Tired of scrubbing dishes by hand after a long day? Imagine opening a sparkling clean dishwasher every time, without draining your entire savings. Finding a great dishwasher that costs less than $800 can feel like a treasure hunt. You want reliable cleaning power, quiet operation, and enough space for all your plates, but the sheer number of models makes it overwhelming.
Many budget-friendly dishwashers seem to compromise on quality or features. Do you settle for wet dishes or loud cycles just to save money? We understand that sticking to a budget shouldn’t mean sacrificing a clean kitchen. That’s why we dove deep into the current market.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We’ve researched the top performers under the $800 mark, focusing on durability, performance, and user satisfaction. Keep reading to discover the best value dishwashers available right now, ensuring you get premium results without the premium price tag. Let’s find the perfect machine for your home!
Top Dishwasher Under $800 Recommendations
- No pre-wash needed, powers away stuck-on food
- Gel formulated with the grease-fighting power of Dawn
- Pure Rinse Formula rinses cleanly away
- Citrus Breeze Scent
- Also available in Powder and ActionPacs
- 1. GREASE FIGHTING POWER: Cascade dishwasher pods dissolve fast to release the grease fighting power of Dawn
- 2. SPOTFREE CLEAN DISHES: Get virtually spotfree sparkling clean dishes from even the toughest messes with these dishwasher detergent pods, a must-have among your cleaning supplies
- 3. WATER SAVING: Running the dishwasher daily saves water*. *ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers use less than 4 gallons per cycle. Running the tap for 11 minutes while handwashing uses up to 24 gallons of water
- 4. 1 RECOMMENDED BRAND: More dishwasher brands in North America recommend Cascade based on co-marketing agreements vs. other automatic dishwasher detergent brands
- 5. CONVENIENT AND RESPONSIBLE: Convenient, premeasured ActionPac with no finicky plastic wrapping. Phosphate free, making it a responsible choice among household essentials and cleaning products
- Finish is Auto Dishwashing Global Brand
- ADVANCED DISHWASHER PODS: Unleash the Quantum Leap with Finish Quantum dishwasher tabs that deliver 2X GREASE FIGHTING POWER, making them powerful dishwasher detergent pods.
- POWERFUL DISHWASHER DETERGENT: Tackle 24 HOUR DRIED-ON STAINS and stuck-on-food with these Finish dishwasher pods.
- VIRTUALLY SPOT-FREE SHINE: Unlock the power of Finish Quantum’s 3 fast dissolving chambers to enjoy a virtually spot-free shine on your dishes —from delicate wine glasses to sturdy stainless-steel pans.
- SKIP THE RINSE: Save time and water with these dish pods, specially formulated to break down tough food residues without the need for pre-rinsing. Save up to 20 gallons of water per load by skipping the rinse step.
- PLASTIC-FREE, ECO FRIENDLY DISHWASHER DETERGENT TABLETS. Hardworking without the harsh chemicals, our NEW and improved, eco-friendly Dishwasher Detergent Tablets cut grease and grime with 100% plastic-free tablets for a sparkling clean you can feel good about. Say goodbye to conventional PVA-wrapped dishwasher pods and hello to plastic-free tablets that are just as easy to use.
- POWERFULLY EFFECTIVE: NEW 2x enzyme power lifts 48-hr baked-on foods, plus oxi stain-fighting action tackles coffee tea and wine stains
- EASY TO USE: Drop a tablet directly into the main dishwasher dispenser and run your dishwasher as normal.
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS. Microplastic-free, septic-safe formula made with plant and mineral-based cleaning power so it’s powerful enough to combat spotting and filming even in hard water, but safe for use around everyone in the family. Formulated clean without potentially gut-harming ingredients. EPA Safer Choice, Leaping Bunny Cruelty-Free, Vegan, B Corp Certified, Climate Neutral, USDA Bio-Preferred.
- Questions or concerns about your purchase? Contact our Blueland Customer Experience Team and we’ll help make it right!
- Our best dishwasher detergent for up to 100% Food Residue Removal
- Only Cascade Platinum Plus contains 2X* the Dawn grease fighting power and 2X* the scrubbing power to power through dried on food *Cleaning ingredients vs Cascade Complete ActionPacs
- Removes visible and invisible residues for virtually spotfree and shiny dishes
- 40% larger liquid top for even more* cleaning power that still fits in your dishwasher detergent dispenser *vs Cascade Platinum ActionPacs
- Running the dishwasher daily saves water* Save up to 20 gallons of water per dishwasher load *ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers use 4 gallons per cycle. Running the tap for 11 minutes handwashing uses up to 24 gallons of water.
- Cascade Platinum ActionPacs dishwasher detergent cleans burnt-on messes in just one wash, with no pre-wash needed.
- Dissolves fast to release the grease fighting power of Dawn, while food seeking enzymes latch on and break down food into particles so small they can flow right down the drain
- Get virtually spotfree sparkling clean dishes on even the toughest messes
- Formulated to help prevent hard water spots and filming to keep your machine looking fresh and clean
- Running the dishwasher daily saves water* Save up to 20 gallons of water per dishwasher load *ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers use 4 gallons per cycle. Running the tap for 11 minutes handwashing uses up to 24 gallons of water.
