The Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM2N is a 24-inch built-in dishwasher designed around several features that matter in a premium dishwasher: quiet operation, advanced washing, improved drying, flexible loading, Wi-Fi connectivity, stainless-steel construction, and relatively low water and energy consumption. The exact model reviewed here is the SHX78CM2N, a white 800 Series dishwasher with a bar handle, not the similarly named SHP78CM2N pocket-handle model. The current U.S. product listing shows a recommended retail price of $1,549, a listed noise level of 42 dBA, and a displayed customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 110 ratings at the time of research.
The SHX78CM2N is particularly interesting because Bosch has combined its PrecisionWash system with PowerControl, CrystalDry, a flexible third rack, RackMatic adjustability, EasyGlide racks, Home Connect connectivity, and 24/7 AquaStop leak protection. The specification sheet also lists 16 place settings, 3.2 gallons of water consumption per cycle, 240 kWh of annual energy consumption, ENERGY STAR certification, and an NSF-certified sanitize option.
One important point for international buyers is that this exact model should not automatically be treated as a universal UK, USA, and Canada appliance. Its specification identifies a 120-volt, 60-Hz electrical configuration, which is appropriate to the North American electrical environment but is not the standard household supply used in the UK. The model does have Canadian support documentation, including manuals and installation information, while UK shoppers should look for a locally specified equivalent rather than assuming that the North American SHX78CM2N can simply be connected to a UK electrical supply.
Bosch SHX78CM2N at a Glance
| Feature | Bosch SHX78CM2N |
|---|---|
| Series | Bosch 800 Series |
| Model | SHX78CM2N |
| Style | Built-in dishwasher |
| Width | 24 inches |
| Finish | White |
| Handle | Bar handle |
| Noise level | 42 dBA |
| Capacity | 16 place settings |
| Drying system | CrystalDry |
| Wash system | PrecisionWash with PowerControl |
| Third rack | Flexible 3rd Rack |
| Upper-rack adjustment | RackMatic |
| Rack system | EasyGlide |
| Tub | Stainless steel |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| App platform | Home Connect |
| Sanitize option | NSF-certified |
| Leak protection | 24/7 AquaStop |
| Water softener | No |
| Water use | 3.2 gallons/cycle |
| Annual energy use | 240 kWh |
| ENERGY STAR | Yes |
| Electrical supply | 120 V / 60 Hz |
| Current listed U.S. price | $1,549 |
| Place settings | 16 |
| Overall dimensions | 33 7/8 × 23 9/16 × 23 3/4 inches |
| Net weight | 96 lb |
The specifications above come from the current model listing and the model-specific specification sheet. Bosch also provides manuals, installation instructions, CAD information, energy documentation, replacement parts, and owner-support resources for the model.
Design and Appearance
The SHX78CM2N has a conventional 24-inch built-in dishwasher format but uses a visible bar handle rather than the pocket handle found on some closely related models. The reviewed model is finished in white, which can work particularly well in kitchens where white cabinetry or white appliances are part of the design. Bosch also lists related versions of this platform in other finishes, but the SHX78CM2N itself is the white bar-handle version.
The bar handle is worth noting because handle design affects both appearance and everyday usability. A physical external handle gives the user a clear place to grip the door when loading and unloading. This can be useful for households that open the dishwasher frequently throughout the day. The model’s overall appliance dimensions are approximately 33 7/8 inches high, 23 9/16 inches wide, and 23 3/4 inches deep, with adjustable feet for installation.
The dishwasher has InfoLight, which projects a light onto the floor while the dishwasher is running. This addresses a simple problem created by modern quiet dishwashers: when operating noise is very low, it may not be obvious whether a cycle is still running. The floor indicator provides a visual status signal without requiring the user to open the door.
Build Quality and Interior
Inside, the SHX78CM2N uses a stainless-steel tub. Stainless interiors are particularly useful in a dishwasher because the tub is exposed repeatedly to water, detergent, heat, food residue and condensation. Bosch also specifies a concealed heating element, keeping the heating component out of the main loading area.
The specification sheet lists a net weight of approximately 96 pounds, which is consistent with this being a substantial full-size built-in appliance rather than a lightweight portable or countertop dishwasher. The actual installation weight and handling requirements should still be checked against the current installation instructions, especially when moving the appliance into cabinetry.
