The best dishwashers combine effective washing systems, the ability to dry plastics, and decent racks, ensuring they won't sound like freight trains in your kitchen.
That's why you buy a dishwasher.
In this article, you will see a breakdown of all the best dishwashers.
You will also learn about reliability based on real service calls.
In the end, we will show you the performance results of several dishwashers, evaluating their ability to wash and dry lasagna dishes, fine China, Tupperware, and sports bottles coated with chocolate syrup.
This will help you determine which brand is the most reliable and best for the job.
We won't waste your time promoting every brand or sharing affiliate links just to earn a quick commission.
Not every brand is worth your attention and, more importantly, your money.
Other reviewers will talk about reliability and never perform a service call.
We service what we sell daily and cannot afford to sell and service unreliable brands.
After reading this article, your key takeaway is this: There are plenty of worthwhile dishwashers and brands to consider other than a Bosch, Miele, or KitchenAid dishwasher.
Let's get started.
[inlineCTA]
If you want a hassle-free dishwasher, then consider the LG LDPH7972S.
LG is the most reliable dishwasher brand, according to over 37,000 service calls logged by our service department last year.
You will see the first-year reliability rates of all the dishwashers later in the article.
This dishwasher has tons of cycles, adjustable racks, and Wi-Fi capability.
Expert Tip: You don't need Wi-Fi for your dishwasher. However, it can be quite useful. For instance, you can check the remaining cycle time directly from your phone—a feature I've found useful many times.
QuadWash Pro Wash System
This dishwasher features LG's "QuadWash Pro" wash arm system, which uses rotating high-pressure jets to clean dishes from multiple angles.
Steam
LG features a steam generator up front to loosen tough stains.
Steam is also part of their "Dynamic Drying" system, which adds heat, steam, and a fan to dry plastics more thoroughly.
In our tests, LG's dishwasher was excellent, though it was slightly outperformed by the much more expensive Bosch and Miele dishwashers.
Quietness
The LDPH7972S is also 42 decibels, meeting the quietness standard, so you won't hear it in the next room while it's operating.
Pros: This high-end model features advanced options such as steam cleaning, quiet operation at 42 decibels, "QuadWash Pro" cleaning technology, and "Dynamic Drying" for better drying of plastics.
Cons: The racks are not as adjustable as Bosch or Miele.
A few years ago, GE Profile completely redesigned its dishwashers, taking them back to the drawing board.
The recent redesign of GE dishwashers not only updated their aesthetics but also improved their performance.
Let's look at the key features that distinguish these models in today's competitive market.
Microban Surfaces
GE Profile has incorporated their successful odor, mold, and moisture prevention package from their washing machines into this new line of dishwashers.
They now feature antimicrobial Microban surfaces, which are applied to both the outside handle and the interior filters.
Additionally, a fan circulates fresh air into the dishwasher, reducing moisture and bacteria.
Bottle Washing
Their washing system adds four spray jets for silverware and bottles.
I like this as a feature, but in our tests, every dishwasher can wash bottles.
Silverware Basket
GE Profile dishwashers can hold more silverware in the basket and the third rack.
The basket has separate water sprays as well.
Drying System
They improved their drying system with a fan that removed excess moisture by pulling moist air from the dishwasher.
GE Profile claims its drying system is three times more effective than a standard heated drying system, particularly for plastics.
That's not exactly the case based on our tests. But it still dries plates and glasses well.
Sound Level
These two GE Profile dishwashers have a sound level of 42 dB, which is important for quiet operation, especially if your kitchen is open to your living room.
Unlike every quiet dishwasher, GE Profile is still quiet, and it has a hard food disposer dubbed the "Piranha."
It's not exactly a grinder; it's more of a shredder ring. However, it's better than a filter if you leave a smaller bone on your plate—a small bone, not a turkey carcass, by the way.
GE Service
GE still operates the largest service department for any manufacturer.
Ninety-five percent of all retailers do not employ a single technician, so finding repair services will be an issue.
In many areas, including yours, GE is a good service alternative.
Pros: GE Profile's dishwasher is both efficient and hygienic.
It features Microban surfaces, a three times more effective drying system than standard models, and additional spray jets, making it ideal for families.
The dishwasher operates quietly, and GE's extensive service network provides reliable support, making it a practical choice for many households.
Cons: It all looks good on a spec sheet, but you will see how it does in our tests.
I had a hard time placing this dishwasher. It is technically the quietest at 38 decibels without slowing the motor to four hours like the best Miele's.
Consumer Reports named the Benchmark as the best dishwasher.
That makes me skeptical as they give zero insight on service and reliability, but at least they try.
