Dishwashers rated at 44 dBA or lower are generally considered quiet, and the quietest models run around 38 to 40 dBA. Of the five models below, the EUHOMY countertop unit lists the lowest noise level at 40 dB, and the Kenmore built-in lists 45 dBA, just above the usual quiet cutoff. This guide is for apartment dwellers, renters, and open-plan kitchen owners who want the least intrusive machine. It is based on listed specifications and patterns in Amazon buyer reviews.
Our Winner: EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable, 6 Programs with 40 dB, No Hookup
It has the lowest listed noise level of the group (40 dB), a 4.5/5 rating, and no installation requirement. Based on the specifications, it is the best fit for renters and open kitchens.
How We Compared These Models
We compared four criteria: listed noise level in dBA, installation type (built-in or countertop), capacity and dimensions, and average Amazon rating. Noise comes first because it is the reason to buy a quiet model. All noise figures here are manufacturer-listed, not independently measured.
| Product | Key Specs | Our Choice | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUHOMY Countertop | 40 dB, countertop, 6 programs, 4.5/5 | Best Overall | |
| Kenmore 18-Inch Compact | 45 dBA, built-in, third rack, 3.2/5 | Best Built-In | |
| Hermitlux Countertop | 50 dB, countertop, 7 programs, 4.4/5 | Best Features | |
| Avanti 18-Inch Built-In | 53 dB, built-in, 8 place settings, 3.7/5 | Best Budget Built-In | |
| COMFEE’ Portable Mini | 62 dB, countertop, 1.32 gal tank, 4.0/5 | Best for RVs |
Quiet Dishwasher Noise Guide
What Is Quiet for a Dishwasher?
Noise is measured in dBA, which stands for A-weighted decibels. A dishwasher at 44 dBA or lower is commonly considered quiet, and some guides accept 48 dBA. Noise-sensitive buyers should target 40 dBA or below. Both Whirlpool’s decibel explainer and KitchenAid’s dBA buying guide cover the same scale.
How Quiet Is a Dishwasher in Decibels?
Each 10-decibel increase roughly doubles perceived loudness. That means 38 dBA is only about 1.5 times quieter than 44 dBA, while 40 dBA is about half as loud as 50 dBA.
| Rating | Plain-Language Meaning |
|---|---|
| 38 dBA | Among the quietest available. Barely audible in a quiet room. |
| 40 dBA | Very quiet. Best target for open-plan homes. |
| 44 dBA | Commonly accepted quiet threshold. |
| 48 dBA | Acceptable in closed kitchens, noticeable in open ones. |
| 50 dBA | Average. Audible during conversation or TV. |
| 60 dBA | Older or budget units. Clearly intrusive. |
Which Brands Make Quiet Dishwashers?
GE, LG, Whirlpool, Bosch, KitchenAid, and JennAir all sell models marketed as quiet, and Bosch has a dedicated quiet dishwasher category. We do not list specific dBA ranges for them here because none are in this product set, and brand figures are manufacturer claims. Always confirm the dBA on the exact model page, since ranges vary within each brand.
Worked Example: 42 vs 44 vs 48 dBA in an Open Kitchen
Say your kitchen opens to the living room. A 42 dBA model is the safest choice, since it sits below the quiet threshold. A 44 dBA model is about 1.15 times louder by the doubling rule, a small difference. A 48 dBA model is about 1.7 times louder than 42 dBA, which most open-plan households would notice during TV time. If the price gap is small, choose 42 dBA.
How Can I Quiet a Dishwasher?
- Vibration noise: Level the unit, tighten mounting brackets, and confirm it is not touching cabinets. Countertop units should sit on a stable, non-hollow surface.
- Spray-arm noise: Check that dishes are not blocking the arms and that no utensil has slipped through the rack.
- Drain noise: Look for kinks in the drain hose, clear the filter and drain of debris, and avoid pinching the hose against a cabinet wall.
- Loading: Rattling plates and loose cups add noise. Space items securely.
In-Depth Reviews
1. EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable – Best Overall
Our Verdict: The lowest listed noise level here, in a no-hookup format that suits renters and open kitchens.
- Brand: EUHOMY
- Noise Level: 40 dB
- Dimensions: 16.85″D x 16.73″W x 18.03″H
- Capacity: 5 liters
- Color: Black Door
- Material: ABS, Polypropylene
The 40 dB rating meets the target for noise-sensitive buyers. It offers a built-in 5L tank or faucet hose, six programs including a 29-minute Quick cycle, and 60 minutes of hot air drying. It holds 30+ items and plates up to 10.25 inches. It is ETL and DOE certified per the listing.
