Customers have been asking how newer appliance brands like LG compare to some of the longtime industry leaders like KitchenAid. LG is one of the fastest-growing brands in the appliance industry, offering top-quality products and innovative features. KitchenAid is a top brand name and has a reputation for offering the highest-quality appliances to the consumer. Their high-end dishwashers are very different in design and styling, and each offer some unique features. Be sure to include these brands when when shopping for a new dishwasher - you might discover some unique features in either brand that you will like.
Maybe you're interested in the KitchenAid KDTM604KPS, a new model for 2020, but are curious about what LG has to offer, in particular the LG inverter direct drive dishwasher feature. We'll compare an LG model at a similar price point to the rockstar KitchenAid KDTM604KPS to help you decide!
The LG LDP6810SS - 44 dB - $999
First up is the LG LDP6810SS, available for $999 in PrintProof stainless steel finish and $1,049 in black stainless steel. With hidden top controls and a modern pocket handle, this dishwasher will look great in any kitchen. The hybrid condensing drying system is a form of fan-assisted drying to get better results than condensation drying alone.
You get what you pay for, and quieter operation is one of the things you get with higher-end dishwashers: this LG model operates at just 44 decibels, almost whisper-quiet (read more about dishwasher decibels here). This is mainly thanks to the inverter direct drive motor, which can operate at variable speeds to reduce noise, and the advanced self-cleaning filtration system.
QuadWash with three Multi-Motion spray arms provide jets of water from multiple angles to thoroughly clean your dishes. The EasyRack Plus system offers a height-adjustable upper rack on ball-bearing glides and height-adjustable third rack as well. LG's Smart ThinQ technology can send you smartphone notifications when a cycle is complete and lets you check on the cycle status with voice commands using Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Besides being among the quietest dishwashers in its class, it has an industry-leading warranty, too. The inverter direct drive motor comes with a 10-year warranty, while the stainless steel door liner and tub have a lifetime warranty. The control board and rack parts have a 5-year limited warranty. You can read more about LG's full dishwasher lineup here.
Features:
10 Cycles: Auto, Heavy, Delicate, Refresh, Normal, Turbo, Download Cycle, Machine Clean, Rinse, Express
9 Options: Dual Zone, Half Load, Energy Saver, Steam, High Temp, Extra Dry, Delay Start, Control Lock, Night Dry
LG Smart ThinQ technology
Hybrid Condensing Drying System
Industry-leading warranty
QuadWash Technology
The KitchenAid KDTM604KPS - 44 dB - $1,199
Next up: KitchenAid. Now a Whirlpool brand, KitchenAid offers high-end appliances. The KitchenAid KDTM604KPS, at a price point of $1,199 in PrintShield stainless steel and $1,299 in black stainless steel, is a new product for 2020 with a lot to offer. Unlike the LG model, it has a commercial-style bar handle, and both models have the hidden top controls that help your dishwasher merge seamlessly with your kitchen.
This model comes with KitchenAid's new FreeFlex third rack, claiming to be the largest third rack available. It offers room for 6" glasses, mugs, and bowls as well as dedicated wash jets and a drying bar to help pull moisture off of glasses. The Satin Glide Max ball bearing rails on the third rack and middle rack pull out smoothly and easily, especially with larger, heavier loads. The middle rack is height adjustable and has stemware holders and fold down tines for easy loading. The bottom rack has adjustable tines, so you can adjust for larger or taller items.
It has a low 44-decibel rating, the same as the LG model. With five wash cycles, including Express Wash, and six options, including Sani Rinse, you can customize each wash to get a sparkling clean every time. The Sani Rinse option provides a final heated rinse at 155 degrees to eliminate 99.999% of food soil bacteria. If you have baby bottles to wash or want to make sure all traces of raw meat are removed from your cutting boards, this option is great for peace of mind!
See KitchenAid's wash action from the inside - Watch our video!
Try out the fan-enabled ProDry system if you hate having to towel off drippy dishes and tupperware. Or use Express Wash for an ASAP clean! These, and many other features, make this product another great choice for your home! After one year of parts and labor, the warranty covers five years parts on the nylon racks and electronic controls and a lifetime warranty on the stainless steel tub and inner door liner.
Features:
5 Cycles: ProWash, Tough, Normal, Express Wash, Rinse Only
6 Options: 1-24 Hour Delay, ProDry, Extended ProDry, Top 2 Racks Only, Hi-Temp Wash, Sani Rinse
Fan-enabled ProDry System
Third level FreeFlex rack
Glide rails on the upper rack and third rack
Industry-leading warranty
KitchenAid KDTM604KPS - $1,199
Features Comparison
Wash Cycles & Options: Both offer similar cycle choices. LG offers fan-assisted drying. KitchenAid offers both fan-assisted dry and heat dry. Both have adjustable racks and third-level racks.
Look & Feel: The KitchenAid model offers an industrial-inspired bar handle, and both are available in the unique black stainless steel finish. The stainless steel models are both fingerprint-resistant as well, and both feature glide rails on the upper rack. KitchenAid also places glides on the third rack.
Smart Appliances: The LG model's connectivity is a good choice for busy households.
Warranty Coverage: Only the LG model comes with a 10-year limited warranty on the motor. Both offer lifetime warranties on the door liner and tub and 5-year warranties on the nylon racks and electronic controls, plus one year parts and labor.
Both of these dishwashers are excellent, well featured appliances for your home. It will be up to you to determine which model offers the performance and features you need. If you're looking for more cycles and options plus smart connectivity, you may prefer the LG dishwasher. If you want to boost capacity, the KitchenAid dishwasher may be the winner. You can explore our picks for the best dishwashers of the year if you want more options.
Is the KitchenAid the clear winner in your mind, or did the LG model surprise you? Please leave us a comment below. We'd love to hear from you!
Editor's Note: This blog was originally published in January of 2015 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy as of the publication date noted above.