Best 45 to 49 dB Dishwashers in 2026: 14 Picks Compared on Specs
The Sharp SDW6757ES tops this roundup as one of the quietest models here, with a stated 45 dBA noise level and a standard 24-inch width. We chose it and 13 others from a pool of 19 dishwashers rated between 45 and 49 dB, comparing only the specifications published by their makers and the catalogue listings.
14 picks from 38 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 open-plan living: A quiet 45 dBA specification keeps the dishwasher from interrupting conversation in the next room. See pick 1
- For a small kitchen: An 18-inch built-in fits narrow cabinet openings while still providing a third rack and 47 dB operation. See pick 5
- For a rental or small household: A freestanding countertop model with 6 place settings connects to a faucet and needs no permanent installation. See pick 6
- For a large family: A 15 place setting capacity with a stainless steel tub holds a full day of dishes for a busy household. See pick 2
14 picks, up close
1 Best overall
Sharp SDW6757ES 24 in. Top Control Handle 45 dBA Dishwasher
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
$549.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:10 PST - Details)
This Sharp model states a 45 dBA noise level, tied for the lowest in this roundup, and fits a standard 24-inch opening. Its top-control design hides the buttons for a clean front.
Pros
- Stated 45 dBA, tied for the quietest in this list
- Standard 24-inch built-in width
- Top-control design hides the buttons
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- No third rack mentioned in the listing
Good fit if
- Anyone who wants one of the quietest cycles in this roundup
- Kitchens with a standard 24-inch opening
Skip if
- You need a third rack for extra cutlery
- You prefer a pocket handle over a traditional handle
Verdict: A quiet, standard-width built-in that makes a strong default choice if the missing capacity details do not bother you.
2 Best for large families
Empava 24 Inch Built-in Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$547.71 (as of 11/04/2026 22:46 PST - Details)
The Empava states 15 place settings, the highest among all picks here, plus a stainless steel tub and 8 wash cycles. It also carries an Energy Star certification.
Pros
- 15 place settings, the most in this list
- Stainless steel tub
- Energy Star certified
- 8 wash cycles
Cons
- Noise level stated only as a range (45 to 49 dB)
- No third rack mentioned
Good fit if
- Large households that run multiple loads per day
- Anyone who wants a stainless steel tub for durability
Skip if
- You need a specific noise level rather than a range
- You want a third rack for extra cups and utensils
Verdict: The biggest capacity in this roundup, with Energy Star certification and a stainless tub, at the cost of a precise dBA figure.
3 Best panel-ready
KoolMore 24 in. Panel Ready 14 Place Settings 45 DB Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$950.99 (as of 11/04/2026 23:46 PST - Details)
The KoolMore is one of two panel-ready models in this list, letting you attach a custom cabinet front to match your kitchen. It also states a 45 dB noise level and 14 place settings.
Pros
- Panel-ready for a custom cabinet front
- Stated 45 dB, tied for the quietest
- 14 place settings
- Energy Star certified
Cons
- Requires a custom panel, sold separately
- Stainless steel exterior is not visible once paneled
Good fit if
- Kitchens with custom cabinetry where you want the dishwasher to disappear
- Buyers who want a quiet, high-capacity model
Skip if
- You prefer a visible stainless steel finish
- You want a ready-to-install dishwasher without extra panel work
Verdict: A quiet, high-capacity panel-ready model that blends into custom kitchens if you are willing to add your own front.
4 Best with third rack
300 Series 24 in. Stainless Steel Top Control Tall Tub Bar Handle
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$1,499.98 (as of 11/05/2026 02:38 PST - Details)
This Bosch 300 Series includes a third rack and a stainless steel tub, with a stated 46 dBA noise level. It is a conventional 24-inch top-control model with a bar handle.
Pros
- Third rack for extra cutlery and small items
- Stainless steel tub
- Stated 46 dBA, quieter than most in this list
- Top-control design with bar handle
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- No energy star certification mentioned
Good fit if
- Those who want a third rack and a trusted brand name
- Kitchens that need a stainless steel tub
Skip if
- You need a specific place setting count to compare capacity
- You want a dishwasher with a pocket handle
Verdict: A third-rack Bosch with a stated 46 dBA noise level and stainless steel tub, though capacity details are missing.
5 Best 18-inch
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 is the only 18-inch built-in in this roundup, fitting narrow openings while still offering a third rack, 8 place settings, and a stated 47 dB noise level.
