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5 Best Thermador Dishwashers of 2024

Updated
Splash the cash on a Thermador dishwasher. But which one?

If you want a luxury dishwasher, you can’t beat Thermador. These beautiful and performative dishwashers will provide clean and dry dishes every cycle. They’re expensive, yes, but we think they’re worth it if you have the budget.

After researching honest customer reviews and expert advice, we compiled a list of the five best Thermador dishwashers. Paired with an in-depth review of each one, we’ll help you find the right appliance for your kitchen. Whether you want something stylish, a bit more affordable, or with built-in Wi-Fi, we’ve got recommendations for everyone.

Get ready to meet five incredible dishwashers.

Our Top Picks

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Best for Drying Dishes: Masterpiece® Stainless Steel Star Sapphire
  • LED interior lighting
  • Adjustable Chef's Tool Drawer
  • Time remaining Powerbeam®
Most Styish: Thermador Emerald Built-In Dishwasher
  • Three-stage filtration system
  • Wi-fi connection
  • Extra dry feature
Best Smart Thermador Dishwasher: Thermador Masterpiece® Emerald®
  • Touch sensitive controls
  • Nine washing cycles
  • Third rack holds untesils
Most Quiet: Thermador Top Control Built-In
  • Stardry™ drying cycle
  • Push to open feature
  • Spacious 16-place setting interior
Best Flexible Dishwasher: Thermador Smart Top Control Dishwasher
  • Great for cleaning pots and pans
  • 44 decibel volume
  • Handy dishwasher for crystal


Product Reviews

While we couldn’t test the products ourselves, we have spent hours researching Thermador dishwashers and what they have to offer. We backed up our research by analyzing real customer reviews and expert advice. We look at each product’s washing and drying ability, noise level, and extra features to ensure you know each dishwasher’s details.

Meet our five favorite luxurious Thermador dishwashers.

Masterpiece® Stainless Steel Star Sapphire

Best for Drying Dishes

This is one of the all-time best dishwashers from Thermador. The Star Sapphire collection is a must-have for many reasons, including the fact it will give you 100 percent dry dishes every single cycle.

It uses StarDry to achieve dry dishes across all types, including plastics, no matter where they’re placed in the dishwasher. The natural Zeolite minerals do an incredible job of evaporating moisture. This is one of the most exceptional drying mechanisms in the world.

What We Like

Sapphire Glow Interior Lighting

This is a fun feature to have on your luxurious dishwasher. The LED interior lighting is super useful, so you can see every item, speck of dirt, and remaining moisture. However, with the app, you can set the lights to be any color you want!

Adjustable Chef’s Tool Drawer

This extra drawer adds loading capacity to your dishwasher. This third rack is adjustable, too, so you can ensure there’s space for everything in your dishwasher. Customers use this drawer for tools and utensils, so they don’t clutter elsewhere in the appliance.

Time Remaining PowerBeam®

At 44 decibels, it’s not always easy to tell if your dishwasher is running. Thankfully, this has a Time Remaining PowerBeam that shines the remaining time on the floor.

Built-In Water Softener

Do you live in a hard water area? Are water spots a common frustration on your dishes? This appliance can change that.

It includes a built-in water softener that will soften the water so your dishes come out sparkling clean.

What We Don't Like

Very Expensive

As part of Thermador’s top range of dishwashers, this is super expensive. You can get a discount if you buy a range from Thermador, but for a domestic appliance, this is definitely not a budget-friendly dishwasher.

Exterior Finish Stains Easily

Despite being stainless steel, this unit stains easily. It’s pretty hard to clean off stains, fingerprints, and other dirt.

Product Specs

Noise Level 42 decibels
Collection Star Sapphire
Wash Cycles Seven cycles
Drying Cycle StarDry
Dishwasher Capacity 16 place settings

Our Ratings

Cleaning Performance
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Noise Level
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Thermador Emerald Built-In Dishwasher

Most Stylish

When choosing a Thermador dishwasher, style is guaranteed. Each dishwasher is luxuriously designed to stand out from the crowd. Guests will definitely be complimenting your fancy appliance!

However, for ultimate style — choose one with a custom panel. This way, it can match your lovely kitchen decor, fitting in seamlessly with your cabinets.

We recommend this Emerald collection built-in dishwasher for many reasons. We’ll get deeper into it, but look out for amazing features such as the power beam, dosage assistant, Wi-Fi connection, and much more.

What We Like

Maximum Cleaning Technology

Compared to other brands, this Thermador dishwasher will wow you with its cleaning abilities. First, it uses Sens-A-Wash technology which adjusts its specs during the cycle to ensure clean and dry dishes every time. Secondly, this dishwasher uses a three-stage filtration system to ensure the water is super clean the entire cycle.

