reviews, testing insights, and a buying guide to help you choose the best dishwasher for your needs, based on rigorous lab tests and real-world performance.
Top-Rated Dishwasher Models for 2025
1. Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N – Best Overall
Bosch dishwashers are categorically impressive—quiet, effective, and expertly crafted—and the brand’s 500 Series model checks all those boxes at an affordable price. It includes three roomy racks that make loading and stacking dinnerware easy, a sanitizing option that removes 99.9% of bacteria, and a precise, powerful spray that ensures dishes are spotless without pre-rinsing. While this dishwasher doesn’t have an Energy Star certification listed, it does use PureDry technology, a closed drying system that doesn’t use a heating element (a bonus for your plastics). Plus, there’s a half-load cycle option for smaller loads. The icing on the cake is its streamlined look, from the front control panel to the recessed handle to the fingerprint-resistant finish that keeps smudges at bay.
- Pros: Quiet at 44 dBA, generous capacity, third rack for utensils, Energy Star certified with potential utility rebates.
- Cons: Slightly longer wash cycles (around 2 hours), no Wi-Fi connectivity.
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2. Miele G 5266 SCVi – Best Premium Option
The G 5266 blows most other dishwashers out of the water. If your budget can accommodate its premium price, it’s one of the best models you can buy. The cleaning performance was outstanding—even on the QuickIntenseWash cycle with our toughest messes—as all items emerged squeaky clean and noticeably shiny. Plus, we found the controls easy to navigate and the racks easy to load and adjust. Unique to Miele is its AutoDos detergent system, which works with Miele’s PowerDisk, dispensing the precise amount of powder detergent for the cycle you’ve selected based on the soil level of your load and the hardness of your water. Miele consistently delivers premium products, and this dishwasher is no exception. Designed for longevity, many Miele owners have owned their dishwashers for over 10 years. The experts say the brand is renowned for lasting up to 15 years, which is fantastic value for money.
- Pros: Exceptional cleaning, AutoDos system, durable (up to 15 years), quiet at 45 dBA.
- Cons: High price point, PowerDisk detergent may add ongoing costs.
3. Beko DUT25401X – Best Budget Pick
The DUT25401X uses far less energy and water than average in the three cycles we tested. In fact, Energy Star rated it as one of its Most Efficient 2022 dishwasher models. It also features a relatively quiet operation thanks to its stainless-steel interior. We love the upper rack of the Beko DUT25401X for its usability. It features different tines for multiple dishes and offers an angled height adjustment. There are also two height-adjustable shelves/wine racks and an attached mini third rack. While the control panel’s LED display is easy to read, the power buttons are poorly designed. Also, it takes effort to push to make desired cycle selections. Still, the DUT25401X offers top-tier performance at a budget price.
- Pros: Energy-efficient, stainless steel tub, adjustable racks, affordable under $500.
- Cons: Clunky control panel, no advanced smart features.
4. Samsung Top Control Dishwasher – Best for Quiet Operation
Overall, our pick for the top dishwasher is the Samsung Top Control Dishwasher. This model scored a whopping 99 out of 100 on our scorecard and stands out from competitors thanks to its quiet operation at only 39 dBA, AquaBlast linear wash system, and flexible third rack. A gorgeous upmarket look complements this dishwasher’s excellent cleaning skills and quiet, 39-decibel operation. The top silverware rack is slim but sturdy. The adjustable middle rack was simple to operate and intuitive to move into position to accommodate items of varying sizes.
- Pros: Ultra-quiet at 39 dBA, high cleaning performance, flexible racks.
- Cons: Higher price, some owner complaints about reliability.
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5. Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ – Best Value for Budget Shoppers
If you’re on a tighter budget, don’t worry. Numerous high-quality dishwasher options are available in the $500-to-$600 range. For less than $500 for a full-size appliance, Whirlpool offers a reliable, no-frills model with more than five figures of positive ratings, which still includes many of the amenities of the popular Bosch model above. An in-door silverware rack creates additional space in the basin, which can store up to 14 place settings. For your savings, you still get a stainless steel finish, as well as heavy, normal, high-temperature, and one-hour wash cycle options with sanitized and heated dry options.
- Pros: Affordable, reliable, 14 place settings, stainless steel finish.
- Cons: No adjustable third rack, noisier at 55 dBA.
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Comparison Table of Top Dishwashers
| Model | Price Range | Noise Level (dBA) | Capacity (Place Settings) | Energy Star Certified | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N | $900-$1,000 | 44 | 15 | Yes | Third rack, sanitizing option, PureDry technology |
| Miele G 5266 SCVi | $1,600+ | 45 | 16 | Yes | AutoDos system, QuickIntenseWash, durable build |
| Beko DUT25401X | $400-$500 | 48 | 14 | Yes | Energy-efficient, adjustable racks, stainless steel tub |
| Samsung Top Control | $800-$1,000 | 39 | 15 | No | AquaBlast system, ultra-quiet, third rack |
| Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ | $400-$500 | 55 | 14 | Yes | In-door silverware rack, multiple cycles |
Testing Scenarios and Performance Insights
Hundreds of dishwashers have gone through our labs. We test new models throughout the year and periodically retest machines that have been around for a while. To evaluate each model’s cleaning prowess, our testers apply a consistent amount of starchy goop to 12 white ceramic plates. (The recipe is a secret, but cocoa is involved.) Then they bake each plate until it’s crusty, load the plates into the dishwasher without prerinsing, and run the default cleaning cycle. Afterward, our imaging software compares before and after photos of each plate to precisely analyze how much gunk remains. In Consumer Reports’ labs, testers load each of our dishwasher candidates with 12 dirtied ceramic plates and run a regular cleaning cycle. We also test how well each machine dries plastic. Plastic is more difficult to dry than metal, glass, and ceramic materials because it cools faster and doesn’t allow water to evaporate as easily. We also record cycle time and energy and water use and judge the dishwashers on their noise levels.
