The Short Version
Best Overall: Bosch SHPM88Z75N — Best Value: Whirlpool WDT730PAHZ — Budget Pick: GE GDT665SSNSS — Best Premium: Miele G 5266 SCVi
Tested 14 models over 8 weeks. Last updated November 2024.
| # | Model | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bosch SHPM88Z75N Editor's Choice | ~$1,149 | 9.4 |
| 2 | Miele G 5266 SCVi Best Premium | ~$1,699 | 9.2 |
| 3 | KitchenAid KDTM354DSS Best Heated Dry | ~$899 | 8.7 |
| 4 | Whirlpool WDT730PAHZ Best Value | ~$649 | 8.1 |
| 5 | Samsung DW80CG5451SR | ~$749 | 7.9 |
| 6 | GE GDT665SSNSS Budget Pick | ~$549 | 7.6 |
| 7 | Maytag MDB4949SKZ Most Durable Budget | ~$499 | 7.4 |
42 dBA. 47 test cycles. Zero residue. The Bosch 800 Series has been our top pick for three years because it genuinely earns it every year. The MyWay third rack, spot-on Auto cycle, and inaudible operation make this the easy answer for anyone who can afford it.
Score: 9.4/10 — Read the Full Review →
The AutoOpen door (pops open at cycle end for steam release) is the best drying system of any dishwasher tested. Miele's long-term reliability data is unmatched. Panel-ready design for integrated kitchens. At $1,699 it's not for everyone, but for a kitchen remodel going integrated, it's the call.
Score: 9.2/10
If the Bosch's condensation-only drying bothers you, the KitchenAid is the answer. ProDry heated element dries plastics completely. Cleaning performance is excellent. $250 cheaper than Bosch. The main compromise is noise — 46 dBA vs. 42 dBA.
Score: 8.7/10 — Read the Full Review →
$649 for cleaning performance that beat machines costing $300 more in our tests. Heated dry handles plastics. Whirlpool reliability data is strong. The only real complaint is 47 dBA noise. If your kitchen is closed off, this is an easy recommendation.
Score: 8.1/10 — Read the Full Review →
Noise Level (dBA) — The Most Underrated Spec
If your kitchen is open to living space, go 44 dBA or lower. Period. The difference between 42 dBA (Bosch) and 52 dBA (budget GE) is enormous — the latter is clearly audible from 10 feet. You'll care about this every single night.
Condensation Dry vs. Heated Dry
Condensation drying (Bosch, Miele) is gentler on plastics long-term but struggles to dry them without help. Heated dry (KitchenAid, Whirlpool, most others) dries everything completely but uses more energy and wears plastics faster. If plastic drying is a daily frustration, go heated dry.
Brands Worth Buying (Tiered)
Tier 1: Bosch, Miele — Tier 2: KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Maytag — Tier 3: GE, Samsung, LG
Avoid: Insignia, Magic Chef, Frigidaire Gallery. Repair rate data and cleaning tests put them consistently below this threshold.