Best 18-Inch Dishwashers in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
This guide compares 15 compact 18-inch dishwashers by capacity, noise, energy use, and features, drawn from a pool of 24 18-inch models. Our top pick is the Sharp SDW4523MS, which lists a 47 dB noise level, a third rack, and 8 place settings. We rely on published specifications, and prices are live here.
15 picks from 39 dishwashers that match this guide with a price we can quote today. All prices are live and show when they were read.
Our picks in brief
Find your match
- For renters and small apartments: If you can’t install a permanent dishwasher, a portable model that connects to the kitchen faucet is the way to go. Look for one with a stainless steel tub like the SPT portable pick, which also carries Energy Star certification. See pick 7
- For quiet operation: If you’re sensitive to noise, consider the ZLINE Black Stainless, which lists a noise level up to 44 dB, the lowest in this guide. It’s a built-in unit that keeps the wash cycle hushed. See pick 2
- For eco-conscious buyers: Energy Star certified dishwashers use less water and electricity. The COMFEE' built-in is one of the most efficient picks here, with a stainless steel tub and 8 place settings. See pick 5
- For kitchens with limited space: A compact built-in like the Midea 18-inch fits under a counter and holds 7 to 8 place settings. It’s a straightforward choice when you need a built-in without extra features. See pick 4
15 picks, up close
1 Best overall
Sharp SDW4523MS 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$699.00 (as of 11/05/2026 01:10 PST - Details)
The Sharp SDW4523MS has a 47 dB noise level, a third rack, and 8 place settings. Its stainless steel tub and six wash cycles add to its feature set.
Pros
- 47 dB noise level
- Third rack adds loading capacity without increasing footprint
- 8 place settings and stainless steel tub
- Six wash cycles cover daily and heavy loads
Cons
- Energy Star certification not stated
- No portable option; requires permanent installation
Good fit if
- Anyone who wants a feature-packed built-in for a small kitchen
- Those who value a third rack for silverware or small items
Skip if
- You need a portable dishwasher for a rental or temporary setup
- You prioritize Energy Star certification for lower utility bills
Verdict: The Sharp SDW4523MS offers the best balance of noise level, capacity, and features for an 18-inch built-in dishwasher.
2 Quietest pick
ZLINE 18 in. Compact Black Stainless Steel Top Control Dishwasher
- Width
- 18 inch
- Noise level
- Up to 44 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$1,299.95 (as of 11/05/2026 02:06 PST - Details)
The ZLINE Black Stainless is a built-in model with a noise level up to 44 dB, a stainless steel tub, and a top control design.
Pros
- Up to 44 dB noise level
- Stainless steel tub for heat retention and durability
- Top control design keeps the front clean
- Modern black stainless finish
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- No Energy Star certification listed
Good fit if
- Open-plan living where dishwasher noise is a concern
- Design-focused buyers who want a statement appliance
Skip if
- You need a specific place settings count
- You’re on a tight budget and prefer a more economical model
Verdict: The ZLINE Black Stainless is the go-to choice for the lowest noise level in a compact built-in form.
3 Best portable
BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch Portable Dishwasher
- Type
- Portable
- Width
- 18 inch
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$609.99 (as of 11/05/2026 06:36 PST - Details)
The BLACK+DECKER 18-inch portable dishwasher connects directly to the kitchen faucet, making it suitable for apartments and RVs. It is Energy Star certified for efficiency.
Pros
- Portable design rolls to the sink, no installation needed
- Energy Star certified for lower energy and water use
- Simple faucet connection for quick setup
- Suitable for renters and small households
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- Exterior material not specified
Good fit if
- Renters who can’t modify their kitchen
- Cabins, RVs, or temporary living spaces
Skip if
- You have a fixed counter opening and want a built-in look
- You need a large capacity for family-sized loads
Verdict: For a flexible, energy-efficient dishwasher that moves with you, the BLACK+DECKER portable is the best pick.
4 Best compact built-in
Midea 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$498.97 (as of 11/05/2026 00:12 PST - Details)
The Midea 18-inch built-in holds 7 to 8 place settings and has a stainless steel tub, making it a durable and functional compact choice.
Pros
- Stainless steel tub for hygiene and longevity
- 7 to 8 place settings cover daily needs for two
- Straightforward built-in installation
- Compact 18-inch width fits narrow spaces
Cons
- Energy Star certification not stated
- Noise level not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Couples or singles with modest dishwashing needs
- Those who want a simple, no-frills built-in without extra features
Skip if
- You regularly host large dinner parties requiring more capacity
- You need explicit noise-level guarantees
Verdict: The Midea delivers a solid, straightforward built-in solution with a durable stainless steel tub.
