The Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ is a strong budget dishwasher candidate under $800: Consumer Reports lists an approximate retail price of $479, and Tom’s Guide names it a budget choice. It is not a universal best—check its 55 dB rating, 12-place-setting capacity, fit, and current installed price against your kitchen and priorities before buying.
Other options in the research include LG’s 46 dBA 24-inch models and IKEA’s 24-inch built-ins. Their listed prices and features are retailer or manufacturer information, not proof of comparative cleaning performance; prices, stock, and offers can change.
Best dishwasher under $800: compare these candidates
| Model | Price shown in research | Fit and configuration | Noise and capacity | Evidence and trade-offs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ | About $479, approximate retail price | Built-in, top control | 55 dB; 12 place settings | Consumer Reports lists an overall score of 65. Tom’s Guide selects it as its budget choice. Check the exact model’s rack layout and features for your needs. |
| LG LDNPM545D | $779 displayed at research time | 24-inch, built-in, top control | 46 dBA, manufacturer specification | LG lists 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash Pro, and Dynamic Heat Dry with AutoVent Dry. These feature names do not establish independent cleaning or drying results. |
| LG LDNTM545S | $729 displayed at research time | 24-inch built-in | 46 dBA, manufacturer specification | Price and availability can change. Verify current specifications and offer with LG or the retailer. |
| IKEA LAGAN | $399 displayed at research time | 24-inch built-in, white | Not established in the research | IKEA displayed 3.4/5 from 14 customer reviews. A small review sample is user feedback, not a controlled test. |
| IKEA FLÅBODA | $599 displayed at research time | 24-inch panel-ready built-in | Not established in the research | IKEA displayed 2.2/5 from 15 customer reviews. Treat this as customer feedback, not a lab comparison. |
| IKEA VINTROSA | $699 displayed at research time | 24-inch stainless-steel built-in | Not established in the research | IKEA displayed 3.1/5 from 12 customer reviews. Verify current price, stock, and specifications. |
Prices above are appliance prices shown in the cited research, not installed quotes. The IKEA page showed an offer dated September 23 to October 27, 2026; confirm eligibility and inventory. LG prices appeared as sale prices against higher reference prices. Check current listings before purchase.
How to choose a budget dishwasher
Compare cleaning and drying evidence
Do not assume that a feature name guarantees better results. Consumer Reports says its dishwasher testing assesses washing with a full load that includes baked-on food and checks drying on plastic cups. Its overall score combines test results with survey data; its reliability and owner-satisfaction data draw on 2022, 2023, and 2024 Spring Quarterly Surveys. The score is not a fresh 2026 test of every model.
#1 Best Overall
- GENUINE OEM: Whirlpool Genuine OEM Parts are designed specifically for your appliance, meet Whirlpool engineering standards, and are crafted to ensure the quality of your appliance
- REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS: W11460962 Dishwasher User Control and Display Board replaces the part number W11131367
- COMPATIBLE APPLIANCES: W11460962 is compatible with WDT750SAKZ, WDTA50SAKZ, WDT750SAKV, WDT750SAKW, and WDT750SAKB
- ONE YEAR WARRANTY: Whirlpool offers the well-tested, high-quality parts that your appliances deserve with a one-year warranty
- KEEP YOUR HOME HUMMING: For over 100 years, Whirlpool has cared for your appliance as you care for your home, which is why our replacement parts are made using durable materials and innovative processes
For the Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ, Consumer Reports lists an overall score of 65 and approximate retail price of $479. Consider that evidence alongside your loading habits and the model’s current specifications, rather than treating the score as an endorsement for every kitchen.
Match noise to the room
Tom’s Guide lists the Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ at 55 dB. LG lists 46 dBA for the two LG candidates in this comparison. These figures come from different source types: Tom’s Guide’s comparison and LG manufacturer specifications. They are not independent acoustic tests conducted under one common method. If the kitchen opens into living or sleeping areas, noise may matter more; check the exact model rating and consider how your household uses the space.
Check capacity and rack layout
Tom’s Guide lists the WDP540HAMZ at 12 place settings. A place-setting figure does not tell you whether your cookware, water bottles, or utensils will fit conveniently. Inspect the rack layout and confirm whether it has the adjustability or third rack you want. Do not assume those features are present without checking the exact model specifications.
