The Bosch 800 Series SHE78CM5N is a premium 24-inch built-in dishwasher designed for households that want advanced cleaning, excellent drying, quiet operation, flexible loading and smart connectivity in one appliance. It combines PrecisionWash with PowerControl, CrystalDry, a Flexible 3rd Rack, RackMatic upper-rack adjustment, Home Connect Wi-Fi, 24/7 AquaStop leak protection and a stainless-steel interior. Its 42 dBA operating level also places it firmly in the quiet-dishwasher category.
The SHE78CM5N is particularly interesting because it sits near the premium end of the 800 Series while retaining a conventional 24-inch built-in configuration. It is specified for 16 place settings, uses 3.2 gallons per cycle, has a rated annual energy consumption of 240 kWh, and carries ENERGY STAR certification. The model uses a recessed handle and front-facing controls, making it visually different from some other 800 Series configurations that use top controls or a pocket handle.
One of the biggest attractions is the combination of PowerControl and CrystalDry. PowerControl allows the dishwasher to target different areas of the lower rack with different wash intensities, while CrystalDry uses a mineral-based drying process to convert moisture into heat. Bosch states that CrystalDry produces an aggregate average of up to 60% greater drying performance compared with its PureDry system on a mixed household load, although the actual result varies according to dish material and load composition.
For buyers in the United States and Canada, the SHE78CM5N is documented as a North American model using 120 volts and 60 Hz. The model number also appears in regional European/UK support documentation, but the detailed specifications discussed in this review are primarily based on the North American configuration. UK buyers should therefore verify the exact locally supplied version, electrical requirements and programme configuration before purchasing.
Bosch SHE78CM5N Review at a Glance
The SHE78CM5N is designed to deliver a premium dishwasher experience without relying on an unusually complicated exterior. Its main strengths are its 42 dBA noise level, 16-place-setting capacity, three-rack loading system, PowerControl wash system, CrystalDry drying, Wi-Fi connectivity and leak protection.
| Feature | Bosch SHE78CM5N |
|---|---|
| Series | Bosch 800 Series |
| Type | Built-in dishwasher |
| Width | 23 9/16 inches |
| Height | 33 7/8 inches |
| Depth | 23 3/4 inches |
| Required cutout | 33 7/8 × 24 × 24 inches |
| Sound level | 42 dBA |
| Place settings | 16 |
| Wash technology | PrecisionWash with PowerControl |
| Drying technology | CrystalDry |
| Third rack | Flexible 3rd Rack |
| Upper rack | RackMatic |
| Tub | Stainless steel |
| Controls | Touch controls |
| Wi-Fi | Home Connect |
| Leak protection | 24/7 AquaStop |
| Water softener | No |
| Water consumption | 3.2 gal/cycle |
| Annual energy consumption | 240 kWh |
| ENERGY STAR | Yes |
| Sanitize option | NSF-certified |
| Heating element | Concealed |
| Electrical rating | 120 V / 60 Hz / 12 A |
| Power | 1,440 W |
| Capacity | 16 place settings |
| Finish | Stainless steel, anti-fingerprint |
| Handle | Recessed handle |
The dimensions and core specifications come from the model’s technical documentation. The dishwasher requires a conventional 24-inch-wide installation opening, while the appliance itself measures approximately 23 9/16 inches wide.
What Is the Bosch SHE78CM5N?
The SHE78CM5N is a 24-inch Bosch 800 Series built-in dishwasher with a recessed handle and front controls. It is designed to fit a conventional dishwasher opening rather than an ADA-height opening. The appliance is approximately 33 7/8 inches high, 23 9/16 inches wide and 23 3/4 inches deep.
Its 800 Series position is reflected in the technology included inside the dishwasher. Instead of relying on a simple fixed spray system, it combines sensor-based PrecisionWash with PowerControl, which provides more targeted control over the lower-rack wash zones. It also adds CrystalDry, a more advanced drying system than basic condensation drying.
The machine is also designed around flexible loading. Bosch specifies 16 place settings and a Flexible 3rd Rack, while RackMatic allows the upper rack to be repositioned to create more room for tall glasses, cookware and other unusually shaped items.
Design and Exterior
The SHE78CM5N uses a stainless-steel exterior with an anti-fingerprint finish. The recessed handle gives the dishwasher a more integrated appearance than a large protruding bar handle while still providing a conventional grip for opening the door.
The front-control arrangement is one of the characteristics that distinguishes this model from other Bosch 800 Series configurations. Instead of hiding every control on the top edge of the door, the SHE78CM5N has its touch controls on the front. This makes cycle selection and status information readily accessible without opening the door.
The front display also provides useful operational information. The owner’s manual identifies a display for cycle progress, remaining time and basic settings, along with a Wi-Fi indicator and remote-start functionality.
For people who prefer a dishwasher where the controls and remaining time are easier to see, the front-control configuration can be more convenient than a completely hidden control panel.
