Washing dishes by hand is a chore nobody loves. It wastes water, dries out your hands, and eats up valuable time. But if you live in a studio apartment, RV, or dorm, you likely don’t have the cabinet space or plumbing for a full-sized machine.
That is where the best countertop dishwashers save the day. These compact units sit right on your counter or a sturdy cart, hook up to your sink (or use a built-in tank), and clean your dishes with high heat and pressure. You get the sanitizing power of a standard dishwasher without the renovation headache.
We researched the top models on the market to help you find the perfect fit for your small kitchen.
- Has 5L water tank
- Five washing cycles
- Automatic intermittent ventilation
- Quiet operation
- Seven useful cycles
- Extra drying function
- No hookups needed
- Five washing programmes
- Air refresh setting dries dishes
- Six washing cycles
- Easy installation
- Safety indicators
- Large capacity
- Seven washing cycles
- Practical & durable structure
- Spacious interior design
- Six cycle options
- Rinse aid option
- Sleek stylish design
- Spacious and tall interior
- Seven wash cycles
Do Countertop Dishwashers Actually Work?
Absolutely. While they can’t fit a massive stockpot or a dinner party’s worth of plates in one go, they are surprisingly effective. Countertop dishwashers use hotter water than your hands can handle, which means they sanitize dishes better than manual washing.
They also use significantly less water. A typical hand-wash session can waste up to 27 gallons, whereas these units often use between two and five gallons per cycle. They are ideal for singles, couples, or small families living in compact spaces.
However, you have to manage your expectations. They are louder than high-end built-in models, and you will lose some counter space.
Portable vs. Countertop Models
People often confuse these two terms, but there is a distinct difference in size and mobility.
Countertop Dishwashers: These are the smallest options. They sit directly on your counter or a table. They are roughly the size of a large microwave and usually hold six place settings.
Portable Dishwashers: These are freestanding units on wheels. They are about the same size as a standard dishwasher (18 to 24 inches wide) but can be rolled away when not in use. They offer more capacity but require floor space.
This guide focuses strictly on the compact countertop units.
Drainage and Water Supply
Before you buy, you need to know how the machine gets water. There are two main styles:
Faucet Hookup: Most standard countertop models connect directly to your kitchen faucet using a quick-connect adapter. The machine draws fresh water from the tap and drains dirty water into the sink. This renders your sink unusable while the machine is running.
Built-In Water Tank: Newer “mini” models feature a built-in tank. You pour water into the top of the machine manually using a pitcher. These are great for RVs or dry cabins because they don’t require a specific faucet type, but they generally hold fewer dishes.
Check Your Faucet
How To Choose a Countertop Dishwasher
Most of these machines look similar, but the internal features can vary wildly. Here is what you should look for to narrow down your list.
Capacity and Dimensions
Measure your counter space, including the height under your cabinets. Most standard units are about 17 inches tall, which fits under most standard 18-inch cabinets, but it is often a tight squeeze.
Check the place setting capacity. A “standard” countertop unit holds six place settings. Mini units with tanks usually hold two to four place settings.
Noise Level
Since these sit on your counter, they are closer to ear level than a floor unit. Look for a decibel (dB) rating between 50 and 55. Anything over 60 dB will be noticeable and might interrupt conversation or TV time.
Drying Features
Countertop dishwashers are notorious for leaving dishes wet because they lack the heavy heating elements of full-sized units. However, some newer models include “Extra Dry” functions or fans that circulate air to help minimize moisture.
Interior Material
Stainless steel interiors are superior to plastic. They are more durable, resist odors better, and retain heat, which aids in the drying process. Plastic interiors are common in budget models but may stain over time.
Cycles and Options
Look for practical cycles like “Speed” (for light loads) and “Baby Care” or “Heavy” (for high-temperature sanitizing). A “Fruit Wash” is a nice bonus for rinsing produce, but it shouldn’t be your deciding factor.
