Best picks

9 Best Small Dishwashers for Apartments (November 2026)

Updated on · By the The Small Dishwasher team

The best small dishwashers for apartments include the NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments for flexible water supply, the COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal for a compact footprint, and the COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher for a larger countertop load.

On this page (5 sections)
  1. How we chose small dishwashers for apartments
  2. How do these apartment dishwashers compare?
  3. The best small dishwashers for apartments
  4. How should you choose a small dishwasher for an apartment?
  5. Which small apartment dishwasher should you choose?

The best small dishwasher for an apartment depends on whether you need a portable countertop unit or have room for a built-in model. If you need a floor-standing portable option, compare dishwashers on wheels.

NOVETE is the top pick here for flexible water supply, while the COMFEE' 18-inch dishwasher offers more place settings if your kitchen has a compatible cabinet opening.

Countertop models are easier to place in a small kitchen because several can use a built-in water tank instead of a faucet connection. For compact-home alternatives, compare dishwashers for tiny houses.

They still need counter space, enough overhead clearance and a practical route for draining water.

For a wider look at the best dishwashers for small spaces, compare both portable and built-in layouts before you settle on a type.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments
    Best for flexible water supply

    NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal
    Best for a compact footprint

    COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
    Best for a larger countertop load

    COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4Hermitlux Slim Countertop Portable Dishwasher for SmallCheck it
  2. 5EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable

    EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable

    Best for an 8-program choice
    Check it
  3. 6FOHERE Countertop Dishwasher with Delay StartCheck it
  4. 7HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with Water SoftenerCheck it
  5. 8EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher

    EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher

    Best for quiet-operation specs
    Check it
  6. 9COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher

    COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher

    Best for a built-in kitchen
    Check it

How we chose small dishwashers for apartments

We compared the listed dimensions, capacity, water supply methods, installation type and cycle features for each model. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

A compact appliance is useful only if it fits your actual kitchen. We gave more weight to clear dimensions and practical supply options, then included a built-in pick for apartments with a suitable cabinet opening.

How do these apartment dishwashers compare?

The countertop models vary most in width, depth, capacity and water supply, while the COMFEE' built-in model needs a cabinet opening. Measure both the installation area and the dishes you use most often.

ProductBest forCapacitySize (D x W x H)Water supplyOur score
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartmentsflexible water supply4 place settings16.8 x 16.9 x 18.1 in5 L tank or faucet9.7
COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gala compact footprint30+ items17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 in5 L tank or faucet9.6
COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwashera larger countertop load6 place settings19.7 x 21.7 x 17.2 inFaucet connection with suitable adapter9.5
Hermitlux Slim Countertop Portable Dishwasher for Smalla narrow counter30+ kitchenware items5 L tank or faucet9.4
EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portablean 8-program choice30+ items5 L tank or G3/4 in faucet connection9.4
FOHERE Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Starta smaller countertop4 place settings5 L tank or faucet9.1
HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with Water Softenerhard-water settings5 L tankBuilt-in 5 L tank8.7
EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasherquiet-operation specs30+ items16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in5 L tank or faucet8.5
COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwashera built-in kitchen8 place settings22.6 x 17.6 x 32.4 inBuilt-in installation7.9

The best small dishwashers for apartments

The best choice depends on your available counter or cabinet space, household load size and water connection. These picks are ordered by score, with each one aimed at a different apartment constraint.

1

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments: Best for flexible water supply

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments, small dishwashers for apartments
9.7/10Our score
  • 5 L built-in tank or faucet mode
  • 4 place settings
  • Fits plates up to 12 in at an angle
  • 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 in

A built-in tank lets you run it without a faucet connection, while faucet mode offers a second supply option. The 4-place-setting capacity and angled loading for plates up to 12 in suit smaller daily loads.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Tank and faucet supply options
  • 4 place settings
  • Fits plates up to 12 in at an angle

Cons

  • Needs a countertop location
  • Larger plates need angled loading

The NOVETE is a strong fit when you want a countertop dishwasher that can work with or without a faucet connection. Its 5 L built-in tank supports manual filling, while faucet mode uses the included inlet hose.

