Best Up to 6 Dishwashers in 2026: 8 Models Compared on Specs

Page updated Nov 5, 2026

A dishwasher that handles up to six place settings suits small households and compact kitchens. Based on the published specifications of eight models, the GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher offers the best combination of energy efficiency, wash cycle count, and connectivity. This guide relies on seller information; no unit was tested.

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 compact living: Perfect for apartments, dorms, or kitchens with minimal counter space. The Hamilton Beach HBDW3208 is a compact unit that fits on most counters without taking over the room. See pick 4
• For smart home enthusiasts: If you want to monitor and control your dishwasher from your phone, the GE Profile Countertop is the only pick with WiFi. Its app connectivity adds a layer of convenience not found elsewhere. See pick 1
• For energy-conscious buyers: Energy Star certification ensures lower utility bills and reduced water use. The Midea Countertop Dishwasher meets these strict standards while handling six place settings efficiently. See pick 2
• For flexible placement: The Klarstein Amazonia is a freestanding table dishwasher with a noise level of 45 to 49 dB and a width of 55 cm. It requires a table or stand for placement, making it an option when countertop space is not available. See pick 7

8 picks, up close

1 Best overall

GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher

Type

Countertop

Place settings

Up to 6

ENERGY STAR

Yes

View on Amazon

View on Best Buy

The GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher is the only model in this list with WiFi connectivity. It also has Energy Star certification and six wash cycles, covering a range of load types. These features make it a comprehensive choice for a compact dishwasher.

Pros

• Energy Star certified
• WiFi connected for app control
• Six wash cycles cover most loads
• From a major appliance brand

Cons

• Only six wash cycles, while some COMFEE models offer eight
• Higher price than many countertop models
• Requires a faucet adapter for hookup (not stated)

Good fit if

• Tech-savvy users who want remote monitoring
• Small households that value energy efficiency

Skip if

• You want the most wash cycle options
• You need a dishwasher that can handle larger dinner parties

Verdict: The GE Profile offers the best balance of smart features, efficiency, and reliability for a six-place-setting dishwasher.

2 Best energy efficient

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)

View on Amazon

Midea’s countertop dishwasher is Energy Star certified, which means it meets the EPA's strict criteria for water and energy use. With six place settings and a compact footprint, it is suitable for eco-conscious users.

Pros

• Energy Star certified
• Compact countertop design
• Six place settings
• Known brand with wide availability

Cons

• No WiFi or smart features
• Only basic wash cycles (not specified)
• No stainless steel finish

Good fit if

• Buyers who prioritize low energy and water bills
• Small apartments or offices

Skip if

• You want additional features like delay start or stainless steel
• You plan to run large loads frequently

Verdict: A reliable, efficient six-place-setting dishwasher that keeps operating costs down.

3 Best for wash programs

COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

Type

Countertop

Place settings

Up to 6

ENERGY STAR

Yes

$309.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

This COMFEE model combines Energy Star certification with eight washing programs, the most in this list. It gives you options for different soil levels and load types, making it versatile for a compact dishwasher.

Pros

• Eight wash programs, most among these picks
• Energy Star certified
• Portable countertop design
• Includes a speed cycle

Cons

• No WiFi or smart features
• Stainless steel interior not stated
• May be noisier than larger models (not specified)

Good fit if

• Households that deal with varied dish types
• People who want preset cycles for pots, glasses, and delicate items

Skip if

• You need a freestanding or built-in unit
• You prefer a model with a stainless steel tub for durability

Verdict: The best choice for those who want maximum washing flexibility from a compact dishwasher.

4 Best for compact 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

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Hamilton Beach’s countertop model is designed for tight spaces, offering a small footprint while still handling six place settings. It is a straightforward option for kitchens with limited counter space.

Pros

• Compact size fits on most counters
• Six place settings
• Simple operation with basic cycles
• Trusted budget-friendly brand

Cons

• No Energy Star certification
• No delay start or other extras
• Plastic interior (likely) – not stated

Good fit if

• Dorm rooms and small apartments
• Users who need an affordable and simple dishwasher

Skip if

• You want energy efficiency certification
• You need speech or WiFi control

Verdict: A no-frills compact dishwasher that does the job without taking up much room.

