Don’t Miss These 5 Top Rated Countertop Dishwashers: Detailed Reviews
Key Takeaways:
💰 COMFEE'
Best Budgeted Dishwasher
Affordable pick with compact design and built-in tank.
🌟 NOVETE
Most Versatile Features
Includes fruit wash, baby care, dry mode & LED display.
🍽️ Hermitlux
Best for Compact Kitchens
Easy water tank fill, touch panel, fits small spaces.
🏆 Danby
Most Powerful & Spacious
6-place setting capacity with stainless steel interior.
Are you constantly battling a pile of dirty dishes but don’t have space or permission to install a full-size dishwasher? Whether you live in a cozy apartment, a tiny home, or travel in an RV, washing dishes by hand can quickly become tiring and time-consuming.
If you’re looking for an easier and more efficient way to clean dishes without sacrificing space or needing complicated plumbing, a countertop dishwasher is the perfect solution. In this article, we’ve researched and reviewed the b models on the market in 2025. We’ll break down each model’s unique features, what makes it ideal for different users, and how to choose the one that fits your lifestyle and kitchen space best.
Comparison between Top Countertop Dishwashers
| Feature | COMFEE’ Mini |
NOVETE | Midea | Hermitlux | Danby |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (D × W × H) |
17.13″ × 16.53″ × 17.24″ | 16.75″ × 16.83″ × 18.05″ | 20″ × 22″ × 17.25″ | 16.73″ × 16.85″ × 18.03″ | 19.69″ × 21.65″ × 17.24″ |
| Capacity | 5 L (≈ 30 items) | 4.9 L (4 settings) | 6.2 L (6 settings) | 5 L (4 settings) | 11.7 L (6 settings) |
| Controls | Touch | LED Touch | Push‑button | Full Touch | Integrated |
| Material | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic + Glass | Steel tub |
| Noise Level | 62 dB | 50 dB | 52 dB | 50 dB | 52 dB |
| Water Use | ≈ 5 L | ≈ 5 L | ≈ 10.5 L | ≈ 5 L | ≈ 11.7 L |
| Buy at Amazon | Buy at Amazon | Buy at Amazon | Buy at Amazon | Buy at Amazon |
5 Top Rated Countertop Dishwashers
COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher
Key Features
- Dimensions: 17.13” D x 16.53” W x 17.24” H
- Capacity: 5 Liters (Washes 30+ items, up to 9.5” plates)
- Controls: Touch panel
- Material: Durable plastic
- Water Supply: Built-in tank or faucet hookup
- Noise Level: 62 dB
If you’ve been avoiding doing dishes because you hate handwashing or simply don’t have the space for a full-size dishwasher, the COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher might just be your new best friend. It’s compact, easy to use, and doesn’t even need plumbing — just fill the tank, load your dishes, press a button, and relax. From greasy pans to baby bottles, it handles everyday messes like a champ. Whether you’re living in a small city apartment, traveling in an RV, or just want an easier kitchen routine, this dishwasher makes cleanup simple, stress-free, and surprisingly satisfying.
Key Features at a Glance
- No Installation Needed – Add water manually with the included pitcher or connect it to your kitchen faucet (adapter included).
- Ultra-Compact Design – Fits even in the smallest kitchens, RVs, and apartments.
- High-Temp Hygiene Wash – Reaches up to 192°F for thorough cleaning and sanitizing (ideal for baby bottles and greasy cookware).
- 6 Wash Programs – Choose from Normal, Rapid, Steam, Fruit, Glass, and Air Refresh drying mode.
- Air Refresh Drying – Automatically vents steam and reduces odors post-cycle.
- 1/3 the Water Use – Saves significant water compared to handwashing.
- See-Through Window – Watch it work — a fun bonus feature for kids and adults alike.
- Included Accessories – Comes with fruit basket, pitcher, drain hose, inlet hose with adapter, and dish rack.
Real-Life Benefits
- Perfect for Small Spaces: Whether you live in an apartment, dorm, or tiny home, this dishwasher fits your space — and your life.
- RV-Friendly: No plumbing access? No problem. The 5L built-in tank means this machine goes wherever you do.
- Clean Dishes, Less Effort: Skip the scrubbing and enjoy cabinet-ready dishes thanks to 360° spray arms and powerful wash options.
- Eco-Conscious Choice: Cuts down on water and energy, making it an efficient solution for individuals and couples.