The unit measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 in and holds 4 place settings. It fits plates up to 12 in when loaded at an angle, which gives it an edge for larger dinner plates compared with several mini models.

Five wash cycles include Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care/Heavy and Fruit. The maker specifies a 29-minute Speed cycle, plus 60 minutes of hot-air drying after most wash cycles and 72 hours of automatic ventilation.

Its double-layer interior includes a tableware basket, storage rack and cutlery basket. Leave room for the dishwasher itself, its door and the hose route before choosing a counter location.

Choose NOVETE if you want tank and faucet options with a 4-place-setting load. If your priority is the smallest stated width, compare it with the narrower Hermitlux below.

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small ApartmentsCheck it on Amazon
2

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal: Best for a compact footprint

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal, small dishwashers for apartments
9.6/10Our score
  • 5 L built-in tank or faucet connection
  • Fits 30+ items
  • Maximum plate size 9.5 in
  • 17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 in

This mini dishwasher fits 30 or more items and offers tank or faucet water supply. Its stated maximum plate size is 9.5 in, so check your everyday dishes before choosing it.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Tank or faucet supply
  • Compact countertop size
  • 6 program options

Cons

  • Maximum plate size is 9.5 in
  • Needs more than 19.6 in of overhead clearance

The COMFEE' mini suits an apartment where a smaller countertop footprint matters. It measures 17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 in and holds 30 or more items, with a maximum plate size of 9.5 in.

A built-in 5 L tank lets you add water manually, or you can connect it to a kitchen faucet with the included hose and adapter. That flexibility can help when plumbing changes aren't practical, though the drain still needs a suitable route.

For sink-side placement, see our under-sink dishwasher guide for considerations.

Six programs include Normal, Rapid, Hygiene, Fruit and Glass, plus Air Refresh for extra drying. COMFEE' specifies more than 19.6 in of clearance between the counter and wall cupboard, so measure vertically as well as across the counter.

Choose this model if its 9.5 in plate limit matches your dishes and you want tank or faucet supply. For larger plates and a wider interior, the next COMFEE' countertop model has 6 place settings.

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32GalCheck it on Amazon
3

COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher: Best for a larger countertop load

COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher, small dishwashers for apartments
9.5/10Our score
  • 6 place settings
  • Fits up to 70 pieces of tableware
  • Fits plates up to 10 in
  • 8 washing cycles

The 6-place-setting capacity is the largest among these countertop choices. Its wider, deeper body needs a larger worktop, and faucet connection requires a suitable adapter.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 6 place settings
  • Fits plates up to 10 in
  • 8 washing cycles

Cons

  • Larger countertop footprint
  • Faucet connection needs a suitable adapter

This COMFEE' countertop model offers 6 place settings and fits up to 70 pieces of tableware, making it a better match for a larger daily dish load than the mini units. It accepts plates up to 10 in in diameter.

At 21.7 in wide and 19.7 in deep, it takes more counter space than the smaller tank-fed choices. Check that the counter can support the unit and leave room to access the door and controls.

Eight washing cycles include Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, Speed, Mini-party and Rinse. The maker says most cycles have an extra-drying function, and the Speed program takes 45 minutes.

This model can connect directly to a faucet with a suitable adapter. If the kitchen has a cabinet opening instead of spare counter space, compare built-in options and best 18 inch dishwashers before deciding.

Choose it if you need 6 place settings and can spare a larger counter area. Its capacity is useful, but its footprint makes measuring especially important in a compact apartment.

COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop DishwasherCheck it on Amazon
4

Hermitlux Slim Countertop Portable Dishwasher for Small: Best for a narrow counter

Hermitlux Slim Countertop Portable Dishwasher for Small, small dishwashers for apartments
9.4/10Our score
  • 14.61 in wide
  • 5 L built-in tank or faucet mode
  • Fits plates up to 10.25 in at an angle
  • 6 wash programs plus Dry

Its 14.61 in width is the narrowest stated footprint in this group. Check the 20.08 in depth, and note that plates up to 10.25 in load at an angle.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Narrow 14.61 in width
  • Tank and faucet supply options
  • Fits 30+ items

Cons

  • Deep countertop footprint
  • Large plates need angled loading

The Hermitlux is the narrowest pick here at 14.61 in wide, which can help when the available counter has limited width. Its 20.08 in depth still needs careful checking, especially in a shallow kitchen run.

It holds more than 30 pieces and fits plates up to 10.25 in when angled. A built-in 5 L tank supports use without plumbing, and faucet mode is also available.

Six wash programs include Normal, ECO, Strong, Fast, Fruit and Super Strong, with a separate Dry function. The maker specifies 60 minutes of hot-air drying and 72 hours of automatic ventilation.

Its stated size is 14.61 x 20.08 x 17.83 in, so compare all three measurements with the counter and overhead space. Review apartment-size dishwasher dimensions for a step-by-step fit check.

Choose Hermitlux if counter width is your main constraint and the depth works. Its slim body does not remove the need to check plate angle and cabinet clearance.

Hermitlux Slim Countertop Portable Dishwasher for SmallCheck it on Amazon
5

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable: Best for an 8-program choice

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable, small dishwashers for apartments
9.4/10Our score
  • 8 programs
  • 5 L tank or faucet connection
  • Fits 30+ items
  • 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in

Eight programs include Quick, Baby Care/Strong, Fruit, Self-Clean and Dry. It holds 30 or more items, with plates up to 10.25 in, and can use its tank or a G3/4 in faucet connection.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 8 wash programs
  • Tank or faucet supply
  • Fits 30+ items

Cons

  • Needs more than 19 in of vertical clearance
  • A faucet adapter may be needed

The EUHOMY with 8 programs suits a household that wants more wash choices in a compact countertop unit. It holds 30 or more items, accepts plates up to 10.25 in, and measures 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in.

Its 5 L tank supports manual filling, while faucet mode connects to a G3/4 in fitting. An adapter may be needed if your faucet differs, so confirm the connection before setting up.

Programs include Normal, ECO, Quick, Baby Care/Strong, Glass, Fruit, Self-Clean and Dry. The maker specifies a 29-minute Quick cycle, hot-air drying and child lock.

EUHOMY recommends leaving more than 19 in of vertical clearance above the counter. Choose this model if you want 8 programs and your counter meets that clearance.

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher PortableCheck it on Amazon
6

FOHERE Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start: Best for a smaller countertop

FOHERE Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start, small dishwashers for apartments
9.1/10Our score
  • 16.2 x 15.5 x 17.8 in
  • 5 L built-in tank or faucet connection
  • 4 place settings
  • 1–6 hour delay start

The 15.5 in depth is shallower than the other countertop picks here, and the unit offers tank or faucet supply. Its 4 place settings and angled loading for 12 in plates suit a small household.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Shallower 15.5 in depth
  • Tank or faucet supply
  • 1–6 hour delay start

Cons

  • 4 place settings
  • 12 in plates need angled loading

FOHERE has a shallower stated depth than the other countertop picks here, at 15.5 in deep. Its 16.2 in width and 17.8 in height also make it worth checking when the counter area is small.

It holds 4 place settings and can fit 12 in plates when angled. The 5 L built-in tank allows manual filling, and the included hose and adapters offer a faucet connection option.

Five wash programs include Normal, Speed, ECO, Baby Care and Fruit, with a 1–6 hour delay start. The maker says it has 60 minutes of hot-air drying and 72-hour automatic ventilation.