5 Best basic 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 straightforward countertop dishwasher with six place settings. It focuses on essentials, offering a reliable wash without extra smart features or frills.

Pros

• Classic countertop design
• Six place settings
• Easy to install on a counter
• Undercounter mountable option (not stated)

Cons

• No Energy Star certification
• Only standard wash cycles
• No stainless steel finish

Good fit if

• Budget-conscious users who want a simple dishwasher
• Rental properties and small homes

Skip if

• You need energy efficiency or smart controls
• You want a dishwasher that can be used as a freestanding tabletop

Verdict: A dependable, no-nonsense countertop dishwasher for basic cleaning needs.

6 Best stainless steel

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)

View on Amazon

View on Best Buy

The SPT SD-2224DS has a stainless steel construction, which resists fingerprints. It is Energy Star certified and includes a delay start feature.

Pros

• Stainless steel exterior
• Energy Star certified
• Delay start option
• Compact size

Cons

• No WiFi
• Limited to six wash cycles (not specified)
• May be louder than some (noise level not stated)

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a durable, attractive appliance
• Those who appreciate a delay start for scheduled washes

Skip if

• You need smart connectivity
• You prefer a model with more wash programs

Verdict: A stylish, efficient countertop dishwasher with useful delay start and durability.

7 Best freestanding

Klarstein Amazonia 6 Argentea Dishwasher Table Dishwasher

Place settings

Up to 6

Noise level

45 to 49 dB

$842.61 (as of 11/04/2026 23:44 PST - Details)

View on Amazon

The Klarstein Amazonia is a freestanding table dishwasher, the only non-countertop model in this list. It has a noise level of 45 to 49 dB and an annual energy consumption of 174 kWh. Its design suits a table or a dedicated stand.

Pros

• Freestanding design fits on a table
• Noise range of 45 to 49 dB
• Six place settings
• Energy consumption listed at 174 kWh/year

Cons

• Not Energy Star certified (per criteria)
• No WiFi or smart features
• Larger footprint than countertop units

Good fit if

• People with a spare table or counter space
• Users who want a quieter and more substantial dishwasher

Skip if

• You have very limited counter space
• You want Energy Star certification

Verdict: A solid freestanding option that balances capacity and quiet operation.

8 Best portable

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

View on Amazon

This COMFEE model is explicitly designed as a portable dishwasher, with a compact form that can be moved between rooms. It includes eight wash programs, matching the high-cycle count of its Energy Star sibling, but without the certification.

Pros

• Portable and easy to move
• Eight wash programs
• Six place settings
• Includes a speed cycle

Cons

• No Energy Star certification
• No stainless steel
• May require a faucet adapter (not stated)

Good fit if

• Renters who move often
• Those who need a dishwasher for multiple small kitchens

Skip if

• You want the most energy-efficient model
• You prefer a fixed installation

Verdict: A flexible, high-cycle countertop dishwasher for those who need portability.

How they compare

Our selection method

We started with a pool of eight dishwashers, all with a stated capacity of up to six place settings. We shortlisted every model in the pool because the category is small. Our selection criteria prioritized Energy Star certification for water and energy efficiency, the number of wash cycles, connectivity features, and form factor (countertop vs freestanding). We drew on product names and specifications provided by the seller, and we referenced ENERGY STAR criteria for efficiency claims. Prices are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing, and we did not conduct any physical testing. All models are available in new condition from established manufacturers.

What matters when choosing

Capacity: What six place settings really means

A dishwasher rated for six place settings holds about a setting for one person: a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bowl, a cup, and a saucer. This capacity suits households of one or two people, or as a supplement to a larger dishwasher. The ENERGY STAR program classifies dishwashers as compact if they hold fewer than eight place settings and six serving pieces, and these compact models often use less water and energy per load than standard units, though they may need more frequent cycles.

