Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher vs Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher: Spec Comparison
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Choosing between a midea 18 inch built in dishwasher vs countertop dishwasher depends on your kitchen layout and dish volume. Both models offer six wash cycles and Energy Star efficiency. The key difference is installation and capacity. The countertop unit sits on your counter for portable use. The built-in model fits under a counter for permanent installation. You also get more place settings with the built-in version. This affects how many people you can serve at once.
Key differences
| Aspect | Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher | Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Type | Countertop, Portable | Built-In |
| Capacity | 6 Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Width | 22 inches | 17.6 inches |
| Height | 17.3 inches | 32.4 inches |
| Tub Material | not listed | Stainless Steel |
| Noise Level | 52 dB | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher if
- You need a portable unit for a dorm, RV, or apartment.
- You have limited counter space but cannot install a built-in model.
- You prefer a lower noise level of 52 dB.
Choose Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher if
- You want a permanent installation under your kitchen counter.
- You need to wash eight place settings for larger families.
- You prefer a stainless steel tub for durability.
Verdict: The countertop dishwasher suits renters or those with limited space who need portability. The built-in model is better for permanent kitchens requiring higher capacity and a stainless steel tub. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize flexibility or volume.
Countertop vs Built-In Midea Specs
Installation type
Product A is a portable countertop unit that connects directly to your faucet using an adaptor. You place it on a counter or in a cupboard. This setup requires no permanent plumbing changes, making it ideal for renters or spaces without dedicated under-sink plumbing. Product B is a built-in model designed to fit under a counter. It requires permanent installation into cabinetry. This means you need access to water lines and drainage. If you cannot drill holes or modify your kitchen layout, Product A is the only viable option. Product B offers a cleaner look but demands professional or skilled DIY installation.
Capacity
Product A holds six place settings, which fits up to 70 pieces of tableware for two to three people. It accommodates plates up to 10 inches in diameter. Product B holds eight place settings. It features a slimline design with adjustable legs and can handle larger items, including pots and pans up to 11 inches in height. The extra two place settings and larger vertical clearance in Product B make it better for families or entertaining. Product A is sufficient for small households or occasional use. If you wash large cookware often, Product B provides more flexibility.
Dimensions
Product A measures 17.25 inches high, 22 inches wide, and 20 inches deep. It weighs 25.3 pounds. Its compact footprint allows it to sit on standard countertops without taking up excessive workspace. Product B is significantly larger, measuring 32.4 inches high, 17.6 inches wide, and 22.6 inches deep. It weighs 54.6 pounds. Product B is designed to fit into a standard 18-inch cabinet cutout. Product A is freestanding and mobile. Product B is fixed in place. If counter space is limited, Product A is easier to manage. If you have a dedicated cabinet space, Product B fits there.
Wash cycles
Both models offer six wash cycles. Product A includes Auto, Heavy, Normal, Quick, Rinse, and Delicate. It also adds Extended Dry and Power Wash functions. Note that Power Wash cannot be used with Auto, Rapid, or MachineCare+ cycles. Product B offers Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse programs. It adds Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions. Product B’s Hi-Temp cycle reaches 136°F for hygiene cleaning, which is useful for baby bottles. Product A’s Power Wash targets heavily soiled items. Both provide versatile options, but Product B includes a dedicated Sanitize function for higher hygiene standards.
Noise level
Product A operates at 52 dB. This low noise level is suitable for open-plan living areas or small apartments where sound travels easily. You can run it while cooking or chatting without significant disruption. Product B does not list a specific decibel rating in the provided data. Built-in dishwashers are often quieter due to insulation, but without a spec, we cannot confirm this. Product A’s 52 dB rating is a clear advantage for noise-sensitive environments. If you need to know the exact noise level of Product B, you would need to check other sources. For now, Product A offers verified quiet operation.
Tub material
Product B features a stainless steel tub. This material is durable, resistant to rust and corrosion, and helps with drying performance by retaining heat. It is generally easier to clean and maintain over time. Product A is a countertop unit with a tank design that allows for easy water addition. The specific tub material for Product A is not listed in the data. Stainless steel tubs are common in higher-end or built-in models for longevity. If durability and heat retention are priorities, Product B has the advantage. Product A’s tank design is functional for its portable nature but may differ in long-term maintenance.
Which Midea dishwasher fits your needs
Renter or small kitchen user
This portable unit sits on your counter and connects to the faucet. It requires no permanent installation or cabinetry changes. The 6-place setting capacity suits 2-3 people. You get Energy Star efficiency with low water usage. The 52 dB noise level keeps your kitchen quiet during cycles.
Family needing larger capacity
The built-in model holds 8 place settings, accommodating more dishes. It features a stainless steel tub for durability. The 18-inch width fits standard under-counter spaces. You get six wash programs plus heated dry and sanitize functions. This setup handles heavier loads and larger pots for daily family meals.
User wanting high-temp cleaning
This built-in dishwasher includes a Hi-Temp cycle that reaches 136°F. This temperature effectively tackles heavy soil and sanitizes baby bottles. The stainless steel tub retains heat better for drying. You also get a Sanitize function for hygienic cleaning. The 8-place setting capacity ensures you can run large loads efficiently.
