Consumer Reports Dishwashers

A premium price tag doesn’t guarantee a flawless wash, and a budget-friendly price tag doesn’t mean you have to settle for noisy, ineffective performance. In Consumer Reports’ testing labs, dishwashers are pushed to their limits: cleaning plates caked with dried-on food—without pre-rinsing—and running for thousands of hours to measure actual durability.

CR’s latest rankings evaluate more than just cleaning and drying performance; they factor in decibel ratings and real-world failure rates based on feedback from tens of thousands of members. If you’re looking for a reliable, quiet, and efficient machine that delivers maximum value for your money, here are the top models that earned Consumer Reports’ coveted stamp of approval.

 

How We Evaluated These Dishwashers

We cross-referenced manufacturer specifications with independent lab testing results, real-world repair data from major appliance service networks, and aggregated owner feedback across major retailers.

Every dishwasher on this list was evaluated across six criteria:

• Washing performance — how thoroughly each model cleans normal and heavily soiled loads, with and without pre-rinsing
• Drying performance — including plastic drying, which separates premium models more than any other factor
• Noise level — measured in dBA; anything below 45 dBA is considered quiet enough to run during conversation
• Reliability — first-year service rates and owner satisfaction scores across major appliance data sources
• Smart features & usability — WiFi connectivity, app control, rack flexibility, and ease of loading
• Value — performance delivered relative to asking price, warranty coverage, and cost of ownership

Best Dishwasher Consumer Reports

1. Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N — Best Overall

The Bosch 800 Series is the dishwasher that most reliably satisfies the widest range of households, and it’s the model independent repair specialists most consistently recommend. With CrystalDry zeolite technology — the only mainstream drying system that consistently dries plastic containers without leaving puddles — it closes the biggest practical gap most buyers experience with other brands. The PrecisionWash system with PowerControl spray arms auto-adjusts water distribution in real time without sensors, eliminating the need to pre-rinse even stuck-on food.

At 42 dBA, the 800 Series qualifies as Bosch’s “whisper-quiet” tier — you’ll hear the occasional water sound, but it won’t interrupt a kitchen conversation or a nearby TV. The three-rack system, with a flexible EasyGlide third rack for utensils and knives, holds up to 16 place settings. The AquaStop leak protection works around the clock, automatically shutting off the water intake and activating the drain pump if any leak is detected — even when no one is home.

The fully integrated control panel (no buttons on the front door) keeps the exterior clean and panel-ready. WiFi via the Home Connect app adds Smart Cycle recommendations, remote monitoring, and voice control through Alexa or Google Home. Bosch offers a 10-year cavity warranty against rusting through, which is a useful signal of build confidence.

Specs: 42 dBA  |  16 place settings  |  8 wash cycles  |  CrystalDry  |  WiFi (Home Connect)  |  ENERGY STAR certified  |

2. Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5N 

Consumer Reports named the Bosch Benchmark Series its number-one dishwasher of 2026, praising it for exceptional washing and drying performance, ultra-quiet operation, and high owner satisfaction. It’s the most fully featured model in Bosch’s lineup — and the most expensive by a significant margin — but it earns its standing with the quietest noise rating in the entire Bosch catalog at 39 dBA.

The Benchmark includes all the features of the 800 Series — CrystalDry, PrecisionWash with PowerControl, three racks, AquaStop, and WiFi via Home Connect — but adds a precision-machined stainless steel interior, an upgraded EasyGlide rack system, and finish options that pair more naturally with high-end kitchen cabinetry. For new kitchen construction or full remodels where the dishwasher needs to integrate seamlessly into a panel-ready design, this is the model most design-build contractors specify.

Specs: 39 dBA  |  16 place settings  |  CrystalDry  |  WiFi (Home Connect)  |  ENERGY STAR certified

3. Miele G7196 SCVi SF — Best Long-Term Reliability & Cleanest Dishes

If you’re making a 20-year purchase decision rather than a 10-year one, Miele is the brand that changes the calculus. Independent service data from Yale Appliance — one of the most data-driven appliance retailers in the U.S. — shows Miele posting a 5.6% first-year service rate, the lowest of any brand tracked in their network. Consumer Reports also classifies Miele as a top-tier reliability brand. The G7196 SCVi SF is where most buyers in the Miele lineup land: it includes the flagship AutoDos automatic detergent dispensing with a proprietary PowerDisk cartridge that doses precisely for each cycle, removing the need to add detergent manually.