Choose FOHERE if counter depth is your main fit concern and 4 place settings are enough. Measure the drain route and confirm how much room the door needs when open.

FOHERE Countertop Dishwasher with Delay StartCheck it on Amazon
7

HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with Water Softener: Best for hard-water settings

HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with Water Softener, small dishwashers for apartments
8.7/10Our score
  • Built-in water softener
  • 5 L water tank
  • 8 wash programs
  • 16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05 in

A built-in water softener with an adjustable setting can help buyers address hard water. Its 5 L tank supports use without plumbing, and 8 programs cover different wash needs.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Built-in water softener
  • 5 L tank
  • 8 wash programs

Cons

  • Countertop placement required
  • No faucet supply option specified

HAVA stands out for its built-in water softener, a feature aimed at buyers dealing with hard water. The softener setting can be adjusted based on water hardness, and the maker says it helps limit limescale buildup and watermarks.

Its 5 L tank supports countertop use without plumbing. The unit measures 16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05 in and has 8 wash programs, child lock and an 18-hour delayed start.

The adjustable dish rack is designed to hold more items while allowing 360-degree cleaning. HAVA does not specify a place-setting count here, so compare the rack dimensions and your usual dishes before relying on a particular load size.

Choose HAVA if water-softener settings matter more than a stated capacity figure. The tank gives placement flexibility, but you still need to plan for water filling and drainage.

HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with Water SoftenerCheck it on Amazon
8

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher: Best for quiet-operation specs

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher, small dishwashers for apartments
8.5/10Our score
  • 40 dB noise specification
  • 5 L tank or faucet mode
  • Fits 30+ items
  • 6 wash programs

EUHOMY gives a 40 dB noise specification for this countertop model. It holds 30 or more items, fits plates up to 10.25 in, and supports tank or faucet water supply.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 40 dB noise specification
  • Tank and faucet supply options
  • Fits plates up to 10.25 in

Cons

  • Needs more than 19 in of vertical clearance
  • A faucet adapter may be needed

This EUHOMY countertop dishwasher lists a 40 dB noise specification, which may be useful in an apartment with a shared kitchen and living area. It measures 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in and holds more than 30 items.

A 5 L tank and faucet mode provide two ways to supply water. The faucet connection fits G3/4 in, and an adapter may be needed if your tap differs.

Six programs include Normal, Quick, ECO, Baby Care/Heavy, Fruit and Dry. It also supports 60 minutes of hot-air drying followed by 73 hours of automatic ventilation, and accepts plates up to 10.25 in.

EUHOMY recommends more than 19 in of vertical clearance above the counter. Choose this model if its stated noise level and 30-plus-item capacity fit your needs and space.

EUHOMY Countertop DishwasherCheck it on Amazon
9

COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher: Best for a built-in kitchen

COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher, small dishwashers for apartments
7.9/10Our score
  • 17.6 in wide
  • 8 place settings
  • Fits plates up to 13.78 in high
  • Built-in installation

This 17.6 in wide model offers 8 place settings and room for larger plates and cookware. It needs a built-in opening and installation, so it suits apartments with a suitable cabinet space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 8 place settings
  • Narrow 17.6 in width
  • Heated dry function

Cons

  • Requires built-in installation
  • Needs a cabinet opening

The COMFEE' 18-inch model is the built-in option for an apartment with a compatible cabinet opening. It measures 17.6 in wide, 22.6 in deep and 32.4 in high, with adjustable legs and 8 place settings.

Its capacity is larger than the countertop picks, and the upper rack adjusts by up to 1.97 in. The lower rack can hold dishware up to 13.78 in high, making room for larger plates and cookware.

Six wash cycles include Heavy, Normal, Eco, Delicate, Quick and Rinse. Heated Dry, Hi-Temp and Sanitize are also included, though installation requires a suitable built-in space.

Choose this model if you want a larger load and already have a compatible cabinet opening. If you want a compact built-in format, compare a single drawer dishwasher and check the installation requirements.

