For many homeowners, the dishwasher is the most important appliance because it saves so much time. However, most people also want their dishwasher to look beautiful in the kitchen, operate without being disruptive, and effortlessly remove residue from dinnerware and silverware. If you’re like many conscientious buyers searching for a new dishwasher to put in a new build or replace a dishwasher, you may be considering Bosch due to the brand’s exceptional reputation for producing some of the best dishwashers out there.
When buying a Bosch dishwasher, you can expect to pay anywhere from $650 to $2,500 based on the model you choose. Prices vary within the product range based on loading capacity and special features. The This Old House Review Team has researched the best Bosch dishwashers carefully in order to highlight some of the top models within this brand’s lineup. Our best overall pick is the feature-rich Bosch Benchmark Series SHX89PW75N. This model impresses with adjustable rack space, excellent drying performance, and ultra-quiet operation. However, we also think that other models are worth taking a look at before you make your decision. Keep reading to see our reviews of popular Bosch dishwashers.
Best Bosch Dishwashers: Our Top 7 Picks
- Bosch Benchmark Series SHX89PW75N: Best Overall
- Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N: Best Front Control
- Bosch 500 Series Dishwasher SHP65CM5N: Most Flexible
- Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5N: Quietest Operation
- Bosch 300 Series SPE53B52UC: Best ADA-Compliant
- Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher SGV78C53UC: Best Built-In
- Bosch 100 Series Dishwasher SHE3AEE5N: Best Value
Compare Top Bosch Dishwashers
| Product | Sound Level | Finish Options | Place Settings Capacity | Number of Racks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Bosch Benchmark Series SHX89PW75NCheck Price | 38 dBA | Stainless steel | 15 | 3 |
Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86NCheck Price | 46 dBA | Stainless steel, black, white | 16 | 3 |
Bosch 500 Series Dishwasher SHP65CM5NCheck Price | 44 dBA | Stainless steel, black | 16 | 3 |
Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5NCheck Price | 38 dBA | Stainless steel, custom panel | 16 | 3 |
Bosch 300 Series SPE53B52UCCheck Price | 46 dBA | Stainless steel, black, white | 10 | 3 |
Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher SGV78C53UCCheck Price | 42 dBA | Stainless steel, custom panel | 15 | 3 |
Bosch 100 Series Dishwasher SHE3AEE5NCheck Price | 50 dBA | Stainless steel | 14 | 2 |
Terms To Know for Bosch Dishwashers
- Sound Level: Measured in dBA (A-weighted decibels), this tells you how loud the dishwasher is while running. Lower numbers are quieter.
- Place Settings Capacity: Refers to how many place settings can fit in the dishwasher at one time. One place setting is a plate, bowl, drinking glass, coffee cup, and silverware.
Best Overall
Bosch Benchmark Series SHX89PW75N
Good for: Someone who will settle for nothing less than clean, spotless dishes.
Standing out for being the only model in our review made in Germany, this unit from the Benchmark Series offers a third rack for flexible and robust loading options. Operating at just 38 decibels, this is one of the quietest dishwashers available. A built-in water softener helps to eliminate streaking and staining to leave dishes and glassware looking pristine. Water consumption per wash cycle is just 2.9 gallons.
Pros and Cons of Bosch Benchmark Series SHX89PW75N
- Has 6 wash programs and 6 special functions for customizable cleaning performance
- Uses Bosch’s energy-efficient PureDry drying technology
- The interior is outfitted with adjustable tines and convenient stemware holders for custom loading
- One of the most expensive Bosch models
- The recessed kickplate creates a gap where it meets the door
What People Are Saying About The Bosch Benchmark Series SHX89PW75N
Overall, this is a highly-rated Bosch dishwasher that gets nearly universal acclaim from reviewers. It earns points for its whisper-quiet performance and delivery of streak-free, perfectly cleaned items after every wash. Some reviewers have pointed out that the three-piece kickplate can make the dishwasher look different than expected after installation, and others had issues with the controls.
Best Front Control
Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N
Good for: Someone who wants easy-to-access controls.
With front-facing controls and smart connectivity via Wi-Fi, this is one of the easiest dishwashers to operate in the Bosch lineup. This dishwasher also offers a third rack for easy loading. Its recessed handle helps this dishwasher’s profile to disappear into your cabinets better compared to traditional bar-handle dishwashers. Unlike higher-end Bosch models that use condenser drying, this one uses heated drying.
Pros and Cons of Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N
- Controls are easy to use
- Adjustable tines and removable silverware basket make loading easy
- Attractive front panel makes this look like a very high-end appliance
- No light to indicate when load is done
- Narrower racks can make fitting wide glasses more difficult than expected
What People Are Saying About The Bosch 300 Series SHE53C86N
Overall, reviewers are in love with the high-end look and easy operation of this dishwasher. A few did find that it had some quirks that needed to be worked out before they could find the right settings.
Most Flexible
Bosch 500 Series Dishwasher SHP65CM5N
Good for: Someone who has been searching for a powerful, quiet dishwasher with a pocket handle.