The combination of stainless-steel interior, adjustable racks, concealed heating, and a full-size 24-inch cabinet format makes the SHX78CM2N oriented toward permanent kitchen installation rather than temporary or portable use. Bosch provides installation documentation and CAD information for the exact model, which is important because cabinet dimensions and connection locations need to be confirmed before installation.
Cleaning Performance: PrecisionWash With PowerControl
The central cleaning technology in the SHX78CM2N is PrecisionWash with PowerControl. Rather than relying simply on a generic spray pattern, the system is designed around targeted water distribution and sensing technology intended to adapt washing to the load. The additional PowerControl spray arm is specifically designed to target heavily soiled dishes in the lower rack.
PowerControl is especially relevant when dishes with different levels of soil are loaded together. Instead of requiring the user to put every heavily soiled item into one particular location, the system is designed to provide targeted cleaning to the lower rack. Bosch describes PowerControl as targeting the dirtiest dishes regardless of where they are placed on the bottom rack.
This does not mean loading technique becomes irrelevant. Dishwasher performance still depends on water reaching the surfaces that need cleaning. Large plates, pans and bowls should not block spray paths, and dishes should not be stacked so closely that water and detergent cannot reach them. Advanced spray technology can improve coverage, but it cannot compensate for fundamentally poor loading.
The SHX78CM2N also uses a five-level wash system, according to the official specification. Multiple levels of water distribution are intended to reach dishes positioned throughout the racks, while the additional PowerControl function provides more targeted action in the lower section.
Bosch SHX78CM2N Wash Cycles
The dishwasher provides five cycles directly through the control interface:
- Heavy
- Auto
- Normal
- Speed60
- Favorite
The specification also identifies three additional cycles available through Home Connect:
- Delicate
- Rinse
- MachineCare
This gives the SHX78CM2N a combination of conventional physical controls and expanded app-based functionality. The inclusion of Auto allows the machine to select washing behavior according to the detected load, while Heavy provides a more intensive option when cookware and dishes require stronger cleaning.
Speed60: Useful for Time-Sensitive Loads
One of the more straightforward convenience features is Speed60, which Bosch identifies as a one-hour wash cycle. It can be useful when dishes need to be cleaned relatively quickly rather than waiting for a longer conventional program. However, users should distinguish a one-hour wash cycle from a promise that every type of dish will receive the same drying result in one hour. Cycle performance depends on the selected program, load and options.
Favorite and App-Based Options
The Favorite function provides an additional way of accessing a preferred combination of settings, while Home Connect expands the dishwasher’s available cycles and options. The exact model specification lists Half Load and Eco among the additional Home Connect options.
For households that regularly run partially loaded machines, Half Load can be useful because it provides a dedicated option rather than forcing users to choose between waiting for a full load and running a normal cycle without considering the smaller load. The usefulness of any option will depend on household habits and how frequently the dishwasher is operated.
CrystalDry: One of the Main Reasons to Consider This Model
Drying is arguably one of the most important areas separating ordinary dishwashers from premium models. Washing a plate successfully is only part of the job; users also expect dishes to come out sufficiently dry for storage. Plastics can be particularly difficult because they retain less heat than glass and ceramic and can hold water in recessed surfaces.
The SHX78CM2N uses CrystalDry, Bosch’s drying technology that uses moisture-absorbing mineral material to transform moisture into heat. Bosch describes the system as capable of producing temperatures up to approximately 176°F and circulating hot air through the dishwasher.
Bosch’s specification states that CrystalDry produces dishes, including plastics, that are 60% drier compared with Bosch dishwashers using PureDry. However, the footnote is important: that figure is based on aggregate average drying performance across a combined household load containing plastics, glass, steel and porcelain. It is not a guarantee that every plastic container will be completely dry after every cycle.
That distinction matters in a review. CrystalDry should be viewed as a technology intended to improve overall drying, especially for materials that traditionally retain moisture, rather than as a promise that every item will emerge completely dry under every loading condition.
For households that frequently wash reusable plastic containers, lunch boxes, storage containers and plastic lids, the drying system is one of the SHX78CM2N’s most significant feature areas. The actual result will still depend on the shape of the item, its position in the rack, the selected program and how water drains from its surface.
