Best Countertop Dishwasher: 6 Picks for Small Kitchens

A countertop dishwasher can help households wash everyday dishes without installing a full-size built-in appliance. Some models connect to a kitchen faucet, while others use built-in water tanks that simplify setup. The best countertop dishwasher depends on cabinet clearance, water access, dish capacity, drainage, and electrical requirements. This guide compares six models for apartments, small homes, and compact kitchens.

Quick Verdict: Which Countertop Dishwasher Should You Buy?

The COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher CDC22P1AWW is our best overall recommendation for households that have a suitable faucet connection and need more capacity than a compact tank-style dishwasher generally offers.

Its six-place-setting capacity and multiple wash programs make it practical for couples and smaller families.

For kitchens without a convenient faucet connection, the Farberware FDW05ASBWHA and HAVA R01 offer built-in water tanks.

• Best Overall: COMFEE CDC22P1AWW — Six-place-setting capacity with multiple wash programs.

• Best Without Permanent Plumbing: Farberware FDW05ASBWHA — Five-liter built-in tank and multiple wash settings.

• Best for Apartments and RVs: HAVA R01 — Compact tank-style design with five wash programs.

• Best for Traditional Countertop Installation: Danby DDW621WDB — Six-place-setting dishwasher with faucet connection.

• Best for Larger Dish Loads: BLACK+DECKER BCD6W — Six-place-setting capacity and seven wash programs.

• Best for Compact Tank-Based Washing: Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 — Built-in water tank and multiple wash cycles.

These recommendations are based on product configuration, manufacturer specifications, and practical installation requirements. They are not claims of independently measured cleaning performance, noise, water consumption, or durability.

Quick Comparison Table

How We Selected These Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers differ substantially from ordinary portable kitchen appliances because they require water supply, wastewater drainage, and an appropriate electrical connection.

A model with excellent advertised cleaning features may be unsuitable if it cannot fit beneath the cabinets or connect to the existing faucet.

For this roundup, we prioritized installation compatibility before wash-program variety.

Water Supply Options

Countertop dishwashers generally fall into two groups.

Faucet-connected models draw water through a compatible kitchen faucet connection.

Tank-equipped models can be manually filled with water, although they still need a suitable method to drain wastewater.

We included examples of both systems because installation requirements can determine whether a machine is practical at all.

Dish Capacity

Manufacturers commonly describe dishwasher capacity using place settings.

A place setting represents a standardized collection of tableware rather than an unrestricted quantity of dishes.

Actual capacity depends on plate diameter, bowl depth, cookware shape, and loading arrangement.

Wash Programs

Programs may include normal, heavy, rapid, glass, and other wash modes.

More programs provide flexibility, but they do not automatically indicate better cleaning results.

Detergent choice, loading, water temperature, spray coverage, and soil type remain important.

Countertop Dimensions

We considered exterior dimensions and the clearance needed for opening doors, hoses, and ventilation.

A countertop dishwasher must have sufficient support and drainage access.

It should not be placed on an unstable shelf or surface that cannot safely support its operating weight.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Filters, spray arms, detergent dispensers, and drainage systems require maintenance.

We considered whether the machines offer accessible components and practical daily operation.

Detailed Countertop Dishwasher Reviews

1. COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher CDC22P1AWW — Best Overall

Best For: Couples and smaller families with a compatible kitchen faucet who want substantial countertop dishwashing capacity.

Why We Picked It: The COMFEE CDC22P1AWW combines a six-place-setting interior with eight wash programs.

This makes it more practical for regular dishwashing than very small tank-style machines when a faucet connection is available.

Key Specifications

Features & Benefits

The six-place-setting rack arrangement provides space for plates, bowls, cups, and flatware.

Eight wash programs allow users to select settings for different cleaning requirements.

The unit is designed to connect to a suitable kitchen faucet through an appropriate inlet arrangement.

Wastewater drains through the supplied drainage system.

Performance & Practical Use

The COMFEE is useful for daily plates, glasses, mugs, and utensils.

Its larger rack arrangement makes it suitable for couples who prepare most meals at home.

However, the six-place-setting rating does not mean every pot or pan will fit.

Deep skillets, long utensils, and oversized dinner plates may limit how much other tableware can be loaded.

Correct spray-arm clearance is essential.

What Makes It Different

Its combination of dishwasher capacity and multiple wash programs makes it a balanced faucet-connected option.