- Kitchen Mental Health Boost: Keeps your sink clear and your stress low — especially helpful for those with busy lives or mental health challenges.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Compact size fits in tight spaces |
Doesn’t fit larger pots or full-size plates |
|
No hookup required – manual fill option |
Some cycles (Normal, Hygiene) are over 2 hours |
|
High-temp wash effectively sanitizes dishes |
Drying is passive — plastic items may stay wet |
|
Flexible program settings for all needs |
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Saves water and detergent vs. handwashing |
Portable Countertop Dishwashers
Key Features
- Dimensions: 16.75” D x 16.83” W x 18.05” H
- Capacity: 4.9 Liters (Up to 12” plates at an angle)
- Controls: Touchscreen LED
- Material: Plastic
- Water Supply: Faucet hookup or built-in 5L tank
- Drying Cycle: 60-minute drying + 72-hour air circulation
- Noise Level: 50 dB
The NOVETE Portable Dishwasher is a compact miracle-worker for small kitchens and busy people. It takes up minimal counter space while handling a solid load of dishes — and even sanitizes baby items with high-heat cycles. From full meals to fruit washing, it’s designed to make life easier. The built-in tank makes it ideal for places without plumbing, and its drying + ventilation combo means dishes come out clean, dry, and ready to use. Whether you’re in an RV, studio apartment, or simply tired of handwashing, this dishwasher offers a big lifestyle upgrade in a small package.
Standout Features
- Compact Yet Spacious – Double-layer design holds 4 full place settings: bowls, mugs, plates, and 21 pieces of cutlery.
- No Plumbing Needed – Use the built-in 5L water tank or connect directly to your faucet.
- Versatile Wash Modes – Choose from Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care (167°F), and Fruit modes to match your needs.
- Built-In Dryer & Storage – 60-minute hot air drying plus 72 hours of automatic ventilation keeps dishes dry and odor-free.
- Baby Bottle Safe – Baby Care mode uses high temperatures to sanitize baby items, glassware, and greasy dishes.
- Speed Wash – Clean dishes in just 29 minutes — ideal for busy days.
- Transparent Door + LED Light – Easily monitor your wash cycle from start to finish.
- Fully Equipped – Includes basket, rack, hoses, pitcher, fruit basket, and more for easy setup and daily use.
Real-Life Benefits
- Ideal for 1–4 Person Households – Perfect for small families, couples, or solo apartment dwellers.
- Great for RVs & Campers – Use it off-grid with the built-in water tank — no permanent plumbing needed.
- Less Mess, Less Stress – Keeps counters clean and sinks empty, making kitchen chores much more manageable.
- Sanitary Storage – Ventilated mode stores clean dishes odor-free for 3 days, so you never have to rush.
Saves Water – Uses significantly less water than handwashing, making it an eco-conscious option.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
No installation required |
Upper rack may not fit larger mugs or tumblers |
|
Built-in drying and storage with air circulation |
Requires refilling tank if not faucet-connected |
|
167°F sanitizing mode – ideal for baby bottles |
Best results when you pre-rinse stuck-on food |
|
Fits surprisingly many items for its size |
|
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Runs quietly – perfect for small spaces |
Midea MDC22P2ASS Countertop Dishwasher
Key Features
- Dimensions: 20” D x 22” W x 17.25” H
- Capacity: 6.2 Liters – Fits up to 70 items
- Controls: Push button
- Material: Plastic
- Noise Level: 52 dB (quiet operation)
- Water Use: Only 2.77 gallons per cycle
The Midea Countertop Dishwasher is perfect for those who want clean dishes without the headache of plumbing or space issues. It fits easily on most counters or rolling carts, connects to your faucet, and delivers sparkling dishes using just a few gallons of water. From baby bottles to greasy cookware, its strong wash cycles and quiet performance make it a reliable helper in any compact kitchen. If you live in an apartment, RV, or just want a dedicated machine for baby items, this compact dishwasher makes daily life a whole lot easier.
Noteworthy Features
- Roomy Yet Compact – Holds up to 70 dishes, including plates up to 10″, making it ideal for couples or small families.
- 6+2 Wash Programs – Choose from Auto, Heavy, Normal, Quick, Rinse, Delicate, and two special options: Power Wash and Extra Dry.
- High-Temp Steam Wash – Cuts through grease and sanitizes baby bottles and utensils with ease.
- No Installation Hassle – Hook it up to your faucet or place it anywhere with access to water; the quick-connect hose and adapter are included.
- Power Wash Option – Extra scrubbing power ensures a deeper clean on heavily soiled dishes.
- Child Lock – Prevents accidental changes during operation, ideal for homes with little ones.
- Quiet Operation – At just 52 dB, it won’t disrupt movie night or sleeping babies.
- LED Display with Timer – Easy to use with a clear countdown timer for planning your kitchen routine.
Real-Life Benefits
- Perfect for Baby Bottle Cleaning – The high-temp wash makes it a safe and easy way to keep your baby’s items clean and germ-free.
