LG dishwashers boast some of the most advanced cleaning technology on the market. With futuristic features, serious scrubbing power, and built-in Wi-Fi, these machines make cleaning up after dinner a breeze. But if you are in the market for a new appliance, navigating the various model numbers and specs is confusing.
Our guide breaks down the top LG dishwashers to help you find the perfect fit. Whether you need a stylish finish, a budget-friendly workhorse, a whisper-quiet motor, or a unit that handles hard water, we have you covered. We analyzed expert advice, customer feedback, and specs to bring you these top-rated recommendations.
Here are the LG dishwashers that made the cut this year.
- Uses 4 spray arms
- Has sanitization feature
- Printproof finish
- 40 decibel dishwasher
- Adjustable racks make room for everything
- 10 washing cycles
- LG SmartThinQ technology
- PrintProof finish
- QuadWash for great cleaning coverage
- Glide rails for smooth loading
- Interior tub light
- 10 wash cycles
- Auto-wash cycle
- 15 place settings
- NSF-certified sanitization cycle
A Brief History of LG
LG was established in Korea in 1958 (1). Since then, they have designed innovative products that make home life easier. While they started with radios and TVs, they have become a global leader in home appliances.
In 2013, LG began integrating smart technology into their machines. Today, almost all their dishwashers feature built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to monitor cycles via a smartphone app or smart speaker.
Are LG Dishwashers Reliable?
LG dishwashers are generally very reliable. They provide a powerful wash performance that leaves dishes sparkling. They also come with a 10-year warranty on their Inverter Direct Drive Motor, which suggests the manufacturer is confident in the machine’s longevity.
Warning
Types of LG Dishwashers
LG offers a few different configurations, so you can choose the style that fits your kitchen layout and aesthetic.
Front Control
Front control dishwashers place the buttons on the exterior face of the door. This allows you to easily see the status of the cycle, though it does expose the buttons to accidental presses.
Pros
- Visibility: It is easy to see the controls and time remaining during the cycle.
- Classic aesthetic: These offer a traditional look that fits many standard kitchen cutouts.
- Price: Front control models are often more budget-friendly than top control versions.
Cons
- Accidental presses: Curious kids or leaning against the counter might activate buttons.
- Visual clutter: They do not look as sleek or polished as top control models.
Top Control
Top control dishwashers hide the control panel on the top edge of the door. You select your settings while the door is open. This creates a seamless, high-end appearance and keeps buttons out of reach of children.
Pros
- Sleek design: The hidden controls provide a minimal, modern look.
- Child safety: It keeps buttons away from small children and pets.
- Handle variety: These often come with more stylish handle options, like bar handles or pocket handles.
Cons
- Blind operation: You usually cannot see the remaining time once the door is closed.
- Cost: Most top-control dishwashers command a higher price tag.
Fully Integrated
Fully integrated dishwashers are designed to accept a custom cabinet panel, allowing the appliance to disappear into your kitchen cabinetry. LG has largely moved away from this category in their standard line, focusing instead on high-end finishes like stainless steel.
Pros
- Decor matching: Matches your kitchen cabinets perfectly for a hidden look.
- Quiet operation: The extra wood panel often adds sound insulation.
- Hidden controls: Typically features a top control panel.
Cons
- Availability: LG currently has very limited or no availability in this category for the standard consumer market.
- Extra costs: You must purchase the custom panel and handle separately.
Semi-Integrated
Semi-integrated dishwashers are panel-ready dishwashers that leave the control panel exposed. This offers the aesthetic benefit of matching cabinetry while keeping the convenience of visible controls. Like the fully integrated models, these are currently rare in LG’s lineup.
Pros
- Visibility: You can still see the time remaining on the front control panel.
- Aesthetics: The main body blends with your interior cabinetry.
Cons
- Discontinued: These are largely discontinued in the current LG catalog.
- Look: Some users find the break in the cabinet panel less aesthetically pleasing than fully integrated options.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an LG dishwasher, look beyond the finish. Consider noise levels, cleaning technologies, and drying capabilities to find a machine that truly works for your home.
Noise Level
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dBA). LG models are generally very quiet, but for open-concept kitchens, you want something nearly silent. Look for ratings between 39 and 44 decibels.