Product Reviews
To find the top performers, we analyzed specs, user manuals, and real-world customer feedback. We looked for machines that balance size, cleaning power, and ease of setup. Whether you need a tank-based model for camping or a hookup model for your apartment, we have found a reliable option for you.
Here are the seven best countertop dishwashers to keep your kitchen clean.
Novete Compact Countertop Dishwasher
Best Quiet Countertop Dishwasher
The Novete Compact is a standout choice if you need versatility and silence. It operates at just 50 decibels, making it one of the quietest units we reviewed; it sounds more like a humming fridge than a washing machine.
We also love that it functions as a hybrid. You can use the built-in water tank if you don’t want to mess with hoses, or you can hook it up to a faucet for a continuous water supply.
What We Like
No Plumbing Required
The five-liter built-in water tank is a game-changer for renters or RV owners. You simply fill the top reservoir, and the machine runs its cycle without occupying your kitchen faucet. If you move to a place with a standard setup, you still have the option to connect it to the tap.
High-Temperature Sanitizing
This unit features five wash cycles: Normal, Speed, ECO, Baby Care/Heavy, and Fruit. The Baby Care mode heats water to 167°F, which is excellent for sanitizing baby bottles or heavily soiled oily dishes.
Storage Mode
One unique feature is the ventilation system. It provides 72 hours of automatic intermittent ventilation to keep the interior dry and odor-free. This is perfect if you leave dishes in the machine overnight or use the dishwasher in a vacation home.
360-Degree Cleaning
Despite its small size, it uses upper and lower spray arms with 14 water ports. This ensures water reaches dishes from all angles, reducing the chance of finding stuck-on food after the cycle ends.
What We Don't Like
Adapter Not Included
While it supports faucet hookup, the unit does not always come with the necessary faucet adapter. You may need to purchase a specific adapter that fits your sink’s threading separately.
Plastic Interior
The interior tub is made of plastic rather than stainless steel. While this keeps the weight down for portability, plastic doesn’t retain heat as well as steel, which can impact drying performance.
Product Specs
| Size | 16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05 inches |
| Noise | 50 dB |
| Wash Cycles | Five |
| Energy Star Certified | No |
| Water Setup | Water tank, hose or faucet connection |
Our Ratings
Farberware Professional Countertop Dishwasher
Best Energy-Saving Pick
The Farberware Professional is a robust six-place setting unit designed for daily use. It is Energy Star certified, meaning it is built to keep your utility bills low while still getting the job done.
It features a classic design that fits well in most modern kitchens and offers enough capacity for a full day’s worth of dishes for a single person or a couple.
What We Like
Seven Wash Programs
You get plenty of options here, including Heavy, Normal, Baby Care, Light, Glass, Speed, and a Self-Clean cycle. The Self-Clean option is particularly useful for keeping the interior fresh and preventing lime scale buildup over time.
Quick Installation
This model comes with a quick-connect assembly that fits most standard faucets. You can have it up and running in minutes without needing tools or a plumber.
Extra Drying Function
While countertop units struggle with drying, Farberware added an extra heat function to the final rinse. It helps evaporate moisture more effectively than standard air drying, so your plates come out ready to use.
Versatile Racking
The six-place setting capacity includes a cutlery basket and a cup shelf. It maximizes the limited interior space, allowing you to fit dinner plates, bowls, and mugs in a single load.
What We Don't Like
Requires Pre-Rinsing
For the best results, you shouldn’t put caked-on food directly into this machine. A quick rinse or scrape is necessary, especially for the lighter cycles, as the filter can clog with large debris.
Tight Squeeze for Large Plates
If your dinner plates are larger than 10 inches, they might block the spray arm or prevent the door from closing. You may need to tilt them significantly, which reduces the overall capacity.
