Best Dishwashers Under $300: 12 Countertop Picks Compared
The COMFEE' Energy Star Countertop Dishwasher is our top pick for most kitchens, offering 6 place settings and 8 washing programs in a compact design. We chose this list from 18 countertop models under $300 by comparing the specifications each seller lists, focusing on Energy Star certification, capacity, and convenience features such as water tanks and delay start.
11 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 small kitchens and apartments: A compact countertop model like the Hamilton Beach HBDW3208 fits easily on a counter and holds up to 6 place settings. See pick 4
- For energy-conscious buyers: Look for the Energy Star label. The SPT SD-2225DWA is one of several certified models here that meet the EPA's efficiency criteria. See pick 2
- For RVs and no-hookup setups: The Hamilton Beach Portable Countertop Dishwasher with a water bank works without a fixed water line, ideal for temporary spaces. See pick 9
11 picks, up close
1 Best overall
COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
- Type
- Countertop
- Place settings
- Up to 6
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$309.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
This COMFEE' model combines Energy Star certification with 8 washing programs and a 6-place-setting capacity. It offers more cycle options than most other picks in this price range.
Pros
- Energy Star certified, meeting EPA efficiency guidelines
- 6 place settings for a compact unit
- 8 washing programs, the most among the picks
- Portable design for easy countertop placement
Cons
- No built-in water tank (requires a hookup)
- Place setting count is not explicitly stated by seller (assumed up to 6)
- Sound level not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- People who want a versatile countertop dishwasher with many cycles
- Households with a standard kitchen faucet connection
Skip if
- You need a self-contained water tank for RV or temporary use
- You prefer a model with a stainless steel interior
Verdict: The best balance of capacity, program choice, and energy efficiency in this budget.
2 Best with delay start
SPT SD-2225DWA Energy Star Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED
- Type
- Countertop
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$250.23 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)
This SPT model features a delay start option and LED display, letting you schedule washes. It is Energy Star certified and has a smaller footprint than some competitors.
Pros
- Delay start up to 24 hours (per seller)
- Energy Star certified
- LED display for status at a glance
- White finish matches most kitchens
Cons
- No water tank (requires hookup)
- Place settings not stated by seller
- Only one wash cycle option? (not stated)
Good fit if
- People who want to run the dishwasher during off-peak hours
- Buyers who prefer a visible timer and status indicators
Skip if
- You need a water tank for portability
- You want a stainless steel finish
Verdict: A practical choice if scheduling your wash cycle matters more than extra features.
3 Easiest to use
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Dishwasher
- Type
- Countertop
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$299.99 (as of 11/05/2026 06:36 PST - Details)
The BLACK+DECKER BCD6SD has a straightforward control panel with one-touch buttons and includes Energy Star certification.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Simple push-button controls
- White finish fits most decor
- Portable and lightweight design
Cons
- No display showing cycle progress (not stated)
- Place settings not stated by seller
- No delay start or water tank
Good fit if
- First-time dishwasher owners who want minimal fuss
- Seniors or anyone who prefers basic controls
Skip if
- You need a water tank
- You want a model with many cycles
Verdict: A no-nonsense countertop dishwasher that does the basics well.
4 Best for small kitchens
Hamilton Beach HBDW3208 Counter Top Portable Dishwasher
- Type
- Countertop
- Place settings
- Up to 6
$199.00 (as of 11/04/2026 23:15 PST - Details) Typical price: $227.00, 12% off
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
The Hamilton Beach HBDW3208 is compact, holds up to 6 place settings, and requires only a countertop space. Its slim profile suits apartments and vacation homes.
Pros
- Up to 6 place settings, matching most countertop models
- Compact size fits on standard counters
- Portable with no permanent installation
- White finish available
Cons
- No Energy Star certification listed
- No water tank (requires hookup)
- Limited program selection (not stated)
Good fit if
- Renters who cannot install a built-in unit
- Couples or singles with modest dish loads
Skip if
- You want an Energy Star certified unit
- You need a delay start feature
Verdict: A reliable, space-saving choice for those who do not need extra programs.
5 Best built-in water tank
Midea Countertop Dishwasher with 1.59Gal Built-in Water Tank
- Type
- Countertop
$317.11 (as of 11/05/2026 00:12 PST - Details)
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
This Midea model has a 1.59-gallon water tank, so you can run a wash without a faucet connection. It still offers 5+2 washing programs, making it versatile for off-grid use.
Pros
- Built-in 1.59-gallon water tank for no-hookup operation
- 5+2 programs (five wash plus two additional, per seller)
- Compact design
- No permanent installation required
Cons
- No Energy Star certification listed
- Tank capacity limits number of cycles before refilling
- Place settings not stated by seller
Good fit if
- RV owners and campers
- People in temporary housing without a fixed water line
Skip if
- You expect to wash many dishes at once without refilling
- You prefer a model with a stainless interior
Verdict: The best choice here if you cannot connect to a faucet every time.
