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KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwashers 2024: The Ultimate Guide

February 16th, 2024 | 12 min. read

By Steve Sheinkopf

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KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwashers 2024: The Ultimate Guide

The biggest and best product comparison for dishwashers and appliances is Bosch versus KitchenAid.

Why?

Both brands have excellent dishwashers and have recently updated their features.

KitchenAid reinvented their dishwasher several years ago, while Bosch recently updated theirs, particularly with the introduction of their PowerControl wash system.

While both are excellent, it may depend on one crucial factor:

We haven't seen any KitchenAid innovations in five years.

Let’s dive in.

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Overview of KitchenAid Dishwashers

KitchenAid-Dishwasher-KDTM604KPS-in-Kitchen-1

KitchenAid is an affordable luxury appliance brand owned by the Whirlpool Corporation and is made in the US.

Their early dishwasher changed dishwashers because of its solid commercial design.

Everyone wanted a KitchenAid dishwasher in the 1970s and 1980s when Hobart, a commercial manufacturer, built the original KitchenAid.

KitchenAid's weakness was noise, especially when Bosch and Asko started importing quiet dishwashers into the US.

While it was cleaned well, it was noisy.

They finally addressed that issue, dropping it to a noiseless 39 decibels (dB) and changing their dishwasher to a more European design by removing the disposer and adding a filter.

KitchenAid now has three series of dishwashers: the 100 Series, the 200 Series, and the M Series.

The 200 and M series dishwashers are their most popular.

Key Features of a KitchenAid Dishwasher

  • Advanced Clean Water Wash System M Series: Circulates clean water throughout the entire wash cycle by constantly filtering out loose food particles.
  • Fan-Enabled ProDry System: After the wash cycle is complete, the ProDry™ System continuously circulates hot air to ensure your dishes get pristinely dry.
  • Adjustable Middle Rack: Fit large items like the well-known KitchenAid stand mixer bowl.
  • Heat Dry Option: Heats the air inside and the final rinse water to ensure dishes dry effectively.
  • ProWash Cycle: Automatically adapts settings depending on the load type.
  • SatinGlide Rails: Allows you to easily move upper racks in one smooth motion.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Models

KitchenAid KDTM404KPS

KitchenAid-KDTM404KPS-Dishwasher

44 dBA Dishwasher in PrintShield™ Finish with FreeFlex™ Third Rack

KitchenAid KDTM604KPS

KitchenAid-KDTM604KPS

44 dBA Dishwasher in PrintShield™ Finish with FreeFlex™ Third Rack

 

 

KitchenAid KDTM704KPS

KITCHENAID-KDTM704KPS-DISHWASHER-1

44 dBA Dishwasher with FreeFlex™ Third Rack and LED Interior Lighting

 

 

KitchenAid KDTM804KPS

KitchenAid-KDTM804-Dishwasher

44 dBA Dishwasher with FreeFlex™ Third Rack and LED Interior Lighting

The 200 series KDTE204 at $798-$999 and the KDTE304 at $1,168-$1,299 dishwashers add a third rack and are the quietest at 39 decibels.

The M series was new and improved a few years ago and starts at $948-$1,838 for their best model, the KDPM804 (not that you should buy that model).

KitchenAid Dishwasher Rack Design

KitchenAid 24" Stainless Steel PrintShield Dishwasher | Abt

The "FREEFLEX" racks are different. The second rack is slanted to accommodate more of all three.

However, you can't place wine glasses on the left of the middle rack because of the slanted larger top rack.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Cleaning

Wash Systems

BEST-DISHWASHERS-KITCHENAID-KDTM604KPS
kitchenaid-dishwasher-KDTM604KPS-control-panel
KitchenAid-Dishwasher-KDTM604KPS-1

4-Level Wash System: KitchenAid dishwashers have three wash arms: one on the top, one on the basket, and one below the second rack.

However, you have a fourth level from that larger second rack.

Advanced Clean Water Wash System: Uses microfiltration to continuously remove food particles during the wash and rinse cycles and circulates clean water to dishes in all three racks.