LG uses an Inverter Direct Drive Motor, which eliminates noisy belts and pulleys. Instead, it uses frictionless magnets to drive the pump, significantly reducing noise. Anything under 48 decibels is considered quiet, but the premium models will be closer to 40 or 42 dBA.
Drying Capacity
Most LG dishwashers utilize a condensation drying system rather than an old-school exposed heating element. This is safer for plastics and uses less energy, but it can leave items damp.
To combat this, look for models with Dynamic Dry™. This feature adds a final hot rinse and circulates air to speed up evaporation. Some premium models also have a door that automatically pops open at the end of the cycle to let humidity escape.
Performance
LG packs their machines with proprietary tech to ensure a deep clean. When comparing models, look for these three key terms:
- TrueSteam: High-temperature steam helps break down caked-on food and reduces water spots on glassware (great for hard water areas).
- QuadWash: Instead of the standard two spray arms, LG uses four. The multi-motion arms rotate back and forth to hit dishes from every angle, reducing the need for pre-rinsing.
- Dual Zone: This allows you to vary the spray intensity. You can blast heavy pots on the bottom rack while gently washing delicate wine glasses on the top rack simultaneously.
Dishwasher Capacity
Capacity is measured in place settings. Our recommended LG models typically hold 14 or 15 place settings, which is standard for a 24-inch unit.
For maximum flexibility, look for the EasyRack™ system. This allows you to adjust the height of the middle rack to fit tall platters below or tall glasses above. A third rack is also a must-have for freeing up space in the lower baskets by holding silverware and ladles.
Extra Features
Beyond the basics, LG offers several convenient extras. Look for LED interior tub lights (helpful for late-night unloading), adjustable tines, and specialized bottle jets. Smart features are also standard now; you can use the ThinQ app to download new cycles or troubleshoot issues without calling a technician.
Eco-Friendly
Contradictory to older beliefs, modern LG dishwashers are highly efficient. Most models are Energy Star certified. They typically use around 2.8 gallons of water per cycle, which is far less than hand washing.
Warranty
LG offers one of the best warranty packages in the industry. You typically get one year for labor and parts, five years for the control board and racks, and a massive 10-year warranty for the Direct Drive Motor. The stainless steel tub usually carries a lifetime warranty against leaks.
Product Reviews
We reviewed these models based on cleaning performance, noise levels, drying capabilities, and user feedback. Whether you are battling hard water or need a silent operator for an apartment, there is an LG model here for you.
Here are the top five LG dishwashers on the market right now.
LG Dishwasher with QuadWash
Best Drying Ability
Drying performance is often the Achilles’ heel of modern dishwashers, but this LG model tackles the issue head-on. It combines Dynamic Dry technology with TrueSteam to minimize water spots and improve evaporation.
The final rinse uses extremely hot water to heat the dishes, while the stainless steel tub helps condense moisture, pulling it away from your plates. We love that it achieves this without a massive spike in energy usage. If you often run the machine at night, the “Night Dry” feature periodically vents the tub to prevent condensation from settling back onto your clean dishes by morning.
What We Like
- QuadWash™ coverage: This unit features four spray arms instead of two. The multi-motion arms spin and rotate back and forth to power-wash dishes from every angle.
- TrueSteam® technology: Steam penetrates caked-on food to eliminate the need for pre-rinsing. It also sanitizes dishes, reducing bacteria and germs significantly.
- PrintProof™ finish: The exterior resists smudges and fingerprints. This keeps the stainless steel looking sleek and clean with minimal maintenance.
- Dynamic Dry system: By combining steam, heat, and airflow, this dishwasher dries plastics and glass better than many standard hybrid models.
What We Don't Like
- Height clearance: The third rack is convenient for cutlery, but it reduces the available height for the rack below. You may need to adjust or remove it for very tall glasses.
- Silverware basket: Some users find the bottom silverware basket a bit rigid. The handle can get in the way, and the grid slots may not fit extra-thick utensil handles.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 44 dB |
| Performance | QuadWash, TrueSteam, and Dual Zone |
| Drying Capacity | Dynamic Dry |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 15 place settings |
| Annual Operating Cost | $34 |
Our Ratings
LG Studio 24 Inch PrintProof Stainless Steel
Most Stylish
The LG Studio line is designed for homeowners who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. This unit features a sleek, flat-front design with a commercial-style bar handle that looks fantastic in modern kitchens.