The products compared
Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher
Best for: small households and rental spaces
- Installation Type
- Countertop
- Width
- 22 inches
- Capacity
- 6 place settings
- Noise Level
- 52 dB
- Wash Cycles
- 6
- Target Space
- Apartments, RVs
View on Amazon: Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher Affiliate link
This Midea countertop unit offers 6 place settings for two to three people. It measures 22 inches wide and 17.25 inches high. The 52 dB noise level is quiet for a portable model. It uses only 2.77 gallons of water per cycle. The Energy Star certification confirms efficiency. It suits dorms, RVs, and small apartments where space is tight.
Pros
- Compact 22-inch width fits small counters
- Quiet 52 dB operation
- Energy Star certified with low water use
- 6 wash cycles plus delay start
Cons
- Smaller 6-place-setting capacity than built-in models
- Requires faucet adapter for installation
- Power Wash function incompatible with Auto and Rapid cycles
Good fit if
- You live in a dorm, RV, or apartment
- You need a portable unit that sits on a counter
- You cook for two to three people
Skip if
- You need to wash more than 6 place settings
- You want a permanent built-in installation
- You prefer a larger capacity for families
Verdict: Midea Countertop Dishwasher, 6 Place Settings is a compact, quiet option for small households. It fits well in spaces where a full-size built-in unit cannot go. It is ideal for renters or those in temporary housing.
Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
Best for: under-sink spaces needing 8 place settings
- Installation Type
- Built-in
- Width
- 17.6 inches
- Capacity
- 8
- Wash Cycles
- 6
- Tub Material
- Stainless Steel
- Target Space
- Apartments, RVs
View on Amazon: Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher Affiliate link
This Midea 18-inch built-in dishwasher holds 8 place settings in a stainless steel tub. It measures 17.6 inches wide and 32.4 inches high. You get six wash programs and three extra functions like Sanitize. The heated dry feature works well for most cycles. This unit suits you if you need a slimline under-sink solution with a durable interior.
Pros
- 8 place setting capacity
- Stainless steel tub
- Six wash programs plus three functions
- Heated dry option
- Hi-Temp cycle reaches 136°F
Cons
- Built-in installation requires cabinetry modification
- Heated dry does not work on Rapid or Self-clean cycles
- Heavier build at 54.6 pounds
Good fit if
- You have a 17.6-inch wide under-sink space
- You prefer a stainless steel tub for durability
- You need a Sanitize function for baby items
Skip if
- You need a portable countertop unit
- You cannot modify your kitchen cabinetry
- You want a smaller 6-place setting capacity
Verdict: Midea 18-Inch Built-in Dishwasher fits you if you want a slim, high-capacity unit with a stainless steel tub and specialized wash cycles for heavy soil or hygiene.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher | Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Type | Countertop | Built-in |
| Width | 22 inches | 17.6 inches |
| Capacity | 6 place settings | 8 |
| Noise Level | 52 dB | not stated |
| Wash Cycles | 6 | 6 |
| Tub Material | not stated | Stainless Steel |
| Target Space | Apartments, RVs | Apartments, RVs |
| Features | Energy Star, Quiet | Stainless Steel Tub, Heated Drying, Energy Star, Quiet |
| Color | Silver | Black |
| Dimensions | 20 × 22 × 17.3 inches | 22.6 × 17.6 × 32.4 inches |
| Weight | 25.3 pounds | 54.6 pounds |
| Model | MDC22P2ASS | MDF18A1ABB |
| Size | not stated | Energy Star |
Frequently asked questions
Which Midea dishwasher has a larger capacity?
The Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher holds more dishes. It accommodates 8 place settings, whereas the countertop model fits 6. If you cook for a larger family or entertain guests often, the built-in unit provides the extra space you need for full loads without running multiple cycles.
Is the countertop dishwasher quiet during operation?
Yes, the Midea Countertop Dishwasher is designed to be quiet. It is described as a compact and quiet option for small households. This low noise level makes it suitable for open-plan kitchens or rental spaces where loud appliances might disturb your daily routine or neighbors.
Does the built-in model have a stainless steel tub?
Yes, the Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher includes a stainless steel tub. This material helps with durability and heat retention during wash cycles. It supports specialized wash cycles for heavy soil and hygiene, ensuring your dishes are cleaned thoroughly while maintaining the integrity of the interior surface.
Which unit is better for renters?
The Midea 6-Place Setting Countertop Dishwasher is ideal for renters. It is portable and connects directly to your faucet without permanent plumbing changes. This setup requires no cabinetry modifications, making it perfect for temporary housing or spaces where you cannot install a fixed appliance.
What are the dimensions of the countertop model?
The Midea Countertop Dishwasher measures 22 inches in width, 17.3 inches in height, and 20 inches in length. It weighs 25.3 pounds. These compact dimensions allow it to fit on standard countertops or in cupboards, providing a space-saving solution for kitchens with limited square footage.
Does the built-in dishwasher fit under standard counters?
The Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher is 32.4 inches high and 17.6 inches wide. It is designed to fit under-sink spaces or standard cabinetry openings. Its slim profile allows it to provide high capacity in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for smaller kitchens.
Are both dishwashers Energy Star certified?
Yes, both models are Energy Star certified. The countertop unit lists Energy Star as a key feature. The built-in model also carries this efficiency rating, indicating that both appliances are designed to use less energy and water compared to standard models, helping you save on utility costs.
What color options are available for these models?
The Midea Countertop Dishwasher comes in a silver finish. The Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher is available in black. These colors allow you to match the appliance to your existing kitchen decor, whether you prefer a metallic look or a sleek, dark contrast.

