8 Best Affordable Dishwashers with Premium Features

It’s tempting to think opting for no dishwasher in the home is a practical way to save money on water and energy, but think again. In reality, dishwashing machines save homeowners water, and they cost about $6 a month to run, according to the experts at HomeGuide. That’s all the more reason to install a dishwasher at home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still save on a good model.

Need further convincing? That’s why we put together our hand-picked list of the best affordable dishwasher models on the market to help you find best low price dishwasher for your home. Take a look at this quick guide that covers cost and features that get you the best bang for your buck. Then, go over affordable dishwasher reviews from some of the best models, along with tips on how to save on your dishwasher appliance.

How Much Does a Dishwasher Cost?

Dishwashers typically range in price from $400 to $1,500, depending on features, brand, and performance. But rather than going into the buying jungle without a full concept, go over this breakdown of dishwasher prices that will help you decide what fits your budget and needs.

• Economy Dishwashers ($400-$700): These models provide essential cleaning features and are perfect for smaller kitchens or budget shoppers (e.g., buyers who need a quick repair or don’t have high dish care demands). You can get the best dishwasher under $600 from brands like Frigidaire which balance affordability with basic efficiency.

• Mid-End Dishwashers ($700-$1,000): With enhanced features like quieter dishwasher noise ratings, better energy efficiency, and advanced cleaning cycles, mid-tier dishwashers offer more for the money. In fact, buyers it’s easy to create a list of the best dishwasher under $700 from brands like Whirlpool, Bosch and other household names that are reliable.

• Luxury Dishwashers ($1,100+): Premium dishwashing machines include features like Wi-Fi connectivity, advanced drying systems, and customizable settings. They are ideal for those seeking premium performance and high-end design. Rest assured: Most dishwashing machines that fall within this class are made to last, often with lifespans of 15+ years.

What to Look for in a Dishwasher

So, are dishwashers worth it? We say yes—but there’s more to the story. When shopping for a dishwasher, several factors should be considered to ensure you're getting the best value, regardless of price.

• First, dishwasher loading capacity is crucial. A good dishwasher should have at least 12 place settings, with 14-16 being ideal for larger households. The more capacity, the fewer loads you'll need to run.

• Next, pay attention to special wash functions. Features like multi-level water filtration, food disposal, steam mode, and eco mode can enhance cleaning power and improve energy efficiency. These are particularly useful if you're looking for a dishwasher that handles tough stains or conserves water.

• Multiple wash options are another important consideration. The flexibility to choose between different cycle types, like heavy-duty or quick-wash, ensures you can tailor your dishwasher's performance to your needs.

• While not standard, a dishwasher with a third rack is a great addition to increase space for utensils or smaller items. While this was once a premium, many of today’s best low price dishwasher models offer the incentive.

• Lastly, check the noise rating. A quiet dishwasher means better insulation and durability. Believe it or not, even  good inexpensive dishwashers can give you decent noise reduction, so there's less disruptiveness in your home. Typically, dishwashers with noise ratings of around 50 decibels will sound like a conversation, while models 42 dBA and lower are considered the quietest available.

Affordable Dishwasher Brands We Recommend

When searching for a dishwasher, there are several best affordable dishwasher brands with models that combine value with performance. Here’s a look at some top options we recommend :

Frigidaire Dishwashers

Frigidaire dishwashers are practical and reliable performers. These models feature Dual OrbitClean Technology, so dishes get cleaned from multiple angles. The DishSense Technology adjusts the cycle based on the load to optimize water and energy use. Many models in this lineup come with a Stay-Put Door, which allows you to load and unload dishes with ease, as the door stays in place. If you want a dishwasher worth buying for under $1,000, Frigidaire is an ideal choice because of its affordable pricing without sacrificing efficiency.

Frigidaire Dishwasher Price Range: $420–$900

Whirlpool Dishwashers

Whirlpool dishwashers are a solid choice for those who want a balance between affordability and quality. Features like 1-Hour Wash Cycle allow for quick cleaning, ideal for busy households. The Sensor Cycle adjusts water temperature and washing time for optimal results. Many models also come with Soil Sensor technology, detecting how dirty the dishes are and adjusting accordingly to provide the best clean. While the entire lineup includes mid-tier models, the Whirlpool dishwashing lineup is one of the best affordable dishwasher brands when it comes to reliable performance without overspending.

Whirlpool Dishwasher Price Range: $400–$1,200

GE Dishwashers

GE dishwashers stand out for their advanced features. Many come with the Piranha Hard Food Disposer, which helps eliminate food particles during washes. The Dry Boost with Fan Assist dries dishes thoroughly, even plastics, without using additional energy. With a Sanitize option, GE dishwashers ensure your dishes are free from bacteria, a feature appreciated by those who prioritize cleanliness. Overall, there are plenty of affordable dishwashers in this series, as well as reasonably priced mid-end models for homeowners who want to upgrade.

