The KitchenAid KDTM405PPS and the KDTM404KPS are two high-performing dishwashers from KitchenAid that share a similar premium design, quiet operation, and stainless steel interior. The primary differences lie in capacity and cleaning power, the KDTM405PPS holds 15 place settings and includes a specialized ProScrub cycle for tough messes, while the slightly more affordable KDTM404KPS holds 14 place settings and offers core cycles without ProScrub.
Here's everything you need to know about these two models to choose the right dishwasher for your kitchen.
KitchenAid KDTM405PPS Dishwasher
The KDTM405PPS is positioned as the more feature-rich model in this matchup, designed for homeowners who need maximum capacity and cleaning flexibility. It incorporates advanced cycles and a thoughtful interior design tailored for large loads and heavily-soiled cookware, all while maintaining an incredibly quiet performance.
- What it is: A high-end, 24-inch built-in dishwasher with advanced cleaning features and a larger capacity.
- Key features: ProWash Cycle that automatically adjusts to load soil levels, ProScrub cycle with 40 targeted spray jets for tough messes, FreeFlex Third Rack for cutlery and small items, adjustable middle rack, and an advanced ProDry system.
- Price: Around $1,199 to $1,399.
- Capacity: Accommodates up to 15 place settings, suitable for large families or dinner parties.
- Noise Level: Operates at a very quiet 44 dBA.
- Materials/Construction: Features a durable stainless steel tub, nylon-coated racks, and a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior.
- Pros: Excellent cleaning performance on tough grime with ProScrub. Larger 15-setting capacity handles big loads. Advanced drying system reduces plastics spotting. The FreeFlex Third Rack adds significant loading versatility. Extremely quiet during operation.
- Cons: A higher price point than its counterpart. Advanced cycles may be more than what some households need. The larger capacity and features reflect the higher cost.
This dishwasher is ideal for large, active households that frequently deal with tough, baked-on messes and need a machine that can do it all without disrupting a quiet home.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/dishwashers/kdtm405pps.html
KitchenAid KDTM404KPS Dishwasher
The KitchenAid KDTM404KPS offers a premium experience at a more accessible price point. While slightly more streamlined, it retains the core features that define the brand's quality, including the durable stainless steel tub, FreeFlex Third Rack, and quiet operation, making it a powerful and reliable choice for most everyday needs.
- What it is: A streamlined yet powerful 24-inch dishwasher that delivers reliable, quiet cleaning power.
- Key features: ProWash Cycle for automatic soil detection, FreeFlex Third Rack, adjustable middle rack, and the same quiet 44 dBA performance as the premium model.
- Price: Typically priced between $999 and $1,199.
- Capacity: Comfortably fits 14 place settings.
- Noise Level: Operates at an identical 44 dBA, ensuring it won't disturb your home.
- Materials/Construction: Features the same high-quality stainless steel tub, resilient racks, and fingerprint-resistant finish as the 405 model.
- Pros: More budget-friendly while still feeling premium. Includes essential high-end features like the third rack and automatic ProWash Cycle. Identical quietness and build quality to the pricier model. ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency.
- Cons: Lacks the specialized ProScrub cycle for heavily soiled pots and pans. Slightly smaller capacity may be a factor for very large families.
The KDTM404KPS is perfect for small- to medium-sized households who desire the quality and quietness of a KitchenAid but don't need the extra capacity or intense scrubbing power of the top-tier model.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/dishwashers/kdtm404kps.html
KitchenAid KDTM405PPS vs. KDTM404KPS Comparison
Capacity & Dimensions
Both dishwashers are standard 24-inch models designed to fit perfectly into modern kitchen cabinetry. The most noticeable difference is their interior capacity. The KDTM405PPS can hold 15 place settings, giving it a slight edge for those who host large gatherings or have big families. That extra setting can mean the difference between fitting everything in one go or having to leave a few items for the next load.
The KDTM404KPS holds a still-generous 14 place settings. For most couples and small families, this is more than enough capacity for daily use. Unless you regularly max out your current dishwasher, you might not notice the difference of one place setting.
Cleaning Performance & Cycles
This is where the two models truly diverge. Both dishwashers come with KitchenAid's excellent ProWash Cycle, which uses sensors to detect soil levels and adjusts the cycle time and water usage accordingly for an efficient, optimal clean. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it feature that works great for mixed loads.
