Best Dishwashers Under $500 in 2026: 15 Picks Compared
The Sharp SDW6504MS is a 24-inch stainless steel dishwasher with 12 place settings, five cycles, and a stated 52 dB noise level. This guide compares 15 dishwashers priced under $500, selected by specifications from the catalogue. Nobody at this site has tested these units; prices are live and read from each store listing.
15 picks from 30 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 a compact kitchen: An 18-inch built-in like the COMFEE fits a narrow space and still includes a stainless steel tub and Energy Star certification. See pick 2
- For a large family: The Equator has 14 place settings, the most in this list, plus a stainless tub and ADA-compliant design. See pick 4
- For a countertop or rental: The GE Profile countertop model is Energy Star certified, has WiFi, and needs no permanent plumbing. See pick 3
- For an energy-conscious household: The Honeywell 18-inch model is Energy Star certified and offers six wash programs in a compact package. See pick 6
15 picks, up close
1 Best overall
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)
This 24-inch dishwasher has a stainless steel tub, 12 place settings, and five cycles. Its pocket handle gives a clean front, and the stated noise level is 52 dB.
Pros
- 12 place settings fit a typical family
- Stainless steel tub resists stains
- Five cycles cover normal to heavy loads
- Stated noise level: 52 dB
Cons
- Only five cycles
- No Energy Star certification
Good fit if
- Homes with standard 24-inch cabinet openings
- Those who need a full-size dishwasher with solid capacity
Skip if
- You have a narrow 18-inch opening
- You require the quietest possible operation
Verdict: The Sharp offers a balanced combination of size, capacity, and stainless construction in this price range.
2 Best compact 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)
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
This 18-inch model is Energy Star certified, has a stainless steel tub, and has NSF certification, making it a strong choice for small kitchens. Its compact width fits where a standard 24-inch model cannot.
Pros
- 18-inch width fits narrow spaces
- Energy Star certified
- Stainless steel tub
- NSF certification
Cons
- Number of place settings not stated by the seller
- Fewer cycle options than some competitors
Good fit if
- Apartments or kitchens with limited floor space
- Buyers who want an Energy Star model in a compact size
Skip if
- You need to wash more than 8 place settings at once
- You prefer a 24-inch model for larger loads
Verdict: The COMFEE is a compact built-in that prioritizes energy efficiency and a stainless tub.
3 Best countertop
GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher
- Type
- Countertop
- Place settings
- Up to 6
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
This GE Profile countertop dishwasher is Energy Star certified, has WiFi, and offers six wash cycles. It is designed for a countertop or portable setup, making it easy to add a dishwasher without permanent installation.
Pros
- Countertop design requires no 24-inch cabinet space
- Energy Star certified
- WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring
- Six wash cycles
Cons
- 6 place settings is the smallest capacity here
- No stainless steel tub option in this model
Good fit if
- Renters or small households
- Those who want a connected appliance at a budget price
Skip if
- You have a large family or run multiple loads daily
- You need a built-in look
Verdict: The GE Profile is the best countertop pick for its combination of Energy Star, WiFi, and cycle variety.
4 Best large capacity
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)
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
The Equator holds 14 place settings, which is more than any other model in this guide. It also has a stainless steel tub, Energy Star certification, and ADA compliance.
Pros
- 14 place settings, the most in this list
- Stainless steel tub
- Energy Star certified
- ADA compliant
Cons
- 24-inch width requires a standard cutout
- Cycle count not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Large families or heavy dish users
- Homes requiring ADA-compliant appliances
Skip if
- You need an 18-inch model
- You prefer a top-control layout for a built-in
Verdict: The Equator is the top choice if you need the largest capacity under $500.
5 Best with heated drying
SD-6505SS: 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher w/Smart Wash
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$479.00 (as of 11/05/2026 01:05 PST - Details)
This SPT 24-inch model comes with a stainless steel tub, Energy Star certification, and heated drying, which helps eliminate water spots. It is a straightforward built-in with useful features for the price.
