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Washing the dishes can be a dreadful task. In a household, it’s typical to see a scenario where members would pass the dishes chore especially after a large family gathering at home. It’s the reason why dishwashers are created. However, traditional models can be too bulky, or take time to clean up tableware. Thankfully, there are now more compact and advanced options that can help you with your chore. In this section, we’ll share with you our list of the best countertop dishwasher for 2021.
Countertop Dishwasher Buying Guide
There are various types of dishwashers in the market. You can find models with different sizes, capacities, even technologies, which may or may not suit your needs. It’s important to be aware of these features, so you will be able to purchase the right product for you. Therefore, before deciding on which dishwasher model you’ll buy, below is a quick guide to help you avoid the mistakes when getting a countertop dishwasher.
Dishwasher Size
When getting a countertop dishwasher, mainly one of the leading factors to consider is the size of the model. To make sure the dishwasher fits your kitchen is to assess the dishwasher dimensions versus its placement. You may also want to consider the dishwasher’s weight, so repositioning the model will be easy whenever you desire.
Capacity
What are your usual dishwashing needs? The demand of your dishwashing chore is another crucial parameter of your purchase. You may want to consider if you’re typically cooking for two people or less. Do you host house parties frequently, or do you have weekly family gatherings? Think of questions like these before your purchase as it can affect your needs for the kind of dishwasher to go for. The right model would have enough capacity for washing all the dishes in one go.
The sizes of your plates is another factor to consider when you get a dishwasher. Make sure that the model is spacious enough to accommodate all your tableware no matter the size. There are dishwashers with adjustable racks, which can be ideal for you if you have large plates. This type of model has movable racks, which pushes back for large dishes and moves forward for lighter loads.
Water Consumption
The amount of water the dishwasher uses is another crucial factor to think about before your purchase. Water consumption between models varies greatly, and it can even differ by gallons in each cycle. You’d want to opt for a model that is efficient when it comes to water use. It can help you save expenses on water consumption. Therefore, it’s just wise to opt for a model that can optimize water use while making sure every tableware is cleaned well.
Energy Use
One of the ways to make sure the model you’re going for is energy efficient is by checking if it’s Energy Star rated. Not only dishwashers are recognized to be power-optimum with this label but also other gadgets like vacuum cleaners, humidifiers, and so on. Meaning, when you see a dishwasher rated with Energy Star, you can make sure that the model isn’t only energy-efficient but good for the environment, too.
Wash Cycle
The models in the market today come with varying wash cycles when it comes to accomplishing tasks. Each cycle involves pre-rinsing, soaking, quick washing, heavy washing, and so on. Basically, it means the more cycles, the more options you will have for washing mode, and greater versatility for your washing experience.
Easy to Operate
It’s always beneficial to the user to opt for a dishwasher that is easy to operate. Whether it’s going to be your first time having this kind of device, or you had experiences in the past on how to use one, ease of use is a crucial factor to consider when buying a dishwasher. Models that are easy to operate have clear buttons and offer great convenience in every use. You may also want to choose a dishwasher with a panel equipped with LED display, so it’s easier to monitor the status of the model, as well as the dishes.
Why You Should Buy A Countertop Dishwasher
Countertop dishwashers need only a small space for storage. Therefore, if your kitchen has limited space, or you live in a home with not a lot of free areas, a countertop dishwasher is a great equipment you must consider.
These devices are versatile. Whether you’re looking for a dishwasher for your primary needs, as backup, for home-use or business, you can certainly find a model for your needs. Countertop dishwashers are perfect for people living in small homes, an apartment or a condominium where a built-in unit is out of the question. You can use this device for cleaning coffee mugs, baby bottles, or large plates. It’s also a wonderful investment for RVs or college students living in dorms.
One great thing about countertop dishwashers is they can wash as efficiently as full-size units. Portable models, however, use less water and detergent compared to their full-size counterparts. Although, of course, smaller dishwashers can handle fewer tableware than larger units, it doesn’t mean portable models compromise the quality of washing.