A sleek design with hidden controls and a pocket handle helps to make this dishwasher blend into kitchen cabinets and match other home appliances. PrecisionWash technology allows you to track the progress of dishes during the cycle. In addition to offering a third rack, this dishwasher has a configuration that makes loading items of different shapes and sizes seem much easier.
Pros and Cons of Bosch 500 Series Dishwasher SHP65CM5N
- AutoAir feature pops open dishwasher at end of cycle to improve drying
- Offers the convenience of a handle without “bumping out” from cabinets
- Middle rack drops for taller glasses
- While the Wi-Fi connectivity is nice, some features can only be accessed via smart devices
- The touch buttons can be sensitive
What People Are Saying About The Bosch 500 Series Dishwasher SHP65CM5N
Overall, this dishwasher gets praise for its loading capacity and ability to get after caked-on debris. However, some reviewers have been left frustrated by the controls and HomeConnect app-based features that dominate the interface.
Quietest Operation
Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5N
Good for: A busy household where the dishwasher is always running.
With a sound level of just 38 decibels, this whisper-quiet dishwasher lets you get the dishes done without disrupting the whole house. Its sleek and unassuming design features a pocket handle, hidden top-control LCD display and heated drying. In addition to a durable, stainless steel tub, this dishwasher is also available in a panel-ready exterior.
Pros and Cons of Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5N
- Is one of the quietest models available among dishwasher brands
- Adjustable tines and removable silverware basket make loading easy
- PowerControl spray arm cleans heavily soiled dishes on the bottom rack thoroughly
- Silverware rack feels small and slightly flimsy
- No light indicating when the cycle is complete
What People Are Saying About The Bosch Benchmark Series SHP9PCM5N
While reviewers are in love with the whisper-quiet performance of this dishwasher, a few did feel that the racks feel flimsy for such a high-end model.
Best ADA-Compliant
Bosch 300 Series SPE53B52UC
Good for: Someone needing a smaller dishwasher with easy-to-reach controls and features.
A shorter 32-inch design with highly visible and accessible controls makes this dishwasher appropriate for someone with accessibility issues. While this dishwasher is more compact than standard Bosch models, it still packs in a third rack. In addition to being the top pick for an ADA-compliant dishwasher, this model can work for anyone who simply needs a compact dishwasher for a tight kitchen.
Pros and Cons of Bosch 300 Series SPE53B52UC
- Front panel is easy to read and use
- Adjustable middle rack is great for accommodating different sizes of dishes
- Leaves dishes very clean
- Smaller capacity compared to standard-sized models
- While still quiet by any standard, this is one of the louder Bosch models
What People Are Saying About The Bosch 300 Series SPE53B52UC
Reviewers are overall very impressed by the strong performance of this compact dishwasher. While the consensus is that this design fits more than expected, some reviewers were frustrated that tall items couldn’t fit without blocking the spray arms, while others mentioned poor drying performance.
Best Built-In
Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher SGV78C53UC
Good for: Someone with an aesthetic kitchen who wants to hide appliances.
This dishwasher is designed to accommodate a custom panel that matches your kitchen cabinetry. Button controls are concealed on the top to keep the LCD display from being seen. While this dishwasher is designed for a bar handle, you’ll need to supply your own hardware that fits your aesthetic. This dishwasher accommodates up to 15 place settings.
Pros and Cons of Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher SGV78C53UC
- ENERGY STAR certified
- ADA compliant
- 24/7 AquaStop® Plus feature prevents and contains leaks that could ruin your cabinetry
- While quiet, it is louder than other high-end Bosch models
- Perfect installation is crucial to make this unit compatible with countertops
What People Are Saying About The Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher SGV78C53UC
The overall consensus on this Bosch model is that it’s “worth it,” citing excellent cleaning performance, quiet operation, and ease of loading. Most issues shared by reviewers had to do with the complexity of installing a built-in model, while some felt that loading dishes was not as intuitive as expected.
Best Value
Bosch 100 Series Dishwasher SHE3AEE5N
Good for: Someone looking for an affordable dishwasher without feeling like they’ve settled.
This budget Bosch model still features the same impressive capacity and strong cleaning performance as high-end models with some scaled-down bells and whistles. The recessed handle makes this model nearly indistinguishable from more expensive Bosch dishwashers at first glance.
Pros and Cons of Bosch 100 Series Dishwasher SHE3AEE5N
- Stemware holders and removable silverware basket make good use of space
- Front control is discreet and easy to use
- Anti-fingerprint stainless steel ensures that this budget design can stay beautiful
- Difficult to place pots and pans in the racks
- Doesn’t have true whisper-quiet performance
What People Are Saying About The Bosch 100 Series Dishwasher SHE3AEE5N
While reviewers are pleased by the ability to get a Bosch dishwasher at such an affordable price, some reviewers were less than dazzled by the drying power and hard-to-load configuration.
What Do You Need To Know Before Buying a Bosch Dishwasher?
A dishwasher’s design can dramatically impact the flow of your kitchen. When selecting the best Bosch dishwasher, it’s important to pay attention to a few design features that can affect just how convenient you find doing the dishes every day. Here’s what you need to know.