Flexible Third Rack
The SHX78CM2N includes a Flexible 3rd Rack with fold-down sides. Bosch specifies that this rack provides approximately 30% more loading area compared with a Bosch dishwasher with two racks. It is designed particularly for utensils and ramekins.
The third rack changes the way the dishwasher can be loaded. Instead of placing every utensil into a traditional silverware basket, smaller items can be spread across the uppermost rack. This can free space below for plates, bowls, pans and other larger objects.
The fold-down sides are also important because a completely fixed third rack can sometimes limit what can be placed there. A flexible configuration gives the user more control over the type of items that can occupy the uppermost space.
For households that wash a lot of cooking utensils, measuring spoons, small cups or ramekins, the third rack can therefore have a practical effect on loading efficiency rather than simply being a premium feature added to the specification sheet.
RackMatic and EasyGlide
The upper rack uses RackMatic adjustment, allowing its position to be changed to accommodate different combinations of tall items. This is particularly useful when a household alternates between everyday plates and taller cookware. Bosch also identifies an EasyGlide rack system intended to make rack movement smoother.
Adjustable rack height can be more valuable than it initially appears. A dishwasher’s internal dimensions are fixed, but the size and shape of dishes change from load to load. A height-adjustable rack gives the user more flexibility when a tall glass, saucepan, serving bowl or large plate would otherwise conflict with another rack.
The practical advantage comes from using the adjustment rather than leaving the racks in one position permanently. Users who regularly wash large cookware should experiment with the rack configuration so that taller items do not interfere with spray arms or prevent the racks from moving correctly.
Capacity: 16 Place Settings
The SHX78CM2N is rated for 16 place settings, giving it substantial capacity for a standard 24-inch household dishwasher. The specification is especially relevant for larger households or people who cook frequently and accumulate large quantities of dishes, cookware and utensils.
Capacity should not be interpreted as simply fitting a certain number of plates. A dishwasher’s real-world usefulness depends on how efficiently its racks accommodate the particular dishes a household owns. The combination of 16 place settings, the flexible third rack, RackMatic adjustment and EasyGlide racks is intended to provide flexibility across different types of loads.
The third rack can also change how the lower two racks are used. When utensils occupy the upper rack instead of a traditional basket arrangement, there may be more freedom for plates and cookware below. However, users should still avoid overcrowding because excessive loading can interfere with water circulation.
Noise Level: 42 dBA
The SHX78CM2N is specified at 42 dBA. This is one of the model’s strongest specification points for households where the dishwasher is located close to a dining room, living room, open-plan kitchen or other frequently occupied space.
Bosch itself describes the 42 dBA level in its U.S. marketing as part of its quiet-dishwasher positioning. That marketing statement should be distinguished from an independent comparative laboratory ranking. What can be stated directly is that the SHX78CM2N has a manufacturer-specified sound level of 42 dBA.
Low noise can be especially valuable when running a dishwasher overnight. It can also make it less intrusive in an open-plan kitchen. However, actual perceived sound can vary with installation, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing and the sounds produced by individual loads.
The InfoLight system complements the low noise level by giving the user a visual indication that the machine is operating.
Home Connect and Wi-Fi Features
The SHX78CM2N is Wi-Fi enabled and works with Home Connect. According to the model specification, the connected system provides access to additional wash cycles and options and can also provide Smart Cycle functionality.
The model’s standard controls provide five wash cycles, while Home Connect adds three additional cycles: Delicate, Rinse and MachineCare. The connected platform also adds Half Load and Eco options according to the model specification.
This makes the connected functionality more than a simple remote-start feature. It expands the available set of dishwasher programs and provides another interface through which the appliance can be managed.
Nevertheless, Wi-Fi connectivity should be considered a convenience rather than a reason by itself to purchase the dishwasher. Someone who rarely uses smartphone appliance controls may receive more practical benefit from CrystalDry, the rack system, low noise and washing technology than from the connected functions.
Sanitize Option and Hygiene
The SHX78CM2N includes an NSF-certified sanitize option. This is a meaningful distinction because the relevant residential dishwasher sanitation standard is not simply a manufacturer’s marketing term; it establishes defined performance requirements for sanitizing cycles.