Pros

• Six-place-setting capacity.

• Eight wash programs.

• Suitable for regular household dishwashing.

Cons

• Requires a compatible faucet connection.

• Not designed for oversized cookware.

Buy If: You have reliable faucet access and want a countertop dishwasher for everyday dishes.

Skip If: Your faucet cannot accept the required adapter or you need a manually filled tank.

2. Farberware FDW05ASBWHA — Best Without Permanent Plumbing

Best For: Renters, small apartments, and other kitchens where installing a dedicated dishwasher water line is impractical.

Why We Picked It: The Farberware FDW05ASBWHA includes a built-in five-liter water tank.

This allows users to supply water manually instead of connecting a dedicated inlet line for every wash.

Key Specifications

Features & Benefits

The built-in water reservoir provides installation flexibility.

Users can fill the tank before a wash cycle, making the appliance practical for some rental kitchens.

Its different wash programs accommodate ordinary dishes, glassware, and other approved items.

The compact format also makes it suitable for limited spaces.

Performance & Practical Use

The Farberware works well for small daily loads.

A single person or couple might wash breakfast and lunch dishes in one cycle, depending on the size and arrangement of the items.

However, manual filling introduces an additional preparation step.

The dishwasher also requires wastewater drainage even when using its internal tank.

Do not interpret “no plumbing required” as meaning the appliance operates without water or drainage.

What Makes It Different

The five-liter tank is its most important advantage over faucet-only machines.

Pros

• Built-in water reservoir.

• Multiple wash programs.

• Suitable for kitchens without permanent dishwasher plumbing.

Cons

• Limited capacity for large families.

• Manual filling and drainage require attention.

Buy If: You cannot conveniently connect a faucet-fed dishwasher.

Skip If: You have a compatible faucet and need the maximum practical dish capacity.

3. HAVA R01 Countertop Dishwasher — Best for Apartments and RVs

Best For: Small households and compact living spaces where flexible water supply is especially important.

Why We Picked It: The HAVA R01 combines a five-liter water tank with faucet connection capability and compact dimensions.

Key Specifications

Features & Benefits

The R01 supports two water-supply methods.

This gives users flexibility when installing it in a small apartment or another suitable compact setting.

Its upper and lower spray arms are designed to distribute water around the loaded dishes.

The hot-air drying feature adds convenience after the wash cycle.

Performance & Practical Use

The HAVA can accommodate ordinary dishes, cups, and utensils for smaller households.

Its compact dimensions are useful where conventional six-place-setting models would be difficult to fit.

However, advertised dish capacity assumes compatible plate and bowl sizes.

The unit also needs a stable surface, an appropriate electrical connection, and a safe drain arrangement.

For RV use, verify the available power system, water supply, and drainage before operating it.

What Makes It Different

Its small footprint and dual water-supply options provide flexibility for compact living environments.

Pros

• Five-liter built-in tank.

• Dual water-supply options.

• Compact dimensions and hot-air drying.

Cons

• Limited room for large plates and cookware.

• Noise and electrical demand may matter in very small living spaces.

Buy If: You need a compact dishwasher with flexible water supply.

Skip If: You routinely wash large pots and pans.

4. Danby DDW621WDB — Best for Traditional Countertop Installation

Best For: Households that want a conventional countertop dishwasher connected to a compatible kitchen faucet.

Why We Picked It: The Danby DDW621WDB combines six-place-setting capacity with a straightforward countertop dishwasher arrangement.

Key Specifications

Features & Benefits

The stainless steel interior provides a durable dishwasher cavity.

Six wash programs support different levels of soil and dish types.

A rinse-aid dispenser helps users manage drying and water spotting when used according to detergent instructions.

Performance & Practical Use

The DDW621WDB is suitable for everyday dishes in a small household.

Its rack design accommodates conventional tableware and flatware.

However, cookware fit depends on the interior rack arrangement.

A large pan may occupy space normally used for multiple plates.

What Makes It Different

Its conventional layout and stainless steel interior make it attractive to buyers seeking a traditional dishwasher experience in a countertop format.

Pros

• Six-place-setting capacity.

• Stainless steel interior.

• Multiple programs and delay-start functionality.

Cons

• Requires a compatible faucet connection.

• Limited accommodation for bulky cookware.

Buy If: You want a traditional countertop dishwasher with a stainless steel interior.

