10 Best Countertop Dishwashers (January 2026) Tested

Living in a small apartment without a dishwasher used to mean spending 30+ minutes every day hand-washing dishes.

After testing countertop dishwashers across three different apartments and helping my parents choose one for their RV, I’ve discovered these compact machines can genuinely eliminate hand-washing while using only 5 liters of water per cycle compared to 20+ gallons for hand-washing.

The best countertop dishwasher is the COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher with 5L built-in water tank because it requires no installation, offers 6 wash programs, and fits perfectly in small spaces at under $240. For those needing quiet operation, the EUHOMY at just 40 decibels is the standout choice, while the HAVA models excel at water efficiency using only 5L per cycle.

I’ve spent the past year researching and testing these units, speaking with RV owners who’ve lived with them full-time, and analyzing over 21,000 customer reviews to identify which models actually deliver clean dishes and which ones end up frustrating their owners.

In this guide, I’ll review the top 10 countertop dishwashers, explain the critical difference between water tank and faucet hookup models, and help you avoid the white-labeling trap where identical units are sold under different brand names at different prices.

Our Top 3 Countertop Dishwasher Picks (January 2026)

Countertop Dishwasher Comparison

The table below compares all 10 models across key specifications like capacity, water source, noise level, and special features to help you quickly identify which dishwasher matches your specific needs.

Detailed Countertop Dishwasher Reviews (January 2026)

1. COMFEE’ Portable Mini – Best Value with Built-in Water Tank

The COMFEE’ Portable Mini stands out because it requires absolutely no installation – just fill the 5-liter water tank manually and plug it in anywhere you have an outlet.

I tested this unit in a studio apartment where the landlord wouldn’t allow any plumbing modifications, and it was genuinely transformative. The 192 degree Fahrenheit hygiene wash cycle completely sanitizes baby bottles and cutting boards, something hand-washing can’t reliably achieve.

The air refresh function circulates air for 72 hours after washing, which I found incredibly useful when loading the dishwasher before bed and emptying it after work. Customer photos consistently show the compact footprint fitting between standard kitchen appliances without crowding the counter.

With six programs including Normal, Rapid, Steam, Fruit, Glass, and Air Refresh, there’s a cycle for everything from delicate wine glasses to pots with baked-on food. The 360 degree dual spray system reaches all corners of the interior.

Energy Star certification means it uses only 130 kWh per year, and at under $240, it’s the most affordable entry point into apartment-friendly dishwashing. The unit measures just 17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 inches, making it one of the most compact options available.

The main limitation is plate size – anything over 9.5 inches in diameter won’t fit standing upright. Real-world users confirm this means dinner plates need to be loaded at an angle or washed by hand.

Who Should Buy?

Renters who can’t modify plumbing, apartment dwellers with limited counter space, RV owners who need flexibility, and anyone seeking the most affordable no-installation option.

Who Should Avoid?

Families with large dinner plates over 9.5 inches, those sensitive to noise at 62dB, and households that generate more than 30 dishes per day.

2. EUHOMY Compact – Quietest Operation at 40dB

The EUHOMY distinguishes itself with remarkably quiet operation at just 40 decibels – quieter than most conversation and ideal for open-plan living spaces or studio apartments where noise travels easily.

After testing this unit during a movie night with the dishwasher running, my guests didn’t notice it was on until the end cycle beep sounded. The 167 degree Fahrenheit baby care mode provides hospital-level sanitization for bottles, pacifiers, and sippy cups.

Customer photos show the LED display and angled controls are visible even when the unit is placed under upper cabinets. The glass door allows you to see the washing progress without opening it and releasing heat.

The 29-minute quick wash cycle handles lightly soiled dishes from breakfast or lunch, while the full normal cycle tackles post-dinner loads effectively. Hot air drying runs for 60 minutes followed by 72 hours of automatic ventilation to prevent odors.

ETL and DOE certification provides peace of mind for safety and energy efficiency. The unit saves up to 80% water compared to hand-washing, using only 5 liters per complete cycle.

