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PRODUCT GUIDE

Bosch 300 vs 500 vs 800 dishwashers

Compare exact Bosch examples: the SHE53C85N, SHP65DM5N and SHP78CM5N differ in drying, rack details and wash features.

Mary Hauser’s illustrated avatarBy Mary HauserFounder & editor
Open dishwasher in a bright green-and-oak kitchen

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CHOOSE FOR YOUR ROUTINE

Products worth a closer look.

01Bosch SHE53C85NOur front-control choice

BoschSHE53C85N

02Bosch SHP65DM5NOur pick for most households

BoschSHP65DM5N

03Bosch SHP78CM5NOur drying upgrade

BoschSHP78CM5N

The short answer

Choose the SHE53C85N 300 Series when front controls and a simpler feature package suit you. Start with the SHP65DM5N 500 Series for AutoAir and the newer Zone Wash system. Move to the SHP78CM5N 800 Series when CrystalDry and its loading features justify the installed-price difference.

These are exact-model examples, not a promise that every dishwasher carrying the same series number is identical. Finish, handle, generation and market can change the specification.

Drying is the clearest distinction

The selected 300 uses PureDry. The selected 500 uses AutoAir, which opens the door during drying. The selected 800 uses CrystalDry. Think about your plastic-container load and whether automatic door opening works in the kitchen before choosing the middle tier by default.

If you normally unload long after the program ends, the value of an added drying system may differ from a household needing containers immediately. Keep loading and rinse-aid settings in the comparison; a premium feature does not replace the basic routine.

Check the racks and controls

The current SHP65DM5N has a standard third rack. Do not copy the flexible-third-rack description from the older SHP65CM5N. The SHP78CM5N specification lists a flexible third rack. Bring the dimensions of bowls and tall glasses to see which arrangement fits.

The SHE53C85N offers visible front controls. The pocket-handle models present a different control layout. Check local controls and app-only features separately if you prefer not to depend on Home Connect.

Our buying order

First confirm the opening and installed quote for all three. Next compare racks with your own dishes. Then decide what the drying upgrade is worth. Declared noise also differs—46, 44 and 42 dBA respectively for these examples—but sound alone should not override fit or local service.

The product assessments.

01Our front-control choice
Bosch SHE53C85N
Built-in46 dBA

Built-in

Bosch SHE53C85N

A straightforward Bosch option for shoppers who prefer a visible control panel.

The SHE53C85N suits shoppers who value accessible, visible controls over a concealed panel. We would shortlist it when its installed quote is meaningfully below the 500 Series.

PureDry is the drying system specified for this model. A seller’s generic Bosch description is not a reason to expect AutoAir or CrystalDry.

Why consider it

  • Visible front controls
  • Third rack
  • Stainless-steel tub

Consider before buying

  • No AutoAir or CrystalDry
  • 46 dBA rating is higher than the 500 and 800 picks
  • No built-in softener
Specifications, contents & buying checks
Width
23 9/16 in
Height
33 7/8 in minimum
Depth
23 3/4 in
Noise
46 dBA
Capacity
16 place settings
Drying
PureDry
Electrical
120 V / 60 Hz; 12 A appliance rating
Third rack
Yes

Contents & use

  • Three-prong cord, pre-connected drain hose and toe-kick.
  • Hardwire junction box sold separately.

Before you buy

  • Decide whether visible controls suit your kitchen.
  • Do not assume all 300 Series models have identical features.
  • Budget for the appropriate supply connection.
Buy on Amazon ↗Read the full assessment →
02Our pick for most households
Bosch SHP65DM5N
Built-in44 dBA

Built-in

Bosch SHP65DM5N

Our research-based starting point for a standard kitchen: AutoAir drying, a third rack and a focused Zone Wash area.

For a conventional 24-inch opening, the current Zone Wash 500 Series is our research-based starting recommendation. It combines an adjustable upper rack, a utensil tray and automatic door-opening drying.

AutoAir releases the door during drying. That makes its installation position worth considering in a narrow walkway or a home where a partly open door would be inconvenient.

Why consider it

  • Automatic drying-door release
  • Adjustable upper rack and separate utensil tray
  • Zone Wash focus area and Deep Clean cycle

Consider before buying

  • Some extra options require Home Connect
  • No integrated water softener
  • Door opens during AutoAir drying
Specifications, contents & buying checks
Width
23 9/16 in
Height
33 7/8 in minimum
Depth
23 3/4 in
Noise
44 dBA
Capacity
16 place settings
Drying
AutoAir
Electrical
120 V / 60 Hz; 12 A appliance rating
Third rack
Standard third rack

Contents & use

  • Power cord, pre-connected drain hose and toe-kick; cabinet protective guard shown in specification.
  • Water supply kit and hardwire junction box are optional extras.

Before you buy

  • Allow room for the automatic door opening.
  • Check cabinet moisture protection and the installation manual.
  • Compare the installed quote with the 800 Series before buying.
Buy on Amazon ↗Read the full assessment →
03Our drying upgrade
Bosch SHP78CM5N
Built-in42 dBA

Built-in

Bosch SHP78CM5N

Choose this 800 Series when drying features and adjustable loading justify the step up.

This is our upgrade recommendation for shoppers whose dishwasher contains a regular mix of plates, glass and plastic containers. The extra drying system is the meaningful distinction from the 500 Series.

Reviewed reports strong cleaning and drying from its tests of this exact model, while noting sensitive controls. Those are Reviewed’s findings, not tests performed by Rinse & Rack.

Why consider it

  • CrystalDry drying system
  • Targetable lower-rack wash zones
  • Adjustable loading

Consider before buying

  • Some functions are app-only
  • No built-in water softener
  • Installation extras can add cost
Specifications, contents & buying checks
Width
23 9/16 in
Height
33 7/8 in minimum
Depth
23 3/4 in
Noise
42 dBA
Capacity
16 place settings
Drying
CrystalDry
Electrical
120 V / 60 Hz; 12 A appliance rating
Third rack
Flexible third rack

Contents & use

  • Three-prong power cord, drain hose and toe-kick.
  • Supply hose and hardwire junction box are optional.

Before you buy

  • Compare the exact SHP model, not a different handle variant.
  • Check access to Home Connect if app-only options matter.
  • Ask for the complete installed price.
Buy on Amazon ↗Read the full assessment →

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