Best Dishwashers with 9+ Place Settings in 2026: 12 Picks
The best dishwasher for households that need 9 or more place settings is the Empava 24-inch built-in model: it holds 15 place settings, runs at 45-49 dB, is ENERGY STAR certified, and has a top control with auto door dry. We compared the specs of 12 machines from the pool of models that hold at least nine place settings, focusing on capacity, noise, mounting type, and efficiency.
12 picks from 34 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 growing families: Need to wash up to 16 place settings in one load? The Bertazzoni holds the most of any pick here. See pick 2
- For renters without a built-in: The SPT portable hooks up to the tap and holds 10 place settings, so you can move it when you move. See pick 6
- For accessible kitchens: The Equator built-in is ADA compliant, meaning controls and racks are designed for easier reach and use. See pick 4
- For custom cabinetry: The KoolMore panel-ready model lets you mount your own cabinet panel to blend in. See pick 5
12 picks, up close
1 Best overall
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)
With 15 place settings, a 45-49 dB noise level, ENERGY STAR certification, and a top control with auto door dry, this built-in covers the needs of most large households.
Pros
- 15 place settings, among the highest in this list
- 45-49 dB noise level for a quieter wash
- ENERGY STAR certified to save water and energy
- 8 wash cycles including top control and auto door dry
Cons
- No third rack is listed for extra loading
- Cycle times and water use per cycle are not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Large families who run one big load a day
- Anyone who wants Energy Star and quiet operation
Skip if
- Those who need a third rack for flatware
- Small apartments that only have a compact 18-inch space
Verdict: A well-rounded built-in with top capacity, low noise, and energy certification.
2 Most capacity
Bertazzoni DW24T3IT 24 Inch Wide 16 Place Setting Built-In Fingerprint
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$1,177.00 (as of 11/05/2026 05:39 PST - Details)
It lists 16 place settings, the most of any dishwasher in this collection, making it a strong choice for big dinner parties or frequent entertaining.
Pros
- 16 place settings, the highest in this list
- Fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish
- Top control for hidden interface
- 24-inch width fits standard cutouts
Cons
- No noise level is stated by the seller
- ENERGY STAR certification is not listed
Good fit if
- People who host large gatherings
- Those who want a top-control design with a fingerprint-resistant finish
Skip if
- Apartment dwellers with limited space who need a compact model
- Buyers who specifically want a dishwasher with a stated dB level
Verdict: The capacity leader here, though you trade noise and energy data.
3 Best wash cycle variety
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)
Kenmore packs this built-in with UltraWash Plus, SmartWash, Accela Wash, Sanitize Rinse, and TurboDry, giving you a wide range of cycles.
Pros
- Offers UltraWash Plus, SmartWash, Accela Wash, Sanitize Rinse, and TurboDry
- 45-49 dB noise level
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Built-in 24-inch design
Cons
- Place settings are not stated by the seller
- No mention of a third rack or interior lighting
Good fit if
- Households that want a rich set of wash options
- Those who want a moderate noise level without a high decibel figure
Skip if
- If you need a specific capacity number to compare
- If you want a third rack for extra loading flexibility
Verdict: A feature-dense built-in with a lot of cleaning flexibility, though capacity is unspecified.
4 Best for accessibility
Equator 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$564.13 (as of 11/04/2026 22:47 PST - Details)
This model is ADA compliant, which means controls and rack designs are tuned for easier reach and use, a rare distinction in this pool.
Pros
- ADA compliant for barrier-free use
- 14 place settings, among the most here
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Stainless steel tub and 51 dB noise level
Cons
- Noise is at the higher end of the quiet range (50 dB and up)
- Third rack is not stated
Good fit if
- Users with mobility limitations who need an accessible design
- Anyone who wants a large capacity with Energy Star
Skip if
- Those who want the quietest possible operation (45-49 dB)
- If you need a third rack for small items
Verdict: An accessible, high-capacity built-in that meets ADA guidelines.
5 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 a panel-ready 24-inch model, so you can mount your cabinet front to match your kitchen, and it still offers 14 place settings at 45-49 dB.
Pros
- Panel-ready design lets you match cabinetry
- 14 place settings, a high capacity
- 45-49 dB noise level
- ENERGY STAR and UL certified
Cons
- Stainless steel finish may be limited because it is meant for a custom panel
- Place settings are 14, not the highest of the group
Good fit if
- Kitchens with custom or matching cabinet fronts
- Those who want a quiet Energy Star dishwasher that can disguise itself
Skip if
- If you prefer a visible stainless front
- If you need the absolute maximum capacity (16 place settings)
Verdict: A flexible panel-ready option with strong capacity and quiet operation.
6 Best portable
SPT SD-6513WA 24″ Wide Portable Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR
- Type
- Portable
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$932.58 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)
The SPT is the only portable dishwasher in this list, offering 10 place settings and Energy Star certification without permanent installation.
