Bosch vs. KitchenAid Dishwashers: 7 Key Differences

Are you shopping for a new dishwasher but can’t decide between Bosch and KitchenAid?

What are the key differences? Which brand is better?

In this comparison of Bosch vs. KitchenAid, you’ll learn how their dishwashers differ in reliability, cost, warranty, features, and performance.

I also reveal what appliance repair professionals say about both brands.

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Use the links below to navigate the comparison:

• Bosch vs. KitchenAid Dishwashers: Comparison Chart
• Difference 1: Reliability
• Difference 2: Price
• Difference 3: Warranty
• Difference 4: Features
• Difference 5: Quietness
• Difference 6: Number of Models and Options
• Difference 7: Top-Rated Models
• What Others Say About Bosch and KitchenAid Dishwashers
• Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Bosch or KitchenAid Dishwasher?

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Bosch vs. KitchenAid Dishwashers: Comparison Chart

The following table provides a quick comparison of Bosch vs. KitchenAid dishwashers:

	Bosch Dishwashers	KitchenAid Dishwashers
Reliability	Recommended by 73% of service pros interviewed	Recommended by 27% of service pros interviewed
Service Rate*	5.1%	6.2%
Number of Models	55	14
Finishes	White, black, stainless steel, black stainless, panel ready	White, black, stainless steel, panel ready
Handle Styles	Bar, pocket, or custom	Bar or pocket
Sound Rating	38-50 dBA	39-47 dBA
Status Light	Yes	No
Adjustable Tines	Yes	Yes
Adjustable Racks	Yes	Yes
Wi-Fi Connectivity	Yes	No
Drying Technology	AutoAir Dry, CrystalDry	ProDry, Extended ProDry
Energy Star Certified	Yes	Yes
Tub Material	Stainless Steel (except Acenta and 100 series)	Stainless Steel
Delay Start	Yes	Yes
Built-In Water Softener	Optional	Optional
Place Settings	12-16	12-14
Third Racks	Standard, Flexible, MyWay	Utensil Rack, FreeFlex
Warranty	Initial 1-year limited warranty	Initial 2-year limited warranty
Price	$500 – $2,500	$999 – $2,000
Top Reason to Buy	Reliability, quietness, advanced drying options	Warranty covers all parts and labor for two years
Top Reason Not to Buy	Expensive	Limited selection; less reliable

Difference 1: Reliability

Reliability should be at the top of your list when picking a dishwasher. It’s not just about fancy features; you want a dishwasher that won’t give you grief over the years.

So, how do Bosch and KitchenAid compare in terms of reliability?

I recently published a guide to the most and least reliable dishwasher brands. And during that process, I interviewed 15 professional appliance repair companies.

I posed a simple yet revealing question to each: which dishwasher brands are the most and least reliable?

As you can see in the summary of the response below, 11 of the 15 appliance repair pros recommend Bosch.

KitchenAid and GE tied for the second with recommendations from 4 pros, but both were far behind Bosch.

Here’s a breakdown of the votes I gathered during these interviews:

Brand	Votes for Most Reliable Dishwasher	Votes for Least Reliable Dishwasher
Bosch	11	0
GE	4	2
KitchenAid	4	1
Whirlpool	3	0
Miele	2	0
Asko	2	0
Frigidaire	1	0
Cove (Sub-Zero/Wolf)	1	0
LG	1	4
Samsung	0	5

Synergy Appliances in Wyoming, Michigan, said, “Bosch is known for its outstanding dishwasher engineering. However, it is much harder to find Bosch options in stock due to the high demand. KitchenAid and LG dishwashers are also well built.”

Dey Distributing, a parts distributor in Vadnais Heights, Minnesota, told me, “For reliability, Bosch is the best dishwasher brand.”

Nawara Brothers Home Store, an appliance sales and service company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, said, “Bosch dishwashers are the most reliable. After Bosch, I recommend GE.”

Gerrit’s Appliance in Wyoming, Michigan, said, “Bosch is the most reliable dishwasher brand.”

