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Best Dishwasher With Heated Dry Cycle: Compact and Full-Size Picks Compared

Updated 11 min read

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Guide at a glance

  • 5products compared
  • 11minute read
  • Side-by-side comparison table
  • Who each pick suits best
  • What to check before you buy

If you want dishes to come out ready to put away, a heated dry option can be a useful feature—especially when air-drying leaves you reaching for a towel. The picks below include compact 18-inch models with heated dry, a full-size Sharp with a heated dry option, and one Sharp model whose supplied specifications do not confirm heated dry. Compare cycle details, capacity, and fit before choosing.

Quick Comparison

DishwasherSize and capacityHeated dry detailsStandout features
Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher18-inch; 8 place settingsAvailable on listed cycles except Rapid and Self-CleanSix wash programs; Hi-Temp and Sanitize functions
COMFEE’ 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher18-inch; 8 place settingsAvailable on listed cycles except Rapid and Self-CleanAdjustable upper rack; accommodates tall dishes
Sharp SDW6504MS Dishwasher24-inch; 12 place settingsNot specified in the supplied product details52 dBA; adjustable upper rack; half-load option
EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher18-inch; 8 place settingsHeated Dry option listedLeakage sensor; 52 dB operation
Sharp SDW6757ES Dishwasher24-inch; capacity not specifiedHeated Dry option listed45 dBA; soil sensors; half-load feature

Our Picks: Best Dishwasher With Heated Dry Cycle reviews

1. Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher: Compact With Heated Dry

The Midea is a slim built-in dishwasher designed for kitchens where a standard-width model may not fit. Its listed dimensions are 22.6 inches deep, 17.6 inches wide, and 32.4 inches high, with adjustable legs. It holds up to eight place settings and has a stainless steel tub.

Its six programs are Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse. The separate Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions add options for drying and cleaning. The supplied details say Heated Dry is available on cycles other than Rapid and Self-Clean, though those cycle names do not match the six programs listed. Check the cycle chart for the exact model before buying if a specific cycle matters to you.

The main tradeoff is capacity: eight place settings suit a smaller household or a compact kitchen, but may mean more frequent loads for larger families. The product details also specify plates and cookware up to 11 inches high, so measure your dishes if you regularly wash oversized items. Compared with the COMFEE’ below, this model’s supplied specifications do not mention an adjustable-height upper rack.

Pros:

  • Compact 18-inch built-in design with eight place settings
  • Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions are listed
  • Six wash programs for different load types
  • Energy Star certification is listed in the product title

Cons:

  • Eight place settings may be limiting for a larger household
  • Cycle availability for Heated Dry should be confirmed before purchase

Verdict: Choose the Midea if you need a compact built-in dishwasher and want heated drying, but confirm its cycle details and check that its stated dish clearance works for your cookware.

2. COMFEE’ 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher: Flexible Rack Space

This COMFEE’ is another slim 18-inch built-in option with room for eight place settings. Its listed dimensions match the Midea’s at 22.6 inches deep, 17.6 inches wide, and 32.4 inches high, with adjustable legs. The most useful distinction is its adjustable upper rack, which can move up by as much as 1.97 inches to make room for taller cookware.

The product details say the lower rack accommodates plates up to 13.78 inches high. That stated clearance is greater than the Midea’s listed 11-inch limit, which may make the COMFEE’ a better fit if you often load larger plates. Its six cycles include Heavy, Normal, Eco, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse, with Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions. Heated Dry is described as available except on Rapid and Self-Clean; confirm how those cycle names apply to the exact model.

The tradeoff is the same compact capacity found in other 18-inch models: eight place settings may not be enough for every household’s daily dishes. The product title also identifies Energy Star and NSF, but the supplied information does not explain the scope of the NSF reference. Compare the installation dimensions and feature details with your kitchen and needs.

Pros:

  • Adjustable upper rack helps accommodate taller cookware
  • Lower rack is specified for plates up to 13.78 inches high
  • Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions are listed
  • Six wash cycles and eight place settings in a slim design

Cons:

  • Eight place settings may be tight for large households
  • Heated Dry is not described as available on every cycle

Verdict: The COMFEE’ is a strong compact choice if rack flexibility and clearance for taller dishes matter more to you than full-size capacity.