Product Specs
| Size | 22.8 x 25.6 x 24.1 inches |
| Noise | Not specified, but it is quiet |
| Wash Cycles | Seven |
| Energy Star Certified | Yes |
| Water Setup | Faucet connection |
Our Ratings
Farberware Complete Countertop Dishwasher
Best Small Dishwasher
If the “Professional” model is too big for your counter, the Farberware Complete is the compact alternative you need. Measuring roughly 21 inches all around, it is tiny enough to fit in tight corners or on top of a microwave cart.
Like the Novete, this model features a built-in water tank, giving you the ultimate freedom to place it anywhere near an electrical outlet.
What We Like
True Portability
Because you can fill the tank manually, this dishwasher doesn’t need to live next to your sink. This is a massive benefit for dorm rooms or tiny apartments where counter space near the sink is non-existent.
Fruit Wash Basket
This model includes a specific fruit basket accessory. You can toss in apples, grapes, or veggies and run the Fruit cycle to rinse off pesticides and dirt efficiently. It is a small feature that adds a lot of daily utility.
Glass Window
The door features a transparent window and an LED light, so you can actually watch the wash cycle in progress. It is helpful for making sure the spray arm is spinning freely and hasn’t been blocked by a stray utensil.
Air Refresh Technology
To combat the “wet dish” issue, this unit uses an Air Refresh mode. It circulates fresh air to remove moisture and odors, preventing that musty smell that can develop in closed appliances.
What We Don't Like
Limited Capacity
This is a compact unit, so it only holds about two to three place settings. It is strictly for small loads. Large mixing bowls or pots will likely not fit.
Tank Refilling Can Be Tricky
The water tank is located on the top of the machine. If you place this dishwasher under a low cabinet, you might have to pull the entire unit out every time you need to fill it with the pitcher.
Product Specs
| Size | 20.9 x 21.9 x 22.4 inches |
| Noise | Decibels not specified — customers say it’s quiet |
| Wash Cycles | Five |
| Energy Star Certified | No |
| Water Setup | Water tank or faucet connection |
Our Ratings
SPT Compact Countertop Dishwasher
Easiest To Use
Sunpentown (SPT) is a reliable name in the compact appliance world. This model focuses on simplicity and functionality. It doesn’t have a built-in tank, so it connects directly to your faucet for powerful, continuous water pressure.
It features a clear LED display and intuitive controls, making it a great choice for anyone who isn’t interested in navigating complex digital menus.
What We Like
Universal Adapter Included
SPT includes a faucet adapter that fits standard Aerator openings. Installation is generally straightforward: unscrew your aerator, screw on the adapter, and snap the hose in place.
Delay Start Feature
You can program the wash to start two, four, six, or eight hours later. This is fantastic if you want to load the dishwasher after dinner but run it later at night when electricity rates might be lower.
Troubleshooting Indicators
The control panel features warning lights that tell you if the water supply isn’t connected properly or if the rinse aid is low. This removes the guesswork when the machine isn’t performing as expected.
Durable Interior
The interior tub is stainless steel, which helps with drying and longevity. It is spacious enough to hold standard place settings, provided you arrange them carefully.
What We Don't Like
Long Cycle Times
While effective, the cycles aren’t exactly fast. A standard wash can take nearly two hours. You need to plan your dishwashing schedule accordingly, especially since the sink is occupied during operation.
No Heating Element for Drying
This unit relies on residual heat from the wash cycle to dry dishes. Without a dedicated heating element, plastics will almost certainly come out wet and need a towel dry.
Product Specs
| Size | 21.65 x 19.69 x 17.24 inches |
| Noise | 55 dB |
| Wash Cycles | Six |
| Energy Star Certified | Yes |
| Water Setup | Faucet connection (universal) |
Our Ratings
EdgeStar Energy Star Rated Dishwasher
Most Stylish
If aesthetics matter to you, the EdgeStar is a top contender. It features a sleek, modern design that looks less like a medical device and more like a high-end appliance.
Available in silver, white, or black, it blends seamlessly with most kitchen decor. Beyond looks, it is a powerhouse cleaner with a stainless steel interior and a capacity for plates up to 10.5 inches in diameter.
