Maytag dishwashers are known as durable, reliable workhorses built for longevity and straightforward cleaning power, while KitchenAid dishwashers focus on a premium experience, combining advanced features and sleek, modern design with high-performance cleaning. Key differences come down to Maytag's value-driven durability versus KitchenAid's emphasis on aesthetic appeal, quiet operation, and innovative technology like third racks and versatile wash cycles.
Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right dishwasher brand for your kitchen and lifestyle.
Maytag: The Dependable Workhorse
Maytag has built a long-standing reputation for manufacturing robust and dependable home appliances that simply get the job done. The brand appeals to homeowners who prioritize reliability and powerful performance over trendy features. Maytag dishwashers are designed to be straightforward and effective, making them a popular choice for busy families looking for a tough appliance that can handle daily messes without fuss.
- Product mix: A focused selection of built-in dishwashers with various tub sizes and configurations. They are a fixture in most major appliance retailer showrooms.
- Style/vibe: Classic and utilitarian with an emphasis on function. Most models feature a clean stainless steel finish with accessible front controls or a simpler top-control layout.
- Price point: Mid-range, with prices typically ranging from $600 to $1,200. Maytag offers excellent performance for the price, providing solid value.
- Quality: Built to last, with many models featuring stainless steel tubs, heavy-duty racks, and powerful Dual Power Filtration systems. The brand is known for its durable motors and is often backed by strong warranties, including a 10-year limited parts warranty on key components.
- Delivery & Assembly: Available for purchase through major retailers like The Home Depot and Lowe's, which handle delivery and installation services.
For shoppers seeking a powerful, no-nonsense dishwasher famous for its longevity, a Maytag is an excellent and budget-friendly choice.
Shop Maytag: maytag.com
KitchenAid: The Premium Design Choice
Famously known for its iconic stand mixers, KitchenAid extends its legacy of quality and design to its full line of kitchen appliances. Their dishwashers cater to the home chef and design-conscious consumer who wants premium features, superior performance, and a sophisticated look. With a focus on quiet operation and advanced technologies, KitchenAid dishwashers are designed to integrate seamlessly into upscale kitchens.
- Product mix: A wide range of built-in and panel-ready dishwashers. KitchenAid is a leader in features like third-level racks and bottle wash jets.
- Style/vibe: Sleek, modern, and high-end. Common features include pocket handles, top-facing controls for an uninterrupted front panel, and panel-ready options that can be fitted with custom cabinetry.
- Price point: Upper mid-range to premium, with models generally starting around $900 and exceeding $1,500 for top-tier options with the quietest operation and most advanced features.
- Quality: Premium construction is standard, with stainless steel interiors, durable ball-bearing racks that slide smoothly, and high-end insulation for near-silent operation.
- Customization: Offers panel-ready models that allow homeowners to match their dishwasher to their custom kitchen cabinets for a fully integrated look.
- Delivery & Assembly: Sold through specialty appliance stores and select major retailers that provide white-glove delivery and professional installation services.
KitchenAid is the ideal choice for those who value quiet performance, cutting-edge features, and a polished design in their kitchen appliances.
Shop KitchenAid: kitchenaid.com
Maytag vs. KitchenAid Dishwasher Comparison
Price Comparison
There is a clear price difference between the two brands. Maytag is the more budget-friendly option, with its entire lineup generally falling between $600 and $1,200. This positions Maytag as a provider of excellent mid-range value, delivering powerful cleaning capabilities without the premium price tag.
KitchenAid occupies the upper mid-range to luxury space, with entry-level models starting where Maytag's lineup tops out - around $900. Their most popular and advanced dishwashers often run between $1,200 and $1,500 or more. The higher cost reflects their premium materials, quieter operation, and advanced cycle options aimed at a more discerning buyer.
Style & Aesthetic
Maytag dishwashers feature a classic, somewhat industrial design that prioritizes function. They mostly come in stainless steel and have a look that is durable and timeless but not especially design-forward. Their controls are straightforward and easy to use, whether on the front or hidden on top.
KitchenAid makes design a centerpiece of its brand. Their dishwashers have a clean, sleek, and modern aesthetic. Signature features like a towel bar handle, hidden top controls, and bold color accents define the brand's look. For anyone building a custom kitchen, KitchenAid's panel-ready options offer a seamless, integrated appearance that Maytag does not.
