Top-3 Dishwashers Under 400
- Cycles: 6
- Place settings: 14
- Sound rating: 50 dBA
- Cycles: 4
- Place settings: 14
- Sound rating: 55 dBA
- Cycles: 4
- Place settings: 14
- Sound rating: 54 dBA
Things to Consider
It’s important to remember which dishwasher features affect the price range. On average, the pricing is defined by the capacity, certain extra features, and finish materials like stainless steel. To decide which dishwasher under 400 will best suit your needs, you need to consider the key specifications of any given model as well as the ideal functional balance that can be achieved between the two.
Capacity
This might actually be the first thing to look at while weighing your options. Large families or those who cook often require large spaces to fit high numbers of cookware in single cycle runs. If capacity is vital for your kitchen experience, consider the dishwashers with flexible racks that can be adjusted and additional cleaning systems like bottle jets. Foldable or removable sections like silverware baskets, tines, and cup shelves are a worthy addition to have as well. Alternatively, if you only need washing small amounts of dishes and glassware, single-rack portable dishwashers will be a satisfying match for your kitchen.
Cycles
Most dishwashers under 400 come with at least 3 cycles and can go up to 6 with a good array of extra options. If the number of programmes isn’t a particularly important feature for you to have, then the standard 4 cycles will do a great job with the right application of available settings. But for those who seek to expand their wash options in this price range, look out for dishwashers with 6 cycles. Models with fewer settings can work just as well if they include quick and light programmes, sometimes called Rinse and Speed. This can help you clean various load configurations while saving money on utility bills.
Drying options
Normally dishwashers under 400 provide heated and fan-assisted drying or their variously enhanced counterparts. Some brands boost their ventilation drying process which can be the right option for people on tight schedules. Cheaper models offer simple circulation drying that can be effective for small spaces.
Sound Range
This specification is usually at the top of the list for functional efficiency in many dishwashers. The sound range is described by the sound rating number measured in A-weighted decibels, or dBA for short. You will often see this number in manuals and specs overviews. Dishwashers in this price range offer varying sound ratings between average and quieter. For enjoying some peace in your kitchen, look for dishwashers with consistent background operation at low noise levels. These are usually the models with the sound rating between 40 dBA and 60 dBA. Keep in mind that extra insulation and base material of stainless steel tubs can boost the overall sound proofing of your dishwasher.
Efficiency
This is typically a set of features that define the energy saving capabilities of the dishwasher. Look for dishwashers that are ENERGY STAR® compliant or include a detailed description of their yearly power consumption. You will see a number measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) that describes the energy consumption rate of every dishwasher.
Finish
Most brands that curate mid to low price range series also offer a wide selection of finish colors to accommodate any kitchen layout and design. Stainless steel finishes tend to rise the price of the dishwasher, though not always as it depends on interior features as well. If you want a clean stainless steel design but are limited in means, there are several stainless steel models on offer that balance it out to reach lower pricing. You can always choose timeless bold colors, namely white and black. For custom designs, pay attention to finish specifications that should include the ‘panel-ready’ option.
- Review of the Best Dishwashers Under 400
- Bosch SHE3AR72UC Dishwasher Under 400
- Whirlpool WDF520PADM Dishwasher Under 400
- Frigidaire FFID2426TS Dishwasher Under 400
- GE GDP615HSMSS Dishwasher Under 400
- GE GDF530PGMWW Dishwasher Under 400
- SPT SD-9252W Dishwasher Under 400
- Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 Dishwasher Under 400
- Danby DDW621WDB Dishwasher Under 400
Review of the Best Dishwashers Under 400
- Cycles: 6
- Place settings: 14
- Finish: White
- Width x Height x Depth: 24 in x 33.88 in x 24 in
- Control location: Front control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Steam function: Without steam
- Handle type: Recessed handle
- Sound rating: 50 dBA
- Energy consumption: 269 kWh/year
- ENERGY STAR® certified to meet energy rates
- Smart cycle configuration
- 24/7 protection system from water leaks
- Low noise operation of 50 dBA
- Hygienic drying process
- Durable interior materials
- Delicate wash for fragile dishes
The Bosch SHE3AR72UC is a highly efficient built-in dishwasher with 6 cycles and exceptional performance standards.