42 dBA Noise Level
One of the most important characteristics of the SHE78CM5N is its 42 dBA sound rating. Bosch specifically highlights the 42 dBA operation as part of the model’s premium positioning.
This matters particularly in open-plan homes. When the kitchen connects directly to the living room, dining area or family room, a loud dishwasher can become an everyday annoyance. A 42 dBA appliance is designed to operate quietly enough that it does not dominate the surrounding environment.
Independent testing of closely related Bosch 800 Series models also provides useful context. Testing of the SHX78CM5N, another 800 Series model with closely related technology, found excellent noise performance in laboratory testing. That model also uses a stainless interior, sensor-based cleaning and Wi-Fi connectivity.
It is important, however, to understand that the 42 dBA specification is not a guarantee of complete silence. Pumps, draining, water circulation and dishes contacting one another can still create audible sounds. Installation quality and surrounding cabinetry can also affect how the machine sounds in an actual kitchen.
Cleaning Performance
Cleaning is where the SHE78CM5N becomes much more interesting than a basic quiet dishwasher. It uses PrecisionWash with PowerControl, combining sensor-controlled washing with targeted spray intensity.
The sensor-based system monitors wash conditions and adjusts the cycle according to the load. The owner’s manual explains that the Auto programme uses sensors to optimize washing according to the soiling level detected in the rinse water. This allows the machine to alter its cleaning approach rather than treating every load exactly the same way.
That can be useful for mixed household loads. A dishwasher may contain lightly soiled glasses, plates with dried food and a heavily soiled casserole dish at the same time. Sensor-based washing provides a mechanism for adjusting the cycle according to the actual conditions inside the tub.
PowerControl Spray Arm
PowerControl is one of the features that separates the newer 800 Series configuration from simpler dishwasher designs. The system allows different areas of the lower rack to receive different levels of cleaning intensity.
The owner’s manual identifies front, back and custom PowerControl settings. The front and back settings can intensify cleaning in those specific portions of the lower rack, while the Home Connect application can be used to customize four different zones and their cleaning intensity.
This is particularly useful when a load contains one area with heavily soiled cookware and another area with delicate or lightly soiled items.
For example, a user could place a casserole dish or heavily soiled pan in a targeted lower-rack area and use the more intensive wash setting for that zone rather than treating every item in the dishwasher as heavily soiled.
That is a more sophisticated approach to washing than simply choosing a Heavy cycle for the entire load.
Heavy-Duty Cleaning
The Heavy cycle is designed for pots, pans, non-fragile dishes and silverware with stubborn burned or dried-on food. The documented cycle uses high-temperature cleaning and a high-temperature final rinse before drying.
The manual gives a Heavy cycle range of approximately 2 hours 5 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes under the stated test conditions, with energy consumption of approximately 1.110–1.140 kWh and water consumption of approximately 4.9–6.4 gallons. Actual results can vary according to incoming water temperature, soil level and selected options.
This illustrates an important point about modern dishwashers: the rated 3.2-gallon figure should not be interpreted as meaning every programme always consumes exactly 3.2 gallons. Different programmes and options can use different amounts of water.
Auto Cycle
The Auto cycle is designed for mixed loads and common household food remnants, including lightly dried-on food. The dishwasher uses sensors to determine the level of soiling in the wash water and adjusts the programme accordingly.
The documented Auto cycle has an approximate running time of 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 5 minutes under the manual’s test conditions. Water and energy consumption vary within ranges depending on operating conditions.
For everyday use, Auto is likely to be one of the most useful programmes because it removes some of the guesswork from selecting a cycle. Instead of choosing Heavy for every load, users can allow the dishwasher’s sensors to determine how much cleaning is necessary.
Normal Cycle and Efficiency
The Normal cycle is identified as the most economical cycle in the owner’s manual. Its cleaning temperatures are lower than the Heavy programme, and it is intended for typical mixed household loads.
Under the stated test conditions, the Normal cycle is approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes and uses approximately 0.780–0.850 kWh and 2.3–5.5 gallons of water.
The relatively long cycle time may surprise people accustomed to older dishwashers. However, modern efficient dishwashers often use longer cycles to provide adequate cleaning while reducing the need for excessive water and energy.
Speed60 Cycle
The SHE78CM5N includes Speed60, designed for situations where users want a faster wash. The manual lists a one-hour cycle under the specified test conditions.
Speed60 is useful when dishes need to be cleaned relatively quickly, but it should not automatically be considered equivalent to the Heavy or Normal cycles for every type of load. The shorter programme is intended around normal household soil rather than the most difficult baked-on cookware.
For lightly soiled dinnerware, glasses and cutlery, a shorter programme can be extremely useful. For heavily soiled cookware, a longer programme is usually more appropriate.
CrystalDry Technology
CrystalDry is arguably the most recognizable premium feature of the SHE78CM5N. The system uses natural minerals to capture moisture and release heat during the drying phase. Bosch describes the technology as transforming moisture into heat up to approximately 176°F/80°C.