Check energy and water use
Verify the ENERGY STAR label and model-specific annual energy and water figures rather than inferring efficiency from a brand or price. ENERGY STAR’s current criteria, effective July 19, 2023, set limits for certified standard-size dishwashers of 240 kWh per year and 3.2 gallons per cycle. For compact certified dishwashers, the limits are 155 kWh per year and 2.0 gallons per cycle.
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- GENUINE OEM: Whirlpool Genuine OEM Parts are designed specifically for your appliance, meet Whirlpool engineering standards, and are crafted to ensure the quality of your appliance
- REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS: W11434044 Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve replaces the part numbers W11187724, W11025972, and W11025970
- COMPATIBLE APPLIANCES: W11434044 is compatible with WDT750SAKZ, KDTM404KPS, MDB4949SKZ, WDTA50SAKZ, and KDTE204KPS
- ONE YEAR WARRANTY: Whirlpool offers the well-tested, high-quality parts that your appliances deserve with a one-year warranty
- KEEP YOUR HOME HUMMING: For over 100 years, Whirlpool has cared for your appliance as you care for your home, which is why our replacement parts are made using durable materials and innovative processes
ENERGY STAR estimates that a certified standard-size dishwasher costs about $50 per year to run and can save about 5,800 gallons of water over its lifetime. These are program estimates, not guarantees for an individual household; actual use and savings depend on household habits and the appliance being replaced.
Will it fit my cabinet opening?
Whirlpool says a standard built-in dishwasher opening is about 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 35 inches high. Those are design-space guidelines, not necessarily the appliance’s exact dimensions. Opening requirements, appliance dimensions, door projection, and panel needs vary by model, so check the exact installation guide before ordering.
- Measure the clear opening width, depth, and height, including from the finished floor to the underside of the counter.
- Compare your measurements with the exact model’s installation guide; do not treat nominal opening dimensions as appliance dimensions.
- Check door and handle clearance, nearby drawers or walkways, and any panel requirements.
- Confirm that the water supply, drain route, and electrical connection match the installation instructions and local requirements.
- Ask the retailer or installer for a site-specific check if any measurement or connection is uncertain.
A built-in model is installed under the counter and connected to plumbing. A portable model connects to a sink when used and may suit a home without a dedicated built-in location. These are different installation types; do not compare their fit or capacity as though they were interchangeable.
Budget for the complete purchase and installation
Keep the appliance price separate from delivery, tax, haul-away, installation, and required parts. The research reviewed does not establish current installation costs for these specific models, so get a retailer checkout total or a local service estimate instead of relying on a generic installed-cost figure.
Rank #3
- Compatible with Amana Model: ADB1400AWB0 ADB1400AWB1 ADB1400AWB2 ADB1400AWD0 ADB1400AWD1 ADB1400AWD2 ADB1400AWQ0 ADB1400AWQ1 ADB1400AWQ2 ADB1400AWS0 ADB1400AWS1 ADB1400AWS2 ADB1400AWW0 ADB1400AWW1 ADB1400AWW2 ADB1600AWB0 ADB1600AWB1 ADB1600AWB2 ADB1600AWB3 ADB1600AWD0 ADB1600AWD1 ADB1600AWD2 ADB1600AWD3 ADB1700ADW4 ADB1500ADW2 ADB1400PYS.
- Compatible with Kenmore Model: 63012902314 665130994N410 66513543N412 665139k010 66514753N512 6651354N412 66514743N512 66512773K314 66512773K311 66513943K011 66513229N410 66513279K116 66513039K113 66513272K117 66513033K116 66513273K116 66513279K111.
- Compatible with Whirlpool Model: WDF540PADM1 WDT720PADE0 WDT710PAHW WDT790SAYMO WDF520PADM7 WDF560SAFW2 WDT780SAEM2 WDF750SAYB3 W10786091A WDTA50SAKZ WDF330PAHB1 WD510PAYS6 WDT970SAHV0 WDT730PAHZ0 WDT970SAHZ0 WDF330PAHW1WDT710PAHZ1 WDF310PLAB1 WDF510PAYB8 WDF520PADB7 WDT75OSAKZO WDT780SAEM1 WDF760SADM1 WDTA50SAHZ0 WDT750SAHZ WDT750SAKZ WDP350PAAB5 WDT970SAKZ0 WDF750SAYB0.