Pros
- Heated drying improves dish drying
- Stainless steel tub
- Energy Star certified
- 24-inch built-in design
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- No programmable cycles listed
Good fit if
- Those who want dried dishes without a towel
- Buyers who prefer a stainless tub with Energy Star
Skip if
- You need a compact 18-inch size
- You require a specific cycle count
Verdict: The SPT 24 offers reliable drying and a stainless build for a reasonable price.
6 Best 18-inch with 6 programs
Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
$439.99 (as of 11/04/2026 23:22 PST - Details)
This Honeywell has an 18-inch width, a stainless steel tub, Energy Star certification, and six wash programs, giving you flexibility for different load types. Its 8 place setting capacity suits a small household.
Pros
- 6 wash programs
- Energy Star certified
- Stainless steel tub
- 8 place settings
Cons
- Compact 18-inch size limits maximum load
- No noise level stated
Good fit if
- Singles or couples with light dish use
- Buyers wanting multiple cycle options in a small unit
Skip if
- You need a 24-inch built-in
- You rely on a very quiet dishwasher at night
Verdict: The Honeywell is a compact model with a range of programs and an energy-efficient design.
7 Best top-control 24-inch
Midea MDT24P3CST 24 inch Stainless Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$449.12 (as of 11/05/2026 00:12 PST - Details)
This Midea has a top-control layout that keeps the front panel clean, and it includes a stainless steel tub. It is a simple, full-size dishwasher that fits standard openings.
Pros
- Top control panel for a sleek front
- Stainless steel tub
- 24-inch standard width
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- Cycle count not listed in specs
Good fit if
- Design-conscious kitchens
- Those who prefer hidden controls
Skip if
- You need a tall tub for large pots
- You want a model with a specific capacity guarantee
Verdict: The Midea top-control is a solid 24-inch choice with a stainless tub and clean looks.
8 Best basic 24-inch
Frigidaire 24-Inch Top-Control Built-In Tall Tub Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Stainless steel
- Yes
$479.12 (as of 11/04/2026 22:58 PST - Details)
The Frigidaire is a 24-inch top-control built-in with a stainless steel exterior and four cycles. It keeps things simple, which can make it easier to operate for those who prefer a no-frills dishwasher.
Pros
- 24-inch built-in fits standard spaces
- Stainless steel exterior
- Top control panel
Cons
- Plastic tub, not stainless steel
- Only 4 cycles
Good fit if
- Budget-minded buyers who want a standard size
- Those who rarely need special cycles
Skip if
- You want a stainless steel tub
- You need more than four wash options
Verdict: The Frigidaire is a dependable basic 24-inch dishwasher for straightforward cleaning needs.
9 Best hybrid tub
Kenmore 24" Hybrid Tub Dishwasher
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- Stainless steel
- Yes
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
This Kenmore uses a hybrid tub that combines stainless steel and plastic to balance durability and drying performance. The fingerprint-resistant finish on the stainless steel exterior helps keep the front clean, and it is a 24-inch built-in.
Pros
- Hybrid tub offers a balance of materials
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior
- 24-inch built-in
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- Hybrid tub may not match full stainless for drying
Good fit if
- Households that value easy-to-clean exteriors
- Those who want a durable tub without a full stainless price
Skip if
- You want a full stainless steel tub
- You need a compact 18-inch size
Verdict: The Kenmore hybrid tub is a practical choice for a 24-inch dishwasher with a cleanable surface.
10 Best simple black built-in
Kenmore 24" Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 24 inch
- Place settings
- 9 or more
- Noise level
- 50 dB and up
- ENERGY STAR
- Yes
This Kenmore is a straightforward 24-inch built-in dishwasher with a black finish. It lacks the stainless steel tub or hybrid tub of other Kenmore models, but it is a plain, functional choice for those who prefer a black front.
Pros
- 24-inch built-in fits standard openings
- Black finish matches many kitchens
- Simple controls
Cons
- No stainless steel tub specified
- Place settings not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a basic black dishwasher
- Those with a tight budget
Skip if
- You want a stainless steel or hybrid tub
- You need a larger capacity indication
Verdict: The Kenmore black built-in is a no-nonsense 24-inch option when you just need a dishwasher to fit.
