If you live in an apartment, chances are your kitchen might not be as big as those of people living in a house.
With that in mind, we have created a list that combines 18-inch dishwashers, portable dishwashers, and countertop dishwashers to help you decide which ones are the best for your apartment.
Contents
Best Apartment Dishwasher (Updated List)
Before getting into the rankings and each apartment dishwasher’s review, we would like to show you our three top choices in each category (18-inch, portable, and countertop).
We’ve ranked these based on reliability, price to value ratio, efficiency, sound levels, and basically every other feature that they offer. You won’t regret choosing either one of these.
11. Airmsen AE-TDQR03 Countertop Dishwasher
- AE-TDQR03 Countertop Dishwasher with upper and lower rotating spray arms provide corner to corner coverage, washing temperature range: 122℉-167℉, thoroughly dissolve grease stains, transforming crusty, greasy, or messy dishes into clean, ready-to-use place settings. In addition, compared with manual dishwashing, this dishwasher uses only 1.3 gal of water, which reduces water consumption by 80%. It also only consumes 0.135-0.439 kWh of electricity per cycle and saves floor space.
- Dimensions: Product Depth: 16.75" | Product Height: 18.05" | Product Width: 16.86" | Product Weight: 26.46 lbs | Noise level: 50.2dB. With the portability of a countertop dishwasher, you can move it into a RV, boat or cabin in the woods. Pick up your portable countertop dishwasher and take it with you.
- Capacity: Four (4) standard place setting capacity can fit a variety of dishes (up to 12-inches in diameter) - Includes dish rack, cup shelf, cutlery basket and fruit basket. Meet daily needs.
| Weight: | 26.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 5 |
| Place settings: | 4 |
| Noise level: | 50 dB |
Quiet and affordable, the Airmsen AE-TDQR03 Apartment Dishwasher is pleasantly surprising and versatile given its low price tag.
While it’s only got a 4 place setting capacity, it more than makes up for this by allowing you to wash plates with a diameter of up to 12 inches – more than enough compared to other countertop dishwashers. Also, the AE-TDQR03 performs well even in an RV on the move as long as you’ve got something to hold it in place with.
Verdict
What we like most about the Airmsen AE-TDQR03 is that you can either hook it up to the faucet or use the built-in water tank to perform a wash cycle.
The other major advantage is that it can provide 60 minutes of hot air drying and 72 hours automatic ventilation to keep your dishes clean and prevent odors.
10. CalmDo Portable Countertop Dishwasher
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| Weight: | 38 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 17.44 x 15.98 x 18.3 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 3 |
| Noise level: | 45 dB |
We were really impressed by this small countertop dishwasher considering the price, the fact that is brand is relatively new, the overall features it has, and its efficiency.
Featuring upper and lower spray arms, the CalmDo Apartment Dishwasher will serve your needs fantastically well, even going as far as implementing a 10-minute wash cycle for lightly-soiled dishes. That’s quite amazing if you as us. Also, the CalmDo unit has a fail-safe system that stops water if you want to open the door during the cycle for some reason.
Verdict
Being a relatively new brand means that you have a lot to prove when compared to others, and CalmDo did just that with this dishwasher.
In just a short amount of time, this little countertop dishwasher has managed to impress numerous satisfied customers – a great achievement in its own right.
9. Ensue Countertop Apartment Dishwasher
- Easy To Use - Load your dishes and set the controls with ease. The detergent and rinse aid dispensers are easy to fill. (Energy Star Certified)
- Cleans As You Go - A convenient and small dish washing machine for cleaning the dishes after dinner or cooking. Simply load the dishes in the dish basket and cutlery rack and let this white dishwasher do the dirty job. Easily sits on countertops or tabletop requiring less space
- User Friendly Controls - The simple to use control panel and light indicators features a power button, start/end program, program selector, heavy, normal, light, miniparty, rinse and speed
| Weight: | 64.9 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 19 x 21.5 x 17 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 6 |
| Noise level: | 55 dB |
With its compact design and simple set up requirements, the Ensue Countertop Dishwasher is one great entry for the category of best apartment dishwashers.
While it might not exactly stand out compared to other models, its efficiency is on par with any other countertop, portable, or 18-inch dishwasher on this list. It cleans and dries well, and it has a quick connect system so you don’t have to fumble with the plumbing.
