4 Best Dishwashers for $1,000 or Less, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
These midpriced models offer top-notch performance and convenient features, such as adjustable racks and WiFi connectivity
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A high-end dishwasher can easily cost more than $1,000. In fact, more than 40 of the 130 dishwasher models in our ratings cost that much or more. (The most expensive model, from Fisher & Paykel, has a price just shy of $3,000.)
Those pricey machines often boast numerous bells and whistles, and some offer superior performance. What might surprise you, though, is that there are midrange models whose performance and features rival those in the premium tier.
Within the range of $500 to $1,000, you’ll find a selection of high-performing machines equipped with the features that people care most about, like adjustable racks and tines, room for more place settings, and multiple cycle options.
CR members can read on to see a selection of four great dishwashers from our ratings, all priced between $500 and $1,000. Some are among the top-rated models, while others offer solid ratings and above-average looks and features for their price. Keep in mind that prices fluctuate, but whatever your price range, you can find a model that meets your needs in our full dishwasher ratings. And be sure to consult our dishwasher buying guide to catch up on features and options.
Best Dishwashers for $1,000 or Less
These moderately priced dishwashers did well in our lab tests and come with a nice array of useful features, including plenty of flatware slots and ample rack space.
How CR Tests Dishwashers
We spend 28 hours evaluating each dishwasher in our lab. Our testers load each machine with 12 white ceramic dishes with baked-on food and run the normal cycle or its equivalent. Afterward, they use a photo-imaging machine to determine precisely how clean each dish is from the upper and lower racks.
Other criteria our testers use to evaluate dishwashers include ease of use, drying capabilities, noise levels, cycle time, and water and energy use. We also incorporate feedback from Consumer Reports members who have shared their experiences with us in our annual surveys.
How CR Picks the Best Dishwashers Under $1,000
If you’re shopping for a dishwasher between $500 and $1,000, you should expect the following from any model:
Quieter performance: If you frequently hang out in or sleep near your kitchen, it may be worth upgrading to a dishwasher that operates quietly. Plenty of models that cost between $500 and $1,000 earn our top or very good ratings for noise. Those are very difficult to hear, says Larry Ciufo, CR’s head of dishwasher testing. “You can stand next to it and not hear a thing,” he says.
Better drying: Most dishwashers have no trouble with drying ceramic or metal items. But the top performers can almost completely dry plastic, too, even when their door isn’t opened promptly to let steam escape at the end of a cycle.
A stainless steel tub: The metal walls contribute to quieter performance and better drying. They’re also much better than plastic tubs at resisting the chalky, unsightly limescale stains that sometimes build up over time, especially if you have hard (mineral-rich) water.
More rack space and adjustability: Several dishwashers in this price range come with space for more place settings and a third rack. This low-profile tray sits at the top of the tub and can hold utensils and other small, relatively flat items, freeing up extra space for larger dishes on the bottom and middle racks. Height-adjustable upper racks are also pretty standard in this price range, as are multiple sets of folding tines.
Powerful fast-wash cycles: Even inexpensive dishwashers usually have a quick cycle for lightly soiled dishes. But some midpriced models have cycles that can thoroughly wash (and sort of dry) a load in an hour or less, as long as there isn’t too much dried-on gunk. (But they’re less energy-efficient than the standard normal, auto, or sensor cycles.)
A higher-end look: “In this price range, shoppers can choose from models featuring pocket handles and hidden control panels that contribute to a sleek and minimalist aesthetic,” says Allie Chiliki, CR’s market analyst for dishwashers. “Higher-end budgets open the door to customization options like bespoke colors, premium hardware, and panel-ready designs that integrate seamlessly into cabinetry.”
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