The tall stainless steel tub incorporates polypropylene in its configuration to achieve a durable and noise-efficient hybrid construction. The self-latching door features easy-to-access detergent compartment that releases detergent automatically during the cycle. You can use all-purpose tabs, gel, and powder for equally effective results.
Most notably, this Bosch dishwasher comes with a convenient 24/7 Overflow Protection System designed to prevent the occurence of leakages and protect the interior in case of any drainage issues.
The 6 available cycles are Auto, Normal, Delicate, Heavy, Express and Half-Load. Normal is a standard yet effective wash programme, while Heavy is aimed to scrub off hard and dry stains. The Half-load option is helpful with small loads and quick washes of glassware, providing potentially high energy-saving rates.
Additional options include Sanitize, Heated Dry, High Temperature Wash, and 24 hour Delay Start. If you want to make sure remaining bacteria is eliminated upon completion, select the Sanitize option to rinse the load after the main cycle.
Featured Precision Wash System saves you the pre-rinse time by employing special sensors to detect and remove tough spots with precisely aimed water sprays. The spray arms that target the dishes while avoiding the surrounding area are designed to operate at maximum power and reduce any unnecessary noise.
The PureDry™ technology utilized after each cycle is able to dry a full load without any fan ventilation. The recessed heating element can quickly heat up huge volumes of water and still remain plastic-safe, so you can load your plastic kitchenware knowing it won’t melt.
This Bosch dishwasher can hold 14 place settings inside its racking system that can be adjusted to accommodate various loads. The lower rack also houses the long silverware basket with a cell cover for surer hold on your utensils.
Front control panel supplies helpful information via display like status indicators or remaining time countdown.
This Bosch operates at an amazing 50 dBA to ensure your kitchen is a quiet and peaceful space.
- Cycles: 4
- Place settings: 14
- Finish: Monochromatic stainless steel
- Width x Height x Depth: 24 in x 34 in x 24 in
- Control type and location: Electronic front control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack, in-door
- Handle type: Pocket handle
- Steam function: Without steam
- Sound rating: 55 dBA
- Energy consumption: 260 kWh/year
- Sani Rinse™ eliminates 99% of bacteria
- Flexible silverware basket adds space
- 4-Hour Delay Start to assist your schedule
- AccuSense™ precision wash for cleaner results
- 1-Hour Wash cycle for lighter loads
- Quiet and energy-efficient run
The Whirlpool WDF520PADM is a built-in multi-cycle dishwasher that provides considerable interior capacity.
With 14 place settings and additional cup shelves in the upper rack, you will be able to free up plenty of space to fit in different load configurations. The in-door/in-rack AnyWare Plus silverware basket not only holds all types of cutlery, but can also be removed to add space for large dishes.
The 4 cycles in this Whirlpool dishwasher are Standard Wash, Quick Wash, Heavy Wash, and Sanitize, with additional washing options of 4-Hour Delay, Heated Dry, High Temperature Wash, and Control Lock. For a fast rinse of lightly soiled dishes, you can select the neat 1-Hour Wash option, and for extra clean dishes there is the NSF-certified SaniRinse™ option that can remove 99.999% of bacteria.
The standout AccuSense™ system can decide the correct cycle application for you by detecting the water pressure rates required by the soil levels and size of the load. Even full capacity loads will receive proper cleaning due to the wide-coverage jets that can eliminate the toughest of stains, helping you cut down on the rinsing time.
For the efficient delivery of consistently dry dishes, the dishwasher applies Heated Dry option and High Temperature Wash Detergent after every cycle. This process removes any remaining moisture, so you can unload the dishwasher as soon as the dishes have cooled a little.