7 Best Countertop Dishwashers
The best countertop dishwashers possess features that can make your washing chore easier and convenient. Apart from the model’s efficiency in cleaning, its size, weight, and ease of use are some of the other factors to look at when you buy this kind of product. In the next section, we’ll share with you our top picks when it comes to the best countertop dishwashers this year.
1. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W 6 Place Setting Compact Countertop Dishwasher
One of the best selling dishwashers in the market today is the BLACK+DECKER BCD6W. This model offers great advantages yet you can get it at an affordable cost. The edge of this countertop dishwasher is its efficiency in water consumption, which takes way less compared to other models.
BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Specs
- Unit Dimensions: 21.7 in D x 21.5 in W x 17.2 in H
- Weight: 46.2 lbs
- 6 Place Setting Capacity
- Accommodates dinner plates up to 10″
- Delayed Start Option up to 24 hours
- LED Display
- Electronic Touch Controls
- Child Lock
- High-Efficiency Rating
- ENERGY STAR Certified
- 7 wash programs: Intensive, Normal, Eco, Glass, 90 Minutes, Rapid & Soak
The BLACK+DECKER BCD6W can handle up to 10 plates per wash cycle. It boasts a 6-place setting, offers convenience for where you’d like to put the items. However, extra-large plates won’t fit this model, which you may need to manually wash. Still, lots of consumers love this product, offering multiple features despite its relatively cheaper price compared to other models in its class.
The BCD6W countertop dishwasher is made with a stainless-steel body. Meaning, this model doesn’t only look appealing but can also last for many years. Its stainless-steel interior can stand extremely high temperatures, so boiling water inside won’t cause any damages to the dishwasher. Unlike other units that are made with plastic, the BCD6W can assure durability and efficiency in cleaning despite the temperature.
With this model, you can make sure that it’s safe to use around children with its lock feature. You can have peace of mind with this model, even if you have toddlers at home who usually play around home equipment. Furthermore, with the product’s removable utensils basket, loading and unloading the dishwasher of items is easy. The basket seamlessly slides in and out of the unit everytime you place tableware for washing.
The BCD6W countertop dishwasher is also equipped with a LED display where you can see the current status of the device and the cleaning. There are controls on its monitor, which you can conveniently use for setting up your preferred programs.
We can as well say that this model has an aesthetic design. It’s compact yet elegant, which can perfectly suit any type of kitchen, modern or orthodox. With its small dimensions, you can even place it inside your cabinet. The BCD6W countertop dishwasher has a connecting channel where clean water comes in, and a drainage where the dirty water flows out directly to the sink.
The BCD6W countertop dishwasher is environment-friendly, too. It’s an Energy Certified device, meaning it consumes less power, but optimizes electricity use. It can help you save costs on your monthly bill. The drawback, however, is that customer support of this model tends to have issues.
Check Out The Full Review For The Black and Decker BCD6W Countertop Dishwasher
Pros
- Energy Star Certified
- 6 place settings
- 10 plates every cycle
- Elegant and well-designed
- Stainless steel interior
- Consumes less water
- Very affordable
- Led display with touch control
Cons
- Customer support issues
- Some consumers received incomplete or broken parts
Where to get BLACK+DECKER BCD6W
2. Farberware Professional FCD06ABBWHA Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher
Sleek and compact, the Farberware FCD06ABBWHA is a dishwasher that can fit almost anywhere. It boasts 6 place settings, as well as seven cycles for washing, and can handle dishwashing tasks for up to two people. The model’s extra-drying feature is the most efficient out of all the model’s with this capability. Furthermore, it has a child lock option, and it comes at a fair price. Know if this is the product for you by reading on.
Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Countertop Dishwasher Specs
- Product Depth: 21.7″
- Product Height: 17.2″
- Product Width: 19.7″
- Product Weight: 44.1 lb
- Six-place setting
- Up to 10-inches in diameter plates)
- Folding down rack shelves
- Cutlery basket
- Quick installation
- Accessories and adapters
- Seven washing programs
- Heavy, Normal, baby care, light, glass
- Speed 45 min
- Self clean
- Extra-drying function
- Speed wash & self-cleaning
- Child lock
- Easy-to-use controls
- LED digital controls
- Supply failure indicators
- Stainless steel Heavy-duty interior tub
The Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Countertop Dishwasher is one of the most affordable models in the market that can handle great loads of dishes. It can be a great option for you if you live alone or if your household has about two people. This model comes with a competitive price, and still can perform at its optimum for about three people, even if used frequently.
Many consumers say positive feedback about this product, as it taps many of the beneficial criteria of an excellent compact dishwasher. Despite its affordable cost, it can outperform other pricier models in its category. Although it doesn’t offer a wide range of place settings compared to built-in models, its cleaning efficiency is as satisfying as its bulkier counterparts.
The FCD06ABBWHA Countertop Dishwasher offers more pros than cons, which impressed consumers despite being compact and inexpensive. When it comes to warranty or customer service, Farberware is the brand you can rely on. You can make sure that you will get a full warranty, and the service to customers is typically on-point.
Although this model can only handle tableware for up to three people in every wash, it can still be a great option for families. It’s a durable and fast dishwasher, which you can use multiple times a day if needed.
Pros
- Quick install for easy connect to a nearby faucet
- The speed cleaning cycle can clean and dry dishes in 45 minutes
- Cutlery rack
- Easy to use controls with LED display
- Extra-drying function
Cons
The cord could’ve been longer
The pump tends to clog easily
Where to get Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Countertop Dishwasher
3. SPT SD-2225DS Compact Countertop Dishwasher
The SPT SD-2225DS Countertop Dishwasher is perfect for small apartments, offices, or any place with small kitchens. This model, although compact, offers a full-size performance. This model has a height of 17.24 inches, which can fit in most standard-sized kitchen countertops and cabinets. This dishwasher has a spacious interior, offering 6 place settings. This model has a lot to offer. Know if this is the product for you by reading on.
SPT SD-2225DS Countertop Dishwasher Specs
- 6 wash cycles
- Heavy, normal, ECO, Glass, Speed and Rinse
- Delay start for added convenience
- Two, four, six or eight hours delay start options
- Universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect
- Quick and easy connection to kitchen faucets
- Electronic controls with LED display
- Displays remaining time or current running state
- Water supply warning indicator
- Rinse aid warning indicator
The SPT SD-2225DS Countertop Dishwasher boasts an automatic dispenser for detergent and rinse water. You can quickly connect this model to kitchen faucets. It doesn’t require direct plumbing as well as permanent installation. This compact dishwasher, although small, offers a generous capacity and can accommodate a maximum of 6 place settings.
With SPT SD-2225DS, it can hold plates of up to 10.25 inches. This model also features LED display and electronic controls. The panel shows the current status of the cleaning, time remaining and current mode. With the model’s 6 wash cycles, you can have the washing needs you desire. You can choose from options, Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, Speed and Rinse.
The SPT SD-2225DS Countertop Dishwasher also features delay start for two, four, six or eight hours. This feature offers convenience, as you can program the washing on your preferred hours, and set it on usual hours when you finish your meals. This model boasts indicators showing the status of water supply. It also shows a rinse aid warning when water needs to be refilled.
With the model’s universal faucet adapter and quick connect kit, connecting to the faucet of most kitchens is easy.
Pros
- 6 place setting
- Delay start
- Easy connect to faucet
- LED disply
- Warning display
Cons
- Large plates may not fit
Where to get SPT SD-2225DS Compact Countertop Dishwasher
4. SPT SD-2225DW Compact Countertop Dishwasher/Delay Start-Energy Star Portable Dishwasher
The SPT SD-2225DW dishwasher is a bit slightly larger than most compact models in the market. Still, it can fit any small kitchen countertop whether it’s in condominiums, apartments, dorms, or RVs. This model is Energy Star rated, too, which is an advantage if you’re looking for energy-efficient home equipment. Know if this is for you by reading on.
