Dishwashers

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What's behind our dishwasher Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 84 models in dishwashers to see which ones perform best.
We look for:
  • Overall score
    This judgment is based mainly on washing, but also factors in noise, energy and water use, loading, and more. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
  • Washing
    Washing performance is assessed by running the normal or equivalent cycle to clean a full load--10 place settings of very dirty dishes that were scraped but not rinsed. We examine the dishes and glassware after cleaning for residual food.
  • Energy use
    This is for a normal cycle. The largest portion is needed for heating water, both at the water heater and in the machine.
  • Noise
    This was judged during fill, wash, and drain, mainly by a listening panel.
  • Ease of use
    This considers convenience of controls, the ability to hold extra place settings and oversized items such as platters up to 13-1/2 in. long and Pilsner-type glasses up to 10 in. high.
  • Cycle time
    Cycle time is based on a normal cycle including heated dry, where that feature is available.

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Recommended dishwashers

Recommended dishwashers are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.
Did you know that a new energy-efficient dishwasher can save you hundreds of dollars over its life? (On average, dishwashers last about 10 years.) But as important as it might be to save energy with your new dishwasher, you'll also want to buy a machine that fits your budget and your family's lifestyle. If you're looking for information about dishwashers, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ dishwasher reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our dishwasher buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and dishwasher reviews to help you choose the best dishwasher for your needs.

Recently reviewed dishwashers

This Fisher & Paykel dishwasher drawer has
• A soil sensor.
• A plastic tub.
• Some hidden controls.
• Adjustable tines.
• Ample flatware slots.
• Time-remaining display.

Dishwasher buying guide


You can pay $1,500 or more for a dishwasher with hidden controls, interactive digital displays, and special grime-fighting cycles. But when it comes to clean dishes, sparkling performance starts at about $500 or less.

What's more, you needn't settle for a bare-bones dishwasher at that price. Esthetics like stainless-steel exteriors--and practical perks that include flexible loading features--are migrating to more low-priced models. This dishwasher guide will help you make a smart buy.

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