5 Best Energy Star built-in
COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$398.98 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)
The COMFEE' 18-inch built-in is Energy Star certified and NSF certified, indicating efficiency and sanitization standards. It includes a stainless steel tub.
Pros
- Energy Star certified for lower utility bills
- NSF certification indicates sanitization standards
- Stainless steel tub for durability
- Built-in design for a permanent kitchen fit
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- Noise level not stated
Good fit if
- Eco-conscious users who want to minimize environmental impact
- Households seeking NSF-certified sanitization for baby bottles or cutting boards
Skip if
- You need a specific place settings count
- Noise level is a top priority and the seller doesn't state it
Verdict: The COMFEE' built-in is the pick for anyone who values energy efficiency and certified cleanliness.
6 Best for 8 place settings
Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
The Honeywell 18-inch built-in holds 8 place settings, has a stainless steel tub, six wash programs, and is Energy Star certified.
Pros
- 8 place settings, the highest capacity among compact picks
- Stainless steel tub for durability
- Energy Star certified
- Six wash programs cover various soil levels
Cons
- Noise level not stated
- Built-in only, no portable alternative
Good fit if
- Small families who need maximum place settings in a compact footprint
- Buyers who want Energy Star efficiency without sacrificing capacity
Skip if
- You need a portable dishwasher
- You require a specific noise level for open-plan living
Verdict: The Honeywell offers the largest capacity in this guide, making it a strong contender for active households.
7 Best portable with 8 place settings
SPT SD-9263SS 18″ Wide Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher
- Type
- Portable
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$622.85 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)
The SPT SD-9263SS is an 18-inch portable that holds 8 place settings, a rare feature for a roll-around model. Its stainless steel tub and Energy Star certification make it a practical choice for renters.
Pros
- 8 place settings in a portable design
- Stainless steel tub for durability
- Energy Star certified
- 6 wash programs offer flexibility
Cons
- Noise level not specified
- Portable models require sink connection each use
Good fit if
- Renters who need a dishwasher with standard capacity
- Households that move frequently and want a durable portable
Skip if
- You prefer a permanent built-in installation
- You want the lowest possible noise level
Verdict: The SPT portable brings near-standard capacity to a mobile design, ideal for rentals and temporary spaces.
8 Best budget-friendly built-in by specs
EdgeStar BIDW1802SS 18 Inch Wide 8 Place Setting Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
$539.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:43 PST - Details)
The EdgeStar BIDW1802SS is a built-in with 8 place settings, offering a no-frills option for those who need standard capacity without extra features.
Pros
- 8 place settings cover typical household needs
- Built-in design for permanent installation
- Simple controls for easy operation
Cons
- Energy Star certification not stated
- Stainless steel tub not specified
- Noise level not provided
Good fit if
- First-time dishwasher owners who want a basic model
- Those with a tight budget who still need 8 place settings
Skip if
- You want a stainless steel tub for extra durability
- You need Energy Star certification for rebates
Verdict: The EdgeStar is a sensible entry-level built-in that covers the essentials without extra premium features.
9 Best ADA-compliant pick
KoolMore 18 in. ADA Panel Ready
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
The KoolMore 18-inch is designed with ADA compliance, features a panel-ready front for custom cabinets, and is Energy Star certified with a stainless steel tub.
Pros
- ADA-compliant design for accessibility
- Panel-ready front matches custom cabinets
- Energy Star certified
- Stainless steel tub for durability
Cons
- 52 dB noise level
- Place settings not specified in the item details
Good fit if
- Accessibility-conscious users who need a reachable control panel
- Those with custom kitchen cabinetry wanting a seamless look
Skip if
- Noise is a primary concern and you prefer lower noise levels
- You don’t want to build a custom door panel for the front
Verdict: The KoolMore is the best choice for accessible design and custom panel integration.
10 Best third rack for premium kitchens
ZLINE 18" Tallac Series 3rd Rack Top Control Dishwasher in Copper
- Width
- 18 inch
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- Stainless steel
- Yes
The ZLINE Tallac series includes a third rack, a stainless steel tub, and a top control panel, suited for modern kitchen aesthetics.