CrystalDry Drying & PowerControl Wash Systems
The new Benchmark has the CrystalDry drying system and the PowerControl spray arm. I will describe this in detail shortly.
Sound Level
The Benchmark is 38 decibels.
You do not need a dishwasher quieter than 44 decibels to not hear your dishwasher.
The next series, the 800, is quiet enough at 42 decibels.
Rack Design
In addition, the Benchmark has smoother gliding racks for easier unloading of dishes.
Pros: The Bosch Benchmark dishwasher stands out as one of the quietest models, operating at only 38 decibels.
It features the efficient CrystalDry drying system and the powerful PowerControl spray arm (which we will describe shortly).
Additionally, it has smooth gliding racks for easier dish unloading.
Cons: The Bosch Benchmark dishwasher costs around $1,799, which is $400 more than the Bosch 800 series.
Even though it's a bit quieter, it doesn't have many extra features compared to the less expensive 800 series.
PrecisionWash
Bosch's wash system features PrecisionWash.
This system uses sensors to monitor the water during the wash cycle and automatically adjust it so your dishes get the best cleaning.
PowerControl
Bosch's' new system has the PowerControl spray arm controlling the intensity of the lower spray arm for light, medium, and heavy.
You can split the lower rack by quadrants to wash lasagna dishes and fine china in the same wash.
CrystalDry
Bosch has CrystalDry using a volcanic element, Zeolite, to emit heat and absorb moisture.
CrystalDry is reputedly the best for drying less dense items like your plastics.
You will see if that's true later in the article-spoiler alert: It is.
At 42 decibels, the 800 series is quieter than the 44-decibel quietness standard.
Pros: The Bosch dishwasher has smart sensors for better cleaning and special drying technology for plastics. It's also very quiet at 42 decibels, making it less noisy in your kitchen.
Cons: Bosch's washing system is standard, aside from its PrecisionWash feature. Other dishwashers in this price range, like Miele, have a full spray arm up top and a different third rack.
ProWash
The KitchenAid KDTE204KPS has its ProWash cycle. ProWash is an extended cycle with soil sensing capabilities.
Cycles
KitchenAid features a light wash cycle for wine glasses, fine China, or an express wash.
Sound Level
At 39 dB, it is almost noiseless.
Price
Like many brands, KitchenAid's prices have dropped from $1,149 2021 to $799 in 2024.
Pros: The KitchenAid KDTE204KPS dishwasher has a smart wash cycle for better cleaning and is quiet at 39 dB. It's also more affordable now, down to $799 from $1,149 in 2021.
Cons: You buy KitchenAid for its silence rating. Most brands offer standard cycles, options, and drying capabilities.
Miele makes excellent dishwashers.
For the best dishwashers, Miele or Bosch are technically the best for different reasons.
Their G 5000 series may not have the same unique features as GE Profile or LG, but its washing, drying, and racking features are among the best.
They are still a family-owned company manufacturing products out of Germany.
Miele produces not just the dishwasher but almost all the componentry parts.
Sound Level
At 44 dB, Miele meets the quietness standard.
Better Wash System
Miele dishwashers have three full-wash arms. Most will have two and a sprinkler head.
Miele Dishwasher Cycles
This dishwasher has standard cycles plus a few unique cycles, like the 58-minute QuickIntenseWash for lightly soiled dishes.
ExtraClean and ExtraDry increase the temperature in the main wash and final rinse.
Third Rack
Like most premium dishwashers, this dishwasher has a third rack for silverware on top.
Third, racks will leave more room for plates and silverware at the bottom.
Unlike others, the silverware is secured and will not scratch during the wash.
Miele Drying System
Miele has a simple but effective drying system.
The port on the bottom allows cooler air from your kitchen into the side of the dishwasher.
The hotter, steamier air is attracted to the cooler side and dissipates as water.
In addition, the dishwasher pops open at the end of the cycle to release heat and steam and speed up the drying process.
Pros: Miele dishwashers have great cleaning and drying features, including three wash arms and quick wash options.
They also have a unique drying system that opens the door automatically to let steam out.
They're user-friendly and efficient, with a quiet operation and an extra top rack for more space.
Cons: The main drawback to a Miele dishwasher is its price at $1,499.
You may have noticed all the other dishwashers have a single door.
Fisher & Paykel has two pull-out drawers.
There are 27 different DishDrawers in three different series, or about 23 more than necessary.
The top can be larger to fit more, or you can have two equal-sized drawers.
Drawers could be good or bad.
You do not have to bend down to reach the top drawer like you would for the other dishwashers on this list. You can do a half load with just one drawer.