Skip If: You cannot connect the appliance to a faucet.

5. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W — Best for More Wash Options

Best For: Households that want several selectable washing programs and six-place-setting capacity.

Why We Picked It: The BLACK+DECKER BCD6W offers seven wash programs in a conventional countertop format.

Key Specifications

Features & Benefits

The seven wash programs provide options for different cleaning requirements.

Its stainless steel interior is designed for repeated dishwashing cycles.

Electronic controls allow users to select washing programs and monitor operation.

Performance & Practical Use

The BCD6W can handle everyday dishes for smaller households.

Its rack arrangement is useful for plates, cups, and flatware.

However, wash programs should be selected based on the actual load rather than assuming a longer cycle is always necessary.

Lightly soiled dishes may not require the same settings as heavily soiled cookware.

What Makes It Different

Seven selectable wash programs provide flexibility within the six-place-setting category.

Pros

• Seven wash programs.

• Six-place-setting capacity.

• Stainless steel interior.

Cons

• Requires faucet compatibility.

• Larger than compact tank-style dishwashers.

Buy If: You want a traditional countertop model with several wash settings.

Skip If: You prefer a smaller manually filled dishwasher.

6. Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 — Best for Compact Tank-Based Washing

Best For: Singles, couples, and renters seeking a small dishwasher with an internal water reservoir.

Why We Picked It: The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 provides a five-liter built-in tank and several wash programs in a compact design.

Key Specifications

• Model: HMX-TDJ04

• Water Tank: Five liters

• Water Supply: Manual filling or compatible faucet connection

• Wash Programs: Five

• Dishwasher Type: Compact countertop

• Drying: Heated drying functionality

• Primary Use: Small household dishwashing

Features & Benefits

The internal tank allows users to operate the dishwasher without a permanent inlet connection.

This is useful for rental homes and kitchens with limited installation options.

The multiple wash programs accommodate different types of compatible dishes.

Performance & Practical Use

The Hermitlux is appropriate for small daily dish loads.

Users should not expect it to accommodate the same quantity of dishes as a full-size machine.

Its compact interior is best suited to ordinary plates, bowls, cups, and utensils.

Like other tank-equipped models, it still requires safe wastewater drainage.

What Makes It Different

Its compact tank-based construction provides another option for households without a conventional dishwasher hookup.

Pros

• Built-in five-liter water tank.

• Multiple washing programs.

• Suitable for limited kitchen spaces.

Cons

• Small internal capacity.

• Requires manual filling when not using a faucet connection.

Buy If: You want an alternative compact dishwasher with tank operation.

Skip If: You need six-place-setting capacity for frequent larger meals.

Countertop Dishwasher Buying Guide

Faucet Connection vs. Built-In Water Tank

The first purchasing decision is how the appliance receives water.

A faucet-connected countertop dishwasher draws water through a compatible inlet hose.

A tank-equipped model allows users to add water manually.

A built-in tank does not mean the dishwasher operates without wastewater drainage.

Measure Countertop and Cabinet Clearance

Measure width, depth, and height before purchasing.

Also account for:

• Door-opening clearance.

• Space for hoses.

• Faucet connection access.

• Drainage hose positioning.

• Ventilation requirements.

• Available cabinet height.

• Countertop weight capacity.

A machine that fits physically on the counter may still be unsuitable if the door cannot open or the hoses cannot be positioned safely.

Understand Place Settings

A place setting is a standardized dish-capacity description.

It does not represent an unlimited quantity of cookware.

A six-place-setting dishwasher may accommodate more small tableware than a compact tank model, but actual capacity depends on plate dimensions and rack layout.

Large pots, deep bowls, and tall cups may reduce the number of items that fit.

Water Consumption

Compact dishwashers may use relatively small quantities of water per cycle.

However, water consumption varies by machine and selected program.

Tank capacity and cycle consumption are not necessarily identical.

Avoid assuming that every dishwasher with a five-liter tank uses exactly five liters during all operating conditions.

Wash Programs

Common programs include normal, heavy, rapid, glass, and specialty cycles.

Normal programs are intended for everyday loads.

Heavy programs may provide more intensive cleaning for compatible heavily soiled items.

Rapid programs can be useful for lighter loads, but they may offer different washing or drying performance.

Choose the cycle based on the dishes and manufacturer guidance.

