Remodelista

After a couple of decades of fine-tuning, almost all conventional built-in dishwashers perform admirably in the cleaning department. The differentiating factors come down to questions such as: How quiet is the operation? What are the energy-saving options (such as shortened cycles, half-load options, condensation drying, and water-flow control)? Look for Energy Star–rated models, which are 41 percent more energy efficient than the minimum federal standard. We've sifted through the options, consulted rating guides, and come up with our Top 10 picks for front-loading dishwashers.

(N.B.: We have not included Asko or Fisher-Paykel front-loading models because of their dismal repair records and long-term lack of reliability. For a discussion of the higher-rated Fisher-Paykel dish drawers, go to Dishwasher Drawers.)

Below: The highest-rated Bosch, the Integra 800 Series 9-Cycle Dishwasher (#SHX98M09UC), is $1,539 at AJ Madison. It's also the highest priced, with the most advanced features and the sleekest profile (controls are hidden). I've had great experiences with Bosch dishwashers, both in Seattle and London kitchens.

Below: A Consumer Reports "Best Buy" selection in 2008, Bosch's Evolution 300 Series Energy Star Dishwasher (#SHE33M0UC) is available in white, black (for $599), or stainless with black controls ($699) at AJ Madison.

Below: If you want a Bosch with a full stainless look, you can pay a slightly higher price of $699 at AJ Madison for the Evolution 300 Series DLX Energy Star Dishwasher (#SHE42L12UC).

Below: The Miele Inspira Series Dishwasher (#G2142SC), with the option of the signature Miele separate cutlery tray (see photo below), is $1,149 in black, white, or stainless (for an extra $100) at AJ Madison. I installed this dishwasher in my San Francisco kitchen and am delighted with its performance.

Below L: The Sears Kenmore Elite UltraWash HE 1315 gets high marks all around; $1,249 for stainless model. Below R: The lower-priced Kenmore #1374 Dishwasher also gets high ratings; the difference is that the controls are visible (available in white, black, bisque, and stainless with black control board); $649 at Sears.

Below: Thermador HD Series- DWHD64EP (#DWHD64EM for masterpiece handle) offers a shorter cycle than most dishwashers; shown here with the professional handle and the masterpiece handle); $1,249 at AJ Madison.

Below: The KitchenAid Architect Series II KUDC20CV offers great features and a reasonable price along with a sleek stainless look. While the control console is visible (hence the lower price), we think it is one of the least obtrusive on the market. $829 ($759 in black or white) at AJ Madison.

Below: For early adopters, LG's Fully Integrated Steam Dishwasher (#LDF9810) offers the latest technological innovations. Its steam cleaning function substantially reduces the water consumed in the cleaning process. (Because most of a dishwasher's energy consumption involves heating water, the less water used, the less energy consumed.) $1,499 at AJ Madison.

Below L: Aga has come out with a dishwasher to complement its traditional English cast-iron kitchen cookers. Although we can't vouch for its performance, we love the look and the fact that it's available in the traditional Aga colors (brick, black, blue, white, and cream). Aga Fully Integrated 6-Cycle Dishwasher, $2,199 at A.J. Madison. Below R: For those who love the Aga look but don't like the price tag, consider the Aga Dishwasher Panel Kit. For $449, you can install the Aga panel on the front of most integrated dishwashers. Available at A.J. Madison.