Wi-Fi Connection for Remote Starting

This is a bonus feature found on all Thermador dishwashers, but let’s look at it more closely. The Home Connect App allows you to personalize your controls, receive notifications, and diagnose issues within the dishwasher. You can even start the dishwasher remotely, which is a one-of-a-kind feature across all smart dishwashers.

Extra Dry Function

Enjoy extra dishes with the Extra Dry function. While it’s not Star Dry, it still does a fantastic job of drying your dishes at the end of each cycle.

Touch Sensitive Controls

It’s so easy to press the buttons on the top control. No need to push down super hard — a light tap will allow you to choose your preferred settings.

What We Don't Like

48 Decibels

Forty-eight decibels isn’t loud, but it’s noticeable. It’s the loudest from Thermador, anyway! If you’re looking for something super quiet, or nearly silent dishwasher, we recommend upgrading to one of their other collections.

Product Specs

Noise Level 48 decibels
Collection Emerald
Wash Cycles Six cycles
Drying Cycle Extra Dry
Dishwasher Capacity 16 place settings

Our Ratings

Cleaning Performance
4.5 / 5
Energy Efficiency
4 / 5
Noise Level
3.5 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Thermador Masterpiece® Stainless Steel Emerald®

Best Smart Thermador Dishwasher

All Thermador dishwashers are smart. Each one has built-in Wi-Fi, so you can control it with your smartphone once you’ve downloaded the Home Connect app. However, this is one of our favorite smart dishwashers for many reasons!

Firstly, it’s part of the Emerald collection, so it’s a bit more budget-friendly than the higher collections from Thermador. It also has a third rack for more space for hard-to-place items. Lastly, we love the Dosage Assist for detergent, as well as the PowerBeam that shines the remaining time on the floor.

What We Like

Touch Sensitive Controls

If you struggle to press stiff buttons on appliances, you’ll enjoy this dishwasher. It has touch-sensitive controls, making them easy to press for most people.

Nine Washing Cycle Options

Some Thermador dishwashers have a very limited number of cycles, especially in the Emerald collection. But this one has nine, so there are plenty of options to choose from! They are: Half Load, Delicate Wash, Quick Wash, Normal, Auto, Rinse, Pots and Pans, Extra Dry, and PowerBoost.

Third Rack Holds Utensils

The third rack gives you extra space for hard-to-place items like utensils, spatulas, and other items. It doesn’t take up much space in the dishwasher. But if it does limit space in the upper rack, you can remove the third rack when you feel like it.

Great for Hard Water Areas

If you live in a hard water area, you can say goodbye to water spots on all your dishes. This has a built-in water softener to ensure the most sparkling results.

What We Don't Like

48 Decibels

It’s not the quietest dishwasher from Thermador. At 48 decibels, it’s similar to a rainfall or quiet office. So it might be soothing background noise for some, but in tiny homes, it may interrupt your peaceful evenings.

No Child Lock

If you have curious kids, there might be better options for your household than this dishwasher. With no child lock, your little one can have free access to this appliance. And since the controls are so easy to use, who knows what cycle they might choose in the middle of the day?

Product Specs

Noise Level 48 decibels
Collection Emerald
Wash Cycles Nine cycles
Drying Cycle Extra Dry
Dishwasher Capacity 16 place settings

Our Ratings

Cleaning Performance
4.5 / 5
Energy Efficiency
4 / 5
Noise Level
3.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Thermador Top Control Built-In Dishwasher

Most Quiet

At a near-silent 42 decibels, this is a dishwasher that will do its job without making a fuss about it! Since it’s so quiet, it’s fab for both small and large houses since it won’t interrupt conversations, sleep, and chilled evenings at home.

Besides its decibel rating, it’s also part of the Sapphire collection. So it has a range of amazing features, including interior lighting, Star Dry, a push-to-open door, and much more.

What We Like

StarDry™ Dries Dishes

StarDry is one of the most effective drying cycles on the market. It uses a mineral called Zeolite, which is entirely exclusive to Thermador. The Zeolite works to dry all dishes, even plastics, no matter where they’re placed in the dishwasher.

Push-To-Open Door

The handleless design of this dishwasher makes it possible to open the appliance even when your hands are full. Simply push the door, and it will pop open.

Spacious Interior With 16 Place Settings

This dishwasher has 16 place settings, so it’s already big on its own. However, it also has an adjustable chef’s tool drawer — or third rack — for long utensils. You can also adjust the other racks to make space for awkwardly sized items.

Seven Wash Cycles

Who doesn’t like having options? While this has the basics — quick, normal, and auto  — it also has other funky settings. For instance, it has PowerBoost for extra cleaning, Star Speed for quick washes, and a sanitary cycle for killing germs.