Pros
- 18-inch width for compact spaces
- Third rack adds flexibility
- Stated 47 dB noise level
- Stainless steel exterior
Cons
- 8 place settings, less than full-size models
- No energy star certification mentioned
Good fit if
- Apartments or kitchens with a narrow cabinet opening
- Small households that do not need 12+ settings
Skip if
- You regularly host large dinners and need more capacity
- You have a standard 24-inch opening and want a bigger tub
Verdict: A rare compact built-in with a third rack and a 47 dB noise level, ideal for tight kitchen layouts.
6 Best countertop
Klarstein Amazonia 6 Argentea Dishwasher Table Dishwasher
- Place settings
- Up to 6
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
$842.61 (as of 11/04/2026 23:44 PST - Details)
The Klarstein Amazonia 6 is a freestanding tabletop dishwasher with 6 place settings and a stated 49 dB noise level. It needs no permanent installation, making it a flexible option for rentals.
Pros
- Countertop design with no installation required
- Stated 49 dB noise level
- 6 place settings for small loads
- Freestanding, can be moved easily
Cons
- Very limited capacity (6 place settings)
- No stainless steel tub mentioned
Good fit if
- Renters who cannot modify cabinets
- Singles or couples with light dish loads
Skip if
- You need to wash pots and pans for a large family
- You have space for a full-size built-in
Verdict: A portable countertop dishwasher that solves the noise question with a 49 dB noise level, but only for small kitchens.
7 Best third rack with 12 settings
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$499.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:10 PST - Details)
The Sharp SDW6506JS combines a stated 49 dB noise level, a third rack, and 12 place settings in a stainless steel 24-inch built-in with front touch controls.
Pros
- Third rack for extra items
- 12 place settings
- Stainless steel exterior
- Front touch controls for easy access
Cons
- Noise level is 49 dB, the middle of this range
- No energy star certification mentioned
Good fit if
- Households that want a third rack and a full-size capacity
- Buyers who prefer front controls over top controls
Skip if
- You want the quietest possible cycle (look for 45 dBA models)
- You need a stainless steel tub (only exterior is stainless)
Verdict: A balanced 24-inch model with a third rack and 12 place settings, though the 49 dB noise level is not the quietest here.
8 Best energy star
Kenmore 22-14632 24" Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$599.99 (as of 11/04/2026 23:42 PST - Details)
The Kenmore 22-14632 is a 24-inch built-in with Energy Star certification, a 49 dB noise level, and multiple wash systems including UltraWash Plus and SmartWash.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Stated 49 dB noise level
- Multiple wash systems (UltraWash, SmartWash, Accela Wash)
- Sanitize rinse and TurboDry options
Cons
- Noise level is 49 dB, not the quietest in this list
- Place settings not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Eco-conscious buyers looking for Energy Star savings
- Those who want specific wash cycle labels like Sanitize Rinse
Skip if
- You want a quieter model (lower dB)
- You need to know exact place setting capacity
Verdict: A well-equipped Energy Star built-in with a 49 dB noise level, though capacity details are missing.
9 Best white finish
Forno Espresso Pozzo 24-Inch Built-In Tall Tub Top Control Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
$1,075.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:57 PST - Details)
The Forno Espresso Pozzo is one of the few dishwashers in this roundup available in white, with a stated 49 dBA noise level and a 24-inch tall tub design.
Pros
- White finish for matching kitchen cabinets
- Stated 49 dBA noise level
- 24-inch tall tub design
Cons
- Noise level is 49 dBA, the higher end of this range
- No place settings or cycle count stated
Good fit if
- Kitchens with white cabinetry where a white appliance blends in
- Buyers who prefer the classic look over stainless steel
Skip if
- You need a stainless steel finish
- You want a quieter model (lower dB)
Verdict: A white 49 dBA built-in that suits traditional kitchens, but it lacks some specification details.
10 Best stainless tall tub
Pozzo 24 in. Built-In Tall Tub Top Control Stainless Steel Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$975.00 (as of 11/05/2026 00:46 PST - Details)
This Forno Pozzo model offers a stainless steel tall tub with a stated 49 dBA noise level and a 24-inch width. It is a straightforward top-control built-in.
Pros
- Stainless steel tall tub
- Stated 49 dBA noise level
- 24-inch standard width
Cons
- Noise level is 49 dBA, not the quietest
- No place settings or cycle options stated
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a stainless steel tub without extra features
- Those who prefer a top-control layout
Skip if
- You need a third rack
- You want a more precise decibel level below 49
Verdict: A simple stainless tall tub dishwasher with a 49 dBA noise level, but without many stated extras.
