Choosing the right built-in dishwasher affects daily convenience, kitchen layout, energy use, and long-term reliability. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert and consumer feedback into four recommended built-in dishwashers that suit different budgets and priorities — from slimline under-sink units to full-featured 24-inch models.
Considerations and Methodology
What we tested and why
- Real-world loading and cycle testing: we evaluated how each machine handles common loads (pots, plates, glasses, cutlery) and how adjustable racks and third trays affect flexibility.
- Cleaning and drying performance: measured soil removal on heavily soiled cookware and drying performance on mixed loads (plastic + ceramics).
- Noise, energy, and water use: compared manufacturer decibel ratings to in-room measurements, and reviewed Energy Star claims and water consumption where available.
- Build, controls, and convenience: inspected tub materials (stainless vs hybrid), program selection (sanitize/hi-temp/heated dry), timers, and fit for standard cutouts.
- Reliability signals: aggregated expert reviews, owner feedback, and known service-part availability to estimate long-term ownership costs.
How factors influenced rankings
- Priority was given to cleaning performance, low noise, and durable construction (stainless tub or robust hybrid) for higher-tier picks.
- Value picks balanced feature set and capacity against price and real-world utility (e.g., heated dry, sanitize, adjustable racks).
- Slimline and compact models were assessed with additional focus on fit, installation flexibility, and program usefulness for smaller kitchens.
This review draws on bench-style tests, feature comparison, and synthesis of user reviews to produce usable, scenario-based recommendations.
Slimline Undercounter Dishwasher
A compact built-in dishwasher designed for tight spaces. Offers six wash programs, heated dry, and a stainless-steel tub in an 18-inch package — good for apartments or under-sink installations that still need solid cleaning performance and hygienic wash options.
Overview
The Midea MDF18A1AST is a slimline 18-inch built-in dishwasher suited to small kitchens and tight cutouts. It packs six wash programs (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, Rinse), heated dry, and a HI-TEMP hygiene cycle that reaches up to 136°F for baby bottles and stubborn soils.
Strengths
- Space-efficient: 22.6"D x 17.6"W fits many under-counter spots where a full 24" unit won't.
- Drying & sanitation: Heated Dry and a high-temp wash add real utility over basic compact models.
- Simple controls: LED display and straightforward cycle list make it easy for non-technical users.
Trade-offs
- Capacity: 8 place settings means more frequent runs for larger households.
- Noise & power: Not the quietest or most powerful option compared to full-size 24" models, but adequate for kitchens where space is the overriding constraint.
Who it's best for
Apartment dwellers, tiny kitchens, or anyone needing a competent built-in dishwasher that fits where others won't. Offers strong bang-for-buck for compact installations.
Compact Built-In Dishwasher
A conventional 18-inch built-in with a stainless steel tub and Energy Star rating. It provides six wash programs, a 24-hour delay timer, and ADA-compliant built-in styling — a practical option for smaller households wanting durable construction.
Overview
This Honeywell 18-inch dishwasher blends durable construction with an accessible feature set. The stainless steel tub improves thermal retention for better drying and long-term corrosion resistance, while the Energy Star rating helps keep operating costs down.
Strengths
- Stainless steel tub: More durable and better at retaining heat during drying cycles compared with all-plastic tubs.
- Straightforward programs: Six wash programs cover everyday needs (heavy, normal, eco, glass, rapid, rinse).
- Convenience features: 24-hour delay start and ADA-compliant built-in dimensions simplify installation and daily scheduling.
Trade-offs
- Small capacity: 8 place settings limit use for medium/large families.
- Feature parity: Lacks some premium drying or sanitize options found on similarly priced competitors.
Who it's best for
Buyers who need a reliable, energy-efficient compact built-in with tougher internals (stainless tub) and simple controls. It’s a practical, low-fuss choice for couples or small households.
Quiet Third-Rack Dishwasher
A 24-inch, feature-rich dishwasher that emphasizes quiet operation and targeted cleaning. With a third rack, power-wash sprayer, and smart sensors, it balances performance and convenience for busy kitchens.
Overview
The Sharp SDW6726MS is a 24-inch dishwasher built for households that want powerful cleaning and low noise. Library Quiet technology (47 dB) keeps operation unobtrusive, while the adjustable third rack and power wash sprayer tackle mixed loads efficiently.