What We Don't Like

Two-Year Warranty

The short two-year warranty is something to watch out for. While this is still longer than some dishwasher suppliers, the price is up to five times as expensive, so it’s not super reassuring.

One customer had the heat pump break after the warranty was over — so that’s an expensive mistake to fix yourself.

Keep In Mind

The warranty includes a five-year limit for the control board and lifetime for rust on the inner tub liner.

Door Opens Too Easily

While the push-to-open feature is interesting, it’s too sensitive. Even if you brush past the dishwasher, it will open. This can happen mid-cycle, which is very inconvenient.

Product Specs

Noise Level 42 decibels
Collection Sapphire
Wash Cycles 12 cycles
Drying Cycle StarDry
Dishwasher Capacity 16 place settings

Our Ratings

Cleaning Performance
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Noise Level
5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Thermador Smart Top Control Dishwasher

Best Flexible Dishwasher

With this dishwasher, you can take advantage of all the settings to suit your unique lifestyle. First, this has flexible folding tines, so you can pop them down to fit in larger items. This allows you to wash extra large pots and pans in the dishwasher.

It also has Extra-Tall-Item sprinklers, so you no longer need to wash bottles by hand. Finally, we love the Dosage Assist that breaks down detergent tablets for you. Not only does this result in better cleaning, but it means you can use any detergent brand with this appliance.

What We Like

Great for Cleaning Pots and Pans

There are many features that make this dishwasher excellent for cleaning pots and pans. Firstly, there’s a pots and pans cycle.

Secondly, you can activate the PowerBoost cycle, which raises the water temperature and pressure in the lower rack, providing heavy-duty cleaning. You’ll also enjoy the folding tines, which make more space on the bottom rack for larger items.

44 Decibel Volume

This is one of the quieter dishwashers, coming in at only 44 decibels. While you can still hear it, you won’t notice it when you have music on or are hanging out in another room.

Handy Dishwasher for Crystal

This is a fantastic dishwasher option if you don’t want to wash crystal items by hand. It has Crystal Protection which ensures your crystal is safe — and will still get clean — in this appliance.

Hand Wash Cycle

Another reason we love this dishwasher is the hand wash cycle. Think of things you usually wash by hand — wine glasses, fine china — and imagine a dishwasher that could do it for you. This dishwasher has a hand wash cycle which is super gentle.

Now you can spend less time at the sink and more time on the sofa.

What We Don't Like

Drying Function Could Be Better

This dishwasher washes really well, but the drying function could be better. Some customers noted that the dishes and interior were still slightly damp in the morning. It does have an extra dry option which makes a difference, but plastic items were still wet.

No Interior Lights

Other Thermador dishwashers have interior lights, but this one lacks them. If you’d like to see every inch of your dishwasher interior — which is super handy for cleaning it — you might be disappointed.

Product Specs

Noise Level 44 decibels
Collection Topaz
Wash Cycles Six cycles
Drying Cycle Extra dry
Dishwasher Capacity 16 place settings

Our Ratings

Cleaning Performance
4 / 5
Energy Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Noise Level
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Noise Level Collection Wash Cycles Drying Cycle Dishwasher Capacity
Masterpiece® Stainless Steel Star Sapphire For Drying Dishes 42 db Star Sapphire 7 StarDry 16 place settings
Thermador Emerald Built-In Stylish 48 db Emerald 6 Extra Dry 16 place settings
Thermador Masterpiece® Emerald® Smart Thermador Dishwasher 48 db Emerald 9 Extra Dry 16 place settings
Thermador Top Control Built-In Quiet 42 db Sapphire 12 StarDry 16 place settings
Thermador Smart Top Control Dishwasher Flexible 44 db Topaz 6 Extra dry 16 place settings

Are Thermador Dishwashers Good?

Yes. Thermador dishwashers are performative, reliable, and durable.

But they are also expensive, costing at least double than most other brands. So they’re not suitable for people on a tight budget. If you want something that performs similarly for hundreds of dollars less, consider a Bosch dishwasher.

You may be wondering why Thermador dishwashers are so expensive. The main reason is because they’re quicker than other dishwashers. Their wash cycles are shorter, including the 20-minute Star wash.

Plus, their drying cycles are more consistent.

How Long Do Thermador Dishwashers Last?

You can expect your Thermador dishwasher to last around 10 years, even though the labor warranty is only two years long.

Quick Note

The warranty for the control board is five years. The warranty for the inner tub is 10 years.

Types of Thermador Dishwashers

Thermador offers a few different types of dishwashers, which we’ll look into in more detail.

Emerald

The Emerald series includes the most basic dishwashers from Thermador, but they’re still more advanced than some other brands. This is their most affordable collection.