AutoOpen drying cracks the door automatically at cycle end, releasing steam and achieving drying results that independent reviewers describe as among the best available — better than CrystalDry on glassware, though slightly behind CrystalDry on plastics. The QuickIntenseWash program completes a full wash and dry in 58 minutes. ExtraComfort baskets with color-coded flexible elements and a 3D MultiFlex Cutlery Tray provide the most flexible loading configuration of any dishwasher on this list, which matters significantly when you’re loading irregular cookware daily for 15 to 20 years.

The integrated water softener reduces hard water spotting — particularly useful in cities with high mineral content — without relying on rinse-aid alone. WifiConn@ct via the Miele@home app provides remote monitoring, delayed start, and cycle customization. The standard warranty is two years, with a five-year extended warranty available directly from Miele.

Specs: 42 dBA  |  16 place settings  |  9 programs  |  AutoDos / PowerDisk  |  AutoOpen drying  |  QuickIntenseWash (58 min)  |  Integrated water softener  |  WiFi (Miele@home)  |  ENERGY STAR certified 

4. GE Profile PDP755SYVFS — Best Smart Dishwasher Under $1,000

The GE Profile PDP755SYVFS packs an impressive feature set into a sub-$1,000 price point, making it the most practical upgrade for households coming off an aging builder-grade dishwasher. It runs at 42 dBA — matching Bosch 800 and Miele G7196 on noise despite costing nearly $500 less — and includes a genuine steam cycle that loosens baked-on food before the main wash begins, reducing the need for pre-rinsing.

The Microban antimicrobial technology built into the interior surfaces inhibits bacteria growth between wash cycles — a feature no other dishwasher on this list includes. Deep Clean Silverware Jets blast the silverware basket from the bottom up, targeting the trapped areas that standard spray arms miss. The four Bottle Wash Jets in the middle rack direct water and detergent inside tall glasses, jars, and narrow items that conventional spray patterns can’t reach effectively.

Smart connectivity via the SmartHQ app allows remote control, cycle monitoring, and maintenance alerts. Active Flood Protect monitors water levels and automatically pumps down if overflow is detected. The third rack adds loading flexibility, and the sanitize cycle reduces bacteria on dishes by up to 99.999% — a feature that matters for households with young children or immunocompromised family members. Independent repair specialists note the GE Profile as among the easiest to service nationally, given GE Appliances’ extensive technician network.

Specs: 42 dBA  |  16 place settings  |  Steam  |  Microban antimicrobial  |  Sanitize cycle  |  4 Bottle Wash Jets  |  3rd rack  |  WiFi (SmartHQ)  |  ENERGY STAR certified 

5. LG LDPH7972S — Best Value with True Steam

The LG LDPH7972S earns its spot on this list by being the only dishwasher under $1,000 with a true dedicated steam generator — a separate unit that produces steam before and during the wash cycle to loosen baked-on food and reduce spotting on glassware. LG’s QuadWash Pro system uses four rotating spray arms instead of the industry-standard two, delivering more even coverage across all three rack levels, including the corners of crowded loads that single-arm systems frequently miss.

The Dynamic Dry system combines heat, steam, and a fan to actively push moisture out of the tub, resulting in drier dishes than condensation-only systems at the same price point — though it still trails Bosch’s CrystalDry on plastic drying specifically. LG’s ThinQ app provides WiFi connectivity with smart diagnostics, and the dishwasher can self-diagnose common issues and report them directly to LG customer service.

One note: LG’s reported first-year service rate in independent data has been inflated in some tracking periods by a specific rack component issue — when rack-related calls are excluded, LG’s core reliability is comparable to GE and significantly better than Samsung. If you purchase this model, inspect the rack runners at delivery.

Specs: ~50 dBA  |  QuadWash Pro (4 spray arms)  |  True steam generator  |  Dynamic Dry  |  WiFi (ThinQ)  |  ENERGY STAR certified  |

6. KitchenAid KDFE104KPS — Best Mid-Range for Rack Durability

KitchenAid, a Whirlpool brand, occupies a reliable middle tier in the dishwasher market with consistently strong rack quality and durable SatinGlide rails that hold up better than comparable competitors in the same price bracket. The KDFE104KPS runs 30+ targeted wash jets across three spray arms, and the ProWash cycle uses sensors to detect soil levels and automatically adjust wash duration and temperature — reducing both water and energy consumption on lighter loads.