What We Like
Six Place Setting Capacity
This is one of the more spacious countertop models. It comfortably holds six place settings, including a cutlery basket and cup shelf. It is large enough for a small family to run once or twice a day.
Energy Efficient
EdgeStar claims this model uses significantly less energy than similar units, roughly 200 kilowatt-hours per year. Using the stored water hookup minimizes waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Powerful Spray Arm
The spray arm design provides excellent coverage. Combined with the Heavy cycle (which boosts temperature to 149°F), it does a great job of removing sticky sauces and grease without needing a pre-scrub.
Safety Features
It includes a child lock function, which is rare on countertop units. This prevents curious little hands from interrupting a cycle or opening the door while hot steam is inside.
What We Don't Like
No Pods Allowed
The manufacturer strongly advises against using detergent pods. Because the run time and water usage are lower than a full-size machine, pods often don’t dissolve completely and can cause overflow or foaming issues. You must use powder or liquid gel.
Confusing Cycle Labels
The control panel uses codes like P1, P2, and P3 to designate cycles rather than writing out “Normal” or “Heavy.” You will likely need to keep the manual handy until you memorize which code corresponds to which wash.
Product Specs
| Size | 19.63 x 21.63 x 17.31 inches |
| Noise | 52.3 dB |
| Wash Cycles | Seven |
| Energy Star Certified | Yes |
| Water Setup | Faucet connection |
Our Ratings
Danby Countertop Dishwasher
Best Dishwasher With Rinse Aid Option
Hard water is the enemy of sparkling glasses. If you battle cloudy glassware, the Danby Countertop Dishwasher is your best bet.
Unlike many budget compacts, this model includes a dedicated rinse aid dispenser. This helps water sheet off your dishes during the final rinse, reducing spots and speeding up the drying process significantly.
What We Like
Dedicated Rinse Aid Dispenser
This simple addition makes a huge difference in cleaning quality. By using a rinse agent, you reduce surface tension on the dishes, which is critical for getting decent drying results in a machine that lacks a heating element.
Low Water Consumption
The Danby is incredibly efficient, using roughly 3.1 gallons of water per cycle. Compare that to the 20+ gallons you might use washing by hand, and the savings add up quickly.
Quiet Operation
At 52 decibels, it is quiet enough to run while you are watching TV in the next room. The sound insulation is better than many competitors in this price range.
Flexible Cycle Options
You get six cycles: Intensive, Normal, Economy, Rapid, Glass, and Soak. The “Soak” cycle is a nice touch if you want to loosen up dried food before running a full wash later.
What We Don't Like
Strict Height Limits
Customers have reported that plates taller than 10 inches simply will not fit upright. If you have oversized artisan dinnerware, you will need to wash them by hand or buy smaller plates.
Manual Faucet Connection
While easy to hook up, you have to attach the hose to the faucet every single time you want to run it. If you have a fancy designer faucet, the standard adapter might not fit without a trip to the hardware store.
Product Specs
| Size | 19.69 x 21.65 x 17.24 inches |
| Noise | 52 dB |
| Wash Cycles | Six |
| Energy Star Certified | No |
| Water Setup | Faucet connection |
Our Ratings
Black+Decker Countertop Dishwasher
Best Heavy-Duty Countertop Dishwasher
When you think of Black+Decker, you think of power tools. It turns out they make a pretty tough dishwasher, too.
This model is designed to handle tougher loads. While it is still a compact unit, the internal layout and intensive cycle options make it capable of cleaning small pots and pans better than many delicate mini-washers.
What We Like
Intensive Cleaning Cycle
The “Intensive” mode runs for a longer duration at high temperatures specifically to target dried-on food. While you still can’t fit a massive roasting pan, it handles saucepans and skillets impressively well.
LED Time Display
The front panel features a bright LED countdown timer. Knowing exactly how many minutes are left is surprisingly helpful when you are waiting to use the kitchen sink again.
