We started with traditional built-in dishwashers, and now we’re here in the era where portable dishwashers are taking over. But which is better, you might wonder.
If you’re buying a new dishwasher, then portable dishwasher vs. built-in analysis will help you better understand your needs and choose the best build for your home setup.
You can consider several factors to find the perfect dishwasher for washing dishes in your kitchen. These include the size of your kitchen, whether you’d like to tinker with your beautiful cabinetry or your daily dishwashing needs, among others.
Ahead, I will break down each dishwasher type to help you understand the differences between the two types. Hopefully, you’d have found the perfect dishwasher type for yourself by the end.
Table of Contents
What Are Portable Dishwashers?
A portable dishwasher (or a freestanding dishwasher) is simply a conventional dishwasher that you can roll around to position it as you need it.
Whenever you need it, just roll around a water source, plug it in, connect it to a faucet, and begin the cycle. You should have a drain to connect the water discharge pipe to drain wastewater.
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Once you’re done, you can roll it again and store it in its desired space. Here is our top recommended portable dishwasher you can find on Amazon:
8″ Energy Star Portable Dishwasher
Pros Of Having A Portable Dishwasher
Should you choose the most portable dishwashers (or smaller countertop dishwashers) over built-in models? Consider the following advantages of freestanding washers to understand better.
- Adaptable With All Spaces
A built-in dishwasher will have you make multiple adjustments to your cabinetry before you can install it. However, portable dishwashers can be used in any kitchen, whether new or old, with or without cabinet space.
This way, you also save a lot of counter space, as a portable dishwasher is less bulky and generally more compact than a built-in washer.
- More Affordable
If you’re on a budget or just trying to invest a little more mindfully in dishwashers, portable devices are an excellent option for you. You can get a superior portable dishwasher at around $650.
However, built-in dishwashers will cost you upwards of $1000.
- Better For Small Households
Portable dishwashers are more compact and better for families with 3-4 members or those who do not generate as many dirty dishes daily.
Also, smaller dishwashers will save you water, power, and space, thus making your house more energy-efficient.
Cons Of Having A Portable Dishwasher
This dishwasher type can also be a hassle sometimes. Here I discuss the situations when a portable dishwasher is not as great an option for your situation:
- Not Suitable For Heavy-Duty Washing
If you have a large household or need to wash loads of dishes daily, a portable dishwasher boasts a compact design and limited load capacity, which won’t be your best friend.
- Giving Up On Some Luxuries Of Traditional Dishwashers
Here are some of the issues you might face with portable devices as compared to traditional dishwashing devices:
- Noisy Operations
- Not As Durable
- Limited Options
Now, time to understand built-in dishwashing units better.
What Are Built-In Dishwashers?
A built-in dishwasher is integrated into your kitchen cabinetry. Unlike portable dishwashers, these units are a permanent part of your kitchen with a permanent connection to a kitchen sink faucet.
Best traditional dishwasher picks for you:
Frigidaire Compact Dishwasher (Standard Size)
Pros Of A Built-In Dishwasher
The significant advantages of owning a built-in dishwasher are its powerful operations and huge capacity or more place settings.
- Clean And Cohesive Kitchen Space
A built-in or integrated dishwasher has its own dedicated kitchen space, plumbing lines, and electrical attachments. So, your kitchen sink is always available and clutter-free.
- Quieter Operations
Integrated dishwashers are quieter owing to the surrounding kitchen cabinets. Thus, they will be less noisy than freestanding washers.
- Luxuries Of Traditional Dishwashers
Usually, built-in dishwashing devices offer certain premium features that I have listed here. These are always good to have.
- More Place Settings (14-15)
- Easily Tackles Heavy Loads
- Suitable For Bigger Families
- More Powerful Water Sprays And Functions
Cons Of A Built-In Dishwasher
Not all of us prefer this type of dishwashing device. There are several reasons why traditional dishwashers are not that common now. Have a look:
- Lack Of Flexibility
Once you install an integrated dishwasher, you can’t move it or switch to a better model anytime soon, as that will require adjustments in cabinetry. This will be followed by more plumbing work and electrical settings.
- Lack Of Budget Options
Most built-in devices are too costly and take up a big chunk of your budget. They make for a considerable investment.
- Takes Up A Huge Chunk Of Space
Usually, integrated dishwashers are bulkier and larger. Thus, they are not apt for small apartments or families.
Portable Vs. Built-In Dishwasher FAQ
This section will answer the most asked questions when comparing a portable model and a built-in washer.
- Are Integrated Dishwashers Worth It?
When spaces are shrinking and people prefer flexibility over premium features, freestanding dishwashers seem better in the most modern context.
But a built-in model is worth it for larger families and huge dish loads.
- How Do Portable Dishwashers Drain?
Unlike built-in models, portable or countertop dishwashers use a uncouple (hose) with a kitchen faucet to receive freshwater or eject wastewater.
Final Word
When considering freestanding or integrated dishwashers, modern minimalists with limited storage space seem to choose the former, while people with a large family and traditional washing needs incline towards the latter.
Consider your budget, cabinet space, faucet availability, and daily washing needs before choosing your dishwashing device.
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