Best Portable Dishwashers in 2026: 8 Picks Compared on Specs

Page updated Nov 5, 2026

For most homes, the SPT 24-inch portable dishwasher takes the top spot: it is the only model here with a 10-place-setting capacity, ENERGY STAR certification, and a stainless steel tub. We selected the rest from the catalogue by comparing published specifications such as width, place settings, wash programs, and finish.

8 picks from 13 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: Look for an 18-inch model like the SPT SD-9263SS; it fits narrow gaps and still washes 8 place settings. See pick 2
• For large gatherings: Choose the 24-inch SPT SD-6513WA if you regularly need more than 8 place settings and value a stainless steel tub. See pick 1
• For rentals or dorms: A wheeled model like the Hamilton Beach Portable with Wheels makes it easy to move out of the way after each cycle. See pick 3

8 picks, up close

1 Best overall

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)

View on Amazon

This 24-inch model has the largest capacity of any portable here: the seller lists 10 place settings. It also adds ENERGY STAR certification, a stainless steel tub, and six wash programs, so it covers both efficiency and flexibility.

Pros

• 10 place settings: the most in this list
• ENERGY STAR certified and stainless steel tub
• 6 wash programs stated by the seller
• 24-inch width suits a standard-size rack

Cons

• Price is higher than the 18-inch models
• No wheel mentioned in the listing
• Larger footprint may not suit tiny counters

Good fit if

• Families who cook a lot of dishes
• Buyers who want a full-size portable with a stainless tub

Skip if

• You need a compact model for a narrow space
• You plan to move it often between rooms

Verdict: The best all-around portable dishwasher if you need extra capacity without giving up efficiency features.

2 Best compact

SPT SD-9263SS 18″ Wide Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher

Type

Portable

Width

18 inch

Place settings

7 to 8

Stainless steel

Yes

ENERGY STAR

Yes

$622.85 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

This 18-inch model is the only compact in the pool to state both 8 place settings and 6 wash programs, along with ENERGY STAR and a stainless steel finish. It packs nearly the same feature set as the 24-inch top pick into a narrower frame.

Pros

• 8 place settings, the most among 18-inch models
• 6 wash programs listed by the seller
• ENERGY STAR certified and stainless steel finish
• 18-inch width fits tighter spaces

Cons

• No mention of a tub material
• No wheel included in the listing
• Less capacity than the 24-inch pick

Good fit if

• Couples or small families
• Kitchens with limited counter or cabinet cutouts

Skip if

• You regularly need more than 8 place settings
• You want a stainless steel interior

Verdict: The best compact portable if you want a complete spec sheet without paying for 24-inch width.

3 Best for rolling

HAMILTON BEACH Portable Dishwasher with Wheels

Type

Portable

Place settings

7 to 8

View on Amazon

This is the only model in the pool whose name mentions wheels. The 19-inch width and 8 place settings make it a practical choice for renters or anyone who needs to stow the dishwasher after use.

Pros

• Wheels are called out in the listing
• 8 place settings stated by the seller
• 19-inch width is between compact and standard
• White finish may match many kitchens

Cons

• No ENERGY STAR certification in the specs
• No information on tub material
• No number of wash programs provided

Good fit if

• Apartment dwellers who must roll the unit to storage
• People who want a dedicated spot but temporary placement

Skip if

• You need a model that stays in place
• You prefer a stainless steel or black finish

Verdict: The only portable here with explicit wheels, making it the easiest to move around.

4 Best 24-inch white

SPT SD-6513W Energy Star 24″ Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher

Type

Portable

Width

24 inch

Stainless steel

Yes

ENERGY STAR

Yes

$942.18 (as of 11/05/2026 01:25 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

View on Shop Simon

This 24-inch white model matches the top pick in width and ENERGY STAR certification, but it omits the stated 10 place settings and six wash programs. It is a solid alternative if you prefer a white exterior and do not need the largest capacity.

Pros

• ENERGY STAR certified
• Stainless steel tub noted (in specs)
• 24-inch width suits standard racks
• White finish for a light kitchen look

Cons

• Place-setting capacity not stated by the seller
• Wash program count not provided
• No wheel mentioned

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a full-size white portable
• Those who already know their capacity needs are standard

Skip if

• You want guaranteed 10 place settings
• You need a stainless steel exterior instead of white

Verdict: A capable white 24-inch portable, though the seller leaves out capacity details.

5 Best white 18-inch

SPT SD-9263W 18″ Energy Star Portable Dishwasher

Type

Portable

Width

18 inch

ENERGY STAR

Yes

View on Amazon

This 18-inch white model carries ENERGY STAR certification, but it does not state a place-setting count or wash programs. It is a clean, space-saving option if you want the simplicity of a white compact without paying for extra features you may not need.

Pros

• ENERGY STAR certified
• 18-inch width is compact
• White finish is neutral
• Lower price point similar to other 18-inch picks

Cons

• Place-setting capacity not stated by the seller
• No wash program count
• No stainless steel or tub material specified

Good fit if

• Budget-conscious buyers in small kitchens
• Those who prefer a white appliance to blend in

Skip if

• You need a specific 8-place-setting capacity
• You want a stainless steel exterior

Verdict: A straightforward white compact for anyone who trusts ENERGY STAR without extra spec details.

6 Best black 18-inch

BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch Portable Dishwasher

Type

Portable

Width

18 inch

Stainless steel

Yes

ENERGY STAR

Yes

$609.99 (as of 11/05/2026 06:36 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

View on Best Buy

This 18-inch model from BLACK+DECKER brings ENERGY STAR certification and a black finish, which is the only black option in the pool. While it does not list place settings or wash programs, the brand and the energy certification could appeal to buyers who value a recognizable name.