The mineral involved is zeolite. During the drying process, moisture from inside the dishwasher is absorbed by the mineral, and heat is released. That heat is then circulated through the dishwasher to assist drying.
This approach is particularly relevant to plastic items. Plastic containers, lids and bottles are often difficult to dry because they do not retain heat as effectively as glass, ceramic or metal. CrystalDry is designed specifically to improve drying across different materials.
How Well Does CrystalDry Dry Plastics?
Bosch’s technical documentation states that CrystalDry can provide dishes up to 60% drier than its PureDry system, but the company’s footnote is important: the figure represents an aggregate average based on a mixed household load containing plastics, glass, steel and porcelain. Actual drying performance varies by dish type.
Therefore, the most accurate way to describe the system is not that every plastic container will always emerge completely dry. Instead, CrystalDry is a technology specifically designed to significantly improve drying performance, including on plastics.
The owner’s manual also explains that rinse aid, detergent selection, dish positioning and cycle selection can affect drying. Water trapped in recessed areas of bowls, cups and utensils can remain even when the overall drying system is functioning properly.
Three-Rack Loading System
The SHE78CM5N provides a Flexible 3rd Rack, creating a separate loading level for utensils, cutlery and smaller items. Bosch describes the rack as providing additional loading flexibility, while its technical documentation identifies expandable and adjustable elements.
A third rack can significantly change the way a dishwasher is loaded. Long utensils that might otherwise occupy valuable lower-rack space can be moved upward.
This can leave more room for dinner plates, pans and bowls in the lower section.
The advantage becomes even more noticeable in larger households because a third rack provides additional usable space without increasing the external width of the dishwasher.
RackMatic Adjustable Upper Rack
The SHE78CM5N also includes RackMatic, Bosch’s adjustable upper-rack system. The rack can be repositioned to create different combinations of vertical clearance.
This is particularly helpful when washing tall stemware, large bowls, cookware or other unusually shaped objects.
Instead of accepting one fixed relationship between the middle and lower racks, users can configure the dishwasher around the load.
That makes RackMatic more than a convenience feature. It can affect how much of the dishwasher’s advertised capacity is actually usable in everyday life.
16 Place Settings
The SHE78CM5N is rated for 16 place settings, which gives it substantial capacity for a 24-inch household dishwasher.
Capacity is particularly useful for families and people who entertain frequently. A larger load can reduce the number of dishwasher cycles required during the week.
However, place-setting capacity should never be interpreted as a guarantee that 16 large plates, oversized cookware and numerous serving dishes will all fit simultaneously. Large pots and pans naturally consume more rack space than conventional place settings.
The combination of 16 place settings and three racks nevertheless gives the SHE78CM5N considerable flexibility.
Stainless-Steel Tub
The dishwasher uses a stainless-steel interior tub, a common characteristic of premium dishwashers. The stainless construction is designed to withstand repeated exposure to water, detergent and elevated temperatures.
The stainless interior also complements the CrystalDry system and high-temperature wash programmes.
Long-term durability still depends on maintenance. Hard-water deposits, food residue, detergent buildup and blocked filters can affect performance even when the tub itself is made from durable materials.
Does the SHE78CM5N Have a Water Softener?
This is an important detail for buyers in hard-water regions: the SHE78CM5N does not have an integrated water softener according to its technical specifications.
This is worth highlighting because some other premium dishwasher configurations include water-softening systems.
For homes with hard water, the absence of an integrated softener means buyers should pay closer attention to local water hardness, detergent selection, rinse aid use and maintenance.
Hard water can contribute to mineral spotting and scale. The dishwasher’s manual specifically discusses water hardness and indicates that the appliance has settings associated with water-softening management, but the technical product specification for this model identifies the water-softener hardware as absent.
For a hard-water household, this is therefore one of the most important limitations to understand before purchase.
Sanitize Option
The SHE78CM5N includes an NSF-certified sanitize option. The dishwasher manual describes Sanitize as a higher-temperature option intended to increase the hygiene level of the appliance and dishware.
The NSF/ANSI 184 residential dishwasher standard requires a certified sanitizing cycle to achieve at least a 99.999% or 5-log reduction of bacteria and reach a 150°F final rinse temperature under the certification conditions.
This is useful for households that want a high-temperature sanitation option for appropriate dishwasher-safe items such as certain chopping boards and baby bottles.
The sanitize option also increases cycle time and energy consumption, so it does not necessarily make sense to use it for every everyday load.
ENERGY STAR Efficiency
The SHE78CM5N is ENERGY STAR certified and has a rated annual energy consumption of 240 kWh with a rated water consumption of 3.2 gallons per cycle.
The current ENERGY STAR criteria for standard residential dishwashers allow no more than 240 kWh per year and 3.2 gallons per cycle. The qualification figures are based on standardized testing procedures rather than the exact usage pattern of one household.