- Compatible with KitchenAid Model: KUDC10IXBL6 KDFE104DSS3 KDTM354EBS 3KUDE40FXPA2 KDTE104ESS2 KDTE204ESS2 KUDC10FXSS KDTE104ESS3 KDTM354DSS5 KUDM091TJBS0 KDFE104DSS2 KUDC10IXBL1 KDFE204ESS2 KDTE204DSS0 KDPE234GPS0 KDTE254ESS2 KDTM354ESS3 KDTM354DSS4 KDTE104EBS4 KDTE104ESS4 KDTE234GPS0 KDFE104DBL1 KUDS35FXSSG KUDK03ITWH2 KUDS35FXSS8 kudc20ixwh6.
- Compatible with Maytag Model: MDBH969AWW1 MDB4709PAQ3 MDT750SAKZ MDB4949SDM1 MDB7959SHZ0 MDB8959SFH4.
| Cost item | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Dishwasher | Current model price, seller, stock, and whether the offer applies |
| Delivery | Delivery charge, timing, and whether the service includes placement |
| Installation | What connections and work are included, and what conditions add charges |
| Haul-away | Whether old-appliance removal is included or costs extra |
| Parts and corrections | Which hoses, mounting hardware, or plumbing or electrical work the exact installation requires |
Do not assume an accessory fits a particular model without checking its installation manual. If hookups need changes or you are unsure about electrical or plumbing work, ask a qualified installer and check local requirements.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Our recommendation
For buyers seeking a budget built-in model, the Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ is the clearest value candidate in the research: Consumer Reports lists it at approximately $479, and Tom’s Guide identifies it as a budget choice. Its 55 dB rating and 12-place-setting capacity may or may not suit your kitchen; compare its exact rack and installation requirements with your needs before deciding.
If lower listed noise is a priority, LG’s LDNPM545D and LDNTM545S are manufacturer-listed 46 dBA alternatives priced below $800 at research time. If you are considering IKEA, treat the displayed customer ratings as limited user feedback, not comparative test results. For any option, compare today’s complete purchase and installation cost, confirm fit, and verify model-specific efficiency and features.
FAQ
What is the best dishwasher under $800?
The Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ is a strong budget candidate in the research: Consumer Reports lists an approximate price of $479, while Tom’s Guide names it a budget choice. It is not a universal best; check its 55 dB rating, 12-place-setting capacity, exact fit, and current total cost against your priorities.
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- GENUINE OEM: Whirlpool Genuine OEM Parts are designed specifically for your appliance, meet Whirlpool engineering standards, and are crafted to ensure the quality of your appliance
- REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS: W11535094 Dishwasher Water Inlet Guide Assembly replaces the part numbers W11407411, W11289893, and W11429970
- COMPATIBLE APPLIANCES: W11535094 is compatible with WDT750SAKZ, KDTM404KPS, MDB4949SKZ, WDTA50SAKZ, and KDTE204KPS
- ONE YEAR WARRANTY: Whirlpool offers the well-tested, high-quality parts that your appliances deserve with a one-year warranty
- KEEP YOUR HOME HUMMING: For over 100 years, Whirlpool has cared for your appliance as you care for your home, which is why our replacement parts are made using durable materials and innovative processes
Is the Whirlpool WDP540HAMZ quiet?
Tom’s Guide lists it at 55 dB. Compare that source’s figure with the exact models you are considering, and think about whether noise will carry into living or sleeping areas.
How do I know whether a dishwasher will fit?
Measure your opening and compare it with the exact model’s installation guide. Whirlpool gives about 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 35 inches high as standard opening guidance, but those dimensions are not necessarily the appliance’s exact dimensions.
Does a low price include installation?
Not necessarily. Treat the listed appliance price separately from delivery, tax, installation, haul-away, and required parts. Request a current checkout total or local service estimate for the specific model and installation conditions.
What are the current ENERGY STAR dishwasher limits?
ENERGY STAR’s criteria effective July 19, 2023, limit certified standard-size dishwashers to 240 kWh per year and 3.2 gallons per cycle. Certified compact models have limits of 155 kWh per year and 2.0 gallons per cycle. Check the exact model’s certification and label.
Are retailer ratings the same as lab test results?
No. IKEA’s displayed ratings are customer reviews, with small review counts in the research. They are user feedback, not controlled comparisons of washing, drying, or reliability.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