However, the KDTM405PPS adds the powerful ProScrub cycle. This option utilizes 40 targeted spray jets at the back of the dishwasher to blast away stubborn, baked-on food from casserole dishes, pots, and pans. If you frequently make lasagna, roasts, or other dishes that leave a difficult mess, ProScrub can save you a lot of time and effort pre-soaking and scrubbing by hand.
Materials & Construction
In terms of build quality and materials, both models are identical. They both feature a durable stainless steel tub that looks clean, resists stains and odors, and improves drying performance by retaining heat. The racks are heavy-duty and glide smoothly, and the exterior features a fingerprint-resistant finish that keeps a busy kitchen looking neat.
Since the construction is the same across both models, the more affordable KDTM404KPS offers excellent durability and a premium feel for its price, matching its more expensive counterpart piece for piece.
Price & Value
There is typically a $200 price difference between these two dishwashers. The KDTM405PPS commands a higher price for its two key upgrades: one additional place setting of capacity and the powerful ProScrub cycle. For large households that constantly battle tough food stains, this additional investment is easily justified by the sheer convenience and time saved.
For everyone else, the KDTM404KPS presents outstanding value. You get the same build quality, the same FreeFlex Third Rack, the same quiet 44 dBA operation, and the smart ProWash cycle. You sacrifice a little bit of capacity and a specialty cycle, but you save money while still getting an undeniably premium dishwasher.
Who Each One Works Best For
The KDTM405PPS is tailor-made for large families, passionate home cooks, and frequent entertainers. If your dishwasher is always full and you often find yourself pre-scrubbing greasy pans and casserole dishes, the investment in extra capacity and the ProScrub cycle will pay off in convenience and cleaner dishes.
The KDTM404KPS is the more practical choice for couples, smaller families, and budget-conscious buyers who still prioritize quality and performance. Its 14-place-setting capacity is ample for day-to-day use, and the ProWash cycle handles typical loads with impressive efficiency. It delivers a premium ownership experience without the added cost of features you might not use regularly.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both the KDTM405PPS and KDTM404KPS are excellent, high-quality dishwashers, but they cater to slightly different needs and priorities.
Choose the KDTM405PPS if:
- You have a big family or frequently host dinner parties.
- You often cook meals that leave food baked or caked onto cookware.
- You want the most advanced cleaning technology available to minimize pre-rinsing.
- Your budget allows for a top-of-the-line model with all the bells and whistles.
Choose the KDTM404KPS if:
- You're a couple or a smaller family with average dishwashing needs.
- You want a premium, quiet dishwasher but don't need specialized scrubbing cycles.
- Getting the best value for your money is a high priority.
- You typically rinse dishes before loading and run mixed loads with standard soil levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the KitchenAid KDTM405PPS and KDTM404KPS?
The two main differences are capacity and cleaning cycles. The KDTM405PPS holds 15 place settings and features an exclusive ProScrub cycle for tough messes, while the KDTM404KPS holds 14 place settings and does not include the ProScrub option.
Which KitchenAid dishwasher is quieter?
Both the KDTM405PPS and the KDTM404KPS are exceptionally quiet, operating at an identical 44 dBA. This is considered very quiet and will not disturb conversations or activities happening in and around the kitchen.
Is the ProScrub feature on the KDTM405PPS worth the extra money?
If you regularly wash pots, pans, or casserole dishes with baked-on food, the ProScrub option can be a significant time-saver and is likely worth the added cost. For households with lighter dishwashing habits, the standard wash cycles on the KDTM404KPS are more than sufficient.
Do both models have a third rack?
Yes, both of these KitchenAid dishwashers come with the very useful FreeFlex Third Rack. This large third-level rack provides dedicated space for long, flat items like silverware, cooking utensils, and small cups, freeing up more room in the lower racks.
Are both models ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes, both the KDTM405PPS and the KDTM404KPS are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they meet strict guidelines for energy and water efficiency set by the Environmental Protection Agency. This helps reduce utility bills and environmental impact.
Do these dishwashers have a stainless steel tub?
Absolutely. Both models are built with a durable stainless steel interior, which helps resist stains, odors, and corrosion while also aiding in better and faster drying performance compared to plastic tubs.
What is the ProWash cycle?
The ProWash cycle, available on both models, uses advanced sensors to analyze the soil level of the dishes in real time. It automatically adjusts the water temperature, wash duration, and rinse cycles for the most effective and efficient wash for that specific load.
Can the middle rack be adjusted on these dishwashers?
Yes, both models feature an adjustable middle rack. You can easily raise or lower it to create extra room in either the middle rack for tall glasses or the bottom rack for large plates, pots, or stand mixer bowls.
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