Pros
- Portable design that hooks to the tap
- 10 place settings (still above the 9-place minimum)
- ENERGY STAR certified
- 24-inch width and stainless steel tub
Cons
- Only 10 place settings, the lowest in this collection
- No noise level is stated
- Not built-in, so it occupies floor space when in use
Good fit if
- Renters or people who move often
- Kitchens without a built-in dishwasher cutout
Skip if
- Large families that need more than 10 settings
- Those who want a built-in look with a matching front
Verdict: A practical movable dishwasher for temporary setups.
7 Best with a pocket handle
Sharp SDW6504MS Stainless Steel Dishwasher
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$449.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:10 PST - Details)
The Sharp stands out with a pocket handle that creates a flush, minimalist front, and it still packs 12 place settings.
Pros
- Pocket handle for a streamlined look
- 12 place settings
- Hybrid tub design
- 52 dB noise level (the highest in this group)
Cons
- 52 dB is on the louder side of the picks
- No ENERGY STAR certification is listed
- Only 5 cycles
Good fit if
- Design-conscious buyers who want a flush front
- Those who do not mind a slightly louder wash
Skip if
- Anyone who needs a third rack
- People who want the quietest operation or more cycle options
Verdict: A stylish 24-inch built-in with a minimal front, but noisier and less efficient than others.
8 Best front-touch control
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 puts the controls on the front for easy access, includes a third rack, and runs at a quiet 49 dB.
Pros
- Front-touch controls for easy programming
- Third rack adds loading flexibility
- 49 dB noise level
- 12 place settings
Cons
- 12 place settings is moderate, not the highest
- No ENERGY STAR certification is mentioned
Good fit if
- Households that prefer visible controls on the front
- Those who want a third rack without sacrificing quiet operation
Skip if
- People with small kids who want to avoid front controls
- If you need more than 12 place settings
Verdict: A quiet, third-rack-equipped dishwasher with front controls.
9 Best fast wash
Fulgor Milano F4DWT241 400 Series 24 Inch Wide 14 Place Setting Built-In
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
$1,049.00 (as of 11/04/2026 23:00 PST - Details)
The Fulgor Milano includes a dedicated fast wash cycle, while offering 14 place settings and a top control panel.
Pros
- Dedicated fast wash cycle
- 14 place settings
- Top control panel for a clean front
- 24-inch built-in width
Cons
- No noise level is stated
- ENERGY STAR certification is not listed
Good fit if
- Those who often need a quick turnaround on dishware
- Buyers who want a top-control built-in with a large capacity
Skip if
- People who need a quiet dishwasher with a dB figure
- Anyone who wants an Energy Star certified model
Verdict: A fast-wash specialist with generous capacity, but missing quiet and energy data.
10 Best freestanding
Equator 24" Freestanding Dishwasher
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$859.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:47 PST - Details)
As the only freestanding model here, it can be placed on its own without cabinetry, and it holds 14 place settings with a third rack.
Pros
- Freestanding design needs no cabinet enclosure
- 14 place settings, a large capacity
- Third rack for extra loading
- Stainless steel tub
Cons
- No noise level is stated
- Energy Star certification is not mentioned
Good fit if
- Apartments or lofts where a built-in is not feasible
- Users who want a large-capacity standalone unit
Skip if
- Those who require a built-in model to match surrounding cabinets
- People who want an Energy Star label
Verdict: A flexible freestanding dishwasher with a third rack and 14 settings.
11 Best third rack with top control
Equator 24″ Built-In Dishwasher with 3rd Rack
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$559.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:47 PST - Details)
It combines a 15-place-setting capacity, a third rack, and a top control design, plus Energy Star certification.
Pros
- 15 place settings, tied for the highest here
- Third rack expands loading options
- Top control for a hidden interface
- Energy Star certified
Cons
- Noise level is 51 dB (listed as 50 dB and up)
- Only 8 wash cycles, which is moderate
Good fit if
- Large families that want a third rack and a top control
- Anyone seeking Energy Star with a high capacity
Skip if
- Those who want a quieter 45-49 dB model
- People who need more than 8 cycles
Verdict: A high-capacity built-in with a third rack, though not the quietest.
12 Best drawer design
Fisher and Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher
- Type
- Drawer
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Stainless steel
- Yes
Fisher & Paykel's DishDrawer uses two pull-out drawers for flexible loading, and it handles 14 place settings across both drawers.
Pros
- Two drawers allow independent loads
- 14 place settings total
- EZKleen stainless steel finish
- Drawer design saves bending
Cons
- No noise level is stated
- No Energy Star certification listed
- Width is not specified (it is a drawer type)
Good fit if
- Those who wash small loads frequently
- People who want a low-profile, drawer-style design
Skip if
- If you need a standard 24-inch cutout (dimensions not stated)
- Those who want a single large tub for big loads
Verdict: A unique drawer design for flexible, frequent small washes.