However, drawers load differently than a regular dishwasher, so you may not like that.
Fisher & Paykel's DishDrawer is worth looking at before you buy it to decide whether you will like this dishwasher.
I recommend bringing a few of your most used dishes to a showroom and loading the DishDrawer to see how it loads.
Still, the Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer is worth your consideration for a unique product.
Pros: Fisher & Paykel dishwashers have two drawers instead of one door, which makes loading and unloading easier.
You can use just one drawer for smaller loads. They're a bit different to load than regular dishwashers and are quiet at 45 dB.
Cons: Fisher & Paykel's DishDrawer has a 45 dB silence rating, so you will faintly hear it. People either like or despise this dishwasher.
Miele's G 7366 models are the most popular of the G 7000 series dishwashers.
The Miele G 7366 SCVi SF dishwasher has all the features of the G 5056 SCVi SFP plus a few additional features listed below.
China and Crystal Cycles
A China and crystal wash cycle along with a half load cycle.
Sound Level
A 40 dB silence rating slows the motor down for a four-hour cycle.
AutoAir Drying System
Two ports allow air into the dishwasher instead of one, along with the auto-opening door for faster drying.
Miele AutoDos Dispenser
I hate using the word revolutionary when discussing a dishwasher, but Miele's AutoDos detergent dispensing system may qualify.
It automatically dispenses the amount of detergent needed at the right time with its 20-load PowerDisk dispenser.
As gimmicky as it sounds, clients do report cleaner dishes.
You have two better models, the G7500 and G7900 series. The G7900 series adds more cycles, swipe controls, and a five-year warranty.
Pros: The Miele G 7366 dishwasher has special cycles for delicate dishes and can run smaller loads. It's very quiet at 40 dB but takes longer to wash.
Its unique feature automatically adds the right amount of detergent for cleaner dishes, and it has a good drying system with an auto-opening door.
Cons: The PowerDisk costs about $1 a load, compared to 18 cents for the dishwasher pods I usually buy in bulk.
We tested these dishwashers by loading them with pots and pans with baked-on lasagna and eggs, fine China, caked sports bottles, glasses with chocolate syrup, and Tupperware stained with red sauce.
Miele was the best at washing, leaving just a bit of egg on the plate. Bosch was second best.
LG was surprising. Steam does loosen up baked-on stains.
GE was decent. The sports bottle tests were surprising. Every dishwasher washed well, even the dishwashers without dedicated bottle washes.
Bosch was the best. I guess Zeolite does work. Miele was a close second. I have a Miele.
The door popping open helps.
The other three were decent. It's what you would expect from a dishwasher—dry dishes and semi-wet plastics.
| Number of Cycles | Sound Level | Drying System | Third Rack | Disposer or Filter | |
| LG LDPH7972S | 10 Cycles, 8 Options | 42dB | Condensing | Yes | Filter Only |
| GE Profile PDP755SYRFS and PDT755SYRFS | 5 Cycles, 11 Options | 42 dB | Heated Drying with Fan Assist | Yes | Disposer Only |
| Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N | 9 Cycles, 8 Options | 39 dB | CrystalDry | Yes | Filter Only |
| KitchenAid KDTE204KPS | 5 Cycles, 7 Options | 39 dB | Condensation Dry & Heating Element | Yes | Filter Only |
| Bosch SHX78CM5N | 7 Cycles, 7 Options | 42 dB | CrystalDry | Yes | Filter Only |
| Miele G 5056 SCVi SFP | 6 Cycles | 44 dB | Condensation Drying | Yes | Filter Only |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 | 6 Cycles, 6 Options | 45 dB | Fan Assisted Drying | Yes | Filter Only |
| Miele G 7366 SCVi SF | 11 Cycles | 40 dB | Condensation Drying | Yes | Filter Only |
When searching for a quality dishwasher, keep in mind that there are alternatives beyond Bosch and Miele.
Comparing a more affordable $899 LG with a $2,300 Miele is challenging.
Attention to key features such as washing and drying efficiency, rack design, and noise levels.
Decide whether to invest more in a premium Bosch or Miele or choose a less expensive brand, which may require additional tasks like manually rinsing and drying plastics.
Finally, don't forget to factor in repair services. The availability of local services can be a crucial consideration after your purchase.
What dishwasher will you buy? You can leave your answer in the comments below.
This section will cover the basics of how to buy a dishwasher.
This includes the most reliable dishwasher brands based on real service data, how much you should pay for a quiet dishwasher, and the best features to look for.
Let's dive in.