At 47 dBA it’s noticeably louder than Bosch, Miele, or GE Profile — you’ll hear it clearly from an adjacent room — but for buyers on a tighter budget who use the dishwasher primarily during evenings when ambient noise is higher, the performance-to-price ratio is reasonable. The PrintShield stainless steel finish is genuinely fingerprint-resistant and easier to maintain than standard stainless steel in kitchens with heavy daily use. The adjustable upper rack accommodates taller items in either rack position, and a fold-down stemware shelf secures glasses during heavy wash cycles.

Specs: 47 dBA  |  12 place settings  |  ProWash cycle  |  30+ wash jets  |  Triple filtration  |  PrintShield finish  |  Heat dry

Full Dishwasher Comparison Table

Dishwasher Buying Guide: What Really Matters

Noise Level (dBA) — More Important Than You Think

Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dBA) and is the single most frequently cited regret among buyers who chose based on price alone. A 50 dBA dishwasher is clearly audible in an adjacent room; a 44 dBA machine fades into kitchen background noise; at 42 dBA and below, most people report they forget the dishwasher is running. In open-plan kitchens connected to living spaces, spending extra to get below 44 dBA is almost always worth it.

Bosch is broadly acknowledged as the quietest dishwasher brand in the U.S. market. Its Benchmark (39 dBA), 800 (42 dBA), and 500 (44 dBA) series provide a noise-performance ladder that makes it easy to match budget to quiet level.

Drying Technology — The Biggest Differentiator Between Brands

Drying is where dishwashers diverge most dramatically in real-world use. There are four main technologies:

• CrystalDry (Bosch): Uses natural zeolite minerals that absorb moisture and convert it to heat, reaching up to 176°F. Best-rated for plastic drying in independent testing; dishes emerge dry enough to put away immediately.
• AutoOpen drying (Miele, Bosch 500+): The door automatically cracks open at cycle end to release steam. Excellent for glassware; slightly less effective on dense plastics.
• Dynamic Dry (LG): Combines heat, steam, and a fan to actively circulate hot air. Outperforms condensation-only drying but trails CrystalDry on plastics.
• Condensation drying (most budget models): Relies on heat absorbed by the stainless steel tub radiating away from dishes. Works adequately on ceramic and glass; leaves plastics significantly wetter.

Reliability — What the Repair Data Actually Shows

The most reliable dishwasher brand in independent service data is Miele, with a 5.6% first-year service rate. Bosch follows at approximately 7.8%. GE Profile and LG fall in the 8–12% range depending on the year and model. Samsung is frequently excluded from reliability recommendations by major appliance specialists due to higher-than-average service rates in the dishwasher category.

Reliability matters more for dishwashers than some other appliances because service calls are labor-intensive — the machine typically needs to be partially pulled out for access — and parts availability varies significantly by brand. Bosch and GE have the widest service technician networks nationally; Miele has fewer authorized technicians but is also serviced less frequently.

Smart Features — Worth It or Gimmick?

WiFi connectivity in a dishwasher is genuinely useful for two things: receiving end-of-cycle notifications and enabling remote monitoring if you leave home mid-cycle. Features like Smart Cycle recommendations (Bosch) and self-diagnosis (LG ThinQ) have real practical value. Voice control is mostly a novelty for dishwashers — starting a cycle verbally saves about three button presses and is rarely used once the novelty wears off. If you’re on a budget, skipping WiFi (as with KitchenAid’s KDFE104KPS) loses very little real-world functionality.

Capacity: 12 vs 16 Place Settings

A 16-place-setting dishwasher isn’t just larger — it also typically includes a third rack for utensils, which frees up lower rack space for larger items and reduces crowding. For households cooking for four or more people, or for anyone who entertains regularly, 16 place settings is the correct minimum. The KitchenAid on this list at 12 place settings is noticeably more limiting for large family loads.

