Aside from performance in our tests, key dishwasher differences include types, costs, and features. Here are the types of dishwashers to consider.
Budget-priced conventional dishwashers
These are a smart buy if you care more about performance than glitz, and are willing to give up a few convenience features.
Pros:As a group, these roughly $500 models clean dishes as well as premium-priced models. Some include adjustable racks and self-cleaning filters.
Cons:They tend to be noisier than the upscale models. Fewer flexible-loading features also make loading and accommodating tall items tougher.
Premium-priced conventional dishwashers
Pros:These roughly $800-plus models tend to be quieter and have ample flatware slots, folding tines, and other flexible-loading features. Hidden controls and a cycle-time display add style and convenience. Many have a stainless-steel tub, which tends to resist stains better than plastic tubs.
Cons:They're typically no better than the best low-priced models at cleaning dishes.
Dishwasher-drawer models
Pros:These typically include two small, stacked drawers you can use simultaneously or individually. Pull-out drawers also ease loading compared with a typical fold-down door.
Cons:They're typically expensive. Relatively small capacities also limit how much you can wash and contribute to lower efficiency as a group.