Wash Cycles
  • ProWash™ Cycle: This cycle uses soil sensors to determine the level of dirtiness of the dishes and adjusts the washing parameters in real-time to ensure optimal cleaning. It's essentially an automatic cycle that adapts to the current load.
  • Tough Cycle: Designed for pots, pans, and dishes with baked-on or dried-on food. It provides a more intensive wash to break down and remove tough food residues.
  • Normal Cycle: Suitable for everyday loads with moderate soil levels. This is the standard wash cycle for dishes, glasses, and silverware with typical food soil.
  • Quick Cycle/Express Wash: Designed for lightly soiled items and reduces the wash time. It's ideal when you need dishes cleaned in a shorter amount of time.
  • Rinse Only Cycle: This cycle rinses dishes that won't be washed immediately, preventing food residues from drying onto the dishes. No detergent is used in this cycle.
  • Sani-Rinse Option: Heats the final rinse water to a high temperature, eliminating 99.999% of food soil bacteria. This is especially useful to ensure a sanitary load, like after handling raw meat.
  • Delicate Cycle: Suitable for delicate items like glassware or lightly soiled dishes. It provides a gentler wash to prevent damage to fragile items.
  • Extended Heat Dry Option:Increases the heat dry time, ensuring better drying results. This is particularly useful for loads with plastic items that tend to retain moisture.

Drying System

KitchenAid-dishwasher-controls-with-prodry
KitchenAid-Dishwasher-Fan-Enabled-ProDry-System

ProDry: The M series units utilize the ProDry system, incorporating a heating element and a fan for the best drying results.

The fan helps circulate the warm air, enhancing drying performance. The less expensive units use the heating element without the fan.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Styles

KitchenAid-200-series-dishwasher-styles

You can buy KitchenAid with the towel bar KDT, pocket handle, the KDP, and a few series with panel options.

Read More: Best KitchenAid Dishwashers

 

Overview of Bosch Dishwashers

Bosch-Dishwasher-Installed-2022

Bosch dishwashers are made in North Carolina, even though the company is based in Germany.

Bosch has the 100, 300, 500, 800, and Benchmark series. I recently wrote a blog post on the differences between them.

At one time, Bosch marketed over 100 dishwashers before the pandemic.

Now it's about half.

Key Features of a Bosch Dishwasher

Drying Technologies

Offering three different drying technologies, PureDry, AutoAir, and CrystalDry, Bosch lets you choose which drying feature would best suit your needs.

  • PureDry: Also known as condensation dry, it uses the hot air from the wash and an additive like JetDry to dry dishes. Works well on plates, less so on less dense items like plastics
  • AutoAir: Allows fresh air to circulate to create drier dishes by popping the door open at the end of the wash.
  • CrystalDry: Takes moisture inside your dishwasher and turns it into heat using the volcanic element Zeolite.

PrecisionWash

With the PrecisionWash feature, you can confidently load your dishes as the dishwasher will continuously scan and check the progress of your dishes throughout the wash cycle.

It also has powerful precision spray arms that target areas that need extra cleaning attention to give your dishes the ultimate cleaning every time.

Rack Design

  • 3-Level RackMatic: Allows room for taller items with three different easily adjustable heights and nine separate rack positions.
  • Third Rack: Provides the perfect space that allows for cleaning utensils, spatulas, measuring cups, and cereal bowls.

Bosch Dishwasher Models

100 Series

Bosch SHE3AEM6N

Bosch-SHE3AEM6N

Bosch® 100 Series 24" Black Front Control Built In Dishwasher

Bosch SHE3AEM2N

Bosch-SHE3AEM2N

Bosch® 100 Series 24" White Front Control Built In Dishwasher

They changed the Ascenta to a 100, 100 Plus, and 100 Premium.

Both have a plastic bottom, lighter door, and shallow, non-adjustable top rack.

They all have "PrecsionWash" using intelligent sensors for better cleaning.

This year's Bosch dishwashers are now Wi-Fi-enabled, so you can control it on your phone and even set your favorite cycle.