Detergent Compatibility

Use detergent specifically intended for automatic dishwashers.

Ordinary hand dishwashing liquid can create excessive foam and interfere with dishwasher operation.

Follow the machine’s detergent instructions and use the correct quantity for the selected cycle.

Dish and Cookware Compatibility

Not every kitchen item belongs in a dishwasher.

Some nonstick pans, wooden utensils, insulated containers, sharp knives, and delicate glassware require hand washing.

Check the exact item manufacturer’s cleaning guidance.

Dishwasher-safe labeling for one product does not establish safety for another item made from a similar-looking material.

Electrical Requirements

Most US-market countertop dishwashers use standard household electrical power, but exact voltage and circuit requirements must be confirmed.

Avoid extension cords and power strips unless expressly allowed by the manufacturer.

Install the appliance near a suitable grounded outlet and keep electrical connections away from water.

Drainage and Leak Prevention

The drain hose must be positioned and secured according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Improper drainage can lead to leaks, backflow, or incomplete cycle operation.

For countertop-to-sink drainage, ensure the hose cannot fall out during operation.

Do not leave a newly installed dishwasher unattended until its water supply and drainage have been tested successfully.

Noise

Countertop dishwashers operate pumps, spray arms, and drainage systems.

Noise specifications differ by model.

However, manufacturer noise ratings should not be interpreted as directly comparable unless measurement conditions are consistent.

For small apartments, place the machine on a stable surface and avoid contact with loose objects that could vibrate.

Maintenance

Clean the dishwasher’s filter according to the manual.

Inspect spray-arm openings for blockage.

Remove food debris from the interior and door gasket.

For hard-water conditions, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for mineral buildup and dishwasher cleaning.

Regular maintenance supports reliable water flow and reduces avoidable odors.

Common Countertop Dishwasher Problems

The Dishwasher Does Not Fill With Water

Check the water supply.

For tank-equipped models, confirm that the reservoir has been filled to the required level.

For faucet-connected models, inspect the hose connection and water pressure according to the manual.

Dishes Come Out Dirty

Possible causes include overcrowding, blocked spray arms, unsuitable detergent, or incorrect program selection.

Avoid blocking the spray arms with large plates or cookware.

Clean filters and remove excessive food debris before loading.

The Machine Does Not Drain

Inspect the drainage hose for kinks or incorrect positioning.

Check the filter and drainage area for obstructions.

Disconnect the appliance before performing maintenance as directed by the manufacturer.

Dishes Remain Wet

Drying depends on the selected cycle, water temperature, rinse aid, dish material, and appliance design.

Plastic items may retain more water than certain ceramic or glass dishes.

Use the approved drying function and load dishes according to instructions.

The Dishwasher Leaks

Check hose connections, door seals, and the drain arrangement.

Do not continue using an appliance with unexplained leaks.

Disconnect power safely and follow the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are countertop dishwashers worth buying?

They can be worthwhile for renters, apartment dwellers, and smaller households without a built-in dishwasher. Their main limitation is smaller dish capacity.

Do countertop dishwashers need plumbing?

Not always. Some use built-in water tanks that can be filled manually. However, every model still needs an appropriate way to drain wastewater.

Can a countertop dishwasher wash pots and pans?

Some compact cookware may fit, depending on dimensions and rack design. Large skillets, stockpots, and oversized baking dishes may be unsuitable.

Can you use regular dish soap?

No. Ordinary hand dishwashing liquid is not appropriate for automatic dishwashers because it can create excessive foam. Use approved dishwasher detergent.

How much electricity does a countertop dishwasher use?

Electricity consumption depends on heater power, wash program, drying settings, and cycle duration. Manufacturer wattage alone does not establish the total energy used per cycle.

Can you install a countertop dishwasher under a cabinet?

Only when sufficient clearance is available and the manufacturer permits the installation arrangement. Check height, ventilation, door movement, and hose access.

Conclusion

The COMFEE CDC22P1AWW is the best overall countertop dishwasher in this comparison for households with a suitable faucet connection and regular dishwashing needs. Choose the Farberware FDW05ASBWHA, HAVA R01, or Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 when built-in water tanks are important. The Danby DDW621WDB and BLACK+DECKER BCD6W are useful six-place-setting alternatives. Before buying, confirm countertop dimensions, faucet compatibility, drainage, electrical requirements, and the size of the dishes you regularly wash.

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