What we like about the Ensue Apartment Dishwasher is that you can easily retract its rack thanks to the decent wheels. Also, it’s straightforward and easy to use for just about anyone, even for those who have never used a dishwasher in their life.
Verdict
The Ensue Countertop Dishwasher is a fairly standard yet reliable offering that will get dishes clean effectively.
It might not fit large pots and pans, but for what it’s worth, it will clean dishes effectively, including those with 24-hour stuck-on food as long as you use quality dishwasher detergent.
8. Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 Countertop Dishwasher
- 6 Place Settings, 6 Programs
- Electronic Controls with Digital Display, Detergent and Rinse Aid Dispenser
- Up to 24H Delay Start, EZ Clean Removable Filter
| Weight: | 49.5 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 21.7 x 19.7 x 17.2 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 6 |
| Noise level: | 52 dB |
The Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 is a pretty regular countertop dishwasher that comes at a low price yet with small little features that make it worthwhile.
For a start, it allows you to select the delay start option incrementally in one-hour chunks. It’s one of the very few dishwashers in this price range that allows you to do so.
Moreover, the Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 Apartment Dishwasher comes with all necessary installation equipment and an easy to read manual that doesn’t skim over small details. While this brand isn’t necessarily known for making dishwashers, we think the company did a fine job considering how low the price is.
Verdict
The Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 Apartment Dishwasher is an extremely affordable model that comes with great features for the price.
We like it because you can select the delay start option in one-hour incremental cycles, unlike many other dishwashers that only allow you to select pre-set timers.
7. NOVETE Compact Apartment Dishwasher
- 【SMALL SIZE, LARGE CAPACITY】This portable dishwasher only measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, but holds 4 full place settings and fits up to 12" dishes loaded at an angle, easily meeting daily needs for a family of 3-4; the double-layer design offers enough space for 4 x serving bowls, 4 x cups, 4 x small plates, 4 x dinner plates, 7 x spoons, 7 x forks and 7 x knives; perfect for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs
- 【NO INSTALLATION NEEDED】This countertop dishwasher supports 2 water supply modes, including a faucet mode and water tank mode; a built-in 5 L water tank allows instant use when fully filled. The automatic water level indicator lets you know when the correct water level has been reached; to use the faucet mode, simply connect the water inlet hose to the machine and faucet
- 【BABY CARE MODE】This compact dishwasher offers 5 wash cycles - Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care/Heavy, and Fruit; the Baby Care/Heavy mode with 167 °F washing temperature is suitable for baby products and oily tableware, which rinses them thoroughly and gives glassware a sparkling clean finish
| Weight: | 33.9 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 5 |
| Place settings: | 4 |
| Noise level: | 50 dB |
Impressively quiet for such a low-priced countertop dishwasher, the NOVETE model includes several features that make it a worthy attention grabber.
First off, it’s got a built-in 5-liter tank but you can fill with water in case you don’t feel like connecting it to the faucet. But it also comes with a hose if you prefer connecting it the traditional way.
Secondly, it has a 60-minute high heat drying option and the option to store dishes for up to 72 hours in the dishwasher using the ventilated storage option. And if you have a baby, the sanitize option is perfect for your kid’s toys and baby bottles because it eliminates germs effectively. Overall, you should give the NOVETE Apartment Dishwasher a chance.
Verdict
The NOVETE Compact Apartment Dishwasher is one of the newest models on the market and, at the same time, easily one of the most promising.
Considering all its strengths and weaknesses, we think that it also deserves a spot on the best dishwasher under $500 list. Now we’ll only have to see how it performs in the long run.
6. SPT SD-9254W Energy Star 18″ Apartment Dishwasher
- Built-in, top-mount, stainless interior
- 6 Wash Programs: Normal, Heavy, Energy, Glass, Quick, Rinse
- HEATING function during drying cycle
| Weight: | 54 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 17.6 x 22.6 x 32.4 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 8 |
| Noise level: | 52 dB |
What makes the SPT SD-9254W 18-Inch Apartment Dishwasher special is the fact that it allows you to select the exact amount of hours for the delay start feature, whereas others only have preset hours.
The smart wash feature allows the sensors to detect where hardened food spots are located on the dishes and lets the two spray arms target them accordingly. Speaking of sensors, the SPT SD-9254W also features automatic detergent and rinse aid dispensers.