The 100 series is between 46 – 50 decibels. They fail to meet the quietness standard of 44 decibels.

The basic 100 series dishwashers do not have a third rack.

Bosch 300 series ($899-$1,099)

The 300 Series starts the regular Bosch dishwasher lineup.

The 300 series has an all-stainless tub and an adjustable top rack.

Bosch SHEM53Z35C 24" 300 Series Dishwasher In Stainless Steel -

These models have a better silence rating of 46 decibels, yet they are still audible in an open kitchen design.

AquaStop leak protection starts in the 300 series as well. It adds a second layer to the hose in case it bursts.

Bosch 300 Series Dishwasher Cycles

The 24/7 standard leak detection is excellent, using sensors to shut off the water.

  • Standard Cycles: Auto, Normal, Speed60, Rinse.
  • Options: Half Load, Sanitize, Delay, Extra Dry.
  • Notables: The 300 Series provides basic yet effective cleaning cycles for everyday needs. The Speed60 gets dishes from dirty to dry in about an hour.

Bosch 500 Series ($989-$1,149)

Bosch introduced their AutoAir and improved drying by opening the dishwasher after the cycle. This will release moisture and speed up the drying process.

The 500 Series is quieter at 44 decibels and meets the quietness standard.

Bosch 500 Series Top Control 24-in Built-In Dishwasher With Third Rack  (Stainless Steel), 44-dBA in the Built-In Dishwashers department at  Lowes.com

The top silverware rack is their "FlexSpace," so it can accommodate cups and silverware.

Bosch 500 Series Dishwasher Cycles
  • Standard Cycles: Auto, Heavy, Normal, Speed60, Rinse.
  • Options: Half Load, Sanitize, Delay, Extra Dry, ExtraScrub (increases pressure and temperature in the lower rack for intensive cleaning).
  • Notables: The 500 series introduces the ExtraScrub option and often has a slightly more refined design. The Auto cycle uses sensors to determine soil level and adjusts the wash process accordingly.

Pro Tip: Having a dishwasher popping open is especially effective when you wash your dishes at night. You reduce the residual moisture on the dishes in the morning because the steam has been released.

Bosch 800 Series ($1,149-$1,499)

This year's innovation from Bosch is called the PowerControl spray arm, their new wash arm and propeller.

Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher with Home Connect Review - PTR

It's a brand-new design from Bosch, although LG with their QuadWash,

Samsung with their WaterWall, and Beko with their CornerIntense wash arms have both strayed from traditional wash systems.

The 800 series features CrystalDry, using the volcanic mineral Zeolite to dry even plastics through three phase
  1. Absorption of Moisture: During the washing and rinsing phases of the dishwasher's cycle, zeolite granules absorb moisture from the dishwasher's interior.
  2. Heat Release: As the Zeolite absorbs moisture, it undergoes an exothermic reaction, naturally releasing heat. This heat helps in drying the dishes more effectively.
  3. Regeneration: At the beginning of each wash cycle, residual moisture from the previous cycle is heated and driven off the Zeolite, effectively "regenerating" it and preparing it for the next moisture absorption phase.
Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher Cycles
  • Standard Cycles: Auto, Heavy, Normal, Speed60, Rinse, sometimes includes additional cycles like Glass, Eco, and Quick.
  • Options: Half Load, Sanitize, Delay, Extra Dry, ExtraScrub, and sometimes CrystalDry (an advanced drying option that uses minerals to transform moisture into heat up to 176°F for improved drying performance).
  • Notables: The 800 Series is one of Bosch's premium lines, with more features and flexibility. The inclusion of cycles like Glass ensures delicate items are washed gently. The CrystalDry option, if present, offers one of the best drying performances available. In addition, the Bosch 800 series features interior lighting and a better third rack with Bosch's "MyWay" racking design.

Bosch Benchmark Series ($1,219-$2,299)

The Benchmark series is Bosch's quietest dishwasher at 38 dB with a much more refined control panel.

The "TimeLight" flashes the amount of time left in the cycle right on the floor in front of the dishwasher or the handle of the pocket handle model.

