Who are these formats for?

Couples short on floor space

If you don’t have room for an under-counter appliance but do have space on your worktop, compare compact countertop models. You’ll also need a suitable position for the water supply and drainage.

Small households that cook often

If dishes and utensils pile up between washes, consider 45 cm models. Their stated capacity may exceed that of a compact model, as long as you have enough height and depth for one.

People with a fitted kitchen

If you want the appliance front to sit flush with your kitchen units, consider a slimline integrated model. Measure the housing unit and check that the door front can be fitted before choosing a model.

How do the different formats compare?

Compact countertop

Consider it if: you have a small amount of washing up and a suitable spot on your worktop.

Bear in mind: it has a smaller capacity and takes up worktop space. You’ll still need to check the drainage requirements.

45 cm freestanding

Consider it if: you have more everyday dishes to wash and space for an under-counter or freestanding appliance.

Bear in mind: a narrower width doesn’t guarantee a shallower or shorter appliance.

Slimline integrated

Consider it if: you have a fitted kitchen housing unit and want to conceal the appliance behind a door front.

Bear in mind: your choice also depends on your kitchen units and the door fixing system.

Factor What to check before buying What matters to shoppers
Connections Compare the instructions with your available water supply, drainage and socket, and allow room for the hoses. If I can’t connect the appliance where I want it, its size won’t solve the problem. Around 36% of shoppers would put installation feasibility first.
Capacity in a 45 cm model Compare the stated place setting capacity with the dishes and pans you usually use, and measure the height and depth too. When I cook for two often, I want to make sure there’s room for everyday dishes; nearly 29% of shoppers would prioritise capacity.
Fit with your kitchen units Check the usable dimensions of the housing unit and that the door front is compatible with the door system. In a fitted kitchen, I want a matching door front without choosing an appliance that won’t fit the housing unit. Around 21% of shoppers would put this first.
Floor space For a compact model, measure the stable worktop space available and check that its capacity suits your dishes. If there’s no suitable under-counter space, I’d rather make room for the appliance on the worktop and wash smaller loads; around 14% of shoppers would prioritise floor space.

Mistakes to avoid before installation

  • Assuming a compact model needs no preparation

    Its small size doesn’t remove the need for a water supply and drainage. According to Electro Dépôt’s guide, the connections for a compact model may differ from those for a standard dishwasher.

    Locate the water supply, waste trap and socket, then check them against the installation instructions for your chosen model.

    You may need to adapt the water supply or drainage connections for installation.

  • Measuring only the 45 cm width

    A slimline dishwasher may still be deep and tall. The door or hoses could get in the way, even if the width is right.

    Measure the width, height and depth, allow for the hoses and door opening, then check the diagram for the exact model.

  • Confusing integrated and freestanding models

    An integrated dishwasher is designed for a compatible housing unit and door front. Width alone won’t tell you whether it will fit your existing kitchen units.

    Check the fitting diagram, door-front installation and access to the connections before choosing this format.

    Depending on your kitchen, installation may require fixing parts or modifications to your units.

Brands to consider for each format

Bosch

Bosch offers compact countertop models, 45 cm freestanding models and integrated dishwashers, giving you several installation options to compare across its range.

  • The brand says its freestanding dishwashers are available in widths including 45 and 60 cm.
  • Don’t assume the dimensions or features of one Bosch model apply to another; measure the space for the model you choose.

Beko

The range includes 45 cm freestanding models to consider if capacity matters but space is limited.

  • Beko states that the DVS05024X has a capacity of 10 place settings and a half-load option.
  • The stated 49 dB(A) applies to the DVS05024X, not to all Beko appliances.

Electrolux

Electrolux offers both a slimline freestanding model and a compact integrated model to consider.

  • Electrolux describes the ESG42310SW as a 45 cm freestanding model with 9 place settings.
  • Its ESL2500RO compact integrated model is stated to be 55 cm wide and to hold 6 place settings, so “compact” doesn’t necessarily mean “45 cm”.

Candy

Candy offers slimline freestanding and fully integrated models for kitchens with an established layout.

  • Candy states that its fully integrated CI0C7SB0FA has a capacity of 10 place settings and measures 448 × 559 × 816 mm.
  • Check the dimensions of the housing unit and the required door front; these specifications apply to this specific model.

Compact countertop models on Joybuy

These countertop models are suited to small kitchens where you can make room on the worktop. Check that their capacity and water supply options match your everyday dishes and the position of your drain.

AIRMSEN compact countertop dishwasher with 5 L tank

AIRMSEN, compact countertop dishwasher with 5 L tank

Worth considering if you want a small dishwasher on your worktop, provided you have a suitable space and a way to drain the water.

  • Stated to have a built-in 5 L tank and 5 + 1 wash cycles.
  • You’ll still need to arrange wastewater drainage when using the tank.
  • Check the voltage on the rating plate and make sure it’s compatible with your electrical installation.
View on Joybuy
White Comfee' CDWMTO201D(W) countertop dishwasher

Comfee' CDWMTO201D(W), white countertop dishwasher

Consider this model if a countertop appliance suits your space. First, compare its capacity with the dishes and utensils you usually use.

  • Stated to have a built-in 5 L tank, 6 + 3 programmes and energy rating D.
  • If you choose to connect it to a tap, check that your tap is compatible; a tap adaptor is not listed as included.
  • The instructions specify a 220–240 V earthed supply and prohibit the use of extension leads.
View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a compact countertop dishwasher mean you can skip checking the plumbing?

No. Even if it has a water tank, wastewater still needs to drain away. Check the model’s instructions for the connections required, the route for the drain hose and the electrical supply requirements.

Is a 45 cm dishwasher always suitable for two people?

Not necessarily: its capacity needs to suit the amount of washing up you generate. Beko states that the DVS05024X holds 10 place settings, while the Electrolux ESG42310SW holds 9. Also consider how much room your pans and dishes take up.

What should you measure before fitting a 45 cm model under the worktop?

Measure the available width, height and depth, as well as the space needed for the door and hoses. Dimensions and installation options vary between models, so compare your measurements with the installation diagram for the one you’re considering.

Can you replace a slimline freestanding model with a slimline integrated one?

Only if the housing unit, door front and door system are suitable for the integrated model you’ve chosen. Two appliances of a similar width won’t necessarily fit in the same way, so check the fitting diagram and access to the connections.