Best Dishwashers Under $400 in 2026: 8 Picks Compared on Specs

Page updated Nov 5, 2026

If you're outfitting a small kitchen or apartment, a dishwasher under $400 can save you from endless hand washing. Our top pick is the COMFEE' Countertop Dishwasher, which packs 8 washing programs and up to 6 place settings into a compact, portable design. We chose our recommendations by comparing specifications like type, capacity, energy efficiency, and unique features from the seller listings. Prices shown are live and updated from the store.

8 picks from 18 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 countertop model with a built-in water tank lets you wash dishes without permanent plumbing. See pick 7
• For families needing more capacity: An 18-inch built-in with 7-8 place settings handles larger loads and can be integrated into existing cabinetry. See pick 3
• For renters without hookups: A portable countertop model that requires no connection to a water line is ideal for temporary setups. See pick 4
• For energy-conscious buyers: An Energy Star certified model uses less water and electricity, helping you save on utility bills over time. See pick 2

8 picks, up close

1 Best overall

COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

Type

Countertop

Place settings

Up to 6

$278.94 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details) Typical price: $309.99, 10% off

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

View on Amazon

This COMFEE' countertop dishwasher balances features and capacity for its price. It offers 8 washing programs to tackle various soil levels, and the up to 6 place settings make it suitable for small households. Its compact footprint fits easily on a counter and requires no permanent installation.

Pros

• 8 washing programs cover light to heavy loads
• Up to 6 place settings (not stated by the seller for exact number)
• Countertop design fits on standard counters without plumbing changes
• Portable and easy to move if needed

Cons

• Only up to 6 place settings, so large families may need to run multiple cycles
• Stainless steel tub not stated by the seller

Good fit if

• Singles, couples, or small households
• Renters who want a temporary dishwasher

Skip if

• You routinely wash more than 6 place settings at once
• You prefer a built-in model that matches your cabinetry

Verdict: A versatile countertop pick that offers the most washing programs in this price range.

2 Best Energy Star countertop

Midea Countertop Dishwasher Portable

Type

Countertop

Place settings

Up to 6

Noise level

50 dB and up

ENERGY STAR

Yes

$299.99 (as of 11/05/2026 00:12 PST - Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

View on Amazon

The Midea countertop dishwasher is Energy Star certified, meaning it meets strict energy and water efficiency guidelines. It also offers up to 6 place settings, making it a compact but eco-friendly choice. The countertop design avoids the need for permanent installation.

Pros

• Energy Star certified for lower water and energy use
• Up to 6 place settings (not stated by the seller for exact number)
• Countertop installation requires no permanent hookup
• Simple controls and compact footprint

Cons

• Only up to 6 place settings may be limiting for larger households
• Number of wash programs not stated by the seller

Good fit if

• Eco-conscious consumers who want to reduce resource use
• Small kitchens with limited space

Skip if

• You need a built-in model with a stainless steel tub
• You require a dishwasher with many specialized cycles

Verdict: An energy-efficient countertop option that pairs a compact size with the benefits of Energy Star certification.

3 Best built-in under $400

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

View on Amazon

This Honeywell 18-inch built-in dishwasher offers the largest capacity in this list at 7-8 place settings, along with a stainless steel tub and Energy Star certification. Its 6 washing programs cover common needs, and the built-in design can replace an existing unit or be installed into a custom cabinet opening.

Pros

• 7-8 place settings, the most among the picks
• Stainless steel tub enhances durability and drying
• Energy Star certified for efficient operation
• 6 washing programs for flexible cleaning

Cons

• Requires built-in installation, not portable
• 18-inch width may be too narrow for standard openings (typically 24 inches)

Good fit if

• Families or households that regularly wash larger loads
• Homeowners updating an existing compact dishwasher

Skip if

• You need a portable or countertop model
• Your kitchen is designed for a standard 24-inch dishwasher

Verdict: The best choice for those who want a built-in dishwasher with more capacity and a stainless steel tub, all under $400.

4 Best no-hookup countertop

AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher

Type

Countertop

$309.99 (as of 11/05/2026 03:39 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

The AIRMSEN portable countertop dishwasher is designed to work without a permanent water line connection, making it ideal for apartments, dorms, or rentals. Its countertop design requires only a standard outlet and a way to drain (often into a sink). The lack of dedicated plumbing simplifies setup.