Quality & Construction
Both brands, which are owned by Whirlpool Corporation, are known for quality construction and standard stainless steel tubs. However, their focus differs. Maytag emphasizes durability with components like heavy-duty motors and chopper blades to grind up food particles. Their "dependable" positioning is backed by robust build quality designed to withstand years of heavy use.
KitchenAid defines quality through refinement and advanced engineering. Their dishwashers feel more substantial due to superior sound insulation, which results in much lower decibel ratings. The racks glide effortlessly on ball bearings, and the wash systems are engineered for comprehensive coverage, using jets designed to clean every item, no matter where it's placed.
Shopping Experience
Shopping for a Maytag appliance is simple and accessible. They are staples at major big-box retailers and large appliance stores, making it easy to see models in person and take advantage of competitive pricing and frequent sales events.
KitchenAid products are sold at major retailers but are also prominent in high-end specialty appliance showrooms. The shopping experience is more consultative, focusing on specific features, kitchen integration, and package deals if you're buying a suite of appliances. You're more likely to find a wider range of display models at a dedicated appliance store.
Sustainability & Ethics
Both brands prioritize energy and water efficiency, with the majority of their models being ENERGY STAR certified. This helps reduce utility costs and water consumption over the appliance's lifetime. Maytag’s approach to sustainability also ties into their durability - a longer-lasting appliance means less waste in landfills.
KitchenAid similarly focuses on efficiency, with many models offering eco-friendly wash cycles that minimize resource use. Their commitment is to build advanced appliances that perform at a high level while being mindful of their environmental impact.
Which One Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your priorities and budget. Both brands offer fantastic cleaning performance, but they cater to very different homeowners.
Choose Maytag if:
- You're looking for the best performance and durability on a mid-range budget.
- Reliability and a long warranty are your top concerns.
- You need a powerful appliance that can handle tough, baked-on food messes.
- You prefer straightforward controls and don't need a lot of specialty cycles.
Choose KitchenAid if:
- The dishwasher’s design and aesthetic are as important as its performance.
- Quiet operation is a must-have for your open-concept living space.
- You want advanced features like a third rack, bottle washers, and versatile loading options.
- You are buying a panel-ready model for a high-end, integrated kitchen look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maytag or KitchenAid cheaper?
Maytag is significantly cheaper. Its models generally cost between $600 and $1,200, while KitchenAid dishwashers typically start around $900 and can easily exceed $1,500 for high-end versions.
Which dishwasher brand has better quality?
Both brands have excellent quality, but they define it differently. Maytag's quality is in its robust, heavy-duty build designed for longevity and powerful performance. KitchenAid's quality comes from premium materials, refined engineering, and advanced features for a more luxurious user experience.
Which is quieter, Maytag or KitchenAid?
KitchenAid dishwashers are almost always quieter. They invest heavily in sound insulation and advanced motor technology, with many models operating between 39 and 44 decibels (dBA), which is virtually silent. Maytag dishwashers are quiet for their price point but typically run in the 47-50 dBA range.
Are both Maytag and KitchenAid made by the same company?
Yes, both Maytag and KitchenAid are owned by the Whirlpool Corporation. They are manufactured as distinct brands with different target audiences, features, and price points.
Do both brands offer a third rack?
Yes, many dishwasher models from both brands now offer a third rack for utensils and small items. However, it's a more common and often more flexible feature on KitchenAid models, even at their mid-range price points.
Which brand has a better warranty?
Maytag is famous for its excellent warranties and often highlights its 10-year limited parts warranty on the tub, racks, and chopper blade as a key selling point. KitchenAid also offers strong warranties, but Maytag's focus on long-term durability is very prominent in its marketing.
Where are Maytag and KitchenAid dishwashers sold?
Maytag dishwashers are widely available at major big-box retailers such as The Home Depot, Lowe's, and Best Buy. KitchenAid is also sold at these stores but has a larger presence in independent, high-end appliance showrooms.
Are parts interchangeable between Maytag and KitchenAid?
Typically, no. Even though they are both owned by Whirlpool, their dishwashers are designed with distinct parts and mechanisms. You should always use parts specific to your model number for any repairs.
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