Looking to upgrade your dishwasher? Read our comprehensive comparison of Bosch and LG’s top-rated dishwashers to help you make the best decision for your home.
Dishwashers are lifesavers when it comes to keeping up with the never-ending chores. They free up time that would otherwise have been spent cleaning and scrubbing, allowing you to work or spend time with your family. It also saves water and electricity. Any dishwasher is better than no dishwasher at all. But a great one—excellent at cleaning, easy to load, quiet, and reliable—goes above and beyond.
So, if your dishwasher isn’t cutting it anymore, it may be time to replace it with a more capable model. Bosch is known for quiet, high-end dishwashers, while LG is synonymous with innovation. So what’s the difference between these brands, and which is better? In this comparison, we’ll discuss the key differences between these two brands and highlight some intriguing products and features from each to help you decide which is better for you.
Comparison Criteria
When it comes to comparing brands, some people focus on the price alone while others may consider the reliability. To help you understand how both brands fair against each other and help you make decision, we’ll be comparing them based on the following factors:
- Reliability
- Price
- Warranty
- Features
- Quietness
- Design
So without further let’s dive straight in, starting with reliability.
Reliability
For most people, the deciding factor when choosing a dishwasher is its reliability. And it’s not surprising why many people see this factor as a top priority. Because if you must invest hundreds of dollars on a product then that should serve the time.
So, what is the most reliable dishwasher brand? According to expert insights and a survey from Consumer Reports, Borsh is the most reliable dishwasher.
How is that so? Let’s take a deeper dive into the topic. According to a study conducted by Prudent Reviews, after reaching out to several professionals (i.e., repair and servicing experts), 11 out of 15 choose Borsh as the most reliable brand and no one voted against it.
However, another study carried out by Yale Appliance, a Boston-based appliance sales and servicing company, found that LG dishwashers have had a lower service rate (i.e., the percentage of units sold that required servicing within the first year) than Borsh since 2019.
So what does it all mean? While Borsh wins in terms of reliability based on reviews from industry professionals but still has a higher service rate in the first year goes to say that no brand is perfect.
And reliability is dependent on factors like usage and maintenance.
Price
In terms of pricing, both LG and Bosch offer competitive prices to suit different budgets. However, there are notable differences in their pricing and the value obtained at different price points. Continue reading to see what we mean!
Let’s begin with Bosch. This brand caters to a very wide spectrum of consumers, from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking premium, high-end models. You can expect to see Bosch entry level dishwashers, like the Ascenta/100 series models at $450. Their affordable dishwashers generally range between $500-$600.
But as you move up the range, the price changes accordingly. The popular 300 series is considered to be a mid-range offering, and it typically costs around $1000. The 500 series is more advanced and comes with features like flexible third racks and AutoAir drying. The price is usually set at around $1099. The 800 series ranges between $1200 and $1500; it comes with enhanced flexibility and CrystalDry technology.
Their high end models are ultra-quiet (with noise levels as low as 38 db) and cost around $2200 to $2500.
Like Bosch, LG dishwashers also caters to a range of customers though not as wide as Bosch. LG’s dishwashers range between $500 and $1500. At those price points, you can safely say that the models they offer can be categorized as mid-ranged.
Are High-End Dishwashers Worth the Extra Cost?
The answer depends on your priorities and lifestyle. If you need quiet operation, energy efficiency, and long-lasting performance, then investing in a high-end model from a reputable brand will be worth it. But if you are on a tight budget or you prefer basic functionality over advanced features (probably because you don’t need them), then the more affordable options from both brands should satisfy you.
Warranty
Before making a huge investment in a major appliance like a dishwasher from any brand, get to know the warranty coverage provided by that brand. A good warranty gives you peace of mind – your appliance is protected if issues come up after the purchase.
In that regard, LG and Bosch offer a limited warranty for the first year. During this time, all parts and labor costs will be covered by the company.
But, after a year warranty – between two to five years – Bosch provides a limited warranty for specific components like the microprocessor, printed circuit board, and racks (excluding the rack components). At this time, the labor cost will be covered by you.
LG’s warranty after the first year is slightly different from what Bosch offers. For the second year, LG covers the main control board, dishwasher racks, stainless steel door liner, and the tub. Like Bosch, you’ll have to cover for the repair or labor cost.
One area where Bosch stands out is its lifetime limited warranty against rust-through on the inner tub liner. LG on the other hand, doesn’t offer a lifetime warranty, but each dishwasher comes with a ten-year Direct Drive motor warranty (parts only).
Features
Now, let’s talk about the features both brands offer and see how they stack up against each other.
LG Dishwashers Features
QuadWash: This innovative feature from LG uses four powerful spray arms instead of the traditional two. This makes it possible to better clean everything nook and cranny of your dishes. It’s also combined with high-powered water jets and multi-motion action in order to achieve a deep thorough clean.
TrueSteam: This feature uses the power of boiling water to create high-temperature steam inside the dishwasher. The very hot steam does the job of removing tough stains and baked-on food residue. This ensures your dishes are clean regardless of how dirty they are and your glassware is water-spot free.