To maximize the overall performance, this Whirlpool has an improved Quiet Partner™ function that helps keep the noise to a minimum, with top number being at 55 dBA. In addition, the ENERGY STAR® certification of this model is a sure solution for the proper balance of your energy expenses.
- Cycles: 4
- Place settings: 14
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Width x Height x Depth: 24 in x 34.25 in x 24 in
- Control type and location: Electronic top control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Handle type: Bar handle
- Steam function: Without steam
- Sound rating: 54 dBA
- Energy consumption: 256 kWh/year
- Top-level exclusive cycle saves energy
- Extended coverage ensures thorough cleaning of all items
- 2-4-6 hour delay star improves schedule flexibility
- Multi-cycle selection with a faster drying process
- Quiet and energy efficient
- Balanced stainless steel finish with durable polymer interior
The Frigidaire FFID2426TS is a built-in dishwasher with flexible racking system and multiple-cycle options.
The durable nylon-coated racks are able to hold up to 14 place settings including a silverware basket and 2 cup shelves. The lower rack provides a spacious yet removable Ultra I silverware basket and up to 11 inches of space for deep bowls and cookware. The 8 inch upper rack is able to fit dishware, glasses, and various small items.
The 4 available cycles include Normal Wash, Heavy Wash, Rinse Only, and Upper Rack, with additional options of High Temperature Wash, NSF-certified Sanitize, Heated Dry and Delay Start, all of which you can able to cancel anytime by holding the start button for 3 seconds.
If you only need to rinse your glasses or send a small load of dishes for a quick wash, the Upper Rack cycle is the best choice that will shorten the runtime and water intake. The Heated Dry option is a neat solution aimed to save time and effort on wiping your dishes manually, while the polymer interior of the tub enhances the process.
The Delay Start is available in three set-ups of 2, 4, and 6 hour of scheduling any cycle in advance. If you can’t decide what cycle might suit a particularly challenging load configuration, the DishSense™ technology is there to help you out by detecting the soil levels and setting the cycle time as well as water pressure required for the best washing of the load in question.
You can also be sure that during any cycle your dishes are getting 4 times more coverage due to the BladeSpray® Arm technology. The door itself is of hybrid construction, featuring detergent and rinse aid dispenser compartments for easy refill. Their accessibility also lets you remove any undissolved tabs or get rid of accumulated powder.
Responsive Ready-Select® control panel is integrated to give the dishwasher a better look with a system of indicator lights and sound alerts that inform you of any current progress, including low dispenser and rinse aid alerts. The exterior is fitted with sleek stainless steel finish that can be a great addition to the design of any kitchen.
This Frigidaire dishwasher is not only ENERGY STAR® certified for balanced energy consumption, but also comes with the Ultra Quiet sound package that ensures low noise levels during the operation, peaking at 54 dBA.
- Cycles: 4
- Place settings: 16
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Width x Height x Depth: 24 in x 33.5 in x 24 in
- Control type and location: Electronic top control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Handle type: Pocket handle
- Steam function: With steam
- Sound rating: 50 dBA
- Energy consumption: 270 kWh/year
- Adjustable upper rack result in superior capacity
- 4 bottle jets deliver spotless tall items
- Energy-saving wash zone system
- Highly effective Dry Boost™ drying option
- Powerful hard food disposer protects from damage
- NSF-certified sanitization option
- Time-efficient 12-hour delay start
The GE GDP615HSMSS is a powerful built-in dishwasher that combines high performance with quiet run.
Featuring the three-level 600 Series wash system, this model is able to cover the entire load by targeting it with sprays from pressurized multi-level zones. The 2 towerless nylon racks account for 16 place settings due to the height-adjustable upper rack that can fit large items, some as tall as 10.5 inches.