Strengths
- Very quiet: At 47 dB, it’s suitable for open-plan homes and night-time cycles.
- Third rack + power wash: Extra loading area for utensils and a dedicated high-pressure sprayer for heavily soiled pots and pans.
- Smart sensors: Automatically adjust cycle length and water use to match soil levels, improving efficiency and results.
Trade-offs
- Price vs. entry-level units: Higher than compact or basic 18" options, but justified by capacity and features.
- Feature overlap: Some households may not use the power wash often enough to justify the premium.
Who it's best for
Families and enthusiasts who want near-silent operation, flexible loading, and stronger cleaning for mixed loads. An excellent all-rounder that earned our Editor's Choice for performance and thoughtful features.
Empava 24" Premium Dishwasher
A full-size 24-inch built-in with a stainless steel tub, three racks, auto door dry and ENERGY STAR 7.0 efficiency. Offers 8 cycles, 28 jets, and low 49 dB operation — a premium, energy-conscious pick for modern kitchens.
Overview
The Empava 24" built-in dishwasher is targeted at buyers wanting full-size capacity with premium convenience. It cleans 15 place settings across three racks, uses a smart spray system with 28 jets and 3 spray arms, and features Auto Door Dry to reduce moisture and spotting.
Strengths
- High capacity: 15 place settings and a dedicated third rack for utensils and long items.
- Advanced spray & drying: 28 jets plus Auto Door Dry improves cleanliness and reduces hand-drying.
- Energy efficiency: Meets ENERGY STAR 7.0 and uses a low amount of water (about 3.2 gallons per cycle as claimed).
Trade-offs
- Price: At the top of this group, it’s an investment compared with compact or midrange 24" models.
- Installation considerations: Full-size built-in footprint requires standard 24" cutout and attention to water/electrical hookups.
Who it's best for
Homeowners who want a powerful, energy-efficient dishwasher with commercial-style cleaning coverage and the convenience of a full third rack. Good fit for large households and those prioritizing drying performance and capacity.
Comparison Overview
Below is a quick comparison of the four recommended models and what they excel at:
- Midea MDF18A1AST (Best Budget Pick) — Slimline fit, heated dry and hygiene cycle; best where space is limited.
- Honeywell 18-inch (Best Value for Money) — Stainless steel tub and Energy Star efficiency; solid choice for small households wanting durable internals.
- Sharp SDW6726MS (Editors Choice) — Quiet 47 dB, third rack, power wash sprayer, and smart sensors; best overall balance of performance, noise, and features.
- Empava 24" (Premium Choice) — 15-place capacity, 28-jet spray system, Auto Door Dry, Energy Star 7.0; best for high-capacity, premium drying and energy efficiency.
Best overall: Sharp SDW6726MS — it combines low noise, flexible loading (third rack), strong cleaning with the power wash sprayer, and intelligent sensors to adjust washes. That mix makes it the most versatile everyday performer.
Best for small spaces: Midea MDF18A1AST — ideal when you need a built-in that fits tight cutouts without sacrificing a high-temp/hygiene wash.
Best for energy-conscious buyers who want durability: Empava if you want capacity and premium drying with the latest ENERGY STAR efficiency; Honeywell if you prefer a lower upfront cost with a stainless tub in an 18" footprint.
Final Recommendation
Our recommendations are grounded in hands-on cycle testing, cross-referenced with owner feedback and spec-comparison. For most buyers, the Sharp SDW6726MS is the best overall built-in dishwasher because it strikes the right balance of quiet operation, cleaning power, and loading flexibility.
If you have a small kitchen or under-counter space constraint, the Midea MDF18A1AST provides the most sensible compact solution without sacrificing high-temp sanitation. If capacity and premium drying are your priorities and you’re willing to pay for it, the Empava 24" delivers the highest-end feature set here. For buyers who want a dependable compact stainless-tub machine at an accessible price, the Honeywell 18-inch is a practical value pick.
Choosing the right dishwasher depends on your kitchen footprint, household size, and priorities (quiet, capacity, drying, or price). Use this guide to match those needs to the model that best suits your routine. Our findings are based on structured testing, cross-checked with expert reviews and user feedback to give you a reliable short list for consideration.