If you’re looking for a new dishwasher to help alleviate the burden of after-meal cleanup, then you should put your trust in two of the industry’s top-rated dishwasher brands: Bosch and KitchenAid. These two brands have both reached the pinnacle of dishwashing prowess with their high-end design and optimal dish care.
At a Glance:
Bosch vs KitchenAid Dishwashers [Comparison Chart]
Top Bosch Dishwasher Pick: Bosch 800 Series 24 Inch Dishwasher
Top KitchenAid Dishwasher Pick: KitchenAid 24 Inch Dishwasher with PrintShield Finish
Wash cycles, finish options, and rack displays are quite similar, whereas price, washing performance, and energy efficiency differ between each brand. For a complete breakdown and a list of some of our favorite dishwasher models, the experts at Albert Lee created this guide to help you make an informed decision when comparing Bosch vs KitchenAid dishwashers.
Comparing Bosch vs KitchenAid Dishwashers
KitchenAid was a top dishwasher brand well before Bosch became a household name; however, at a time where dishwashers were known for being noisy appliances, Bosch introduced the first ultra-quiet dishwasher. Over time, Bosch began to edge out KitchenAid in reliability, cleaning features, and drying, but KitchenAid still holds its own with an efficient set of features, loading options, and filtration settings.
To give you a better idea of the key similarities and differences, we wanted to examine one highly-rated dishwasher from each brand.
| Product Features | Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher | KitchenAid PrintShield Dishwasher | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,149 | $949 | |
| Sanitize Options | Yes | Yes | |
| Decibel Level (dbA) | 42 | 46 | |
| Handle Type | Recessed | Pocket Handle | |
| Smart Features | No | No | |
| Energy Star Certification | Yes | Yes | |
| Color/Finish | Black, white, stainless steel | Black, white, stainless steel, black stainless steel | |
| Drying Options | CrystalDry | Heat Dry | |
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 | 5 | |
| Rack Options | 3 racks | 2 racks | |
| Fingerprint-Resistant | No | Yes | |
| Place Settings | 16 | 14 | |
| Control Panel | Front Touch Control | Front Touch Control | |
| Sensor Wash | No | Yes | |
Now that we’ve set the stage with a quick comparison guide, let’s see what these brands have to offer.
Bosch Dishwashers Reviewed: A Brief Guide
Bosch dishwashers are categorized by different series, and each class type is separated by reliability and quality of features. The 100 and 300 series models are quite similar — the main difference is a greater variety of size options with the 300 series. Once you get into the 500 and 800 series models, you’ll notice much richer features.
The 500 series dishwasher introduces more wash cycles and features such as AquaStop Leak Protection and Delay Start. The 800 series dishwashers have premium features with many models including WiFi connectivity and CrystalDry, along with the lowest decibel ratings and custom finish options.
Standout features:
- Bosch is the Quietest Dishwasher Brand in the U.S. with decibel levels ranging from 42 to 50 dBA.
- Because the wash cycle is so quiet, the InfoLight shines on the floor, so you know the dishwasher is running.
- The PureDry system also features a Sanitize Option, which heats the water to 162 degrees and concludes each cycle with an extra hot wash.
- PrecisionWash continually scans and checks the progress of dishes throughout the cycle while powerful precision spray arms target every item in the wash bin.
- The Flexible 3rd Rack makes room for deeper items, and the adjustable tines allow you to customize the rack's loading space.
- Different handle options for each series type (pocket, recessed, bar, scoop, and custom)
Our Top Dishwasher Pick: Bosch 800 Series 24 Inch Dishwasher (SHEM78Z55N)
We highlighted a few key features of this model in our dishwasher comparison chart listed above, but we wanted to take a further look at the Bosch 800 series dishwasher. Besides the general specifications, this appliance features CrystalDry technology which efficiently turns moisture into heat, so dishes come out 60 percent drier.
