Finding a dishwasher that cleans effectively, fits your budget, and offers reliable performance can transform your kitchen routine. Affordable dishwashers, typically priced between $300 and $800, don’t skimp on quality despite their lower cost. These machines save time, reduce water usage, and deliver spotless dishes without the premium price tag of high-end models. This guide highlights the top 10 budget-friendly dishwashers, their pros and cons, real-world testing insights, and a buying guide to help you choose the best option for your home.
Top 10 Best Affordable Dishwashers
1. Beko DUT25401X
The Beko DUT25401X dishwasher features convenient racks that flip down for larger kitchen utensils. The Beko DUT25401X offers excellent, energy-efficient performance and an incredibly low price tag. After testing the best affordable dishwashers, our evaluation found that the Beko DUT25401X offers the most value for its price by a large margin. It gets dishes spotless, but it won’t clean out your bank account. Also, it takes effort to push to make desired cycle selections. Still, the DUT25401X offers top-tier performance at a budget price.
- Pros: Spotless cleaning, energy-efficient, adjustable racks for large items.
- Cons: Control panel requires firm presses.
2. Maytag MDB4949SKZ
The Maytag MDB4949SKZ is one of the consistently highest user-rated dishwashers on this list, and it is frequently on sale. You won’t be disappointed in this dishwasher’s Auto cycle, which cleared away over 97% of our test stains. Where this dishwasher stands out is its Heated Dry mode, which was able to get an entire load of dishes completely dry after a wash cycle. Many affordable dishwashers struggle in particular with completely drying dishes. This Maytag is one of the better affordable options for anyone who hates wet dishes. Notably, this dishwasher dries plastic items better than most models, thanks to its optional heated-dry cycles (but this can add 30 to 60 minutes to a wash cycle).
- Pros: Excellent cleaning (97% stain removal), superior heated dry, often discounted.
- Cons: Heated dry extends cycle time.
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3. Bosch 100 Series SHE3AEM2N
The Bosch 100 Series SHE3AEM2N dishwasher provides good value across the board and is the most affordable entry point into owning a Bosch. In our testing we found this dishwasher has appropriate cleaning capabilities for its price. Bosch is widely recognized for making good, reliable dishwashers. They are known for their efficiency, quiet operation, and innovative features that enhance cleaning performance. Bosch dishwashers often include advanced technology like precision spray arms and smart sensors to ensure dishes are spotless.
- Pros: Reliable brand, quiet operation, good cleaning for price.
- Cons: Lacks premium features like adjustable racks.
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4. Samsung DW80CG4021SR
The Samsung DW80CG4021SR has a sleek, modern design for an affordable dishwasher. Aside from its bold handle, it features an otherwise clean facade with the digital touch controls hidden on the top of the stainless-steel door. Its standard two-rack layout features an adjustable-height upper rack and stemware holders. When it comes to cleaning performance, this dishwasher features several wash programs, including Heavy, Express 60, and Auto, as well as a Sanitize wash option. The hybrid tub features a stainless-steel-lined door that helps to dampen noise. While it isn’t the quietest dishwasher on this list, its 53 dBA is respectable among budget-friendly dishwashers.
- Pros: Sleek design, multiple wash programs, decent noise level (53 dBA).
- Cons: Not the quietest option.
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5. Whirlpool WDF520PADM
The budget-friendly Whirlpool WDF520PADM dishwasher offers solid cleaning with 14 place settings, Energy Star certification, AccuSense sensor, and positive user feedback. When we tested this model, we noted that it lacks almost all of the high-end features of some of the other models in this review, such as an adjustable third rack or smart features. However, it does include a built-in sensor that makes sure you have clean dishes while operating as efficiently as possible. If you’re in a rush, you can use the quick wash cycle to have dishes washed and dried in just 60 minutes.
- Pros: Solid cleaning, Energy Star certified, quick wash cycle.
- Cons: Lacks advanced features.