The applicable residential standard specifies that a certified dishwasher must achieve a minimum 99.999% or 5-log reduction of bacteria when operated on its sanitizing cycle. The standard also includes temperature and design/performance requirements. Importantly, the sanitation claim applies when the dishwasher is operated on the certified sanitizing cycle rather than automatically applying to every wash program.
This feature can be useful for households that regularly wash items where sanitation is particularly important. It should not, however, be interpreted as meaning that every load or every cycle provides the same sanitizing performance.
24/7 AquaStop Leak Protection
Another important safety feature is 24/7 AquaStop leak protection. The specification identifies AquaStop as the dishwasher’s leak-protection system.
Leak protection is particularly important for an appliance connected permanently to a household water supply. A dishwasher can potentially cause damage if a water connection or internal component develops a leak while the occupants are away. A leak-protection system is designed to reduce that risk.
AquaStop should not be interpreted as a guarantee that a kitchen can never experience water damage. Installation quality, hoses, plumbing connections and other external factors remain important. Proper installation and periodic inspection are still sensible practices.
Water Softener: An Important Limitation
One specification that prospective buyers should notice is that the SHX78CM2N is listed as having no built-in water softener.
This matters most for households in areas with hard water. Hard water can contribute to mineral deposits, spotting and residue on dishes and can also affect appliance maintenance. Because this model does not include an integrated water-softening system, buyers in particularly hard-water areas should pay attention to the detergent, rinse-aid and water-treatment recommendations appropriate to their local water conditions.
The absence of a built-in water softener is not inherently a defect; it is simply an important specification difference. Buyers comparing this model with other dishwashers should check whether the competing models include water-softening functionality and whether that feature is important for their household.
Water and Energy Efficiency
The SHX78CM2N is rated at 3.2 gallons of water per cycle and 240 kWh of annual energy consumption. It is also identified as ENERGY STAR certified.
These numbers are particularly interesting because the current ENERGY STAR criteria for standard dishwashers set maximum qualification levels of 240 kWh per year and 3.2 gallons per cycle. The SHX78CM2N’s published values therefore sit exactly at those current qualification thresholds.
That does not mean every household will use exactly 240 kWh per year or exactly 3.2 gallons for every cycle. The published annual figure is based on standardized testing and assumptions about usage. Real-world consumption varies according to cycle selection, frequency of use, options, water temperature and household behavior.
The 3.2-gallon figure is also a standardized consumption figure rather than a guarantee that every individual program uses exactly that amount. Different programs and options can have different operating characteristics.
Installation Requirements
The SHX78CM2N is designed for a standard 24-inch dishwasher opening. Bosch lists overall dimensions of approximately 33 7/8 inches high, 23 9/16 inches wide and 23 3/4 inches deep, with a required cutout of approximately 33 7/8 inches high by 24 inches wide by 24 inches deep.
The installation documentation also provides detailed diagrams for electrical, drain and water connections. Bosch specifically advises using the installation instructions for final dimensional information before cutting or modifying cabinetry.
The dishwasher has adjustable feet, which can help installers achieve the appropriate final height within the specified installation range. However, adjustable feet should not be treated as permission to ignore the required cabinet dimensions.
Electrical Requirements and UK Considerations
The exact SHX78CM2N specification lists 120 volts, 60 Hz and 12 amps, with a rated power of 1,440 watts.
This is an important consideration for Canadian and U.S. buyers because those electrical specifications correspond to the North American market. The model’s Canadian support documentation confirms that Bosch provides product documentation and service resources for SHX78CM2N variants in Canada.
The situation is different for UK buyers. The exact North American SHX78CM2N should not be assumed to be a plug-and-play UK appliance because the specification identifies 120 V/60 Hz rather than the UK’s normal 230 V/50 Hz domestic supply. The safer approach for a UK purchase is to choose a locally specified dishwasher designed for the country’s electrical and installation requirements.
Bosch’s UK range uses different product configurations and series naming, including Serie 2, 4, 6 and 8 models, so UK shoppers should compare a local Serie 8 model rather than assuming that a North American model number represents the same electrical product.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
Bosch provides dedicated support resources for the SHX78CM2N, including user manuals, installation instructions, product specification documentation, energy information, replacement parts and troubleshooting resources. This is useful for long-term ownership because appliance maintenance often depends on being able to access the correct documentation for the exact model.
