Finding a reliable dishwasher that fits a tight budget can be challenging, but there are solid options available for under $300. These budget-friendly appliances offer the convenience of automated dishwashing without breaking the bank.
Best Dishwashers Under $300
Based on extensive research from trusted sources, here are our top picks for affordable dishwashers under $300, each offering a balance of performance, features, and value.
1. Farberware Professional FCD06ABBWHA Compact Countertop Dishwasher
Highly rated, budget-friendly, and space-efficient, this is a popular dishwasher in reviews. It’s only 18 inches wide, so can squeeze into small spaces expertly. If you’re a small household, looking to save on space, this is an easy option. They look great, are customizable, and will sit seamlessly beside your kitchen drawers. It’s great for running smaller loads, but can’t fit large platters or tall blender pitchers. Shop on Amazon
- Pros: Compact design ideal for small kitchens or apartments; easy to install; energy-efficient; quiet operation at 49 dB; customizable exterior panels.
- Cons: Limited capacity (6 place settings); not suitable for large households; no third rack for extra utensils.
2. Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher
Buying the biggest dishwasher you can for your budget makes a lot of sense. It is far more economical to run a big dishwasher once than it is to run a smaller one twice. The smallest dishwasher reviewed above has 10 place settings. The largest has 15. All of these dishwashers are considered to be on the bigger side of the place setting scale, and all of them are under £300. There are smaller dishwashers available for under £300. But for the economic cost of running them, a bigger dishwasher makes more sense, if you have space. Shop on Amazon
- Pros: 6 place settings suitable for small families; Energy Star certified; low noise level at 52 dB; multiple wash cycles for versatility.
- Cons: Plastic tub may not be as durable as stainless steel; limited rack adjustability; drying performance can be inconsistent.
3. RCA RDW3208 Countertop Dishwasher
If you’re worried about the noise from the dishwasher bothering you while you watch TV, that isn’t a problem with this one. At just 49 dB, it shouldn’t bother you in the slightest, even if you’re having a conversation next to it! Shop on Amazon
- Pros: Quiet operation at 49 dB; compact and portable; easy to connect to a kitchen faucet; budget-friendly price point.
- Cons: Smaller capacity (6 place settings); lacks advanced features like a third rack or smart connectivity; drying may require air-drying for plastics.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Dishwasher Under $300
When shopping for a dishwasher under $300, you’re likely to encounter basic models with fewer features than their pricier counterparts. However, you can still find reliable options that clean effectively. Here’s what to consider, based on expert advice from sources like Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping.
1. Type of Dishwasher: Inexpensive dishwashers may have only basic features, but they can still clean impressively well. Photo: LG. Most dishwashers under $300 are countertop or portable models, ideal for small kitchens or apartments. Built-in models in this price range are rare and often lack advanced features like stainless steel tubs or adjustable racks.
2. Capacity: Buying the biggest dishwasher you can for your budget makes a lot of sense. It is far more economical to run a big dishwasher once than it is to run a smaller one twice. Countertop models typically offer 6–8 place settings, suitable for small households. If you have space, opt for a model with higher capacity to reduce the number of cycles.
3. Noise Level: Consumer Reports’ tests have also found that inexpensive dishwashers are relatively noisy. Look for models with a noise level of 50 dB or lower, as these are quieter and less disruptive in small living spaces.
4. Energy Efficiency: All four models that we’ve highlighted come with Energy Star certification from the Department of Energy. 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.
5. Cleaning Performance: When considering a dishwasher’s performance, we look at stain removal prowess, cycle time, drying abilities, and redeposit (any food matter that isn’t captured in the filter and lands back on clean dishes). No one wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a dishwasher that can’t get your dishes clean. That’s why we test each dishwasher on the three main cycles—normal, heavy, and quick wash.
6. Durability and Maintenance: You’ll never regret buying a machine that’s dependable, durable and easy to maintain. Avoid models with plastic interiors or flimsy racks, as these are less durable. Regular maintenance, such as using dishwasher salt, is crucial in hard water areas to prevent limescale buildup.
For more detailed buying advice, check out Consumer Reports’ Dishwasher Buying Guide.