3. Sharp SDW6504MS: Full-Size Capacity, but Drying Is Unconfirmed

The Sharp SDW6504MS is a 24-inch dishwasher with room for 12 place settings, making it a different kind of option from the compact models above. Its hybrid construction combines a stainless steel interior with a heavy-duty plastic floor. Fold-down tines and a height-adjustable upper rack provide flexibility for different dish shapes and sizes.

Sharp lists a half-load option for smaller loads and a 52 dBA noise level. Those features may appeal if you need a full-size machine but do not always have a full rack to wash. However, the supplied product details do not mention a heated dry cycle. That means this model should not be treated as a confirmed match for a heated-dry requirement without checking the exact model’s specifications.

Compared with the Sharp SDW6757ES, this model has documented capacity and rack features, but the other Sharp explicitly lists Heated Dry and a lower noise level. If heated drying is a must-have, verify that feature before considering the SDW6504MS.

Pros:

  • 12 place settings in a 24-inch design
  • Adjustable upper rack and fold-down tines
  • Half-load option for smaller loads
  • 52 dBA operation is specified

Cons:

  • Heated Dry is not confirmed in the supplied specifications
  • Hybrid tub includes a plastic floor rather than an all-stainless interior

Verdict: Consider this Sharp if you want full-size capacity and flexible loading, but choose a model with explicitly listed Heated Dry if that feature is essential.

4. EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher: Heated Dry and Leak Protection

EdgeStar’s 18-inch built-in model is sized for a smaller kitchen or a space where a full-width dishwasher will not fit. It holds up to eight place settings and includes a silverware basket and cup tray. Its listed dimensions are 17.6 inches wide, 22.4 inches deep, and 32.5 inches high.

The six wash cycles are Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse. Heated Dry is one of three listed options, alongside Sanitize and Hi Temp. A leakage sensor is designed to shut off water flow if a leak is detected, an added safeguard worth noting for a built-in appliance. The product is rated at 52 dB, and the listing identifies it as Energy Star rated.

Compared with the Midea and COMFEE’, the EdgeStar’s supplied details do not mention an adjustable upper rack or a specific tall-dish clearance. Its smaller capacity also makes it a better fit for compact households than for people who routinely wash large loads. Measure your opening carefully, since its stated height differs slightly from the other 18-inch models here.

Pros:

  • Heated Dry is explicitly listed as an option
  • Leakage sensor is designed to stop water flow when a leak is detected
  • Six cycles include a Glass program
  • Includes a silverware basket and cup tray

Cons:

  • Eight place settings may not suit a large household
  • Supplied details do not state an adjustable rack or tall-dish clearance

Verdict: Pick the EdgeStar if you need an 18-inch built-in with a clearly listed Heated Dry option and value the added leakage sensor.

5. Sharp SDW6757ES: Quiet Full-Size Model With Heated Dry

The Sharp SDW6757ES is a 24-inch dishwasher with a Heated Dry option. Sharp describes that option as fast and efficient, and says it is more dependable than condensation drying. The supplied details do not list capacity or cycle names, so check those specifications if you are comparing loading space or wash programs.

At 45 dBA, this model has the lowest stated noise level among the products in this comparison. Soil sensors are designed to adjust wash cycles, while the half-load feature gives you an option for smaller loads. Premium white LED interior lighting and smooth-glide rails are also listed.

This Sharp may be the best fit here if you have room for a full-size appliance and want heated drying alongside a quieter stated operating level. Its product information is less detailed about capacity and cycle selection than the listings for the Midea, COMFEE’, and EdgeStar, so confirm those details before ordering.

Pros:

  • Heated Dry option is explicitly listed
  • 45 dBA is the lowest stated noise level among these picks
  • Soil sensors adjust wash cycles
  • Half-load feature supports smaller loads

Cons:

  • Capacity and specific wash cycles are not stated in the supplied details
  • Its 24-inch width requires more space than the compact models

Verdict: Choose the Sharp SDW6757ES if you want a full-size dishwasher with a confirmed Heated Dry option and a low stated noise level, after verifying capacity and cycle details.

How to Choose a Dishwasher With a Heated Dry Cycle

Confirm Heated Dry Is Included

Look for Heated Dry in the specifications for the exact model, not just in a general product description or a similar model’s listing. Also check whether the option works on every wash cycle. The Midea and COMFEE’ details describe cycle exceptions, while the EdgeStar and both Sharp listings provide different levels of detail. If you rely on heated drying after a particular cycle, verify that combination before buying.

