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. Modern dishwashers tend to be very efficient. Until recently, many dishwashers qualified as Energy Star–certified, which means that, on average, they use 12% less energy and 30% less water than standard dishwashers. New qualification criteria for dishwashers were released in July 2025, and many dishwashers no longer qualify for Energy Star certification. Our top pick (the Miele G5008), upgrade pick (the Miele G7216), and best-for pick (the Caf¨¦ CDT888) are all Energy Star–certified under the new standards. In almost any scenario, whether or not they are Energy Star–certified, dishwashers save significant amounts of water and energy compared with hand-washing dishes, which guzzles between 9 and 27 gallons of water (depending on your wash style) and up to double the water-heating energy.
Top Dishwasher Picks for 2025
Miele G5008: Best Overall Dishwasher
This entry-level Miele model has quiet and effective cycles, an easily navigable control panel, and powerful cleaning ability. Miele is known for its reliability and durability. It delivers nearly spotless dishes with no redeposit. Maxing out at 42 dBA, it’s soft while running. Also, its third rack accommodates normal-sized utensils and flatware, as well as larger items, and the upper rack can be adjusted vertically and also tilted at an angle to help with loading and unloading. The Miele G5008 is Energy Star–certified under the new standards, ensuring efficient water and energy use.
- Pros: Exceptional cleaning performance, quiet operation at 42 dBA, adjustable racks, Energy Star–certified.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to budget models, no Wi-Fi connectivity.
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N: Best Value Dishwasher
Ringing up at just under $1,000, this Bosch 500 Series dishwasher isn’t the cheapest model out there, but it is a really great value for the features it offers. This pick has eight cycles, including a delicate wash option, and it features a flexible third rack if you need extra room for oversized dishes and utensils. It’s also an incredibly smart appliance, with built-in sensors that monitor a cycle’s progress, as well as customizable app features like hands-free voice control and the ability to preset your favorite cycle combinations. The appliance is also equipped with a helpful LED light that shines on the floor, so you’ll always know when a cycle is running. With the dishwasher operating at 44 decibels, you’ll be able to carry a quiet conversation in the same room while it’s running.
- Pros: Eight wash cycles, smart features with app control, quiet at 44 dBA, flexible third rack.
- Cons: Some users report rack durability issues, not as quiet as premium models.
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Samsung Top Control Dishwasher: Best for Large Households
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. In addition, it includes Wi-Fi compatibility that allows you to remotely monitor and control the dishwasher from your smartphone. Positive reviews praised the Samsung dishwasher for its near-silent operation, sturdy construction, and thorough cleaning.
- Pros: Ultra-quiet at 39 dBA, Wi-Fi connectivity, high capacity, thorough cleaning.
- Cons: Higher incidence of owner complaints, premium price.
Shop Samsung Top Control Dishwasher on Amazon
Miele G7216: Best Upgrade Pick
If you have the money to spend, the Miele G 5266 SCVi SFP is our pick for the best dishwasher upgrade. With some high-end models, you pay for a dishwasher’s look and style, not increased cleaning performance. That’s not true with the G 5266. During testing, it delivered nearly spotless dishes with no redeposit. And all the dishes we washed came out nice and dry. There’s more to the G 5266 than style and cleaning prowess. Maxing out at 42 dBA, it’s soft while running. 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.
- Pros: Premium design, AutoDos detergent system, excellent drying, quiet operation.
- Cons: Expensive, PowerDisk system adds ongoing costs.
Testing Methodology and Real-World Scenarios
When we test dishwashers, we get things dirty-very dirty. For our most recent round of testing, we loaded a dozen dishwashers with piles of gunk-smeared dishes and ran more than a hundred cleaning cycles to find the best machines for the job. We test each dishwasher with an average load of a five-person household, including plates, bowls, silverware, glasses, and mugs. We paint each section of a plate with a different food-typically jam, peanut butter, creamed spinach, egg yolk, a mixture of tomato and rice, or mashed-up pasta with stabilised tomato paste. Some of the plates are left out to air-dry overnight. Others are microwaved for three minutes to really bake on the substances. We call these ones the impossible plates-most dishwashers struggle to clean them. After we finish prepping dinner plates, the insides of cereal bowls get a light layer of oatmeal, yogurt, or jam. We smear salad plates with either ranch dressing and greens, soy sauce, or microwaved beans and cheese. Every load includes a casserole dish with baked-on cheesy pasta and tomato paste. Every test load includes five place settings covered in a stubborn mess.