Energy Star certification and what it saves

Energy Star certified dishwashers meet strict government standards for energy and water use. For compact models (under eight place settings), the criteria allow no more than 155 kWh per year and 2.0 gallons per cycle. Choosing an Energy Star model can reduce your environmental impact and lower utility bills, as these machines are designed to consume less energy and water than non-certified counterparts. However, some compact models without certification may still be efficient, so check the EnergyGuide label for specific figures.

Countertop vs freestanding: Which layout works

Countertop dishwashers sit on the counter and connect to the kitchen faucet with an adapter. They are easy to install, portable, and require no permanent plumbing. Freestanding units like the Klarstein Amazonia have a larger footprint and stand on a table or a stand, but they may offer a higher capacity or quieter operation. Consider your available space: if your counter is crowded, a countertop model is more practical; if you have a dedicated table area, a freestanding unit might be better.

Wash cycles and programs: What to look for

Wash cycles determine how your dishwasher handles different soil levels and dish types. Basic models often feature 6 to 8 cycles, including normal, heavy, glass, and speed. More cycles provide greater flexibility: a speed cycle is handy for lightly soiled dishes, while a heavy cycle tackles baked-on food. The COMFEE models in this list offer eight programs, the most of any pick, making them versatile for various loads. If you frequently wash delicate items or need quick washes, prioritize a model with a wide range of cycles.

Additional features: WiFi, delay start, stainless steel

Modern compact dishwashers can include smart features like WiFi connectivity, which lets you monitor and control the machine from your phone, as seen on the GE Profile model. A delay start allows you to schedule washes during off-peak hours or when it’s convenient. Stainless steel construction adds durability and a premium look, but it may cost more and require extra care to avoid fingerprints. Weigh these extras against your daily routine to decide which features are worth paying for.

Questions

Can a six-place-setting dishwasher really clean a full meal's dishes?

A six-place-setting dishwasher is designed for small loads. For one or two people eating at home, it can typically hold the dishes from a simple meal: plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery. If you often host dinner parties or cook elaborate meals, you might need to run additional cycles. These compact machines are best suited for daily use in small households or as a secondary dishwasher for rinsing and washing extra items.

Does an Energy Star dishwasher use less water?

Yes, Energy Star certified dishwashers meet strict water efficiency criteria. For compact models, the standard allows no more than 2.0 gallons of water per cycle. This is significantly less than hand washing, which can use more than 8,000 gallons per year for a household. By using an Energy Star model, you save water and reduce your utility bills while still getting dishes clean.

Do I need a special faucet for a countertop dishwasher?

Most countertop dishwashers connect to a standard kitchen faucet using a diverter or adapter kit, which is usually included. The adapter attaches to the faucet aerator, allowing water to flow into the dishwasher. Some models may require a specific thread size, so check the product manual. You simply attach the included hose, fill the dishwasher's water tank or connect to the faucet, run the cycle, and drain through the sink.

Can I install a countertop dishwasher under a sink?

Countertop dishwashers are designed to sit on a counter, not under a sink. They are not meant for permanent installation and typically require access to a faucet for water supply and drainage. Installing them under a sink would violate safety and functionality guidelines, as they need ventilation and easy access for loading. If you need a built-in washer, consider a freestanding or built-in model designed for that purpose.

What is the difference between a countertop and freestanding dishwasher?

A countertop dishwasher is compact, sits on a counter, and connects to the faucet with hoses. It is portable and easy to move. A freestanding dishwasher, like the Klarstein Amazonia, stands on the floor or a table and has a larger footprint. It may offer a slightly higher capacity or quieter operation but requires a dedicated space. Choose a countertop model for small kitchens or rentals, and a freestanding unit if you have a spot that can accommodate its size.

Change log

• 2026-10-04: First published.

Sources

• ENERGY STAR Dishwashers
• Dishwashers Key Product Criteria | ENERGY STAR
• Appliance and Equipment Standards Program | US DOE
• How We Use Water | US EPA