KitchenAid is one of the most relied upon names in kitchen appliances. With proper maintenance, a KitchenAid dishwasher is a reliable choice. KitchenAid dishwashers are known for several important features: high load capacity, robust wash systems, and quiet cleaning. These convenient features and a reliable brand name often translate into high costs. While KitchenAid has dishwasher models in the top-of-the-line price range, several models are on the high end of average.
Why Choose KitchenAid Dishwashers?
KitchenAid dishwashers are consistently rated as a high-quality choice and offer all of the options that a customer would want. High storage capacity, strong washing systems, quiet operation, and a thorough filtration system make KitchenAid dishwashers a good option. The expected lifespan of a KitchenAid dishwasher is about 10 years. You can extend your dishwasher’s life by removing scraps from plates, regularly cleaning the filter, and removing hard water residue.
Key Features of KitchenAid Dishwashers
- ProWash Cycle: Uses sensors to measure your dish’s soil level and then adjusts both wash times and water levels according to the load size. This convenient feature leaves your dishwasher cleaner, as well as the dishes themselves.
- Fan-Enabled ProDry System: Ensures every inch of your dishes is efficiently dried, while the ProWash Cycle adapts and adjusts to the soil level of each load.
- Advanced Clean Water Wash System: A microfiltration system continually removes loose food particles during the wash and rinse cycles, ensuring spotless dishes that are table-ready after each load.
- FreeFlex Third Rack: Offers unmatched function and versatility, allowing for easy customization of your dish loads, catering to your specific needs with ease.
- SatinGlide Rails: Effortlessly move the third and middle racks for smooth loading and unloading.
Top 10 KitchenAid Dishwasher Models
Below is a curated list of the top 10 KitchenAid dishwashers, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and performance based on real-world testing and customer feedback.
1. KitchenAid KDTM704KPS
This dishwasher replaced an old Kenmore one, and the KitchenAid cleans so much better and is a lot quieter. I also like the styling with the sleek front and no huge buttons sticking out. The dishes are always cleaned and dried. Have had several KitchenAid dishwashers and I would not hesitate to get another.
- Features: FreeFlex Third Rack, LED interior lighting, ProWash Cycle, Fan-Enabled ProDry System, 44 dB noise level.
- Pros: High capacity (16 place settings), quiet operation, efficient drying.
- Cons: Expensive, slightly less thorough cleaning compared to some competitors.
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2. KitchenAid KDTE204KPS
At 39 dB, the KDTE204KPS is the quietest dishwasher KitchenAid makes. Its noise level is about the same as a library’s and just below the market standard. It also has a third rack for improved washing and to accommodate more per load. The PrintShield Finish resists fingerprints and smudges.
- Features: ProWash Cycle, third rack, PrintShield Finish, 39 dB noise level.
- Pros: Extremely quiet, budget-friendly, reliable cleaning.
- Cons: Limited to 13 place settings, fewer wash arms than higher-end models.
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3. KitchenAid KDTM404KPS
The KDTM404KPS has some valuable upgrades over the 204—even though it’s a little louder. They both have an adjustable middle rack, but the 404 has the latest FreeFlex third rack and adjustable rows on the middle and lower racks. It also gives you two stemware holders in the middle rack—not a huge deal, but good to know. As a result, the 404 can fit 16 place settings compared with the 204’s 13.
- Features: FreeFlex Third Rack, five wash arms, Clean Water Wash System, 44 dB noise level.
- Pros: High capacity, versatile racks, thorough cleaning.
- Cons: Slightly louder than KDTE204KPS, higher price point.
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4. KitchenAid KDFE104KPS
Those keeping an eye on their budget could be attracted to the KitchenAid KDFE104KPS. It’s typical of the brand’s other easy-to-control dishwashers and shares many features of more expensive models but with a more competitive price tag. There are two racks that provide place settings for up to 12 people.
- Features: ProWash Cycle, heated dryer option, stainless steel tub, 47 dB noise level.
- Pros: Affordable, reliable performance, easy to use.
- Cons: Smaller capacity, louder than premium models.
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5. KitchenAid KDTE204KWH
The KDTE204KWH dishwasher from KitchenAid is another whisper-quiet model packed with features for better cleaning and ease of use. There is versatile interior space thanks to the 3 rack system, and SatinGlide rails for smooth access when loading and unloading.
- Features: ProWash Cycle, 3 rack system, SatinGlide rails, 39 dB noise level.
- Pros: Quiet, versatile loading, multiple finish options.
- Cons: Limited capacity compared to higher-end models.
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6. KitchenAid KDTM604KPS
In between $999-$1,299, KitchenAid is compelling. You have better washing and drying systems as well as largest rack. The M series model adds a filter for cleaner water but is louder at 44 decibels than the less expensive 200 series in terms of quietness.
- Features: ProWash Cycle, FreeFlex Third Rack, Fan-Enabled ProDry System, 44 dB noise level.
- Pros: Large capacity, effective cleaning, competitive pricing.
- Cons: Slightly louder than some competitors.
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7. KitchenAid KDFE204KPS
Some of the quietest models, like the Kitchenaid KDFE204KPS, have advanced technology to keep the machine as quiet as 39 decibels when running. If you look into the specs section of each model, this information should be listed clearly.
- Features: ProWash Cycle, stainless steel tub, 39 dB noise level.
- Pros: Extremely quiet, reliable cleaning, sleek design.
- Cons: Limited capacity, fewer advanced features.
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8. KitchenAid KDTM354DSS
With its top-notch washing and efficient and quiet operation, the KitchenAid KDTM354DSS, $1,200, has claimed the top spot because of its shorter cycle time and a new self-cleaning feature that does away with the noisy grinding common to most self-cleaning machines.