Consequently, the 240-kWh number should be regarded as a standardized rating rather than a prediction that every owner will consume exactly 240 kWh each year.
Actual consumption depends on how frequently the dishwasher is operated, which cycles are selected, whether sanitation or additional drying options are used, incoming water temperature and other factors.
Water Usage
The SHE78CM5N’s rated water consumption is 3.2 gallons per cycle, placing it within the current ENERGY STAR water-consumption threshold for standard residential dishwashers.
However, the individual programme figures in the owner’s manual demonstrate why consumers should be cautious when interpreting the headline number. The Heavy cycle can use substantially more water under the manual’s test conditions, while Normal and other programmes can use different amounts.
The important point is that modern dishwasher efficiency is measured using standardized test conditions and a specific test programme. Real-world consumption varies according to how the machine is operated.
Home Connect Wi-Fi
The SHE78CM5N supports Home Connect Wi-Fi, allowing the dishwasher to communicate with compatible smart devices. The system can provide remote monitoring and control functions, and the app can provide additional cycles and options.
One particularly interesting feature is the ability to customize PowerControl zones through the app. The manual states that the four zones can be customized for cleaning intensity through Home Connect.
Home Connect can also be used to download additional cycles and options and save a preferred combination through the Favorite function.
This means the connected functionality is more than simply receiving a notification when the dishwasher finishes.
Favorite Function
The Favorite function allows users to save a combination of a cycle and option. The configuration can be saved through the appliance or Home Connect.
This is useful for households that repeatedly use a particular combination, such as Normal plus CrystalDry or another preferred configuration.
It eliminates some repetitive button presses and makes the dishwasher easier to operate for common routines.
Time Remaining Display
The SHE78CM5N has a display that provides information about the current cycle and remaining running time.
This is useful because modern dishwasher cycles can be long. Knowing whether a cycle has 20 minutes or two hours remaining makes it easier to plan around the dishwasher.
The front-control design also means the information is easier to access than it would be on some fully hidden-control configurations.
AquaStop Leak Protection
The SHE78CM5N uses 24/7 AquaStop leak protection. This system is designed to detect water-related problems and provide protection against leaks.
Leak protection is particularly valuable for built-in dishwashers because a leak can potentially affect cabinetry and flooring.
However, no leak-protection system should be treated as permission to ignore installation or maintenance. Water connections, hoses, drainage and electrical connections still need to be installed correctly.
The owner’s manual also provides troubleshooting procedures for water-protection activation and instructs users to shut off the water supply and contact service when appropriate.
Installation Dimensions
The SHE78CM5N is designed for a conventional 24-inch dishwasher opening.
The appliance dimensions are approximately:
- Height: 33 7/8 inches
- Width: 23 9/16 inches
- Depth: 23 3/4 inches
- Required cutout: 33 7/8 × 24 × 24 inches
The manufacturer documentation recommends consulting the installation instructions for final dimensional information before creating or modifying a cabinet opening.
The dishwasher’s power cord is approximately 67 inches long, and Bosch documentation identifies accessories for hardwired installation and other installation requirements.
For replacement installations, homeowners should measure the existing opening carefully rather than assuming every 24-inch dishwasher has exactly the same depth or clearance requirements.
Electrical Requirements
The North American SHE78CM5N is specified at 120 volts, 60 Hz and 12 amps, with a rated power of 1,440 watts.
The dishwasher must be properly grounded. The owner’s manual specifically warns that improper grounding can create a risk of electric shock and directs users to follow the installation requirements.
Electrical requirements should be treated separately from the dishwasher’s mechanical specifications. A model intended for North American 120-volt service should not simply be assumed to be electrically compatible with a UK 230-volt installation.
This is one reason UK buyers should verify the exact regional model rather than importing a North American unit based only on the model number.
Is the SHE78CM5N Good for the USA?
For U.S. buyers, the SHE78CM5N is a conventional 24-inch 800 Series dishwasher with a feature set that includes PowerControl, CrystalDry, Home Connect, 16-place-setting capacity, 42 dBA operation and AquaStop.
Its 120-volt electrical specification is designed around the North American market. The U.S./Canadian warranty documentation also specifically covers qualifying products purchased within the United States or Canada and retained in the country of original purchase.
For a U.S. household, the most important buying questions are therefore cabinet compatibility, desired drying performance, water hardness and whether the premium 800 Series features justify the additional purchase cost.
Is the SHE78CM5N Good for Canada?
The model is officially listed in the Canadian product range and Canadian technical documentation confirms the same core configuration: 42 dBA, CrystalDry, PowerControl, Flexible 3rd Rack, 16 place settings, 3.2 gallons per cycle and 240 kWh annual energy consumption.
Canadian households can therefore consider the SHE78CM5N as a premium 24-inch 800 Series dishwasher with a North American electrical configuration.
