The KitchenAid DSS (Dishwasher Standard Series) and ESS (Elite Series Standard) dishwashers primarily differ in features, noise level, and price. The DSS is the brand's dependable, entry-level model with core cleaning functions at a more accessible price point, while the ESS is a premium option offering advanced cleaning technology, quieter operation, and more refined aesthetics for a higher cost.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which KitchenAid dishwasher fits your kitchen and budget.
KitchenAid DSS (Standard Series) Dishwasher
The KitchenAid DSS series is the brand's workhorse lineup, offering the durable construction and reliable cleaning performance KitchenAid is known for, but without the extra bells and whistles of the more premium models. It's designed for homeowners who prioritize straightforward functionality and value over advanced features.
- What it is: A mid-range built-in dishwasher focused on core performance, efficiency, and durability.
- Key features: Stainless steel tub, multiple standard wash cycles (e.g., Normal, Tough), adjustable upper rack, and soil sensors for efficient water use.
- Price: Typically starting around $899.
- Style: A clean, modern look with a simple front-facing control panel and a stainless steel finish that fits well in most contemporary kitchens.
- Materials/Construction: Features a durable stainless steel tub that improves drying and resists stains and odors over time, with sturdy nylon racks.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price, reliable and consistent cleaning results, straightforward and easy-to-use controls, durable stainless steel interior.
- Cons: Louder than premium models (usually 45-50 dBA), fewer cycle options, lacks advanced features like enhanced drying or a third rack in most base models.
This series is ideal for budget-conscious buyers or smaller households that need a dependable dishwasher with solid performance for everyday loads.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/dishwashers/built-in
KitchenAid ESS (Elite Series) Dishwasher
The KitchenAid ESS is the brand's premium dishwasher line, engineered for those who want superior performance, whisper-quiet operation, and a high-end look. It incorporates KitchenAid's latest cleaning technologies and offers maximum interior flexibility to handle diverse loads and tough messes with ease.
- What it is: A higher-tier dishwasher with advanced cleaning features, quieter operation, and premium design details.
- Key features: Often includes a FreeFlex™ Third Rack, advanced ProWash™ soil sensor, fan-assisted ProDry™ System, and ultra-quiet performance (as low as 39 dBA).
- Price: Ranges from $1,099 to $1,399.
- Style: A refined, minimalist aesthetic featuring a sleek handle, top controls for a seamless front, and often available in panel-ready options to blend with cabinetry.
- Materials/Construction: High-quality stainless steel tub, premium rack components with smooth-gliding rails, and excellent insulation for sound dampening.
- Pros: Exceptionally quiet operation, superior cleaning and drying performance, highly flexible third rack adds significant capacity, elegant and modern aesthetic.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive, may have more features than the average user needs.
The ESS is a perfect match for households with open-concept kitchens, larger families who need versatile loading options, and anyone who values top-tier performance and design.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/dishwashers/top-control
KitchenAid DSS vs. ESS Comparison
Performance & Cleaning Technology
Both models deliver a strong cleaning performance, but the ESS takes it a step further. While the DSS series uses effective multi-level spray arms and a basic soil sensor, the ESS series often incorporates more advanced systems like the ProWash™ cycle, which uses multiple sensors to adapt the wash time and water usage in real-time for perfectly clean dishes. Furthermore, an ESS model might include additional spray arms or targeted cleaning zones for heavily soiled items. The ESS's superior ProDry™ system, which uses a fan and a recessed heating element, also provides significantly better drying results, especially on plastics.
Materials & Durability
Both the DSS and ESS series use high-quality stainless steel tubs, a hallmark of KitchenAid durability. This material is superior to plastic tubs because it resists stains, odors, and corrosion while aiding in condensation-based drying. The key difference lies in the interior components and exterior finishes. The ESS series typically features more robust and smoother-gliding racks, premium bearings, and higher-grade insulation for both thermal efficiency and sound dampening. The overall build quality feels more substantial in the Elite Series.
