If you are looking for a premium dishwasher, Bosch Benchmark and Asko should be 2 of the 3 considerations. They are two very different companies. Although they both wash dishes, the components, reliability and even country of origin varies greatly.
We will look at both companies, similarly priced dishwashers and then compare. First, however, we should describe the difference between American and European dishwashers.
American vs. European Dishwashers
European dishwashers tend to be quieter and more water efficient. American dishwashers have a soft food disposer versus a washable filter for the European. American dishwashers are a bit deeper and can hold more, but European dishwashers will sit flush and look better aesthetically.
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European
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However, if you place a panel on the dishwasher, buy the European. It will be seamless to the cabinet.
Let’s look at both companies.
Bosch
Bosch home appliances are part of BSH (Bosch and Siemens Home Appliance Group) based in Munich, Germany. As part of the third largest appliance manufacturer in the world, Bosch has been selling high performance German-engineered appliances in the United States since 1991.
Their factory in North Carolina is the largest appliance factory in the world and is where the vast majority of their dishwashers are built. Their Benchmark line are their best, most fully-featured products (some of the Benchmark is made in Germany).
In the Benchmark series there are 3 levels priced at ($1,299, $1,499, and $1,999 respectively). The Benchmark offers every cycle and unbelievable quietness. Let’s review the top of the line Benchmark.
Bosch Benchmark SHX9PT75UC - $1,999
Features:
- 38 dBA: Quietest dishwasher brand
- A flexible 3rd rack with folding tines adds 30% more loading capacity
- A clean white light illuminates the interior when the door is open
- Water softener ensures optimally spot-free and shiny dishes
- AquaStop Plus 4-Part leak protection prevents water damage 24/7
Asko
Asko was actually first to the US with a mass produced European dishwasher. The early Asko products were manufactured in Sweden. Then, Asko was sold to Merloni of Italy who was sold in bankruptcy (still following this?). Asko is now produced by Goranje of Slovenia.
Unfortunately, Asko was lost in translation from a repair/quality standpoint. Recently, they have made a comeback of sorts.
The product from a component standpoint is still excellent with solid steel arms and graphite racks. Asko fan assist turbo dry is a nice feature, especially when drying plastics.
ASKO D5656XXLHS - $1,999
Features:
- 11 Wash Cycles
- 3 Dish Racks
- Turbo Drying Plus
- 8-Steel Construction
- Multi Position Wine Shelves
- Pin Secures
- Knife Stand
- 44 dB Sound Level
Asko vs. Bosch Benchmark Dishwashers
From a structure standpoint, I like the Asko. The wash arms are stainless and the racks are a virtually indestructible graphite on steel vs plastic and nylon for the Bosch. Asko has a better dry than the condensation style of a Benchmark.
Most of your other desired features, the stainless tub and place setting capacity are identical, so now it is about price, reliability and quietness.
Pricing
Pricing is the same, but Bosch can have significant rebates during the year. If you time it right, you can save 20% during the year with a package purchase.
Reliability
Reliability is interesting. The average appliance needs service approximately 11% within the first year. Asko needs service 21% of the time. That number has dropped significantly.
Bosch Benchmark needs service over 23%, while regular, American made Bosch dishwashers only need service just over 9% of the time. So there's a slight edge to Asko.
Quietness
Bosch is significantly quieter at an inaudible 38 dBA versus 44 dBA of Asko (which is still very good). That is a 60% difference in quietness. Both are worth a look depending on the promotions. What do you think?
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Additional Resources
Want to learn more about premium dishwashers? Download the Yale Dishwasher Buyers Guide with features, specs and detailed profiles of premium dishwashers like Miele, KitchenAid, Electrolux, Bosch, Asko and more. Well over 175,000 people have read a Yale Guide.
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