Sharp or EdgeStar? Dishwashers Compared in 2026
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When comparing a sharp vs EdgeStar dishwasher, you face two distinct size categories. Both units offer stainless steel exteriors and operate at 52 dB for quiet performance. The primary difference lies in their footprint and capacity. Sharp provides a full-size 24-inch model for larger households, while EdgeStar offers an 18-inch compact unit ideal for smaller spaces or replacements. You must choose based on your kitchen dimensions and load requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | Sharp 24-Inch Hybrid Tub Dishwasher | EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 23.6 inches | 17.6 inches |
| Installation Type | Not listed | Built-In |
| Capacity | 12 place settings | 8 place settings |
| Wash Cycles | 5 cycles | 6 cycles |
| Tub Material | Hybrid (stainless steel interior, plastic floor) | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Sharp 24-Inch Hybrid Tub Dishwasher if
- You need to wash 12 place settings regularly
- Your kitchen opening is 24 inches wide
- You prefer a hybrid tub construction for durability
Choose EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher if
- You have an 18-inch opening or are replacing a trash compactor
- You want specific cycles like Sanitize and Glass
- You need a leakage sensor for added safety
Verdict: Choose the Sharp model if you require higher capacity and have a standard 24-inch kitchen space. Select the EdgeStar unit if you are constrained by a narrower 18-inch opening or need specialized wash options like Sanitize. Both deliver quiet operation, so your decision rests on physical fit and load size.
Sharp vs EdgeStar Dishwasher Specs
Installation type
The Sharp SDW6504MS is designed as a 24-inch unit, fitting standard full-size kitchen layouts. Its width of 23.6 inches allows it to serve as a primary dishwasher for larger homes. In contrast, the EdgeStar BIDW1802SS is an 18-inch built-in model. It measures 17.6 inches wide, making it ideal for smaller spaces or replacements for older appliances like trash compactors. You must choose based on your cabinet dimensions. The Sharp suits standard kitchens, while the EdgeStar targets tighter footprints or secondary locations.
Capacity
Capacity determines how many dishes you can wash at once. The Sharp model accommodates 12 place settings. This higher capacity supports larger families or heavy meal prep. The EdgeStar unit holds only 8 place settings. It includes a silverware basket and cup tray to maximize its smaller interior. If you frequently host dinner parties or have a large household, the Sharp offers more volume. For couples or small apartments, the EdgeStar capacity may suffice without requiring frequent loading.
Wash cycles
Both brands offer multiple cleaning programs to handle different soil levels. The Sharp provides 5 distinct wash cycles. It also features a Half Load Option to save water and energy for smaller loads. The EdgeStar offers 6 wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse. It adds three specific options: Sanitize, Hi Temp, and Heated Dry. The EdgeStar provides slightly more cycle variety and specialized sanitization features. The Sharp focuses on efficiency with its half-load capability.
Build quality
The interior construction affects durability and drying performance. The Sharp features a hybrid tub. It combines a stainless steel interior with a heavy-duty plastic floor. This design aims for durability while managing costs. The EdgeStar model lists stainless steel exteriors but does not explicitly detail the interior tub material in the provided data. Both units feature stainless steel finishes on the outside. The Sharp’s hybrid construction is a specific selling point for those wanting stainless contact with dishes. You should verify the EdgeStar interior if that is a priority.
Noise level
Noise impact is critical for open-concept living spaces. Both the Sharp SDW6504MS and the EdgeStar BIDW1802SS operate at 52 dB. This level is considered quiet for dishwashers. The Sharp uses Library Quiet technology to achieve this. The EdgeStar also highlights quiet 52 dB operation. There is no difference in the published noise specifications. You will experience similar acoustic performance from either unit. This tie ensures that neither appliance will be significantly louder than the other during the wash cycle.
Safety features
Water damage protection is an important safety consideration. The EdgeStar includes a leakage sensor that automatically shuts off water flow when a leak is detected. This feature helps protect your home from potential water damage. The Sharp product data does not mention a leakage sensor or similar automatic shutoff mechanism. If you are concerned about leaks, especially in an 18-inch unit that might replace a trash compactor, the EdgeStar offers a specific safety advantage. The Sharp relies on standard operation without this specific automated safeguard listed.
Which Dishwasher Fits Your Kitchen?
Large family needing full-size capacity
The Sharp SDW6504MS accommodates 12 place settings, making it ideal for larger households. Its 24-inch width fits standard kitchens. The hybrid tub combines stainless steel durability with a plastic floor. You get five wash cycles and a half-load option to save water. Adjustable upper racks help fit taller dishes efficiently.
Small kitchen or apartment dweller
The EdgeStar BIDW1802SS is an 18-inch unit, perfect for tight spaces. It fits 8 place settings, suitable for smaller households. At 17.75 inches wide, it replaces older appliances like trash compactors easily. It includes six wash cycles and a leak sensor to protect your home from water damage during operation.
User prioritizing flexible loading options
Sharp offers fold-down tines and a 2-inch height adjustment on the upper rack. This allows flexible loading for various dish sizes. The 12-place-setting capacity handles more dishes at once. You also benefit from a half-load option for smaller loads. The hybrid construction ensures durability while maintaining a quiet 52 dB operation level.