Appliance Service Unlimited in Middleton, Wisconsin, said, “We recommend Bosch for dishwashers. Stay away from Samsung.”

AM Appliance Repair, a service company in Fitchburg, WI, told me, “Bosch is the best brand. Its better models cost around $1000, but they’re almost always worth it. Avoid KitchenAid, GE, and Samsung dishwashers; those are the least reliable.”

My Appliance Doctor, an appliance repair company in the Atlanta, Georgia, area for over 40 years, said, “For dishwashers, we recommend Bosch and KitchenAid.”

Apex Appliance in Grand Rapids, Michigan, said, “We like Bosch dishwashers. We do not recommend LG or Samsung.”

Atlanta City Appliance Repair in Alpharetta, Georgia, said, “We usually recommend Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Bosch.”

Miller’s Appliance Service in Grand Rapids, Michigan, said, “Bosch and KitchenAid are the most reliable.”

Appliance Dean, an Atlanta, Georgia company, said, “Bosch 800 series and above, Miele, and Asko are all great. If you want to pay less, go with LG, but do not get a base model. Don’t waste your time or money with any other brands.”

In addition to interviewing dishwasher repair experts, I analyzed publicly available data to determine the most reliable brand.

Yale Appliance, based in Boston, has been in the appliance business since 1923. They compile yearly reliability reports on various appliances, including dishwashers, using firsthand data from their service team.

Yale calculates a ‘service rate,’ which is the percentage of sold units that required servicing within a year. It’s a good indicator of how often these appliances might need repairs, but remember; it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

For a quick comparison, let’s look at Bosch and KitchenAid service in recent years:

Year	Bosch Service Rate	KitchenAid Service Rate
2023	5.1%	6.2%
2022	10.1%	5.5%
2021	12.8%	11.0%
2020	11.1%	13.1%
2019	11.1%	16.3%
2018	10.4%	9.5%

The lower the service rate, the fewer reported issues for that brand. Bosch has consistently improved, with a 5.1% service rate in 2023. While still reliable, KitchenAid has shown more fluctuation over the years.

So, what does this mean for you? If reliability is a major factor in your decision-making process (it should be), Bosch is the better choice.

However, every dishwasher model is unique, and reliability can also be influenced by how you use and maintain the appliance.

Difference 2: Price

The cost of a Bosch dishwasher varies significantly by series.

Models in the Ascenta and 100 series are the most affordable. Expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $700. The main downside is the bottom of the tub is plastic, not stainless steel.

Bosch’s most popular series are the 300, 500, and 800.

The 300 series is considered the lower mid-range choice. Compared to higher-priced options, the interior racks are less flexible, and the drying features are limited— 300 series dishwashers cost around $1,000.

The 500 series is a step up from 300 (read my comparison). These models have a flexible third rack and the AutoAir drying feature. You’ll pay roughly $1,099 for a 500 series model.

800 series dishwashers run between $1200 and $1500 and are considered high mid-range. Dishwashers in this series have even greater flexibility, including movable tines (dish separators) and the coveted CrystalDry feature that uses volcanic minerals to help dry dishes.

The Benchmark series is the brand’s luxury offering. Models in this series range between $2,200 and $2,500. Features are similar to 800 models, but at 38 decibels of sound output, it’s the quietest dishwasher you can buy in the United States, according to Bosch.

While Bosch offers a variety of models at a range of price points, KitchenAid’s offerings are more streamlined.

Instead of different series, KitchenAid offers three types of dishwashers:

• Two Rack Dishwashers: The most basic and least expensive dishwashers, ranging from $700 to 1,300.
• Third Level Utensil Rack Dishwashers: These models cost between $1,000 and $1,200 and feature a shallow third rack with enough space for small utensils.
• FreeFlex Third Rack Dishwashers: The third rack on these models is much larger and can fit utensils, cups, and mugs. Prices range from $900 to $1,900.