The AquaStop leak protection system contains leaks through a precisely engineered system. If a leak occurs, the system contains it by shutting down operation and pumping out water. A spacious and flexible third loading rack includes convenient fold-town tines to increase the loading capacity by 30 percent.
The EasyGlide rack system provides a seamless loading experience, and the 24-Hour Delay Start Timer allows you to schedule your dish cycle to run at times where energy use is cheapest. We know you’re screaming with excitement, but the 42-decibel operation is whisper-quiet, so you’ll never have to listen to an interrupting cycle.
Click here for the best price: Bosch 800 Series 24 Inch Dishwasher (SHEM78Z55N)
KitchenAid Dishwashers Reviewed: A Brief Guide
KitchenAid wasn’t always known for quiet dishwashers, but new dishwasher models feature noise levels of 46 decibels or below, allowing them to keep pace with Bosch. KitchenAid’s strongest asset comes by way of its loading capacity and filtration system. With a common 24 inch dishwasher, you can wash up to 14 place settings in one cycle. For top-notch filtration, the triple filter system includes multiple ultra-fine layers to catch and remove small dirt particles and debris from the wash water.
KitchenAid’s drying performance is made possible by the ProDry system and the optional Extended ProDry. A recessed heating element draws moisture off your dishes and sanitizes them at the same time. It's similar to Bosch’s CrystalDry system, with the extended time ensuring dishes are completely dry every time.
Standout features:
- The Advanced Clean Water Wash System removes food particles during the wash cycle and circulates clean water to dishes.
- The Express Wash Cycle cleans dishes quickly so you can spend more time cooking, eating, and hosting.
- SatinGlide Max Rails provide versatile movement of each loading rack, even when they are completely full.
- Select dishwasher models will feature multiple stemware holders to secure wine glasses and prevent them from shifting around or breaking in the wash cycle.
- Specialty wash cycles such as Heat Dry, Sani Rinse, Bottle Wash, Hi-Temp Wash, Top Rack Only, and Sensor Wash.
- Different control options (front control, towel bar, pocket handle, glass door, panel ready)
Our Top Dishwasher Pick: KitchenAid 24 Inch Dishwasher with PrintShield Finish (KDFE104HPS)
Passionate cooks will appreciate the performance and style of a KitchenAid 24 inch dishwasher. The sleek controls and smudge-resistant finish provide a sophisticated design in any kitchen space. The One-Touch ProWash Cycle determines how full the dishwasher is and automatically adjusts the water level and cycle time for the most efficient cleaning performance.
The Heat Dry option and durable stainless-steel tub help facilitate drying, and like Bosch, KitchenAid offers glide rails in the upper rack to add a level of ease to your loading and unloading routine. And for additional dish care, position your dishes more freely with an upper rack fold-down shelf and stemware holders for your delicate glassware.
Click here for the best price: KitchenAid 24 Inch Dishwasher with PrintShield Finish (KDFE104HPS)
Which is Better?
Both Bosch and KitchenAid dishwashers provide a tremendous value and wide range of features. Among all the design similarities, Bosch dishwashers manage to outduel KitchenAid in terms of drying performance and functionality. However, KitchenAid’s cleaning prowess proves to be favored by product experts over similar Bosch models.
Additionally, Bosch leads the industry in noise-reducing dishwashers while KitchenAid’s selling points lie in their powerful filtration system and flexible loading capacity. If your deciding factor comes down to wash cycle options, both brands manufacture dynamic and reliable dishwashers with multiple wash settings.
The Best Dishwasher Selection in the Pacific Northwest
If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, see for yourself how effective and efficient these dishwasher brands can be. While you’re browsing our catalog for Bosch and KitchenAid appliances, don’t forget to check out some reviews to see what other local customers are saying.
And finally, don’t forget to shop local and contact the appliance experts here at Albert Lee for more information. Give us a call or visit us at any of our six locations in the greater Seattle area.