Water and Energy Efficiency

All models on this list are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they exceed federal efficiency standards. Modern dishwashers are significantly more water-efficient than hand-washing — an ENERGY STAR-certified dishwasher typically uses around 3–4 gallons per cycle compared to 20+ gallons for equivalent hand-washing. Miele’s EcoPower technology and integrated water softener are specifically engineered to minimize both water and detergent consumption over a long service life.

Where to Buy — and Where Not To

For large appliances like dishwashers, reputable appliance specialty retailers (AJ Madison, AEA, Best Buy, Yale Appliance in the Northeast) generally provide better delivery, installation, and warranty support than online-only retailers. The standard advice from independent appliance specialists is to avoid purchasing full-size dishwashers through Amazon, where third-party sellers, warranty complications, and delivery complexity can complicate returns and repairs significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable dishwasher brand according to Consumer Reports?

Consumer Reports’ 2026 rankings placed Bosch at the top three spots — with the Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5N at number one — for exceptional cleaning, quiet operation, and owner satisfaction. Miele is also recognized by Consumer Reports as one of the most reliable dishwasher brands, a ranking supported by independent repair data showing Miele’s first-year service rate is the lowest of any brand tracked.

What is the quietest dishwasher you can buy?

Bosch claims the title of quietest dishwasher brand in the U.S. Within Bosch’s lineup, the Benchmark Series at 39 dBA is the quietest model available. The Bosch 800 Series runs at 42 dBA, and the 500 Series at 44 dBA. Any dishwasher below 45 dBA is considered whisper-quiet for most kitchen environments.

How much should I spend on a good dishwasher?

For most households, $700–$1,100 buys a reliable, quiet dishwasher with solid cleaning performance. The GE Profile PDP755SYVFS and LG LDPH7972S both deliver competitive features around $900. If plastic drying and maximum quietness are priorities, budget $1,200–$1,600 for a Bosch 800 Series. Miele at $2,000+ is the right choice only when long-term build quality and the lowest possible failure rate justify the investment.

Is Bosch or Miele the better dishwasher?

Both are excellent, but they target different priorities. Bosch leads on plastic drying (CrystalDry) and offers strong value below $1,600. Miele leads on overall washing results, racking flexibility, and long-term reliability — its AutoDos automatic detergent dispensing is unique among mainstream brands. For most buyers, Bosch 800 is the better value. For a 15-to-20-year investment in build quality, Miele is the better machine.

What is the best dishwasher for the money?

The GE Profile PDP755SYVFS delivers the most features per dollar at approximately $899 — including 42 dBA operation, steam cleaning, a third rack, Microban antimicrobial protection, and WiFi connectivity. The LG LDPH7972S is a close second at a similar price point, with a true steam generator and QuadWash Pro four-arm spray system.

Do dishwashers really need a sanitize cycle?

For most households, a standard wash cycle cleans thoroughly without a dedicated sanitize setting. However, a certified sanitize cycle — raising water temperature to eliminate 99.999% of bacteria — is genuinely useful for households with infants, elderly family members, or anyone who is immunocompromised. Models from GE Profile and Miele that include certified SaniWash cycles are worth prioritizing for those households.

How many place settings does a dishwasher hold?

Most full-size 24-inch dishwashers hold 12 to 16 place settings. Premium models from Bosch, Miele, and GE Profile generally achieve 16 place settings with a flexible third rack. For households cooking for four or more people, or those who entertain regularly, prioritize a model rated for 16 place settings.

Final Verdict: Which Dishwasher Should You Buy?

For most American households replacing an aging dishwasher, the Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N is the clearest recommendation: it’s quiet enough to run during dinner, dries plastic containers better than anything else in its price tier, and has the reliability data to back up its reputation. The step up to the Bosch Benchmark Series earns Consumer Reports’ number-one ranking, but most buyers won’t notice the 3 dBA difference in everyday kitchen life.

If budget is a firm constraint around $900, the GE Profile PDP755SYVFS punches well above its price — and its nationwide GE Appliances service network means repairs are easier to arrange than with any European brand. The LG LDPH7972S is the go-to alternative for households that specifically want steam cleaning at the same price point.

Miele is a long-term investment decision, not an impulse upgrade. If you’re outfitting a new kitchen, planning to stay in your home for 20 years, and want the most reliable machine available regardless of price, it’s worth every dollar of the premium. For everyone else, Bosch at the 800 Series tier is where independent data and Consumer Reports both point.