- Features: Self-cleaning ultrafine filter, ProWash Cycle, 43 dB noise level.
- Pros: Short cycle time, quiet operation, effective cleaning.
- Cons: Higher price, slightly less quiet than newer models.
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9. KitchenAid KDTM804KPS
The 700 series is $1,499, and the 800 series is $1,899, but you are only adding a knife caddy, light, and glide-out racks. It’s $200-600 more than the 600 series, with all the other best features.
- Features: FreeFlex Third Rack, knife caddy, LED lighting, 44 dB noise level.
- Pros: Premium features, high capacity, sleek design.
- Cons: Expensive for minimal additional features.
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10. KitchenAid KDPM604KPS
With more than 4,000 perfect reviews, buyers agree this mid-range dishwasher is powerful, reliable, and convenient with features like an adjustable rack, ProWash technology, and heated drying. And at just 39 dBA, you’ll hardly notice this machine going to work.
- Features: ProWash Cycle, adjustable rack, heated drying, 39 dB noise level.
- Pros: Quiet, reliable, highly rated by users.
- Cons: Mid-range capacity, fewer premium features.
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Comparison Table of Top KitchenAid Dishwashers
| Model | Place Settings | Noise Level (dB) | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KDTM704KPS | 16 | 44 | FreeFlex Third Rack, LED lighting, ProWash Cycle | $1,400-$1,600 |
| KDTE204KPS | 13 | 39 | ProWash Cycle, PrintShield Finish, Third Rack | $900-$1,100 |
| KDTM404KPS | 16 | 44 | FreeFlex Third Rack, Clean Water Wash System | $1,200-$1,400 |
| KDFE104KPS | 12 | 47 | ProWash Cycle, Heated Dryer | $800-$1,000 |
| KDTE204KWH | 13 | 39 | ProWash Cycle, SatinGlide Rails | $900-$1,100 |
| KDTM604KPS | 16 | 44 | FreeFlex Third Rack, Fan-Enabled ProDry | $1,000-$1,300 |
| KDFE204KPS | 13 | 39 | ProWash Cycle, Stainless Steel Tub | $900-$1,100 |
| KDTM354DSS | 14 | 43 | Self-cleaning Filter, ProWash Cycle | $1,100-$1,300 |
| KDTM804KPS | 16 | 44 | FreeFlex Third Rack, Knife Caddy | $1,800-$2,000 |
| KDPM604KPS | 14 | 39 | ProWash Cycle, Heated Drying | $1,000-$1,200 |
Testing Scenarios and Performance
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. Plus we assess the capacity and flexibility of all the racks, trays, and baskets and evaluate how easy each dishwasher is to use, load, and program. 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. We even “kiss” each coffee cup with lipstick, a stain that many dishwashers struggle to completely remove. Between staining, drying, and cleaning each load, we spend at least 7 hours testing just one cycle, not counting the time it takes to examine each piece once the cycle is done.
Real-World Testing Results
- KDTM704KPS: Cleaned well with versatile racks, interior lighting, and easy-to-use wine-glass holders. It didn’t clean quite as thoroughly as some ultra-reliable competitors but was close.
- KDTE204KPS: Performed reliably in tests, removing most stains without pre-rinsing. Its quiet operation was a standout feature.
- KDTM404KPS: Excelled in handling large loads, with adjustable racks accommodating tall items like blender pitchers.
Pros and Cons of KitchenAid Dishwashers
Pros
- High load capacity, with models accommodating up to 16 place settings.
- Quiet operation, with some models as low as 39 dB.
- Robust wash systems, including ProWash and Clean Water Wash technologies.
- Sleek designs with smudge-resistant finishes like PrintShield.
- Reliable brand with a 10-year average lifespan.
Cons
- Higher price points, with premium models exceeding $1,500.
- Some models have smaller capacities (12-13 place settings).
- Slightly less reliable than competitors like Bosch or Miele in some surveys.
- Occasional issues with drying performance on plastic items.
Buying Guide for KitchenAid Dishwashers
Factors to Consider
- Capacity: Choose a model with enough place settings for your household. Larger families may prefer 16-place-setting models like the KDTM704KPS.
- Noise Level: Look for models with 39-44 dB for quiet operation, especially in open-plan kitchens.
- Features: Prioritize ProWash, FreeFlex Third Rack, and Fan-Enabled ProDry for optimal performance.
- Budget: KitchenAid dishwashers range from $800 to $2,000. Budget-friendly options like the KDFE104KPS offer solid performance.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star certification to save on water and energy bills.
Where to Buy
KitchenAid dishwashers are available at most major appliance retailers. The KitchenAid website will help you find the dealer nearest you. For online purchases, check trusted retailers like:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do KitchenAid dishwashers typically last?
With proper maintenance, KitchenAid dishwashers last around 10 years, though some users report up to 12-15 years with regular care.
Are KitchenAid dishwashers energy-efficient?
Many KitchenAid models are Energy Star-certified, using minimal water (4-5 gallons per cycle) and energy (around 1 kWh per cycle), which translates to lower utility bills.
Do KitchenAid dishwashers require pre-rinsing?
No, KitchenAid dishwashers with ProWash and Clean Water Wash systems are designed to handle tough, stuck-on food without pre-rinsing.
What is the quietest KitchenAid dishwasher?
The KDTE204KPS and KDPM604KPS are among the quietest, operating at 39 dB, comparable to a library’s noise level.
Can KitchenAid dishwashers handle large items like pots and pans?
Yes, models with FreeFlex Third Rack and adjustable racks, like the KDTM704KPS, easily accommodate large cookware and tall items.