- Sold as 74/Pack
- Dissolves fast to release the grease-fighting power of Dawn, while food-seeking enzymes latch on and break down food into particles so small they can flow right down the drain
- Dishwasher detergent pods clean burnt-on messes in just one wash, with no prewash needed
- Features a Fresh scent
- Capacity: 38.6 oz
- Cleans 24-hour stuck on food.
- Cleans baked on food.
- Powers away residues
- Powers away tea stains
- Safe to use on all dishwasher-safe dishes
Finding the Best Dishwasher Under $800: Your Smart Buying Guide
A good dishwasher saves you time and effort. You do not need to spend a fortune to get a reliable machine. We have put together this guide to help you choose the best dishwasher under $800. This price range offers great features for most homes.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping in this budget, look closely at these essential features. They make a big difference in how well your dishwasher cleans.
Cleaning Power and Cycles
- Spray Arms: More spray arms mean better water coverage. Look for at least three arms (top, middle, and bottom).
- Cycle Options: Standard cycles include Normal, Heavy, and Quick Wash. Heated Dry is a nice bonus, though sometimes it costs a little extra.
- Soil Sensors: Some models use sensors to check how dirty your dishes are. This lets the machine use less water and energy for lightly soiled loads.
Drying Performance
Drying is often where cheaper models struggle. Check if the model uses a heated dry element or relies on condensation drying. Condensation drying is more energy-efficient, but heated dry often leaves dishes completely dry.
Noise Level (Decibels – dBA)
Dishwashers make noise while running. Look for a rating under 50 dBA for a quiet kitchen. Anything below 48 dBA is considered very quiet. This matters a lot if you have an open-concept living space.
Important Materials Matter
The materials inside the dishwasher affect its lifespan and cleaning ability.
Tub Material
- Plastic Tub: Most dishwashers under $800 use plastic tubs. They are affordable and do the job well.
- Stainless Steel Tub: These tubs dry dishes better because they hold heat longer. While less common in this budget, some entry-level stainless steel tubs appear under $800. They last longer, too.
Racks and Baskets
Check the racks. Quality racks usually have a durable nylon coating. Make sure the tines (the prongs that hold dishes) are sturdy. Adjustable upper racks let you fit tall pots easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all dishwashers clean equally. Certain factors boost the quality of the wash.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Third Rack: Some models include a shallow third rack at the very top for silverware and small utensils. This frees up space in the lower basket.
- Delayed Start Option: This feature lets you run the dishwasher late at night when electricity rates might be lower.
- Durable Filters: Easy-to-clean, self-cleaning filters work better than manual filters that you have to clean out often.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Watch Outs)
Be cautious of models with very few wash cycles or those that rely only on air drying. Also, look out for flimsy plastic door latches. These might break sooner than metal ones.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your kitchen. This helps you pick the right fit.
Ease of Use
Control panels should be easy to read. Front controls are common and simple. Top controls hide the buttons when the door is closed, giving a sleeker look.
Capacity and Layout
Standard dishwashers fit 12 to 14 place settings. If you host large parties often, check the interior layout. Can you remove the silverware basket to make room for a large serving bowl? Look for flexible racking systems.
For small families or couples, a standard model works great. If you have heavy baking sheets or lots of large mugs, prioritize models with height-adjustable racks.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dishwashers Under $800
Q: Can I find a dishwasher under $800 that is quiet?
A: Yes, you can. Many models in this range aim for 50 dBA or lower. Check the product specifications for the decibel (dBA) rating before buying.
Q: What is the main difference between a $500 and an $800 dishwasher?
A: The $800 models often have stainless steel tubs, better drying systems (like heated dry options), and quieter motors. They usually offer more flexible interior racking, too.
Q: Are dishwashers under $800 energy efficient?
A: Most modern dishwashers meet high energy standards. Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This label ensures the machine uses less water and electricity.
Q: Do I need a built-in water softener in this price range?
A: Water softeners are rare in dishwashers under $800. If you live in a very hard water area, you might need to look slightly above this budget or use rinse aids regularly.
Q: What is the standard size for these dishwashers?
A: The standard size is 24 inches wide. Make sure you measure your cabinet opening before ordering!
Q: What is the most important cleaning feature to look for?
A: The number and placement of spray arms are vital. Three spray arms ensure water reaches every corner of the tub.
Q: How long should a dishwasher under $800 last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality dishwasher in this range should last between 8 and 12 years.
Q: What is condensation drying?
A: Condensation drying uses the heat retained by the stainless steel tub to evaporate water off the dishes. It is slower than heated dry but uses less energy.
Q: Can I install a dishwasher under $800 myself?
A: Installation involves plumbing and electrical connections. If you are handy, you can do it. Otherwise, professional installation is recommended to avoid leaks.
Q: Should I prioritize a third rack or a quieter motor?
A: This depends on your lifestyle. If you run the dishwasher while watching TV, choose the quieter motor. If you hate putting silverware in a basket, choose the third rack.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!