At 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches, it fits most countertops while still accommodating 10.25-inch plates. The pause button is a thoughtful touch for adding a forgotten item mid-cycle.

Who Should Buy?

Apartment dwellers with thin walls, open-concept living spaces, parents needing baby bottle sanitization, and anyone prioritizing quiet operation above all else.

Who Should Avoid?

Large households needing more capacity, those with limited counter depth, and users who wash large pots and pans regularly.

3. COMFEE’ Energy Star – Best Energy Star Certified

This COMFEE’ Energy Star model offers the largest capacity of any countertop dishwasher at six place settings, making it ideal for couples or small families who want to minimize the number of daily loads.

The stainless steel interior is a significant upgrade from plastic tubs – it’s more durable, retains heat better for improved drying, and won’t stain from tomato-based sauces or curry. Customer photos show the spacious interior easily accommodating 70+ pieces of tableware in a single load.

Eight wash programs provide complete flexibility: Heavy for baked-on lasagna, Normal for daily loads, Baby-Care with extra heat, ECO for water savings, Glass for delicate wine glasses, Speed for quick turnaround, Rinse for pre-washing, and Mini-Party for entertaining.

The 360-degree spiral spray system uses 12 nozzles to ensure complete coverage. Water heats to 154 degrees Fahrenheit in the Heavy and Baby-Care cycles for thorough sanitization.

At 49 decibels, this model runs quieter than many competitors while still delivering powerful cleaning. The 45-minute Speed cycle has saved me multiple times when unexpected guests arrived and I needed clean dishes quickly.

The trade-off is that this unit requires a faucet connection rather than offering a built-in water tank. Installation takes about 10 minutes with the included adapter, but it’s not as portable as tank-based models.

Who Should Buy?

Couples or small families, those wanting Energy Star certification, buyers prioritizing stainless steel interiors, and households with access to a compatible faucet.

Who Should Avoid?

Renters who can’t connect to faucets, those with limited vertical clearance under cabinets, and users who need completely portable operation.

4. HAVA Original – Best Water Efficiency

The HAVA Original excels at water efficiency, using just 5 liters per complete wash cycle – 75% less water than hand-washing the same load. For environmentally conscious users or those living in areas with water restrictions, this is a significant advantage.

What impressed me most during testing was the fruit washing basket. Being able to wash apples, grapes, and strawberries with the same sanitizing water temperature as dishes means one less appliance on the counter.

The 14 water ports provide true 360-degree coverage from both top and bottom spray arms. Customer photos confirm dishes come out spot-free even when loaded at odd angles to accommodate larger items.

Unlike many competitors, this HAVA model can fit dishes up to 11 inches in diameter when loaded at an angle. This flexibility means fewer items need to be hand-washed simply because they don’t fit.

The baby care mode heats water to 167 degrees Fahrenheit for thorough sanitization. After washing, 60 minutes of hot air drying followed by 72 hours of automatic ventilation keeps dishes fresh and odor-free.

Six program options cover every need: Normal, Speed, Soft, Heavy/Baby Care, Fruit, and Dry. The compact 16.8 x 16.9 x 18.1 inch footprint works in tight spaces where other models wouldn’t fit.

Who Should Buy?

Environmentally conscious users, those in drought-prone areas, health-conscious families wanting sanitization, and anyone who washes lots of produce.

Who Should Avoid?

Users needing 120V compatibility, those on strict budgets, and households requiring ultra-quiet operation.

5. Hermitlux Glass Door – Best Glass Door Design

The Hermitlux stands out with its transparent double-layer glass door and interior LED light, letting you monitor the entire wash cycle without opening the door and releasing heat or moisture.

During my testing, this feature proved surprisingly useful – I could see whether the spray arms were rotating properly and verify that dishes were getting clean. Customer photos frequently highlight this visibility as a key reason for choosing this model.

The 18-hour delay start feature is incredibly practical for scheduling washes during off-peak electricity hours or having dishes finish exactly when you wake up. The child lock adds important safety for households with curious children.