And finally, the rinse aid indicator warns you if you need to add more according to water hardness levels. To get the full benefit of this feature, we also recommend you check out our best detergents for hard water reviews and buying guide.
Verdict
The SPT SD-9254W Energy Star Dishwasher is rated at an impressive 234 kWh year energy consumption, which is outstanding even for a dishwasher of this size.
However, it’s not the only thing that caught our attention regarding it, as you can clearly see from the statements above. Reading through the user reviews, you can also see that many others share our opinion.
5. Danby DDW1804EBSS 18 Inch Built-In Dishwasher
- Space saving 18” wide built in dishwasher for compact space living
- 8 place setting capacity and silverware basket
- Dimensions: 17 11/16" W x 22 13/16" D x 32 8/16" H | Max Adjustable Product Height: 34 7/16"
| Weight: | 56.2 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 22.81 x 17.69 x 32.5 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 9 |
| Noise level: | 52 dB |
With an unusual 9 place setting setup, the Danby DDW1804EBSS Apartment Dishwasher allows you to fit more dishes despite its relatively compact size.
The electronic controls with a fairly large digital timer allow you to operate it with relative ease and view how much time’s left until the wash cycle is over.
Furthermore, the DDW1804EBSS from Danby is equipped with smart sensors that specifically target hardened food spots. As for aesthetics, it’s nice to look at and it comes in two color variants: Black and Stainless Steel.
Verdict
The Danby DDW1804EBSS Apartment Dishwasher is an Energy Star approved unit with a low water and energy consumption.
With four water temperature settings and a sanitize option, you have enough flexibility to wash just about any type of dish load you can think of.
4. hOmeLabs Compact Countertop Dishwasher
- A convenient and small Energy Star certified dish washing machine for cleaning the dishes after dinner or cooking. Simply load the dishes in the dish basket and cutlery rack and let this white dishwasher do the dirty job. Easily sits on countertops or tabletop requiring less space
- With simple to use control panel and light indicators. Program selector has 6 wash cycle options: heavy, normal, ECO, glass, speed, and rinse for your different dishwashing needs. Delay button light to postpone wash cycle
- Features a quick connect assembly with accessories including inlet and drain hose and a faucet adapter for water lines that are compatible with round-shaped faucet outlets with removable aerators, and 55/64"-27 male or 15/16"-27 female threads underneath
| Weight: | 44 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 21.6 x 19.6 x 17.2 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 6 |
| Noise level: | 55 dB |
If you want a truly affordable dishwasher, then you might want to consider the hOmeLabs model.
It has a good enough capacity considering it’s a countertop dishwasher, and enough wash cycle options to suit most people’s needs accordingly.
Furthermore, the hOmeLabs Apartment Dishwasher easily fits on any kitchen countertop and barely weighs 44 pounds. You’ll barely have trouble installing it even if you have back problems. Also, at just 55 decibels, it’s impressively quiet when taking the price and efficiency into consideration.
Verdict
The hOmeLabs Compact Countertop Dishwasher is so good for the money that we’ve even featured it on our homepage.
We really can’t think of a much cheaper dishwasher that manages to do such a great job. The price alone sets it apart from many other units. And its efficiency isn’t a slouch either.
3. SPT SD-9263W Portable Apartment Dishwasher
- SD-9263W: 18″ Energy Star Portable Dishwasher - WHITE
- Capacity: 8 place setting
- 6 Wash programs: Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, 90 Min, Rapid
| Weight: | 118 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 23.63 x 17.64 x 35.63 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 8 |
| Noise level: | 52 dB |
Coming from SPT, the SD-9263W is one of their most appreciated offerings thanks to its combination of reliability, affordability, and efficiency.
Moreover, it has a rinse aid warning indicator that alerts you in case you need a refill. It’s very useful if you live in an area with hard water, like most of the US.
Furthermore, the SPT SD-9263W can easily be moved around using the built-in wheels. As such, you won’t have any trouble getting it out of the box and connecting it using the included quick-connect adapters. It practically takes a lot of the work out for you.
Verdict
The SPT SD-9263W Portable Apartment Dishwasher comes from one of the best dishwasher brands we’ve ever seen, and it holds up true to its standards.
Considering the price that it currently retails for, we think it’s one of the best appliances you could get your hands on. The minimalist, stylish and modern look makes it blend in any kitchen or household setup.