Canadian support pages for SHX78CM2N variants likewise provide manuals, installation instructions, Home Connect information and replacement-part resources. The documentation also explains that original replacement parts are available through the support system.
Routine maintenance should include keeping the dishwasher interior and filtration system clean, checking for food debris, maintaining the spray arms and following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. The exact procedures should be taken from the current model-specific manual rather than applying generic instructions from another dishwasher.
Hard-water households should pay particular attention to mineral deposits. Because the SHX78CM2N does not include a built-in water softener, maintaining appropriate detergent and rinse-aid practices can be particularly important in areas where mineral content is high.
Reliability: What Can and Cannot Be Concluded
A review should distinguish between specifications and long-term reliability evidence. The official documentation demonstrates that the SHX78CM2N has extensive support resources, replacement parts, manuals and installation documentation. It does not, by itself, establish a specific number of years that every unit will operate without a repair.
Similarly, the manufacturer’s current U.S. page displays a customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 110 ratings for this exact SHX78CM2N model. That is useful as a snapshot of customer feedback displayed on the manufacturer’s retail page, but it should not be confused with an independent laboratory reliability study or a statistically representative lifetime-failure analysis.
For someone considering a premium dishwasher, the more defensible approach is therefore to evaluate the model based on its documented construction, features, service infrastructure, efficiency, installation requirements and warranty terms rather than assigning an unsupported reliability score.
Current Price and Value
At the time of this research, the official U.S. product page lists the SHX78CM2N at $1,549. Because appliance prices can change with promotions, retailer discounts and seasonal sales, this should be regarded as the current listed price rather than a permanent market price.
At that price level, the model is positioned as a premium dishwasher rather than a basic appliance. The price reflects the combination of CrystalDry, PowerControl, a flexible third rack, RackMatic, EasyGlide racks, Home Connect, stainless construction, 42 dBA operation, AquaStop and certified sanitation functionality.
Whether the features justify the purchase depends heavily on household priorities. A person who primarily wants the least expensive dishwasher may not need all of these functions. A household that values quiet operation, plastic drying, flexible loading and connected controls may place substantially greater value on them.
Bosch SHX78CM2N Pros
1. Very quiet 42 dBA operation
The 42 dBA specification makes this dishwasher particularly relevant to open-plan kitchens and households that prefer to run dishwashing cycles during periods when noise matters.
2. CrystalDry technology
The CrystalDry system is designed specifically to improve drying performance, including on plastics, which are traditionally more difficult to dry than glass and ceramic.
3. PowerControl cleaning technology
The targeted lower-rack spray technology is intended to provide deeper cleaning for heavily soiled dishes without requiring them to be placed in one specific location.
4. Flexible third rack
The third rack provides additional loading space for utensils and smaller items and is designed with fold-down sides for greater flexibility.
5. 16-place-setting capacity
The full-size interior provides substantial capacity for families and households that generate significant numbers of dishes.
6. ENERGY STAR certification
The dishwasher is ENERGY STAR certified and has published consumption figures of 240 kWh per year and 3.2 gallons per cycle.
7. NSF-certified sanitize option
The sanitize option is identified as NSF-certified, with the relevant residential standard establishing a defined bacterial-reduction benchmark when the certified sanitizing cycle is used.
8. Strong support documentation
The exact model has official manuals, installation documents, specifications and replacement-part resources, including Canadian support pages for multiple model variants.
Bosch SHX78CM2N Cons
1. Premium price
The current U.S. listed price of $1,549 puts the SHX78CM2N firmly into the premium dishwasher category.
2. No built-in water softener
The specification explicitly lists the water-softener feature as absent. This is worth considering for households in regions with particularly hard water.
3. North American electrical configuration
The exact model is specified for 120 V and 60 Hz, so UK shoppers should not assume that this North American model is directly compatible with a standard UK installation.
4. Wi-Fi may not matter to every buyer
Home Connect provides additional functionality, but customers who do not care about connected appliances may find that portion of the feature package less important than the dishwasher’s physical cleaning, drying and loading features.
5. CrystalDry’s 60% figure has specific test conditions
The manufacturer’s 60%-drier statement is an aggregate comparison involving mixed household loads and should not be interpreted as a guarantee that every plastic container will be completely dry after every cycle.
Who Should Consider the Bosch SHX78CM2N?
