Hate waiting for a full load? Want to wash a few dishes without wasting water or energy? A dishwasher with a half load setting is the answer. This feature lets you run just the top or bottom rack, so small households or busy kitchens can clean up fast and stay efficient. Here are the best dishwashers with a half load option in 2025.
Quick Picks
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Best Overall:
Bosch 800 Series SHXM78Z55N — Super quiet, flexible racks, true half load option for both racks. -
Best Value:
Samsung DW80R7060UG — Half load, AutoRelease door, smart cycles at a budget-friendly price. -
Best for Families:
LG LDP6810SS QuadWash — Half load, steam cleaning, and adjustable racks for busy kitchens.
Buyer’s Guide: Why a Half Load Option is a Game Changer
- Saves Water & Energy: No more running a full cycle for just a few dishes—wash smaller loads efficiently.
- Perfect for Small Households: Great for singles, couples, or anyone who does dishes daily but doesn’t fill the machine.
- Flexible Use: Choose upper, lower, or both racks depending on what needs washing (check model details).
- No Waiting: Clean plates and glasses as needed, not just when the dishwasher is stuffed full.
- Less Wear & Tear: Fewer heavy cycles mean your dishwasher lasts longer.
Detailed Reviews: Best Dishwashers with Half Load Setting (2025)
Bosch 800 Series SHXM78Z55N
Who it’s for: Households that want premium features, ultra-quiet running, and the flexibility to run small loads anytime.
- Half load option—run top, bottom, or both racks for small loads
- 16 place settings, adjustable 3rd rack
- 42 dB—whisper quiet
- 6 cycles: Heavy, Auto, Normal, Speed60, Rinse, Eco
- CrystalDry for plastics, RackMatic adjustable racks
- ENERGY STAR Most Efficient
- AutoAir door for better drying
Pros:
- True half load feature—saves water and power
- Super flexible for small or large loads
- Silent operation, excellent reliability
Cons:
- Premium price
- Somewhat basic display/interface
Final Verdict: Bosch 800 Series is the top choice for half loads and all-around quiet, reliable cleaning. See price
Samsung DW80R7060UG
Who it’s for: Value seekers who want smart cycles, great drying, and the freedom to run half loads anytime.
- Half load option—efficient for small or quick cycles
- 15 place settings, flexible racking
- 44 dB—quiet for its class
- AutoRelease door for natural drying
- 6 cycles, including Express60 and Heavy
- ENERGY STAR rated
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
Pros:
- Half load feature cuts water and time
- Modern controls and flexible racks
- Affordable for the features
Cons:
- No third rack
- Plastic drying is average (improved with door pop)
Final Verdict: Samsung DW80R7060UG brings high-end flexibility to more budgets—true half load, easy drying, and quiet running. View price
LG LDP6810SS QuadWash
Who it’s for: Families or home cooks who need to clean partial loads often, plus want powerful cleaning and flexible cycles.
- Half load option—use top or bottom only for quick runs
- 15 place settings, QuadWash and TrueSteam cleaning
- 44 dB—very quiet
- WiFi/app controls, Smart Diagnosis
- ENERGY STAR certified, adjustable racks
- 3rd rack for utensils
Pros:
- Half load for big or small families
- Strong cleaning, advanced features
- Smart app control for added convenience
Cons:
- Smart features require app setup
- Some cycles run long (cut with half load)
Final Verdict: LG QuadWash delivers big cleaning power, smart features, and flexible half load washing—ideal for busy kitchens. Check price
Miele G 7000 Series G 7156 SCVi
Who it’s for: Luxury kitchens and anyone who wants the ultimate in quiet, efficiency, and custom loading (with “FlexiTimer” and “Half Load”).
- Half load mode—adapts water and power for smaller runs
- 16 place settings, 3D MultiFlex tray
- 42 dB—silent operation
- AutoOpen drying, WiFi/app controls
- ENERGY STAR Most Efficient
- Premium German engineering
Pros:
- True half load feature for energy and water savings
- Superb cleaning and luxury design
- Great for singles, couples, or big families
Cons:
- Premium price
- Professional install recommended
Final Verdict: Miele G 7000 delivers efficient half load washing, luxury feel, and unmatched quiet. See price
Comparison Table
| Name | Half Load Option | Noise Level | Key Features | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 800 SHXM78Z55N | Top/Bottom/Both | 42 dB | 16 place, CrystalDry, 3rd rack | View Price |
| Samsung DW80R7060UG | Half Load | 44 dB | 15 place, AutoRelease, value | View Price |
| LG LDP6810SS | Top or Bottom | 44 dB | 15 place, QuadWash, WiFi | View Price |
| Miele G 7000 G 7156 SCVi | Half Load | 42 dB | 16 place, AutoOpen, luxury | View Price |
FAQ
How does the half load feature work?
The dishwasher uses less water and power, and may focus spray on just the upper or lower rack—saving resources on smaller loads.
Can I put dishes in both racks on half load?
Some models (like Bosch) let you pick either rack, while others wash both but adjust water usage automatically. Always check the manual.
Does using half load save much money?
Yes—half load cycles can use up to 30% less water and energy. Over a year, that adds up for small households!
Is cleaning performance still strong on half load?
Absolutely—half load is optimized for a smaller run, so you get the same spotless results as a full cycle.
Can I use the half load feature every day?
Yes! It’s designed for frequent use and perfect for homes where dishes pile up slowly.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
The best dishwasher with a half load option gives you flexibility, savings, and spotless dishes—without waiting for a full load. Perfect for small households, families on the go, or anyone who wants maximum efficiency.
Ready for a smarter, faster clean? Click any model above to check today’s prices, see reviews, and choose the best half load dishwasher for your kitchen!