Stainless Steel Tub
Like the higher-end models, this features a full stainless steel interior. It looks great, resists rust, and helps maintain the high water temperatures needed for sanitizing.
High Plate Capacity
This unit is slightly more forgiving with plate height, accommodating dishes up to 10.5 inches. The racking system feels sturdy and slides out smoothly.
What We Don't Like
Heavy and Bulky
This is a solid machine, weighing over 46 pounds. Once you place it on your counter, you won’t want to move it. Ensure you have a permanent spot picked out near the sink.
Installation Instructions
Some users find the manual and installation diagrams a bit confusing. We recommend watching a quick YouTube tutorial on hooking up a portable dishwasher to save yourself some frustration.
Product Specs
| Size | 17.2 x 21.5 x 21.7 inches |
| Noise | 60 dB |
| Wash Cycles | Seven |
| Energy Star Certified | Yes |
| Water Setup | Faucet connection |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Size | Noise | Wash Cycles | Energy Star Certified | Water Setup |
| Novete Compact Countertop Dishwasher | Quiet Countertop Dishwasher | 16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05″ | 50 dB | 5 | No | Water tank, hose or faucet connection |
| Farberware Pro Countertop Dishwasher | Energy-Saving Pick | 22.8 x 25.6 x 24.1″ | N/A | 7 | Yes | Faucet connection |
| Farberware Countertop Dishwasher | Small Dishwasher | 20.9 x 21.9 x 22.4″ | N/A | 5 | No | Water tank or faucet connection |
| SPT Compact Countertop Dishwasher | Easiest To Use | 21.65 x 19.69 x 17.24 “ | 55 dB | 6 | Yes | Faucet connection |
| EdgeStar Energy Star Rated Dishwasher | Stylish | 19.63 x 21.63 x 17.31″ | 52.3 dB | 7 | Yes | Faucet connection |
| Danby Countertop Dishwasher | Dishwasher With Rinse Aid Option | 19.69 x 21.65 x 17.24″ | 52 dB | 6 | No | Faucet connection |
| Black+Decker Countertop Dishwasher | Heavy-Duty Countertop Dishwasher | 17.2 x 21.5 x 21.7″ | 60 dB | 7 | Yes | Faucet connection |
FAQs
Can You Put a Countertop Dishwasher Under the Sink?
Generally, no. These machines rely on a gravity drain system. If the dishwasher is lower than the sink drain, the water won’t drain out properly. You can place it under the sink only if you drain it into a bucket or a floor drain, but that is rarely practical.
Do You Use Hot or Cold Water for a Countertop Dishwasher?
You should connect it to the hot water tap for the best results, but most machines have internal heaters that can warm up cold water. However, using hot water from the start reduces the cycle time since the machine doesn’t have to work as hard to heat the water.
Can I Leave a Countertop Dishwasher Running Overnight?
Yes, but with caution. Since hookup models require the faucet to be on, there is a slight risk of pressure buildup in the hose. It is generally safer to run it while you are awake to turn off the faucet immediately after the cycle ends.
Can Countertop Dishwashers Clean Pots and Pans?
They can clean small saucepans and skillets, provided they fit inside the rack. However, they lack the intense water pressure of full-sized units, so you may need to scrub burnt-on food by hand before loading.
Are Countertop Dishwashers Efficient?
Yes. They use significantly less water than hand washing. If you currently wash dishes under a running tap, switching to a countertop dishwasher will lower your water bill.
Can a Countertop Dishwasher Be Permanently Installed?
Technically, yes, but it requires plumbing modifications. You would need to plumb a separate water line and drain directly to the machine, bypassing the faucet adapter. This is a great solution if you own your home and want to free up your sink.
What Kind of Detergent Should I Use?
You should use standard powdered dishwasher detergent or liquid gel. Avoid “pods” or “tablets” designed for full-sized machines; they contain too much soap for these small units and can cause oversudsing, leaks, or residue on your dishes.