The SHX78CM2N makes particular sense for households where quiet operation, drying performance and loading flexibility are important. Its 42 dBA noise rating, CrystalDry system and flexible third rack address three common frustrations with ordinary dishwashers.
It can also make sense for families that regularly run large loads. Sixteen place settings, three racks and adjustable rack positioning provide substantial loading flexibility, particularly for households that combine plates, bowls, utensils, cookware and containers in the same load.
The model is also relevant for people who regularly wash plastic containers. CrystalDry is specifically designed to improve drying performance for plastics, although results remain dependent on item shape, material, placement and cycle conditions.
Who Might Want to Look at Other Models?
Someone whose main priority is minimizing the purchase price may want to compare less expensive dishwashers. The SHX78CM2N is designed as a feature-rich premium model, so buying it solely for basic dishwashing may not make economic sense if the additional features will never be used.
Likewise, shoppers in areas with very hard water may want to compare models that include a built-in water softener. The SHX78CM2N’s specification explicitly says that it does not have one.
UK shoppers should also investigate locally specified models rather than importing the North American SHX78CM2N. The 120 V/60 Hz electrical specification is a critical difference that cannot be solved simply by changing a plug.
USA, Canada and UK Buying Considerations
USA
For U.S. buyers, the SHX78CM2N is presented as a current 800 Series product with a 120 V/60 Hz specification, 42 dBA noise rating, 16-place-setting capacity, CrystalDry, PowerControl, Home Connect and ENERGY STAR certification. The current U.S. listing shows $1,549.
Canada
Canadian support documentation exists for multiple SHX78CM2N variants and provides access to manuals, installation information, Home Connect resources, troubleshooting assistance and replacement parts. Canadian buyers should still confirm the exact model suffix, retailer warranty and local installation requirements before purchasing.
UK
The most important issue for UK shoppers is electrical compatibility. The exact SHX78CM2N is specified at 120 V and 60 Hz, while UK household electrical installations use a different standard. UK shoppers should therefore investigate a locally supplied equivalent rather than importing this exact North American model without professional verification.
Bosch SHX78CM2N vs a Basic Dishwasher
The biggest difference between the SHX78CM2N and a basic dishwasher is not simply the ability to wash dishes. Modern dishwashers across price categories can clean dishes effectively when correctly loaded. The difference is the collection of technologies designed to improve the overall experience.
The SHX78CM2N adds targeted PowerControl cleaning, CrystalDry drying, a flexible third rack, adjustable rack positioning, EasyGlide movement, Wi-Fi connectivity, a sanitize option, AquaStop protection and a 42 dBA sound rating.
For some households, these features address everyday problems. Someone who hates wet plastics may value CrystalDry. Someone with an open kitchen may value 42 dBA operation. Someone who frequently washes utensils may value the third rack. Someone who wants smartphone connectivity may value Home Connect.
The question is therefore not whether every feature is necessary. The more useful question is which of these features solve problems in your own kitchen.
Final Review of the Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM2N
The Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM2N is a feature-rich 24-inch dishwasher built around four major priorities: cleaning performance, drying performance, quiet operation and flexible loading. Its PrecisionWash with PowerControl system provides targeted cleaning, while CrystalDry addresses one of the most common dishwasher complaints wet dishes, especially plastics.
Its 42 dBA rating, stainless-steel tub, 16-place-setting capacity, Flexible 3rd Rack, RackMatic adjustment and EasyGlide rack system make it a comprehensive full-size dishwasher rather than a machine focused on only one feature. The addition of Home Connect provides further cycles and options, while AquaStop and the NSF-certified sanitize option add additional functional and safety-oriented capabilities.
The efficiency figures are also significant. With 3.2 gallons per cycle and 240 kWh per year, the published values correspond directly with the current ENERGY STAR qualification limits for standard dishwashers.
There are nevertheless important considerations. The current U.S. price is $1,549, it does not have a built-in water softener, and its 120 V/60 Hz electrical configuration makes it a North American model rather than a straightforward UK appliance.
