Tired of endless dishwashing by hand? Looking for a new dishwasher but don’t want to break the bank? Finding the best dishwashers under $500 can seem like a challenge, but you’d be surprised at the amazing options available. Whether you have a small apartment, a big family, or just a small space, there’s a budget-friendly dishwasher that fits your life. We’ve done the research for you and put together this list of top-rated dishwashers that won’t cost a fortune. Let’s find the perfect appliance to get your dishes sparkling without all the fuss.
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Top Picks: Best Dishwashers Under $500
Ready to say goodbye to sink-fulls of dirty dishes? These seven dishwashers are our top choices for anyone on a budget. We’ve looked at everything from size to features to help you decide which one is right for your kitchen.
1. COMFEE’ CDC22P2AWW Portable Mini Dishwasher
This is the perfect space-saver for any tiny kitchen, RV, or dorm room. The COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher gives you a powerful clean in a small package. It’s a great way to enjoy the convenience of a dishwasher without sacrificing precious counter space. You’ll be amazed at how well it handles your daily dish load.
Important Features:
- Energy Star certified to help you save on utility bills.
- Has 8 washing programs, including options for baby-care and glass.
- Comes with a built-in water tank, so no plumbing is needed.
- Features a small, compact design perfect for countertops.
- Offers a quick and efficient speed wash cycle.
Pros
Cons
2. EdgeStar BIDW1802BL 18 Inch Built-In Dishwasher
If you need a permanent solution but have a limited space, this slimline dishwasher from EdgeStar is an excellent choice. The 18-inch width is ideal for compact kitchens, providing a sleek, built-in look while still fitting plenty of dishes. The black finish adds a modern touch to your kitchen decor.
Important Features:
- Offers 8 place settings, perfect for a couple or small family.
- Features a durable stainless steel interior tub.
- Uses an efficient, quiet operation at 52 dBA.
- Has an integrated silverware basket for easy loading.
- Includes a heated dry function for spotless results.
Pros
Cons
3. Danby DDW621WDB Dishwasher Under $500
The Danby DDW621WDB is another top pick for anyone seeking a portable dishwasher. This model is perfect for apartment living, as it’s simple to install with a quick-connect faucet adapter. It’s an Energy Star rated appliance, so you can save on water and electricity while still getting dishes clean.
Important Features:
- Energy Star rated for low water and power consumption.
- Includes a silverware basket and dish rack.
- Features 6 place settings and 6 wash cycles.
- Runs quietly, making it great for small homes.
- Offers an auto-program for different cleaning needs.
Pros
Cons
4. Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher
The Midea MDF18A1AST is a great budget-friendly built-in option that doesn’t skimp on features. With its sleek stainless steel finish and powerful cleaning programs, it brings a touch of class to your kitchen. The stainless steel tub is not just for looks—it helps with drying and durability. This dishwasher proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a quality appliance.
Important Features:
- Has 8 place settings and 6 wash programs.
- Features a durable stainless steel tub.
- Includes a heated dry option for excellent drying.
- The control panel is simple and easy to navigate.
- Operates at a quiet 52 dBA noise level.
Pros
Cons
5. SPT SD-9254SSA 18″ Built-In Dishwasher
Another 18-inch built-in option, the SPT SD-9254SSA, is perfect for a compact kitchen that needs a permanent dishwashing solution. Its sleek stainless steel design blends seamlessly with other appliances, and the Energy Star certification ensures you’re saving energy. The multiple wash programs make it versatile enough for all your cleaning needs.
Important Features:
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency.
- Features 8 place settings and 6 wash programs.
- Includes a heated drying function.
- Stainless steel interior tub for durability.
- Front-facing electronic controls for convenience.
Pros
Cons
6. Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 Compact Countertop Dishwasher
If you live in a small space, the Magic Chef Compact Countertop Dishwasher could be your new best friend. It’s designed to sit right on your counter and connect to your faucet, making it incredibly convenient. This compact machine is a lifesaver for anyone who hates doing dishes but doesn’t have the room for a full-sized dishwasher.
Important Features:
- Fits 6 place settings and has a cutlery basket.
- Features 6 wash cycles for versatile cleaning.
- Includes a durable stainless steel interior.
- Comes with a quick-connect assembly for installation.
- Features easy-to-use electronic controls.
Pros
Cons
7. Frigidaire FFCD2413US 24″ Built-in Dishwasher
For those with a standard-sized kitchen, the Frigidaire FFCD2413US is a fantastic full-size option under $500. It offers a spacious interior with 14 place settings, perfect for a busy household. This model has a simple, straightforward design and gets the job done without any fancy frills, making it a reliable workhorse for your kitchen.
Important Features:
- Offers 14 place settings, great for families.
- Has 3 wash cycles (Heavy, Normal, and Light).
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency.
- Quiet operation won’t disturb your home life.
- Features a durable stainless steel finish.
Pros
Cons
How to Choose the Best Dishwashers Under $500
Choosing a dishwasher is a big decision, even when you’re on a budget. You want to make sure you get the best value for your money. Think about your living situation and your kitchen layout. Do you need a portable model or a built-in one?
Consider the number of people in your household—a family of five will need a different capacity than a single person. Pay attention to features like noise level, drying method, and wash cycles.
A heated dry function is great for getting dishes bone-dry, but a high-efficiency model might use less energy with a condensation dry. Finally, read product reviews and check the dimensions to ensure it will fit perfectly in your space.
Product | Capacity | Style | Noise Level (dBA) | Drying Method |
6 Place Settings | Countertop | Not Specified | Hot Air Dry | |
8 Place Settings | Built-in | 52 | Heated Dry | |
6 Place Settings | Countertop | Not Specified | Condensation | |
8 Place Settings | Built-in | 52 | Heated Dry | |
8 Place Settings | Built-in | 55 | Heated Dry | |
6 Place Settings | Countertop | 65 | Heated Dry | |
14 Place Settings | Built-in | 60 | Heated Dry |
FAQ
Yes, absolutely! While they might not have all the bells and whistles of expensive models, the best dishwashers under $500 use modern technology to provide a thorough cleaning.
Portable dishwashers are an excellent choice if you’re renting, have a small kitchen, or can’t make permanent plumbing changes. They offer a great balance of convenience and cleaning power.
A stainless steel tub is more durable, helps with noise reduction, and a heated dry cycle works better with it because it holds heat longer. Plastic tubs are more common in budget models and are still very effective.
It depends on your lifestyle. If you have an open-concept kitchen or a small space, a quieter dishwasher (lower dBA) is a huge plus so it doesn’t interrupt your daily activities.
A built-in dishwasher is a permanent fixture that saves counter space and gives your kitchen a cohesive, finished look. They generally have more capacity than countertop models.
Our Recommendations
After reviewing these fantastic options, two models stand out as the best dishwashers under $500. For apartment dwellers and anyone short on space, the COMFEE’ CDC22P2AWW is the clear winner. Its no-plumbing-needed setup and versatile washing programs make it a perfect fit for a small or temporary living situation. For a built-in option, the Frigidaire FFCD2413US offers incredible value. Its large capacity and reliable performance make it the best choice for families or those with a standard-sized kitchen who need a dependable and affordable workhorse.