Dimensions & Interior Flexibility
Both dishwasher lines are standard 24-inch built-in models designed to fit under nearly all kitchen counters. The main differentiator is interior customization. The DSS models have adjustable upper racks, which is a useful feature for fitting taller items. However, the ESS models excel with their highly-praised FreeFlex™ Third Rack, which provides a dedicated space for cutlery, long utensils, and small cups, freeing up significant room on the lower racks. The racks in the ESS line also offer more fold-down tines and adjustable elements, making it much easier to load awkwardly shaped pots, pans, and bowls.
Price & Value
The price gap is the most significant factor for many shoppers. A DSS model, typically starting around $899, provides excellent core performance and durability for its cost, making it a great value. You're paying for a product that will clean your dishes well and last for years. The ESS series, starting at $1,099 and going up, justifies its higher price with tangible benefits: whisper-quiet operation, better drying, and much more loading capacity and flexibility from the third rack. The value here is in convenience, performance, and a better user experience, especially in a busy home or open-concept living space.
Style & Aesthetics
While both series feature modern stainless steel designs, their aesthetics cater to slightly different tastes. The DSS has a more traditional look with its visible, front-facing controls and a standard handlebar. It's clean and functional. The ESS gravitates towards a sleeker, integrated appearance. Its controls are hidden on the top edge of the door, and its handle is more refined and minimalist. The panel-ready options available in the ESS lineup are a key advantage for high-end kitchens where blending appliances seamlessly into cabinetry is desired.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both the DSS and ESS are excellent dishwashers from a reputable brand, but they are built for different users and budgets.
Choose the KitchenAid DSS series if:
- You're on a stricter budget and want the best performance for under $1,000.
- You need a durable, reliable dishwasher for everyday use without extra features.
- Your kitchen is enclosed, so an ultra-quiet dishwasher isn't a top priority.
- You have a small to medium-sized household with standard dish loads.
Choose the KitchenAid ESS series if:
- Quiet operation is your most important feature, especially in an open-concept home.
- You want the best possible cleaning and drying results, including for plastics.
- You frequently wash large or awkwardly shaped items and need maximum loading flexibility.
- A sleek, high-end aesthetic with hidden controls is important for your kitchen design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the KitchenAid DSS and ESS?
The main differences are features, noise level, and price. The ESS offers premium features like a third rack, advanced drying systems, and significantly quieter operation (as low as 39 dBA). The DSS is a more budget-friendly series with core cleaning features and slightly higher noise levels (around 45-50 dBA).
Which KitchenAid dishwasher series is quieter?
The ESS (Elite Series Standard) series is significantly quieter. With operating volumes as low as 39-44 decibels, they are often described as whisper-quiet, making them ideal for kitchens that open into living areas.
Do both the DSS and ESS have a stainless steel tub?
Yes, both series feature a durable stainless steel tub. This is a premium feature that helps with drying performance, stain resistance, and odor control compared to models with plastic tubs.
Which model has better drying performance?
The ESS has better drying performance. It often includes KitchenAid's ProDry™ System, which uses a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring dishes - including plastics - come out much drier than with the standard heating element found in the DSS series.
Are KitchenAid DSS and ESS dishwashers ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes, models across both the DSS and ESS series are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they are designed to use less water and energy than standard models, which can help save on utility bills.
Is the third rack in the ESS series worth the extra cost?
For many users, yes. The FreeFlex™ Third Rack in the ESS series adds a huge amount of capacity for silverware, large utensils, and small bowls. This frees up valuable space on the bottom rack, allowing for more efficient loading of larger pots and pans.
Can I install a custom cabinet panel on these dishwashers?
Panel-ready options are typically available in the higher-end ESS lineup. These models are designed to be fitted with a custom cabinet panel to create a completely seamless, integrated look in your kitchen. This option is generally not available for the DSS series.
Is the ESS worth the extra money over the DSS?
It depends on your priorities. If you value ultra-quiet operation, superior drying, and maximum loading flexibility for a busy household, the ESS is absolutely worth the extra investment. If you just need a durable machine that cleans well and are on a tighter budget, the DSS offers fantastic value.
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