7 Best Cheap Dishwashers in 2023

Jul 20, 2023

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These cheap dishwashers have fewer bells and whistles than the premium picks, but no compromises when it comes to getting your dishes clean.

Throwing in laundry at home is a major lifestyle upgrade over shlepping to the laundromat. The same holds true for doing dishes: You can't beat the convenience of a dishwasher versus working through a sink full of dirty pots. And, just like budget-friendly washing machines, there are plenty of cheap dishwashers that cover all the essentials—namely, leaving your dishes sparkly clean. While they may have fewer bells and whistles, they’re just as effective as more expensive options, and most are Energy Star-certified to help save you money on electric.

There are even smart dishwashers, ultra-quiet options, and portable dishwashers on the market that are well under $1,000, so you can get just what you need no matter your budget.

For more kitchen appliances recommendations, check out the best stainless steel refrigerators, front-load washers, and smart ovens.

Price aside, shopping for a cheap dishwasher versus a more expensive model isn't that different. The same basics apply, including type, size, capacity, and key features like the number of wash cycles and noise level. Here's an overview of the most important considerations.

Most of the cheap dishwashers we write about are standard built-in or integrated models. There are also portable and countertop dishwashers, and we include a few in our coverage, though keep in mind that they typically have fewer features and tend to be louder.

There are standard 24-inch-wide dishwashers and more compact, or "half-size," 18-inch models. You’ll see the number of place settings that fit inside listed in specs, but that isn't the best or the most reliable metric since dinner dishes are rarely so uniform. That metric may be deceiving, too, since a traditional five-piece place setting includes a teacup and saucer. Instead, measure the height of your biggest dishes and check whether the racks move to make more space for tall items.

Noise is measured in decibels, or dBA, and a dishwasher's noise level is almost always included in the specs on a retailer's website. Anything that's 44 dBA or less is considered ultra-quiet; 45 to 50 dBA is very quiet, and anything 51 dBA or more is average. Models with 38 or 39 dBA are the quietest on the market, though it's tough to find budget-friendly options in that range.

A third rack is handy for small items that tend to slip out of a silverware basket, like straws and travel mug lids, and stainless steel tubs are preferable to plastic for durability. Most cheap dishwashers are Energy Star-certified and use 3.5 gallons of water or less during a normal cycle, and typically feature an average of four to six wash cycles.

In terms of smart features, there are Wi-Fi-enabled models and others with optional Wi-Fi connectivity. Some models offer a self-cleaning filter, though we still recommend cleaning your dishwasher at least twice a year.

We only recommend cheap dishwashers from major appliance brands we’ve grown to trust, such as GE, Frigidaire, Bosch, and Samsung, and aimed to include models with the most attractive features and the lowest price points.

We considered the most popular models from these brands and compared specs, including the number of cycles, tub material, noise level, and Energy Star certification, as well as convenient extras like third racks and removable silverware baskets.

This built-in dishwasher comes out on top for its solid lineup of features and ultra-quiet operation—and, at the time of this writing, it happens to be the best deal of any cheap dishwasher we cover here.

If, like me, you can't stand struggling to hear the TV over a loud dishwasher, quiet operation is a big priority. That's one of many reasons I love this model, which has an ultra-quiet 48-dBA noise rating. Two other features at the top of my list are a fingerprint-resistant finish and a stainless steel tub. I also like that this model is Wi-Fi-compatible in case I want to upgrade.

Other highlights include a one-hour quick wash among the dishwasher's five cycles, and the option to run a half-load on the top or bottom rack. The model comes in six finishes and two handle styles, plus it's Energy Star-rated.

The only drawback, though likely not a dealbreaker, is that the part required for enabling Wi-Fi is sold separately.

It isn't easy to find a dishwasher with a third rack for under $1,000, but this GE model fits the bill. It's also one of the few at this price that allows you to run a half-load on the upper or lower rack to save water.

The cheap dishwasher has a total of five cycles, including steam and sanitize, plus a boosted heat-dry setting. There's also a 12-hour delay, and with a noise rating of 50 dBA, the built-in dishwasher is relatively quiet.

There's a lot to like about this Bosch entry-level dishwasher, in addition to its reasonable price tag. For starters, there are six cycles, including a one-hour quick wash, a 24-hour delay, and a heavy-duty cycle for pots and pans.

The dishwasher features a fingerprint-resistant finish and has a tall, stainless steel tub, along with an adjustable upper rack with fold-down tines. Its utility rack and removable silverware basket are highlights, and its quiet operation is another big plus.

This portable countertop dishwasher is small but mighty, boasting five wash cycles, upper and lower spray arms, and enough room inside to accommodate 12-inch dinner plates. There's also a 40-minute quick-wash cycle, a glass-only cycle, and even a fruit wash cycle.

We also love its inconspicuous, minimalist design and compact size—roughly a 22-inch cube. No faucet hookup is required thanks to its built in-water tank (a water hose is included as a backup, though you’ll have to spring for an adapter). The only drawback? It's on the noisy side, with a 62 dBA rating.

You can't beat this Samsung dishwasher for smart capability, ultra-quiet operation, and thoughtful design. It has an impressive 44-dBA noise rating and seven cycles—including quick wash and delay—plus a third rack and a stainless steel tub.

There's also a self-clean filter. The cheap dishwasher looks as good as it performs, too, with a sleek door that has a fingerprint-resistant finish. Not a bad package for the price.

If you want a cheap dishwasher and a built-in isn't an option for you, consider this portable GE model. The 24-inch smart dishwasher is set on four casters and comes loaded with features, including a third rack, an adjustable top rack, and hard food disposal to prevent clogging. There are only three wash cycles, though there is a delayed start setting. If you have a small kitchen or limited storage, this dishwasher also comes in an 18-inch model.

This 18-inch dishwasher has solid features for a compact model, plus it's ADA-compliant for anyone who needs guaranteed accessibility. There are six wash cycles, including quick-wash and a sanitizing cycle, along with 24-hour delay start.

It also has a stainless steel tub and self-cleaning filter, plus the dishwasher is Energy Star-certified. It's available in three finishes and has a recessed handle, which looks more streamlined and saves space in tight kitchens, though some customers say the panel controls are hard to read in low lighting.

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics, where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend.

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