Bosch 500 and 800 Series dishwashers both rate highly, with the 800 edging out at 4.8/5 for premium drying and the 500 at 4.7/5 for value. Direct comparisons highlight key trade-offs in features, noise, and price for informed buying.
Overview
The 500 Series offers mid-range excellence with AutoAir drying at 44 dBA, while the 800 Series delivers flagship performance via CrystalDry at 42 dBA. Both feature 16 place settings, stainless tubs, and Home Connect Wi-Fi. Choose 500 for affordability or 800 for top-tier drying.
Key Differences
500 Series prioritizes quiet efficiency with PrecisionWash; 800 adds PowerControl sprays and RackMatic heights. Third racks differ: 500’s adjustable wings vs. 800’s more flexible setup. Cycles are similar, but 800’s Speed60 shines faster.
| Aspect | 500 Series | 800 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | 44 dBA | 42 dBA |
| Drying | AutoAir | CrystalDry |
| Racks | Flexible 3rd | RackMatic + 3rd |
| Cycles | 5+ | 6+ |
Performance Ratings
Both clean excellently (99%+ efficacy), but 800 dries plastics perfectly vs. 500’s minor spots without rinse aid. Energy use favors 800 slightly (~$32 vs. $34/year). User ratings: 500 at 4.7/5 (value king), 800 at 4.8/5 (premium pick).
Pros and Cons
500 Series Pros: Affordable, quiet enough, strong value drying. Cons: Plastics may spot slightly.
800 Series Pros: Bone-dry everything, quieter, advanced sensors. Cons: Higher cost, app-dependent extras.
User Experiences
500 owners love easy cleaning and space; some tweak for perfect dry. 800 users rave about no-wipe results and silence, worth the splurge for heavy use. Both praised for 10+ year reliability.
Comparison Table
| Category | 500 Series | 800 Series | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Excellent | Excellent+ | 800 |
| Drying | Very Good | Perfect | 800 |
| Noise | Very Quiet | Ultra-Quiet | 800 |
| Price | $1,000-$1,300 | $1,300-$1,600 | 500 |
| Value | High | Premium | 500 |
Buying Advice
Opt for 500 if budget-focused with good drying needs. Select 800 for flawless plastics drying and minimal noise in open spaces. Both outperform competitors in quietness.
FAQs
Which dries better?
800’s CrystalDry excels on plastics; 500’s AutoAir suffices with rinse aid.
Noise difference noticeable?
Yes, 42 vs. 44 dBA; 800 feels library-silent.
Capacity the same?
Yes, 16 settings; 800’s racks more adjustable.
Worth upgrading from 500 to 800?
If drying frustrates or quieter needed; otherwise, no.
App features identical?
Mostly; 800 adds advanced diagnostics.
Reliability edge?
Tie; both Bosch-strong with long warranties.