Dishwasher buying guide – which dishwasher is right for your home?
Updated August 11, 2026.
Dishwashers are the unsung heroes of everyday life. Year after year, they quietly wash your dishes without complaint, making your daily routine just a little bit easier. They ask for very little in return: detergent, a drain pan underneath, and occasional cleaning. Since dishwashers serve their owners faithfully for years, it's worth taking the time to choose the right one. That's why we've created this guide to help you select a dishwasher.
Dishwasher Comparison – Differences Across Price Ranges
What do you get if you pay more? Budget dishwashers handle the basics just fine—they'll get your dishes clean. Move up to a mid-range model and you'll get a noticeably quieter machine with better drying performance and more practical features. In premium models, the drying, noise levels, and usability are in a league of their own.
Budget Dishwasher
Price range: under €500
Who is it for? Small households, light cooks.
Typical features:
- Cleaning performance: handles the basics of washing dishes, but results may not be perfect.
- Programs: usually basic programs like eco, normal, intensive, and possibly quick wash, but without smart features or automation.
- Noise level: often higher (around 46–49 dB).
- Drying performance: weaker than more expensive models.
- Usability: may not have foldable racks or height-adjustable baskets.
- Extra features: may have few or no additional features.
Mid-Range Dishwasher
Price Range: €500–900
Who is it for? The most popular choice, suitable for most homes.
Typical Features:
- Cleaning Performance: Good and consistent cleaning results.
- Programs: In addition to basic programs, may include specialty programs and some automation, possibly even an auto program.
- Noise Level: Significantly quieter (approx. 42–46 dB).
- Drying Performance: Often better, e.g., automatic door opening after the cycle.
- Usability: Often includes a third rack and good adjustability.
- Additional Features: Some models may have smart functions.
Premium Dishwashers
Price range: over €900
Who is this for? Those seeking the best possible convenience, quiet operation, and drying performance.
Typical features:
- Wash performance: excellent cleaning results.
- Programs: specialized programs beyond the basics, with automation, smart features, and customization options.
- Noise level: extremely quiet (approx. 38–43 dB).
- Drying performance: the most advanced drying technologies.
- Usability: highly adjustable racks, possible interior lighting
- Additional features: often includes automatic detergent dispensing, smart functions, and app control