Measure the Opening and Check the Installation Fit

Decide whether you need an 18-inch or 24-inch model, then measure the available width, depth, and height. Compare your measurements with the dishwasher’s listed dimensions and account for adjustable legs where noted. Built-in appliances must fit the opening and connect properly, so confirm installation requirements with the product listing or a qualified installer before ordering.

Match Capacity to Your Household

The compact models in this comparison hold up to eight place settings. That may work well if your kitchen has limited space or your usual loads are small. The Sharp SDW6504MS lists 12 place settings, while the SDW6757ES capacity is not provided in the supplied details. Think about how often you wash pots, pans, and daily dishes when choosing between a slim model and a full-size one.

Check Rack Adjustments and Dish Clearance

Rack layout can matter as much as the place-setting count. The COMFEE’ has an adjustable upper rack and a stated lower-rack clearance for plates up to 13.78 inches high. The Midea lists room for dishes and cookware up to 11 inches high. The Sharp SDW6504MS also has an adjustable upper rack and fold-down tines. Compare those details with your tallest plates and cookware.

Compare Cycle Choices and Extra Functions

Think about which programs you will actually use. Heavy, Normal, Eco, Delicate, Glass, Quick, and Rinse cycles appear across these models in different combinations. Extra functions such as Hi-Temp, Sanitize, and half-load can be useful for particular loads, but their availability varies by model. Read the cycle chart to make sure the functions you want are included and can be used together as needed.

Consider Noise and Protective Features

If your kitchen is near a living or work area, compare the stated noise levels. The Sharp SDW6757ES is listed at 45 dBA, while the Sharp SDW6504MS and EdgeStar are listed at 52 dBA. The EdgeStar also lists a leakage sensor designed to shut off water flow if a leak is detected. These details can help narrow your choices, but they should be weighed alongside capacity, fit, and drying features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a heated dry cycle do?

A heated dry option uses heat as part of the drying process to help reduce moisture left on dishes. It can be useful if you prefer to put dishes away soon after a cycle, but results may vary by load and cycle. Check the product instructions for how to select it and which programs support it.

Does every dishwasher in this comparison confirm heated drying?

No. Heated Dry is listed for the Midea, COMFEE’, EdgeStar, and Sharp SDW6757ES. The supplied details for the Sharp SDW6504MS do not confirm a heated dry feature, so verify its specifications before buying if heated drying is a requirement.

Is heated dry available on every cycle?

Not necessarily. The Midea and COMFEE’ details say Heated Dry is available except on Rapid and Self-Clean, though the listed cycle names do not align exactly with that wording. Check the cycle chart for the specific model you are considering.

Which option is best for a small kitchen?

The 18-inch Midea, COMFEE’, and EdgeStar are the compact choices in this group. Each is listed with eight place settings. Compare the dimensions and dish clearance to decide which one fits your space and cookware best.

Which model has the lowest stated noise level?

The Sharp SDW6757ES has the lowest stated level in this comparison at 45 dBA. The Sharp SDW6504MS and EdgeStar are each listed at 52 dBA. The supplied details do not give a noise level for the Midea or COMFEE’.

What should I check before ordering a built-in dishwasher?

Measure the installation opening, confirm the unit’s dimensions, and check its installation requirements. Also compare capacity, rack clearance, cycle options, and whether Heated Dry works on the cycles you plan to use. If any model details are unclear, confirm them with the manufacturer or seller before purchase.

Final Recommendation

For a compact built-in dishwasher with heated drying, the COMFEE’ stands out for its adjustable upper rack and stated clearance for taller dishes. The EdgeStar is another clear 18-inch option, with a listed Heated Dry feature and leakage sensor. If you have room for a full-size model, the Sharp SDW6757ES combines explicitly listed Heated Dry with the lowest stated noise level in this comparison. Treat the Sharp SDW6504MS as an alternative only if heated drying is not essential or you confirm that feature for the exact model.

Author

  • Emily

    Emily is the editor of YourModernLiving, where she helps readers make informed decisions about home, kitchen, family, and everyday products. She focuses on researching product features, comparing available options, and creating practical buying guides to help readers find products that suit their needs, preferences, and budgets.

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