The major regional consideration remains water hardness. Because the model does not include a dedicated water-softener system, buyers in areas with hard municipal water should consider detergent, rinse-aid and maintenance requirements carefully.
Is the SHE78CM5N Suitable for the UK?
The model number appears in UK support documentation, indicating that support resources exist for SHE78CM5N variants. However, the detailed technical manual used for the core review is the North American version and specifies 120 volts/60 Hz.
Therefore, UK readers should not assume that a North American SHE78CM5N can simply be connected to a UK domestic electrical supply.
If a UK retailer supplies an appropriately configured regional version, buyers should verify the voltage, plug arrangement, programme names, energy labeling, installation dimensions and warranty conditions for that exact unit.
The technology may be similar across markets, but regional appliance specifications can differ.
Dishwasher Reliability
Reliability is difficult to reduce to a single number because long-term ownership depends on the exact model, usage, installation, water quality and maintenance.
Independent testing of the closely related Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N found very good cleaning performance on heavily soiled dishes, very good energy performance and excellent noise performance. This provides useful independent evidence about the broader 800 Series platform, although it should not be presented as a direct laboratory score for the SHE78CM5N itself.
The SHE78CM5N’s architecture also contains a significant number of components and electronic systems. PowerControl, CrystalDry, Home Connect, sensor controls and leak protection all provide additional functionality, but they also mean there are more systems involved than in a basic dishwasher.
Good maintenance therefore remains important.
Maintenance Requirements
The owner’s manual provides detailed cleaning and troubleshooting procedures. Users should regularly inspect the filters, spray arms and interior areas for food debris or mineral deposits.
The lower spray arm can be removed and inspected for blocked nozzles. Bosch specifically instructs users to check spray-arm openings for foreign objects and clean them when necessary.
Filters should also be kept clean. The manual identifies dirty or blocked filters as one possible cause of certain error conditions.
Hard-water deposits can also affect heating performance. The troubleshooting section identifies calcification of the heating element as a possible condition and recommends descaling and appropriate water-softening measures where applicable.
Detergent and Rinse Aid
The owner’s manual recommends using dishwasher-specific detergent and explains that different detergent formats behave differently.
For example, the manual notes that tablets can sometimes fail to dissolve completely during shorter cycles, while powder and liquid detergents can be more suitable for some shorter programmes.
The manual also recommends rinse aid for improved drying and explains that combination detergents may not provide the same rinse-aid performance as a dedicated rinse aid.
This is important when evaluating CrystalDry. A high-performance drying system cannot completely overcome poor detergent selection, incorrect rinse-aid settings or dishware positioned in a way that traps water.
Should You Pre-Rinse Dishes?
The manual specifically recommends removing large food remnants but not pre-rinsing dishes under running water as a routine practice.
This is consistent with the design philosophy of modern sensor-controlled dishwashers. Sensors use information from the wash water to determine the level of soil and adjust operation.
Scraping large pieces of food into the trash is still sensible, especially for large quantities of rice, pasta, bones or other material that should not enter the dishwasher’s filtration system.
But completely washing every plate before placing it in the dishwasher defeats much of the water- and labor-saving purpose of the appliance.
Glassware and Delicate Items
The owner’s manual recommends washing only glassware and dishes that are marked dishwasher-safe. It also warns that delicate glass can become cloudy after repeated washing and that some decorative glassware, antique dishes and handmade pottery should not be placed in the dishwasher.
This is not a limitation unique to Bosch. High temperatures, detergents and repeated exposure to water can affect certain glass compositions and decorative finishes.
The adjustable racks can help users position appropriate glassware securely, but the manufacturer’s care instructions for the individual item should always take priority.
Cycle Time: Is It Too Long?
Long cycle times are one of the most common complaints people have about modern efficient dishwashers.
The SHE78CM5N’s Normal cycle can run for more than two hours under the manual’s specified conditions, while Heavy can exceed two hours and Speed60 provides a one-hour option.
Longer cycles allow the dishwasher to manage water temperature, washing intensity, rinsing and drying without simply relying on very high water consumption.
For households that run the dishwasher overnight, cycle duration may be much less important than cleaning and drying performance.
For people who need dishes quickly after every meal, Speed60 provides a useful alternative.
SHE78CM5N vs Bosch 500 Series
The 800 Series positioning becomes most apparent when comparing the feature set with lower series models.
The SHE78CM5N combines PowerControl, CrystalDry, a Flexible 3rd Rack, RackMatic, Home Connect and 42 dBA operation. Bosch’s broader 800 Series documentation identifies PowerControl and CrystalDry as major technologies within this tier.
A 500 Series dishwasher can still provide strong cleaning, quiet operation and three-rack loading, but the 800 Series is aimed more heavily at advanced washing control and drying technology.
The question is therefore not simply whether the 800 Series cleans dishes. The question is whether its additional drying, wash-zone control and connected features are useful enough to justify the higher price.
SHE78CM5N vs SHP78CM5N
The SHE78CM5N and SHP78CM5N are closely related 800 Series models, and their technology packages overlap substantially.