11 Best 18-inch with 8 place settings
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH 18 Inch Wide 8 Place Setting Built-In Dishwasher
- Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 18 inch
- Place settings
- 7 to 8
$499.00 (as of 11/04/2026 22:43 PST - Details)
This EdgeStar is an 18-inch built-in with 8 place settings, making it one of the few compact models with a stated capacity. Its white finish gives a bright look in small kitchens.
Pros
- 8 place settings, clearly stated
- 18-inch width for narrow spaces
- White finish for a clean look
Cons
- Energy Star status not stated
- No stainless steel tub
Good fit if
- Small kitchens where capacity is still important
- Buyers who prefer a white appliance
Skip if
- You need a stainless steel tub
- You want an Energy Star certified compact
Verdict: The EdgeStar is a solid 18-inch pick when you need a clear place setting count in a compact size.
12 Best 18-inch stainless 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)
This SPT compact dishwasher offers an 18-inch width, a stainless steel tub, Energy Star certification, 8 place settings, and heated drying. It combines several desirable features in a small footprint.
Pros
- Stainless steel tub
- Energy Star certified
- 8 place settings
- Heated drying
Cons
- 18-inch size limits load capacity
- No noise level stated
Good fit if
- Those who want a stainless tub in a compact size
- Buyers who want heated drying in a small dishwasher
Skip if
- You need a 24-inch dishwasher
- You prefer a model with a stated noise level
Verdict: The SPT 18-inch stainless model is a feature-packed compact built-in.
13 Best portable countertop
Magic Chef Compact Countertop Dishwasher
- Type
- Countertop
$421.99 (as of 11/05/2026 00:04 PST - Details)
The Magic Chef is a compact countertop dishwasher designed for portability. It can be moved or placed on a countertop, making it a flexible option for small apartments, dorms, or rentals without permanent installation.
Pros
- Portable, counter-friendly design
- Compact footprint
- Simple hookup
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- No stainless steel tub
Good fit if
- Temporary living spaces
- People who want a dishwasher that can be stored away
Skip if
- You need a built-in that fits under a counter
- You have a large volume of dishes
Verdict: The Magic Chef is the go-to portable for those who need a dishwasher without a fixed installation.
14 Best 18-inch with drop-down door
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)
This Avanti has an 18-inch built-in design with a drop-down metal door and digital controls. It is Energy Star certified, helping lower water and energy use in a compact package.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Drop-down metal door
- Digital controls
- 18-inch built-in
Cons
- Place settings not stated by the seller
- No stainless steel tub
Good fit if
- Small kitchens that need a front-loading style
- Buyers who want a digital control panel
Skip if
- You require a stainless steel interior
- You need a higher capacity model
Verdict: The Avanti offers an Energy Star compact built-in with a distinct door style.
15 Best 18-inch stainless tub
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)
This Midea is an 18-inch built-in with a stainless steel tub and 8 place settings. It provides a durable interior and a clear capacity statement in a small size.
Pros
- Stainless steel tub
- 8 place settings
- 18-inch built-in
Cons
- Energy Star status not stated
- No cycle count listed
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a stainless tub and a compact footprint
- Those who know they need 7 to 8 place settings
Skip if
- You want an Energy Star certified compact
- You need a 24-inch dishwasher
Verdict: The Midea 18-inch is a dependable compact stainless steel option when you value tub durability.
How they compare
| # | Dishwasher | Type | Width | Place settings | Noise level | Stainless steel | ENERGY STAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sharp SDW6504MS Stainless Steel Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | Yes | not stated |
| 2 | COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher | Built-in | 18 inch | 7 to 8 | 50 dB and up | Yes | Yes |
| 3 | GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | not stated | Up to 6 | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 4 | Equator 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | Yes | Yes |
| 5 | SD-6505SS: 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher w/Smart Wash | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 6 | Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings | not stated | 18 inch | 7 to 8 | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 7 | Midea MDT24P3CST 24 inch Stainless Top Control Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 8 | Frigidaire 24-Inch Top-Control Built-In Tall Tub Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 9 | Kenmore 24" Hybrid Tub Dishwasher | not stated | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | Yes | Yes |
| 10 | Kenmore 24" Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 24 inch | 9 or more | 50 dB and up | not stated | Yes |
| 11 | EdgeStar BIDW1802WH 18 Inch Wide 8 Place Setting Built-In Dishwasher | Built-in | 18 inch | 7 to 8 | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | SPT SD-9254SSB 18″ Wide Built-In Stainless Steel Dishwasher w/Heated | Built-in | 18 inch | 7 to 8 | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 13 | Magic Chef Compact Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Avanti Built-In Dishwasher 18-Inch Quiet Operation | Built-in | 18 inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 15 | Midea 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher | Built-in | 18 inch | 7 to 8 | not stated | Yes | Yes |
Our selection method
This guide compares 15 dishwashers priced under $500 from a pool of 18 listed models. We chose these 15 to cover different widths, capacities, and features, avoiding near-duplicate finishes. Each pick is based on the stated specifications in the seller's listing and the maker's published information. No unit was tested by this site. Prices are live and reflect the store listing at the time of writing; they can change.
