The KitchenAid KDTM354DSS and the KDTE334GPS are both high-performing dishwashers from KitchenAid, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. The core difference lies in their cleaning features: the KDTM354DSS includes a specialized ProScrub Zone with targeted spray jets for heavily soiled pans, while the KDTE334GPS offers the same core ProWash cycle without this advanced scrubbing feature, positioning it as a more value-focused premium option.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which of these popular dishwashers is the right fit for your kitchen.
KitchenAid KDTM354DSS Dishwasher
The KDTM354DSS stands as one of KitchenAid’s more premium offerings, designed for households that demand powerful cleaning and a refined look. Its standout feature is the ProScrub Zone, which uses 40 targeted spray jets to eliminate stuck-on food, removing the need for pre-soaking pots and pans. With a quiet 44 dBA operation and a flexible third rack, it combines high-end functionality with sleek, user-friendly design.
- What it is: A built-in dishwasher offering advanced cleaning features and a premium, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish.
- Key features: ProScrub Zone with 40 targeted jets, ProWash Cycle senses soil levels, third-level rack for utensils, quiet 44 dBA operation, adjustable middle rack.
- Price: Typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,400.
- Materials/Construction: Durable stainless steel interior tub for better drying and longevity, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior.
- Style: Modern and luxurious, with a clean handle-bar design that complements high-end kitchen aesthetics.
- Pros: Exceptional cleaning power for tough messes. Very quiet operation, making it ideal for open-concept kitchens. Flexible loading options with the third rack and adjustable tines. Durable and premium materials inside and out.
- Cons: Comes at a higher price point. The ProScrub feature might be more than what's needed for households that don't regularly use large pots and pans.
This dishwasher is ideal for serious home cooks who frequently deal with tough, baked-on food and want top-tier cleaning performance without the manual effort.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/dishwashers
KitchenAid KDTE334GPS Dishwasher
The KitchenAid KDTE334GPS delivers much of the brand's premium experience at a more accessible price point. It shares key features with the KDTM354DSS, including the smart ProWash cycle, a versatile third rack, and the same whisper-quiet 44 dBA rating. While it lacks the dedicated ProScrub Zone, it provides a powerful and efficient cleaning solution for everyday dishwashing needs, making it an excellent all-around performer.
- What it is: A premium built-in dishwasher that balances advanced features with strong value.
- Key features: ProWash Cycle automatically adjusts for soil levels, a third-level rack adds capacity, 44 dBA quiet performance, adjustable racks with fold-down tines.
- Price: Generally priced between $900 and $1,200.
- Materials/Construction: Fingerprint-resistant PrintShield finish on the exterior and a full stainless steel tub for efficient drying.
- Style: Clean and contemporary minimalist look that fits seamlessly into most modern kitchen designs.
- Pros: Excellent value for a premium dishwasher. Includes high-demand features like a third rack and quiet operation. Effective and efficient cleaning with the ProWash cycle. Durable build with a stainless steel tub.
- Cons: Lacks a specialized zone for heavily caked-on food. The overall design is slightly less refined than the more expensive KDTM354DSS.
The KDTE334GPS suits households seeking the reliability and quiet performance of a high-end dishwasher but don't require the most intensive cleaning features.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/dishwashers
KDTM354DSS vs. KDTE334GPS Comparison
Cleaning Performance & Features
The defining difference between these two models is cleaning technology. The KDTM354DSS is equipped with the ProScrub Zone - a dedicated area on the back of the lower rack with 40 high-pressure spray jets designed to blast away tough, baked-on messes from pots, pans, and casserole dishes. This feature is a major benefit for those who do a lot of heavy cooking and hate pre-scrubbing.
Both models share the highly effective ProWash cycle, which uses sensors to detect soil levels throughout the cycle and adjusts wash time and water usage accordingly for optimal cleaning. Both also include a convenient third-level rack, which significantly increases loading capacity for utensils, spatulas, and small cups. So while the KDTE334GPS is a powerful cleaner for everyday loads, the KDTM354DSS has a clear advantage with the most stubborn of dishes.
Materials & Construction
Both dishwashers are built for longevity. They feature full stainless steel tubs, which not only resist stains and odors better than plastic tubs but also aid in drying by retaining heat. The exteriors on both are finished with KitchenAid's PrintShield, a fingerprint-resistant coating that keeps the stainless steel looking pristine.