Pros
- Third rack adds a dedicated level for silverware and gadgets
- Stainless steel tub for heat and durability
- Top control panel for a sleek front
- Copper finish option for a distinctive look
Cons
- 51 dB noise level
- Place settings not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Gourmet cooks who need extra space for knives and cutlery
- Design-forward kitchens that want a premium look with copper accents
Skip if
- You require the lowest possible noise level
- You prefer a specific place settings count
Verdict: The ZLINE Tallac is a stylish pick that maximizes loading flexibility with its third rack.
11 Best for white kitchens
FORNO 18” POLO Dishwasher in White with 8 Place Settings
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
$645.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:57 PST - Details)
The FORNO 18-inch Polo in white holds 8 place settings and features front push controls, making it a functional and classic-looking compact dishwasher.
Pros
- White finish suits many kitchen palettes
- 8 place settings for dependable capacity
- Front push controls are easy to use
- Compact 18-inch width fits narrow spaces
Cons
- 50 dB noise level
- Stainless steel tub not specified
Good fit if
- Kitchens with white or pastel cabinetry
- Users who prefer a classic, unobtrusive appliance appearance
Skip if
- You want a stainless steel interior for durability
- You require a noise level below 45 dB
Verdict: The FORNO Polo is a visually appealing 18-inch dishwasher that blends into white kitchen designs.
12 Best front-control design
Kucht K7740D Professional 18" Front Control Dishwasher
- Width
- 18 inch
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$912.00 (as of 11/04/2026 23:47 PST - Details)
The Kucht K7740D features a front control panel and a stainless steel tub, offering a professional look for home kitchens.
Pros
- Front control panel for easy visibility and access
- Stainless steel tub for heavy-duty use
- Professional stainless finish complements pro-style ranges
- Built-in design for permanent installation
Cons
- Place settings not stated
- No Energy Star certification listed
Good fit if
- Home chefs who want a commercial aesthetic
- Users who prefer physical buttons and knobs over touch controls
Skip if
- You need a specific place settings count
- You want Energy Star efficiency
Verdict: The Kucht is a durable, front-control dishwasher that brings professional styling to compact kitchens.
13 Best basic built-in
Avanti Built-In Dishwasher 18-Inch Quiet Operation
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$419.99 (as of 11/05/2026 05:35 PST - Details)
The Avanti 18-inch built-in is Energy Star certified and has a drop-down metal door and digital controls, providing essential functions for small spaces.
Pros
- Energy Star certified for efficiency
- Drop-down metal door for easy loading
- Digital controls for cycle selection
- Silverware basket included
Cons
- Place settings not stated
- Stainless steel tub not mentioned
- Noise level not provided
Good fit if
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a certified efficient model
- Small apartments with minimal dishwashing needs
Skip if
- You need a large capacity or a third rack
- You want a stainless steel tub for durability
Verdict: The Avanti is a dependable, energy-efficient built-in that doesn’t overcomplicate things.
14 Best built-in with heated drying
SPT SD-9254SSB 18″ Wide Built-In Stainless Steel Dishwasher w/Heated
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$461.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)
The SPT SD-9254SSB adds heated drying, is Energy Star certified, and has a stainless steel tub with 8 place settings and 6 wash programs.
Pros
- Heated drying for faster, more complete results
- Energy Star certified
- Stainless steel tub for durability
- 8 place settings and 6 wash programs
Cons
- Noise level not stated
- Built-in only, no portable option
Good fit if
- Households that run mixed loads including plastics
- Buyers who value energy efficiency and added drying performance
Skip if
- You need a portable dishwasher
- You prefer a model with a published noise level
Verdict: The SPT built-in is a feature-rich choice that adds heated drying to a compact form.
15 Best undercounter fit
The Summit Appliance 18-inch top-control dishwasher is designed for undercounter installation, with a stainless steel finish and ADA-compliant features.
Pros
- Top control panel hides settings from view
- Stainless steel finish for a modern look
- ADA compliant for accessibility
- Built-in design fits standard 18-inch undercounter openings
Cons
- Place settings not stated
- No Energy Star certification listed
- Noise level not provided
Good fit if
- Kitchens with custom panels or minimal front designs
- Users who want ADA-compliant controls at the top
Skip if
- You need a specific place settings count
- You prefer front controls for easier access
Verdict: The Summit is a sleek, ADA-compliant top-control built-in that integrates smoothly with custom cabinetry.