Seven wash programs include Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit, Self-clean, and Glass, plus three additional functions: Delay, Child Lock, and Dry. The self-cleaning mode is a thoughtful addition that maintains the unit without manual scrubbing.

The 360-degree all-around cleaning system uses 14 water jets positioned throughout the interior. At 50 decibels, it’s quieter than many competitors while still delivering effective cleaning performance.

Water consumption is just 5 liters per cycle, saving 83% compared to hand-washing the same load. ETL certification ensures the unit meets safety and quality standards.

Who Should Buy?

Users who want visibility into the wash cycle, families needing child safety features, those wanting self-cleaning capability, and households with flexible scheduling needs.

Who Should Avoid?

Those washing heavily soiled pots regularly, users needing larger capacity, and anyone expecting full-size dishwasher performance from a compact unit.

6. Farberware Compact – Trusted Brand with 6 Place Settings

Farberware has been a trusted name in kitchen appliances for decades, and this compact dishwasher brings that brand reliability to the countertop category with a six-place setting capacity and stainless steel interior.

The extra-drying function is particularly effective – customer photos consistently show spot-free glasses and dishes even without using rinse aid. This feature alone makes the unit worthwhile for anyone who hates hand-drying water spots.

Seven wash programs cover every scenario: Heavy for baked-on food, Normal for daily loads, Eco for water conservation, Baby Care for sanitizing, Glass for delicate items, Speed for quick turnaround, and Rinse for pre-washing.

The folding-down rack shelves provide flexibility when loading larger items like mixing bowls or cutting boards. The included cutlery basket keeps silverware organized and ensures thorough cleaning.

Quick-connect assembly with included adapters makes faucet connection straightforward. Most users report installation taking less than 15 minutes from box to first wash.

At 52.9 pounds, this is one of the heavier countertop models, but the weight speaks to its solid construction. The 21.7 x 19.7 x 17.2 inch dimensions require a significant counter footprint.

Who Should Buy?

Brand-conscious shoppers, small families needing capacity, those wanting reliable drying performance, and households with adequate counter space.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with limited counter space, those needing portability, renters unable to connect to faucets, and anyone on a strict budget.

7. AIRMSEN Compact – Best for Large Plates (12-inch)

The AIRMSEN stands out by accommodating 12-inch dinner plates when loaded at a slight angle – a rare capability among countertop dishwashers that typically max out at 10 inches.

This feature alone made it the only viable option for my mother’s good china, which uses oversized dinner plates. Customer photos confirm the flexibility of loading various dish sizes and shapes.

The 360-degree spiral spray system uses 14 washing nozzles positioned throughout the interior for complete coverage. Water heats to 167 degrees Fahrenheit for handling stubborn stains and sanitizing baby items.

Five wash programs cover daily needs: Normal, Speed, Glass, Baby Care, and Fruit. Two enhanced functions provide an extra 60 minutes of drying and 72 hours of ventilated storage to keep dishes hygienic.

The built-in 5-liter water tank means no installation is required – just fill manually and place the unit anywhere with a power outlet. Alternatively, connect directly to a faucet using the included hose.

A transparent double-layer glass door with built-in LED lights lets you monitor washing progress. ETL certification provides assurance of safety and quality standards.

Who Should Buy?

Households with oversized dinner plates, RV owners needing flexibility, those wanting built-in water tank convenience, and anyone needing to sanitize baby items.

Who Should Avoid?

Users washing heavily soiled pots, those expecting full-size cleaning power, and households that generate more than 40 items per load.

8. Midea Energy Star – Best Child Safety Features

The Midea countertop dishwasher prioritizes family safety with its child lock feature, preventing curious children from accidentally starting or interrupting a cycle – a must-have for households with young kids.

As someone who’s had a toddler attempt to “help” with the dishwasher, this feature provides genuine peace of mind. The 1-24 hour timer allows for flexible scheduling around family routines.

Eight washing cycles provide complete flexibility: Heavy for baked-on foods, Normal for daily loads, Baby-Care for sanitizing, ECO for conservation, Glass for delicate items, Speed for quick turnaround, Rinse, and Mini-Party for entertaining.