Here’s a snapshot of Bosch vs. Kitchenaid dishwasher models and associated pricing:

Price	KitchenAid Dishwasher Models	Bosch Dishwasher Models
$999 & Under	2	22
$1000-1500	9	27
$1501-2000	3	2
$2001-2500	0	4

Difference 3: Warranty

KitchenAid dishwashers come with a five-year limited warranty. The first two years cover all parts and labor. In years 3-5, KitchenAid covers certain parts for defective components, including:

• Upper and lower nylon dish racks
• Nylon cup shelves
• Silverware baskets

Bosch dishwashers also come with a five-year limited warranty, but it differs in a few ways. The brand only offers a one-year warranty for all parts and labor (KitchenAid offers two). In years 2-5, Bosch only covers parts for the microprocessor or printed circuit board and the racks (but not rack components).

Bosch’s warranty also covers the tub liner for the appliance’s life. After two years, KitchenAid doesn’t provide any coverage for this part.

Difference 4: Features

Let’s compare the key features of Bosch and KitchenAid dishwashers. It’s important to note: all features are not available on every model. Check the product description of the model you are considering to view the feature list.

Bosch Features:

Multiple third-rack options: Third-rack dishwashers give you more flexibility in loading your dishes. It also maximizes the capacity, allowing you to wash more items. Bosch offers three third racks: Standard, Flexible, and MyWay.

• Standard – This thin third rack gives you a place to lay your silverware, serving utensils, and other small items like cup covers. Its V-shape design also allows the loading of tall items on the middle rack, such as wine glasses. This rack is available in 100 and 300-series dishwashers.
• Flexible – Available in 500 series dishwashers, you can lower or raise the wings on this rack and adjust the tines to accommodate bulky or tall items.
• MyWay – This is Bosch’s largest third rack, available in 800 and Benchmark series dishwashers. It can fit silverware, tongs, cereal bowls, whisks, and measuring cups.

EasyGlide rack system: Racks on some Bosch models feature ball-bearing wheels that require less force to pull out or push in the rack.

FlexSpace Tines: Tines are small bars that separate dishes on the racks. The added benefit of having flexible tines means you can adjust the rack for smaller or larger items. The adjustable tines can stand upright to accommodate multiple dessert plates or lay flat to have enough room for frying pans.

RackMatic: You can easily adjust the top rack to nine different heights to place items of all sizes. It can tilt to accommodate tall items on the lower rack, like a cookie sheet.

Home Connect: On some 300 and 800 series models, Bosch offers Wi-Fi connectivity, making the dishwashers compatible with the Home Connect app. The app lets you control dishwasher features, monitor performance, and remotely start a cycle.

AutoAir and CrystalDry drying options: Bosch doesn’t feature a heating element in its dishwasher design. Instead, it uses condensation to naturally dry dishes. This method is more hygienic and energy efficient and ensures plastics and other materials don’t melt. The downside of condensation drying is that sometimes it doesn’t dry dishes thoroughly enough (especially plastics). Bosch understands this drawback and has two features that attempt to solve it:

• AutoAir, available in 500 series models, pops the door slightly open at the end of the cycle to let steam escape and reduce drying time.
• CrystalDry, available in 800 and Benchmark series models, uses volcanic minerals to collect moisture and turn it into heat while a fan circulates the heat throughout the drum. This is Bosch’s answer to criticism about its lack of ability to dry plastics. Plastics are known for being hard to dry, as they tend to collect moisture in the crevices of lids and containers. This system thoroughly drys all items, including plastics.  

Speed60 Wash: Normal dishwasher cycles can take two hours or more.The Speed60 setting cleans your dishes in an hour and is ideal for lightly or freshly soiled dishes.  

InfoLight: Bosch dishwashers shine a red light on the floor just under the dishwasher to tell you when the cycle is running. Bosch models operate so quietly that you might open the door too early, thinking the cycle is done. The InfoLight takes away the guesswork.

KitchenAid Features:

Before I explain KitchenAid dishwashers’ key features, there are a few differences between KitchenAid and Bosch to note:

• KitchenAid doesn’t offer Wi-Fi-connected dishwashers
• KitchenAid has fewer third-rack options.
• KitchenAid dishwashers include a heating element to dry dishes.