Using Wirecutter’s spreadsheet method, we keep track of every speck, splotch, and streak of leftover goop remaining on the dishes. We place each item onto a white tray and snap a photo before taking detailed notes about what we see. When testing wraps, we tally the results and assign each dishwasher a score, which helps guide our final decisions. In Consumer Reports’ labs, testers load each of our dishwasher candidates with 12 dirtied ceramic plates and run a regular cleaning cycle. 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.
Comparison Table of Top Dishwashers
| Model | Price | Noise Level (dBA) | Energy Star Certified | Key Features | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miele G5008 | ~$1,200 | 42 | Yes | Adjustable racks, quiet operation, reliable cleaning | Higher price, no smart features |
| Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N | ~$999 | 44 | Yes | Smart features, eight cycles, third rack | Rack durability concerns |
| Samsung Top Control | ~$1,300 | 39 | Yes | Ultra-quiet, Wi-Fi, high capacity | More owner complaints |
| Miele G7216 | ~$2,000 | 42 | Yes | AutoDos system, premium design, excellent drying | Expensive, ongoing detergent costs |
Buying Guide for Choosing the Best Dishwasher
Buying a new dishwasher is a highly personal choice, one that depends on factors like the size of your household, your noise tolerance, and how often you prefer unloading your dishwasher. Here are key considerations to guide your purchase:
- Capacity and Size: Most standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide, fitting 12–16 place settings. For smaller kitchens, 18-inch models like Samsung’s compact dishwasher hold up to eight place settings and are ideal for small households. Measure your kitchen space carefully, especially for portable or compact models.
- Noise Level: Dishwashers with a rating of 44 dBA or less are ultra-quiet, while 45–50 dBA produce a soft hum. Models like the Samsung Top Control (39 dBA) and KitchenAid (39 dBA) are ideal for open-plan homes.
- Efficiency: Look for Energy Star–certified models to save water and energy. The Miele G5008 and Bosch 500 Series use approximately 626–750 gallons of water annually, compared to hand-washing’s 9–27 gallons per load.
- Features: Adjustable racks, third racks, and soil sensors enhance usability. Smart features, like Wi-Fi on the Samsung and Bosch models, allow remote control. Miele’s AutoDos system automates detergent dispensing for precision.
- Drying Performance: Models with heated drying (e.g., Miele G7216) or auto-open doors (e.g., Bosch 500 Series) excel at drying plastics, which are notoriously difficult.
For more insights, check out Consumer Reports’ Dishwasher Buying Guide.
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. Here are practical steps to keep your dishwasher running smoothly:
- Clean the Filter: Check and clean the filter monthly to prevent clogs and odors. A dirty filter can reduce cleaning performance.
- Use Quality Detergent: Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacs deliver the best overall clean. Avoid liquid detergents, as they are less effective for tough stains.
- Run Hot Water: Before starting a cycle, run hot water at the sink to ensure the dishwasher fills with warm water for optimal cleaning.
- Inspect Racks and Spray Arms: Ensure racks glide smoothly and spray arms are free of debris for even water distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the quietest dishwasher available?
The Samsung Top Control Dishwasher and KitchenAid models, both rated at 39 dBA, are among the quietest. They produce less noise than a typical conversation (60 dBA), making them ideal for open-plan homes.
Are Energy Star–certified dishwashers worth it?
Yes, Energy Star–certified models like the Miele G5008 and Bosch 500 Series use 12% less energy and 30% less water than standard dishwashers, saving on utility bills while maintaining performance.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Clean the filter monthly and run a vinegar cycle every 3–6 months to remove buildup and odors. Regular maintenance extends the machine’s lifespan and ensures optimal cleaning.
Can dishwashers dry plastic items effectively?
Models with heated drying or auto-open doors, like the Miele G7216 and Bosch 500 Series, perform best on plastics. These features circulate warm air to evaporate water from concave surfaces.
What’s the difference between portable and built-in dishwashers?
Portable dishwashers, like the GE GPT145SSLSS, roll to the sink and connect to a faucet, ideal for rentals or small kitchens. Built-in models, like the Miele G5008, are stationary and integrated into cabinetry for larger households.
For additional dishwasher recommendations, explore Wirecutter’s full dishwasher guide.