GE Dishwasher Price Range: $450–$1,100

KitchenAid Dishwashers

While slightly pricier, KitchenAid makes dishwashers worth buying if you're looking to splurge a little for premium features. Their ProWash Cycle adapts to your load, while the FreeFlex Third Rack has more space for utensils and smaller items. KitchenAid also features a PrintShield Finish, to reduce fingerprints and smudges on stainless steel. If you can stretch your budget to around $1,000, you’ll gain access to top-tier functionality and sleek design from this mid-tier lineup.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Price Range: $850–$2,150

Best Affordable Dishwasher Models with Top Features

At Premier you can find dishwashers of all sizes and finishes that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Get familiar with the best affordable dishwasher at a price that suits your budget by looking at our top models below.

Frigidaire 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop This Frigidaire Dishwasher

For those seeking the best inexpensive dishwasher, this model from Frigidaire combines efficiency, convenience, and value. It operates quietly at just 52 dBA for a peaceful kitchen environment, and the DishSense Sensor Technology adjusts the cycle based on load size and soil level, eliminating the need for pre-rinsing. With MaxDry, your dishes dry faster and more effectively, saving you time. Overall, this model is for sure a contender for our best dishwasher under $600—and nearly 500 5-star reviews agree!

Frigidaire® 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop This Frigidaire Stainless Steel Dishwasher

Looking for the best dishwasher under $700 that’s powerful, efficient, and quiet? For us, this Frigidaire model combines those great features with ENERGY STAR efficiency and a convenient set of wash cycles to fit your needs. It operates at just 49 dBA, which makes it one of the quieter options available. Featuring BladeSpray Arm, this dishwasher ensures better water coverage for a deeper clean, reaching every corner of your dishes. From there, owners can select the MaxDry option for better drying results to reduce the need for towel drying, while the EvenDry system ensures your dishes come out spot-free.

Whirlpool® 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop This Whirlpool Dishwasher

Equipped with a triple filtration system, this 24-inch Whirlpool dishwasher removes food particles effectively for a thorough wash cycle. The Quick Wash option is great for those in a rush, and the Sani Rinse cycle, certified by UL, eliminates 99.999% of food soil bacteria. For added convenience, the Cycle Memory feature stores your most recent wash settings, allowing for quick selections next time. If you want the best affordable dishwasher, the Whirlpool WDF341PAPM model delivers a host of features such as an energy-efficient design, Heated Dry, and multiple wash cycles, all at a reasonable price.

Whirlpool® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop This Whirlpool Top Control Dishwasher

Say goodbye to fingerprints and smudges with a model that combines sleek design and top-notch functionality. Whirlpool’s fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish ensures your dishwasher looks pristine no matter how often it’s used. The adjustable 2nd rack allows you to make room for taller items, like water bottles, with ease. Additionally, the 3-piece silverware basket is movable for flexibility to make space for large pans or casserole dishes. This dishwasher’s Sensor Cycle automatically adjusts wash settings to provide optimal cleaning, and the Soil Sensor makes sure that even the most stubborn food messes are handled efficiently.

GE® 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop This GE Dishwasher

If you're looking for a dishwasher that balances power with practicality, this model from GE may just be what you need. It delivers reliable, consistent performance to ensure your dishes come out spotless every time. Thanks to its Dry Boost technology, your dishes are 7 times drier than those washed with typical models. Lastly, the Steam + Sani option makes cleaning effortless by loosening stubborn food particles before the wash cycle begins, while the sanitizing cycle eliminates 99.999% of bacteria.

GE® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher

Shop This GE Stainless Steel Dishwashe

If you ask us (and nearly 1,000 perfect reviews), this is the top choice for the best affordable GE dishwasher. This 24-inch model may be just what you need as it's designed to handle a wide variety of tasks with ease. The adjustable upper rack allows you to fit bottles, large platters, or dishes up to 10.5 inches tall, offering ultimate flexibility. For an even deeper clean, the Steam + Sani option loosens stubborn soils, eliminating the need for pre-rinsing, and sanitizes dishes to eliminate 99.999% of bacteria. Overall, the GE GDT630PYRFS takes our place as the best dishwasher under $900.

KitchenAid® 24" Stainless Steel with Printshield Front Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop This KitchenAid Dishwasher

For the best affordable KitchenAid dishwasher, this model also offers a quiet 47 dBA sound rating, so you can clean dishes without disturbing the household, even during dinner parties. The Triple Filtration System ensures that the wash water stays clean and pure, providing excellent results, no matter how dirty the dishes are. Reliable, efficient, and flexible, this dishwasher offers a solid performance at a great price.

KitchenAid® 24" Stainless Steel with Printshield Built In Dishwasher

Shop This KitchenAid Printshield Dishwasher

While just outside of the budget range, this top-rated dishwasher with over 1,700 5-star reviews is worth the upgrade if you have the extra wiggle room. Cleaning dishes just became easier and quieter with this sleek model from KitchenAid. With over 30 wash jets spread across three arms, it ensures a comprehensive clean for every dish, with no pre-rinsing required. The ProWash Cycle adjusts to your load, taking the guesswork out of washing, and the Express Wash Cycle cleans thoroughly in just over an hour to save you time during meal prep and clean-up.

Thankfully, today’s buyers don’t have to splurge to find a quality dishwasher full of features to keep up with everyday cleanup. From smart features to powerful performances, there are plenty of good dishwashers at low prices to explore, and Premier Appliance is the place to start your search! Visit us today to learn more about the best affordable dishwasher brands on the market today!