Multiple third rack options: KitchenAid offers FreeFlex and Third Level Utensil Rack models. KitchenAid’s FreeFlex is advertised as the largest third rack option (among comparable models). It has depth to fit large, bulky items like frying pans and cookie sheets, along with smaller items like stemware. It also features a removable utensil tray.

The Third Level Utensil Rack lays flat to provide extra space for utensils, tongs, whisks, and serving utensils. This rack is similar in size, shape, and function to Bosch’s Standard Third Rack.

Adjustable middle rack: This feature allows you to lower and raise the middle rack to accommodate taller or awkwardly-shaped items, such as mixing bowls, pitchers, and cutting boards.

ProWash: This wash cycle monitors the soil on dishes and adjusts the wash time and water temperature to provide the best conditions for cleaning.

SatinGlide rail system: Similar to Bosch’s EasyGlide, this system uses ball-bearing rollers to make it easy to push in and pull out racks, even when they are full.

ProDry: This design features a heating element and fan to force heated air around the dishes for a better drying experience.

Interior LED lighting: Illuminates the dishwasher tub, making loading and unloading easier in any lighting condition.

Clean Water Wash System: The water is continually cleansed through microfiltration to remove food particles.

Difference 5: Quietness

Bosch and KitchenAid both offer quiet dishwashers. But with some models in its Benchmark series rated at 38 decibels (dBA), Bosch claims it has some of the quietest dishwashers in the United States.

KitchenAid dishwashers have three sound ratings: 39, 44, and 47 dBA. Most models fall into the middle range at 44 dBA. Bosch models range between 38 and 50 dBA. Most of Bosch’s models fall within the 42-46 dBA range.

According to the Hearing Health Foundation, sounds at or below 70 dBA are safe, and 50 dBA or under is quiet. Since all KitchenAid and Bosch dishwashers are rated at 50 dBA or less, you can be assured that the models are quiet, although some are quieter than others.

Here’s a quick look at some models and dBA ratings from both brands:

Brand/Model	dBA Rating
Bosch 800 Series, SHX78B75UC	42
Bosch 300 Series, SHE53B75UC	46
Bosch Benchmark Series, SHE89PW75N	38
KitchenAid FreeFlex, KDTM404KBS	44
KitchenAid Third Level Utensil Rack, KDTE204KBS	39
KitchenAid Two-Rack, KDFE104KPS	47

Difference 6: Number of Models and Options

Another difference between Bosch and KitchenAid is the number of available models and options.

KitchenAid only makes 24-inch dishwashers — the standard size. With a 24-inch model, you can clean roughly 16 place settings.

Bosch offers 24-inch and 17 ¾-inch models. The smaller capacity models can clean up to 14 place settings — ideal for smaller kitchens or one to three-person households.

Both brands have models with stainless steel finishes to reduce fingerprints and smudges. However, multiple customer reviews show dissatisfaction with KitchenAid’s PrintShield coating because it doesn’t match well with other stainless steel appliances from other brands.

Here is a breakdown of both brands’ options:

	KitchenAid	Bosch
Number of Models	14	55
Finishes	White, Black, Stainless, Black Stainless, Panel-Ready	White, Black, Stainless, Black Stainless, Panel-Ready
Handle Styles	Bar, Pocket, Recessed, Custom	Bar, Pocket, Recessed, Custom
Rack Options	Two-Rack, Third Rack, Third-Level Utensil Rack	Two-Rack, Third Rack
Sizes	1 (24-inch)	2 (24-inch and 17 ¾-inch)

Difference 7: Top-Rated Models

To help you compare Bosch and KitchenAid dishwashers, here’s a quick overview of both brands’ most popular models:

The Bosch 300 series SGE53B55UC is an affordable 24-inch, two-rack dishwasher with a pocket handle and stainless steel finish. The model washes up to 13 place settings. It features RackMatic, allowing you to adjust the upper rack in nine ways for the best loading experience. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity with the HomeConnect app for remote monitoring and control.