Pros

• No hookup needed, so it works in spaces without dedicated plumbing
• Countertop footprint fits on most counters
• Portable and easy to move or store

Cons

• Place settings not stated by the seller, so capacity is unknown
• No energy efficiency certification mentioned

Good fit if

• Renters or students who cannot modify their kitchen
• People who want a temporary dishwasher they can take with them

Skip if

• You need a fixed installation or larger capacity
• You prefer an Energy Star certified model

Verdict: A flexible and easy-to-install countertop dishwasher for those without permanent water access.

5 Best NSF certified 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

$459.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

View on Amazon

The COMFEE' 18-inch built-in dishwasher is both Energy Star and NSF certified, indicating it meets standards for energy efficiency and sanitation. It features a stainless steel tub and is designed for built-in installation. This makes it a strong choice for those prioritizing cleanliness and durability.

Pros

• NSF certification indicates sanitation standards are met
• Energy Star certified for efficient operation
• Stainless steel tub resists stains and odors
• Built-in design integrates into cabinetry

Cons

• Place settings not stated by the seller, so capacity is unclear
• Requires professional or DIY built-in installation

Good fit if

• Households that emphasize hygiene, such as families with young children
• Anyone replacing an existing 18-inch built-in dishwasher

Skip if

• You need a portable or countertop model
• You are unsure about the installation process and do not want the extra work

Verdict: A built-in option that brings both energy and sanitation certifications to your kitchen, with a stainless steel tub.

6 Best for baby care

Midea Countertop Dishwasher with 1.32Gal Tank

Type

Countertop

$280.49 (as of 11/05/2026 00:12 PST - Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

View on Amazon

The Midea countertop dishwasher includes a dedicated baby care program, which is useful for sterilizing bottles, pacifiers, and other feeding items. It also features a 1.32-gallon water tank, so it can operate without a direct water line, adding to its portability. Its compact countertop size fits small kitchens.

Pros

• Baby care program helps sanitize feeding items
• 1.32-gallon water tank allows use without a permanent water connection
• Countertop design is portable and easy to place
• 5+1 programs offer cycle flexibility

Cons

• Place settings not stated by the seller, so capacity is uncertain
• Water tank may need frequent refills for larger loads

Good fit if

• Parents of infants who want simple sanitization
• People in small apartments who need a portable solution

Skip if

• You have large dish loads and prefer a larger built-in unit
• You want a model with a stainless steel tub (not specified)

Verdict: A countertop dishwasher with a useful baby care cycle and a water tank for flexible placement.

7 Best with water tank

COMFEE' Countertop Dishwasher

Type

Countertop

$345.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

This COMFEE' countertop dishwasher comes with a 6L built-in water tank, allowing it to run without being connected to a water line. It’s designed to hold more dishes inside than some other mini models, and the tank makes it suitable for spaces where plumbing is not available. The countertop form factor keeps installation simple.

Pros

• 6L water tank enables operation without a direct water hookup
• Minimize footprint fits on countertops
• Portable design for easy relocation
• More interior space than some compact models (as implied by the description)

Cons

• Place settings not stated by the seller, so capacity is unknown
• Water tank may need manual refilling for multiple cycles

Good fit if

• People in temporary housing or with no water line access
• Small households that run light to moderate loads

Skip if

• You frequently wash large loads and need a fixed installation
• You prefer a built-in unit with a stainless steel tub

Verdict: A convenient countertop dishwasher with a 6L tank for households that need a no-plumbing option.

8 Best wide countertop

EdgeStar DWP63 21-5/8 Inch Wide 6 Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher

Type

Countertop

Place settings

Up to 6

$349.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:43 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

The EdgeStar DWP63 is a countertop dishwasher with a 21-5/8 inch width, making it wider than typical 18-inch models. This added width can accommodate larger items or easier loading. It still fits on standard counters, and its 6-place-setting capacity suits small to medium households.

Pros

• 21-5/8 inch width offers more space than 18-inch countertops
• Up to 6 place settings for small households
• Countertop design avoids permanent installation
• Black finish matches many kitchen decors

Cons

• Wider footprint may not fit on very small counters
• No energy efficiency certification mentioned

Good fit if

• People who want extra loading space without a built-in unit
• Small kitchens with enough counter area

Skip if

• You have limited counter space due to its width
• You require a built-in dishwasher or one with a stainless steel tub

Verdict: A wider countertop dishwasher that provides a bit more room for loading while keeping installation simple.