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6. Hotpoint HIC3B19C
You really don’t have to break the bank in order to get a quality integrated dishwasher. Consider the Hotpoint HIC3B19C. This high-performing appliance offers a great choice of settings, user-friendly controls, and superb cleaning performance, all for less than half the price of some of the other dishwashers we’ve tested. The one major downside to the HIC3B19C is its energy efficiency rating: a lowly F grade.
- Pros: Affordable, user-friendly, excellent cleaning.
- Cons: Poor energy efficiency (F rating).
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7. Beko BDIN16430
If you’re seeking a more affordable option, the integrated Beko BDIN16430 is certainly worth considering. Beko kitchen appliances are well regarded amongst Mumsnet users and it’s not hard to see why – despite their budget-friendly price tags, they offer much of the functionality found on more costly models. With 14 place settings and a spacious, adjustable design suitable for even large households, it comes with a choice of six programmes and a range of features to save time and energy. While reviewers felt the instructions could be clearer, we love the addition of a handy half-load function.
- Pros: 14 place settings, half-load function, adjustable design.
- Cons: Unclear instructions.
8. Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N
I asked this question about 3 months ago and didn’t get much solid answers. Then did the research myself and came up with Bosch 300 for around $850. It has a pan and system to stop flooding from ever happening, which makes this landlord happy, and the renter likes the machine very much. Model SHE53C86N. Bosch is golden for dishwashers. Try to get the 500 or 800 series, if funds allow you to.
- Pros: Anti-flood system, reliable, renter-approved.
- Cons: Slightly pricier than entry-level models.
Shop Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N on Amazon
9. Amana Front-Control Tall-Tub Dishwasher
Bottom line: A budget-friendly dishwasher that offers powerful cleaning and easy-to-use controls. ¡°I found this on sale on the Best Buy website and purchased it. It gets the job done, cleans wells and dries well in our household of six and at an affordable cost.¡± … ¡°Great product for a great price. Noise level is adequate, and does a good job with pots and pans!! Easy to operate.¡±
- Pros: Powerful cleaning, easy controls, good for large households.
- Cons: Adequate but not exceptional noise level.
Shop Amana Front-Control Tall-Tub Dishwasher on Amazon
10. Frigidaire 18″ Front-Control 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. Considering its narrow design, this can handle an impressive amount of kitchenware in a single wash, with enough space for 10 place settings.
- Pros: Compact (18 inches), 10 place settings, ideal for small spaces.
- Cons: Limited capacity for larger households.
Shop Frigidaire 18″ Front-Control Dishwasher on Amazon
Comparison Table of Top Affordable Dishwashers
| Model | Price Range | Place Settings | Noise Level (dBA) | Energy Star | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beko DUT25401X | $400-$500 | 14 | 48 | Yes | Adjustable racks |
| Maytag MDB4949SKZ | $500-$600 | 14 | 50 | Yes | Heated dry |
| Bosch 100 Series SHE3AEM2N | $450-$550 | 14 | 50 | Yes | Quiet operation |
| Samsung DW80CG4021SR | $500-$600 | 14 | 53 | Yes | Sleek design |
| Whirlpool WDF520PADM | $350-$450 | 14 | 55 | Yes | Quick wash |
| Hotpoint HIC3B19C | $300-$400 | 13 | 52 | No | User-friendly controls |
| Beko BDIN16430 | $350-$450 | 14 | 48 | Yes | Half-load function |
| Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N | $800-$850 | 16 | 46 | Yes | Anti-flood system |
| Amana Front-Control | $300-$400 | 12 | 55 | Yes | Easy controls |
| Frigidaire 18″ Front-Control | $400-$500 | 10 | 52 | Yes | Compact design |
Testing Scenarios and Performance Insights
Real-World Testing Descriptions
When we test dishwashers, we challenge them with dirtier loads than you would ever have at home. And, we never pre-rinse anything before loading it in. Prior to testing the cleaning performance of various cycles, we uniformly apply, then bake-, dry- and burn-on mac and cheese, hamburger, oatmeal, egg yolk, milk and more to cookware and 10 five-piece settings of dishes, glassware, cups, saucers and flatware. Replicating the daily dish usage of a five-person household, we washed close to 100 items in each test load, including bowls slicked with oatmeal, plates painted with a patchwork of dried-on foods, flatware caked with avocado, and glassware smeared with lipstick. The Maytag MDB4949SKZ cleared over 97% of test stains, while the Beko DUT25401X consistently delivered spotless results. The Bosch 100 Series performed adequately for its price, though it struggled with heavier stains compared to premium models.