Both use 42 dBA operation, CrystalDry, PowerControl, a Flexible 3rd Rack, Home Connect and premium Bosch loading systems.
The key distinction is the configuration and handle/control design. The SHE78CM5N uses a recessed handle and front controls, while the SHP78CM5N uses a pocket-handle configuration with top controls.
For someone who wants visible front controls and a recessed handle, the SHE78CM5N has an obvious design advantage. Someone who prefers a cleaner front with hidden controls may prefer the alternative configuration.
SHE78CM5N vs SHX78CM5N
The SHX78CM5N is another closely related 800 Series dishwasher. Independent testing has been conducted on that model, with very good heavily soiled washing performance, very good energy performance and excellent noise performance reported in laboratory testing.
The models share the broader 800 Series philosophy, but their external configuration differs.
The SHE78CM5N is a front-control recessed-handle model, while the SHX78CM5N uses hidden top controls and a bar-handle configuration.
Therefore, buyers should compare the exact model numbers rather than assuming every 800 Series dishwasher is identical.
SHE78CM5N Pros
- 42 dBA rated sound level.
- CrystalDry drying system.
- PowerControl targeted lower-rack washing.
- Flexible third rack.
- RackMatic adjustable upper rack.
- 16-place-setting capacity.
- Stainless-steel tub.
- Home Connect Wi-Fi.
- 24/7 AquaStop leak protection.
- NSF-certified sanitize option.
- ENERGY STAR certified.
- 3.2-gallon rated water consumption.
- 240-kWh rated annual energy consumption.
- Front display with cycle and remaining-time information.
SHE78CM5N Cons
- It does not have an integrated water softener.
- Premium technology makes it more expensive than entry-level models.
- Some advanced options and additional programmes depend on Home Connect.
- Normal and Heavy cycles can take considerably longer than older dishwasher programmes.
- CrystalDry improves drying but does not guarantee that every recessed surface will be completely moisture-free.
- Installation dimensions should be checked carefully before purchase.
- North American and UK specifications should not be assumed to be identical.
Who Should Buy the SHE78CM5N?
The SHE78CM5N is particularly suited to households that place a high value on quiet operation, drying performance and flexible loading.
If your kitchen opens into a living or dining area, the 42 dBA sound rating is attractive. If you frequently wash plastic containers, CrystalDry becomes more relevant. If you routinely wash large mixed loads, the 16-place-setting capacity and three-rack configuration can make everyday loading easier.
It is also suitable for households that appreciate smart appliance functions. Home Connect adds remote monitoring, additional programmes and customized PowerControl settings.
Who Should Avoid It?
The SHE78CM5N may be less attractive to someone who simply wants a basic dishwasher at the lowest possible purchase price.
It may also be less suitable for homes with particularly hard water where an integrated water-softening system is a priority, because the model’s specifications identify the water softener as absent.
Likewise, someone who strongly dislikes long dishwasher cycles may prefer a model whose primary design emphasis is speed.
Finally, anyone replacing a dishwasher should verify dimensions before purchasing. The SHE78CM5N is a standard-height 24-inch model, but individual cabinet openings can vary.
Warranty and Long-Term Ownership
For qualifying U.S. and Canadian products, the manufacturer’s warranty documentation provides one year of limited coverage for the appliance, including parts and labor. Additional limited coverage applies to certain electronics and racks for years two through five, while specific stainless-steel rust-through provisions extend for the lifetime of the appliance.
The five-year electronics and rack coverage is worth distinguishing from full appliance coverage because the extended provisions do not necessarily provide the same parts-and-labor coverage as the first year.
Warranty conditions also depend on the country of purchase and the exact warranty document supplied with the appliance.
For UK buyers, the applicable regional warranty should be checked separately.
Is the Bosch SHE78CM5N Worth It?
The answer depends heavily on which features matter to the household.
If the priority is simply washing dishes, less expensive dishwashers can perform that basic task effectively.
The SHE78CM5N becomes more compelling when multiple premium requirements come together: quiet operation, better plastic drying, flexible three-rack loading, targeted washing, smart connectivity, sanitation and leak protection.
The 800 Series technology is therefore less about one dramatic feature and more about the combination of several systems working together.
Final Bosch SHE78CM5N Review
The Bosch 800 Series SHE78CM5N is a premium 24-inch built-in dishwasher that combines sophisticated cleaning technology with advanced drying and flexible loading.
Its strongest technical features are PrecisionWash with PowerControl, CrystalDry, a Flexible 3rd Rack, RackMatic, 42 dBA operation, Home Connect and AquaStop. The 16-place-setting capacity also makes it suitable for larger household loads.
The PowerControl system is particularly interesting because it allows users to direct more intensive cleaning toward selected areas of the lower rack rather than treating the entire load identically. Home Connect expands this functionality by allowing the four PowerControl zones to be customized.
