Best Cheap Dishwashers in 2025 (Ranked by Value)
Looking for a dishwasher that doesn’t blow your budget or your eardrums? We reviewed dozens of budget models from major brands to highlight the best cheap dishwashers you can buy right now.
Prices change all the time. Always check today’s price at the retailer before buying. This page may contain affiliate links.
| Rank | Model | Type | Noise (dBA) | Typical Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Compact Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | 60 dBA | ~$350 | Apartments, renters, small kitchens |
| #2 | Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Portable Mini Dishwasher | Portable / Countertop | Low | ~$299 | Small spaces, RVs, dorms |
| #3 | Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | 52 dBA | ~$380 | Small families |
Top Budget Dishwashers
1. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Compact Countertop Dishwasher — Best For Compact Living
Ideal for: Apartments, renters, small kitchens.
Why it’s great: Super popular on Amazon, fits almost anywhere, and racks up thousands of purchases monthly. Excellent choice for compact living where space and price matter.
- Compact countertop design — fits small countertops
- Decent cleaning power for the size
- Simple controls, easy to use
Typical price listed here is an estimate—check the retailer for today’s price and availability.
2. Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Portable Mini Dishwasher — Best Portable Option
Ideal for: Small spaces, RVs, dorms—especially where hookups are limited.
Why it’s great: This Farberware model often ranks highly because it runs from a built-in water tank (no permanent hookup required), making it perfect for mobile or temporary living situations.
- Portable — good for non-permanent setups
- Built-in water tank option (no hookup needed)
- Affordable and simple to operate
Price and noise performance are competitive for the category.
3. Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher — Best For Small Families
Ideal for: Small families who want a reliable, quieter countertop dishwasher.
Why it’s great: Danby has a long reputation for durable compact dishwashers. This model performs well while remaining quiet compared with many budget countertop units.
- 52 dBA — relatively quiet for the class
- Good capacity for small households
- Noted for reliability and longevity
How We Pick the Best Cheap Dishwashers
- Real-world cleaning performance – how well it tackles baked-on food and full loads.
- Noise level – a few dBA quieter can make a big difference in small homes.
- Reliability & reviews – long-term owner feedback and common complaints.
- Energy and water use – cheap to buy and cheap to run.
- Overall value – we ignore overpriced “budget” models that do not justify their cost.
We also keep an eye on seasonal sales, where some mid-range models temporarily drop into “cheap” territory. Those are often the best buys because you get better hardware at a budget price.
Cheap vs. Expensive Dishwashers: What You Actually Give Up
As you move up in price, you mostly pay for:
- Quieter operation (low to mid-40s dBA)
- Fancier rack systems (third rack, sliding tines, more adjustability)
- Premium finishes and sleeker designs
- Extra smart features like Wi-Fi and app control
What you do not necessarily give up at the budget level is basic cleaning performance. Many cheap dishwashers still wash just fine as long as you choose a good model and run the right cycle.
Smart Tips for Buying a Budget Dishwasher
Measure Your Space
Always measure the spot where the dishwasher will go—especially for countertop or portable models. Fit matters most.
Check Water & Power
Ensure the location has proper water hookup and electrical outlet if needed. Some portable units run from faucet adapters or built-in tanks.
Read Reviews
Customer reviews reveal noise levels, reliability, and cleaning performance that specs alone don’t show. Focus on recent reviews.
Top Features to Look For in Budget Dishwashers
Quiet Operation
Even on a budget, some dishwashers run quieter than others. Look for noise ratings in the low 50s dBA if possible.
Energy Efficiency
Lower water and energy usage saves money long term, even if the upfront price is low.
Rack Flexibility
Adjustable racks or removable shelves help fit larger pots and pans without compromising small load efficiency.
Wash Options
Basic cycles like Normal, Heavy, and Quick are enough for most households. Extra modes are a bonus, not a necessity.