The Bosch 800 series SHX78B75UC is a stainless steel finish dishwasher that provides a flexible third rack, washes up to 16 place settings, and connects with the HomeConnect app. It has a self-latching door with a recessed handle. It features CrystalDry, an advanced drying technology that uses volcanic minerals, and Speed60, a one-hour intense wash cycle.

The KitchenAid KDTM404KBS is a 24-inch dishwasher that features PrintShield Finish to keep the appliance from showing smudges and fingerprints. It has a bar handle and comes in a choice of stainless or black stainless finish. This model offers the FreeFlex Third Rack design and the Advanced Clean Water System, offering versatile loading and sanitized water.

The KitchenAid KDFE204KWH provides a third-level utensil rack designed to lay utensils and spatulas flat to optimize space. An adjustable middle rack ensures you can configure your dishwasher to accommodate tall or bulky items and get the most out of this 24-inch dishwasher. It’s available in white, black, stainless, or black stainless and has a recessed handle.

What Others Say About Bosch and KitchenAid Dishwashers

Bosch and KitchenAid dishwashers are frequently featured on best appliance lists and regularly mentioned in reviews from top consumer websites and online buying guides. Let’s take a look at how these independent outlets view both brands.

Since this section has a lot of information, I summarized the key points in the table below. Please note that some publications didn’t favor specific models from each brand. In those cases, I’ve highlighted the general feedback or added “N/A.”

Publication	Preferred Bosch Model	Key Points About Bosch	Preferred KitchenAid Model	Key Points About KitchenAid
CNET	SHEM63W55N (300 series)	Affordable, quiet, adjustable third rack, removable lower flatware rack, sleek look	KDFE204KPS	Quietest model, ProWash feature adjusts wash time and water temperature
Forbes	Ascenta (Best Overall) & 500 series (Best Value)	Quiet, energy-efficient, effective cleaning, half-load cycle, large racks, sanitizing cycle, flexible third rack, AutoAir feature	PrintShield	Best with a third rack, quiet operation
The New York Post	500 series Top Control 24-inch built-in	Flexible third rack, adjustable racks, spacious interior, quiet operation	Top Control 24-inch built-in	Energy Star rating, low noise, long-lasting stainless steel interior, easy loading/unloading
The Spruce	N/A	Innovative, customizable, durable, but expensive	N/A	Reasonably priced, easy to bundle with other KitchenAid appliances, lacks different price points or high-tech features
Better Homes and Gardens	300 series	Perfect for large families, adjustable rack, no need to pre-rinse dishes	24-inch Top Control built-in	Quiet, stylish, fingerprint resistance, adjustable middle rack
Good Housekeeping	SGX78B55UC	Best for drying, quiet, large capacity, CrystalDry technology, lacks child lock or rinse-only cycle	N/A	N/A
New York Times Wirecutter	300 series SHEM63W55N	Quiet, flexible middle rack, excellent cleaning performance, leaves plastics a bit wet	Not recommended	Not recommended

CNET  recently named Bosch SHEM63W55N as the best overall dishwasher. This 300 series model stands out for its affordable pricing, quiet operation, adjustable third rack, removable lower flatware rack, and sleek look. However, fingerprints are noticeable on the stainless steel exterior.

In that same review, CNET called KitchenAid KDFE204KPS the quietest dishwasher. At 39 decibels, reviewers thought it was an ideal volume to take a nap without being disturbed. The model was also praised for its ProWash feature that senses how dirty the dishes are and adjusts wash time and water temperature for the best results.

Forbes chose the Bosch Ascenta as the best overall dishwasher in a list of top dishwasher models for its quiet operation, energy-efficient design, effective cleaning, and half-load cycle option. The reviewers also liked its large racks, sanitizing cycle, and fingerprint-resistant stainless finish. However, they pointed out the bottom rack can easily slide off the track.

Forbes also named the Bosch 500 series as the best-value dishwasher. The flexible third rack, AutoAir feature, and bright LED cycle indicator light are the top reasons it’s called a good option for the money. But at $1,100, it’s not cheap.