11 Best tall tub with third rack
ZLINE Autograph Edition 24 in. Monument Series 3rd Rack Top Touch
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
- Stainless steel
- Yes
The ZLINE Autograph Edition Monument Series includes a third rack, a stainless steel exterior, and a top touch control panel. Its noise level is stated in the 45 to 49 dB range.
Pros
- Third rack for extra items
- Stainless steel exterior
- Top touch control panel
- Tall tub design
Cons
- Noise level stated only as a range (45 to 49 dB)
- Place settings not stated
Good fit if
- Households that want a third rack and a premium look
- Buyers who prefer touch controls over buttons
Skip if
- You need a specific dBA level
- You want a panel-ready model instead of stainless
Verdict: A feature-packed tall tub with a third rack and touch controls, though the exact noise level is not pinned down.
12 Best custom panel with third rack
ZLINE Autograph Edition 24" Monument Series 3rd Rack Top Touch Control
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
$1,274.99 (as of 11/05/2026 02:06 PST - Details)
This ZLINE is another panel-ready option, allowing a custom front, and it also includes a third rack. It uses a top touch control panel and fits a 24-inch opening.
Pros
- Panel-ready for custom cabinetry
- Third rack for extra capacity
- Top touch control panel
- 24-inch width
Cons
- Noise level stated only as a range (45 to 49 dB)
- Custom panel required, not included
Good fit if
- Kitchens with custom fronts and a third-rack requirement
- Buyers who want a seamless look with minimal visible metal
Skip if
- You want a stainless steel finish
- You need a specific dBA level
Verdict: A panel-ready tall tub with a third rack, offering design flexibility but without a precise noise figure.
13 Best matte black
24 in. Icon Coll Built-in Tall Tub Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
$899.99 (as of 11/05/2026 02:37 PST - Details)
The COSMO Icon Coll features a matte black finish, three racks, and a stated 45 dBa noise level. It is a 24-inch built-in with a tall tub.
Pros
- Matte black finish stands out
- Three racks for organization
- Stated 45 dBa, tied for the quietest
- 24-inch standard width
Cons
- Place settings not stated
- No energy star certification mentioned
Good fit if
- Modern kitchens with black appliances
- Anyone who wants a very quiet (45 dBa) cycle
Skip if
- You prefer stainless steel or white
- You need a specific place setting count
Verdict: A quiet, three-rack dishwasher in a striking matte black finish, though capacity details are absent.
14 Best pocket handle
Sharp SDW6748SNS 24 in. Top Control Pocket Handle 47 dBA Dishwasher
- Width
- 24 inch
- Noise level
- 45 to 49 dB
$649.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:10 PST - Details)
The Sharp SDW6748SNS offers a pocket handle design, which keeps the front profile flush. It is a 24-inch top-control model with a stated 47 dBA noise level.
Pros
- Pocket handle for a flush, modern look
- Stated 47 dBA noise level
- Top-control design
- 24-inch standard width
Cons
- Place settings not stated
- No third rack mentioned
Good fit if
- Buyers who prefer a handleless, streamlined front
- Those who want a mid-40s dBA noise level
Skip if
- You want a visible bar handle
- You need a third rack
Verdict: A clean pocket-handle design with a 47 dBA noise level, but without stated capacity or third rack.
How they compare
| # | Dishwasher | Type | Width | Place settings | Noise level | Stainless steel | ENERGY STAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sharp SDW6757ES 24 in. Top Control Handle 45 dBA Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Empava 24 Inch Built-in Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | Yes |
| 3 | KoolMore 24 in. Panel Ready 14 Place Settings 45 DB Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | Yes |
| 4 | 300 Series 24 in. Stainless Steel Top Control Tall Tub Bar Handle | not stated | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | not stated |
| 5 | Sharp SDW4523MS 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 18 inch | 7 to 8 | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | not stated |
| 6 | Klarstein Amazonia 6 Argentea Dishwasher Table Dishwasher | not stated | not stated | Up to 6 | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Sharp SDW6506JS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | not stated |
| 8 | Kenmore 22-14632 24" Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | Yes |
| 9 | Forno Espresso Pozzo 24-Inch Built-In Tall Tub Top Control Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Pozzo 24 in. Built-In Tall Tub Top Control Stainless Steel Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | not stated |
| 11 | ZLINE Autograph Edition 24 in. Monument Series 3rd Rack Top Touch | not stated | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | not stated |
| 12 | ZLINE Autograph Edition 24" Monument Series 3rd Rack Top Touch Control | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | 24 in. Icon Coll Built-in Tall Tub Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Sharp SDW6748SNS 24 in. Top Control Pocket Handle 47 dBA Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | not stated | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | not stated |
Our selection method
We started with a pool of 19 dishwashers whose sellers stated a noise level between 45 and 49 dB. From that pool, we shortlisted 14 models that cover the common form factors: 24-inch built-ins, an 18-inch built-in, a countertop unit, and two panel-ready designs. We compared each machine on place settings, tub material, cycle options, and energy certification. Prices shown on the page are read live from the listings and may change. Nobody at this site has run these dishwashers; every claim here comes from the makers' published specifications or the catalogue data.