Comparison Table: Top Dishwashers Under $300
| Model | Price | Capacity | Noise Level | Energy Star | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farberware FCD06ABBWHA | $299 | 6 place settings | 49 dB | Yes | Compact, customizable panels, multiple cycles |
| Danby DDW621WDB | $279 | 6 place settings | 52 dB | Yes | Portable, multiple wash cycles, easy setup |
| RCA RDW3208 | $269 | 6 place settings | 49 dB | No | Quiet, portable, faucet connection |
User Experiences and Insights
Real-world user feedback provides valuable insights into how these dishwashers perform in everyday settings. Here’s what users are saying:
Farberware FCD06ABBWHA: Users love its compact size and ease of use, especially for apartments or small kitchens. One reviewer noted, “It’s perfect for my studio apartment. It cleans well and doesn’t take up much space, but I wish it could handle larger pots.” Some users reported that drying performance is weaker for plastic items, requiring air-drying.
Danby DDW621WDB: Customers appreciate its affordability and versatility, with one saying, “For the price, it’s a great little machine. It cleans dishes well, but don’t expect it to handle a Thanksgiving feast.” A common complaint is the plastic tub, which some feel makes it less durable.
RCA RDW3208: Users praise its quiet operation, with one stating, “I can run it while watching TV, and it’s barely noticeable.” However, some noted that the small capacity limits its use for larger households, and the lack of advanced features like a heated dry option can be a drawback.
These experiences highlight that while budget dishwashers under $300 are convenient, they often come with trade-offs in capacity, drying performance, and durability compared to pricier models.Recommended reading:cheapest dishwasher
In-Depth Analysis: Are Budget Dishwashers Worth It?
Budget dishwashers under $300 are typically countertop or portable models designed for small households or temporary setups. They excel in space-saving and affordability but often lack the advanced features of mid-range or high-end models, such as stainless steel tubs, adjustable racks, or Wi-Fi connectivity. According to Consumer Reports, “It’s possible to find a pretty decent machine on a tight budget, but dishwashers under $500 are rarer than they used to be. Those that are still available typically have plastic tubs, which don’t resist stains as well as stainless steel tubs.”
Despite these limitations, these dishwashers can be a worthwhile investment for renters, students, or anyone with a small kitchen. They use significantly less water than hand-washing—about 3.5 gallons per cycle for Energy Star models—saving both time and resources. However, buyers should temper expectations: drying performance may be weaker, especially for plastics, and noise levels can be higher than premium models. For the best value, prioritize Energy Star certification and a noise level below 50 dB.
For a deeper dive into dishwasher performance, visit Good Housekeeping’s Dishwasher Reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are dishwashers under $300 reliable?
A: Dishwashers under $300 can be reliable for small households or light use, but they often use less durable materials like plastic tubs. Brands like Farberware and Danby are known for decent reliability in this price range, but regular maintenance, such as using dishwasher salt, is key to longevity.
Q: Can I use a countertop dishwasher in an apartment?
A: Yes, countertop dishwashers are ideal for apartments due to their compact size and easy faucet connection. Models like the Farberware FCD06ABBWHA and RCA RDW3208 require no permanent installation, making them renter-friendly.
Q: Do budget dishwashers clean as well as expensive ones?
A: Budget dishwashers can clean effectively for everyday messes but may struggle with tough stains or heavily soiled dishes. They lack advanced features like soil sensors or high-temperature wash cycles found in pricier models.
Q: How do I maintain a budget dishwasher?
A: Clean the filter regularly, use dishwasher salt in hard water areas to prevent limescale, and run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner monthly. Avoid overloading to ensure optimal cleaning performance.
Q: Are Energy Star dishwashers worth it?
A: Yes, Energy Star dishwashers save water and electricity, reducing your utility bills. They’re especially valuable in budget models, where efficiency can offset the initial cost over time.
Conclusion
Dishwashers under $300 offer an affordable way to enjoy the convenience of automated dishwashing, particularly for small households or tight spaces. The Farberware FCD06ABBWHA, Danby DDW621WDB, and RCA RDW3208 stand out for their compact designs, quiet operation, and value for money. While they may not match the performance or durability of higher-end models, they provide solid cleaning for everyday needs. By prioritizing Energy Star certification, low noise levels, and adequate capacity, you can find a budget dishwasher that fits your lifestyle. Happy shopping, and enjoy your sparkling clean dishes!