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 Electronics | 4% |
| Bosch Appliances | 5.9% |
| Thermador | 5.9% |
| Miele | 6.2% |
| LG Studio | 6.2% |
| Fisher & Paykel | 6.7% |
| GE Profile | 8.1% |
| Asko | 10.2% |
| Beko Appliance | 11.2% |
| Café Appliances | 19.4% |
| Grand Total | 6.9% |
LG, Bosch, Thermador, Miele, LG Studio, and Fisher & Paykel are the most reliable dishwasher brands to consider.
We calculate dishwasher reliability by dividing the products we serviced by the products we sold for a service rate percentage.
Due to capacity issues, we could only service the appliances we sold.
Thermador and Bosch's dishwashers are both made by BSH Home Appliances.
Fisher & Paykel and Miele were reliable, especially considering they only have high-end dishwashers. Typically, the most featured models have the most problems.
Beko spiked higher at 11.2%, but they introduced new models last year.
At 6.9%, dishwashers are more reliable than most other appliances, but still, you should check locally for the best service departments for any brand before you buy an appliance.
Read More: Most Reliable Dishwashers
The best dishwashers have stainless steel tubs rather than plastic.
Stainless steel is non-porous and will not retain odors and germs like other surfaces.
Commercial kitchens are stainless for that reason.
GE Profile has a new dishwasher with antimicrobial surfaces and a fan to eliminate moisture. Their highly rated laundry employs the same technology.
Only Frigidaire, GE, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Maytag make dishwashers with plastic tubs.
Most brands sell more stainless-steel tubs than plastic now. Be careful, though.
Several dishwashers may look stainless but are partly plastic, like the Bosch 100 series and Samsung hybrid dishwashers.
Dishwashers are split between American-style models and European-style models.
American-style dishwashers used to have a grinder on the bottom. European-style dishwashers have a removable filter for a quieter silence rating.
GE Profile will offer the best of both worlds with a shredder dubbed the "Piranha" and a super quiet 42-decibel rating.
KitchenAid is an American-style dishwasher with a filter to keep its silence rating down.
European-style dishwashers also sit flush with your cabinet.
They look best if you place a custom panel on your dishwasher. For the best panel-ready dishwashers, look at Bosch, Miele, or Beko dishwashers.
American-Style Dishwasher Brands:
European-Style Dishwasher Brands:
Read More: Best Panel-Ready Dishwashers
Silence ratings are important, especially if your kitchen is open to your living room. If you want a quiet dishwasher, look for a decibel level under 44 dB.
At a certain level, decibel differences are not detectable. This is an easy mistake to make. Do not overpay for just a quiet dishwasher.
That said, there are a few exceptions. Our quietest picks are both 39 dB for less than $1,000. For one decibel less, a 38 dB dishwasher typically costs $1,399 to $2,999.
Read More: Quietest Dishwashers By Decibel Rating
They all wash dishes. However, some have better systems.
GE Profile has dedicated sprays under the silverware basket.
Miele has three full spray arms, two under each basket and one on the top.
LG has steam to help lift off baked-on stains like my kid's macaroni and cheese. (It works. My neighbor has an LG dishwasher).
Drying has become much better in the latest models. Most high-end dishwashers use condensation or static drying.
Condensation drying uses the residual heat from the wash cycle to dry your dishes. If you buy a dishwasher with condensation drying, we recommend using Jet-Dry or a rinse aid for better drying results.
Other dishwashers used a heating element. Both drying systems did not dry plastic dishware well.
Now there are multiple types of drying systems.
In Bosch's 500 series and Miele's better dishwasher models, the door opens at the end of the cycle to release heat and moisture.
The new GE Profile dishwasher has a fan to aid in pulling moisture out of the dishwasher.
In all Miele's and the better KitchenAid M Series dishwashers, the cooler outside air is directed to the side of the dishwasher, attracting the warmer air and dissipating the moisture as water.
Bosch has the best drying dishwasher. It uses the volcanic element zeolite to add heat and dissipate moisture.
Most dishwashers over $599 have an adjustable top rack. The best dishwashers from Bosch, Miele, LG, and KitchenAid have a third rack.
Bosch has a sizeable MyWay rack to hold more than silverware. Miele has a 3D cutlery tray to hold flatware securely. It also folds down to accommodate more on the second rack.
KitchenAid may have the best solution with the largest rack. It also acts as a fourth level of spray from the rack itself.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Dishwasher
Ready to find the best dishwasher? Join over 1 million readers of our acclaimed Dishwasher Buying Guide. Get detailed brand profiles, savvy buying strategies, and real reliability stats from 37,000+ service calls. Click here to make an informed decision and save money on your next dishwasher!