It is not just a pretty face, though. This is one of the quietest dishwashers available, operating at a whisper-quiet 40 dBA. You could stand right next to it and barely hear the water splashing. It is perfect for open floor plans where the kitchen blends into the living room.
Something To Note
What We Like
- Near-silent operation (40dBA): This machine is incredibly quiet. It includes a 3-stage filtration system and sound insulation that dampens motor noise effectively.
- EasyRack™ Plus: Flexibility is key here. You can adjust the racks on the fly to fit oversized pots or tall wine glasses, ensuring you never have to hand-wash large items.
- Versatile cycles: With 10 wash cycles (including Turbo, Delicate, and Machine Clean) and nine options (like Dual Zone), you can customize every load.
- Spot-free finish: The four steam jets help reduce water spots by up to 60 percent, leaving glassware crystal clear without hand polishing.
What We Don't Like
- Drying limitations: Like many energy-efficient models, it lacks an exposed heating coil. While effective, it may not dry plastics as thoroughly as older, energy-hogging units.
- App limitations: The ThinQ app is great for monitoring status or diagnosing issues, but safety regulations prevent you from remotely starting the cycle from your phone.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 40 dB |
| Performance | TrueSteam and Dual Zone |
| Drying Capacity | Condensation and heated drying |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 14 place settings |
| Annual Operating Cost | $31 |
Our Ratings
LG Dishwasher With QuadWash
Best LG Dishwasher for Hard Water
Hard water is the enemy of sparkling dishes, often leaving behind cloudy residue and spots. This LG model is our top pick for combating mineral buildup thanks to its robust TrueSteam technology.
The steam penetrates food residue during the wash and helps prevent water droplets from drying onto the glass during the rinse. Combined with QuadWash, it delivers a consistent clean even if your water supply isn’t perfect. It is a smart, hardworking appliance that protects your glassware investment.
What We Like
- SmartThinQ alerts: You can monitor cycle times from your phone. The app notifies you when the dishes are clean, so you can delegate unloading duties immediately.
- Family-friendly finish: The PrintProof stainless steel resists smudges from little hands, and the top controls prevent toddlers from accidentally starting a cycle.
- QuadWash system: Four multi-motion spray arms provide better coverage than standard two-arm systems, ensuring water reaches every corner of the tub.
- Hybrid Drying System: This unit uses a fan and condensation drying to help wick moisture away, balancing energy efficiency with dry results.
What We Don't Like
- Pre-rinsing stickiness: While powerful, sticky foods like oatmeal or dried avocado may still require a quick scrape or rinse before loading for perfect results.
- Rack stability: Some users report that the lower rack can derail if pulled out too aggressively. You need to glide it out gently.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 46 dB |
| Performance | QuadWash, TrueSteam |
| Drying Capacity | Dynamic dry with TrueSteam, hybrid drying system |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 15 place settings |
| Annual Operating Cost | $34 |
Our Ratings
LG Built-In Dishwasher with TrueSteam
Best Quiet LG Dishwasher
At just 42 decibels, this LG dishwasher is exceptionally quiet. For context, a standard conversation is about 60 decibels. You can run this machine while watching a movie or hosting a dinner party without any background drone.
It is an ideal choice for apartments, tiny homes, or open-plan houses where noise travels. It is so quiet that LG included an indicator light just so you know it is actually running.
What We Like
- Glide Rail system: The racks sit on ball-bearing wheels, allowing them to glide in and out smoothly even when fully loaded with heavy cast iron pans.
- Interior LED lighting: Opening the door triggers two LED tub lights. This makes loading easier and helps you spot any fallen utensils in the dark tub.
- Cycle variety: It offers ten distinct wash cycles, including specialized options like Refresh and Express, giving you total control over how you wash.
- TrueSteam & Dynamic Dry: This combination ensures that dishes come out clean and significantly drier than models relying solely on condensation.
What We Don't Like
- Premium price: The advanced silence rating and gliding racks come at a cost. This is one of the pricier options in the lineup.
