Size, place settings and running cost — measure first
Full-size (60cm) for families, slimline (45cm) for small kitchens. Quieter inverter motors and better energy ratings cost more upfront but less to run. Measure the gap before anything.
The jargon, decoded
| Spec | What it actually means | Does it matter? |
|---|---|---|
| Place settings | How many items it holds; 13–14 = family, ~9 = slimline. | Key |
| Noise (dB) | Under ~46dB is quiet — matters in open-plan. | Yes open-plan |
| Energy rating | A–G label; affects yearly running cost. | Yes long-run |
| Third rack / flexible tines | Fits awkward items and cutlery. | Convenience |
| Auto/sensor wash | Adjusts to the load. | Useful |
What actually matters
- 1Size & type. A full-size (60cm) fits ~12–15 place settings — best for families. A slimline (45cm) fits ~9–10, ideal for small kitchens. Decide between freestanding and integrated (hidden behind a cupboard door) based on your kitchen.
- 2Running cost & energy rating. A dishwasher runs hundreds of times a year, so water and energy use add up. A more efficient model can be cheaper to own even if it costs a little more up front.
- 3Noise (dB) — matters a lot in open-plan kitchens. Under ~46dB is quiet; under ~42dB is very quiet.
- 4Reliability beats gimmicks. Flexible racks and a good eco/auto programme are worth more day to day than a dozen rarely-used cycles. Lean on brand reliability records.
Typical UK price bands (2026)
| Budget | What you get |
|---|---|
| £250–£400 | Reliable full-size/slimline with the essentials. Great value (Beko, Hisense, Indesit). |
| £450–£700 | Quieter, more efficient, flexible racks, better drying (Bosch, Siemens, AEG). |
| £750+ | Premium: very quiet, auto-dosing, advanced drying and connectivity. |
Buy this if · think twice if
Buy it if…
- ✓You're replacing an old, loud or thirsty machine
- ✓You have the space for full-size (or need slimline)
- ✓You value a quiet open-plan kitchen
Think twice if…
- ✗You haven't measured height/width/depth and door clearance
- ✗You're comparing sticker prices without delivery/install/recycle
- ✗You buy a huge machine for a one-person household
Common mistakes to avoid
- ✕Not measuring the gap (and the door swing) before buying — especially for integrated models.
- ✕Paying for a dozen programmes you'll never use instead of efficiency and quietness.
- ✕Forgetting delivery, recycling of the old machine and installation — factor these into the real price.
See today's top dishwashers — with live UK prices
Savvey Search asks your kitchen size, budget and integrated vs freestanding, then shows three current, in-stock picks with live verified UK prices. Bosch, Siemens, Beko and AEG lead UK round-ups across the price range — check what's current and cheapest now.
Get my dishwasher picks →Is it actually a good price?
Large appliances swing a lot between Currys, AO, John Lewis and the manufacturers' own stores, and bundle deals (with installation or recycling) muddy the comparison. Savvey checks 40+ UK retailers for the exact model and shows the cheapest verified price against the market median, so you can see whether a "sale" is real before you commit to a big purchase.
FAQ
Full-size or slimline?
Full-size (60cm) for families and bigger kitchens; slimline (45cm) where space is tight. Don't buy bigger than your gap or your dishes.
Integrated or freestanding?
Integrated looks seamless behind a cupboard door but costs more and needs a matching door; freestanding is cheaper and movable.
Which brands are most reliable?
Bosch, Siemens and Miele have strong records; Beko and Hisense offer excellent value. Check current reliability surveys for the specific model.
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