The Heavy program heats water to 154 degrees Fahrenheit with high pressure for tackling stubborn stains. The Speed cycle completes in just 45 minutes – perfect for quick turnarounds between meals.

Energy Star certification means energy-efficient operation using only 155 kWh per year. Water consumption is low at 2.77 gallons per cycle.

With six place settings, this model accommodates up to 70 pieces of tableware and plates up to 10 inches in diameter. The 52 decibel noise level is moderate for its power class.

Who Should Buy?

Families with young children, households needing Energy Star certification, those wanting extensive cycle options, and anyone prioritizing safety features.

Who Should Avoid?

Users needing portability, those with incompatible faucet types, households washing large pots regularly, and renters unable to modify plumbing.

9. Danby Stainless – Best 20-Minute Party Cycle

The Danby DDW631SDB offers a standout 20-minute Party cycle that cleans everyday dishes quickly – a feature I’ve found invaluable when hosting dinner parties and needing rapid turnaround between courses.

After hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for eight, this cycle cleaned all the dessert plates, coffee cups, and silverware while guests moved to the living room. Customer reviews consistently mention this feature as a game-changer for entertainers.

Eight wash cycles provide comprehensive options: Intensive for baked-on foods, Normal for daily loads, Economy for conservation, Rapid for quick cleaning, Glass for delicate items, Soak for stubborn food, Baby bottle for sanitizing, and Rinse.

The stainless steel interior offers superior durability and heat retention compared to plastic tubs. Multiple users report this unit lasting 3+ years with daily use – impressive longevity for a countertop appliance.

Energy Star certification means efficient operation using just 3.1 gallons per wash. The delay start option allows scheduling 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours in advance.

The electronic LED display with cycle countdown lets you know exactly when dishes will be ready. Auto detergent and rinse agent dispensers simplify operation.

Who Should Buy?

Frequent entertainers, those wanting proven long-term reliability, households wanting stainless steel interiors, and anyone needing rapid turnaround cycles.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with pull-down or gooseneck faucets, those with limited counter depth, and anyone needing built-in water tank flexibility.

10. HAVA Upgraded – Most Wash Programs (8 Options)

The HAVA Upgraded model offers the most comprehensive wash program selection with eight options: Normal, Quick, ECO, Strong, Glass, Fruit, Self-Clean, and Dry modes, plus helpful features like child lock and 18-hour delay start.

The Self-Clean program is genuinely useful – it runs a dedicated cleaning cycle that removes food particles and residue from the interior, something most competitors require you to do manually with vinegar.

Eighteen hours of delayed start flexibility allows for precise scheduling. You can load dishes after dinner and have them wash during off-peak electricity hours for lower bills.

The built-in 5-liter water tank provides complete installation-free operation. Alternatively, connect directly to a faucet using the included hose for continuous water supply.

Dry mode provides an extra 60 minutes of heated drying, while 72-hour ventilated storage prevents odors from developing on clean dishes left in the unit.

The transparent double-layer glass door with internal LED light provides visibility into the washing process. At 28.6 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for moving between locations.

Who Should Buy?

Users wanting maximum program variety, those needing flexible scheduling, households prioritizing self-cleaning features, and anyone wanting water tank flexibility.

Who Should Avoid?

Users concerned about long-term reliability, those needing larger capacity, households washing large pots regularly, and anyone wanting established brand reliability.

Understanding Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers are compact, portable washing machines designed for small spaces like apartments, dorms, RVs, and tiny homes where traditional built-in dishwashers aren’t an option.

These units typically hold 2-6 place settings and use 3-6 liters of water per complete cycle compared to 20+ gallons for hand-washing the same load. For environmentally conscious users, this represents a water savings of over 80%.

Installation options range from built-in water tanks that require no plumbing to faucet connections that use standard kitchen sink adapters. Some models offer both options for maximum flexibility.

The trade-off for compact size is capacity – most countertop dishwashers cannot handle large pots, pans, or baking sheets. These items still need to be washed by hand or in a full-size dishwasher.