Type
One of the details that will impact how you interact with your dishwasher the most is its control interface. The two designs to choose from are top-control and front-control interfaces. Take a look at what each one offers.
Top-Control
A top-control interface on a dishwasher is designed to be concealed when the dishwasher door is closed. That means that you’ll need to pull down the door to interact with the control panel. The benefit of a top-control dishwasher is that you don’t have to look at the control buttons or LCD display.
Front-Control
With a front-control dishwasher, all of the controls are visible on the front panel. You don’t need to open the door of the dishwasher to access your panels. While some people prefer the ease of this design, the look can be less “sleek” compared to top-control dishwashers. There is also the risk of accidentally pressing buttons on the dishwasher while moving around the kitchen.
Built-In
A built-in dishwasher is an aesthetic option that is designed to blend in with your cabinets. Choosing this option takes special planning because you will need to either build or order a custom cabinet panel that attaches to the front of your stainless-steel dishwasher. Built-in dishwashers have top-control panels that remain hidden until the door is opened.
Noise Level
Noise levels on dishwashers are measured in A-weighted decibels, which is how loud something sounds to the human ear. With Bosch, every model offers quiet performance. However, people who are particular about sounds should focus on whisper-quiet models that make nearly undetectable sounds. Bosch’s 38-decibel dishwasher is considered the quietest in the industry.
Design
The biggest aesthetic feature of a modern dishwasher is the handle. Most dishwashers feature a classic bar handle that protrudes slightly. While a bar handle is great for easy grasping, it does visibly “bump out” from the cabinet line. A pocket handle is an indented handle that is more discreet.
Energy Efficiency
The good news is that all Bosch models are exceedingly efficient, with most of them earning the ENERGY STAR distinction. When shopping for Bosch models, be sure to look for the kilowatt hours used per year. Most models in the lineup use just 200 to 300 kilowatt hours annually.
Extra Features
One thing that makes Bosch impressive is that this manufacturer loads most of its special features into models at all price tiers. However, it’s important to know what you can or can’t live with as you look at different price points. Here’s a rundown of the big features to consider.
Smart Features
Bosch now integrates Wi-Fi and smart features into all of its dishwashers. That means that you can monitor cycles, time cleanings, and control settings from your smart device. Some people do feel frustrated by their inability to select certain features from the dishwasher control panel.
Adjustable Third Rack
Many models have an adjustable third rack. All Bosch third-rack dishwashers provide extra space and flexibility for adding ramekins, measuring cups, odd-sized bowls, and flatware.
Interior Light
Don’t be alarmed if your new Bosch is displaying a red light. Bosch dishwashers are so quiet that the manufacturer decided to install something called InfoLight® in certain models. Designed to let you know that your dishwasher is actually running, this feature projects a red light on your floor. Prioritize this one if you’re worried about accidentally opening a dishwasher while it’s still cycling through.
Water Softener
If your home has hard water, selecting a dishwasher with a built-in water softener is important for getting rid of streaking and cloudiness. Many people blame streaks and mineral deposits on their dishwashers not working properly. In reality, you may just need to switch to softened water.
Tips for Setting Up a New Dishwasher
The day your new dishwasher arrives is always exciting. These tips will ensure that you can install your new dishwasher correctly.
Take Advantage of Professional Installation
Most retailers offer professional installation services with delivery. Take advantage of this option to ensure that your dishwasher performs to the manufacturer’s standards. Improper installation could result in damage to the dishwasher. It can also lead to leaks that can damage your kitchen.
Choose the Right Installation Spot for Your Dishwasher
Beyond selecting the right size for your dishwasher to ensure it will fit where you plan for it to go, dishwashers need a hot water connection. Generally, this connection comes from your kitchen sink. That’s why it’s recommended that you install your dishwasher along the same wall as your sink.
Make Plans for Necessary Electrical Work
Most dishwashers sold today come with power cords that can be plugged into outlets. That means you’ll need to have an outlet available if this is the option you’re choosing. If you select a model that needs to be hardwired, you’ll likely need an electrician to set up the connection for you. Always read the manufacturer’s manual closely before selecting a new dishwasher to ensure you’re getting the option you want.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bosch Dishwashers
What do place settings mean in a dishwasher?
Place settings describe a dishwasher’s capacity. A single place setting consists of a plate, bowl, drinking glass, coffee cup, and silverware. A standard full-sized dishwasher should hold between 10 and 16 place settings.
How long is Bosch’s warranty on dishwashers?
Bosch dishwasher warranties for parts and labor last one year, but you can also purchase an extended warranty for your Bosch dishwasher.
How do you reset a Bosch dishwasher?
To reset most Bosch appliances, press the Start button for 3 to 5 seconds. This should clear your settings.
How does Bosch’s PureDry work?
PureDry is an energy-efficient closed drying system that dries dishes without pulling in outside air or using an exposed heating element. Moisture is instead whisked away from dishes while they cool. PureDry is much better for plastics compared to traditional drying, since they can be placed on any rack without fear of melting.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of Bosch dishwashers with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final short list, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.