CrystalDry is another major reason to consider the model. Its zeolite-based drying process is specifically designed to improve moisture removal, including from plastic items. Bosch’s 60% drier claim should be understood as an aggregate average on a mixed load rather than a guarantee for every individual item.
The dishwasher also performs well from an efficiency perspective. Its rated 240 kWh annual energy consumption and 3.2-gallon-per-cycle water consumption fall within the current ENERGY STAR criteria for standard residential dishwashers.
The 42 dBA rating is another significant advantage. Independent testing of a closely related 800 Series model found excellent noise performance, supporting the broader reputation of this platform for quiet operation, although that laboratory result should not be treated as a direct test score for the SHE78CM5N.
The biggest potential limitation is the lack of an integrated water softener. Buyers in hard-water areas should take this into consideration before choosing the model.
Overall, the SHE78CM5N is best understood as a feature-rich premium dishwasher for people who want quiet operation, advanced drying, flexible loading and more sophisticated control over washing performance. It is not necessarily the right model for someone seeking the cheapest dishwasher or the shortest possible wash cycles, but its combination of technologies makes it a substantial 800 Series offering.
For U.S. and Canadian buyers, the North American specifications are clearly documented. UK buyers should pay particular attention to the exact regional version, voltage and installation requirements before purchasing because the North American documentation specifies 120 V/60 Hz.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bosch SHE78CM5N
1. Is the Bosch SHE78CM5N an 800 Series dishwasher?
Yes. The SHE78CM5N is a Bosch 800 Series 24-inch built-in dishwasher.
2. How quiet is the SHE78CM5N?
It is rated at 42 dBA, making quiet operation one of its major features.
3. Does the SHE78CM5N have CrystalDry?
Yes. CrystalDry is its primary advanced drying technology.
4. Does CrystalDry dry plastic dishes?
Yes. CrystalDry is specifically designed to improve drying of plastics as well as glass, steel and porcelain. Actual performance varies according to the individual item and load.
5. Does it have a third rack?
Yes. It has a Flexible 3rd Rack.
6. How many place settings does it hold?
The SHE78CM5N is rated for 16 place settings.
7. Does it have RackMatic?
Yes. RackMatic provides adjustable upper-rack positioning.
8. Does it have PowerControl?
Yes. PowerControl is part of the PrecisionWash system and allows targeted cleaning intensity in the lower rack.
9. Does PowerControl really change the washing intensity?
Yes. The manual describes front, back and custom PowerControl settings, with four zones available for customization through Home Connect.
10. Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The SHE78CM5N supports Home Connect Wi-Fi.
11. Can Home Connect provide additional cycles?
Yes. The manual explains that additional cycles and options can be downloaded through Home Connect.
12. Does it have a sanitize option?
Yes. The SHE78CM5N has an NSF-certified sanitize option.
13. Does the sanitize cycle kill bacteria?
A dishwasher certified to NSF/ANSI 184 must achieve at least a 99.999% or 5-log reduction of bacteria when operated on the qualifying sanitizing cycle and meet the applicable final-rinse temperature requirement.
14. Does the SHE78CM5N have a water softener?
No. The technical specification identifies the water-softener feature as absent.
15. Is the SHE78CM5N suitable for hard water?
It can be used in hard-water areas, but the lack of an integrated water softener means hard-water households should pay particular attention to detergent, rinse aid, descaling and water-quality considerations.
16. How much water does the SHE78CM5N use?
Its rated water consumption is 3.2 gallons per cycle. Individual programmes can use different amounts.
17. How much electricity does it use?
The rated annual energy consumption is 240 kWh. Actual household consumption varies according to usage.
18. Is it ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes.
19. What cycles does it have?
The documented cycles include Heavy, Auto, Normal, Speed60 and Favorite, with additional cycles and options available through Home Connect depending on the appliance configuration.
20. How long does the Heavy cycle take?
Under the manual’s stated conditions, approximately 2 hours 5 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes. Actual duration varies.
21. How long does the Normal cycle take?
The documented Normal cycle takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes under the stated test conditions.
22. Does it have a one-hour wash?
Yes. Speed60 is documented as a one-hour cycle under the specified conditions.
23. Does it have a stainless-steel tub?
Yes.
24. Does it have leak protection?
Yes. It uses 24/7 AquaStop.
25. Does it have an anti-fingerprint finish?
Yes. The stainless-steel model has an anti-fingerprint finish.
26. What are the dimensions?
Approximately 33 7/8 inches high, 23 9/16 inches wide and 23 3/4 inches deep.
27. What size cabinet opening does it require?
The required cutout is approximately 33 7/8 × 24 × 24 inches.
28. Does the SHE78CM5N have front controls?
Yes. It is a front-control model with a recessed handle.
29. Does it show remaining time?
Yes. The display provides cycle progress and remaining run-time information.
30. Does it have a child lock?
The model includes a button-lock function designed to prevent accidental operation while running.
