Top control vs. front control dishwashers: Which is right for you?
There are many elements to consider when choosing the right dishwasher for your kitchen. A simple way to narrow down your options is to first decide whether you want a top control or a front control dishwasher. Discover the differences between these dishwasher designs to help you make the right decision for your needs.
What is a top control dishwasher?
A top control dishwasher hides the control panel on the top of the dishwasher door for a more streamlined design. Since the control panel is not visible on the exterior of the machine, top control dishwashers give your kitchen a modern look without sacrificing your appliance’s functionality.
Can you start a top control dishwasher with the door open?
On a top control dishwasher, the start and cycle buttons are on top of the door and not usually visible when the door is closed. With this configuration, you will select your cycle and push the start button with the door open, then close the dishwasher door and wait for the dishwasher to start. When the door is opened, the dishwasher will pause, and although models vary, you will likely have to cancel or restart the cycle when you close the door again.
Shop Whirlpool® Top Control Dishwashers
Whirlpool® Top Control Dishwashers are ready to help you handle day-to-day messes. Explore select top control dishwashers with a third rack that lets you load hard-to-fit utensils and a Triple Filtration Wash System that uses three different filters to catch food soils between wash stages.
What is a front control dishwasher?
Front control dishwashers have a control panel on the exterior of the dishwasher for easy access to cycle selection. These dishwashers typically have handles that are tucked into the exterior, keeping the appliance flush with your cabinetry.
Do front control dishwashers stick out more than top control models?
Typically, top control dishwashers stick out more than front control dishwashers if they have an external handle bar. Most front control dishwashers have a pocket handle that tucks into the exterior of the dishwasher door, so the appliance remains more flush with its surroundings.
Shop Whirlpool® Front Control Dishwashers
Clean up mealtime messes with Whirlpool® Front Control Dishwashers. Select front control dishwashers offer the Boost Cycle, like this one from Whirlpool brand, which provides extra effort for stubborn messes, while an Extended Dry Option helps elevate drying performance.
What’s the difference between top control and front control dishwashers?
The main difference between top and front control dishwashers is aesthetics. The hidden control panel gives top control dishwashers a modern and minimalist design, while front control dishwashers have a more classic appearance. Some front control dishwashers have a clear external display of the time remaining in a wash cycle, while most top control dishwashers do not. Whirlpool brand offers a top control dishwasher with a cycle status indicator on the exterior.
Both dishwasher designs share a majority of features. For example, 1-hour wash cycles, soil sensors and heated dry options are available for most dishwashers, regardless of design.
In addition, both types of dishwashers have similar installation processes. Explore how to install a dishwasher to make sure you have what you need before jumping in.
What are the pros and cons of top control and front control dishwashers?
There are advantages to both dishwasher designs. To make your decision easier, consider the top qualities of each option.
Front control dishwasher pros
Most have pocket handles to keep appliance flush with cabinetry
Control panel is in clear view at all times
Easy access to controls with door closed
Large capacity and compact size options
Typically more affordable than top control dishwashers
Front control dishwasher cons
Buttons on the exterior control panel can be accidentally pushed
Buttons and controls may make the front seem a little less streamlined
Top control dishwasher pros
Control panel is hidden from view for a sleek and seamless appearance
Tap touch control panel can be cleaned with ease
Panel-ready options available
Large capacity options
Pocket handle or towel bar handle options are available to match your style preference
Top control dishwasher cons
Most do not have a detailed external cycle status display
Generally more expensive than front control options
Features to consider when buying a dishwasher
Aside from configuration, you will also want to consider loading options, cleaning cycles, drying options, style and price when shopping for a dishwasher. Learn more about what to consider when purchasing a dishwasher in this dishwasher buying guide.
Size and capacity
Determine how much space you’ll have for your dishwasher before you shop. This can help you determine what dimensions will best fit your kitchen’s layout. If you have the space, and the need, you may want to consider a large capacity dishwasher to help you get the job done.
Dishwashers with 3rd Rack
Load more and run less with the 3rd Rack*
*Compared to Whirlpool® Dishwashers without a 3rd level rack.
Loading options and accessibility
Dishwashers typically offer 2-rack and 3-rack options. Third rack dishwashers offer more capacity, freeing up space for additional, larger dishes below. Some dishwashers even have adjustable racks to accommodate different-sized loads.
There are also a number of accessibility features that differ between dishwashers. Whirlpool brand offers a Spin&Load Rack that uses a 360° spinning design to help you easily load dishes. This lower-level rack easily installs into most Whirlpool® Dishwashers1 and is designed with inclusivity in mind.
Cleaning cycles
Drying options
Color and finish
The color and finish of your dishwasher can also be an important decision. Most Whirlpool® Dishwashers come in the traditional colors of black, white or stainless steel, with recent additions of Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel and Print Resistant Black Stainless on select models. Models like these from Whirlpool brand feature Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel or Print Resistant Black Stainless, which offer an easy-to-clean exterior that resists fingerprints and smudges.
Price
Dishwashers typically range from as low as $300 to over $900. While every dishwasher shares the same purpose of cleaning dishes, dishwashers with high-end features—like a 3rd rack for more loading space, a fingerprint resistant finish and a stainless steel tub—tend to cost more.
Top control or front control dishwasher: How to choose?
Choosing between top control vs front control dishwashers generally comes down to your preferences. Top control dishwashers offer a flush, streamlined design, whereas front control dishwashers offer easy access to controls with the door closed and often come with a more affordable entry price point.
Take a look at the Whirlpool® Dishwasher Comparison Chart to help determine which type of dishwasher works best for your kitchen.
Explore Whirlpool® Dishwashers
Whether you choose the minimalist design of top control or the classic look of front control, Whirlpool brand has a variety of dishwashers that are sure to fit your kitchen’s needs.
Was this article helpful? Pass it on
Discover more from Whirlpool brand
home heartbeat
Ready for more tips, home hacks and appliance guides?
1. *Designed to fit all 24" Whirlpool Corporation dishwashers manufactured after 2018. Compatibility with Whirlpool brand and those manufactured by Whirlpool Corporation including Amana, JennAir, KitchenAid, and Maytag brands.
