Bosch dishwashers are generally modernized and carry new features, including their PowerControl spray arm. Here, we will explore the distinctions among Bosch's 100, 300, 500, 800, and Benchmark series dishwashers. So, without any delay, let’s get started!
The BOSCH Series
Bosch 100 Series
The original Ascenta series, now considered obsolete, has paved the way for Bosch's 100 Series to emerge as the cornerstone of their dishwasher lineup, available in Standard, Plus, and Premium versions. The Bosch 100 Series offers versatile cycle options such as AutoWash, Normal, QuickWash, and PowerScrub, ideal for tackling heavily soiled dishes. Additionally, there's an Economy cycle designed for delicate items and half loads, featuring condensation drying.
As for noise levels, the Bosch 100 models tend to be a bit noisy, making their presence known even from the adjacent room. The 100 Plus model operates at 46 decibels (dBA), while the Standard 100 series model runs at 50 dBA. Tub Composition is a crucial aspect, the 100 Series comes with a stainless-steel interior and plastic bottom. Now, both materials can retain water, however, the plastic portion has a tendency to trap odors. Now, regarding the racks, the 100 Series features standard racks, distinguishing it from other series equipped with the Rackmatic nine-position rack system.
As far as the price, it varies greatly based on the finish and style you choose. Ultimately, you can expect to find a Bosch 100 Series Dishwasher ranging from $500 to $700, providing an affordable, yet reliable option for your kitchen needs.
Bosch 300 Series
Compared to its budget-friendly predecessor, the 300 Series truly embodies the essence of a Bosch dishwasher. It features an all-stainless-steel tub with a robust door, elevating its durability. What sets it apart is the inclusion of an adjustable upper rack, known as RackMatic, and a third rack for silverware, enhancing its overall functionality.
The Bosch 300 Series offers a range of cycle options, including Pre-Wash/Rinse, Main Wash, Rinse, Express Wash, Sanitize (a high-temperature cycle), and Eco Mode. The Express Wash option allows you to clean lightly soiled dishes in just 30 minutes, while Eco Mode extends the cycle to conserve energy.
Regarding noise levels, the 300 Series dishwashers consistently operate at 46 dBA, emitting a faint hum in the background. The racks in the 300 Series are designed for maximum convenience. Every unit includes a third rack, and the adjustable upper racks offer greater flexibility for loading dishes. These racks are not only easier to pull out compared to the 100 Series but also feature foldable tines to accommodate larger trays and platters with ease.
Now for pricing, the Bosch 300 Series dishwasher falls within a general price range of $800 to $1,200, offering a higher level of performance and versatility for those willing to invest in a superior dishwasher experience.
Bosch 500 Series
Building upon the fundamental features of the 300 Series, Bosch 500 Series dishwashers offer an immediate upgrade in terms of quietness and drying capabilities. One notable addition to this series is the innovative AutoOpen feature. After completing a cycle, the 500 Series dishwasher automatically opens its door after 30 minutes. This not only releases steam and heat but also minimizes condensation, ensuring dishes are exceptionally dry.
In terms of cycles, the 500 Series offers a variety of options including Auto Wash, Express, Heavy, Normal, Delicate, Rinse and Hold, Half Load, and Favorites, allowing you to customize and program your preferred cycles directly on the dishwasher. The Delicate cycle, for instance, adjusts water temperatures and shortens the wash time for delicate items.
With a noise level of only 44 dBA, the 500 Series operates at an impressively quiet level, ensuring minimal disruption during use. With that, the Bosch 500 Series dishwashers are generally priced between $1,100 and $1,200, providing a premium option for those seeking advanced features and superior performance.
Bosch 800 Series
The Bosch 800 Series dishwashers represent the pinnacle of Bosch's offerings, providing a premium experience just below the elite Bosch Benchmark Series. This series exudes a luxurious feel and incorporates cutting-edge features, including the revolutionary PowerControl wash arm developed by Bosch. With PowerControl, users can adjust water intensity, ranging from low to medium or heavy, ensuring thorough cleaning for anything from heavy lasagna dishes to delicate fine china. Additionally, the 800 Series includes HomeConnect connectivity, allowing users to control different sprays in four quadrants.
The Bosch 800 Series builds upon the available cycles in the 500 Series, adding an Extra Dry feature that extends drying time for more comprehensive and efficient drying. With an impressively quiet operation at 42 dBA — equivalent to the serene atmosphere of a library — the 800 Series ensures minimal disruption during use.
The 800 Series comes equipped with a third rack called 'MyWay,' designed to hold smaller dishes and plates conveniently. One of the standout features of this series is CrystalDry, which utilizes Zeolite, a mineral acting as a drying agent, transforming moisture into heat. Zeolite's highly porous structure absorbs moisture from the air, generating heat as a result of a chemical reaction within its structure. This heat accelerates the drying process inside the dishwasher, leading to rapid evaporation of water droplets. The Bosch 800 Series dishwashers' pricing typically ranges between $1,350 to $1,500, reflecting the advanced technology and superior performance they offer.
BOSCH Benchmark Series
The Bosch Benchmark version stands as the pinnacle of Bosch dishwashers, offering unparalleled features and performance. Similar to the 800 Series, it boasts the advanced PowerControl spray arm and the Crystal Dry system, ensuring exceptional cleaning and drying capabilities. Additionally, the Benchmark Series incorporates AquaStop Leak Protection, an exclusive feature for these high-end models. AquaStop is a groundbreaking technology designed to detect leaks and prevent further damage effectively.
Now for dBA, the Bosch Benchmark dishwashers operate at an incredibly low 38 dBA, making them one of the quietest dishwashers on the market. To put it in perspective, their noise level can be likened to someone gently tapping their keyboard.
The Benchmark Series distinguishes itself with its smooth ball-bearing racks and a slightly larger third rack, providing added space for accommodating more dishes with ease. These features make the Benchmark Series a top choice for those seeking unparalleled quietness, efficiency, and convenience in a dishwasher.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the choice of a Bosch dishwasher boils down to your specific requirements and preferences. Your decision should align with your unique needs. The 100 Series offers great value, but it's worth noting that they may not match the overall build and quality of the standard Bosch models. Moving up to the 300 Series, you get the real, genuine, Bosch experience with stainless steel construction and improved racks, even though they might not be as quiet.
For those prioritizing quiet operation and superior drying, the 500 Series is an excellent option. Stepping up even further, the 800 Series and Benchmark models outshine others in washing, drying efficiency, and noise reduction. Ultimately, the best Bosch dishwasher for you depends on what you prioritize: value, durability, quietness, or superior performance. Consider your preferences and needs carefully before making a decision.
