Question can be answered many different ways. First, you can buy a really good Bosch dishwasher at $699 in stainless, while Miele starts at $1100. We actually wrote a post comparing Bosch vs Miele, so from a price standpoint the answer is probably not.
From a quality perspective, however, there is no better dishwasher. Over 96% of the dishwasher is manufactured by Miele's factories in Germany. Such stringent manufacturing standards produce a less repaired machine. In fact, Miele is the least serviced appliance brand brand sold at Yale (article of least repaired brands, click here) Miele designs their dishwashers to last 20 years. They do have better features, but Miele will last roughly twice as long with fewer repairs than any other dishwasher on average.
Other unique and compelling features include:
- Drying Capability: Miele is the only machine with a legitimate drying cycle. Most European machines use rinse aid and steam from the wash cycle to dry the dishes. American models add a heating element. Miele is radically different. On the basic models, Miele employs a fan to draw the hot steamy air to the cooler side wall. On the better models, Miele will employ two fans, automatically adjust the rinse time and the amount of rinse aid dispensed. On their best model, The Diamond, the machine will actually open itself automatically.
- Turbo Function: Miele is the only dishwasher to increase water pressure as well as temperature to reduce cycle times by as much as 30%.
- 3 Real Wash Arms: First, Miele has three real wash arms vs two in other brands. They rotate clockwise and counter clockwise to insure better washing of the dishes.
- Circulation pump with internal heater: Miele guarantees every drop will be at the accurate temperature.
- Sensor wash capability: Miele dishwashers use 5.5 gallons of water but can use as little as 2.9 gallons depending on the soil level of the dishes.
- Cutlery Tray: This features holds cutlery in place at the top of the dishwasher, so it adds room in the dishwasher in the dishwasher itself. The cutlery tray also holds each piece of silverware firmly to prevent scratching. It is detachable so you bring the silverware right to the drawer.
Related Articles
If you are looking for a dishwasher under $1000 (and candidly, most dishwasher purchases are between $399-799, then Miele is not the right brand for you. However, if you wash fine china or flatware and want the best dishwasher available, then Miele deserves serious consideration.
Additional Resources
Download the Yale Dishwasher Buying Guide with features, specs and tips on buying the right dishwasher. Well Over 25,000 people have read a Yale Guide.