How they compare

Our selection method

We started with a pool of 8 dishwashers in the under $400 category. We compared each model's type (countertop or built-in), place settings, Energy Star certification, tub material, and notable features such as water tanks or baby care cycles. We did not test any of these units; our selections are based on the specifications published by the sellers. Prices are read live from the store listings and can change. This guide focuses on the features that matter most for this price range: capacity, ease of installation, and energy efficiency.

What matters when choosing

Countertop vs. built-in: what fits your kitchen?

Countertop dishwashers sit on your counter and typically connect to a kitchen faucet or have a built-in water tank. They are portable, require no permanent plumbing, and are easy to move. Built-in models are installed under a counter and are often hidden behind a panel, providing a more permanent and integrated look. Built-ins generally offer larger capacities and may be quieter, but they require a dedicated space and plumbing connections. For renters or small apartments, a countertop model is often the simplest solution.

Place settings: how many do you really need?

Place settings refer to the number of individuals' worth of dishes a dishwasher can clean in one load. A typical setting includes a dinner plate, saucer, cup, and utensils. Countertop models often offer 4 to 6 place settings, while built-in compact models can handle 7 to 8. If you cook for one or two, 6 places is usually enough. Families that entertain may need more. Consider your household size and whether you run the dishwasher daily or a few times a week.

Energy Star and water efficiency

ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers meet strict energy and water consumption criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They use less water and electricity than standard models, which can lower your utility bills over time. Compact models (under 8 place settings) must use no more than 155 kWh/year and 2.0 gallons per cycle. Look for the ENERGY STAR label if you want a more environmentally friendly option. Also, check the yellow EnergyGuide label to compare estimated annual operating costs.

Wash programs and specialized cycles

Different dishwashers offer various wash cycles, such as heavy, normal, quick, and energy-saving modes. Some models include specialty cycles like a baby care or sanitizing option. While more programs mean more flexibility, you may only need a few. In this price range, you'll find models with 5 to 8 programs. Consider which cycles you'll actually use. A heavy-duty cycle for pots and pans, a quick cycle for lightly soiled dishes, and an eco mode are common and helpful.

Water tank vs. direct connection

Some countertop dishwashers come with a built-in water tank, letting you fill them manually. This is ideal for homes without a kitchen faucet adapter or for travel trailers. Others connect directly to the faucet via a hose. Water tank models are more portable but require refilling for each cycle. Direct-connection units can run multiple cycles without attention. Choose based on your plumbing situation and how often you plan to use the machine.

Questions

What is the difference between a countertop and a built-in dishwasher?

A countertop dishwasher is a compact unit that sits on your counter and usually connects to a sink faucet or has a water tank. It requires no permanent installation and can be moved. A built-in dishwasher is installed under a counter, often matching cabinetry, and is connected to your home's water supply and drain. Built-ins generally offer larger capacities and a more integrated look, but they are more complex to install.

How many place settings should I look for?

Place settings indicate the number of full meals' worth of dishes you can wash in one load. For one or two people, a 6-place-setting model is usually sufficient. If you have a larger family or entertain often, an 8-place-setting built-in model offers more capacity. Remember that larger loads can save water and energy since you run the dishwasher less frequently.

What does Energy Star certification mean for a dishwasher?

Energy Star is a government-backed label that certifies products meet strict energy and water efficiency guidelines. For dishwashers, certified compact models must use no more than 155 kWh per year and 2.0 gallons of water per cycle. This can reduce your utility bills and lower environmental impact. The certification is verified through independent testing and is a reliable indicator of a more efficient appliance.

Can a countertop dishwasher be used without a water hookup?

Some countertop dishwashers have a built-in water tank that you fill manually, so they operate without a direct water line. Others require a connection to a kitchen faucet via a hose. If you lack a faucet adapter or have limited plumbing access, choose a model with a water tank for maximum portability. Always check the product details to see if a tank is included.

Is it worth paying more for a stainless steel tub?

Stainless steel tubs are more durable, resist stains and odors, and often improve drying performance because they retain heat. They are common in higher-end models but are also available in some budget options, like the Honeywell and COMFEE' built-ins. If you want a longer-lasting interior that is easier to clean, a stainless steel tub is a worthwhile upgrade, even under $400.

Change log

• 2026-10-04: First published.

Sources

• ENERGY STAR Dishwashers Overview
• ENERGY STAR Dishwasher Key Product Criteria
• How ENERGY STAR Works