Overall, the SHX78CM2N should be evaluated as a premium dishwasher built around quiet operation, advanced drying, flexible loading and targeted washing technology. Its strongest documented features are the 42 dBA sound level, CrystalDry, PowerControl, flexible third rack, 16-place-setting capacity, connected functionality, sanitation option and low standardized water consumption. Buyers should balance those features against the purchase price, their local water conditions and, especially outside North America, the exact electrical and regional specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bosch SHX78CM2N
1. What is the Bosch SHX78CM2N?
The Bosch SHX78CM2N is a 24-inch 800 Series built-in dishwasher in white with a bar handle. It has CrystalDry, PrecisionWash with PowerControl, a flexible third rack, Home Connect, AquaStop and a 42 dBA noise rating.
2. How much does the Bosch SHX78CM2N cost?
The current U.S. Bosch product listing shows a recommended retail price of $1,549. Appliance prices can change, so the displayed price should be checked at the time of purchase.
3. How quiet is the SHX78CM2N?
The dishwasher is rated at 42 dBA. Bosch also provides InfoLight to indicate when the dishwasher is operating.
4. Does the Bosch SHX78CM2N have CrystalDry?
Yes. CrystalDry is the model’s specified drying system and is designed to improve drying performance, including on plastics.
5. Does CrystalDry really dry plastic?
Bosch states that CrystalDry provides 60% drier results on an aggregate mixed household load compared with Bosch dishwashers using PureDry. The manufacturer’s footnote states that results vary by dish type, so individual plastic items can still have different results.
6. Does the SHX78CM2N have a third rack?
Yes. It has a Flexible 3rd Rack with fold-down sides designed for items such as utensils and ramekins.
7. How many place settings does it hold?
The specification lists 16 place settings.
8. Does the SHX78CM2N have an adjustable upper rack?
Yes. It uses the RackMatic adjustable rack system, allowing users to change rack positioning for different loading configurations.
9. Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The SHX78CM2N is Wi-Fi enabled and supports Home Connect.
10. What cycles does it have?
The five cycles specified on the control panel are Heavy, Auto, Normal, Speed60 and Favorite. Home Connect provides Delicate, Rinse and MachineCare as additional cycles.
11. Does it have a one-hour cycle?
Yes. Speed60 is identified as a 1-hour wash cycle in the specification.
12. Does the Bosch SHX78CM2N have a sanitize cycle?
Yes. The model has an NSF-certified sanitize option.
13. What does NSF certification mean for this dishwasher?
The applicable residential dishwasher sanitation standard requires a certified dishwasher to achieve at least a 99.999% or 5-log reduction of bacteria when operating on its sanitizing cycle.
14. Does it have AquaStop?
Yes. The specification identifies a 24/7 AquaStop leak-protection system.
15. Does the SHX78CM2N have a built-in water softener?
No. The official specification lists the water-softener feature as “No.”
16. Is the SHX78CM2N good for hard water?
It can be used in hard-water areas, but the absence of a built-in water softener is important. Owners in hard-water regions should follow appropriate detergent, rinse-aid and maintenance practices based on local water conditions and the manufacturer’s instructions.
17. How much water does the SHX78CM2N use?
Its published water consumption is 3.2 gallons per cycle.
18. How much electricity does it use?
The published annual energy consumption is 240 kWh.
19. Is the SHX78CM2N ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes. The official specification identifies the model as ENERGY STAR certified.
20. Does 240 kWh meet current ENERGY STAR requirements?
Yes. The current standard-dishwasher ENERGY STAR criteria specify a maximum of 240 kWh per year and 3.2 gallons per cycle.
21. Is the SHX78CM2N a 24-inch dishwasher?
Yes. It is designed as a standard 24-inch built-in dishwasher, with an overall width of approximately 23 9/16 inches and a listed required cutout width of 24 inches.
22. What are the dimensions?
The overall dimensions are approximately 33 7/8 inches high × 23 9/16 inches wide × 23 3/4 inches deep. Bosch recommends using the installation instructions for final installation measurements.
23. What is the electrical requirement?
The specification lists 120 V, 60 Hz and 12 amps, with 1,440 watts of rated power.
24. Can you use the SHX78CM2N in Canada?
Canadian support documentation exists for SHX78CM2N model variants, including manuals, installation instructions, replacement parts and troubleshooting resources. Buyers should confirm the exact model suffix and local purchase/warranty conditions.
25. Can you use the SHX78CM2N in the UK?
The exact North American SHX78CM2N is specified for 120 V/60 Hz, so it should not be assumed to be directly compatible with the UK’s standard domestic electrical supply. UK buyers should investigate a locally specified equivalent.