31. Does it have a concealed heating element?
Yes.
32. What voltage does it use in North America?
The North American specification is 120 volts, 60 Hz and 12 amps.
33. How powerful is the dishwasher?
Its electrical rating is 1,440 watts.
34. Is the SHE78CM5N good for families?
Its 16-place-setting capacity and three-rack configuration make it well suited to larger household loads.
35. Is it good for plastic containers?
CrystalDry is specifically designed to improve drying on plastic items, making the dishwasher particularly interesting for households that frequently wash plastic food-storage containers.
36. Does it require rinse aid?
Rinse aid is not necessarily required for the dishwasher to operate, but the manual recommends it to improve drying performance.
37. Should dishes be pre-rinsed?
The manual recommends removing large food remnants but advises against routinely pre-rinsing dishes under running water.
38. Can you wash pots and pans?
Yes. The Heavy programme is specifically intended for pots, pans and other heavily soiled non-fragile dishware.
39. Can you wash delicate glassware?
Only if the glassware is dishwasher-safe. The manual warns that certain delicate, decorative and antique glassware can be damaged by dishwasher conditions.
40. Does it have an interior light?
The technical documentation for this model does not list an interior light among its standard features.
41. Is the SHE78CM5N a standard-height dishwasher?
Yes. Its height is approximately 33 7/8 inches, making it a conventional-height 24-inch built-in configuration.
42. Is it an ADA dishwasher?
The SHE78CM5N is not the lower-height ADA configuration discussed for some other Bosch models. It is a conventional-height model.
43. Is it suitable for the United States?
Yes. The North American configuration is documented for 120-volt, 60-Hz electrical service.
44. Is it available in Canada?
Yes. The model is listed in the Canadian product range and has Canadian technical documentation.
45. Can UK buyers use the North American version?
The North American version should not simply be connected to a UK electrical supply because the documented North American model is rated at 120 V/60 Hz. UK buyers should verify the exact regional version.
46. What warranty does it have?
For qualifying U.S. and Canadian purchases, the published warranty provides one year of limited parts-and-labor coverage for the appliance, with additional limited coverage for certain electronics and racks through years two to five and specified lifetime rust-through coverage.
47. Is the 42 dBA rating really quiet?
Yes, 42 dBA is a low dishwasher sound rating, and independent testing of a closely related 800 Series model also found excellent noise performance.
48. Is the dishwasher completely silent?
No. Pumps, water circulation, draining and dish movement can still be heard, and actual perceived noise depends on installation and surroundings.
49. Is CrystalDry worth paying more for?
Its value is greatest for households that care about drying performance, particularly plastic containers and mixed-material loads. Bosch specifically designed CrystalDry to improve drying performance across these materials.
50. Is the Bosch SHE78CM5N worth considering?
The SHE78CM5N is a technically advanced 800 Series dishwasher whose strongest combination is quiet operation, PowerControl cleaning, CrystalDry drying, flexible three-rack loading, smart connectivity and leak protection. Whether its premium features justify its cost depends on the buyer’s installation, budget, water conditions and priorities.
Final Verdict on the Bosch SHE78CM5N
The Bosch 800 Series SHE78CM5N brings together a substantial collection of premium dishwasher technologies in a conventional 24-inch built-in format.
Its 42 dBA operation makes it well suited to open kitchens. Its PowerControl system gives users greater control over how aggressively different areas of the lower rack are washed. Its CrystalDry system addresses one of the most persistent problems with modern dishwashers—wet plastics. Its Flexible 3rd Rack and RackMatic system make the 16-place-setting capacity more practical for real-world mixed loads.
The model is also efficient by current U.S. standards, with an ENERGY STAR rating, 240 kWh annual energy consumption and a 3.2-gallon rated water-consumption figure.
Its limitations are equally important to understand. It does not have an integrated water softener, some of its advanced functionality depends on Home Connect, and its more efficient programmes can take substantially longer than older dishwasher cycles.
For households looking for a quiet, premium dishwasher with advanced cleaning, strong drying, flexible loading and smart controls, the SHE78CM5N represents a comprehensive 800 Series configuration. For buyers primarily seeking the lowest purchase price or the shortest possible cycles, many of its premium features may be unnecessary.
The most important point is to compare the exact SHE78CM5N model and configuration, rather than assuming every Bosch 800 Series dishwasher is identical. The SHE78CM5N’s recessed handle, front controls, PowerControl, CrystalDry, 16-place-setting capacity and conventional-height installation distinguish it from several closely related models.
For U.S. and Canadian buyers, its North American specifications are well established. For UK buyers, the exact regional configuration should be confirmed before purchase, especially the electrical specification and installation requirements.
Taken as a complete package, the SHE78CM5N is built around a clear philosophy: quiet cleaning, intelligent wash control, improved drying and flexible loading without sacrificing everyday capacity. That combination is what makes this model more than just another premium 24-inch dishwasher.