Bosch Benchmark SHE88PZ65N Dishwasher Review - Reviewed

AquaStop Plus will pump any excess water from the dishwasher if an overflow is detected.

You can buy the Bosch dishwasher with five different fronts.

Pro Tip: Bosch dishwashers have been in short supply. Pick a series, then check every type of style.

Read More: Best Bosch Dishwashers

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KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwashers

Let's start with the most misunderstood component of this Bosch and KitchenAid comparison: Reliability.

Reliability

Both are excellent. Bosch was second best in 2022 at 5.1% versus 6.2% for KitchenAid.

Only LG is lower at 3.5%

Dishwasher Service Rates for 2024

The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 products sold and a total sample of over 7,000 products within 12 months.

  Service Rates
LG 4%
Bosch 5.9%
Thermador 5.9%
Miele 6.2%
LG Studio 6.2%
Fisher & Paykel 6.7%
GE Profile 8.1%
Asko 10.2%
Beko 11.2%
Café Appliances 19.4%
Grand Total 6.9%

Every review site and blogger will talk about Bosch being far more reliable.

However, the numbers don't match the opinions, but then again, none of the magazines or reviews employ a single technician or log any service calls.

You can't base your purchase on a 0.3% difference in reliability.

However, you should base your decision on the availability of repair services - go online and read reviews for technicians in your area for both brands.

Read More: Most Reliable Dishwashers

What KitchenAid and Bosch Dishwashers Have in Common

You will see the differences, but they also have much in common. Below are their similarities.

  • Stainless-Steel Tub: Most upscale dishwashers now have stainless on the inside. It is more hygienic than plastic because there are no seams for germs and odors to populate.
  • Cycles: You will see them in three comparisons, but there will be plenty of cycles for both. Many perform the same function.
  • Third Rack: They both have third racks. However, the KitchenAid dishwasher series is upgraded and different on certain models.
  • Quietness: Both are at or below 44 decibels (dB) for their best series. That number isn't an accident. It is the unofficial standard for a noiseless silence rating, meaning you won't hear a 44 dB dishwasher in the next room.

Pro Tip:People pay too much money for a quiet dishwasher. You shouldn't make that same mistake of buying below 44 decibels unless the more expensive dishwasher has other desired features.

Here is a video that demonstrates the varying sound levels and silence ratings of different dishwashers:

KitchenAid KDTE204KPS ($698-$999) vs. Bosch SHP65CP5N ($999-$1,149)

KitchenAid-KDTE204KPS-vs-Bosch-SHP65CP5N

How They Wash

KitchenAid has a better spray on the top versus more of a sprinkler head for the Bosch.

That said, they both will wash your dishes.

How They Rack

Both now have a third rack for silverware. Miele designed the third rack originally. It's useful because the third rack will allow more room on the bottom rack.

How They Dry

Like most stainless-steel interior dishwashers, KitchenAid and Bosch both use condensation drying. It's a fancy word for air drying, jet dry, and time.

Bosch has AutoAir and pops open the door at the end of the cycle to release steam.

Bosch-Dishwasher-Installed-2022

As I already noted, it's great before bedtime. The residual steam doesn't resettle on your glasses.

Quietness

The KDTE204KPS is KitchenAid's least expensive available dishwasher.

This less expensive series is the quietest at 39 dB. It is noiseless. You won't even hear a hum.

Yet the Bosch meets the quietness standard of 44 decibels.

Final Verdict

The Bosch 500 series dishwasher might be a better dishwasher.

But at $698 on promotion, the KitchenAid is better and quieter than the similarly priced Bosch 300 series and better constructed than the Bosch 100 series.

If the prices seem uneven, you will learn why at the end of the article.

Bosch vs. KitchenAid Dishwashers: Design

Bosch will give you more refined options in terms of design, especially in pocket handles and other integrated styles.

Have a look:

Styles-of-Bosch-Dishwashers

KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwashers for Custom Cabinet Panels

KitchenAid-vs-Bosch-for-Custom-Cabinet-Panels

Bosch is better because it fits within a 24-inch cabinet.

