New Code Sent!
Top control vs. front control dishwashers: Which is best for you?
When it comes time to buy a new dishwasher, there are several factors that can help narrow down which model is right for your home. The most obvious is whether you choose a top control vs. front control dishwasher. The primary distinction between the two lies in their aesthetic and interface. Top control models offer a hidden panel for a sleek, minimalist look, while front control models provide a classic feel with easy access to cycle buttons. While top control units favor a seamless appearance, front control units often prioritize utility by keeping the time-remaining display visible at a glance.
Learn more about the specific differences between these dishwasher styles to find the right fit for your kitchen.
What is the difference between top control and front control dishwashers?
The main difference between top and front control dishwashers is the location of the appliance’s control panel, which affects both the design and how you access features. Top control dishwashers (also known as fully integrated dishwashers) hide the panel from view to create a modern and seamless appearance. In contrast, front control dishwashers offer a classic, timeless design with the control panel in clear view on the exterior of the door.
Despite these aesthetic differences, both designs share a majority of features, often including 1-hour wash cycles, soil sensors and heated dry options. Additionally, both types share a similar installation process.
Comparison: Top Control vs. Front Control
| Feature | Front Control Dishwashers | Top Control Dishwashers |
|---|---|---|
| Control Location | Exterior of the door; always in clear view | Top of the door; hidden when closed |
| Aesthetics | Classic and traditional appearance | Modern, minimalist and seamless |
| Ease of Use | Easy access to controls with the door closed | Controls are accessed by opening the door |
| Cycle Visibility | Often includes a clear external display of time remaining | Most do not have a detailed external display |
| Price Point | Typically more affordable options | Generally more expensive options |
| Handle Styles | Most have pocket handles to keep the appliance flush | Options include pocket handles or towel bar handles |
What is a top control dishwasher?
Top control dishwashers, sometimes referred to as “hidden control” or “integrated control” dishwashers, are designed with the buttons and settings on the top edge of the dishwasher door. Because this panel is tucked away, it is completely concealed from view when the door is closed, leaving the front of the appliance smooth and unobstructed.
Someone might choose this style if they are looking for a modern look. The minimalist and sleek design allows the dishwasher to blend into modern kitchen cabinetry for a more "integrated" feel. Beyond the look, the hidden control panel features a flat surface that is easy to clean, as there are no protruding buttons on the face of the appliance to catch dust or spills.
While these models offer a high-end aesthetic, in general, the dishwasher door must be opened to access the control panel to start a cycle or change settings.
Top control dishwasher: Pros
A top control dishwasher offers a variety of benefits for both the look and functionality of your kitchen:
The minimalist design is modern and sleek, making your kitchen feel current and on-trend with a seamless appearance.
The hidden control panel’s flat, tap-touch surface is smooth and easy to clean.
Because controls are hidden, there is less opportunity to accidentally hit buttons while working in the kitchen.
Panel-ready options are available to match your cabinetry, along with pocket handle or towel bar handle options to suit your style preference.
On select models, the external towel bar handle can be used as a hanging rack for dish towels.
They often come with various features and capacities to suit your needs.
Top control dishwasher: Cons
While they offer a high-end look, there are a few aspects to consider with integrated control models:
You must open the door to access or adjust cycle controls. Because models vary, opening the door will pause the dishwasher, and you will likely have to cancel or restart the cycle when you close it again.
Top control dishwashers generally have a higher price point than front control models.
Most models do not have a detailed time-remaining display on the door’s exterior. While some have an external status indicator light, the full display is usually hidden on the top of the door.
If an external towel bar handle is present, it will stick out from the surrounding cabinetry. (Note: Pocket handle models are available if you prefer the unit to stay flush with your cabinets).
Explore top control dishwashers from KitchenAid brand
KitchenAid® dishwasher features like the 360º Max Jets™ Third Rack, Advanced Clean Water Wash System and Fan-Enabled ProDry™ System are available in both front and top control dishwashers. Select models, like this one from KitchenAid brand, also come with a Panel-Ready Design that allows you to install a custom front panel and handle (not included) over the dishwasher door to create a seamless look with kitchen cabinetry.
What is a front control dishwasher?
A front control dishwasher features a control panel on the exterior of the door for easy access to cycle selection. These models typically have pocket handles tucked into the surface, allowing the appliance to remain flush with your cabinetry.
Front control dishwasher: Pros
Front control dishwashers offer more than just visibility; they are designed for utility and easy integration into a variety of kitchen layouts. Key benefits include:
The controls are accessible without opening the door, allowing you to select settings or start a cycle quickly.
The exterior control panel is always in clear view, making it easy to monitor cycle progress or time remaining at a glance.
Most models feature pocket handles that tuck into the door, keeping the appliance flush with your cabinetry and out of the kitchen walkway.
These dishwashers feature a classic design that fits well in most traditional kitchen environments.
They are typically available in both large capacity and compact size options to suit your specific household needs.
These models are typically more affordable than top control dishwashers, making them a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Front control dishwasher: Cons
While functional and accessible, there are a few design and usability aspects to consider:
The external control buttons may be more likely to be pressed unintentionally while you are working in the kitchen.