Pros

  • Most affordable collection.
  • Powerful wash cycles.
  • Wi-Fi compatible.
  • Third rack included.
  • Custom panel option.
  • Free if you buy a Thermador range.

Cons

  • 48 decibels isn’t super quiet (but it’s still better than other brands).
  • Still expensive.

Sapphire

The Sapphire range features amazing updated details, but of course, this raises the price. If you have the budget for it, you will love these features.

Pros

  • Interior lighting.
  • Star Dry function for extra dry dishes.
  • Push to open door.
  • 42 decibels (very quiet).
  • Custom panel option.
  • Chef Tool Drawer for utensils.
  • Wi-Fi compatible.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • The handleless design can be annoying.

Star-Sapphire

This is a super luxurious collection from Thermador, but it is significantly more expensive. However, you get your money’s worth in terms of luxury.

Pros

  • More flexible third rack.
  • Ultra-smooth glide racks.
  • Illuminates the interior with blue or white light.
  • 20-minute hot wash cycle.
  • Push to open door.
  • Star Dry for drying dishes.
  • Wi-Fi connection.

Cons

  • Very expensive.

Topaz

The next step up are the Topaz dishwashers which are extra quiet at 44 decibels. These are also great for hard water areas. However, these are the most expensive Thermador dishwashers.

Pros

  • 44 decibels.
  • Water softener to help in hard water areas.
  • A time remaining indicator shines on the floor.
  • Foldable tines for flexible loading.
  • Custom panel option.
  • Third rack included.
  • You can save money when you buy a range from Thermador.

Cons

  • More expensive than the previous collection.
  • Unique installation.

Key Features to Look For

With a few different Thermador dishwashers to choose from, we’ll tell you the top details to consider so you can find the best one for your kitchen.

Noise Level

Check the decibel level of the dishwasher. Thermador dishwashers range from 42 to 48 decibels, so they’re all pretty quiet. However, 42 is the quietest from this brand.

Design

Consider the design of the dishwasher. The main difference is if it’s custom panel ready or not. If you want something that seamlessly fits in with your kitchen decor, we recommend a panel-ready dishwasher.

Also, consider if you want the push-to-open feature. It’s good if your hands are full, but you will have to choose one of the higher-end collections to get this feature.

Wash Cycles

Check out the different wash cycles. The more wash cycles there are, the easier it will be to customize each cycle for your dishes. One wash cycle many Thermador customers are after is the Star Speed cycle which washes dishes in 20 minutes!

Drying Capacity

While all Thermador dishwashers do a good job of drying, the Star Dry feature is the best of the best. It uses Zeolite to ensure all dishes are completely dry — even plastics.

Extra Features

Thermador dishwashers are known for their cool features. You’ll find interior lights, a time remaining indicator for the floor, push-to-open doors, foldable tines, and much more. Check the extra features to ensure you’re getting a dishwasher with everything you want.

Eco-Friendly

Thermador dishwashers are Energy Star Certified, so they’re already pretty eco-friendly. But make sure yours has the Sens-A-Wash® setting, which saves energy, water, and heating where possible.

Warranty

Check the warranty from your supplier, as they may modify this. In general, a Thermador dishwasher should offer a two-year warranty.

However, some suppliers specify this differently as a two-year warranty for labor and a five-year warranty for the control board and racks. Plus, a lifetime warranty for the tub liner.

FAQs

Is Thermador High-End?

Thermador dishwashers are high-end, costing almost double the price of other brands. However, they are reliable, durable and include many features that set them apart, like a 20-minute Star wash cycle.

Are Thermador Appliances Worth the Money?

Thermador appliances are worth the money because they have a reputation for reliability, durability, innovation, and quality.

Do Thermador Dishwashers Have a Heating Element?

Thermador dishwashers do have a heating element. It helps to regulate the water temperature and remove baked-on stains from your dishes.

Where Is the Filter for a Thermador Dishwasher?

The filter for a Thermador dishwasher is located at the base, just below the lower spray arm. It lifts up to reveal the filter in the housing.

What Does a Blue Light on Thermador Dishwasher Mean?

The blue light on a Thermador dishwasher means the appliance is operational. It throws a soft light onto the floor when you switch it on.

How Do I Silence My Thermador Dishwasher?

The easiest way to silence your Thermador dishwasher is to open the door and press the light wash button while simultaneously turning it on. The light wash indicator will flash, giving a chance to push it again.

If it beeps, the completion signal is enabled. If you get no beep, it is disabled.


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About the Author

Beth McCallum

Beth McCallum is a freelance writer & book blogger with a degree in creative writing, journalism, and English literature. Beth firmly believes that a tidy house is a tidy mind. She is always looking for new ways to sustainably clean and tidy her house, that's kind on the environment but effective in the house, too!