Pros

• ENERGY STAR certified
• Black finish stands out in this list
• 18-inch width fits narrow spaces
• Established brand name

Cons

• Place-setting capacity not stated by the seller
• Wash program count not provided
• No stainless steel or tub material specified

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a black appliance
• Those who trust a well-known brand name

Skip if

• You need a stainless steel finish
• You require specified place settings

Verdict: The only black portable here, with ENERGY STAR and a compact footprint.

7 Best stainless basic

SD-9263SSC: 18″ Portable Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR

Type

Portable

Width

18 inch

Stainless steel

Yes

ENERGY STAR

Yes

$599.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:05 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

This 18-inch model from SPT combines a stainless steel finish and ENERGY STAR certification, but the seller does not specify place settings or wash programs. If you want the durability of stainless without paying for extra features, this is a straightforward pick.

Pros

• Stainless steel finish
• ENERGY STAR certified
• 18-inch width
• Lower price than the more featured 18-inch SPT

Cons

• Place-setting capacity not stated by the seller
• Wash program count not provided
• No mention of tub material

Good fit if

• Buyers who prioritize stainless appearance
• Those who want a compact unit with basic energy efficiency

Skip if

• You need a specific place-setting capacity
• You want more than one or two cycles

Verdict: A simple stainless compact that covers the essentials without extra specs.

8 Best platinum finish

HAMILTON BEACH Portable Dishwasher

Type

Portable

$599.99 (as of 11/04/2026 23:16 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

This Hamilton Beach model is the only one in the pool with a 'platinum' finish in its name, giving it a distinct look. The listing does not include width, capacity, or energy certification details, so it is best for buyers who base their choice on finish and brand.

Pros

• Platinum finish is unique among the picks
• Well-known Hamilton Beach brand
• Portable nature is confirmed

Cons

• Width not stated by the seller
• Place-setting capacity not provided
• No ENERGY STAR status

Good fit if

• Shoppers who want a different exterior color
• People who already know size and capacity will work

Skip if

• You need exact dimensions or capacity
• You want an ENERGY STAR certified model

Verdict: A distinctive-looking portable, but the sparse listing means you must verify fit yourself.

How they compare

Our selection method

Our pool for this guide holds 8 portable dishwashers pulled from the catalogue. We shortlisted them by published specs: width, place-setting capacity, ENERGY STAR certification, wash program count, finish, and the presence of wheels. Prices shown are live from the store listing and read at the time of writing; we did not test any unit. When the seller did not state a spec, we say so rather than guess.

What matters when choosing

Width: 18-inch vs 24-inch

The most important dimension is width. An 18-inch model fits into narrow gaps, under lower cabinets, or on a counter. A 24-inch model matches a full-size built-in dishwasher and will likely handle larger loads. In this pool, the two 24-inch models (SPT SD-6513WA and SPT SD-6513W) offer more interior space, while all other picks are 18-inch wide, except the Hamilton Beach with Wheels at 19 inches.

Capacity: place settings matter

Look for the place-setting count in the listing. Eight place settings is typical for a compact portable and covers a few days of dishes for a couple. Ten place settings, as on the SPT SD-6513WA, can hold more pots and larger plates. If the seller does not list a count, you may be undersized for your household. The ENERGY STAR criteria also distinguish compact (fewer than 8 place settings) from standard (8 or more), so a stated count helps you compare efficiency.

ENERGY STAR certification

ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers meet strict energy and water limits set by the US Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. They use less water and energy than standard models, which can save money over time. In this list, six of the eight models carry the ENERGY STAR label; the two Hamilton Beach models do not. If you care about operating costs, prioritize a certified model.

Wash programs and features

Check how many wash cycles the listing mentions. A model with multiple cycles, like the SPT SD-9263SS with six programs, gives you flexibility for lightly or heavily soiled loads. Some pick also include a stainless steel tub or stainless steel finish, which can affect durability and appearance. The seller may not always state the number of cycles, so confirm if that matters to you.

Mobility and placement

Portable dishwashers typically connect to a kitchen faucet and may weigh less than built-ins. If you need to store it away after use, look for wheels, as on the Hamilton Beach Portable with Wheels. If it will stay in one spot, you can choose a lighter or smaller model without wheels. Check the dimensions carefully, including height and depth, to ensure it fits under your counter or in your chosen cabinet.

Questions

Do portable dishwashers need special installation?

No, portable dishwashers are designed to connect to a kitchen faucet. You attach the included hose and drain line to the faucet, and the unit plugs into a standard wall outlet. They do not require hardwiring or permanent plumbing, which makes them a good fit for rentals or small kitchens. Always check the manual for the exact fitting type.

How many place settings do I need?

A compact portable dishwasher usually holds 7 or 8 place settings, which is enough for a couple or a small family. A larger 24-inch model may hold 10 or more. The ENERGY STAR definition treats fewer than 8 place settings as compact, while standard units hold at least 8. Estimate how many dishes you accumulate in a day and choose accordingly.

Are ENERGY STAR dishwashers worth it?

ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers use less energy and water than standard models, which can lower your utility bills over time. They also use less water per cycle, which is better for the environment. If you run a dishwasher often, the certification can pay off through lower operating costs.

Can I use a portable dishwasher in an apartment?

Yes, portable dishwashers are ideal for apartments because they do not require permanent installation and can be moved or stored easily. They connect to the kitchen faucet and plug into a standard outlet. Make sure you have a faucet that accepts a threaded adapter and enough floor space for the unit when it is in use.

What should I check before buying a portable dishwasher?

First, measure the space where you plan to use it, including width, height, and depth. Then compare the place-setting capacity and energy certification. Look for models with multiple wash cycles if you need customization. Finally, verify the faucet connection type and whether the unit includes wheels if you want to move it often.

Change log

• 2026-10-04: First published.

Sources

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