Extra capacity is provided by 2 utility shelves, ball-tipped tines, removable silverware basket with cell covers, and 4 bottle jets meant for a more thorough cleaning of tall items with the help of 4 jets spraying deep inside all hard-to-clean bottles and similar glassware. There are also additional dedicated jets for the silverware basket that help eliminating spots on your utensils even in the tightest load configurations.
One of the standout features of this GE dishwasher is the high filtration results made possible by the Piranha™ Hard Food Disposer with removable filter. By rotating its blades at 3,600 RPM, this stainless steel disposer shreds all types of food particles, successfully avoiding any hardware damage as well as preventing the blockage of water flow as the spray arms are protected from getting clogged with waste.
With 4 wash cycles and 11 options, this GE dishwasher is highly flexible when it comes to optimal performance. The cycles are Auto Sense, Normal Wash, Heavy Wash, and 1 Hour Wash for better schedule coordination, while the wide range of options includes Bottle Wash, Dry Boost™, 1-12 Hour Delay Start, Heated Dry, Sani (NSF 184 Certified), Start/Reset, Steam PreWash, Wash TempBoost, and Child Lock.
The convenient AutoSense cycle is able to detect how grimy and dirty your dishes are and adjust the time and spray settings accordingly. Every manual cycle can be preceded by the Steam PreWash process which eliminates hard-to-clean stains, saving you the hassle of scrubbing the dishes before each load.
Additionally, this model’s wash system serves a true half-load. You can select any cycle to operate within one zone, either Wash Zone Lower Only or Wash Zone Upper Only which implements the functions of any full cycle but narrows down the area to save resources.
Upon cycle completion, the dishwasher initiates the drying process that can either be the Heated Dry option or the fan-assisted Dry Boost™ that delivers items 3 times drier than most regular options.
This GE is ENERGY STAR® qualified and can help you balance your energy expenses with its Tier I CEE rating.
Your work in the kitchen also won’t be disturbed as the operational sound level of this dishwasher is 50 dBA. With its stainless steel finish and tactile control panel, this GE will be a stylish and functional addition to your kitchen.
- Cycles: 4
- Place settings: 16
- Finish: White
- Width x Height x Depth: 24 in x 33.5 in x 24 in
- Control type and location: Electronic front control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Handle type: Pocket handle
- Steam function: With steam
- Sound rating: 54 dBA
- Energy consumption: 270 kWh/year
- NSF-certified Sani cycle to battle bacteria
- Powerful Piranha™ disposer ensures cleanest dishes and interior parts
- AutoSense adjusts correct washing cycles
- Improved drying results with the Dry Boost™ option
- High performance at low noise levels
The GE GDF530PGMWW is a 500 Series dishwasher with white finish and enhanced cycle options.
The capacity of this GE dishwasher reaches up to 16 place settings. The upper rack can be adjusted to accommodate taller items as well as house glassware and cups on its 2 cup shelves. The silverware basket with dedicated jets for extra clean results is located in the lower rack and can be removable if you need more space for large pots and pans.
Enhanced protection during any operation of this model is provided by the Piranha™ Hard Food Disposer with removable filter that minimizes hardware damage and various clogging issues. The disposer is able to destroy hard food particles with its stainless steel blades that rotate at 3,600 RPM.
Similar to the previous 24-inch GE, this model has 4 cycles: Auto Sense, Normal Wash, Heavy Wash, and 1 Hour Wash for all your scheduling needs. The 8 available options are 1-12 hour Delay Start, Dry Boost™, Heated Dry, Wash TempBoost, Sani (NSF 184 Certified), Start/Reset, Steam PreWash, and Child Lock.
Before starting each cycle, you can select the Steam PreWash option to loosen especially dry and tough spots instead of pre-rinsing the dishes in the sink. The incredibly efficient 1 Hour Wash is aimed to lessen the burden of your schedule. Equipped with highly intuitive clean sensors, this model utilizes the AutoSense option in order to assess the soil levels of any given load and set up all respective washing parameters.