- Ideal for Small Homes or RVs – Portable, powerful, and surprisingly spacious, it handles everyday loads without eating up valuable space.
- Saves Water & Time – Uses just a fraction of the water you’d spend handwashing, while doing a more thorough job.
- Portable Setup – Easy to move and operate from a kitchen counter, metal cart, or even a laundry room.
- Stress-Free Dish Days – Lets you avoid the constant sink pile-up and frees up time for other things.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Quiet operation (only 52 dB) |
May require refill before each wash (if using tank) |
|
Powerful steam cleaning for baby bottles |
Larger pots and pans don’t always fit well |
|
Intuitive controls and digital timer display |
Needs countertop or cart space due to size |
|
Child Lock feature for extra safety |
|
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Versatile wash settings for all dish types |
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher
Key Features
- Dimensions: 16.73” D x 16.85” W x 18.03” H
- Capacity: 4 Place Settings (Fits plates up to 10.25”)
- Controls: Full-panel touch
- Material: Plastic, Glass
- Noise Level: 50 dB (whisper quiet)
- Water Supply: Built-in 5L tank or faucet hookup
The Hermitlux Portable Dishwasher is the perfect cleaning solution for small households, RV life, or anyone fed up with daily handwashing. With 5 wash cycles, quiet operation, and a no-install design, it fits effortlessly into your routine. Whether you’re cleaning up after dinner, sanitizing baby bottles, or washing fruit for a snack, it handles it all while saving space, time, and water. Best of all? It doesn’t need plumbing just pour water in and press go.
Highlight Features
- Space-Saving Design – Perfect for small homes, apartments, or RVs. Fits under most wall cabinets with 19.88” clearance.
- Dual Spray Arms – Top and bottom spray arms provide deep, streak-free cleaning on every cycle.
- 5 Wash Programs – Choose from Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit Wash for versatile performance.
- High-Temp Sanitization – Hot water plus PTC hot air drying ensures hygienic dishes, baby bottles, and cookware.
- Drying & Storage Function – Automatically keeps dishes dry and odor-free after the wash ends.
- No Installation Needed – Fill the 5L tank manually with the included pitcher or connect it to your faucet — your choice.
- Glass Door Viewing – Watch the wash cycle in action through a transparent door.
- User-Friendly Touch Panel – Simple, modern, and intuitive to use.
Real-Life Benefits
- Great for 1–2 Person Homes – Wash your daily load with ease and avoid clutter in your sink.
- RV & Off-Grid Friendly – Manual water fill and compact size make it perfect for mobile or off-grid setups.
- Cleaner Dishes, Less Water – Uses far less water than handwashing and gets dishes much cleaner.
- Quiet and Stress-Free – Operates at just 50 dB, so it won’t interrupt your day or night.
- Multi-Use Machine – Cleans dishes, baby bottles, light cookware, and even fresh fruit and veggies.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Compact and lightweight, easy to move and store |
Utensil basket fits some flatware awkwardly |
|
High temp wash with drying function |
Water fill hole location may be inconvenient under low cabinets |
|
Very quiet, great for small apartments or night use |
Some accessories like the fruit basket don’t sit perfectly |
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Can be used without plumbing hookup |
|
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Easy to clean filter and tray |
Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher
Key Features
- Dimensions: 19.69” D x 21.65” W x 17.24” H
- Capacity: 6 Place Settings (11.7 Liters)
- Controls: Fully Integrated
- Material: Stainless Steel Interior
- Noise Level: 52 dB
- Water Use: Approx. 3.1 gallons per cycle
The Danby DDW621WDB is a countertop dishwasher that feels anything but small. With space for six full place settings, it’s a lifesaver for couples, roommates, or small families who want the power of a built-in machine without the permanent installation. It connects easily to most faucets, runs quietly, and uses very little water per cycle. Whether you’re tackling dinner dishes, glasses, or pots, this dishwasher gets the job done, every time.
Key Features at a Glance
- Spacious Interior – Accommodates up to 6 place settings and plates up to 10” wide.
- Energy Efficient – ENERGY STAR® rated and uses as little as 3.1 gallons per cycle.
- Six Wash Cycles – Choose from Intensive, Normal, Economy, Rapid, Glass, and Soak to suit any dish load.
- Quiet Performance – Runs at a quiet 52 dB, great for open-concept homes or small apartments.
- Quick Connect Setup – Easily attaches to most kitchen faucets with included adapter.
- Delay Start Option – Start your wash on your schedule with 2, 4, 6, or 8-hour delay.
- Durable Steel Interior – Resists stains, odors, and wear over time.
- Improved Cleaning Power – Redesigned spray arm and filter provide more efficient cleaning.