SPT SD-2225DW Countertop Dishwasher Specs
- 6 wash cycles
- Wash options: Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, Speed, and Rinse
- Delay start for added convenience
- Two, four, six, or eight hours Delay Start Options
- Universal faucet adapter
- Quick Connect Feature
- Quick and easy connection to most kitchen faucets
- Electronic controls with LED display
- LED displays remaining time or current running state
- Water supply warning indicator and rinse aid warning indicator
The SPT SD-2225DW Countertop Dishwasher is for consumers who are looking for a portable countertop dishwasher. This model is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry and be moved from one place to another.
This dishwasher boasts features like a digital display, which shows the current status of your washing cycle as well as the time remaining until the task completion. With this model, you will know the status of the water supply with the warning, showing on the panel. This feature prevents spills, allowing a mess-free washing.
With the SPT SD-2225DW Countertop Dishwasher, you will have 6 place settings, and even add more items if you squeeze in slim and tall glasses. This model may not be the smallest dishwasher available, but it offers a satisfying cleaning performance.
The SPT SD-2225DW Countertop Dishwasher can be for you if you’re looking for a Energy Star rated product that is lightweight and compact. It offers multiple features for convenience and efficiency. However, it’s a bit pricier than most models in its category.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Features a digital timer display
- Water warning light
- Prevents spills
- Universal faucet adapter
- Quick connect system
- Electronic controls with LED display
Cons
1. A bit pricier than the previous models
2. Limited wash cycles options
Where to get SPT SD-2225DW Compact Countertop Dishwasher
5. Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher
If you’re looking for an affordable dishwasher that can fit small kitchens, the Danby DDW621WDB can be the product for you. This model boasts a heating feature, which you can’t usually find in compact models at its price range. The Danby DDW621WDB also has a convenient delayed start option in a variety of 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours. Know more about this model by reading on.
Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher Specs
- Includes hoses and faucet adaptor
- Dishwasher dimensions: 21.65” W x 19.69” D x 17.24” H
- Depth with door open – 32”
- Weight – 46.30 lbs.
- Voltage – 115V
- Cord length – 5 ft. long
- Noise level – 52 dB
- Energy consumption – 203 (KWh/year)
- Delay start options from 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours
- Space-Saving Design
- 6 Place setting capacity
- Silverware basket
The Danby DDW621WDB has a good reputation when it comes to excellent dishwasher brands. It boasts an interior made of stainless steel, which can assure durability and rust-resistance. With its material, this dishwasher is protected from mold and rust, too.
Many consumers are satisfied with this model’s performance. Most reviews reflect a 5-star rating and positive feedback. This compact countertop dishwasher offers a washing performance that’s as excellent as its full-sized counterparts. It’s one of the high-end options in the market today.
It’s easy to set-up, too. With the model’s quick connect system, it doesn’t require complicated set-up, plumbing or pre-programming. It only needs about 3.1 gallons of water for each wash cycle, which can be less depending on the quantity of dishes. The Danby DDW621WDB also boasts a heating feature, which allows you to use cold water for washing.
The Danby DDW621WDB is an excellent option for a fairly-priced dishwasher that is compact and efficient. However, it lacks a timer feature, and extra-tall glasses may not be able to fit inside the unit.
Pros
- Can handle large plates
- Impressive cleaning quality
- Stainless steel material
- High-quality body
- Easy to set up
- Heating element
- Only requires around 3.1 gallons of water per wash cycle
Cons
- The cup shelf can be small for big mugs or tall glasses
- Lacks a timer feature
Where to get Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher
6. SPT SD-2213S Compact Countertop Dishwasher – Energy Star
One of the leaders in manufacturing top-quality compact dishwashers. The SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher belongs to the company’s line of small models that can fit almost any countertop. This unit delivers impressive cleaning performance and doesn’t need a lot of space for storage. Know more about this product by reading on.
SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher Specs
- Generous capacity
- Accommodates up to 6 standard place settings
- Can handle dishes with a diameter of up to 10.25 inches
- 6 Wash Cycle
- Heavy, Normal, Light, Mini-party, Rinse and Speed Cycle Options
- 17.24″ height
- Can fit most countertop and cabinetry
- Universal faucet adapter
- Quick Connect system
- 43 pounds
- 21.65 x 19.69 x 17.24 inches
The SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher boasts features for convenience, ease and efficiency. It offers 6 wash cycles, warning indicator for rinse aid, and a delay start option. The model’s wash cycle can vary from Heavy, Normal, light, Mini-party, Rinse and Speed Cycle.
With this model, you can keep track of its dishwashing status with its built-in indicator lights. Monitoring the dishwasher’s mode is easy as well with the model’s large LED display. The SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher is designed to fit any standard faucet. With its installation kit and easy to understand manual, setting up of the dishwasher is easy. Installation will just take a few minutes after coming out of the box.
The SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher is an excellent option if you’re looking for a small model that is easy to operate. With its multiple features, this product offers convenience and great efficiency in washing. The varied settings available allows impressive performance as well as versatility in use. However, if you’re not techy, getting used to learning its systems and programs may take a while. Once you do, this dishwasher can help you save time and energy from your dishwashing chores. This model definitely offers multiple perks when it comes to keeping your dishes clean at all times with ease. If you’re looking for a compact model with 6 wash cycles and can handle large plates, you may want to consider SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher for your kitchen.
Pros
- Stainless steel interior
- 6 wash cycles
- Can handle up to 10.5 diameter dishes
- Easy to read LED display
- Rinse aid warning indicator
Cons
- Systems and programming may take time getting used to
Where to get SPT SD-2213S Compact Dishwasher
7. Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Complete Portable Countertop Dishwasher
The most outstanding edge of Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Portable Countertop Dishwasher is the model’s built-in tank of 5 liters. You have an option to connect the model to the sink, or manually fill up the tank without the complication of setting up cables. This dishwasher is typically adored due to its compact and lightweight body.
Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Portable Countertop Dishwasher Specs
- Compact
- Canup to 12-inches in diameter dishes
- Good for apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs
- No Hookups Needed
- Built-in tank
- 5 Washing Programs
- Normal, Rapid, Fruit Wash, Baby Care, and Glass Cleaning Programs
- Lower and upper spray arms
- Steam generated
- Rapid cycle
- Items clean in only 40 minutes
- Fruit Wash mode
- 17.3 x 16.5 x 17.3 inches
- 37.8 pounds
The Farberware FDW05ASBWHA is one of the most impressive dishwashers in the market today. Apart from being able to wash dishes, this unit can also wash fruits. You have an option to connect it to a faucet or fill up the tank manually.
Although this model only has 5 place settings, it’s still an excellent option for its cleaning efficiency and price. It can be the dishwasher for you if you have two to three people in your household. It can still be an excellent choice for families, if you’re willing to do more than one cycle wash after meals. You can fit plates with a diameter of 12 inches in this unit.
With the product’s built-in tank and fair price, it’s an excellent option for a compact dishwasher. It offers Steam wash, Rapid Wash, Fruit Wash, and it doesn’t require water hookup. The model’s 5 liter tank is also a positive feature, and it can work using any type of detergent. However, it lacks a rinse aid dispenser option.
With the model’s dimensions of 17.3 x 16.5 x 17.3 inches, it can fit any tight-spaced kitchen. Weighing only 37.8 pounds, this dishwasher is easy to move from one place to another as well. The Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Portable Countertop Dishwasher is one of the rare models available which offers a fruit wash option. It can be for you if you’re looking for a compact machine, and your dishwashing demands are not too heavy. This product, however, lacks a rinse aid dispenser, which could’ve been a helpful feature.