What matters when choosing
Size: 18-inch or 24-inch
The first decision is width. Most built-in dishwashers use a 24-inch opening, which matches the standard cabinet cutout. If you have a narrower space or a small kitchen, an 18-inch model may be the only option. Countertop units, like the GE Profile or Magic Chef, do not need a cabinet slot at all. Measure your available space before choosing.
Capacity: Place settings
Place settings tell you how many dishes a dishwasher can hold in one load. A typical family of four often needs 8 to 12 place settings. The Equator leads this list with 14, while the Sharp offers 12. Compact 18-inch models usually hold 8 or fewer. If you entertain often or run large pots, choose a model with a higher place setting count. If you are in a small household, a compact 8-place setting unit may be enough.
Energy Star certification
ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers meet strict energy and water efficiency standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy and EPA. According to ENERGY STAR, these models use less energy and water than conventional models, which can reduce utility bills over time. Look for the ENERGY STAR label to lower your environmental impact. Several picks here, including the COMFEE, Honeywell, SPT, and Avanti, are certified.
Tub material: stainless vs. plastic
The tub material affects durability, drying, and noise. Stainless steel tubs resist stains and odors, dry faster, and often dampen sound better than plastic. Plastic tubs are lighter and less expensive but may retain moisture and be more prone to scratching. In this list, models like the Sharp, COMFEE, Honeywell, and SPT feature stainless steel tubs. The Frigidaire uses a plastic tub, while some Kenmore models have a hybrid tub that blends both materials.
Cycles and features
Wash cycles vary from four to six on these models. Heated drying, available on the SPT choices, can reduce water spots. Top-control panels hide the buttons on the upper edge. Noise is stated in decibels for some models, such as the Sharp at 52 dB and the Equator at 51 dB.
Controls and installation
Built-in dishwashers are designed to slide under a counter and connect to the water and drain lines. Top-control models hide the buttons on the upper edge, giving a seamless look. Front controls are easier to reach but break the flat panel. Countertop models like the GE Profile can sit on a counter and connect via a faucet adapter, ideal for apartments or rentals. Make sure you know whether you need a built-in or portable unit before you buy.
Questions
How many place settings do I need?
A place setting includes a dinner plate, saucer, bowl, glass, and utensils. For a small household or a couple, 8 place settings may be sufficient. For a family of four or more, look for 12 to 14 place settings. The largest option in this guide is the Equator with 14 place settings.
Are 18-inch dishwashers worth it?
An 18-inch dishwasher is worth it if you have a narrow space or a small kitchen where a standard 24-inch model will not fit. They are typically less expensive and use less water and energy. However, they hold fewer dishes, so you may need to run more frequent loads. Models like the COMFEE and Honeywell are Energy Star certified and provide a good balance of size and efficiency.
What is the benefit of a stainless steel tub?
A stainless steel tub is more durable than plastic, resists stains and odors, and dries dishes faster because stainless steel retains and distributes heat well. It also tends to dampen noise better. Many picks in this guide, including the Sharp, Equator, and SPT, come with a stainless steel tub.
Can a countertop dishwasher replace a built-in model?
A countertop dishwasher is a compact, portable unit that sits on a counter and connects to your faucet. It works well for small households or if you cannot install a built-in. However, it holds far fewer dishes than a 24-inch model and may not provide the same cleaning power. The GE Profile offers WiFi and six cycles, but it is best for light use.
Change log
- : First published.