From a construction standpoint, the two are very similar. The KDTM354DSS, as the higher-end model, may feel slightly more robust with more refined details in its racks and handle, but both models reflect KitchenAid's reputation for quality craftsmanship. Both machines clock in at a quiet 44 dBA, so you won't notice a difference in noise level during operation.
Price & Value
Price is a significant differentiator here. The KDTM354DSS typically costs between $1,200 and $1,400, placing it firmly in the premium category. Its value comes from its specialized cleaning power and high-end feel. For dedicated cooks, the extra cost for the ProScrub feature can be easily justified by the time and effort saved.
The KDTE334GPS offers a much stronger value proposition, with a price range of $900 to $1,200. It provides the most important premium features - a stainless steel tub, third rack, and quiet 44 dBA operation - for a few hundred dollars less. If specialized scrubbing jets aren't a must-have, the KDTE334GPS delivers about 90% of the experience for a significantly lower investment.
Who Each One Works Best For
The KitchenAid KDTM354DSS is designed for the avid home chef or households that generate a lot of heavily soiled cookware. If your sink is frequently full of pans with baked-on cheese, caramelized sugar, or greasy residue, the targeted power of the ProScrub Zone makes it worth the investment. It's also the better choice for those designing a luxury kitchen where every appliance needs to feel top-of-the-line.
The KitchenAid KDTE334GPS is perfect for the average family or individual who wants a reliable, quiet, and effective dishwasher with flexible loading options. It handles daily dishes, glasses, and silverware with ease and offers the premium build quality of a KitchenAid appliance without the cost of specialized features you may not use often. It represents a fantastic sweet spot between performance and price.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both models are excellent choices that deliver on the KitchenAid promise of quality and performance, but they serve different priorities.
Choose the KDTM354DSS if:
- You constantly wash pots and pans with stubborn, baked-on food.
- You want the most powerful cleaning technology available to avoid pre-scrubbing.
- You are designing a high-end kitchen and want an appliance with a premium feel.
- Your budget allows for a top-tier model and the advanced features are important to you.
Choose the KDTE334GPS if:
- You're looking for the best overall value in a premium dishwasher.
- You want essential high-end features like a third rack and a quiet motor.
- Your daily dish loads consist mostly of plates, glasses, and cutlery.
- You want a durable, reliable machine without paying for specialized features you won't use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the KDTM354DSS and KDTE334GPS?
The primary difference is the cleaning system. The KDTM354DSS includes the ProScrub Zone, which uses 40 targeted spray jets for intensive cleaning of pots and pans. The KDTE334GPS lacks this feature but still has the same effective ProWash cycle for everyday loads.
Are both dishwashers quiet?
Yes, both models are rated at 44 decibels (dBA), which is considered very quiet. This makes them ideal for open-concept living spaces where the kitchen is adjacent to family rooms, as they won't interrupt conversations or TV watching.
What is a stainless steel tub and why is it important?
Both dishwashers feature a stainless steel interior tub. Unlike plastic tubs, stainless steel resists stains and foul odors, can withstand higher water temperatures for better sanitization, and helps dishes dry more efficiently by retaining heat at the end of a cycle.
What is a third-level rack?
A third-level rack is a shallow, extra rack at the very top of the dishwasher interior. It's designed for small, flat items like silverware, long utensils, spatulas, and small cups, freeing up valuable space in the lower racks. Both the KDTM354DSS and the KDTE334GPS include this convenient feature.
How does the ProWash cycle work?
The ProWash cycle, found on both models, uses sensors to measure the soil level of the dishes throughout the wash. It then automatically adjusts the cycle time and water usage to ensure a thorough cleaning, which helps save energy and water for lighter loads.
Is the ProScrub option on the KDTM354DSS worth the extra cost?
Its worth depends on your cooking habits. If you regularly cook meals that leave tough, caked-on food on your pans (like roasted meats or baked pasta), the ProScrub feature can save you significant time and effort, making it well worth the higher price. If not, the ProWash cycle on the KDTE334GPS is more than sufficient.
Do these dishwashers come in other colors?
While the models referenced are in Stainless Steel with PrintShield Finish (GPS and DSS suffixes often denote this), KitchenAid typically offers their dishwasher series in other finishes like Black Stainless and sometimes a panel-ready version for custom cabinetry. Check a retailer for specific availability.
How do you maintain the stainless steel finish?
The PrintShield finish is designed to resist smudges and fingerprints. For regular cleaning, simply wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads that could scratch the surface.
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