How they compare
| # | Dishwasher | Type | Width | Place settings | Noise level | Stainless steel | ENERGY STAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Empava 24 Inch Built-in Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | Yes |
| 2 | Bertazzoni DW24T3IT 24 Inch Wide 16 Place Setting Built-In Fingerprint | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 3 | Kenmore 22-14632 24" Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | not stated | Yes |
| 4 | Equator 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | Yes | Yes |
| 5 | KoolMore 24 in. Panel Ready 14 Place Settings 45 DB Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | Yes |
| 6 | SPT SD-6513WA 24″ Wide Portable Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR | Portable | 24 inch | 9 or more | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 7 | Sharp SDW6504MS Stainless Steel Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | Yes | not stated |
| 8 | Sharp SDW6506JS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | 9 or more | 45 to 49 dB | Yes | not stated |
| 9 | Fulgor Milano F4DWT241 400 Series 24 Inch Wide 14 Place Setting Built-In | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Equator 24" Freestanding Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | 9 or more | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 11 | Equator 24″ Built-In Dishwasher with 3rd Rack | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | not stated | Yes |
| 12 | Fisher and Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher | Drawer | not stated | 9 or more | not stated | Yes | not stated |
Our selection method
We examined the specifications of 12 dishwashers that hold at least 9 place settings. We shortlisted based on published specifications: place-setting count, noise in decibels, mounting style, and ENERGY STAR certification. We prioritized models with larger capacities and useful features. Prices on this page are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing; they change. Nobody at this site has tested these machines, and our picks are based solely on the maker's published information and the product listings. Some specs, such as cycle times or actual water usage, are not stated by the seller, and we note those gaps.
What matters when choosing
What place settings mean
A place setting typically includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, saucer, cup, glass, and flatware. More place settings equal bigger loads. The minimum here is 9, but we have up to 16. If you cook at home often or host large groups, a higher number lets you run fewer loads.
Noise levels and decibels
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dB). Lower numbers mean less sound. In this list, models that state a noise level of 45-49 dB are generally quiet, while those at 50 dB or more are noticeably louder. If your kitchen is open to the living area, a quieter model will be more comfortable.
Built-in, portable, or drawer
Built-in dishwashers fit under a countertop and are the most common. Portable models connect to the faucet and can be moved, ideal for renters. Drawer models, like the Fisher & Paykel, have one or two pull-out drawers for flexible loading and to reduce bending. Choose based on your kitchen layout and installation flexibility.
Energy efficiency
ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers meet strict government efficiency criteria. The current standard for standard-size models requires no more than 240 kWh/year and 3.2 gallons per cycle (source: Energy Star). These models use less water and energy, which can save you money over time. Look for the ENERGY STAR label if efficiency matters to you.
Third racks and loading convenience
A third rack is a shallow tray near the top for flatware, utensils, or small items. It frees space in the lower racks and makes loading easier. Many of these picks offer it. If you regularly run flatware or want to maximize interior space, prioritize a third rack.
Wash cycles and features
Most dishwashers have multiple cycles for different soil levels. Features like top controls (hidden for a smooth front), fast wash cycles, sanitize rinses, and auto door dry can affect convenience. If you need quick results or specific cleaning options, compare the cycle lists carefully.
Questions
How many place settings does my family need?
A standard place setting includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, saucer, cup, glass, and flatware. For a family of four, 12 to 14 place settings is usually enough to cover a full day of dishes. Larger households or frequent entertainers may prefer 15 or 16 settings to run fewer loads.
Are 9 place settings enough for a small household?
Yes, 9 place settings can be enough for one or two people who cook occasionally. It is the minimum in our pool and typically pairs with a more compact footprint. If you entertain often or have many dishes, consider a model with a higher capacity to avoid overcrowding.
What does the noise level in dB mean?
Decibels (dB) measure sound pressure. Lower numbers mean quieter operation. Most modern dishwashers range from 38 dB (very quiet) to 55 dB (audible conversation level). In our list, models at 45-49 dB are considered quiet, while 50 dB and higher are louder, which may matter in open-plan kitchens.
Is ENERGY STAR certification worth it?
ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers meet strict efficiency standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy and EPA. They use less water and energy than non-certified models, which can save money on utility bills over time. Additionally, they often qualify for rebates from local utilities.
Can I use a portable dishwasher without permanent installation?
Yes, portable dishwashers like the SPT in this list connect to your kitchen faucet with a hose and drain into the sink. They are plumbed temporarily and can be wheeled away when not in use. This makes them ideal for renters or kitchens without a built-in cavity.
Change log
- : First published.