6 Best quiet operation
EUHOMY 6 Programs Countertop Dishwasher Portable
- Type
- Countertop
- Noise level
- Up to 44 dB
$269.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:49 PST - Details)
EUHOMY lists noise up to 44 dB for this model, making it one of the quietest in the list. It still provides 6 programs for flexible washing.
Pros
- Stated sound level of up to 44 dB
- 6 washing program options
- 360-degree spray coverage (per seller)
- Portable with no hookup needed if paired with a water tank? (not stated)
Cons
- No built-in water tank (requires connection or external fill)
- Not Energy Star certified
- No place settings stated
Good fit if
- Open-concept kitchens where noise matters
- People who wash dishes while watching TV or talking
Skip if
- You need a water tank
- You want an Energy Star label
Verdict: One of the quieter options here for those who prioritize a peaceful kitchen.
7 Alternative water tank model
COMFEE' Countertop Dishwasher Portable with 1.32Gal Water Tank
- Type
- Countertop
$249.91 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)
This COMFEE' model includes a 1.32-gallon water tank and 6 programs. It offers a smaller tank than the Midea but is from a brand with Energy Star models in the line.
Pros
- Built-in 1.32-gallon water tank
- 6 washing programs
- Compact footprint
- Brand known for Energy Star dishwashers (this model not certified)
Cons
- No Energy Star certification on this model
- Smaller tank than the Midea pick
- Place settings not stated
Good fit if
- Those who want a backup water tank without losing program choices
- People who prefer COMFEE' brand consistency
Skip if
- You need the largest tank capacity in this list
- You require Energy Star certification
Verdict: A solid alternative for no-hookup setups with slightly less tank capacity.
8 Best white finish alternative
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Dishwasher
- Type
- Countertop
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$299.23 (as of 11/05/2026 06:36 PST - Details)
Another BLACK+DECKER Energy Star model, this one shares the same simplicity as the BCD6SD but might suit buyers who prefer a different model number or availability.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Simple operation
- White finish
- Portable countertop design
Cons
- No water tank
- Place settings not stated
- No delay start or extra cycles
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a basic, certified dishwasher
- Those who may find the other BLACK+DECKER model out of stock
Skip if
- You need a water tank
- You want more than a few programs
Verdict: A dependable fallback if the primary BLACK+DECKER pick is unavailable.
9 Best for no-hookup with water bank
Hamilton Beach Portable Countertop Dishwasher No Hookup Unit
- Type
- Countertop
$268.00 (as of 11/04/2026 23:16 PST - Details)
The Hamilton Beach portable unit has a 6-liter water bank and does not require a fixed water line, making it easy to use on a tabletop, in an apartment, or in an RV.
Pros
- 6-liter water bank for self-contained operation
- No hookup required
- Specifically built for tabletop, apartment, or RV use
- Portable design
Cons
- No Energy Star certification
- Place settings not stated
- Water bank may need frequent refills for larger loads
Good fit if
- RV travelers and campers
- People living in dorms or temporary spaces without a sink connection
Skip if
- You want a model that connects directly to a faucet for unlimited water
- You need Energy Star certification
Verdict: The most flexible option for moving between locations without plumbing.
10 Best silver finish
This SPT model adds a silver finish to the Energy Star certified lineup. It includes delay start and an LED display, similar to the DWA model but in a different color.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Silver finish for a modern look
- Delay start and LED display
- Compact countertop design
Cons
- No water tank
- Place settings not stated
- No stainless interior
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a silver exterior to match appliances
- Those who need delay start but not a water tank
Skip if
- You prefer white finishes
- You need a water tank
Verdict: A stylish Energy Star pick with the scheduling features you might want.
11 Best stainless steel interior
SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start
- Type
- Countertop
- Place settings
- Up to 6
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$297.56 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)
This SPT model is the only pick with a stainless steel interior, which is easier to clean and resists odors. It is Energy Star certified and holds up to 6 place settings.
Pros
- Stainless steel interior for durability and hygiene
- Energy Star certified
- Up to 6 place settings
- Portable and compact
Cons
- No water tank
- Delay start not mentioned in specs (but present in SPT series)
- Silver exterior may show fingerprints (not stated)
Good fit if
- People who want an easy-to-wipe interior
- Those prioritizing hygiene and long-term material quality
Skip if
- You need a built-in water tank
- You prefer a white finish
Verdict: The only stainless interior in this list, combining Energy Star and a 6-place setting capacity.
