Black+Decker dishwashers earn decent entry-level ratings for convenience, compact size, and ease of setup, especially in small apartments, dorms, and rental kitchens. They are best known for countertop and portable models rather than built-in, so ratings tend to focus on practicality and portability more than premium features.
Overall Black+Decker Dishwasher Ratings
User reviews generally place Black+Decker dishwashers in the “good, not fancy” category: they clean everyday dishes reasonably well, are simple to use, and are priced attractively for budget-conscious buyers. People who rate them highly usually:
- Want a small or temporary solution (renters, students, small households).
- Care more about easy installation and low cost than long feature lists.
- Use them for normal, lightly to moderately soiled dishes rather than heavy pots and baked-on pans.
Where ratings drop, it is often because users expected full-size, premium-machine performance from a compact or portable unit.
Key Strengths Highlighted in Ratings
Several advantages show up repeatedly in owner feedback:
- Ease of installation: Countertop units often connect directly to a faucet and plug into a standard outlet, so no major plumbing work is needed.
- Space saving: Compact dimensions fit on counters, in small kitchens, RVs, or studio apartments where a full-size built-in is impossible.
- Simple controls: Straightforward buttons and a small set of programs (normal, intensive, eco, glass, etc.) make them easy for anyone to operate.
- Affordability: Price is typically much lower than standard built-in dishwashers, which boosts perceived value when expectations are realistic.
For many users, these strengths are enough to justify solid ratings, especially when the goal is to avoid hand-washing in a tight space.
Common Weaknesses Noted by Reviewers
Because Black+Decker focuses largely on compact and portable models, some trade-offs are common:
- Limited capacity: Most units hold a small number of place settings, so families or heavy users may need multiple loads per day.
- Performance on very tough soils: Heavily baked-on food, large pots, or big roasting pans are not their strong point, and some users report needing to pre-rinse more than they would with a full-size premium machine.
- Noise: While not extremely loud, some models can be noisier than higher-end built-in dishwashers, which may matter in small, open rooms.
- Longevity expectations: As budget appliances, they may not match the lifespan of more expensive built-ins; light-to-moderate use is where they tend to earn the best long-term ratings.
Managing expectations understanding you’re buying a compact, budget-friendly machine makes a big difference in user satisfaction and the ratings people leave.
Who Black+Decker Dishwashers Are Best For
Black+Decker dishwasher ratings tend to be strongest among:
- Apartment renters and students who cannot install a built-in machine.
- Small households (1–2 people) with limited dish volume.
- RV, cabin, or vacation home owners who want occasional-use dishwashing without a full remodel.
- Budget-focused buyers who prioritize “better than hand-washing” convenience over high-end features.
For these users, the combination of low price, simple operation, and small footprint creates a good value proposition.
Typical Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
- Compact and portable, ideal for small spaces.
- Easy to hook up with minimal or no permanent plumbing changes.
- Straightforward controls that are easy to understand.
- Affordable compared to full-size, built-in dishwashers.
Cons
- Smaller capacity, not ideal for larger families.
- Less effective on heavy, baked-on messes without pre-rinsing.
- Potentially noisier than premium built-ins.
- Shorter expected lifespan than high-end brands when used heavily.
FAQs About Black+Decker Dishwasher Ratings
1. Are Black+Decker dishwashers good enough for everyday use?
For a one- or two-person household with mostly regular plates, cups, and cutlery, yes many users find the cleaning performance adequate for daily use. For large families or frequent heavy cooking, a full-size built-in from a higher-tier brand is usually a better fit.
2. How do Black+Decker dishwashers compare to premium brands?
They cannot match high-end brands on capacity, quietness, or advanced features, but they cost far less and provide a significant upgrade over hand-washing in small spaces. They are best seen as practical, entry-level solutions.
3. Do Black+Decker dishwashers need special installation?
Countertop and many portable models are designed to be plug-and-play: connect to the faucet, plug into an outlet, and you’re ready. This is a major reason they score well in convenience and user-friendliness.
4. Are they reliable long term?
For light-to-moderate use, many owners report several years of trouble-free operation. For heavy, daily use with large loads, you may see wear sooner than with a stronger, more expensive built-in.
5. Are they quiet enough for a small apartment?
Most users consider the noise level acceptable, but in a studio or very small space you will notice it while it runs. If near-silence is a top priority, you would likely want a premium, built-in unit instead.
6. Do they handle pots and pans well?
Smaller, lightly soiled pots and pans are usually fine, but very large or heavily baked-on cookware can be challenging due to limited space and power compared to full-size models. Pre-soaking or pre-rinsing helps.
7. Who should avoid Black+Decker dishwashers?
Large families, serious home cooks with lots of big cookware, and buyers who expect ultra-quiet, feature-rich performance are better served by a mid- to high-end built-in dishwasher from brands focused on full-size units.
8. Are Black+Decker dishwashers good value for money?
For people who need a compact, budget-friendly machine and understand its limitations, they usually represent good value, which is why many ratings land in the “good” to “very good” range rather than “excellent” or “poor.”