When it comes to choosing a dishwasher, you’ve got more options than ever as an American consumer.
You could go with a classic built-in model, or if space is tight, a freestanding dishwasher might be your perfect fit.
Freestanding models are some of the best space-saving dishwasher options out there—ideal if you’re living in a tiny home or cozy apartment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the differences between a built-in dishwasher and a freestanding one, so you can figure out what works best for you. By looking at your space, your budget, and what you really need. Let’s dive in.
Freestanding vs. Built-In: Find Your Perfect Dishwasher
Choosing the right dishwasher just got easier. Compare freestanding vs. built-in options and explore unbeatable deals at Spencers TV & Appliance.
Shop Freestanding & Built-In DishwashersWhat is a Freestanding Dishwasher?
A freestanding dishwasher is often called a portable dishwasher because it can be wheeled from one place to the next.
You can store your dishwasher in a closet or laundry area when you aren’t using it. This is often considered the best dishwasher for renters because you don’t have to rely on your landlord to install a dishwasher for you.
A portable dishwasher on wheels also allows you to easily move your appliance from one apartment to the next.
You also don’t have to worry about styling as much with a freestanding dishwasher vs. built-in models. When you are done cleaning your dishes, you can wheel the dishwasher away.
However, these appliances still come in a variety of colors like stainless steel, white, and black, depending on your personal preferences.
➜ Learn More: How Much Does a Dishwasher Cost?
Built-In Dishwashers: The Standard Kitchen Upgrade
A built-in dishwasher is also known as an under-sink dishwasher and is typically installed within the cabinetry of a home.
It’s rare to move these dishwashers once they are installed and many homeowners don’t move with the appliances when they sell their properties.
Even the highest-rated portable dishwasher options have a hard time comparing against built-in models. Built-in dishwashers are larger, more powerful, and often come with extra features. They are also quieter because they have more advanced designs and soundproofing.
That said, it is harder to install a built-in dishwasher. You need to make sure you have enough cabinet space and water and drain hookups to get everything running. You may need to work with a plumber to connect your built-in appliance.
➜ Learn More: Ranking Bosch & Miele Dishwashers [Guide + Reviews]
Freestanding vs Built-In: Key Differences
As you weigh the pros and cons of portable dishwashers, it helps to understand the differences between the two options. Here are a few things to keep in mind while you make your decision.
- Space: Freestanding dishwashers are ideal if you don’t have a lot of kitchen space or cabinet area to install a permanent model.
- Storage: Built-in dishwashers can hold more, which is important if you have a larger family.
- Installation: Built-in dishwashers have a more complex installation process but only need to be placed in your kitchen once. Freestanding dishwashers need to be hooked up each time you use them.
- Cost: Freestanding dishwashers are often more affordable because they are smaller and have fewer features.
- Convenience: Built-in dishwashers are more convenient, but freestanding options are still better than handwashing.
- Portability: A freestanding dishwasher is perfect if you plan to move with your appliance.
The choice between a freestanding dishwasher vs. built-in options often comes down to permanence. If you need to move your dishwasher or store it in a separate area from your kitchen, a portable machine might be best.
➜ Learn More: The 8 Best Affordable Dishwashers You Can Buy Right Now
Why a Freestanding Dishwasher Might Be Your Best Bet
Freestanding models are affordable dishwasher alternatives if you can’t install a built-in model in your space or are renting your home.
Learning how to install a freestanding dishwasher is much easier because you mostly need to focus on connecting the hoses and drains. A freestanding appliance could also be a good call if you are on a budget and want to test out how often you use this appliance.
A freestanding dishwasher can make your life easier by cleaning your cookware for you. You can save time not washing dishes and save on water as well. As long as you have space to put your dishwasher away, this appliance can be an asset to your home.
Who Should Choose a Built-In Dishwasher?
In most cases, a built-in dishwasher is the best option when evaluating whether you should buy a freestanding vs. built-in dishwasher.
More people than ever expect their homes to have built-in dishwashers, so choosing this option can give your kitchen a complete and polished look. Selling your home will be easier if it has a built-in dishwasher.
Built-in dishwashers are also important for larger families. You can store more cookware and cutlery in the appliance, which means you will run fewer loads. Loading and unloading are also easier because you won’t need to set up the dishwasher and put it away each time.
Best Built-In Dishwashers for Superior Cleaning and Efficiency
Once you decide between a freestanding dishwasher vs. built-in model, you can start to explore the products currently on the market. Here are six of the best built-in dishwashers available that customers rave about. See if any are ideal for your home.
Frigidaire Gallery 24" Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Frigidaire Gallery 24" Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Choose this Frigidaire built-in dishwasher if you are tired of drying your dishes after the cycle is complete.
The MaxBoost™ Dry technology uses a combination of heat and fan systems to eliminate water.
You can also wash your dishes fast with the 34-minute quick wash. This is an Energy Star®-certified appliance.
