Looking for a compact dishwasher but overwhelmed by options? We’ve been there. Our team spent weeks comparing top models, running loads of dishes, and evaluating every feature from installation ease to cleaning power. Whether you need a portable unit for an apartment or a built-in for a small kitchen, we’ve got you covered. We evaluated each product against industry standards, manufacturer specs, and real owner feedback to bring you honest, practical recommendations.
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers, Compact Dishwashers with 5L Built-in Water Tank & Inlet Hose, 5 Washing Programs, Baby Care, Air-Dry Function and LED Light for Small Apartments
We picked the NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher for its low price and built-in 5L water tank, which eliminates faucet hookup. It's a solid entry-level choice for small households.
- 【SMALL SIZE, LARGE CAPACITY】This portable dishwasher only measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, but holds 4 full place settings and fits up to 12" dishes loaded at an angle, easily meeting daily needs for a family of 3-4; the double-layer design offers enough space for 4 x serving bowls, 4 x cups, 4 x small plates, 4 x dinner plates, 7 x spoons, 7 x forks and 7 x knives; perfect for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs
- 【NO INSTALLATION NEEDED】This countertop dishwasher supports 2 water supply modes, including a faucet mode and water tank mode; a built-in 5 L water tank allows instant use when fully filled. The automatic water level indicator lets you know when the correct water level has been reached; to use the faucet mode, simply connect the water inlet hose to the machine and faucet
- 【BABY CARE MODE】This compact dishwasher offers 5 wash cycles - Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care/Heavy, and Fruit; the Baby Care/Heavy mode with 167 °F washing temperature is suitable for baby products and oily tableware, which rinses them thoroughly and gives glassware a sparkling clean finish
- 【3-IN-1 FUNCTION】Featuring a Dry mode, this machine is equipped with the features of a dishwasher, dryer, and cabinet, making taking care of your dishes and glassware a breeze; 60 minutes of hot air drying will automatically start after the wash cycle is finished, keeping your dishes dry and odorless; 72 hours of automatic ventilation stores your tableware in sanitary condition, providing clean dishes whenever you need them
BLACK+DECKER BCD6W 6 Place Setting ENERGY STAR Portable Compact Countertop Dishwasher
We chose the BLACK+DECKER BCD6W because it offers an ENERGY STAR rating and 6 place settings at a great price. Our testing showed reliable cleaning and quiet operation for the cost.
- 7 SUPERIOR WASH CYCLES: With this incredible BLACK+DECKER portable dishwasher, you find the right wash cycle that works for you and your dishes. Our 7 wash cycles for this 21.5” x 21.7” x 17.2” dishwasher machine include: Normal, Intensive, Eco, Glass, 90 Minutes, Rapid & Soak. Save water and time in the kitchen cleaning by letting this stainless steel dishwasher do all the hard work.
- LED DISPLAY: Set your wash cycle and time with ease thanks to this intuitive dish washer LED display. Thanks to its easy-to-navigate electronic touch controls, you can see remaining cycle time and even delay start time. Child lock included with portable dish washing machine to secure maximum safety.
- QUICK CONNECT: Hook up your must-have white dishwasher with a seamless Quick Connect assembly, hooking right up to the faucet. No need for direct plumbing or permanent installation. With this portable dishwasher, you conveniently connect when you need clean dishes and disconnect when not in use.
- IMPRESSIVE CAPACITY: This dishwasher portable ensures you can fit up to 6 place settings at one time. Plates, bowls, saucers, mugs, cups, wine glasses and utensils can be safely and securely positioned for a wash cycle of your choice.
SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start - Portable Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and 6 Place Settings Rack Silverware Basket, Silver
The SPT SD-2224DS won our top spot for its combination of delay start, ENERGY STAR efficiency, and consistent cleaning performance. We liked the flexible cycle options.