For ease of use, a newly incorporated category in our testing, we look at how easy it is to use the dishwasher’s control panel and how many convenience features the dishwasher offers, including an adjustable upper rack, a third rack, ample flatware slots, adjustable tines, a self-cleaning filter, and more. The Bosch 500 Series and Miele G 5266 excelled in cleaning and drying, with near-perfect scores for removing baked-on residues. The Beko DUT25401X impressed with its energy efficiency, using just 3.5 gallons per cycle, while the Samsung model was barely audible during operation. The Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ, while noisier, handled heavy loads reliably without requiring pre-rinsing.
Dishwasher Buying Guide
When you’re looking for a dishwasher, there are a few questions you should ask yourself that will determine the model that’s right for you. Most dishwashers measure 24 inches wide and 24 inches deep. If you have a small kitchen, you might consider an 18-inch-wide dishwasher that’s 24 inches deep. Measure your space, and don’t forget to account for the adjustment of the leveling feet. Take a close look at the configuration of the dishwasher’s interior to make sure the rack design will accommodate your dishes. If you frequently use oversized bowls or large casserole dishes, you may want a height-adjustable upper rack or fold-down tines on the bottom rack.
- Budget: Budget options are available for around $300, while top-of-the-line appliances can cost $2,000 or more. Keep in mind that you will need to budget about $100 to $300 for installation costs as well.
- Features: Not every dishwasher has every feature, but you can find a machine with the features that matter most to you. A stainless steel interior tub is more durable than plastic and stains less easily, meaning it will last longer. Most dishwashers now have soil sensors, which detect how dirty your dishes are to determine how much water and time are needed to get them clean. Above a certain price, you’ll start to find third racks at the top of the dishwasher. They’re shallower than the main two racks and are usually designed to hold silverware or other flat items, like cooking utensils and pot lids.
- Energy Efficiency: Hundreds of current dishwasher models qualify for this designation created by the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. It indicates that the appliance uses an average of 3.5 gallons or less in a cycle. In theory, an Energy Star certified dishwasher can cost about $55 per year to run and save you about 3,850 gallons of water over the course of its service.
- Noise Level: If you hang out in or sleep near your kitchen, it can be worth upgrading to a dishwasher that runs quietly. Plenty of models that cost between $500 and $1,000 earn our top or very good ratings for noise. Those are very difficult to hear.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
To learn more about dishwasher maintenance, read our articles on how to clean a dishwasher, how to clean a dishwasher filter, and how to clean a dishwasher of mold. We also have advice on how to better use your dishwasher. After the first year of the warranty expires, some manufacturers offer limited five-year (or more) warranties on parts (not labor), like the electronic controls and racks should they be defective. Some offer lifetime warranties for the stainless steel door and tub if they should rust through. Always check the warranty terms for any model you are considering. Before the first year full warranty is up, we recommend using the appliance often and trying as many cycles and options as you can to make sure all work to your satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most reliable dishwasher brand?
Based on extensive testing and consumer surveys, Bosch and Miele consistently rank as the most reliable brands, with LG also performing well. These brands offer durable models with fewer repair needs over their lifespan.
Are Energy Star dishwashers worth it?
Yes, Energy Star-certified dishwashers use less water and energy, saving you money on utility bills. They typically use 3.5 gallons or less per cycle and can save up to 3,850 gallons of water over their lifetime.
How loud is too loud for a dishwasher?
Dishwashers below 45 dBA are considered very quiet, ideal for open-plan homes or nighttime use. Models above 50 dBA may be noticeable, especially in smaller spaces.
Can I install a dishwasher myself?
While DIY installation is possible, it requires plumbing and electrical knowledge. Professional installation, costing $100-$300, ensures proper setup and avoids warranty issues.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Clean your dishwasher every 1-2 months to prevent mold and buildup. Regularly check and clean the filter, and run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher-safe cleaner.
Conclusion
Choosing the best dishwasher in 2025 depends on your budget, kitchen space, and desired features. The Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N offers the best balance of performance and value, while the Miele G 5266 SCVi excels for premium buyers. Budget shoppers can rely on the Beko DUT25401X or Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ for solid performance under $500. For ultra-quiet operation, the Samsung Top Control Dishwasher is unmatched. By considering factors like noise level, energy efficiency, and rack flexibility, you can find a model that fits your lifestyle and keeps your dishes sparkling clean.
For more insights on maintaining your dishwasher, check out Consumer Reports’ maintenance guide.