Real-Life Benefits
- Perfect for Couples or Small Families – Handles a full day’s worth of dishes with ease.
- Kitchen-Friendly Size – Compact design fits under most cabinets or on a rolling cart.
- Low Maintenance & Reliable – With minimal upkeep, it keeps running strong for years.
- Great for Renters – No installation required. Just plug, connect, and wash.
- Built to Clean Hard-to-Wash Items – From greasy pans to glassware, it handles tough jobs effortlessly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Roomy interior with 6 place settings |
Soap door can sometimes get blocked if items are placed poorly |
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Very quiet, doesn’t disrupt home life |
No manual water fill option – faucet connection is required |
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Stainless steel tub – more durable than plastic |
|
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Easy faucet hookup with adapter |
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Excellent cleaning performance across all cycles |
Why Countertop Dishwashers Are a Smart Choice
Many people living in small apartments, rented homes, or mobile living situations simply can’t install a traditional built-in dishwasher. Some don’t have the counter or cabinet space. Others are limited by their lease agreements or the lack of proper plumbing. The result? They’re stuck washing dishes manually, often several times a day.
A countertop dishwasher is designed exactly for these situations. It’s compact, easy to operate, and fits right on your counter without the need for permanent installation. These appliances are a game-changer for busy individuals, couples, and small families who want the convenience of a dishwasher but live in a space where full-size options just aren’t practical.
From models with built-in tanks that don’t need water hookups to portable versions ideal for travel or camping, countertop dishwashers offer surprising power, efficiency, and versatility.
Key Benefits of Using a Countertop Dishwasher
When space, flexibility, and ease of use matter, countertop dishwashers shine. Here’s why they’re growing in popularity:
- The best countertop dishwasher for small kitchen setups easily fits under cabinets or on narrow counters.
- Ideal for renters or students who need a compact dishwasher for apartment life with limited space.
- Save on utilities with energy efficient countertop dishwasher models that use minimal water and electricity.
- Most models are simple to operate just plug them in and start cleaning making them perfect as a plug and play dishwasher
- Options like a countertop dishwasher with water tank or dishwasher without plumbing mean you don’t need any permanent fixtures or plumbing skills.
- If you love traveling in a van or motorhome, the best countertop dishwasher for RV gives you convenience on the go.
- Great for two-person households, the best compact dishwasher for 2 people makes every day dishwashing quicker and more hygienic.
These units aren’t just about convenience they’re about creating a better experience in your kitchen, no matter how small it is.
Key Considerations before Buying a Countertop Dishwasher
Before making a purchase, it’s important to understand what features matter based on your unique living situation. Here’s what to evaluate:
Size & Dimensions
Countertop dishwashers come in various sizes. If you’re short on space, a mini dishwasher that accommodates 4–6 place settings is often sufficient. Make sure to measure your counter height and depth to avoid issues during setup.
Water Source Compatibility
Some units connect directly to your kitchen faucet, while others operate with internal tanks. If you don’t want to modify your sink setup, look for a countertop dishwasher no hookup model.
Built-in Water Tank Convenience
A compact dishwasher with built-in tank gives you flexibility to use the unit anywhere even if you don’t have access to running water. This is a must-have feature for RV owners or renters who want a hassle-free setup.
Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
For environmentally conscious users, choosing an energy efficient countertop dishwasher can reduce your water and power usage. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated models or those with eco-friendly wash cycles.
Material Quality & Durability
The interior build matters. Stainless steel interiors are more durable, easier to clean, and less likely to retain odors compared to plastic-lined interiors.
Dealing with Hard Water
If you live in an area with mineral-heavy water, consider a countertop dishwasher for hard water that includes filters or anti scale functions.
Installation & Mobility
Need something you can store when not in use? Look into benchtop dishwasher or tabletop dishwasher options that don’t require tools or permanent installation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the top rated countertop dishwasher in 2025?
Discover the top countertop dishwashers 2025 with updated reviews based on user feedback, ratings, and performance in compact settings.
Is a small dishwasher enough for daily use?
Yes, many small dishwasher models can handle the needs of 1 to 2 people with ease, even accommodating pots, pans, and baby bottles.
Can I use a compact dishwasher in a rental apartment?
Absolutely. A compact dishwasher doesn’t require permanent installation, so it’s ideal for renters or students in shared housing.
What’s the difference between a tabletop dishwasher and a benchtop dishwasher?
Both serve similar purposes, but a benchtop dishwasher often implies a sturdier design and sometimes larger capacity. Brands may use these terms interchangeably.
Which dishwasher without plumbing is easiest to use?
Units with built-in water tanks and auto-drain functions make the best dishwasher without plumbing choices. No hose or faucet connection required.