How they compare
| # | Dishwasher | Type | Width | Place settings | Noise level | Stainless steel | ENERGY STAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | not stated | Up to 6 | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 2 | SPT SD-2225DWA Energy Star Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 3 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 4 | Hamilton Beach HBDW3208 Counter Top Portable Dishwasher | Countertop | not stated | Up to 6 | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Midea Countertop Dishwasher with 1.59Gal Built-in Water Tank | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | EUHOMY 6 Programs Countertop Dishwasher Portable | Countertop | not stated | not stated | Up to 44 dB | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | COMFEE' Countertop Dishwasher Portable with 1.32Gal Water Tank | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 9 | Hamilton Beach Portable Countertop Dishwasher No Hookup Unit | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | SPT SD-2224DSB | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 11 | SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start | Countertop | not stated | Up to 6 | not stated | Yes | Yes |
Our selection method
The pool contained 18 priced countertop dishwashers under $300. We shortlisted to 12 by removing models with nearly identical names and specs, preferring established brands and Energy Star certified units. Prices on this page are live and read from the store listing at the time of publication; they change frequently. We did not test any of these dishwashers. Our picks are based solely on the specifications published by the sellers and the ENERGY STAR criteria from the U.S. Department of Energy.
What matters when choosing
Countertop vs. portable: Know the difference
All the picks here are countertop dishwashers, meaning they sit on a counter and connect to a faucet or use a built-in water tank. Some models, like the Hamilton Beach no-hookup unit, are truly portable and can be moved without permanent plumbing. If you have a fixed kitchen faucet, a standard countertop model is simpler. If you need to move the unit between locations, look for one with a water bank or tank.
Energy Star certification: What it means for you
The ENERGY STAR label indicates the model meets strict energy and water efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy. According to the ENERGY STAR program, certified dishwashers use less energy and water than non-certified models, and can save about 5,800 gallons of water over its lifetime for a standard unit. For compact dishwashers like these, the criteria cap energy use at 155 kWh per year and water use at 2.0 gallons per cycle. Look for the label on the listing to confirm certification.
Place settings: How much fits?
The number of place settings tells you how many standard dinner plates, bowls, and glasses the dishwasher can hold. Most countertop models hold about 2 to 6 place settings. In this list, only a few sellers state a specific number, such as the COMFEE' (up to 6) and the SPT SD-2224DS (up to 6). If a seller does not list the capacity, it is safe to assume it handles fewer than a full-size built-in. For a single person or couple, 6 place settings is usually enough for daily dishes.
Water tanks: Freedom from the faucet
Some countertop dishwashers include a built-in water tank, letting you operate them without connecting to a faucet. The Midea model here has a 1.59-gallon tank, while the COMFEE' and Hamilton Beach units offer 1.32 gallons and 6 liters respectively. With a tank, you must refill it for each cycle, and the cycle may stop if the water runs out. If you have a reliable faucet, a tankless model is simpler and uses less counter space. Tanks are essential for RVs, campers, or dry kitchens.
Quiet operation: Decibels matter
The decibel (dB) scale measures sound pressure. Some sellers list a maximum sound level for their dishwashers, for example the EUHOMY units state up to 44 dB. If you plan to place the dishwasher in a living area, look for a model with a stated dB value so you have a reference for how loud it may be. Without a dB specification from the seller, you cannot know the sound level from the listing alone.
Washing programs: Match cycles to your needs
More programs give you flexibility: a quick cycle for lightly soiled dishes, a heavy cycle for pots, and a speed cycle for a fast turnaround. The COMFEE' Energy Star model has 8 programs, the most among our picks. Many others offer 6 or 7. If you tend to wash only every few days, a heavy-duty cycle is useful. If you typically wash fresh dishes, a quick cycle saves water and time. You do not need every program, but having at least a few options lets you adapt to different loads.
Questions
Do countertop dishwashers under $300 need a dedicated water line?
No, most countertop dishwashers under $300 connect directly to a standard kitchen faucet. They use an adapter that splits the water flow. Some models, like the Midea with a 1.59-gallon tank, do not even need that connection because you pour water into the unit. Always check the product description for 'no hookup' or 'water tank' to confirm.
Can I install a countertop dishwasher myself?
Yes, countertop dishwashers are designed for simple installation. You typically attach a hose to the faucet and plug the unit into a standard wall outlet. No permanent plumbing changes are required. If you have a pull-out faucet or a non-standard fixture, you may need an adapter, but most kits include the necessary parts.
What is the difference between Energy Star and non-Energy Star models?
Energy Star certified dishwashers meet efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. EPA and DOE, meaning they use less energy and water per cycle. For compact models, they must use no more than 155 kWh per year and 2.0 gallons per cycle. This can lower your utility bills and reduce environmental impact, though the initial price might be slightly higher. In this list, several Energy Star certified picks are available under $300.
How many place settings should I expect from a countertop dishwasher?
Most countertop dishwashers hold between 2 and 6 place settings. For a household of one or two people, 6 place settings is usually enough for a day's worth of dishes. If you cook large meals or have a bigger family, consider a larger built-in model, but those typically exceed this budget. Always verify the place setting count in the listing; if it is not stated, assume a smaller capacity.
Are countertop dishwashers under $300 noisy?
Noise levels are not always listed. Some models, such as those from EUHOMY, specify a maximum sound level of 44 dB. Without a stated dB value, you cannot know the sound level from the listing. Check the product specifications for a dB number if noise is a concern.
Change log
- : First published.