The front control panel is visible at all times, so the dishwasher can appear less minimal and seamless in its design compared with hidden-control models.
Explore front control dishwashers from KitchenAid brand
In most KitchenAid® models, front control dishwashers have a pocket handle on the door, keeping the dishwasher flush with your cabinets. Select models, such as this one from KitchenAid brand, feature 40+ Total Wash Jets that provide complete cleaning coverage for dishes across all three racks, eliminating the need for pre-rinsing. With a KitchenAid® dishwasher, cleanup after creativity can be simple, without sacrificing aesthetics.
Dishwasher FAQs
Choosing the right dishwasher for your kitchen involves considering style, functionality and how you interact with your appliances every day. To help you make your decision, explore answers to some common questions regarding installation, operation and design.
Do top control dishwashers stick out from under the counter?
In some top control models, the dishwasher has a handle that sticks out from the dishwasher door, rather than a pocket handle that tucks into the door. While most front control dishwashers have a pocket handle that allows the appliance to remain more flush with its surroundings, the external handle on a top control model can add to the overall depth of the dishwasher.
Despite the extra depth, this external handle can be a functional benefit in smaller kitchens, as it can be used as a hanging rack for dish towels. If you prefer a top control dishwasher but want a more flush installation, KitchenAid brand offers plenty of top control dishwashers with pocket handles that tuck into the exterior of the door.
Can you start a top control dishwasher with the door open?
You select your cycle and press start with the door open, but the dishwasher won't actually begin until it is closed. Generally, closing the door is what triggers the cycle to start; if opened mid-cycle, it will pause and may require you to restart or cancel the settings.
With the 44 dBA Dishwasher in PrintShield™ Finish with 360º Max Jets™ Third Rack by KitchenAid brand, for example, the wash cycle begins after the START button on the top panel is pressed and the door is shut.
What are fully integrated controls on a dishwasher?
“Fully integrated controls” is another term for the control panel on top control dishwashers. These controls are located on the top of the dishwasher door, making them less visible when the dishwasher door is closed. This design provides a more seamless look than semi-integrated (front control) dishwashers, where the controls are on the front of the door.
For a completely custom aesthetic, you can sometimes add a custom panel and handles to the front of select fully integrated dishwashers for a panel-ready design that matches your cabinetry. While top control dishwashers offer a sleek appearance, keep in mind that you must open the door to access the control panel, which can interrupt a wash cycle. However, some top control dishwashers feature an exterior indicator light so you can still check the cycle’s progress at a glance. Ultimately, choosing between fully integrated and semi-integrated controls depends on the specific look you want and how you prefer to interact with your appliance.
What are other important dishwasher features?
Beyond control placement, consider how size, color, sound level and cleaning technology impact your daily routine. Most of these features can be found on both top and front control dishwasher models. Explore dishwasher features and technology to find the right balance of performance and style for your home.
Consider these key features during your search:
Tub Capacity and Flexible Loading: Look for interiors designed to maximize space and accommodate uniquely shaped items. On select KitchenAid brand dishwashers, the 7.25 cu. ft. MaxTub Largest Dishwasher Tub1 makes room for the 360° Max Jets™ Third Rack, which fits 10 extra glasses and mugs,2 freeing up space for larger items below. Stemware holders in the Adjustable Middle Rack secure wine glasses and fold-down rows in the lower rack accommodate cookware of various shapes and sizes.
Washing Power: Advanced spray arms and targeted jets can eliminate the need for pre-rinsing. Select KitchenAid® models feature 30+ Total Wash Jets that provide total cleaning coverage for dishes in each rack with more than 30 targeted jets across three wash arms, so you can load without pre-rinsing.
Drying Options: Modern systems use heat or ventilation to ensure dishes are cabinet-ready. The KitchenAid® Heat Dry Option heats both the final rinse water and the air inside the dishwasher to help dishes come out dry and ready for your next creation. Additionally, the Automatic Door Open Dry System on select KitchenAid® dishwashers opens the door 4" after the dry cycle ends to release water vapor and provide natural ventilation for an exceptional dry. Use this system alone for KitchenAid brand’s most energy-efficient dry or pair with the ProDry™ Option for improved drying performance.
Sound Level: For shared living spaces, choose a model designed for quiet operation. Select KitchenAid® models are Designed for Quiet Cleaning at 44 dBA, so you can let the dishwasher get a head start on cleanup while you entertain and enjoy meals, even in open-concept kitchens.
- Aesthetic Customization: Select finishes and hardware that align with your kitchen’s design.
KitchenAid brand offers various finishes and colors such as PrintShield™ Finish Stainless Steel, Juniper or Black Ore, as well as Customizable Handles on select KitchenAid brand dishwashers.
1. Based on usable volume.
2. Compared to KDFS224S and KDTS224S models.
Shop KitchenAid® top or front control dishwashers
KitchenAid® dishwashers are designed to help streamline cleanup. Select models feature the ProDry™ System that combines a heating element, water repellent tech and natural ventilation to give you dry, table-ready dishes. Other models feature a ProWash™ Cycle that uses a sensor to measure soil levels and adapts wash time and water temperature as needed for tough messes or lighter loads, because no two meals are exactly the same.