Drying Performance
Drying Ability: To reduce energy consumption and improve safety, many manufacturers have eliminated dishwasher heating elements, which can impact drying abilities, especially with plastic items like Tupperware. Instead, manufacturers use different ways to dry dishes. Whether it’s accomplished with rinse aid, a built-in heater, a built-in fan, or another method, people expect their dishes to be dry, as well as clean. The Maytag MDB4949SKZ excels here, drying entire loads, including plastics, thanks to its heated dry mode. The Samsung DW80CG4021SR uses an auto-release door to improve drying, though some plastic items may retain water.
Buying Guide for Affordable Dishwashers
Key Features to Consider
- 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.
- Energy Efficiency: Almost any dishwasher will use less water to clean a load of dishes than if you washed them by hand. Most dishwashers have soil sensors, which detect how dirty dishes are and determine how much water and time are needed to get them clean. Look for the Energy Star designation, which indicates that the appliance uses an average of 3.5 gallons or less in a cycle.
- Noise Level: Inexpensive dishwashers are relatively noisy. Consumer Reports’ tests have also found that inexpensive dishwashers are relatively noisy. Look for models under 50 dBA for quieter operation.
- Cycle Options: If you’re in a rush, you can use the quick wash cycle to have dishes washed and dried in just 60 minutes. The delayed timer is a handy cost-saving feature, too, as you can set the dishwasher to run later at night when energy tariffs are lower.
Tips for Choosing the Right Dishwasher
- Before you start shopping, you should already have a budget in mind. You should also make a list of the specifications and features that you need. That way you can easily filter through what’s available on the market and avoid overspending.
- Using environmentally and energy-friendly settings on your dishwasher, such as Eco mode, light load, or air dry settings, can save you even more.
- Finish and Design: Buying a budget dishwasher doesn’t mean that you have to totally sacrifice finish and design. The dishwashers we tested come in a number of finishes, including stainless steel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best affordable dishwasher for a small household?
The Frigidaire 18″ Front-Control Dishwasher is ideal for small households due to its compact 18-inch design and 10 place settings, perfect for smaller kitchens or fewer dishes.
Are budget dishwashers energy-efficient?
Most budget dishwashers, like the Beko DUT25401X and Whirlpool WDF520PADM, are Energy Star certified, using 3.5 gallons or less per cycle, which saves water and energy compared to hand-washing.
How loud are affordable dishwashers?
Affordable dishwashers typically range from 48 to 55 dBA. Models like the Bosch 300 Series (46 dBA) and Beko BDIN16430 (48 dBA) are quieter, while others, like the Whirlpool WDF520PADM (55 dBA), are noisier.
Do budget dishwashers dry dishes well?
Drying performance varies. The Maytag MDB4949SKZ excels with its heated dry mode, while others, like the Samsung DW80CG4021SR, use auto-release doors to improve drying, though plastics may retain some water.
How long do affordable dishwashers last?
Manufacturers estimate a 10-year lifespan, but with proper maintenance, models from reliable brands like Bosch and Whirlpool can last longer. Regular cleaning of filters and spray arms is key.
Conclusion
Affordable dishwashers offer a balance of performance, efficiency, and value, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious households. From the spotless cleaning of the Beko DUT25401X to the compact design of the Frigidaire 18″ Front-Control, there’s a model for every need. Use the comparison table and buying guide to find the perfect dishwasher, and enjoy the convenience of clean dishes without breaking the bank. For more appliance insights, check out Consumer Reports’ Dishwasher Guide.