Forbes named KitchenAid PrintShield the best dishwasher with a third rack. Besides the spacious extra rack, Forbes reviewers also liked its quiet operation.

The New York Post listed the top dishwashers according to experts from Best Buy and Lowe’s and named Bosch and KitchenAid as two of the top 10 brands.

At the top of the list is the Bosch 500 series Top Control 24-inch built-in dishwasher. The model was celebrated for its flexible third rack, adjustable racks, flexible tines, spacious interior, and quiet operation. On the downside, reviewers noted long wash cycles and pointed out that some features, like speed control, have a learning curve.

The KitchenAid Top Control 24-inch built-in dishwasher was also on the list, chosen for its Energy Star rating, low noise, long-lasting stainless steel interior, and ease of loading and unloading thanks to the SatinGlide rails. But, installation can be tricky and could require a professional (adding to the cost). There is also nothing to help keep stemware in place.

The Spruce listed the best dishwasher brands and selected Bosch and KitchenAid as top choices. Reviewers liked the innovation, customization options, durability, and ease of finding Bosch models. However, they found the models to be expensive.

Alternatively, they thought KitchenAid models were reasonably priced and could easily be bundled with other KitchenAid appliances like refrigerators, ranges, and ovens. The reviewers didn’t like that the brand doesn’t offer different price points (like Bosch) or high-tech features like Wi-Fi connectivity.

Better Homes and Gardens made a list of the best dishwashers and chose the Bosch 300 series dishwasher as the best overall and the KitchenAid 24-inch Top Control built-in dishwasher as the best quiet option.

The reviewers called the Bosch model perfect for large families because it has room for up to 16 place settings, and its adjustable rack can accommodate all sizes of pots, pans, cookie sheets, and serving platters. It’s also convenient because you don’t need to pre-rinse dishes. The downside is that the exterior stainless steel attracts fingerprints.

The KitchenAid model was chosen for its quietness, style, fingerprint resistance, and adjustable middle rack. The dishwasher looks as good as it runs. However, it only offers five wash cycles.

Good Housekeeping tested and reviewed over 35 dishwashers and named Bosch SGX78B55UC as the best choice for drying. The reviewers lauded its quiet operation, large capacity, and CrystalDry technology that transforms moist air into heat. However, they did not like the lack of a child lock and rinse-only cycle.

New York Times Wirecutter tested 17 dishwasher models and chose the Bosch 300 series SHEM63W55N as the top pick. Its quietness, middle rack flexibility, and excellent cleaning performance impressed the testers. However, they noticed it left plastics a bit wet after a cycle. KitchenAid models did not do well in testing and were not recommended.

Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Bosch or KitchenAid Dishwasher?

Now that you know the key differences between Bosch and KitchenAid dishwashers, it is time to decide which brand is best for your kitchen.

Before I offer my recommendation, let’s quickly recap:

• According to the appliance repair companies I interviewed and Yale Appliance data, Bosch dishwashers are more reliable than KitchenAid.
• Bosch offers more models than KitchenAid at various price points ($500-$2,500). KitchenAid models are similarly priced and cost over $1,000.
• KitchenAid provides a five-year limited warranty covering all parts and labor for the first two years. In contrast, Bosch also offers a five-year warranty but covers all parts and labor only in the first year and specific parts in years 2-5.
• Bosch
• doesn’t use a heating element to dry dishes; it employs a condensation drying method which is safer for plastics. KitchenAid dishwashers use a heating element.
• At 38 dBA, Bosch has quieter dishwasher models, although both brands are known for quiet operation.

Bottom line — when considering a new dishwasher, reliability should be a top priority, and in this regard, Bosch leads the way. While both Bosch and KitchenAid offer a range of features and quiet operation, Bosch stands out due to recommendations from most appliance repair professionals.

Bosch also offers more advanced features and drying options (CrystalDry). Plus, it has more models to choose from in any price range.

Both brands are available on HomeDepot.com and Lowes.com, where you can learn more and read dozens of reviews.