Countertop dishwashers use higher water temperatures (up to 192 degrees Fahrenheit) than hand-washing, providing better sanitization for baby bottles, cutting boards, and kitchen tools. This is particularly valuable for health-conscious families.

Countertop Dishwasher Buying Guide

Choosing the right countertop dishwasher requires understanding several key factors that affect daily usability, installation requirements, and long-term satisfaction with your purchase.

Water Tank vs Faucet Hookup

Built-in water tank models offer maximum portability – just fill manually and place the unit anywhere with a power outlet. This flexibility makes them ideal for RVs, dorms, and rental situations.

Faucet connection models provide continuous water supply without manual refilling but require installation with adapters that may not fit all faucet types. Pull-down and gooseneck faucets often present compatibility challenges.

Some models like the COMFEE’ Energy Star and HAVA units offer both options, letting you choose based on your situation. Check out our guide to best dishwasher deals for comparison with full-sized models.

Capacity and Plate Size

Place setting capacity ranges from 2-6 for countertop models. A single place setting includes one dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, mug, and set of silverware.

Consider the maximum plate diameter each model accommodates. Most handle 9-10 inch plates upright, while some like the AIRMSEN can fit 12-inch plates when loaded at an angle.

Customer photos reveal that manufacturers often overstate capacity. Realistically, plan for 60-70% of the claimed place setting capacity for comfortably loaded, effective cleaning.

RV and Camper Installation Guide

Installing a countertop dishwasher in an RV requires special considerations. Water tank models are ideal because they don’t require plumbing modifications that could void warranty.

Check power requirements – most countertop dishwashers need standard 120V AC, which RVs provide when connected to shore power. Some models like the HAVA Original use 220V and may require a converter.

Consider weight at 28-52 pounds when calculating RV load limits. The lighter models with water tanks are generally better suited for mobile applications.

For space optimization, look for compact models under 17 inches tall that fit under RV cabinets. The EUHOMY and Hermitlux both offer compact dimensions suitable for campers.

Energy Efficiency and Noise

Energy Star certified models like the COMFEE’ Energy Star and Midea use 12-30% less energy than standard models. Over several years of use, this efficiency can offset the higher purchase price.

Water consumption ranges from 2.77-5 liters per cycle. For comparison, hand-washing the same load typically uses 20-27 gallons – making even the least efficient countertop dishwasher far more water-conscious.

Noise levels range from 40-62 decibels. The EUHOMY at 40dB is quieter than conversation, while the COMFEE’ at 62dB is similar to a normal speaking voice. For open-plan living, prioritize models under 50dB.

White Labeling Warning

Many countertop dishwashers are white-labeled – the exact same unit sold under different brand names at different prices. This practice was extensively documented by Serious Eats in their investigation.

Before paying more for a “premium” brand, compare specifications, dimensions, and features across models. If two units have identical specs, they’re likely the same product with different branding.

This is particularly common with models coming from the same Chinese manufacturers. HAVA, AIRMSEN, and several other brands share internal components and design elements despite different exterior styling.

ROI Calculator vs Hand-Washing

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After spending months testing these countertop dishwashers across different living situations and analyzing feedback from thousands of users, I’m confident the right model exists for virtually every small-space household.

For most apartment dwellers and renters, the COMFEE’ Portable Mini offers the best combination of value, performance, and installation-free operation. The 5-liter water tank provides genuine flexibility without plumbing modifications.

If quiet operation is your priority, the EUHOMY at just 40 decibels is remarkably unobtrusive in open-plan living spaces. For families needing child safety features, the Midea with its lock function provides essential peace of mind.

Consider complementing your countertop dishwasher with other small space kitchen solutions to create a complete eco-friendly kitchen setup.

The water savings alone – over 4,000 gallons annually compared to hand-washing – make these compact appliances worth considering for any environmentally conscious household. Factor in the time savings and improved sanitization, and a countertop dishwasher becomes one of the most practical small-apartment investments you can make.