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Discover the difference between top Control vs. front control dishwashers
There are several elements to consider when deciding between a top control or front control dishwasher, including your preference and desired kitchen style. Keep reading to learn the differences between these dishwasher designs to help you make the best choice for your space and household.
Top control dishwashers
The design of a top control dishwasher hides the control panel on the top of the door, creating a more streamlined design. Since the control panel is not visible on the appliance’s exterior, these models deliver a contemporary look without sacrificing your dishwasher’s functionality.
Can a top control dishwasher operate with the door open?
With this configuration, you will select your cycle and push the start button with the door open. Then, once you close the door, the dishwasher will start. If you open the dishwasher, it will pause, and although this varies per model, you will likely have to cancel or restart the cycle after closing the door again.
Shop Whirlpool® Top Control Dishwashers
Whirlpool® Top Control Dishwashers can help you tackle everyday messes. Explore select top control dishwashers with a third rack designed for hard-to-fit utensils and a Triple Filtration Wash System that utilizes three different filters to catch food soils between wash stages.
Front control dishwashers
Front control dishwashers feature a control panel on the exterior of the dishwasher for easy access to its functionality. Dishwashers with this configuration often have handles tucked into the exterior, ensuring the appliance is flush with your cabinetry.
Do front control dishwashers protrude more than top control?
Top control dishwashers with an external handle bar typically stick out more than their front control counterparts. Some front control dishwashers feature a pocket handle, allowing the appliance to remain more flush with its surroundings.
Shop Whirlpool® Front Control Dishwashers
Whirlpool® Front Control Dishwashers help you clean up mealtime messes. Select front control dishwashers feature the Boost Cycle, like this one from Whirlpool brand, which provides extra effort for pesky messes, while an Extended Dry Option helps deliver optimal drying performance.
Top control vs. front control dishwashers: What’s the difference?
Aesthetics is the main difference between top and front control dishwashers. The hidden control panel gives top control dishwashers a contemporary, minimalist design, while front control dishwashers feature a more classic appearance. Some front control dishwashers have an external display of the time remaining in a wash cycle, while many top control dishwashers do not.
Check out this Whirlpool brand top control dishwasher with a cycle status indicator on the exterior.
Both types of dishwashers share many of the same features.For example, 1-hour wash cycles, heated dry options and soil sensors are available for most dishwashers in either design.
Additionally, both types of dishwashers offer similar installation processes.
Pros and cons of top control and front control dishwashers
Both dishwasher designs offer their advantages and disadvantages. To simplify your decision, consider the qualities of each option.
Pros of front control dishwashers
Easy access to controls when the door is closed
Most feature pocket handles to keep the appliance flush with cabinetry
Control panel is always in clear view
Options include large capacity models and compact sizes
Often less expensive than top control dishwashers
Cons of front control dishwashers
Buttons on the exterior control panel might be accidentally pushed
Buttons and controls may make the front seem busier and a bit less streamlined
Pros of top control dishwashers
Control panel is hidden from view, creating a sleek and seamless appearance
Tap touch control panel is generally easy to clean
Panel-ready options are available
Large capacity options are available
Pocket handle or towel bar handle options are available
Cons of top control dishwashers
Most do not feature an external cycle status display
Often the more expensive option
Features to look for when buying a dishwasher
Sure, configuration is important, but you also want to consider loading options, cleaning cycles, style, drying options and price when shopping for a dishwasher. Explore what to consider when purchasing a dishwasher with this dishwasher buying guide.
Size and capacity
Before shopping, determine how much space you’ll have for a new dishwasher. This can help determine what dimensions will best fit your kitchen’s layout. If space isn't an issue, you may want to consider a large capacity dishwasher to help wash more dirty dishes and cookware at once and run fewer loads.
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 provide more capacity, freeing up valuable space for larger dishes below. Select dishwashers even have adjustable racks to accommodate awkwardly-sized items.
Several accessibility features differ between models. Whirlpool brand offers a Spin&Load Rack, which has a 360° spinning design to help you easily load dishes. This lower-level rack easily installs into most Whirlpool® Dishwashers1 and keeps inclusivity top of mind.
Cleaning cycles
Drying options
Colour and finish
You may also want to treat your dishwasher’s colour and finish as an important decision. Most Whirlpool® Dishwashers are offered in traditional black, white or stainless steel, with recent additions of Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel and Print Resistant Black Stainless on select models. Options like these from Whirlpool brand have Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel or Print Resistant Black Stainless, delivering an easy-to-clean exterior.
Price
Dishwasher prices typically range from as low as $300 to over $900. Dishwashers with high-end features, like a 3rd rack for additional loading space or a fingerprint resistant finish, often cost more.
How to choose between a top control or front control dishwasher
Deciding between top control vs front control dishwashers should be based on your preferences. Top control dishwashers feature a streamlined, flush design, whereas front control dishwashers provide easy access to controls with the door closed and are typically more affordable.
Review this Whirlpool® Dishwasher Comparison Chart to help determine which dishwasher type might work best for you.
Explore Whirlpool® Dishwashers
Whether you opt for the minimalist design of top control or the classic look of front control, Whirlpool brand offers a variety of dishwashers that can fit your household needs.
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.
Explore more with Whirlpool brand
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