Why We Like It
- Lowest listed noise level of the five
- Tank or faucet hookup, no installation
- Baby Care/Heavy cycle reaches 167°F
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 40 dB listed noise
- Highest rating in the group (4.5/5)
- Flexible water supply
Cons
- Small capacity
- Heavy grease should be scraped first
2. Kenmore 18-Inch Compact Dishwasher – Best Built-In
Our Verdict: The best full-feature built-in option on this list, though its 45 dBA sits just above the 44 dBA quiet mark and its rating is low.
- Brand: Kenmore
- Noise Level: 45 db
- Dimensions: 22.44″D x 17.65″W x 32.29″H
- Installation: Built-In
- Color: Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
- Material: Stainless Steel
Per the listing, it has three spray arms, soil sensing, a removable third rack, TurboDry, and leak detection, and it is ENERGY STAR certified. Features are strong, but the 3.2/5 rating suggests checking recent buyer reviews before purchase.
Why We Like It
- Full-size feature set in an 18-inch frame
- Third rack and adjustable interior
- Leak detection
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 45 dBA listed noise
- Sensor-based wash adjustment
- Leak protection
Cons
- Lowest rating of the five (3.2/5)
- Requires installation
3. Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher – Best Features
Our Verdict: A well-rated portable with the most cycles, but 50 dB puts it in average territory.
- Brand: Hermitlux
- Noise Level: 50 db
- Dimensions: 16.73″D x 16.85″W x 18.23″H
- Capacity: 5 liters
- Color: Black
- Material: Glass, Plastic
It offers seven programs, an 18-hour delayed start, child lock, and 14 water jets for 360° coverage. The delay timer helps schedule runs while you are out. It fits five place settings.
Why We Like It
- Seven programs plus delay and child lock
- No installation needed
- 4.4/5 rating
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Feature-rich for its size
- Strong buyer rating
Cons
- 50 dB is average, not quiet
4. Avanti Built-In Dishwasher 18-Inch – Best Budget Built-In
Our Verdict: A compact, ADA-compliant built-in marketed as quiet, though its 53 dB rating is above average.
- Brand: Avanti
- Noise Level: 53 db
- Dimensions: 24.25″D x 17.75″W x 32.25″H
- Installation: Built-In
- Color: White
- Special Feature: Sound Reduction System
It holds eight place settings and offers six cycles, delayed start, Sanitize, and a half-load eco mode. It is ENERGY STAR certified. The 3.7/5 rating is moderate.
Why We Like It
- Eight place settings in a narrow frame
- Sanitize and delayed start
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ADA-compliant
- Many cycle options
Cons
- 53 dB is louder than quiet models
5. COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher – Best for RVs
Our Verdict: Compact and flexible for RVs and dorms, but at 62 dB it is the loudest here and not a quiet pick.
- Brand: COMFEE’
- Noise Level: 62 db
- Dimensions: 17.13″D x 16.53″W x 17.24″H
- Capacity: 5 liters
- Color: Black
- Material: Plastic
Its 62 dB rating is about 4.6 times louder by perceived loudness than a 40 dB unit. It does offer a 162°F Hygiene cycle, a 1.32-gallon tank, and leakage protection, and it needs 19.6 inches of clearance above the counter.
Why We Like It
- No hookup needed
- High-temperature Hygiene cycle
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very compact
- Leakage protection
Cons
- Loudest model listed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is quiet dishwasher dBA?
Quiet is typically 44 dBA or lower. Models near 38 to 40 dBA are the quietest, while 50 dBA is average.
Which is the quietest dishwasher here?
The EUHOMY, at a listed 40 dB. The Kenmore follows at 45 dBA.
Does GE make a quiet dishwasher?
GE sells models marketed as quiet, but none are in this product set. Check the listed dBA on the specific model.
Does LG make a quiet dishwasher?
LG also markets quiet models. As with GE, compare the dBA on the exact model page, since ratings vary within a brand.
How to quiet a dishwasher drain?
Check the drain hose for kinks, clear the filter and drain of debris, and make sure the hose is not rubbing a cabinet wall. For more detail, see Abt’s dishwasher noise guide.
Conclusion
For the quietest operation, the EUHOMY at a listed 40 dB is the best match for open kitchens and renters. The Kenmore is the pick if you want a built-in and can accept 45 dBA. The Hermitlux, Avanti, and COMFEE’ are better judged on features or size than on noise. Confirm current specs and recent reviews on Amazon before you buy.
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