2. EdgeStar BIDW1802SS 18 Inch Apartment Dishwasher
- Accommodates up to eight (8) place settings and features a silverware basket and cup tray
- Six (6) Wash Cycles: Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse; Three (3) Options: Sanitize, Hi Temp, Heated Dry
- At only 17.75 inches wide, using this unit to replace an older appliance such as a trash compactor is a great option.
| Weight: | 52.9 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 22.44 x 17.63 x 32.5 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 6 |
| Place settings: | 8 |
| Noise level: | 52 dB |
Coming in three different color options, the BIDW1802SS from EdgeStar is sure to make your kitchen look nicer while also delivering cleaner dishes.
For its affordable price tag, it’s a really quiet unit, coming at around only 52 decibels. Even if you’ve never used a dishwasher before, you won’t have any trouble figuring out the controls, as they are intuitively tagged and come with lights that tell you what options you’ve selected.
What’s more, the EdgeStar BIDW1802SS Apartment Dishwasher comes with a reliable leakage sensor that stops the flow of water whenever necessary. And for added convenience, the large display timer shows how much time’s left until the wash cycle is over.
Verdict
The EdgeStar BIDW1802SS Apartment Dishwasher has been on the market for quite some time now and many people can attest to its reliability.
Overall, it’s one of the best 18-inch dishwashers we’ve seen so far. And to top it all off, it’s rated at a mere 234 kWh per year.
1. Farberware Countertop FCD06ABBWHA Apartment Dishwasher
- Dimensions: Depth - Door Shut (with Handle): 21.7". Depth - Door Shut (without Handle): 20". Depth With Door Open 90 Degrees: 29". Dishwasher Size: 21". Height - Maximum: 17.2". Height - Minimum: 17.2". Product Depth: 21.7". Product Height: 17.2". Product Width: 19.7". Product Weight: 44.1 lb
- Six-place setting: the six-place setting capacity allows you to wash a variety of dishes (up to 10-inches in diameter) and includes folding down rack shelves and a cutlery basket
- Quick installation: Features a quick connect assembly with accessories and adapters included to easily connect directly to your faucet
| Weight: | 63.8 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 21.7 x 19.7 x 17.2 inches |
| Standard cycles: | 7 |
| Place settings: | 6 |
| Noise level: | 54 dB |
If you’re really tight on space, we wholeheartedly recommend the Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Countertop Dishwasher.
Apart from great washing power and energy efficiency, it also comes with a locking mechanism to prevent accidental button presses. Plus the heating element ensures it dries most dishes as good as it can.
Furthermore, the Farberware FCD06ABBWHA is an apartment dishwasher that comes with a self-cleaning feature. You’ll be pleased to know that you’ll spend less time with basic maintenance because of this. Also, the baby care function assures your child’s glass bottle and toys will be disinfected thoroughly.
Verdict
The Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Apartment Dishwasher fits perfectly inside any kitchen thanks to its compact size.
It’s clearly one of the best countertop dishwashers available today. And for the relatively low price, you’re getting top-quality washing and high energy efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do apartment dishwashers last?
This depends a lot on the model that you’ve bought, the brand’s history, and, obviously, how much stress you put on it. But as an average, a countertop, portable, or 18-inch dishwasher should last you for up to ten years without much trouble or need for repairs.
Is repairing a 10-year-old dishwasher worth it?
Not necessarily. Usually, after so many years of use, most of the components will have probably long exceeded their best-performing years, and even if just one component is broken, many more are bound to need repairs fairly soon. If you ask us, it’s only worth it if you can’t afford to buy a new dishwasher in the near future. Otherwise, you’re far better off saving for a new one.
Are old dishwashers better than new ones?
Not even close. Old dishwashers lack many of the features that you’re going to see on brand new models. For example, you can’t even begin to compare the quietness of newer dishwashers to the older models that have appeared since the 70s and up till the early 2010s. Secondly, since an old dishwasher has been used numerous times, it undoubtedly lost much of its performance. Getting a second-hand dishwasher just isn’t worth it, and you won’t save that much money. Just buy a new one, you have a lot of options right here on our website.
Final Thoughts
The best apartment dishwasher is the one that can fit inside your kitchen or countertop without taking too much precious space and without sacrificing efficiency.
Whether you like the idea of having a countertop, portable, or built-in 18-inch dishwasher, this list will provide you with enough reliable options to satisfy your needs and wants.
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