Pros
- 5-liter tank
- Works with any type of dishwasher detergent
- Wash fruits option
- Free fruit basket
- Secure silverware rack
- Hose option for hooking up to the sink
Cons
- Lacks a rinse aid dispenser
- Relatively smaller capacity
Where to get Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Portable Countertop Dishwasher
Conclusion
Having a small kitchen doesn’t mean you can’t have a dishwasher that can make your tasks easier. There are a wide variety of choices in the market when it comes to this kind of product. To get the right dishwasher for you, there are key features to weight out before your purchase. Keep the guide in mind for you to make the most of your purchase, and get the most fitting model for your needs.
We hope we have provided valuable insights on how to get the best countertop dishwasher for 2021. If you think you’ve found the right product for you here, let us know in the comment section below. We’d love to hear from you!
Thank you so much for this compilation of best countertop dishwashers for 2020. I really found this article very enjoyable and it hit me differently because, I just purchased a dishwasher few months ago and it got bad in less than a month and that got me drained. I’ll definitely get one dishwasher from this list. thanks again for sharing this
If you’re looking for a reliable dishwasher I would recommend the Black + Decker BDC6W from out list. It will last much longer than 1 month 🙂
Cheryl
This is really great because the dish washer is handy, My girlfriend is very choosy when it comes to kitchen ware. But I believe this is a contribution that she would greatly appreciate. It’s my job to do the dishes while she cooks. So this is a great way to quickly do the dishes and go back to my sports.
Hello Babakes!
I’m not a fan of washing dishes. I appreciate my dishwasher every single day that I don’t need to do the dishes. Is there a model from our shortlist that grabbed your attention?
Cheryl
Hi,
This is an awesome article on dishwashers. In fact, I just learned that we also can have an over-the-counter dishwasher. Great idea.
I need a dishwasher that hides under my shelf and makes no noize. Zero noise. Is this possible? If you have any leads or personal experience, do share with me.
I hope you can give me a discount, as you seem to have a tie-up with Amazon.
Regards,
Aps
Hi Aps!
If you need a dishwasher that hides under your shelf and makes very little noise then I would recommend Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher. There’s currently a 10% discount on this model right now.
Cheryl
I had no idea that countertop dishwashers had become so mainstream! These units are quite fascinating in that they take up less overall space and seem to be much more efficient than their larger cousins.
While our family needs would still outweigh the size of these countertop models, I am thinking they would be perfect for a couple or small family size. In fact, I might see about one for my daughter who is about to be married.
Another use I can think of is for those campers and tiny homes who don’t have a lot of kitchen space. These could be stored and taken out to use when needed.
Thanks for bringing these to my attention. They might be an ideal gift!
Hi Diane!
Yes, countertop dishwashers are versatile appliances that can be installed into smaller homes struggling for space. Let me know if you need any further advice selecting a model for your daughter’s wedding gift.
Cheryl
Dish washing is one of those house tasks I dislike. I have been considering getting a dish washer. In my consideration is the size and the capacity of the washer, but I never knew anything about the equipment being energy star rated until i came across your post. Thanks a lot, I will go with the spt SD-2225DW it is energy star certified and the size and capacity are a good fit for my house
Hello Parameter!
I’d have to agree with you there. Washing dishes is a chore that I dislike. The SPT SD-2225DW is perfect for smaller kitchens and is conveniently equipped with 6 different wash cycles. Good choice.
Krisan
This is nice. Having a dishwasher is very handy, but it all depends on how effective it is. This is dishwasher is excellent. It is very credible and recommending for someone won’t be disappointing. The features and capacity are just so amazing. Thanks for this very helpful information and also giving a guide for buying a dishwasher, Countertop dishwasher in particular.
Hello Nelson!
Thanks for the feedback. Is there a specific countertop dishwasher model from our list that you would like more information about? Let me know and I’d be glad to help.
Krisan