COMFEE' 18 Inch Built-in DishwasherCheck it on Amazon

How should you choose a small dishwasher for an apartment?

Choose a countertop model when portability and a tank option matter, and choose a built-in model when you have an approved cabinet opening and want more capacity. Measure the installation space and your dishes before comparing cycle lists.

Which mini dishwasher for an apartment fits your counter?

The Hermitlux is the narrowest by width at 14.61 in, while FOHERE is the shallowest at 15.5 in deep. A smaller measurement on one side does not guarantee a better fit, so compare width, depth, height and door access together.

For a step-by-step check, use the apartment dishwasher dimensions guide. Include space for filling a tank, attaching a faucet hose if needed, and directing the drain hose.

Should you choose a tank-fed or faucet-connected model?

A tank-fed model can run without a faucet connection, which helps if you cannot keep the dishwasher attached to the tap. Faucet mode can provide continuous supply, but you need a compatible connection and enough hose reach.

Some models here support both methods, including NOVETE, COMFEE' mini and EUHOMY. Check the connection details for the specific model, and read how a mini countertop dishwasher works before choosing a setup.

How much capacity do apartment households need?

A 4-place-setting countertop model can suit smaller daily loads, while the 6-place-setting COMFEE' countertop unit and the 8-place-setting built-in COMFEE' give more room. Think about how often you cook, how many dishes you use between cycles and whether you wash larger cookware.

Capacity labels do not replace checking the rack layout. Compare plate diameter, angled loading notes and interior dimensions with the dishes you use most.

What should you measure before choosing?

Measure the full countertop or cabinet space, then check overhead clearance and door swing. Include the appliance's full depth, hose path and room to fill a built-in tank without moving other items.

For a built-in model, measure the cabinet opening and confirm installation requirements with your landlord or installer. For a countertop unit, check that the surface is stable and close enough to a suitable drain location.

Which small apartment dishwasher should you choose?

Choose NOVETE if you want a 5 L tank, faucet mode and room for 4 place settings. Pick Hermitlux when counter width is tight, FOHERE when depth is the limiting measurement, or the COMFEE' 18-inch model if your apartment has a compatible built-in opening.

If you're choosing between countertop and built-in formats, start with the dimensions guide and compare the 18-inch and single-drawer options before you commit.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments
    Best for flexible water supply

    NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal
    Best for a compact footprint

    COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
    Best for a larger countertop load

    COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best small dishwasher for an apartment?

The NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher is a flexible apartment choice because it has a 5 L tank and a faucet mode. Its 4 place settings suit smaller loads, and it can fit plates up to 12 in when angled.

Choose a mini model by its footprint, plate limit and water supply options.

Can a countertop dishwasher work without a faucet hookup?

Yes. Several countertop models here have a built-in 5 L tank that you fill manually, including NOVETE, COMFEE' and EUHOMY options.

Tank use avoids a faucet connection, but you'll still need a stable counter and a way to route the drain hose.

How much clearance does a mini dishwasher need?

Check the appliance's full height and its stated clearance before setting it under cabinets. The COMFEE' mini calls for more than 19.6 in between the counter and wall cupboard, while EUHOMY recommends more than 19 in for two models.

Measure the space, including room to open the door and reach controls.

Is an 18-inch dishwasher a good fit for an apartment?

An 18-inch built-in dishwasher can work if the kitchen has a compatible cabinet opening and installation is allowed. The COMFEE' model here is 17.6 in wide, 32.4 in high and 22.6 in deep, with 8 place settings.

Measure the opening and check lease or building requirements before planning a built-in installation.

How do I choose between a tank and faucet-fed dishwasher?

A tank-fed dishwasher suits a kitchen where you want to avoid a faucet connection, while faucet mode can provide continuous water on models that support it. Compare your counter location, hose reach, faucet connection and drain route.

For adapter details, see our faucet adapter size chart for countertop dishwashers.