Additional Sanitize option is certified by NSF and is able to remove up to 99.999% of bacteria with high temperature action. Any detergent is effectively disposed of by the Rinse Aid that can also be adjusted. The final step is the drying cycle performed by either the Heated Dry option or the Dry Boost™. The latter is conducted with fan assistance and can give your dishes the triple dry treatment.
The built-in front control panel features 6 touchpads and 3-digit countdown display with light indicators to alert you once clean and sanitized dishes are delivered. Each cycle ends with audible signal. There is also a memory save feature allowing you to pull up the last cycle as your next programme.
This dishwasher is ENERGY STAR® certified, giving you an opportunity for better control of your energy and water consumption. With 54 dBA sound rating, this GE provides quiet yet efficient operation.
- Cycles: 6
- Place settings: 8
- Finish: White
- Width x Height x Depth: 17.5 in x 32.2 in x 22.1 in
- Control type and location: Digital front control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Handle type: Recessed handle
- Steam function: Without steam
- Sound rating: 55 dBA
- Energy consumption: 265 kWh/year
- Compact 18 inch build fits any kitchen design
- Provides a variety of time-saving wash options
- Schedules delay for any cycle up to 24 hours
- All-in-1 cycle cleans all-purpose items
- Energy-saving and quiet run
The SPT SD-9252W is a compact double-rack dishwasher designed for top-mount installation. While providing considerable loading capacity, this model takes up minimal amount of space in your kitchen.
This SPT dishwasher ensures top cleaning results by utilizing a hard food filter, 2 full-coverage spray arms and dispensers for automatic delivery of detergent and rinse agent. The durable stainless steel tub absorbs noise and withstands the effects of mold and rust.
Extendable vinyl racks amount to 8 place settings with extra capacity provided by the silverware basket and glassware holders. Designed for more delicate dishware, the upper rack can be adjusted to a higher or lower position when mounted on respective rails. The lower rack features foldable tines to accommodate large cookware.
There are 6 main wash cycles: All-in-1, Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse and Speed. The duration of each cycle can vary depending on the water temperature.
With 110-minute cycle time at 120°F water temperature, the All-in-1 programme requires an All-in-1 tablet instead of rinse aid and is designed for regular soiled items. The Heavy Wash, on the other hand, is meant for cleaning heavily soiled and dry pots and pans, lasting 130 minutes. The fastest cycles are Speed at 55 minutes and Rinse at 25 minutes for kitchen items that only need a quick rinse.
The Delay option can be set to start in the upcoming 24 hours from the time of the set-up. The front control panel features digital display for rinse aid refill reminders as well as error codes.
Running at .916 amps and 55 dBA, this ENERGY STAR® compliant SPT dishwasher can exceed energy efficiency guidelines and keep operational noise levels to a minimum.
- Cycles: 6
- Place settings: 6
- Finish: White
- Width x Height x Depth: 21.7 in x 19.7 in x 17.2 in
- Control type and location: Electronic front control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Handle type: Pocket handle
- Steam function: Without steam
- Sound rating: 52 dBA
- Energy consumption: 203 kWh/year
- Quick and easy installation with the quick setup kit
- Portable configuration fits most countertops
- Multi-cycle operation delivers high quality results
- Stainless steel tub prolongs service life
- 24 hour delay start
- Hygienic drying process
- Reliable anti-flood protection
The Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 is a portable multi-cycle dishwasher able to deliver top cleaning performance of a full-size model.
With the load capacity of 6 standard place settings and compact countertop build, this Magic Chef suits all small households, offices and apartments with limited kitchen space. You can easily install this model at your convenience with the quick setup kit that includes a connection assembly, faucet adapter, and outlet hoses.
The durable stainless-steel interior is fitted with a vinyl-coated rack, ergonomic silverware basket and cup shelf for tea and coffee cups as well as glassware. For optimal cleaning results this model releases detergent and rinse aid during the cycle from the conveniently placed dispenser container. The filtration system is easy to clean even after a particularly hard wash.