You would think this would be a standard feature on dishwashers. However, only Beko, Miele, Asko, and Bosch fit seamlessly within the cabinets.

KitchenAid will protrude outside the cabinet.

It's the difference between a dishwasher looking like a cabinet and a dishwasher looking like a dishwasher with a panel on it.

This comparison is no contest. Bosch is better for this style. Bosch markets several panel-ready models.

KitchenAid changed their whole line a few years ago but missed this opportunity.

Read More: Best Panel-Ready Dishwashers

KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwashers: 18-Inch and ADA Compliant Dishwashers

Bosch is better in this comparison because they have a few models, while KitchenAid does not.

Bosch’s ADA approved dishwashers will have the controls at a wheelchair height of 32 inches instead of the normal countertop of 33-34 inches.

KitchenAid vs Bosch Dishwashers: Wi-Fi and Smart Functionality

Both dishwashers are simple to use. Bosch will have Wi-Fi in all their models, while KitchenAid has none.

In a quiet dishwasher, you can open it thinking the cycle is completed while it's still running.

Wi-Fi will show you how long is left in the cycle and send you a push notification at the end.

Of course, you also have the InfoLight with the same information at the bottom.

KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwasher Prices and Promotions: Very Important

Over the last six months, KitchenAid has been more promotional. Dropping their prices 25%.

That KDTE204 is now $698 after being over $1000 in 2022.

Comparing that dishwasher to a lower price Bosch 100 Series is more favorable to a KitchenAid.

Bosch countered by dropping theirs by 33% for Presidents Day

That $1799 Benchmark is $1299 over the holiday.

So, as good as these dishwashers are, price may be one of the most important factors.

Read More: When Is the Best Time to Buy Appliances?

Key Takeaways

First, both are excellent choices. You should consider both because they have decent features and good reliability.

However, Bosch has a clear advantage in 18-inch, ADA, and panel-ready models.

Bosch will dry better in their 500, 800, and Benchmark Series depending on the model.

Their PowerControl spray arm in the 800 and Benchmark series will allow you to scour and handle delicate dishware with their completely redesigned wash system.

KitchenAid will hold more in their better series while being quieter in their less expensive series.

But price is a deciding factor between these excellent brands.

Bosch is better for reliability, but service availability is an issue for both brands.

I would look at service specifically in your area because the service experience changes by geography.

Lastly, wait for a holiday to compare your prices.

In 2024, price and service are the most important factors between these popular brands.

 

KitchenAid vs. Bosch Dishwashers

FAQs

Answers to the most commonly asked questions about Bosch and KitchenAid dishwashers.

Which brand is more reliable?

Which one is quieter?

What's the difference in cleaning performance?

How do the rack configurations compare?

Do both brands have a stainless-steel tub?

Which one is more energy efficient?

How do their drying technologies compare?

How do prices compare between Bosch and KitchenAid?

Can I customize the front panel on both brands?

Which brand offers better smart/home connectivity features?

Additional Resources

For more information about dishwashers, read the Yale Dishwasher Buying Guide with features, specs, and insider buying tips. Well over 1.5 million people have read a Yale Guide.

Related Articles

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Steve Sheinkopf

Steve Sheinkopf is the third-generation CEO of Yale Appliance and a lifelong Bostonian. He has over 38 years of experience in the appliance industry, and he is a trusted source of information for consumers on how to buy and repair appliances.

Steve has also been featured in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Consumer Reports, The Boston Globe, Bloomberg Radio, the New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, and Entrepreneur, for his knowledge of how to buy appliances and appliance repair.

Steve is passionate about helping consumers find the best appliances for their needs, and he is always happy to answer questions and provide advice. He is a valuable resource for consumers who are looking for information on appliance buying, repair, and maintenance.

Despite being the worst goalie in history, Steve is a fan of the Bruins and college hockey, loves to read, and is a Peloton biker. The love of his life is his daughter, Sophie.

A Note About Pricing

Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.