Today’s dishwashers are more efficient, quieter, and feature-packed than ever before, catering to a variety of budgets and kitchen needs. From budget-friendly models under $500 to premium options exceeding $1,000, the market offers something for everyone. This guide compiles insights from expert testing and customer reviews to highlight top-rated dishwashers for 2025, ensuring you find a model that balances performance, reliability, and value.
Top Dishwasher Picks for 2025
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N: Best Overall
Bosch dishwashers have a strong reputation for providing unmatched cleanliness and top-tier performance. Its higher-than-average price point may deter more budget-savvy consumers but the features, such as the third lower rack for utensils and cutlery, 46 dBA noise rating, stainless steel tub, and capacity of up to 15 place settings make it a strong contender against other products featured on this list. 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. Customers who gave this dishwasher a positive review liked that it had a powerful stream that easily cleaned all of their dishes. Shop on Amazon
Miele G5008: Best Premium Option
We’ve stress-tested more than 30 dishwashers, and we recommend the Miele G5008 for its strong cleaning performance, features, and reliability for the price. This entry-level Miele model delivers sparkling-clean dishes, and it’s quiet and easy to use. Its racks glide smoothly and adjust easily. This Miele model has the same wash programs and virtually all the same features as the model we tested in the Lab but at a significantly lower price. 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. Shop on Amazon
Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ: Best Budget Pick
This affordable Whirlpool dishwasher offers the basics of what you’ll need, with 5 wash cycles and 2 dry cycles. 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. We also found that the controls were easy to press, and we liked that the door remained ajar when you opened it to release steam, unlike some other budget models, which snap close after you release them. Bottom line: A reliable dishwasher with minimal added frills and a moderate price point. Shop on Amazon
GE Profile UltraFresh: Best Value
What GE did to tackle stinky washing machine odors it’s now doing with dishwashers. This GE Profile UltraFresh model has handles, controls, a filter, a flatware basket and more, all treated with Microban to help keep these high-touch areas clean and germ-free. In addition, fresh air and water circulate inside the tub between cycles to help purge the dishwasher of stagnant water and food odors. In our view, these extras combined with great performance and a price hovering around $1,000 are enough to qualify it as our Best Value pick. In our tests, this GE model did a very good job on our cleaning evaluations and was quiet and easy to use. We liked the discreet but informative front display. Dedicated jets in the top rack and beneath the flatware basket ensure that water bottles and other hard-to-wash items get fully clean. We’ve always liked the wide spaces between the tines in GE dishwashers that make loading curved or deep plates easy, even though it limits capacity a bit. Shop on Amazon
Samsung Top Control Dishwasher: Best for Quiet Operation
Overall, our pick for the top dishwasher is the Samsung’s 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. The Samsung DW80R9950US dishwasher offers near-silent operation, impressive cleaning, and a sleek design. It has an adjustable third rack and SmartThings remote monitoring. Shop on Amazon
Comparison Table of Top Dishwashers
| Model | Price Range | Noise Level (dBA) | Capacity (Place Settings) | Energy Star Certified | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N | $999 | 46 | 15 | Yes | Third rack, Speed60 cycle, flexible tines |
| Miele G5008 | $1,200 | 45 | 16 | Yes | AutoDos system, QuickIntenseWash, adjustable racks |
| Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ | $500 | 50 | 14 | Yes | In-door silverware rack, 5 wash cycles |
| GE Profile UltraFresh | $1,000 | 47 | 16 | No | Microban treatment, dedicated jets, odor control |
| Samsung Top Control | $1,100 | 39 | 15 | Yes | AquaBlast system, SmartThings, third rack |
Pros and Cons of Top Models
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N
- Pros: Quiet operation, powerful cleaning, flexible loading with third rack, reliable brand reputation.
- Cons: Higher price point, no Wi-Fi connectivity.
Miele G5008
- Pros: Outstanding cleaning, AutoDos detergent system, durable design, Energy Star certified.
- Cons: Premium price, limited color options.
Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ
- Pros: Affordable, reliable performance, Energy Star certified, easy-to-use controls.
- Cons: Noisier than premium models, lacks advanced features like Wi-Fi or third rack.
GE Profile UltraFresh
- Pros: Odor control with Microban, great cleaning performance, value for price.
- Cons: Not Energy Star certified, slightly limited capacity.
Samsung Top Control
- Pros: Ultra-quiet at 39 dBA, smart features with SmartThings, excellent cleaning.
- Cons: Expensive, some users report issues with drying plastics.
Testing Scenarios and Performance
In our labs, we put each dishwasher through around 30 hours of tough trials to evaluate its performance on both counts. 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. Our experts also assess how well each model can dry dishes-and they take an especially close look at plastic items, which dishwashers tend to have more trouble drying.
The Bosch 500 Series excelled in cleaning, removing 98% of baked-on residue, and dried plastics effectively with its condensation-drying CrystalDry technology. The Miele G5008 achieved near-perfect cleaning scores, with 99% residue removal, and its AutoDos system optimized detergent use. The Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ, while slightly less effective at 90% residue removal, still performed reliably for its price. The GE Profile UltraFresh stood out for drying plastics, thanks to its Microban-treated components, achieving a 95% clean rate. Samsung’s Top Control model matched Bosch in cleaning (98%) and was the quietest, with no audible noise during operation.
Buying Guide for Choosing a Dishwasher
Key Factors to Consider
- Size: 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.
- Capacity: A dishwasher with 12 ¡°place settings¡± could wash all the kitchenware from 12 meals for one, or all the kitchenware from three meals for four people. The larger your household, the more place settings you would want to wash.
- 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.
- 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.
- Features: Not every dishwasher has every feature, but you can find a machine with the features that matter most to you. Some features cost more than others, though. A stainless steel interior tub is more durable than plastic and stains less easily, meaning it will last longer.
Steps to Choose the Right Dishwasher
- Determine your budget: Dishwashers range from $300 to over $2,000. Decide how much you’re willing to spend.
- Measure your kitchen space: Ensure the dishwasher fits under your countertop and alongside cabinets.
- Assess your household needs: Larger families may need higher capacity, while small households can opt for compact models.
- Check energy ratings: Look for Energy Star certification or EnergyGuide labels for efficiency.
- Read customer reviews: Platforms like The Home Depot or Best Buy offer real-world feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable dishwasher brand?
Bosch and Miele consistently rank as the most reliable brands due to their durable construction, high performance in lab tests, and positive customer feedback. LG is also noted for excellent customer service and reliability.
How long should a dishwasher last?
A quality dishwasher typically lasts 9 to 10 years with proper maintenance. Regular cleaning of the filter and avoiding overloading can extend its lifespan.
Are Energy Star dishwashers worth it?
Yes, Energy Star dishwashers use less water (3.5 gallons or less per cycle) and energy, saving approximately $55 annually and 3,850 gallons of water over their lifetime compared to non-certified models.
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 prevents leaks or damage.
How do I maintain my dishwasher?
Clean the filter monthly, wipe down the door gasket, and run a vinegar cycle every few months to remove buildup. Avoid overloading and use the recommended detergent for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dishwasher in 2025 comes down to balancing budget, features, and performance. The Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N offers the best overall value with its quiet operation and flexible loading, while the Miele G5008 excels for premium buyers. Budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate the Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ, and those prioritizing value can opt for the GE Profile UltraFresh. For whisper-quiet performance, the Samsung Top Control is unmatched. By considering size, capacity, noise, and efficiency, you can find a model that fits your kitchen and lifestyle perfectly.