Featuring an Anti-Flood system, this Magic Chef dishwasher is protected from immediate damage that can be caused by high water levels.
There are 6 wash cycles, including Normal, Heavy, Light, Speed, Glass and Rinse; the additional delay option gives a schedule time frame between 1 and 24 hours with hour-by-hour adjustment. After each cycle, the dishwasher starts the drying process via residual drying that ensures more hygienic results due to contained air circulation.
With its LED display and easy-to-use buttons, the semi-integrated electronic control panel fits seamlessly with the overall compact look of the dishwasher, completing the pristine white finish exterior. Finally, your office hours or kitchen work won’t be interrupted during the run of this dishwasher since its maximum sound level is only 52 dBA.
- Cycles: 6
- Place settings: 6
- Finish: White
- Width x Height x Depth: 21.65 in x 17.24 in x 19.69 in
- Control type and location: Electronic front control
- Silverware basket location: In-rack
- Handle type: Pocket handle
- Steam function: Without steam
- Sound rating: 52 dBA
- Compact and powerful
- Durable interior delivers top results at quieter run
- Comes with a range of Delay Start options
- Easy and quick installation
- ENERGY STAR® compliant
The Danby DDW621WDB is a 6-cycle countertop dishwasher with electronic front control and certified energy-saving run. This model is easy to install with the use of the quick connect system proven to be compatible with a wide range of faucets.
The interior is equipped with a long-lasting stainless steel tub and single spacious rack that accommodates 6 place settings. Further flexibility is provided by the eco silverware basket and cup shelf. During a cycle, the dispenser automatically releases detergent and rinse aid. To improve the final results of any chosen cycle, the filter and spray arm have been upgraded for more efficient cleaning.
This Danby dishwasher runs at 6 wash cycles: Soak, Glass, Rapid, Economy, Normal, and Intensive. All you energy-saving needs can be fulfilled by setting up the Normal cycle that draws only 3.1 gallons of water. You can freely schedule any cycle to start anytime in the 2-4-6-8 hour period with the Delay Start option.
Overall yearly energy consumption can be dramatically minimized by using this ENERGY STAR® compliant Danby dishwasher.
Compatible build and white exterior can fit most countertops and kitchen layouts, while the front electronic control panel with the easy-to-read LED display ensures fast and worry-free implementation.
In Conclusion
Which dishwasher cleans the best?
Most dishwashers tend to put out a consistent cleaning performance, so exactly what qualifies as ‘the best cleaning’ model comes down to your individual requirements.
Ultimately, to get the dishwasher that cleans best for the needs of average households, you might look for the combination of certain features like the power of dishwasher pump or motor, the number of spray arms as well as levels of utilization, and the enhanced racking system.
Dual pump, high pressure spray, and soil sensor dishwashers are the ones to consider for best cleaning results.
Is dishwasher worth buying?
While some people consider this appliance an unnecessary addition for their homes, dishwashers can improve any kitchen experience for large families or offices, making the cleaning hygienic and efficient.
Though for small families or those who live alone, there are plenty of reasonably-priced portable dishwashers available on the market. This is also true for dishwashers with isolated wash zone functions that lower energy consumption by running small dish loads for every half-load cycle.
How long should a dishwasher last?
According to most manufacturer guides, average dishwashers can last between 7 and 12 years. Normal lifespan amounts to somewhere between 9 and 10 years. The life cycle is determined not only by the brand and model of your dishwasher, but also by the way you utilize it which includes the frequency of heavy-duty usage and overall maintenance.
Whether it’s your home or office that needs a new dishwasher, the final choice should be determined by the main feature that your living or working setting calls for.
Remember that there is no need to take a gamble with anonymous models as there are a wide range of under $400 dishwashers from global brands. After all, it’s perfectly possible to find a top brand dishwasher with the golden ratio of affordability and efficiency.