26. Is the interior stainless steel?
Yes. The model specification identifies the tub material as stainless steel.
27. Does it have a concealed heating element?
Yes. The specification identifies a concealed water-heating element.
28. Does the SHX78CM2N have a bar handle?
Yes. The exact model specification identifies it as the 24-inch Bar Handle Dishwasher, while the similar SHP78CM2N is a pocket-handle model.
29. Is the SHX78CM2N the same as SHP78CM2N?
No. They are closely related 800 Series models, but the exact model numbers are different. The SHX78CM2N is the bar-handle version, while the SHP78CM2N is the pocket-handle version. Their specifications should not be treated as interchangeable without checking the individual model documentation.
30. Does it have Home Connect?
Yes. Home Connect is built into the SHX78CM2N and provides additional cycles, options and connected functionality.
31. Does Home Connect add wash cycles?
Yes. The model specification identifies Delicate, Rinse and MachineCare as additional Home Connect cycles.
32. Does it have an Eco option?
Yes. Eco is listed among the additional options available through Home Connect.
33. Does it have a Half Load option?
Yes. Half Load is listed among the additional Home Connect options.
34. Is the SHX78CM2N suitable for a large family?
Its 16-place-setting capacity and flexible three-rack configuration make it suitable for households that regularly generate large dishwasher loads. Actual usable capacity will depend on the size and shape of the dishes being washed.
35. Is the Bosch SHX78CM2N good for plastic containers?
CrystalDry is specifically designed to improve drying performance, including for plastics. However, Bosch’s published drying comparison is an aggregate result, so individual containers can still emerge with some moisture depending on their shape and position.
36. Does it have leak protection?
Yes. It uses a 24/7 AquaStop leak-protection system.
37. Does it have a child-lock button suspension?
The specification specifically lists Child Lock button suspension: No. Buyers who require a particular child-lock function should therefore examine the exact control-locking functionality in the current user manual.
38. Does Bosch provide replacement parts for this model?
Yes. Official support pages for the SHX78CM2N provide access to replacement parts, manuals, installation information and troubleshooting resources.
39. What is the weight of the SHX78CM2N?
The published net weight is approximately 96 pounds.
40. Is the Bosch SHX78CM2N worth considering?
The model is particularly relevant to buyers who place value on 42 dBA operation, CrystalDry, PowerControl, flexible loading, 16-place-setting capacity, connected features, sanitation functionality and efficient standardized water use. The main considerations are its premium price, lack of an integrated water softener and North American electrical specification.
Conclusion
The Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM2N is a premium 24-inch dishwasher whose feature set is focused on solving several of the problems people commonly encounter with dishwashers: inadequate drying, difficult loading, excessive noise and inconsistent cleaning of heavily soiled items.
Its CrystalDry system is particularly notable because Bosch specifically designed it to improve drying performance on plastics as well as traditional dishwasher materials. The PowerControl system adds targeted washing capability, while the Flexible 3rd Rack, RackMatic and EasyGlide systems give the interior considerable loading flexibility.
The model also combines a 42 dBA noise rating, stainless-steel tub, 16-place-setting capacity, Home Connect connectivity, AquaStop leak protection and an NSF-certified sanitize option. Its published consumption of 3.2 gallons per cycle and 240 kWh per year also corresponds to the current ENERGY STAR qualification limits for standard dishwashers.
At the same time, this is not a dishwasher that should be purchased solely on the basis of its feature count. The current U.S. listed price is $1,549, the model does not include a built-in water softener, and the exact SHX78CM2N uses a 120 V/60 Hz electrical configuration. Those factors matter when comparing alternatives and are particularly important for buyers outside North America.
For U.S. and Canadian shoppers who want a quiet, feature-rich full-size dishwasher with advanced drying and flexible loading, the SHX78CM2N provides a substantial collection of documented technologies. For UK shoppers, the appropriate comparison should be against a locally specified equivalent rather than importing this exact North American model.
The most important takeaway is that the SHX78CM2N is built around quiet 42 dBA operation, CrystalDry drying, PowerControl cleaning, flexible three-rack loading, connected features and efficient standardized water and energy consumption. Whether those features justify the premium purchase price ultimately depends on how much each one matters in the buyer’s particular kitchen.