How they compare
Our selection method
We started with a pool of 24 18-inch dishwashers. We narrowed the list to 15 picks that cover the main types: built-in and portable, and a range of features such as Energy Star certification, third racks, and noise levels. We also considered capacity (place settings) and material (stainless steel tubs). Our recommendations are based on the specifications provided by the seller and the manufacturers. Prices shown are live from the store listing at the time of writing.
What matters when choosing
Capacity: How many place settings do you need?
Compact 18-inch dishwashers typically hold 7 to 8 place settings. A standard place setting includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, cup, saucer, and flatware. For a couple, 7 settings may suffice; for a small family, look for the 8-setting models like the Honeywell or EdgeStar. Remember that larger pots and pans reduce usable capacity, so measure your typical load.
Built-in vs. portable: Which type fits your space?
Built-in dishwashers slide under a counter and are permanently connected to plumbing, offering a clean look. Portables roll next to the sink and attach to the faucet with a quick-connect adapter. If you rent or move often, a portable like the BLACK+DECKER or SPT is a flexible choice. For a finished kitchen, a built-in is usually preferred, but you’ll need an 18-inch cabinet opening and access to water and drain lines.
Noise levels: What does dB mean?
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dB); lower numbers indicate less sound. Models in this guide list noise levels from 44 dB to 52 dB. If you have an open-plan kitchen or run the dishwasher at night, consider models with lower dB values, such as the ZLINE Black Stainless (up to 44 dB) or the Sharp (47 dB). Some manufacturers do not specify noise levels, so check the specs before buying.
Energy Star certification: Why it matters
ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy. They use less water and energy than standard models, saving about 5,800 gallons of water over their lifetime and reducing utility bills. Look for the label on models like the COMFEE' or SPT. The specific criteria for compact models (less than 8 place settings) limit energy use to 155 kWh/year and water use to 2.0 gallons per cycle.
Materials and durability: Stainless steel tubs
A stainless steel tub resists stains, retains heat better than plastic, and is less likely to harbor odors. Many of our picks, like the Sharp, ZLINE, and Honeywell, feature stainless steel interiors. A new dishwasher is a good moment to check which pots are dishwasher safe, especially if you plan to buy a budget cookware set. While some budget models use plastic tubs, they may be noisier and less durable. If you plan to keep the dishwasher for years, choosing a stainless steel tub is a wise investment.
Extra features: Third racks, heated drying, and controls
Third racks add a slim shelf for flat cutlery and utensils, freeing up the lower racks. Models like the Sharp and ZLINE Tallac offer this. Heated drying (found on the SPT SD-9254SSB) helps dry plastics faster. Control panels can be front-mounted for easy access or top-controlled for a clean front appearance. Consider which features you value most, as they can raise the price.
Questions
Will an 18-inch dishwasher fit under a standard counter?
Yes. Most 18-inch dishwashers are designed to slide into an 18-inch wide cabinet opening, which is common in apartments and older kitchens. They typically measure about 18 inches wide, 22-24 inches deep, and 34 inches high, similar to full-size models. Be sure to check the exact dimensions in the product listing to ensure your opening meets clearance requirements.
Can a portable 18-inch dishwasher be converted to built-in?
No, portable dishwashers are not designed for permanent installation. They roll on casters and connect to the kitchen faucet via a hose. Converting one would require significant modifications and might void the warranty. If you need a built-in, choose a model specifically labeled as built-in, like the Midea or Sharp.
What is the difference between 7 and 8 place settings?
A place setting is a set of dishes one person uses per meal: dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, cup or glass, saucer, and flatware. Eight place settings means you can wash eight full sets, which suits a small family. Seven settings is slightly smaller, often enough for two people with occasional guests. Many 18-inch models offer either 7 or 8, so decide based on your household size.
Are 18-inch dishwashers loud?
Noise levels vary by model. Some models list noise levels as low as 44 dB, while others list 50-55 dB. Check the noise level specification in dB; lower numbers indicate less noise. If you prefer a low noise level, look for models like the ZLINE Black Stainless (up to 44 dB) or the Sharp (47 dB). Energy Star doesn’t regulate noise, so you’ll need to check manufacturer data.
Do 18-inch dishwashers require special installation?
Built-in 18-inch dishwashers need an 18-inch wide cabinet space, a dedicated electrical outlet, a hot water supply, and a drain connection. Portable models simply plug into a standard wall outlet and attach to the kitchen faucet with an adapter. Some built-ins may require a custom panel if they are panel-ready. Always consult the installation manual or a professional if you’re unsure.
Change log
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