The 5 Best Countertop Dishwashers of 2023

Hand-washing dishes here and there isn't a big deal, but no one wants to spend hours scrubbing dishes, pots and pans. While some kitchens come with built-in dishwashers, for those that don't, you can buy a countertop dishwasher for a fraction of the cost.

Washing dishes by hand can use as much 27 gallons of water per load, and using a dishwasher can help you cut down significantly, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Not to mention, they save you the time of standing over the sink scrubbing dirty dishes.

To help you on your search, there's a countertop dishwasher on this list to fit every space and budget.

While any countertop dishwasher is a helping hand, not all choices fit everyone's needs.

In addition to first-hand accounts from people who've used them, we considered a number of factors when it came to choosing the best countertop dishwasher for every kitchen, including:

• Size
• Capacity
• Performance
• Ease to use and install
• Noise level

When shopping for countertop dishwashers, there are a few things you'll want to think about before hitting the purchase button:

The most crucial factor is making sure that the portable dishwasher you choose fits on your counter. Countertop dishwashers are specifically designed for counter space, but some models are bulkier than others.

You'll want to take measurements (especially of the distance between your countertop and upper cabinet) before making the plunge. Consider rearranging other appliances or storing ones you don't use every day away in a cabinet to clear some room.

Although a small countertop dishwasher is better than no dishwasher, you want an appliance that fits more than just a few items at a time. Most options will fit at least four to six place settings, including silverware and glassware.

If you have a larger household, opt for a high-capacity portable dishwasher. On the other hand, a small dishwasher may be perfect for you if you live alone or with one or two others.

Whether it's to save time, sanitize dishes more thoroughly or cut back on water use, the main purpose of a countertop dishwasher is to make your life easier. Look for an appliance that suits your individual needs and preferences with features you'll actually use.

For example, consider whether you might need a heavy-duty, longer wash cycle or a special sanitizing wash for baby bottles when choosing a portable dishwasher.

The Farberware countertop dishwasher makes our list as the best overall. Not only is it ideal for small spaces, but it has seven convenient washing programs: heavy, normal, baby care, light, glass, speed (45-minute wash) and self-clean.

Its extra drying function adds heat to your final rinse, making it more efficient. The dishwasher can hold up to six place settings and features a cutlery basket and fold-down rack shelves for larger items.

In addition to the variety of cleaning functions, the LED controls include a child lock and alert you if there is a problem with the appliance. With its unique features, competitive price and easy set-up, Farberware's countertop dishwasher is hard to beat.

The RCA countertop dishwasher is the best option if you're looking for a device that offers the most value for your dollar. It has six cycle settings to choose from, including soak, glass, rapid, economy, normal and intensive (or heavy-duty), which can all be programmed on the LED display.

This portable dishwasher has a capacity of up to six place settings and uses only 3.1 gallons of water for a regular cycle (compared to 9 to 14 gallons with an average dishwasher). Not only is this countertop dishwasher budget-friendly and energy-efficient, but it's also whisper-quiet as it runs.

If you're looking for a great deal on an efficient dishwasher that will last you for years — and save you money in the long run — RCA is the way to go.

If you're looking for a countertop dishwasher with a higher capacity of as many as 30 dishes per load, the Comfee Countertop Dishwasher is highly efficient and easy to install in any kitchen, dorm, RV or boat.

You can control the features from the digital display, including six different washing programs: Normal, rapid wash, steam (great for baby bottles and toys), fruit, glass and air refresh. There's even an auto-load option for when you want to avoid setting the right programs.

With this portable dishwasher from Comfee, you can add water manually in the built-in water tank and put it anywhere without connecting to tap water. It can also be hooked to a kitchen faucet with the included water hose, making it versatile for any space.

This portable dishwasher with built-in water tank from Novete has five different wash cycles you can choose from on its LED display: normal, speed, soft, baby care, heavy and fruit.

That's right: this portable dishwasher provides a cleaning process for fruits and vegetables so they're ready to serve upon removal. Those with little ones can use baby care mode, which cleans and sanitizes at 167 degrees Fahrenheit.

Reviewers rave that this countertop dishwasher is easy to use and install, and works great for oily tableware and dishwasher-safe pots and pans.

While it only holds the capacity for four place settings, its unique sanitation process makes up for it. Immediately after the wash cycle ends, the dryer conducts a 60-minute hot air drying session, followed by an additional 72-hour automatic ventilation, storing dishes in a sanitary condition until you take them out.

If you need something that can handle big jobs, the Black and Decker countertop dishwasher is your best bet. From a reliable, well-known appliance brand, this device has a bigger capacity while still being compact enough to fit on your countertop.

With seven wash settings and an easy hookup to your sink faucet, reviewers love that this portable dishwasher is easy to use and install. Some even call it the best kitchen tool they've ever purchased!

This Black and Decker countertop dishwasher has a capacity of up to six place settings. Even so, it's still compact enough to conveniently fit into a kitchen cabinet, pantry or on a shelf or tabletop.