Selecting the right dishwasher for your kitchen involves balancing performance, features, and budget. With countless models flooding the market, the decision hinges on factors like cleaning prowess, energy efficiency, noise levels, and design. In 2025, brands like Bosch, Miele, and KitchenAid dominate with innovative technology, while budget-friendly options from LG and Whirlpool offer compelling value. This guide compiles insights from rigorous lab tests and expert reviews to highlight the top dishwashers, their pros and cons, and practical advice to help you find the perfect fit.
Top Dishwasher Picks for 2025
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N: Best Overall
This model sits just below Bosch’s most premium dishwasher – and honestly, it gives you 95% of the features for a much better value. You get the essentials that matter most: a stainless-steel interior, 3rd rack, CrystalDry for bone-dry plastics, and whisper-quiet operation at just 42 dB. I especially love the built-in water softener. In Northern New Jersey, where hard water is common, that extra protection means fewer spots on your wine glasses – and less frustration after a wash cycle. It also features Bosch’s top-tier drying tech – CrystalDry – which actually outperforms the AutoAir door pop feature found on some other models. So even if you run it overnight, your dishes (including plastics) come out dry and fresh. Bottom line: You get premium performance without overpaying – ideal for busy households that want clean, dry dishes every time, with zero hassle. Shop on Amazon.
- Pros: Smart sensors for better cleaning, CrystalDry for excellent drying, quiet at 42 dB, stainless-steel interior, built-in water softener.
- Cons: Standard washing system lacks advanced spray arms, pricier than entry-level models.
Miele G 5266 SCVi SFP: 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. Like other premium dishwashers, this Miele has a third rack for silverware, which frees up space on the bottom rack for plates and larger items. Unlike other brands, Miele’s silverware rack secures each piece, preventing scratches during the wash. Miele’s drying system is simple yet highly effective. The dishwasher pulls cooler air from your kitchen through a port at the bottom, attracting steamier, hotter air and condensing it into water. Additionally, the dishwasher door automatically pops open at the end of the cycle to release heat and steam, speeding up the drying process. This dishwasher also includes specialized cycles for washing delicate items like China and crystal and a half-load option for smaller washes. Shop on Amazon.
- Pros: Superior cleaning and drying, three wash arms, quiet at 39 dB, durable build, specialized cycles.
- Cons: High price point at $1,499, limited budget appeal.
LG QuadWash LDP6810SS: Best for Large Households
The LG QuadWash Dishwasher’s crowning glory is its eponymous technology, which uses four spinning spray arms to give your dishes a more thorough clean. Between its capacity, supercharged spray nozzles, steam jets and dish-drying capabilities-plus its midrange price tag-we think this is one of the most efficient models you can purchase. What our editors say: Executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, who put the LG QuadWash through its paces for Forbes Vetted’s Best Product Awards, calls this dishwasher ¡°amazing.¡± She elaborates: ¡°It dries so well, plastic included, even without a rinse aid. Sometimes there would be some droplets left on tupperware if I didn’t put a rinse aid in, but this one had considerably better performance than many other dishwashers I’ve tried.¡± Shop on Amazon.
- Pros: Four spray arms for thorough cleaning, excellent drying, 15 place settings, Energy Star certified.
- Cons: Slightly louder at 46 dB, occasional droplets on plastics without rinse aid.
KitchenAid KDTM604KPS: Best for Quiet Operation
This built-in KitchenAid dishwasher is a top-of-the-line model that offers a host of advanced features including a third level rack, adjustable tines, and a bottle wash setting. Furthermore, its whisper-quiet operating noise level of just 44 dBA makes the KDTM604KPS one of the quietest options on the market. 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. When we tested this dishwasher, we were impressed with its overall design and stylish finish. Its large third rack stood out from other models we examined, and it is angled to help fit various sized glasses and bowls for increased flexibility. Shop on Amazon.
- Pros: Quiet at 44 dB, customizable interior, third rack, bottle wash setting, stylish design.
- Cons: Large handlebar protrudes, rack design may feel cumbersome.
Beko DUT25401X: Best Budget Option
The Beko DUT25401X is that it pairs an excellent, energy-efficient performance with an incredibly low price tag-a great value. With dishwashers costing from around $500 to more than $2,000, there are a lot of differences between models. This model reminded me of the Bosch SHEM63W55N inside and out with its slick, modern design. 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. Shop on Amazon.