Foldable Tines: LG knows that the loading process for dishes should be flexible; that’s why some of their models come with these adjustable tines, at the bottom of the rack to accommodate larger dishes with ease.
SmartThinQ: This feature from LG brings the convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity to your dishwasher. With the SmartThinQ app, you’ll be able to remotely change settings, start and end wash cycles, and receive software updates or notifications, all from your device.
Bosch Dishwasher Features
Multiple Third-Rack Options: Bosch dishwashers have three different third-rack options that allow you to customize the interior layout to accommodate bulky items like pots, delicate stemware, or mixing bowls with ease.
EasyGlide Rack System: This innovative system uses ball-bearing wheels to create a smooth glide (even if it’s fully loaded or not). The reduced force makes it easy to control the movement of heavily loaded racks.
FlexSpace Tines: In some Bosch models, the bottom tines or prongs are adjustable, which makes it easy to move them to different positions in order to accommodate awkwardly shaped dishes.
RackMatic: This thoughtful feature allows you to customize the interior of your Bosch dishwasher by pressing the levers on either side of the upper rack, moving it to nine different positions in order to create more space for taller items.
Home Connect: Some Bosch dishwasher models come with WiFi connectivity. This means that they can be controlled through the HomeConnect app. From the app, you’ll be able to remotely start and stop your dishwasher, select and customize wash cycles, adjust settings, and receive updates and notifications.
AutoAir and CrystalDry: AutoAir is a smart feature that automatically opens the dishwasher door at the end of the wash cycle for faster and more efficient drying. While, CrystalDry uses the natural properties of zeolite materials to absorb moisture and emit heat, ensuring your dishes are thoroughly dried.
Speed60 Wash: This express wash cleans and dries lightly stained dishes in just 60 minutes by using sensors to determine the soil level and adjust the cleaning accordingly.
InfoLight: Bosch dishwashers operate quietly and that makes it difficult to tell when a cycle is complete. This feature takes away the guess game by shining a red light on the floor while the dishwasher is running – acting as a visual cue.
Both brands offer some pretty convenient options to make dishwashing easy or more convenient. But Bosch seems to offer more features.
Quietness
People love their peace and quiet – no one wants to stay in a noisy environment simply because they want to do their dishes. Dishwashing should be convenient and produce less noise; it shouldn’t be something you manage to live through.
Good thing is Bosch and LG are aware of the need to create quiet dishwashers. But how well do their products fair against each other? Well, let’s find out:
Noise Level Comparison
In terms of quietness, Bosch reigns supreme – they have managed to establish themselves as an industry leader in this area. The majority of Bosch dishwashers have a noise rating between 42 and 46 decibels (dB), which is considered to be really quiet. Here’s a breakdown for their models:
- 300 Series: 44 dB
- 500 Series: 44 dB
- 800 Series: 39 – 42 dB
- Benchmark Series: 38 – 40 dB (claimed to be the quietest in the US)
LG dishwashers are also quiet, but not as quiet as Bosch. Most LG models range between 41 and 48 dB, with their high-end signature series reaching a noise level of 40 dB.
To put these numbers into perspective, a normal conversation measures around 55 dB, making Bosch and LG quieter models seem like they are whispering in comparison.
Design
Design isn’t only just about the exterior aesthetics appeal but also about the interior layout, rack configurations, and seamless integration with your kitchen decor.
Aesthetics Appeal
LG’s dishwashers, although still evolving, offer around 10 models with innovative features and finishes. From the standard front control models to hidden control designs, LG provides options in stainless steel and black stainless steel finishes.
Bosch, on the other hand, offers a wide range of models to suit various budgets and design preferences. From the budget-friendly 100 series (which was formerly Ascenta) to the luxury Benchmark series, Bosch has something for every budget. In addition to their front control and hidden control designs, Bosch also offers 18-inch dishwashers, which is convenient for smaller spaces.
There’s also the availability of panel-ready designs on some Bosch models that let customers customize the front door to blend with their kitchen cabinetry.
Rack Configuration
As mentioned earlier, interior design and rack configurations also play an important role in design. They determine the loading flexibility and the overall usability of a dishwasher.
LG dishwashers often feature adjustable tines and EasyRack systems that help accommodate tall glasses and large items. While Bosch has multiple third-rack options that provide additional space for bulky items like your pots. An EasyGlide rack system that helps in ensuring smooth movement. And their FlexSpace Tines and RackMatic for customizable rack configurations.
Final Verdict
When it comes to the overall value between these two giants (LG & Bosch), Bosch emerges as the winner . From our comparison, you can see that Bosch demonstrated superiority in reliability, quietness, and a broader range of options across various budgets.
While LG offers innovative features like QuadWash and TrueSteam, Bosch’s advanced technologies like multiple third-rack options and CrystalDry are equally impressive.
So if you need an ultra-quiet, highly customizable, and reliable dishwasher with advanced features, Bosch’s higher-end models are an excellent choice. But, if you are on a tighter budget, then prioritize LG’s innovative cleaning technologies. Their mid-range dishwashers provide good value while still offering a relatively quiet and efficient experience.
8 Most Common LG Dishwasher Problems & Troubleshooting
8 Most Common Bosch Dishwasher Problems & Troubleshooting
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
