The Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Dishwasher for Your Kitchen

In today's modern kitchen, you can't really go without a dishwasher. They spare you a lot of time and energy, and even save more water than if you washed your dishes by hand. A modern dishwasher uses about three to four gallons of water, compared to the 27 gallons you might use to wash the same dishes yourself.¹ But if you're shopping for a new dishwasher, this isn't a decision to make lightly.

Dishwashers can be a big investment, so you'll need to understand the types of dishwashers available to you. Which kind fits best in your kitchen? What cost range are you looking at? Which amenities do you need?
The main types are built-in dishwashers, drawer versions, portable ones, countertops and smart dishwashers. They're very different, with each kind having its own set of pros and cons. This guide will walk you through the most important concepts to consider when buying a new dishwasher.

Built-in dishwashers are traditional dishwashers that fit into a dedicated space in your kitchen, usually beneath your counter. They come with a wide range of features, so you can get a less expensive, no-frills version or a fancier version with a lot of cleaning cycles if your budget allows.²

Here's a look at the main advantages and disadvantages:

The average cost is $400 to $700, but a high-end model can run as much as $2,000.² A low-end, no-frills model, meanwhile, might cost as little as $399.⁵ If you get a model with a full front-door control panel, that might run up to $3,400.⁴ A model with custom paneling to match your kitchen might run up to $2,400.⁴ Installation costs another $150 to $200, on average.²

The drawer dishwasher might be considered the little cousin to the built-in dishwasher. It's built-in too, but it's a lot smaller. Also sometimes called a dish dishwasher, it comes in a single- or double-drawer style. If you get a double-drawer model, you can run just one drawer at a time to save energy and water.²

Here's a look at the main advantages and disadvantages:

The average cost of a single drawer is $750 to $1,400.⁴ A double drawer, which has roughly the same cleaning space as a built-in dishwasher, may cost $1,250 to $2,500.⁴ You'll also need to pay for professional installation.

Portable dishwashers are a great choice for renters or anyone who wants to easily take their appliances with them when they move. They can also be rolled around easily, so they're a great choice for people who may not have room to keep them in the kitchen. They tend to run smaller than built-in dishwashers, however.²

Here's a look at the main advantages and disadvantages:

The average cost is $650 to $1,000.⁴ Professional installation isn't needed.

Countertop dishwashers are probably the most inexpensive and economical option for people on a budget. They typically sit on your counter, next to the sink, and hook up to your faucet. They are usually about 18 to 22 inches in size (width, height and depth). If you spend a little more, you can get a version with a built-in water tank that lets you use the sink and the dishwasher at the same time. Many come with the same amenities as most dishwashers, like heating options, multiple wash cycles and touch controls.²

Here's a look at the main advantages and disadvantages:

The average cost is $250 to $400.⁴ Professional installation isn't needed.

Once you start adding smart features to your dishwasher, you'll see the price go up significantly. Smart dishwashers often use Wi-Fi, communicate with devices like Alexa or Google Home and notify your phone when a load is done. Some can even detect when you're low on detergent and order it for you. So they bring a lot of convenience to go along with the price tag.⁵

Here's a look at the main advantages and disadvantages:⁵

These will often get you into the $1,000 range or higher.⁵

You'll need to consider several factors when choosing the dishwasher that's right for you and your kitchen.

• Size: What size dishwasher do you need? Consider the size of your kitchen, along with how large your wash loads will be. Measure your space to make sure it will fit.⁶
• Energy efficiency: An ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher, for example, uses less than four gallons of water per cycle.¹
• Noise: Do you need a quieter dishwasher? That could cost a little extra. While newer dishwashers are all quieter than older models, the quietest models typically start at least at $500.⁶
• Cycles and cleaning options: Most lower-cost dishwashers only have two cycles, which might be fine by you. Others come with options like heated dry or a sani-wash that uses sanitizing temperatures while cleaning. Machines that utilize steam might cost $700 or more.⁶
• Appearance:Any extra feature you get to streamline or beautify your dishwasher will add to the price. Do you want racks with a special coating, like Teflon, rather than plastic? Do you want stainless steel, which can cost hundreds more than a black or white finish? Even getting a bar handle for opening your dishwasher might increase the price by $100.⁵
• Brand and price: Your budget will be a major consideration when choosing a dishwasher.

There's a lot to think about when you're buying a dishwasher. Since most last 8 to 15 years on average, you'll want to make your decision carefully.⁴ Consider how much kitchen space you have, if you'll be moving frequently and the features that are important to you. You'll also want to review the return policy and warranty options before making your final choice.

Dishwashers are designed to fit any budget, depending on your needs. While a low-end, no-frills dishwasher may only cost a few hundred dollars, higher-end models that match your cabinetry can run into the thousands.

The Synchrony HOME™ Credit Card can help with covering the cost of buying a new dishwasher that is just right for your home. * Use the Synchrony HOME locator to find Synchrony HOME partner retailers in your area that may have special offers for cardholders.

*Subject to credit approval.