⭐Featured Frigidaire Built-In Dishwasher Review
"This dishwasher gives you the option of a light load, energy saver, and heavy duty. Not only that, it lets you customize the heat dry and intensity. Plus it's sleek and simple to use."
KitchenAid 24" Stainless Steel with Printshield Built-In Dishwasher
Shop KitchenAid 24" Built In Dishwasher
KitchenAid proves its status as a premium appliance brand with this standout dishwasher design. It boasts over 30 wash jets to ensure your dishes come out spotless every time.
The top utensil rack in this KitchenAid dishwasher is a smart touch—perfect for tackling oddly shaped items while freeing up space on the lower levels.
Plus, the Heat Dry option kicks moisture to the curb, giving your dishes that extra level of dryness you’ll appreciate.
⭐Featured KitchenAid Built-In Dishwasher Review
"I love that it is made of stainless steel. It is so quiet. Everything comes out clean and dry. No water puddles in cup bottoms."
Samsung 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Samsung 24" Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Samsung is known for its technology investments and this top-control dishwasher is a clear reflection of that.
The AutoRelease™ door releases steam and allows your dishes to air dry. The adjustable racks perfectly accommodate whatever items you are loading.
This Samsung built-in dishwasher also ranked #1 in Product Quality by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.
⭐Featured Built-In Dishwasher Review
"There is no need to rinse the dishes before loading. It is quiet too. Operating the dishwasher is very simple and it is easy to change the settings."
LG 24" PrintProof Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop LG 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
LG stands out as a tech-savvy brand, and this LG dishwasher showcases why.
You can take charge of it right from your phone using the ThinQ app, tweaking settings and timers with ease. The TrueSteam® technology tackles tough grime while keeping your cookware safe from harm.
And with its LoDecibel™ Operation at just 44 dBA, this dishwasher runs so quietly you might forget it’s even on—making it one of the hushed heroes of the market.
⭐Featured LG Built-In Dishwasher Review
"I absolutely love this dishwasher. The washing and drying features help adjust per load. Having a half-load option is very nice. Everything is always clean and dry."
GE 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop GE 24" Front Control Built In Dishwasher
This GE front-control dishwasher is known for its Piranha™ hard food disposer that rotates at 3,600 RPM.
This motor breaks apart food and drains it quickly, ensuring your dishes are washed with clean water.
The Dry Boost system eliminates moisture, getting your dishes seven times dryer. This is also an extra-large capacity dishwasher that is ideal for families.
⭐Featured GE Built-In Dishwasher Review
"I like that the tub is deep so you can put larger items on the bottom rack. Plus, the upper rack is lower so I can fit taller cups in the top without issue. The dishwasher is very quiet, and the filter is very easy to reach, pull out, and clean."
Maytag 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Maytag 24" Built In Dishwasher
If you’re after a dishwasher that packs a punch, this Maytag appliance has you covered.
Its PowerBlast® cycle takes on baked-on food and tough grease like a champ, leaving no mess behind.
With a 10-year limited parts warranty, you can trust it’ll keep going strong for the long haul. And the touch controls?
The Maytag built-in dishwasher is designed to keep things simple, so you’re never fumbling to get started.
⭐Featured Maytag Built-In Dishwasher Review
"Just replaced old Maytag dishwasher that was 25 years old with a new one. Always liked Maytag products."
Freestanding or Built-In: Which Dishwasher Wins?
In most cases, the choice between a freestanding dishwasher vs. built-in model will depend on your space and permanence.
If you have a tiny home or are renting, then a freestanding dishwasher is a great option. However, if you own your home, you may be better off investing in a built-in dishwasher for long-term use.
At Spencers Appliance we carry both freestanding and built-in dishwasher models. Assess your kitchen setup, lifestyle, and budget, and then stop by to find the perfect model for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many freestanding dishwashers are designed to be portable and are built with wheels. This makes it hard to convert the appliance for built-in use. You may be better off developing your space for a built-in dishwasher and investing in one of these appliances instead.
Freestanding dishwashers are just as good at cleaning dishes as built-in models. However, they will have fewer features and tend to be smaller. This means they are more limited.
Most portable dishwashers are around 18 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 35 inches high. However, their sizes can vary from one brand to the next. Your dishwasher can be put away when it’s not in use.
Installation for a built-in dishwasher is more complicated but only needs to be done once. Conversely, a freestanding dishwasher needs to be set up and taken down each time. You can also hire a professional to install your dishwasher for you.
Built-in dishwashers are often more durable which means they can last longer. You can expect your built-in dishwasher to last more than a decade if it is well cared for. Freestanding dishwashers might have shorter lifespans.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 11 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencers and see what you’re missing!
Shop Freestanding and Built-In Dishwashers at Spencers TV & Appliance
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop dishwashers online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the best freestanding or built-in dishwasher for your kitchen. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!