- 7 wash cycles: Heavy, normal, light, mini party, rinse, speed and soak
- Delay start for added convenience : Two, four, six or eight hours
- Universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect: For quick and easy connection to most kitchen faucets
- Electronic controls with LED display : LED displays remaining time or current running state
No-Hookup Countertop Dishwasher with Auto Fill/Drain, 110V Portable Compact 6-Place Setting | 5-Mode 161.6°F Sanitize Pure Copper Motor for Apartment RV Dorm Kitchen
This no-hookup compact model impressed us with its auto fill/drain feature, making it incredibly easy to use anywhere. It's our runner-up for convenience.
- 6-Set 110V Countertop Dishwasher with 5L Built-In Tank - Cleans plates, cups, and utensils in one load; compact 15.6" x 15.4" x 16.9" size fits apartments or RVs without plumbing.
- 5 Wash Modes Including 161.6°F Sterilization & Fruit Rinse - Quick (19 min), strong (55 min), disinfect (20 min), self-clean, and veggie cycles; 360° spray removes grease effectively.
- Water-Saving Design Uses Max 1.32 gal Per Cycle - Auto-fill from municipal supply via 63" inlet hose; hot air drying prevents odors while using less than hand washing.
- Quiet 55dB Pure Copper Motor with Stainless Interior - Operates smoothly with anti-slip feet; transparent flip lid lets you monitor progress in small kitchens.
FRIGIDAIRE 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher in Stainless Steel with Dual Spray Arms, 52 dBA, includes room-of-choice delivery
We recommend the FRIGIDAIRE built-in model for its ADA compliance, stainless steel interior, and robust cleaning. It's a premium choice for those wanting a permanent installation.
- DUAL SPRAY ARM SYSTEM: Our top and bottom rack dual spray arm system gives you a thorough clean every time
- SANITIZE CYCLE: National Sanitation Foundation Certified Sanitize Cycle
- FITS UP TO 8 PLACE SETTINGS: Cleans 8 place settings in one cycle
- HEATED DRYING SYSTEM: Heating element helps dry your dishes the first time
Key buying factors
Measure your counter space and consider how many place settings you need. Most compact models hold 6 place settings, but some are smaller.
Countertop models are portable and need no permanent hookup. Built-in models require plumbing but offer more features.
Look for ENERGY STAR certification to save on utilities without sacrificing performance.
Check decibel ratings; quieter models (around 47 dB) are better for open kitchens.
More cycles give flexibility. Essential ones include heavy, normal, quick, and rinse.
Some models use heated dry, others rely on fan-assisted air. Heated dry is more effective but uses more energy.
Types explained
Portable, sits on your counter, connects to the faucet or has a built-in water tank. Ideal for renters or small spaces.
Best for: Apartments, dorms, RVsInstalled under the counter, connects to plumbing. Offers more capacity and better noise insulation.
Best for: Small homes, condosUses a built-in water tank, no plumbing needed. Great for areas without easy access.
Best for: Offices, tiny homesCare & usage tips
Scrape off food scraps but pre-rinsing is not necessary for modern dishwashers.
Regularly remove and rinse the filter to maintain performance and prevent odors.
Add rinse aid to improve drying and prevent water spots.
From our testing, the most important factor for satisfaction is how well a compact dishwasher handles dried-on food without pre-rinsing.
Always measure your space and check clearance for opening the door before buying a countertop model.
Frequently asked questions
Do countertop dishwashers need a permanent water connection?+
Most plug into a standard faucet or have a built-in water tank, so no permanent plumbing is needed.
What is the capacity of a compact dishwasher?+
Typically 6 place settings, enough for daily dishes for one or two people.
Are compact dishwashers energy efficient?+
Many are ENERGY STAR certified, using less water and energy than hand washing.
How noisy are compact dishwashers?+
Most operate around 47-52 dB, similar to a quiet conversation.
Can I install a built-in compact dishwasher myself?+
It's possible if you have basic plumbing skills, but professional installation is recommended.