- Third rack trade-off: While useful for silverware, the third rack reduces vertical space for the middle rack. You might have to remove it to wash very tall wine glasses.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 42 dB |
| Performance | TrueSteam, QuadWash, and Dual Zone |
| Drying Capacity | Hybrid Condensing Drying System |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 15 place settings |
| Annual Operating Cost | $31 |
Our Ratings
LG Front Control Stainless Steel Dishwasher
Best Budget Choice
You do not have to break the bank to get LG’s core cleaning technologies. This front-control model is a reliable workhorse that offers the famous QuadWash system at a more accessible price point.
While it lacks some of the premium bells and whistles like steam jets or whisper-quiet operation, it cleans just as effectively as the expensive models. The front control panel is intuitive, letting you see exactly how much time is left in the cycle.
What We Like
- Auto Cycle efficiency: The soil sensors detect how dirty your water is and adjust the cycle time and intensity automatically, saving you water and energy.
- High capacity: It holds up to 15 place settings. With adjustable tines and a height-adjustable upper rack, you can fit large loads after a family gathering.
- NSF-certified sanitization: The high-temp sanitize cycle kills 99.9 percent of bacteria, which is perfect for washing baby bottles or cutting boards.
- Stainless steel tub: Unlike many budget dishwashers that use plastic tubs, this model features a durable stainless steel interior that aids in drying and noise reduction.
What We Don't Like
- Noise level (50 dBA): It is louder than the premium models. You will hear a hum similar to a quiet conversation or moderate rainfall while it runs.
- Control sensitivity: Because the buttons are on the front face, they can be easy to brush against and activate accidentally while prepping food at the counter.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 50 dB |
| Performance | QuadWash |
| Drying Capacity | Dynamic Dry |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 15 place settings |
| Annual Operating Cost | $34 |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Noise Level | Performance | Drying Capacity | Dishwasher Capacity |
| LG Dishwasher with QuadWash | Drying Ability | 44 dB | QuadWash, TrueSteam & Dual Zone | Dynamic Dry | 15 place settings |
| LG Studio PrintProof Stainless Steel | Stylish | 40 dB | TrueSteam & Dual Zone | Condensation & heated drying | 14 place settings |
| LG Dishwasher With QuadWash | LG Dishwasher for Hard Water | 46 dB | QuadWash, TrueSteam | Dynamic dry with TrueSteam, hybrid drying system | 15 place settings |
| LG Built-In Dishwasher with TrueSteam | Quiet LG Dishwasher | 42 dB | TrueSteam, QuadWash & Dual Zone | Hybrid Condensing Drying System | 15 place settings |
| LG Front Control Stainless Steel Dishwasher | Budget Choice | 50 dB | QuadWash | Dynamic Dry | 15 place settings |
FAQs
What Does LG Stand For?
LG stands for “Lucky-Goldstar.” The name originated from the merger of two companies, Lucky and Goldstar, and was later shortened to the abbreviation LG.
Which Is Better: A Stainless Steel or Plastic Dishwasher?
Stainless steel dishwashers are superior to plastic ones. They withstand higher temperatures for sanitization, retain heat better for drying, resist odors and stains, and dampen sound more effectively.
Why Are LG Dishwasher Cycles So Long?
LG dishwasher cycles are longer because they prioritize energy and water efficiency. By using less water and soaking dishes for longer periods with sensor-based washing, they achieve a deep clean while meeting strict Energy Star standards.
Why Does My New LG Dishwasher Smell?
A new dishwasher may smell like “wet plastic” or burning varnish due to manufacturing residues heating up for the first time. This typically dissipates after the first few cycles.
Why Is My LG Dishwasher Not Drying?
If your LG dishwasher is not drying, ensure you are using Rinse Aid. Since these machines rely on condensation drying rather than heating elements, Rinse Aid is essential for breaking the surface tension of water so it sheets off the dishes.
Can You Use Vinegar To Clean an LG Dishwasher?
Yes, you can use white vinegar to clean your dishwasher. Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with one cup of vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle to dissolve grease and remove odors.
How Long Do LG Dishwashers Last?
An LG dishwasher typically lasts between 10 and 15 years with proper maintenance. The Direct Drive Motor is covered by a 10-year warranty, which indicates a long expected lifespan for the machine’s core component.
Where Is the Reset Button on an LG Dishwasher?
Most LG dishwashers do not have a dedicated “Reset” button. To reset the machine, turn off the power at the circuit breaker for 30 seconds, or hold the “Start” or “Power” button for three seconds to cancel the current cycle and drain the unit.
