Top 3 Highly Rated Countertop Dishwashers

Some links may generate a commission on purchases.

In America, everything seems to be larger—it’s the fourth largest country by area, and the phrase “go big or go home” reflects this mentality. While things like meal sizes, vehicles, and residences are expansive, many Americans live in smaller accommodations such as apartments, studios, and cottages. The current rental rate is at its highest since 1965. Numerous individuals do not have room for a built-in dishwasher or are limited by rental agreements that restrict installation.

If you find yourself in a dishwasher-less situation and are weary of washing dishes by hand, it may be worth considering a countertop dishwasher. These compact appliances are designed for small kitchens and usually connect to the kitchen faucet with a hose. Although they typically have a smaller capacity than traditional dishwashers, they provide a convenient way to ease the burden of cleaning up. Prices can range from approximately $200 to $600, based on their size and features. Here are three top-rated models that you should consider.

For those with sufficient countertop space, the Danby countertop dishwasher is frequently highlighted as a top pick, including recommendations from Good Housekeeping. It stands taller than many counterparts, so measuring your available space before purchasing is advisable. It accommodates up to six place settings and includes a silverware basket. The stainless-steel interior offers eight wash cycles, including Eco and Baby Bottle options. Its standard cycle requires slightly over three gallons of water, and the appliance connects to the kitchen faucet using the provided hose and adapter.

Good Housekeeping appreciates the physical buttons with indicator lights for clear operational feedback when scheduling cycles. The unit features a delay start option with increments of 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours, along with a countdown display. Users have noted its quiet operation and effective washing performance, although the unit weighs 44 pounds, which might complicate relocation. Currently, this Danby model is priced around $400 on Amazon.

If you have limited space and a tight budget, the Comfee dishwasher consistently receives accolades as a great option. It’s compact enough to accommodate up to four large dinner plates on an adjustable rack, making it ideal for small living spaces or RVs. A standout feature is its 1.5-gallon water tank, allowing you to use it without connecting to a sink. For convenience, it also comes with a quick-connect water hose.

This Comfee model offers five wash settings, including a rapid clean and a special mode for washing fruit. The door automatically opens post-wash, aiding in drying. Reviews from Serious Eats indicate that it leaves dishes “spotlessly clean and dry”. While a bit hefty and bulky, as noted by The Spruce, it performs well and is manageable in terms of draining and cleaning. The current price for this unit is around $325 on Amazon.

Good Housekeeping has awarded the Hava R01 model its top rating for sanitization, making it an excellent choice for new parents looking to minimize baby-specific equipment. This compact dishwasher can be attached to a faucet but also features its own water reservoir, allowing versatile placement. It accommodates four place settings and includes a cutlery tray. Wash settings feature a Heavy/Baby Care cycle and an included fruit basket for rinsing produce.

The Baby Care mode operates at elevated temperatures to disinfect baby bottles or dishes. This machine also includes a drying feature and provides 72 hours of automatic ventilation to avert odors. The Spruce named it as the best overall option, praising its washing capability and clear instructions. However, some users reported that it is noisier than other models, and some faced challenges attaching the hose to their faucet.