The products compared
Sharp 24-Inch Hybrid Tub Dishwasher
Best for: quiet operation and flexible loading
- Width
- 23.6 inches
- Capacity
- 12 place settings
- Noise Level
- 52 dB
- Wash Cycles
- 5 cycles
- Tub Material
- Hybrid
- Features
- Heated Drying
View on Amazon: Sharp 24-Inch Hybrid Tub Dishwasher Affiliate link
The Sharp SDW6504MS is a 24-inch dishwasher with a hybrid tub and stainless steel finish. It holds 12 place settings and runs at 52 dBA. You get five wash cycles and a half-load option to save water. The upper rack adjusts 2 inches for tall items. This model suits households needing flexible loading and quiet operation in open spaces.
Pros
- 52 dBA noise level for quiet operation
- 12 place setting capacity with fold-down tines
- Upper rack adjusts 2 inches for tall dishes
- Half-load option reduces water and energy use
Cons
- Hybrid tub construction uses plastic on the floor
- Only five wash cycles available
- No app control or smart features listed
Good fit if
- You need quiet operation in an open-concept home
- You require adjustable rack height for tall dishes
- You want a half-load option for smaller loads
Skip if
- You prefer a fully stainless steel interior
- You need more than five wash cycles
- You require smart home integration
Verdict: Sharp SDW6504MS 24-Inch Dishwasher fits users who prioritize quiet performance and flexible loading over a fully stainless interior.
EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
Best for: Replacing trash compactors in tight spaces
- Installation Type
- Built-In
- Width
- 18 in
- Capacity
- 8 place settings
- Noise Level
- 52 dB
- Wash Cycles
- 6 cycles
- Color
- Stainless Steel
View on Amazon: EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher Affiliate link
This EdgeStar model is an 18-inch built-in dishwasher designed for tighter spaces. It holds eight place settings and operates at 52 dB. You get six wash cycles and three options, including sanitize. The unit includes a leakage sensor for safety. It fits well if you are replacing a trash compactor or need a slim fit.
Pros
- 18-inch width fits narrow cabinets
- 8 place setting capacity
- 52 dB noise level
- 6 wash cycles and 3 options
- Leakage sensor with auto shut-off
Cons
- Narrow 18-inch width limits capacity
- Built-in installation requires cabinetry
- No smart features or app control listed
Good fit if
- You need an 18-inch dishwasher
- You are replacing a trash compactor
- You want quiet 52 dB operation
Skip if
- You need a full 24-inch width
- You want portable or countertop use
- You require smart home connectivity
Verdict: EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher suits those replacing compact appliances. It offers quiet operation and safety features for tight spaces.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sharp 24-Inch Hybrid Tub Dishwasher | EdgeStar 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Type | not stated | Built-In |
| Width | 23.6 inches | 18 in |
| Capacity | 12 place settings | 8 place settings |
| Noise Level | 52 dB | 52 dB |
| Wash Cycles | 5 cycles | 6 cycles |
| Tub Material | Hybrid | not stated |
| Features | Heated Drying | not stated |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions | 22.8 × 23.6 × 34.5 inches | 17.6 × 22.4 × 32.5 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 62.8 pounds |
| Size | 52 dBA | not stated |
| Model | SDW6504MS | BIDW1802SS |
Frequently asked questions
Is Sharp or EdgeStar better for quiet operation?
Both brands offer models that operate at 52 dBA. This noise level is comparable to a quiet library. You will not hear either machine running during a conversation. The Sharp SDW6504MS and EdgeStar BIDW1802SS both prioritize low decibel performance. This makes either choice suitable for open-plan living areas or nighttime use.
Which dishwasher fits a standard 24-inch cabinet space?
The Sharp SDW6504MS is the correct fit. It is a 24-inch unit with a width of 23.6 inches. This allows it to slide into standard kitchen layouts designed for full-size appliances. The EdgeStar model is only 18 inches wide and will not fill a 24-inch opening properly.
Does the Sharp dishwasher have heated drying?
Yes, the Sharp SDW6504MS includes heated drying. This feature helps evaporate moisture from dishes after the wash cycle ends. It ensures your plates and glasses are dry and ready for storage. This is a standard feature on this specific Sharp model.
Can the EdgeStar dishwasher replace a trash compactor?
Yes, the EdgeStar BIDW1802SS is designed for this purpose. It is an 18-inch built-in unit that fits in tight spaces. Its compact footprint allows it to occupy the same slot as many trash compactors. This makes it a practical replacement for older small appliances.
How many wash cycles does the Sharp model offer?
The Sharp SDW6504MS provides five distinct wash cycles. This gives you options for different load types and soil levels. You can select a specific program based on how dirty your dishes are. The EdgeStar model details do not specify the exact number of cycles available.
What is the weight of the EdgeStar dishwasher?
The EdgeStar BIDW1802SS weighs 62.8 pounds. This weight helps keep the unit stable during operation. It is important to ensure your cabinetry can support this load. The Sharp model weight is not provided in the specifications.
Are both dishwashers stainless steel?
Yes, both units feature stainless steel exteriors. The Sharp SDW6504MS has a stainless steel finish. The EdgeStar BIDW1802SS also comes in stainless steel. This material is durable and resistant to fingerprints. It helps both appliances blend into modern kitchen designs.