- Pros: Affordable, energy-efficient, sturdy racks, modern design.
- Cons: Limited advanced features, basic cycle options.
Comparison of Top Dishwashers
| Model | Price (USD) | Noise Level (dB) | Capacity (Place Settings) | Energy Star Certified | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N | 999 | 42 | 16 | Yes | CrystalDry, third rack, water softener |
| Miele G 5266 SCVi SFP | 1,499 | 39 | 16 | Yes | AutoDos, three wash arms, auto-open drying |
| LG QuadWash LDP6810SS | 799 | 46 | 15 | Yes | QuadWash, steam jets, third rack |
| KitchenAid KDTM604KPS | 1,199 | 44 | 16 | Yes | Bottle wash, adjustable tines, third rack |
| Beko DUT25401X | 599 | 48 | 14 | Yes | Adjustable racks, budget-friendly |
Testing Scenarios and Performance
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.
Drying: In general, CR’s testers have found that dishwashers with heated-dry cycles (which essentially bake moisture off the dishes) tend to do a better job at getting dishes bone-dry than models that rely on residual heat, but it’s not a guarantee. Ciufo has noted that dishwashers that automatically open the door at the end of a cycle to release steam are some of the most effective at drying. Energy efficiency: Our tests have revealed that dishwashers often use slightly more water and energy than advertised, but the difference adds up to only a few dollars per year in extra utility costs. Noise: Certain ¡°quiet¡± models actually have spikes in volume from time to time while they run, like the sound of the detergent door thwacking against the tub or the churn of a loud drain pump.
Buying Guide for Dishwashers
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. The more features a dishwasher has, the pricier it will be, so think through which extras you’ll actually use. For example, many models now come with WiFi, which offers cycle customization.
- Size and Capacity: Standard 24-inch models fit most kitchens, holding 12-16 place settings. Compact 18-inch or countertop models suit smaller spaces but hold 6-10 settings.
- Features: Look for soil sensors, adjustable racks, third racks for utensils, and specialized cycles (e.g., bottle wash, sanitize).
- Energy Efficiency: Energy Star-certified models use 3.5 gallons or less per cycle, saving about $55 annually and 3,850 gallons of water over their lifespan.
- Noise Level: Models below 45 dB are ideal for open-plan homes. Ultra-quiet options (39-42 dB) won’t disturb conversations or sleep.
- Design: Choose between visible or hidden controls, handle types (pocket, bar, or recessed), and finishes (stainless steel, black, or custom panels).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most reliable dishwasher brand?
Bosch and Miele consistently rank as the most reliable brands based on consumer surveys and lab tests. Bosch offers a wide range of models with strong performance and durability, while Miele’s premium build ensures longevity, often lasting 10-15 years.
Are Energy Star-certified dishwashers worth it?
Yes, Energy Star-certified dishwashers save water and energy, reducing utility bills by about $55 per year and conserving up to 5,800 gallons of water over their lifetime. They’re especially valuable for eco-conscious households.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Clean your dishwasher every 1-2 months to prevent buildup of food particles and mold. Run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a vinegar-baking soda mix, and regularly clean the filter and spray arms.
Can dishwashers dry plastic items effectively?
Models with advanced drying systems, like Bosch’s CrystalDry or Miele’s auto-open door, excel at drying plastics. Heated-dry cycles or steam-releasing features outperform basic condensation drying for plastic containers and utensils.
What’s the difference between freestanding and integrated dishwashers?
Freestanding dishwashers are standalone units with visible controls, ideal for flexible placement. Integrated models are built into cabinetry with hidden controls for a seamless kitchen look but require precise installation.
Conclusion
The best dishwashers of 2025 combine powerful cleaning, efficient drying, and user-friendly features to suit various needs and budgets. Whether you prioritize quiet operation with the KitchenAid KDTM604KPS, premium performance with the Miele G 5266, or value with the Beko DUT25401X, there’s a model to elevate your kitchen. Use this guide to assess your space, household size, and preferences, and explore top picks to find the perfect dishwasher for your home. For further reading, check out Consumer Reports’ Dishwasher Ratings for detailed performance data.