What matters when choosing
What does the noise level mean?
Dishwasher noise is measured in dBA, a decibel scale adjusted to how the human ear perceives sound. In the 45 to 49 dB range, a dishwasher is generally audible but not disruptive; a lower number is quieter. The difference of 4 dB is noticeable, so if the kitchen is open to a living area, look for models that state 45 dBA rather than 49 dBA.
Capacity: place settings and racks
Place settings tell you how many full place settings the dishwasher can hold. Standard built-ins typically range from 10 to 15. If you cook large meals or entertain often, choose a model with 12 or more place settings. A third rack is a separate tray for cutlery, spatulas, and small bowls, freeing up the lower racks. Not all models include a third rack; check the specifications before buying.
Width and installation type
Most built-in dishwashers are 24 inches wide, but some kitchens have a narrower 18-inch opening. Make sure you measure the space before choosing. Panel-ready models let you attach a custom cabinet front, but they require a kit and extra installation work. Countertop models sit on the counter and connect to the faucet, needing no permanent plumbing.
Tub material: stainless steel vs. plastic
A stainless steel tub is more durable and helps with drying because it retains heat better than plastic. It also resists stains and odors. Many picks in this roundup list stainless steel tubs, but some only mention a stainless steel exterior. If the tub material is not stated, you should check the maker's spec page before relying on it.
Wash cycles and energy certification
Look for cycles that match how you use the dishwasher. A heavy cycle for pots and pans, a quick cycle for light loads, and a sanitize rinse for extra hygiene are common. Energy Star certified models use less water and energy, which can lead to lower utility bills. The ENERGY STAR criteria for standard dishwashers set maximum water use at 3.2 gallons per cycle and energy at 240 kWh per year.
Why we focus on stated specs
The picks in this article are selected by comparing the sellers' and makers' published specifications. No product has been used or evaluated firsthand. We rely solely on what is listed: noise level, width, place settings, tub material, and cycles. If a specification is missing from the listing, we say so. Before buying, you can verify the details on the maker's own product page.
Questions
Is a 45 dB dishwasher significantly quieter than a 49 dB model?
Yes. The decibel scale is logarithmic, so a 4 dB difference is clearly audible. A 45 dB dishwasher is about 40 percent quieter in perceived loudness than a 49 dB model. If you have an open kitchen or often run the dishwasher while watching TV, choosing a 45 dB model can make a noticeable difference.
What does a third rack add to a dishwasher?
A third rack is a shallow tray at the top of the tub, designed for cutlery, spatulas, measuring cups, and other small items. It frees up space in the lower racks for plates and pots. Models with a third rack can hold more items overall, even if the place setting count is the same.
Can a 45 to 49 dB dishwasher be used in an apartment?
Yes, but you should consider the noise level, especially if the kitchen is close to bedrooms or living spaces. A 45 dB model is generally quiet enough for an apartment. Also, check the dimensions and installation requirements; a countertop model may be easier if you cannot modify the cabinetry.
What is the difference between a stainless steel tub and a plastic tub?
A stainless steel tub is more durable, retains heat better for drying, and is less likely to absorb odors. Plastic tubs are lighter and often less expensive, but they may cool down faster and can discolor over time. If you plan to keep the dishwasher for many years, a stainless steel tub is a good investment.
Do all dishwashers in this roundup have Energy Star certification?
No. Only some picks list Energy Star certification, such as the Empava, the KoolMore, and the Kenmore 22-14632. The others do not mention it in the catalogue data. Energy Star certification means the model meets strict water and energy limits, but it is not the only factor; you can still find efficient non-certified models.
How do I know if an 18-inch dishwasher is right for my kitchen?
Measure the width of the opening under your counter. If it is 18 inches, a full-size 24-inch model will not fit. The Sharp SDW4523MS in this list is an 18-inch built-in with 8 place settings. It is a good fit for small kitchens, but it cannot hold as many dishes as a standard model.
Change log
- : First published.